**-
LAWRENCE J. GUTTER
Collection of Chicogoana
THE UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS
AT CHICAGO
The University Library
ROBERT CAVELIER, SIEUR DE LA SALLE.
Bronze Monument erected in Lincoln Park by the Hon. Lambert Tree.
THE STORY OF CHICAGO
BY
JOSEPH KlRKLAND
CHICAGO
DIBBLE PUBLISHING COMPAiNY
1892
COPYRIGHTED BY
DIBBLE PUBLISHING CO.
1892.
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
CHICAGO:
DONOHUE & HENNEBSRRY,
PRINTERS AND BINDERS,
PREFACE.
The best a historian can do is to approach accuracy before
venturing upon publication; and, after publication, — to approach it more
and more nearly; for to reach it is beyond his utmost scope.
The degree in which he can do this latter is dependent on the
trouble his readers may take in pointing out to him his errors of
omission and commission. "A word to the wise is sufficient;" and
these words are addressed to all who are interested enough to read,
wise enough to criticise and friendly enough to correct, for the benefit
of posterity, this " Story of Chicago."
THK AUTHOR,
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER I.
A THOUSAND CENTURIES:
Lake Michigan flowed toward the Gulf of Mexico; i — How the
waters came to change direction; 2 — Threatened destruction of Lake
Erie; 3 — When Chicago was submerged; 4 — Aspect of the ancient
shore line; 5 — The divide emerges from the waves; 6 — Vanished
races; 7.
CHAPTER II.
THE ABORIGINES; GOD'S IMAGE DONE IN COPPER:
Meaning of the name Chicago; 8 — The Portage; 8 — Indian Traits;
10 — John Dean Caton; n — Scalp Hunting; 12 — Massacre at Starved
Rock; 13 — Lost Records; 14.
CHAPTER III.
THE RECORDED STORY BEGINS:
Coming of the French; 15 — Race of the Races; 17 — Joliet
discovers the Portage; 18 — Marquette's winter at Hardscrabble; 18 —
La Salle arrives; 19 — Travelers' tales; 20 — Knightly honor assailed; 21
—First lake vessel; 21 — La Salle's ceaseless struggles; 22 — Final catas-
trophe; 23.
CHAPTER IV.
A SINGLE CENTURY:
Last days of first explorers; 26 — Kaskaskia in the North; 27 —
Kaskaskia in the South; 28 — John Law's Mississippi scheme; 29 — New
road to the sea; 30 — Indian atrocities; 32 — Chicagua for a Rendezvous;
32 — English succeed French; 33.
CHAPTER V.
ILLINOIS AND CHICAGO DURING THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR:
Red Coat 1812; 34 — England's savage allies; 34 — Kinzie and Cly-
bourne ancestors; 35 — Kentuckians in Illinois; 36 — Clark takes Kas-
kaskia; 37 — Chicago from 1778 to 1794; 39— Hamilton takes Vin-
cennes; 40 — Clark's Winter march; 41 — Clark defeats and takes Ham-
ilton; 42 — Anecdote about Clark; 43 — Todd our first Governor; 44.
viii THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
CHAPTER VI.
THE DAWN OK THE DAY WE LIVE IN:
The Washingtons buy land; 46 — William Murray tries to buy Chi-
cago; 47 — Chicago's first squatter; 47 — Pointe de Saible and Guarie;
48 — Antoine Ouillemette (Wilmette); 48 — Ordinance of 1787; 49—
Captain John Whistler; 50 — Major Whistler; 50 — Julia Person Whistler;
51 — Old Rush Street Rope Ferry; 52 — Quiet years from 1804 to 1812;
53 — Double murder at Hardscrabble; 54.
CHAPTER VII.
THE CLOUD, CONE-SHAPED AND COPPER-COLORED:
Trouble far away; 56 — Trouble close at hand; 56 — Capt. Heald's
dilemma; 57 — Bad blood in the Garrison; 58 — Indian Council; 59—
Heald's decision and action; 60 — Brave William Wells arrives; 61—
View from the roof of the Block-House; 62 — The same spot 80 years
later; 63.
CHAPTER VIII.
BATTLE AND MURDER AND SUDDEN DEATH:
Flag of distress; 64 — John Kinzie's course; 64 — Line of March; 65
— Chart of Chicago in 1812; 65 — The Boat Party; 65 — Indians attack
the train; 66 — How all might have been saved; 66 — Mrs. Helm's story
and its difficulties; 67 — Private Jordan's story; 67 — Capt. Heald's letter,
68— Killing of Wm. Wells; 68— What Nile's Weekly Register reported;
69 — Tortures of dying prisoners; 69 — -Fate of survivors; 70 — The Mas-
sacre Tree; 71 — Last leaves on the old tree; 71.
CHAPTER IX.
THEY MADE A SOLITUDE AND CALLED IT PEACE:
John Wentworth's discoveries; 72 — Capt. Heald's Son; 73 — The
Heald side of the story; 73 — Hon. Darius Heald in 1881; 74 — Fables
attributed to Mrs. Helm; 74 — Tradition handed down by A. H. Edwards;
76 — Sauganash to the rescue; 76 — The Kinzies after the battle; 77 —
From 1812 to 1816. Desolation; 78.
CHAPTER X.
AFTER DARKNESS, LIGHT:
Years following the Massacre; 79 — Early suggestion of Ship Canal;
80 — Rum and the Fur Trade; 81 — Slow growth for many years; 83—
Gurdon Hubbard's early experiences; 84 — General Cass' Treaty for
ix CONTENTS.
Michigan lands; 86 — Aspect of North Side from 1816 to 1830; 87 —
Kinzies arid their home; 88 — Winnebago Scare and Danville Volun-
teers; 89 — The last of John Kinzie and the Old Homestead; 90.
CHAPTER XI.
1820-30, AN OBSCURE DECADE:
The unpromising state of things sixty years ago; 92 — Wild game
within city limits; 94 — The Kinzie race; 95— Less known early names;
95 — Descendantsof the captive girls; 97 — TheClarksandClybourns; 98—
The Beaubiens; 99 — Original capitalists; 100.
CHAPTER XII.
THE VANISHING RACE:
Treaties with the Sauks and Foxes; 102 — The Black Hawk War;
104 — The last Chicago Indian Treaty; 105 — How Chicago looked to
a stranger; 106 — White men's interest in the Treaty; 107 — The last of
old Shaubena ; 108— The Farewell War dance in 1835; no — Present
state of the same tribes ; 1 1 1.
CHAPTER XIII.
VERY HARD WORK:
Beginning of the Illinois and Michigan Canal ; i i 2 — Persistence
under difficulties; 113 — Original Town surveyed; 114 — Sale of the
School Section; 1 1 6-— Ferriage ; 118 — Clark Street Bridge built; 120.
CHAPTER XIV.
THE KEEL LAID:
Schools and Teachers; 122 — Protestant Churches; 124 — Volun-
teer Fire Company; 125 — Catholic Worship ; 127 — St. James Church;
128 — Postal Service; 129 — The first Newspaper; 130 — Medical Prac-
titioners; 131 — Cholera of 1832; 131 — Refugees from the Fort ; 132 —
The first lawyer ; 133.
CHAPTER XV.
NOT AT ALL HARD WORK:
Pianos arrive; 135 — Music; 136— Social Gaiety, 137 — Kinzie-
Whistler wedding; 137 — Scanty of food in 1834; 138 — Dances and
prayer meetings; 139 — Unfathomable mud; 140 — Experiments in street
pavement; 140 — Changes in established grade; 141 — Earliest Public
Exhibition; 141 — Field -sports; 142 — Primitive Postal service; 143—
William B. Ogden; 144 — Personal memories of the Ogden home; 145—
Arnold's ride to Danville; 146.
x THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
CHAPTER XVI.
FAIRLY LAUNCHED :
Estray Pen and Jail on Public Square; 149 — John Dean Caton's
admission to the Bar; 150 — The first Town Census of Chicago; 152—
Launch of the Clarissa; 153 — Garrison finally withdrawn; 154 — Bogus
Towns and Cities; 156 — Traditional city lot sales; 157 — Progress of the
excitement; 158 — Balestier's lecture on these times; 160 — Foolish State
legislation; 161.
CHAPTER XVII.
THE HARD TIMES Or 1837-40:
Legislative scheme of Public Improvements; 163 — Wisdom of Gov.
Duncan; 165 — Specie payments suspended; 165 — Public works stopped;
165 — Banks fail; 166 — State Treasurer too poor to pay postage; 166 —
State debt and assets; 166 — Canal cholera; 167 — Personal reminiscences;
167 — " Red dog," Wild-cat" and "Shin-plasters"; 168 — Scrip of various
kinds; 168 — Struggling to keep faith; 170 — Utter failure of Internal
Improvement scheme; 171 — Ogden's firmness; 172 — Position of Chicago
Branch State Bank; 172 — Stubborn business courage; 173 — Where
men used to congregate, 173 — Real Estate values; 174 — Cost of living;
1 74 — Collection of small debts; 1 75 — Not all bankrupt, 1 76 — " Wigwam
lost, Mokopo here!"; 176.
CHAPTER XVIII.
NEVER SAY DIE:
Delegation to Whig convention at Springfield; 178 — Reviving con-
fidence; 179 — Alleged row between Long John and Captain Hunter;
180 — Stage-coach days; 181 — First regular Theatre; 181 — Cemetery at
Clark Street and North Avenue; 182 — States emerging from their
troubles; 182 — Boston Capital; 183 — Canal commissioners appointed;
184 — Shallow cut adopted; 184 — Wisconsin tries to gain Chicago; 184—
The Canal's many benefactions; 185 — The story of a typical family
migration, 187 — Achievements of "the forties"; 189 — The Lake
Street hydraulic works; 189 — Primitive water-piping; 190.
CHAPTER XIX.
RIVER AND HARBOR CONVENTION:
The Mexican War; 191 — Previous River and Harbor bills; 192 —
Polk's veto; 192 — Chicago furious; 193 — Calling of the Convention
194 — Strangers in attendance; 195 — Lincoln a Delegate; 196 — Horace
CONTENTS. xi
Greeley; 196 — Thurlow Weed's account; 197 — The Resolutions; 198 —
Weed's mistake; 199 — General Webster; 199.
CHAPTER XX.
LAND-TRAVEL AND WATER-TRAVEL:
Opening business on the Canal; 201 — The first engine that ever
turned a wheel in Chicago; 202 — The "Pioneer;" 203 — Running a rail-
road line through the water; 203 — Galena railroad begins to run; 204 —
$20,000 from George Smith; 205 — High water all over the West; 205
— The old Portage overflowed; 206 — The great flood of 1849 >n Chi-
cago; 206 — Accidents and incidents of the flood; 207 — Losses; 207 —
A costly bridge; 209 — Rush Street Ferry; 209 — The great drawbridge
question re-opened; 210 — First City Hall built in State Street; 211 —
First Regular Theatre; 212 — Mr. McVicker in song and dance act; 213
—Beginning of the City's Musical Life; 214 — Ogden's lesson to Prin-
diville; 214 — Gov. Bross' description of those days; 215.
CHAPTER XXI.
THE COMING POWER:
Chicago's struggles in starting the first railroad; 216 — Bad faith in
dealing with Galena; 21 7— Michigan Southern and Central come in; 217
-Terrible accident at Grand Crossing; 218 — The Illinois Central; 218
—State percentage of Illinois Central earnings; 219— Mr. Lincoln's little
story; 219 — Threatened destruction of Michigan Avenue; 220— The
line of Crib protection; 221— Foreign capital to the rescue; 221— The
makers of the Illinois Central; 222— Streets generally begin to be num-
bered and paved; 222 — Burning of Rice's Theatre; 223 — First General
Charity Hospital; 223— Douglas silenced by Anti-Fugitive Slave-Law
mob; 224— Sale of a black man at auction; 225 — Rescue of fugitive
slaves; 225— Distinguished Abolitionists; 226.
CHAPTER XXII.
THE CITY COMES TO HERSELF:
Nature's bounty to Chicago; 227— Her commercial position; 227 —
Built of material taken from her own sub-soil; 228— Lake breezes temper
both cold and heat; 228— Drawbacks of a level site; 229— Drainage,
water, river, fire and streets; 229— Chowder in the bath-tub; 230 — Line
of drainage established; 230— First effects of Drainage; 231— The city
lifted above the sewers; 231 — Law of street grades fixed; 232 — Raising
of old brick buildings; 232 — First work of George Pullman; 233— Begin-
ning of Palace Cars; 233— The Sleeping Car System; 234— The Cholera;
xii THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
1852 to 1855; 234 — Incidents of the epidemic; 235 — Dr. Dyer's good
story; 235 — The Lake Street Fire of 1857; 236 — The first Steam Fire
Engine; 236 — Riotous Firemen; 237 — Fate of the river banks; 237 —
River and Harbor History; 238.
CHAPTER XXIII
THE STUMP-TAIL CHIMERA.
Banking and Currency system a failure; 242 — Chaos of Bank notes;
243 — One day's collections on the C., B. & Q; 243 — The hard-money
"Democrat;" 244 — Periodical Convulsions; 244 — Ohio Life & Trust
fails for $7,000,000; 245 — Tribulation of the Illinois Central; 245 —
Hard times come again; 246 — Gresham's Law; 246 — Illinois Banking
and Currency act; 247 — Geo. Smith and the Georgia Banks; 247 — Chi-
cago on the Slavery Question; 248 — Free Kansas meeting in 1856; 249
—Injustice to Justice Taney; 249 — Lincoln-Douglas Debates; 249 —
Douglas' strong Unionism; 250 — Chicago under cloud and storm; 250
—Beginning of Street Railroads; 251 — Disappearance of Fort Dear-
born; 251 — First iron drawbridge; 252 — Railroad miles and earnings in
1857; 253 — Union Stock Yards started; 254 — Progress in the fifties;
255 — Birth of the Republican party; 255 — Wreck of the "Charles
Howard;" 256.
CHAPTER XXIV.
To ARMS, YE BRAVE !
Republican Convention of 1861; 257 — Sewardandthe New Yorkers;
257 — Lincoln on his own candidacy; 258 — Seward's chances and mis-
chances; 258 — Scenes in the Wigwam; 259 — The balloting; 260 — Union
mass-meeting at Bryan Hall; 260 — Only 150 militia men in 1860; 261 —
First call for volunteers; 261 — i2th and igth Regiments; 262 — 23d, Irish-
American; 262 — Hecker-Jaeger Regiment; 262 — 24th, German-American;
264 — 37th, Fremont Rifles; 264 — 39th,Yates Phalanx; 264 — 42d, Infantry;
264 — 5ist, Chicago Legion; 264 — 57th, National Guards; 264 — 58th
McClellan Brigade; 265 — 65th, Scotch Regiment; 265 — 72d, Board of
Trade; 265 — 82d, German-American; 265 — 88th, Second Board of Trade;
266 — Sgth, Railroad Regiment; 266; — goth, Irish Legion; 266 — ii3th,
Third Board of Trade; 266 — I27th, 3,000 miles, 100 engagements; 266—
Cavalry; 266 — i6th and i7th Cavalry; 267 — Artillery; 267 — Stokes
Board of Trade Battery; 267 — Death-Roll of Honor; 268 — Typical
Memoir of one Chicago officer: 268 — Camp Douglas; 269 — Prisoners'
Aid and Relief; 270 — Camp Douglas Conspiracy; 270 — Sanitary Com-
mission; 271 — Love and Gratitude of those old days; 271.
CONTENTS. xiii
CHAPTER XXV.
THE SIXTIES AT HOME:
Loss of the Lady Elgin ; 272 — The bones of the ship now visible
273 — Other wrecks ; 273 — Population not checked by war ; 274 — Lake
Tunnel crib; 274 — Lake difficulties overcome, 275 — Beginning of
Lincoln Park; 276 — Sectional jealousies; 276 — Removal of the cem-
etery; 277 — Enlargement of the River Forks; 277 — Inception of the
Union Stockyards; 279 — Of the Clearing House, 279 — The river again
foul; 280 — The remedy; 280 — The two tunnels; 281 — Federal affairs ;
281 — Greenbacks; 281 — Money that rustled but did not rattle; 283—
The old banks died hard; 283 — Unfailing value of city securities; 284—
Farewell to George Smith , 284 — Where did the old rags go ? 285—
Greenback inflation; 285 — Laborers on top ; 285 — End of the stormy
sixties; 287 — Delusive confidence; 287.
CHAPTER XXVI.
THE GREAT FIRE :
The great drought before the great fire ; 288 — Condition of the
city in 1871; 288 — The feast spread; 289 — Condition of the fire depart-
ment; 289 — The O'Leary house and stable ; 290 — Testimony of the
O'Learys; 291 — Delay in giving the alarm; 291 — The attack outflanks
the defence; 291 — First loss of a steam fire engine; 292 — Flames jump
over the south branch ; 292 — Battle on the court-house roof; 293 — Use
of gunpowder; 293 — Cook county record office; 293 — Fierce speed of
the flames; 293 — Fire crosses the main river; 294 — Failure to defend the
waterworks; 294 — Whose fault? 295 — One woman's story; 296 — Men-
tal phenomena; 297 — Pitiful struggles; 298 — Outpouring of the world's
pity; 298 — First relief committees; 299— The Chicago Relief and Aid
Society; 299 — -Special police sworn in; 300 — Militia and regular troops
come; 301 — Sensitiveness regarding U. Ss soldiers; 301 — First new
supply of water; 301 — Summary of losses and compensations; 302—
Rebound of hope; 302 — Even Gov. Bross underestimates the recov-
ery; 302 — One man's recollections; 303 — How the streets looked to a
newly arrived Chicagoan; 304 — Particular ruins; 304 — North Side des-
olation; 305.
CHAPTER XXVII.
A NEW STORY OF THE FIRE:
Books about the fire; 306 — Fate of the county records; 307 —
American Record System; 307 — Maps and plats of city property; 308
xiv THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
-The abstract makers and their work; 308 — The real estate dilemma;
309 — A clue to the labyrinth; 310 — John G. Shortall's story of a
night; 310 — Fate of an old landmark; 311 — First apprehension of
the coming catastrophe; 311 — The fugitive crowd; 312 — Lucky failure
of a well-meant effort; 312 — Stocktons to the rescue; 313 — Books on
the truck and rain of fire on the books; 3 1 3 — The great bell falls unheard;
314 — Help of the jail-birds; 314 — Back again to the fire; 314 — Exas-
perating fatality; 315 — Exhausted nature breaks down; 315 — The loss
averted; 316 — The combined savings; 316 — Chance for extortion; 316 —
Honorable conduct; 317 — Chicago worthies; 318 — Accumulations since
the fire; 320 — Government weather-signal officers; 320 — Interview with
ex-Mayor Cregier; 321 — Interview with Chief Fire Marshall Williams;
321.
CHAPTER XXVIII.
DERRICK TIME :
Splendid conduct of Insurance Companies; 322 — Trepidation of
the timid; 322 — The Burnt Record Act; 323 — Words hearty and timely;
323 — Buildings put up by the R. & A; 323 — Doubts all proved to be
vain; 324 — Mayor Medill and the city problem; 324 — Fire limits
extended; 325 — How serious is the loss of old buildings? 326 — Early
reconstruction; 326 — Civic finances and their prospects; 327- -Schneider's
saying about metropolitan securities; 327 — Timely liberality of the
State Government; 328 — The Rookeries, old and new; 328 — Unparal-
leled achievement of the city; 329 — Kerfoot's Block; 329; — Gradual
clearance of the obstructed streets; 330 — Rehabilitation of the news-
papers; 330 — Failure of Congressional efforts at relief; 331 — All poor,
busy, hopeful and economical; 331 — Relics of the Court House fire;
332 — East-bound trains; 332 — The blessed mother-in-law; 333.
CHAPTER XXIX.
SOCIAL RE-ORGANIZATION :
Thirty-nine churches burned; 335 — Scattering of Congregations
by the Fire; 335 — North, South and West Side circles; 335 — Hospital-
ity and Benovolence; 336 — None rich by inheritance; 336 — Absenteeism
not favored; 337 — One circle in the far future; 337 — No true Aristoc-
racy in Chicago as yet; 338 — Development of Clubs; 338— The
Chicago, the Standard and the Fortnightly; 339 — The Literary; 340 —
The Union; 340 — The Illinois; 340 — The Union League; 340 — The
Iroquois; 341 — Relief and Aid Society; 341 — Its most devoted servants;
342 — Home for the Friendless; 342 — Nursery and Half-Orphan Asy-
lum; 342 — Old Ladies' Home; 343 — Historical Society; 343 — The
CONTEXTS. xv
Athenaeum; 344 — Young Men's Christian Association; 345 — Humane
Society; 345 — Secret Societies; 346 — Union war Veterans; 346 — The
Art Institute; 346 — Chicago as an art centre and art market; 347 — A
glance back at a primitive time and place; 348 — The Declaration of
Independence read from a pocket-handkerchief; 349.
CHAPTER XXX.
PANIC OF 1873. FIRE OF 1874. WHISKY RING:
One bank safe failed in its duty; 350 — Consternation first and delib-
eration next; 350 — Banks begin again to pay out money; 351 — Strin-
gency two years later; 351 — Clearing-house certificates not used; 352 —
Collapse averted; 352 — Failures; 352 — Food products a better financial
basis than stocks and bonds; 353 — The great savings-bank disaster; 353
— State, Bee-hive, Fidelity and German Savings- Banks; 354 — Building
Societies and their mission; 354 — Relics of the past made foundations of
the future; 355 — A new blow on the old sore spot; 355 — Last straw on
the backs of the Insurance Companies; 356 — Citizens' Association to
the rescue; 356— The companies forgive but do not forget; 356 — The
new army of fire-fighters; 357 — Bursting of the Whisky Ring; 357—
Let no guilty man escape; 357 — Enormous seizures of property; 358 —
Sensational trial, verdict and sentences; 358 — Strongmen broken down;
359 — Indemnity to "Squealers"; 359 — -Seeming financial disaster, but
real return of health; 359 — Uniform integrity of the Mayors of Chicago;
361.
CHAPTER XXXI.
THE BEAUTY SPOTS:
The luxury of the poor and the rich; 362 — South Park Commission;
363 — Its Fire losses; 363 — Early purchases and improvements; Drexel
Statue; 364 — Hardship of boulevarding some streets at the cost of
others; 366 — Pay-as-you-go policy; 366 — Equipment needed by a park;
367 — Table of areas and distances; 367 — Beginning of West Side Park
System; 367 — Douglas, Garfield and Humboldt; 368 — Great boulevards
on the West Side; 368— Future beauties; 369 — Acres and miles of West
Side system; 369— Lake Shore Drive, the glory of the North Side; 370
—Primeval sand-hills; 371— Exclusion of shore railways; 371 — Blossom-
ing as the rose; 372 — Miles and acres of the Lincoln Park Syetem; 373—
Original cost and present debt; 373 — Successive Commissioners; 374
Park system still beyond present needs; 374— Increasing means and
decreasing demands; 375 — Bought and paid for; a free gift to the
future; 375.
xv i THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
CHAPTER XXXII.
RlOTS AND THEIR SUPPRESSION :
A city of homes safe from certain dangers ; 376 — Trade Unions
necessary and proper; 376 — The Pittsburgh Riots ; 376 — First troubles
in Chicago ; 377 — Assembling of forces for defence; 377 — Outbreak and
bloodshed ; 378 — Points to be defended ; 378 — Gen. Torrence's disposi-
tion of forces ; 379 — Military supports police ; 379 — United States Reg-
ulars ; 380 — Unanimity in the defenders , 380 — The threatened avalanche
scattered at the start •, 381 — Fear of the mob succeeded by jibes at the
military; 381 — Thankless task of the militia; 382 — The Anarchists'
movement ; 382 — The prime movers ; 383 — Their folly ; 383 — Differ-
ence between labor-unionists and anarchists ; 384 — Trouble at McCor-
mick's Reaper works ; 384 — The "Revenge" circular; 385 — Parson's
speech at the Haymarket ; 385 — Explosion, wounds and death; 386 —
Arrests; 386 — Trial, conviction and punishment; 386 — Judge Gary and
Prosecutor Grinnell ; 386.
CHAPTER XXXIII.
PULLMAN:
The grand plan and its originator ; 388 — An unpromising spot ;
389 — Magical transformation ; 389 — The workers and the work 390 ; —
Corliss Engine ; 390 — Architecture ; 300 — Sewerage and disposition of
sewage ; 390 — Water supply ; 391 — Pullman sewage farm ; 391 — Lesson
regarding Chicago sewage ; 393 — Growth of a car ; 392 — A train a day
produced; 392 — Health of the town 1393 — Temperance ; 393 — Personal
liberty; 393— Free public opinion ; 394 — Religion; 394 — Aspect of the
town ; 394 — Flats and other homes ; 395 — Statistics of population ; 395—
Savings in bank ; 396 — Spontaneous good order ; 396 — The labor
troubles of 1886 — Arrival of the walking delegate ; 397 — Mr. Pullman's
reception of the committee ; 397 — His answer; 397 — Finality of the inter-
view ; 398 — The strike is on ; 398— Attempted socialist intervention ;
399 — Foundrymen come forward ; 399 — End of strike ; 399 — Piece-work
at Pullman; 400 — Perhaps a key-bearer; 400— The cap-stone is peace ; 400.
CHAPTER XXXIV.
THE THRIFTY EIGHTIES:
Vastness of the million; 401 — Then and now; 401 — Chicago in
1891; 401 — Her relative position; 402 — Other World's Fairs; 403 —
Growth of Chicago since the fire; 403 — Present growth and what it
means; 404 — Demand again overtakes supply; 404 — Good-bye to Gur-
don Hubbard; 404 — The Newberry fortune; 405 — Walter L. New-
CONTENTS. xvii
berry's Chicago history; 405 — His public acts; 406 — Personal character-
istics; 407 — Mr. Newberry's will; 408 — Judge Skinner; 408 — Litigation;
409 — Location of permanent library; 410 — Dr. Poole's remarks; 411—
The building itself; 411 — John Crerar; 412 — A few of his business
connections; 412 — Mr. Crerar's will; 413 — The Crerar Library; 413 —
A message from beyond the grave; 414 — The Armour Mission and its
founders; 414 — Its ways and means; 415 — Manual Training School;
415 — William B. Ogden's will; 416 — Fate of his well-meant charitable
effort; 416 — Difference between New York and Chicago charitable
bequests; 417.
CHAPTER XXXV.
THE WORLD'S COLUMBIAN EXPOSITION:
Undertaking of the World's Columbian; 418 — Act of Congress;
418 — Conditional on certain funds; 419 — Funds provided; 419 — Inn.
keepers, etc., pledged against extortion; 420 — Naval reviews; 420 — The
true anniversary; 420 — President's proclamation; 421 — Four organiza-
tions; 421 — Fifteen great departments; 421 — General officers; 422—
Board members; 422 — Statistics of previous fairs; 423 — How Chicago
compares; 423 — Action of States and Territories; 423 — Action of the
general government; 424 — Government exhibits; 424 — Outlays hitherto
and in the future; 425 — Action of foreign nations; 425 — A mile
square of land and more if needed; 425 — The lake and the water
courses; 425— Statue of Liberty; 426 — General architectural scheme;
426 — Machinery Hall; 426 — Fisheries island; 427— General Miles in
charge of military features; 427 — Troops and Indians; 427 — Possi-
ble sham battle; 427 — Pride in showing how few soldiers we need;
428 — Lady managers; 428 — Lady delegates; 428 — Their powers and
duties; 429 — First meeting; 429 — Speeches by Mrs. Felton and Mrs.
Palmer; 429 — Mrs. Palmer's report of her foreign trip; 430 — How roy-
alty and aristocracy look at the movement; 430 — Princess Christian;
431 — Mrs. Palmer's address to the Commissioners; 431 — The Auxiliary;
432 — A Congress of Congresses; 433 — Building plans and costs; 434—
Other necessary outlays; 434 — $17,000,000 to be laid out; 434 — Fire
department; 434 — Building materials; 435 — Sewerage; 435 — Aspect of
the ground in December 189-1; 435.
CHAPTER XXXVI.
ON NEW YEAR'S DAY, 1892:
Chicago bent on business; 437— The idle man a lonely man; 438
— Doing only one's duty is not enough; 438 — The beauty of it; 439—
Debt-paying, peace and plenty; 439 — Suppose labor were exceptional; 440
— Effect of success not all good; 440 — Woman in her new place; 441 —
xviii THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Men judged by acts, not by thoughts; 441 — Ecclesiastical trials; 441 —
Two creedless churches; 442 — Central church; 443 — People's church;
443— Non-partisan movement whereby ballot-box frauds were stopped;
443 — No Chicago fortunes based on public plunder; 445 — New York
Chicago's elder sister and senior business partner; 445 — Chicago not
yet the ideal city; 445 — Smoke, dust and mud; 445 — Remedies possi-
ble; 446 — Money growing plenty; 446 — Village-like characteristics; 446
Patience under wrong; 447 — Seats in street cars given up to women;
447 — What's all this? 448 — Overcrowding of streets arising from over-
building of houses; 448 — John W. Root and the Chicago construc-
tion; 450 — Colbert's record of 40 years' growth; 451 — Each historian
laughs at his predecessor; 451 — On the shining height; 451.
LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS, XIX.
INDEX, 453.
ILLUSTRATIONS
BUILDINGS.
CHURCHES.
First Baptist Church, 122.
First M. E. Church, 248.
First Universalist Church, 246.
St. James Church, First, 136.
" New, and
Parsonage, 254.
Second Presbyt. Church, 252.
See also Fire Scenes.
RESIDENCES.
Burch, I.H., residence of, 241.
Kinzie House, old, 75.
" mansion (Wau-Bun), 88.
Ogden residence, 304.
Palmer, Potter, residence, 439.
Pullman's house and massacre
tree. 70.
Torrence, General, residence
of, 349.
See also Fire Scenes and
Pullman, Scenes in,
MISCELLANEOUS.
Art Institute, 338.
Block House. Itslastdays,81.
Calumet Club, 341.
Cook County Hospital, Har-
rison St., 450.
Court House, F;rst. 153.
Second, 245.
Ft. Dearborn 1803-4, 53.
(Wau-Bun), 80.
(Interior), 162.
Green Tree Hotel, 96.
Illinois Central Passenger sta-
tion (1855), 226.
Lake House, 162.
Log cabin. 17.
Masonic Temple, 444.
Peck's store, 126.
Relic House, 334.
Rush Medical Coll. , first, 232.
" Saloon " building. 143.210.
Sauganash Hotel, 109.
Temple building, 126.
Union Club house. 340.
Union League Club house, 339.
United States Hotel and South
Branch bridge, 118.
Waterworks, city (i 8*4), 229.
" (1891), 254.
Woman's Christian Temper-
ance Union, 442.
"Wigwam." The, 258.
See also Fire Scenes; Pullman,
Scenes in: and World's Co-
lumbian Exposition.
FIRE SCENES.
Armour's Block before and
after the fire, 313.
Bookseller's Row before and
after the fire, 317.
Chamber of Commerce before
and after the fire, 307.
FIRE SCENES.— Continued.
Court House before and after
the fire, 314.
Crosby's Opera House before
and after the fire, 327.
Clark and Lake Sts.. S. E. cor.,
before and after the fire, 298.
Dearborn St., North from
Adams, Oct. 17, '71, 294.
Field & Leiter's store before
and after the fire, 310.
First building erected after the
fire, 329.
First M. E. Church after the
fire, 297.
First Merchants in burnt dis-
trict, 333.
First National Bank before
and after the fire, 319.
General Ruin, Oct. 17, '71, 300.
Historical Society's Building
before and after the fire, 318.
"Kerfoot's Block," 329.
Lake and Clark Sts., S. E. cor.,
after the fire 298.
Lake St. from Michigan Ave.,
before and after the fire, 311.
Marine Bank after the fire, 298.
Michigan Ave., North frcm
Madison St. before and after
the fire, 332.
Michigan Southern Depot be
fore and after the fire, 301.
Ogden Residence, 304.
Portland Block before and af-
ter the fire, 312.
Postoffice before and after the
fire, 328.
Rumsey, Geo., residence of, be-
fore and after the fire, 331.
Rush Medical College befoie
and after the fire, 308.
St. lames' Church before and
after the fire, 316.
St. James' Church from Huron
St. after the fire. 305.
St. James' Church from Rush
St. after the fire, 297.
St. Paul's Universalist Church
before and after the fire, 304.
Second Presbyterian Church
before and after the fire, 306.
Shepard's Building before and
after the fire, 302.
Sherman House before and
after the fire, 303.
Tribune building before and
after the fire, 299.
Union Building before and after
the fire. 326.
Unity Church before and after
the fire, 330.
Washington Street and Court
House, Oct. 17, 1871, 292.
FIRE SCENES. — Continued.
Washington St., West from Wa-
bash Ave., Oct. 17, '71, 295.
Waterworks, City, before and
after the fire, 296.
Where the fire started, 290.
Burnt District, 289.
PARKS.
Douglas Park, Scenes in, 371,
372 and 373.
Garfield Park, Scene in, 374.
Lincoln Park, Bear-pit in, 370.
Floral Design in, 366.
In the Palm House, 365.
Scene in, 368.
Sea Lion Pond, 362.
Washington Park, the Floral
Globe, 364.
Fountain, 369.
Gates Ajar, 363.
(See also "Statues.")
PORTRAITS.
Ackerman, W. K., 221.
Adams, C. W., Master U. S.
N., 286.
Geo. W., 383.
J. McGregor, 323.
Aldrich, W., 113.
Anderson, G., 128.
P. B., 128.
Andrews, E., Surgeon U. S.
V.. 282.
Armour, Geo.. 129.
Joseph F., 415.
Philip D., 415.
Armstrong, T. R., 112.
Arnold, Isaac N., 146.
Atkinson, S. F., 137.
Baker, W. T., 422.
Baldwin, W. A., 112.
Ball, S. R. and wife, 128.
Balsby, J., 121.
Bangs, Mark. 358.
Barnes, S B. and wife, 136.
Barney, Mrs N. A., 136.
Barrett, S. E., Major U. S.
V., 286.
Barry, Wm., 348.
Bascom. Rev. Flavel, 225.
S., 113.
Bassett. G., 120.
J., 121.
Bates, John and wife, 128.
John, Jr., 129.
Beaiibien, John B., 86,142.
Mark, 121.
W. S. and wife, 120.
Beecher. J., and wife, 129.
Beers. C.. 120.
Beggs, Rev. S. R., 177.
XX
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
PORTRAITS. — Continued.
Bennet, B., 105.
Berg, A., 120-136.
Mrs. A., 118.
Beveredge, John L., 342.
Bigelow, Mrs. J., 105.
Bishop, Mrs. L. J., 129.
Black, Gen. John Charles, 266.
William P., 382.
Black Hawk, 103.
Blackman, E., 105.
Blatchford, E W., 408.
Blodgett. Judge H. W., 167.
W. H. and wife, 129.
E. A., Capt. U.S. V., 282.
Bonfield, Capt. John, 379.
Bonney, Charles C., 435.
Boone, Daniel, 36.
Levi D., 112,360.
Mrs. T. L., 120.
Botsford, Jabez K., 211.
J. J. and wife, 129.
Bowen, C., 113.
Jas., 263.
L , 113.
Boyer, N. A. and wife, 136.
Bradley, Cyrus P., 198.
W. H., 409.
Brainard, Dr. D., 132.
Braith, A. F., 121.
Brajo, Mr. and Mrs., 128.
Brayman, Mrs. E. W.. 120.
Brayton, Jas. H., 383.
Breese, R. B., 105.
Judge Sydney, 218.
Bridges, Gen. Lyman, 267
T. B., 129.
Bross, Gov. Wm., 105.
Brown, L., 128.
N. H., and wife, 120.
S. D., 136.
T , 128.
W. H., 172.
Bryan, A. B., 113.
Thos. B.,263, 270.
Burley, A. G., 174. 128.
Mrs. A. G.,128.
A. H., 174, 263.
Butterfield, Justin, 175.
Calhoun, John, 130.
Mrs. John, 113.
John B., 219.
Campbell, G., 112.
Carbriden, J., 137.
Carrington, N. S., 128.
Carpenter, A. E., 112.
Mrs. A. E.,137
Philo, 113, 117.
Carter, Thos. B., 129, 239.
Carver, B., 112.
Castle. E., 105.
Caswell. S. and wife. 136.
Caton. Judge John Dean, 138.
Mrs. John Dean, 139.
Mr. and Mrs. W. P., 128.
Cavelier, R. de La Salle, 21.
Chacksfield.C., 128.
Chalmers, T., 120.
Chapin, John P., 360.
Chappell, Elisa, 123.
Chesbrough, E. S.. 275.
Chetlain.Gen. A. L.,265.
Church. Thos., 196.
W. L.. 120
PORTRAITS. — Continued,
Churchill, J. and wife, 128.
Clark. Geo. Rogers, 41 .
G. R., 105.
H. W. and wife, 128.
John K., 97.
N., 136.
W. H., 120.
Clarke, W. H., 275.
Clancey, W. B. and wife, 136.
Cleaver, Chas., 128, 137.
Cleavland, W. R., 112.
dowry, R. W., Lt.-Col. U. S.
V., 282.
Clybourne, Archibald, 99.
Mrs. Archibald, 99, 137.
Cobb, S. G. and wife, 104.
Silas B., 104, 211.
Mrs. Silas B., 104.
Coffing, Mrs. C., 129.
Colbert, Monsieur, 33.
Collyer, Rev Robert, 259.
Colvin, H. D.. 263, 360.
Conner, Miss C., 128.
Cook, Hon. D. P., 113.
G. C. and wife, 121.
T. and wife, 129.
Couch, James, 137, 182.
Mrs. James, 137.
Crary, C. A., 112.
Cregier, Hon. DeWittC., 361.
Crerar, John, 412.
Crook, George, Maj.-Gen. U.
S. A.. 282.
Curtis, James, 204, 360.
Mrs. James, 112.
Miss P., 105.
Cushing, N., 136
Daggy. Peter, 224.
Dauchy, G. K., Capt. U. S. V.,
282.'
Davis, C.W., Col. U.S.V., 286.
Mrs. E., 112.
Geo. R., 357.
Dr. N. S., 422.
Dee, Mrs. D., 129.
Demock, Mrs. M. A., 112.
Denker, Theo. E., 383.
Derrickson, R. P., 137.
DeWolf. C.,105.
Henry, 271.
William, 264.
W. F., 355.
Dexter, A. and wife, 129.
Wirt. 336.
Dickey, T. Lyle. 213.
Dickman, A.i 112.
Dobbins, T.,113.
Dodson, C. B. and wife, 120.
Dole, G. W., 204.
Dore. John C., 263.
Douglas, Stephen A., 165.
Downs, A. G. and wife, 121.
A. S. and wife, 121.
N. D. and wife, 136.
W. R., 104.
Mrs. W. R., 136.
Drake, G., 104.
Drummond, Judge Thos., 209,
26H.
Ducat. Gen. Arthur C. 265.
Dugan, T., 137.
Dyas. Dr. G.. 137.
Dyer, Chas. V., 235.
PORTRAITS. — Continued.
Dyer, Clarence H., Maj. U.S.
V., 286.
Thomas, 360.
Eagan, E. B. and wife, 129.
Earle, Mrs. M., 120.
Eastman, Zebina, 112, 226.
Ebert, John, 203.
Egan. Mrs. E.. 120.
Dr. Wm. B., 114.
Engel. Geo., 385.
Erskine, Col. Albert, 268.
Fairbank, N. K., 256.
Farnham, G. M., Captain U.
S. V., 286.
Farwell, John V., 324.
Fearn, Walter, 435.
Fergus, Robt., 143.
Fielden, Paul, 385.
Fischer, Adolph, 384.
Fittz, Mr., 104.
Follansbee, C., 120.
Mrs. C., 112.
Foote, J., 136.
Mrs. J., 121.
J. H.. 121.
Forbes, Eliza, 123.
Stephen, 122.
Foster, Geo. F., 160.
Mrs. G. F., 137.
Fowler, Mrs. F. H., 112.
Fuller, H. and wife, 104.
Furness, W. E., Maj. U. S. V.,
286.
Gage, Mrs. E., 104.
Lyman J., 352.
Gale, A., 137.
Gary, Judge Joseph E., 38(».
Garrett, Aug., 360.
Gates. P. W., 120.
Mrs. P. W., 112.
George III., 45.
Gibbs, A., 120.
Gleason, McB., 137.
Goodhue, JosiahC., 149.
Goodkins, S. R., 137.
Goodman, Thomas, 113.
Goodrich, Judge Grant, 263
Gould, Mr. E., 113.
J. N., 137.
Graff, P. and wife. Ii3.
Graham, E. A., 113.
Grannis. A., 105.
Grant, Mrs., 112.
Gray, C. M., 360
Mrs. C. M., 113.
G. W., 137.
J., 137.
Mrs. J.. 112.
J. H.. 120.
Mrs. J. H., 113.
M., 137.
Miss. 129.
W., 129.
Greeley. Horace, 197.
Green, R. and wife, 113.
Greenebaum, Mr., 105
Greiner. John B., 383.
Grinnell, Julius S., 382.
Groesbeck, A., 137.
Gunn, Dr. Moses. 259.
Gurley, Jason, 157.
Gurnee, Walter S.. 360.
Haines, John C., 129. 360.
ILLUSTRATIONS.
xxi
PORTRAITS — Continued
Hallam, Rev. Isaac W., 128.
Hamilton, Andrew, 388.
P. S., 104.
Richard J., 116.
Hammond, Chas. G., 324.
Hancock, J. S., 105
Harding, A. J., Capt. U, S.
V., 286.
Harmon. E , 120.
Isaac D., 137, 240.
Isaac N., 105.240.
Harper, Mrs. J. M., 113.
W., 136.
Harris, Jacob, 113.
Mrs. J. E., 105.
Harrison, Hon. Carter H.,360.
Hart, R., 113.
Hayes, S. I., 309
Heacock, W. C., 104.
Heald. H. N. and wife, 128.
Rebekah, 58.
Healey, G. P. A., 346.
Heartt, George, 104.
Mrs. Jane, 105.
Heath, Monroe, 360, 378.
Henderson, Mrs. H. E., 129.
Higgins, Judge Van H., 263.
Hilliard, L. P.. 136.
Hing, J. and wife, 104.
Hjortsberg, Max. 399.
Hoard, S. and wife, 136.
Hogan, J. C., 177.
Holden, Mrs. Betsey, 348
C., 105
C. C. P., 192.
Mrs. C. C. P., 105.
C. N.,121, 161.
Mrs. C. N., 121.
J. and wife, 121.
P. H., 348.
Hooker, Mrs. L. W., 120.
Hough, R. M., 263.
Hoyne, Thomas. 194. 263.
Hubbard.Gurdon S.. 83,120,404
Huggins, E., Capt. U. S. A., I
283.
Hughitt, Marvin, 347.
Hugunin, L. G., 113.
Huntington, Alonzo. 196.
Kurd, Mrs. H. B., 136.
Hurlbut, Henry H., 89.
Hyde, J. N., Surgeon U. S. ''
N.. 286.
Ingalls, R.. Bvt. Maj. Gen. U.
S A., 282.
Ingals, Dr., 112.
Ingham, George C., 382.
Isherwood, Harry, 185.
Jackson, H. W.. Major U. S.
V., 286, 413.
J. and wife, 128.
Jenks, Mrs. J., 105.
Jenney, W. L. B., Major U.
5. V.,282.
Jennings, J., 113.
S. H., 113.
Johnson. Dr. Hosmer A., 338.
J.,105.
Jones, Fernando, 120, 309.
Mrs. Fernando, 120.
Jones, J., 105.
N. A. and wife, 128.
Jouett, Charles, 44.
PORTRAITS. — Coniinmd.
Judd, Norman B., 154.
Judson, Mrs E., 113.
Keeler.VV. B.,Col. U. S.V.,286.
Kehoe, M.. 128.
Kidder, H. M., Col. U. S. V.,
282.
Kimball, A. F., 128.
Mark. 128.
King, Henry W., 336.
Tuthill and wife, 113.
Kin/if, Gwenthlean H., 96.
John Harris, 94.
Mrs. Juliette A., 57.
R. A., 95.
Kirkland. Joseph, 305.
Kobles, Miss S. C., 104.
Labaska, K.. 129.
Lander. J. and wife, 129.
Lane, E. B. and wife, 129.
Lange, O. G.. 105.
Mrs. O. G., 137.
Larned, Edwin C., 263, 337.
LaSalle: SeeCavelier.
Leake.Gen.Joseph B., 260, 282
Lee, T., 137.
Leiter, Levi Z , 354.
Lincoln, Abraham, 164, 200.
Lind, Sylvester, 137, 231.
Lingg, Louis, 384.
Lipp, R., 129.
Little Turtle, 60.
Lloyd, Alexander, 360.
Locke, Rev. Clinton, 344.
Louis XIV., 214.
Loomis, John Mason, Col. U.
S. V., 286.
Ludwig. Chas. H., 383.
Luff.W. M.,Maj U. S.V.,286.
Macham, W., 136.
MacVeagh. Franklin, 447.
Manierre, Edwin, 128.
George, 263.
Marshall, J. N. and wife, 129.
Mason, Geo., Maj. U. S. V., 286.
Mrs. H. P., 136.
Roswell P., 217. 360.
McCagg, Ezra B., 325.
McClaughry, Mai. U. S. V.,
286.
McClintock, J., 120.
McCluer, J. E., 137.
McCormick, Cyrus H., 448.
McDonnell, C., 104, 112.
Mrs. C., 104.
McGraw, J. and wife, 136.
McKay, Mr., 104.
McVicker. Dr. Brock, 113.
Mrs. Brock, 137.
Jas. H., 223.
McWarren, J.. 137.
Mrs. J.,129.
McWilliams, J. G., Capt. U.
S. V., 286.
Meacham. R., 104.
Meadowcroft, R. and wife, 121.
Medill, Joseph, 262, 360.
Wm. H., 268.
Merrill, Mrs. A., 112.
Me-tee a, 86.
Midgley, R., 120.
Miles, Gen. Nelson A., 427.
Milliken. Isaac L., 360.
Mills. J. K. and wife, 128.
PORT K AITS. — Continue J.
Miner, Mrs. R., 104, 282.
Mitchell, J. B. and wife. 128.
Munger, D. S., 112.
Morgan, Mrs. A.E., 105.
Morris, BucknerS., 1?6, 360.
Morrison, D. and wife, 121.
E. and wife, 104, 105.
Moses, Judge John, 410.
Mrs., 137.
Murphy, Mrs. H. A., 113.
Myers. S., 120.
Myrick. Mr. and Mrs., 128.
Neebe, Oscar, 385.
Nevin, P., 105.
Newberry, Julia R., 407.
Mary L., 406.
Walter L., 405.
Newton, J. S. and wife, 105.
Nichols, Mrs. E., 129.
L., 137.
S. J., 104.
Norton, Mrs. D., 104.
O'Connor, J., 112.
Ogden, Mahlon D., 112, 194.
Wm. B., 115, 360.
Olsen, Mrs M.A., 121.
O'Neil, Thos. and wife, 136.
Osborne, Frank S., 383.
W., 112.
Wm. H., 220.
Otis, E.. Capt. U. S. V., 282.
Page, Peter, 195.
Palmer, Potter, 353.
Mrs. Potter, 440.
Parsons, A. R., 384.
Peacock, E.. 137.
Peck. Ebenezer, 131.
W. L., 137.
Perkins, O. P.. 105.
Pitney, F. V.. 137.
Polk, W., 137.
Poole.Wm. F., 409.
Porter, F. H., 113.
Mrs. F. H., 105.
Jeremiah, 124.
Pratt, Mrs E., 137.
Prindiville Redmond, 203.
Prophet. The, 55.
Proudfoot. Lawrence, 276.
Pullman, George M., 389.
Quirk, David, 378.
Randall, S. G., 383.
Raymond, B.W.,112, 156. 360.
Reed, A. H.. 383.
J. C., 112.
J. H., 112.
Reeves, E. F., 120.
Rice, John B., 212, 360.
Richmond, T. and wife, 138.
Robb, Col., 112.
Robins, R., Capt. U S A., 282
Robinson, Alexander, 78.
Roche, John A., 361.
Rogers, W. B., 120.
Root, John W., 450.
Rumsey, Julian, 263, 360.
Runnion, D., 112.
Russell. M. J., Lieut. U. S.
V., 286.
Ryerson, Joseph T., 337.
Saint Cyr, Father I. M. I., 127.
Sandford, Harry T., 383.
Satterlee, M. L. and wife. 104.
XX11
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
PORTRAITS. — Continued.
Sawyer, H., 113.
Saunders, R. P., 187.
Scammon, J. Young, 128, 179,
205.
Schneider, Geo.,263, 325.
Schofield, J. M., Maj.-Gen.
U. S. A., 282.
Schwab, Michael, 385.
Scott, W. and wife, 137.
Scoville, H. H.. 112.
Sexton, J. A., Capt. U. S. V..
282.
Shaubena, 104.
Shelby, J., 120.
Sheridan, P. H., Gen. U. S.
A., 282.
Sherman and his officers, 417.
Sherman, A. S., 137, 360.
F. C., 360.
Francis T., Brig. Gen. U.
S. A. 282.
Frank, 195.
H., 137.
Shipman, Dr. G. and wife,
104.
D. B., 128.
S. V., Col. U. S. V., 282.
Shortall, John G., 315.
Skinner, Judge Mark, 180, 263.
Richard, 269.
Small, J. and wife, 129.
Smart, E., 121.
Smith, E., 105.
Smith, Geo.. 243.
J. F., 105.
Mrs. M. A., 112.
Snowhook, W. B., 239.
Sollitt, J., 113
W., 129.
Mrs. W., 121.
Speer, Mr. and Mrs. J., 1-21.
Spies, August, 384.
Spry, Mrs. B.. 121.
J. and wife, 121.
Stewart. Gen. Hart L., 105,
255.
Stockton, J., Brig. -Gen. U.S.
V., 286.
Stone, W. H., 120.
Stokes, Gen. James H., 26<).
Sturtevant, A. D., 105.
Mrs. A. D., 113.
Sumner, O. P. and wife, 104.
Surdam, J. R. and wife, 120.
Sweeney, J., 112.
Talcott, E. B , 120.
M. and wife, 105.
Taylor, A. H., 137.
Taylor, G. D., 105.
Taylor, L. D., 137.
N. C., 104.
R.. 137.
Tasker, Mrs.. 120.
Tear, J., 120.
Tecumseh, 55.
Temple, J S. and wife, 105.
Thomas, H. H.. Capt. U. S.
V., 286.
Thompson, A. H. and wife.
105.
Tinkham, E. I., 345.
Todd. Chas. B., 383.
Torrence, Gen. Joseph T., ZT'. \
PORTRAITS. — Continued.
Trumbull, Lyman, 351.
Tucker, Joseph F., 222.
Turner,]., 121, 128.
Mrs. J., 121.
Tuthill, Brig-Gen. Richard S.,
261.
Tuttle, F., 120.
Upton, Geo. P., 213.
Van Arman. John, 263.
Van Osdel, J., 113, 356.
Van Vlack, E. B., 105.
Vedder, F. H. and wife, 112.
Vial, R., 104.
S., 105.
Vincent, A., 129.
Wadhams, S., 112.
Wait, H. N., Paymaster U.
S. N., 282.
J. W., 137.
.Iker, A
Walker, A. F., Col. U. S. V.,
286.
Chas., 173.
S. B., 112.
Wallace, J. S., 120.
Walsh, C. and wife, 113.
Ward, J., 113.
Warner, S. B., 129.
Mrs. S. B., 121.
Washburne, ElihuB.,284.
Hempstead, 361.
Washington, Augustine, 46.
George, 46.
Lawrence, 46.
Waterman, A. N., Col. U. S.
A., 282.
R., Lieut. U. S. V., 282.
Wayman, S. and wife, 104.
W., 121.
Wayne, Gen. Anthony, 50.
Webster. Gen. JosephD., 199.
Wells, H. G , 121.
Mrs. H. G., 136.
Capt. William, 62.
Wentworth, Elijah, 128.
John, 237, 360.
Wheeler, W., 121.
Whistler, Wm., 51.
Mrs. Wm., 52.
Whitehead.H. and wife, 136.
Wicker, Chas. G., 263.
Wier, G. E. and wife, 136.
Wilcox, C., 118.
Willard, A. J. and wife, 121.
E. W., 263.
Miss Frances, 141.
J. H., 113.
Williams, Norman, 414.
Wilson, J., 112.
John M., 263.
Winne, A., Lieut. U. S. V.,
286.
Wolcott, Alexander, 121, 192.
Mrs. Alexander, 121.
Wood, A. C., 206.
Woodruff, Mr. and wife, 112,
120.
Woodward, C., 136.
Mrs. C., 104.
Woodworth, Mrs. J., 136.
Worthington, D. and wife, 121.
Yates, H. H.. 113.
Gov. Richard, 263.
Yoe, P. L.,263.
PULLMAN, SCENES IN.
Arcade Building, 395.
Daughters of Workers, 399.
Fire Department, 392.
Hotel Florence, 393.
Lake Vista, 394.
Main Administrative Build-
ing, 398.
Railway Station, 391.
School Building, 400.
Watchman at Gate, 397.
Water Tower, 388.
STATUES.
Douglas Monument.
Grant Monument in Lincoln
Park.
La Salle Statue in Lincoln
Park.
Lincoln Statue in Lincoln
Park.
Linnaeus Statue in Lincoln
Park.
WORLD'S COLUMBIAN EX-
POSITION.
Administration Building, 419.
Agriculture Building, 433.
Art Palace, 424.
Electrical Building, 432.
Fisheries Building, 429,
Government Building. 420.
Horticultural Building, 431.
Illinois State Building, 423.
Machinery Hall, 430.
Manufactures and Liberal
Arts Building, 4^6.
Mines and Mining. 432.
Transportation Building, 424.
Women's Building, 428.
MISCELLANEOUS
After the Storm, 11.
Anarchist Case, Jury in, 383.
Beaubien's Fiddle. 135.
Beaver at Work, 79.
Beaver Dam, 12.
Black Partridge Medal, 61.
Buffalo Rock. 28.
Canal Scrip Bank Notes. 169.
"Chicago Construction," 449.
Chicago in 1812, 65.
Chicago in 1840 (Schoolcraft's
View), 85.
Chicago in 1845, 214.
Chicago in 1850,215.
Chicago in 1889, 65.
Chicago River, Plan for Im-
proving Mouth of. 93.
"Chicagou" (wild onion), 8.
Chimera, stump tail, 242.
Clark Street, Evolution of, 147.
Clark Captures Kaskaskia, 37.
Couch Family Tomb in Lin-
coln Park, 183.
Dawn, 92.
Dearborn St. bridge, 119
Douglas monument, 250.
Park, scenes in : See Parks.
Drummer Boy, The, 257.
Explorers on the lakes, 16.
French settlements. 29.
Great Lakes, elevation above
tidewater, 5.
ILL USTRA TfONS.
xxui
MISCELLANEOUS. — Continued.
Fac similes of Autographs, etc.
Caldwell, Wm., 77.
Heacock. R. E.. 133.
Kinzie, James, 97.
John ,87.
Miller. Samuel, 97
Playbill of 1849. 212.
Scrip, canal, 169-71.
Fire Engines.
Double Decked, 152.
Long John, 236.
Side Brake, 152.
Flag of distress, 64.
Flat Boat, The, 31.
Flood of 1849. 208.
GarBeld Park, scene in: See
parks.
Garlick, wild, 8.
" Go on with your dancing; but
remember," 37.
Grand Boulevard, 375.
Grant monument in Lincoln
Park. 438.
Haymarket, 381.
Hennepin's Niagara, 7.
" His last cent," 163.
Hook and Ladder Truck, 152.
Hospital tent, scene in, 287.
Illinois Farm. 188.
River Valley, 6.
MISCELLANEOUS. — Continued.
Indian Girl, 106.
Mound, 9.
Squaw, 102.
War dance, 110.
Indians on the move, 111.
" Lady Elgin," wreck of, 273.
Lake St. fire of 1834, 134.
Lalime, Jean, remains, 101.
La Salic statue, in Lincoln
Park, Frontispiece.
La Salle St. tunnel, 280.
Leek, wild, 8.
Lincoln Park, scenes in: See
Parks.
Lincoln statue, 277.
Linnreus statue, 402.
Locomotive, First, 202.
Mackinaw, Straits of, 228.
" Madeira Pet," 238.
Massacre Tree and Pull-
man's House, 70.
Mayors of Chicago, Suc-
cession of, 360.
Michigan ave. in 1849, 241.
Moonlit Graves, 91.
Mound Builders, Relic of, 8.
Newberry Library Build-
ing in Construction, 411.
Niagara Falls. Father
Hennepin's Sketch, 7.
MISCELLANEOUS. — ContinutJ.
Niagara Rapids at Work, 2.
Niagara, retirement of, 3.
Ogden Wentworth Ditch
(Mud Lake) in 1890, 19.
Old Judge and the Young
Candidate, The, 151.
Pipe, Relic of the Mound
Builders, 8.
Police Patrol, 387.
Prairie Avenue in 1891, 437.
Prairie Wolf, 148.
Red Coat, 1812, 34.
Sherman and His Officers. 417.
Scalp, The. 30.
Sleeping Car, The first, as
it looked in 1891, 234.
Stacked Guns, 272.
Stage Office, 181.
Starved Rock; near Utica
111., 23.
Stock-Yards, View in, 278.
Storm Cloud, 10.
Stump-tail Chimera. 242.
Tablet on Site of Fort Dear-
born, 82.
Union Defence Committee, 263,
Valley Forge, 43.
Waubansa Stone, 155.
Wolf Point in 1830, 98.
A THOUSAND CENTURIES.
NMISTAKABLE testimony of Nature's land-
marks and watermarks shows us that at some
past day the surface of Lake Michigan was
more than thirty feet higher than now, and the
floods of Lakes Superior, Huron and Michi-
gan flowed southwest by the Illinois and Mis-
sissippi to the Gulf of Mexico, instead of northeast by Niagara, Ontario
and the St. Lawrence to the Atlantic. Also that the course of
the mighty stream was over the then submerged flat where now stands
Chicago; and that a great part of it, following the general course of the
little West Fork of our South Branch, past the Bridgeport quarter, over
the nearly dry expanse we call Mud Lake (traversed now by the canal,
the Alton and the Santa Fe Railways and theOgden-Wentworth ditch),
poured in a fine flood across the "Divide" between Summit and River-
side, a mile beyond present city limits, into the bed of the Des Plaines.
To-day that " Divide" is but eight or ten feet above the surface of
Lake Michigan ; therefore when that surface was thirty feet higher its
outlet had twenty feet or more of depth ; and, as the gap of low land
now shows, it was two miles wide. One easily pictures the grandeur
and beauty of the southward moving mass as it starts toward Joliet
Lake, the Illinois valley and the Gulf of Mexico.
Where was Niagara then, and why did it not, as now, afford a "line
of least resistance " for the drainage of the great Northwestern water-
shed ?
Lake Michigan
flowed toward
the Gulf of
Mexico.
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
How the
came it;
change d
tion.
Niagara was doubtless a brawling stream meandering along near
-the tops of the hills whose feet it now washes. The Falls themselves,
which have worn their way upstream perceptibly even within historic
times, were necessarily somewhere near the declivity at Lewiston where
the high ground ends and the Ontario flat begins. There is a far
greater fall from Lake Erie to Ontario than from Lake Michigan to
the Mississippi, and a shorter course in which to make the drop — there-
fore a swifter current. Other things being equal, the faster water flows
the faster it deepens its channel. At a certain speed it makes soil by
deposit, at another speed it gnaws, scours, carries away. So are mount-
ains brought low and valleys filled up.
NIAGARA RAPIDS AT WORK.
Starting with the time when they were on equal terms; when our
Western stream — let us call it Joliet river, to coin a term — and the
Niagara were carrying each the same quantity of water; Niagara, with its
quicker fall, over at least equally friable material, must gain upon Joliet.
The former underbids the latter and draws more and more from its
income. The more it gains, the more it may, for it has the stolen
capital to gain with.
Slowly, slowly, the Niagara cataract plows its backward furrow-
kicks its way uphill toward Lake Erie. Each step gained steals a
hairbreadth from the lake levels, each hairbreadth lessening the supply
for the Joliet river. Slowly, slowly, Lake Michigan recedes, each pause
TIME UNKNOWN. 3
marked by a long roll of beach-sand, miles in length, parallel to the pres-
ent lake shore ; and lo ! those long ridges stretch through Chicago
suburbs to this day, visible to the eyes of all and puzzling to the mind of
the thoughtless.
