THERE were a few settlers on the north bank of the Fox previous to 1848, but they were not of the class termed pioneers, according to the common acceptation of the terms; they had all left for other parts with the exception of the Grignon family, a branch of which still remains upon the old homestead which to early settlers was known as the "White Herron." A Mr. Thurber (Ezra) and wife settled in the spring of 1848 in what is now the third ward of Appleton near the big cut on the Milwaukee, Lake Shore & Western railroad, but like the wild geese they soon sought a more genial clime. The real settlement of Appleton should be credited to the Methodist Episcopal Church of this state.
* * The first improvement, in what is now the city was the clearing of some ten acres on the northwest quarter of section 26 in the season of 1848 and the sowing the same to wheat by James Blood, now of Kansas. In August, 1848, Col. H. L. Blood, opened a road to what was known as the old Oneida road and commenced drawing lumber from the Oneida settlement for the preparatory department of the college. About this time Robert R. Bateman and Rev. A. B. Randall had made claims of land in the immediate vicinity and erected the necessary buildings for establishing said claims. According to the best information to be obtained the settlers came in the following. order: About August 25, 1848, came John F. Johnston and his wife Janet with their one child Henry. Their shanty was on what is now Johnston street, block 29, Second ward. That was the nucleus around which gathered the settlers of Appleton. None were turned away from that door. Their dwelling was hotel, hospital, church and Sabbath school room. Next came your humble servant (J. S. Buck) and wife. We pitched our tent on the west half of the northeast quarter of section 27 on the first or second day of September of the same year. We paddled our own canoe from Neenah down through little lake Butte des Morts and landed at the White Herron and plodded our way to our little shanty in the wilderness which I had erected some days before with lumber that I rafted down through the lake and landed at the point now known as Lehman's. It was said to have been the first lumber ever rafted from Neenah to that point. In the same month came Rev. A. B. Randall and wife and settled at what is now the corner of Drew and North streets. During this time the contract had been let for building the basement of the preparatory department of the College to W. T. Bailey and the superstructure to William McGregor; and the first blow of preparation upon the site of the future university was struck by the Rev. William H. Sampson who with bush-hook and axe made smooth the way that others might walk therein. The first sermon preached in Appleton was by Mr. Sampson, followed by the Rev. A. B. Randall and Rev. Reeder Smith. Then came John P. Parish, William Blake and their families. Then came McGregor and Waterson and the late J. Cortland Smith who was followed by his brother Peter V. Smith, now a. resident of Grand Chute. Charles Wolcott came about this time. He raided the town in mid-winter, captured every woman, placed them upon an ox sled and proceeded westward, but through some means they escaped and returned to their homes. Afterward it was reported that Charlie said that twelve women on one ox-sled were too big a job of sleigh riding for him. Rev. Sampson moved his family into Squire Bateman's claim shanty and Rev. Reeder Smith and family came to board with him sometime during the winter of 1848-9. Mr. Bateman moved his family here in December, 1848, or January, 1849. I think the first house that was built within the present city limits was built by myself of logs in the months of September and October, 1848. Col. H. L. Blood brought his family here in the spring of 1849 and opened a store on the site now occupied by the First National Bank. The Preparatory department of the college was erected on the third day of July, 1849, on the spot now occupied by George White's house and on the fourth the settlers held an old-fashioned picnic celebration in the building with John Stephen as reader and Rev. A. B. Randall as orator of the day. Among the settlers who arrived with their families in 1849, were Daniel W. Briggs, Dr. Samuel E. Beach, Deacon Wait Cross, John McPherson, Col. Theodore Conkey, Tracy P. Bingham, W. S. Warner, John H. Hart and James M. Phinney. Among the young men arriving were George H. Myers, P. H. Smith, Anson Ballard, Erasmus Beach and John Moody. Tracy P. Bingham erected the first sawmill this year near the present Ames Paper and Pulp Mill. The first legally laid out highway was the state road from Menasha via Appleton to Bruce's Mill, now Stephensville; the commissioners being William Rork, James Blood and J. S. Buck, with John Stephens as surveyor. The town of Grand Chute was organized this year from the town of Kaukauna, taking in what is now Grand Chute, Greenville, Dale, and Hortonia. On October 9, 1849, George H. Myers, the first lawyer, located here. One of the newcomers landed a barrel of whisky from a Durham boat from Neenah, but in the morning the barrel was found empty. If fervent prayers could have tapped the barrel Rev. W. H. Sampson might have been the guilty party as he was a passenger on the same boat; but the owner insisted that the whisky did not spring a leak, but its passage was facilitated by human hands and yet he never charged it upon Myers notwithstanding the circumstances were against Myers. The first wedding service was performed by your humble servant; the contracting parties were a Mr. Lockwood and Miss Webley." --(Address of J. S. Buck before the Outagamie County Pioneer Association, February 22, 1877. --Post, March 8, 1877).
"We commenced sometime in August, 1848, to get out timber for the frame of the Lawrence Institute, the predecessor of Lawrence University and also cut a road through to intersect the Duck Creek and Neenah road which was the only road in the south half of the county. We opened it to Polly's Corners (do you recollect where it was?) and thence to the quarter stake between sections 4 and 5. On the 25th of August I took the ox team and started for Duck Creek for the first load of lumber leaving the men --James Blood, W. D. Pierce, Carter, Bass and Converse-- to complete the road cutting and connection and what was of the greatest importance to bridge some of the runs and low places so that I could get along with my load. That trip is one of the events of those days that. I have not forgotten. The first stop I made was at 'General Jackson's' clearing, in what is now Freedom, where I stopped to get a drink of water (Jackson was a colored man). Here I will say that I always stopped at the general's on my trips to the Oneida settlement or Duck Creek and he was always faithful to return my visits. I am glad to hear that the ninety odd year old veteran still lives. I got through to Duck Creek and loaded up with 700 feet of boards on the first day. Next morning I started for home; got along well till I passed Hines' place in Freedom, when I found my wagon stuck fast in the mud. Hines came with his team and helped me through. about half a mile of low wet ground which the rains had made almost impossible. My next cotillion was when within a mile of St. Marie's, I tried to get around a fallen tree and broke the wagon tongue. It was then night, so I went and staid,with St. Marie's folks till morning. Old settlers will remember that family. Next morning they helped me repair the wagon and one of the boys took their team and helped me through. On coming to the runs that were to be bridged, I found no bridges, the mosquitoes having driven the men out of the woods. But I got through to the shanty, or rather the foundation of it, about 1 o'clock p.m. Col. H. L. Blood had just got there from Green Bay with a load of my goods; it was 12x38 feet so my 700 feet of boards were not enough. Therefore we laid 12 to 18 feet of floor at one end, then sided it up about three feet to keep out the pigs and cattle and the balance of the lumber went for the roof which extended far enough to cover the bed and table. Mrs. Johnston was an invalid, boarding at Menasha. She took a canoe and came on, bound to arrive that day. She found my team waiting at the old steamboat landing (now Lehman's). They came along nicely until the rise at (now) Willy's Bluff, when the tail gate came out and everything slid to the ground. She had her baby (Hank) eight months old and Ann Eliza Northrup (now Mrs. Pound's) and they started on foot to find the house we were building. They followed the trail to near where Alexander Edgar afterwards built his shanty, when they stopped, tired out, to rest. They heard the click of our hammer and called for help. We brought them in and spread out a bed for Mrs. J. to rest on. It was now about 5 o'clock p. m. We hurriedly put up a stove and bed and made a table and some benches. It was our style that the McGillans of Center afterward took for their patterns. We got our first supper about 7 o'clock. We had the first night, besides our own family, Ann Eliza Northrup, James Blood, D. W. Pierce, Carter, Bass, Converse and I think R. S. Bateman and J. S. Buck. We got all our supplies from Neenah --brought everything down in boats from Winnebago rapids to the landing and then packed it home. Many a sack of flour and quarter of beef have I carried up and down those bluffs for my family. * * We had no church privileges and some of the men spent their Sundays hunting or fishing. Bass was a great hunter but under Mrs. J.'s influence they all gave up their Sunday hunting. Bass said to her that he should never hunt on Sunday again. On Sunday morning he was telling Mrs. J. how he formerly spent his Sabbaths; he said 'No temptation would induce me to hunt again, or ever fire a gun on Sunday, not if a deer should come into the yard.' Just then a horse at the door pricked up his ears and instantly three deer came along. They stopped not more than six rods away. Quick as thought off want Bass' pious resolution, his gun and all the deer. He missed them all and a more crestfallen and disappointed fellow I never saw. That fall we were often surrounded by the wolves and sometimes they seemed very near, but they were sure to keep out of reach of the hunters. One very dark night they set up a terrible howling just west of the house. J. S. Buck was not at home and my wife's sister Adaline, had gone over to stay with Mrs. Buck. My wife was very anxious about them and forgetful of her own danger urged me to go to their rescue. I was not the least bit afraid if I do say it, but being captain of the home guard, duty demanded me to hold the fort and I did. Christmas eve we celebrated at Ezra Thurber's. Newman Blood took the oxen and sled, put in a good lot of straw and loaded in all the men, women and children of the settlement, and a jollier load could not be found that Christmas anywhere in America. The spirit of St. Nicholas possessed us all, even the oxen." --(Letter of J. F. Johnston read at the old settlers' meeting, August, 1878).
The fourth of July, 1849, was celebrated by the citizens of Appleton "on Fox river, in Wisconsin." "Doubtless you need not be informed this is a town wearing the honored name of Samuel Appleton, Esq., of Boston, and prospectively enshrined in the hearts of western people as the seat of a university cognomened Lawrence, a name immortal for benevolence. I hasten now to speak of the arrangements and celebrations and leave you and your readers to judge if Appleton, Wisconsin, not yet of twelve months' growth, does not deserve a passing notice in your columns. During the third, one of the finest frames for a public institution, that I have for a long time inspected, was in due order and safety, placed on a stone basement designed for the preparatory building of the univerity. It is of three stories, 70 feet long and 30 wide, having four handsome gables, the views from which in every direction particularly of the river is most magnificent. A temporary ascent and floor to the second story were provided for the accommodation of the feast. The tables which were entirely submitted to the control of the ladies, spread before a hundred guests a free entertainment alike ample, neat, tasteful and elegant. The agent and the principal of the institution were absent. John Stevens, Esq., the first speaker, poured forth a strain of eloquence in his usual dignified and graceful manner. Next followed a racy and pertinent address from Rev. Randall that elicited much applause. This was succeeded by repeated volleys of musketry discharged by patriots who had previously taken their station amid the framework of the cupola. Then succeeded the free discussion of the delicate viands and beverages and the toasts, among the latter being "The Day We Celebrate;" "The Ordinance of 1787 ;" "The Flag oI Our Union;" 'The Flag of Our State;" "The State of Wisconsin;" "The Citizens of Appleton ;" "The Lawrence University of Wisconsin." -- (Cor. Green Bay Advocate, July 19, 1849).
