Source:Watson, W.W., Special Edition of the Barry Adage April 2, 1896

Special Edition of the Barry Adage – Illustrated Edition Volume XXV Number 25 Barry, Illinois Thursday April 2, 1896

BY WAY OF PREFACE

The Illustrated Adage goes forth today without the flourish of trumpets or high sounding eulogy on the part of the publisher. It is not issued as a boom edition nor as a money maker; it is neither. The object is to advance the interests of our city in an honorable way and show its steady and substantial growth. There is not a line of paid advertising in the entire edition. It has been the aim of the publisher to include all classes of business, societies, etc., and if a person has been overlooked, who should not have been, it is to be regretted. In an undertaking of this kind errors will creep in and the absolute correctness of every detail cannot be vouched for. The arrangement of the pictures also may be observed to be a little defective, but as that was the fault of parties who were late in providing the electrotypes we are not assuming that responsibility. The work has been laborious and expensive, but with the hearty encouragement given by the citizens we consider it worth all it has cost us.

BARRY

What Thrift and Enterprise has Done for A Leading Pike County Town. Review of Its Educational, Religious, Social and Commercial Advantage

Should Rev. Daniel Edwards and Mr. Hadley come to Barry today they would realize a change had come over the country since they last saw it. These men were the first white settlers in the borders of Barry township. When they located here in 1824 a beautiful scene was presented to their view. Nature was in all its glory. Not a furrow of virgin soil had been turned nor a shanty erected except the rude wigwams of the redmen who roamed at will over fertile prairies and through the pleasant groves. They could not have selected a more desirable place of abode. Rich in the fertility of soil, in forests and in running streams, it was all the pioneers’ hearts could fancy. It possessed many of the charms that were likely to attract attention and receive the favor of those seeking new homes in a new country – fine timber, high rolling land, running water and the absence of all those things which were popularly supposed to produce prevalent sickness in a new settlement. It was literally a land of “milk and wild honey.” But the glory was not to be for them alone. Others learned of the advantages offered by the new country and sought its peaceful borders. Josiah and Wm. Lippincott, Mr. Peabody, Stephen R. Gray, Mr. Rush, Burton T. Gray, Levi McDaniel, Benj. Barney, Dr. A.C. Baker, Rev. Wm. Blair, Elijah McAtee, Alfred Grubb, Jos. McIntire, Thos. McIntire, Hesekia McAtee, John Millhizer, and others drifted to the new land of promise and found homes. Immigration continued until settlements sprung up, and the populous and wealthy township as it is today, with its magnificent farms, splendid orchards and prosperous citizens followed as night follows day.

The beautiful City of Barry is situated on the eastern border of Barry township on an eminence commanding a fine view of the surrounding country. For miles either way is presented as lovely a picture as the eye ever beholds. Barry came into existence in the boom days in Illinois. It was laid out by Calvin R. Stone, of the firm of Stone, Field & Marks of St. Louis. The work was executed on the 4th day of July in the year 1836. It was a sort of Fourth of July celebration on a small scale and with few fire crackers and fire works. The place was christened Worcester, but it was learned there was another place of the same name in the state and Mrs. B.D. Brown was given the honor of selecting a new name for the village. She chose the name of her Vermont home, Barre. An error was made in recording it and the name was spelled Barry, by which title the place has ever since been known.

Barry had its seasons of prosperity and adversity, but she lived and prospered. Today it is a splendid little city of 1500 inhabitants, large business interests, beautiful residences and an excellent grade of society. It is a live progressive town. While it cannot be said Barry is a wealthy place, it is equally true that many of its citizens use their means to the best possible advantage in the way of public enterprise.

The past few years have brought numerous public improvements, such as paved streets, improvements to the water system, new buildings, street lighting and sidewalk privileges.

Bartlett and Bendsong, who were employed in platting Barry, were the first merchants of the place. They kept a small store in a log cabin. Henry Whitmore and Theo. Digby were also of the early storekeepers, and later on Thos. T. Gray, E. Hurt and M. Blair were engaged in business here. Then followed Lewis Angle, C. & S. Davis, W.F. White and other merchants known to the present generation. There is quite a contrast between the business houses of the present and most of them are built of brick. There are seven blocks of business houses, on three principal streets. Unlike many towns business in Barry is not confined to the blocks facing the public park. Only the west and north sides are those favored. The other two sides have residences facing the park. Barry to-day is a commercial centre of the county. Every line of trade is well represented and the competition is especially active. There are more large and complete stocks in Barry than any town of its size in Western Illinois, and the trade is proportionate.

In social, educational and religious matters Barry compares favorably with its larger sister cities. There is a good healthy moral sentiment, the schools are large and well conducted and the churches have an excellent membership, three of the religious denominations having just passed through successful ingatherings of souls. The temperance sentiment of our city is also strong. Of the past decade, most of the time we have had no saloons. Occasionally when the anti-license element becomes inactive saloons are secured.

For many years of its existence Barry was known as a “dry place,” from the fact that water was a scarce article here. We had wells and cisterns to be sure, but they fell very far short of furnishing a sufficient supply of water for the town. It was hen that the water hauler had his palmy days. Something like a half dozen of them had their “water boxes” and made regular and frequent trips between town and the Hart spring. During particularly dry seasons water hauling was a big business. But all that had its day. With characteristic enterprise our citizens sank artesian well in 1879. The contract went to Marrs & Miller of Chicago, who had a force of hands at the work several months. The well was sunk to the depth of 2510 feet and cost complete about $10,000. It has ever since furnished an abundant supply of water for both man and beast. The water comes to within 300 feet of the surface of the ground and is pumped by steam engine into a reservoir. We now have no trouble about a supply of water. In addition to the deep well a score of others have been sunk about town and all are furnishing plenty of water.

The exciting days of the war were felt here. The country was over-run with bush-whackers, as they were called from Missouri, and depredations were rife. But our citizens were equal to the emergency, and with a united effort and organization protection was secured. The means adopted were not always of the most approved style, but they were effective. Patriotism ran high and Barry contributed its full quota of “soldier boys.” How many of her brave sons answered to the country’s call, we cannot state, but there were many of them – and they participated in many of the hardest battles. Some of them survived the fierce conflict and were enabled to return to their families; others were doomed to a soldier’s fate. They fought a good fight and nothing our nation can give them is too good for these veterans.

Picture of Barry in 1855 page 3

The village of Barry was incorporated in 1856. The first Board consisted of M. Widby, president, and B.T. Gray, Jas. Yancy, Joseph Rippey, A. Grubb, Lewis Angle and Schuyler Gray.

In 1872 Barry was organized as a city with E.R. Burnham, mayor, J.R. Rowand, J. Weber, N.R. Davis, Mat Peterson, S. Mors and Jas. Watson, aldermen; C.C. Roasa, clerk; W.I. Klein, attorney; J.C. Brown, treasurer; J. Whittleton, marshal, and J.E. Haines, street commissioner.

Public Park

CITY ADMINISTRATION

City Building

The present administration is composed of T.A. Retallic, mayor; John Weber, B.H. Rowand, C.E. Bower, J.H. Kirby, E. L. Penner and H. L. Langerhans, aldermen; J. B. Hazen, clerk; L. F. Bright, treasurer; W. I. Klein, attorney; R. St. John marshal and street commissioner, Wm. Lewis, city engineer.

Mayor Retallic and his residence

Thos. A. Retallic, mayor, was born in Perry county, Ohio, in 1854. His father gave his life for the preservation of the Union. Our subject is a self-made man. He has served with credit in the city council several terms and his administration as mayor has been an able one. He came to Barry in ’77. As proprietor of the marble works he has done a lucrative and prosperous business.

John Weber and His Residence

John Weber, alderman, is a native of St. Louis, Mo. He was born of German parentage in 1843. In 1866 he was married to Rose High and to them four children were born. Mr. Weber has followed successfully farming, school teaching, and mercantile interests. He is present in the lumber trade, being a partner in the firm of Weber & Day. He is also an auctioneer of note. Mr. Weber has always taken an active interest in all affairs of a public nature and has served on the council several times. He is aggressive and enthusiastic, and withal a valuable citizen.

