THE FAIRBURY GAZETTE - SATURDAY MAY 6, 1899
Transcribed by Diane Keifer

FAIRBURY, NEBRASKA.
An Exposition of the Resources and Industries of Jefferson County and Its Beautiful County Seat. A CHAPTER OF INTEREST ABOUT ONE OF THE LOCALITIES THAT HAS MADE NEBRASKA FAMOUS. Something About Our Business Firms and What Part They Represent in Our Phenomenal Prosperity.

By H. Homer Luce

The primary object of this special writeup is to expose in a favorable, though faithful manner, the advantages of Fairbury as a trading point, of Jefferson County and her county seat as a good place to live in, to induce, through truthful representations, those who may be contemplating a change of location to come to this locality of the west where the sun shines, pure water for man and beast flows, beautiful zephyrs float constantly over the fertile plains and prairies, where all animal and vegetable life reaches its highest forms of perfection, and an abundance of the good things of earth are produced, not only to supply a liberal home demand, but for the markets of the world and those who live in less fortunate localities.

These general remarks of our greatness in material resources would be unnecessary, but for the fact that several thousand extra copies of this issue will probably be placed in the hands of those in other counties and other states who are not familiar with the facts.

Corn and cattle are kings in this region. To sustain this as a leading stock producing section, if for any cause, the yield of corn is short, alfalfa, a succulent, rich plant of the clover family, which produces vitality and adipose tissue among stock with hardly an equal among the cereals, is an almost sure crop, so there is no such thing as absolute failure in plenty of stock food, and seldom even a partial failure in corn, which yields from 20 to 75 bushels per acre each year. Combined with the unequaled and extensive grazing facilities, then, this is a natural home of cattle, hogs and horses. These are the products that make countries wealthy, and which are gradually but surely making this a portion of the nation's domain most desirable for all purposes and sure to render rich those fortunate enough to possess homes and business among us.

While this is a region naturally rich in resources, there are no millionaires nor aristocrats among us. It is a new country that has not yet reached anywhere near the zenith of development. Opportunities are getting more numerous and while those who have cast their lots in this country are not particularly wealthy in the eastern acceptance of the term, all are prosperous, and we have less use for poorhouses and fewer behests from paupers than any populace on the globe. Therefore it is only a matter of time and expenditure of energy until there will be few localities anywhere in the nation to compare with us for accumulated wealth.

Fairbury business firms and citizens appreciate the importance of being located in the county seat of such a wealthy county and the city is up to date among modern western municipalities. The court house, located in the center of the square, is a monument to the thrift and enterprise of our county people, built of stone and furnished nicely for the accommodation of the public archives and officers of the various departments. On account of the splendid railroad facilities, Fairbury is the natural marketing place for much of the product of the fertile surrounding country. The St. Joseph and Grand Island railroad crosses the Chicago and western line here, employing many hands and distributing something like $20,000 every month among employees in wages.

No town in the state is better located for homes and businesses, consequently peace, contentment, happiness and prosperity reign supreme. We have numerous churches and auxiliary societies for the promotion of Christianity, which, assisted by several secret or benevolent organizations, contribute to elevate the moral tone of our community to a high plane. Our educational advantages in the form of well conducted public schools, with splendid buildings, amply furnished for the work, are a source of pleasure and pride to our home people. We have modern improvements in the city, water and electric light works, telephone exchange, etc. We have numerous nicely furnished cottages and homes in fact, a model county seat, composed of as generous, progressive and admirable a citizenship as obtains in the west. The business men seem to appreciate the fact of their advantages as the capital of such a productive county and endeavor to make it a trading point of which the entire county populace is proud. How well they succeed in supplying the wants of the people is evidenced by from the liberal patronage that is accorded the merchants, professional and others interests of the place.

The firm and individual enterprises of Fairbury are set forth in the following paragraphs secured from personal interviews by our special writer. The roster of our commercial industries will be found interesting as showing per gradus our ability to supple all reasonable demands in every line.

THE FAIRBURY WATER WORKS CO., AND FAIRBURY ELECTRIC LIGHT AND POWER CO., operating both the water and electric systems of our city from one plant, and practically owned by the same stockholders, are worthy of special mention. The plant managed by R. D. Russell & Son, is one of the most perfect we have inspected. The supply of water is secured from two open wells that produce, if necessary, 800 gallons per minute. With these a large stand pipe is owned and connections with Little Blue river, so that the supply is unlimited. There are six miles of main, sixty-three double discharge fir hydrants, and the stand pipe is on an elevation 190 feet above the pumps which affords a direct pressure that is favorably considered by insurance companies. The light system furnishes 25 arc lights to the city and 25 commercial lights, and the town is wired for 2000 incandescent lights. The water works plant was established in 1887 and the electric light facilities added six years later. Manager Russell is an experienced man in these lines, has established water systems in many towns and took much pains in establishing this plant where he has chosen to make his home. Without exaggeration, the Fairbury water and electric light plant is the most perfect and modern that it has been our privilege to inspect in this portion of the west.