Niagara is still plowing its furrow, and the lakes are still losing
their hairbreadths of depth. To our posterity will one day come a
CHART SHOWING RETIREMENT OF NIAGARA SINCE 1843.
serious question — how shall this exhaustion be checked? Shall it go Threatened de.
on until Lake Erie tumbles bodily over the edge, and Buffalo, Erie, section of
* Lake Erie.
Cleveland, Sandusky and Toledo are left far inland and harborless ?
Happily this is not our present problem. Sufficient unto the day is the evil
thereof. Instead of the far future let us turn to the far past and take
a look at our chosen spot of earth as it was in the days when Lake Michi-
gan was brim full and flowed southward over Chicago's submerged plain.
4 THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
This is the forest primeval. The murmuring pines and the hemlocks.
Bearded with moss, and in garments green, indistinct in the twilight.
Stand like Druids of old, with voices sad and pathetic.
Stand like harpers hoar, with beards that rest on their bosoms .
Loud from its rocky caverns the deep- voiced neighboring ocean
Speaks, and in accents disconsolate answers the wail of the forest.
When Chicago
geads. s Here is the southwestern bend of Lake Michigan, and now is an
era centuries ago — a score, a hundred, a thousand — no matter how
many, for Nature takes no account of time. "A thousand years in thy
sight are but as yesterday when it is past, and as a watch in the night."
Taking Waukegan Point as a starting place and walking south-
ward, the shore of the old unknown epoch is much like that of the
known until we come to the southern point of the loo-foot bluff of
Lake Forest, Highland Park, Highwood, and Lakeside. At Winnetka
the high ground begins to trend to the westward, and in these old days
the water does likewise, lapping the shore at the foot of the long south-
western hill which starts in the Wilmette suburb. Here we go, in
fancy, about southwest, at the water's edge, leaving an elevated marsh
("The Skokie") on our right and coming to where a little stream
(North Branch) empties between high banks (Norwood Park).
The marsh and the stream, nay, even the lake itself, are teeming
with wild-fowl; myriads upon myriads rise and circle about, filling the air
with their hoarse cries and the noise of their wings. Wild geese and
wild swan, duck, pelican, crane, throng and crowd each other, unknow-
ing as yet the extinction that awaits them. The marsh is their breed-
ing-place and the lake their highway between the Arctic and the Tropic.*
Next our course is southward for some seven miles (Montclare,
Galewood, etc.), after which it turns more toward the west (Austin,
Ridgeland, Oak Park, etc.), and then again southwest, f
At this part of our progress we find ourselves on a narrowing spit
of land, between the lake on our left and a brook (Des Plaines) on our
right. At last (Riverside) they join, and the stream is lost, yet not in
the lake itself, but in a vast river flowing placidly from the lake toward
the southwest. Looking across the stream we see the low-lying shore of
the lake begin again, some two miles away to the south, whence it trends
away southeastward, continuing low and inconspicuous for a stretch of
six miles, when it rises gracefully in a hill that forms a picturesque blue
* Even at this writing ( 1890) the Skokie is very fair shooting-ground during the springand autumn, and the
writer, only a year ago, heard and saw a large flock of wild geese, bewildered by a coming storm. Hying low
over the roofs of the Chicago houses; certainly not more than 100 feet high, for their frightened "Honk! Honk!''
could be plainly distinguished, and the city light was strongly reflected from their broad, flapping wings.
tObserve the accompanying map, giving the city and suburbs, the present lake shore and the old. The lat-
ter is meandered by levels carefully observed and recorded under the auspices of the Chicago Drainage Com-
mission.
TIME UNKNO WN.
island (Washington Heights) to finish off our landscape with a genu-
ine mound rising, with its trees, a hundred feet above this brimming lake.
If, finding we can go no further dry-shod, we turn up the high bank
of the smaller stream (Des Plaines) we shall soon come to a beaver-
dam and hear the loud "pat, pat, pat" on the water of the huge flatAsPect of the
tails of these industrious rodents as they swim hither and yon upon im«.
their absorbing tasks.*
A few miles further inland we should meet droves of antelope and
deer of all kinds, even the carriboo or reindeer; innumerable wild turkeys,
and the vast herds of buffalo covering the ground, "so that when they
moved it looked as if the surface of the earth were in motion." But
we have seen what we came to see and will drop the curtain on the
mimic landscape.
Uncounted ages pass. Yearsin companies, regiments, brigades, and
armies go by unmarshalled and unmarked. The lake, drawn upon at
its northern extremity, becomes a stingy provider for our river Joliet,
and its stream grows perceptibly lower and feebler.
The long, broad pathway (Illinois valley) it has cut for itself, with
flats, terraces, lakes and rapids, is out of all proportion to its needs; it
is like the garment of "the lean and slippered Pantaloon," that is "a
world too wide for his shrunk shanks." Verily, the Joliet is falling into
its dotage. It is still a gay stream, and floats with dignity along the
"twelve-mile level " to its end (Lockport) and then tumbles loudly and
merrily down over the limestone strata, 77 feet in ten miles, to
its first temporary resting-place (Lake Joliet), but it is no longer a
superior, an equal, or even a respectable rival to Niagara, which has
grown large and lusty upon its competitor's decay.
* Remains of beavrr dams rre fi8i>o) still visible all about.
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
The divide
emerges (rom
the waves -
More years, years, years, in endless procession. How are the mighty
fallen ! The Joliet has ceased to surpass even the insignificant Des
Plaines. Humbly it mixes its waves with its old servant and later hand-
maid. When the north wind blows and the lake is piled up at its south-
erly end, the summit feels the passage of something like its old-time
burden ; but when the soft south prevails, especially if the Des Plaines
has snow about its head, then it crowds out its former master and posi-
tively sends part of its own stream lakeward. More years and ages in
their slow, untiring course; and the time comes when the lake is never
high enough to send even a wave over the Divide. There is a dry bar
there save when the Des Plaines sends down a flood that overtops it
and surges eastward through Mud lake. The Joliet river has ceased to
•r
ILLINOIS RIVER VALLEY.
(SHOWING ABRASION OF Son. AND ROCK.)
exist. The lake is falling so that almost every century shows fresh
reaches of sandy, ridge along its edge. For the nature of earth and
water is such that sand and gravel are formed and deposited along a
surf-beaten shore, while clay and other lighter floating stuff, that roily
water holds in suspension, can only find the bottom in deeper depths
where there is a calm stratum through which the silt may sink. There-
fore is it that we everywhere find a clayey subsoil near our sandy surface.
While the water was deep the settlings made the clay ; when the shore
encroached on the waves, it came in the shape of sand.
TIME UNKNOWN. 7
Still there is none to note the change except the wild fowl, the
beaver, the buffalo and their almost harmless " natural " enemies, the
wolves, bears, foxes and coyotes. But at some time in the course of
ages, a new visitor appears, a biped, slight, erect and tall — rare and
unterrifying in appearance, yet the forerunner of doom to the flocks and
herds of air and earth. The first comers are of a semi-civilized race now
lost to knowledge and even to tradition. They were hardy and indus-
trious, for they opened the copper-mines of Lake Superior and worked
them for untold years, and to this day their tools and their works are
found there deep under ground, surrounded by masses of half-mined
metal. Suddenly and simultaneously they dropped their implements
and fled, and whence they came and whither they went is one of the
world's insoluble riddles. Were they the peaceable Aztecs, spreading
out so far as to be the miners and the mound builders, and driven back
by the terrible red man, a better fighter and poorer worker than them-
selves ? Quicnsabe? They could not write, and so they are forgotten.
Words are the only things that live forever.
After them are centuries of Red Indian nomads — a terrible race, a
repulsive race, a vanishing race — yet perhaps worthy of a short chapter
to itself.
Vanished races.
NIAGARA FALLS.
As SKETCHED BY FATHER HENNEPIN IN 1698.
Meaning of the
name.
CHAPTER II.
THE ABORIGINES GOD S IMAGE DONE IN
COPPER.
S the lake receded from its ancient shore it
left behind it one slender two-toed foot-
print— a rivulet with two branches. The
north branch, coming in at the Skokie, pre-
served a southward course nearly parallel with
the deserted shore-line, while a south branch,
with various creeping affluents, started north-
ward from the abandoned "Divide" and met the
the other half way, after which the two made eastward
to find their parent body, the lake. Puny, struggling
creeks they were, at the best, flowing almost as often
inward as outward, according to the vagaries of the winds
and waves of stormy Michigan.
The wild onion, leek or
garlic, -chicagou." Among the weeds on the banksof these weedy creeks
there was, and is to this day, a worthy plant ; graceful, humble and
inconspicuous to the eye, repellant to the nose, hardy and persistent,
and valuable in its unpretending way. It is the wild garlick, leek or
onion.*
The lowly creek has drawn to itself the name of the lowly plant as
rendered in the Indian tongue, "Chickagou," a name with many an
alias.
" Che-cau-gou " ( Hennepin's story
of La Salle's expedition in 1680);
"Chicagua" (Samson, geographer
to Louis XIV.); "Chikagu,"
"Chikagou," "Chicagu" (St. Cosme,
visiting the locality in 1699); " She-
caugo," meaning "playful waters,"
and " Choc-ca-go," meaning " desti-
tute" (Pottawatomie?); "Chickahou"
(La Hontan); "Shegahg," meaning "skunk," or "She-gau-ga-winzhe,"
meaning " skunk weed or wild onion" (Chippewa dialect of the Algon-
quins); "Eschikagou" (Col. De Puyster, English commandant at
* Allium Fricoccum; lance-leaved garlick, wild leek, 9 inches and higher, 10 to 12 white flowers. Leaves lance-
olate, oblong, flat and smooth, s to 8 inches long. Bulb oblong.
Pipe. Relic of the Mound Builders.
THE INDIANS. 9
Michilimackinack, 1779); " Chicagou, or Garlick Creek" (William
Murray, attempted land-grabber, 1773); " Gitchi-ka-go," meaning " a
thing great orstrong" (dialect of the Illinois tribes).
All these and doubtless others are variations of a single word. Only
one thing is certain — namely, that the word denotes something
"strong," whether like a giant or like a leek is not important. Those
who love Chicago will take it in one sense ; those who love her not may
choose the other. Unbiased observers have called her strong in both
senses of the word. Giants have their faults and onions have their vir-
tues. Brave, generous, devoted, faithful Tonty, in his memoirs, speaks of
the abundance of the wild leek or onion throughout the country, and says
that he and his companions were sustained by the plants of this nature
which they grubbed from the ground while journeying northward from
the Illinois in 1680-81.*
INDIAN MOUND. (Now part of St. Louis, Mo.)
A little bulb, strong, hardy and wholesome, sustaining the famish-
ing wanderer: A great metropolis, powerful, kindly and gay, feeding the
hungry world — let who will, rail at either. Chicago should forestall
criticism by adopting the Chi-ca-gou, from root to flower, as her civic
emblem. " Gare a qui touche." Touch it who dare !
Our earliest information regarding the two-pronged brook, Garlick
creek, otherwise Chicago river, is to the effect that many Indian trails
led to it from all directions. We might have guessed this ; similar
causes produce similar results, and innumerable paths, trodden by men of
all colors, are bent toward it to this day. It is the spot where one great cwca
system of water travel comes into almost perfect touch with another.
Nowhere on the continent, perhaps nowhere in the world, is there a
point where two so vast natural highways approach each other, sepa-
rated by so slight a barrier. The Atlantic voyager entering the St.
* " In the woods we fcund a sort of garlick, not so strong as ours, and small onions very like ours in taste."—
Jtmtil.
JO
THE STORY OF CHICAGO
Lawrence past icy Labrador, when he has sailed and portaged to the
very head of free navigation — nearly two thousand miles — comes to a
point where (at high water) he may pass, without disembarking, on a
descent of another two thousand miles to the semi-tropical Gulf.
So hither came the trails. Why was not this then (as it is now
becoming) the greatest of meeting-points, the place where the common
interests of humanity brought thousands or millions into friendly con-
tact, each profiting by the prosperity of all, and all by that of each ?
Simply because these trails were those of the American Indian.
Copper, among metals, is hard to weld with any other metal ; and
among human beings, the color seems to carry the quality. No more
intractable material has ever come from the crucible of animate nature.
Proud and yet vain ; haughty to the last, even when helpless ; inde-
THE STORM CLOUD.
fatigable in destruction and ineffectual in construction ; pitiless though
so pitiable, despising pain in himself and enjoying it in others; cruel to
Indian Traits. a pitch of insanity ; brave when he has the advantage, but not steadfast
in adversity and defeat ; cunning without wise foresight ; greedy rather
than acquisitive; incredulous though superstitious ; he could seize but
not keep ; see but not learn ; conquer and destroy but
overrun but not cultivate; impoverish but not enrich :
there was terror ; where he passed there was desolation,
solitude and called it peace."*
As either master or servant no more perfect failure ever existed.
He acknowledged no superior, and he controlled no inferior except his
own helpless, enslaved womankind.
* " Solitudinem faciunt : pacem appelljnt." Tacitus.
not subjugate ;
Where he went
" They made a
THE INDIANS. n
He was a natural drunkard, and self-denial was beyond his utmost
mental and moral scope.
In short, the most indocile, intractable, unlovable, unmanageable of
the tribes of the sons of men, was the American Indian.
The advocates and apologists of the Indian are many and merciful ;
but the consensus of opinion among those who know him best upholds
the derogatory view. McKinney (" Indian Tribes ") says : "Theirgreat
business in life is to procure food and devour it, to subdue enemies and
scalp them." Chief Justice Caton,* himself personally intimate with the
Pottawatomies and Ottawas who had their residence about Chicago
AFTER THE STORM.
when he came here (1833), and preserving friendly relations of mutual
respect and esteem with men of both tribes (with whom he tramped,
camped and hunted) until they were moved westward, says (Fergus'
Historical Series, No. 3):
It is emphatically true of all our American Indians that they can not exist, multiply and
prosper in the light of civilization. Here their physical vigor fails, their reproductive powers dimin-
ish, their spirit and their very vitality dwindle out, and no philanthropy, no kindness, no fostering Caton.
care of government, of societies, or of individuals, can save them from an inevitable doom. They
are plainly the "sick man" of America; with careful nursing and the kindest care we may prolong
his stay among us for a few years, but he is sick of a disease which can never be cured.
No sooner is such an estimate of the Aboriginal character ventured,
than a cry of protest arises, and a hundred examples are adduced of
quite opposite characteristics. Here, connected with our own annals,
have lived individual Indians whom it would be slanderous to describe
in such bitter words. Judge Moses, while holding views quite in con-
sonance with those here expressed, says, in his valuable History of
Illinois (vol. I, p. 37):
In not a few instances, these untrained, unreasoning children cf nature, knowing no guide
but instinct, displayed a fidelity to treaty obligations which might well put to shame the civilized,
Christianized Caucasian.
Later in these pages we shall have the satisfaction of dwelling upon
the friendship of individual members of the savage race, "Faithful
*John Dean Caton, late Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Illinois, is still living in Chicago, in full vijjrr rf
mind and mem~ry. To his personal recollection of facts and incidents, his broad judicial views of the course of events,
and his scholarly taste and judgment, this story is greatly indebted.
12 THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
among the faithless found." Black Partridge, Winnemeg, Topenebe,
Little Turtle, Shabbona — these names (and others) bring up feelings of
gratitude for favors rendered by the red men to the white, which make
it a painful task to give deliberate judgment against their race.
One circumstance, unnoted by the Indian apologists, has great
weight; it is this:
Among all the tribes of savages met by the various immigrations
of Europeans, a thousand differences of arms, implements, manners,
THE BEAVER DAM
habits and customs were observed ; some more barbarous, others less ;
but there was one trophy, one weapon, one trait, invariable and universal:
scalp Hunting, the bleeding scalp, the sharp scalping-knife, the rage for scalping. This
means much. It means that killing was not a mere means to an end,
but the end aimed at. It means that simple, sheer, unadulterated,
unmitigated murder was the ideal grace of manhood. The brain-pan
of man, woman or child yielded its covering, torn away warm and
quivering ; and the possessor was sure of the honor and favor of his
fellows — men, women and children.
Savagery the world has always known, and isolated instances of
wholesale destruction of non-combatants in the drunkenness of victory ;
THE INDIANS. ij
but there is no record of a whole race, consisting of many tribes, spread
over many lands, enduring for many generations, where such diabolism
was the general ethnic trait.
Not only was this cruel, it was suicidal. Even the tribes were
unstable and evanescent, for each took every opportunity to destroy its
neighbor and possess his lands. Defeat meant extermination, not sub-
jugation, which might aggrandize the victors, nor even a slaughter of
warriors and possession of women and children. Not theirs was the
thrifty nature which impelled the Bible patriarch to inculcate such
profitable warfare as that prescribed in Deuteronomy xx : 14.
Their perversity was our opportunity. If they had stood together
and cherished each other, it is difficult to see how in many centuries we
could have made the headway we have made in less than three.
Justice Caton, in his sketch already quoted, "The last of the
Illinois" (Fergus1 Historic Series, No. 3), gives a picturesque account,
derived from an eye witness, of the extinction of the great tribe which
gave its name to the Illinois river (or took its name from the river, no
one can say which), through the irruption of the terrible Iroquois from the
far east, followed by a characteristic dash made by near neighbors from the
north on the helpless and starving few who survived the other attack.
This final blow was delivered by theOttawas,* and Pottawatomies, prob-
ably as late as 1807.
The precipitous hill near Ottawa, now called "Starved Rock," is the
piaceof the finishing stroke where the miserable remnant was destroyed,1*
sex, age or infancy bringing no exemption from the common doom.
Was any shame felt or obloquy incurred on account of this cowardly
outrage? None. There is where the racial infamy puts itself in evidence.
It is not that awful wrongs are done by one Indian tribe to another, but
that when done they bring no ill name or reprobation upon that branch
from the rest. Men are to be judged, not only by their own acts, but
also by the esteem in which they hold the acts of their fellows.
Theodore Roosevelt (Winning of the West, vol. i) says:
The inhuman love of cruelty for cruelty's sake which marks the Red Indian above all other
savages, rendered these wars more terrible then any others. For the hideous, unnamable, unthink-
able tortures practiced by the red men on their captured foes and on their foes' tender women and
helpless children were such as we read of in no other struggle — hardly in the revolting pages that
tell of the deeds of the Holy Inquisition (p. 86).
Any one who has been in an encampment of wild Indians and had the misfortune to witness
the delight the children take in torturing little animals, will admit that the Indian's love of cruelty
for cruelty's sake, can not possibly be exaggerated Among the most brutal white borderers a
man would be instantly lynched if he practiced on any creature the fiendish torture which in an
Indian camp either attracts no notice at all, or else excites merely laughter (p. 86).
The expression "too horrible to mention" is to betaken literally, not figuratively The nature
of the wild Indian has not changed. Not one man in a hundred and not a single woman escapes
* In the Jadian tongue this word is pron">mccd with the accent on the second syllable, " Ot-taw-wa."
J4 THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
torments which a civilized man can not look another in the fac -• and so much as speak of. Imr-ale-
ment on charred stakes, fingernails split off backwards, finger joints chewed off, eyes burned out —
these tortures can be mentioned, but there are others equally normal and customary which can not
even be hinted at, especially when women are the victims (p. 95).
Enough. Cruelty is part of their blood. All other wrong things
can be forgiven, but not cruelty. A crime is necessarily an exceptional
act: A vice may be a virtue turned away or carried to excess: Perse-
cution may arise from a mistaken sense of duty: Folly we can con-
done as being sharers in follies. But as for him who finds pleasure in
giving pain, let him be anathema.
It is vain to hope to interest the world in such a people. To-
day is too late and too soon for it to be accomplished — too late in that
Lost Records. aU the Indian's ancient history is irretrievably lost, and we know not
whence he came or who it was (copper-miners and mound-builders)
whom he ousted. He attempted no written record ; he had no general
spoken tongue and no persistent traditions. It is too soon, in that his
later doings are not yet forgotten. Romance has not yet had time to
disguise his lazy, dirty domestic tyranny in a garb of patriarchal dignity;
his awful cruelty in a halo of heroism.
The Indians were nomads, with evident common interests which
they had not sense enough to recognize or humanity enough to act
upon. Their "numerous trails" led them to Chicago, and away again.
To meet was to fight, to fight was to destroy. Identity of wants, needs
and perils was no such solvent as could compact them together. As
well try to boil flints into a pudding.
Nothing of their past, worth knowing, can be known. Their
present shows no progress ; their future, as Indians, gives no hope.
CHAPTER III.
THE RECORDED STORY BEGINS.
HUS far, we have given the results of the
study of natural objects, deduction, specula-
tion, judgment of effects from cause and
cause from effect. Now (beginning 1670)
we enjoy recorded history. Both sources of
knowledge are valuable, each has its dis-
tinct and separate advantages. The latter
kind is the fuller in detail and more human
in its interests; the former is, perhaps, on
the whole more trustworthy. The testi-
mony of the rocks and hills can not lie,
nor can it be biased by interest, vain-glory,
prejudice, bigotry or greed of gain. Nor can it forget.
In 1535 and again in 1540, the French, under Admiral Cartier, sailed
up the St. Lawrence to Montreal. This was forty-three years after Comjn ofthc
Columbus' momentous summer trip ; and eighty-five years before the ]
terrible winter landing on Plymouth Rock. In 1603 and 1612 Champlain
led the third and fourth French expedition into Canada, and there, at
Quebec, the gallant French established, by occupation, a foothold which to
this day they have never abandoned. Politically, France now holds only
the Islands St. Pierre and Miquelon, in the Gulf of St. Lawrence (together
with fish-curing rights on the north shore of Newfoundland), but by
direct descendants, by patronymics, by religion and by persistence of
manners, customs and language, the French still cling to America, not
only in Canada, where they form the mass of citizens in a great province,
but even in our own state and city, where they are honored sharers in
our national and civic liberties.
How firmly and faithfully they have preserved their nationality
among us may not be generally known ; but there is within the borders
of Illinois, a peaceful, happy, prosperous, French-speaking community,
the lineal descendants and heirs of the gallant pioneers of two hundred
years ago.*
* Mason's " Kaskaskia " and " Old Fort Chartrcs," Fergus" Historical Series, No. 12.
15
^E_
^ ^ -///A- «^p^ ^^
EARLIEST RECORDS.
The French, taking the
a century
The English at Jamestown, Va., in 1607.
The French at Quebec in 1612.
The Dutch at New York in 1614.
The Puritans at Plymouth in 1620
Such were our starting posts and times,
water-road to the interior, beat the others
and more, for Joliet saw the
Chicagou in 1673; even then
finding French hunters and trap-
pors here before him. Next
arrived the Virginians, when in
1778 (during the Revolutionary
war) the heroic, dashing soldier,
George Rogers Clark, led his
amazing expedition across the
Alleghanies and down the Ohio,
took Kaskaskia, Fort Chartres,
Vincennes, and, in effect, all
Illinois from the British, who
had taken it from the French
fifteen years before — as we shall
see in due course. It was really
not until well within the present
century, that the New York and
New England stock has come
in by the Erie canal, the lakes,
and, above all, by the " prairie
schooner "or covered wagon, but
it seems to have come to stay.
The three first named all came with royal support, with grants,
with officers of rank, with many ships and much money. The last
came by their own almost unaided strength, and fought the awful fight
almost alone.
The breaking waves dashed high
On a stern and rockbound coast.
The woods against a stormy sky
Their giant branches tossed
And the h;avy night hung dark
The hills and waters o'er
Wh:n a band of pilgrims moored their bark
On the wild New England shore.
Anvdst the storm they sang
And the stars heard, and the sea ;
And the sounding aisles of the dim woods rang
To the Anthem of the Free!
Race of the
Races.
1 8 THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Who shall say how much of the firmness of our fiber comes from
their labors, privations and dangers and the fortitude that gave them
their victory ?
Before the Pilgrims even stepped on shore, the French had gained
firm foothold. Champlain set a good example to the emigrants by
taking his family with him in 1612, and in 1622 the Jesuits began their
thankless task of converting the Indians to Christianity. They "came
over in great numbers, bearing the cross and the olive-branch, preach-
ing the Gospel and extending civilization." In 1639, Nicolet visited
Jt°heetporuge.ers the west shore of Lake Michigan. In 1673, Sieur Joliet and Father
Marquette, his priestly scribe, started from Green Bay, ascended the
Fox, made portage across the Wisconsin Divide and descended the
Wisconsin to the Mississippi. On this they floated far down (to the Ar-
kansas ?) and then they paddled back to the mouth of the Illinois, and
up the latter (pausing at the Indian village of Kaskaskia where they
were "well received") and entered the Northern fork (Des Plaines),
which they called the " Chicagou," and so on to our own Chicago
streamlet which they called the Portage river, a name which clung to
our South branch until about 1800. Through this they reached Lake
Michigan (called by them the " Lake of the Islinois ") and they sailed
along the lake shore to Green Bay, whence they had started. Joliet
went on to Montreal, where he reported his discoveries, the most impor-
tant of which was the Chicago Portage. Of this he said, with an accu-
racy which time has only confirmed, that it would be possible to go from
Lake Erie to the Mississippi in boats "by a very good navigation.''
" There would be but one canal to make, by cutting half a league of
prairie to pass from the Lake of the Illinois to the St. Louis River
which empties into the Mississippi."
In 1674 Father Marquette started again from Green Bay and
coasted along the west shore of Lake Michigan, on which he observed
and reported features which may still be recognized by his description.
^"r"? s He reached " Portage River," and on December 14, 1674, he stopped at
Hardscrabbie. a ca|-)|n five mjies from jts mouth " and near the portage," where he was
detained all that winter by illness. Five miles from the lake would bring
him to a spot very near the City Bridewell, or House of Detention,
on which ground he may have been the first prisoner as well as the
first recorded Chicago resident.
But we can not even now say that we have identified the absolute
pioneer of our million souls, for, as we are told, the "cabin belonged
to two French traders, Pierre Moreau (La Toupine) and a companion,
who was not only a trader but a surgeon as well." So just as we seem
to have arrived at the very frontier and starting-point of Western
EARLIEST RECORDS. 19
civilization, behold, it has been the familiar stamping-ground of French
trappers who were there before us.*
La Salle visited the place in 1682, nine years after Joliet, and speaks
slightingly of the latter's " proposed ditch," saying, " I should not have
made any mention of this communication if Joliet had not proposed itLa
without regard to its difficulties." Here peeps out the conscious or uncon-
scious jealousy of the rival explorer. Just now (1890), 208 years later,
we are proceeding to carry out, in all its fullness, the suggestion of
Joliet, and to falsify the slur of La Salle.
OGDEN-WENTWORTH DITCH (MUD LAKE) IN l8oO,
The last entry made by poor Marquette, after his journey with
Joliet, illustrates the tremendous missionary zeal of the Jesuits, and the
paucity of result from their efforts, as follows :
Had all this voyage caused but the salvation of a single soul, I should deem all my fatigue well
repaid. And this I have reason to think, for, when I was returning, I passed the Indians of Peoria; I
* Judge Caton has taken the pains to fix the spot whereon that cabin must have stooi. He puts it at the point
where the West Fork joins the South Branch. Here, in 1833, he saw good ground, with a growth of timber, just the place
which the "two French traders" would choose. And on this point there was an old cab n belonging to Col. Beaubien,
with an older garJen adjoining. When (in 1836) he built his first house, which stood so far out of t:> wn (corn er of Clinton
and Harrison strests, at about the present centre of the city) that the real Chicagoans living near Fort Dearborn
called it ** the prairie cottage," he tramped out to the Beaubien cabin and brought away some ancirnt shrubs, which he
set out in his own grounds. They grew and bore currants, perhaps reproducing :he fruit of old France on the s^il of
young Chicago.
20 THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
was three days announcing the faith in their cabins, after which, as we were embarking , they brought
me, on the water s edge, a dying child, which I baptized a little before it expired, by an admirable
Providence for the salvation of that innocent soul !
It is amusing to read La Salle's vivid and unmistakable portraiture
of our own South Branch, Mud Lake and the Divide at Summit, which
he calls the " Portage of Chicagou : "
This is an isthmus of land at 41 degrees, 50 minutes north latitude, at the westof the Islinois
lake [Lake Michigan] which is reached by a channel formed by the junction of several rivulets or
meadow ditches [Chicago River]. It is navigable for about two leagues to the edge of the prairie, a
quarter of a mile westward. There is a little lake divided by a causeway made by the beavers,
about a league and a half long, from which runs a stream, which, after winding about a half-league
through the rushes, empties into the river Chicagou [Des Plaines] and thence into that of the Isli-
nois. This lake [Mud Lake] is filled by heavy summer rains or spring freshets and discharges also
into the channel [West fork of South Branch] which leads to the lake of the Islinois [Lake Michigan]
the level of which is seven feet lower than the prairie on which the lake [Mud Lake] is. The river
of Chicagou [Des Plaines] does the same thing in the spring when the channel is full. It empties
a part of its waters by this little lake [Mud Lake] into that of the Islinois [Lake Michigan] and at
this season, Joliet says, forms in the summer time a little channel for a quarterof a league from this
lake to the basin which leads to that of the Islinois, by which vessels can enter the Chicagou [Des
Plaines] and descend to the sea.
There is a strong temptation to linger over the first fragmentary
tales of our now famous pla»-e. Those narratives have themselves a
sad yet picturesque interest ; they are stories of adventure, danger,
daring, death; of a brave struggle carried on by knightly soldiers and
zealous priests, with deadly enemies, animate and inanimate. Every
fighting traveler, from Ulysses and ^Enaeas to Henry Stanley, has found
an audience ready to hang entranced on his words. Every bearer of
the cross among the heathen, from the first crusader to the latest
martyred missionary, carries our hearts in his scrip. The older and
more settled and commonplace the world becomes, the more irresistible
are the annals of its wild youth. As the unknown nooks become
more and more rare, we grow almost frantic in our craze for new depths
to sound, new heights to climb.
The tendency to dwell upon these romantic episodes must be
resisted, in order to fix undivided attention upon Chicago itself. Let
us simply sketch the career of one man, worthy to be studied as the
typical representative of the best class of bold, chivalrous, devoted,
intelligent explorers.
Robert Cavelier, Sieur de La Salle, was well-born, well-bred and
well-educated. Like other young Europeans whose birth was greater
than their means, he came to America to seek his fortune. At the
same time the fortune he craved was not of money, but of rank, place,
fame, honor. He was ambitious for France, and tried to add a whole
empire to the realm of his king.
His adventures began in fresh youth, and ended before middle age.
His first voyage (in 1666, when he was twenty-three) was to the Saint
EARLIEST RECORDS.
21
Lawrence ; his last (in 1684, when he was forty-one) was aimed at the
mouth of the Mississippi, which it failed to reach
Although bred by the Jesuits, he became, from some unknown
cause, opposed by them. Among the other trials of his knightly honor
is one (recounted in Margry, Vol. I, p. 380) which recalls the well-
known adventure of the heroic Joseph, first of the name. It is said to
have occurred in Montreal on his first arrival from France, and to have
been brought about by his enemies the Jesuits, through the agency of the ^'sSu'edl10110'
wife of one of the king's high officials, whose guest he was, one Bazire,
among the richest men of the place, the lady herself being a beautiful
devote of the " Society of Jesus " and high in its " Holy Family." She
is said to have gone directly from the scene of her failure to the church,
where she took communion without first eoine to confessional, a fact
which, as we may suppose, establishes
beyond question the assumption that she
had acted under ecclesiastical orders and
therefore had no sin upon her soul.
It is almost needless to add that this
recital (in the utmost detail) is furnished
by an abbe who belonged to a rival order,
inimical to the Jesuits.
An impolite, impulsive fellow our hero
was, using no arts to mask his fiery
ambition ; none of the well-known Napo-
leonic devices by which men might be
lured to build up his glory in the delusion
that they were advancing their own ends.
A man like La Salle makes few friends, but those friends are more
than friends; they are lovers — adorers. He makes many enemies, and
they are as intense in their hatred as are the others in their love. Tonty,
an Italian soldier of fortune (called "main de fer," from the fact that
he had lost a hand in the service of France and wore a metal substitute),
was his devoted squire, his brave right arm, later his sincere and unceas-
ing mourner. It is related that in one of his rare cries of distress, after
some staggering blow, La Salle said to Tonty, " Alas ! If I could only
have you in command of every fort I build ! "
They built (1679) in the Niagara river, the first of lake vessels,
the " Griffin," and sailed herthrough Lake Erie, the Detroit river, Lake «'•
St. Clair and Lake Huron to Lake Michigan, loaded her with furs and
started her homeward, to pay off La Salle's debts and provide for his
future needs — and she came back to him no more. He never heard of
her again, unless a bit of wreck and a package of spoiled furs, which a
ROBERT CAVELIER, SIEUR DE LA SALLE.
22 THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
storm washed up not far from Michilimackinack, may have told him all
that even tradition has to say of her fate.
Building forts, one named " Miamis" on the St. Joseph, near Lake
Michigan, and one at Kaskaskia on the Illinois (the latter prophetic-
ally named "Crevecoeur" — Broken-heart), LaSalle divided his forces
between them, set out eastward on a vain search for the " Griffin," and
actually traveled, almost alone, over snow and ice, land and water, all
the way back to Montreal, between March i and May 6, 1680.
Here he instantly made new arrangements " to go on with his
discoveries," and on August loth set out on his second expedition ;
only to find that the Iroquois had attacked, defeated and almost
destroyed the Indians friendly to him. When he reached "Fort
Broken-heart" he saw their mutilated bodies lying unburied in their
deserted village, while his own comrades, including the faithful Tonty,
were utterly lost to sight and knowledge.
At Michilimackinack he found Tonty and learned that Fort
Crevecoeur and Fort Miamis had both been destroyed by white traitors
°f h's °wn command, even before the coming of the Iroquois. He
heard, also, that creditors and enemies in Montreal had conspired
against him, and stopped his supplies. Eastward again he sped, arriving
in time to meet the traitors of his own band, returning loaded with the
spoils of his forts, and also in time to kill two of them and carry the
rest home in irons.
" Once more into the breach." He set things straight and started
westward again ; this time going by Chicago and the Des Plaines,
whither Tonty had preceded him. With incredible pluck and perse-
verance he pushed on down the Illinois and the Mississippi to its
mouth, took possession of the entire valley in the name of France, and
set out on his return ; the first European to descend and ascend the
Father of Waters.
Reaching the Illinois River, he built a stockade (Fort St. Louis) on
"The Rock" (Starved Rock near Ottawa), and put Tonty in command.
Friendly Indians soon began to gather around it, and a large settle-
ment of red men and whites, trappers and traders, grew up there with
Chicago-like rapidity. This was the climax and culmination of the
hero's fortunes ; the one bright, brief season when his dreams seemed
to be coming true. He called the place a "terrestrial paradise."
A change of administration (from Fronteuac to Le Bar) at Montreal
brought an enemy into power and stopped our hero in full career, by
seizing his property, cutting off all supplies, detaining his agents,
encouraging his Indian enemies, the Iroquois, and even appointing
another commandant for Fort St. Louis on Starved Rock !
EARLIEST RECORDS. 2j
The indefatigable man started at once for Montreal, thence for
Paris where the King and the great Colbert set him right; gave him new
powers, new ships, men and supplies and started him off once more in
triumph for "New France ;" this time to strike the other end of the 4,000-
i.iile line by entering the mouth of the Mississippi and by that road re-
joining his beloved Tonty and the other waiting friends on the Illinois.
Between the two voyages he had traveled every foot of the fearful
solitude between the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the Gulf of Mexico; much
of it many times over. He had spent all his own means, all the money
his friends would advance him, all the treasures his king placed in his
charge ; had fought and starved and suffered without a pause and almost
without a murmur — now the fruit of all seemed just within his grasp.
His pilot missed the Mississippi, wandered on and landed in Mata-
gorda Bay. He was in unfriendly desolation, without path or guide ; he
knew not where to turn for home, friends or help ; he could not even find
the Mississippi. He set out on a search for it and somewhere in those
dreary, swampy wastes — Texas, Louisiana or Arkansas — he was killed by
traitors of his own band ; and no man knows to this day the place of his
grave.
Final Catastro-
phe.
24 THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Who does not feel his eyes grow moist in sympathy with the wan-
ing strength of his weary limbs? The heart throbs with intense pity at
the picture. It is one of the most perfect and complete tragedies in all
history — indeed fiction itself can invent nothing more pathetic.
As a bit of quasi history which may interest the few who are curious as to the life of the last
two hundred and twenty five years in this region, I have drawn a retrospective table, somewhat like
the Old Testament genealogies ; only reversed.
The writer well knew Gurdon Hubbard (1856), who well knew John Kinzie (1818), who knew
Joseph LeMai (1804), who knew Jean Baptiste Pointe de Sable (1794), who knew the Chevalier
Rocheblave (1777), who knew the Chevalier St. Ange de Bellerive (1765), who knew Philip Francis
Renault (1743), who knew Pierre Aco.(i725), who knew Father James Gravier (1706), who knew
Tonty the true, LaSalle the brave and Joliet the pioneer of us all.
It is a short list — a baker's dozen —just a pleasant dinner party of thirteen. (And yet a much
shorter one is possible ; George II , born 1683, died 1760 ; his grandson George III., born 1738, died
1820 ; and Victoria, granddaughter of George III , born 1818, still living.)
On the next pa^e follows a more extended chain, identifying each link and presenting con
temporaneous occurrences elsewhere.
LOUIS XIV.
CHAIN OF ACQUAINTANCE:
FROM JOLIET TO KINZIE ; FROM THE FINDER OF THE PORTAGE TO THE FOUNDER OF THE CITY.
ABBREVIATIONS : " E. G. M.," Edward G. Mason ; " K. P. R.," Kaskaskia Parish Records ; " F. C. R.," Fort Chartres Records
,'S. J.," Society of Jesuits; "b.,"born; "d.,"died.
M
*6?3
'673
168.
1699
1695
1687
169311712
1699 J
tit}
oliet
Marquette, S. J
LaSalle
Tonty
St. Cosme
Pierre Aco . .
ravier, S. J.
Marest, S. J
1716
1723
1720
1720
1725
1729
1763
1725 Boisbriant.
1743 Renault.. . .
1778
1796
1803
1818
'833
736 d
^rancoise Le Brise.
,'Artaguiette
729 D
1 :•'•-
--i
St. Ange deBellerive.
^ocheblave.
William Murray..
1890 J
rirardot. .
leSiette.
j Georpe Rogers Clark
IJohnTodd
796 Jean Baptiste Pointe de Sable.
Joseph Le Mat.
John Kinzie. . . .
Gurdon Hubbard. ,
ohn Dean Caton .
French.
French.
French.
French.
French.
Indian.
French
and
Indian.
French.
French.
French.
French.
French.
French.
French.
French.
French
and
English.
English.
English.
French,
English
and
Indian.
French
and
English.
English
and
Indian.
English and
Indian.
English.
'assed up Illinois river and down Chicago riverto Lake
Michigan.
Wintered on South Branch near Mud L?.ke. Founded
Kaskaskia Mission. Died on Marquette river.
Most distinguished and most unlucky of explorers. De-
scribed Chicago and the Portage. (Margry.)
Most faithful of friends. "Main de fer." "Iron
Hand."
Otherwise "Cinq Hommes." Mentions a visit to "the
house of the Jesuit Fathers at Chicago," 1700.
(E. G. M.)
Christian In,!:. m. b. at first Kaskaskia; citizen of sec-
ond. (E. G. M.)
At Chicago Sept. 8, 1700. Kept a journal. Tells of re-
moval of Kaskaskia fr -m the Illinois river to the Mis-
sissippi. Studied Indian tongue and wrote a gram-
mar of it.
Moved with mission from the Illinois river to the
Mississippi. (K. P. R.)
First commandant at Fort Chartres.
Appointee of John Law. Director -General in the
" Mississippi Scheme." Owned land still shown on
our maps as belonging to "the Renault heirs." (F.
C. R.)
"Perennial Godmother and occasional Mother." (K.
P. R.)
Commandant at Fort Chartres. Tortured to death by
Indians. A boal-song, with his name for chorus, long
heard on the Mississippi.
'rominent in Kaskaskia. Cape " Girardeau " on the
Mississippi probably named for him. (F. C. R.)
,-,.,. c
lommandant. Anxious to tight the Sacs and r-oxes |
Wrote to de Lignerie, commandant at Green Bay. St. Louis founded 1763.
New York finally taken
by England fr^m Hol-
land, 1673.
Penn founded Philadel-
phia in 1680.
eorge II. b. 1683 ; d.
1760.
Parthenon destroyed.
687-
English National debt
begun, 1689.
Saleoi Witchcraft, 1692.
Bank of England char-
tered, :6g4.
Deerfield massacre, 1703.
B. Franklin b. 1706.
Detroit founded.
Frederick the Great b.
Louis'xiV.d. 1715.
New Orleans founded,
i?'8.
The French bring ne-
gro slavery into Illi-
nois, 1720.
John Law's Mississippi
Scheme ; a *' boom "
for Kaskaskia.
Peter the Great d. 1725.
Isaac Newton d. 1727.
George Washington b.
1732.
George III. b. 1738 ; d.
1820.
French fort ress o f
Louisburg taken by
volunteers from New
England, 1745.
Braddock sdefeat, 1755
Black Hole of Calcutta,
who replied suggestinga rendezvous "atCnicagou."
<F.C. R.)
Napoleon b. 1769.
Walter Scott b. 1771.
(Bunker Hill, 17
Last French commandant at Fort Chartres. (E. G. AL>! Declaration oPf n de-
Officer of French troops. Fought against Braddock
and '* Wachension " (Washington) in 1755. Later,
commander under the English. Surrendered Kas
kaskia to George Rogers Clark, who sent him, pris-
oner of war, to Virginia (1779). (E. G. M.)
Made a purchase from Indians of an indefinite tract of
land, including "Chicagou, or Garlick creek,*' as one
of the boundary points. Claim was urged before
Congress until iSoi. (Andreas' Hist. Chicago.)
Clark took Illinois from the British for Virginia, and
so saved Chicago from being a Canadian village.
Todd kilted in battle with Indians. (Todd Papers
and E. G, M., Chicago Historical Society.)
"A handsome negro, well-educated, and settled at
Eschikagou, but much in the French interest." (Col.
Du Puyster, English commandant at Fort Mrchili-
mackinack, writes thus July 4, 1779.) (Andreas.)
Grignon calls him "a trader, pretty wealthy, and
drank freely.'1 He built the cabin which became the
"Kinzie mansion."
French trader with Indians. Bought the cabin of
Fointe de Sable, which stood at about the junction of
Pine and Kinzie streets.
pendence. 1776.
Capture of Burgoyne,
1777.
Voltaire d 1778.
French Alliance, 1778.
Yorktown taken. 1781.
Peace with England,
1782.
London Yinifs started,
1788.
United States Constitu-
tion adopted, 1789.
French " Reign of Ter-
ror,'" 1792.
Lincoln b. 1809.
Victoria b. 1818.
INVENTIONS AND DIS-
COVERIES.
Steam Engine, 1761.
Illuminating gas, 1792.
Cotton Gin, 1793.
Steamboat, 1807.
Friction Match, 1829.
Railroad, 1830.
Photograph, 1839.
Postage Stamp, 1842.
Telegraph, 1844.
Bought Le Mai's cabin in 1804; enlarged and changed Sewing Machine, 1846.
it from time to time, and lived there till his death, m\cZf8m*i*GoU,,B&
1827. Bessemer Steel, 1858.
Indian trader, and most distinguished of early city Petroleum. 1858.
fathrr« Phonograph. 1870.
latne"' Telephone. 1876.
Cameto Chicago in 1833. Chief Justice of the Supreme \atural Gas. 1883.
Court of Illinois. Aids i.i the compilation of th:s Electric Light and Pow
history. ; er, 1850 to 1890.
CHAPTER IV.
A SINGLE CENTURY.
EGRETFULLY we turn our eyes away
from the romantic era of discovery, ex-
ploration and poetic narrative. Joliet,
Marquette, LaSalle, Tonty and Hennepin
were explorers and soldiers or priests,
and all were traveled men and practiced
writers. All were natives of France, ex-
cept Joliet, born in Quebec, and Tonty,
an Italian. They entered, open-eyed and
expectant, on this wonderland, as Aladdin
into his palace, or like favored children
sent in alone to the Chi'istmas Tree.
The commonplace would have been a surprise to them.
Toil, danger, exposure, trial and privation are not favorable to
long life. Rapidly our heroes fade from sight. Poor Marquette
never recovered his health; he died May 19, 1675, on the
first explorers, eastern shore of Lake Michigan, beside the river which still
bears his name, and two years later a party of Indians came up in
the depth of winter, exhumed his remains, placed them carefully in a
birch bark case, and carried them to St. Ignace (north shore of the
Straits of Mackinaw), where they were buried under the floor of
the mission-house.* La Salle was murdered by his own men
March 19, 1687. Joliet died in 1700, and Tonty (after a vain
hunt for the body of his master) in 1705, both far from the scene
of those of their exploits in which we are interested ; the spot which
has been made noteworthy by the building of one of the world's half
dozen largest cities. Few and poor are the words they allot to the wild
garlick Portage, for they could not foresee what has occurred there.
Humanity alone gives life to inanimate things, as the soul vivifies
the body. A dull, undistinguishable field or hamlet may chance to be
taken for a battle-field, and so become the Mecca for innumerable
pilgrims. When some sluggish rivulets, marshes, woods and sand-
hills, and a stretch of low lake shore grow into the place of joy and
sorrow, hope and fear, life and death, for thousands or millions, then
* In 1877 Cecil Barnes, of Chicago, in company with the village priest. Father Jacker, found this long-lost tomb;
unearth'ng some wrought nails, a hinge, a large piece of birch bark anJ two human bones. (Hist. Sac. Doc.)
THE EIGHTEENTH CENTURY.
every yard of its surface, every year of its past, takes on an interest of
its own. If the people had never come, the place would never have
emerged from its obscurity. As it is, we linger long and lovingly over
its beginnings, as we should do, if we could, over a tale of the first
stumbling steps and imperfect accents, the early haps and mishaps,
pleasures and pains of a Shakespeare or an Abraham Lincoln.
With the disappearance of the very first comers, occurs almost a
hiatus in the Story of Chicago. The curtain falls, and for nearly a cen-
tury what play there is takes place behind the scenes. But a busy life
was going on just below the southwestern horizon, and, thanks to the
Chicago Historical Society, and especially to its latest president, Mr.
Edward Mason, we are not without means of studying it and construct-
ing a chain of events and persons, link by link, connecting the portage
of 1673 with the metropolis of 1890.
Mr. Mason says (Fergus' Historical Series, No. 12) :
When Father Marquette returned from his adventurous voyage upon the Mississippi in 1673,
by the way of the Illinois, he found on that river a village of the Illinois tribe, containing seventy-
four cabins, which was called Kaskaskia.
Its inhabitants received him well, and ob-
tained from him a promise to return and
instruct them. He kept that promise
faithfully, undaunted by disease and toil-
some journeys and inclement weather,
and, after a rude wintering by the Chi-
cago- river, reached the Illinois village
again, April 8, 1675. The site of this
Indian settlement has since been identi-
fied with the great meadow south of the
modern town of Utica in the State of
Illinois and nearly opposite to the tall
cliff, soon after known as Fort St. Louis
and in later times as Starved Rock.
RIVER MAP.
Marquette started the mission, and gave it the name of the " Immacu-
late Conception of the Virgin," doubtless relying on her divine protec-
tion. Nevertheless, it led a chequered life, for the terrible Eastern
Indians (the five nations we knew so well in the valleys of the Mohawk
and theGenesee, the Tonawanda and Alleghany) disdaining opposition,
human or divine, came westward and wiped off the face of the earth the
mission and almost the whole tribe of friendly Illinois. It seems as if
Heaven itself could not withstand the devilish Iroquois ! It was after
this raid, that La Salle, returning to the place where he had left a great,
prosperous, peaceful settlement, found only desolation and the unburied
bodies of the dead.
About 1700, the mission, with its surviving Indian adherents, moved
down the Illinois and the Mississippi to a new location ; a river which
enters the Mississippi some 100 miles above the junction of the
Kaskaskia in
the North.
28
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Ohio, and south of where St. Louis now stands. To this river and settle-
ment was also given the name of Kaskaskia, and confusion has arisen
through the possession of the same name by places 300 miles apart.
Father James Gravier set out from Chicago on the 8th of Septem-
ber, 1700, for the Kaskaskias on the Illinois, and found that village on
the point of migrating southward under Father Marest.
Father Gravier studied the Indian tongue and reduced to a system
such grammatical rules as could be traced out. Father Marest has left
Kaskaskia ii
theSout'-..
BUFFALO ROCK.
us one of the rare bits of real knowledge we possess regarding the true
state of the relations which existed between the missionaries and the
savages. He says :
Our life is passed in roaming through thick forests, in clambering over the mountains, in
paddling the canoe across lakes and rivers, to catch a single poor savage who flies from us and
whom we can tame neither by teachings nor caressings .... Nothing is more difficult than the
conversion of these Indians. It is a miracle of the Lord's mercy. (Moses' Hist. 111., vol. i, p. 89.)
In 1718 the French sent an expedition under a Canadian gentle-
man named Boisbriant, holding the office of Commandant of the Illinois,
to erect a fort near Kaskaskia. The expedition came by way of Mobile
and the Mississippi ; selected a point 16 miles north of Kaskaskia,
built the fort and named it Fort Chartres, after a branch of the Royal
family of France. There were mission and parish records kept both of
Kaskaskia and at Fort Chartres, and these records, or the perishing
remains of them, were unearthed and rescued from rapidly encroaching
destruction in 1880 by the enterprise of Mr Mason; and it is to the
hints they contain, supplemented by isolated remarks in histories,
THE EIGHTEENTH CENTURY.
29
biographies and accounts of voyages and travels, that we owe what we
know of Chicago and its surroundings in the i8th century.
If the Kaskas-
kia Mission had
remained in its old
place, only some
80 miles down the
Illinois Valley,
then our grasp
upon the two-
branched stream-
let would be firmer
and more con-
stant. But the
Mission went
away to the south-
ward, and, what is
worse, opened
new and nearer
avenues to the
sea. Mobile and
New Orleans were
the most acces-
sible ports;
through them
"John Law's Mis-
sissippi Scheme"
took a hand in
settling the great
valley, and by its
aid there grew up
even in Kaskaskia
and FortChartres
an excitement
which, it is safe to
say, was the very
first "town lot
boom" in all
Western America. Most of us have heard of John Law's bubble;
know that its iridescence shone on Illinois.
Even intercourse with Canada found an easier route than via
Chicago. It was down the Mississippi to the Ohio, up the Ohio to the
FRENCH SETTLEMENT.
Scheme,
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Sew road to
the sea.
THE SCALP.
" Ouabache " (Wabash), up the Wabash to some point (probably near
Huntington, Ind.) where portage could be made to the head waters of
the Maumee, down the latter to Lake Erie and so on to the Niagara,
Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence. But the main intercourse with
the outside world was by way of New Orleans, and
every year bateaux laden with Illinois staples
floated gaily down the current, consigned to John
Law's " Compagnie de 1'Occident " or its successor
the " Compagnie de 1'Inde." Flour, bacon, pork,
hides, tallow, wines (highwines?), leather, lumber-
how familiar it sounds ! A hundred and fifty years
have changed the direction, destination, manner
and mass of our trade but not the material.
The Indians were persistently murderous and
predatory. Their apologists say we had no right
to their lands. Not so. In the first place we had
the same right to the lands that they had; the right
of conquest. What claim had any tribe to as much
waste as they could roam over once a year, except
that it had destroyed a weaker tribe and taken its territory ? The priority
of claim at the moment of La Salle's arrival was with the Illinois.
Soon they were causelessly attacked and ruthlessly slaughtered by the
Iroquois ; and a little later, for the very reason that they were wounded
and helpless, the Sacs and Foxes fell upon them and completed their
ruin. Should we then look on the title of the Sacs and Foxes, so law-
lessly and cruelly acquired, as a sacred right, not to be disputed even
when our allies, the surviving Illinois, were on our side?
In the second place, we had a kind of right, which is above and
beyond the Indian nature ; the right of agricultural employment; the
right which inheres in the many to gain support on the best part of the
earth's surface, even though the few should try to exclude them from it.
Indian idleness disdains to dig ; asks that a square mile or more shall
be allotted to each savage in order that he may, without labor, live on
its spontaneous yield. The answer is, No ! He that will not work,
neither shall he eat. The greatest good of the great number shall ore-
vail.
They must swallow their own medicine. Let him who taketh the
sword, perish by the sword. Suppose, for a moment, that those dogs
in the manger had been allowed to tear each other to pieces, and the
ever-changing victors among them to rule and ruin what they coulu
spoil rather than use, while we, the strongest of all stood by like the
patient ass, "respecting their rights !' Rcductio ad absurdum.
E
X
32 THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
The records of distant, isolated Kaskaskia throw little gleams of a
lurid light on the state of things:
In 1722, an entry is made which strikingly illustrates the perils which beset the people in that
little village, on the great river which was their only means of communication with the nearest set-
tlements, hundreds of miles away. It reads as follows: " The news comes this day of the death of
Alexis Blaye and Laurent Bransart, who were slain upon the Mississippi by the Chickasaws. The
day of their death is not known." Then in a different ink, as if written at another time, is added
Indian Atroci- below: " It was the 5th or 6th of March, 1722." And this state of things is sadly emphasized by the
entry immediately following: "The same year, on the 22d of June, was celebrated in the parish
church of the Kaskaskias, a solemn service for the repose of the soul of the lady Michelle Chauvin,
wife of Jacques Nepven, merchant, of Montreal, aged about 45 years, and of Jean Michelle Nepven,
aged 20 years, and Elizabeth Nepven, aged 13 years, and Susanne Nepven, aged 8 years, her chil-
dren. They were slain by the savages from 5 to 7 leagues from the Wabash." ..." In
1724, the I2th of April, were s'.ain at break of day by the Fox Indians, four men, to wit: Pierre Du
Vaud, Pierre Bascau, and two others." (Mason's " Illinois in the i8th century.")
Sad it is to confess that in taking what we must, what it was our
duty to take, we have often been untruthful, unfaithful, deceitful and
cruel. But compared with their immemorial treatment of each other,
our deceit has been spotless candor, our cruelty heavenly mercy. Not
that this is a justification; it is but an apology, and a poor one.
In spite of the diversion of the channels of trade, "Chicagou"
was before the eyes of the settlers. About 1725 the pestilent Sacs and
Foxes having grown bolder and bolder in their murderous raids, even
killing settlers close to Fort Chartres ; its commandant, De Siette,
wrote to De Lignerie, commandant at Green Bay, urging a combined
attack, whereby the Fox tribe should be exterminated. De Lignerie
answered saying that this would be well, provided that the Foxes did not
exterminate us in the attempt, and suggesting a meeting for conference
"at Chicagua or the Rock" (Starved Rock on the Illinois), which
indicates that there was a settlement or trading-post here then. The
outcome is shown in the words of Mr. Mason :
Soon the French authorities adopted the views of the, commandant at the Illinois (De Siette),
and the Marquis de Bjauharnois (grandfather of the Empress Josephine), then commanding in
Canada, notified him to join the Canadian forces at Green Bay, in 1728, to make war upon the
Foxes. A battle ensued, at which the Illinois Indians, headed by the French, were victorious. But
Chicatrua for a hostilities continued until De Siette's successor, by a masterly piece of strategy, waylaid and
Rendezvous, destroyed so many of the persistent foemen, that peace reigned for a time.
Du Pratz, an old French writer (quoted by Andreas' Hist. Chicago,
vol. i, p. 69), a resident of Louisiana from 1718 to 1734, says of the
"Chicagou" or Illinois route in 1757:
" Such as come from Canada, and have business only on the Illinois, pass that way yet ; but
such as want to go directly to the sea go down the Wabache to the Ohio, and from thence to the
Mississippi." He predicts, also, that unless some curious person shall go to the north of the Illinois
river in search of mines " where they are said to be in great numbers and very rich," that region
" will not soon come to the knowledge of the French."
Well, the lead deposits of Galena and the coal at La Salle were
searched for and exploited, and, for these reasons and others, it happens
that the Chicago portage is not lost sight of even to this day.
THE EIGHTEENTH CENTURY. jj
It is well for our sympathetic hearts that the curtain of oblivion,
shutting out this epoch, is almost impenetrable. Even so, we can see
and hear quite enough — the glare of burning cottages, the sharp crack
of the rine, the. twang of the bow-string, the savage war-cry, " Hu-hu-hu-
hu !" * of the Indian ; the shriek upon shriek of the tortured victim ; the
swaggering " brave " flaunting fresh, bloody scalps covered with the gray
hair of old age ; the long, soft lock of woman ; the short, silky curls of the
child, new born, or unborn. The thought of these things makes us glad
that the i8th century is past and that we are not in it or of it.
The royal game of war went on in Europe and the cards ran
against France. So it chanced that Canada and the Illinois country,
thrown into the jack-pot, passed to the English gfamester. In KaskaskiaEngiishsu
J _ & 6 French.
lived one Chevalier de Rocheblave ; an officer in the French army who
fought against Braddock and "Monsieur Wachenston," in 1755. He
was part of the force of Louis XV., surrendered with Fort Chartres, in
1765, and later (1778), appeared as commander under George III. to
surrender Kaskaskia to a greater George, George Rogers Clark ; a
soldier of the nation of the greatest George who ever lived, George
Washington, as will appear in the next chapter.
* Judge Caton describes the war-whoop as a shrill, unearthly, falsetto yell, broken by rapid blows of the open hand
upon the open mouth.
COLBERT, THE GREAT FRENCH MINISTER.
Red Coat, 1812.
England's
savage Ames.
CHAPTER V.
ILLINOIS AND CHICAGO DURING THE
REVOLUTIONARY WAR.
ETROIT, founded early in the last century
and ceded to England in 1763, was the
headquarters of her alliance with the
Indians against us in the war of the
Revolution.
Vain is it for English historians
to treat lightly that infamous alliance.
Did she know their nature and their
manner of warfare ? Yes ; Lieut. Gov.
Abbott (English) wrote to Gen. Carle-
ton (English) against their employ-
ment. Did she engage them to fight ? Surely : She had no
other use for them. Then to fight whom ? Civilized warfare is
waged solely against armed forces ; where was the armed force against
which these savages were to act ? Gates, Schuyler and Arnold at Sar-
atoga ? Washington on the Delaware? Marion in the Carolinas?
Absurd ! The nearest of these was 800 miles away. The royal orders
were "to drive back the settlers across the Alleghanies." (Roosevelt,
Vol. II, p. 5.) But why drive back the settlers if they were, as Britain
claimed, British subjects? And what does the driving back of settlers
by savages mean?
Carnage!
The English commandant at Detroit was Colonel Henry Hamil-
ton, Lieutenant Governor of the Northwestern region, which included
all the British possessions outside of the Colonies and of Canada ; in
other words, from the Ohio river to Lake Superior. Hamilton, who was
nicknamed bythe "buckskins"( frontiersmen), the " hair-buyer general,"
avers that he did all that he could to induce the Indians to bring in pris-
oners instead of scalps, but he does not pretend that he succeeded.
Scalps were certainly publicly bought and sold in Detroit while he com-
manded the red-coats and their worthy allies, the red-skins, and the
Haldimand mss. tell of his receiving scalps with solemnity at the coun-
cils held to greet the war parties when they returned from successful
raids.*
*A tale is preserved of one savage swindler who, by dividing a large scalp into two, got »so aoiece for them.
ILLINOIS AND CHICAGO DURING THE REVOLUTION. jj
Red death marked their pathway. In case of defeat, happy was
the man who fell and died; woeful the fate of him who was captured alive.
Colonel William Crawford, who commanded an unsuccessful expedi-
tion against the British and Indians, was tortured slowly to death in the
presence of one fellow prisoner and one white man (Simon Girty) who
was an officer commanding the Indians for the English. These men
describe poor Crawford's death — heaven forbid that we should even
copy the description.