B. H. Rowand and his residence in Barry

B. H. Rowand, alderman, is an old citizen of Barry. For thirty years he has been a salesman in our dry goods and clothing stores. At present he is in the drug trade. Mr. Rowand was born in Philadelphia, Pa., in 1844 and came here with his parents when a boy. He was married in 1867 to Lottie Gray, who died in 1891, and in September, 1892, he took his second wife in the person of Ella H. McClain. He has one child by the first marriage, who is the wife of Lieut. J. T. Nance now stationed at Yellowstone national park. Mr. Rowand is an active member of the council and a most useful citizen.

Charles Edward Bower, alderman, is a retired farmer and in good circumstances. He comes from London, Ohio, where he first saw the light in 1833. He went to California during the gold excitement in 1852, and was there on a visit in 1879. In 1857 he was married to Miss B. A. Wright. They have six children. Mr. Bower moved to Barry in ’86 from his farm and takes life easy.

J. H. Kirby, alderman, has served in the council two terms and has made a conservative painstaking official. He is a native of Sheffield, Mass., where he was born in 1866. He was married in this city in 1890 to Lillie L. Lyons. Mr. Kirby is assistant manager of the Barry Milling Co. and is their bookkeeper.

E. L. Penner, alderman, has made one of the most active members of the council. Policy with him is a secondary consideration. He has the courage of his convictions and stands by them. He is just closing his first term of alderman.

H. L Langerhans and his residence

H. L. Langerhans, alderman, was elected last year and he is proving the right man in the right place. He took hold of the work with a will and attends to his duties conscientiously. He is head miller for the Barry Milling Co. Mr. Langerhans is from Jefferson City, Mo., where he was born in 1866. He came to Barry in ’88. In 1894 he was married to Mattie lane. They have an elegant home which Mr. Longerhans built in 1894.

TOWNSHIP DIRECTORY

Supervisor, Wm. Bright; assessor, N. P. Hart; clerk, Frank Shelly; justice of the peace, G. W. Chrysup, J. K. Crawford; police magistrate, A. H. Bain; constables, W. J. Pence, W. H. Grubb; highway commissioners, A. W. Triplett, John Lippincott and Peter Staff; school trustee, William Myers, Geo. W. Perry, A. B. Call; school treasurer, Eugene Smith; pound-masters, J. Vanneman, R. D. Bower, John Gunlock.

Photo Caption: Barry Business District, 1896

BARRY’S GREAT FIRE

Total Destruction of Thousands of Dollars Worth of Buildings, Merchandise, Etc.

It is said that every town at some period of its existence has its misfortunes. The one great calamity that has befallen Barry came on the 30th of March, 1894, when part of four business blocks were entirely destroyed by fire entailing a loss of many thousands.

The particulars of this great conflagration are here given as published by the ADAGE the next issue after the fire took place:

On Friday morning last, March 30, Barry was visited by a most disastrous fire. It was discovered by Dr. Varney, whose dental office and home were over his store opposite the Hollembeak Opera House. The doctor was watching with a sick child, when about 4:20 o’clock he discovered flames bursting from the windows of the opera house. The alarm was quickly given, but the wind blowing strong soon spread the fire to the adjoining buildings of Mayes & Son’s grocery store on the west, over which were the dressmaking rooms of Mrs. Lounsbury and the home of Mr. E. Spann, and J. B. Watson’s hardware store on the east. From Mays & Son’s the flames eat their way through the residence and offices of the Dr. G. W. Doyle to the ADAGE office and residence of W. W. Watson. From J. B. Watson the conflagration extended south to Chauncy Goodale’s gent’s clothing store, M. Robb’s bakery, Stearns & Bower’s meat market, A. Wendorff’s shoemaker ship, Jas. Hudson’s harness shop, S. Finders saloon, to the Hotel Blair, where the flames were checked.

The intense heat soon ignited the frame building of Wm. Powell’s tobacco manufactory and barber shop of Chas. Brown just opposite.

Photo Caption: Ruins of the Great Fire of March 30, 1894. (Showing the south half of Block 20 and the North half of Block 23. The walls standing are those of Dr. Doyle’s residence and the ADAGE office. The chimney of W. W. Watson’s residence is also standing. The buildings destroyed in the territory covered by the picture were: Hollembeak opera house, Mayes & Son’s, Dr. Doyle’s residence, ADAGE office, W. W. Watson residence, Cy Johnson’s dwelling, J. Weber’s building, F. M. McNeal’s Dr. Varney’s O. H. Perry estate’s, and the old White store, Wike Bros. ware house and several barns.

Rebuilt Residence of Mrs. G. W. Doyle

The fireman now having exhausted the supply of water the fiery fiend had its own way, and soon the millinery store of Mrs. E. Blades, jeweler shop of J. J. Gray and dry goods store of John H. Mallery were laid in ashes.

From Mallery’s the unquenchable flames leaped across the street to the handsome brick block of J. B. Chamberlin, spreading over J. J. Robb’s billiard hall, consuming the millinery store and residence of Mrs. Ray Lewis, bakery, residence and barn of Wm. Bright, where the fire was again checked.

During this devastation the intensity of the original blaze from the Opera House had proven sufficient to extend to the buildings on the opposite side, beginning at the residence of Dr. Varney and so spreading ruin in the following buildings on the west: Barber shop of Grimp Hill, McNeal’s grocery store, J. J. Hughes furniture store and broom factory, Barney Weisenburger’s shoemaker shop and Mrs. Chas. Churchill’s residence; east from this point embracing Thornton & Pitts harness shop, Sil Kirtright’s meat shop, Siegle’s saloon and the Masonic building, including d. K. Weiss’ drug store on the ground floor, and banquet hall and lodge room on second and third floors.

This building being of brick and metal roof, hopes were entertained that the fire element might be stayed; but alas! The wind again carried the flames on over to reach the buildings of John Siegle, occupied by Herl & Rendlen, Dudley building, Fuller & Cleveland’s meat market, Kriegbaum’s brick building occupied by Herl & Rendlen’s saloon No. 2, and on across to the city hall, fire department, calaboose and residence of Nate Urton, where the fiery force was finally expended.

Several residences and barns in the north part of town were set on fire by flying embers, but were extinguished by the constant vigilance of the owner.

The origin of the fire was in one of our latest and most modern buildings, modern in its architecture and appointments, being finished in oiled Carolina pine and natural wood, it burned rapidly. The roof and sides were covered with corrugated iron and lined with brick, consequently it was a veritable furnace before the flames escaped from the buildings.

Barry with her fire apparatus, two hose reels, hook and ladder truck, hand engines and water works, was powerless to cope with a fire of such magnitude, nevertheless we are proud of the heroic efforts of her gallant firemen and brave citizens. Chief McConnell with his usual self-possession was everywhere directing and encouraging, and regardless of all personal danger discharged his duty, though at time his clothes were on fire.

The women on this occasion forgot the traditional “scream” and worked with the greatest fortitude and heroism; they neglected no opportunity in which they could render assistance, and did so in a most timely and effective manner. To their untiring efforts and wise judgment many of us are indebted for what was rescued from the flames. We are proud of our noble women.

During the panic Mayor Furniss telegraphed to mayor Chamberlin of Hannibal for help, who promptly responded by sending two companies with steamer and hose reel, the special train covering the distance in twenty-seven minutes. Ere they could reach us the destruction was complete. The company “decided that in proportion to the size of the town and time in which toe work was done, Barry’s fire was one of the most extensive and destructive on record.”

The mystery that surrounded the fire that March morning has never been cleared away. It is as deep to-day as it was then. How it originated will probably never be known. There were many conjectures about it, but they were only conjectures. All that is known is that a dance was given at the opera house the night of the fire, and at 4:30 the following morning the flames broke forth with such fearful destruction, consuming part of four blocks. In all about thirty-five buildings, some of them the best in the city, went down. The total loss was estimated at from $130,000 to $150,000.