HEASTY & CLAPP is the style of a law firm in this city, composed of practically young men, but of such legal attainments and successful results in the practice that they have few competitors in this part of the state their equals. Mr. John Heasty, of the firm, has been raised here and was admitted to practice ten years ago. He acquired his law knowledge and the ability of placing it in practical form that has led to his present high standing among members of the bar, through his own personal efforts and zeal to excel. In January 1898 the partnership of Heasty & Clapp was formed. Mr. Robert A. Clapp is a graduate of the state university law school, class of 1893. He possesses the natural requisites of a splendid practitioner besides his acquired ability, and the coalition of Heasty & Clapp is recognized by the people as one of the most potent legal firms in the state, the court dockets testifying to the high estimation in which they are held by litigants.

THE CITY BAKERY is conducted by C. L. Morris on the south side of the square. Besides a full line of the best bakers products, a stock of confectionary, cigars, fruits and smokers supplies and ice cream with summer drinks are among the specialties. Fancy baking and ice cream for party orders are given special attention. Baker's supplies are shipped to dealers in adjoining towns and counties and this house consequently is in the wholesale business quite extensively. Mr. Morris has been a baker and confectioner here for eight years. By maintaining his place of excellence and dealing fairly with the public in every particular he has been very successful, owns his own building and is ranked among our leading business men.

LINDELL & BAILEY is the name of a popular firm of grain buyers of this city. They own an elevator with a capacity of 15,000 bushels and are paying in cash the highest market prices for grain of all kind. Their shipment of cereals amounts to several hundred car loads annually. Mr. Lindell has direct charge of the business and Mr. Bailey is our present county treasurer. Both members of the firm are well and favorably known in the county and they are appreciated for the constant market they afford the farmers of this section for their products.

FRED CARPENTER'S fruit stand is one of the attractions of the north side of the square. Besides a nice display of foreign and domestic fruits, he has confectionery, cigars, pop corn, and peanuts fresh roasted every day. Mr. Carpenter has been known here twenty-one years and his fruit stand is popular with the public, because it is always complete.

C.C. MATHIS is conducting a meat market on east Fourth street that serves the public with the best qualities of fresh and cured meats at most reasonable prices. There is apparently nothing in the business that Mr. Mathis does not understand. His fixtures are the finest that can be procured and during his service to the public for the past two years, since which time he established business for himself, his patronage has been so favorable as to rank him among our leading young business men.

HANFORD & SON are dealers in flour, grain and seed, handling the best farm and field seeds they can find, noted for freshness and best grade. Products of the home mill are flours in stock, which, with the feed handled gives the best satisfaction to the extent that the firm has established a favorable, extensive patronage. Best goods at lowest prices with prompt delivery have given this firm a most favorable reputation, and for nearly three years since the establishment of the business, Hanford and Son have enjoyed constantly increasing public favor as flour and feed dealers. Their foods for stock and poultry have only to be tested to be appreciated, and they always carry a complete stock.

JOHN HEIDELK'S sample room serves the public with such well known brands of liquor as the James E. Pepper, W. H. McBrayer and Gucklenheimer rye , noted for proof and purity. The Schlitz "beer that made Milwaukee famous" is also on draught and sold in bottles, pints and quarts. The finest wines and cigars are in evidence here and the house is arranged with nicest fixtures. An orderly place like this, with the best refreshments and stimulants is appreciated by those who occasionally indulge to assist tired nature or rejuvinate themselves from lack of energy by any cause and the most courteous, liberal treatment is accorded all patrons of the house. Mr. Heidelk has been in the business here for the past nine years and has many friends in the city and county with whom he is deservedly popular. His commendable efforts to succeed have been deservedly popular and we bespeak continued prosperity for this bar, located one door south of the Merchants hotel.

H. H. TODT, shoe dealer, buys his goods direct from the best factories, is the pioneer dealer of our city, a practical shoemaker of 40 years experience and claims to furnish the most durable footwear at reasonable prices. Such is the demand for his stock and work that he is kept busy most of the time and is among our most substantial, respected citizens.