"Leaving Kaukalin we passed over for the most of the way a beautiful country to Grand Chute --a location which is making a good deal of noise just now and certainly with much reason. I never saw so striking an instance of wresting civilization from the wilderness. The grass has not ceased growing under houses and stores, turning with life and business. The carpenter's hammer clangs with a singular echo from the forest at hand and the first wonder which occurred to me was how they could keep the trees from falling on the houses when they began to clear --for felling and clearing seem to be a secondary consideration here. Families have thrown together temporary shanties and occupy them until Providence and carpenters furnish them better. The "Preparatory Department" at Appleton is certainly a fine building and we 'kinder thought' what sort of a building the Institute would be if this was only a tender to it. Success to Appleton if it does patronize the Tribune. A half mile or so above an equally astounding specimen of Yankee enterprise exhibits itself at Martin's. It struck us as the most beautiful site, yet a flying visit did not enable us to examine closely. A fine mill with a wing dam is in course of construction and nearly finished. A good tavern is already established, numbers of buildings are going up, and if the place increases in the same ratio for a year longer, it will rival if not eclipse the others. Lawesburg is an extension of Appleton northward and here are the same features --the same enterprise. I noticed some first class buildings going up. In fact I can't tell you half about the progress of this valley. It is beyond all description. I will try again after I get home and in the meantime I heartily wish you could make regular visits every week and see and hear for yourself. You would like the people and I hope they would like you; they are proverbially a reading and, of course, intelligent community. The health of these towns has been excellent during the season. Not a case of cholera has appeared. The crops have turned out well and I hear no complaint of potato rot. The army worm has done some damage."- (Editorial correspondence, Green Bay Advocate, September 6, 1849).
In October, 1849, W. S. Warner kept the Appleton House. In 1850, Cyrus Jackson built a hotel on the Grand Chute plat. Theodore Conkey, A. B. Boner, J. W. Boner, T. P. Bingham, James Hanchett, Mr. Noort, Ever Grant, Mr. Van Luthner, Mr. Quentyman, O. W. Clark, L. L. Hulce, A. S. Sanborn, John Jewett, E. C. Foot, H. C. Sheenin and his brother, several named McDill, J. W. Letchen, Mr. Ladd, William Lean, James Lean and A. M. Tanner were residents in 1850. --(Judge Myers in Post, February 26, 1885).
Thus the first house built in Appleton was erected in 1848; the first sermon preached was in 1849; and the first mail arrived in 1849; a post office was established the same year; the first child born in Appleton arrived in 1849; the first saw-mill in Appleton was set in operation in 1850; the first term of the county court was held in Appleton in July, 1852, Judge P. H. Smith presiding; "No business appearing." The first circuit court was held in Appleton in October, 1852. Judge T. O. Howe presiding. The first grist-mill to commence operation in Appleton was in 1853. --(Crescent, June 20, 1857).
"The work at Grand Chute was not let, because the bids in the aggregate amounted to more than the board was allowed to expend at this time." -- (Green Bay Advocate, November 15, 1849).
The act of February 7, 1850, authorized E. W. Davis, Reeder Smith and N. P. Stevens to build a bridge across Fox river at Appleton on block 15; they were incorporated as the Appleton Bridge Company and the capital was $3,000.
. "All that part of the town plat of the village of Appleton, described on the recorded plat thereof as the south half of block 10, the south half of block 11, blocks 12, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23 and 24 is hereby vacated. Approved February 7, 1850."
The act of February 7, 1850, provided as follows: "All that part of the town plat of the village of Appleton described on the recorded plat thereof as the south half of block 10, south half of block 11, blocks 12, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23 and 24 is hereby, vacated.
The old Crescent Hotel, which had been erected in 1850 by W. S. Warner and occupied by him as a tavern for some time, was finally moved in 1868 from its location at the corner of College avenue and Morrison streets and on rollers taken in two sections to Edwards street.
In 1850 all the lumber used in the shanties of what became Outagamie county was brought with great expense and difficulty from Duck Creek, Wrightstown and Neenah. In that year if a family obtained a bag of corn and wished it ground into meal, they were obliged to take it on their backs to Neenah. In that year not a pound of flour was manufactured in all Outagamie county. -- (Crescent, January 23, 1870.)
"Appleton. --An Indian was accidentally shot in this place yesterday, but the bullet was extracted and he is now getting better. He and a boy were playing with a pistol when it went off in the hands of the boy. A young man was drowned here last week while building a foot bridge across the river." -- (Green Bay Advocate Cor., January 16, 1851).
The act of March 5, 1852, incorporated the Appleton Water Power Company, the incorporators being Perry H. Smith, Anson Ballard, Jackson Tibbits, Thomas Butterfield, and Frederick Packard. The capital stock could not exceed $100,000; the objects were manufacturing and milling and could own and construct dams, canals, reservoirs, waterways, flumes or races, own lands, etc.
"Boston, July 13, 1853. --Samuel Appleton, Esq., a wealthy merchant of this city died last evening." "Our town was named in honor of this much esteemed gentleman." --(Crescent, July 16, 1853.)
"Our Village Cemetery. --It seems that the place of burial for the dead of Appleton is owned by a cemetery association. We are pleased to find it occupying such a beautiful location. We now suggest to the directors or trustees that the grounds should be laid out into lots with suitable walks and alleys and the brush cleared off leaving a sufficient quantity of trees for ornament and shade; and the whole enclosed by a neat and substantial fence." --(Crescent, July 16, 1853.)
The Appleton corporation officers in 1853 were as follows: J. F. Johnston, president; A. W. Bowen, C. E. Bement, S. Ryan Jr., G. Lanphear, W. H. Sampson and Wait Cross, trustees; James Gilmore, assessor; J. M. Eggleston, treasurer; Daniel Huntley, marshal; J. M. Phinney, clerk.
"Appleton, Outagamie county, Wisconsin, is an incorporated village situated on the right bank of Fox river, three miles below Lake Winnebago and 30 miles from Green Bay; it contains a population of fifteen hundred; is the county seat and the location of Lawrence University; its hydraulic power is equal to any in the United States, the aggregate fall being nearly 40 feet; it is in direct line between Manitowoc on Lake Michigan, and the nearest accessible point on Wolf river (a stream navigable by steamers) and will soon be connected each way by plank roads in progress of construction. It is in the heart of a healthy and fertile country well adapted to grain and grass and is rapidly filling up with intelligent and industrious settlers." -- (Appleton Crescent, June 18, 1853).
Appleton in Outagamie county, town of Grand Chute, on section 26, town 21, range 17 east, is about 125 miles northeast of Madison. The Lawrence Institute is located at this place and the surrounding country is very healthy and fertile. The population is 800; 275 dwellings, 10 stores, 5 hotels, 4 sawmills, a paper factory. It is situated on the lower Fox river at Grand Chute rapids, 30 miles from Green Bay. Its hydraulic advantages are equal to any in the United States, the aggregate fall being 40 feet." --(Wisconsin Gazetteer, 1853). "Dr. Hunt has been misinformed as to the population. Appleton contains at least 1,500. Accessions to its population are being made almost every day. It is destined to be a much larger place than any inland point in Northern Wisconsin with possibly the exception of Oshkosh." --(Crescent, July 16, 1853).
"The Upper Town. --That portion of our town which lies south and west of the courthouse presents marked signs of improvement. Conkey, Bowen and Martin own the most of the town plat and water power and are selling the former and leasing the latter upon the most reasonable terms. The water power is beyond doubt the best in the state, already three good sawmills, one sash factory, one lath factory, one turning machine shop where wood is manufactured into every conceivable shape and a cabinet shop, are driving an immense trade. A paper mill will soon be in full operation; also a large grist mill four stories high and with four run of stone (built by 0. W. Clark the best millwright in the state) will commence work in a few weeks. A heavy store will probably be established in the vicinity of Bowen's Hotel this fall. There is a first rate opening for an iron foundry, a chair and pail factory and an oil mill. * * The Roads. --We are pleased to see that the road overseers of the county have been doing good service in the improvement of the roads. It is a matter of the highest importance to have good roads to the back settlements. * * H. A. Phinney has one of the most extensive stocks of goods of every variety to be found in town. * *" --(Crescent, July, 1853).
The Crescent was first issued in January, 1853, and was published by Ryan & Company, and issued from the Crescent building on College avenue; subscription price $1.50 a year in advance. Rolla A. Law was political editor. Either from the start, or a little later, Henry S. Eggleston was connected with the Crescent, because in September when he assumed the duties of postmaster he was obliged, it was announced, to sever his relation with the paper. Among the residents in 1853 were the following: Robert Morrow dry goods, O. H. Clark millwright, W. S. Warner dry goods, John H. Hart furniture, G. W. Woodward dry goods, D. T. Atwell blacksmith, Eggleston & Robinson sash factory, E. Smith tailor, Edwin Atkinson paper mills, G. W. Gregory architect, W. B. Mitchell cabinet shop (Grand Chute), T. P. Bingham justice of the peace. Lawrence University, third term of the preparatory department, March 17, 1853, William H. Sampson, principal; Bowen's hotel in Grand Chute, kept by A. B. Bowen, near the steamboat landing, Grand Chute, near the Courthouse; National hotel, Appleton, kept by Mr. Hanna, but he was succeeded this year by Mr. McKaller; Crescent hotel by W. S. Warner.
In February, 1854, Mr. Paddock of Appleton killed a large bald-headed eagle that measured 7 feet 2 inches from tip to tip of the wings. It was mounted and placed in the Zoological cabinet of Lawrence University.
In the spring the trade at Appleton was enormous. Many settlers had located in the back districts and large quantities of wheat, pork and grain of various kinds were brought here to market and the merchants did a thriving business. At this time everything indicated that Appleton and vicinity was soon to become a populous and prosperous district. G. W. Woodward began the erection of a large brick block of stores, four stories high, on the north side of College avenue opposite Hanna's block. The brick were made near town. In the spring of 1854, an amendment to the law of 1853 providing for the incorporation of Appleton as a village was passed. The amendment legalized the election in 1853 and extended the powers of the trustees to the construction of sidewalks and otherwise. The previous law was lame in this respect.
"From the gathering of lumber, stone, sand, etc., and the merry clink of hammer and mallet, we opine that this will be a great season for building in Appleton. Work was commenced on the new Methodist Episcopal Church on Monday last. The courthouse is sufficiently completed to enable the April term of the circuit court to be held therein. The county jail is completed and ready for the prisoners now confined at Depere. Mr. McNeil is moving into the Edgarton House, where he will keep an extensive boarding house. The paper mill has been running day and night the last few weeks and has more orders than it can fill. All the saw mills are busy manufacturing lumber for immediate use. The sash factories, planing mills, lath mill, edge-tool factory, turning lathes and saleratus factories and mechanics generally are doing a thriving business. The flouring mills are indulging in considerable competition which attracts farmers from all parts of the country. An extensive tannery is soon to be erected by Mr. Sikes. The work on the university has been resumed and will be hurried forward with all possible dispatch. The river improvement at this place is in the right hands and will soon receive a new impetus, the contractors having advertised for six hundred laborers. There is no unhealthy speculation in town property, nor attempted swindling of eastern capitalists by the issuing of bonds for fancy railroads. Appleton rests upon a basis as solid as the granite rock. It has all the elements requisite to sustain a large industrial population. It already possesses a moral, energetic and enterprising population which is receiving continual accessions from the best of New York and New England society and at no distant day must be the most wealthy manufacturing city of Wisconsin. We have a never-failing water power of 40 feet fall, capable of accommodating 150 run of stone and there is room enough for all other machinery. Our university is far ahead of any collegiate institution in this state in all its appointments and facilities for educating the mass of the people. The spring opens most promisingly and we all feel confident that it will be a prosperous season for our town and county."--(Crescent, March 30, 1854).
