ILLINOIS HISTORI&L SURVEY
flr^far?
HIS book deals in facts. It is published under the auspices of The Commercial Club
of Paris (incorporated) and the figures and estimates given have been compiled and
verified with great care.
If you are looking for a site for a factory or other commercial enterprise, or for a
location for a home, you cannot do better than to come to Paris. You will be welcomed
by our citizens, and our Commercial Club stands ready to co-operate with you in every
possible way.
We have great natural resources, enterprising people and a growing, flourishing city.
We intend to continue to grow and flourish. To that end we want more manufactur-
ing industries, and we shall do all in our power to make every comer successful, satisfied
and happy.
Address all communications to
Charles F. Propst, Secretary.
H/X
COURT HOUSE
farts...
A CITY cf *8000 inhabitants, is the county seat of Edgar County, Illinois. It is peculiarly
well favored in location, being situated upon the border of the most fertile prairie in the world,
and yet bounded by timber land to the east and south and within a few miles of the great
Indiana coal fields.
The natural products of the surrounding country are, therefore, rich and diversified. 100
bushels to the acre is a normal corn crop for Edgar county, while wheat and oats yield
proportionally, and fruit of all kind abounds. The cattle, horse and hog industries are also
very extensive.
As proof of the great wealth of the district, attention is called to the statements of our
banks, which show a condition of prosperity unequalled elsewhere in the west.
Paris is, furthermore, especially fortunate as to markets, being almost equally distant from the great
cities of Chicago, St. Louis, Cincinnati, Louisville and Indianapolis. Our transportation facilities are
strikingly demonstrated by the fact that morning papers reach us daily before noon from Chicago,
St. Louis, Cincinnati and Indianapolis.
The natural resources of Edgar County are boundless; the peculiar commercial and social
advantages of Paris, scarcely equalled. Especially within the past five years has Paris made a
wonderful growth. During the year, 1903, $300,000 have been expended in building. 150 new
residences have been erected, 25 business houses, and $150,000 have been invested in factories and
public buildings. Yet this remarkable growth has scarcely kept pace with the increase of population.
And yet there has been no boom, but a gradual, thrifty, substantial growth. So secure is the
natural wealth of our community that the financial depression of 1893 had but little effect upon Paris.
Workmen from many surrounding cities came here and found work in abundance at good wages
during that period.
*Since this work was compiled, a new City Directory has been issued which contains 4763 names- Multiplying these figures by two, which is considered a
conservative rule for estimating population, gives a total of 9526, as our present population.
COUNTY JAIL AND FIRE STATION
<Ui> CEtttj nf Paris
Ab a iplarr fa Stur in. JJariB is an Soral (Cttg.
IT is situated upon rolling land, is well drained, clean and healthful. A complete modern sanitary
sewer system is in course of construction, nine miles of sewer being already in operation. The
sewerage is disposed of in the most approved, scientific manner. Four miles of streets and alleys
are substantially paved with vitrified brick on a concrete base, and other streets are in process of
like improvement.
There are fifty miles of concrete and brick sidewalks within the city limits.
The streets are amply shaded with arching maples and other hardy trees and are kept clean.
Beautiful homes, with well kept grounds, are the rule, our unlimited water supply (there being a
hydrant on almost every lot) facilitating the care of lawns.
Ample protection against fire is afforded by a paid Fire Department equipped with two teams of
horses and all modern appliances.
A Yaryan Hot Water Heating Plant has been in successful operation for the past three years,
supplying ideal heat to 200 of our business houses and residences at a moderate cost. In connection
with it is also operated an extensive gas plant and electric light system, supplying light and power.
Franchises have been granted and surveys made for a complete electric street car system,
traversing our principal streets and connecting the City with Reservoir Park. Interurban systems,
connecting Paris and Terre Haute, and Paris and Danville are assured for the near future.
I
FIRST NATIONAL BANK
CITIZENS' NATIONAL BANK
EDGAR COUNTY NATIONAL BANK
#rl)00la ana (Eljnrrijra
The public school system of Paris is a matter of just pride on the part of our citizens. The city
schools have an annual enrollment of more than 1300 pupils. 32 teachers are employed. There
are three substantial brick public school buildings in convenient parts of the city, and a catholic
parochial school.
The city high school has an enrollment of over 200, with six teachers, and offers three courses
of four years each. It is on the accredited list of all the leading colleges and universities of the west.
It numbers among its 450 graduates men and women now prominent in law, politics, journalism,
medicine, the ministry, teaching, literature and commercial pursuits.
The enrollment of the city schools for 1903, showing an increase of 19 per cent, is a true
indication of the actual growth of the city.
The support given the schools by the public, the interest of patrons and enthusiasm of pupils
and teachers are all phrophetic of a still higher grada of culture and citizenship for the community.
Paris is pre-eminently a City of Churches. It is admitted that in no other city in the west is the
standard of church architecture so high as here. Within the past ten years the following new churches
have been erected: The First Methodist Episcopal, at a cost of $53,000; the Christian, cost, $45,000;
First Presbyterian, cost, $43,000; Catholic, cost, $50,000; First Baptist, cost $20,000; Second Baptist,
cost, $4,000; African Methodist Episcopal, cost, $7,000.
The United Brethren, Episcopalians, Methodist Protestants and Pentecosts also have substantial
and commodious church edifices..