A.V. PEASE & CO., own and conduct a popular drug store on the south side. An idea of the extent of the stock may be gleaned by the fact that it occupies two stories and basement of a building 25X120 feet in dimensions. Besides the complete line of drugs and chemicals, miscellaneous books, stationary, farm seeds, artist's materials, photographic supplies, fine china and decorated ware, school supplies and a news stand furnishing newspapers and periodicals are all adjunets of the business. This pharmacy was established by the late G. A. Pease, father of the present proprietor in 1873. A. V. Pease, now head of the firm, was practically raised in the business and assumed management in 1889. He is a regularly registered pharmacist and assisted in prescription work by Robt. J. Christian, a recent graduate of the St. Louis College of Pharmacy.

THE SECURITY MUTUAL LIFE INSURANCE CO., of Lincoln, Nebraska, is a state institution in which all Nebraskans take a justifiable pride, and which gains friend wherever its principles and equitable business methods are shown. Mr. Francis W. Dinsmore, vice-president of the company, resides in Fairbury, and from him we gleaned some of the potent factors of the popularity of the Security Mutual. The policies now issued by the company are strictly up to date, embodying all the new features calculated to give the policy holder protection under all circumstances and assist him in maturing his contract. It is absolutely impossible under these new contracts for any policy holder to lose his equity in his policy after having paid three annual premiums in full, as the contract is automatic in character and continues for a definite period of time without any action on the part of the insured. In the Security Mutual the expense of the management is limited, as we discovered in looking over one of the contracts with Mr. Dinsmore, and this clause, which gives the insured benefits of 15 to 25 per cent, lower premium rates than old line companies collect, should have been incorporated in contracts long ago. No enormous salaries are paid to officers of this company. All life insurance companies organized under the laws of other states are required to pay 2 per cent gross tax on business done in Nebraska, which comes out of the pocket of the policy holders, which plainly shows the advantages of the Security Mutual, as they pay no taxes in the state. Sworn statement of old line companies for 1897 show premiums collected from policy holders in Nebraska for the year 1897 to have been $1,149,079. Amount returned to surviving holders and paid to beneficiaries in Nebraska was only $387,857, leaving with the eastern companies $761,222 in one year, amounting in ten years to $7,612,220 that should be left to the people of Nebraska. All dividends of this company belong to policy holders and this is the only life insurance company that puts the limit of expense in its contracts, and in every way saves to policy holders the accumulations. For the benefit of Security Mutual most liberal concessions were made by our recent state legislature. The Security Mutual holds a certificate from the Insurance Commissioner of the state of Nebraska to the effect that the policies issued by the company are registered in his office and that they are guaranteed by a deposit of securities which are held in trust by the state treasurer for the security of the policy holders. Furthermore the president, secretary and treasurer have given bonds issued by the Fidelity and Deposit Company of Maryland, for the faithful discharge of their duties, which bonds are filed with the auditor of state. Officers of the Security Mutual are Silas H. Burnham, of Lincoln, president; Wm. A. Lindly, secretary; Albert Watkins, treasurer; Harry D. Brooks, manager. The board of directors is composed of S. H. Burnham, R. B. Schneider, F. W. Dinsmore, L. M. Keene, W. A. Lindly, Albert Watkins, C. C. McNish, N. Z. Snell and H. D. Brooks. President Burnham is president of the American Exchange National bank of Lincoln, Director Schneideris treasurer of the big Nye & Schneider Co., Director Keene is president of the Fremont National bank and in fact all the officers and directors are gentlemen of well known financial stability and business integrity in Nebraska, and the liberal, fair and secure provisions of their contracts and terms of policies, appeal in the strongest terms to those in this or other states, who wish to provide for future emergencies for themselves and families.

L. J. NUTZMAN conducts the cigar factoryin Fairbury that turns out the "Rosa Perfecto," a fine 10 cent cigar, the "Home Production" and " X Ray," two brands of 5 cent goods that are popular among smokers wherever used. Mr. Nutzman, who has been a manufacturer of cigars here since 1888, is to be congratulated upon the success he has made, and from the fact that most of his product is taken by our home dealers. He is a practical cigar-maker himself, employs several hands, uses the best tobacco in his goods, sells at reasonable prices and these are reasons for the popularity this cigar factory has at home and wherever known.

JOHN TRAUM has recently purchase the blacksmith and wagon shop a block and a half west of the southwest corner of the square, where he will take pleasure in serving the people in these lines. All repairing in either wood or iron is executed in this shop in a skilled manner, and the aim is to treat the public so well in best work and reasonable prices that a patron once is a patron always. Mr. Traum is a comparatively young man, was raised in the county, is a good workman and has many friends who will be pleased to see him succeed in his venture.