Photo caption: RUINS OF THE GREAT FIRE OF MARCH 30, 1894. The territory covered by the picture is the northeast part of Block 22, the southwest of Block 21, northeast Block 23 and southwest Block 20. Buildings destroyed were Mrs. S. Davis’ Mallery row, J. B. Chamberlin’s row, Carswell, Bright and Churchill dwellings, city building, Herl Rendlen’s, S. Dudley’s, John siegle’s, Masonic, Hollembeak’s E. F. Churchill’s, Mrs. S. Smith Leach’s and the C. R. Churchill buildings.

THE LOSSES

J. B. Chamberlin lost his fine brick store building, his frame building and the north brick building and a lot of wheat. Loss about $10,000; insurance $7,800. J. B. & A. J. Chamberlin, clothing, etc., $20,000; insurance $15,000. J. J. Robb, billiard tables, $600; insurance $300.

Ray Lewis, millinery, $300, no insurance, and Katie Carswell, dress making, no insurance. They owned the two buildings occupied, valued at $1,500; insurance $1,100.

A refrigerator owned by Anheuser-Busch Brewing Co., $300; fully insured.

Wm. Bright, dwelling, contents and barn, $1,600;; insurance $1,100.

Louis Wendorff, barn and damage to residence, $135; fully insured.

E. F. Churchill, dwelling and store building, $1,600; insurance $500.

City building, calaboose and implement house, $750; insurance $400.

C. C. Kreigbaum, saloon, $1,400; insurance $1,200.

Herl & Rendlen, contents two saloons, $1,800; insurance $1,000.

Maggie H. Dudley, building, $400; insurance $300.

G. J. Cleveland, billiard outfit, $300; no insurance.

M. H. Fuller, meat market, no insurance.

John Siegle, two business buildings and billiard outfit, $4,500; insurance $3,500.

Masonic lodge, 3-story brick building $7,000, insurance $4,000; furniture and regalia $400, insurance $200; banquet room fixtures $400, insurance $250.

Royal Arch Chapter, robes, etc., $400; insurance $250, Star Chapter $100; no insurance.

Gus Siegle, saloon, $1,000; insurance $600.

Perry estate, two frame buildings, $800; insurance $600.

S. Kirkright, meat market, $350; insurance $300.

Thornton & Pitts, harness, $1,600; insurance $1,000.

Mary A. Johnson, building, $500; insurance $400.

W. W. Watson, ADAGE printing office, $2,800, insurance $2000; residence $1,300, insurance $900; furniture, small loss covered by insurance.

Agnes Watson, brick building and barn, $1,200; insurance $900.

Dr. Doyle, residence and barn, $1,400; insurance $1,000.

G. D. Mayes & Son. Building $1,800, insurance $1,100; groceries $1,500, insurance $900.

Ed Spann, furniture, $50; no insurance.

Mrs. Lounsbury, small loss on dress making business.

D. K. Weiss, drugs, etc., $3,500; insurance $3,000.

Dr. Varney, store building and residence, $2,000; insurance $1,200.

F. M. McNeal, building, $1,000; insurance $900; grocery stock $2,000, insurance $1,000.

J. Weber, building, $600; insurance $400.

J. J. Hughes, furniture, $800; fully insured.

C. H. Ware, stationery and express office, $2, 000; insurance $1, 200.

Hurt & Ware, opera house piano, $150; no insurance.

Hollembeak & Son, opera house building and contents, $3,500, insurance $2,300; store building $3,000, insurance $2,000.

Mrs. Isri Smith, building, $3,000; insurance $2,500.

Clara Carter estate, building $200; no insurance.

Simon Finder, saloon, insurance $1,500.

J. J. Gray, jewelry, $800; insurance $500.

E. L. Penner, jewelry, $1,500; no insurance.

J. B. Watson, hardware, $5,000; insurance $4,000.

C. W. Goodale, furnishing goods, $3,500; insurance $3,000.

F. Finchum, small loss on personal effects.

Mort Robb, bakery.

Wike Bros.’ wareroom and contents, $1,600; no insurance.

G. M. Blair hotel building, $150; covered by insurance.

Mrs. S. B. Gaines, damage on hotel furniture; no insurance.

J. H. Mallery, three store building, $4000, insurance $3000; dry goods, $14,000; insurance $6,000.

W. B. Powell, cigar factory, $1,000; insurance $700.

Mrs. S. Davis, building, $1,000; insurance $500.

G. H. Long, building, $150, covered by insurance.

C. B. Brown, barber, small loss on furniture.

Wm. St. John, peanut stand, $200; no insurance.

Grimp Hill, barber, small loss.

Photo caption: RUINS OF THE GREAT FIRE OF MARCH 30, 1894. The territory covered by the picture is the northeast part of Block 22, the southwest of Block 21, northeast Block 23 and southwest Block 20. Buildings destroyed were Mrs. S. Davis’ Mallery row, J. B. Chamberlin’s row, Carswell, Bright and Churchill dwellings, city building, Herl Rendlen’s, S. Dudley’s, John siegle’s, Masonic, Hollembeak’s E. F. Churchill’s, Mrs. S. Smith Leach’s and the C. R. Churchill buildings.

A picture of the scenes presented when the streets were filled with homeless families and what household effects were saved from destruction would be invaluable for this paper, but as there were none to be had, that part of it is left to the reader’s imagination.

No sooner had the flames died away, than our citizens began to prepare to rebuild the devastated district. The building boom was soon on. Those who did not desire to rebuild sold their lots to others, who did so desire. The next week after the fire the insurance adjusters arrive. They put in a full week and had hard work to get through in that time. Their adjustments were fair and speedy. Most of the losses fell to companies represented by W. W. Watson, and the paid out $78,000 through him. About $8,000 loses fell to other agencies.

As soon as the adjustments were completed the work of rebuilding began in earnest. Mayes & Son were the first to erect a new building, then followed in rapid succession the ADAGE office, the opera house, Varney’s, Hollembeak’s, Goodale’s, Masonic, Siegle’s, Dudley’s, Herl & Rendlen’s, Mallery’s, Churchill’s, Chamberlin’s and others. It was the busiest summer ever seen in Barry. In less than a year the town was rebuilt with brick buildings of a good class and a neat appearance, until to-day there are but three or four unoccupied spots in the territory occupied by the old structures. It has been a complete transformation for Barry, and while the loss to the individuals was heavy, to the city it was a benefit.

A singular fact in connection with the fire was that no person was seriously hurt. It is nearly always the case, even in small fires that some one gets burned or hurt in other ways, and such a thing was much more to be expected from a conflagration like that of two years ago. But fortunately it was willed otherwise.

One of the principal lessons learned from the fire was the necessity of a better water supply. To the shortage of water was in a large measure the destruction of such a vast amount of property due. The city water works were in operation, but the reservoir was faulty and contained only a limited amount of water. It was a wooden tank and never was what was needed. The water was pumped from the deep well into this receptacle, to leak out in a small, but steady stream. When the fire came the tank was only partially full. The subject of a new and better water tank was agitated, and the same year a contract was let by the city council for an iron tank of much larger dimensions than the old wooden one. This was placed on the brick tower, which was raised to fifty feet in height, giving a good strong water pressure. The total cost of the improvement was about $3,000, but it was money well invested.

WILFRED KLEIN

Wilfred I. Klein, the present city attorney of Barry, is one of the city’s own sons, who has distinguished himself as a lawyer and a legislator. He began his career with a common school education, such as was afforded in his day, then entered Lombard University, and in 1878 was graduated from the noted university at Ann Arbor, Mich. He returned to his native town and began practicing law with good success. Politics always had a charm for him. In 1879 he was elected city attorney, which office he has held with the exception of a few terms, ever since. In 1892 he was the republican candidate for state’s attorney of Pike county, but with the rest of the ticket that year was defeated. He entered the race for member of the legislature from the 38th district in 1894; received the endorsement of his county, was nominated and elected by a large majority and made a useful and valuable legislator. This year he is a candidate for state senator. Mr. Klein was state-consul to the Modern Woodmen in 1894, and has held various other offices. He was married at Springfield in 1878 to Miss Jennie Klein, and they have one daughter, Madge, an estimable young lady.