Early in 1854 it was announced that the following improvements would be made during the season at Appleton: Lawrence University would spend $30,000 in buildings; the students themselves would spend in Appleton about $15,000, the attendance being about 160. In April the attendance was 190. The River Improvement Company was expected to spend $45,000. Plank and other roads would spend about $13,000. Churches, dwelling houses, public buildings, stores and the water power would probably spend about $20,000. It was thus estimated that the expenditure would reach about $125,000 during the summer of 1854. Appleton at this time claimed a population of 1,500, but actually had about 1,100.
In March there was much rejoicing in Appleton and vicinity over the passage of the bill prohibiting tne sale of liquor in Wisconsin. Although it was provided that the question should be again submitted to the people for ratification, it was acknowledged to be a great step in advance and as, therefore, heralded with great enthusiasm by this community. There was much complaint in Appleton in April over the shin plasters that had been put in circulation in this community. Evidently the worthless money came from Green Bay where it was put in circulation by some outside banking institution. They were called Metropolitan shin plasters and the Green Bay Advocate declared that they were promptly redeemed when presented at that place. This was not found to be the case, however, by the people of Appleton, according to the Crescent.
In April there was great demand for lots upon which to build residences in Appleton. Fox river valley had become celebrated and the influx of settlers seeking permanent locations was very great. It was started by the Crescent that if some wealthy man should invest $50,000 in town lots he could lmake a large fortune by selling them later to actual residents. At this time another lath mill and a chair factory were projected at Appleton. The water power was a magnet to draw manufacturers to this locality. Many new merchants appeared and a dozen or more extra stores were established this year. The Crescent said that Appleton was now the business center for a population of 10,000. That paper said April 29, that for several weeks past about 300 strangers had come here and made inquiries for permanent locations. So valuable was the water power regarded abroad that the improvement bonds sold in New York City at par in the spring of 1854.
In the issue of the Crescent of May 27, 1854, is a full description of Appleton from which the following is summarized:
The incorporated village was really settled in three different locations. Six months after the village plat of Appleton was made, Grand Chute lying to the west and really adjoining it, but separated by deep ravines as well as a dense forest, was commenced at the point opposite the magnificent water-fall and soon grew to be a busy point. About the same time land lying to the east of Appleton was laid off into a village, and named Lawesburg by George W. Lawe. Thus, upon the present city site were three villages. All were finally united under the name Appleton, designated thus in honor of Samuel Appleton, a son-in-law of Mr. Lawrence. The village thus started grew rapidly. In the spring of 1850 a wing dam was constructed on Fox river and a mill erected farther up the stream and later several saw mills were put in operation. In the fall of 1850 the pioneer ladies of Appleton organized as a sewing society and soon raised money enough to build plank sidewalks on College avenue.Their commendable zeal was undoubtedly the cause of the construction of sidewalks throughout the entire village at an early date. A good bridge was built and planked across the ravine and the various branches of the village were united by substantial bridges and otherwise. In January, 1851, the Winnebago Lake and Fox River Company was organized for the construction of a plank road from Kaukauna to Appleton, a distance of ten miles. This road was completed in the fall of 1852 at an expense of about $20,000. Largely through the efforts of Reeder Smith and other citizens of Appleton, the road was extended from Appleton to Menasha on Lake Winnebago. In the summer of 1851 a bridge 1,500 feet long, costing about $2,000, was constructed across Fox river; also in 1851 two large and convenient public schoolhouses were built and the village was divided into three school districts. The central district soon averaged 80 scholars in attendance daily. Soon after the first settlement the Methodists organized a church and had preaching at stated periods in private houses and stores until the completion of the chapel in the preparatory department of the university. There religious services continued to be held for some time. The Presbyterians organized in 1851, but the next year changed to a Congregational form. In the winter of 1853-4 they erected a beautiful edifice at a cost of $1,700 and by this time were large and prosperous. In 1853 the Baptists likewise organized a congregation in the upper part of the village. In January, 1852, a printing press was brought here, but was destroyed by the fire which burned Askin's block before a number of the proposed paper was issued. The only other destructive fire previous to 1854 was the burning of the Crescent Hotel by which one life was lost, and the other the destruction of Bowen's Hotel, a very large building, in the spring of 1854. In March, 1849, the first postoffice was established and John F. Johnston became postmaster. He resigned in 1853 and was succeeded by Henry S. Eggleston. The first mail received at Appleton was brought from Green Bay in March, 1849, by William Richards. The first mail consisted of four newspapers and one letter. The books of the postoffice in May, 1854, showed that 594 weekly papers and periodicals published abroad were taken at Appleton each week. In April, 1851, the county of Outagamie was set off from Brown and organzied. In 1852 the legislature located the county seat of Outagamie county on a block of land near the center of Appleton where A. A. Lawrence, Theodore Conkey, A. B. Bowen and M. L. Martin had laid out lots. In January, 1853, Ryan & Company were induced to bring a printing office here, and on February 17, 1853, the first number of the Appleton Crescent was issued. In 1853 the plank road from Appleton to Stevens' Point was projected and commenced. In May, 1854, Appleton contained the following houses, improvements and industries: 7 dry goods stores; 1 grocery and hardware store; I drugs and groceries; 1 groceries and varieties; 1 grocery and bakery; 1 grocery and provisions; 1 drugs and books; 2 tin shops; 2 paint shops; 2 flouring mills; 1 paper mill; 4 saw mills; 2 lath mills; 1 planing mill; 2 sash and blind factories; 1 edge-tool factory; 1 chair factory; 3 cabinet ware rooms; 3 blacksmith shops; 3 tailor shops; 1 harness shop; 5 boot and shoe shops; 1 gunsmith shop; I market house; 1 saleratus factory; 1 ashery; 1 millinery shop; 1 dentist; 1 barber; 2 fanning mill manufactories; 1 wagon shop; 1 cooper shop; 2 hotels; 4 or 5 boarding houses; 2 architects; 4 law offices; 3 medical offices; 1 publishing house and printing office; 3 surveyors; several carpenter shops; secret societies; 1 Saxehorn band, etc. During 1853 there was sold at Appleton about $60,000 worth of goods. In 1854 there was sold approximately $150,000 worth. The population was mostly American at this time, few foreigners having located here. Sabbaths were better observed than usual in new localities. The temper of the people, their previous religious training and the influence of the University raised the morals of this community to a high standard. Groggeries, doggeries or saloons were not permitted to locate here. The village in 1854 was rapidly filling with settlers from the eastern and middle states. At a later period Germans and other foreigners located throughout the county in large numbers.
The people complained bitterly during the summer of 1854 of irregularity in the mails. Too often the mail destined for Appleton was carried by and only returned after a long delay amid much vexation. "It has come to a pretty pass if the Menasha squad belonging to the 'Forty Thieves' are to be suffered to detain the mails for their private inspection or to spite a community which happens to look with disfavor upon their schemes. The eastern mail which arrived at Menasha on Tuesday of this week was received here on Thursday and the Milwaukee papers which we should receive Thursday will be kept there until Saturday so the public can see that the Menasha postmaster is determined to have a watchful eye to their interests." --(Crescent, June 3, 1854).
In 1854 the city council passed an ordinance prohibiting the introduction, storing, depositing, keeping in store, in deposit or on hand, or having in possession within the corporate limits of Appleton, any spirituous, vinous, malt, fermented, mixed or intoxicating liquors or exchanging the same, or for any species of traffic and designated the same to be a public nuisance. A heavy penalty was attached to the violation of this ordinance.
In June, 1854, Samuel Ryan, Jr., editor of the Crescent, was appointed deputy patriarch of the order Knights of Temperance in Wisconsin. As such he was required to travel considerably throughout the state.
"Improvements. --The east end of our village is improving quite rapidly. Some of the handsomest dwellings are situated in that locality and in sidewalks, etc., more is being done than in the balance of Appleton." --(Crescent, June 10, 1854.) Waverly Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons was instituted in Appleton early in 1854. The following were the first officers: James W. Murray, W. M.; P. H. Smith, S. W.; M. D. McGrath, J.W. They first met in their hall opposite the Crescent office.
The Fond du Lac Herald having stated that a hotel-keeper in Appleton sold liquor in violation of the law, was called to task by the Crescent in the following language: "What hotel-keeper in Appleton sells liquor, Mr. Herald? Give us his name or the name of the hotel and the time when liquor was sold. If it is sold in this town it is done contrary to law. If known only to the initiated or strangers, we are one of many who will, follow it up with penalties of the law if the facts can be known. We stated that there was not a groggery or liquor saloon in the city. We now ask the Herald for the facts upon which the above statement is predicated. The people of this town in the absence of a state enactment have determined that liquor shall not be sold here and they are anxious to follow up that determination if necessary with the penalties provided by law for unlicensed grog selling and thus prevent the name of Appleton from becoming contaminated with rum selling or rum drinking." --( Crescent, June 10, 1854.)
"And Still They Come. --The rush of New Englanders and New Yorkers to our village appears to widen and deepen. A large number of families have arrived here within the past ten days and are already making preparations to build houses and engage in business. The sale of lots in the two extremes of the corporation --the upper and lower villages --are quite numerous and several first class dwellings are in progress or prospective and will be erected before the leaves of autumn fall. The best of all is there is no speculation --no undue exchange or increase in price of town lots. There is a gradual rise, but no wild or unhealthy speculation." --(Crescent, June 24, 1854.)
In June, 1854, the council of Appleton passed an ordinance intended to prevent fires and to regulate the fighting of the same. The city was divided into two fire districts, all east of Appleton street being one and all west the other. Fire wardens were duly appointed for each district. Complete arrangements to prevent fires were made. At the same time an ordinance prohibiting gaming, gambling, etc., was passed.
"Tewlah Encampment No. 1. Order of Knights of Temperance was instituted in Appleton by Samuel Ryan, Jr., on the 24th of June. This order was a higher branch of the Sons of Temperance, its main object being to procure the enactment and attend to the enforcement of a prohibitory liquor law." - -(Crescent, July, 1854.)
The 4th of July, 1854, was observed in Appleton in accordance with a set program. At one o'clock the national salute was fired. Immediately at its conclusion the procession formed on the streets and after traversing Edwards, Morrison, College avenue and Drew street, reached the grove where the ceremonies of the afternoon were observed. The attendance was greater than was expected. Many toasts were responded to by the leading citizens. The oration of President Cooke was worthy of the day and the man. Its merits and ease, its power and eloquence, and its delivery were equal to the occasion. The Crescent said, "The speaker has but few equals in the pulpit, in the lecture room no superior, and as a platform orator will rank among the first."
Just beyond the toll gate on the Lake Winnebago road was the large brick manufactory of the Messrs. Childs. They made large quantities which were used in nearly all the brick buildings erected in this vicinity in early years. By 1854 Appleton by reason of its wonderful water power had attracted the attention of capitalists throughout the entire East. Many came west to inspect the location and not a few became financially interested in the various works along the river.
"The Liquor Nuisance. --Within a week past a drunken white man and a drunken Indian woman have been seen on our streets. Now that there are remedies provided which will reach both seller and buyer we hope to see the temperance men of Appleton on the alert to detect and punish the violators of the law. Heretofore there have been sundry places where Menasha beer was bought and drank. Strong liquors have probably been slyly sold by some of these beerites. Some of our merchants have sold liquor for 'medicinal' purposes. Now the question is here: If we wish to have Appleton retain its good name the solid men of the place must enforce the ordinances. Appleton doesn't need liquor sellers nor liquor drinkers to add to its importance or prosperity."-(Crescent, July 15, 1854.)