THE BRICK BARN conducted by A. F. Smith, furnishes every facility for prompt, stylish and reliable livery service. The stable is very large, well ventilated and comfortable. Boarders are taken, and for the public use the best turnouts are furnished at most reasonable rates. Prompt attention is paid to all calls, while parties or other public gatherings are given special attention. There is nothing, in fact, in the livery sale and feed line that this stable does not amply supply. This barn runs a hack line to Kesterson on the B. & M., railroad, making two trips per day. Mr. Smith who purchased the business last August, has been a citizen of the county for 20 years and is well known to all county people. He was postmaster of Fairbury four years, was chairman of the Republican county committee during the last campaign. His extensive favorable acquaintance gives his prestige in the livery business enjoyed by few competitors and as he is devoting all his time and attention to the business, he deserves and is receiving a liberal share of public consideration.

JACOB CONRAD'S fine business building at the southwest corner of our square is one of the ornaments of the city, the northern storeroom being occupied by a grocery firm and the corner by Mr. Conrad's fine bar, where the beverages of Bacchus are dispensed. The fixtures are among the best in the state. Fine old whiskeys, wines and cigars are in stock and both Schlitz and Fred Krug Omaha beers are sold. Mr. Conrad has the agency of the Schlitz Brewing Co. of Milwaukee, also for the Krug Brewing Co., and is agent for the I. W. Harper distilling Co.'s whiskies. His wholesale and retail businesses are both good. Mr. Conrad located here from St. Louis thirteen years ago. He is substantially interested in the best properties of our city and contributes a liberal share toward the general advancement of our municipal interests treating all patrons with the utmost courtesy and liberality.

"THE HUB' is an expression so familiar with western people, as the style of a clothing firm, that the name and clothing are inseparable when The Hub is thought of. The Hub. Clothing Co., with headquarters in Chicago, owns twenty-one clothing stores throughout the country, and one of their important retail houses is located in this city. Besides a large and well assorted stock of clothing and gents furnishings, a full line of men's shoes is in stock. The display in every detail shows that the house is conducted by those who understand the business. An exceptionally fine line of hats, neckwear, shirts and latest attractive seasonable novelties adds to the appearance of the interior. Mr. L. Weil, who has been raised in the clothing business, is the manager here, and informs us that this store was established in January 1897. The advantages of The Hub of Fairbury are manifest in the fact of large buying for the numerous stores owned by the company, and a leading member of the Company is a clothing manufacturer of New York. Further comment in this connection is unnecessary. Manager Weil has inaugurated special sales for each week. The Hub people are liberal advertisers in letting the people know that they have genuine bargains for them, and a liberal share of patronage is the result. An inspection of good s and prices is all that is necessary to make friends for The Hub.

DAVIS & KLINE is the style of a partnership of blacksmiths and wagon makersrecently formed, Mr. Kline having purchased and interest in the shop that was formerly operated by Mr. Davis. This makes a strong combination of mechanics, as Mr. Davis, who has had twenty-nine years experience, and has been known to our people for nineteen years, is not only a good general blacksmith, but one of the most expert horseshoers in the state. He has shod the finest and fastest horses in the west and his services are much appreciated by all turf-men who know him. Mr. Kline has likewise been favorably known as a blacksmith here for nineteen years, is especially adept plow work and repairing of every description, and it is safe to predict abundant success for the new firm of Davis & Kline, as all they ask is a trial by their old friends and others who appreciate the best service in iron and wood work.

MCMAHAN & BACHORITCH are proprietors of a popular barber shop and splendid bath rooms located on the southwest corner of the square. The shop is furnished with three chairs, handsome mirrors and the most attractive features that can be supplied in a barber shop, while the porcelain bath tubs with the best service in connection, afford the public accommodations that are appreciated. McMahan & Bachoritch are sole agents here for Austin's antiseptic dandruff destroyer, guaranteed to cure dandruff and all itching of the scalp. The McMahan & Bachoritch barber shop and bath rooms are very popular among our people.

C. W. SMITH is a dealer in new and second hand furniture, carpets, stoves, tinware and a variety of useful household goods too numerous to mention, his store being located on south E street. He announces, "We buy and sell everything," which announcement means what it says, the house furnishing ready market for almost anything people wish to dispose of and goods to purchasers at much less than original cost. An evidence of Mr. Smith's "hustling" propensities is in the fact that three and a half years ago he started on limited capital in a small room. Now his stock occupies two stories and basement of a large building. He advertises special prices on stoves and ranges at this time to make room for other goods.