Roosevelt says:
The captured women and little ones were driven far off exterior. The weak among them, the
young children and the women heavy with child, were tomahawked and scalped as soon as their
steps faltered. The able bodied, who could stand the terrible fatigue and reached the journey's end, (jm2je an<j
suffered various fates. Some were burned at the stake, others were sold to the French or British Clybourne
traders and long afterwards made their escape or were ransomed by their relatives. Still others were
kept in the Indian camps, the women becoming the slaves or wives of the warriors, while the chil-
dren were adopted into the tribe and grew up precisely like their little redskinned playmates.*
It happens that we of Chicago have some direct connections with
one of these Indian massacres and captivities. To quote Andreas'
History of Chicago (Vol. I, p. 73):
Isaac McKinzie and his family were living in Giles County, Virginia, near the Kanawha
River. A band of Shawnees from Ohio, in one of their hostile incursions, attacked his cabin, which
they destroyed, and murdered all his family except his two daughters — Margaret, a little girl of ten,
and Elizabeth, two years younger. The girls were carried captive to the great village of the tribe at
Chillicothe, where they were kept in charge of the chief. After about ten years of captivity they
were taken, or found their way, to Detroit. Margaret becanr.e the wife of John Kinzie and the
mother of his three elder children, William, James and Elizabeth. . . . Elizabeth subsequently mar-
ried Jonas Clybourne, of Virginia, the fruit of this union being two sons. Archibald and Henley. . . .
Archibald Clybourne reached Chicago, August 5, 1823.
Descendants of both the captive girls are still among us and we
shall have occasion to speak of them in due course. In the meantime
" Kinzie street " and " Clybourne avenue " may keep us in mind of this
link connecting us with the days of Indian war, massacre and captivity.
One word more concerning the connection between civilized Eng-
land and the savage tribes. Such an alliance is more than wicked ; it is
unmanly, unsoldierly, cowardly in its employment of others to do cow-
ardly acts. It should be classed with poisoning the enemies' drinking
water, firing hot shot at their hospital, or hanging the bearer of their
flag of truce. No more disgraceful story can be found in English his-
tory from its first page to its latest, even including the spoliation of India
and the "opium war" with China.
Turn we from this matter, which makes us ashamed of our lineage,
to a pleasanter, more honorable and more distinguished and important
narrative ; the story of one of our real home-born heroes, George
* Occasionally we come across records of the women's afterward making theirescape. Very rarely they took their
half-breed babies with them. De Haas mentions one such case where the husband, though he received his wife well_
always hated the copper-colored addition to his family. The latter, by the way, grew up a thoroughbred Indian, could
not be educated, and finally ran away, joined the Revolutionary army and was never heard of afterwards.
j6 THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Rogers Clark, after whom our great thoroughfare, Claik street, is
named, a fact unknown to many Chicagoans of all ages.
Clark, Daniel Boone, John Todd and others like them, were the
first settlers of Kentucky and wrested that garden of the earth from the
human wild-cats that had made it
their fighting-ground from time im-
memorial. Needless to say that they
hated everything Indian with a holy
hatred. Clark seems to have had
the most ambition, the most patriot-
ism and the broadest grasp of mind
of any of these bold Kentuckians.
The others were content to defend
themselves and their fire-sides from
the lurking foe ; he looked outward
.and planned achievements of wider
From "Cyclopedia of United State. Hl.tory.-'-Copytinht. SCOpC and of TCSultS which W6 3rC
18«l, by Harper * Brother!.
DANIEL BOONE. enjoying to-day.
In 1778 Clark traveled all the way from Kentucky to the James
River, to lay before Patrick Henry, Virginia's first governor, a plan for
seizing Fort Chartres, Kaskaskia, Vincennes and perhaps Detroit itself,
and so adding to Virginia all the country northwest of the Ohio. He
told of the outrages of the Indians under English influence, and prom-
Kemuckians jn ised the sympathy and support of the Kentuckians and other settlers
who still survived, all embittered to the last extent and all good fighters.
He added that the Kaskaskia settlement, being French, was surrounded
by friendly Indians.* Also that among the French themselves we
should find a most friendly feeling, especially when they should be
apprised of the alliance with France just then accomplished by
Franklin.
Virginia gave Clark arms, ammunition and supplies, a commission
as colonel, and leave to recruit men where he could. She also gave
John Todd, of Kentucky, the appointment of "County Lieutenant, or
Commandant of theCounty of Illinois," and a letter of instructions under
Patrick Henry's own hand, as we shall see hereafter.
Clark made the long tramp across the Alleghanies, down the
Monongahela and the Ohio, at the Falls whereof (Louisville) he paused
to perfect his arrangements. Then he started once more down the river,
but quitted it before reaching the Mississippi, knowing that the enemy
* The savages, though always treacherous, never felt the ferocity against the French which they cherished towards
the rest of the pale faces They murdered many a " robe noir "—black-coat, alias Jesuit— but not every one they could lay
their hands on.
ILLINOIS AND CHICAGO DURING THE REVOLUTION. 37
would be on his guard on that side. He landed at old Fort Massac
(then deserted), and struck across the woods and prairies of southern
Illinois, arriving on the Kaskaskia River, three miles above the town, on
July 4, 1778. To quote Roosevelt again :
They kept in the woods till it grew dark and then silently marched to a little farm a mile from
lh-. town. The family were taken prisoners, and from them it was learned that the townspeople
wer^ then off their guard Rocheblave, the Creole commandant, was sincerely attached
to the British interest He had under his orders two or three times as many men as
Clark, and he certainly would have made a good fight if he had not been surprised. It was only
Clark's audacity and the noiseless speed of h!s movements that gave him a chance of success. . .
Inside the fort the lights were lit, and through the windows came the sound of violins. The
officers of the post had given a ball, and the mirth-loving Creoles, young men and girls, were dancing
and reveiing within, while the sentinels had left their posts Advancing into the great
hall where the revel was held, Clark leaned silently, with folded arms, against the door-post, looking
at the dancers. An Indian lying on the floor of the entry gazed intently on the stranger's face as the
light from the torches within flashed across it, and suddenly sprang to his feel, uttering the unearthly
warwhoop, "Hu — hu — hu — hu!" Instantly the dancing ceased; the women screamed, while the men
ran toward the door. But Clark, standing unmoved and with unchanged face, grimly bade them
continue their dancing, but to remember that they now danced under Virginia and not Great
Britain.
This picturesque and dramatic scene is told as taken down from
the lips of Clark himself, some ten years or so after the event.
The simple Kaskaskians had been taught to dread the " buckskins"
as rather more terrible than the redskins themselves, and Clark pur-
posely left them that whole night in their terror and confusion, while he
took captive Rocheblave and all his forces. Next morning a deputation
of the chief men waited on Clark, only daring to beg for their lives,
which they did, says Clark, "with the greatest servancy [saying], that
they were willing to be slaves to save their families." They were vastly
relieved to find their captors soldiers and gentlemen, bringing not slav-
ery, slaughter and spoliation, but freedom and citizenship to all who
would accept it.
Doubtless the Catholic church had been closed during the Eng-
lish rule, and when Clark told the priest (Gibault), in answer to his
question, that " An American commander had nothing to do with any
church except to save it from insult, and that by the laws of the Republic
his religion had as great privileges as any other," the volatile Creoles
"returned in noisy joy to their families, while the priest, a man of ability
and influence, became thenceforth a devoted and effective champion of
the American cause." — (Roosevelt.)
The news, through Clark, of the alliance between France and
America, and the enthusiastic advocacy of Clark's new friends, soon
converted Cahokia; and Pere Gibault volunteered to go to Vincennes,
on the Wabash, to get his fellow-Frenchmen to join the Americans,
their natural allies. No sooner said than done; on August i, 1778, he
returned with the news that the entire population gathered in the church
•Go on wiih your dancing," said Clark, "but remember—" faftJ7.
ILLINOIS AND CHICAGO DURING THE REVOLUTION. 39
to hear him had taken the oath of allegiance, and that the American
flag- floated over the fort.
But where, meanwhile, are Hamilton and his forces?
Encouraged by the great and wicked success of his war-parties, he
had planned an attack on Fort Pitt (Pittsburgh), but the startling news
of Clark's seizure of his own outposts put an end to all thoughts of seiz-
ing ours. He must retake Vincennes, first, to interpose between Clark
and his base in Virginia. From Vincennes he could easily sally forth
against the presumptuous Clark and wipe him out. The Indians must
all be aroused to fresh scalp-hunting. Even distant Mackinaw and St.
Joseph, on Lake Michigan, were notified to incite the lake Indians to
harass the Illinois country.
Now for a glimpse of Chicago.
At this time (1778) and for some years before, Jean Baptiste
Point de Saible was living on the Chicago river at a point now covered
by Kirk's huge soap factory; close to the corner of Pine and Kinzie
streets. Of him Colonel Arent Schuyler De Puyster, commandant
at Mackinaw, writes (July 4, 1779): "Baptiste Point de Saible, a hand-
some negro, well settled at 'Eschikagou, but much in the French inter-
est." Elsewhere in his volume of " Miscellanies" De Puyster writes :Cnicago from
1778 to 1794.
" Eschikagou is a river and fort at the head of Lake Michigan." Point
de Saible was a Haytien mulatto who, with a friend named Glamorgan,
came north and lived with the Peoria Indians up to about 1779, when
he came to his Chicago home. Andreas (Hist. Chicago, Vol. i, p. 71)
says: " Here he lived until i 796 — seventeen years. All that is known
of his life during that long period is gathered from the 'Recollections'
of Augustin Grignon, of Butte des Morts, near Oshkosh, and published
in the third volume of the Wisconsin Historical Society's collections."
Mr. Grignon says:
At a very early period there was a negro lived there (Chicago) named Baptiste Point de Saible.
My brother, Perish Grignon, visted Chicago about 1794, and told me that Point de Saible was a large
man ; that he had a commission (or some office, but for what particular office I can not now recollect.
He was a trader, pretty wealthy, and drank freely. I know not what became of him.
About all that can be added to the few particulars related above is
that in 1796 he sold his cabin to one Le Mai, a French trader and
returned to Peoria, where he died at the home of his old friend Glamor-
gan.
This cabin Le Mai sold to John Kinzie in 1804. So do we touch
home once more after one century and a quarter of wanderings.
Point de Saible's trading-post was necessarily one of the settle-
ments Hamilton ordered to be harried. Indeed the Haldimand mss.*
*Sir Frederick Haldimand succeeded Sir Guy Carleton as Governor of Canada in 1778. He is best known as Gen-
era] Hal Hmand. H's papers were presented to the British Museum in 1857 by his grand-nephew William Haldimand;
and copies are now in the Canadian Archives at Ottawa.
40 , THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
speak of an effort made at about this time to prevent a settlement at
Chicago. But Point de Saible seems bravely or cunningly to have
stood his ground and to have out-stayed the harassers. A favorite old-
time Chicago joke is that her first white inhabitant was a black man.
At least he was not a scalper, nor the ally of scalpers, as we see by De
Puyster's unfriendly allusion.
Now, in September, 1778, Hamilton, " hairbuyer-general," and his
red hair-lifters, begin their grand task of exterminating George Rogers
Clark and the " buckskins." The first step is the recovery of Vincennes.
See the conquering hero comes !
He led the main body in person, and throughout September every soul in Detroit was busy
from morning till night in mending boats, baking biscuit, packing provisions in kegs and bags, pre-
paring artillery stores and in every way making ready for the expedition Fifteen large bateaux
and pirogues were procured ; these were to carry the ammunition, food, clothing, tents, and espe-
cially the presents for the Indians. Cattle and wheels were sent ahead to the most important port-
ages on the route to be traversed ; a six pounder gun was also forwarded. (Roosevelt.)
Thanks, Colonel Hamilton ; you were unconsciously bringing
Colonel Clark just the things he needed. To be sure, your force oust-
nurrtbered ours three to one, for you had a herd of Indians on your side,
but, on the other hand, on our side were Clark and the " Buckskins," as
Hamilton takesY011 shortly found out, to your cost.
The trip was uneventful ; but one little circumstance crops out in
the narrative worth remarking. Their course was down the Detroit
river, across Lake Erie, and into the Maumee river at its mouth
(Toledo), then up the Maumee until within nine miles of the head
waters of navigation on the Wabash — about Huntington, Ind. Roose-
velt quotes Hamilton's '• Brief Account" as follows:
This stream was so low that the boats could not have gone down it had it not been for a beaver
dam four miles below the landing, which backed up the current. A passage was cut through the
dam to let the boats pass. The traders and Indians thoroughly appreciated the help given them at
this difficult part of the course by the engineering skill of the beavers and none of the
beavers of this particular dam were ever molested, being left to keep their dam in order and repair
It, which they always speedily did whenever it was damaged
Vincennes fell into Hamilton's hands, without a fight, just seventy-
one days after he left Detroit, being only defended by the local Creole
militia. His spies brought him word that Clark had only 1 10 men under
him. Had the commanders been reversed, the larger force would have
hurried on to Kaskaskia and captured the smaller in short order. But the
way was long, the country flooded and the winter severe. Besides, as
Hamilton was firmly established between Clark and his home base, why
should he not, instead of climbing the thorny tree, wait till the fruit
should fall ? He intended to make a grand campaign in the spring. He
would rouse the Southern Indians, the bloody Chickasaws, Cherokees
and Creeks; and he himself, re-inforced from Detroit, would take the
ILLINOIS A.VD C dIC AGO DURING THE REVOLUTION. 41
field with 1,000 men, re-conquer Illinois, sweep Kentucky and destroy
all settlements west of the Alleghanies — perhaps take Fort Pitt itself!
But his " spring" never came. Clark made a spring of his own — a
tiger spring. He had had no reinforcements or supplies, nor so much as
"a scrip of the pen" from Virginia since he left Governor Henry a year
before; nor did he need any. On February 7, 17/9, he marched out of
Kaskaskia at the head of a Spartan band of 1 70 men, to travel across
the snowy wastes, the dismal forests, the half-frozen floods, 240 miles to
surprise a fort held by the enemy's chief commander, with infantry,
artillery and abundant supplies. The buckskins had no tents, but passed
the nights around huge camp-fires, where they feasted on the game they
had killed during the day; on bear's ham, buffalo hump, elk-saddle, venison
haunch, wild turkey breast, etc.* This was not bad; but when they came to
the flooded lands of the Little Wabash, their trials were fearful. The two
branches of the stream were now in one, five miles wide, and three feet
deep in the shallowest part of the plains over which they flowed. Clark
built a pirogue, and on they waded, ferrying where the stream was over
,ii -i rr i i ill! ii. Clark's Winter
chin-deep. He built a scanold to hold the baggage and the weaklings March.
who gave out, until he could send back
the pirogue to go on with the job
of ferrying them over. On the 1 7th
they reached the Embarras [our "Am-
bro"], but could not cross, nor could
they find a dry spot on which to camp.
At last they found the water falling off
a small, almost submerged hillock, and
on this they huddled through the
night. At day-break they heard Hamil-
ton's morning gun from the fort.
They did not dare to fire a shot for
fear of warning the enemy of their
coming, and on the morning of the
2Oth the men had been without food for
nearly two days, "drenched, weary and dispirited." They captured a
small boat with five Frenchmen, and learned the welcome news that no
suspicions had been aroused at the fort. In the evening they killed a
deer — just in time. On the 2ist, in a continual rain, they ferried across
the Wabash. The captured Frenchmen said they could not possibly
proceed, but Clark led the way in person for about three miles, the
water often up to their chins, and camped on a hillock for the night.
Another day of similar struggle, " the strongest wading painfully
* Everywhere in the early French narratives (see Margry, etc.) there occurs mention of the Wild turkey; " faulct
tfittdt" as they called them, and " dindon" is French for turkey to this day.
From " Cyclopedia of United State* Hist-try. "—Copyright,
1,1-1. by Harrwr A Hrntber*.
GEO. ROGERS CLARK.
42 THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
through the water, the weak and famished in the canoes." A journal
(whereof a copy is still in existence) ends, " No provisions yet. Lord help
us !" Heavy frost that night, ice forming an inch thick. " But the sun
rose bright and glorious, and Clark, in burning words, told his stiffened,
famishing, half-frozen followers that the evening would surely see them
at the goal of their hopes. Without waiting for an answer he plunged
into the water and they followed him, with a cheer, in Indian file. On a
spot of dry land, the strong and tall get ashore, build great fires and go
back for the exhausted; and a captured Indian canoe "manned" by
three squaws, gives them half a quarter of buffalo, with some corn,
tallow and kettles; — just in time again!
Finally they came to a copse of timber from which they saw the
town and fort not two miles off ! Clark, with characteristic courage and
decision, determined to summon the town, so he sent a letter to the
people of Vincennes by a stray French citizen whom they caught out
shooting ducks. The French Creoles took Clark's proclamation and
discussed it eagerly, but did not warn the garrison. Clark marched
into the place at seven in the evening, and the firing began at once.
Then, as soon as the moon set, Clark had an entrenchment thrown up
anduke?ts within rifle shot of the strongest battery, and as soon as dawn made the
guns visible, sharp-shooters made them indefensible. He summoned
the fort at noon, using the time of truce to get breakfast, the first reg-
ular meal they had had for six days. Hamilton declined to surrender,
and the firing began again, the backwoods men vainly beseeching Clark
to let them storm the fort. During the fray a party of Hamilton's
Indians returned to the town from a successful scalping expedition,
whereupon the " buckskins" fell upon them and killed or captured nine;
and Clark, to strike terror to the besieged and to express his views of
the scalping business, had six of the miscreants led out in view of the
fort, tomahawked and thrown into the river.
In the afternoon the fort surrendered. Hamilton and the rest of
the officers were sent to Virginia as prisoners of war, the others were
paroled, the spoils of war amounting to tens of thousands of pounds
sterling were distributed among the soldiers, who "got almost rich," and
Vincennes, Kaskaskia and all the lands so acquired have been ours
from that day to this.
That was the winter passed by Washington and his Continentals at
Valley Forge with so much fortitude, suffering and loss. An enthu-
siast has said that Valley Forge was child's play compared with the cap-
ture of Vincennes, and surely he was not without reasonable grounds for
his belief. At any rate we Westerners should never beat a loss to know
ILLINOIS AND CHICAGO DURING THE REVOLUTION.
43
"Why Clark street — Clark County — Clarksville ? What Clark do
they refer to ? "
George Rogers Clark, sometimes called " The American Hanni-
& O
bal," was a natural frontier fighter, like Standish, Boone, Marion, Todd,
Kenton, John Brown and a thousand others whose names are passing
VALLEY FORGE.
or passed away. They were men bred by their dangers to be fearless, by
their privations to be stoical, by their toils to be tireless and by their
sacrifices to be patriotic. Coming of the world's most aggressive race,
they were shaped by hard environments into the sharpest form.
Clark's later days were embittered by what he considered unjust
treatment on the part of Virginia and the United States. He had had
certain large land grants made to him, and claimed, besides, reimburse-
» 11 TT'*'ii/n\ ill Anecdote about
ments for certain outlays and losses. Virginia had (i 782) ceded the
Northwest territory (now Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan and Wis-
consin) to the United States, and averred, with seeming reason, that
Clark's claims should be paid by the party that profited by his services.
The General Government took the opposite view, and between the two
stools the claimant fell to the ground — or at least was never satisfied in
full.
The legislature of Virginia voted a sword of honor to Clark and
commissioners were appointed to present it. It is related (probably
with truth) that on being apprised of their approach the old veteran, in
full regimentals, limped out (he had a wound in the hip) and took a
stately position on his grounds fronting the Ohio. He heard their
presentation address, grasped the sword, drew it from the scabbard,
44 THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
stuck the point in the ground, shivered the blade and threw the hilt afar
into the river, saying: " What I want from Virginia is not compliments,
but justice. Go back to them that sent you and tell them I
said so."*
It is scarcely going too far to say that it is to George R. Clark we
owe the fact that we are to-day other than a Canadian city. If Hamil-
ton's territory had remained inviolate, what plea could our Commission-
ers at the treaty of Versailles have made for the Detroit river as a
boundary ?
A century of gratitude makes dim the faults of a benefactor.
To-day we do not ask whether George Rogers Clark passed his later
years in drink and the breaking of most of the ten commandments.
We remember his benefactions ; and as to his failings — well, we wish
either that he had been not quite so blamable or his judges not quite so
critical (we do not care much which), so that he might have lived with-
out disappointment and died without bitterness.
John Todd, Clark's fellow-soldier at Kaskaskia and Vincennes, and
later, by Governor Patrick Henry's warrant, "County Lieutenant or
Commandant of the County of Illinois," was killed in the battle of the
Blue Licks, Kentucky, fought by Todd, Daniel Boone, Thomas Mar-
T(Gove?norflrst shall (father of Chief Justice Marshall), and their brother Kentuckians,
against a superior force of Indians. Says an eye-witness: "When last
seen he was reeling in his saddle while the blood gushed in profusion
from his wounds."
Patrick Henry's commission and long letter of instructions to Todd
were written on the first five pages of a blank book which was dispatched
by a trusty messenger who carried it from Williamsburg, then capital of
Virginia, across the Alleghanies to Fort Pitt, and thence down the Ohio
till it found Todd, probably at Vincennes just after its capture by Clark
and the rest. Todd kept the precious book and used the unwritten part
of it to record his proceedings as Governor, his trials and troubles, his
doings and dealings.
Should not such a volume, however old and worn, be interesting to
every Chicagoan ? Should he not look at it with a thrill of respect for its
venerable pages and of gratitude to the great souls of i 776 ?
All who answer " Yes" to these questions can testify to their inter-
est, and secure to themselves a keen delight by simply calling at the
« George Rogers Clark left no children. His brother William was the man who explored the way to Oregon in
1804 in what is known as " The Lewis and Clark expedition." William's grandson, Charles Jeffers in Cl irk. ii a frontiers-
man, as becomes his ancestry (but with the modern improvement of a scientific education) and is a frequent and welcome
visiior in Chicago. He confirms the sword stjry regarding his grand-uncle, but insists on a slight modification as to
the destruction of the sword, for he says t^e weapon, unbroken, has descended to his own possession.
ILLINOIS AND CHICAGO DURING THE REVOLUTION. 45
rooms of the Historical Society, corner of Dearborn avenue and Ontario
street, where the very book itself is in keeping, and where Judge Moses,
the custodian, is proud to display it, together with thousands of other
relics and mementoes of the great days past but not forgotten.
GEORGE THIRD.
The Wa
land0"
CHAPTER VI.
THE DAWN OF THE DAY WE LIVE IN.
i AND speculation began early George
Washington, while Colonial Surveyor for
Virginia, made notes of desirable tracts
and devoted his earnings to their pur-
chase, to the entire satisfaction of all con-
cerned ; thus laying the foundations of
his fine fortune, that wealth which enabled
him to serve his country without pay, as
he did all through the Revolutionary War.
Another kind of speculation was the
purchase, or attempted purchase, from
the Indians, of unsurveyed lands. Thomas Lee, Lawrence and Augus-
tine Washington (relatives of George) and others formed the "Ohio
Company," which aimed to get control of a large tract south of the
Ohio river, in the Kanawha valley region, now part of West Virginia.
^i^^M^H^^^^B^
From " C'yHop».1i* of United StttM History." — Copyright,
1881, by Harper A Hrothen.
• -""\W- ^^
From "Cyclopedia of UmKil SUM HUtory."— Copyright.
IStil.by Harp«r A Brother*.
LAWRENCE WASHINGTON. WILLIAM AUGUSTINE WASHINGTON.
Still another case was that of the grant applied for (1772) by Thomas
VValpole, Benjamin Franklin and others for land for which ten thousand
four hundred and sixty pounds were paid to the Six Nations Indians
under the Fort Stanwix Treaty.
16
THE DA WN OF THE DA Y WE LIVE IN. 47
All these glittering plans were crushed by the breaking out of the
Revolutionary War, and the investors lost largely.
Even the far West, our own present habitation, was the scene of a
great and determined effort to secure control of lands, wherein Chicago
was included. Two companies were formed, one "The Illinois Land
Company" and the other " The Wabash Land Company," both devised
and attempted at Kaskaskia by one William Murray, a name which, if
its owner had succeeded, would be the leading entry in all the tens of
thousands of "Abstracts of Title " with which Chicago lawyers and real
estate men are so familiar.
William Murray was one of the English who came to Kaskaskia
after the surrender of the country by France to England in 1765. In
1 773 he formed " The Illinois Land Company " and for that company
held a council with all the Indians he could muster at Kaskaskia; the
proceedings of which are reported in a pamphlet (now in our Historical
Society), published in Philadelphia in 1796. He gave the Indians a
long list of goods and chattels* and took from them their signature to
a document pretending to describe and convey a tract by metes and
bounds which were really a lot of fictitious lines between points,
some real and some imaginary, which lines after all inclosed nothing.
Our only interest in this so-called purchase lies in the fact that one of
the real points named in the boundary was " Chicagou or Garlick WilliamMurra
Creek." He and his successors pressed this claim before Congress per- trchic'a"Kobuy
sistently until it was finally rejected in 1801; the ground then held and
ever since maintained being:
Deeds obtained by private persons from the Indians, without any antecedent authority, or
subsequent information [confirmation?] from the government, could not vest in the grantees men-
tioned in such deed any title to the lands therein described.
So it all failed and the promoters are heard of no more. William
Murray, first of Chicago real estate agents, met the fate which has since
overtaken many another who made the mistake of "biting off more than
he could chew."
Failing to find our earliest city-father in Murray, we seek elsewhere.
Looking the records over, we conclude that Jean Baptiste Pointe de Chicago's erst
Saible (already named) must hold the ronor of exercising the earliest
ownership which is kept up continuously to our own time ; holding it,
however, by allodial, not feudal tenure ; that is to say, by right of the
plow and not by right of purchase from the lord of the manor or holder
of eminent domain; in our case Virginia up to 1784 and the United
States from that time to the present.
* Here is the curious list: " 250 blankets; 250 strouds [a thick kind of cloth]; 250 pairs of stroud and half-thick
stockings; 150 stroud breech-cloths; 500 pounds cf gunpowder; 4,000 pounds of. lead; one gross of knives; 30 pounds of
vermilion; 2,000 gun flints; 200 piunds of brass kettles; 200 pounds of tobacco; 3 dozen pill looking-classes; ....
10,000 pounds of flour; 500 bushels of Indian corn; u horses; 12 horned cattle; 20 bushels of salt; 20 guns and five shil-
lings in money."
48 THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Another man was here during a part if not the whole of Jean
Baptiste's occupancy; one Guarie, whose trading cabin was on the west
side of the North Branch, near the forks. Guarie's holding was also
allodial, and when the late Gurdon Hubbard came here in 1818 the
remains of the corn-hills cultivated by him were still visible. Moreover,
and Guane. Mr. Hubbard testifies that the North Branch went by the name of
" River Guarie," just as the South Branch was called "Portage River,"
even down to 1800.
Other traders were then here, however, though the place was of far
less importance than St. Joseph, Mich. A St. Joseph trader, named
Burnett, speaks of it casually in letters written in 1790, 1791 and 1798.
In 1791 he gives this suggestive bit of "local color." "The Pottawat-
omies at Chicago have killed a Frenchman about twenty days ago.
They say there is plenty of Frenchmen." *
Pointe de Saible, Le Mai and Guarie have disappeared and left no
sign. Not so another Frenchman who was for a time their contempo-
rary— Antoine Ouillemette. Major Whistler found him here when he
arrived in 1803 to build the first Fort Dearborn. Ouillemette remained
Amoine ouiiie- here and hereabouts for the next thirty years, and was the only white
' inhabitant during the four years following the massacre of 1812. He
lived about the Fort until 1829, with his wife, a Pottawatomie ; when
he obtained, through her, a reservation at Gross Point (Evanston),
which he cultivated until 1835, at which time he moved with the tribe
to Council Bluffs. The fine suburb "Wilmette" perpetuates his name
and marks the place which he fenced and cultivated.
In 1784 Virginia ceded to the United States her rights over the
territory northwest of the Ohio river, and in 1787 the celebrated ordi-
nance was passed by Congress whereby the territorial government was
organized, and certain articles were adopted to be " considered as arti-
cles of compact between the original states and the people and states in
the said territory, forever to remain unalterable unless by common
consent."
Among other things the following principles were announced:
Freedom of opinion in matters of religion; right to the writ of Habeas
Corpus and trial by jury; proportionate representation ; judicial pro-
ceedings according to the common law; bail except for capital offenses
where proof shall be evident or presumption great; no cruel or unusual
punishments.
" No man shall be deprived of his liberty or property but by the judgment of his peers or the
law of the land," and should the public exigencies make it necessary for the common preservation to
take any person's property, or to demand his particular services, full compensation shall be made
for the same.
* For further details, extremely interesting, concerning the "dark hour before the dawn" of Chicago, see
Captain Andreas' mastcily history, 3 vols. 8vo. published by himself in 1884. Also the excellent " Fergus' Historical
Series."
THE DA WN OF THE DA Y IV E LIVE IN. 49
Schools should forever be encouraged. Good faith should be
observed toward the Indians, and their lands and property never be taken
except by their consent. Congress alone should dispose of the public
lands. Non-resident proprietors should not be taxed higher than resi- ordinance of
dents. Navigable waters should be common highways and forever free.
The boundaries of Illinois, Indiana and Ohio were fixed.
Then followed the immortal clause, big with fate, which has shaped
our destiny and must influence it forever.
There shall be neither slavery nor involuntary servitude in the said territory, otherwise than
in the punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted; provided always,
that any person escaping into the same, from whom labor or service is lawfully claimed in any one
of the original states, such fugitive may be lawfully reclaimed and conveyed to the person claiming
his or her labor as aforesaid.
So vital and far-reaching have been the consequences of this
clause in our organic law, that it seems appropriate to reproduce,
with Judge Moses' consent, a fac-simile of the original, in the hand
of Nathan Dane. (Moses1 Hist. 111.)
So far, so good. Here was our paper title ; but more was needed
to make a full title by possession and occupation ; that was yet to cost
a lone struo-ale and many battles. The next step was the treaty of
o Q^ J • 1 /~*
Greenville, Ohio, with twelve Indian tribes, concluded in 1/95, by Gen-
eral Wayne ("Mad Anthony"), who had before this inflicted crushing
defeats upon them. By this treaty the Indians, for their southeastern
SO THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
boundary, accepted a line running from where Cleveland stands now to
a point on the Ohio opposite the mouth of the Kentucky. They also
ceded several isolated bits for trading
posts, among others, " One piece of
land, six miles square, at the mouth
of Chicago river, emptying into the
southwestern end of Lake Michigan,
where a fort formerly stood." One
of the many signers of this treaty was
"Little Turtle" (" Meshekunnogh-
quoh"),* whose son-in-law, Captain
William Wells, was among the
killed at the Fort Dearborn massacre
of 1812.
This treaty is the first official
recognition given by the United
••c^iop^.ofumie^st.^Hi.torj-."-^^^! States government to the name
GEO. ANTHONY WAYNE. •• Chicago,"f and it is pursuant to this
cession of land that Captain John Whistler was sent here nine years
later (1803) with a company of soldiers to build a fort, Old Fort Dear-
born, which was burned after the massacre of 1812.
captain John Captain Whistler had an eventful life. He was a British soldier
under General Burgoyne, and was included in the surrender of the
invading army at the battle of Saratoga. Most of the prisoners of war
taken then were marched to Boston, where they were held as prisoners
until the close of the war. Of him, Captain Andreas says :
After the war he married and settled in Hagerstown, Md., where his son William was born.
He enlisted in the American army and took part in the Northwestern Indian war, serving under St.
Clair and afterward under Wayne. He was speedily promoted, rising through the lower grades to
a lieutenancy in 1792, and became a captain in 1797. He rebuilt th^ fort in 1815 [after the massacre
and destruction of 1812] and removed to St. Charles, Mo., in 1817. In 1818 he was military store-
keeper at St. Louis, and died at Bellefontaine, Mo., in 1827. He was a brave and efficient officer,
and became the progenitor of a line of brave and efficient soldiers.
His son, George Whistler, was with Captain John when the family
came to Chicago, being then three years old. This is the Major
Whistler who became a distinguished engineer in the service of
Russia. Another son, Lieutenant William Whistler, with his young wife
(Julia Person^), came to Chicago with Captain Whistler. He will be
'This Indian name, like most others, is variously spelled by different authorities.
+ General Dearborn, in his letter to General Wilkinson ordering the construction of the fort, spells the word
" Chikago."
* This Mrs. Whistler was horn in Salem, Mass., July 3, 1787. Her maiden name was Julia Ferson, and her parents
were John and Mary (La Duke) Ferson. In childhood she removed with her parents to Detroit, where she received most
of her education. In May. 1802, she was married to William Whistler (born in Hafferstown, Md., about 17^1), a second
lieutenant in the company of his father. Captain John Whistler, U. S. A., then stationed at Detroit. (Fergus1 Historical
Series, Xo. 16.)
THE DA WN OF THE DA Y WE LIVE IN.
mentioned later as one of the last commandants of Fort Dearborn, hold-
ing that post until 1833. He lived until 1863 ; his wife lived to be ninety juiia Person
years old, dying at Newport, Ky.( in 1878. She visited Chicago in 1875,
when (at eighty-seven) her mind and memory were of the brightest ; and
conversation with her on
old matters was a rare
pleasure. Mrs. General
Philip Sheridan is her
grand-neice and cherishes
her relationship as a patent
to high ran kin our Chicago
nobility. No portrait of
John Whistler is known
to exist.
A daughter of Will-
iam and thischarmingold
lady was born in 1818, and
named Gwenthlean. She
was married at Fort Dear-
born, in 1834, to Robert
A. Kinzie, second son of
John Kinzie the pioneer.
Mrs. Gwenthlean Kinzie
is now living in Chicago,
and has been consulted
in the preparation of this
narrative.*
To return to the first Chicago fort. John Wentworth, in his his-
torical sketch of Fort Dearborn (Fergus' Historical Series, No. 16),
delivered on the occasion of the unveiling of the Tablet in the wall of
Hoyt's wholesale grocery store (south end of Rush street bridge),
quotes Mrs. Julia Whistler as follows, regarding the settlement in 1803 :
The United States schooner Tracy ... on arriving at Chicago, anchored half a mile from the
shore, discharging her freight from boats. Some 2000 Indians visited the locality while the vessel
was here, being attracted by so unusual an occurrence as the appearance in these waters of "a big
canoe with wings." There were then here but four rude huts, or traders' cabins, occupied by white
men, Canadian French with Indian wives. . . There was not at that time, within hundreds of miles,
a team of horses, or oxen ; and, as a consequence, the soldiers had to don the harness and with the
aid of ropes, drag home t'.ie needed timbers. . . Col. William Whistler's height, at maturity, was
six feet and two inches, and his weight at one time was 260 pounds.
* On mentioning to Judge Caton that Mrs. Robert A. Kinzie was again living here after a long absence, the vener-
able Chief- Justice, after a moment's thought, said: '*Yes! I remember the marriage, and that the britle was one of the
rost beautiful women you can imagine. I have never seen her since that time. Ladies were nut plentiful in this part of
the world then, and we were not over-particular about looks, but Gwenthlean Whistler Kinzie would be noted for beauty
anywhere, at any time." And on loo'.:in-j at the lady herself one can well believe all that can be said in praise of her
charms in her girlish years — 16 when she was married. (A portrait of Mrs. Kinzie is given further on.)
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Old Rush Strr
Rope Ferry.
One of the four cabins was the log house so long held by Jean
Baptiste Pointe de Saible, sold by him to Le Mai and during this same
year bought by John Kinzie. Another was the Guarie house on the
West side. The third
was a cabin near the
Fort occupied by Ouille-
mette, and the fourth
was held by one Pettell,
of which and of whom
.only the name survives.
The old fort (1803-
4) covered about the
same ground as that
occupied by the new
(1816), built after the
massacre of 1812. The
block house of the latter
stood at the southwest
angle of the fortified
inclosure. Therefore, to
"locate " both the forts,
one must stand with
his back to the Tablet
in the wall of Messrs.
Hoyt&Co.'s warehouse
andlooknortheastward.
He will perceive at once
that the river has been widened and that in cutting away the southern
bank a large part of the old fort ground has disappeared; for the south
end of Rush street bridge is now somewhere near the middle of the space
formerly inclosed. Here is where the old "rope ferry" was established
about 1837 and maintained even down to 1857 — a rope stretched across
the river, lying on the bottom when a tug or vessel passed, raised out of
water by a windlass and made the guide of a flat boat which plied
back and forth in a slow and dignified fashion. Thousands of Chica-
goans still living remember the poor device ; and when they see the
surging crowd of wayfarers and vehicles that now speed to and fro
over the splendid, four-track, iron, steam swing-bridge, they smile at
the recollection of the barge they used to pull across with their own
hands, seizing the rope and walking the length of the barge to push
it forward.*
* In 1857 a passing vessel ran down the rope while a barge-load of passengers was crossing and several were drowned.
This put an end to the ferry, and a bridge was built— net such an one as the present, but a wooden structure, high enough
to allow lugs and small craft to pass under.
MRS. WILLIAM WHISTLER.
THE DA WN OF THE DA Y WE LIVE IN. jj
From 1804 to 1811, the characteristic traits of this isolated corner
of earth were its isolation ; the garrison within the stockade and the
ever-present cloud of savages outside, half seen, half trusted, half
feared ; its long summers (sometimes hot and sometimes hotter), and
FT. DEARBORN, 1803-4. (Fergus1 Series, No. 16.)
its long winters (sometimes cold and sometimes colder) ; its plenitude
of the mere necessaries of life, meat and drink, shelter and fuel, and its
destitution of all luxuries ; its leisurely industry and humble prosperity ;
Kinzie.the garrison sutler, Indian trader, silver-smith and fiddler, vying
with the regular Government agent in the purchase of pelts and the sale from 18
of rude Indian goods. In 1805 Charles Jouett was the United States
Indian Agent here. How much of his time was spent here and how
much elsewhere we do not know. He resigned the post in 1811 and
was re-appointed in 1817, after the re-building of the fort. It is proba-
ble that the United States' agent was at a disadvantage in dealing with
the Indians, as he would have to obey the law forbidding the supplying
them with spirits; wnich law the other traders practically ignored.
Then there was the occasional birth of a baby in the Kinzie house,
the fort or somewhere about, as there were several women here ; soldiers'
wives, etc. Those born in the Kinzie mansion and in the officers' families
we know about.* But these were not all. There were at least a dozen
little ones who first saw the light in this locality, whose play-ground
was the parade and river-bank, whose merry voices must have added a
human sweetness to this savage place, whose entire identity, even to
their very names, is lost. The one thing we know of them is when
and how they died, and that will appear later on.
These quiet vicissitudes and calm excitements were about all the
news which even a newspaper reporter — if there had been one — could
have conjured up in the reign of quietude.
» Ellen Marion Kinzie (l-ter Mrs. Alex. Wolcott) was born in December, 1805; Maria Indiana Kinzie, (later
Mrs. David Hunter), in 1807 ; Robert Allen Kinzie, February 8, 1810. John Harris Kinzie had been born at Sandwich,
Canada, July 7, 1803. Two children were a'.so born to Lieutenant William Whistler, who came to the Post with his
young bride in 1804. One was John Harrison Whistler, born in the fort October 7. 1807. The other was also a son, who
died young. The daughter, Gwenthlean, was born at another station in 1818.
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Ill 1812 the peaceful quiet was rudely startled, then threatened,
then destroyed.
The first breach of the peace was the killing, by Mr. Kinzie (in
self-defense), of one John Lalime, Indian interpreter at Fort Dearborn.
This was early in 1812. It had, however, nothing to do with the
friendliness or enmity of the red-men.
The second event was of a different kind. A man named Lee,
who lived on the Lake Shore near the fort, had inclosed and was
farming apiece of land on the north-west side of the South Branch within
the present "lumber district," about half-way between Halsted street
and Ashland avenue. It was first known as " Lee's Place," afterward
as " Hardscrabble." It was occupied by one Liberty White with two
other men and a boy. To quote Mrs. Kinzie (Wau-Bun, p. 205):
In the afternoon [April 6, 1812] a party of ten or twelve Indians, dressed and painted, arrived
at the Lee house, and, according to their custom, entered and seated themselves without ceremony.
Something in their appearance and manner excited the suspicions of one of the family, a French-
man [Debou], who remarked : " I don't like the looks of these Indians— they are none of our folks.
* * * They are not Pottawatomies." Another of the
family, a discharged soldier, said to the boy [a son of Mr.
Lee]: " If that is the case, we had better get away, if we
can. Say nothing but do as you see me do."
As the afternoon was far advanced, the soldier walked
leisurely towards the two canoes tied near the bank. The
Indians asked where he was going. He pointed to the
cattle which were standing among the haystacks on
the opposite bank and made signs that they must go
and fodder them and then they would return and get their
supper.
He got into one canoe and the boy into the other.
When they gained the opposite side they pulled
some hay for the cattle .... and when they had
gradually made a circuit so that their movements were
concealed by the haystacks, they took to the woods and
made for the fort They had run a quarter of a mile when
they heard the discharge of two guns successively.
They stopped not nor stayed until they arrived opposite
Burns' place [North State and Kinzie streets], where they
called across to warn the family of the danger, and then
hastened on to the fort. . . . A party of soldiers, consisting of a corporal and six men, had that
afternoon obtained leave to go up the river to fish. They had not returned when the fugitives from
Lee's place arrived at the fort. . . . The commanding officer ordered a cannon to be fired to
Double Murder warn them of their danger. Hearing the signal they took the hint, put out their torches and dropped
scrabble. down the river toward the garrison, as silently as possible. It will be remembered that the battle
of Tippecanoe, the preceding November, had rendered every man vigilant, and the slightest alarm
was an admonition to " beware of the Indians."
When the fishing party reached Lee's place it was proposed to stop and warn the inmates.
All was still as death around the house. They groped their way along, and as the corporal
jumped over the small enclosure he placed his hand on the dead body of a man. By the sense of
touch he soon ascertained that the head was without a scalp and was otherwise mutilated. The
faithful dog of the murdered man stood guarding the remains of his master. They retreated to their
canoes and reached the fort unmolested about eleven o'clock at night. The next morning a party
of citizens and soldiers volunteered to go to Lee's place. . . The body of Mr. White was found
pierced by two balls and with eleven stabs in the breast. The Frenchman lay dead, with his dog still
beside him.
THE DA WN OF THE DA Y WE LIVE IN.
55
Here we pause on the eve of the darkest day in Chicago's infancy.
The unspeakable Indian is all about her, destitute, drunken, lazy, greedy,
cruel, treacherous. Her own citizens have been industrious, temperate,
economical and thrifty, and so have got stores of good things, food and
clothing, flocks and herds, houses and furniture. He has remained in
poverty in spite of his bounties, they have prospered without any. War
has been declared between England and the United States — now is the
time to follow the counsels of Tecumseh and his brother, the Prophet;
to be rich with the palefaces' possessions — now for the war-dance, the
scalp-dance, the war-path, the war-whoop. Hu-hu-hu-hu-hu-hu !!!
From "Cyrlowpdift of L'utWd States Histnrv."— CopyriRbl-
1881, b- Hiiro * Rmthrn.
TECUMSEH.
From " Cyclops-ilia of United SUt«» History."— Copyright,
1881, by Harper A Brother*.
THE PROPHET.
CHAPTER VII.
Trouble far
away.
Trouble close
at hand.
THE CLOUD, CONE-SHAPED AND
COPPER-COLORED.
ATURDAY, August 9, 1812, was a stirring
day at the lonely little hamlet. In the
great world things had been happening
about which far-away Chicago knew little
and cared less. What had she to do with
Napoleon's European System, British
"orders in council" or the American Em-
bargo? France forbade American ships
to trade with any other European state;
England forbade them to trade with
France, and the United States retaliated
by forbidding her ships to sail from her
ports for either nation — yet the Indians went on bringing furs to Kinzie's
store and taking out Kinzie's merchandise without let or hindrance. In-
solent Britain asserted and maintained a right of search for her deserters
on all ships bearing the American flag; even attacking and defeating (by
surprise) an American frigate (the Chesapeake), with one of her own
(the Leopard), on the high seas, and taking off some of the alleged sub-
jects of His Majesty, George Third — yet the canoes paddled freely up
and down the Chicago, the Guarie and Portage. Why should Chicago
care for what might be doing on the Atlantic or its shores, by George
Third, George Prince Regent, George Canning, or James Madison?
What had she to do with them or they with her? Wait and see !
On this momentous Saturday, Winnemeg, a friendly Pottawottomie
chief, brings startling news. The United States (June i2th) had
declared war against Great Britain. On July i6th, Fort Mackinac had
surrendered to the British. Now General Hull, commanding at
Detroit, sends orders by Winnemeg that Captain Heald shall evacuate
Fort Dearborn " if practicable " and proceed to Detroit with his com-
mand, over land, first disposing of the public property as he shall see fit.
A terrible responsibility here falls upon poor Heald. Evacuate the
post — but how? He has but seventy men, all told, many of them on
the sick-list. How care for the women, the children, the sick and
helpless, not to speak of the pitiful accumulations of their thrift and
industry? Then there are thousands of dollars' worth of goods public
and private property, including arms, ammunition and liquor.
56
THE CLOUD, CONE-SHAPED AND COPPER-COLORED. 57
Indian and alcohol combine into a spontaneous explosive, a fulmi-
nate that needs no spark. The whisky would make the savages crazy
with ferocity, and the arms would make them dangerous, formidable,
irresistible. Truly an awful dilemma.
Winnemeg at first advised that the fort be held to await re-inforce-
ments. Next instantaneous departure, before the savages could collect
and decide on aline of action, getting safely
away while they were occupied with the huge
spoil. John Kinzie approved this course.
Both knewthe Indian better than did Heald.
The first full, circumstantial and com-
plete account of this troubled time is that
given by Mrs. John H. Kinzie (Juliette A.
Magill, of Middletown, Conn., daughter-in-
law of John Kinzie) in a pamphlet published
for her, in 1844, by Ellis & Fergus, saloon
buildings, corner of Lake and Clark streets,
Chicago.*
To the narrative thus happily pre-
served, the researches of John Wentworth MRS-
and others have added letters, reminiscences, War Department Docu-
ments (favored by Hon. Robert Lincoln, Secretary of War) and other
valuable bits of information. All these are drawn upon to aid in the
present task of writing this "Story."
Mrs. Kinzie says, concerning the views of Winnemeg :
Of this advice, so earnestly given, Captain Heald was immediately informed. He replied
that . . . inasmuch as he had received orders to distribute the United States property, he should
not feel justified in leaving it until he had collected the Indians of the neighborhood and made an
equitable division among them. . . The order for evacuating the post was read next morning
[Sunday, August loth] on parade. ... In the course of the day ... the officers waited Capt. Heald's
upon Captain Heald to be informed what course he intended to pursue. When they learned hi? Dilemma,
intentions, they remonstrated with him on the following grounds:
First, it was highly improbable that the command would be permitted to pass through the coun-
try in safety to Fort Wayne. ... In the next place, their march must necessarily be slow, as
their movements must be accommodated to the helplessness of the women and chi'dren, of whom
there were a number with the detachment. Of their small force some of the soldiers were super-
annuated, others invalid. Therefore, since the course was left discretional, their unanimous advice
was to remain where they were and fortify themselves as strongly as possible.
The unhappy commander fell back on his orders, general and
special, adding that he had "full confidence in the friendly professions
of the Indians, from whom, as well as from the soldiers, the capture of
* Mr. Robert Fergus, of that firm, is still living in Chicago, and is the head of the Fergus Printing Company, Pub-
lishers of the Fergus Historical Series so often quoted and to be quoted in these pages. His knowledge of events here
since his arrival (1836) is authority for many of the facts and incidents herein set forth. Concerning this particular nar-
rative, Mr. Fergus says that Mrs. Kinzie remarked, with regard to its incorporation by Judge Henry Mrown in his His-
tory of Illinois, that the Judge had no right or authority to make that use of her work. She, herself, afterward incorpo
rated it as chapters 18, 19 and 20, in her novel " Waubun," published in 1856. The Fergus Company proposes to republish
the original pamphlet as No. 30 in the " Historical Series."
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Mackinac had been kept a profound secret." The fact was that they
knew it before he did ; Tecumseh had sent the news by runners, with
urgent appeals to them to go on the war-path.
The under-officers were silenced and unconvinced ; incensed by
what they thought a mad project. Nothing short of the habit and tradi-
tion of soldierly obedience kept them from open revolt. To quote Mrs.
Kinzie again :
Upon one occasion, as Captain Heald was conversing with Mr. Kinzie upon the parade, he
remarked: " I could not remain, even if I thought best, for I have but a small store of provisions."
" Why, Captain," said a soldier who stood near by, forgetting all etiquette, " You have cattle enough
to last the troops six months " '' But I have no salt to preserve it with " " Then jerk it," said the
man, " as the Indians do their venison."*
This ill-feeling between the commandant and his subordinate offi-
cers was not a new thing. Irritation is unfortunately a common circum-
stance at frontier army posts, where isolation, idleness and enforced
companionship are unavoidable. It is vain to try to find out who was
m jn the wrongr in the case now in question. The quarrelers are all dead;
the Garrison. &
some killed during the fight then impending, some wounded, and later
butchered, in the usual Indian fashion; one. Captain Heald himself,
though wounded in the hip, dying (probably in consequence of his
wound) in 1832, twenty years later.
Precious days were passed in consultation and preparation, during
which the cloud — "cone-shaped and copper-colored," like any other
cyclone — grew and brooded.
Mrs. Kinzie, evidently using the traditions handed down to her
directly from her husband's father, says :
The Indians became daily more unruly. Entering the
fort in defiance of the sentinels, they made their way without
ceremony to the officers' quarters. On oneoccasion an Indian
took up a rifle and fired it in the parlor of the Commandant,
as an expression of defiance. . . . The old chiefs passed back-
ward and forward among the assembled groups, with the
appearance of the most lively agitation, while the squaws
rushed to and fro, in great excitement, evidently prepared
for some fearful scene.
Subjugation and oppression of their
white sisters was already a familiar idea
among the squaws. Some six months
before this, two Calumet Indians, coming
to the fort on a visit, saw Mrs. Heald and
Mrs. Helm playing battledore. One of
them named Nau-non gee said to the
interpreter : " White chief's wives are amusing themselves very
much. It will not be long before they are hoeing in our corn-fields."
*This is done by cutting the meat in thin slices, placing it upon a scaffold and making a fire under it, which dries
it and smokes it at the same time.
REBEKAH HEALD.
THE CLOUD, CONE-SHAPED AND COPPER-COLORED. 59
This taunt was forgotten, until the experience of the female survivors of
the massacre recalled it to mind and gave it bitter significance.
As before observed, Wau-Bun is the main source of knowledge
regarding these days. (It should be reprinted and have its place in
every Chicago library.) Following its lead, with minor corrections and
abbreviations, we go on with the narrative.
August 1 2th, a large number of Indians were assembled from the
neighboring villages and Captain Heald held a council with them,
attended by Mr. Kinzie ; his own officers declining to accompany him
because they had secret information (discredited by him) that a massacre
of all the officers was planned for that occasion. When he and Mr.
Kinzie moved out to the meeting-ground, the others took possession of I««H»<I Council
the block-houses which overlooked it, opened the ports and trained the
guns on the assembly. No attack was made, either because the fears
had been groundless or because the preparations overawed the plotters.
Mrs. Kinzie says that Captain Heald promised the Indians "not
only the goods in the United States Store but also the ammunition and
provisions," and asked of them an escort to Fort Wayne, they to receive
a further reward on arriving there. She adds : " With many profes-
sions of friendship and good will the savages assented to all he proposed
and promised all he required."
The separate and distinct promise to give up the " ammunition and
provisions" above set forth, is nowhere else stated or indicated. No
means exists of absolutely confirming or contradicting the statement ;
yet one is disposed to doubt its accuracy. It does not appear that the
question had been raised ; therefore to make a new, uncalled-for, definite
announcement as here reported, is to start the question and decide it
adversely to the manifest interest of the whites and contrary to their
subsequent acts. Captain Heald himself says in a letter dated at Pitts-
burgh, October 23, 1812 (Niles1 Weekly Register, vol. iii, p. 155, quoted
in Hurlbut's Chicago Antiquities, p. 177):
On the gth of August I received orders from General Hull to evacuate the post and proceed,
with my command, to Detroit by land, leaving it to my discretion to dispose of the public property as
I thought proper. The neighboring Indians got the information as early as I did and came from all
quarters in order to receive the goods at the factory store, which they understood were to be given them.
. . . On the I4th I delivered the Indians all the goods in the store and a considerable quantity of
provisions which we could not take with us. The surplus arms and ammunition I thought proper
to destroy, fearing that they would make bad use of it if put in their possession. I also destroyed all
liquor on hand soon after they began to collect.
It is probable that we may make a " personal equation " in accept-
ing Mrs. Kinzie's narrative. To go meant the utter loss of all
Mr. Kinzie's hard-earned wealth. Disaster befell the troops ; none,
excepting impoverishment, befell the Kinzies ; therefore it appears,
(especially to the last named) that the Kinzies were wise and the army
60 THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
foolish. Besides, we must remember there is always a hard feeling
between the military and the civil officials in every Indian post — East
Indian or American Indian — the soldier holding the sword and the civ-
ilian the purse ; each slightly envying the other what he possesses and
slightly despising him for the lack of what he is deprived of.
At any rate the captain (by and with the advice of Mr. Kinzie, by-
the-way) concluded not to give the whisky and arms to the savages.
He did what any of us common-sense, reasonable men, unknowing of
the worst possible conduct in the worst possible of races, might have
done. He doubtless reasoned thus :
" I will destroy the means of frenzy and the means of murder ; then
I will win the grateful allegiance of the Indian by magnificent gifts;
i™nand Ac- stores that will make him rich beyond his wildest dream of comfort and
abundance. Then I will throw myself and these defenseless ones on his
protection."
Alas, he did not know with whom he was dealing ! What is food
and clothing to a devil demanding drink and gunpowder ? The scent
of blood and spoil had brought, by this time, 400 or 500 savages about
his doomed and helpless little band. He got only insolence in return
for what he gave them and loud curses for what he withheld.
The graphic narrative goes on (Wau-Bun, p. iji8) :
On the I3th the goods, consisting of blankets, broadcloths, calicoes, paints, etc., Were dis-
tributed as stipulated. The same evening the ammunition and liquor were carried, part to the sally-
port and thrown into a well . . . the remainder was transported as secretly as possible through the
Northern gate, the heads of the barrels knocked in and the contents poured into the river. The
same fate was shared by a large quantity of alcohol belong-
ing to Mr. Kinzie which had been deposited in a warehouse
near his residence opposite the fort.
The Indians suspected what was going on, and crept,
serpent-like, as near the scene of action as possible, but a
vigilant watch was kept up and no one was suffered to
approach but those engaged in the affair. All the muskets
not necessary for the command on the march were broken
up and thrown in the well, together with bags of shot,
flints, gun-screws, and in short everything relating to
weapons of offence On the afternoon of the same
day, a second council was held with the Indians. They
expressed great indignation at the destruction of the ammu-
nition and liquor. Notwithstanding the precautions that
had been taken to preserve secrecy, the noise of knock-
ing in the heads of the barrels had betrayed the operations
•^ of the preceding night; and so great was the quantity
LITTLE TURTLE ("ME CHE-KAN- thrown into the river that the taste of the water the next
NAH-QUA"). morning was, as one expressed it, " strong grog."
All accounts agree that there were among the numerous chiefs
some who cherished friendly feelings, not toward the whites in general,
but toward the traders and many even of the soldiers. They went so far
as to try to stem the rising tide of greed and cruelty among the other
THE CLO [/£>, CONE-SHAPED AND COPPER-COLORED.
61
chiefs and the rank and file of their followers. But they were powerless
to avert the coming doom. The young bucks were scalp-hungry and
blood-thirsty; they had been too long deprived of their natural pabulum.
After the pow-wow, Black Partridge, a chief friendly to the whites,
visited Captain Heald on a strange mission. He had received from
Gen. Wayne, at the time of the treaty of Greenville (1795), a medal
which he had worn ever since. Now that he was going to war, he
wanted to give back his medal.
From *' Cyclopedia of United Suto Hitlory.
BLACK PARTRIDGE MEDAL.
'opyright, IS8I, t>y Hirper A Brother*.
Mrs. Kinzie reports his words thus:
Father: I came to deliver up to you the medal I wear. It was given me by the Americans,
and I have long worn it in token of our mutual friendship. But our young men are resolved to
imbue their hands in the blood of the whites. I can not restrain them, and I will not wear a token
of peace when I am compelled to act as an enemy."*
On the same day, August i2th, a cheering sight greets the anxious
eyes of the fort-dwellers. As the sun is sinking in the West, there
comes along the lake shore, stretched out beside the yellow sand hills
that extend southward clear down to the woods now marking the suburb
of Hyde Park, a band of thirty friendly Indians, Miamies, headed
by William Wells, a good and brave soldier who knows the Indians as
well as they know each other.
They have tramped all the way from Fort Wayne, 150 miles,
charged with the kindly, dangerous task of escorting the entire Chicago
community back along the pathless forest they themselves have just
come through. Captain Wells at least is not blind to the nature of his task,
for he grew up in the family of "Little Turtle" ("Me-che-kan-nah-qua"),
fought on his side in his victories over Harmer (1790) and St. Clair
•This most un-Indian speech shows the thumb-marks of many hands. One is' tempted to guess it back into its
original words. " B'joo! Here! Take 'urn medal. No can help. Partridge lontf time friends. Now no can help.
Young braves want to kill. Want get scalp. Partridge no can help. No want medal. You keep! B'joo! *' (B'joo
was the old salutat on of these Indians; doubtless corrupted from the " Ronjour " of the French. I
Brave William
Wells arrives.
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
View from the
roof of the
Block House,
(1791), and fought against him at the battle of 1794 when Wayne was
victorious. Wells' wife was a daughter of Little Turtle. Her Indian
name was Wa-nan-ga-peth.
Mrs. Heald, wife of the commandant at Fort Dearborn, is Wells'
niece, being the daughter of his brother Samuel.
No, it is not ignorance, it is brave self-devotion, even to the death,
that brings William Wells on this mission. He finds all in turmoil and
the confusion of divided counsels. The order for removal " if possible"
has arrived from General Hull. It is impossible to stay, but is it possi-
ble to go ? Two courses of comparative safety had been open; one, to
go at once and leave the wolves to gorge on the carrion left behind, the
other to stay and defend the place to the last. The third course; to
wait some days and then go, is the fatal one and the one decided upon
before Wells' arrival.
Suppose the veteran, tired with the tramping, the trifling and the
turmoil, to mount to the top of the block-house at the northwest corner
of the stockade and, in the shadow of its
motionless flag, pause to look about him ;
what does he see ?
A lonely, weedy streamlet flows east-
ward past the fort ; then turns sharp to
the right and makes its weak way by a
shallow, fordable ripple, over a long sand-
bar, into the lake a half-mile to the south-
ward. At his feet on the river-bank
stands the United States Agency Store-
house. Across the river and a little to the
eastward is the old Kinzie house, built of
squared logs, by Jean Baptiste Pointe de
Saible, nearly forty years ago; nowrepaired,
WM. WELLS. enlarged and improved by its owner and
occupant, John Kinzie. A canoe lies moored to the bank in front of
the house ; when any of the numerous Kinzies wish to come to the
fort they can paddle across ; when anyone wishes to go over he can
halloo for the canoe. Just west of Kinzie's house is Ouillemette's
cabin, and still further that of John Burns. Opposite Burns' place
(near South State St.) a swampy branch enters the river from the south;
and on the sides of this branch there is a group of Indian wigwams —
ominous sight! The north side of the river is all wooded, except where
little garden patches are cleared around the human habitations. The
observer may see the forks of the stream a mile to the westward, but
lie can not trace its branches, either " River Guarie " to the north or
THE CLOUD, CONE-SHAPED AND COPPER-COLORED. 63
" Portage River" to the south, for the trees hide them. Near him, to
the west and south, sandy flats, grassy marshes and general desolation
are all he can see. (Will that barren waste ever be worth a dollar in
acre ?) Beyond, out of sight, past the bend of the South Branch, is
Lee's Place with its fresh bloodstains and its two grassless graves.
And so his eye wanders on across the sandy flat, across the Indian
trail leading south and the lake-shore trail which he himself came over,
and finally rests with relief on the lake itself, the dancing blue water and
the sky that covers it.
It is said that he who is about to die has sometimes a "second-
sight," a gift of looking forward to the days that are to follow his death.
Suppose the weary and anxious observer now to fall asleep and in
dreams to be gifted with this prophetic foresight, and to discern the
change that fourscore years are to bring.