Among the officials of Konemic No. .47, Odd Fellows, in 1854 were the following: L. L. Randall, Samuel Ryan, Jr., Wm. A. Prall, Franklin Proctor, W. H. Shermin, M. D. McGrath, W. C.Wells, A. B. Briggs, John C. Ryan, C. D. Foote, Jacob Kohler N. W. Askin, N. J. Graves, J. Hersey. At this time the lodge was in prosperous operation.
Among the leading members of Tewlah Encampment No. 1, order Knights of Temperance, were: Wm. H. Sherwin, Wm. A. Prall, John C. Ryan, Thomas Marsden, Thomas R. Hudd, Jacob Kohler, A. T. Sherwood, James Ryan, L. B. Noyes, James W. Letcher, 0. W. Clark.
Among the leading members of Outagamie Division No. 119, Sons of Temperance were: John C. Ryan, WTm. A. Prall, Wm. B. Mitchell, Luther B. Noyes, H. Rogers, James Ryan, George Huntley, Thomas Marsden, W. W. Crane, Samuel Ryan, Jr., A. T. Sherwood.
Among the leading members of Waverly Lodge No. 51, Masons, were the following: James W. Murray, P. H. Smith, M. D. McGrath, Amos Story, Anson Ballard, John Moodie, Peter White, John Kolher. The Masonic Lodge was prospering and growing finely.
"Hot. --Sunday last was the hottest day we have seen in Wisconsin within seven years. The thermometer marked 103 degrees in the shade. It was a 'melting time.' "-(Crescent, June 8, 1854.)
"Within the past fortnight arrangements have been made for the immediate erection of a dozen large and substantial buildings and as many more 'shells or balloons.' Real estate is rising in value quite rapidly. Lots in the east part of the village have doubled in price since March. In the west end the increase is fully 75 per cent. Farming lands adjoining the corporation have trebled in value within six months. Compared with Oshkosh and Fond du Lac, Appleton prices are astonishingly low." --(Crescent, July 29, 1854).
On the 4th of July, 1854, one of the principal speeches at Appleton was delivered by Mr. Cornelius, the Oneida chief. He thanked his white brothers for the interest they manifested in the education of Oneida children at Lawrence University. He also thanked them for the privilege of addressing them on this celebrated day. He alluded feelingly to the beneficial results of missionary labors among his tribe and boasted the progress that Oneida was making in civilization and religion.
Thomas Hanna, the first landlord of the National Hotel, who had sold it to others, again took charge of the institution in September, 1854. He thoroughly refitted the house and prepared it for the traveling public.
Early in September S. N. Hewlett, Grand Lecturer of the Sons of Temperance, Wisconsin, addressed a large audience at the courthouse in Appleton. Johnston Saxehorn Band furnished music. The address of Mr. Hewlett was spoken of as one of great power and eloquence. He did not mince matters, but spoke of liquor selling and liquor generally in fitting terms. There was a strong element here, probably the New Yorkers and New Englanders, who were opposed to the sale of liquor in any form; but the Hollanders and other families who came in later seemed determined to have the beer and other light drinks to which they were accustomed in the old country. There thus developed in a short time a strong fight throughout the county for and against liquor selling.
"Another Bear. --Our Appleton hunter, Mr. Warner, killed a fine black bear on the school section north of this town. The bears are, very troublesome in that locality, killing hogs and scaring the juveniles. What say our fun-loving people to a real bear-hunt?' --(Crescent.) At this time a call for a general hunt in the vicinity, of Appleton was published. All persons willing to join in the sport were requested to meet at the Crescent Hotel preliminary to the start.
C. P. Richmond manufactured a substantial quality of wrapping paper at the Appleton mills and sold it on reasonable terms.The paper of these mills began to find its way into every village in northern Wisconsin. In August Appleton contained eighteen manufacturing establishments and mills of different kinds in actual operation. This was something to boast of and the Crescent did not hesitate to do so.
"Mr. Warren Warner killed a large and a handsome deer in this vicinity day before yesterday. Mr. Warner kills more game than any three of our citizens and his exploits have long since entitled him to the appellation of Appleton's Hunter.' We return him the thanks of our household for a choice haunch of the venison." --Crescent, August 5, 1854.)
Several cases for geologists came up in August, 1854. From 16 to 18 feet below the surface of the ground at Appleton cedar boughs, foliage, stumps, etc., were invariably found in digging: wells. The soil on the surface was a hard marl; underneath was, black soil which seemed once to have supported a heavy vegetation. It was thus clear that after vegetation had been in progress the Fox river valley was covered with a heavy depth of new soil by the Green Bay glacier.
In November, 1854, the Richmond Company was running their paper mill night and day and was unable to supply the demands of the surrounding country. At this date they manufactured nothing but wrapping paper. They were making preparations to manufacture at an early date printing paper as well.
"Appleton--Our Population. --The entire vote polled on Tuesday last was 343. We have since a list of 41 more legal voters who staid away from the election. According to the usual computation of one voter to every seven persons, and allowing that 120 voters live out of the village, and we have a population of 1,848, exclusive of 240 students and at least 250 other persons who moved in this summer and are not registered. Two thousand is therefore a low estimate of the actual resident population of the village of Appleton." - -( Crescent, November 11, 1854.)
Letcher & Ladd prepared in the fall of 1854 to build their oil mill and to start operations in the spring of 1855. Conrad Geiger prepared to erect a large cabinet shop near the Edgerton House. His cabinet shop was the fourth in Appleton. Whitney and Ashton erected a large dining-room on College avenue opposite the preparatory department of the University.
Late in 1854 the cemetery at Appleton was greatly beautified and improved. The institution was owned by an. association. Late in 1854 the large bridge across the ravine near the paper mills was completed. It was 200 feet below the high bridge. Owing to the high elevation of Appleton upon the river it was necessary for the accommodations of business men to erect six or seven bridges exclusive of those across the river. This entailed upon the citizens a considerable additional expense.
So fast was the growth of Appleton and vicinity in 1854 that no less than three and sometimes four sawmills were constantly employed in manufacturing lumber for home consumption. Two years before there was a period of stagnation in building; now, however, a change appeared. The mills during the summer of 1854 worked constantly day and night. No lumber or very little was shipped out of the county, but considerable was brought in from abroad. Farmers and others who built in the county, secured their logs often on their own farms or from neighboring pine lands. Nearly all the lumber thus furnished by the three or four sawmills was used within the corporate limits of Appleton. Late in 1854 everything indicated great growth during the year 1855.
Late in 1854 there were five secret societies in Appleton, viz.: Sons of Temperance, Independent Order of Ancient Knighthood, the Masons, the Odd Fellows and the U. or B. of R. During the year there were but eight deaths in the village of Appleton. It was boastingly declared that no other village in the West could show such a record of healthfulness.
"Temperance. --What is the distinct trait of the people of Appleton? The answer is --temperance --strict sobriety in town or corporation. Officers do not license rum selling and when any is sold it is in violation of the law and of public sentiment. When men sell liquor we fine them and when they get drunk we imprison them. These sedatives have an influence. We propose that the sentence be doubled to all offenders."-(Crescent, December 16, 1854).
During 1854 Appleton filled with, new enterprises. About a year before, the Congregationalists erected a large church, and near the close of the year the Methodists erected another. The University building was now nearly finished and was a striking and attractive feature. The Sunday schools were enlarged and improved. The Congregationalists added to their Sunday school an excellent library and late in 1854 the Methodist Sunday school raised $50 to secure the nucleus of a library for that denomination. Throughout the county several of the settlements had Sunday schools which were likewise active laborers. Generally in this town and county the Sabbath was more generally and sincerely respected than in almost any city in the Western states. It was for this reason partly that Appleton was called the "Puritan village."
During the year of 1854 a shipment of lumber from the Fox river regions aggregated about 3,000,000 feet.
By act approved February 13, 1855, Frederick Packard, Jackson Tibbits, Anson Ballard and their associates were incorporated as the Appleton Manufacturing and Water Power Company with a capital of not less than $20,000 nor more than $150,000. Their business was shown by their corporate name.
The act of February 24, 1855, amended the act incorporating the village of Appleton approved March 29, 1853, by striking out the following words after "thirty-four" in section 1: "Thence running east along the subdivision line of section 34 to the left bank of the Fox river; thence down stream alongside left bank of Fox river and inserting the following: "Thence running south to the southerly bank of Fox river; thence easterly along said south bank of Fox river to a point where the Fox and Wisconsin river improvement canal intersects said river; thence along the center of said canal."
The Legislature by act approved March 31, 1855, gave the trustees of Appleton power to divide the territory into any numbel of wards, not exceeding three; require each voter to vote in his own ward; provided for the election of a county supervisor in each ward.
In January, 1855, land, not lots, within the corporation limits sold for $100 per acre, and choice building lots on Lawrence street sold for $400. Several building lots in the Third ward, three squares back of the river, sold for $150, $125, $100. None for less than $100 was to be had. Lumber was as scarce and as high as ever. Land one mile from Appleton was sold for $50 per acre. Land lying on the road west of the courthouse through Greenville and to Ball Prairie, increased several dollars per acre in one week, it was noted. These were genuine advances without a touch of speculation.
During the winter the legislature passed sundry amendments to the Appleton city charter, among which were the following: That a strip of territory south of the river and above the canal should be annexed to the village so that all machinery, mills and water power should be included within the incorporate limits; Appleton was divided into three wards.
During the early spring immense quantities of logs were hauled here to be used during the coming season for building purposes. People did not wait until the rafts should come down the river, but began hauling as early as January.
The Outagamie assemblyman, Judge Smith, was criticized for his vote on the Prohibitory Liquor Law. He voted first not to indefinitely postpone the whole subject. On the question of submitting the bill to a vote of the people he voted yes. On the question of excluding brandy and cheap whisky through the operation of the law he voted no. On the question of excluding wine, beer and cider made in Wisconsin he voted yes. On excluding the manufacture and sale of beer, the manufacture and sale of pure wine made of grapes grown in the United States, and the manufacture and sale of pure cider made from apples, he voted yes. On the second motion to submit the bill to the vote of the people he voted yes. He moved to strike out section 7. In ordering the bill to be engrossed for the third reading he voted no, and on the final passage of the bill he voted no. This final vote he knew was not in accordance with the sentiments of his assembly district. Judge Smith was asked publicly to inform his constituents why he voted as above. It was stated further that after a motion was made to reconsider the vote by which the bill was passed Judge Smith voted no, whereby it was argued that the Judge opposed the right of search. Later on it was announced that on the final vote Judge Smith was in favor of the passage of the bill.
The Crescent, in the spring of 1855, in announcing the approaching election, suggested that many practices and customs existing there should be abolished; many reforms should be made, and the way to effect these reforms was to elect the best village board obtainable. The streets needed cleaning; sidewalks were encumbered with boxes, barrels and rubbish; the streets were strewn with wood, dirt and filth; hogs run wild and were a great nuisance; untamed school-boys hung about the streets late at night; and worse than all liquor was sold and drank in many places on the sly. It was declared that if Appleton expected to retain its high reputation a great improvement was immediately necessary.
In March, 1855, the Crescent was in ecstasy over the action of the assembly, which by the decisive vote of 57 to 6, repealed the act of the previous winter, providing for the appointment of the lunatic association and empowering them to let a contract for building an asylum at an expense of not more than $30,000. It was reported that Mr. Sanborn and his associates sent. in a communication charging the investigation committee of the Legislature with falsehood and misrepresentation, and that the assembly unanimously refused to receive it. Mr. Sanborn was one of the ablest lawyers of Outagamie county.