JOS. SARBACH'S splendid department house is chief among the mercantile enterprises that give Fairbury much prestige as a trading center. It occupies two large store buildings at the southeast corner of our public square, the north storeroom be occupied by fine and extensive displays of dry goods, shoes, millinery and notions that properly belong to the lines. The excellent display of dress goods, naturally most attractive at this season, is augmented by a stock of ready made suits for which, in their variety and completeness are attracting most favorable attention of the ladies of this vicinity, while the millinery department is a feature of rare beauty, disclosing all the latest and most seasonable hats, novelties and trimmings. Those experienced in the art of trimming are in charge of this work. In the south building is the complete offerings of staple and fancy groceries, queensware, porcelain and china goods. The upper story of this building is used for surplus stock, while the basement of equal floor area is occupied with heavy groceries. Like every department for which this house is noted, the grocery department presents abundance of choice bargains with full lines of the best goods from which to select, and as goods in every department are purchased in great quantities, the best values always obtain. An idea of the extent to which Sarbach's department house is appreciated, may be gleaned from the fact that ten sales ladies and gentlemen are employed to serve the public, besides the services of Mr. Sarbach himself, who gives his personal attention to every detail of the business. This enterprise was established ten years ago and is a credit to the energy and superior business acumen of its proprietor as well as a valuable factor of our city's commerce. Mr. Sarbach is also interested in the splendid Uhley clothing house on the east side of our square, taking much pride in the favorable trend of that establishment, as Mr. Uhley was formerly a trusted employee of his big bargain department house. For that matter Mr. Sarbach is public spirited enough to not only look after his own affairs in a masterly manner, but to lend a helping hand to every worthy enterprise that has for its object the advancement of our city's general interest and prosperity.

J. MERCHANT KING is known to the people of this city and county as the mutual insurance man. He represents a half dozen companies, among them the German and Fidelity of Omaha, the Farmer's Mutual of Lincoln, in which 600 farmers of this county hold policies. The Grain Grower's insurance company of Omaha, is also represented by Mr. King, insuring farmers against damage to crops by hail, etc. Mr. King also has a nice list of properties for sale or exchange, which is increasing with bargains all the time. In mutual and crop insurance, farmers in this section should take into consideration the fact that Mr. King is a home man, a resident among you, representing some of the best companies, and he should have your patronage before the traveling agent whom you know nothing about.

MRS. S. C. PEARSON has been catering to the ultra and ordinary desires of the ladies of this vicinity for the past year as a milliner on south E street. She carries a fine stock in all seasons, of the most stylish millinery, trimmings and novelties, employs expert assistants and is popular among the fashionable folk for all goods in her line at lowest prices.

F. B. JANNSEN, the merchant tailor on south E street, has been giving the gentility of this vicinity satisfaction the last seven years in super, stylish fits in clothing at most reasonable prices. His work has gained for him a good patronage. He has due regard for reliability in wear when he makes a suit or garment, and is a clever gentleman in all respects to deal with.

AUSTIN REGER'S billiard and pool hall attracts those who are fond of "rolling the ivory" and with his hall is a fine case of cigars while temperance drinks are served to his guests. The tables and all the equipment are the best and Mr. Reger knows how to conduct a resort of the kind to give the best satisfaction, as the pleasure and comfort of his guests are given his greatest concern. He has been engaged in this business for twelve years.

R. T. SMITH established a coal and feed store on south E street about eight months ago. He has been handling the best feed and coal, giving his customers prompt delivery at lowest market prices for everything in his line. He will undoubtedly continue to gain friends and patrons by his splendid business methods. Mr. Smith has been a resident of Fairbury for the past ten years, and was an engineer of the C. R. I. & P., railroad previous to establishing his present business.

THE FAIRBURY IMPLEMENT CO., is a comparatively new mercantile enterprise in Fairbury, under the management of Mr. G. L. Dasbach. The object of this company is to supply the farming element with acceptable and durable implements at most reasonable prices, and for this purpose their stock is composed of such well known and reliable goods as the Badger cultivators, Fuller & Johnson riding and walking cultivators, walking and sulkey plows, corn planters, etc. The Grand Detour plows and Definace plow goods are among the specialties, also the "Snake Killer" two row cultivators for listed corn. Listers, harrows and in short, all implements needed by the modern agriculturist are carried in stock. Added to these are the Milwaukee and Buckeye binders and mowers and a full line of farm wagons, Racine carriages and buggies the stock of vehicle being exceptionally large and attractive. The best pumps and windmills are also sold, and the Fairbury Implement Co., may be properly styles a genuine farmer's supply company. Recycles, something brand new in the bicycle line are handled by this house and are all the rage among wheelmen wherever introduced. Manager Dasbach informs us that during the past month they have experienced a constantly growing patronage and we doubt not that the Fairbury Implement Co., will secure a large portion of the trade of this section because their reliable large stock of goods with lowest prices and terms merit such result. They simple invite a visit on the part of farmers, confident that their large reliable stock to select from will do the rest.