TANNER SCHOOL BUILDING
HIGH SCHOOL BUILDING
FIRST WARD SCHOOL BUILDING
itfratmtal ODriters
Paris is the home of two flourishing Masonic Lodges, numbers 77 and 268, having a combined
membership of 500. A chapter of Royal Arch Masons and a Commandery of Knights Templar are
also located here, and a chapter of the Order of Eastern Stars having a membership of 150. The
two Masonic Lodges own their quarters, handsome three story brick, and stone structures, elegantly
furnished and equipped.
Other fraternal orders are represented as follows: Two Lodges of the Independant Order of Odd
Fellows and a Rebecca Lodge, with a combined membership of 400; camp of Modern Woodman of
America, membership, 325; Ben Hur, membership, 150; Court of Honor, membership, 125;
Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, membership, 200; Ancient Order of United Workman,
membership, 135; Knights of Pythias, membership, 50. The Elks have particularly handsome
quarters in a modern three story stone building just completed at a cost of $20,000.
The Grand Recorder's office of the A. O. U. W. of Illinois is located here, and gives employment
to a large corps of assistants.
ODD FELLOWS BUILDING
B. P. O. ELKS BUILDING
(fltttj ICtbrary
In 1902 Andrew Carnegie donated $18,000 to the city of Paris for the construction of a free
public library building. This beautiful structure, just completed, will accomodate 20,000 volumes,
and is a model of convenience and completeness. It is built strictly upon classic lines and is
acknowledged to be one of the most imposing library buildings in the west.
CARNEGIE LIBRARY
GUitldrat'a ?jimur
In 1897 Edgar County appropriated $10,000 for the erection of a home for destitute children.
The Children's Home is situated in the east part of the city in a beautiful natural grove of ten acres,
donated for the purpose by the late Jas. A. Eads.
The home is maintained partly by the county and partly by private charity and accomplishes
a great work in rescuing and training indigent children.
ifnspttalB
The Benedictine Sisters have recently instituted a movement for the establishment of a Public
Hospital in Paris, one of the most commodious and beautiful buildings in the City, having been
acquired by them for that purpose.
An organization has also been perfected by a number of leading citizens for the establishment of
a Union Hospital, so that Paris will soon be amply provided for in this direction.
EDGAR COUNTY POOR FARM
CHILDRENS HOME
atrr Harks ana lElrrtrir iditjht pant.
The city of Paris maintains its own water works and electric light plant, and in point of efficiency
and economy has attained for them a place in the front rank of such municipal institutions.
Our water supply is obtained from a reservoir, 66 acres in extent and having a capacity of
100,000,000 gallons. This beautiful inland lake is fed by numerous springs and streams, giving us a
supply of pure water practically inexhaustible.
The pumping station is fitted with the highest class equipments, including triple expansion pumps
with a capacity of 2,500.000 gallons per day and a reserve pump of 750,000 gallons capacity. There
are 14 miles of water mains and the average consumption of water per day is 600,000 gallons.
Our electric light system is operated in connection with the water works plant. We have 1 10
arc lights, operated at an annual cost of $49 each, making Paris at once the most thoroughly and
economically lighted city in the west.
WATER WORKS AND ELECTRIC LIGHT PLANT
Ifsmmtr fark.
Reservoir Park, comprising the grounds adjoining the city reservoir, one mile north of the city,
is, without exception, the finest pleasure resort within a radius of one hundred miles. Although open
to the public only a few years, it has already become the Mecca of summer pleasure-seekers
throughout a large section of Illinois and Indiana.
For a place of rest and recreation it is unrivalled. The lake, covering an area of sixty-six acres,
abounds in black bass and other game fish. Bass weighing as much as six pounds have been caught.
An average weight of four pounds is altogether common. Row boats are to be had at reasonable
rental rates, while a steamboat and a naptha launch with a combined capacity of 175 passengers, ply
the lake on all occasions.
The park grounds, encircling the lake, are of ample extent and furnish an ideal place for camping
parties and picnics. They are covered with a natural growth of forest trees and are picturesque in
the extreme, being interspersed with romantic glades and glens, hills and ravines, where ferns and
flowers grow wild and refreshing mineral springs flow perpetually.
The park is well supplied with swings and merry-go-rounds, dining halls and dancing pavillions,
which are available at all times.
Reservoir Park is reached from the city by the C. V. & C. railway, and two wagon roads. A
street car line, connecting it with the city will also be in operation in the near future.
A summer Chatauqua will be held in the park in August, 1904, and annually thereafter, some
of the best talent in the country having been already engaged.
VIEWS OF RESERVOIR PARK
Hanks
Paris has three National Banks whose reports speak for themselves.
The First National has a capital of $108,000, a surplus of $108,000 and deposits of $1,001,445.
Footing, $1,404,137.
The Edgar County National has a capital of $100,000, a surplus of $100,000 and deposits of
$858,298. Footing, $1,192,365.
The Citizen's National with a capital of $100,000, a surplus of $24,000, and deposits of
$147,227.21. The last named bank has been in business only one year. An especially commendable
feature of all three banks is the fact that all the stock is owned by citizens of our community. There
are four other banks in the county having smaller capital, but in equally as good condition as the
above.
iBuilMtig anil IGoan AsHnriatimtH
Paris has three Building and Loan Associations, which have enjoyed uninterrupted prosperity
and have contributed largely to the upbuilding of the city.