Late in March, 1855, came the news that the prohibitory bill was vetoed by the governor. It then failed to pass over the veto. It was really no prohibitory bill, because it sanctioned the manufacture and sale of whisky, wine, beer and cider. The Outagamie senator and assemblynan voted for the passage of the bill over the governor's veto. Immediately thereafter a new bill having a similar import was passed by a majority of 18 votes.
The hotels at Appleton having become overcrowded largely by university students, it was proposed to form a joint stock association for the purpose of erecting a hotel building which should be wholly devoted to the traveling public. It was proposed to raise a capital of $15,000, the citizens to subscribe for the stock and to erect such a building immediately.
The act approved April 2, 1855, provided that the trustees of Appleton should have power to divide the territory within the corporation into any number of wards not to exceed three as in their judgment should be convenient and proper.
The citizens boasted that Appleton possessed unusual social advantages. It was composed mainly of people from the Central and New England states, men and women who had grown up in communities possessing excellent schools and churches and were accordingly cultured and fit in every way for the higher and better duties of life. It was declared that Appleton was noted for its morality, sobriety, culture and politeness. The citizens called the place, "Our Woodland Home," and stated that the population was fitted for the best society, and that Appleton should therefore.receive and would welcome educated people from the Eastern and Central states or elsewhere. It was said that in comparison to population, no state in the West contained such a strong preponderance of religious over irreligious sentiments. While the various sects might differ, yet all agreed on the great blessings of Christianity. Appleton at this time began to be called the "Gem of Fox River Valley.'
The three wards of Appleton were established as follows: First ward --all east of Drew street, with polling place at the Corner Hotel; Second ward --all between Drew street and Grand Chute village plat, with polling place at MeSchule's Appleton House; Third ward --all west of North Division street and the strip of territory on the south side of the river between the canal and river, with polling place at the Chute schoolhouse.
In the spring the Appleton Crescent entered upon its third volume. It was generally regarded as one of the best newspapers in Wisconsin. It attended to home matters and at the same time gave an abundance of information concerning State and National affairs. The Crescent called the governor's veto of the prohibitory liquor law, "the last kick of lunacy."
In April the combined singing schools of Appleton, Neenah and Menasha gave a concert in the College chapel in Appleton under the direction of J. B. Carpenter. The Appleton Saxe-Horn Band assisted in the exercises. A large audience heard the fine music.
The Crescent claimed a circulation of a few less than 1,000. It stated that its profits were not made upon a subscription list, but upon job work which in reality supported the paper. Outagamie county gave Judge Flint (D.) a majority of 219 votes for circuit judge of the Fourth district in 1855.
Previous to the spring of 1855, Appleton had done a great deal for the opening of roads and the construction of bridges. Its enterprise built the plank road from Appleton to Kaukauna. It also constructed the bridge across Fox river and many other bridges over small streams and large ravines. In the spring of 1855 it voted a special road tax of $900. The usual road tax was $1,000. Also it subscribed $10,000 in the Stevens Point road.
In April the lower dam at Appleton gave way, some 50 feet being swept off; two men, John Garvey and Michael Paris, were instantly drowned and several others were badly hurt. Among the Appleton items in April were the following: Jackson Tibbits was chosen chief fire engineer of the fire department. A new plank walk 12 feet wide was built on College avenue. In answer to the petition of property holders a public pound was established to be used for cattle and hogs. E. D. Finney, marshal, was elected street commissioner. William G. Prall was elected village clerk. Notwithstanding the scarcity of lumber, building began in the spring of 1855 actively and extensively. Many new faces were seen on the streets, and the back woods were swarming with men from the hills of New England and the worn-out farms of New York. Everywhere throughout Appleton the residents were planting shade trees.Four sawmills were in active operation and could scarcely meet the requirements of building at Appleton alone. Experienced nurserymen from the East arrived at this time and established nurseries near Appleton; Mr. Ticknor was one.
In early years Appleton was visited by many prominent men from the East who came here to make investigations concerning the water power. In 1855 ex-Governor Seymour of New York visited the public works of the Lower Fox and spent some time inspecting the improvements on the river. Upon invitation of Dr. Cook, he addressed the students of the University in the College chapel. He expressed himself most highly gratified with his tour through the valley of the Lower Fox.
In May, 1855, land near Appleton was worth from $50 to $150 an acre; choice business lots on College avenue near Appleton street sold for from $15 to $20 a front foot. Good dwelling lots 60x120 feet sold for from $100 to $120 each. It was stated that if speculation could be kept down, Appleton would have a population of 5,000 soon. Many of the newcomers were from New York and New England. It was asked by the Crescent why some local capitalist did not go into the business of building dwelling houses for new residents. Every shanty in town was full to overflowing. Strangers were arriving daily and no houses were ready for their occupancy, consequently many went elsewhere to build and reside. The opening of the plank road from Lawrence street through the ravine to the courthouse attracted a large number of residents to that portion of Appleton lying north and west of the park. In the First ward numerous houses were going up.
The Appleton flour mills were one of the most notable early industries. Usually farmers did not expect to secure a. barrel of flour at other mills from less than five or six bushels of wheat. It was noted that the Genesee Mills at Appleton furnished a barrel of superfine flour from four bushels and twelve pounds of wheat. Farmers came here from a distance of more than twenty miles. These mills paid cash for wheat.
"House Building. --Notwithstanding the scarcity and high price of lumber many new frame buildings are in process of erection in this village, and others are contracted for as soon as lumber can be, procured." The Crescent further said that very nearly 100 new houses were to be built in Appleton during the summer of 1855.
Early in the year when the fugitive slave was. rescued from the jail in Milwaukee, many Republicans here rejoiced; for this they were scolded by the Crescent.
In the summer the Odd Fellows formed a joint stock association with a capital of $3,000 for the purpose of building a brick building three stories high in which should be their hall. It was called the Konemic Joint Stock Association. The committee having the project in charge was J. C. Cross, G. W. Gregory and Samuel Ryan, Jr. The Crescent complained of the quality of paper it was getting and asked the Appleton paper mills to commence the manufacture of suitable paper for newspaper use. In May there were sold in Appleton 94 lots. In January a party consisting of several families from Kentucky visited Appleton and spent several days in looking over the county. They were highly pleased and many of them made preparations to settle here.
In January, 1855, T. R. Hudd of the Outagamie division of the Sons of Temperance delivered an address on prohibition to a large audience in the courthouse. It was one of the ablest and most instructive addresses ever heard in the village. The Saxe-Horn band furnished music.
In July, 1855, some person set fire to the village pound and it was burned to the ground. A reward was offered for the arrest of the culprit.
Late in 1855 the paper mills at Appleton were unable still to furnish suitable paper for the Crescent. That newspaper was compelled to get its paper from Beloit. The paper company here, however, promised at an early day to meet this demand.
"Families are still moving into town and the sawmills are busy manufacturing lumber. Quite a large population is coming into our village and county. Red republicanism and mob law are driving hundreds from Washington county." -- (Crescent, September 15, 1855.)
"The population of Appleton is principally made up of New Yorkers and New Englanders with some dozen families of English, about fifteen families of German, and as many of Irish birth. We have only two or three French families and not a Spaniard nor a negro. In the county we have the Hoosier settlement in Freedom. Centre is entirely settled by natives of Ireland, most of whom have been many years in America. Their settlement extends into Freedom and Kaukauna. There is also quite a settlement of Irish in Greenville, which with Dale is the garden of the county. The Hollanders have a large settlement in Kaukauna extending thence into Brown and Sheboygan counties. There is also quite a French population in Kaukauna, mostly descendants of the French settlers and traders who came to Green Bay at a very early day. The German population of our county is not large and is scattered. Dale has the most considerable settlement of Germans extending into Hortonia and Greenville and a few into Ellington. Very many, however, are of German descent, though really Buckeye born. The German population of our county is prospering. Ellington, Bovina and Embarrass contain settlers mostly of American birth and with the exception of Centre and Kaukauna the citizens of native birth are the most numerous in every town in the county." --(Crescent, December 22, 1855.)
In August Reeder Smith sold to Anson Ballard two lots on Lawrence street for $1,000 cash. This showed the rapid advance in the price of Appleton lots. On September 1, Rolla A. Law published his valedictory and retired from the editorial staff of the Crescent.He had been political editor. Among the new establishments in Appleton were Franklin & Crockett shoe shop; Hull & Lanphear dry goods; besides there were a new tailor shop, a new meat market, a new livery stable and omnibus line, several new boarding houses and a new sawmill.
In September at a musical convention held in Fond du Lac in the Baptist church, Outagamie county was represented by its best musicians. Royal Buck of Fond du Lac was president of the convention; Win. A. Prall of Appleton was corresponding and recording secretary. After an interesting and enjoyable entertainment and, experience the convention adjourned to meet at Berlin in February, 1856. Late in 1855, Theodore Conkey started an ashery and began the manufacture of pearl-ash and potash for market.
In October Mr. Waitt opened a writing school in Appleton. He exhibited specimens of his penmanship, which were beautiful in the extreme. He succeeded in raising a large class which he conducted for several months. Late in 1855 the business outlook for 1856 was very promising. The Odd Fellows large brick building was in progress; J. C. Smith expected to build a block of brick stores; W. S. Warner had projected a brick bank building; W. H. White intended to build a large three story hotel; E. Morrow had commenced a brick block; W. C. Griffiths projected a brick block at the old corner; P. H. Smith prepared to build one opposite the Masonic hall; and many others had in contemplation the erection of either dwellings or business blocks. The Konemic Joint Stock Association was organized fully late in October by the election of the following trustees: W. S. Warner, J. W. Carhart, Jr., Samuel Ryan, Jr., G. W. Gregory and Waite Cross. The trustees selected the following officers: President, Samuel Ryan, Jr.; secretary, J. T. Carhart, Jr.; treasurer, William S. Warner.
In December, 1855, the Outagamie County Bank, one of exchange and deposit, was opened in Appleton by Cronkhite & Company. H. S. Marsh was cashier. It was the first regular bank established in this county. Previously Cronkhite & Company had conducted a banking establishment here, but it was an inconsequential branch of their larger banks elsewhere.
The village officers of Appleton in January, 1856, were as follows: President, R. A. Lawe; trustees --First ward --Waite Cross, J. S. Buck; Second ward Byron Douglas and W. S. Warner; Third ward --H. W. Ladd and C. E. Bement; clerk, W. A. Prall; treasurer, James M. Eggleston; marshal, J. H. Marston; street commissioner, W. S. Warner; fire wardens, A. B. Randall and A. B. Everts; chief engineer fire department, Jackson Tibbits. It was thought at this time that the village board contemplated repealing the anti-liquor ordinance owing to the indifference of a large portion of the community to the subject. Many Germans and others accustomed to drink beer had come in and there was developing a change of sentiment regarding the sale and usage of liquor.
In January, Nelson Phelps of the firm of Tibbits & Phelps, while standing upon the bridge crossing Fox river, lost his footing, fell into the rapids, was whirled down stream and drowned. This sudden and awful accident cast a gloom upon the village. The funeral sermon was preached by Rev. H. H. Benson of the Congregational church. About March 1, John Elliott succeeded Henry S. Eggleston as postmaster at Appleton. Mr. Eggleston resigned the office. Mr. Elliott had been his deputy during the past year and a half. The Free Press was in existence in 1856 with S. H. Brady as editor.
In June, 1856, the liquor ordinance of the village of Appleton was repealed by the board because it was universally treated as a dead letter. Thus a great change had taken place in the attitude here concerning liquor. The old guard was still faithful to prohibition, but the new arrivals demanded their beer and other liquor.