THE CENTRAL HOTEL on east Fourth street has been conducted by Peter J. Tondre for the past year. It is a well equipped hotel, with a view of furnishings all the substantial necessaries and comforts, the rates being only $1 a day, with special rates to boarders by the week. Mr. Tondre, who has been known in the county since 1874, has conducted the Central hotel in such a manner as to win a good business, and he has numerous friends who are glad of his success.

ALLEN & DAVIS are dealers in hard and soft coal, hay and all kinds of feed, doing an exclusive retail business. This firm represents the Fairbury Ice Co., and their office on east Fourth street is headquarters for that company. Rock salt for stock is a special adjunct of the firms supplies, a feature appreciated by farmers and stock raisers. The firm of Allen & Davis have been known to our citizens as coal and feed dealers for the past eleven years. Their reputation for properly and promptly serving the public has brought them unstinted success, and they rank among our leading and most prosperous business firms.

F. A. RIDDER conducts one of the fine bars of the city on east Fourth street. The best high grade and pure whiskies, with Schlitz beer on draught or bottled, wines, cigars and all goods appertaining to a first class sample room are specialties of the place and with the courteous treatment always meted out to the public by Mr. Ridder and his assistants, the house has a most favorable reputation among our populace who are inclined to assist their energies with stimulants and refreshments of the kind. Some recent improvements have added to the interior appearance as well as to the convenience of this house, and Mr. Ridder, who has been catering to the most fastidious wants of the public in these lines for the past nine years, has the reputation of conducting a most orderly and attractive place, where gentlemen may resort and find the best treatment in every respect. Mr. Ridder deserves the success he is receiving, and we predict that his prosperity and popularity will increase as time passes.

MCPHAIL & MC LAURIN have a model harness shop and saddlery on the south side, the stock of goods being complete with harness, saddles, nets, dusters, blankets, whips and all goods belonging to the trade. This firm has been doing business here for eleven years, make the best goods and best work a specialty, sell as low as any dealer and are popular with the people.

MORLAN & SON conduct the popular omnibus and transfer line and furnish storage for furniture, baggage, etc., on demand. The service for transferring passengers, freight or baggage is always prompt and reliable and they take care of baggage and freight for patrons at most reasonable charges. Morlan & Son also handle Wells-Fargo express business here and both railroads that center here sell tickets at their various stations with the Morlan coupon attached, showing their confidence in the reliability of the transfer line. Office phone of Morlan & Son is 63; residence No. 54. Mr. Senior Morlan has been in the transfer business 26 years and to properly serve the public in this line is natural for him.

THE BLUE FRONT RESTAURANT, owned by J. E. Peterson on the west side, furnishes board and lodging and makes a specialty of short orders at all hours. Ice cream, summer drinks, confectionary and cigars are part of the business. Mr. Peterson is himself a good cook and is the right man to cater to the hungry populace and he is building up a nice patronage.

J. S. BARTLETT handles a full stock of flour, feed, hay, field seeds and stock foods. He pushes the flour of our home mill and considers it the best on the market. His stock of mill stuffs in every line with hay, corn, oats, etc., very large and of best quality. He delivers goods promptly to all customers, and during the last seven years has given best service as a flour and feed dealer by which he has established a remunerative trade.

FRANK R. PETITT is proprietor of the Fairbury marble works, from which are furnished some of the finest designs in granite and all marbles for cemetery purposes. Mr. Petitt is a skilled carver and during the last thirteen years of his business career, has placed work for hundreds of demands within a radius of many miles of here. He thinks our general business prospects good for coming months.

A. I. Timerman conducts a popular bakery and confectionary. Besides all baker's supplies, cigars, fruits, nuts, etc., are in stock, and in the summer season his ice creams give the best satisfaction. Mr. Timerman established this neat store about three years ago and has built up a nice patronage of the best people.

COL. CHAS. J. BILLS is an investment banker of our city, making a specialty of farm loans. These loans he makes direct to applicants and during the eighteen years of his experience here in this business he has gained a reputation second to no dealer in the line in the west, his loans placed within a radius of 100 miles from here aggregating at present something over &2,000,000. He charges the most reasonable interest rates known, is prompt in responding to all acceptable demands and these are reasons for his splendid success. Lands and loans are his exclusive business, which has become extensive but he found time to engage in the late trouble of our nation with Spain, and was Colonel of the Second Nebraska regiment, acquitting himself most honorably in the service until his regiment was mustered out.