THE PARIS SAVINGS AND LOAN ASSOCIATION, organized in 1893. oilers the following statement of its condition:
Loans disbursements, year ending Nov. 1, 1903 - - S 64.414
Net increase in loans, past 3 1-2 years - - 102,277
Total loans since organization - - - 346.884
Total receipts since organization - - - 512,707
Total disbursements since organization - - - 509 708
THE EDCAR COUNTY BUILDING AND LOAN ASSOCIATION was organized in 1987- Their condition is shown in the following statement:
Loans outstanding ... g 229.8110
Increase in past two years - - - 100.000
Loan disbursements, past year, - ■ - 86. 765
Total loans since organized 685,340
Slock matured - 274.300
Total receipts since organized - - - 1.551.505
Total disbursements since organized - - 1,536.640
THE HOME BUILDING AND LOAN ASSOCIATION, which was organized in January. 1 903. entered immediately upon a profitable career, and already shows
a condition of prosperi:y in keeping with the growth of the city.
Hytrin
We have two large hotels with all modern conveniences, conducted in a thoroughly up-to-date
style, which cater especially to transient trade and have a very enviable reputation among traveling
men, and four or five smaller hotels which take care of all comers in a satisfactory manner, also
catering to the wants of our citizens who prefer boarding.
VIEWS OF RESERVOIR PARK
Uailmafc jFarilttirs.
Our railroad facillities are especially worthy of note, being much better than those enjoyed by
many cities having double our population. We have the distinction of being on two great systems
or trunk lines, the BIG FOUR, with two branches, one running north and south and the main line,
running east and west; also the PENNSYLVANIA, or Vandalia, the Peoria division of which passes
through our city.
These, with the acquisition in the near future of a branch of the C. & E. I., the right of way of
which has already been surveyed, will give us direct communication with every large city in the
country. To many places we have the advantage of competing lines, which insure freight rates
enjoyed by few cities.
Our annual railroad tonnage is as follows: Big Four, inbound, 32,850 tons; outbound, 20,775
tons and Vandalia, inbound, 27,922 tons; outbound, 23,891 tons.
We are also at the present time negotiating for several electric inter-urban lines (one or two of
which are assured) which will greatly increase the radius of the city's retail business. It is therefore
without assumption that we lay particular stress upon our railroad facillities, reiterating the statement
that we enjoy exceptional advantages along this line which make our city a most desirable location
for any kind of industry, making a product marketable in the great middle west.
(Html
Edgar county, besides being contiguous to the great bituminous coal fields of western Indiana,
has its entire eastern half underlaid with extensive veins of the best steam coal, with several shafts
in operation and many others being prospected. The proposed branch line of the C. & E. I. railway
from Clinton, Indiana, to Paris will tap this coal field and also bring the Indiana coal to us at a very
low rate, assuring us as cheap coal as is enjoyed by the most favored community. We already have
direct connection by two railroads with the Brazil and Sullivan county fields, and are less than forty
miles from them.
MASONIC BUILDINGS
QHir ?JhtmjjluTtj-Sfartlj (£lass (Uampmuj
ittatutfartittrrs of Sruggists* JlrrBrriptuin a»o (£atsny ffinltlrs, HJranrHi IflaskH, Sir.
This is conceded to be the most thoroughly equipped bottle works in the country. The plant,
occupying five acres of ground in the south part of the city, consists of a number of spacious and
substantial buildings, and includes a box factory and electric light plant.
The main tank has a capacity of 240 tons and has twelve "rings" or "shops."
Twelve carloads of material are consumed each week and nine carloads of bottles are produced.
The company's goods are of a very high quality and in such demand that it is impossible for
them to keep up with their orders.
The factory is operated night and day and employs 125 men and 100 boys. A large proportion
of the employes are skilled artisans, receiving the highest wages. To skilled workmen $3,500 per
week are paid out, and to unskilled $1,000.
The wisdom of locating an industry of this kind in Paris has been amply proved by this firm's
success. Both proprietors and workmen have found our city a better location from every standpoint
than any metropolis affords.
HUMPHREY-DEARTH GLASS FACTORY
dhf ilrrklr-lltlrg Irnom (Unni^auii
This factory is a verification of the adage, "Great oaks from little acorns grow." The business
started from a one man hand power shop and is now the largest broom factory in the country, having
a capacity of 800 dozen brooms per day, and employing 200 hands. It has distributing depots in
most of the large cities and its products are shipped all over the United States and Canada.
Most of the employes are skilled workmen, making good wages, and constitute a very respect-
able portion of our population. The factory is constantly growing and increasing its output, a large
addition to their buildings and a new invoice of machinery having been added in 1903.
Paris is justly proud of this institution, which has demonstrated the highest ideals of factory
management.
THE MERKLE-W1LEY BROOM FACTORY
(Uljr Kxbhvt (ten iUUlutg pant
^*m ^.fl* ^^% ^.1*
This is the most complete corn milling plant in the world, having a producing capacity of 6000
bushels per day and a storage capacity of 1,200,000 bushels. The building is a mammoth fire-proof
structure, built of vitrified paving brick, and the engines, operating the various milling machinery,
represent 1200 horse power.