WM. BRIGHT

Everybody knows and respects “Uncle Billy” Bright, the veteran supervisor. He is a landmark. Born in Prussia in 1824, he emigrated to America in 1849, landing at Baltimore. His entrance into Pike county was in 1855, when he settled near Barry. His marriage took place in St. Louis in 1853, and the result of the union is a family of eight children, six of whom are living. Mr. Bright has for years been one of the wheel horses of the democratic party in Barry. He has held a numerous offices of public trust. He is a public spirited citizen, and is always interested in his town and its citizens. “May his shadows never grow less.”

Residence of William Bright, Barry, Illinois

RICHARD ST. JOHN

City Marshal St. John is one of the oldest residents of our city. His native state is New York, where in Albany county, he was born December 27, 1822. He came west in 1834, and with his parents settled in this state, coming to Pike county in 1836. He has been quite a traveler in his day, and was one one (sic.) of those who made the trip overland to California during the excitement of 1850. At one time he did a large business in blacksmithing here, but has not for several years worked at that trade. He has held the office of city marshal several terms and is now attending to the duties of street commissioner in addition to those of marshal. He is an efficient officer. Mr. St. John has reared a large family in our midst.

JOHN B. HAZEN

The city clerk of Barry is John B. Hazen, a bright and intelligent young man. He was elected in 1895. Besides his splendid business qualifications, he is an expert base ball player, and as catcher for the Barry club he has made a most favorable record. There is every indication of a bright future before him.

L. F. BRIGHT

For city treasurer Barry has L. F. Bright, a popular business man. He is a jolly bachelor, 35 years of age, prosperous and affable. He would make a good husband for some nice young lady. And this is leap year.

GEO. B. HALL

The faithful night watch, who for nearly sixteen years, as made the rounds of business houses, is Geo. B. Hall. He has also served the city as marshal and deputy marshal; was constable of Barry township four years, and is now a special deputy under Sheriff Knox. In addition to his official duties he raises fine poultry. Mr. Hall was born near Toronto, Canada, in 1851. He was married in 1884 to Sarah A. Knight, and they have a pleasant family of three children.

BARRY’S OLDEST CITIZENS

The oldest person living within corporate limits of Barry is Mrs. Jane Booth. Her maiden name Howard. She was born in Orangeville, Penn., April 27, 1800. In the year 1828 she was married to Andrew Booth. The couple came to Barry in 1845. Of union there were eight children, six of whom are living. Mrs. Booth is also godmother to many who hold her in the highest esteem. She joined the M. E. church when a girl. Up to five years ago, when she had an attack of la grippe, she had enjoyed good health, but has since been feeble. A peculiar characteristic of her life was that for seventy-five years she never drank water. When she was 16 years of age, and while doing washing she became thirsty and went to the spring to get a drink. The draught of water made her very sick, and from that time until her recent sickness she always drank cold tee, coffee or milk to quench her thirst. In all the long years of her life, Mrs. Booth has confined her efforts to her home and family. She has done well her part.

COMMERCIAL. Who the Merchants of Barry Are and What They Are Doing

CLOTHING AND GENTS FURNISHING GOODS

J. B. & A. J. CHAMBERLIN

J B Chamberlin Building destroyed by the fire in 1894"

" JB Chamberlin Building erected 1896, in place of the burned building

The clothing house of J. B. & A. J. Chamberlin has not only a local but a county reputation. It is one of the largest concerns of the kind in this section. Their stock amounts to from $15, 000 to $18,000, and consists of clothing, gents furnishing goods, hats, caps, boots, shoes, trunks, etc. They have a trade commensurate with the investments. The present firm is the outgrowth of a small clothing store established by John B. Chamberlin in Barry in 1858. The members of the firm are John B. Chamberlin and his son, A. J. Chamberlin.

John B. Chamberlin

John B. Chamberlin was three years old when his parents brought him to Pike county. He was born in Butler county, Ohio, May 11, 1832. The family settled in Derry township, in 1835 where the son was reared amid the pioneer scenes of his day. He remained with his parents until he was fifteen years of age, attending school at the Taylor school house as often as opportunity offered. In 1847, with his parent’s consent, he engaged to clerk for Mr. Bradley, a merchant at Rockport. Then commenced his experience in merchandising. He continued with that firm and Smith, Bradley & Marsh until 1850, when he hired to David Shields of Barry as clerk, remaining with the firm of Shields & Lillis until they closed out. In 2858, Mr. Chamberlin started a small clothing store on his own account, and from that day to this he has remained in the clothing trade. What these 38 years have had in store for him only the active business man knows. He survived and prospered and the business extended. The large and important clothing house of J. B. & A. J. Chamberlin is the result of that small beginning. Sagacity and discretion, coupled with sound judgment accomplished it. That same keen perception is with him to-day.

In 1881, Mr. Chamberlin erected a handsome brick building for his business. The location selected was at the corner of Mortimer and Decatur streets. The building had a frontage of 30 feet and a depth of 120 feet. It was built at a cost of $7,500. The structure went down with others in the great fire of 1894. Mr. Chamberlin at once began to plan for a new business house and the same fall erected on the site of the former store, a building even handsomer than the other. Experience had taught him what was needed and the new building was materially changed from the plan of the old one. In size it has a frontage of 48 feet and a depth of 80 feet for the main part of the building. The interior arrangement is complete with all the latest fixtures, etc., and it is modern in every particular, being heated with a hot water heater and lighted by electricity. The total cost of the building is being $7,000 and $8,000.

Mr. Chamberlin was married to Martha E. Rush in 1854. To them were born three children – Freddie B., Albert J. and Eugenia. Freddie died when 5 years old. Mrs. Chamberlin died in 1891, since which time the daughter, Eugenia, presides at the home.

Albert J. Chamberlin, junior member of the business firm, was born in Barry in 1859, and was married in 1881 to Miss Anna Scott. They have one daughter, Zoe. Mr. Chamberlin has from his early youth been connected with his father’s store. His business training was of the best. He was an apt scholar and to-day is one of the careful, upright and substantial merchants of our city.

JOSEPH SESSEL & CO.

Joseph Sessel

It was in 1889 that the firm of Joseph Sessel & Co., came to Barry, as successors to W. H. Odiorne & Co. They leased the Angle building and have been located there since that date. The firm, while strangers in Barry, were by no means new in the business. They had been in the same line for a long time. With the motto: “One price for all” emblazoned in their advertisements, the United States Clothing House, as the store was termed, started on the road to prosperity. They started in at an opportune period when the clothing trade was limited to two houses, and rapidly took rank as a leader. As soon as the demands of the trade were learned the stock was multiplied and replenished, until now they carry about $10,000 worth of goods. Everything in clothing, boot, shoe, hat, cap, gents furnishings, etc., are carried. It is a reliable and strong firm and worthy of the large patronage they receive.

Joseph Sessel is a native of Austria and is 55 years of age. He landed in America in 1856 and located in St. Louis. He went south and opened a dry goods and clothing house at Columbia, La. When the war came on, rather than to join the Confederate army as urged to do, he sold enough goods to settle his debts and pay for passage to St. Louis and left on the first boat for that city. From that day to this he has never learned what became of the stock he left locked in the store. Mr. Sessel was in business two years at Memphis, and then located for good at St. Louis, where he was successfully engaged in the wholesale clothing trade, and also in the manufacturing of clothing. He was married in St. Louis, and is the father of eleven children. He removed to Barry with his family last fall.

Aaron Sessel, who has had charge of the Barry store, is a young man, unmarried, and a clever fellow. His successful management of the firm’s affairs demonstrates his splendid business ability.

Aaron Sessel

BOWLES & TRAYNOR.

The advent of the firm of Bowles & Traynor into the clothing and gents furnishing goods trade of Barry had the effect of revolutionizing the business. Young, active and progressive, they introduced a new and popular style of trade, ad one that caught the people. They are great advertisers, and adopt every suitable measure to keep the house before the people. Fortunately for them they secured the new and elegant store room in the Masonic temple, where their new stock of clothing, shoes, gents-furnishings, hats, etc., showed to an especially great advantage. They are courteous and fair dealing and cater to a large trade.