HANCHETT & MCCULLOUGH are plumbers and steam fitters. They also handle wind mills and manufacture a mill that has given the highest satisfaction wherever tested. This is known as the Fairbury Wind Mill. Several hundred have been made and disposed of, and the mill is a great success. Messrs Hanchett & McCullough are progressive in their business and deserve the liberal patronage they are receiving. They furnish stock tanks and the best of service as plumbers. Mr. Hanchett has been a resident of the county for twenty-two years and both he and his partner are well and favorably known.

W. G. UHLEY & CO. are in the clothing business on the east side. Everything in the line of gents furnishing goods, also a complete line of shoes are carried. Mr. Uhley is a thorough merchant and has surrounded himself with competent assistants. He was formerly known as a salesman in the Sarbach merchantile house, but became the head of his present splendid business about six years ago. He is making a success because he has a stock that in all seasons is up to date and proper prices prevail.

HOWELL BROS. Are dealers in hardware, stoves and tinware on the east side, and carry a stock of goods that is very creditable and complete. They carry the Riverside line of steel ranges, cookers and oaks. The gasoline New Process Blue Fame Wickless stove is among their specialties, besides a full line of shelf hardware, cutlery, etc., refrigerators, wire cloth, poultry netting, barb wire and all goods that properly belong to such stocks are to be found here, and Howell Bros. Who established business here about two months ago, are building up an enviable reputation upon their ability to serve the people with best goods at reasonable prices.

THE C.C. HOWELL CO. owns a valuable patent, that is known as the Lightning Lace Seller. This device exposes lace upon the counters and shelving of dry goods stores in the most advantageous manner and is one of the best inventions that we have seen to supply the popular demand for facilities to properly exhibit these goods. It is cheap, does not get out of order, keeps the stock always in sight and in fact is the silent salesman. Mr. Howell, who is the inventor of this neat device, is to be congratulated upon the popularity he has attained , because The Lightning Lace Seller has only to be seen by dry goods men to be properly appreciated. It is not at all unlikely that the manufacture of the Lace Seller will give Fairbury a prominence as a manufacturing city, because the lace seller is so much appreciated by all who have investigated its merits.

J. H. LEROY is our city's progressive jeweler, dealing in watches, clocks, silverware, novelties, etc., that properly belong to a first-class retail house of the kind. A fine line of glass, queensware and decorated goods occupies part of the store space and the whole display is most creditable to our city and to its proprietor. Mr. LeRoy is a graduate of the Chicago Opthalmic college, carries a complete line of spectacles, fits and adjusts glasses to give most assistance to impaired vision, and is thorough in every branch of his business. One of his latest offers to the public is a pretty glass and two gold fish with each purchase amounting to $1.50. He is continuously progressive and enterprising and earned the stock and reputation he enjoys by his own personal efforts during the last fifteen years that he has been located here. We should mention that Mr. LeRoy is the local inspector for the Rock Island railroad company.

W. B. CROPSEY is a breeder of thoroughbred Duroc-Jersey swine and has some of the finest specimens of this extra stock in his pens located in the western part of the city. His herd is headed by King Hub 4325, sired by Surmae Hub 3629, the largest red hog shown at the recent Trans-Mississippi Exposition in Omaha, weight 880 lbs., owned by W. H. Taylor & Sons of Lincoln, this state, the largest swine breeders in the west, from whom Mr. Cropsey purchased King Hub. Red Rose 8670, of the noted herd of F. F. Taylor, of Newton, Ia., sired by Ruby Prince 1059, the noted worlds fair winner, is property of Mr. Cropsey and all his stock is eligible to registration in the National Duroc-Jersey Record. Red Bird, from Taylor's herd at Lincoln and Parnell Bell from Patterson's herd of Mound City, Mo., are also fancy animals owned by Mr. Cropsey. By actual; test Mr. Cropsey gives it as his opinion that the red hogs are the healthiest and most prolific on earth, and he is enthusiastic as to their merits and superiority over other breeds. He has over forty head on hand and for sale to farmers, who desire to improve the grade of swine or for propogating the pure Duroc stock. Mr. Cropsey has resided here since 1878 and besides his prominence as a breeder of thoroughbred swine, he is one of the best known and most successful auctioneers in this part of the country. On this account his services are much in demand by those having public sales of live stock and he has now several important sales booked for future dates. Mr. Cropsey's zeal as a stockman and auctioneer is most commendable and has placed him among the most prominent in these lines in this part of the west. We are not authorized to make the statement officially, but learn through good sources that Mr. Cropsey will be urged for the sheriffalty net election, and if he enters the race he will be a favorite among the people as he has numerous good friends in the county who will assist to consummate his success.