Everything that can be made from corn is here manufactured, and the products shipped to all
parts of the globe. Hominy, corn flour, brewers' supplies, corn oil and corn flakes are produced, the
latter a delicious breakfast food of snowy whiteness and rich, creamy flavor, destined soon to supplant
all similar products.
The Kidder Plant is a striking example of the modern scientific method of utilizing all by-pro-
ducts. Even the stray husks from the corn are packed in bales and sold as stock food, while the
cobs are used as fuel. About 100 hands are employed, and one and a half millions of dollars paid to
the surrounding farmers for the raw material every year. A fair-sized trainload of the various pro-
ducts is shipped every day.
KIDDER CORN MILLING PLANT
She $. (®. (Enlsrnt (Umnymty
iflannfartimirs m\b 3)nblipra uf Aimrrtu.iny ■Xmtrltirs
This enterprising firm, which began business with two employes in 1893, has become one of the
leading houses in its line in the United States.
The Company was incorporated in 1903 with U. O. Colson, President and H. F. O'Bannon,
Secretary and Treasuier.
Their present plant contains 200,000 square feet of floor space and they have 40 employes,
many of them skilled workmen. Their goods are sold in almost every State in the Union, while they
have branch houses in several large cities.
Everything in the way of advertising novelties is made by them. Among their leading specialties
may be mentioned calendars, aluminum goods, wood and leather novelties and souvenirs for all
lines of trade.
N X
GOFFMAN S IMPLEMENT AND BUGGY HOUSE
COOKS FURNITURE STORE
(Jljr lEihjar JJrintuuj (flmitpautr
££** fc^* C^* fc"*
This progressive firm which began business on a small scale some two years ago has made such
remarkable growth that it is now one of the foremost institutions of its kind in the state.
A specialty is made of high grade advertising novelties, such as calendars, fans, carpenters'
aprons, etc., which are sold throughout the west.
Their plant consists of a modern brick structure centrally located, to which there will shortly be
added extensive ware rooms. 25 workmen are employed at present. Improved machinery for fine
color work will soon be installed, and other additions made to their already substantial equipment,
CHRISTIAN CHURCH
FIRST M. E. CHURCH
(Ihr -parts Art Jfalter (Emupami
Owned and conducted by C. E. Jay, this institution has gained an established reputation all over
the country by supplying to the photographers a special form of photograph mount which is so much
more artistic than the old forms as at once to jump into favor with such artists as make a specialty
of high class work. These mounts and folders are shipped by thousands all over the country, and
are now accepted as the ideal material for all of the finest work. Originally an artistic conception of
the proprietor for his own use, the demands of the jobbers drove him to the establishment of a plant
to supply their wants. The business has so rapidly increased that a quantity of embossing and
beveling machinery has been installed and the services of quite a number of skilled employes are
now constantly required.
PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
Irnnm (ton iHarltiurru
The operation of our large Broom Factory having aroused our farmers to the need of supplying
the raw material, the enterprising proprietor of the Paris Foundry and Machine Works invented and
is now building a broom corn thresher which has become the standard in every section of the country
where broom corn is raised. This, with the operation of a very complete foundry and machine shop,
gives employment to a large number of high class and well salaried mechanics, who make a very
desirable acquisition to our city.
CATHOLIC CHURCH
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH
lEd0ar §>tmw (Uampmty
t£m |^W i^n rj-*
This industry, established in 1903 for the manufacture of artificial building stone, has developed
a very extensive and prosperous business. A number of houses and business blocks are being built
of their material, which possesses decided advantages over either brick or natural stone in economy,
durability and appearance. They have a model plant and give employment to quite a number of
workmen.
STREET SCENES
(Ll)t $ah\j Otarnarj? Works
1fl& ._.t% t^m ^m
Established in 1884, this factory has enjoyed a long and prosperous career. The highest
standard of excellence is maintained by them, and their name is recognized throughout the country
as a synonym for high grade, thorough workmanship. They occupy a substantial brick block and are
thoroughly equipped.
H. W AUGUSTUS
H L. JONES
W. B. BEEBE
Jfltttnt iFartorif
r^rH ^.?% ^.*% p^.'ft
This is a new industry which bids fair to become one of our most important and lucrative enter-
prises. Mittens and husking gloves are manufactured — staple articles, for which the demand is
steady and increasing. Employment is afforded to a number of workmen, and their output is sold
throughout the west.
J. G. BROWN
A. L. KEYS
MAX WILSON
©It? fans 2Urafo Supply (Emnpanij
Manufacturers of i>irrl SSriugrs anu ISljulraalr iralrra in Bvwer |Iipr mtu iSuau fRarljmrru.
(&ta. S. Hiiumrrlu, llruurir-tur
This establishment, which began in a modest way in 1900, has become one of our most pro-
gressive and profitable industries, employing a large number of skilled mechanics and doing business
throughout a wide territory.
Their principal line is the manufacture and construction of steel bridges and other structural
steel work. Within the past year their output has increased more than 50 per cent and they have
found it necessary to build extensive additions to their shops for the coming season.
The striking success of this firm goes far toward substantiating the claim that Paris offers
unexcelled advantages as a manufacturing center.
R. G. SUTHERLAND
R. J CHiLCOTE
C. P. HITCH
Hamilton patting ilill
We have at present in operation one of the most complete Planing Mills in the State. Fitted
with modern machinery, this plant takes advantage of the output of two large saw mills located in our
city, using their best lumber and making a specialty of furnishing the entire interior finish of the many
handsome buildings which have been and are now being erected in this city.