It is 1892 ; close at hand he sees the streamlet, now a mighty channel,
a fine, broad, deep water-way running straight, between long piers, out
to the lake ; and stretching inland indefinitely ; bordered by elephantine The Mme spot
elevators ; spanned by magnificent draw-bridges each built of steel and 8oyea'
moved by steam; carrying on its floods great propellorsof 100,000 bush-
els grain capacity. Looking north, west and south he sees serried
ranks of enormous buildings towering for miles on miles, each one so
tall as to dwarf the fort and block-house to nothingness. He sees
hundreds of miles of paved streets, thronged with innumerable passengers
and vehicles moving hither and thither, meeting and impeding each
other so that sometimes so many try to pass that none can pass; all
must wait until the uniformed guardians of the peace bring order out
of chaos. Every acre of ground in sight is worth millions of dollars.
His dreaming ears must be stunned by the thunder of com-
merce, his nostrils shocked by the smells of the vast food-factories,
his skin smutched with the smoke of the fuel burning all about him
to keep these wheels in motion. Bewildered and dumfounded ;
even more wearied than he had been by his waking view, he would
fain turn his eyes to the East and rest them on the shining calm
of the great lake, the dancing blue water and the sky that covers it.
CHAPTER VIII.
Flag of distress.
John Kinzie's
course.
BATTLE AND MURDER AND SUDDEN DEATH.
HE departure was set for August
During the preceding night Captain Wells
learned from his Miamis that the Indians
had resolved on slaughter. Nevertheless
march they must, and at nine o'clock A. M.
the great south gates (about at the spot
where now is the northern end of Michigan
avenue) were opened and the doomed
party passed through them for the last
time. Captain Wells, true to his Indian
traditions, had blackened his face in premoni-
tion of death. The garrison fifrs and drums,
by prophetic choice of the band-master, struck
up the dead march. Captain Wells led the
way with half of his Miamis, the rest forming
the rear-guard to the column.
According to Mrs. Helm a scene of riot and disorder began even
as they left the fort. The Indians went to killing the cattle running at
large. She reports Ensign Ronan as saying to her: "Such is to be
our fate — to be shot down like brutes!" "Well, sir," said the com-
manding officer, who overheard him, "are you afraid ?" " No," replied
the other, " I can march up to the enemy where you dare not show your
face." And as Mrs. Helm proceeds: " His subsequent gallant behavior
showed this to be no idle boast." Mrs. Helm, in the dispute between
Heald and his subordinates, evidently took sides with the latter.
John Kinzie had been warned by To-pee-nee-be, a friendly chief,
to keep clear of the column from the fort, and he did send his family in
a bateau to proceed parallel with the marching force but a little way
out in the lake. At the same time he himself bravely chose to march
with the land party, hoping to help them in their extremity.
The boat party consisted of Mrs. John Kinzie and her four younger
children — John H. (9); Ellen Marion, afterward Mrs. Wolcott (7);
Maria Indiana, afterwards Mrs. David Hunter (5); and Robert Allen
(2), all of whom were her children by Mr. Kinzie. Her elder daughter,
Margaret (McKillop) Helm, wife of Lieutenant Helm, accompanied
BATTLE AND MURDER AND SUDDEN DEATH
her husband and the troops. In the boat also were " Grutte,"* nurse
to the children (afterwards Mrs. Jean Baptiste Beaubien), a clerk of
Mr. Kinzie's, two servants, a boatman and two Indians as a guard.
Irjtthe marching column there were at the head Captain Wells and
fifteen of his Miamis; next (probably) the wagons with the sick, the
women and children, the camp equipage and the supplies; and, march-
ing beside them, such troops as were able to travel on foot; the rear
being brought up by the remaining Miamis.
On their right were five hundred Indian braves, their escort, their
safeguard, their promised help and protection. The train took the best
Line of March.
1812.
Chart of Chi-
cago in 1813.
beaten track, which lay along the lake shore (not far from Michigan
Avenue), until it diverged to the eastward of the sand hills which began
about Twelfth street. The Indian "escort," on reaching the point last
named, veered westward, passed out of sight behind the sand hills and
hurried on to form an ambuscade.
Mrs. Kinzie says (Wall bun, p. 223):
The boat started, but had scarcely reached the mouth of the river, which, it will be recollected
was here half a mile below the fort [about Harrison street] when another messenger from To -pee
nee be arrived to detain them where they were. In breathless expectation sat the wife and mother.
She was a woman of uncommon energy and strength of character, yet her heart died within her as
she folded her arms around her helpless infants and gazed on the march of her husband and eldest Tne Boat Party,
child to certain destruction . . They had marched perhaps a mile and a half [Fourteenth
street] when Captain Wells who had kept somewhat in advance with his M'amis, came riding furi-
ously back. " They are about to attack us," shouted he; "form instantly and charge upon them."
Scarcely were ttc words uttered, when a volley was showered from among the sand hills. The
troops were hastlty brought into line and charged up the bank. One man, a veteran of seventy win-
ters, fell as they ascended.
Captain Heald, writing from Pittsburgh, October 23, 1812, says
that after marching to the top of the sand hill and firing one round
* Hurlbut says that thii wjrJ is useJ by mistake f jr " Joiette." (Chicago A «///«///«.)
66 THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
the troops charged, and the Indians (as might have been expected)
gave way in the front and joined those on the flanks. The real fight-
attack ing lasted only about fifteen minutes. The Miamis gave no help. The
thetrain. * , , . , , 1-1 , i
Indians closed in around the wagons and seized upon "the horses,
provisions and baggage of every description," whil^ he drew off the
remnant of his force and " took possession of a small elevation on the
open prairie out of shot of the bank or any other cover."
All this seems like the conduct of a brave fool. To charge upon
an enemy that outflanks you, is only excusable when either, first, his
courage depends on his formation, and the centre being pierced all
will fly (a suggestion quite foreign to Indian tactics, which are for
individual fighting) ; or, second, when, having nothing to protect, you
may cut your way through to safety — certainly not this case, when you
have everything to protect and no safety to reach by cutting through.
Any smart boy could have seen that the safety of the train was
the main thing at stake, and, besides, that the loss of the train meant
also the loss of the troops. Heald ought to have planned, long before
he set out, what should be done in every possible contingency.
The train massed on the shore, the lake protecting rear and flanks,
would have been nearly impregnable. There was no shelter for an
advancing force, and Indians (no matter how numerous), donotattack in
Howthcymight . • n- * r
hasav£ien tne °Pen where they must sustain more loss than they can inflict. If
it be true that Captain Wells called for the charge, then his was the first
error, but all should have been planned in the alternative fashion so
familiar to soldiers: " The enemy can try such and such means of attack
[or defence, as the case may be]. If this be his plan, then that is our
best counter-move," etc. And the first general order should have been :
"If we are attacked, rally on the wagons and defend them to the last
shot and the last man."
Suppose the wagons to be wheeled into a kind of semi-circle, with
flanks on the lake, and a few rifle-pits dug in the yielding sand and thrown
out to advantage; these things would have prevented the immediate
slaughter, baffled the hostile Indians and given the friendly some
precious hours, days, or even weeks, in which to parley for rescue or
ransom. At any rate, nothing worse than what was done could possibly
have been contrived. The sickening story is best given by condensing
Mrs. Helm's narrative.
The troops were but a handful, but they seemed resolved to sell their lives as dearly as possi-
ble. Our horses pranced and bounded as the balls whistled among them. I drew off a little and
gazed upon my husband and father, who were yet unharmed. . . . The surgeon, Dr. Van
Voorhees, came up. He was badly wounded. His horse had been shot under him and he had
received a ball in the leg. He said, " Do you think they will take our lives? I am badly wounded,
but I think not mortally. Perhaps we might purchase our lives by promising them a large reward.
Oh, I can not die! I am not fit to die! If I had but a short time to prepare — death is
HATTLE AND MURDER AND SUDDEN DEATH. 6j
awful!" I pointed to Lieutenant Ronan; who, though mortally wounded and nearly down, was
fighting with desperation on one knee. " Look at that man," 1 said. " At least he dies like a soldier."
" Yes," replied the unfortunate man, " but he has no terrors of the future. He is an unbeliever."
The difficulties in the way of giving absolute belief to all this are
obvious. Captain Wells had ridden back from the front and called on Mrs. Helm's
the troops to charge, which they did. The charge led them some dis- dMcuitiel
tance from the train. Is it to be supposed that Mrs. Helm and Mrs.
Heald on horseback accompanied the foot soldiers' advance ? Nothing
is more improbable. Captain Heald says the Indians closed in on his
flanks and rear as he advanced ; and it would seem that these must
have been those Mrs. Helm speaks of. But in that case, how came her
husband, Lieutenant Helm, and her step-father, John Kinzie, to be with
her and "yet unharmed ?" Captain Heald, in his letter of October
23d, already quoted, says :
We had proceeded about a mile and a half when it was discovered that the Indians were about
to attack us from behind the bank. I immediately marched up with the company to the top of the
bank [too yards], when the action commenced. After firing one round we charged, and the Indians
gave way in front and joined those on the flanks. In about fifteen minutes, . . . finding that
the Miamis did not assist us, I drew off the men I had left and took possession of a small elevation
in the open prairie, out of shot of the bank or any other cover.
The Indians did not follow me but assembled in a body on the top of the bank.
Thus it appears that Captain Heald and the survivors of the troops
were separated from Dr. Van Voorhees, Lieut. Helm, Mrs. Helm and
Mr. Kinzie, at the time Mrs. Helm describes ; by the main body of the
Indians. But then how about her pointing out Lieutenant Ronan
fighting desperately on one knee? The simplest explanation is to sup-
pose that the soldiers, in their fighting advance, became divided, part
going forward with Captain Heald, part turning back with Kinzie,
Helm, Ronan and Van Voorhees.
Another eye-witness (writing only nine months afterwards) is Walter
Jordan, one of Captain Wells' expeditionary force which went over from
Fort Wayne to convoy the garrison to safety. He merely says:
On the I5th, at 8 o'clock, we commenced our march with our small force which consisted of
Captain Wells, myself and one hundred Confute Indians, Captain Heald's one hundred men, ten
men, ten women and twenty children — in all two hundred and thirty-two. We had marched half a
mile when we were attacked by six hundred Kickapoo and Wynbago Indians. In the moment of
trial our Confute savages joined the savage enemy. Our contest lasted ten minutes, when every
man, woman and child were killed except fifteen.
Following the ordinary rules of evidence we put most faith in the
testimony given nearest to the time of the occurrence. It is reasonable
to presume that Heald and Jordan told the truth as they understood it. FraTn"l%^.
When Mrs. Helm's narrative conflicts with theirs we may reasonably
suppose that during the twenty-four years that elapsed before it was
taken from her lips, it had suffered the usual vicissitudes which befall
tradition and memory.*
• John Wentworth (Fergus1 History, Series No. 16, p. 16) says that in 1836 Mrs. Helm married her second husband,
Dr. Abbott, of Detroit, at Chicago. Mrs. Kii.zic (Waubun, p. 201) gives 1836 as the date of her first preparation of the
narrative. She does not say how and when she go: Mrs. Helm's story; but this seems to make it clear.
68 THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Proceeding with Captain Heald's letter (which is not quoted in
Waubun) we learn that after he and the survivors had taken refuge on
the small elevation in the open prairie, and the Indians had assembled
on the top of the bank, they made signs for him to approach them,
which he did, alone, and was met by the Pottawatomie Chief Black-
Bird, with an interpreter. " After shaking hands, he requested me to
capt. Heaws surrender, promising to spare the lives of all the prisoners. On a few
etter- moments' consideration I concluded it would be most prudent to comply
with his request, although I did not put entire confidence in his
promise."
Returning to Mrs. Helm's story, following the interview with the
bleeding Dr. Van Voorhees, we read :
At this moment a young Indian raised his tomahawk at me. By springing aside I avoided
the blow, which was intended for my skull, but which alighted on my shoulder. I seized him
around the neck, and, while exerting my utmost efforts to get possession of his scalping knife,
which hung in his scabbard over his breast, I was dragged from his grasp by another and an older
Indian. The latter bore me, struggling and resisting, toward the lake. Notwithstanding the rapid-
ity with which I was hurried along, I recognized, as I passed them, the lifeless remains of the
unfortunate surgeon. Some murderous tomahawk had stretched him on the very spot where I had
last seen him. I was immediately plunged into the water and held there by a forcible hand, not-
withstanding my resistance. I soon observed, however, that the object of my captor was not to
drown me, for he held me firmly in such a position as to place my head above water. This reassured
me, and, regarding him attentively, I soon recognized, in spite of the paint with which he was dis-
guised, the Black Partridge. [This indicates that she did not leave the shore with the troops' charge.]
We must condense the recollections of the half-crazed sufferer.
The firing died away, and her preserver brought her on shore, where
her drenched clothes, the heavy sand and the hot sun were terrible.
When she took off her shoes to get the sand out, a squaw snatched
hern from her, and she had to stumble on as best she could without
them. She met Mr. Kinzie. who told her her husband was but slightly
wounded, and they plodded wearily back toward the fort. They gave
her a barebacked horse, but she could not ride him, and, supported by
Black Partridge and another Indian, Pee-so-tum, she dragged her faint-
ing steps to one of the wigwams of the Pottawatomies' camp on the
creek, which emptied into the river where now is the south end of State
street bridge. Pee-so-tum held dangling in his hand a scalp which, by
the black ribbon around the queue, she recognized as that of Captain
Wells !
Another part of Mrs Helm's narrative tells how Captain Wells
died. After the futile charge of the troops, he turned his horse toward
the Indian camp near the fort (State street, north of Marshall Field's
Killing of store), pursued by the foe. He loaded and fired back at them as he
wiiiiam wens. fled( Iying fla(. Qn his horse His horse was k;lled and he severely
wounded when Winnemeg and Wau-ban-see came along and tried to
save him by supporting him along between them. But the Indians
BATTLE AND MURDER AND SUDDEN DEATH. 69
had now come up, and Pee-so-tum (a "friendly") stabbed him in the
back and took his scalp. Jordan's letter throws light on the treatment
of his body.
Thanks be to God, I was one of those who escaped. First, they shot the feather off my cap;
next, the epaulette from my shoulder, and then the handle from my sword. I then surrendered to
four savage rascals. The Confute chief, taking me by the hand and speaking English, said: " Jor-
dan, I know you. You gave me tobacco at Fort Wayne. We won't kill you, but come and see what
we will do with your captain." So, leading me to where Wells lay, they cut off his head and put
it on a long pole, while another took out his heart and divided it among the chiefs, who ate it up raw.
Then they scalped the slain and stripped the prisoners, and gathered in a ring, with us fifteen poor
wretches in the middle. They had nearly fallen out about the divide, but my old chief, the White
Raccoon, holding me fast, they made the divide and departed to their towns.
Niles Weekly Register (April 3, 1813) says that Mrs. Helm had
arrived at " Buffaloe" and given the account of her sufferings during six
1,1 i T i- i • i • Weekly Regis-
montns or slavery among the Indians and imprisonment among their ter Reported,
allies; adding that, for five days after she was taken prisoner, she had not
the least sustenance, and when she demanded food a piece of Col. Wells'
heart was offered her. All this is, however, at variance with Mrs. Helm's
own story as quoted by Mrs. Kinzie in Waubun, as follows :
The wife of Wau-bee-nee-mah, a chief from the Illinois river, . . . seeing my exhausted condi-
tion, seized a kettle, dipped up some water from a stream, threw into it some maple sugar, and, stir"
ring it up with her hand, gave it me to drink. . . The whites had surrendered after the loss of about
two-thirds of their number. They had stipulated, through the interpreter Peresh Leclerc, for the
preservation of their lives and those of the remaining women and children, and for their delivery at
some of the British posts, unless ransomed by traders in the Indian country. It appears that the
wounded prisoners were not considered as included in the stipulation and a horrible scene ensued on
their being brought into camp. An old squaw . . . seized a stable fork and assaulted one miserable
victim, who lay groaning and writhing in the agony of his wounds, aggravated by the scorching
beams of the sun. . . Wau-bee-nee-mah stretched a mat across two poles between me and this dread-
ful scene. I was thus spared in some degree a view of its horrors, although I could not entirely close
my ears to the cries of the sufferer. The following night five more of the wounded prisoners were
tomahawked.
Mrs. Helm then reverts to the scene of the fight itself and gives
(.manifestly at second-hand) an account of it which mainly confirms
Captain Heald's, but conflicts with the statement that she had seen Kin-
zie and Helm on the lake shore after the struggle began. She says that
our troops, "after their first attack by the Indians," charged and suc-
ceeded in breaking through the enemy and gaining a rising ground, " not
far from the oak woods." From here Lieutenant Helm sent Peresh Tortures of dy-
ing prisoners.
Leclerc, the half-breed boy, to propose the terms of capitulation.
" But in the meantime a horrible scene had been enacted. One
young savage, climbing into the baggage-wagon containing the chil-
dren of the white families, twelve in number, tomahawked the children
of the entire group."
And so perished all the little ones who had been born at and about
the fort since its building. The mind refuses to picture the doings
within the wagon-tilt ; all we know is that the innocents were alive
when the fiend entered at one end, and dead or dying when he emerged
from the other. He was an Indian ; that is all.
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Captain Heald gives the killed in the action as, thirty-eight soldiers,
two women and twelve children. Niles Weekly Register (June 4, 1814),
gives the names of nine soldiers who had arrived at Pittsburgh, N. Y.,
from Quebec, and adds the following details obtained from them.
Fate of survi-
vors.
MASSACRE TREE AND PULLMAN'S HOUSE.
" Hugh Logan, an Irishman, was tomahawked and put to death, he not
being able to walk, from excessive fatigue. August Mott, a German,
was killed in the same manner for alike reason. A child of Mrs. Neads,
the wife of John Neads, was tied to a tree to prevent its following its
mother and crying for victuals. Mrs. Neads afterwards perished with
hunger and cold. Mrs. Corbin, wife of Philin Corbin, in an advanced
BA TTLE AND MURDER AND SUDDEN DBA TH. 77
state of pregnancy, was tomahawked, scalped, cut open and had the
child taken out and its head cut off."
Truly, the suffering of one generation is the price paid for the
enjoyment of the next. The " Massacre Elm " (a cottonwood, by the
way), still stands in the middle of Eighteenth street, a stone's throw from The Massacre
the lake, in the midst of one of the most fashionable portions of Chicago,
Eighteenth street and Prairie avenue. The boundaries of the fight are
ill-defined, but it is clearly established that it included this spot. There is
where the Kinzie family stated the occurrence to have taken place ; and
Indian relics, beads, etc., and an ancient single-barrel brass pistol have
been found in the vicinity. (Andreas, Vol. i, p. 31.) The tree is of an
age to have been in existence in 1812, and therefore surely stood
where the musketry must have shaken its leaves and where dying eyes
of men, women and children may have looked on it in the last agony.
It all happened less than eighty years ago, within the lifetime of thou-
sands now living. Our picture well sets forth the contrasts of time ; the
gaunt, dead tree, fit memorial of death and desolation, relieved against
an elegant, gay and hospitable mansion, the home of George M. Pullman,
citizen of metropolitan Chicago; builder of Pullman, the model working-
village ; and originator and controller of the famous world-wide system
of trade and transportation.
The memorable, historical tree is dead at last, having borne its last
leaves in 1887, the very year of the death of Gurdon Saltonstall Hubbard, Last
Chicago's last connecting link with the time which this story has now
reached. In these four-score years dance-music has taken the place of
the whistle of hostile bullets ; and the free laugh of the children of the
rich has succeeded to the scream of those hapless little prisoners in
the baggage-wagon — the sudden end of a sunny ride which they had
doubtless entered upon as a rare treat in their monotonous experience.
•aves on
the old tree.
CHAPTER IX.
John Went-
worth's Dis-
coveries.
THEY MADE A SOLITUDE AND CALLED IT PEACE.
:APPILY, joyfully, we add to Mrs.
Kinzie's record, given in " Wau-
bun," some almost equally valuable
r matter not available to Mrs. Kinzie;
in fact, not committed to paper
until within ten years before this
present writing.
Number sixteen of Fergus' prec-
ious" Historical Series" is devoted
to the grand work done by the late
John Wentworth for the occasion of
the unveiling (in 1881) of the memo-
rial BlockhouseTablet which adorns
the north wall of the Hoyt Grocery
warehouse, facing Rush Street
bridge from the south. Mr. Went-
worth reaped and gleaned the whole
field with a power, energy, industry,
perseverance and completeness emblematic of his manly character. He
it was who obtained (through Robert Lincoln, then Secretary of War)
every scrap and word which the Department records show concern-
ing the two forts Dearborn ; including rosters of the force prior to
the massacre, and letters from Captain Heald after it. Also, extracts
from the files of Niles Weekly Register, printed in Baltimore, already
quoted. Also, two special letters from A. H. Edwards, of Sheboygan,
Wis., who had known and talked with actual survivors of the massacre.
All these thrilling bits of realism, with many more, are included in the
appendix to his Blockhouse speech ; published as Fergus' No. 16.
Besides these, he in some way got knowledge concerning the
descendants of Captain Heald ; corresponded with them, and to crown
all actually produced and presented to the meeting, in person, the Hon.
Darius Heald, of O'Fallon, Mo., son of Captain Heald who commanded
at the massacre.
From Darius Heald's reports is condensed the following account of
Captain Heald and of the occurrence from his point of view.
THEY MADE A SOLITUDE AND CALLED IT PEACE. 73
Nathan Heald was married in Louisville, Ky., in i8n(as herein
before told), to Rebekah Wells, daughter of Col. Samuel Wells, and niece
of Capt. William Wells. They started at once for Fort Dearborn and captain
went all the way on horseback, she riding a beautiful trained bay mare,
on which the Indians always looked with longing eyes, and which they
tried to steal more than once. She was riding this mare when the attack
took place, and though many bullets struck the rider none wounded the
steed. The Indians got both, and soon surrendered the almost dead
Mrs. Heald ; but never, then or thereafter, would part with the mare
though every attempt was made to buy her.
There were (says the son) only twenty-five or thirty fighting men in
the fort, the others being on the sick-list. The weather was very
hot. All were satisfied with the order to vacate, except "the sutler or
storekeeper, interpreters, traders, and that whole class who felt that
their occupation would be gone if the fort should be abandoned.
They are the persons who have handed down all the reflections upon
Captain Heald's conduct in leaving the fort."
When the soldiers had proceeded about one and a half miles from the fort they were surprised
and surrounded by about six hundred Indians, who had formed in a horse-shoe or semi-circular
shape upon the bluff. The troops were upon the lake shore. Captain and Mrs. Heald were riding
together. Captain Wells was somewhat in advance, dressed in Indian costume, riding with his
Indian forces. Captain Wells first noticed the design of the Indians, and rode back and informed
Captain Heald, who at once started for the most elevated point on the sand-hills, and endeavored to
mass his wagons, baggage, women and children and sick soldiers so as to make a better defense Thc Heald side
whilst the fight was going on. At the first attack Captain Wells' Indians made their escape. Early of ihe story.
in the fight Captain Heald and his wife became separated. Captain Wells rode up to Mrs. Heald
with blood streaming from his mouth and nostrils, and told her that he thought he had been fatally
wounded, and requested her to inform his wife that he had fought bravely and knew he had killed
seven Indians before he was shot. Soon his horse was shot, and as the horse fell his foot was
caught in the stirrup, and he was held under the horse for some time. Whilst in this position he
killed his eighth Indian. He was released from this position just in time to meet his death from a
bullet in the back of his neck. The Indians immediately scalped him, cut out his heart and flour
ished it about on a gun-stick, then divided it into small pieces and ate it whilst warm, Mrs. Heald
being a witness. She was led back to the fort as a prisoner.
Captain Heald received a wound in the hip which always troubled him, and, it is believed,
caused his death in 1832. He drew a pension in consequence thereof. Having but about a half
dozen men left in fighting condition, Captain Heald surrendered. The Indians returned to the fort,
plundered and burned it. The next morning an Indian chief, Chandonais, who was a half-breed,
having possession of Captain Heald as a prisoner, sought out the captor of Mrs. Heald and pur-
chased her. She had supposed that her husband was killed. Chandonais took Mrs. Heald to her
husband. She had received six wounds. When the Indians were leading her away as a prisoner,
one of the squaws attempted to take a blanket from her, when she, with her riding-whip, struck her
several times, which act of bravery, under the circumstances, greatly excited the admiration of the
Indians. The next day Chandonais took all the warriors with him for the purpose, it was said, of
burning a prisoner, leaving Captain Heald and wife in charge of the squaws and a small Indian
boy. That evening, through the assistance of the boy who accompanied them, and probably with
the assent of Chandonais. they made their escape in a birch-bark canoe to Mackinaw, and finally to
Detroit, when Captain Heald surrendered himself as a prisoner of war.
This narrative calls for a little sifting. In the first place, we have
Captain Heald's own report, showing his immediate advance up the
bank and charge upon the Indians, and showing no endeaver "to
74 THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
mass his wagons," etc., for a better defense. In the next place the cir-
cumstances of brave Captain Wells' death are quite different from those
given by Mrs. Helm. Mrs. Heald's account appears most credible. In
the third place, this narrative ignores the stay of the fugitives at St.
Joseph before going to Mackinaw ; a matter of but small moment.
It was at this interesting point of the narrative that Mr. Went-
worth paused and surprised his audience by the presentation of Darius
Heald, who was received with great cheering.
He exhibited a large ornamented shawl or blanket pin into the rim
of which the Indians had made a hole so as to wear it in the ear or nose.
This might have been made by John Kinzie; " Shaw-nee-aw-kee ; the
HHne'akiamU,88i. silversmith." He then exhibited his mother's bridal comb, a shell cut
in the shape of an eagle, plenteously studded with gold to represent the
eagle's wings. Mr. Heald said he had heard his mother say that, whilst
she was writhing on the ground with pain from her many wounds, she
saw an Indian chief strutting about with that comb in his hair.
Difficulties multiply as we go on trying to reconcile Mrs. Helm's
story as reported by Mrs. Kinzie with other narratives, with itself and
with probability. Mrs. Kinzie distinguishes it (beginning at page 224)
by quotation marks, starting each new paragraph by new marks. But
a little further on (page 235) the narrative (still using the quotation
marks) begins to speak of Mrs. Helm in the third person, and describes
her anew as Mr. Kinzie's step-daughter, who had recently come to the
post and was personally unknown to some of the Indians. The inter-
nal evidence indicates that Mrs. Helm's tale stops at the point where the
killing of five more of the wounded is announced as before mentioned.
That is the last place wherein the pronoun " I " is used. The following
pages, in Waubun are probably a resume of the traditions of the Kinzie
family.
All the narratives upon examination and comparison appear con-
fused and contradictory. For instance, a letter from " Buffaloe," dated
March 8th, and published in Niles Weekly Register (Baltimore), of Sat-
urday, April 3, 1813, says that Mrs. Helm, wife of Lieutenant Helm,
who escaped the butchery of the garrison of "Chicauga " by the assistance
ted to Mrs. of humane Indians had arrived at " Buffaloe," and adds that the account
Helm.
of her sufferings during three months' slavery among the Indians and
three months' imprisonment among their allies would make a most inter-
esting volume The correspondent will mention one circumstance
alone :
During five days after she was taken prisoner she had not the least sustenance and was com-
pelled to drag a canoe ^barefooted and wading along the stream) in which were three squaws, and
when she demanded food some flesh of her murdered countrymen and a piece of Colonel Wells'
heart was offered her.
MADE A SOLITUDE AND CALLED IT PEACE.
75
Now turning back to Mrs. Kinzie's narrative, in the quoted part, we
find Mrs. Helm, after the battle was over, again in the Kinzie mansion
disguised in the dress of a French woman, conducted by Black Partridge
to the house of
Ouillemette,
later hidden and
nearly smother-
ed under a feath-
er bed, and on
the third day af-
ter the battle ac-
companying her
parents, the
Kinzies, to St.
Joseph, where
she staid with
the Pottawatto-
mie chief Robin-
son for several
months, being
treated with all
possible k i n d-
ness and hospi-
tality. Thence
she went to De-
troit OLD KINZIE HOUSE.
After their arrival at Detroit, Mrs. Helm was joined by her husband, where they were both
arrested by the British commander and sent on horse-back, in the dead of winter, through Canada
to Fort George on the Niagara frontier. . . Notwithstanding their long and fatiguing journey. .
Mrs. H., a delicate woman of seventeen years, was permitted to sit waiting on htr saddle,
without the gate, for more than an hour. . . By an exchange of prisoners they were liberated
and found means to reach their friends in Steuben county, N. Y.
This accounts for her presence at " Buffaloe," but where do the five
days of starvation, the canoe, the bare feet in the brook, the bit of Cap-
tain Wells' heart, etc., come in? Did the correspondent make it up out
of whole cloth ? Did he take her tale of the sufferings of others anc'
report it as her personal adventures ? Or, did the little lady with her
rugged and terrible experiences and her seventeen years have also a
cumulative memory and a colossal imagination?
The other account (at second hand), was sent to Mr. Wentworth
by Mr. A. H. Edwards, of Sheboygan, Wis., and is published in the His-
torical series No. 1 6, p. 54. It bears internal evidence of authenticity
and reads as follows :
76 THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
I am acquainted with some facts derived from conversations with one who was there and
witnessed the fight and killing of many of those who lost their lives on that memorable day. She
Tradition hand- was a daughter of one of the soldiers and was one of the children who, with her mother and sister,
cddownbyA. occupied one of the wagons that was to convey them from the fort. She told me she saw her father
when he fell, and also saw many others. She, with her mother and sister, were prisoners among the
Indians for nearly two years, and were finally taken to Mackinac and sold to the traders and sent to
Detroit. On our arrival at Detroit in 1816, this girl was taken into our family, and was then about
thirteen years old and had been scalped. She said a young Indian came to the wagon where she
was, grabbed her by the hair and pulled her out of the wagon, and she fought him the best she knew
how, scratching and biting until finally he threw her down and scalped her. She was so frightened,
she was not aware of it until the blood ran down her face. An old squaw interfered and prevented
her from being tomahawked by the Indian, she going with the squaw to her wigwam, and wae taken
care of and her head cured. This squaw was the one that came often to their house. The bare spot on
the top of her head was about the size of a silver dollar. . . . The person was Isabella Cooper.
Her account, as given to me, and also her mother's, was that as soon as the soldiers were disposed
of, the Indians made a rush for the wagons where the women and children were. . . She saw her
father's scalp in the hands of one of the Indians afterwards. He had sandy hair. . . . She saw
Wells when he fell from his horse, and his face was painted.
As already told, Mr. Kinzie("Shaw-nee-aw-kee") found himself once
more in the mansion, on the north bank of the main river, about where
the junction of Pine and Kinzie streets now is. Thither came his family,
whose canoe had turned back from the river mouth (Jackson street), and
Mrs. Heald, who had been, with difficulty and danger, saved and hidden
in the canoe, crying and groaning with six or seven bullet wounds. Mrs.
Helm, too, sought refuge there ; also one of the garrison who had
escaped the general fate. The two last-named were disguised as " Weem-
tee-gosh " (French engages), and were thus able to pass as part of the
Kinzie family. This was not without dreadful perils, for the house
was visited by angry savages from the Wabash, arrived too late for the
blood, the scalps and the spoil, and determined not to depart empty-
handed. Just when the situation seemed hopeless; sulky red-skins in
their war paint all about, and when even the faithful Black Partridge
had lost all hope, help came. Mrs. Kinzie says:
At this moment a friendly war-whoop was heard from a party of newcomers on the opposite
bank of the river. Black Partridge sprang to meet their leader. "Whoareyou?" "Aman. Who
are you ?" " A man, like yourself; but tell me who you are ?" " I am the Sauganash ! " [English-
man.! " Then make all haste to the house. Your friend is in danger; you alone can save him."
Sauganash to
the rescue. Billy Caldwell* — for it was he — entered with a calm step and without a trace of agitation. He
deliberately took off his accoutrements and placed them with his rifle behind the door, then saluted
the hostile savages;
" How now, my friends ! A good day to you ! I was told there were enemies here; but I
am glad to find only friends. Why have you blackened your faces ? Is it that you are mourning
for the friends you lost in battle ? Or is it that you are fasting? If so, ask our friend here and he will
give you to eat. He is the Indians' friend, and never yet refused them what they had need of."
Thus taken b> surprise, the savages were ashamed to acknowledge their bloody purpose-.
They, therefore, said modestly that they had come to beg of their friends some white cotton in which
to wrap their dead.
* Half-breed son (by a beautiful Pottawattomie girl) of Colonel Caldwell, an Irish officer in the British army. Born
at Detroit about 1780; educated at a Jesuit school ; fought for the English \\ the War of 1812 ; tall, strong, able, bold;
secretary to Tecumseh ; later a chief of the Pottawattomics ; stout enemy and faithful friend ; long a resident of Chicago ;
made justice of the peace in 1826 ; had 1.600 acres of land granted him on the North Branch about six miles from the main
riTer; helped in the great removal of Indians in 1836 : died at their new home. Council Bluffs, September 18, 1841.
THEY MADE A SOLITUDE AND CALLED IT PEACE. 77
Although Billy Caldwell, " The Sauganash," was an aid to Tecum-
seh and fought through the war on the English side, yet, on this and
other occasions he showed himself to have a heart white rather than
red; and, the war once over, he was a firm, strong and consistent friend
of the race of his father. No portrait of him is known to exist, but
through Mr. Hurlbut we are fortunate enough to obtain a fac-simile of
his signature.
Three days after the massacre the Kinzie family, thus increased by
the few refugees who had joined them, resumed their interrupted
journey across the lake to St. Joseph. There they were kindly enter- TheKmzies
tained by Robinson (Che-chee-bing-way) the Pottawattomie chief. battie!hc
With them, finally, were Captain Heald and his wife, with their many
and grievous wounds ; also Mrs. Helm, whose husband was later freed
by his captors and joined her at Detroit, as elsewhere told.
Mr. Kinzie made a few brave efforts to secure some fragments of
his scattered possessions. His daughter-in-law, in Waubun, says that in
his excursions in this business he wore the costume and paint of the
tribe in order to escape capture and death at the hands of those still
thirsting for blood. She does not say what success he had — doubtless
pitifully small. Then he followed his family to Detroit, where he was
received as prisoner of war by the British General, Proctor, paroled, and
later re-arrested and confined at Fort Maiden, at the mouth of the
Detroit river, where, according to Mrs. Kinzie, he had another thrilling
experience :
On the tenth of September, as he was taking his promenade under a guard of soldiers, the
whole party were startled by the sound of guns on Lake Erie, at no great distance below. What
could it mean? It must be Commodore Barclay firing into some of the Yankees. The firing con-
tinued. . . Neither he nor his guard observed the lapse of time, so anxiously were they listening to
what they now felt sure was an engagement between ships of war. . . . "Let me stay." said he,
" till we can learn how the battle has gone." Very soon a sloop appeared under a press of sail, round-
ing the point, and presently two gunboats in chase of her.
"She is running — she bears the British colors — she is striking her flag! Now," turning to
the soldiers " 1 will go back to prison contented. I know how the battle has gone!" The sloop
was the Little Belt, the last of the squadron captured by the gallant Perry on that memorable occa-
sion. ..." We have met the enemy, and they are ours."
Many and various are the scattered narratives, anecdotes and tra-
ditions of the dark years following the destruction of the first effort to
occupy the wild Garlick Portage. Probably every hardship reported
was true of some person at some time. Certainly many of them are
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
ALEXANDER ROBINSON (IN OLD AGE),
Chief of the Pottawattomies. Chippewa and others.
not true as to the identical persons named. The safe plan is to "shun
around" the quicksands of doubt and uncertainty and return to the
unquestioned record ; though by so doing we miss some charming sto-
ries of Mrs. Kinzie's;
romantic, pathetic, trag-
ic. All should read
them in "Waubun."
The bitter fight is
over. The dead have
got through with their
agony ; the survivors
have begun their terri-
ble experience of cap-
tivity. The bodies of
the slain lie unburied
where they fell ; proba-
bly some within a
stone's throw, and all
within a rifle-shot, of
the " Massacre Tree,"
in Eighteenth street I
all, that is, except the
wounded prisoners carried down to the Indian village — to the place
where Chicago women now do their shopping — and there slain by inches
for their captors' delight.
The fort is burned; the Kinzie m'ansion deserted; the Indians
themselves scattered afar, for it is only where the carcase is that the
young eagles are gathered together. The carcase is used up. They
have killed the goose that laid the golden egg ; the last of their spoil
816, De2soia- is wasted, the last surviving prisoner ransomed and his ransom squan-
dered— what can they do next ? Go to work ? Out of the question t
Kill and rob another settlement ? Yes ; if they could only find one.
Doubtless they do what they can not help doing, half do it, half starve,
half live on carrion, and pray the Great Spirit to send them a new sup-
ply of palefaces. One white man remains; Ouillemette, who lives with
his Indian wife and half-breed children in his cottage, or in the Kinzie
mansion, or wherever he will. There is room enough in the vast soli-
tude. All is once more as lonely as it was when Joliet and La Salle
encamped on the stream " convenient to the portage " a century and
a half before.
It is 1816. Nearly four years have passed since that wild
debauch of delight to the many and death to the few. The persist-
ent whites are coming again to the spot where, in spite of war, pes-
tilence and famine, fine and flood, Chicago is to stand.
From 1812 to
1816,
tion.
CHAPTER X.
AFTER DARKNESS, LIGHT.
HAVERS have beautiful fur, luckily for the
speedy settlement of the West, and unluckily
for the beaver. Where this harmless, exem-
plary pattern of industry and ingenuity
dwells, thither comes his enemy, man, bent
on his destruction and taking the cruelest of
methods to compass it, for he uses the
beaver's impulse of well-doing to betray him.
He baits his trap with the victim's sense of
.duty. He makes a breach in the dam which
the colony of rodents has toilsomely built,
well knowing that as soon as he departs the
eagerly dutiful builders will rush to repair
the injury; then he sets the horrid steel jaws
around the spot where the work must be done! It is like using a
baby's cry to draw its mother into an ambush. Well does the poet
declare beauty to be a fatal gift. The beaver, the buffalo and the seal
are doomed to perish, while the porcupine and the rat endure.
Up to a score of years after 1810, there could have been no agri-
cultural immigration to northern Illinois. The Indians were still here ;
and, though six miles square, including Chicago, had been ceded to the
government (treaty of Greenville, 1795), even that was unoccupied,
save by Indians and a few half-breeds like Ouillemette. Possibly, too,
Jean Baptiste Beaubien, who married Josette La Framboise, may have
lived in the Kinzie house before the return of John Kinzie in 1816.
There can be little doubt but that Josette La Framboise Beaubien is the
person mentioned as " Grutte " in the Waubun narrative. No such name
as the latter is known in either language, and Josette, coarsely written,
may well be mistaken for Grutte ; for example:
Years following
the Massacre.
8o
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
If this be accepted, it shows that Mrs. Kinzie must have had some
written record to aid in the construction of her narrative, for by sound
" Josette" could never have been transmuted to " Grutte," whereas in
manuscript the two are easily confused.
We present the picture of the new fort as given in Waubun. This
view was criticised by Mr. Hubbard ; chiefly regarding the tortuous
course given by it to the river. But the general facts of the scene
are doubtless preserved.
NEW FORT AND RIVER, AS GIVEN IN WAUBUN.
Canal.
In 1814, President Madison, in a message to Congress, recommended
to"™* ship to its attention the importance of a ship canal to connect Lake Michi-
gan, at Chicago, with the Illinois and the Mississippi, the mouth of which
latter we had obtained by the cession of Louisiana (Blanchard, p. 317),
and it was in pursuance of this policy that the post was re-established.
Captain Hezekiah Bradley with two companies arrived July 4, 1816,
and at once proceeded to rebuild the fort over the charred remains of
its predecessor. At the same time he collected the bones of the
massacred victims and buried them in the garrison cemetery which was
in what is now the Lake Front park.
The second Fort Dearborn was a square stockade inclosing bar-
racks, officers' quarters, magazine and provision store. It had bastions
(angular earth-works) at the northwest and southeast angles and a
block-house at the southwest. This block-house stood, the last relic of
the fort, up to 1857, when it gave way to the march of improvement.
Its location (as before mentioned) was at about the spot now marked
AFTER DARKNESS, LIGHT.
by a fine tablet, set ( 1881) with appropriate ceremonies, in the north wall
of Hoyt's grocery warehouse, facing the south end of Rush street bridge.
This is one of the innumerable services rendered to Chicago by the
Historical Society. The old block-house, surviving as it did down to
1857, is a pleasant memory to thousands of the Chicagoans of to-day
THK BLOCKHOUSE IN ITS LAST DAYS.
The first business established here after the re-occupation was, of
course, the fur trade, a business degrading to all parties connected with
it. The Indian trapped the beaver, the pale-face trapped the Indian,
using for bait not duty but drink. To quote from a letter written in
1695 from Cadillac, commandant at Michilimackinac, to a friend in
Quebec: (Hurlbut's Chicago Antiquities, p. in.)
What reason can one assign that the savages should not drink brandy bought with their own
money? . . . This prohibition has much discouraged the Frenchmen here from trading in the future.
It seems very strange that they should pretend tlial the savages would ruin themselves by
drinking. The savage himself asks why they do not leave him in his beggary, his liberty and his idle-
ness; he was born in it and he wishes to die in it — it is a life to which he has been accustomed since
Adam. Do they wish him to build palaces and ornament them with beautiful furniture ? He would
not exchange his wigwam and the mat on which he camps like a monkey for the Louvre!
In 1803, William Burnett, of St. Joseph, writes (Hurlbut, p. 70):
Mostly all the skins that were made at this post was in part for rum. Consequently, had I
mine, I might have got my share of what was going, and that for the best peltries.
At the agency dwelling of the American Fur Company (John Jacob
Astor) at Mackinaw in 1821 the expense account shows "31^ gallons
Teneriffe wine, 4^ gallons of port wine, 10 gallons of best Madeira, 7^
gallons of red wine, 9 gallons of brandy and one barrel of flour." This
recalls irresistibly Falstaff's "one pennyworth of bread to all this intol-
erable quantity of sack." Mr Hurlbut says of the Rev. Isaac McCoy,
whose work, " History of the Baptist Indian Missions," was published
in 1840, that he was a man of ability, who ignored self and devoted his
life to the cause of humanity in the service of his Divine Master. Mr.
Rum and the
Fur Trade.
82
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
McCoy and his wife spent laborious years among the Indians, facing
danger as well as hardship and privation. He entered on the service as
early as 1817, was active (though not present) in the Chicago Indian
IS BUILDING OCCUPIES THE SITE OF OL
BRT DEARBORN. WHICH EXTENDED * ','TTLE
ACROSS HIGH. WE. AND SOMEWHAT WTO THE
RIVER AS IT NOW <S.
THE FORT WAS BUILT IN 1803 ft +. FORKING
OUR OUTMOST DEFENSC
; "BY ORDER or GEN. wiii IT WAS EVACUATED AUC
I5.WIZ, AFTER ITS STORES AND PROVISIONS
HAD BEEN DISTRIBUTES AMONC THE INDIANS.
VERY SOON AFTER THE INDIANS ATTACKED AM
WSSICRCD ABOUT FIFTY OF THE TROOPS AND
LUDINC WOMEN AND
CHILDREN AND NEXT DAY BURNED THE TORT.
IK 1616 IT VMS RE-BUUT.BUT AFTIR THf BUCK
HAftK, WAR IT WENT INTO CRAOIWL DISUSE Mtt
III MOT 1S37 YttSABANCJNEO BY THE ARMY BUT
Wl£ OCCUPIED BY VARIOUS CGVtM!r=NT OFFICERS
TU,m7viiKiin«NCTi)niMWLcxc(rnB A
Kn STOOD UPON TH!5 SITE
Till THE CREAT FIRE Of OCT. % 1871.
THE SUGGESTION OF THE CHICAGO HISTORIC
MOO Y THIS TABLET WAS ERECTED SY
K6V. I860 N.M.MCYT,
TABLET AHD WALL.
treaty of 1821, preached what was probably the first (Protestant) ser-
mon in Chicago, in 1825, and finally helped in the removal of the Indians
westward in 1835 anc^ their settlement at Council Bluffs. An honora-
ble record ! After the treaty, General Lewis Cass (Governor of Michi-
gan), who negotiated the treaty, wrote Mr. McCoy as follows:
AFTER DARKNESS, LIGHT.
All attempts to ameliorate the condition of the Indians must prove abortive so long as ardent
spirits are freely introduced into their country. . . . One fact will place this lamentable evil in a
clearer point of view than the most labored discussion. At the treaty, Topenebe, the principal chief
of the Putawatamies, a man nearly eighty years of age, irritated by the continued refusal on the part
of the commissioners to gratify his importunities for whiskey, exclaimed, in the presence of his tribe:
" We care not for the land, the money or the goods; it is the whiskey we want, give us the whiskey."
And in this connection Mr. McCoy adds :
After the business of the treaty was completed and before the Indians left the treaty ground
they received seven barrels of whiskey; and within twenty-four hours afterwards ten shocking mur-
ders were committed among them.
All this throws a bright side-light on the old Indian question. The
shallow savages mistook their friends for enemies, their enemies for
friends. They loved the poison and the poisoner. Their grievance at
Fort Dearborn (if they had any) was the destruction of the alcohol in
the fort and in possession of their friend Kinzie.
In 1816 a treaty was made (at St. Louis) with the Indians, by
which a strip of land, including Chicago, was obtained. The evident
object of the purchase was to carry out the suggestion made by Madi-
son for the opening of the canal, "to connect Buffalo with New Orleans. "
The boundary points were (in general terms), first, the south end of
Lake Michigan; second, a point ten miles north of the mouth of Chi-
cago river; third, a point on Fox river; fourth, the junction of the Fox
and Illinois; and fifth, a point on the Kankakee, ten miles above its
junction with the Des Plaines to form the Illinois.
But these isolated tracts did not tend to establish white settlement,
or to advance the growth of Chicago, which could only thrive when it
should have a vast agricultural
region behind it to create its
commerce. In 1816, the trade
in furs was still one of the
most profitable in the country.
John Jacob Astor had already
made a fortune by it, and was
at the height of his prosecu-
tion of it. Since his failure
on the Pacific coast, through
the seizure of the Columbia
by England (see Irving's
Astoria), he had turned all
his attention to the West,
and now his principal frontier
office was at Mackinaw, in
charge of Ramsay Crooks and
Robert Stuart, well-known GURDON s. HUBBARr>(//w,*»r).
Chicago names, and names leading up to one still more identified
Slow growth
for many
years.
84 THE STORY OF CHfCAGO.
with all that is ancient and honorable with us — Gordon Saltonstall
Hubbard.
In 1818, young Hubbard (sixteen years old) indentured himself for
five years to the American Fur Company (John Jacob Astor's enter-
prise), and about November I, 1818, reached Fort Dearborn. Here
he stayed three days with John Kinzie, at the North Side residence, and
then the party pushed on westward, up the South Branch to Bridgeport,
through Mud Lake and over the portage into the Des Plaines, carrying
their packs and dragging their bateaux. They launched their craft and
floated down the Illinois to the mouth of the Bureau river, where Mr.
Hubbard was assigned to duty. They did not see a white man between
Chicago and the Bureau. They spent the winter trading with the Indians,
and in the spring of 1819 they paddled the bateaux, now loaded with
furs, all the weary way up to Lake Michigan and on to Mackinaw.
There the peltries were packed and forwarded to New York, where their
values swell the great Astor fortune of to-day.
Hubbard's next visit to Chicago was in 1821, when he found there
the same inhabitants as before; including Kinzies and Ouillemettes.
From that time to our own days — up to within four years of the
present writing — the life of "Our Gurdon," as he was affectionately
called, was a part, and a large part, of our civic history. Here were his
headquarters for interior trading, for importations and for shipments.
Eastern goods came West, and Western products, beginning with furs and
ending with flour, went East through his Chicago establishment.
Everybody knew him and he knew everybody in the good old simple-
hearted ways of the time and place. In 1827 he bought from "Big
Foot," the chief of the Pottowattomies, at Lake Geneva, fifty ponies,
which he loaded with " trading goods " and led due south to the Wabash
river, establishing " trading posts" all along the line. The path he thus
made and traveled was known as " Hubbard's Trail," and for many a
year was the road and the only road along the now prosperous and
crowded country traversed by the Eastern Illinois railway. He made
his inland station at Danville, but his own time was spent on the trail,
"his home was in the saddle."
A letter written by Mr. Hubbard to Mr. Ballance (History of
Peoria) gives a vivid picture of the times of 1818 ; a startling picture,
when we consider that the occurrence was the experience of a man who
bards' early has been an intimate friend to those now living in Chicago; a man who
experiences.
died among us so late as 1887. He says :
. . . I was in Peoria in 1 818. As we rounded the point of the lake above Peoria we noticed
that old Fort Clark was on fire — just blazing up. Reaching it we found about 200 Indians congregated,
enjoying a war dance, painted hideously, with scalps on their spears and in their sashes, which they
had taken from the heads in the war with Great Britain, from 1812 to 1815. They were dancing,
rehearsing their deeds of bravery, etc. These were the only people then there or in that vicinity . .
A warrior, noticing me (then a boy of 16), asked Mr. Des Champs who I was. He replied that
AFTER DARKNESS, LIGHT.
I was his adopted son, just from Montreal; but this was not credited. The Indian said I was a,
young American and seemed disposed to quarrel with me. . . The Indian remained in the bow
of the boat, talking to me through this man, who interpreted, saying among other things that I was
an American, and taking from his sash scalp after scalp, saying they were my nations. He saw
that I was frightened. I was never more so in my life — fairly trembling with fear. His last effort
to insult me was taking a lung haired scalp * * * made it very wet * * * and then shaking
it so that it sprinkled me in the face. In a moment all fear left me and I seized Mr. Des Champs'
double-barreled gun, took. good aim and fired. The man . . . just as I pulled the trigger,
struck up the gun and thereby saved the life of the Indian and perhaps mine also. . . . Des
Champs and all our men came running to their boats. After a short consultation among the old
traders, Des Champs ordered the boats to push out and we descended the stream three or four miles
and camped on the opposite side of the river. That was my first experience of hostile array with
my red brethren. Yours, etc., G. S. HUBBARD. (Blanchard's Northwest, p. 330 )
In 1817 Samuel A. Storrow, Judge Advocate U. S. A., passed
through Fort Dearborn, and describes his visit as follows :
SCHOOLCRAFT'S VIEW OF CHICAGO IN 1820.
On the second of October, after walking three or four hours, I reached the River Chicago, and
after crossing it entered Fort Dearborn, where I was kindly entertained by Major Baker and the
officers of the garrison, who received me as one arrived from the moon. . . The River Chicago
(or in English, Wild Onion River), is deep, and about forty yards in width. . . Traces yet remain
of the devastation and massacre committed by the savages in 1812. I saw one of the principal per-
petrators (N'es cot-no meg).
Schoolcraft (the distinguished Indian chronicler) writes (1820)
as follows :
We found the post (Fort Dearborn), under the command of Capt. Bradley, with a force of 160
men. The river is ... utterly choked up by the lake sands, through which, behind a masked
margin, it oozes its way for a mile or two, till it percolates through the sands into the lake. . .
I took the sketch* . . . from a stand-point on the flat of sand which stretched in front of the
place. This view embraces every house in the village with the fort; and if the reproduction of the
artist may be subjected to any criticism, it is perhaps that the stockade bears too great a proportion
to the scene, while the precipice observed in the shore-line of sand is wholly wanting in the original.
. . . Having partaken of the hospitalities of Mr. Kinzie, and of Captains Bradley and Green,
during our stay at Chicago . . . we separated . . . Gov. Cass and his party, on horseback,
* A cony of this r.':-:ch h herewith presented, by permission of Mrs. Hurlbut.
86
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
General Cass'
Trratv for
Michigan lands
taking the old Indian trail to Detroit . . . myself, with two canoes, to complete the circumnavi-
gation of the lake. . . Within two miles of Chicago we passed, on the open shores of the lake,
the scene of the massacre of 1812.
The greatest event in Chicago during the third decade of this cen-
tury was the treaty of 1821. This compact was made by Lewis Cass
and Solomon Sibley, as Commissioners, with the Ottawas, Chippewas
and " Pattiwatimias." (Mr. Schoolcraft acted as Secretary to the Com-
missioners.) The land secured was a tract extending from Grand River
south to the southernmost point of
Lake Michigan, and reaching east-
ward until it joined with the pre-
vious cessions on the Detroit and
Maumee in 1817. Though the treaty
did not include Chicago, it gave
her a continuous way to the sea-
board for the first time in her history.
The price paid was $1,000 a year,
forever, to the Ottawas, and $5,000
to the Pottawatomies ; and $2,5003
year for a term of years to provide
instruction in blacksmithing, agri-
culture, etc. The treaty shows the
names of sixty-four Indians (each
ME-TEE-A. spelt out in English letters and fol-
lowed by a cross made by the Indians) and Lewis Cass and Solomon
Sibley; all being witnessed
by sixteen citizens, among
whom we recognize Alex-
ander Wolcott,* John B.
Beaubien and John Kinzie.
By some unusual good
luck we have (through Mr.
Hurlbut) a portrait of one of
the Indian signers, Me-tee-a;
who opposed the transfer of
the land in eloquent words
closing as follows : " Behold
our warriors, our women and
children. Take pity on us
and on our words." Yet,/
after all, he could not resist the temptation to see his X among the
rest. He sought immortality, and lo ! are we not giving it to him?
•It was with much regret that livers of old Chicago saw the ancient name of " Wolcott'' changed to the awk-
ward " North State " street : and still worse, the southern pan of Wells street, named for the heroic Captain, sacritised to
the absurd " Fifth Avenue."
AFTER DARKNESS, LIGHT. 87
We give also a portrait of Jean Baptiste Beaubien, copied from a
miniature in possession of the family, traditionally said to be taken
for that pioneer.
Still no growth in the infant metropolis. From 1816 to 1830,
Chicago gained only some twelve or fifteen houses and a population of
less than 100. (Chicago Magazine, May, 1857.) In 1819 the agency
house (called "Cob-web Castle" for reasons easily to be imagined,
seeing that it stood vacant for long, lonely years), was built at about the Noithsw*,
*> J J ' 1816101830.
junction of State and North Water streets, where the North-Western
Railroad freight house now stands. That and the old Kinzie mansion
(Pine and Kinzie streets) were the only buildings now known to have
stood on the North Side in those days, and the whole tract was cov-
ered with trees. Kinzie had inclosed a field on the North Branch near
where Chicago avenue now crosses it, which he cultivated for hay-
making. That John Kinzie had never regained the comfortable compe-
tency he lost in 1812 we may know from the following letter, written in
1821, to his son (John H.) at Mackinaw, when the latter was indentured
to the American Fur Company.
Nothing gives me more satisfaction than to hear from you and of you. It does give
both myself and your mother a pleasure to hear how your conduct is talked of by everyone that hopes
you every advantage. Rather let that stimulate you to continue the worthy man, for a good name
is better than wealth and we can not be too circumspect in our line of conduct. . . I have been
reduced in wages, owing to the economy of the Government. My interpreter's salary is no more
and I have but fioo to subsist on. It does work me hard sometimes to provide for your sisters and
brothers on this and maintain my family in a decent manner. I will have to take new measures.
I hate to change houses, but I have been requested to wait Conant's arrival. We are all mighty
busy, as the treaty commences to-morrow and we have hordes of Indians around us already. Adieu
I am your loving father.
This is said to be the only letter of John Kinzie's known to exist.
(A large and invaluable collection of his papers were, in 1857, given to
the Historical Society by John H. Kinzie, and perished with the His-
torical Society building in the great fire of 1871.) No portrait of him
has ever been found.
He assisted in negotiating the treaty of 1821 before mentioned;
addressing the Indians to reconcile them to it, and signing it as sub-
agent, which post he filled under his son-in-law, Dr. Alexander Wolcott,
Indian agent. In 1825 he was appointed Justice of the Peace for Peoria
county. About 1827 he finally quitted the old home.
Captain Andreas' remarks on John Kinzie's characteristics are as
follows:
The esteem in which Mr. Kinzie was held by the Indians is shown by the treaty made with
the Pottawatomies September 20, 1828, the year of his death, by one provision of which they gave to
Eleanor Kinzie and her four children by the late John Kinzie $3,500. in consideration of the attach-
88
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
ment of the Indians to her deceased husband, who was long an Indian trader, and who lost a large
sum in the trade by the credits given them and also by the destruction of his property. The money is
in lieu of a tract of land which the Indians gave the late John Kinzie long since and upon which he
lived.
There is no doubt that the Indians had a warm feeling for the
Kinzies. At the same time it seems probable that the treaty in question,
like all other treaties, was carefully arranged by the whites and submitted
to the Indians for ratification. The Indians did not give any money ;
all payments came from the United States, and were made to such
persons (other than Indians) as the commissioners thought best to care
for. As to the land given by the Indians to Mr. Kinzie and on which
he lived, where was it ? The Indians had parted with the Chicago tract,
six miles square, nine years before Mr. Kinzie arrived at Fort Dearborn.
It is true that in May, 1795, the Ottawas (not the Pottawattomies)
conveyed land in Ohio to John Kinzie and Thomas Forsyth; but he
certainly never lived on it. He also lived at Parc-aux-Vaches, on the
St. Joseph river, from 1800 to 1804. It is possible, though not probable,
that the Indians made him a grant there.
Every one who visited the hospitable "Kinzie mansion" was glad
'ntheSiraHome. to do so again. Let us follow the good example.
KINZIE MANSION AS GIVEN IN WAUBUN.
The structure as put up by Pointe de Saible, and passed through
the hands of Le Mai to John Kinzie, was a cabin of roughly squared
logs. In Kinzie's time it was beautified, enlarged, improved and sur-
rounded by out-houses, trees, fences, grass-plat, piazza and garden.
"The latch-string hung outside the door,"* and all were free to pull it
and enter. Friend or stranger, red man or white, could come and go,
eat and drink, sleep and wake, listen and talk at will. A tale is told of
* This odd expression of welcome came from the old style of door-fastening ; a latch within, lifted by the hand or
by a string which was poked through a gimlet-hole, so that it could be pulled from the outside. To " lock ' ' the door, the
household simply pulled in the string and kept it inside.
AFTER DARKNESS, UGH T.
two travelers who mistook the house for an inn, gave orders, asked ques-
tions, praised and blamed as he does who feels, "shall I not take mine
ease in mine inn?" and who were keenly mortified when they came to
pay their "scot" and found that there was none to pay.
In front (as the picture shows) were four fine poplars; in the rear,
two great cottonwoods. The remains of one of these last-named were
visible at a very late period. [Who knows just how lately?] In the
out-buildings were accommodated the dairy, baking-ovens, stables and
rooms for "the Frenchmen," the Canadian engages who were then the
chief subordinates in fur-trading, and whose descendants are now well-
known citizens, their names perpetuating their ancestry — Beaubien,
Lafratnboise, Porthier, Mirandeau, etc.
Captain Andreas says:
The Kinzie house was no gloomy home. Up to the very time of their enforced removal, the
children danced to the sound of their father's violin, and the long hours of frontier life were made
merry with sport and play. Later, the primitive court of Justice Kinzie must have been held in the
" spare room " — if spare room there was.
Hurlbut, in his delightful, hu-
morous, gossipy, fault-finding mon-
ograph, " Chicago Antiquities," *
says (p. 478):
The last distinguished guest from abroad
whom the Kinzies entertained at the old house
was Governor Cass ... in the summer of
1827 . . . This was during the Winnebago
Indian excitement. . . Gurdon Hubbard says,
"While at breakfast at Mr. Kinzie's house we
heard singing, faint at first but gradually grow-
ing louder as the singers approached. Mr
Kinzie recognized the leading voice as that of
Bob Forsyth, and left the table for the piazza of
the house, where we all followed. About where
Wells street crosses, in plain sight from where
we stood, was a light birch-bark canoe, manned
with thirteen men, rapidly approaching, the men
keeping time with their paddles to one of the
Canadian boat-songs; it proved to be Governor
Cass and his secretary, Robert Forsyth, and they
landed and soon joined in."
This visit of Governor Cass
was just before the " Winnebago
scare" of 1827. He it was who
informed the lonely, unarmed and HENRY H.HURI.BUT. ,,885.>
defenseless post of Fort Dearborn of the Winnebago uprising. Gurdon
Hubbard at once proposed to ride down the " Hubbard Trail" for help.