The firm of Bowles & Traynor is composed of John J. Bowles and Jas. P. Traynor. Besides the store here they have one at Hannibal. The Hannibal house was opened in 1891 and the Barry house in February, 1895. They have forged rapidly to the front at both places.

John J. Bowles was born in Hannibal in 1865, and was married in 1889 to Mollie P. Traynor. He began his business career at the age of 14 years, as (end of sentence missing). He then formed a partnership with Mr. Bowles and engaged in the clothing business. Mr. Traynor is a genial, whole-souled fellow and a popular citizen.

John J. Bowles Jas. P. Traynor

JOHN H. MALLERY & CO.

The name of John H. Mallery has so long been associated with the commercial interests of Barry that it is familiar to all. His record as a merchant is an open book. The motto of his business as well as social life has been honesty and square dealing, and if he has ever varied from it the fact is not recorded. Mr. Mallery is a son of old England, and was born in Stroad, county of Kent, Jan. 1st, 1830. When two years ole he came with his parents – Henry and Elizabeth Mallery – to New York. His father was a business man. From 1832 to 1846, John H. remained in New York. At the end of that period he struck out alone for Barry to learn to be a farmer, under Wm. Hoyt, Sr., at that time a prominent agriculturist of this township. In 1851, Mr. Mallery bought a farm and the next year was married to Ariette E. Brown, to whom one son was born, Geo. L. Mallery, who is now connected with his father in business. He continued farming until he lost his wife in 1854. In 1856 he was married to Lemantha Jones, of Berlin, N Y. In the year 1863 he formed a partnership with John L. Sweet, under the firm name of Sweet & Mallery, and bought out the entire business interest of Lewis Angle in Barry They continued as general merchants, grain dealers and pork packers, etc., until June, 1879, when Mr. Mallery bought his partner’s interest in the business, since which time he has conducted the store under the firm name of John H. Mallery & Co.

Mr. Mallery was one of the heaviest losers in the big fire. He lost a stock of goods valued at $14,000 and three store buildings. But he was not disheartened. In a few months he was again quartered in his new brick block on the old corner. A new stock of dry goods was purchased, and since then he has enjoyed his usual large patronage. His stock now is more exclusively in the dry goods and shoe line than was carried before the fire, but a line of men’s wear is also kept in stock, as well as carpets, cloaks, etc. They have a handsome, well lighted and well arranged store room, equipped with electric lights and all modern conveniences.

John H. Mallery George L. Mallery

Geo. L. Mallery, book-keeper and assistant manager of the house, is a valuable man for the firm. His mercantile instruction has been of the best, and years of experience has taught him how to handle the trade.

L. F. BRIGHT.

No person in our business circles has come to the front more rapidly than L. F. Bright. Four years ago he started out for himself; to-day he is one of our leading merchants. Mr. Bright took lessons under that dry goods expert, Jas. H. Johnson, for whom he clerked for a number of years. Then he took a working interest in the business and the firm became Johnson & Co. In 1892, Mr. Johnson tired of the store after a successful business career and went to Colorado. Mr. Bright took the stock, and ever since he has enjoyed a season of prosperity. His store to-day contains a dry goods stock valued at $12,000 to $14,000. He deals on a broad and liberal plan, is honorable and enterprising. Socially he is a prince of good fellows. There is nothing wanting in his stock. It is large and extensive and covers everything his trade demands. He is located in the south room of the Rowand building. Mr. Bright is a son of our aged citizen, Wm. Bright. He was born in Barry in 1861, and has always resided here. He is young and a favorite with all classes.

DAVIS BROS.

George Davis Robert Davis

This firm entered Barry business circles Sept. 22, 1894. It is composed of Robt. P. Davis and Geo. M. Davis, sons of our old and well known citizen, Calvin Davis. Both members of the firm have had a thorough schooling in the dry goods business. In early youth they entered their father’s store as clerks and after he retired from business they went to Chicago to take position with one of the immense dry goods houses of that city. The experience there gained was the making of the boys. They returned to Barry and on the date mentioned opened a store in the new opera house building. They were careful in selecting the stock and started on a small scale. The cash system was adopted. Soon the young men became a factor in the trade, and the other merchants realized they had live and active opposition. They doubled their stock this spring and in addition to a fine line of dry goods, silks, notions, etc., they have a complete line of carpets. They have already established a splendid business and the future is bright for the firm.

Both members of the firm were born in Barry. Robert in 1863 and George in 1869. In 1887 Robert Davis was married to Ella M. Barney. He clerked for C. Davie & Co. from 1883 to 1892, then took a position with the great house of Carson, Pirie, Scott & Co., Chicago, and was with them two years. George M. Davis was married to Maude Burke, of El Dara, in 1894. He was three years with the silk house of Chas. A. Stevens & Bro., Chicago, and five years with Carson, Pirie, Scott & Co.

C. W. GOODALE.

Chauncy Goodale, as he is familiarly known, began business in 1879. Previous to that time he was employed as clerk for Angle & Co., and other firms. He started out, in a small way, and gradually added to his stock. He catered principally to the young men’s trade. What they needed he kept for sale, and in that way built up a paying business. At the time of the fire he was located in the Churchill building, next to the Hollembeak corner. He caught the building fever and bought the lot owned by the Perry estate, on which he built the fine two-story brick building he now occupies. Mr. Goodale’s stock consists of gents furnishing goods, boots, shoes, clothing, jewelry and sporting goods. He has a natural trait for that line and enjoys the confidence of his customers.

Mr. Goodale was born in Bentonsport, La., and came to Barry in 1852, while a child. He is known to all our citizens.

S. SHEWE & CO.

The firm of S. Shewe & Co. entered the dry goods trade in Barry on the first of March, 1893. They began business in the Harvey buildings on the west side of the square and remained at that location until last year when the Jacob Summers building was bought and they removed there. The firm consists of Solomon Shewe and daughter. They deal in dry goods and notions exclusively. The store is in charge of Mrs. Geo. Mallery and Miss Essie Shewe, who have displayed excellent ability not only in the selection of stock, but in the business-like manner in which the affairs of the firm are looked after. They are good buyers and good sellers. The stock is complete in detail and the store is kept as neat and tidy as a parlor. They are doing a profitable business.

Solomon Shewe is a native of Marietta, Ohio, where he was born in 1833. He was married in 1864 to Catharine Brammel, and to them were born eight children. Mr. Shewe was a farmer up to 1893. He is a man of thorough business habits and has always been a money maker. He owns several hundred acres of fine farming land in Barry and Kinderhook townships, has accumulated a competency, and is now enjoying the fruits of his labors.

CHICAGO FAIR

The store known as Chicago Fair was established in this city in August, 1895. The proprietor is F. Kirschenblatt. He carries a full stock of notions remainder missing from paper

CRANDALL, SMITH & CO.

The above firm may be classed at the head of the grocery houses of our city. They carry a line peculiar to themselves and are noted for the excellent quality of the goods handled. The entire lower floor of the two-story brick building on the west side of the square is filled with groceries, glassware, queensware and plated ware. The interior of the building was especially designed for the business and is convenient, commodious and handsome. The volume of business transacted in it amounts to a handsome sum each year. In connection with the store there is also a poultry branch, where every variety of poultry and eggs is bought and shipped to the city markets. Nearly all the products in this line that come to town find their way to Crandall, Smith & Co.’s warehouse. The firm consists of E. A. Crandall, Eugene Smith and D. J. Smith. It is the outgrowth of the old firm of Crandall & Smith, which was established in 1870. The junior partner in that firm was J. J. Smith. The firm as now constituted was organized in 1881. E. A. Crandall and D. J. Smith have active charge of the business.

D. J. Smith

D. J. Smith is one of Barry’s own sons. He was born in 1847. His business career began when he was quite young, by his entering the store of C. & S. Davis as clerk, which position he held for a long time. He is a gentleman of good business tact and well liked in the community. Mr. Smith was married to Henrietta E. Grubb in 1872 and they have a pleasant family.