Their thorough capability is amply evidenced by the high quality of their work and the fact that
that the plant has never been shut down for a single day since its establishment Employment is
given to a high class of artisans, who are a credit as citizens of our community. Within the past
year their business has increased 50 per cent.
R. P. LOGAN
CHAS- LOGAN
C W. CURL
&aw iEills
f^H ^-t* ,^H .^m
We have two large Saw Mills, with a capacity of over 15,000 feet per day, which are operated
continuously and give employment to quite a number of men. Various hard woods grow in abund-
ance in this locality, and both mills make a specialty of supplying "Dimension stuff" to the numerous
industries using lumber in manufacturing.
JACOB SHOLEM
L. A- G. SHOAFF
H. L HODGF
lulntmt Sc (£0.
r. ^ \ ^ ■_ ^ _ ^
Wijolraalr (Srnrrrs
Th:s enterprising firm cf Terre Haute, Indiana, recognizing the demands of our city, has estab-
lished a branch house here which occupies three floors 40 by 150 feet each. They carry a $30,000
stock of goods, and besides supplying our own retail merchants, ship merchandise to m:ny surround-
ing towns.
W. O. WILSON
CHAS BERLAU
HORACE LINK
IFarmrrs* auit uHtrpBljrrs' jusimmrr (En.
fc** v" «^* t^*
This company, whose home offices are located here, began writing insurance in July, 1903.
In their first six months they have written over a million dollars worth of insurance. Regularly
chartered under the laws of Illinois to place insurance upon all kinds of farm property, they have thus
far made a specialty of insuring farm implements and threshing machinery.
In their line they have been very successful and the outlook is bright for a prosperous career
for them.
P O. KIRBY
F W. REESE
J. W. SNYPER
Shr Ifrnpst IGumbrr (Emnpauy
This institution deserves special notice because it enjoys the unique distinction of being the most
completely equipped lumber-yard anywhere in the west. Throughout the country it is known to the
trade as a model of perfection in appointments and management.
The entire yard, comprising a block, is covered, not by a mere shed, but by a substantial and
beautiful structure, which is an ornament to the city. The building is divided into various depart-
ments by spacious driveways, and everything, even to the stables, is kept in perfect order.
The company's commodious offices are simply parlors, being decorated and furnished in the
highest style and supplied with every modern appliance. They contain luxurious reception rooms,'
private compartments — everything possible, indeed, for the comfort and convenience of patrons and
employes.
The Propst Lumber Company is one of her enterprises of which Paris is justly proud.
IV \//j<
St
/
nvannn u.
PROPST LUMBER COMPANY
i>haut a lottltuij Unrks
iHauut'artitrrrii of all iKutos of (Earbouatro Untrraors auo HHtoU'salr Scalers in Sew.
This industry, established some fifteen years ago, has built up a very extensive business, its
products being sold throughout a wide territory.
The plant is supplied with the most modern machinery and gives regular employment to a
number of hands.
CLIFFORD WILEY
O. J. McGURTY
F. L. KIDDER
Nrwspajicrs
Paris has three daily newspapers and one weekly. Each of the dailies publishes also a weekly
or semi-weekly edition.
The Paris Beacon, the oldest newspaper in the county, was founded in 1848. The daily was
first issued in 1882. It is now published by The Beacon Publishing Company (incorporated) and has
one of the most thoroughly equipped plants in Illinois. The company owns its building, a handsome
two-story block, and has every modern appliance, including linotype machines, etc.
The paper is issued both as a daily and semi-weekly and is one of the strongest and most ably
managed newspapers in the state.
Besides an efficient staff of editors and reporters, a large clerical and mechanical force is
employed, and an extensive job printing business is done. The Beacon is republican in politics.
The Paris Gazette was established as a weekly in 1873, the daily edition, in 1893. The
Gazette is another staunch and substantial publication, which ranks among the foremost of Illinois
newspapers, both as to popularity and commercial standing.
The Gazette plant is supplied with linotype machines and all modern conveniences. A large
amount of job printing is done and employment given to a number of skilled workmen. The Gazette
is democratic in politics.
The Paris Republican was founded in 1877. It is issued in both daily and weekly editions and
has long enjoyed an enviable reputation as a clean, conservative family newspaper.
The Paris Weekly Herald was established in 1890. It is democratic in politics and has
attained an extensive circulation throughout the county. The Herald office is well equipped and does
a successful job printing business in connection with the publication of the paper.
CHAS. LAMB
FRANK ALEXANDER
J W. WINN
abash ftrlrphmtr (Unmyami
In the above Company's plant, Paris has one of the most efficient and extensive telephone sys-
tems in the state. The Company is capitalized for $125,000, and besides covering the larger portion
of Edgar County, its lines extend into adjoining counties. There are 2500 instruments in the system,
of which 1300 communicate directly with the Paris switchboard and are installed within the city or
the surrounding rural district.
Long distance connection is had with all the principal cities, the individual 'phones being of such
high grade that they can be connected with the long distance lines direct.
Sixteen operators are employed In the local exchange and a large corps of linemen and
assistants.
J. E- PARRISH
R. M. LINK
A J HUNTER
£>luiafTs (%rra ?Jimtsf
..•t.-tj*jt
Owned and conducted by L. A. G. Shoaff, whose entire life has been devoted to the business.