There was rendered in July, 1856, the most meritorious and memorable operatic or musical exhibition ever given in Appleton up to that date, under the leadership of Miss Crandall, musical teacher in the University. By special request the concert was repeated the next evening. The Appleton concert band was rejuvenated and made preparations for the summer's campaign.
On January 18, 1857, the mercury at Appleton early in the morning stood at 27 ° below zero; on the following morning it was 23 ° below zero; after warming up a little it again sank to 27 below zero on Thursday morning and to 24 ° below on Friday morning.The latter day was the worst of all because there blew a strong wind that cut through robes and clothing. At this time the snow was two feet deep on the level.
In January, Anson Ballard was master of Waverly Lodge, No.51, Masons; M, D. McGrath was senior warden and Thomas A. Wilson, junior warden. The lodge was in excellent working condition with a goodly membership. A new hotel was planned to cost $30,000 and to be paid for by stock subscription. About this time the taxes in the three wards of Appleton were considered high, owing to the fact that the people were taxed extra to build new schoolhouses needed to meet the growth of the village. The famous Genessee Mills of Appleton were purchased by Frederick and Charles Pfennig, who came here from Washington county, and took possession about the 20th of that month. These mills were considered the best in this portion of the state. The Outagamie County Bank erected in handsome brick building near Post's drug store. The bank designed to issue its own notes early the coming spring. Turner's new sawmill on the Grand Chute rapids was put into operation about the first of February. It was new, up-to-date, and worked satisfactorily it was designed to improve the machinery as fast as the business should warrant.
The boundaries of the three city wards in 1857 were as follows: First ward --All that territory lying east of a line commencing on the north boundary of the city, also to Drew street; thence following said Drew street to Fox river; thence by a line through Fox river to the west end of Grand Chute island; thence around the island to the intersection of the Menasha plank road; thence southerly along the road to the township line. Second ward --All west of the line just described and east of the following line: From the west end of the Grand Chute island to the foot of Elm street; thence along Elm street to the courthouse square; thence through the center of said square to the northern line of North Division street, as found on Stephen's lithograph map, the name of which street is changed to West End avenue; thence north to the city boundary. Third ward --Embraces the remainiing territory in the city. The Second ward was the smallest in territory, but much the largest in population, while the First and Third wards were about equal in territory and population. It was presumed that in the end the territory south of Fox river would be organized into a separate ward. Each ward assumed the position of a town in nearly all respects, the duty of supervisor being entailed upon the aldermen and each ward therefore had its own tax for ward purposes and thus its own locality and interests to be cared for. Special city taxes could be voted for waterworks, fire engines, etc. The city officers to be elected were mayor, supervisor, director and marshal. Each ward was to elect a county supervisor, two aldermen, one justice of the peace and one constable. The mayor and aldermen were not to receive pay. The above ward boundaries were changed somewhat a little later. The territory which was incorporated as the City of Appleton was that lying in the town of Grand Chute and embraced in sections 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 34, 35, 36, town 21 north, range 17 east.
It seemed almost unaccountable to the people ot Appleton in 1857, when that village was made a city, that only about nine years before the site was a wilderness where wild animals roamed unmolested. The city charter passed the legislature late in February and was duly approved by the governor. The first election of city officials was ordered held April 21. The city was divided into three wards, each of which was required to choose two aldermen and one supervisor. The general city tax was limited to three mills on the dollar. The town of Grand Chute was required to hold its next town meeting at the courthouse. No resident of the city could vote for town officials or be eligible to a town office. All connection between city and town was dissolved in May. The city could not be bonded for over half a million dollars for railroads. Altogether the inhabitants were well pleased and were prepared for the city administration. It was noted that only ten years before Appleton had no existence whatever, neither houses, people nor name.
In 1857 Appleton boasted of its stone quarry and said that for building purposes no town of the state could surpass this locality in the production of an extremely durable building stone. Copper ore had been found in different places in the town of Medina and scattered quantities had been found in other portions of the county.
The Crescent stated in April, 1857, that the paper used in its issues was manufactured at the Appleton Paper Mills by C. P. Richmond. The paper was of good quality apparently though the surface was somewhat rough. From the large number of contracts let by April it was clear that many new stores and residences would be built in Appleton during the coming year. There would probably be spent over $30,000 for the erection of private residences alone. In that part of First ward north of Fox river, it was believed that $60,000 would be spent for dwellings. In the Third ward a large amount was also expected to be spent. This did not take into account the money likely to be used for public structures of all kinds. Nor did it include some $25,000 which would probably be needed for the Female college. In March the legislature passed a bill legalizing certain acts of the president and trustees of Appleton in laying out and establishing certain highways and streets and in performing other needed improvements. After the passage of the city charter there was some complaint because it was believed the legislature had disfranchised many of the citizens when it stipulated that they should not vote for town officials for the town of Grand Chute. When the nature and object of the law was explained to them their grumbling ceased.
In the spring of 1857 it was demanded that there should be a resurvey and replatting of Appleton and that a new map thereof should be made. As it was there was much confusion; a half dozen different plats and maps were consulted and several of them conflicted. It was demanded that a system should be adopted and a reorganization of the method of keeping the city plat should be made. The summer was very wet, rain after rain following each other in succession, and on more than one occasion two inches of rain fell in less than one hour. The streams were flooded and about 50 feet of the river bridge near the north shore were swept away by the logs which lodged against it. In July a, public square for the Second ward was demanded. When the town was platted this portion was so small that no land could be. spared for such a purpose, but now the citizens felt the need of such an open place. Another in the vicinity of Superior and Morrison streets was demanded.
"Whoop Hurrah! --Our city fathers have been compelled to pass an ordinance that sidewalks of a width not less than six feet shall be built hereafter owing to the ladies' hoops. Six feet is rather narrow judging by what we have seen on the avenue, namely, a gentleman hugging the doorstep of a store to let two ladies pass on a twelve-foot walk." --(Crescent, July 25, 1857.)
In July the American Express Company extended its line of operation to Appleton, Green Bay, and other points in this portion of the state. In August there was a daily line of this express; John Elliott was appointed their agent. For a year or more before this date there had existed an irregular independent express between Green Bay and Menasha. It was not well regulated and usually charged enormous prices for its services. The Appleton Hotel Company was organized for the purpose of subscribing stock to be used in building a large hotel. The shares were placed at $25 each. The commissioners were Theodore Conkey, P. H. Smith, J. M. Phinney, L. H. Hanchett, T. A. Wilcox, Reuben Doud, Jackson Tibbits and Winfield Scott. Under the supervision of Mr. Jenne, engineer, a dam and lock were erected at Little Kaukauna and one on a larger scale at the Croche Rookery.
In the spring of 1857 Appleton had the National Hotel, a house that was well patronized and well thought of; but the city, it was argued, needed a public house four times as large, and it was urged again, as it had been on several occasions before, to organize .a stock company and erect a hotel costing approximately $20,000.
By August 1 the new bank building was nearly finished and was one of the best brick structures in this city. It was designed to be ready for occupancy October 10. The bids, eleven in number, to build a sewer between Oneida and Drew streets, were opened, and the contract was awarded to William Johnson for $64o. The bids ranged up as high as $1,700. In response to the appeal a bill to incorporate the city of Appleton was introduced in the legislature in September. About the middle of September the Good Templars of Fond du Lac gathered in an excursion on the Appleton Belle and spent a day with the Sons of Temperance and other similar organizations of Appleton. They were accompanied by a band and were given an enjoyable day.
In the suit of Smith against Lawrence for lands within the limits of Appleton and for other claims, the former was awarded one-half the property in dispute and a judgment of $2,832.15, with costs amounting to $1,557.30. Messrs. T. P. Bingham, Edward West and A. B. Jackson were appointed commissioners to divide the property between the litigants. These men failed to act, whereupon the court appointed Theodore Conkey, T. R. Hudd and A. I. Cronkhite as such commissioners. The fact that a large tract of land in the Second ward was tied up in the Smith-Lawrence legal controversy caused that portion of the city to remain unsettled much longer than it otherwise would have been. Judge P. H. Smith, the owner of about thirty-three acres recently purchased by him from Levi Randall, laid the same out in lots and streets and offered it for sale. In the spring of 1857 the county grounds were improved. The population of Appleton at this time was claimed to be 3,000 people, but was considerably less. Its railroad prospects were excellent. Its commercial facilities were equal to, those of any city in the northern part of the state; its water power was, unsurpassed; the country around was rich, fertile and developing an active and enterprising population; its manufactures were immense and steadily increasing; its educational advantages were second to those of no other city in Wisconsin; and its social and religious influences were all that could be desired.
In October, Theodore Conkey sold his large mercantile establishment to A. B. Everts and W. H. Lanphear, two young men from New York. Reeder Smith and J. W. Hutchinson purchased the entire interest of Judge Smith in the recent addition to Appleton known as the Randall Purchase. They laid out the land in tracts and lots and offered them for sale to actual residents. Other important additions were owned by Bateman & Company, West &Company, and Martin & Company. In November, Samuel P. Hart of Appleton while out looking for a colt scared up a wild animal which was followed by his dog and finally treed. Upon approaching Mr. Hart discovered a huge panther and immediately made preparations to shoot it. He fired but succeeded in breaking one of its fore shoulders only. Before the animal could spring upon him he reloaded and shot it through the head, killing it instantly. The panther was brought to Appleton and exhibited. It measured seven feet two inches from the head to the tip of its tail. Each of the paws was thicker than a strong man's arm and was capable of striking a sledge-hammer blow. Two of its tusks were already broken off and had been missing apparently for several years. The other two were very large and much worn. Mr. Hart offered the animal to Lawrence University to be stuffed and placed in its cabinet of curiosities. It was noted in November that large quantities of apples, pears, plums, and cherries raised in this portion of the state found market in Appleton.
In 1857 the aggregate assessment footed up $135,000; the total amount of property assessed in Appleton for 1858 was:
Late in 1857 it was found necessary to establish a special nightwatch to prevent the operations of numerous thieves and burglars in and around Appleton.
In January, 1858, the New London Times, which had been suspended for some time, was resurrected and again issued.
It was estimated by the Crescent in January, 1858, that building operations during the previous year amounted to about $80,000. It was the panic year and in consequence thereof building was smaller than would have been under other circumstances. Dwellings, stores, offices, shops, and mills had gone up in large numbers. About $7,000 was expended upon public buildings and in making improvements thereto alone.
Early in February many temperance meetings that were largely attended were held in the basement of the First Ward Methodist Church. Large congregations assembled and much excitement, enthusiasm and zeal prevailed. At this time liquor sellers were endeavoring to secure a permanent footing in Appleton. "We have resided in Appleton a trifle over five years. In 1853 intoxicating liquors were sold at no less than ten different places in Appleton. At that time the entire population was considerably less than one thousand. Now with a population of more than three thousand within the city limits, we find after diligent enquiry that there are but four, or at most five, places of that kind within the limits of the city, three of which are licensed saloons. No man can convince us that ten establishments would keep liquor for sale in 1853 for a population of a thousand unless the traffic paid tolerably well. At that time and for nearly three years afterward beer was a rarity. Now the licensed dealers tell us that beer is used more than all other liquors. Much is said against the actions of the city council in granting liquor licenses. Now it is gravely proposed to resort to the ballot box and elect men to the mayorality and common council who will stand pledged to put down liquor selling except for mechanical, medicinal, and sacramental purposes." --(Crescent).