Personal sketches of E. A. Crandall and Eugene Smith appear in another column.

GEO. D. MAYES & SON.

The firm of Geo. D. Mayes & Son was established in 1883. They first engaged in the feed business and in 1887 added a stock of groceries. Geo. D. Mayes and W. H. Mayes form the company, of which the former is the manager, the latter, the buyer and C. E. Mayes clerk. They occupy the commodious building built for their use and carry a well-selected stock of groceries, glassware, etc. They do a large business.

George D. Mayes

Geo. D. Mayes, senior member of the firm, is a representative of an old pioneer family of Pike county. He was born in 1835 on a farm three miles southwest of Barry. He learned the trade of carpenter and followed that avocation to the trade of millwright. He assisted in the construction of the C & S. Davis mill and was for years the miller in charge. After the sale of the mill in 188 he went into merchandising. Mr. Mayes was married to Malinda Booth in 1856, and they have a daughter and two sons. He is a leading spirit in the M. E. church and is a most excellent citizen.

F. M. MCNEAL

The success of this young man is another evidence of what pluck and enterprises can do for a person. He started out with a small stock of groceries in 1889, in one of the Hamilton buildings. To his customers he was attentive and obliging. What produce they had to exchange for goods he took and thus his business increased. Soon he bought his store building; then it was enlarged and still later when the fire came and destroyed his property, he felt justified in securing a larger and more commodious store room. The result was he joined John Weber and built the opera house building, where the store is located. He has a handsome room well filled with groceries, glassware, etc., and is doing a nice business. Mr. McNeal was born at Cedar Falls, Ia., in 1866, and was married to Sadie Doyle in 1889. He came to Barry about 1887. He is also one of the mangers of the opera house.

F. G. VARNEY & SON.

F. G. Varney, Dentist

This firm consists of Dr. F. G. Varney and his son, Fred Varney. They succeeded W. H. Ferris in the grocery trade five years ago and added to the stock a line of boots and shoes. Their shelves are well filled and they do a good business. Previous to the big fire they occupied the Hamilton building, which Dr. Varney owned and in June, 1894, the ruins of their store were replaced by a handsome two-story brick-veneered building of modern architecture. Fred Varney, manager of the business was born in Griggsville in 1872, and was married to Eva Guss, in 1895. He is an enterprising young man.

S. MORS.

Mr. Mors conducts the only store near the flour mill and the railroad depot. He carries a complete stock of groceries, notions &c., and receives an excellent patronage. The picture of the building is published. Mr. Mors went into business at his present location in August, 1890. He is a native of Waterford, N. Y., where he was born July 30, 1833. He came to Barry in July, 1861, and worked on a farm, then took a position at Brown & McTucker’s mill, and later was a clerk for Lewis Angle a number of years. He was also employed as clerk for various other firms. When the war came on he volunteered his services and fought for the preservation of the Union. Mr. Mors has always been a very active and useful citizen.

HARDWARE.

WIKE & DAVIS.

John H. Wike

The firm of Wike & Davis occupies a prominent position in Barry business circles. It is composed of John H. Wike and N. R. Davis. The business was established in 1881. Mr. Wike’s first partner was Joe Roth, and later his brother, Geo. H. Wike, bought an interest in the business, the firm name then changing to Wike Bros. and continuing so for several years. Last year Geo. H. Wike retired and MR. Davis became the partner. They carry a large and complete stock of hardware, stoves and agricultural implements and enjoy a patronage worthy of the enterprising firm. Last year they built a new brick warehouse to accommodate the stock of implements. They occupy the corner building of the Blair block for the hardware stock. Mr. J. H. Wike was born in Pennsylvania in 1845. He came west and located at Wike Hollow, where from 1860 to 1878 he was connected with the Barry woolen mills. In 1869 he was married to Viletta See, and three children have come to them. Mr. Wike is a thorough business man and enjoys the confidence of the community. A personal sketch of Mr. Davis is given elsewhere.

J. B. WATSON.

Mercantile ideas were instilled into J. B. Watson in his early youth, and most of his life has been passed in business of one kind or another. He branched out for himself in Barry about 1877, when he started a wall paper store, afterward succeeding his mother, Agnes Watson, in the dry goods and shoe business. In 1881 he opened a general store at New Salem and from 1880 to 1893 was postmaster of the place. Closing out his property there he returned to Barry in 1893 and purchased the hardware stock of Hollembeak & Hart, and had only fairly started in his new venture when the fire came on and destroyed his stock. As soon as the new Hollembeak building was erected he started in again with another large and complete stock of hardware, stoves, etc. He is now well established, has learned the trade and is doing a business that is highly satisfactory to him. Mr. Watson was born in Barry in 1853. He was married in 1879 to Parmelia A. Hall, and they have one son, Earle.

DRUGGISTS.

J. S. ROWAND & SON.

Josiah B. Rowand and J.S. Rowand & Sons

This long established firm came into existence in 1856. It was founded by Josiah S. Rowand, who enjoys the distinction of being the oldest active druggist in Illinois, having been 61 years in the business. He is a native of Haddonfield, N. J., and was born April 25, 1813. He lived in New Jersey until 14 years of age, when the family moved to Philadelphia, Pa. Soon after this Mr. Rowand went to work in a sash factory and followed that occupation until 1832. He then entered his brother’s drug store as a clerk and acquired such a thorough knowledge of the business that he opened a drug store for himself. After four years of business in Philadelphia he came to Barry, but at that time only remained five months and removed to Quincy, where he remained in business three years. He then moved back to Barry and bought the drug store of Parker & Long and has been here ever since. He is a prominent member of the Baptist church, a staunch republican and a most esteemed citizen. Mrs. Rowand passed away a few years ago.

The junior member of the firm, is John R. Rowand, who was born in Philadelphia, Pa., in 1846. He was married to Miss Nan McTucker. They have one living child, Nellie. Mr. Rowand has been in the drug businesses since 1866, and he is known as one of the best pharmacists in the state. He is a prominent citizen and has occupied several positions of public trust.

John R. Rowand and his residence in Barry

D. K. WEISS.

It was in 1875 that D. K. Weiss entered the drug trade in Barry. The firm then was Ferguson & Weiss, who succeeded A. T. Kinne. After a year and a half this firm dissolved and Mr. Weiss has since continued the business. He was born in Lehigh county, Pa., of German parentage, and was married in 1856 to Esther Frey. Two daughters were born to them. Up to 1865, Mr. Weiss was a farmer in his native state, then moved to Illinois, and continued farming for six years longer, when he took up the study of pharmacy and later engaged in the drug trade at Liberty, Ill. He moved to Barry in February, 1875, and has always done a good business since then. Mr. Weiss was the republican candidate for county treasurer in the last campaign , but met defeat with the rest of the ticket. He was one of the losers in the great fire, but with commendable enterprise a few days after bought out Dr. Long’s stock and resumed business.

BOOKS AND STATIONERY.

C. H. WARE.

The name of C. H. Ware has been associated with the book, stationery and wall paper trade since 1876, when he and H. H. Corwin opened a store under the name of C. H. Ware & Co. Mr. Corwin retired from the business in 1878, since which time Mr. Ware has continued it alone, excepting two years that he was a traveling salesman . He carries a very complete stock in his line and receives a large patronage. Mr. Ware is also local manager for the Pacific express company, and has for several years attended to that business. He was for several years secretary of the Barry fair association until it disbanded, and is one of the managers of the opera house. He first saw the light in Barry in 1857.

GEO. B. ORTON

Geo. B. Orton succeeded his father, Thos. Orton, in the book and stationery and wall paper trade last July. Thos. Orton established the house in 1887. The store is now located in the Blair block. Mr. Orton keeps a nice line of goods and is working up a good business. He is a Barry boy, born in 1870, and for 12 years followed paper hanging.

HARNESS AND SADDLES.