M .H. WEEKS is a pioneer lumber merchant of our city, handling all the lines of building material in usual demand. He located here in the business in 1867, has kept pace with the requirements of the trade and owns a most creditable lumber yard in every respect, that furnishes materials for builders, of prime quality at lowest estimates. Mr. Weeks is not only a popular lumber man, but one of the most substantial citizens in the county, owning valuable farm and city property interests.

F. F. BORLAND recently rented the livery, sale and feed stable on north E street which he has stocked with some of the most reliable horses and vehicles in use here. He makes a specialty of perfecting gentle driving horses for family use, which he furnishes promptly and may be relied upon by ladies or others who are fond of the convenience and pleasure of buggy riding. Mr. Borland is from Tobias, has had several years experience in livery business, is obliging, prompt and reasonable. Therefore we predict for him a liberal share of public consideration.

J. E MERCER is the exclusive boot and shoe merchant on the east side. During the ten years that he has been catering to the demand of our citizens for footwear, he has given special attention to style, durability and reasonable prices that have brought him many friends and customers. Among the display are found such reliable brands of shoes as those of D. Armstrong & Co. of Rochester, N. Y., for women, the line of J. L. Turner of Brookton, Mass., for men, etc. It may be truthfully asserted, in short, that Mr. Mercer is entirely abreast of the times for goods in his line. He employs an experienced shoemaker, mends rips free of goods sold by him and in all particulars gives his patrons the best values for their money.

THE FAIRMONT CREAMERY COMPANY has one of its best plants located in this city, under the management of Geo. L. Reed. The firm has thirty plants and separators in different counties of this section, and the Fairbury plant churns from eight skimming stations. This amounts to over 1,000,000 pounds of milk a month from producers at this season, from which about 40,000 of fine butte are manufactured that finds prompt demands in the general markets. Manager Reed informs us that under the separator system business has increased 100 per cent over the old way of buying cream. This plant also pays highest market price for eggs and takes the product from several adjacent towns and counties.

GEO. E. JENKINS conducts the exclusive dry goods store of our city, acknowledged by the ladies to be strictly up to date in a variety of the best goods, notions and novelties in every line. The display is very large, ready-made skirts, waists, silks and fine dress goods being among the specialties. Another reason for the popularity of this house is in the fact that just one price to all prevails, and a child can get the same advantages and fair treatment as a grown person in this store. While Mr. Jenkins was a member of the legislature and always has taken a commendable pride in public matters, his chief concern is to conduct a dry goods house that pleases the public in every particular. How well he has succeeded is attested by the steady, remunerative patronage he receives from year to year.

THE FAIRBURY STEAM LAUNDRY has been successfully operated by Messrs. Westling & Hurd since 1893. Their additions of machinery and facilities to supply the increasing demand for their splendid service, has increased until now they are erecting a new two story brick building and placing in such machinery and improvements as will render them equal to any demand for some years to come. They employ fifteen to twenty hands, supply forty to fifty agents in other towns along the railroads, and we regard the Fairbury Steam Laundry among our most worthy industries.

THE MERCHANTS HOTEL is all that is desirable for the public entertainment in Fairbury and is conducted by Mr. I. A. Pearson, who, assisted by his wife and a retinue of competent help, is popular and prosperous. Mr. Pearson was a traveling salesman six years, has been conducting the Merchants three years, and knows well how to cater to the wishes of commercial men. The Merchants has fifty guest rooms, is furnished throughout for convenience and comfort of guests, and no pains is spared to render it one of the most acceptable hostelries in this part of the state. It is headquarters for the commercial or traveling public.

THE HARBINE BANK OF FAIRBURY was established in 1873, has a capital stock of $40,000, surplus amounting to $40,000. Officers are G. W. Hansen, president; L. W. Eldridge, vice president; H. F. Hole, cashier. The directors are Thomas Harbine, Geo. W. Hansen, J. V. Switzer, A. Lindell and L. W. Eldridge. Deposits average something like $200,000 which evidences the good will and confidence of the people in the stability of the institution. Its affairs are conducted on conservative, safe principals and from the well know integrity and good judgment of its owners and operators the Harbine bank obtains its standing among the best and most reliable financial institutions in this part of the west.