The new building, erected some ten years ago, was designed by Mr. Shoaff on modern lines and
with a view to accomodating all classes of amusements. It is a ground floor structure, with com-
modious auditorium and a very large stage, upon the construction of which Mr. Shoaff is frequently
complimented by members of the theatrical profession.
During the season the opera house averages three attractions a week of a variety suited to all
tastes.
Dr J T- MUSSELMAN J. C- PALMER, Farm Residen
J- CRETOR
The following is a capitulation of the retail business houses of Paris; Automobiles, 1 ; Bicycles,
3; Books and periodicals, 4; Boots and shoes, 8; Buggies, 7; Carpets and rugs, 5; Clothing, 8; Cigar
factories, 4; Confectionery, I; Dry goods, 8; Drugs, 6; Dentists, 5; Express Companies, 3; Furniture,
3; Feed stores, 7, Groceries, 32; Harness, etc., 4; Hardware, 4; Hotels, and high class boarding
houses, 6; Implements, 7; Jewelers, 4; Laundries, 2; Lawyers, 18; Livery stables, 3; Lumber yards,
3; Meat markets, 6; Merchant tailors, 3; Medicines, mf'rs. of, 2; Millinery, 6; Notions, etc., 5; Physi-
cians, 20; Printing offices, 6; Pianos etc., 3; Phonographs, 1 ; Photograph galleries, 4; Poultry
dealers, 2; Restaurants, 5; Stoves and tinware, 7; Wall paper, 4.
J. D. HUNTER
HENRY CREDE
C. T. MERKLE
(Mirr iluiUtstrirs
.jtjt.jtj*
In addition to the foregoing. Paris has many lesser industries, all doing a successful business
and employing in the aggregate a large number of workmen. Among these may be mentioned 3
planing mills, 3 foundries, 3 brick plants, 2 large flouring mills, 4 elevators, an extensive drain tile
factory and 2 packing houses.
'Wfi
irTnrmnm»r
M. E. PARSONAGE
J. W. CRYDER
E E- WHITEHEAD
ulln? (Uammrrrial (Club of Paris, Mutate.
©mrcra, 1903-1304.
H. L. HODGE, President.
C- F. PROPST, Secretary.
E E. Whitehead
C. F. Propst
W. H. Hodge
F. T. O'Hair
. . Birrrtnra . .
J. Will Snyder
R M. Link
. . iflrmlirrn . .
Name
Adams. J. E.
Alexander. F. R.
Allen. C E.
Anthony, D. D.
Athon. Mora
Athon, F- J.
Baber. A. J-
• Barbour, W. R.
Barr, J. D-
Earth. Alba
Banrn. Z- T.
Beall, C. E.
Beall, John
Beall, Bernie
Beckett, J. P.
Benefield, J. D.
Berlau, Charles
Berlau. D.
Berlau, Frank
Bibo, Max
Bibo, Phillip
Black. John
Bumgardner, Gideon
Bovell, J. B.
Boyer, H- 0-
Bradshaw, W. H.
Buston, Frank
Brandenstein, Simon
Bridgeman, Gus
Brooks, H. M.
Representing
J E. Adams
F. R. Alexander
C E. Allen
D. D. Anthony
F- J. Athon & Go
1st- National Bank
Citizens Bank
Alba Barth
Z. T. Baum
C. E. Beail & Sons
J P. Beckett
Jenkins & Benefield
S. Berlau & Sons
John Black
Gideon Bumgardner
J. B. Bovel!
H- O- Boyer
W. H. Bradshaw
Vandalia R. R.
Gus Bridgeman
H- M Brooks
Business
Dentist
Saw Mill
Grocer
Coal Dealers
President
Banker
Restaurant
Fhysican (Mayor)
Brick Layers
Insurance
Contractors
Clothiers
Attorney
Capitalist
Blacksmith
Stoves & Tin-ware
Auctioneer
Jeweler
Bill Clerk
Retired
Cigar Mfg.
Preacher
R. M. LINK, Vice-President-
. C H LAMB. Treasurer-
Name
Brown, J. G.
Brown. J H.
Brown, S- C.
Browning, J H.
Brubaker, Frank
Brubaker, Hiram
Brubaker. H L.
Bruns. Andy
Campbell, Geo. R-
Cantlon. Wm.
Cline, Alva H.
Clinton, W. H.
Clinton, G. H.
Ofcady. Patrick
Coffman. D.A.
Colson. U. 0.
Cook, W. T.
Cook. F. A,
Cornwell, J. E.
Curl, Jerry
Crede, Henry
Dillon. Wm.
Davis, W. E.
Doak, J W.
DQle, Geo.- V.
• Dollarhide. Horace
Draper, Harry
Eads. J T.
Ferris. E E.