In February, 1858, James Duggan, a citizen of Appleton, was killed by John Hogan of Greenville. They had been drinking and engaged in a quarrel. Hogan took a heavy sledge stake and struck Duggan a terrible blow on the side of the head, killing him almost instantly. Hogan was arrested and confined in the county jail.
The Odd Fellows held a festival on Washington's Birthday in 1858 which was pronounced by far the best celebration of the kind ever seen in Appleton. Colonel William Aldrich, M. W. G. M. of Wisconsin was present and delivered a strong speech. The supper was prepared by Mr. and Mrs. White of the Crescent Hotel. The celebration was held in Cronkhite hall which was tastefully decorated with evergreens, flags and drapery. A large delegation from Neenah and other portions of the state was present. The evening until a late hour was spent in dancing. Early in 1858 the Odd Fellows began making arrangements to build a fine hall in Appleton.
It was noticed in March, 1858, that unusual preparations for building were being made in Appleton. Many contracts were let before the middle of the month and everywhere were evidences of activity and prosperity. In March, 1858, the amended charter of the City of Appleton passed both branches of the legislature and in due time was signed by the governor. The report of the city treasurer in March, 1858, showed that the total receipts were $6,046.55 and the total expenses the same amount less $865.42 on hand at the close of the fiscal year. The largest receipts were from the special road tax amounting to $1,554.30. The special tax for grading and opening streets amounted to $841; tax for school district No. 6, $750; grading and juror's certificates, $798.
In April, Appleton had five large sawmills, two of them as good or better than any in the state. The two best were owned by Beach, Johnson & Company and Lehigh, Williams & Company. The amount of lumber manufactured here was not known but was probably between 2,000,000 and 3,000,000 feet annually. The pine logs came from the Wolf river and its tributaries. At the annual meeting of the Outagamie Life, Fire & Marine Insurance Company held in April, the following directors were elected: Anson Ballard, J. F. Johnston, J. S. Buck, James Gilmore, J. A. Everts, Peter White, Frederick Packard, William Johnson and Samuel Ryan, Jr. It was stated that the site and nearly $10,000 in stock was pledged for the new hotel that was about to be built.
A special committee of the city council examined the books of the city clerk and city treasurer, but could find no malfeasance or serious blunder. Some accounts were wrongly kept and balances were not right, but as a whole the records of these officers were commended by the committee. Suggestions for improvement were offered and some fault was found, but as a whole the report of the committee was favorable. In the spring the legislature duly passed the acts providing for a survey of the city of Appleton and providing for amendments to the city charter and to local matters.
In 1858 Reeder Smith and a Mr. Wilson each claimed to own the same eighty-acre tract at New London, the former under a sheriff's deed, and the latter under a deed from Mr. Buck; the original owner, who had gone years before to California. While this dispute was at its height Mr. Buck suddenly returned unannounced and pronounced the deed purported to have been given by him a forgery. A criminal prosecution was threatened. In 1851 Reeder Smith began suit against Amos A. Lawrence, proprietor of a considerable portion of the Appleton town site, for a portion of the property. By 1858 this property was greatly improved with flouring, saw and planing mills and other improved interests. After a protracted suit it was decided in Mr. Smith's favor and commissioners were appointed to divide the property. While the suit was pending P. H. Smith and Anson Ballard acquired an interest in the property. These various stages tied up the property so that that portion of the town was under a cloud for many years. The decision of the court in the spring of 1858 settled the question. The barrel factory at Appleton was constructed by Dunn & Brewster in the Spring of 1858. The factory and outhouses, consisting of some eight or ten buildings, covered several acres; and all cost, including the machinery, about $40,000. The trade the first year was about $30,000, but in 1864 it amounted to $75,000. They employed from forty to fifty men. A. G. Parkhurst was foreman. Later G. I. Brewster was sole owner. The Appleton brewery located on the Menasha road, just across the canal, was built in 1858 by Mr. Fisher, who sold out to Mr. Meunch in 1860.
In May, 1858, Mayor Amos Story delivered his inaugural message to the common council at Appleton. This was his second inaugural address. He complimented the Council on the growth and prosperity of the young city; deplored the fact that city taxes were high but stated that it seemed necessary in order to improve the streets and to build bridges across the ravines; recommended that the cemetery should be removed from the center of the city to some site outside of Appleton but adjacent thereto; called attention to the importance of building suitable reservoirs and showed how a few fires would burn up much more than such a reservoir would cost; stated that the county board had appropriated $1,000 for the construction of a new and substantial bridge across the Fox river and that the council should assist that project which they could do in many ways, Another important improvement about to be completed was the embankment across College avenue ravine; he thought that $1,000 would be sufficient to complete that work. The question of licenses for the sale of liquor was touched upon lightly by him. He said, "It is a delicate and yet important question for you to decide whether to adopt the policy of granting or withholding licenses to retail intoxicating drinks. It is a new question over which you have exclusive jurisdiction. My own opinion is that if we adopt the policy of licensing we should not allow it to become a monopoly in the hands of any man or set of men; but they all should be licensed indiscriminately who will comply with the legal regulations. Such places, as experiences have universally taught, instead of becoming well regulated establishments are usually halls of dissipation and centers of idleness and vice, particularly to the young, and not infrequently does even the otherwise innocent billiard saloon or grocery hotel become infamous from such unfortunate and pernicious association." He ended by suggesting that when any improvement was once started it should be prosecuted diligently and well to a finality.
The Crescent declared in June, 1858, that there was more building improvements going on in Appleton this season than in Madison, Fond du Lac, and Oshkosh combined. It challenged those cities to an investigation. In July a petition was circulated asking the common council of Appleton to appropriate $200 in aid of a Saxe-Horn Band. The Crescent having been presented with a kerosene oil lamp, a new article in this county, described the same in the issue of August 21, 1868. It said that it burned coal oil and was much the cheapest lamp brought into the county and that large numbers were selling in this vicinity. One and a half cents of oil, it was stated, would supply a house lamp for an hour and light it better than two sperm candles. Late in August, 1858, nine wagon loads of blackberries passed through Appleton in one day, all bound south. Each wagon contained from twenty to twenty-five bushels. These loads were bound for Oshkosh where the railroad carried the berries to Milwaukee, Chicago and other large markets.
In August an abundance of bear steak was for sale; it was marketed at 12 1/2 cents per pound. In October, 1858, the Crescent boasted that the city of Appleton was not bonded for one dollar; that it had no burdensome tax and that its energies were untrammeled and its resources unabridged. It ended by inviting settlers to come here by the thousands.
Late in 1858 the old Edgarton hotel so well known in the early '50s, was again opened up by the original and popular landlord, Col. R. P. Edgarton. In December, 1858, the Crescent offered to receive county orders at 10 per cent discount in exchange for subscriptions to that newspaper. This was 20 per cent better than the actual price of the order.
During the '50s, S. M. Hewlett, a companion of John B. Gough, often visited Appleton and addressed the people on the subject of temperance. He was an extremely strong and eloquent speaker, and was always welcomed and listened to even by the liquor people themselves. The Sons of Temperance usually entertained him while at Appleton. His residence was at Horicon in Dodge county.
In January, 1859, the city was divided on points of law in cases brought to test the validity and merits of the billiard saloon law. There was picked up at Appleton a Spanish copper coin bearing the date of A. D. 1028. Much speculation was indulged in as to, how it came here. Early in February Benjamin F. Taylor, the Illinois poet and well known writer of the Chicago Journal, lectured before the Phoenix Literary society.
On Washington's birthday, 1859, the pioneers of Appleton held their second annual festival at the National Hotel. Those persons who came here previous to 1851 were considered among the pioneers. A large number gathered on that occasion and enjoyed a splendid repast at the hotel. J. S. Buck presided and numerous toasts were responded to by the old settlers. Among those responding to the toasts were T.P. Bingham, J. S. Buck, Rev. W. H Sampson, George H. Myers, J. M. Stebbins, R. R. Bateman, H. L. Blood, Prof. J. N. Phinney, L. L. Rundall and Samuel Ryan, Jr. It was nearly midnight before the party separated, wholly pleased with the enjoyable occasion. The officers elected for the coming year were as follows: W. H. Sampson, president; T. P. Bingham, vice-president; Samuel Ryan, Jr., secretary.
Early in March, 1859, the most disastrous fire which ever occurred in Appleton up to that date destroyed the Appleton paper mills, three sawmills, the large rake factory, two turning mills, one bedstead factory and other property and buildings. The alarm was given at three o'clock on the afternoon of the 8th, the blaze starting from the upper part of the sawmill known as the Latcher mill in the Third ward. Nothing could be done to save the property after the fire became well started. Hundreds of citizens turned out and labored zealously for hours, but it was impossible to subdue or even check the roaring flames. Part of the machinery of the paper mills was saved in a damaged condition. The total loss was estimated at $16,000.
In March, 1859, prices in Appleton were as follows: Flour from $6 to $7 per barrel; No. 1 wheat $1.18 to $1.25 per bushel; oats 38 to 40 cents per bushel; potatoes 20 to 25 cents per bushel; pork $7 to $7.50 per hundred; beef on the hoof $3 per head; venison 7 to 8 cents per pound; poultry dressed 7 to 8 cents per pound; molasses 62 to 75 cents per gallon; eggs 12 to 14 cents per dozen; kerosene oil $1.40 to $1.50 per gallon. In the spring of 1859 many prominent men and men of capital were visiting Appleton with the view of investing in manufacturing on the valuable waterpower. Strange as it may seem no citizen, so far as known, had yet stored up a considerable quantity of ice for summer use by the public at Appleton. The luxury of such a commodity in hot weather was called to the attention of the people by the papers and it was urged that some business men should store a large quantity for the coming summer's use to be sold as needed.
It was announced in March that the Bank of Appleton would soon commence operation in this city. It was announced that it would carry on a general banking business and issue its own notes under the state law. Large quantities of maple sugar and syrup were marketed in Appleton. The quality was excellent and the price was low. In a. few instances it was sold as low as 6 cents per pound. The Crescent said that if any of its subscribers wanted to pay up his subscription he could do so with maple sugar or syrup, and agreed to allow 8 cents per pound for sugar and seven shillings per gallon for syrup. The paper said, "Now is the time to make your peace with us."
Early in April, 1859, the citizens turned out to a large concert given to aid the poor. Circulars were posted, preparations were made on a large scale and the concert was held in the college chapel. Tickets were sold and there was an immense attendance, netting approximately $200. At this concert the Grand Chute band tendered their services and performed in splendid style. Fifteen ladies and gentlemen comprising the best singers in the city volunteered to act as vocalists.
The Outagamie County Bank of Cronkhite & Company was put in operation in Appleton this year. A. H. Cronkhite was president and H. S. Marsh, cashier. In April, 1859, the Bank of Appleton began to issue its circulation though in somewhat limited quantities. The owners contemplated the erection of a fireproof building during the coming summer.
On April 10, 1859, the partnership existing between Samuel Ryan, Jr., James Ryan and John C. Ryan to publish the Crescent and to carry on a job printing business, was dissolved by mutual consent. John C. Ryan retired from the establishment. The business was continued by the other two members of the firm. In April, John C. Ryan, left with a party of Appletonians for the gold region .of the West. He was succeeded by Henry Dodge Ryan, another member of the famous Ryan family.
"The Crescent has entered upon its seventh volume. May it live one thousand years. It is a very pillar of strength to the democrats of Outagamie county. Its manly, uncompromising defense of democratic principles entitles its editors to the gratitude of every friend of the right in Wisconsin." -- (Kenosha Times).