The others objected, for fear that they might be attacked before his
return ; but it was finally decided that he should go, and go he did. At
* " Chicago Antiquities" was published by the author in 1881. Only 500 copies were printed, a few of which still
_ remain (1891) in the hands of his widow, Mrs. i._,iuut, 17 Wimhrop Place, Chicago.
Winnebago
Scare and
Danville
Volunteers.
po THE STOR Y OF CHICAGO.
Danville he raised, within about a day, fifty volunteers, armed and
mounted, and started for Fort Dearborn. They reached the Vermilion,
then at flood, and running " bank-full " and very rapidly. The horses, on
being driven in, would turn and come back to shore. " Hubbard, pro-
voked at the delay, threw off his coat, crying : " Give me old Charley ! "
Mounting the horse, he boldly dashed into the stream, and the other horses
were crowded after him. " The water was so swift that old Charley
became unmanageable ; but Hubbard dismounted on the upper side,
seized the horse by the mane, and swimming with his left hand, guided
the horse in the direction of the opposite shore. We were afraid he
would be washed under or struck by his feet and drowned, but he got
" -"•
over.
The brave rescuers arrived; and staid, petted and feasted by the
Chicagoans of that day, until a runner came in from Green Bay, bring-
ing word that Governor Cass had made peace with the Indians.
According to Mr. Hurlbut, as the old master neared his end the
older homestead also went to decay. The very logs must have been in
a perishing condition after fifty years of service, and the lake sand,
driven by the lake breezes, piled itself up against the north and east
sides. Then, too, the standard of comfort had changed. Son-in-law
Wolcott had rooms in the brick building of the unoccupied fort.
Colonel Beaubien had a frame house close to the fort's south wall (now
Michigan avenue and River street), and thither the Kinzies moved.
What more natural than that the ancient tree, as it tottered to its fall,
should lean over toward the young saplings that had sprung up at its
foot ? It is the way of the world.
It was in i827thatMr. Kinzie and whatever then formed his house-
Keinzieand°he hold quitted the historical loe house for the last time. In 1820 it was
Old Homestead. °
(says Andreas) used fora while by Anson N. Taylor as a store. In
March, 1831, Mr. Bailey lived in it and probably made it the postofifice,
its first location in Chicago, as he was the first postmaster. The mail
was then brought on horse-back from Detroit about twice a month.
Captain Andreas says :
After 1831 and 1832, when Mark Noble occupied it with his family, there is no record of its being
inhabited. Its decaying logs were used by the Indians and immigrants for fuel and the drifting
sand of Lake Michigan was fast piled over its remains. No one knows when it finally disappeared,
but with the growth of the new town this relic of the early day of Chicago passed from sight to be
numbered among the things that were.
Mrs. Robert Kinzie says now (1891) that she is sure that the house
was standing when she was married in the fort (1834) and she thinks
long afterward. She scouts the idea that those solid logs were used
for fuel by the Indians or immigrants.
•See "The Winnebago Scare," by Hiram W. Beckwith, of Danville. Fergus' Historical Series, No. 10.
AFTER DARKNESS, LIGHT.
9'
Rufus Blanchard, in his " Northwest," prints an interesting note :
The following account of Mr. Kinzie's death has been learned from Mr. Gurdon S. Hubbard:
" He remained in full vigor of health in both body and mind till he had a slight attack of apoplexy,
after which his health continued to decline until his death, which took place in a few months, at the
residence of his son-in-law, Dr. Wolcott, who then lived in the brick building formerly used as the
officers' quarters in the fort. Here, while on a brief visit to Mrs. Wolcott [Ellen Marion Kinzie] he was
suddenly attacked with apoplexy. Mr. Hubbard, then living in Mr. Kinzie's family, was sent for
and on coming into the room of the dying man he found him in convulsions on the floor in the
parlor, his head supported by his daughter. Mr. Hubbard raised him to a sitting position and thu;
supported him till he drew his last breath. The funeral service took place in the fort and the last
honors due to the old pioneer were paid with impressive respect by the few inhabitants of the
place. "
Mr. Kinzie's remains were first buried in the post burying-ground
on the lake shore south of the old fort (about Michigan ave. and Wash-
ington St.), whence they were later removed to a plot just west of the
present water works (Chicago Avenue and Tower Place), and finally to
Graceland where they now rest.
CHAPTER XI.
I82O-3O. AN OBSCURE DECADE.
years ago.
887 saw depart from among us the last
man who could give personal testimony
to the condition which prevailed in the
later years of what may be called pre-
historic Chicago. Gurdon Hubbard, a
fountain of knowledge about the past,
was the greatest loss his beloved city
has ever suffered ; and it seems doubtful if any one person can at any
time occupy so high a relative position as was his. Pity that we did
not fully appreciate this fact sooner. "Blessings brighten as they take
their flight"
We have before given the view of things hereabouts, taken by an
excellent observer and unprejudiced recorder, Mr. Schoolcraft. Others,
in fact all others, have left a less flattering presentation. No hesita-
t'on should be felt in dwelling upon so humble an origin for so proud
a growth as ours. The greatness of Abraham Lincoln would be less a
world-wonder if he had been born in a palace and trained in colleges
and courts.
William H. Keating (Narrative of an Expedition, etc., London,
1825) writes under date of 1823 :
We were much disappointed at the appearance of Chicago and its vicinity. . . The coun-
try near Chicago offers but few features upon which the eye can dwell with pleasure. There is too
much uniformity in the scenery; the extensive water prospect is a waste uncheckered by islands,
unenlivened by the spreading canvas, and the fatiguing monolony of which is increased by the
equally undiversified prospect of the land scenery, which affords no relief to the sight, as it con-
sists merely of a plain in which but few patches of thin and scrubby woods are observed scattered
here and there.
The village presents no cheering prospect, as, notwithstanding its antiquity, it consists of but
few huts, inhabited by a miserable race of men. scarcely equal to the Indians from whom they are
descended. Their log or bark houses are low, filthy and disgusting, displaying not the least trace
of comfort.
In 1825 John H. Fonda says of Chicago (Hurlbut, p. 212) :
We entered the Lake Peoria and were met at the landing by a number of Indians, from whom
we learned that it was more than two hundred miles to the nearest trading-post on the Lake, which
was Cki-ca-a go. . . . We paddled along until we came to the Des Plaines river, from which we
passed into a large slough, or lake, that must have led us into a branch of the Chicago river, for we
followed a stream that brought us opposite Fort Dearborn. At this period Chicago was merely an
AN OBSCURE DECADE.
93
Indian Agency; it contained about fourteen houses, and not more than 75 or loo inhabitants at the
most. An agent of the American Fur Company, named Gurdon S. Hubbard. then occupied the
fort. The staple business seemed to be carried on by Indians and runaway soldiers, who hunted
ducks and muskrats in the marshes. There was a great deal of lowland, and mostly destitute of
timber. The principal inhabitants were Mr. Hubbard, a Frenchman by the name of Ouillemet and
John B. Beaubien.
It was the winter of 1827 that the U. S. Quartermaster came to me one day and asked if I
could find my way to Chicago. ... He intrusted me with the — not mailbag, but a tin canister
covered with untanned deerhide that contained the dispatches and letters of the inhabitants. . . .
One noon we arrived at Fort Dearborn, after being on the way more than a month. It was in Jan-
uary, 1828; and, with the exception that the fort was strengthened and garrisoned, there was no
sign of improvement since my former visit.
Mr. Hurlbut has unearthed and copied from an old Maryland peri-
odical three letters dated at " Fort Dearborn, Chicago, 111. " in 1830.
PROPOSED PLAN 0
fOR IMPROVING THE MOUTHMr CHICAGO RlVtft
Drawn by
F.H.rrison Jr.U.SA8».st Civil Engineer
Feby. 24^ 1830-
Wo Howard U.S Civil Engineer
They give account of sports participated in by persons designated only
by initials, whom Mr. H. identifies as Captain Martin Scott (killed at
Molino del Rey), Dr. Clement A. Finley, Major Robert Kinzie, Dr.
Philip Maxwell, James Grant, Mr. Beaubien, Mr. Clybourn, Lieutenant
John G. Furman of the 5th U. S. infantry (who died at the fort in the
same year), and Lieutenant James Thompson, also of the army.
The first letter describes a deer-hunt with dogs and horses, which
occurred in "the thick woods on the north side." They found two
deer before reaching the line of the present Chicago Avenue. The
second tells of a woli'-hunt in the previous December, on which occasion
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Wild game
within city
limits.
they found and killed three wolves and three raccoons somewhere on
the South Side near the South Branch. The third tells of high water,
when the water in Mud Lake was divided and part flowed east with the
lake and part west into the Illinois. The writer adds:
Here, after the waters have subsided, vast quantities of aquatic fowl congregate to feed on
the wild rice, insects, etc., that abound in it. Swan, geese and brant, passing to and fro in clouds,
keep an incessant cackling; ducks of every kind, from the mallard and canvas-back down to the
tiny water-witch and blue-winged teal. . . while hundreds of gulls hover gracefully over, ever
and anon plunging their snowy bosoms into the circling waters. ... Of these we may hereafter
send you some account; and when the " rail-road " is finished between Baltimore and Rock River,
perhaps you may come out and take a week's sport with us.
This is interesting, not only for its disclosure, of the wild state of
our great West Side at that late date, and by the abundance of wild
game there; but also for the jocular allusion to a possible (or impossible)
" rail-road " all the way from Baltimore to the Rock River ! The writer
unconsciously names the factor destined to be of incalculable weight in
the future of the unpromising tract he is hunting over. 1830 may be
said to be the birth-year of the American Railway system, and that sys-
tem to be the main source of the greatness of the West, especially that
of Chicago. Not for eighteen years will the first locomotive press the
soil of the city, and not for twenty-five years will the first train arrive
from the East. But nevertheless the little seed is planted, and the great
tree, with its infinite branches and its immeasurable fruits, is growing
ceaselessly and resistlessly from this time forth.
Now, leaving the squalid physical aspect of the place, we will
observe the course of human life other than as already set forth.
John Harris Kinzie, son of John
and Eleanor (Me Killop) Kinzie, who
was born in Canada, July 7, 1803, and
was brought to Chicago with the family
on its first arrival, became, in 1826, pri-
vate secretary to Governor Cass, and
later aide-de-camp with the rank of col-
onel. August gth, 1830,31 Middletown,
Connecticut, he married Juliette A.
Magill. This marriage was not only
fortunate for Colonel Kinzie, but also a
happy thing for Chicago, as Mrs. Kin-
zie became one of the best known and
most admired of the city's early mat-
rons, and also its historian in no slight
degree through her chatty narrative "Waubun," published in 1856.
Many of Chicago's citizens cherish to this day loving memories of this,
the city's very earliest literary woman.
AN OBSCURE DECADE. pj
Robert Allen Kinzie, born at the old fort February 8th, 1810,
shared the family's varied experiences (carrying on the fur-trade with the
Indians), and in 1834, at the fort(
married the daughter of Col. William
Whistler, who built the old fort in
1803, and in 1832 came out again to
the new fort, one of its latest com-
manders.
This daughter has been before
mentioned as still living in Chicago,
and it is with great pleasure that the
. e \ • The Kinzie
circumstance of her marriage is re- Race.
called, with the interesting recollec-
tions of the venerable Chief Justice
Caton, also happily yet among us.
Never until now has Mrs. Kinzie
consented to the publication of her likeness.
Ellen Marion Kinzie, whose birth has been before mentioned as
taking place in the old Kinzie mansion in 1804, was married July 20,
1823, to Dr. Alexander Wolcott, then Indian agent at Chicago, who died
there in 1830. In 1836 she married, at Detroit, the Hon. George C.
Bates and she died at Detroit in 1860.
1828 saw the fort once more garrisoned, Major John Fowle being
in command, and having for his lieutenant David Hunter, who soon
after married Maria Indiana Kinzie, second daughter of John, born in
1807. In 1879 Genl. Hunter wrote to the Calumet Club " Old Settlers'
Reception," as follows:
More than half a century since, I first came to Chicago on horseback from St. Louis, stopping
on the way at the log cabins of the early settlers and passing the last house at the mouth of the Fox
river. I wars married in Chicago having to send a soldier one hundred and sixty miles on foot, to
Peoria, for a license. The northern counties in the State had n' t liicn b.'en organized, and were all
attached to Peoria countv. My dear wife is still a'ive and in good health, and I can certify a hun-
dred times over that Chicag > is a first-rate place from which to get a good wife.
Beside the course of the main branch of the Kinzie stock, and the
Hubbarcls, all of whom were kept in view by their connection with the
army, there were the James Kinzies, John K. Clarks, Clybourns and
Beaubiens; including men and women quite as worthy and as note-
worthy as any of their fellow-citizens.
As has been already told, two girls, Margaret* and Elizabeth
McKenzie, were (during the Revolutionary times) stolen by the IndiansLessknown
J early names.
from their home on the Kanawha river, in Virginia. They were kept
by* their captors (Ohio Shawnees) until womanhood, when we first find
them in Detroit. There Margaret (whether a wife or not) bore three
THE STOR Y OF CHICAGO.
children, William, James and Elizabeth, to John Kinzie. (This was
before his marriage with Eleanor [Lytle] McKillop.)
William Kinzie did not
come to Chicago. James
(born 1793) moved west-
ward soon after 1812, and
seems to have dealt in
ardent spirits as a busi-
ness. In 1821 he was
"detected in selling large
quantities of liquors to the
Indians at and near Mil-
tvalky," and in 1829 he
built a tavern on the west
side, near the forks of the
river, afterward known as
the Wolf Tavern, kept by
Elijah Wentworth.
In 1833 James built
the Green Tree Tavern
on the northeast corner
of North Canal and West
Lake streets, " its name
MRS. GWENTHLEAN H. KINZIE. (,8,,.) being taken from a soli-
tary oak which stood near." (Andreas.) He held various offices of
trust and honor — School Trustee, Sheriff (the first of Cook County),
THE GREEN TREE HOTEL. (Slill standine in 1891.)*
Town Auctioneer and Town Trustee. He moved to Racine in 18^35
and died in Clyde, Wisconsin, in 1866. (Andreas.) It was in regard
* Now 33, 35 and 37 Milwaukee A ve. Doubtless the oldest structure in the city.
AN OBSCURE DECADE.
97
to James Kinzie that it has been said " the smartest of the Kinzies was
a McKenzie," his irregular origin being suggested as an explanation.
Captain Andreas (p. 96) mentions one David Hall, of Virginia,
" half brother to James Kinzie," as being James' partner in the Green
Tree Tavern. This would indicate that poor Margaret, after her
reclamation by her father, had married, in Virginia, a man named Hall,
and born him a son. We hear of her, directly, once more, as appears
in the next chapter.
Elizabeth Kinzie was married, in 1826, by John Kinzie, J. P. (her
father), to Samuel Miller, who kept a tavern known as the Miller House,
situated on the North Side near the forks of the river. It was probably
the oldest of the houses (on the right) shown in the accompanying cut
of Wolf Point, the Forks, etc. Samuel Miller had been in partnership
with Archibald Clybourn (his wife's cousin) in 1829, and they were
authorized to keep a ferry across the river " at the lower forks."
Descendants of
the captive
girls.
In the same cut a bridge seems to occupy the place of the ferry-boat,
spanning the stream of the North Branch, just above the forks. The
ferry was established by law (records
of Peoria county), the citizens of Chi-
cago to be carried free, and all other
persons to be subject to a charge for
ferriage, "one half the sum that John
L. Bogardus gets at his ferry at
Peoria."
Reverting now to the captured
girls before mentioned, Margaret and
Elizabeth McKenzie, we will trace the
line of Elizabeth, the younger. In
Detroit she was the wife of one Clark,
a Scotch trader, and mother of his
two children, John K. and Elizabeth.
Then, after the father of the stolen
girls came to Detroit, reclaimed his
lost daughters and took them and JOHN K. CLARK.
98
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
The Clarks and
Clybourns.
their children with him to Virginia, Elizabeth married Jonas Cly-
bourn, to whom she bore two sons, Archibald (1802) and Henley.
John K. Clark came early to Chicago, and his half-brother Archibald
Clybourn followed as soon as he was old enough, arriving in 1823.
Finally the two good sons brought out their parents, Jonas and Eliza-
beth Clybourn, and the family settled (1824) on the west side of the
North Branch, at about the place where the North Chicago rolling-mills
now stand, opposite the west end of Clybourn Place bridge.
WOLF POINT IN 1830. (Hurlbut, p. 503.)
Archibald Clybourn was a remarkable man in many ways. He
married (1829) Mary Galloway, who had come hither with her father,
James Galloway, in 1826, she being then fourteen years old.*
Captain Andreas gives Mary Galloway's early impressions of Chicago
so fully, and with so much of local color, that they deserve transcription :
Mrs. Clybourn described the appearance of Chicago in the winter o( 1826 as a black and dreary
expanse of prairie, with occasional patches of timber. At the mouth of the Chicago river, which was
then at the foot of Madison street, stood the cabin of Jean Baptiste Beaubien, and his shanty ware-
house somewhat nearer the lake. Where the river turned to the south, at the point where Rush
street bridge now crosses the stream, was Fort Dearborn. On the other side of the river, nearly
opposite the fort, was a double log house, occupied jointly by John Kinzie and Alexander Wolcott, and
near this the blacksmithishop of Daniel McKee and Joseph Porthick (Porthier). At the forks of the
river, a cabin used for a store, owned and occupied by James Kinzie and David Hall, of Virginia.
At Hardscrabble there were five or six cabins, several of which were occupied by the Lafram-
boises, of whom there were four: Francis, Sr., Francis, Jr., Joseph and Claude. Another was occu-
pied by Mr. Wallace, and another by Barney Lawton. . . . The Clybourns were on the North
Branch — Jonas and his wife, his sons Archibald and Henley, and John K. Clark, their half brother.
Archibald Clybourn (under the authority of Peoria county) was the
first constable for the Chicago region, and later justice of the peace.
* The Galloways started from Sandusky, Ohio, in a small schooner, bringing their household stuff and *' a large
quantity " of goods to be sold to the Indians. The schooner was wrecked (by a drunken captain) on the Island of St.
Helena, near Mackinaw, and the passengers, with part of Galloway's goods, saved and brought to Chicago in one of the
Fur Company's boats The little colony, goods and all, found refuge at Hardscrabble, up the South Branch, in
a log cottage belonging to Chief Alexander Rubinspn— perhaps the same cottage where two whites were killed by the
Indians in 1812. A stirring tale is told of the defense of their cabins by Mary and her mother, left alone therein during a
long and fearful winter night in 1830.
AN OBSCURE DECADE.
99
He and his sons were the early butchers, and their successors are
engaged in the same trade to this day, 1891. He carried on large deal-
ARCHIBALD CLYBOURN AND WIFE.
ings in cattle, and when the "Black Hawk \Var" (1832) brought
crowds of frightened settlers into the fort, " the Glybourns and John
Noble and sons fed nearly the entire population until the pioneers could
return to their scattered homes." (Andreas, p. 104.)
The Beaubiens' connection with Chicago began very early. Jean
Baptiste (third of the name since the immigration from France early in
the 1 8th century) was born in Detroit in 1780, visited Chicago in 1804,
and (as his son averred) bought a cabin and field south of the fort in
1812.* He married an Ottawa Indian woman, who became the mother TheBeaubiens-
of his sons Charles, Henry and Madore. In 1812 he married Josette,
daughter of Francis Laframboise, a French trader, living on the South
Side. She was the mother of Alexander Beaubien. In 1818 Jean Bap-
tiste was made agent of the Fur Company. He moved into the com-
pany building just outside the south wall of the fort (about Michigan
avenue and South Water street); where he lived until 1840, when he
moved to his farm on the Desplaines. He was the first president of
the village debating society, which met inside the fort, and included in
its membership nearly every able bodied man in town.
Later he was colonel, and still later general of the Cook County
*This occupation was sworn to by Jean Baptiste's son, Madore, as the basis of a claim on behalf of the former for
a " pre-emption right " on land about Michigan avenue and Lake, Randolph and Washington streets. After some fifty
years of litigation this claim has failed, the final di-.mis.sal from court occurring during the time of writing this chapter.
700
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Original
capitalists.
militia. He died in Naperville, in 1863. Mark Beaubien, brother of
Jean Baptiste, came here in 1826. Here is his own story:
I came with my family by team; no road, only Indian trail. I had to hire an Indian to show
me the road to Chicago. I camped out of doors and bought a log house from Jim Kinzie. There
was no town laid out; didn't expect no town. When they laid out the town my house was laid out in
the street. When they laid the town I bought two lots where I built the old Sauganash, the first
frame house in Chicago.
The "Sauganash" stood on the lot (Lake and Market streets),
later occupied by the " Wigwam," where Lincoln was nominated. Mark
was, if not the first, the most noted and popular of Chicago inn-keepers.
Town elections took place at his house. Merrymakings were held there,
and dancing went on, to the sound of Mark's violin. He loved his fiddle
dearly and at his death bequeathed it to the Calumet Club, where it is
still proudly shown and highly prized. Captain Andreas says of him:
Mr. Beaubien is described as being, in his prime, "a tall, atheletic, fine appearing man,
Frenchy and polite, frank, open-hearted, generous to a fault, and in his glory at a horse race." His
favorite dress on great occasions was a swallow-tail coat with brass buttons, and if in the summer,
light nankeen trousers. His quaint old song, in regard to the surrender of General Hull at Detroit, in
1812, of which he was a witness, was sung with much gusto. . . . His last visits to Chicago were
in 1879 and 1880, at the Calumet Club receptions to old settlers . . . The children of Mr. Beau-
bien, as given in the Chicago Times, March 26, 1876, were Josette, Mark, Oliver, Joseph, Emily,
Soliston, David, George, Napoleon, Edward, Helena, Elizabeth, Gwinny, Frances, Monique and one
infant that died unnamed, children of his first wife, Monique Nadeau, of Detroit; and Robert, Frank,
Mary, Ida, Jimmy, Jesse and Slide!, children by his second marriage. He died on the i6th of April,
1881, in Kankakee, 111., at the house of George Matthews, who married his daughter Mary.
In 1825 the assessment roll of John L. Bogardus, assessor of Peoria
county, shows for that year the following names and possessions in the
Chicago precinct:
Taxpayers' Names.
Valuation.
Tax.
$ I OOO
$ IO OO
Clybourne James,
625
6 25
Clark John K •
250
2 5O
^O OO
Clermont Jeremy, ..
loo
I OO
6
Coutra, Louis,
50
5°
7
500
5 oo
|
IOO
I OO
50
5°
IO
McKee, David,
IOO
I OO
jj
Piche, Peter
IOO
I OO
12
2OO
2 OO
572
5 72
400
4 oo
Total property, $9,047, of which $5,000 belonged to John Jacob Astor.
There are the surnames and the estates. Now let the civic aris-
tocracy come forward and pick out their ancestors
One of the penalties of having grown from 100 to 1,200,000 in two
generations, is the necessity which compels most of us to look east, north-
east and southeast for the roots of our family trees. Still, there are some
of the old names yet extant; and we can, at least, cling to them in the
nomenclature of our streets, avenues, squares, parks, public places,
AN OBSCURE DECADE.
201
schools and buildings. Our city directory for 1881 shows Kinzies,
Clybourns, Beaubiens, Laframboises. None of these can claim (as
do the Virginia descendants of Pocahontas) to share in the blood of
our predecessors in local dominion (the Indians), except one branch of
the Beaubiens, but there are other names, among our best society,
where a strain of that historic race exists.
NOTE.— The killing (in self-defense) of John Lalime by John Kinzie has already been men-
tioned. Since the writing of that part of our story, a discovery has been made which connects 1812
with to-day in an interesting way. On April 26th, 1891, some human bones and the bottom of a
pine coffin, all far advanced in decay, were unearthed at a point near the southwest corner of Cass
and Illinois streets (the old Saint James Church lot), which point is either identical with or wonder-
fully near to the grave of Lalime, as described in the following letter written by Mr. Hubbard:
Chicago, June zsth, 1881. Hon. John Wentworth . . . Mrs. Kinzie says that her husband and La Lime . . .
had had frequent altercations; that at the time of the encounter Mr. Kinzie had crossed the river alone, in a canoe, going
to the fort, and that La Lime met him outside the garrison and shot him, the ball cutting the outside of his neck. Mr.
Kinzie, closing with La Lime, stabbed him and retreated to the house, covered with blood. . . . She, i.n haste, took
bandages and with him retreated to the woods, where she dressed his wounds, returning just in time to meet an officer,
with a squad, to seize her husband For some days he was hid in the bush and cared (or by his wife.
La Lime was an educated man and quite a favorite with the officers, who were greatly excited. They decided he
should be buried near the bank of the river, about the present terminus of Rush street and within 200 yards of Mr.
Kinzie's house, in plain view of his front door and piazza. The grave was enclosed by a picket-fence, which Mr. Kinzie,
in his life-time, kept in perfect order After a full investigation by the officers, whose friend the deceased was,
they acquitted Mr. Kinzie, who then returned to his family. . . . Mr. Kinzie never, in my hearing, alluded to or spoke
of it. Knowing his aversion to converse on the subject, I never spoke to him about it. . . . Yours, G. S. Hubbard.—
(Fergus' Hist. Series, No. 16.)
On July zist, 1891, the writer presented these relics to the Chicago Historical Society, with
reasons for thinking them authentic. Doctors Hosmer and Freer pronounced them the bones of a
white male, of mature age, slim in build, five feet four inches high ; also judged them to have been
interred a long time, probably the 79 years called for. Judge Blodgett, John C. Haines, Fernando
Jones and others testified as to the position of the ancient grave, and Mr. Jones said that Robert
Kinzie had expressed to him (many years ago) his gladness that his brother John had caused " the
little Frenchman" to be placed in St. James church-yard. Old St. James parishioners agree that
no burials were known to have been made in the church-yard where these bones were found. The
fact of the body's being coffined shows that this was not a hasty, secret burial. Sure it is, that
Lalime was buried within a stone's throw of where these bones were found, and at a time just about
as distant in the past as the day when they must have been buried, and that no other remains which
might have been Lalime's were ever unearthed.
Remains unearthed April z6th and presented to the Historical Society, July ai, 1891
Treaties with
the Sauks
and Foxes.
CHAPTER XII.
THE VANISHING RACE.
OOD-BYE Indians! No longer can the
prairies be left in possession of men who
will not cultivate them. The law of sup-
ply and demand has migrated to the west-
ern frontier, supplanting monopolies both
savage and civilized. A few nomads,
without the thrift which would provide for
each an extra axe or blanket, a habitation
fit to keep out the weather, a plow and a
beast to pull one, still. less a winter's sup-
ply of food and fuel, have held, hitherto, thirty thousand square miles
-twenty million acres — of fertile land, worth a hundred million dol-
lars to a coming host of farmers. Fate has decreed that the Govern-
ment shall pay the savages certain annuities — goods, tools, schooling
and money which, properly used, would give to each of them axes,
plows, blankets, houses, horses, food and education for all time to come —
and that thereupon the eager farmers shall go to plowing the land ;
turning it up to the sun for the first time since the sun has shone on it,
and the wild wanderers have tramped over it.
The savage tenure of the land was like that grip ascribed to the
poisonous centipede, said to be hardly felt while he crawls along your
skin unmolested, but suddenly deep, tenacious, bloody and fatal when
you try to shake him off.
Black Hawk was a half-breed, a subordinate chief of the Sauks and
Foxes, under Keokuk, head chief. The treaty of St. Louis (1804) which
conveyed to the United States all their lands in Illinois, Black Hawk repu-
diated, saying that but four chiefs of the tribe had signed it, and they
only when drunk. July 15, 1830, Keokuk made another treaty convey-
ing all their lands east of the Mississippi, in both Illinois and Wiscon-
sin, Black Hawk being no party to the trade. The Indians were bound
to vacate their villages and cross the river in 1831, and Keokuk, with all
whom he could influence, kept the bargain. Not so Black Hawk; he
determined to maintain, by force, his hold on his old Rock River home.
This had been their home since the time of the advent of Jolietand
LaSalle, and here were the graves of their ancestors — the few of them
105
THE VANISHING RACE.
103
who may be supposed to have died at home between their terrible raids
on their neighbors.
The veteran doubtless thought, though he did not say :
" How can man die better
Than facing fearful odds
For the ashes of his fathers
And the altars of his gods ?"
While Black Hawk
and his tribe were
away on their annual
hunt, white specula-
tors seized their vil-
lage — all their wig-
wams and their corn
land. Even yet the
old chief by his acts
keeps his hold on our
sympathies. His
people agreed to
allow the intruders to
cultivate half the 700-
acre field while " the
squaws " should cul-
tivate the remainder;
an arrangement
which necessarily led
to speedy hostilities.
John Reynolds was
then Governor of
Illinois, the capital
town being Kaskas-
kia. On the petition
of eight of the squat-
ters he called ouc the
militia to maintain
HLACK HAWK.
the "rights" of the
whites at Black Hawk village, and wrote to General Clark* (superin-
tendent of Indian affairs) at St. Louis for aid in removing the Indians.
The Illinois militia contingent was raised to 1,600 and assembled at
Beardstown, and General Gaines, with them and what United States
Regulars he could muster, marched to the place and took possession of
the wigwams and cornfield; the Indians, helpless and hopeless, having
* Brother of our old hero, Georjje Rogers Clark.
104
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
The Black
Hawk War.
abandoned all and retired across the Mississippi. Moved with compas-
sion for the wretched fugitives encamped on the other bank of the
river under a white flag, Governor Reynolds and General Gaines sent
them food enough to keep them alive, and on June 30, 1831, Black
Hawk signed a new treaty confirming the provisions of the former one.
Next followed an instance of the perversity by which the Indian
always puts himself in the wrong. A band of Black Hawk's men went
Up to prajrie <ju Chien, surprised and attacked a camp of Menominees
and Sioux and killed twenty-eight of their unsuspecting fellow-savages !
Of course demand was made on Black Hawk to deliver up the killers,
and, also of course, Black Hawk failed to do so.
During the winter of 1831-2 a grand scheme was matured by Black
Hawk and his emissaries (especially his evil genius, White Cloud " the
Prophet "), by which Ottawas, Chippewas, Pottawatomies and Winne-
bagoes were to join the Sauks in recovering their ancient possessions.
One may laugh — or cry, as his humor is — at the pitiful array which
marched out for the " Black Hawk War."
Under this fatal illusion he assembled his people in March, 1832, on the west bank of the
Mississippi now the site of the flourishing city of Madison, Iowa. Here were assembled 368
braves, mounted on tough, muscular ponies, not unlike their masters, capable of great endurance,
with slender means of subsistence; squaws, jaded down with unceasing toil, and their quota of
half-clad children, shivering in the humid blasts of early spring, bent on a trip to their old home
east of the Mississippi, probably not without some faint hopes of repossessing it. . . . The men
leaped on the backs of their ponies and whipped the patient beasts up the west bank of the river,
while the squaws manned the canoes and tugged up the stream with their materials of war, consist-
ing of a few kettles, blankets, etc.
The little squad crossed the
Mississippi, and as they passed Dix-
on's ferry station Black Hawk told
Mr. Dixon that he would not go
back, nor would he fight unless at-
tacked. Then he went on, doing no
harm to the trembling settlers. The
troops came up with him when he
was engaged in a dog -feast pow-\vo\v
with Winnebagoes and other chiefs;
including " Shaubena " (alias " Shab-
bonay," "Chambly" and sundry other
allied names), of the Chicago region,
of whom we shall hear more.*
It would be useless to follow the particulars of the so-called Black
Hawk War. Abraham Lincoln's captaincy in it has drawn attention to it,
and the story may be found told in many shapes by many pens. Chi-
* This old chief had been an aid to Tecumseh at the battle of Tippecanoe, but from 1813 forward a constant friend
of the whites. He now flatly refused to cast his lot with Black Hawk.
SHAUBENA.
* >H^!Z'~
" '
This sheet of " memorial portraits." and the others facing pages 105, 112, 113, 120, 121, 128,
129, 136 and 137, are fac similes oi those exhibited at the Philadelphia Centennial Exposition of
1876, by C. D. Mosher, photographer ; now obtained from Alfred Brisbois, successor, 125 State
Street, Chicago.
104
• ^f3*
THE VANISHING RACE. 105
cago served as a harbor of refuge. At Plainfield, on the Dupage, lived
the Rev. S. R. Beggs, who has written a book giving his experiences.
His house was fortified and the residents and fugitives assembled there.
A rescuing party, under Col. Hamilton, started out from Chicago (forty
miles) and convoyed them in. Mr. Beggs adds:
There was no extra room for us when we arrived in Chicago. Two or three families of our
number were put into a room fifteen feet square, with as many more families, and here we stayed
crowding and jamming each other for several days . . . The next morning our first babe was
born, and during our stay fifteen tender infants were added to our number. One may imagine the
confusion of the scene — children crying and women complaining within doors, while without the
tramp of soldiery, the rolling of drums and the roar of cannon added to the din.*
Only a handful of Black Hawk's band survived the "war." (A
few who escaped across the upper Mississippi were met and killed by
their old foes, the Sioux.) Black Hawk himself was delivered up as
prisoner of war and in 1833 was sent to Washington. At the Hast he
was received with flattering attentions, especially from ladies, to which
he (wily savage!) responded with "Pretty squaw ! Pretty squaw ! " He
was released and returned to his people, and in 1838 he died at his
home on the Des Moines River (lowaville), where his remains lie;
buried in a sitting posture, after the manner of his tribe. Mr. Blanchard
calls him "The last native defender of the soil of the North West."
It was 1833, and 5,000 or more Indians were assembled at Chi-
cago, around the fort, the village, the rivers and the portage, to treat
for the sale of their entire remaining possessions in Illinois and Wis-
consin. The commissioners on the part of the Government were
George B. Porter, Thomas J. V. Owen and William Weatherford, and The last ch,-
the Indians present were the tribes of the Chippewas, Ottawas and Treaty" '
Pottawatomies, with chiefs and warriors, squaws and pappooses, ponies
and dogs. All who chose could come, and we may be sure that few
and regretful were the stay-at-homes ; for a treaty meant a feast, and a
feast, soon or late, became an orgie.
Mr. Hurlbut quotes largely from Charles Joseph Latrobe's " Ram-
bles in North America," and from his selection we will condense the
following realistic sketch :
A mushroom town on the verge of a level country, crowded to
its utmost capacity and beyond. A surrounding cloud of Indians
encamped on the prairie, beneath the shelter of the woods, on the river-
side or by the low sand hills along the lake. Companies of old war-
riors under every bush, smoking, arguing, palavering, pow-wowing, with
no apparent prospect of agreement.
* It seems possible that the Reverend gentleman, upon strict cross-examination, might have abated a few of the
6f teen babies and somewhat of the roar of the artillery. Seeing that the whole number of fugitives, old and young, from
Plainfield was 125, the sudden arrival of fifteen little strangers would indicate a remarkable unanimity— not to say a con-
spiracy— among parents; and considering that there was no enemy within 100 miles, the indicated cannonade is. to say
the least, excessive.
io6
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Ho\v Chicago
looked to a
stranger.
Within the palisades of the little fort lived the main part of the
enlightenment of the place, in the small group of officers attached to
the slender garrison. On the north side of the river some temporary
plank huts gave shelter to the Commissioners and their attendants.
Next in rank were certain storekeepers and merchants, looking for
profits incidental to such extraordinary occasions as this.
You will find horse-dealers and horse-stealers, rogues of every description, white, black, brown
and red ; half-breeds, quarter-breeds and no breed at all ; dealers in pigs, poultry and potatoes ;
men pursuing Indian claims, some for tracts of land, others for pigs which the wolves had doubt-
less eaten, but which, no matter, the Indians might be made to pay for . . . sharpers of every
degree, peddlers, grog-sellers, Indian agents and Indian traders, and contractors to supply the
Indians with food. The little village was in an uproar from morning to night and from night to
morning; for during the hours of darkness . . . the Indians howled, sang, wept, yelled and
\vhoopedintheirvariousencampments . . . One chaos of mud, rubbish and confusion. Frame
and clapboard houses were springing up daily under the active axes and hammers of the speculators.
. . . Races frequently occurred on a piece of level sward without the village. . . . " Stim-
ulating," betting and gambling were the order of the
day ... I loved to stroll out, toward sunset, across
the river [North Branch], and gaze upon the level
horizon over the surface of the prairie. Not far from
the river lay many groups of tents constructed of
coarse canvas, blankets and mats, and surmounted by
poles supporting meat, moccasins and rags. Their
vicinity was always enlivened by various painted
Indian figures dressed in the most gaudy attire.
Randolph, Lake and Water streets
and their crossings, from State to
Market, must have been a very pan-
demonium in our view, but to the
Indians a very paradise ; for here,
without labor or self-denial, they could
freely enjoy the food and drink which
it usually takes labor and self-denial
to provide. Why should they hurry ? This might go on forever,
for aught they cared. To the opening speech of Commissioner
Porter, which stated that their great father in Washington had heard
that they wished to sell their land, they promptly replied that their
great father "must have seen a bad bird which told him a lie ; for that
far from wishing to sell their land, they wished to keep it." And when
further pressed they looked at the sky, saw a few wandering clouds, and
straightway adjourned sine die; as the weather was not clear enough for
so solemn a council.
In vain the signal gun from the fort gave notice of an assemblage
of chiefs. After weeks of delay, a council fire was at last lighted in an
open shed on the north bank of the river.
The relative positions of the commissioners and other whites before the council fire and that
of the Red Children of the Forest and Prairie were to me strikingly impressive. The glorious light
of the setting sun, streaming in under the low roof of the council house, fell full on the faces of the
INDIAN GIRL.
THE VANISHING RACE.
107
former as they faced the west, while the pale light of the east hardly lighted up the dark and
painted lineaments of the poor Indians whose souls evidently clove to their birthright in that quar-
ter. . . The business of arranging the terms of an Indian treaty, whatever it might have been
200 years ago, while the Indians had not, as now, thrown aside the vigorous intellectual character
which distinguished many among them, now lies chiefly between the various agents, traders, credit-
ors and half-breeds, on whom custom and necessity have made the degraded chiefs dependent, and
the Government agents. When the former have seen matters so far arranged that their self-interest
and various schemes and claims are likely to be fulfilled and allowed, the silent acquiescence of the
Indian follows as a matter of course.
Following out the suggestion contained in the final words above
quoted, and looking up the treaty itself as recorded in the " Book of
Indian Treaties," one comes upon some curious facts. The chief open-
ing for questionable practices seems to have lain in the " reservation " of
funds, not demanded or received by the Indians, but allotted to everyone
who could get his claim allowed by the Commissioners. $100,000 was
to go from the Government " to satisfy sundry individuals in behalf of
whom reservations [of land] were asked, which the Commissioners
refused to grant," according to " Schedule A." Next $150,000 to satisfy
claims made against the said United Nation [Indians] which they have
admitted to be justly due, according to " Schedule B."
Now, turning to the details of the treaty, we find under the two
Schedules some 500 or more names of persons to receive from $100
to $17,000 apiece. Searching through the long list we come to several
old friends. Beside persons of Indian blood, like the Ouillemettes,
Beatibiens, Chief Robinson, Billy Caldwell, Indian children of John K.
Clark, etc., we find "Margaret Hall" and her children and grand-
children, designated by names which identify this as the line of the elder
of the "captive girls" so often named, including William and James
(Kinzie) and David (Hall), her sons, remembered to the amount of
$5,000. Again James Kinzie, by himself, $5,000 and $300. Also, John
H., Ellen M. (Wolcott), Maria (Hunter) and Robert A. Kinzie,
$5,000 each, and Margaret Helm, $2,000. Indeed, everybody near by,
except the Clybourns, seems to have got a slice. Mr. Hurlbut says :
One gentleman . . . was present at the treaty and was familiar with the whole proceedings
whose ideas of the business scarcely accorded with those who would commend the actions of our
Government officials on that occasion. . . "It is all clear upon my mind [he says], and I pre-
sume I know it better than any other man that can be found at this date. . . You or hardly any
other man can imagine what was done, or how ridiculous the whole thing was carried on or closed
up. It should have been conducted upon principles of truth and justice, but the whole thing was a
farce, acted by those in office in our Government."*
At first blush, the allotments of money to the Kinzie claimants
seem to bear out the slurs of Mr. Hurlbut's anonymous correspondent ;
but further examination brings more light. We have seen how, on
August I5th, 1812, all the savings of John Kinzie's long life of toil,
•The Senate, in ratifying the treaty, directed that the claims should be examined by a commissioner and only
such amounts be paid as should be found justly due. (This may have been the expectation when the claims were
inserted.)
hue men s
interest in
io8 THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
danger and privation were taken from him by violence, and how he then
went from comparative riches to absolute poverty, from which he never
emerged. The old homestead, sanctified by the memory of long and
boundless hospitality to all comers, white or red, fell into disrepair,
squalor and neglect, and the fine family, those who survived of it,
sought refuge with a humble fellow-townsman (Beaubien), who enter-
tained them as best he could, thus following the example of beneficence
set to us all by our first pioneer, his guest, John Kinzie (Shaw-nee-
au-kee).
The loss so suffered was surely not less than $30,000, and now for
twenty years it had been borne in helpless silence. Meanwhile the
respect and affection entertained for " Shaw-nee-aw-kee " by the Indians
had been of immense value to the Government and citizens of the
Union ; not merely in their daily intercourse, but in the negotiation of
two great treaties, yielding incalculable benefit to us and our kind
forever.
Both parties to this latest treaty were in a measure bound to make
good the Kinzies' loss; the Government, because it had failed to give its
citizen the protection against alien enemies which he had a right to
claim ; the Indians, because they were the aliens who destroyed the
property. On the whole, one is disposed to wish that the sums named
may have been paid, together with such of the other " reservations " as
were equally well founded.
Apropos to all this ; one observes that old Shaubena (called "Sha-
bonee" by Hurlbut), who had been the constant and invaluable friend
of the white man all the latter part of his life, whose name appears as a
signer to the main treaty and to each supplementary article, has no place
TshLauSbenald in tne "reserved" lists. True, we find a separate clause aimed toward
giving him two sections of land ; but that clause was stricken out by
the Senate at the confirmation of the treaty. White friends "chipped
in," bought him a few acres near Morris, and built him a house. There
he died in 1859. Probably if more had been given him he would have
died sooner, for — he was an Indian, and his own worst enemy.
The money paid and the goods delivered, the Indians shook the
dust off their feet and departed; the dust-shaking being literal, for
once, as 'they joined, just before starting, in a final "war-dance." For
this strange scene we fortunately have as witness ex-Chief Justice Caton,
previously quoted herein. He estimates the dancers at 800, that being
all the braves that could be mustered out of the 5,000 members then
present of the departing tribes. The date was August 18, 1853. He says :
They appreciated that it was the last on their native soil — that it was a sort of funeral ceremony
of old associations and memories, and nothing was omitted to lend to it all the grandeur and
THE VANISHING RACE.
109
solemnity possible. . . .» They assembled at the Council House [northeast corner of Rush and
Kinzie streets]. All were naked except a strip of cloth around the loins. Their bodies were covered
\vithagreatvarietyofbrilliantpaints. On their faces particularly they seemed to have exhausted
their art of hideous decoration. Foreheads, cheeks and noses were covered with curved stripes of
red or vermilion, which were edged with black points and gave the appearance of a horrid grin. The
long, coarse black hair was gathered into scalp locks on the tops of theirheads and decorated with a
profusion of hawks' and eagles' feathers, some strung together so as to extend down the back nearly
to the ground. They were principally armed with tomahawks and war-clubs. They were led by
what answered for a band of music which created a discordant din of hideous noises, produced by
beating on hollow vessels and striking sticks and clubs together. They advanced with a continued
dance. Their actual progress was quite slow. They proceeded up along the river on the North Side,
-^
•'^- s
•
,. •'*•
HIE SAUGANASH HOTEL.
stopping in front of every house to perform some extra antics. They crossed the North Branch on
the old bridge, about Kinzie street, and proceeded south to the bridge which stood where Lake street
bridge is now, nearly in front and in full view from the Sauganash Hotel [Wigwam lot, Lake and
Market streets]. A number of young married people had rooms there. The parlor was in the
second story fronting west, from the windows of which the best view of the dance was to be had,
and these were filled with ladies.
The young lawyer, afterward Chief Justice, had come to the West
in 1833, and less than a year before this had gone back to Oneida
County, New York, and there married Miss Laura Sherrill ; and they
are probably the oldest Chicago couple now living. They were among
the lookers on from those upper windows ; a crowd all interested, many
agitated and some really frightened at the thought of the passions and
memories that must be inflaming those savage breasts and that were
making them the very picture of demoniac fury.
Although the din and clatter had been heard for some time, they did not come into view, from
this point of observation, till they had proceeded so far west [on the North Side] as to come on a line
The Farewell
War Dance
in 1835.
110
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
with the house . . . All the way to the South Branch bridge . . . cameMhe wild band, which was
in front as they came upon the bridge, redoubling their blows, closely followed by the warriors who
had now wrought themselves into a perfect frenzy.
The morning was very warm and the perspiration was pouring from them. Their counte-
nances had assumed an expression of all the worst passions . . . fierce anger, terrible hate, dire
revenge, remorseless cruelty — all were expressed in their terrible features . . . Their toma-
hawks and clubs were thrown and brandished in every direction ; . . . and with every step and
every gesture they uttered the most frightful yells. . . . The dance consisted of leaps and spas-
modic steps, now forward and now back or sidewise, the whole body distorted into every imagin-
able position; most generally stooping forward with the head and face thrown up. the back arched
INDIAN WAR DANCE.
down, first one foot thrown far forward and withdrawn and the other similarly thrust out, frequently
squatting quite to the ground, and all with a movement almost as quick as lightning. . . . The
yells and screams they uttered were broken up and multiplied and rendered all the more hideous
by a rapid clapping of the mouth with the palm of the hand. . . .
When the head of the column reached the hotel, while they looked up at the windows at the
"chemokoman squaws," ... it seemed as if we had a picture of hell itself before us and a carnival
of the damned spirits there confined . . They paused in their progress, for extra exploits, in front
of Dr. John T. Temple's house, near the northwest corner of Lake and Franklin streets . . . and
then again in front of the Tremont, on the northwest corner of Lake and Dearborn sts., where the
appearance of ladies in the windows again inspired them with new life and energy. Thence they
proceeded down to Fort Dearborn . . . where we will take a final leave of my old friends with
more good wishes for their future welfare than I really dare hope will be realized.
The Indians were conveyed to the lands selected for them (and
accepted by a deputation sent by them in advance of the treaty) in
Clay County, Missouri, opposite Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. The
Missourians were hostile to their new, strange neighbors, and two years
later they were again moved ; this time to a reservation in Iowa, near
THE VANISHING RACE. in
Council Bluffs. Once more the fate of the poor waif, "move on, move
on," was theirs, and then they halted in Kansas for many years.
At the present time (1891) it is hard to trace the Indians who
departed hence fifty-six years ago. They are lost tribes. The report
for 1890 of the Commissioner of Indian affairs gives Pottawatomies of
various descriptions scattered in many places. The same is true of the
Ottawas and Chippewas.
The larger part of the Pottawatomies (known of old as the " Woods
Band" in contradistinction to the "Prairie Band") have renounced
tribal relations and are known as the "Citizen Band." They number
scarcely two thousand souls and occupy a thirty-mile square — 575,000
acres — in Oklahoma.
The Commissioner's report says but little about them, giving more
attention to the "Prairie Band," since they are still a tribe and so
"wards of the nation." They number only 462, and hold in common
77, 357 acres in Kansas, where they are cloinsr fairly, but are pestered Present state
* •*•" J O J' l of the same
with the dregs of the "Citizen Band" who fall back on the tribe like Tribei
the returned prodigal — only unrepentant, and still fit company only for
the husk-eating swine.
Of the "Citizen Band" Special Agent Porter says:
The Pottawatomies are citizens of the United States, thoroughly tinctured with white blood.
Nearly all of them speak English and read and write. Some of them are quite wealthy, being good
farmers, with large herds of stock. Their morals are below the standard, considering their advanced
state as a civilized people.
So, once more, "Good-bye, Indians." It was said of old " The first
Chicago white man was black;" and it may almost as truly be said " The
last Chicago red man is white," seeing that they are behaving them-
selves so much like their neighbors.
,X
k!^'
INDIANS ON THE MOVE.
CHAPTER XIII.
Begin
the
and
gan
ning of
Illinois
Michi-
Canal.
VERY HARD WORK.
F the decade from 182010 1830 was a dull
and moveless one, the next was humming
with coming things. Some of the most
important and far-reaching occurrences of
our history date back to the fourth decade.
The canal now took shape, for in 1827
Daniel P. Cook, Illinois' representative in
Congress, had obtained the passage of the
bill granting alternate sections of land for
six miles on each side of the line to aid in
its building.*
It was long years after the canal was
"begun," in the sense of preliminary
arrangement, before it assumed physical
form. To use the Western phrase, the "wind-work" had to be done
before the earth-work could begin. It was a struggle to get the land-
donation bill through Congress; another to decide on the plan, size and
location ; another to get money for the work. The last was only
accomplished after, by another struggle, the State had been induced to
guarantee the bonds. The first earth-work was the building of "Archer's
Road" (now Archer avenue) from Chicago to Lockport — an outlay
($40,000) which was a great aid to the canal, but which was opposed
as a "job" because Colonel Archer, canal commissioner, had property
at Lockport.
At last, on July 4, 1836, there was a grand celebration of inaugura-
tion. A gay crowd, composed of citizens and invited guests, assembled
in Court House square, the signal being given by three guns fired from
the fort. The officers of the day were J. B. F. Russell, marshal ; and
as aides, E. D. Taylor, Robert Kinzie, G. W. Snow, J. S. C. Hogan, H.
Hubbard and W. Kimball. At n A. M. the steamer Chicago started
from Dearborn street, loaded with excursionists, and followed by the
schooners Sea Serpent and Llewellin and other craft, all towed by horses.
* For this service we owe him much thanks, and our chief acknowledgment thus far is the naming our county
after him when it was organized in 1831. Senators Thomas, Edwards and Kane were also efficient in forwarding the
great measure, and the two latter were honored by giving their names to Edwards and Kane counties.
112
VERY HARD WORK.
The land procession moved on foot, on horseback and in carriages, and
all assembled at the " New House" at Canal-Port (Bridgeport).
In the good old fashion, the exercises were opened by the reading
of the Declaration of Independence. This was done by Judge Smith.
Next came an eloquent address by Dr. William B. Egan, our early wit and
humorist, still regretted by a thousand old friends and admirers. Gurdon
Hubbard followed, recalling and describing to his hearers the condition
of the place when, eighteen years before, he had ascended the lonely
Portage Creek in a canoe. Then the crowd adjourned to the canal
site where Colonel Archer "turned the first shovelful of earth."
Does any reader suppose that all was now plain sailing ? Far frbm
it. The pinch was yet to come — in fact, several pinches. The incredibly
foolish " Internal Improvement Act,"
of 1837, was passed — Abraham Lin-
coln, member of the legislature, one
of its warmest supporters — and wild
inflation followed. By 1839 a million
and a quarter had been laid out and
the commissioners were at their wits'
end to find means to proceed. The
scheme was adopted for issuing
" Canal Scrip," in denominations
running from $i to $100, and some
$400,000 of it were given out in all
when, about 1842, Illinois failed to
pay the interest on her debt; money
was gone, credit was gone, and work
was suspended. More than four and
a half millions had been spent, and
nothing finished.
Pausing only long enough to catch its breath, enterprise began
again. Arthur Bronson.of New York, and William B. Ogden, Justin But-
terfield and Isaac N. Arnold, of Chicago, were a self-constituted council
of war to carry on the fight. A well known scrap of soldier-wisdom is
that toward the end of every well contested battle there comes a pause,
a crisis, wherein he who takes the initiative wins the clay. So it was
here. To quote Mr. Blanchard (p. 449): "Work was now resumed on
the canal, and under the able and honest administration of these trustees
[Capt. Wm. H. Swift, U. S. A. ; David Leavitt, of the Am. Ex. Bank,
N. Y., and Jacob Fry, of Illinois] it was finished April 19, 1848, and on
May i, 1871, the last dollar 'of the canal debt was paid, and the canal
itself, with its unsold lands, and nearly $100,000 surplus in the treasury,
was given up to the State."
HON. D. P. COOK.
Persistence
under dif-
liculties.
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
One of the "alternate Sections" granted by the Act of Congress of
1827 chanced to be Section 9, Town 39 North, in Range 13 East of the
3d Principal Meridian, and that was the tract embracing the very centre
original Town of the coming metropolis, for its boundaries are Chicago avenue on the
surveyed.
north, State street on the east, Madison street on the south and
Halsted street on the west.
On this square mile the Canal Commissioners — Dr. Jayne, of
Springfield; Edmund Roberts, of Kaskaskia, and Charles Dunn — pro-
ceeded, in 1830, to lay out the town;
James Thompson, a St. Louis sur-
veyor, being employed to do the
platting and measurements. Of
course the commissioners did not
include the whole Section — a square
mile must have seemed too absurdly
large for Chicago.
They established and named, as
the North and-South streets, State,
Dearborn, Clark, LaSalle, Wells,
Franklin, Market, Canal, Clinton,
Ijefferson and Desplaines; as East-
fand-West streets they made Kinzie,
Carroll, Water, Lake, Randolph,
Washington and Madison. This
makes about three -eighths of a
square mile ; say two hundred and
forty acres. One would like to have
been an unseen observer of the conclave which named these streets.
Being State officers, they naturally fixed first on State for a name.
At the same time they were good enough to honor the pioneer, Dr.
Alexander Wolcott, by giving his name to the continuation of State
street, north of the river.
The locality (being one wherein the Fort was by far the most im-
portant factor) almost compelled the choice of Dearborn for the next.
Then some one — very likely Mr. Edmunds, of Kaskaskia — insisted on
the honored patronymic of the early hero, George Rogers Clark, the
captor (1778) of Kaskaskia, and thus savior of the whole Northwest.
Two other Chicago worthies followed, LaSalle (1682) and Wells
(1812), after which (the supply of local heroes seeming to fail) they
fell back on National dignitaries. Franklin, Clinton and Jefferson
came in for their share, interspersed with Market, Water and Canal for
especial local reasons.
DR. \VM. B. EGAN.
VERY HARD WORK.
For the lateral streets, similar principles prevailed. Kinzie came
in for local distinction, Water and Lake for physical reasons, and
Carroll, Randolph, Washington
and Madison for national con-
siderations.*
Many lots were sold at
auction the same year (1830)
and brought from ten to two
hundred dollars each.
Directly south of section
nine, in every township, lies
section sixteen.f By the1
munificence of the general
government, its noble gener-i
osity and far - seeing shrewd-j
ness, it has given, at one stroke, '
one-thirty-sixth of all its do-
mains to the cause of educa-
tion, by dedicating the section
numbered sixteen in every
township to the public (free)
schools of that township. This
was begun in 1802, when Ohio
(first of the States carved out
of Virginia's concession) was admitted to the Union, and has been fol-
lowed up by further legislation.
'Attention is invited to the carefully prepared folding map, bound up with this volume ; which gives first the
meandering line which was the wild, lonely, bird-haunted lake shore in the forgotten ages when Michigan flowed
southward, as described in Chapter I. Besides this, the map gives the succeeding lines of city limits, with the date of
each enlargement down to the last— hitherto.
tit is well worth while to learn the admirable system
pursued in the United States government surveys ; whereby
every acre of the broad domain is separately traceable; being
fixed and named (or possible to be named) distinct from every
otheracre. First, the township (six miles square) is designated
by p. certain number, in a certain range, east (or west) of a
certain meridian; next, each section (a mile square) is desig-
nated by number in that township. Thereafter the parts of
the section are identified by the points of the compass. To
illustrate: The "Canal Section*1 above-mentioned is (and for-
ever will be) "Section 9, Township 39, North, in Range 14,
West of the sd Principal Meridian ; " and the portion platted
*; (so far as it lies east of Market street) is the southeast quarter
of that section.
An understanding of this system should be given in
every school in the land. It is simple, yet too vast to be more
than indicated here. A plat giving the location and numbering
of the sections in each township is here presented. Every
township and every section (except where interfered with by
lakes, or by the ** narrowing " of the earth as it approaches the
pole) is like every other.
The system was devised in 1802, by Col. Mansfield, then
surveyor of the North-Western Territory. His name deserves
to be known, for his services to us all are inestimable.
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SOUTH
PLAT OF ANY TOWNSHIP.
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Reference to the plat of any township will show the relative places
of Sections 9 and 16. The latter in Town 39, 13, 3, is bounded by Madi-
son, State, Twelfth and Halsted streets. Thus it will be seen that in our
favored spot the two most valuable square miles of land were a free
gift from our country for public uses, the first for the Illinois and Michi-
gan canal, our primal source of material prosperity; the second for our
free school system, the perennial spring of moral progress.
The sale of the school section was the greatest administrational
blunder — or crime — in our annals. The tract (640 acres) was divided
into 142 blocks — perhaps 5,000 lots — among the most valuable both
for wharfing and building purposes in the present city. Suppose
these to have been leased instead of sold (say upon fifty-year leases, in
order that lessees should have proper inducement to build upon them),
they would now constitute an educational " foundation " beside which
Oxford, Edinburgh and Cambridge, Harvard, Yale, Cornell and Colum-
bia, all shrink to insignificance. At a rough guess the sum may be
placed at $100,000,000.
In view of such a terrible sacrifice of public interest to private
train, it seems as if it mi<jht even to-day be good policy to enact
Sale of the ° _ ' . « ,
that no "school-land " in the country should ever be alienated in per-
petuity ; that fifty years' leasehold should be the limit, forever.
The Town Commissioners must
have been the layers-out of the Sec-
tion (the original plat was burned
in 1871), but they seem only to
have named the streets as occasion
might require ; for in the first
record of town council proceedings
in the first Chicago newspaper
(John Calhoun's "Chicago Demo-
crat"), among the orders passed was
one giving the names Madison,
Monroe, Adams and Jackson to the
four streets next south of Wash-
ington.
The best history of the earliest
days of Chicago schools is con-
tained in a pamphlet, written in
1851 by W. H. Wells, which was
RICHARD I. HAMILTON. 11-11 c~\ i i i i
embodied by bnepnerd Johnston
(clerk of the Board of Education), in a larger book published in 1881.
VERY HARD WORK.
7/7
This again is the basis of a very full and. complete treatment of the
subject by Captain Andreas in his excellent work of 1884.
Mr. Wells gives the text of a petition (not dated) praying the
commissioner of school lands, Richard J. Hamilton (ar. 1831), to sell
the school section. The petition bore 95 names, " embracing most of
the principal citizens of the town." But Mr. Hurlbut hints that if only
genuine signatures and citizenship be taken into account they would
fall far below that number.
Not all Chicagoans were in favor of this disposition of the school
section. The most noted, persistent and determined opponent was that
good man and good citizen, Philo Carpenter (ar. 1832). He used all
his powers of persuasion, first, that the sale be deferred ; next, that only
alternate blocks be sold. All in vain; 138 blocks were sold for $38,-
619.47, and four only retained. The four retained are: block i (Madi-
son, Halsted, Monroe and Union streets); blocks 87 and 88 (Harrison
street, Fifth avenue, Polk street and
the river), and block 142 (Madison,
State, Monroe and Dearborn streets);
the last named alone worth two hun-
dred times the entire purchase price
of the 138 blocks that were sold. (At
the same time it is worthy of note
that a contemporary of "Deacon
Carpenter," still living, says, " Oh,
yes; the Deacon had an addition of
his own just west of the School Sec-
tion, which he wanted a chance to
sell first ! ")
Well, the land speculators
triumphed and got possession of
their prey, but in most cases a<
very few years saw the end of
their rejoicing, for the panic of 1837 pricked the bubble and universal
bankruptcy, as usual, followed upon universal inflation.
The wish to present the topographical start of the city, as exemplified
by the laying out and naming of its first streets, an operation which
moulded its outward aspect forever, has led us ahead of the chronolog-
ical course of events.
Notice has already been taken of the establishment of a ferry by
Clybourn & Miller.*
* The ferriage fees were as follows :
Foot passengers, 6%" cents; man and horse, 12}^ cents; one-horse wagon, 25 cents; two- horse or ox wagon, 37^
cents; mules and neat cattle, 10 cents; hog, sheep or goat, 3 cents; each ico weight of goods, wares, and merchandize and
each bushel of grain or other article sold by the bushel, 6*4 cents.