Foley, T. A^
E. 0 Laughlin
J. G. Brown
H. L. Hodge
F. A. Cook
Representing
Business
Brown 6c McCord
City Mills
J. H- Brown
Real Estate
S- G. Brown
Notions & Paper
J. H Browning
Real Estate
Brubaker Bros
Grocers
H L. Brubaker
Gardener
Andy Bruns
Tailor
Reed & Campbell
Painters & Paper Hangers
Wm. Cantlon
Plumber
1st. National Bank
Asst. Cashier
W. H Clinton
Attorney
G. H Clinton
Jeweler
P. H Coady
Saloon
D. A- Coffman
Farm Implements
U. 0. Colson Company
Advertising Novelties
J. Cook & Sons
Furniture & Undertakers
J. E. Cornwell
Asst. County Treasurer
Jerry Curl
Mail Carrier
Henry Crede
Boots & Shoes
Wm. Dillon
Tailor
W. E. Davis
J. W. Doak
Attorney
Geo. V. Dole
Horace Dollarhide
Harry Draper
Saloon
J T. Eads
Real Estate
E E. Ferris
Druggist
T A. Foley
Saw Mill
R. LEE MILLER
WM. SHOLEM
JNO. A. LOGAN
alu' (flmttmrrrial (£lub of }Jaris, jlllittnta — (finuitmtrfi.
Name
Representing
Business
Name
Representing
Business
Frazier, Alex.
Noah Henline
Clerk
Lamb. C. H
C. H. Lamb
Grocer
Frazer, E B.
Coady & Frazer
Saloon
Laughlin. E. 0.
E, 0. Laughlin
Physician &. Surjeon
Gaumer. W. F.
Lee. Charles
Thos. Moyer
Paper Hanger
Gillivary. Jas.
Jas- Gillivary
Saloon
Levin, Benard
Benard Levin
Clothier
Gillivary, John
John Gillivary
Levings- W F.
W. F. Levings
Insurance
Gist. J. H. C.
J. H- C. Gist
Brick Mfg.
Link. R. M.
Royal Plansifter Mill
Miller
Grant, G- W.
G. W. Grant
Real Estate
Link, Nate
"
Graham. W- A.
W A. Graham
Link, J. A.
Milller&Hart
Gregg, E. E.
E. E. Gregg
Abstractor
Link. W. A.
W. A. Link
Grocer
Halloran, W. A.
W. A. Halloran
Grocer
Link. Horace
Horace Link & Co-
Furniture and Undertaking
Hamilton. W. F-
Hamilton Bros-
Flour and Feed
Leitch. J H
J. H. Leitch
Saloon
Hamilton. Chas-
•'
Logan. W. S.
W. S. Logan
Lumber
Hamilton, Louis
Farmer
Lutz. Chas.
Lutz Bros.
Butcher
Hamilton. P. S.
Kaufman & Hamilton
Planing Mill
Lutz. John
•4
"
Hanks. J E.
J. A. Price
Butcher
Luther, Wm.
Wm. Luther
Blacksmith
Harris. W K
Lycan, Hiram
Hiram Lycan
Farmer
Haug. E. P-
E. P. Haug
Jeweler
Lycan, R. S.
R. S. Lycan
Physician and Surgeon
Henline. Noah
Noah Henline
Hardware and Tinner
Lydick. F. D.
F. D. Lydick
Henn. Chas-
Chas. Henn
Grain Dealer
McCord, T. H.
McCord & Risser
Lumber
Helfrich. J A.
J. A Heltrich
Florist
McCord. S. B.
Brown & McCord
City Mills
Hitch, C. P.
U. S. Marshall
McCubbins. Rcbt.
Robt McCubbins
Farmer
Hinds. W. W.
Hinds & Perisho
Feed
McCulloch. Jas H.
Jas. H. McCulloch
Hodge, B. W.
Hodge Bros.
Furniture & Undertaking
McGurty, 0 J.
0 J. McGurty
Livery and Veterinary Sur
Hodge. C H.
"
"
McFall, Thos.
Thos. McFall
Retired
Hodge, H. L.
Booth & Hodge
Dry Goods
McLaughlin. Thos.
McLaughlin & Pearman Clothiers
Hodge. J G
W H- & J. G. Hodge
Hardware
Manning. Cran
Oran Manning
Real Estate
Hodge, W . H.
Mawer, Fred.
Fred Mawer
"
Hoff. W. H.
W. H. Huff
Physician & Livery
Meloy. J- E-
Booth & Hodge
Clerk
Hopkins. Dave
Merkle. 0. T.
Merkle-Wiley Broom Co
. Mfg. Brooms
Huffman. D A-
D- A. Huffman & Son
Grocer
Miller, Chester
H. R. Miller
Boots and Shoes
Huls, John
John Huls
Sexton. Edg Cemetery
Miller, Lee
J. Miller & Sons
Dry Goods
Hunter, J. D.
Citizens Bank
President
Miller. Frank
"
"
Hunter, W.J.
W. J. Hunter
Farmer
Moffett, N. R.
N. R- Moffett
Insurance
Huston, D. D-
Rudy & Co.
Grain Dealers
Morton. A. J.
A. J- Morton
Saloon
Huston. S- S
S. S. Huston
Real Estate
Moyer. Thos.
Thos- Moyer
Paper Hanger
Jay, Chas. E.
C. E. Jay
Photographer
Morton, Edga-
Farmer
Jenkins, Arnold
Jenkins & Benefield
Contiactors
Monical. H. W.
Paris Pub. School
Supt.
Johnson. David
Murphy. J. W.
J. W. Murphy
States Attorney
Jones. E E
E. F. Jones
Dentist
Musselman. J. T.
J. T- Musselman
Physician
Jones, 0- S-
0. S. Jones
Real Estate
O'Hair. F. T.
Dundas &c O'Hair
Attorneys
Jones. H. I_
H. L- Jones
Dry Goods
O'Hair. H. B.