J. W. HUDSON.

The above named gentleman landed in Barry from his home in Worcester county, Md.; in December, 1866. He was employed at various avocations until 1868, when he engaged as an apprentice to Mike lane at the harness-making trade. In 1870 he opened a shop on his own account and continued it until 1877, when owing to sickness and the loss of a foot he retired, but began again in 1879. In 1881 he took Geo. Newport in as a partner, but the same year they sold out to I. L. Hull, Mr. Hudson being retained as manager. At the end of three years he bought out Mr. Hull, and since then the firm he bought out Mr. Hull, and since then the firm has been J. W. Hudson. He is in the Blair block, and has everything in the harness and saddle line the trade demands. Mr. Hudson was born in Maryland in 1848, and in 1874 was married to Josephine McIntire, of this city. Seven children came to them, two of whom passed away in infancy. Mr. Hudson is a leading advocate of the Populist party in this township and takes great interest in public affairs.

LANE & WAGY.

Ed B. Lane L. S. Wagy

This is a new firm. It is composed of Ed. B. Lane and L. S. Wagy, two active young men. Mr. Lane, who is an expert harness maker, started in business for himself in 1894. He prospered and added to his stock, until when he opened in the Mallery block, after the fire, he had a complete and well chosen line of goods. Last fall he took Mr. Wagy in as a partner and the business was still further increased. The firm commands their full share of trade. Mr. Lane is a son of M. Lane and has lived here most of his days. Mr. Wagy was a well known farmer in Richfield. He moved here a few months ago.

KOEHLER’S CASH STORE

John S. Koehler

What business tact, energy and perseverance will accomplish is well illustrated by the case of John S. Koehler. Coming to Barry in 1879, a young baker, with limited experience in commercial affairs, he engaged with “Put” Long in the restaurant and bakery business, which they continued successfully for a few years. Mr. Koehler then conceived the idea of establishing a grocery store to be conducted on a strictly cash basis. Associating himself with Isri Smith under the firm name of Smith & Koehler, the thought was carried into execution. They met with many obstacles, and lost some of their best friends temporarily, on account of refusing credit, but they absolutely refused to diverge from the cash system. With the principle thoroughly established, the trade came to them, and when in 1888 Mr. Smith retired from the firm owing to failing health, they were ding an immense business. Mr. Koehler has met with equally as great success alone. He is located on the west side of the public park. He carries a heavy stock of clothing, shoes, gents furnishings and groceries, and has probably made more clear money in the same length of time than any merchant of our city. He is an inveterate worker, a good salesman, knows how to look after the finances and attends strictly to business. With these qualifications combined the results are always favorable. Mr. Koehler has a pleasant home with wife (formerly Gracie Clark) and three children, and is reaping a well earned reward.

BARRY MARBLE AND GRANITE WORKS

In no branch of business has a more rapid advancement been made in Barry than the marble and granite trade. Twenty years ago it was comparatively in its infancy. There had been dealers here, but until Mr. A. Hartshorn opened a shop it had only been conducted in a small way. He started in to operate extensively, but before he could complete his plans he was suddenly called away. Thos. A. Retallic, a young sculptor in Mr. Hartshorn’s employ then took up the work in 1877. He was possessed of tact and skill in the art, a pleasant address and good business qualifications. It was not long until his work attracted attention and his reputation was made. Go where you will to the cemeteries within the borders of Pike and Adams counties and you will find them dotted with monuments from the Barry works. They have furnished among the hundreds of jobs sent out some very costly monuments. The soldiers monument in the public park was one of them. Mr. Retallic has an assistant O. K. Garrett, who also acts as salesman on the road part of the time. They compete with firms in all the surrounding cities and seldom miss a contract where they have a fair chance at it.

The building occupied by the Barry marble works is probably the prettiest in our city. It is built of brick with a stone front, plate glass windows and is novel in design. The picture will give our readers a good idea of it.

Barry Marble Works, 1896

PORK PACKING.

The packing house located here is the property of Mr. W. W. Bartholomew. It is an immense structure, built of brick and is three stories high above the basement. The main building is located along the Wabash track, and near it is a large brick storage building, lard room, etc. The packing house was built by Lewis Angle and operated by him until his death. At the sale of the property, it was bought by Bartholomew & Coe, and when they dissolved partnership it went to Mr. Bartholomew. The buildings are roomy and well equipped for the business. They have done good service, and thousands of hogs have found way to the markets through that channel. For two or three winters the property was idle, but packing was done there the past season and we have assurance it will continue in the future.

C. MASON AND WIFE.

These old and reliable business people are known to all citizens of Barry. They were for years in business here, but a few years ago went to Macon, Mo., to reside. Last year when Thos. Orton retired they again came here and took the stock of dry goods and millinery. They have the patronage of many old customers.

LUMBER INTERESTS.

The lumber trade in Barry began with the opening of a yard by Lewis Angle and Joseph Greene, about 1870. They also had a planning mill and did a big business. The firm was succeeded by Mayes & Yancy, who bought the same yard. They remained in the business for a number of years. Mr. Mayes retired and the firm became Yancy & Son, who afterward sold out to Day & Hustead.

The trade is now in the hands of the enterprising firm of Weber & Day. The members of the firm are John Weber and John T. Day. They began business in 1891, succeeding the firm of Day & Hustead, who were in the business but a short time. The new firm infused new life into the business. They put forth their best efforts to stimulate it by adding a stock of lumber that would meet the demands of the trade, and selling it at reasonable prices. It was a winning combination. The trade that formerly went to the yards at Hannibal and Quincy began drifting to Barry, and in less than two years their business was established. To-day they supply the lumber not only for this vicinity, but for miles around. As their trade has increased their stock has multiplied. The past two years their sales have averaged 1,500,000 feet per year. The office and yard is situated at the corner of Davis and Bainbridge streets, one block south of the public park. It is handy for the farmers and also for the mechanics. This year the outlook for building is favorable and it will probably be one of their best years.

Barry Lumber Yard

John T. Day was born in Fayetteville, Ohio, in 1846. He came to Pike county in 1873 and has since resided within her borders. In 1874, he was married to Elizabeth Harlow at El Dara. Mr. Day is a miller and followed that occupation until he found his health impaired by it. Since he embarked in the lumber business he has enjoyed good health. He is well fitted for his present avocation. Personal references to Mr. Weber is given out on another page.

John T. Day

W. F. WHITE & CO.

Wm. F. White is one of the oldest – if not the oldest active business man in Barry. His connection with the mercantile interests of the town dates from 1857 when he engaged in the hardware trade. In 1861 the firm of W. F. White & Bro. consisting of W. F. White and Alex White, was formed. They conducted a general store, bought grain and packed pork, having an immense trade. The firm dissolved in 1877. W. F. White then engaged in the dry goods trade and agricultural implement business which he prosecuted with success until 1887. At that date he received the appointment of postmaster of Barry and turned the other business over to his son Gus. He held the office for years and then re-entered the implement trade. He has also had for several years the county agency of the Nichols-Shepherd threshing machinery.

The present firm of W. F. White & Co. consists of W. F. White and his son Gus. They handle a line of the best grade of machinery and their sales last year were about the largest in the history of the firm. The store is located in the Harvey building on the west side of the public park.

W. F. White is a Scotchman. He was born in Paisley in 1833. In 1851 he came to America, locating near Barry. He has always been prominent in public affairs. In politics he is a democrat.

BARRY OPERA HOUSE

The Barry play house is a structure of which our citizens have just reason to be proud. It is one of the buildings erected after the fire in 1894. Messrs. John Weber and F. M. McNeal, the owners, spared neither trouble nor expense in completing it. The building is a two-story, brick structure, with metal roof, modern in architecture, very substantial in construction, and is lighted by electricity. In the lower story are two store-rooms of 22X80 feet. The entire upper story is used for amusement purposes. The auditorium is seated with chairs. On each side of the stage is a box for private parties. The dressing rooms are in the rear of the stage, and the scenery is complete in detail.

The house is under the management of Ware & McNeal, who are catering very acceptably to the amusement lovers of our town. They have played such attractions as Carter’s Fast mil, Gus Williams, Cleveland’s and Beach & Bowers’ minstrels and others of like note, and their efforts are appreciated.

THE WOOLEN MILLS.