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
The charges were liberal, but as citizens of Cook County were
exempt, and as strangers were few and far between, the business lan-
guished, and by 1831 everybody had to paddle his own canoe. Then
Ferriage. Mark Beaubien bought a scow from Miller for $65, and went to ferry-
ing ; but we may imagine that he, too, grew tired of working gratis for
his neighbors and needed spurring up, for the County Commissioners
passed an order that he should ferry citizens of Cook County over
"from daylight to dark without stopping."
The year 1831 saw a startling innovation. A bridge was built over
the South Branch, between Lake and Randolph streets. What is still
more striking is the way it was paid for: $286.20 by white citizens, and
$200 by the Pottawatomies. This little bit of intelligence puts our red
brethren in a better light than any other circumstance we have yet
UNITED STATKS HOTEL (WEST SIDE) AND SOUTH BRANCH BRIDGE, 1839.
met. Hurlbut says this bridge stood till 1840. A picture of the United
States Hotel (West Side), taken in 1839 an^ here reproduced, shows
this old bridge.
A foot-bridge was thrown across the north branch in 1832. not far
from the present Kinzie street bridge. Both these bridges being low
wooden structures, it is evident that no navigation of either branch by
lake craft was possible. The idea was then, doubtless, to leave the
main river clear to serve as a harbor. Nevertheless, the many on land
gradually prevailed over the few afloat ; or, rather, expedients were
devised for the compromise of the contending interests; means which
endure (though with vast improvements) to this day.
VERY HARD WORK.
119
The first draw-bridge was thrown across the river at Dearborn
street in 1834, by Nelson R. Norton (1833). Mr. Hurlbut (quoting the
"Times") says:
It was of the " gallows frame " pattern, and for five years the two "gallows frames," one on
either side of the river, frightened timid people at night. The structure was about 300 feet long
and the opening for the passage of craft was about sixty feet. The draw worked by chain cables
and opened with cranks."
Mr. Wentworth (Fergus1 Hist. Series, No. 8) gives a letter from
its builder.
I came to Chicago November 16, 1833. Soon after I arrived I commenced cutting the
lumber for a draw-bridge on land adjoining Michigan avenue, afterward owned by Hiram Pearson.
In March, 1834, I commenced building it, and I think it was completed by the first of June. The
DEARBORN STREET BRIDGE.
first steamboat that passed through it was the old Michigan, with a double engine. The first
freight taken down the lakes was in 1834, being a lot of hides from cattle that had been slaughtered
for the U. S. troops.
On the bridge question there was a merry war for some years, two
wars it maybe said; one by the jealous South-siders who wanted to keep
all the trade from crossing the river ; another by people of all sides who
preferred ferries. The "prairie schooners," covered wagons, had begun
coming in great numbers, often 500 a day, bringing grain in what seemed
then large quantities. They halted on the military reservation over
night and crossed (if they could) next morning to the grain warehouses
which were all on the North Side.
120 THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
In 1839 the Council ordered the removal of the Dearborn street
bridge of 1834, and so afraid were its enemies that the Council might
change its mind that a number of men attacked it with axes before the
dawn of the following day and soon chopped it to pieces. It may be
asked why the South-siders did not provide warehouses of their own ;
to which the answer doubtless is that the whole south bank of the river
was a miry swamp except at the eastern part, and that was held for the
military reservation. The bridge article in the Times reads as follows :
The North Side warehouses were in sore distress. They needed a connection with the other
two towns. The council was equally divided. At the time when the question was at its height,
O t Messrs. Newberry and Ogden presented to the Catholic Ecclesiastical authorities the two blocks
Bridge built, now occupied by their cathedral [North State and Superior streets]. It was said at the time that the
present was to influence votes on the bridge question. It undoubtedly was. The North Side won
her bridge. Mayor Raymond cast the deciding vote. A float-bridge was thereupon built at Clark
street, and the North Side siege was raised. That was the end of the bridge question of 1840.*
Another momentous physical event of those days was the opening
of the way from river to lake and from lake to river.
It has been already said that natural causes combine to produce a
constant current of sand to the southward along our shore, f This
drifting mass, battling with the outflow of every river — even every little
streamlet — on this side, of the lake, pushes its mouth toward the south
and deposits sand outside its deflected course. Walk along the shore
where one will, and observe any rill entering the lake unguided; he will
find it following its "line of least resistance" by turning to the right
and losing itself gradually in a shallow ooze.
The Chicago river was an example in large of these phenomena
in little. Its general eastern course met a broad, strong bank of sand
just after passing the fort, and it only managed to accomplish its manifest
destiny down at about Madison and Monroe streets, where, over a long
shallow, it mingled its stream with the lake. At low water, one could
wade from the sand spit to the mainland near Park Row. At high
water, light draught barges could get f>ver.
Major Lydecker (Blanchard, p. 540) gives the general facts of the
change. Congress, in 1833, voted $25,000 for improving the "harbor at
Chicago, on Lake Michigan." A direct cut was made through the sand
spit from the bend in the river to the lake. A "revetment " (facing or
retaining wall) was placed on the north side of the cut, and from the
* Ex-Gov. Bross says : "The bridges over the Chicago river in 1848 were a curiosity. One end was fixed on a
pivot in the wooden abutment, and the other was placed upon a large square box or boat. When it was necessary to
open the bridge for the passage of vessels, a chain, fastened on or near the shore on the side of the pier, some distance
from it, was wound up by a capstan on the float end of the bridge, thus opening it. It was closed in the same manner by a
chain on the opposite side of it. Our present (1876) excellent pivot bridges were introduced, and I think invented, by
City Superintendent Harper, about 1850, or soon afterward.
t Between 1870 and 1875 the United States "River and Harbor" appropriations were used to build the outer
pier, which runs parallel with Michigan avenue some quarter of a mile or so out in the lake; and in 1875-80 the north out-
side pier was built to furnish a harber of refuge in northeasterly gales. The total expenditure from 1833 to iS8o was
$1,008,005, representing 14.500 lineal feet of piers and breakwaters— nearly two and three-quarter miles. Almost all the
work has been done under the direction oi Major Lydecker, Engineer, V. S. A.
ftt
* • ^*-
,7*
VERY HARD WORK, 121
outer extremity of the revetment a pier was built out into the lake
about 1,000 feet, the beginning- of the present "North Pier," which has
been repeatedly lengthened since that time. This pier at once began
to catch and hold back the sand, "which, moving south along the lake
shore under the influence of the littoral current, would soon have closed
the outlet and left matters as bad as before." *
While the north pier was in progress the cut was widened to 200
feet and revetted on the South Side. At about the same time the old
channel leading southward was closed by a line of cribs filled with stone
and sunk across its course. Judge Caton remembers the fact that as
these cribs were sunk, the current, in its effort to follow its old course,
cut the sand away from under their eastern edges, so that they lay in a
slanting position; and to this day, at low water, one may see the old
crib timbers sloping downward toward the deep water, along the face of
the Goodrich steamboat dock east of Rush street bridge.
Man having shown his courage and strength, nature gracefully
yielded the point, ceased her resistance and even lent him her help to
satisfy his fruitful desire. A great freshet in the spring of 1834 effectu-
ally established the new channel, and on July 12, 1834, the schooner
Illinois was pulled over the bar and sailed up the river amid the accla-
mations of the citizens. The builder of Dearborn street draw-bridge
says: "The first steamboat that passed through it was the old Michigan,
with a double engine." No doubt that the schooner with all her spars,
together with the steamboat with her double engine, could have been
snugly stowed away out of sight in the hold of one of our modern 2,500
ton propellers, endowed with a carrying capacity of 100,000 bushels of
grain ; but we must creep before we walk.
So, we were coming along. The streets — so-called — were a sea of
mud when it rained and a storm of dust when the dry southwest wind
raged. The most approved vehicle for society ladies was a stout ox
cart with hay in the bottom. The cart could back up to the door of
the fair passenger to allow her to mount, plod through the mire to the
house of feasting and back up to its door to discharge its pleasure-seek-
ing load. Many a dame now among us remembers those expeditions
and is quite ready to admit that there was as much pleasure in them as
in the more elegant style of modern merrymaking — certainly, for those
who were then young and now are young no longer.
Lake schooners in the river ; prairie schooners in the roads, mud in
the streets, music in the parlors and hope in the hearts — Chicago is
fairly going ahead at last.
* The prevailing-southwest wind, blowing the waves obliquely toward the eastern shore of the lake, causes a
northward current on that side, while the equilibrium is restored by a back-flow along the west shore, where the pro-
tection of the land measurably lessens the effect of the wind upon the water.
CHAPTER XIV.
Schools and
Teachers.
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH.
THE KEEL LAID.
5 URN ING now once more from
the physical to the moral aspect
of the awakening community, we
come to the beginning of its peda-
gogic life. Stephen Forbes, in
June, 1830, was employed by J. B.
Beaubien, Lieutenant Hunter, and
others, to teach the children then
living in and around the fort. He
lived and kept school in a large,
low, five-room structure built of
logs squared on two sides. It
a, stood near the river outlet (Madi-
son street), was known as the
Dean House, and belonged to
J. B. Beaubien. Mr. Forbes taught
the boys in one room, Mrs. Forbes
scholars num-
the girls in another. The
bered about twenty-five ; two the children
of a soldier in the fort, the rest mainly French
and half-breed Indians.
This is usually called the beginning of
school teaching in Chicago, because schools
were continuously maintained thereafter.
There had been before sporadic and occa-
sional efforts in the line. In the winter of
1810-11, Robert A. Forsyth, aged thirteen,
essayed to open to John H. Kinzie, aged
eleven, the gateway of all human
knowledge, using as a key a spell-
ing book which by chance had
arrived at the little frontier post.*
In 1816, William L. Cox, a discharged soldier, taught John H.
•Mrs. Kinzie (Fergus' Scries No. 10) says that her husband "loved to describe his delight when, upon one
occasion, among the stores brought by the annual schooner, a spelling book was drawn forth and presented to him. His
cousin, Robert Forsyth, at that time a member of his father's family, undertook to teach him to read, and . . . the
exercises gave to the pupil a pleasant association with the fragrance of green tea, which always kept that spelling boo
fresh in his mind."
123
THE KEEL LAID.
123
Kinzie, R. A. Kinzie and their sisters, Ellen and Maria, and three or
four children from the fort, in a small log building behind the Kinzie
house, at about the present crossing of Pine and
Michigan streets. Again, in 1820, a small school
is said to have been kept by a sergeant, within
the fort. Very touching seem these little strug-
gles toward knowledge. They suggest the eager
leaning of a sun-loving plant, in a dark room,
toward any ray of light that peers through even
a crevice looking to the free sky.
John Watkins, writing to the Old Settlers'
reception in 1879, says:
I asrived in Chicago in May, 1832. . . I commenced
teaching in the fall, after the Black Hawk War, 1832. My first
school-house was situated on the North Side, about half-way
between the lake and the forks of the river. The building
belonged to Colonel Richard J. Hamilton, was erected as a
horse-stable and had been used as such. It was twelve feet square. My benches and desks were
made of old store-boxes. The school was started by private subscription. Thirty scholars were sub-
scribed for. But many subscribed who had no children. So it was a sort of free school, there not
being thirty children in town. During my first quarter I had but twelve scholars, and only four of
them were white. The others were quarter, half and
three quarters Indian. . . .In the winter of 1832-3,
Billy Caldwell, a half-breed chief of the Pottawatomie
Indians, better known as the Sauganash, offered to pay
the tuition and provide books for all Indian children
who would attend school if they would dress like the
Americans, and he would also pay for their clothes.
But not a single one would accept the proposition con-
ditioned on the change of apparel.
I will now give you the names of some of my
scholars: Thomas, William and GeorgeOwen; Richard
Hamilton; Alexander, Philip and Henry Beaubien, and
Isaac N. Harmon. (Wells' sketch.)
In the autumn of 1833, Miss Eliza
Chappel (afterward Mrs. Jeremiah
Porter, of Green Bay) opened an infant
school of about twenty children, in a log
house on South Water street, a short
distance west of the fort enclosure.
Some of the garrison children
attended. In the latter part of the
same year, Mr. Granville Temple ' /
Sproat came from Boston and opened an English and classical school
for boys at the corner of South Water and Franklin streets, in which,
the spring of 1834, Miss Sarah L. Warren (afterward Mrs. A. E. Car-
penter, of Warrenville, Wis.) was engaged as assistant.
In 1834 an appropriation was made to Miss Chappel from the
134
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Protestant
Churches.
Town School Fund (proceeds of lots) and the school taught by her at
that time, in the First Presbyterian church (west side of Clark street,
between Lake and Randolph streets'* was properly the first public
school of Chicago. (Wells.)*
A bit of " local color" appears in the following extract from a letter
written in 1858 by Mrs. W'arren-Carpenter.
My salary was $300 a year, and I think the gentleman teacher's. $600. ... I boarded at
Elder Freeman's. His house must have been some four or five blocks southeast of the meeting-
house, with scarce a house between. ... I used to go across without regard to streets. It
was not uncommon in going to and from school to see prairie wolves, and we could hear them
howl any time in the day. We were also frequently annoyed by Indians, but the greatest difficulty
was mud. No person now can have a just idea of what Chicago mud used to be; rubbers were of
no account. I got me a pair of gent's brogans and fastened them tight about the ankle, but would
go over them in mud and water, and was obliged to
get a pair of men's boots made.
So the home-faring young school
mistress, only fifty-seven years ago,
walked at will, picking her steps
through the mud, scaring the wolves
and being scared by the Indians, over
ground now covered by the huge Ash-
land block, the Fullerton block, the
Portland block, McVicker's theater,
the Palmer House and the Pullman
building, or other equally ponderous
and important edifices. The many,
many prints of those "gents' brogans,"
estimated as real estate, are worth per-
haps scores of dollars apiece.
Education, public and private,
being thus fairly under way, need
e followed no further at this point.
The school leads up naturally to the Church ; and it chances to join
on, in the case of Chicago, with peculiar fitness; for Minister Jeremiah
Porter, already named as having married Schoolmistress Eliza Chappel,
was almost, if not quite, the first Protestant clergyman regularly carry-
ing on public worship here. He came here with the troops from Fort
Brady, in 1833, and on Sunday, May igth, of that year, having had the
garrison carpenter-shop cleared, cleaned and furnished with seats, Mr.
Porter preacher his first sermon, taking as his text John xv, 8. The
good man happily kept a journal from which much interesting informa-
* Miss Chappel became Mrs. Porter in 1834. In a letter to Mr. Hurlbut, dated Fort Sill, Indian Territory, in
1873, Mr. Porter says of her: " She began to teach in her native town of Geneseo, N. Y., more than fifty years ago, and
now, after being the mother of nine children, and laboring in the hospitals of our country for four years [probably war
times] and then carrying on the Rio Grande Female Seminary for three years, she is now, at this very hour, teaching at
this post, from love of teaching and doing good." There ought to be some good men and women in Chicago, seeing that
the virgin soil was tilted by such gardeners !
THE KEEL LAID.
'25
PECK S STORE.
tion can be had. Among the early entries is this : "The first dreadful
spectacle that met my eyes [on his first Sunday] was a group of Indians
sitting on the ground before a miserable French dram-house playing
cards, and as many trifling white men standing around to witness the
game." (This seems to point toward our friend, Mark Beaubien,
whose " Sauganash" was directly in Mr. Porter's road to and from the
West Side.)
Mr. Porter's sleeping-room (which
was also his study ) was over the store
of P. F. W. Peck, built in 1831 on South
Water street, corner of LaSalle. This
little building stood for many years. Mr.
Hurlbut gives a picture of it (from a
photograph by Hesler in 1855), which is
here reproduced. It is the small wooden
building on the right, showing two win-
dows, one above the other. The lot is
that now occupied by the store of Crerar,
Adams & Co. The upper room is fre-
quently mentioned in early records as the
place for holding meetings of various kinds. Among other good uses,
it was the occasional meeting-place of the first Sunday-school, organ-
ized August 19, 1832, by Luther Childs, Mrs. Seth Johnson, the Misses
Noble and Philo Carpenter. The Sunday-school library had about
twenty small volumes, and this was fully one apiece for all the scholars
and teachers. John S. Wright (ar. 1832) was librarian and used to
carry the library to and from the school tied up in his handkerchief.
P. F. W. Peck's name heads the roll of the first Chicago fire com-
pany, which was organized on September 19, 1835, a year after the first
serious fire is recorded. This disaster was the burning of three build-
ings at the corner of Lake and LaSalle streets. The harrowing tale
("Democrat," October 12, 1834) says that the total loss was $1,200.
"There was in the house $220 in money; $125, being in Jackson
money, was found in the ruins; the remainder, the rag currency, was
destroyed." This throws a curious bit of "side light" on the currency
troubles of those days, and shows that the Jacksonian " Democrat"
was, as in duty bound, a " hard-money " organ.
The Illinois Methodist Conference in 1831 sent the Rev. Jesse
Walker to take charge of "The Chicago Mission/' accompanied by
Rev. Stephen R. Beggs. They traveled on horseback (like so many
devoted clergymen of their devoted, zealous and mighty organization)
and arrived early in June from Plainfield, forty miles away, preaching
126
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
' TEMPLE BUILDING.
their first sermons June 151)1 and i6th. " Father Walker " was not
permanently settled in Chicago until 1832, and held his first quarterly
meeting in the fall of 1833,* in a
building long known as " Father
Walker's log cabin." It stood on
the West Side, near the junction
of the north and south branches.
" It served as parsonage, kitchen
and church." The First Presby-
terian Church held its meetings in
this primitive temple for some
time, because some of the church
people objected to going to the
fort to worship.
The first Baptists known to be
in Chicago were Mrs. Heald, wife
of the unfortunate commander of the fort at the time of the massacre
of 1812 ; and the Rev. Isaac McCoy, before mentioned as the faithful
missionary to the Indians, and advocate of temperance. His journal
reports that he attended the Indian
payment made here in 1825, and
adds: "On the Qth of October, 1825,
I preached in English, which, as I
am informed, was the first sermon
ever delivered at or near that
place." The First Baptist Church
was organized October igth, 1833,
by the Rev. Allen B. Freeman.
The Society started with nineteen
members only, but they seem to
have been zealous and liberal souls,
for they at once proceeded to build
a church. It was a plain, wooden
two-story house, near the corner of
Franklin and South Water streets. FIRST CATHOLIC CHURCH.
Its tipper story was used as a school, the lower for meetings. It was
called "Temple Building, "and was used by Methodists, Presbyterians
and Baptists in common until the others could provide places of their
own. It took its name from the excellent Dr. J. T. Temple, who built it
and allowed the infant churches to use it, paying such rent as they
could afford. The Rev. Jesse Walker's log house on the West Side
was the only place of worship earlier than this.
* This would seem to give a slight priority to the Methodists ; though their organization up to the fall of 1833
was, perhaps, strictly speaking, a mission rather than an independent, self-supporting church society.
THE KEEL LAID.
727
The year 1833 was also the initial year for Catholicism in Chicago —
or, rather, for a new connection with the Holy See, for the faith itself was
professed here 150 vears previously, when Father Marquette offered it
to the unresponsive savages. In 1833 St. Mary's Catholic Society was
organized by Father St. Cyr, a French priest, sent from the diocese of
St. Louis. The petition which led to this mission was written in
French and was signed by T. J. V. Owen (nine in family), J. Bt. Beau-
bien (fourteen), Joseph Lafram-
boise (seven), Jean Pothier (five),
Alexander Robinson (eight) and
other familiar names. The first
church building was put up on a
" Canal-land" lot (near the south-
west corner of Lake and State
streets); and the Catholic Indian
women cleaned and made ready
the building for its first mass, and
Catholic Indians joined in the
service. A tower, open to the air,
was built later, from which a bell,
about the size of an engine bell,
called the faithful to prayer, the
earliest " church-going bell " which
made itself heard in Chicago.
Later, the church bought the lot
on the southwest corner of Wabash
avenue and Madison street, and to
this day the massive warehouse
on that lot is called " St. Mary's
Block." (We have already seen
how the block — Superior and North State streets — devoted to the
Cathedral, "Church of the Holy Name"- - came to be given by Mr.
Ogden and Mr. Newberry.)
The first Episcopal service held in Chicago was in October, 1834,
when the Rev. Palmer Dyer preached, by invitation, in the Presbyterian
church, to St. James Episcopal Society, which was organized at or
about the same time. The next service was held in the Baptist church,
October igth, by the Rev. Mr. Hallam, who was the first pastor of the
Society. After this, services were held in a building provided by John
H. Kinzie, which stood at the southeast corner of Kinzie and State
streets, and was later known as Tippecanoe Hall. In 1836 Mr. Kinzie
gave the church two lots at the southwest corner of Kinzie and Cass
.
128
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
[.Jan
Chu
mes
rch.
streets, whereon a pretty wooden church, in
1837. It is a relief to the dullness
of history to record that Dr. Egan
(the wit of the town for many
years), in answering Mrs. J. H.
Kinzie's natural question, " How
do you like our church?" said:
" Very much, indeed ; but won't the
people think it is a little vain in
John to put his initials so conspicu-
ously over the pulpit?" He pre-
tended to misread the " I. H. S."
as " I. H. K. ;" and what sharpened
the point of the joke was that St.
James was sometimes called "the
Kinzie Church."
But St. James' people could
afford to be laughed at, for the
edifice cost, complete and furnished,
$15,500, and, with a parsonage
costing $4,000, was all paid for before a year passed.
jothic style, was built in
REV. ISAAC W. HALLA.M.
With 1830 a third great n-
lightening force began its COL se
in Chicago — the mail service. ." rr.
Wentworth says (Fergus' H»st.
Series No. 7) that in that year
Elijah Wentworth, Jr., carried the
mail between Chicago and Niles,
Michigan, once a month, the post-
master being Jonathan N. Bailey,
and the location of the office the
old Kinzie mansion on the North
Side. His daughter married John
S. C. Hogan (ar. 1832), who in his
turn became postmaster, the office
: being then in the log cabin (north-
east corner of Lake and South
Water streets), built by him for the
fur-trading business of Brewster,
Hogan & Co. Mr. Hogan, besides
being postmaster, fur trader, justice
of the peace, alderman, lieutenant in the Black Hawk War, and possibly
ELIJAH WENTWORTH.
THE KEEL LAID.
129
deputy sutler in the fort, was a land agent and — a poet ! Mr. Hurlbut
quotes the following effort in the line of the two latter vocations :
THE EARTH FOR SALE.
There is not in the wide world a valley so sweet
As that neat little vale on the banks of Salt Creek.
A pre-emption right, for sale by the subscriber very cheap, — it is only thirteen miles from Chicago.
March 24th, 1834.
Mr. Hurlbut adds that Mr. Hogan was one of the many who, over-
loaded with mortgaged realty, went down in the crash of 1837. Mr.
John Bates, Jr.- (ar. 1832), who
took charge of the postoffice for
Mr. Hogan in 1833, called Mr.
Hogan "the best educated man in
Chicago." Mr. Hurlbut further
says that he was indulgent with his
customers, and that he (Hurlbut)
lias in his possession various notes
of hand, given for goods, by Indians
and half-breeds. "If any auto-
graph-hunter of the present era
wishes to invest in any such sort of
stock, applications will be in order
to purchase at a discount some of
the veritable and rare signatures
and obligations of a departed race."
Dr. J. Nevins Hyde, in his
interesting brochure, " Early Med-
ical Chicago," gives the following item of mail news :
Dr. Temple(i833) secured a contract for carrying the mail between Chicago and Ottawa. He
obtained an elegant thorough-brace post-carriage from Detroit, which was shipped to this port via
the lakes, and on the first of January, 1834, drove the first mail coach with his own hand from this
city to the end of the route. On this trip he was accompanied by the Hon. John Dean Caton.
There was no mail matter for transportation in the bag on this first trip.
Judge Caton says he piloted the company which first went through
and established the station, and that the party suffered greatly from cold.
John Wentworth (ar. 1836) says :
One of our most reliable places of entertainment was the postoffice while the mail was being
opened. The mail-coach was irregular in the time of its arrival, but the horn of the driver announced
its approach. Then the people would largely assemble at the postoffice. . . . The postmaster would
throw out a New York paper and some gentleman with a good pair of lungs and a jocose temperament
would mount a dry goods box and commence reading. Occasionally I occupied that place myself.
Mr. Bates followed the practice of firing a gun just outside the
north door of the postoffice building at nine o'clock every evening, to
inform Chicago that bedtime had arrived. (The custom has, un-
fortunately, been abandoned.) In 1833 Mr. Bates was married by
R. J. Hamilton, Esq., to Miss Harriet E. Brown, of Springfield, Mass.
JOHN BATES, JR.
130
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Again we come across a link binding one part of the chain of
progress with another. Mr. Bates' marriage was announced in the
first number of the first Chicago newspaper.
In old Rome, the time of the happening of great events was fixed
by identifying them with rulers' names : "Dum Flaminius Consul
erat," etc. So does Mr. Hurlbut introduce the Press to Chicago. " It
was while Andrew Jackson was Chief Executive, John Reynolds was
Governor of Illinois, and Thomas J. V. Owens was President of the
newly incorporated town of Chicago, that the first printing press was
set at work here, and the first Chicago newspaper made its appear-
ance."
In simpler phrase, John Calhoun, in
September, 1833, shipped from Sackett's
Harbor, New York, for Chicago, his print-
ing press, type and other material, and a
small lot of paper, in charge of two appren-*
tices. With his own hands he made ready
his printing office ; and, his money being
quite exhausted by freight charges and
other outlays, he borrowed from Col.
Thomas J. V. Owen enough to relieve
him of his difficulties. (He afterward ex-
pressed deep gratitude to Col. Owen for
many acts of kindness.) His "Chicago
Democrat" appeared Nov. 26, 1833 ; a six-
column, four-page sheet, the printed
matter eighteen and a half by four-
teen inches. The paper was demo-
cratic, but its editor disclaimed selfishness which might exclude "such
articles as may be temperately written on any subject that the editor
may deem suitable for newspaper discussion." It proudly stated the
population of Chicago at over 800, and said that goods had been trans-
ported from New York in twenty-three days, at a cost of $1.63 per 100
— $33 a ton! It favored the early commencement of the canal. A
First
bound volume of the " Democrat " is preserved in the Chicago His-
torical Society's collection.
The nearest points where newspapers were then published were
Galena, Springfield and Detroit, and on one occasion the " Democrat"
THE KEEL LAID.
was suspended for two weeks, until paper could be brought hither by
stage from St. Louis. The river was still closed from the lake and
vessels lay in the offing, discharging their cargoes by small boats.
In 1836, J. D. Caton, Ebenezer Peck, Hiram Hugunin and others
(leading democrats) furnished money to buy a new outfit and enlarge
the paper. In the fall, Dr. Daniel
Brainard became its editor, and
later, in the same year, John Went-
worth took charge as editor and
proprietor.
The first of Chicago medical
practitioners were necessarily those
connected with the army. We find
in the roster of Captain Heald's
company of the First Infantry,
i S 10, John Cooper, surgeon's mate.
He was succeeded by Dr. Isaac
Van Voorhis, killed in the mas-
sacre. The latter was a young
man of great merit and promise.*
The next physician of whom we
have any account was Dr. Alex-
ander Wolcott, also of the army,
who married (July 23, 1823) the
elder daughter (Ellen Marion) of John Kinzie, who was born in ,
the first white child in Chicago. Dr. Wolcott died in the fort in 1830. titioners.
He was a man much respected and long lamented. " Wolcott Street"
(now unfortunately named " North State") was called after him.
In May, 1830, arrived in Chicago Elijah Dewey Harmon, who had
been volunteer surgeon on board the "Saratoga" at the Battle of Platts-
burgh in 1814. He was installed at the fort as post surgeon, to which
duty he added such private practice as came to him.
On the night of July 10, 1832, arrived, by the steamer "Sheldon
Thompson," General Scott with his command and — the cholera. In
a letter written in 1860 by the captain (A. Walker) of the Sheldon
Thompson, the facts are given which may be summarized as follows:
The first death occurred about 4 i>. M. of the gth, and twelve
others between that time and the steamer's arrival at the close of the,
loth. The yawl boat took General Scott and some other officers ashore ;
after which three more dead were committed to the deep, where their
bodies (weighted to the bottom of the lake) were visible from the deck
* Small attention should bejjiven to the fanciful (hysterical ?) account of Mrs. Helm, given a quarter of a century
after the occurrence, wherein she attributed unmanly words to the poor martyr, bleeding to death in a hopeless struggle
with a cruel foe. The narrative contains elements for its own discrediting.
EBENEZER I'ECK.
• Cholera of 1833.
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Refuges from
the Fort.
next morning. The fort was full of refugees driven in by the Black
Hawk scare, who were all now driven out to make room for the soldiers
with their more deadly enemy. In the next eighteen hours, eighteen
more victims died; which were buried in their blankets in pits dug near
the southwest corner of Wabash avenue and South Water street, side
by side, the earth from one grave serving to fill up its neighbor. In
four days fifty-four more died ; making in all eighty-eight out of that
one boat-load of troops.*
The number of buildings outside the fort was five, of which
three were log tenements. Major Whistler, Captain Johnson and
others, with their families, found refuge where they could ; some in
tents, some under boards placed across the fence, etc. The view from
the steamer's deck Was chiefly a beautiful prairie, spangled with flowers
and studded with trees. To get fuel with which to sail back to Buffalo
they pulled down one of the log houses.
The two companies already in the fort were separated from the
newcomers and put under the care of Dr. Harmon, who attributed his
success in treating them to abstinence from the use of calomel. Dr.
H. had a disagreement with General Scott, who "required" him to
devote his attention exclusively to the troops ; a requisition which the
sturdy doctor declined to comply
with. He served all alike and well,
and his descendants are among
Chicago's best citizens at this day,
1891. Harmon Court was named
in his honor.
A most distinguished doctor,
a typical man, identified with Chi-
cago from his arrival in 1833 to
his death in 1860, was William
Bradshaw Egan. He was an Irish-
man, and one of the brightest of
D
that bright race. He was a clas-
sical scholar, a worshiper of poetry,
especially that of Shakespeare ; a
wit, a humorist, a favorite public
speaker, a member of the State
legislature ; and, above all, a lover
of and believer in Chicago through
•Judge Henry W. modgeu remembers these occurrences, ar.d adds that though his father's family (then living
u Page), flying from the Indians, had taken refuge in the fort with the rest, yet on that memorable day they
.d would have got out even if there had been a solid army of Indians encompassing the place on every
DR. DANIEL BRAINARD.
THE KEEL LAID. jjj
cloud and sunshine, through good report and evil report. Egan avenue
and Egandale bear his name and mark some of his shrewd investments.
The rapidly increasing list of physicians — men able, educated,
brave, devoted, untiring, belonging to a profession which renders to the
poor more unpaid service and help than does all the non-professional
world put together — makes it impossible to give more than a passing
look at this branch of the story of Chicago. The surgeon of most
world-wide distinction among us was, perhaps, Daniel Brainard, who
came here in 1835. Justice Caton gives some characteristic and amusing
anecdotes of Dr. Brainard in Andreas, vol. i, p. 461.
The first lawyer who lived in the place now called Chicago did not
come there as a lawyer. It was Charles Jouett, of Virginia, who was
Indian agent in 1805, and again in 1817. Still later he sat on the bench
in Kentucky and Arkansas. Primitive law — or, at least, a kind of
justice perhaps more righteous than law — was administered when in
1825 John Kinzie was commissioned to the old constitutional office of
justice of the peace. If he heard causes, or even kept a docket, no
record or memory has perpetuated the fact.
Russell E. Heacock, born in Connecticut in 1781, licensed as an
attorney in Indiana in 1808, came to Fort Dearborn in 1827. He was
commissioned justice * of the peace in 1833,
and was in Captain ^^^^^^ Andreas' opinion, the
first to hear trials in form. Governor
Bross, however, says that a term of Circuit Court was held or provided
for in September, 1831, "at Fort Dearborn, in the brick house, and in
the lower room of the said house." He also says that a term was lawyer.
ordered in 1832 in a room in the house of James Kinzie, "provided it
can be done at a cost of not more than ten dollars." It was Judge
Young who came (accompanied from Galena by lawyers Mills and
Strode) just in time to give notice of the disturbed state of the Indians
which led to the Black Hawk War. Heacock's office as lawyer and
justice of the peace was at the corner of Lake and Franklin streets in
1835-
On the organization of the town in August, 1833, John Dean
Caton was elected Corporation Attorney, and it is probable that he was
about the first lawyer to make his living by the practice of his profes-
sion in Chicago.* Between that primitive beginning and the time of
his becoming Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the State, the
* Chief Justice Caton was born in Orange County, M. Y., March 19, 1812. His father and grandfather were of
old Maryland and Virginia stock; the latter (Robert Caton) an Irishman by birth, having served in the Royal army, but
settled on a Maryland plantation before the Revolution. The name is still distinguished in Baltimore. Judge Caton
relates that the schooner in which he came around the lakes was the " Queen Charlotte," une of those captured by Perry
in the battle of Lake Erie. She had been sunk in Put-In Bay for twenty years, and tiien raised, repaired and sailed
again. One would like to know where her bones were finally laid !
'34
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
experiences of Mr. Caton would make an interesting volume, and it is
to be hoped that the venerable jurist will make use of the enforced leisure
of his later days to compile and publish such a volume. His literary
power and experience, as well as his vast fund of reminiscence, indicate
this as a duty and pleasure.
Lawyers, and good lawyers, now began to gather here in numbers,
and from that day to this the supply has been fully equal to the
demand. A bar which has included such men as Lincoln, Douglas,
David Davis, Isaac N. Arnold, Mark Skinner, Thomas Drummond,
Thomas Hoyne, Edwin Larned, Leonard Swett, Emory Storrs, and all
the host of able counselors now living, is worthy of the confidence which
has always been felt by Chicago citizens in the professional guardians
of their rights and liberties.
" Law, Physic and Divinity," is the trio designated of old as the
learned professions, to which the progressive intelligence of the world
has. added that of Instruction. The first practice in each of these lines
has now been sketched (reversing the order of precedence) so far as it
seemed to belong to and illustrate the emergence of Chicago from
darkness to light, from savagery to civilization. It is needless to say
that each branch of liberal knowledge has been treated by others more
fully than the limits of this mere "story" will permit.
LAKE STREET FIRE OF 1835. (p. 125.)
CHAPTER XV.
NOT ALL HARD WORK.
may now hang up his fiddle, for
the first piano has come to Chi-
cago, brought, it is said, by his
brother, Jean Baptiste Beaubien,
in 1834. John Wentworth, in
his address to the Old Settlers
(Calumet Club, May 19, iSSi),
presented the old fiddle to the
Club, with a loving tribute to the.
memory of its owner. He said:
" Mark Beaubien died at the residence
of his daughter, Mrs. George Mathews, at
Kankakee, on the nth of April of this year.
Upon his death-bed he requested that his
fiddle be given to me. At every other reunion
of Chicago's Old Settlers Mark Beaubien has
been present, and played upon it. The fiddle is here now; but the
arm that wielded the bow is palsied in death. . . . And now I
present it to the Calumet Club, for he was ever honored here. . . .
As he has passed away, I take pleasure in presenting to you Frank
Gordon Beaubien, his oldest son. ... He was born in Chicago,
and so is younger than the fiddle, which his father brought here in
1826. How long he had it before he came here, I can not say.
Three generations have listened to its music here. . . . The late
Jean Baptiste Beaubien was a little higher toned than Mark, and
brought the first piano to Chicago. Like the fiddle, that piano has
been well preserved; and, after long use in Chicago, it is now doing
service in the family of his grand-daughter, Mrs. Sophia (Beaubien) Ogee, at Silver Lake. Kansas,
daughter of the late Charles Beaubien."
Other pianos, owned by Mrs. J. B. F. Russell, Mrs. J. H. Kinzie,
Samuel Brooks, Mrs. Judge Caton, etc., followed in rapid succession ;
and now (1891) the piano business of Chicago is one of the largest in
the country. The sales may be estimated at 25,000 a year, and one
only wonders where the ceaseless stream can find place and players;
for a piano is not like a penny whistle, easy to buy and to learn, quickly
used up and joyfully forgotten. It is a permanent possession to some
one in some place, one may almost say (barring fire) for all time. (The
Historical Society has one nearly or quite a hundred years old.)
Music, the very sign and badge of cultivation, showed great vital-
ity in the rising city, for the Harmonic Society (direct ancestor of the
135
Pianos arri re.
'36
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
M usic.
Philharmonic of glorious memories !) gave its first concert on Decem-
ber iith, 1835, at the Presbyterian Church, at the southwest corner of
Lake and Clark streets.*
The first organ was bought and brought out by St. James Church,
and an amusing account is given in the "Chicago Magazine" of August,
1857, of the difficulties of the early choir ; partly to get those to sing
who could sing, and partly to get those not to sing who could not.
As in all American communities, the Church and the School were
the main agents in sociability, as well as in piety, morality and philan-
thropy. Doubtless there was promiscuous merrymaking here in " the
thirties," but it was not, like the Church and School intercourse, system-
atic and constant. A young man or woman was "in society" if he
belonged to a leading
church — especially St.
James, for here, as in
most English-speaking
countries, the Episcopal
Church, the established
Church of England, the
Church upheld by the tra-
ditions of the most dis-
tinguished aristocracy in
the whole world, assumes
(and not without reason)
the lead in social li(e. To
this day, there is not so
easyatfd certain an "open
sesame " to best society
in every young American
city as good standing in a
good church of some one of the leading denominations.
Other fellowship there was, where all decent folks could meet on
common ground. As early as 1831 a debating club met in the Fort.
Charles Cleaver, who arrived from London in 1833, tells (Fergus1 Hist.
Series, No. 9) of society meetings held at the Presbyterian Church at
Clark and Lake streets. He says there was a successful fair there, and
that in the winterof 1834-5 a piano, which had been brought from Lon-
*The church was built here ("a lonely spot, almost inaccessible on account of surrounding sloughs and bogs ") in
1833, by contributions and labors of its founders. Some squared the logs, some turned the pillars for the pulpit, some
worked in the mortar-bed ; all " bore a hand.*' A curious incident connected with its construction was this : After the
lot was selected, but before it was built upon, some squatter or squatters, desiring to establish a pre-emption claim which
would have to be bought off, started work one nii$ht and before morning had a small frame set up on the Lake Street
front. But the church was a "church militant" and also a "church triumphant," for during the following night
several yokes of oxen were noiselessly collected and securely hitched to the structure; and the next morning saw it
standing in the street, far enough from the church lot to throw no cloud upon its title.
FIRST SAINT JAMES CHURCH.
NOT ALL HARD WORK.
137
don by Mr. Brooks, was taken from the store, where it had been since
its arrival in 1833, and Mrs. Brooks, assisted by George Davis (who
taught a school) and others, gave several concerts, to the great delight
of the citizens. Mr. Davis sang " The Mogul," " The Bluebottle Fly,"
and other songs, and Mrs. Brooks drew loud applause with " The Bat-
tle of Prague " and such martial pieces.
Judge and Mrs. Caton smile at the recalling of those times, and
the venerable ex-chief justice, from
memory, adds to the song reper-
tory "A Medley," also sung by Mr.
Davis, whereof the only words he
recalls are :
" Without feet you can't have toes
To march to the battle-field.'
He says that Davis was a
splendid fellow, the life of every
party of any kind. Also that at
one meeting of the State Legisla-
ture George Davis went to Spring-
field, quite without any political
backing, and announced himself as
candidate for clerk of the House.
That evening he sang songs at the
American Hotel, where the mem-
bers most resorted, and next morn-
ing was elected unanimously !
It was in 1834 that a marriage
took place, memorable in several
ways. It joined together the two
historic races, Kinzies and Whist-
lers. Robert Allen Kinzie married Gwenthlean Whistler, grand-daughter
of the builder and first commandant of the first fort, and daughter of one
of the last commandants of the second. The wedding took place in
the fort, and was, of course, followed by a dance. The beauty of the
bride has already been spoken of, and the interesting fact that she to-day
is in Chicago, in the full vigor of her faculties, as are also two at least of
her early contemporaries, Judge and Mrs. Caton, whose latest portraits
are kindly placed at the disposal of this " Story," which would scarcely
be complete without them. In vain do we try to get the bill of fare of
the wedding feast. Of ice-cream and oysters there were surely none.
Home-made confectionery, cakes, pies, "sweetmeats," perhaps a few
precious Eastern apples, cold meats, poulty and game, and such convivial
Social gayety.
Kinzie-Whisc-
ler Wedding.
•38
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Scarcity of
food in 1834.
liquids as the garrison could furnish — this was probably all that the
union of all the housewifely forces could provide, and good and ample
it was, and gay the talk and laughter.*
But think of Chicago gaiety without a jeweler, confectioner or a
dry goods store; a theatre, a pavement, a railway or horse-car; a car-
riage, private or public; a street number; an electric or gas light or even
a kerosene lamp; a telegraph, a telephone, or even a daily mail; a bank
or insurance company; a daily paper, a postage stamp or a water pipe !
Without even a friction match, ex-
cept as a rare and curious novelty.
Flint-and-steel was the reliance for
starting fire, or more usually a coal
borrowed from a neighbor, in cases
where the "covered fire" had not
happened to "keep" overnight.
The winter of 1834 proved
remarkably severe, and flour ran
up to $28 a barrel. Potatoes could
not be had, nor butter. The entire
fare at last came to be beef, pork
and corn meal, with a little molasses
to sweeten life. Mr. Cleaver says :
" If a stray hoosier wagon, or prai-
rie schooner, as we used to call
them, happened to find its way so
far north, with a few crocks of
butter, dried apples, smoked bacon,
EX CHIEF JUST.CE cATON. hams, etc., the whole village would
be after the wagon, to get hold of some of the precious commodities.
On the yth of May a schooner arrived, laden with flour and provisions
from Detroit. . . Her freight was fortunately consigned to an honest
man, who preferred to sell it at a fair price — $10 a barrel — though
he was offered $25 a barrel for the whole cargo."
This "honest man " was George W. Dole. Professor Elias Col-
bert, in his Historical and Statistical Sketch (1868), says that in 1832
Mr. Dole began the great provision business (the most profitable, on
the whole, of all branches of Chicago trade) by packing pork and beef
for Eastern markets. He became, in fact, the father of the packing, the
shipping, the warehouse and the elevator systems. For his conduct
regarding the relief of the famine of 1834 his name should be remem-
* Mrs. Caton relates that every year her parents sent her out some barrels of Oneida county apples— precious
beyond words. One year they were belated and got frozen, and to this day she can scarcely bear to speak of her loss.
NOT ALL HARD WORK.
139
bered as worthy to be coupled with that of Joseph Stockton, whose
actions during the Great Fire of 1871 are hereafter to be recounted.
The Lake House was built in 1835, a marvel of elegance and
magnificence, which people came from afar to admire ; and Mr. Cleaver
says that in 1836 the boarders
passed a jocular resolution that
they would not have any but " rich
men " staying there, putting the
standard of opulence at the princely
sum of $10,000.
Checkers was a common game
in the stores in the daytime as well
as in the evening, for storekeepers
had plenty of leisure while waiting
for customers. After closing for
the night more serious dissipation
was prevalent — cards and drink;
but this, being only low masculine
vagary, does not belong in the cat-
egory of society. Prayer meeting
was once a week in the churches ;
the now prevalent and fashionable
"Wednesday evening meeting"
coming down to us from those
days in unbroken course. For sixty years, doubtless, not a Wed-
nesday evening has passed in Chicago without from one to thirty of
these pious seasons of happy reunion.
In the evening at the old Sauganash (even after pianos arrived)
Mark Beaubien would bring out his fiddle and play for dancing ; and it
is said that if a string broke he would do well as ever on the other
three ; if two gave out he went along with the remaining two, and if he
had but one left he even made shift to keep the bow scraping on that.
No theatres, concert halls or reading rooms yet. The latest New
York papers were twenty or thirty days old. A visitor at the Cleaver
house, seeing a shelf filled with some old books, asked if they kept a
bookstore. One fine night in the winter of 1833 everybody in Chicago
turned out for a frolic on the frozen river. One fine night in summer
Mr. Cleaver caught a muskallonge, five and a half feet long, in the North
Branch, spearing it by the light of a torch set in the head of the boat.
There was very little visiting done among the ladies, as they had all they could attend to at
home, servant girls being very scarce. The houses in those days were not well calculated for com-
pany, most of them being 16x20, a story and a half, with a lean-to. . . . The house we lived in
that winter, on the corner of Kinzie and Rush streets, was about as large as any in town ; but,
MRS. CATON.
Dances and
prayer meet-
ings.
140
THE STORY OF CHJCAGO.
unfortunately, it was not completed, being neither lathed nor plastered . . The thermometer
marked twenty degrees below zero. Fortunately, we had warm clothing, and would almost roast in
front of a huge wood fire in the large chimney, while our backs were covered with thick cloaks to
keep from freezing. I actually had my cup freeze to the saucer while sitting at the table at break-
fast. . . . Pots were boiled hanging from a hook over the fire, and bread baked in a baking
pot with hot wood ashes above and below it. . . . The water was brought from the river in pails.
The one unequaled, universal, inevitable, invincible thing then pre-
vailing about Garlick creek — otherwise the Chicago river — was MUD.
Mr. Cleaver says that mired wagons were an every-day sight in the
streets. A stage-coach, stuck fast and abandoned on Clark street, just
north of Randolph, staid there for days, and near it was stuck a board
bearing the inscription, " No bottom here." A lady, whom he saw trying
to cross Randolph at LaSalle, left both shoes in the mire, and only
Unfathomable . ' .
reached the sidewalk in her stockings. The only way for " fashionable
young ladies" to get from the North Side to the Presbyterian church
was by a dirt-cart with buffalo robes thrown on its floor, and he once
saw these fashionable young ladies dumped in front of the church
because of the driver's having forgotten to put in the bolt. A slough
starting northward from about State and Adams streets grew deeper
and wider till it emptied into the river near State street bridge.
Another in Clark street, south of Washington, the village wished to
drain ; but it had not the $60 needed. The council applied to Strachan
& Scott for a loan, but could not get it until it was guaranteed by E. B.
Williams (President of the Town Board), when it was borrowed; prob-
ably the first dollar of Chicago public debt.
The first effort at drainage was a curious experiment. Lake street
was excavated to the depth of three feet, deepest in the middle, and
planks were laid from sidewalk to centre. This did admirably in dry
weather. When it rained the wheels worked the planks into mud,
until it would splash up between them into the horses' faces. After two
or three years the opposite plan was tried, and the street " turnpiked "
Experiments m to a ridge in the middle, which did very well, especially in dry
m times. As the streets rose the houses did likewise, and cellars began
to be possible, for up to this time there could be none on either South,
or West Side. This was the beginning of an emergence from the mire
which has gone on until now, when the bottoms of our deepest cellars
scarcely reach the original surface of the soil. It will amuse anyone
curious in such things to peep into any modern excavation for a street?
sewer in the central South Side and see the strata of street grading and.
paving which make the walls of the dug-out ditch.
From this time forward to about 1875, Chicago's steps upward
were slow, halting and toilsome — somewhat like those of the lady whom
Mr. Cleaver saw leave her shoes in the mud and wade ashore in her
stockings. To us who watched them they seem absurd, to newcomers
NOT ALL HARD WORK. 141
almost incredible. A street was raised, say six feet. Then each house-
holder looked upward from his front door as from the bottom of ar
established
gully. He was said to live "under the sidewalk." Next, one owner, Brade-
building anew or raising his house, or (as was sometimes done) mak-
ing his second story the main floor and using his first as a cellar, had
his sidewalk laid where it belonged, whereupon his neighbor had to
build steps to reach it. " The ups and downs of life in Chicago " was
a perennial joke for many a year.*
Our invaluable printed record, Volume I of the "Chicago Demo-
crat," on February 18, 1834, made an announcement as follows:
EXHIBITION.
Joy hath its limits. We but borrow one hour of mirth from months of sorrow.
The ladies and gentlemen of Chicago are most respectfully informed that Mr. Bowers,
Pj-ofesseur de Tours Amusants, has arrived in town and will give an exhibition at the house of Mr.
D. Graves on Monday evening next.
PART FIRST.
Mr. Bowers will fully personate Monsieur Chaubert, the celebrated Fire King, who so
much astonished the people of Europe, and go through his wonderful chemical performance. He
will draw a red-hot iron across his tongue, hands, etc., and will partake of a comfortable warm sup-
per by eating fire-balls, burning ceiling-wax, live coals of fire and melted lead. He will dip his
fingers in melted lead, and make use of a red-hot iron to convey the same to his mouth.
PART SECOND.
Mr. Bowers will introduce many very amusing feats of ventriloquism and legerdemain,
many of which are original and too numerous to mention. Admittance, 50 cents, children half-price.
Performance to commence at early candle-light. Seats will be reserved for ladies, and every atten-
tion paid to the comfort and convenience of the spectators. Tickets to be had at the bar.
" D. Graves" was Dexter Graves (father of Mrs. Edward Had-
dock, and therefore ancestor of some of our richest citizens), and his resi-
- T ,, • i r T i i Earliest Public
dence was the " Mansion House, north side of Lake street, between Exhibition.
State and Dearborn (now 84 and 86 Lake street). This performance
was the first given by a professional " artist " whereof we have any
record. After this they no doubt came along in quick succession and
with good patronage, for these were the years of Chicago's first
" boom." Mr. Cleaver quotes as a current saying, " If you leave a shill-
ing on the doorstep over night, you find it grown to a dollar next
morning."
The first "one-horse shay" was, according, to Mr. Hurlbut, one in
which Philo Carpenter and his bride rode into the village early in 1834;
the first pleasure-carriage, that brought from the East by Colonel Jean
* One of the earliest "ups and downs '' was the rise and fall of the first lighthouse, on the south bank of the
river, a stone's throw west of Rush Street bridge. Isaac D. Harmon, the seventeen-year old son of Dr. Elijah D. Har-
mon, before mentioned, wrote an amusing letter to his absent brother (October 31, 1831). " We have had a flattener pass
over the face of our prospects. The lighthouse that, the day before yesterday, stood in all its glory, the pride of this
wonderful village, is now ' doused? . . . Cracks have been observed in it. . . . Jackson said 'You can't get
it down.' My father told them it leaned 10 one side. They laughed at him. . . . About nine o'clock in the evening
down tumbled the whole work with a noise like the rattling of fifty claps of thunder. The walls were three feet thick,
and it had been raised fifty feet in height. The first thing father said when he went out was, ' Does It lean any now ?' "
THE STORY Of CHICAGO.
Field s|K>rt>.
Haptiste Beaubien, which the villagers greeted on its arrival by turning
out in procession.
Mr. Hurlbut also tells of some wild, harum-scarum horse-play car-
ried on without reference to the rights and feelings of others, by a dozen
or so of persons he names,
whom he classes together
under the name of "the
club." They played prac-
tical jokes ; they stole the
cannon which had been re-
covered after being sunk in
the river ever since the mas-
sacre ; they freed the wild
animals in the menagerie and
rode some of them about
from one dramshop' to
another. In short, they were
the drinking element; and,
by consequence or by re-
markable coincidence, none
of the names he records are
among those which nowr
(1891) appear among Chi-
cago capitalists and leaders.
Wild game, once so plen-
tiful, grew, between 1830
and 1840, quite rare. Mr.
Cleaver, being a true Briton,
was a sportsman. Just after his arrival in 1833 he came upon a
multitude of prairie chickens in a grove of fir-trees about where Division
street reaches the lake. He once shot a wild goose on the main river
near the Rush street crossing.
In the fall of 1834 a party of a hundred or more went eight or ten
miles out (Graceland), and, spreading themselves from the North Branch
to the lake, hunted southward. Some few deer and a few wolves, scared
by the noise, swam the river near La Salle street, ran through the vil-
lage and escaped to the South Branch woods; a few others were shot
by the hunters, but the whole hunt was considered a failure and was the
last of its kind. Still, the wolves were prevalent for several years more
and Fernando Jones now points out the very spot where he killed one
in Dearborn street, just south of Madison, opposite the present site of
the " Tribune" Building.
NOT ALL HARD WORK.
J43
SALOON" HI ILDING.
The brick " Saloon Building " was built (southwest corner of Lake
and Clark streets) by Col. J. B. F. Russell, in 1836. It was not what
a " saloon " has now come to
mean, a drinking-place. The
liquor-dealers have made suc-
cessive (and temporarily suc-
cessful) attempts to escape
the odium attaching to their
trade by taking new names
for their shops. The tippling-
house or rum-shop has been
re-named the gin-mill, the bar-
rel-house, the wine-shop, the
public house, the bar-room, the
saloon, the sample-room, etc.,
and fifty years ago a "saloon"
was simply a secular meeting
chamber. The one in ques-
tion was the finest hall west of Buffalo, and was used for distinguished
occasions. It was there that Stephen A. Douglas, in 1838, had the first
" joint debate " ever held in northern Illinois; being a political discus-
sion with John T. Stuart, his competitor for
Congress. The postoffice was in that building
for a time, and it was in its upper story that
our present veteran printer, Robert Fergus,
began business as junior in the firm of " Ellis
& Fergus."
The postoffice was for many a year the
general meeting place of friends and fellow-
citizens. There was the only place for paying
postage. Everyone must carry his letters
thither to post, and call there for any he should
receive. Not only were there no. carriers and
no lamp-post boxes ; there were no postage
stamps, no envelopes, no postal cards, no registered letters or money
orders. Postage (single rate) was 6*£ cents for distances up to 30
miles; 10 cents up to 80 miles ; 12^ cents up to 150 miles; 1 8^! cents
up to 400 miles, and 25 cents beyond this. Letters were charged not
by weight, but by number of sheets ; a single one of any weight going
at single rate, and a double or triple, no matter how light, calling for
double or triple payment as the case might be. In the absence of
envelopes, the large letter sheets were folded (the art of neat folding
ROBERT PKRCUIS.
Primitive
1'ostal Service.
244 THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
being a part of elegant training) and sealed ; usually with a wafer,
though sealing wax and a crested seal were the more elegant devices.
An aristocrat is said to have resented a wafer-closed letter with the
words " The fellow sends me his spittle ! "
The fractional charges above named were based on the Spanish
coins then prevalent ; halves, quarters, eighths (shillings), sixteenths
(sixpences), as no dimes or half-dimes came into general use until near
1850. It was pretty poor stuff — and alas! very scarce; especially
in the years to be chronicled in a succeeding chapter; the year 1837 and
its melancholy train.
No Chicago annalist can pass over 1835 without dwelling on a
notable event, the arrival of William B. Ogden. He was then thirty
years old, and had already made for himself a name in his native State,
New York, having been member of the legislature and advocate of the
projected New York and Erie Railroad. Charles Butler (who had mar-
ried Mr. Ogden's sister) had, with Arthur Bronson, of New York, and
others, bought from the Kinzies and their connection, David Hunter,
a large part of the North Side.*
He employed Mr. Ogden to come to Chicago and manage this prop-
erty. Arriving in a "wet spell," Mr. O. found the tract to be an unbro-
ken field, covered with a coarse growth of oak and underbrush, marshy
and muddy from the recent rains. " It had neither form nor comeliness,
and he could not, in its then primitive condition, see it as possessing any
value or offering any advantages to justify the extraordinary price for
which it had been bought." The Government land sales, instead of
glutting the market, helped it, for it brought out crowds of Eastern
niiam buyers, bitten by the land craze of 1835, and these made Ogden's auc-
B. Ocden. _. . 111 • •
tion a great success. ' I his result, although it was astonishing to him,
yet seemed to fail of making the impression on his mind of the future of
the town which was to become the scene of his after life, and in the
development and growth of which he himself was to become an active
and most important factor." He returned to the East, but came back
in 1836, from which time forward, until he went back to New York to
end his days, his history may almost be said to be the history of
Chicago.
It is not best, at this point in our story, to give more than thus
much of an introduction to this great man, and to add some of his per-
• sonal characteristics. He was generally thought one of the handsomest
of men. Tall and stalwart ; large of brain and eye ; with manners at once
* Mr. Bronson and associates, in 1834, bought half of Kinzies' addition, the whole of Wolcott's addition, and
block No. i (north of the river) of the original town (canal trustee's subdivision), in all 182 acres, for $20,000. In
May, 1835, Mr. Butler paid for the same property $100,000. Mr. Ogden came out and held an auction sale of lots in the
summer of 1835, when about one-third of the whole was sold, bringing more than $100,000. (See an interesting letter
from Charles Butler dated December, 1881, published in I Andreas, p. 139.)
NOT ALL HARD WORK. 145
dignified, courtly and cordial ; to meet him was to be charmed, to talk
with him was to admire and wonder. His dwelling, up to the great fire,
occupied the entire block bounded by Erie, Rush, Ontario and Cass
streets, and was the home of elegant hospitality. He was a bachelor,
and his establishment was managed by Mr. Edwin H. Sheldon (himself
one of the best, most cultivated and most lovable of men), and Mrs.
Sheldon, Mr. Ogden's sister. No one once admitted to that gay circle
can ever forget it Among the hosts of his distinguished visitors were
Van Buren, Webster, Marcy, Bryant, Emerson, Miss Martineau, Fred-
erika Bremer, etc.
The writer recalls a visit there when Mr. Ogden, with Samuel J.
Tilden (his friend, associate and counsel), were looking over maps and
consulting on the possible extension of the North-Western Railroad.
Tracing its future course to Fond du Lac, St. Paul, etc., Mr. Ogden ran
his hand in what seemed only a visionary course, away up to Lake
Superior itself, and then off westward (Northern Pacific) and eastward j,ersona) Mem.
(Sault Ste. Marie and the St. Lawrence), saying nothing, but intimat- o^
ing that his broad views took in as romance all that has since
become reality. Afterward he led the visitor into the drawing-room,
where were the younger members of the family and their friends ; and,
sitting down at the piano, sang to his own accompaniment a sweet,
pathetic ditty running :
O come to me and bring with thee
The sunny smiles of former years,
If smiles so bright can lend their light
To cheer a brow long used to tears.
We will not let one sad regret,
One thought of grief our meeting chill.
For thy dear sake I'll strive to make
This altered cheek look cheerful still.
*****
Then come to me, our theme shall be .
The friends we love, not those we mourn.
We'll not destroy one present joy
Lamenting joys that ne'er return.
The sunny rays of boyhood's days
And early prime we ne'er may see,
. But hours of bright and pure delight
We've yet in store — then come to me.
We were prone to connect this little ballad, the only verses we ever
heard of his singing, with a youthful romance, the crushing whereof by
the hand of death clouded his early life and kept him a bachelor.
When he himself died his will showed by some of its provisions that long
years had not dimmed the memory of her whom he had loved and lost.
Mr. Ogden had friends and foes about him. What strong man has
not? But the one thing which Chicago found hardest to forgive was
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
his final departure and return to the State of his birth and early life.
This occurred about 1865, though for some years before he had been
spending more and more of his time in New York.
An incident of Mr. Ogden's life may be here related, partly as
illustrative of the times, and
partly because it introduces
another Chicago worthy,
Isaac N. Arnold. Mr. Ar-
nold was also one of the
grand citizens dating from
"the Thirties," whose life
and words and works force
us to say with a swelling of
the heart, "There, were
giants in those days."
A firm in Danville had
failed, owing $10,000 to Mr.
Ogden. It also owed Hub-
bard & Co. a large sum, and
whichever should reach the
spot first, with the necessary
legal process, would fare
best in the distribution of
assets. Mr. Arnold, as attor-
ney for Mr. Ogden, hired
the best saddle horse in
Chicago, a stout gelding, and started out bright and early to ride on
" Hubbard's Trail " over the one hundred and twenty miles of lonely
prairie which then (1837) intervened between the two towns. On the
morning of the second, day, at Rexford's cabin, on the Calumet, Arnold
found himself in company with Henry Hubbard, with his fast trotter
hitched to a sulky. Neither party hurried his beast, but Hubbard kept
ahead, the gray following. Each was evidently saving up for the final
twenty miles or so. They stopped for the last night at a tavern about
fifteen miles from Danville.
Before' either started next morning, a stranger accosted Arnold,
told him of a grievance he had against Hubbard, and added :
" I hearn say it's a tight race between ye which '11 git t' Dan-
ville first. Now, stranger, I'll help ye. But don't let on. Let him
start ahead ; I'll put my boy thar on your gray an' let him follow
slowly behind, not too far, so your gray kin be seen, but the rider
not be known. I've got a pair of colts I kin hitch up, an' I'll take
ISAAC N. ARNOLD.