In his inaugural message delivered in April, 1859, Alvin Foster, second mayor of the city of Appleton, made many important observations and recommendations. He dwelt with considerable length on the importance of building streets and roads and keeping them in good condition. He reviewed the finances of the city and made important suggestions. Several bridges, he declared, were necessary to be built at once. He recommended the early removal of the cemetery to a less central location; called attention to the fact that the fire department as shown by the recent large destruction of property was really unequal to the task of quelling any considerable fire; and recommended that permanent provisions should be made for the care of the poor. On the question of license for the sale of spirituous liquor he was somewhat non-committal. At this date it was a subject that people handled gingerly, because many of the best citizens believed that in the end the city must license the sale of liquor.
Mr. Richmond of the Appleton Paper mills which had been recently destroyed by fire issued, a circular stating that within three or four months the mills would be rebuilt and again in operation. This was good news to the people of Appleton. The mayor nominated and the council unanimrously approved the appointment of George H. Myers for city attorney for the ensuing year. In May the news was received that over 160 buildings in the city of Oshkosh were destroyed by fire. In 1859 the currency of Wisconsin was in bad condition and represented all degrees of value from worthless to par. Spanish quarter dollars were quite numerous and passed readily at 20 cents; Spanish shillings and sixpences were worth 10 and 5 cents respectively.
By the middle of June the Good Templars instituted a new lodge at Cronkhite hall. The steamer Menominee brought down a large delegation of temperance people from Neenah and Menasha to superintend the installation. Twenty or thirty persons of both sexes were initiated. The Sons of Temperance a permanent and substantial organization met at this time in Appleton. The hook and ladder colmpany was fully organized and among its members were the most prominent citizens. The company numbered thirty men who held themselves in readiness for prompt action at any time. They had as yet no uniforms but steps were taken to provide them soon. T. C. Dunn was foreman; Robert Smith, assistant foreman: F. C. Meade, treasurer; W. M. Williamson, secretary.
To Edward West was given great credit for clearing up, improving and beautifying the land on the south side of the river opposite Appleton. He made a beautiful park of what previously was a rather unsightly tract of land. Lots were laid out and sold and houses began to go up. In the summer of 1859 among the buildings under process of erection were the residence of P. H. Smith, the residence of J. W. Hutchinson, a block of stores by J. C. Smith, a stave factory by Dunn and Brewster, a hub and spoke factory by J. N. Stebbins, a new paper mill four stories high, a flouring mill and a number of buildings on the south side of the river. In June Douglas & Company made a new addition to Appleton on College avenue in the third ward toward the northwest. There was a general demand in Appleton for the construction of several reservoirs on College avenue to be used in cases of fire.
The liquor law in Wisconsin late in the '50s was really a license law. It did not recognize prohibition. It was not expected to stop the sale of liquor, but it did design to regulate the liquor traffic. So many people in Wisconsin used beer and other liquor that it was found out of the question ever to pass a prohibitory law or to restrict the sale of beer and other like drinks. Many advocated a low license, but this was believed wrong policy. By placing on a high license irresponsible men would be driven from the trade. This was the view taken by many Appletonians in 1859.
In June, 1859, F. A. Ryan and F. C. Meade announced that a new paper would be issued the first week in July and be called the Appleton Motor. It was announced that it would be issued and the editorials would be conducted by Lafayette C. Meade and that the terms would be $1.50 per year in advance. Ryan and Meade were two young printers of Appleton. It was believed that.the time was ripe for a new paper and especially a republican paper in Outagamie county. The former republican paper was the Free Press. It made a great flourish of trumpets in 1856 but failed to attract general patronage and attention. Owing to the pressure of business at the Milwaukee type factory, the first number'of the Motor was not issued until the last of July, 1859.
The Fourth of July, 1859, was celebrated by nearly 3,000 people on Doty's Island, the Good Templars taking the lead in the exercises. A large delegation went up from Appleton on the Berlin City and returned in the evening on the Menominee. Another party went up on the Menominee, danced all night at Neenah, went to Oshkosh in the morning and returned on the Berlin City at 12 o'clock on the following day. There was no general celebration at Appleton. "A number of young men in town, disgusted at the want of patriotism presented by the citizens of Appleton, collected a number of instruments and paraded the streets to the most laughable music. They attracted a large share of attention and created an abundance of amusement." --(Crescent, July 9, 1859).
Early in August, 1859, two men were instantly killed in the Third ward of Appleton by a heavy log which was rolled down a hill upon them. One was a stranger from Green Bay and the other was Hubert Geantier a laboring man of Appleton who left a wife and four children. The first number of the Appleton Motor appeared August 18, 1859, under the management of Ryan & Meade, proprietors. It claimed to be independent. F. C. Meade was editor. On October 15, 1859, Ryan & Meade dissolved partnership and the paper was continued by F. A. Ryan and E. D. Ross.
For the first time in the history of Appleton the merchants in general on August, 1859, agreed to close their stores at 8 p. m. Those who entered the agreement at first were: F. M. McCaughey, Plinney Bros., C. G. Adkins, E. C. Goff, J. C. Smith, P. White, Shaw & Humphrey, J. W. Hutchinson, F. G. Reed, G. M. Smith, and Elliott & McGrath. The saloons did not at this time enter the agreement.
"A good work is going on in the Third ward under the supervision of Theodore Conkey. A dam is being put in and is under way where the mills were destroyed last spring. It is to be so arranged that the boats can run down to the mills, which will be a great accommodation to them. The river is very low at the present time, and the boats are complaining of touching bottom or rocks continually." (Motor, September 1, 1859.) The citizens voted upon the question of appropriating $700 for the purpose of purchasing an engine and building reservoirs to fight fires. The Second ward gave 72 majority in favor of the appropriation, but the First ward gave 41 majority against it and the Third ward 36 majority against it, thus defeating the measure by 5 votes. At this date S. P. Hart of Appleton killed a bear near that city. The animal was young and weighed about 60 pounds. It made excellent eating according to the statement of those who were permitted to try it. The bear made its appearance in the ravine near College avenue. Late in September the Appleton manufacturing company began the building of a coffer dam preparatory to the construction of a substantial permanent dam across the river just below the central river bridge.
The city council by the vote of the mayor refused to pass an ordinance to license or restrain the sale of intoxicating liquors, thus permitting the traffic to go on without hindrance or without compensation to the city. S. M. Hewlett the well known and popular temperance lecturer addressed a large audience at Cronkhite hall. The address lasted two hours and was extremely interesting.
By November the Appleton Lyceum had a considerable library attached to its reading room. There were several hundred volumes, besides periodicals from all parts of the country. The following appeared in the Crescent December 3, 1859:
An interesting industry at Appleton in 1859 was the manufacture of barrels. The Appleton barrel factory had a capacity of 500 barrels a day. It turned out during the early fall that year about 18,000 barrels which were sold as fast as they could be manufactured. The owners were Dunn & Brewster. They purchased during the previous winter 1,200 cords of oak timber and an immense number of packing staves. They were spending now nearly $10,000 among the farmers for wood of various kinds.
The New Year of 1860 came in with excessive cold. At Appleton on Saturday morning the mercury stood at 20 degrees below zero, Sunday 24 below and Monday 22 below. In January the liquor license at Appleton was fixed by the council at $80 per annum. In February there were employed at Appleton in the stave business alone over 200 men. Adding to these the number engaged in the hub and spoke factory and the planing mills and saw-mills, and it was realized that already Appleton was an important point for the manufacture of wooden articles of every description. "Our city has been considerably interested the present week by some half dozen or more suits in justice courts for the sale of intoxicating liquor without a license. About all the whiskey sellers have been convicted and fined from $10 to $20 and in one or two instances the defendants went to jail because of their inability to pay. Most of the dealers have decided henceforth to sell nothing but beer and ale so that some good has been accomplished." --(Crescent, March 10, 1860.)
The legislature in 1860 passed an act to set off from Appleton the north tier of sections and annex them to the town of Grand Chute. Almost every resident of that tract was in favor of the change. In April a chair factory and a rake factory were built in Appleton and set in operation. A new flouring mill was owned and operated by Johnston & Company. It was located between the Outagamie and Appleton mills. It stood four stories high and was a substantial structure. Henry D. Ryan who had been connected with the Appleton Crescent almost from its foundation left for the Rocky Mountain gold regions early in April 1860. With him went W. H.Lanphear and Nelson Bates, all promising young men of Appleton. In April the Appleton paper mills again commenced making printing paper. This paper was used by the Crescent for some time during 1860.
At the meeting of the city council held June 2, 1860, there were present the mayor and Aldermen Jewett, Jackson, Hersey, Steffen and Gilmore. George W. Packard presented a petition for opening the street branching from the Menasha and Kaukauna plank road near the city limits. His prayer was granted. At this time Alderman. Jewett presented an ordinance in relation to the issuance of bonds by this city for railroad purposes. The ordinance was carried unanimously. A resolution offered by Alderman Jewett, which was adopted, regulated the license for the sale of spirituous liquors. It was fixed at $80 per annum, but the following provision was added, "provided the common council shall see fit to grant any such license." Two members of the council voted against this resolution. A committee was appointed to confer with the Appleton Manufacturing Company in regard to the construction of a bridge across Fox river at Appleton in connection with the dam of said company. At this session a license to sell liquor was granted to Van Stratum. At this-time John Jewett, Jr., city attorney-elect, refused to accept the appointment, whereupon George H. Myers was chosen to fill that position. The motion to commence the building of bridges across College avenue ravine was rejected at this date.
At a meeting of the common council of Appleton held August 4, 1860, there was a full attendance of the aldermen. At this meeting the committee previously appointed to investigate and report on the subject of the support of paupers reported. They stated that during the current year the county would probably spend about $1,500 for poor purposes. Of this amount not over $200 would probably be chargeable to the county and the towns. They therefore recommended that paupers temporarily should be taken care of by private persons and be paid for accordingly. They further recolmmended that a tract of land should be purchased at once to be used as a permanent poor-farm. They had made inquiry for sites for such a farm and reported several under consideration. One tract was 50 acres on section 22, range 17, town 21, owned by H.S. Eggleston, about 20 acres of which were under cultivation. That tract could be purchased for about $1,000 on time at 10 per cent. At this session the street commissioner was directed to take the necessary steps to repair the old plank road bridge across Fox river in the Second ward so as to render it passable.
At the session of the common council held August 28, 1860, there were present only a portion of the aldermen, but a quorum was in attendance. The special committee previously appointed to consider the railroad bond question made report and recommended the passage of the following resolution: "Resolved that the mayor be and hereby is authorized to subscribe $15,000 in the stock of the Chicago & Northwestern Riailway Company, payable in the bonds of the city of Appleton, to be issued and delivered to said railway company in accordance with ordinance No. 33 of this city passed June 2, 1860." At this session the committee reported an ordinance in relation to restraining cattle and horses from running at large during certain seasons of the year. Mary Burke was licensed at this time to sell spirituous liquors. At a meeting of the common council held September 15, 1860, all of the aldermen were present. At this session the council authorized the mayor and clerk to issue the $15,000 in county bonds in aid of the Northwestern Railway. The sum of $250 was appropriated toward the construction of the bridge across College avenue ravine. The sum of $400 was appropriated for repairing the bridge across Fox river in the Second ward. J. P. Buck and others petitioned for the opening of a street to be called Winnebago.
The Fourth of July was duly celebrated a