The fine property offers excellent advantages for a live business firm with plenty of capital to operate it. The mills are owned by W. W. Bartholomew, of Hartford, Conn. They are located 1 ¼ miles northwest of Barry and have natural advantages, such as water privileges, etc., that are unequalled anywhere in the west. The buildings are of brick and are large and substantial. The main building is three stories high and covers a large space, and across the road is the office building and wareroom, a one-story structure. These buildings are fitted with all the necessary apparatus for operating the manufacturing business. There are also two or three dwellings handy which are owned by Mr. Bartholomew. The property has been idle the past few years. Barry people are anxious to see the mills in active operation again and will encourage responsible parties to take hold of the enterprise.

FEED MILL AND REPAIR SHOP.

William Hazen

Wm. Hazen established in 1892 a feed mill for grinding corn, oats and other feed. He bought the old Howland corner and placed in the building a complete system for a small mill. It not only provided a convenient place for the farmers to get their feed ground, but also opened a good market for their corn and oats. The result is he has done a large business in the feed line. Mr. Hazen also conducts a shop where all kinds of machinery is repaired. He has made a specialty of engine work and the work in that line that used to go to the cities is now done at home. He employs quite a force of hands in the busy season and turns out a great deal of work.

In addition to the other business Mr. Hazen handles farm implements and coal. And as in everything else he undertakes he is making it a success. He is industrious, painstaking and obliging. That’s the secret of his popularity.

FURNITURE.

H. WENDORFF

The above named gentleman needs no introduction to the public. By time and experience our people have learned his business methods. He carries a large and well selected stock, both of furniture and groceries, and has an extensive trade. His store is located on the west side of the public park, as for the past quarter of a century or more. Mr. Wendorff was born in Germany in 1828. He came to America in 1856, stopping one year at Buffalo, N. Y., then coming to Barry. By trade he is a cabinet maker, but has not worked at it of late years, leaving that work to his son Louis. The other son, Henry, has charge of the grocery department. Mr. Wendorff is also an architect and many of the buildings in our city are of his design. He is known as a wise counselor, and a splendid financier. He is in good circumstances.

EDWARD TAYLOR & CO.

In the year 1894, Edward Taylor entered the furniture trade. He was a carpenter by trade and he took kindly to the business, and by dint of courtesy and close attention to the trade he is already favored with a flattering business. He is located in the Weber building, opposite the water works. The stock is new and well selected and readily commends itself to purchasers. Another branch of the business is screen work, picture framing and repair work. Mr. Taylor has developed into an architect of much ability and designed some of the best dwellings recently built here. He was born in Kendal, England, in 1863, and came to America in 1868. In 1887 he was married to Nora A. Greene in this city. Two children have blessed their union.

BLACKSMITHS.

B. MCCONNELL.

The name of B. McConnell has been connected with blacksmithing interests of our city for many years. He is a native of New Jersey, where he was born in 1838. Coming to Illinois in 1852 he located at Canton, Fulton county. In 1857 he went to Kansas and spent two years, returning to this state in 1859 to take a position with R. St. John, then one of the leading blacksmiths. In 1861 he went to El Dara to run a shop, but after two years experience there he again returned to Barry and went to work for James Yancy. Later the firm of McConnell & Phenneger was formed and continued in business four years, and since the dissolution Mr. McConnell has conducted business alone. He has a wide reputation as a fine blacksmith and expert plow maker, and is a citizen who has won the esteem of this community. For years he was chief of the Barry fire department. Mr. McConnell claimed as a bride in 1862, Mary A. Watson, who with a son and daughter add comfort to his years.

CHAS. M. HOLMES.

When J. Yancy & Son were ready to retire from business in 1885, C. M. Holmes bought the property – building and blacksmith stock and tools. He went to work and by close application to business and hard labor he soon built up a good trade. He made a specialty of wagon making and sold many of them. Then buggies and farm implements were added to his stock. In all his enterprises he has been a success. Mr. Holmes was born in Barry, July 6, 1861. Dec. 27, 1892, he was married to Nettie E. Barney. He has been honored with several township and city offices, and occupies a prominent position in the community for a young man.

JOHN I PARKER.

This gentleman cannot be classed as an old citizen, but he is certainly an active one. Coming here from Baylis in 1892, he has by close attention to business and energy built up by a large trade. Besides doing a regular blacksmithing and repair business, he handles farm implements and buggies. He is a hustler for trade. Mr. Parker was born near Newark, Ohio, April 6, 1849, and was married to Caroline E, Dunstan in 1870. Two children have come to them. Except two years spent on the road for the Plano binder company, he has made blacksmithing his life work. He is entitled to his success

BRICK MANUFACTORY.

The brick yard at this place is an enterprise worthy of more than mere mention. It was established in 1876 by J. C. Chilton, now deceased, and his son Chas. H. Chilton. The family came here in 1869 from Kingston, and for seven years the father and son had charge of a yard conducted by N. P. Hart on his farm near town. At the close of that engagement they started the business at their place in the west part of town. They have manufactured an average of about 200,000 brick a year since they began. For a time tile was made in connection with the brick, but that was found to be a bad investment and it was discontinued. The yard has been under the management of C. H. Chilton, the present owner, for several years, and he has made a success of it. He manufactures his brick by machinery, and can turn out with one machine as high as 14,000 a day. Quite a force of hands are employed. Mr. Chilton expects to operate the business on a large scale this summer. He is also thinking of adding a pottery to his plant.

Another enterprise Mr. Chilton is engaged in is the packing and selling of ice, in which he does a large business. About 3000 tons are annually packed. This year the supply is short owing to the mild winter.

C. H. Chilton was born in Sangamon county, Ill., in 1855, and was married to Etta Kendall of El Dara about ten years ago. They have an elegant home which was erected last season.

COOPERS.

The cooper business was a leading industry in Barry at one time, but since machinery was introduced for barrel making the trade has suffered reverses. The only shops in town now are those of the Barry milling company and J. C. Frike. The latter is not doing much work lately, and has about retired altogether from the business.

WELL DIGGERS.

We have two firms of well diggers, each of whom have a complete apparatus for sinking deep wells. They are Hart Howard and Schulz & Bodine. Mr. Howard is an old hand and an adept at the trade. The others have not been long at the business but are quite successful. Either will do a good job in that line.

AUGUST WENDORFF.

Mr. Wendorff is an old and well known shoemaker who has conducted business in Barry a long time. He is a native of Germany and an industrious, quiet citizen, as well as a fine workman. He is located in the second story of the Churchill building.

B. WEISANBURGER.

As long ago as 1867, Barney Weisanburger located here. he is a shoemaker and has worked at the trade since 1856. A native of Germany, he is an industrious and peaceable citizen. He came west from Pittsburg, located at Palmyra, Mo., and from there came to Barry.

BILLIARDS.

The Barry billiard room is owned by John Siegle and is located in his building. It is under the management of L. H. Howlett. There are three billiard and pool tables in use and they afford amusement to the young me who patronize them.

LIVERY STABLES.

There are two regular livery stables. One is conducted by W. H. Stroheker in what is known as the Aker’s barn on Main street, and the other is in charge of Jas. Elliott, who has the Arch Campbell barn. Both stables are well equipped with vehicles of late patterns and good driving horses. They do a nice business. Neither of the proprietors have been here long; Stroheker came here from Mt. Sterling three or four years ago. Elliott bought Arch Campbell out only a few weeks since.

DRAYMEN.

The draying business of Barry is done by Levi McIntire, Nate Hayes and Theo. Doran, all of who have their particular patrons. In past years Mr. Doran used to do nearly all the work in that line. He finally sold the business to another and by that means competition sprung up. Mr. Doran retains the trunk hauling. The draymen are all faithful in their line of work.

BUS LINE.

Mose Morey has for several years run the city bus. He has one of the section missing…has accumulated considerable property. Mr. Campbell has been interested in trotting horses for several years and has owned quite a number of fast steppers, one of which, Liberty Boy, made a fine record. In all his races Mr. Campbell does his own driving. He is known as an excellent judge of horses.