NOT ALL HARD WORK.
'47
ye by another road into Danville, thirty to sixty minutes ahead of that
feller."
So said, so done. When Hubbard arrived he found Arnold,
with the sheriff, in possession of the coveted assets. (Fergus' Histor-
ical Series, No. 17.)
Hubbard, Ogden, Arnold, Wentworth, Dole, Skinner, Scammon,
Brown, Peck, Egan, Brainard, Judd, Calhoun, Wilson — such were the
men (all gone now) who "ran things" in Chicago in the days of canal
building. It took all their courage, industry, foresight, self-confidence,
and power of inspiring confidence in others — in short, their qualities of
greatness — to carry it through. As some rhymester says, in an early
issue of the Chicago "Tribune:"
This notion surely is an awful staggerer.
Down to the Gulf they'd carry great Niagara!
And, by forestalling all its feeding torrents,
Make a dry bridle-path of the St. Lawrence!
KVOI.UT10N OK CLAKK STRBE'I .
CHAPTER XVI.
FAIRLY LAUNCHED.
ITHERTO, the question for the historiographer has
been "What can I find out?" Now comes the period
when he has to ask "What can I leave out?" The
latter, needless to say, is the more puzzling problem.
Still there remains much to be told of the days of small
things; times strangely primitive, when it is considered
that they are within the lifetime of a large proportion
of our contemporaries.
Great human interest attaches to the adjective
" first." The first feeble cry of the babe, the first totter-
ing steps of the child, the first short trousers of the boy and long
skirts of the girl, the first consciousness of beauty and dawn of love,
the first month of married life, the first earnings of labor and accumu-
lation of capital, the first sermon, client or patient, the first battle or
bereavement — in short, the opening incidents in every earthly career
have a thrill of their own, out of proportion to that belonging to a
thousand greater things that may follow. The poet says:
There are gains for all our losses,
There is balm for all our pain;
But when youth, the dream, departs.
It takes something from our hearts
And it never comes again.
Perhaps a more appropriate quotation, for the incipient doings of
a great city, is the couplet from Longfellow's " The Building of the
Ship : "
She starts, she moves, she seems to feel
The thrill of life along her keel."
To do justice to the beginnings
of Chicago, both writer and reader
must be inspired with the kindly
sentiment that hovers over those
first cries, first steps, first failings
and successes.
The decade beginning with 1830 was the mere childhood of
the city. Well past the middle of that decade there was a fine grove
of trees along the east side of the South Branch from Madison street
southward, and on October 6, 1834, a black bear was shot in those
woods, near the present corner of Market and Jackson streets. This
148
PRAIRIE WOLF.
FAIRLY LAUNCHED.
149
Square.
grove was the hiding place of the wolves which infested the village, and
at about the same time a grand hunt was effectual in killing forty of
the "varmints." (Bears — and bulls — still haunt the vicinity.)
For vagrant domestic animals, provision was made as early as 1831,
when a log " estray pen " was erected at the southeast corner of Ran-
dolph and LaSalle streets on the vacant lot (outside of town) which Ejan on Pubuc
had been set apart for county purposes. This was the first " public
building" in all Chicago, and the second was like unto it in location,
material and purpose, being nothing else than a log jail built on ,the
same spot two years later. It is
now occupied by the city offices,
board of aldermen, etc., a fact
which has given rise to the jocular
remark that its use and purpose
never have changed.*
On November 7, 1833, an or-
dinance passed the Town Board for-
bidding the throwing into the river
of any dead animal, under penalty
of $3 for each offense. On Novem-
ber 10, 1834, the Council paid $95.50
for the digging of a public well at
the corner of Cass and Michigan
streets. The laws and ordinances
about fire were strict in 1835 and
sometimes very oddly worded. No
person was allowed "to endanger
the public safety by pushing a red-
hot stovepipe through a board wall,"
and all were forbidden to carry
"open coals of fire through the streets except in a covered fire-proof
vessel." The latter provision, in the absence of matches, was deemed
a hardship not endurable and was repealed soon after its passage.
Judge Caton recalls July 12, 1834, as an era in his youthful expe-
rience. It was the beginning of his judicial career, his election to the
office of Justice of the Peace, the only public office he ever held, except
those of Alderman of the city (1837-8) and Justice of the Supreme
Court, of the 81316(1843-56). The first-mimed election was an ani-
• Some political rhymester, wishing to slur a city administration to which he was opposed, wrote a lampoon, of
which the closing stanza runs :
In that same spot, as all may see.
Are housed, at public charge,
The dangerous )>cs:s that should not be
Allowed to run at large.
JOSIAH C. GOODHUE.
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
mated contest, bringing out every last voter in the precinct, from
Clybourn's to Hardscrabble and beyond, perhaps taking in the Calumet
crossing. The Government piers had been built and the beginning of a
channel had been cut across the immemorial sand-bar, but as yet it had
never been used. On this memorable day the schooner Illinois chanced
to be lying at anchor in the offing, and the friends of young Caton
(George W. Dole and others), to the number of a hundred or so, got
ropes to the schooner and absolutely dragged her in by main force over
the. bar through the unfinished dug-way. Then they decked her with
all the bunting in the village and, hoisting sail, sailed triumphantly up
the stream to the forks — the first vessel that ever penetrated Chicago
River. And when the votes were counted the tally showed: John
Dean Caton, 182 ; Josiah C. Goodhue, 47.
The venerable jurist recalls another incident and relates it; albeit at
the time of its occurrence it was one he did not care to dwell upon. He
had studied law in New "York State, and came out thinking he knew a
good deal of it. To get his license to practice he rode on horseback all
the way to Pekin, on the Illinois River, where he found Judge Lock-
of the Supreme Court, holding Circuit Court. It was the last
B*r- day of term, and he waited till Court adjourned, after which he pre-
sented himself to Judge Lockwood in chambers, and stated his busi-
ness. The Justice introduced him to Stephen T. Logan (partner of
Abraham Lincoln), John T. Stewart, John J. Hardin (killed at the
battle of Buena Vista), and Dan Stone, Circuit Judge, and later they
went to the tavern for supper. After supper Judge Lockwood strolled
out for a walk in the moonlight, taking the young candidate along; and
suddenly stopping beside an oak stump, began asking him questions on
the theory and practice of the law; the stump their bar. The examina-
tion ended, Judge Lockwood spoke the words of fate: "Young man,
you've got a good deal of law to learn if you want to make a reputation
at the bar. But if you work hard I think you'll succeed. I shall give
you your license." And nine years later the young man sat on the
Supreme Bench beside his friendly examiner.
In the same year (1834) there was a "cholera scare," and a meet-
ing of the Town Trustees was held " to make suitable arrangements to
prevent the introduction of the dreadful and fatal disease." Doctors
William Clark and E. S. Kimberly were authorized to establish a hos-
pital outside the limits, to prescribe for the sick, and instruct the super-
visor in regard to the preservation of public health. The supervisor
was authorized to compel "every male person in the said town, over
the age of twenty-one years, to work on the streets and alleys within
the corporation for the purpose of cleaning them," and a failure to work
FA1RL Y LA UNCHED. i5i
or furnish a substitute was punished by a fine of five dollars for each
offense.* A similar enactment to-day would produce an amusing exhibi-
tion ; nearly worth a repetition of the " scare," provided its result was
the same — for the cholera was averted.
THE OLD JUDGE AM) THE YOUNG CANDIDATE.
On August 13, 1835, the Board provided for the establishment of
the first public cemeteries (not counting the garrison burying ground
on the Lake front), which were located as follows : Ten acres on the
North Side (Chicago Avenue, near the lake), and sixteen acres on the
» isth Annual Report of the Board of Public Works (1890), p. 430.
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
South Side, about where Twenty-Third Street crosses Wabash
Avenue. During the spring freshet of 1849 two coffins were seen float-
ing down the river, supposed to have been from some small burying
ground on the North Branch, in the Waubansia addition.
On September 19, 1835, the town board ordered the purchase of two
fire engines (of course the old-fashioned hand-brake machines, to be
The first Town
Census of Chi-
cago.
DOUBLE DECKED FIRE KNGINE AND HOOK AND LADDER TRUCK.
dragged by men strung out on a long loop of rope) and 1,000 feet of
hose. This was the beginning of the great fire department which has
served us so often well — and once so ill — from that day to this.
On October 7, 1835, John Dean Caton, who had been the town
attorney in 1833 and 1834, was paid $75 for such service.
The first census of Chicago was reported in the "Democrat" of Novem-
ber 25, 1835, showing 3,265 persons, 398 dwellings, 4 warehouses, 29 dry
goods stores, 19 grocery and provision stores, 5 hardware stores, 3 drug
stores, 19 taverns, 26 groceries (probably liquor stores) and 17 lawyer's
offices. The latter doubtless averaged two or more occupants apiece.
Suppose there to have been 34 lawyers here then, there were nearly four
times as many as now (1891 ),
in proportion to the total
population. Miller's tan-
nery, still remembered by
Judge Blodgett as existing
in 1832 on the North Side
near the forks of the river,
is not mentioned. Possibly
it had been closed. In fact
Judge Caton remembers that the old tannery, as early as 1833, was used
as a justice court, for it was there he tried his first case. He was employed
to prosecute a man for stealing some money. Proof was wanting and the
accused likely to get clear, when young Caton noticed a lump on the
side of the fellow's leg inside his stocking. He seized it — and held fast
until it was exposed, and the identical roll of stolen bills came out, from
which he took $10 as his fee, and handed the rest to the loser.
SIDE BRAKE KIKE ENGINIi.
FAIRL Y LA UNCHED.
'53
In 1835 the first county court house (brick, one story and basement)
was built at the northeast corner of the Court House square, southwest
corner of Clark and Randolph streets.*
May 12, 1836, the sloop Clarissa, the first Chicago built vessel, was
launched amid great excitement. Her builder was Nelson R. Norton
(ar. 1833), who has already been mentioned as builder of the first draw-
bridge, the "lifting leaves," at Dearborn street. The arrivals and ton-
nage of shipping were as follows: In 1833, 4 vessels, 700 tons; in 1835,
250 vessels, 22,500 tons; in 1836, 456 vessels, 58,000 tons; 1890, 10,507
vessels, 5,138,253 tons.
Launch of the
Clarissa.
-:-^:_^
THE FIRST COURT-HOUSE.
The total taxes collected for 1836 were $11,659.54; for 1837,
$5-905-I5 I for 1838, $8,849.86; for 1839, $4,664.55; for 1840, $4,721.85.
The population of the city grew as follows: 1830, 50; 1831, 100;
1832, 200; 1833, 350; 1834, 2,000; 1835, 3.265; 1836, 3,820; 1837,
4,179; 1838,4,000; 1839,4,200; 1840,4,470; 1890, 1,098.570.
The exports and imports by 'lake were as follows:
Exports.
Imports.
1836. .
$1.000.64
$ 325.2O1 QO
1837
11,065.00
373,677.12
1838. .
16.04.4.71;
C70. 17461
1830. .
33. 843.00
630.980 26
l84O . ,
228. 631;. 74
562, 106 20
* The question has been seriously raised whether the county, having received that block for county purposes, had
any right or power to alienate the west half of it to the city, as it has done, for city purposes. Some citizen of the county
outside the city might apply for a writ of ejectment, and demand that the city should either pay rent or move its build-
ing off. But possession is nine points in the law, and identity of interests would be likely, in the view of the courts, to
give the city the tenth.
154
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Garrison finally
withdrawn.
The "American," on July 9, 1836, calls attention to a pool of water
at Lake and La Salle streets, inhabited by frogs. " It smells strong
now, and in a few days will send out a horrible stench." This spot is
now (1891) directly over the south entrance to the La Salle street tun-
nel ; consequently some thirty feet over the heads of the thousands of
cable-car passengers who daily pass and repass between the North and
South sides.
During all this decade, no system of street numbering was in use.
In October, 1836, the Town Trustees met with delegates from the
three districts to take measures for organizing the City of Chicago. A
committee was appointed to draft a charter which was adopted by the
citizens, was passed by the State
Legislature and approved March 4,
1837. Under this charter the elec-
tion was held and William B.
Ogden elected Mayor. There were
six wards, and the aldermen elected
were Goodhue, Hogan, Caton,
Pierce, Ward and Jackson. Nor-
man B. Judd was elected city attor-
ney. The whole number of votes
cast at this election was 709.
On December 29, 1836, the
garrison was finally withdrawn from
Fort Dearborn, and after its thirty-
three years of stirring vicissitude it
passed into a useless old age which
lasted a score of years before its
abandonment as a Government pos-
session. In fact one of its build-
ings— a great, barn-like, wooden hos-
pital— was standing, in use as a storage warehouse, up to 1871, when the
Great Fire obliterated it with nearly all else that was ancient in Chicago.
An exception to this destruction and to the fast gathering cloud of
oblivion, is to be found in an old red granite boulder, with a rude human
face carved on it, which stood in the center of the fort esplanade, and
which is now (1891 ) one of our few antiquarian treasures. It is nearly
eight feet high by three feet in greatest diameter and weighs perhaps
4,000 pounds. In prehistoric times the Indians used its concave topfora
corn mill, and for many, many weary hours must the patient and long-
suffering squaws have leaned over it crushing the scanty, flinty corn of
those days into material for the food of braves and pappooses.
NORMAN B JUDD
FAIRL Y LA UNCHED.
'55
Many persons have looked on it as a relic of prehistoric art — the sacri-
ficial stone of an Aztec teocalli perhaps — but Mr. Hurlbut gives the cold
truth; more modern though scarcely less romantic. He says it was set up
in the fort, and soldiers, sick and well, used it as a lounging place. Some-
times it served as a pillory for disorderly characters, and it was a com-
mon expression or threat that for some offences the offender would
"be sent to the* rock." Waubansa was a Chicago Chief, and a soldier
sculptor tried to depict his features on the stone ; and (to quote Mr.
Hurlbut):
The portrait pleased the Indians, the liege friends of the chief, greatly, for a party of them,
admitted within the stockade to see it, whooped and leaped as if they had achieved a victory ; and
with uncouth gestures they danced in a triumphant circle around the rock.
In 1837 ....
Daniel Webster paid a
visit to the West and
took Chicago in his
route The
conveyance was a ba-
rouche with four ele-
gant creams attached.
Mr. Webster was ac-
companied by his
daughter and son.
Every wheel-vehicle,
every horse and mule
in town, it is said, were
in requisition that day,
and the senator was
met some miles out by
a numerous delegation
from this the ne~v city,
who joined in the pro-
cession .... It
was the Fourth of July .
the column came over
Randolph street bridge, and thence to the parade ground within the fort. There were guns
at the fort which were eloquent, of course, though the soldiers had left some weeks before.
The foundation of all this outcry about Mr. Webster is, that the base and platform upon
which that gentleman stood when he made the speech within the fort was the rock, the same Wau-
bansa stone Justin Butterfield (who stood directly in front of the senator) swung his hat
and cheered the speaker.
The "statue" was pierced to form the base of a fountain, and was
set up as one of the curiosities of the great Sanitary Commission fair,
held in 1865, in Dearborn Park, in aid of the sick and wounded in the
war for the Union. In 1866 it was adopted as a relic by the Hon.
Isaac N. Arnold — member of Congress during the war, and one of the
staunchest and ablest of patriots and most devoted of friends to the
soldiers — who moved it to his house in Erie street. Mr. Arnold's
home was burned with the rest in the Great Fire of 1871, and old
"Waubansa" passed through the flames with the same unmoved
look which he had preserved through his earlier vicissitudes. After-
WAVBANSA STONE.
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Bogus Towns
and Cities.
ward a lot of "fire relics" were grouped about him and a photograph
taken, wherein, for the first time, he looks abashed as if conscious of the
contrast between his uncouthness and the carvings which surround his
ancient lineaments. The stone stands open to public view in the
grounds adjoining the new home (100 Pine street, North Side) which
Mr. Arnold built after the fire, and in which he lived up to the time
of his lamented death in April, 1884. (Only the lack* of space, which
excludes individual biographies, prevents the giving of a life of this
great and good man. )
To "blow
least
two meanings: to inflate, and to
explode. (Falstaff says, "A
Plague of sighing and grief ! It
blows a man up like a bladder.")
It was Chicago's fate in about
those days to be blown up in
both senses of the word. The
process of inflation is interesting,
and would be amusing if it were
not that explosion follows on
inflation as effect on cause.
The great gift of land to
help build the canal, and the con-
gressional grant of money to
open the harbor, caused an influx
of ready cash, while the fact that
there was to be a canal and a har-
bor indicated (in a faint degree)
the coming value of the location. Therefore Chicago's inflation had a
better basis of actual value than had nine-tenths of the " paper cities"
which sprang up on all sides in the drunken days of 1835 an^ 1836.
Thousands of lots in "cities" which had never been surveyed, were
sold to people who had never been within a thousand miles of the
locality. Fifteen town sites were advertised in a single number of the
Chicago " American," of which many of the names are unknown to-day,
and the sites (if real) are still in a state of nature.
When such follies were prevalent, how much more excusable were
the vagaries of Chicago, which had, as time has proved, a basis of solid
value ?
In 1830, lots in the " original town" (Canal Trustee's first subdi-
vision) were sold at from $25 to $iooeach. Alexander Wolcott bought
eighty acres bounded by Chicago avenue, State street, Kinzie street and
BENJAMIN W. RAYMOND,
Builder of First Fire-proof Store.
FAIRL Y LA UNCHED.
'57
the North Branch at $1.25 an acre ; and a year or so later, Robert A.
Kihzie bought " Kinzie's Addition" (Chicago avenue to Kinzie street,
between State street and the Lake) at the same rate.
The first lots sold in the original town, after being for two or three
years tossed from hand to hand by luckless owners — bought and sold
and "swapped" like Indian ponies — suddenly arose (as Captain
Andreas says) to the dignity of realty. Bought at $60 to-day they
bring $80 to-morrow and $100 the day after, while to our backward
glance they were even then worth thousands ! Of the Tremont House
lot (southeast corner of Lake and
Dearborn streets) Mr. J. D. Bon-
nell, in a letter to the " Times,"
dated March 15, 1876, says that one
may hear varying stories as to the
prices at which it might have been
bought ; for instance : A cord of
wood, that means 1831; a pair of
boots, that means 1832 ; a barrel of
whisky, that means 1833; a yoke of
steers and a barrel of flour, that
means 1834; five hundred dollars,
that means 1835 ; five thousand
dollars, that means 1836 or 1837.
Mr. Bonnell doubtless states the
case in caricature, for no lot in the
original town was sold by the canal
trustees for any such trivial sums.
An extreme case is that of the " Opera House Block" lot, southwest
corner of Clark and Washington streets, of which a deed, dated June 14,
1832, is still in existence, showing its sale for $61. Still, Mr. Bonnell's
price for the Tremont corner in 1831 is not much further out of the way
than it is in 1835, 1836 and 1837 ; the last must be multiplied by five,
and so must the first; for J. B. Beaubien, at the sale of 1830, bought
the property (two lots 160 feet square), with eight other lots, for
$346 ; an average of $38.44 per lot, or $76.88 for the two.
It has often been said that some Chicago lots were run up, in 1836,
to a price higher than they would bring to-day; but the facts scarcely
bear out that extravagance. Father St. Cyr wrote to Mr. Wentworth
in 1880 that the lot on Lake street west of State promised him for the
Catholic Church in 1833 for $200 was sold in 1834 for $300, to Dr.
Egan, who, in 1836, sold it to Eastern speculators for $60,000. The
* Indian word for exchanged.
JASON GURLEY,
Landlord of the Mansion House.
Tradil
lots:
unal city
.les.
158 THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
lot was 80 by 150 feet, and, supposing the reverend father to have been
correctly informed, and the price named to have been the " top notch,"
the sum falls still below present values.
In 1834 the dropsical disease was firmly seated and land agents
were plenty. In 1835 the Government land sales aggravated the malady.
Those sales went on as follows :
May 28 to June 30, sales under pre-emption 8 33,067
June 15 to June 30, public sale, John Bates, auctioneer 354,278
August 3 to August 31, private sales 61,958
September 17 to September 30, private sales 10,655
Total *4S9,958
The "Chicago American," August 15, 1835, reports sales of fractional Block
No. 7 (Kinzie, Kingsbury & North Branch): In June, for $1,300; on August i for
$1,950. Of Lot i, Block 2 (southwest corner of Dearborn and North Water): In
June, $5,000; in August, $10,000. Lot 8, Block 16 (northwest corner of State and
Lake streets): In June, $420; in August, $700.
Skipping the convulsive leaps meanwhile, the lots of 1830, 1831,
etc., sold in 1836 thus:
Fifty feet front on South Water street, by 150 on Dearborn,
brought $25,000. Captain Andreas quotes from the "American"
Pro ressofthe (April, 1836): " There is a piece of land in Chicago costing $62 in
1830, which has risen in value one hundred per cent, per day. It was
sold last week for $96,700. one-quarter down and the remainder in six,
twelve and eighteen months, at ten per cent." Charles Butler, of New
York, in a later issue of the same paper, says:
In 1833, one quarter of Kinzie's addition was offered for $5,500, worth then $100,000. In
1833. forty acres of land worth $400 could not be purchased in 1836 for less than $200,000. In
1834 the " Hunter property " was purchased for $20.000. In the spring of 1835 it was resold for
$100.000. It is now (September, 1836) worth $500,000.
The Government land office had been opened here in 1835; sales,
370,000 acres; in 1836, 202,000; in 1837, 15,600. It never, up to its
close in 1846, had a single year equal to 1835.
Lots and lands were sold at auction by Augustus Garrett, who
announced on October 27th, 1835, that he had sold, since January 4th,
$1,800,000 of real and personal property.
Ex-Lieutenant Governor William Bross, in his History of Chicago,
gives a table showing the first sales of lots (1830) and the prices they
brought; adding a column giving a careful estimate of the value of the
same lots in 1853 when he wrote. Part of that statement is herewith pre-
sented, with the addition of columns showing frontage and location,
and a rough estimate of present (1891) value :
excitement.
FAIRL Y LA UNCHED.
'59
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STREETS.
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* These properties have been abso
values are estimated as street frontage anc
The estimates in the final column are i
i6o
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Balestier's Lec-
ture on these
times.
One of our very few and very precious scraps of local personal tes-
timony half a century old, is the address of Joseph N. Balestier (a con-
nection of the Kinzie family) delivered in the "Saloon Building"
before the "Chicago Lyceum," January 21, 1840, whereof a copy for
publication was asked by Grant Goodrich, William B. Ogden, Sidney
Sawyer, Mark Skinner, David Hunter and John S. Wright. The lec-
ture survived the vicissitudes of time and fire in a curious manner. An
article in the Chicago "Tribune" of November 25, 1872, gives the circum-
stances as follows*:
The bosoms of the auditory fluttered with honest pride as young Balestier went through his
manuscript and held the mirror up to the struggling, forlorn, but hopeful Garden City. ... It was
neatly enough brought into typography by Edward Rudd, and, with the not unbecoming self-satis-
faction of an author so honored, Balestier took a
fair copy, wrote on the margin of the title page
a pleasant note to General George P. Morris, of
the New York "Mirror," asking his acceptance
of the small brochure "from one of his corres-
pondents."
The little pamphlet had a mail journey of
three weeks before the great New York editor
turned over its modest pages, with much the
same feeling, probably, with which a New York
journalist of to-day would glance at the cheaply-
printed, cheerful chirpings of a local lyceum lec-
ture at Sitka. This identical copy, so addressed,
drifted back again beyond the lakes, to be stitched
into a bound volume in the State Library of
Wisconsin, where a summer rambler among the
interior lakes of our sister State came across it
the other day.
' Mr. Balestier says that in 1835
the cities of the East were visited
with an epidemic madness. It was
suddenly discovered that the Amer-
ican people had labored under serious misapprehension regarding the
value of land, especially that which lay in cities and villages. The
price of real property rose a hundred or a thousand-fold. Paper cities
flourished, and the public mind became utterly diseased.
This unwholesome spirit was confined to no classes. It extended into every walk of life. The
farmer forsook the plow and became a speculator upon the soil instead of a producer from beneath
the sod. The mechanic laid aside his tools and resolved to grow rich without labor. The lawyer
sold his books and invested the proceeds in land. The physician "threw physic to the dogs," and
wrote promissory notes instead of prescriptions. Even the day laborer became learned in the mys-
teries of quit-claim and warranty, and calculated his fortune by thousands.
When the mass of the community thus abandoned or neglected their proper pursuits, it may
readily be assumed that the ignoble few who were willing to work received an ample reward for
their pains. The price of labor was exorbitant; the simplest service was purchased at a dear rate.
Even the barbers, who, since the days of Abraham, had shaved for sixpence, discovered that they
had been working at half price. The great increase of consumers and the proportionate decrease
of producers rendered the price of provisions-enormous. . . . Credit, reckless and indiscrimi-
»For this article, the lecture itself and other interesting matters connected therewith, see Fergus' Historica
Series, No. i.
GEO. F. FOSTER,
Sail Loft, North Water Street.
FAIRLY LAUNCHED.
161
nate, was the master principle of those wild and maddening days. . . . Already had the banks,
which greatly multiplied at this period, issued sufficient paper promises to create a spirit of wild
extravagance; but the property of the country rose too rapidly to be represented by an inflated
bank-note circulation. Individuals, in humble imitation of the banks, issued their notes without
stint or limit. ... If old-established communities were thus frightened from their propriety,
it can scarcely be supposed that the rising village of Chicago should escape the contagion.
The wonder, then, is, not that we speculated so much, but rather that we did not rush more madly
into the vortex of ruin. . . . Here, at least, there was something received in exchange for the
money of the purchaser. But the few miles that composed Chicago formed but a small item among
the subjects of speculation. The prairies of Illinois, the forests of Wisconsin and the sand hills of
Michigan presented a chain almost unbroken of supposititious cities and villages. The whole land
seemed staked out and peopled on paper. . . . Not the puniest brook on the shore of Lake
Michigan was suffered to remain without a city at its mouth, and whoever will travel around that
lake shall find many a mighty mart staked out in spots suitable only for the habitations of wild
beasts.
This picturesque language _„.•• ~ •; •.
becomes of redoubled interest
when we reflect that it was uttered
only five years after the occur-
rences described. As "Mr. Bales-
tier spoke the words, one might
readily have found the town-
sites he described, the long rows
of lot stakes standing stark in
their lonely desolation.
In 1836 and 1837 the Illinois
legislature, carried away by the
spirit of the age, entered on a sys-
tem of "public improvements;"
canals, railways, turnpikes, etc.,
which was perhaps the craziest
exploit of even that crazy time. Bonds were voted and sold, railroads loca-
ted and begun, and other wild things done; all a full generation in advance
of the needs of commerce and the. ability of finance. Abraham Lincoln,
then a member of the legislature, in spite of all the native common
sense he afterward showed, was not too shrewd to be taken in by the
transparent folly ; he was not only a party to the movement, but an
enthusiastic leader in it. This was really after the general " craze " had
nearly culminated ; and, though it seemed an effort to make up for lost
time, still its reign was so short as to be, though positively disastrous,
yet harmless compared to what might have been its results if begun
earlier. Suppose the State bonds to have been voted in 1835 instead of
January, 1837, the millions which would have found a market would
perhaps have been either finally repudiated, or have remained a burden
to this day ; when, in fact, Illinois is quite out of debt. At the same
time the melancholy wrecks that mark that old error, instead of being
CHARLES N. HOI.DEN,
" Red Log Grocery," South Water Street.
Foolish
Legis
State
lation.
Z62
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
few and scattered, would have covered the State. Having in it all ele-
ments of failure, the sooner the whole scheme failed the better.
The Milwaukee "Advertiser," of June 14, 1836, gives a reported
conversation between two Chicago men : " What did you give for your
portrait ? " "I gave twenty-five dollars for it, and have been offered
fifty already."
The balloon was certainly " blown up" in the first sense, and about
ready to be " blown up" in the second.
INSIMF. OF OLD FORT LAKE HOUSF. IN THF. DISTANCE.
CHAPTER XVII.
THE HARD TIMES OF 1837-40.
HAT goes up must come down, sooner or
later, according as it is built solidly or flim-
sily. An Eastern proverb says that "the
arch never rests," even the vaulted stone
goes always down, down till it finds earth-
level again how much more the bubble
or the house of cards !
Many panics, depressing and disas-
trous, have swept over our land; never one
so wide-spread, so complete, so terrible as
that of 1837. Some have been merely
financial, or industrial, or commercial; but
this " squeeze," for various reasons, reached
every branch of every business. In the
East, Jackson's withdrawal of the Govern-
ment deposits from the United States Bank caused (or rather precipi-
tated) its failure, and that great collapse dragged down every public
banking institution within its influence. In the whole West a season
of prolonged drought brought even the tillers of the virgin soil to
actual want, and a huge speculation in public lands fell in ruins with
the depression of agriculture. In Illinois, a system of public works
based on public debt had been instituted which contemplated (besides
the Illinois & Michigan Canal) the outlay of $9,350,000 in railroad
building, and $850,000 in other things; in all $10,200,000, as follows :
Railroads: Cairo to Galena (Central) $3,500,000
Alton to Mt. Carmel 1,600,000
Northern Cross 1,800,000
Branch of the Central to Terre Haute 650,000
" Alton 600,000
Peoria to Warsaw 700,000
Belleville to Mt. Carmel 150,000
Bloomington to Mackinawtown 350,000
Great Western Mail Route (highway) 250,000
Improvement of the Wabash, Illinois, Rock, Little Wabash, & Kaskaskia rivers 400,000
To counties in lieu of railroads and canals • 200,000
To show how universal was the craze, it should be noticed that
Stephen A. Douglas (Democrat) framed and introduced the bill;
Abraham Lincoln (Whig) supported it; and when Governor Duncan
(Whig) wisely vetoed the measure, both houses passed it over his veto,
183
Legislative
scheme of
Public Im-
provements.
164
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
The total length of railway proposed was 1,341 miles, a point only
reached just about twenty years later, 1857. But the projectors were
not only twenty years too soon in their plan ; they were also all wrong
as to their method, that of State construction and ownership. Governor
Duncan, in his message of 1835. used the wise words: " 1 would most
respectfully suggest the propriety of leaving all such works, wherein it
can be done consistently with the general interest, to individual enter-
prise ; " which advice, Judge Moses truly observes, had it been .heeded,
would have been the means of averting manv serious evils which after-
THE HARD TJMES OF 1837-40. ,65
ward befell the State. Governor Duncan suffered the fate usually
awaiting the man who is right when the rest of the world is wrong. In
the next election for Governor his name was not even mentioned, and
when he did become again a candidate (in 1842) he was defeated. The
public often admits itself to have been mistaken, but seldom forgives
the man who has convicted it of its mistake.
It will be observed that all plans for railways were conceived in the
view of local convenience, the idea of through lines not having yet taken
root. So thoroughly was this the case that counties through which no
road or canal was to pass were to be appeased by an appropriation of
money. A separate act aimed at the completion of the canal, authoriz-
ing the sale of $1,000,000 worth of. canal
lands and an additional loan of $500,000.
The capital of the State bank was increased
to $2,000,000, and that of the Bank of Shaw-
neetown to $1,400,000. Then, says Judge
Moses, in his excellent History of Illinois:
The legislature adjourned March 6, amid the plaudits
of a grateful constituency. Only the so-called misguided and
narrow-minded minority were received with coldness and
made the subjects of public censure. The adjournment was
followed by an era of speculation. There was about to be
realized in rich fruition the rose-colored future of prosperity
depicted by the governor in his message of 1835, in which he
alluded to railroads and canals "bearing with seeming
triumph the rich productions of the interior to the rivers,
lakes and ocean, and almost annihilating time, burthen and
STKI'HF.N A. DOUGLASS
space.'
In 1838, the pinch having come, suspension of specie payments was
authorized by law. But the issue of irredeemable currency by the State
banks went on, and so did the " internal improvements," not one of
which, except the canal, was ever other than a bill of expense. In 1830
' pended.
the State debt reached $13,230,550. Still, at the same time, Ohio owed
nearly $15,000,000; Indiana $14,000,000, and even little Michigan, with
a population of only 212,276, owed $6.000,000! In 1840 Illinois had
476,183; and it was in that year — let all loyal Illinoisans plume them-
selves on this — in the midst of deep financial tribulation and frantic
political strife, the legislature, without distinction of party, tried heroic
expedients for paying interest on the State debt, going so far as to lay
an additional tax of ten cents on the $100 (later raised to 35 cents on
the $ i oo) for that express purpose, and at last pledging $804,000 of pub|u.
bonds for $261,500 of cash, (i Moses, 443.) Meantime the work on the st°pped-
internal improvement scheme was discontinued. To quote Governor
Ford's history of Illinois, " The channels of trade had been obstructed,
and the vitality of business seemed almost extinct." In February,
'
166 THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
1842, the State Bank and the Shawneetown Bank "exploded with a
great crash," leaving more than $3,000,000 of irredeemable currency
afloat.
The tide of immigration ceased to flow into the State, and there could hardly be found suf-
ficient money to pay taxes. Produce could not be sold for cash at any price, and was valuable to
the owner only as a sort of circulating medium available in trade. The following were the " mar-
ket prices" in Central Illinois for leading articles, namely: Wheat, 40 to socents per bushel; corn,
10 to 12; pork $1.50 per hundred. It required forty pounds of butter (selling at from 5 to 8 cents
per pound) to buy the farmer's wife a calico dress of eight yards — the usual size of the pattern at
Bank> fail. that time — the price being from i8J|" to 37^ cents per yard; twenty-five dozen eggs would only pur-
chase one dollar's worth of coffee, five pounds. Ten bushels of corn would scarcely outweigh in
value eight pounds of sugar, and the hog had to be a large one that would liquidate the price of a pair
of boots. Everybody was in debt, and there was only " produce " to pay with, at these starvation
prices. The newspapers were filled with notices of bankruptcy and of sales by trustees and sheriffs.
(I Moses, 452-3.)* „
Judge Caton, looking back on those days, says, " I had to take for
law fees anything I could get in farm products. I could buy pork at
$1.50 a hundred pounds, but the $1.50 was very hard to get."
Governor Ford, elected in 1842 as a Democrat, but essentially
an independent, said in his first message that there was not enough
StMteT7Suaevmoney m tne State treasury to pay postage on State correspondence,
and the postmaster refused credit. Auditor's warrants were selling at
• 50 cents on the dollar; State bonds, 14 cents. In the same breath
Ford advocated payment of every dollar of public debt, and the com-
pletion (on a diminished scale) of the canal, Verily, " there were giants
in those days."
The State surrendered to the banks the stock in them which it
had held, receiving in return the bonds which it had issued for such
stock, and the banks began redeeming their circulating notes as best
they might — doubtless taking bad currency in payment of bad debts —
sS££btand finally retiring and cancelling them all. The State debt had been
reduced by these means until on January i, 1845, it stood as follows:
Illinois and Michigan Canal debt $4,741,783
Internal improvement, banks and State house 6,712,886
$11,454,669
To this must be added accumulation of interest from July, 1841
(the date of latest payment), amounting to $2,323,199.! The total
assessed value of the State's real estate for 1844 was fifty-one millions,
personal property sixteen millions. It would not now be hard to find
three or four Chicago men able to join hands and buy, at assessed valu-
ation, everything there was in the State, pay its debt, complete its canal
and have enough left to give their families three meals a day after all.
•The lowest prices for grain ever reached in Chicago during recorded times were in 1843, when white winter
wheat was worth but thirty-eight cents per bushel; corn eighteen cents.
t The sum of this indebtedness, $13,777,868, is just about the present total debt of Chicago (1891), $13.545,400. But
the disparity of assets and liabilities becomes very glaring when we compare the assessed valuation of the State in 1841,
$67,000,000, with that of Chicago tonlay, $219,354,368. The State owed nearly one dollar in five of total valuation; the city
owes less than one dollar in sixteen, under an assessed valuation notoriously inadequate.
THE HARD TIMES OF 1837-40.
,67
The summer of 1838 showed an accumulation of miseries.
Drought — that evil whose touch is death in a farming region — pre-
vailed over the whole West. No rain fell from July igth until Novem-
ber. Streams dried up and springs yielded poor water. Fatal fever
broke out in Chicago. Work on the canal was nearly suspended by a
strange disease called, for want of a better name, " canal cholera."
It carried off its victims in a few hours and many of the dead lay along
the road near Bridgeport, unburied for days together ; all the well
being afraid of catching and spreading the deadly epidemic.
Judge Blodgett served on the
canal as "rod man" in the engineer-
ing force, near Lemont. He says
this disease was like yellow fever,
and came from the malarious ex-
halations of the upturned soil, the
hard work in the hot sun, and the
unwholesome living on pork and
poor bread. Work" began at half-
past six in the morning, at ten a
pail of whiskey was passed and
each man given a "jigger" from a
tin cup. At noon an hour was
allowed for dinner, at three or four
another "jigger" was served, and
work stopped at six. The fever
victims would be seized with black
vomit at night and die next morn-
ing, and they would bury them as
soon as might be. There was but
little drinking, except the "jig-
gers," and he never heard of any unburied dead.
The writer, a resident of Michigan in 1840, remembers the distress,
the utter absence of specie, the prevalence of the worthless " Michigan
money " (dreadfully scarce, poor as it was) ; the feeling deepseated in
a small boy's hea,rt, that "hard times "were the natural state of man
and that anything else must be a delusion, foolish, insane, temporary
and evanescent. He even remembers a political caricature used in the
Harrison campaign of 1840 to show the consequences of the Demo-
cratic (" Locofoco") rule of Jackson and Van Buren. It displayed a
mass of struggling, poverty-stricken wretches standing in Wall street
while one building showed the legend, " Bank. No specie payments
made here;" another, "Custom house. Nothing but specie taken here."
Canal cholera.
JUDGE BLODGETT.
Personal
reminiscences.
i6S THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
The " Michigan currency" went by the epithets — opprobrious and
appropriate — of " red-dog," "wild-cat," " shinplasters," etc. It is said
Red-dog,- that a certain man, having this money offered to him, exclaimed : " Oh
"Wild-cat" , . . . . ^ T f , .
see here ! can t you give me something else ? if you ve got any good
Eastern counterfeits, I'd rather have them !"
Turning now to Chicago, how did she stand the pressure of ill
luck ? There was plenty of it. As Mr. Balestier says :
The professional speculator and his victims were swallowed up in one common ruin. Trust-
ing to the large sums due to him, the land operator involved himself more and more deeply, until
his fate was more pitiable than that of his defrauded dupes. The year 1837 will ever be remem-
bered as the. era of protested notes; it was the harvest to the notary and to the lawyer, the year of
wrath to the mercantile, producing and laboring interests. Misery inscribed its name on many a
face lately radiant with high hopes; despair was stamped on many a countenance which was wont
to be wreathed in smiles. Broken fortunes, blasted hopes, aye, and blighted characters; these were
the legitimate offspring of those pestilent times. The land resounded with the groans of ruined
men and the sobs of defrauded women who had entrusted their all to greedy speculators.
It was a scene of woe and desolation. Temporary relief came in the shape of Michigan money —
but, like all empty expedients, it, in the end, aggravated the disease it pretended to cure.
Let us turh from this sickening spectacle of disaster and ruin. Mad as her citizens had been. Chi-
cago was Chicago still. Artificial enterprises had failed, but nature was still the same.
Professor Colbert, in his history of Chicago (p. 21), says:
When the crash came in the autumn of 1837 the selling value of real estate fell almost to zero.
For three or four years it was scarcely possible to realize anything on so-called property and not
till after 1842 was there a sign of recovery. In 1841 sale was made of a number of lots on the east
side of Michigan avenue, between South Water and Randolph streets, the average price being five
dollars per front foot.
In the Chicago Magazine for April, 1857 (p. 139), we read that in
1839, at the sale of the Fort Dearborn land, lots on Michigan avenue
sold still lower than those above named ; going at $5 1 for 48 feet.
John S. Wright, an excellent citizen and conservative man, said in
after years: " By 1840 my property had all gone. What had cost me
$100,000 went for $6,000; what had cost $12,000 brought but $900."
In June, 1837, the City scrip was issued in denominations of $i,
$2 and $3, bearing interest at one per cent, per annum, receivable for
taxes not exceeding $5,000. At the same time some Chicagoans were
sturdy anti-inflationists, for J. S. C. Hogan resigned the office of Town
Treasurer rather than be party to the borrowing by the town of $2,000.
No specimens of this currency are now known to exist.
In these years was issued the "Canal Scrip" in various shapes
and forms. Hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of the old stuff are
in the vaults of the Historical society, and four varieties of its issues
are here reproduced, that "old residenters" maybe reminded of the
aspect of " money " which they were once so eager to get hold of and, a
little later, to get rid of.
The earliest in date is August i, 1839, and is a broad, dignified-
looking bill, reminding one of the Bank of England's five-pound note.
various
kinds.
THE HARD TIMES OF 1837-40.
Its vignette is a steamboat ; with one of the old " sash-frame " engines,
used before even the "walking-beam" was introduced.
It is a ninety-day draft for $100, dated at Lockport, drawn on the
Branch State Bank at Chicago, signed by W. F. Thornton, president,
IDGOG; JJOOCDOGGOQ:
tate
,Ai!tu •&> me enter <r_
/attn
IXIPOtXOOCODOGOOCPDGaOQQapaoaQOOOOQOQOaCX
k me
and registered by J. Manning, secretary. Its indorser (not shown in
the cut) was J. Calhoun. Perhaps it was issued in payment of a news-
paper bill. The engravers were Rudd & Childs, of Chicago, and it is
a production highly creditable to the young village. The name
" Childs " is to-day prominent among Chicago engravers.
>
3C
i?*
£
^
r
TREASUSBR'S Ui'KICK OK 7 UK ILL'-. ^ Mir 11: ('AXAl.
»l«^trfstf '*i\ t <-i' * / . / .- / /''"<. • f
i X, ^ /
t^r
The second bill is a check, dated at Lockport, October i, 1839,
drawn on the Chicago Bank to the order of David Prickett, treasurer,
and signed by W. F. Thornton, president, and Jacob Fry, acting com-
missioner. Its vignette is doubtless borrowed from the Erie Canal
(then about eighteen years old), as it shows a canal boat and team
170
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Strupplinp to
keep faith.
engaged in passing a lock. The bill is severely plain compared with the
earlier issue. It bears the name of P. A. Mesier's Lith., 28 Wall street,
New York. This is probably the issue which Judge Blodgett remem-
bers as having been conterfeited — not, however, successfully, for he
says that the counterfeit bills were easily detected because they were so
muck better than the genuine.
Number three is the most pretentious of all, and bears the name of
Woodruff & Childs, Cincinnati. It is in a form resembling a modern
bank bill. It is dated at the office of the Board of Public Works,
Springfield, March 18, 1840, and directs the Fund Commissioner to
pay to the order of J. Beall, Commissioner of the Board, $100, with
interest from June 1 5, 1 840, at six per cent, per annum ; signed J . Hogan,
Pres't, and Wm. Prentiss, Sec'y. Its vignette is a curiosity, showing as
it does a railway train of the earliest construction. Each of the three
, /,:•/. <-• <? f f
nxatfaasB-i
passenger cars is in the semblance of an old-fashioned, curve-bottomed
stage coach, set on a four-wheeled wagon truck, and filled with passen-
gers both inside and on top. The baggage car is a kind of barrow
hitched to the rear of the train. The engine is the most curious of all,
looking like a little stationary boiler (no visible cylinder) perched on a
slight four-wheeled truck like that which carries the passenger cars.
One would not like to be one of those wayfarers on the top of the
coaches, unless the speed be limited to three miles an hour at the out-
side. On the left-hand end of the bill is old Aquarius with his urn, and
on the right Agriculture with her plow, sheaves and cornucopia of fruits.
The reverse of the bill is an interesting bit of history, marking a
step in the persistent and successful struggle of our State to perform
its promises to the very letter. It is an indorsement reading thus :
Paid on the principal of this scrip seventy 40-100 dollars, being the dividend of the State debt
fund, declared January ist, 1851, $70.40. THOMAS H. CAMPBELL, Aud'r.
THE HARD TIMES OF 1837-40,
The latest issue is dated at the Lockport office, Sept. 22, 1840, and
calls upon the Agency State Bank of Illinois at Chicago to pay to the
order of David Prickett, $1,131.35 ; signed W. F. Thornton, Pres't, and
Jacob Fry, Act. Com. The note is of severe plainness, a simple draft,
OFFICE OF THE ILLINOIS ANO MICHIGAN CANAL,
torn out of a stub-book. It bears no 'evidence of having been paid
(except a stamp of cancellation), but we know that every one of them
was finally paid in full, from the earnings of the canal and the sale of
canal land.
The total of completed work under the " Internal Improvement;
Scheme," after the expenditure of its six million dollars, was only one
small section of railroad (connecting Springfield with Meredosia on the
Illinois river), supplied with two engines and a few cars, the whole cost-
ing $1,000,000. This was the first railroad in the State, and was fifty-
eight miles long. W. K. Ackerman, Esq., in an excellent and exhaustive
pamphlet on Early Illinois Railroads (Fergus' Hist. Series No. 23), says:
The road was constructed by spiking flat strips of iron on long timbers, which were laid
lengthwise on the tracks, and which were kept from spreading by cross-pieces inserted every five or
six feet. In a short time the road and engines needed repairing, and the engines were taken off and
mule teams used for some years in their place. . . Its whole income was insufficient to keep it in
repair, and its operation was abandoned by the State. The road was sold in 1847, and realized
$21,500 in State indebtedness.
Old settlers give a pathetic picture of the decadence of the little
line ; an engine in the ditch, a few mules pulling a few cars through the
dust, final abandonment — loneliness, weeds and cattle tracks. Judge
Caton recollects riding, in 1842, over the road between Jacksonville and
Meredosia, when the grass was so heavy over the rails that the engine's
driving-wheels slipped enough to retard their progress. At a certain small
watercourse the passengers were fain to turn out and dip up water in
buckets from the stream, to fill the water tank of the tender.
Utter failure
of Internal
Improvement
scheme.
172
THR STORY OF CHICAGO.
O^den's
firmness
Most of the rich men of 1835-6 went down before the storm of
1837. William B. Ogden was in straits through liabilities assumed for
friends, and did not get clear of the trouble until 1842-3. His biog-
rapher, in the "Chicago Magazine" (p. 33), says:
The first time we recollect to have heard him address a public meeting was in the fall of 1837
while he 'was mayor. Some frightened debtors, assisted by a few demagogues, had called a meet-
ing to take measures to have the courts suspended. . . . They sought by legislative action, or
" Relief Laws," to suspend, for a season, the collection of debts. An inflammatory and ad captan-
dum speech had been made. . . . During the excitement the Mayor was called for. He stepped
forward and exhorted his fellow-citizens not to commit the folly of proclaiming their own dishonor.
. . No misfortune was so great as one's own personal dishonor. . . . "Above all things,"
said he, " do not tarnish the honor of our infant city." . . . This first attempt at " repudiating "
met ... a rebuff no less pointed than deserved.
Position c.f Chi-
cayo Branch
State Bank.
William H. Brown, cashier of the Chicago branch of the Illinois
State Bank, was another bulwark of solvency. Regarding his course
the " Magazine " says:
Everybody was in a condition of suffering, and wanted money with an intensity that would
take no denial; and the very urgency of the want pointed to the very reason which made it unsafe
to accommodate them. . . . A'o is not a popular word with men who wish to borrow money.
. . . The Chicago branch suffered with the rest; for real estate was forced upon it in place of
money. Yet, in the aggregate, it was so managed that the profit and loss would have shown a bal-
ance on the right side.
Charles Walker began, in 1836, the business of bringing from the
East agricultural and household implements and other merchandise,
which he sold or exchanged for Western products. In 1838 he stood
the pressure with the rest, but never "lay down." He shipped Eastward
what he received in exchange for Eastern merchandise, and so made
THE HARD TIMES OF 1837-40,
himself superior to the vagaries of banking and currency ; an expedient
which has more than once placed Chicago above her Eastern contempo-
raries.*
B. W. Raymond had come to Chicago in 1836, and brought a val-
uable stock of goods, belonging to himself and his Eastern partner, S. M.
Dexter, of Oriskany, Oneida county, N. Y. In the autumn of 1837
the firm, besides the loss of all its capital, was $15,000 short of money
enough to pay its engagements. Nothing daunted, Mr. Dexter fur-
nished, as needed, during the next two years, $20,000 additional. I n stubborn busi.
1843 things had measurably recovered, and Raymond & Co. sold out
their merchandise, taking in part payment sixty feet on Clark street,
between Lake and Randolph, including the old Postoffice on the alley
in the Sherman House block, which property was taken at $5,000 ! He
had already (in 1839) bought the Lake street lot (now No. 122)
whereon he had built the first fire-proof stores in town. (This was the
structure which checked the "great fire" of that year.) In the same
year he was elected mayor to succeed William B. Ogden. It is related
that he gave his whole salary ($1,000) to the relief of the "emeralders,"
canal laborers, then out of work and in great distress.
Needless to say that, having such lots as those above named
bought and paid for, Mr. Raymond never was brought to want, even
by such unbusiness-like conduct as the relief of the suffering poor.
Our "story" having got down to the memory of living men, it is
possible to get some " local color" from old settlers. Talks with Judge
Blodgett (ar. 1831), Justice Caton (ar. 1833), the Messieurs Arthur
G. Burley (ar. 1835) and Augustus H. Burley (ar. 1837), Fernando
Jones (ar. 1835), A. C. Wood (ar. 1835) and others, give scattered bits
of incident, some of which have not been heretofore printed, and would,
perhaps, not be worth repeating, except as characteristic of the time,
place and circumstances.
The book and stationery store of Stephen Gale and Augustus
Burley, was the only one of its kind in the whole district, and was the
natural gathering-place of all the more intellectual members of society,
who talked, read the papers and played chess there, by hours together.
"In going one square through Washington street, from Dearborn to
Clark" says one of this firm, "I meet more persons than in 1840 I
should see in the whole length of Lake or South Water street during a
whole day. And then, I knew by sight every passenger I met; now,
perhaps, not one." Arthur G. Burley started his business (crockery
and glassware) in 1835, and has kept it up continuously from that day
* In 1868, and again in 1873, every bank in New York, Boston, and Philadelphia suspended payment, while
Chicago stood firm. This is ascribed to the fact that while Wall street is based on stocks and bonds, which men may
take or leave, as they fancy. La Salle street relies on grain and provisions, which the world must have.
Where men
used to con-
gregate.
THK STORY OF CHICAGO.
Real Estate
values
Cost of living.
to the present (1891); making his the oldest house in any business in
Chicago, if not in the entire West.
One of the old residents remem-
bers that about 1842 Judge Dickey
offered him an undivided half
interest in the property at the
corner of Michigan avenue and
Jackson street (now covered by
the Leland Hotel), at $40 a front
foot. He consulted his senior
partner about it, but the latter ob-
served that the nearness to the
lake made the place so bleak as to
deprive it of value for residence
use, just as its distance from town
ruined it for business purposes. So
the trade was never made.
What the narrator did buy was
the southeast corner of Dearborn
and Washington streets (Portland
block), for $4,500. There were
two houses on the lot (80 feet) and the owner lived in one of them
for many years. In 1857 he sold
the whole for $63,000, and the
buyer proceeded to build upon
them, borrowing the money for the
purpose. The evil days of 1858
found him unable to carry his
mortgages, and he failed.
A young business man in about
1843-44 lived at the City Hotel,
which stood at the northwest corner
of Clark and Randolph streets (the
present site of the Sherman House)
and for the board and lodging of
self, wife, child and nurse paid the
moderate sum of $8 per week.
ARTHUR G. BURI.F.Y.
-
Plain food was abundant and
I cheap, prairie chickens were so
I plenty that you could do little ex-
' cept give them away, but domestic
fowls brought about three "York"shillings(thirty-seven and a half cents) a
AUGUSTUS H. HURLEY.
THE HARD TIMES OF 1837-40.
175
dozen ; eggs, about three cents a dozen. Country folks, even well-to-
do farmers' families, lived on boiled pork and cabbage and sassafras
tea. They .had plenty of milk, to be sure, if you don't mind its being
"leeky ;"-— flavored with the wild onion (Chi-ca-gou) which the cows
grazed upon.
The junior member of the stationery firm naturally had the monthly
bills to make out and (what was more troublesome) to collect. Justin
Butterfield was one of the gruff and crusty customers. " Well, young
man, what do you want?" " This
little bill—
so.) "Humph!
($8, $12, $15, or
No money!"
Next two or three calls, same col-
loquy, same result. Finally, " That
bill again! Here !" (pays it.) "I'll
be hanged if I ever owe you an-
other cent." A day or two later,
entering the store: " Bottle'of ink.
Bunch of quills. Quire of fools-
cap! Charge them." Another
customer ( later a multimillionaire)
was less gruff, but equally trouble-
some. Thrusting his hand deep
into his pocket and bringing out
a jack-knife and a single small coin,
he would say, "Young man, that's
the last copper I've got in the
world."
Colonel J. M. Strode built himself a modest frame house at Michi-
gan Avenue and Jackson Street. One day he called on the carpenter
who had done the work. "Opdike, how much did the glass cost you?
How much did you pay for putty, nails, locks and hinges? Well, here's s
the money; I don't want a man to lose money he's paid out for me, but
as for your work, why — you'll have to wait for your pay for that."
So it went on. The stores had to take what they could get.
Broken-bank notes, canal scrip, city scrip, anything and everything came
in, except specie. The canal scrip got down to thirty-seven cents on
the dollar. City scrip was worth from seventy to ninety cents, but the
holder must find somebody to buy it who wanted to use it in paying
taxes.
In those days ruffled shirts were still worn, and a certain elegant,
well-educated lawyer, coming hither from the East, was noted for their
use. He was a better chess-player than lawyer, and too easy-going to
JC.'STIN BUTTERKIEI.I).
176 THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
make his way through the hard times; and the ruffles marked their
owner's decline. On Sunday they would show forth fresh and snowy,
turned over, say to the right. On Monday they might be seen turned
towards the left, and on Tuesday spread apart, one each way; but for
the rest of the week the poor fellow wore his coat buttoned up.
Judge Bloclgett remembers an occurrence which shows how natural
it is for man to look up — when he is flat on his back and can not look
any other way. Some one, entering the hardware store of Jones, King
& Co., where things looked dull and blue enough, asked Mr. Jones how
he felt, and was answered: "Oh, I'm easy now. They ve got done suing."
As a proof that the ruin of the panic of the early forties, or that of
the late fifties, or those of the seventies, or that of the early eighties,
was not universal bankruptcy, it may be observed that neither of the
Not an bank- members of the firm of stationers before named, all of whom have lived
here constantly since 1837, has ever failed to pay every debt when it fell
due, no matter how many debtors failed to pay sums owed to them. All
bought and sold real estate as occasion offered, but held their mer-
cantile debts to have the first claim; and, whenever needful, the real
estate must go to provide cash for the merchandise liability. The same
is true of the crockery establishment.
When the builders of Chicago's first railroad (Galena) were strain-
ing every nerve to get it through as far as Elgin, they called on all the
business houses on the route to take stock, and the Chicago firms, or
most of them, subscribed for shares, one or more. (The stationery
firm took ten shares.) But some of the richest men, notably John
High and H. H. Magie, declined, saying that it would ruin the town.
Here were hundreds of teams coming in ; prairie schooners from the
South and common farm wagons from the West; bringing wheat and corn
and taking back goods. Now if the road should be built out west, say
to Elgin, the farmers would drive to Elgin, sell their grain there and
buy their goods there, Chicago becoming a mere passing point.
It is of these hard days that Captain Andreas well says: "The
speculation which had been rampant for the past three years was gone,
but a grim determination showed in the lineaments of each true Chica-
goan's face which meant that, although fortunes had fled, Chicago was
still left." This reminds one of a characteristic Indian story. Mokopo
had drank fire-water — too much, and yet not enough — and was wander-
Vc. jngr aimlessly about. " Why, Mokey; what's the matter ? Are you lost ?"
" No ! " (striking his breast resounding blows) " Wigwam lost ; Mokopo
HERE!" The application of this parable to Chicago in 1812, 1840,
1849 (flood), 1854 (cholera), 1859 (panic), 1871 (fire), 1874 (fire), and
THE HARD TIMES OF 1837-40.
177
under certain other staggering blows, is too obvious to need explana-
tion. As we come to these successive cataclysms we shall have repeated
cause to note the elasticity of the
reserve force which underlies the
Garden City.
NOTE. — One of the pleasant incidents that
lighten the labors of the annalist occurred while
this chapter was under way. It was an accidental
meeting with the Rev. Stephen Ruddel Beggs,
named in Chapter XII I, as the pioneer of Method-
ism in Chicago. The writer, passing over the
site of the vanished Fort Dearborn, chanced to
observe an old gentleman who was accompanied
by a younger person. The latter made some
remark about the spot, to which he replied,
"Yes; I knew Fort Dearborn long before you
were born."
This made an opening for acquaintance
and resulted in much pleasant talk concerning
the days gone by. Mr. Beggs — "Father
Beggs" — was born in Virginia in 1801, and in his
ninety-second year looks as if he might well live
to see the end of the century whereof he saw
almost the beginning. His faculties are still in
good condition, and he sticks stoutly to the
number of babies (fifteen) whom he said were
born at the Fort during the " Blackhawk Scare."
Therefore skepticism is put to flight. REV. STEPHEN KUDDEL BEGGS.
Father Beggs speaks with bitterness of the obduracy of Major Whistler, on his arrival
with troops, in expelling from the Fort the many
refugees who had taken possession of it. Mrs.
Beggs, on a certain Monday, gave birth to a
daughter in one of the upper rooms, and with
her babe was lying there helpless when the sol-
diers arrived later in the week. Her husband
was her sole attendant, and, when the Major
passed through the room, explained to him the
circumstances, and begged to be allowed more
time, a favor which the other refused, saying
that he must have the place for his men. " If it
had not been for the kindness of John H. Kinzie
on the North Side," says the minister, " both
mother and child might very probably have per-
ished."
It was but a few weeks afterward that
Gen. Scott arrived with more rank, more men
and the cholera. Father Beggs relates how Major
Whistler was forced incontinently to vacate, in
his turn, the place whence he had ousted the
luckless refugees, and tells it with aglow of sat-
isfaction which illustrates the tact that there is a
good deal of human nature left even among the
saints.
It is pleasant to be able to give a fresh
portrait of Father Beggs in his ninetieth year.
Also a portrait of John S. C. Hogan (ar. 1830),
who was postmaster at the time when Father Beggs arrived in 1831.
JOHN S. C. HOGAN.
CHAPTER XVIII.
"
NEVER SAY DIE.
'HICAGOANS did not, in 1840 (or in any
other year), give themselves up to low spirits
and repining. This was the year of the
Harrison campaign, the first successful
effort of the Whigs, and their last except
the election of Taylor in 1848. Excite-
ment ran high here as elsewhere, and
Charles Cleaver's pamphlet gives a vivid
account of his trip to the Springfield con-
f'vention. There were seventy delegates,
provided with fourteen canvas- covered
wagons, and a two-masted boat mounted on
wheels and armed with a cannon for firing
salutes. Captain (afterward General) Da-
vid Hunter was in command, and the com-
pany consisted of citizens of the best class. Of the whole number it
is probable that scarcely half a dozen survive now (1891), Mr. Stephen
F. Gale being the only one positively known. They started June
°n. /th, and it took them all day to reach " the ridge," ten miles out. The
second day took them to Joliet, where a mob of Democratic canal-
laborers assembled with tin horns, kettles, etc., and barred the passage.
They got through without bloodshed, and reached Springfield in a week,
where the "full-rigged ship" made a great sensation among prairie-
dwellers all unused to such an object.
As Hercules strangled the serpents that invaded his cradle, so did
Chicago grasp firmly and kill quickly the enemies, Doubt and Despair.
This was no "paper city" which could disappear:
The baseless fabric of this vision,
The cloud-capped towers, the gorgeous palaces,
The solemn temples . . . dissolve,
And, like this unsubstantial fabric faded,
Leave not a rack behind.
Here was still the " portage," where the greatest stretch of lake
navigation could come into nearest contact with the longest system of
rivers and the grandest spread of fertile lands. Money, real money,
came hither every year from the general government to be laid out on
the harbor, and before long $1,600,000 of other money, attracted by
in
NEVER SAY DIE.