H. B. O'Hair
Livery
Keys. A- L.
Wabash Telephone Co.
Manager
0 Hair, W. S.
W. S O'Hair
Trader
Kile, R. H.
Edgar County Bark
Cashier
O'Hair, J. Ogden
J. Od^en O'Hair
"
King, G. T.
The Propst Lumber Co
Lumber
Farrish, J. E.
Edgar County Bank
President
MRS A. E DOLE
CHAS E SHAW
CHAS F PROPST
uhr (Hammmial (Club of $aris 3lltuots — (Emtiimiro.
Name
Representing
Business
Name
Representing
Business
Parrish, J. A
J. A- Parrish
Grocer
Sholem. Sam
Sholem & Sons
Clothier and Dry Goods
Patton, Chas.
Chas. Patton
Saloon
Sholem. Maurice
Patty. E. A.
E. A. Patty
Saloon
Sholem, Wm.
Wm. Sholem
Boots and Shoes
Pearman. Frank
McLaughlin & Pearman
Clothiers
• Shutt. Paul
Paris Beacon Pub. Co.
Manager
Perisho, J E.
J. E. Perisho
Fa r m e r
Shutt, Harry
H- Shutt & Co.
Clothier
Perisho. W. H.
W. H. Perisho
Feed
Sizemore, Otis
Otis Sizemore
Saloon
Perkins. G Y.
Geo. Y. Perkins
Druggist
Slanker, C B.
C. B. Slanker
Cigar Mfg.
Pettiford, Edward
Edward Pettiford
Barber
Snyder, Ed. W.
Ed. W. Snyder
Pifer, C N.
Pifer Bros.
Hardware and
Implements Snyder, J Will
J. Will Snyder
Real Estate
Piter, Ed.
"
Stevenson, J. J.
Vandalia R. R.
Agent
Porter, Troy
Troy, Porter
Plumber
Sutherland. R. G.
First National Bank
Cashier
Potts, S. D.
S. D. Potts
Farmer
Steidl, Joseph
J. Steidl & Son
Grocer and Meat Packer
Powell, J. E-
J. E. Powell
Stephens. Frank
Frank Stephens
Carpenter
Price. F- H.
F. H. Pri:e
Butcher
Tanner, Everitt
Paris Beacon
Reporter
Propst, C. F.
The Propst Lbr. Co.
Lumber
Thompson, W. C.
W. C. Thompson
Purcell, J. W.
J. W. Purcell
Plasterer
Taflinger. J- W.
Wright & Taflinger
Implements
Reed, W. E.
Reed & Campbell
Painters
Vance. J. E.
Vance & Dillion
Mfg. Mittens
Reed, J. E.
Central Hotel
Hotel
Van Sellar. Harry
Van Sellar & Van Sellar
Attorneys
Reed. J. H.
J. H. Reed
Jeweler
Van Sellar. Frank
"
'*
Reese, H E.
Paris House
Hotel
Vansickle. Samuel
Swisher & Vansickle
Insurance
Reese. Ed.
"
Wetsel. Roland
Wetsel Bros.
Boots and Shoes
Reese, Fred.
Paris Foundry & Mach.
Foundry
Wetsel, Walter
"
Risser, Simon
McCord & Risser
Lumber
Weider. E. L.
Paris Laundry
Laundry
Risser. Abe
First National Bank
Book-keeper
Whiteneck. Meritt
Meritt Whiteneck
Carpenter
Reeves, M C.
Reeves Bros,
Grocer
Wiley. Clifford
Merkle-Wiley Broom Co.
Mfg. Brooms
Reeves, D. C
'•
"
Wilson, 0. N.
Edgar Printing Co.
Advertising Novelties
Rowe, H. B.
H. B. Rowe & Co.
Druggists
Wilson, John
Wilson Bros.
Grocer
Rogers, C. E.
C. E. Rogers
Farmer
Winn, M. F.
Whitehead & Winn
Clothiers
Rudy, B. F.
Rudy & Co.
Grain Dealers
Witt. A. G.
A. G- WITT & Co.
Farm Implements
Ryan. G. W.
G. W. Ryan
Harness
WiTT, John
Rittenhouse, M. L.
M. L. Rittenhouse
Gardener
Wittick. John
Wittick Bros.
Printers
Shaw, C. E-
C. E. Shaw
Bottling Works
Wittick. George
"
• '
Shepherd, J. W.
Shepherd &. Trogdon
Attorney
Wolfe. A- W.
A W. Wolfe
"The Fair "
Shepherd, James
James Shepherd
Insurance
Wright, Sol
Wright &. Taflinger
Farm Implements
Sheriff, W, B.
W. B. Sheriff
"
Young. D. W.
D. W. Young
Physician
Shoaff, Fred
J. D. & F. L. Shoaff
Newspaper
Shoaff, L. A. G.
L. A. C. Shoaff
QPera House
Miss Alice Nelson
Miss Anna Reeese
LADY MEMBERS
Miss Mary McCubbins Mrs. E. Williams Mrs- Mary Hodge
Miss Alice Trogon Mrs. M. J. McCubbins Mrs. Sarah How
Mrs. Matilda Rogers Mrs. Maggie Bennifield
F
K
•$&**
Rj
ul
M
H
43
1
«M
&
WW
H
it
91