179
the solid value of the enterprise, came from the reviving East, to be
used in the completion of the canal. Like the drops of a cool shower
on soil thirsty from drought these dollars fell, and the soil being unfail-
ingly fertile, earth once more smiled with richness and gave forth of its
abundance in gener-
ous measure. The
ablest men inthe com-
munity maintained
their faith. Caton,
Ogden, Wentworth,
Peck, Carpenter, Cly-
bourne, Arnold, Bur-
ley, Dole, Cleaver,
George Smith, Cobb,
Couch, Gale, Hub-
bard, Harmon, Judd,
Loomis, Manierre,
Page, Raymond,
Sherman, Stone — all
whose names appear
in Hurlbut's copy of
Rudd's directory for
1839, besides Scam-
mon, Skinner, Wright
and others who are
not mentioned —
never swerved from
their unbounded con-
fidence in the coming
greatness of their
I. YOUNG SCAMMON.
chosen spot of earth.
Each of them found his faith rewarded by fortune ; some greater, some
less, according as he had combined faith and judgment in fitting pro-
portions The Kinzies, Beaubiens, Wolcotts, etc., sold out untimely i
and so fared less well. They had seen Chicago grow from units to
thousands; and the further steps, tens of thousands, hundreds of thou-
sands, etc., seemed no doubt chimerical.
At the same time there were men who made the opposite error ;
who, truly estimating the greatness of growth, underestimated the length
of time it would require; and, building too high a superstructure on too
narrow a foundation, saw their whole edifice topple to utter ruin. The
Chicago of to-day is spangled with brilliant fortunes, and blotted with
confidence.
i8o
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
sad disasters. The lights are patent to all ; the shadows are unnoticed.
It is like the sea ; wrecks are hidden and tall ships sail on.
A ripple in the dull current of hard times was a rumored " personal
difficulty " connected — almost of course — with the freedom of the press
in its remarks upon private persons.
John Wentworth, in his " Democrat," used the following language :
It is an indisputable fact that every one of these persons who have been filching money
Alleged row unjustly in the shape of Indian claims are opposed to the administration [Van Buren's] and use
lohnt'nd'c'a"8 such '"-8otten gains to injure it in every possible manner. It is due to the people that all Indian
tain Hunter, treaties for the last ten years be overhauled in the most thorough manner, arid the thousand knave-
ries practised by men thereby made nabobs fully exposed to the public gaze.
It is said that Captain (afterward General) David Hunter took
offense at this and went to the " Democrat" office, pistols in hand, for
an explanation. The opposition (Whig) paper, "The Democratic
Advocate" (printed by our friend,
Robert Fergus), got out a cartoon,
showing the editor surprised in his
sanctum, the soldier entering, pre-
senting two murderous -looking
weapons and saying, "Take your
choice and stand back!" To which
the other replied, " Don't shoot—
don't shoot ! I'll sign anything."
But this was regarded as the mere
squib of political opponents, as the
parties concerned denied any such
occurrence. So everybody was
willing to laugh the matter off and
accept the theory that Captain
Hunter had only dropped in at
editor Wentworth's office after
calling at Peacock & Thatcher's
gun store, where his pistols had been left for cleaning, and that there
was no challenge — not even an unpleasant word — perhaps not any allu-
sion whatever to the alleged injury. Certain it is, however, that a later
edition of the "Democrat" disclaimed any reference to Captain Hunter;
and the captain, on his part, published a card saying that the pistols
were not loaded. Mr. Fergus is non-committal as to the true inward-
ness of the matter, which was a sensation in its day.
Stage-lines were now running out of Chicago in several directions.
They were naturally connected with the carrying of the mails; whoever
had the mail-contract carried the passengers and light parcels. John
Frink succeeded Dr. Temple as mail-carrier, and Frink & Bingham, and
NEVER SAY DIE.
181
Frink & Walker became famous throughout the region as mail carriers
and stage coach men. The stage office was long at 123 Lake street
and afterward at the southwest corner of Dearborn and Lake streets.
M. O. Walker was a name known not only through Illinois but in other
States.
Strange as it may seem, some important undertakings were begun
even in the most depressing times. Isherwood and McKenzie estab-
lished (1838) the first regular theatre (named, at Dr. Egan's sugges-
Stage coach
days.
STAGE OFFICE.
tion "The Rialto"), taking and fitting up the upper floor of a wooden
building on the west side of Dearborn street, between Lake and South
Water streets. In the flush times this building had been the public
sales-room of John Bates and other auctioneers. The first Chicago
daily, "The American," was issued April 9, 1839. ("The American"
had been issued weekly, with some intermissions, since 1835.)
Death, as well as life, has to go on, in foul weather as in fair, and
1840 saw the beginning of a cemetery which, in its turn, was the begin-
ning of a park, the first in the magnificent system of city pleasure
grounds with which Chicago is now surrounded. In order to be surely
far enough out of town to remain forever secure from encroachment the
'The reader is referred to Andreas' history for most interesting fac-similes of all the early Chicago newspaper
First regular
Theatre.
IS2
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Cemetery at
Clark Street
and North
Avenue.
States emerging
from their
troubles.
selection was made a mile and a half north of the northern boundary of
the "original town" (Kinzie street), and a full mile outside of the
desolate northern line of Wolcott's and Kinzie's additions (Chicago
avenue). In fact it was in another township, being section 33 of Town
40, while the others were in section 9 of Town 39. The cemetery sec-
tion, like the "original town," was "canal land," and had been bought
of the canal commissioners by John S. Wheeler, probably at $1.25 an
acre. A number of public-spirited citizens joined and bought this from
Mr. Wheeler and presented it to the city, the latter contributing but a
tririe toward the purchase.* The later history of " The Cemetery" and
its final merging into Lincoln Park,
will be set forth in detail in chrono-
logical order as they occurred. To-
day (1891) in the appearance of the
magnificent park, with its statues,
fountains, hills, dells, lakes, streams,
flower-beds, palm -house, menag-
erie, and miles of roads and paths,
there is almost nothing to indicate
that it was once the burial place of
uncounted thousands of our fel-
low-citizens, many of whom, no
doubt, accidentally omitted in the
removal, still sleep beneath its sur-
face. Nothing, except a single
tomb, that of the old Couch estate,
to which, for certain reasons, the
Park Commissioners never obtained
JAMES COUCH. .-.i i • ... , .
title; this remains silent and grim,
as if to remind the pleasure-seekers that in the midst of life we are
in death.
Illinois being the last State to step into the quicksand, sank least
and scrambled out soonest. She could make the famous old Western
boast of being able to "run faster, jump higher, dive deeper and
come up dryer "than another. Little Michigan (then only the horse-
shoe-shaped peninsula inclosed by Lakes Michigan, .Huron and St.
Clair and the Detroit River), began in 1839 her policy of retrench-
ment, and in 1846 found that there had been spent on her railroads
$4,500,000 of money and 305,000 acres of public land. Stephen Gale,
•The public-spirited deed was done largely by the efforts of William Jones, Esq., a prominent hardware mer-
chant, whose son, Fernando Jones, has furnished these facts for our use. Among the citizens who were greatly inter-
ested in the matter may be mentioned William B. Ogden, John H. Kinzie, Dr. John H. Foster, James H. Woodworth and
Jonathan Young Scammon.
NEVER SAY DIE. 183
during a visit to Boston, was asked by Mr. Wilkins, president of a
Boston bank, about Western investments, and replied advising the pur-
chase of Michigan bonds at seventy per cent., and with them getting
control of Western railroads. Boston capitalists did buy the Michi- Boston capital.
gan Central for $2,000,000, and the Michigan Southern for $500,000;
which, paid for in State bonds at seventy cents on the dollar, made
TOMB OK THE COUCH FAMILY IN LINCOLN PARK.
the outlay $1,750,000. This was effected, and gave rise to the boast
of the Boston capitalists that "when the Western States and their peo-
ple fail to complete a railroad, Boston steps in with her capital and
assumes control." After this transaction, Eastern capitalists looked to
what they termed the insolvent West as the reservation for their
investments. (Andreas, p. 261.)
Illinois sold her scattered bits of work for what they would bring.
and now each forms part of some great through line. The writer
is familiar with one of them; abrown-stone pier, low, broad and strong,
in the Vermilion river at Danville, on the top of which pier stands
a tall limestone pillar holding up the great iron bridge of the Wabash
through line.
hatiuw cut
1 84 THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
As has been before told, a new advance of $1,600,000 was obtained
through the agency of Messrs. Ogden, Butterfield, and Arnold, of
Chicago, State Senator Michael Ryan, of the La Salle district, and
Arthur Bronson, of New York. Mr. Arnold made public speeches in
its favor and advocated it in the legislature whereof he was a member.
The governor appointed Michael Ryan and Charles Oakley commis-
sioners to place the loan, and they visited New York and London.
Canal Com- '
Every one abjured the idea of any possible repudiation of the State
debt, or any part of it. Baring Brothers and other bankers sent out
expert examiners (Captain W. H. Swift, U. S. A., and ex-Governor
John Davis, of Massachusetts) and, their report being favorable, the
money was forthcoming to complete the canal on a smaller plan and
profile than it had been begun upon.*
Here came in another difficulty; for a shallow cut the water must
be supplied at a higher level than fora deep cut. Ira Miltimore, builder
of Chicago's first water works, proposed to raise the water from the
river to the canal by steam-pumps. Others urged the bringing of the
needed supply (43,000 gallons per minute) by a 3o-mile feeder from the
Fox river. The pumping plan was, however, adopted, and has worked
well from that day to this, when it is about to be superseded by a deep
cut, natural-level channel, capable of taking from the river 600.000
cubic feet (4,300,000 gallons) per minute, and thus disposing of the
city sewage.
Captain Andreas gives the sums paid in from June, 1 845, to Novem-
ber, 1846, as follows: Illinois subscribers, $94,810; New York, $273,-
841, and French and English, $721,000, of which the French contrib-
uted about one-quarter.
It appears that besides its commercial value the canal exercised an
influence on the political standing of the city. Wisconsin was aspiring
to the honor of Statehood, and cast covetous eyes on the Garden City ;
going so far as to offer to John Wentworth and Joseph Hage (of
Galena) the honor of representing her in the U. S. Senate, provided
their section of Illinois should become part of Wisconsin. To support
the idea they had this formidable circumstance: The ordinance of 1787
designated the southern point of Lake Michigan as the starting point
for the northern line of the State !
But the manifest folly of allowing the canal to fall under a divided
dominion — running, as it would have done, partly in Wisconsin and
partly in Illinois — killed the Wisconsin project, and Chicago stayed,
where she seems naturally to have belonged, part of the State of Illinois.
* Russell E. Heacock had early shown himself shrewd enough to foresee trouble in carrying out the magnificent
"ship canal " project of the original enthusiasts. He argued, he pleaded, he talked, he wrote, and at last acquired the
nickname of " Shallow-cut Heacock." As often happens, the scoffers were wrong, their butt in the right.
NEVER SAY DIE.
1*5
In a thousand ways the canal has blessed Chicago. The money
laid out in building it helped her to her rapid recovery from the col-
lapse of 1838-40. The men it brought here added to her own num-
bers, and still more to the sturdy farming population which
built up her trade ; men who saved their canal-wages and with
them bought canal-land from which they raised products to form
canal-freights. (The land through which it runs is the garden of
the State.) Its location saved Chicago and the whole northern belt of
counties to Illinois. Its revenues paid its cost with interest, and made
a surplus. It has brought stone,
brick, food and fuel in vast quan-
tities to build up her trade, and
carried away an inconceivable mass
of lumber and merchandise. And
now to crown its benefactions it is
soon to be enlarged to proportions
originally unthought of, to furnish
an outlet to drain the city (also
grown to unforeseen greatness) and
solve the sewerage problem, which,
without its aid, would present ap-
palling difficulties to its further life.
Still more ; the sewage thus turned
inland may, at no distant day, be-
come the fertilizing material which
shall maintain the whole Illinois
valley in a state of more than Nile-
like fertility and productiveness.
For the details of its troubles and dangers, the quarrels of divided
management, the epidemic of 1846, the labor strike of 1847, the "leaky
level " from Joliet to the Du Page, the great drought of one year, and
the great flood of the next — even the fraudulent re-issue of $223,000 of
its "scrip" which, after it had been paid, was presented and paid a sec-
ond time ; — all these things must be looked for in larger histories; notably
i Andreas, pp. 165 to 173. Suffice it here to say that on April 10, 1848,
the canal boat " General Fry," towed by the canal propeller, " A. Ros-
siter," passed from Lockport to Bridgeport, and thence down the South
Branch (LaSalle's " Portage River"), welcomed by the Mayor (Wood-
worth) and with an eloquent speech by Charles Walker. On April 24,
the canal boat, " General Thornton," arrived at Chicago from LaSalle,
laden with sugar from New Orleans for Buffalo, which point it reached
The Canal's
many bene-
faction*.
HARKV ISIIKRWOOP.
iS6
THR STORY OF CHICAGO.
in the steamboat " Louisiana" on April 30; two weeks before the Erie
Canal was clear of its winter ice.
The following table gives the city statistics from 1843 (when per-
sonal property was first included in its assessment list) to 1857:
YEAR.
Property
Valuation.
Corporate
Liabilities.
Taxes
Collected.
Population.
Census.
1843
$ 1. 441. 314
$ 12, 6'?';
8,647
7,58o
City
2,763,281
0,701:
17,166
8,000
Estimate
1841; .
^.O6S.O22
10,691
11,077
12,088
State
1846
J* •J*
4.521.656
16.041;
is, 821;
14.160
Citv
1847
5.840.170
I 3.1 7O
18,11:9
I6.8CQ
ft
1848
6,300,440
20,338
22,01; i
2O,O23
r*
6 676,684
^6 \i\
3.0.041;
2*. O47
M
iSqo
7 22O 24Q
Q3 1QZ
25. 27O
28.26Q
((
i8e i
8 526 717
I 4O ^QO
63.381;
34.OOO
Estimate
181:2 .
10,461,714
I 26.0^5
76,948
28,734
City
i8q*. .
16,841,831
180.670
i«, 662
60,662
<*
181:4. .
24.3Q2.2tQ
248,666
I00.o8l
611,872
ft
iSqi;. .
26 QO2.8O3
728 ooo
2O6.2OO
80.023
State
i8s6..
36 33? 281
^-2C OOO
t;72.O46
84. 113
City
i8<;7. .
-7 c QQI 732
C •? c OOO
4*0 100
• Q3 OOO
Estimate
1890
2IQ 354 368
•j «j j '
I 7 CAC J.OO
3e 7 I 164
I 208 669
School
Therefore, with 13 times the population it had in 1857, the city
has (1891) 6 times the assessed valuation, owes over 25 times the debt,
and pays over 8 times the taxes. In other words, the relations of per-
sons to assets and liabilities were as follows :
YEAR.
Valuation per City Debt per \
Capita. Capita.
Taxes per
Capita.
In i8>;7. .
$387 oo 1 5 75
$4.62
In 1891
1 8 I OO I I 2 I
2 <K
To a farmer, who was not in debt, the "hard times" were less
hard than to any other class of persons. It is. in truth, always and
everywhere the case that the agriculturist feels least the ups and downs
of fortune ; all that he asks is to be let alone, buying what he can pay
for and must have, wherever he can buy it cheapest, and selling what
he can spare wherever he can sell it for the best. Bar interference, and
give him soil and water, and he can live on any part of earth's surface
between the Arctic and the Antarctic circles.
The Illinois farmer, however, under these conditions, does more
than barely live. He grows rich. Judge Bloclgett's narrative is a typ-
ical illustration of the emigrants' possibilities. His father, Israel P.
Blodgett, was sent as the advance agent of a colony organized in North-
NEVER SAY DIE. 187
ampton, Massachusetts, to examine and report on the best location for
a farming settlement. They were of the stern old Puritan stock and
full of the feeling that they were chosen to carry the Bible into the
waste places to make them glad. Without waiting for his return the
little band journeyed westward, bringing along Israel Blodgett's family,
including the little Henry, then some ten years old. Their course was
overland from Northampton to Albany, thence by canal to Buffalo, and
by steamboat to Detroit. This was in June, 1831 ; and they found
themselves too late for the first and too early for the second of the two
steamboats which came around the lakes each year. Therefore, they
bought teams and wagons in Detroit, and drove across the State ; the
journey from Northampton to Chicago taking six weeks and two days.
David McKee, the blacksmith for the Indians, then lived and kept
his shop about where the North-Western Railway's general offices now
stand, three streets east of Kinzie street bridge. With him Israel
Blodgrett left word to look out for his family, as he was building a cabin THC story <>fa
» typical family
for them on the Du Page, near where Naperville now stands. David n>'s"<'°n-
was to send word to Israel as soon as he got news of their arrival.
This news came by the Indian who carried the mail between Chicago
and Detroit, who passed the teams somewhere on the road ; and
McKee met the party down at the Calumet crossing, where they arrived
one Saturday night. Never, in the whole journey, had the good Puri-
tans traveled on a Sunday ; but now, their own provisions being
exhausted, and all they could get at the Calumet being not enough to
last them till Monday, they were forced to come on to the fort and set-
tlement on the Sabbath.
Here Israel met them and told them that he had picked out a spot
which, for soil, timber, water and locality, he thought could not be
beaten. They had from the start resolved to get on the waters con-
necting with the Mississippi, for they looked to the Gulf for the great
future outlet for farm products. The head of the party was one Jones,
a stout old Cromwell, who was his own judge of what was right and
best, find his own general to make his judgment prevail. He had a
brother already here, who, without any instructions, had pitched upon
a spot further down the valley, on the Bureau River. This was nearer
the Mississippi and the Gulf, and to that location the leader's face was
firmly set. But Israel was also firm, so the colony divided ; three
families staying on the Du Page and the rest going on to the Bureau.
Both sections did well, the Joneses founding Princeton, and the Blod-
getts, Naperville.
Israel went back to his claim (thirty miles west by south), to finish
the cabin, and his family stayed with the McKees. Mrs. McKee got up
188
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
a tea-party in honor of Mrs. Blodgett, inviting every white woman in
the neighborhood, who, when assembled, made a company of six : Mrs.
Graves, Mrs. Hamilton, Mrs. Owen, Mrs. Miller, Mrs. McKee and Mrs.
Blodgett.*
The canal was started and everything a farmer could raise found
ready market. Young Henry worked and studied, and in course of
time had a year of schooling at the East. Then he returned and taught
school a year, and served a time on the engineering corps on the canal.
Israel was a corporal in Captain Naper's company of mounted volun-
,
-*---
ILLINOIS FARM.
teers for the Black Hawk War, but the company saw no field service.
He grew rich on his farm, dying full of years and of honors, and his
son became, as all the world knows, first a distinguished lawyer, and
later a Federal judge, attaining a degree of distinction on the bench
almost unique in its eminence.
Such is the story of a single migration and "growing up with
the country; " not differing from others except in that one of its
members reached an exceptional elevation through exceptional powers.
An interesting narrative of the times has survived in an interesting
way. It is Sylvester Marsh's testimony before a Senate Committee on
Education and Labor :
Chicago grew very fast, and in 1835 there must have been 2,500 people there. We then went
down to the Wabash country, as we called it, and bought cattle and hogs and drove them up for
market. In 1836 they commenced buildingthe canal and in that year I packed 6,ooohogs there, mostly
* Twenty years and more after this, Mrs. Blodgett, being in Chicago, went to call on one of the other ladies, who
grew quite eloquent on the absurdity of the claim of later comers to be classed as old settlers. Said she, "You and I,
Mrs. Blodgett, know better ; for we saw the very tegunment of it all ! "
XEVER SAY DIE. 189
forborne consumption. The contractors took the pork for their men. The State failed to pay in 1838-9
and work on the canal was stopped. State bonds went down to 25 cents on the dollar and the State
issued what was called " Canal Scrip" to pay the contractors what was owed them for work they had
done. That was afterward redeemed, dollar for dollar. . . One section of the canal land was
right in the heart of old Chicago. It was sold in June, 1836, for a quarter down and the balance in
one, two and three years ("Canal time"), and I think there was but one man in the city that made
his second payment, P. F. W. Peck. . . Everybody burst up — the banks and everybody else
went up. The Canal went along for a while. Contracts were entered into by the State and work
went along until 1839, the State trying every way to pay, and about that time they stopped.
From 1836 to 1842, when the United States bankrupt law was passed, there was no responsibility.
No man had anything hardly that he could call his own.
"The Forties " saw the beginning, in a small way, of nearly all the
great institutions Chicago now enjoys. In 1841 the first water-works
were built. The first propeller was launched in 1842, in which year the
exports were for the first time greater than the imports. The first
book compiled, printed, bound and issued is said to have been in 1843.
The first meat for the English market was packed in 1844. The first
permanent public school building was built in 1845. In 1846 the River
and Harbor convention met, and Chicago was made a port of entry. ^'-"th?™!-!
In 1847 the first permanent theatre was opened (Rice's; south side of
Randolph street between State and Dearborn streets), and McCor-
mick's reaper factory was started. In 1848 the first telegram was
received, being a message from Milwaukee, and later the " Pioneer" our
first locomotive, was landed from the schooner "Buffalo" and started out
on- the Galena railway. In the same year the Board of Trade was
established and the canal opened. In 1849 the "Chicago & Galena
Union Railroad " was opened to Elgin. Surely this is a fair decade's
work for a " ruined city," and yet we know that these are merely typical
and conspicuous enterprises which, great as they are, would shrink into
insignificance if one could see the thousands of individual achievements
O
which were going on unmarked meanwhile. Concerning the water
supply, the " American," of June 10, 1842, says:
The whole outlay of the company has been about $24,000. A large brick building has been
erected [northeast corner of Michigan avenue and Lake street] with a pier running into the lake.
The steam engine is of 25 horse-power. The working barrel of the pump is 14 inches in diameter
and 44 inches stroke — double action. The suction pipe by which the water is drawn from the lake
is also 14 inches in diameter and 320 feet in length. The pump raises upward of 25 barrels of water
per minute, 35 feet above the level of the lake. There are two reservoirs each of the capacity of 1,250
barrels, a space of about 50 minutes is required to fill each of the reservoirs. The reservoir is of The Lake street
,,.,,.. .. hydraulic
sufficient elevation to throw water into the second story of any building in town. About two miles works.
in length of pipe are now laid down. The machinist under whose direction these works have been
put into such complete and successful operation, is Mr. Ira Miltimore. It was for a long time con-
fidently predicted that his undertaking would prove a complete failure. These predictions were to him
a source of constant and harassing anxiety. It can scarcely be imagined how keenly intent were his
feelings, when the works were on the point of being put into operation. His feelings at that moment
were assuredly not to be envied They were to be envied when the regular evolution, the easy
play, the harmonious action of every part of the machinery announced the triumph of skill.
The 25 horse-power engine was so far in advance of the city's
hydraulic needs that in 1842 a contract was made with James Long
190 THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
whereby he agreed to run the pumps gratis for ten years for the privi-
lege of using the spare power in operating a flour-mill. In pursuance
of this agreement, Mr. Long built a brick mill, with three run of stone,
and actually ran it for ten years, doing a good business. His son still
remembers seeing an Irishman with a "pod auger" boring out length-
wise the logs needed to convey the entire water supply of the young
metropolis, and even as this chapter is being written a log of water pipe
has been dug up (in excavating for the foundations of the Cook County
Abstract building, No. 98 Washington street), which is in good condi-
tion and, like other relics, connects old things with new in an amusing
fashion. Mr. Long had his own troubles to keep the insufficient appa-
ratus at work. He said : " In winter the pipes would be disarranged
by the heaving of the frost, and I had frequently to spend hours at a
time to caulk up the joints by throwing on water and thus freezing up
the cracks before we could make the pumps work."
. . Chicago had no start — no life — until the legislature passed what we called the relief
law; that is, they gave us as much of the land as we had paid for. If a man had bought four lots
and paid the full value for one, the relief law gave us one lot and then gave us up our notes.
(Andreas, p. 501.)
This calls to mind a remark of Judge Lockwood, remembered by
Justice Caton. While prices were " booming," many bills in chancery
were filed by buyers to compel the " specific performance " of contracts
to convey land. Said the Judge : " The day will come when they will
be as anxious to get out of contracts as they are now to enforce them."
CHAPTER XIX.
RIVER AND HARBOR CONVENTION.
rEXAS was annexed in 1845, a°d Zachary
Taylor with 4,000 regulars marched across
the country to the Rio Grande, thus neces-
sarily creating a state of war with Mexico,
which claimed Texas, though in revolt, as
part of its territory. The Mexicans at-
tacked Taylor's forces in May, 1846, and
were defeated at Palo Alto and Resaca de
la Palma. President Polk asked for 50,-
ooo volunteers, and Governor Ford called
on Illinois for thirty companies to serve
one year ; the men to choose their own
company and regimental officers. Two
companies were allotted to Chicago, and w
Captain Lyman Mower and Captain Elisha
Wells unfurled the flag and enrolled the
volunteers who came forward freely and soon filled the ranks. A second
call was made in 1847, one regiment only being required from Illi-
nois, one company from Chicago. In the three companies appear some
well-known names, notably Murray F. Tuley, now a Circuit Court
Judge, Charles C. P. Holden and one or two others. These were fol-
lowed by other companies and innumerable scattered enlistments; the
entire number from Illinois reaching 6,315.
They volunteered freely, did their work well and suffered severely
in killed and wounded and still more by the other casualties of the march
and the hospitals. Their names were honored and cherished for their
patriotic sacrifices, though the feeling toward them was necessarily dif-
ferent from that entertained for their brothers-in-arms of fifteen years
later; who fought not simply for the glory of their land but for its very
life.
Hither comes Chicago's canal at last. Now what will she do with
it ? True, she has an opening from her two-branched streamlet to the
lake ; a narrow, shallow, unstable ditch through a sandbar, and a short
pier to check the beach-sand from choking it at once. This has been
191
Mexican
ar.
192
THK STORY OF CHICAGO.
CHARLES C. I'. H01.DE.S.
Previous River
and Harbor
bills.
Folk's veto.
the work of small appropriations by Congress in its annual " River and
Harbor Bills."* These acts began
with the first Congress after the
adoption of the Federal constitu-
tion, wherein the Nation, from and
after August 15, 1789, assumed care,
support and control of " all light-
houses, beacons, buoys and public
piers, erected, placed or sunk at the
entrance of or within any bay, inlet,
harbor or port of the United States,
for rendering the navigation thereof
easy and safe." This bill was signed
by Washington, and succeeding
acts for like purpose were signed
by Adams, Jefferson and Madison.
The first distinctively Lake harbor
bill was signed by Monroe. Other
like bills were signed by John
Quincy Adams, Jackson and Van
Buren ; the appropriations under
the two latter (both of them Democrats, and "strict constructionists ")
amounted to $7,800,000.
Next follows the Mexican War
for slave territory, and James K.
Polk, of Tennessee, to administer
the government and favor the "pe-
culiar institution." Polk makes the
discovery that measures of this kind
are both unwise and unconstitu-
tional! The River and Harbor bill,
passed and presented to him for
signature, had twenty-three items
looking toward our northern lakes
and rivers, inluding a lump sum of
$80,000 for Racine, Little Fort
* The appropriations were as follows: In 1833,
$25 ooo; in 1834, $30,000; in 1835, $30,000 ; in 1836, $25,000;
in 1837, $30,000 ; in 1838-9, $40,000 ; in 1842, $30.000 ; the
last expended under the supervision of Captain (afterwards
General) George B. McClellan. The constructions were
the north pier, 3,000 feet lonp, and the south pier, 1,800 feet.
This year (1846) the sand had begun to form a dangerous
bar outside the end of the north pier, and the available
channel had shallowed up to ten feet and less of depth
Now came Folk's veto of the appropriation needed to pre-
vent it from closing entirely.
AI.KXANDKR WOLCOTT.
RIVER AND HARBOR CONVENTION. 193
(Waukegan), Southport, Milwaukee and Chicago. But he had his war
on hand, and vetoed the bill, saying:
Some of the objects of the appropriation are local in their character and lie within the limits
of a single State; and though in the language of the bill they are called harbors, they are not con-
nected with foreign commerce, nor are they places of refuge or shelter for our navy or commercial
marine on the ocean or lake shores. . .
It would seem the dictate of wisdom under such circumstances to husband our means and not
waste them on comparatively unimportant objects.
One does not wonder at the fury excited by this insolence, or the
disastrous defeat suffered by the Democrats in the next election, when
Taylor was elected over Cass. The Chicago "Journal " says (August
12, 1846):
Thus discourses James K. Polk in his veto message on the Harbor bill, and the sentiment is
an insult to the country: " Husband our means forsooth!" Are not millions being squandered by
this same James K. Polk for the invasion of Mexico and the extension of slavery? Are not steam-
boats being bought and chartered daily, at enormous prices, to enrich his favorite prodigals? Are
not the Treasury doors unbarred whenever the " open sesame " is whispered by the slave driver? C
And yet Mr. Polk outrages the intelligence of the people, his masters, by claiming, when a pittance
is asked for a great Northern interest, that we must " husband our means." That the object for
which we ask them is comparatively UNIMPORTANT! .
The same spirit and energy that forced emancipation of the whole country from Great Britain
will throw off the Southern yoke. The North and West will look to and take care of their own
interests henceforth. . . . We shall see. The spirit of freedom yet lingers about Bunker Hill,
Bennington and Saratoga, and there are children yet living of the fathers whose bones are bleaching
there. They have ever been willing to allow more than justice to their Southern brethren, but they
will not allow them to be their masters — they will have justice. The fiat has gone forth — Southern
rule is at an end.
The infant city, born but ten years before these stirring utterances,
evidently came early to its voice. Within the next twenty years the
spirit of Bunker Hill did arise, and the yoke was thrown off.
The same kind of irritation was felt all over the North. In New
England it took a form fairly typified by Lowell in his " Biglow
Papers;" which are dialect verses like the following :
On'y look at the Demmercrats, see wut they've done
Jest simply by stickin' together like fun;
They've sucked us right into a mis'able war
Thet no one on airth ain't responsible for;
To the people they're oilers ez slick ez molasses.
An' butter their bread on both sides with The Masses,
Half o' whom they've persuaded, by way of a joke,
Thet Washin'ton's mantelpiece fell upon Polk.
A non-partisan convention was called, largely through the initiative
of William Moseley Hall,* who from 1845 to 1848 was agent at St. Louis
of the Lake Steamboat Association, connecting by Frink & Walker's
stage lines, and later by Illinois & Michigan canal packets with Illinois
•In 1882 the Fergus Printing Co. got together all the matter in existence regarding this convention and pub-
lished it as number 18 of their inestimable " Historical Series." It forms a fine book of 200 pages and should be owned
and read by every Chicago man; as should, in fact, the whole series. With it are printed late letters of William Moseley
Hall, recalling with pardonable pride the part he took in the River and Harbor movement. Also disclosing something
that is less pleasant to think of. namely, that even his cash outlays ($576) in its behalf have never been refunded to
him; and that he is now old and— not rich— he would be glad to receive them.
194
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
river steamers to St. Louis. He,
Calling of the
MAHLOX D. OGDEN.
in harmony; for we see Wentworth,
"Journal"), Hoyne, Kinzie, Sher-
man, Newberry, Hubbard, Couch,
Magie, Alonzo Huntington, Peck,
Gurley, Frink, Walker, Page,
Egan, Brainard, Calhoun, Cobb,
and numberless men then more
newly arrived, though now (1891)
numbered with the dead, or classed
with the others as "old settlers."
Preliminary meetings were
also held in Buffalo, Michigan Citv
*
and other places, each passing res-
olutions and sending delegates.
The great event was fixed for
July 5, 1847. A grand civic and
military procession was the open-
ing function, with artillery and
infantry, city officials, a ship on
wheels with all sail set, fire depart-
ment, citizen societies, etc., and
bands and banners innumerable. '
with our Robert Fergus, William
Duane Wilson, of Milwaukee, and
Thomas Sherwood, of Buffalo,
called a meeting at Rathbun's ho-
tel in New York on September 28,
1846, reported in following day's
New York "Herald." The next
step was a Chicago meeting at the
Court House on November i3th,
called by William B. Ogden, S.
Lisle Smith and George W. Dole,
and presided over by Mark Skin-
ner, with E. B. Williams and B.
W. Raymond as vice-presidents,
and Geo. W. Meeker and Mahlon
D. Ogden as secretaries. J. Young
Scammon, Isaac N. Arnold and
Norman B. Judd offered appropri-
ate resolutions. Besides those men-
tioned there were numerous others
soon engaged, all parties working
Goodrich, Manierre, Wilson (of the
THOMAS HOYNE.
(What a feature of those old days
RIVER AND HARBOR CONVENTION.
*95
was the fire department, with its shining apparatus and red-shirted,
leather-hatted citizens! In the afternoon, at a competitive show, "Red
Jacket" threw a stream over the top of the public square flag-staff.)*
The procession halted at Dearborn Park (Michigan avenue, Ran-
dolph and Washington streets) where a monster pavilion had been
erected, capable of seating 5,000 people, and well filled with delegates
and spectators at every session.
The attendance was large and distinguished, reaching to about three
thousand delegates. Among them we find the names of Schuyler Col-
fax, Abraham Lincoln, Anson Burlingame, Oliver Newberry, Edward
FRANK SHERMAN.
PETER PAGE.
Attendance.
Bates, J. De P. Ogden, David Dudley Field, Philip Hone, Horace
Greeley, Thurlow Weed, James Brooks, John C. Spencer, Erastus strangers in
Corning, John L. Schoolcraft, Andrew White, etc.
Noteworthy letters were received from Thomas H. Benton, Silas
Wright, Henry Clay, Martin Van Buren, Daniel Webster and others.
The convention sat July 5th, 6th and yth, and with much adroitness
avoided the Scylla and Charybdis of political partizanship, Whiggism
and Democracy, which threatened it on either hand. This must have
been particularly hard, for the very occasion of their being called
together was a political act by a partisan president whom some of the
members supported while others opposed him.
* The " Evening Journal " of the 6th grows fairly incoherent with enthusiasm, and holds forth in a single sentence
—a third of a column without taking breath— on the "dangers that throng our waters and rise like the mists from their
surface, festering in many a living heart "
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
egate.
One little circumstance shows
" ragged edge." It is this: David
Dudley Field, a distinguished New
m a Dei- York Democrat, addressed the con-
vention on Tuesday, and on the
afternoon of the same day a resolu-
tion was passed which expressed
regret at "the ill-feeling which had
been evinced while Mr. Field was
speaking"; and pledged the conven-
tion to regard, in future, the rights
of all members who should confine
themselves to the rules. Later in
the same session this entry appears:
"Abraham Lincoln, of Illinois,
being called upon, addressed the
convention briefly,"
Horace Greeley, in his letter
written that evening to the New
York "Tribune" expressed himself
as follows :
how near they hovered to the
Horace
Greeley.
ALONZO HUNTINGTON.
Hon. Andrew Stewart, of Pennsylvania, was next called out and made a vigorous and ani-
mated speech in favor o* Internal Improvement. . . It pleased right well a majority of
the convention, but brought up in opposition Mr.
David Dudley Field, of our city, who favored us
with an able and courteous speech in favor of
" strict construction." . . He denied the
right of the Federal Government to improve the
navigation of the Illinois river, since it runs
through a single state only, or of the Hudson
above a port of entry. The convention, or rather
a portion of its members, manifested consider-
able impatience during the latter portion of this
speech, which is to be regretted, for Mr. Field
was perfectly courteous and not at all tedious.
For my part I rejoiced that the wrong side of the
question was so clearly set forth. When he had
concluded the convention adjourned to dinner.
In the afternoon Hon. Abraham Lincoln, a
tall specimen of an Illinoisan, just elected to Con-
gress from the only Whig district in the State,
spoke briefly and happily in reply to Mr. Field.
Mr. Greeley's whole letter is
delightful reading, full of jest and
anecdote, poetical quotations,
good-natured thrusts at his oppo-
nents and serious
against the position then widely held — though it now seems to
THOMAS CHURCH. (Health Officer.)
arguments
us
RIVER AND HARBOR CONVENTION.
'97
absurd — that it was only foreign and strictly inter-state commerce which
the Government had a right to help by light-houses and river and
harbor improvements.
Thurlow Weed also wrote
capital letters to the Albany
" Evening Journal." With all
the vigor of capitals and ex-
clamation points, he boasts of
coming " from Albany to
Detroit (nearly 700 miles) in
FIFTY-ONE HOURS!" and adds,
"We are, they tell us, the
only persons who ever per-
formed the journey in so short
a time." He reports several
speeches, but unhappily not
Lincoln's. Tom Corwin's is
a gem of fun and sarcasm.
Turning to Mr. Wentworth,
Representative in Congress
from this district, he continued:
"Gentlemen; when he and I
can agree on any subject, there
must be harmony: I might say
that the gentleman is latitudi-
narian on the subject; perhaps this is owing to his longitude. He goes
his whole length." Horace Greeley must have been pleasant to listen to;
Mr. Weed reports him as saying that he had cherished the hope that his
reputation as a bad speaker had become national, and regretted to dis-
cover it had been only local. . . . He was accustomed to look to theThurlow
results of such meetings as these. His ears heard coldly the shouts
which ascended in commemoration of victorious battles, but he loved to
hear the triumphs of such victories as the Erie and Welland Canals.
Weed prophecies that in ten years Chicago will exceed Albany
He says they rode out a few miles to get a glimpse of the prairies.
We found the road all the way occupied with an almost unbroken line of wagons, drawn gen-
erally by two yokes of oxen. These teams are called " prairie schooners." Felix Grundy McCon-
nell, among his last acts, asked the House of Representatives to " Resolve, that this is a great country
and constantly increasing." One needs to visit Chicago to realize and confess that the proposition
is one of undeniable truth.
It is said here that the article in the Union [Washington] throwing cold water on the conven-
tion, kept Senators Breese and Douglas, with other leading Locofocos, away. But a large number of
the " bone and sinew " of the Democracy of the West are here.
Weed's
account.
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
The Resolu
tions.
A noteworthy incident in the convention is the deep and strong
impression made by its chairman, Edward Bates, of Missouri. He was
unknown, and when his name was proposed to the meeting for its chair-
man, a buzz of questioning went around: "Who is he?" But at the
close of the proceedings he made a speech of such high and fervid
eloquence as to do what it is rare for a single utterance to effect, namely
^^^^^^^ make his name and fame suddenly
^^^01 9^^ conspicuous. Judge Caton was
absent from the convention, hold-
ing court elsewhere, but he well
remembers that " Bates' speech "
was the theme of talk all over the
State. Thurlow Weed says :
When the labors of the convention closed,
and six hearty, spontaneous cheers rent the air
in honor of their president, more than four thou-
sand delegates separated to return home and
speak of Edward Bates with enthusiasm as one
of the ablest and most eloquent men they had
ever heard. It was the occasion of deep and
universal regret that his masterly speech was
not reported. It was made at the close of the
session, when some of the reporters had retired
and others had put away their materials. After
Mr. Bates was fairly on his feet, all were too
intent and absorbed as listeners, to think of
reporting.
The achievement of the convention was, naturally, the passage of
a series of resolutions, submitted "to their fellow-citizens and to the
Federal government." The gist of the resolutions was that river and
harbor improvements were within the c6nstitutional scope of the Fed-
eral power, wherever the interests of two or more States were involved,
and being within Federal jurisdiction they were excluded from State
interference; that hitherto the interior interests had not had care pro-
portioned to that given to the seaboard; that the time had come when
this should be rectified; and that the convention disavowed any attempt
to connect its objects with the fortunes of any political party. Then
an executive committee was appointed to make known to Congress the
principles and views of the convention.
Chicago then contained 16,000 inhabitants, and Thurlow hazarded
the following glowing prediction : " On the shores of these lakes [Erie,
St. Clair, Huron and Michigan] is an extent of country capable of sup-
porting and destined to receive, in the course of half a century, at least
* Mr. Bates was a member of Congress from Missouri in 1825. He seems to have been one of those fine Ameri-
cans, the Whigs from slave States; a class of men independent, able, influential and respected, but soon left in the lurch
by their constituents.
CYRUS P. BRADLEY.
Health Officer and Fire Marshal.
RIVER AND HARBOR CONVENTION.
I99
a quarter of a million inhabitants." It does seem incredible that a man
like Weed, speaking in 1847, should have limited the number of persons Wecd,s
in "the extent of country" on all the shores of all these lakes, in 1897, mislake-
to 250,000! The fact will be about fifty times the estimate.
Such was the great River and Harbor Convention. The " Journal "
was always loudly urging it to "deeds, not words," but words like these,
uttered as these were, are deeds.
The following Congress, however,
did nothing, and it was not until
1852 that the next appropriation
was made, when Congress allotted
$20,000 to be used on the inner
harbor. It is probable that the
great flood of 1 849 swept away so
much sand that the threatened
closing up of the channel was
averted for some years to follow.
From 1848 to 1854 the Govern-
ment work at Chicago was under
the able and upright charge of
Lieutenant (afterward General)
Joseph D. Webster. Lieutenant
Webster married one of Chicago's
most beautiful women, Miss Ann E.
Wright, and from that time forward
..... . . GENERAL JOSEPH IX WEBSTER.
to his death in 1878 remairfed one
of its favorite citizens. During the Union War he was a soldier dis-
tinguished for his services, especially at the battle of Shiloh, where as
Chief of Artillery on Grant's staff he massed the guns in such a manner General
* . . . , . Webster.
as to serve a good purpose in checking the enemy s triumphant advance
at the close of the first day's fight. Whether in war or in peace, he was
a blessing to his country and an ornament to his city. Of him it may
be truly said : ., None knew him but to love him
None named him but to praise."
William Moseley Hall, who had taken the initiative in assembling
the convention wished to get it to give its advocacy and approval to
George Wilkes's plan for a national railroad to the Pacific. He was
overruled in this; but after adjournment a special meeting was called at
which a vast audience listened to an excellent speech from him upon
the subject, and adopted his resolutions. It is doubtful, however, if the
State at large, with its recent experience of State railroad building,
would have considered favorably any plan having more of it in view.
2OO
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Later events have thrown such a halo about the name of Abraham
Lincoln that we hail his bodily appearance on the stage of our
city's history with a thrill and a quickening of the pulse. Even so
slight a part as he took in the canal convention becomes moment-
ous. We would give much to
know the very words he uttered
about our city and its future, our
lake and harbor, our rights under
the law and constitution; although
those words seemed to their hearers
not worth reporting.
The nearest approach to a
real view of the unpretending per-
sonality then on his way to un-
measured greatness is a picture
taken about ten years later, in
Chicago, by a man still living and
plying his trade among us, Alex-
ander Hesler. As will be noticed,
the picture is of the roughest, both
as to subject and to artistic appear-
ance (being a late copy from a very
old plate), but it is left with all its
marks of age and authenticity.
The picture is obtained from Mr. Hesler, with an interesting little
tale about its origin. It was in 1857 that Mr. Lincoln began to be
famous as the standard-bearer of Northern sentiment in the West. He
happened to be in Chicago and some of his lawyer friends came to Hes-
ler's studio and told the photographer that Abe couldn't afford to pay for
his picture, but if he would take it they would each buy one, and perhaps
he wouldn't lose anything by it in the long run. He consented and Lin-
coln came. " He was the greenest specimen of a country lawyer I had
ever seen. He had been to a barber and his hair was plastered clear
down over one side of his forehead to his eye-brow. I ran my hands up
through it on each side — the way you see it — and he said: ' That's better.
My folks would never know it for me the way the barber had fixed it.'"
Mr. Hesler afterward reduced the picture to about the size of a
postage stamp, and prepared it with a gummed back to attach it to let
ters, circulars, etc., and did an immense business with it. He received
one order from Boston for 200,000 of them, and in three days had it
filled and dispatched. He is still in business (70 State Street) and
keeps a large variety of historic views, beside his regular portrait studio.
ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
CHAPTER XX.
LAND-TRAVEL AND WATER-TRAVEL.
'ATER is a good thing in its place, else the
canal would not have been begun in hope
in 1832, carried on in hardship for the
next sixteen years, and finished in triumph
in 1848. The grand opening on April i6th
of the latter year has already been de-
scribed. During that season its operation
(in spite of deficient equipment, scarcity
of water, and a leaky stretch between Jol-
iet and the Dupage!) was more than had
been hoped. Tolls collected at Chicago
were $52,000; at La Salle, $35,000, to
which should be added other tolls, and
$400,000 received from sale of lots in the "canal trustees' subdivisions"
in Chicago.
The trustees, under whose good management the canal went on
from May, 1845 to November, 1848, received $1,949,042 during that
time, and paid out $1,719,859. Times were again good and
plenty. Sales of lands and lots were enormous. In the decade which
followed the opening, the total receipts from all sources were about
$7,000,000, half of it from land sales. Captain Andreas gives the fol-
lowing figures from the work done by the boats: Wheat, five and a
half million bushels; corn, twenty-six million bushels; pork, twenty-seven
million pounds; lumber, five hundred and sixty-three million feet, and
coal, fifty thousand tons.
Quietly, however, an enterprise took root and began to grow, which
in its maturity was destined to dwarf even the canal to comparative
insignificance.
On October 10, 1848, there was landed from the brig " Buffalo," a
small, nameless engine, the first of the mighty army of iron giants which
have made Chicago. The machine, or its rusty carcase, is still in exist-
ence here in the city which it has helped to build ; and more than
one of the men who unloaded it from its marine conveyance are still
among us. The anonymous little stranger weighed ten tons, h?d been
built by Baldwin, the veteran Philadelphian engine builder, for the
contractors on the Rochester & Tonawanda Railroad in New York and
used by them.
aoi
money opening bus-
inessonthe
202
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
The unloaders were John Ebbert, Redmond Prindiville, Wells Lake,
George W. Waite and George C. Morgan. Of these the first two are
known to be still living (1891). John Ebbert was master mechanic of
the road for many years, and is now out of business. Mr. Prindiville is
a leading business man, full of vigor in body and mind. He remem-
bers the arrival of the strange new engine, and his own share, he was
the youngest of the party, in giving her to Chicago soil. She looked big,
though but a little thing compared with the leviathans of later days. She
•'The first en-
gine that ever
turneda wheel
in Chicago."
FIRST LOCOMOTIVE, THE " PIONEER," AS SHE IS iN 189!
had but two driving-wheels instead of the four, six or eight now used.
Having what was called "inside connections," her cylinders (9 by 14
inches) were set at an angle up against the boiler. She was in good
order; smoke-stack housed and "bright-work" covered with tallow.
She was lodged on deck, crosswise of the brig. The landing
place was the Railroad yard, west side of the North Branch, just south
of Kinzie Street ; and there were plenty of timbers and ties at hand, and
jack-screws to do the lifting ; so they jacked her up level with the rail,
laid a track from deck to dock (where a track had been laid ready to
receive her) and easily ran her ashore on her own wheels, and pushed
her out to the little machine-shed where Ebbert (engine-driver as well
as master-mechanic of the road) put her in shape and lighted her fires
for the first time, next day. The job was not a hard one and took less
than the whole of that bright autumn Sunday — a great day for us to
look back upon.
LAND-TRAVEL AND WATER-TRAVEL.
203
She was not christened for a long time afterward. When the rail-
way got more engines, and it was
necessary to be able to distinguish
them, John Van Nortwick (presi-
dent) asked what she should be
called. " Call her the Pioneer, of
course," said Prindiville, and Pio-
neer she was and is, and should be
for centuries to come. One of our
parks should have her, set in a glass
case and attended more carefully
than any white elephant that ever
was knelt before in the Royal Tem-
ple at Bangkok.
The "Galena & Chicago Union
Railway," as Chicago's first oper-
ating road was named, runs in a
straight line west from its Kinzie
street station to the Desplaines.
It is said that at the time of the
first survey, which was made (1837)
by James Seymour, the surveyors waded sometimes in deep water.
Augustus Burley says that it was
thought necessary to lay the road
on piles, and that the road-bed was
so constructed for some miles, he
himself having seen long lines of
the pile-heads sticking out of the
ground in places where is now dry
land, covered with buildings. These
things illustrate the change which
has been wrought in the character
of the region by the institution of a
great system of sewerage. *
The stretch of road first built
(and for a very long time it seemed
doubtful if any more ever would
be built), was from Kinzie street
to Oak Ridge, eight miles west,
REDMOND PRINDIVILLE.
The ' Pioneer.1
Running a
railroad line
through the
water.
JOHN EDBF.RT.
and we were glad at night to reach the hotel at Barry's Point and dry ourselves by the large fireplace."
•Mr. Seymour says (Fergus' Hist. Series No. 16):
" We began our survey at the foot of Dearborn street
[North Side] and ran three lines nearly due west to the
Desplaines river. Much of ihe time we waded in water,
204
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
JAMES CURTIS.
(Mayor in 1847)
and two miles further to the Desplaines, where there was yet no bridge
or station. The entire equipment
consisted of five flat cars, one box
car and the Pioneer. On Novem-
ber 2Oth, by invitation of the direct-
ors, a number of stockholders,
newspaper men and friends of the
enterprise to 'the number of about
a hundred took a "flying trip" on
the primitive train, which had been
provided with temporary seats. A
crowd assembled at the starting
point to admire the spectacle. At
the western terminus (ten miles
out) a farmer's wagon with a load
of wheat was in waiting; the wheat
was taken on board and constituted
the first installment of the vast flood
of farm, mine and forest products
which has entered Chicago by rail ;
a mass nearly large enough to bury
the great city above its roofs and spires if it were all here at one time.
Captain Andreas says:
About a week after the line was opened for
Galena Railroad traffic the business men of Chicago were electrified
begmstorun. by the announcement that over thirty loads of
wheat were at the Desplaines river waiting to be
transported tothe city. (!) The expected receipts
of the road would amount to $15 per day all win-
ter. (!) Wheat-buyers were informed (partly with
the view of increasing the passenger traffic) that
they must now take their station at the Desplaines
river instead of at the Randolph street bridge.
The total earnings of the road from the com-
mencement of business in January, to December I,
1849. were $23,763.74. From December I, 1849
to December I, 1850, $104,359.62. By January,
1850, the main line had been extended to Elgin,
forty-two miles west of Chicago, which, with side-
tracks, gave a roadway of forty-four miles. The
amount expended on this superstructure was $164,-
131.87.
Mr. Prindiville says that as long
as the road only reached the Des-
plaines it was " hard sledding," be-
cause a farmer who had hauled his
grain perhaps fifty miles already
would not give it to a railroad to haul it the last ten. These were the
GEORGE W. DOLE.
LAND-TRAVEL AND WATER-TRAVEL.
2C5
trying times. All the cash was gone, and the road partly done and not
earning expenses ! But, as usual in Chicago, when things look darkest
it is nearest dawn. J. Young Scammon, in his memoir of William B.
Ogden (Fergus' Hist. Series, No. 17), says:
A meeting of the directors was called. It looked blue. To go ahead would endanger the
stock. Mr. Ogden was embarrassed Most of the other directors were fearful.
Thomas Dyer lost faith. The writer called him a doubting Thomas A committee was
appointed consisting of Scammon, Collins, Walker, Dyer and Raymond, to have charge of the sub-
ject. This committee gave the writer carte-blanche. He applied to George Smith, the only banker
in the place who could make such a loan, for $20,000, for six months, to enable him to go on with
the road. Mr. Smith declined. He was asked why; if he had not the money. He replied, " Yes,
but I do not wish to lose it. I have no confidence in the road. . . . Mr. Scammon, I will lend
you the money. Make out your note." The writer did so, and the money was placed in the treas-
ury of the company, no other person in the road except those connected with the loan and the treas-
urer, Frank Howe, knowing whence it came. . . . The road was pushed on and completed to
Elgin. ... It did not cost much money in those days to build a flat railroad on level land.
As soon as the road
was completed to Elgin it
began to be profitable, and
from June, 1849, to April,
1850, it earned $48,331, with
operating expenses only
$18,519; less than forty per
cent.
The shrewdness of the
"grangers" along the line
may be judged from the
prophecies of some of them:
"The landlord told us he
was against railroads. They
were bad things for farmers
and hotel-keepers, but good
for big fellows at the ends
of the road." Another de-
nounced railroads as " un-
democratic institutions that
would ride rough-shod over
the people and grind them
to powder. "
Water, so good as a servant, is terrible as a master The flood of
1849 has already been mentioned. That was a spring of floods, when
the heavens were opened and the fountains of the great deep broken up.
A New York girl, now a Chicago matron, happened to be one of a
party who, in May and June, made the trip — then rare — in steam-
boats down the Ohio to Cairo, up the Mississippi to St. Louis, and
$20,000 from
George Smith.
J. YOUNG SCAMMON.
High Water all
over the West.
2O6
THE STOK Y OF CHICAGO.
The old Portage
overflowed.
of^llic
-cai[o.
thence up to Peru on the Illinois river, where they took a canal-packet
for Chicago. At Cairo they saw a whole village of houses standing in
water up to their second stories. On the Mississippi there were houses
floating down stream, one of them with a live cat clinging to its ridge-
pole. The voyage on the canal was delightful. Colonel E. D. Baker was
on board, handsome and dignified, the young girl's beau ideal of a hero.
"Oliver Twist " had just come out, she was reading it and Colonel
Baker talked with her about it ; a circumstance never to be forgotten.
"The portage," the ancient water-way between Lake Michigan
and the Illinois and Mississippi byway of -Mud Lake and the Des.
plaines, once more took on the aspect described by Joliet when at high
water one could pass from lake to river without leaving the canoe. The
Desplaines was wild and out of all bounds. It poured its floods east-
ward over the divide at Summit and into the South Branch until that,
too, took the bit in its teeth and
galloped lakeward like a sea-horse
with waving mane. A momentary
bar to its wild career was the ice
which covered the river and
wrapped each vessel and floating
thing in its close embrace. But
the stronger 'the dam and the
longer the delay, the greater the
rush when at last the waters tore
themselves free. The beast gath-
ered weight and strength by what
it swallowed. On a small scale,
and due to another of the elements,
it was a foretaste of the wild rush
of winged destruction which swept
the city (moving in the same
direction, by the way) some twenty-
one years later : namely, on Oc-
tober 8th and gth, 1871.
Mr. Rufus Blanchard says (" Northwest," p. 566):
The river soon began to swell, the waters lifting the ice to within two or three feet of the sur.
face of the wharves. Between 9 and 10 A. M. loud reports as of distant artillery were heard toward
the South, as if the ice were breaking up. Soon to these were added the sounds of crashing timbers;
n ChU °^ nawsers tearing away the piles around which they were vainly fastened, or snapping like pack-
thread on account of the strain upon them. To these succeeded the cries of people calling to the
parties in charge of the vessels and canal boats to escape before it would be too late ; while nearly
all the males and hundreds of the female population hurried from their homes to the banks of the
river, to witness what was by this time inevitable — a catastrophe such as the city never before sus-
tained.
A. c. WOOD.
(Builder of Old St. James Church )
LAND-TRAVEL AND WATER TRAVEL. 207
It was not long before every vessel and canal boat on the South Branch . . was swept
with resistless force toward the lake. As fast as the channel at one spot became crowded with ice
and vessels intermingled, the whole mass would dam up the water, which, rising in the rear of the
obstruction, would propel vessels and ice forward with the force of an enormous catapult. Every
lightly built vessel would at once be crushed as if it were an eggshell ; canal boats disappeared from
sight under the gorge of ships and ice, and came into view below it in small pieces, strewing the
surface of the boiling water.
At length a number of vessels were violently precipitated against Randolph Street Bridge, which
was torn from its place in a few seconds, forcing its way into the main channel of the river. The
gorge of natural and artifical materials — ice and wood and iron — kept on its resistless way to the
principal bridge in the city — the Clark street. This had been constructed on piles and it was sup-
posed would prevent the vessels already caught up by the ice from being swept out into the lake.
But . . . the moment this accumulated material struck the bridge it was swept to utter destruc-
tion, and with a crash the noise of which could be heard all over the city; while the ice below it
broke up with reports as if from a whole park of artillery.
This graphic picture leaves out Madison street and Wells street
bridges, yet we know that they went with the rest. Perhaps, being
mere " float" bridges they did not make even a ripple on the torrent.
At the place where the river, east of State street, bends to the north-
ward, a new jam occurred, held by the ice in the curve, and the stronger
vessels which had withstood the pressure higher up. Mr. Blanchard
says that several canal boats and, in one instance, a schooner with rig-
ging all standing, were sucked under the jam, only to reappear in frag-
ments below. The ice that held the entangled craft soon broke away,
and, as the way out to seaward now was clear, several bold men, armed Accidents am)
with axes, made their way out to mid-stream, cut the vessels loose from the'nSSd.0'
the gorge and let them drift on to clear water and safety. He names
R. C. Bristol, Alvin Calhoun, Cyrus Bradley and Darius Knights as
prominent, and says that some ten or twelve large craft floated down
the stream, their preservers proudly acknowledging the cheers of the
crowds on shore. The vessels either caught on to the lake piers, by
hawsers, or were brought up by dropping their anchors.
The " Journal " states the number of craft in port as follows: four
steamers, six propellers, twenty-four brigs, two sloops and fifty-seven
canal boats. There >was some loss of life. A boy was crushed to death
at Randolph street bridge and a little girl was killed by the falling of a
topmast. A son of Mr. Coombs was lost at Madison street bridge;
James L. Millard had his leg badly broken on board his vessel; one poor
fellow on a canal boat out on the lake waved his handkerchief as a sig-
nal of distress, but there was no boat which could go to his rescue;
the vessels being disabled in their rigging and the steamers in their
machinery. The losses were stated by the " Democrat" as follows:
Damage to the City (bridges, etc.) $ I5,''°o
"Vessels 58,000 Losses.
" Canal boats 30,000
" Wharves • 5,°oo
$108.000
208
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
LAND-TRAVEL AND WATER-TRAVEL.
209
The losses seem to us rather trivial, seeing that a single bridge or
vessel of these latter days might well exceed their total. The statistics
of craft in port are interesting, showing as they do the proportions of
which our marine was then composed. The great invention of John
Ericsson — the propeller — was already making its slow but sure progress
toward the dominion of the waves.
The regular river crossings being all destroyed, passengers made
their way over the wreckage, which the "Democrat" of March i4th calls
"one of the most costly bridges ever constructed in the West, and the
only one Chicago now boasts of. ... Many ladies were not afraid
to venture over this novel causeway, beneath which the water roared,
falling in cascades from one obstruction to another; the whole forming Ac08"ybridse'
perhaps the most exciting scene ever witnessed here." The "Journal"
says, " No mails left the city last night. All egress is prevented by
high water and impassable roads."
Now followed necessarily a
partial embargo of North, South
and West Sides as to each other.
Numerous volunteer ferries sprung
up; boats paddling across carrying
passengers at one cent each. A
canal boat spanned the south
branch at Randolph street and a
schooner at Clark street, which
allowed foot passage at the same
rate. Scranton's old ferry at State
street was at once re-established,
and between the Lake House and
the fort the old rope ferry (which
many of us remember as still run-
ning in 1857) ran gaily and freely
as usual. About this primitive
institution the "Democrat" of
JUDGE HAMMOND. December 1 2, 1848, says :
Sometimes, the wind blowing strong up the creek, a brig comes along with foresail, topgallant
and jib set An impatient citizen is on the South Side, with visions of roast beef and dessert to
match in his mind's eye. Bill sees the brig. The captain halloos, " Let go your d — d rope." The
citizen cries : " Come over, you've got time enough." But Bill thinks " It's better to be sure of the
line ; if that breaks, the gentleman loses his dinner and I may lose my place " So he lets go all and Ferry,
the impatient citizen has to wait just two minutes and a half, at which he grumbles some when Bill
runs the old boat's nose ashore and gives him a chance to step aboard, but Bill takes it coolly. With
the consciousness of having done his duty he lets the landsman "have his pipe out," as he can
afford to be generous as well as just.
At this time the continual and inevitable contest between lands-
210
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
The great
drawbridge
question re-
oppned.
men's rights and sailors' rights came to judicial adjustment. In June,
Madison Street bridge was reopened for travel, and, two weeks later,
Clark Street bridge. Autumn saw the completion of the Wells and
Kinzie Street structures. Lake Street bridge was begun and its oppo-
nents applied to Judge Drummond, of the United States District
Court, for an injunction, relying on the right of the general Govern-
ment to keep from obstruction the navigable waters under its control
The complaint was dismissed; the learned Judge holding that "the
SALOON BUILDING.
right of free navigation is not inconsistent with right of the State to
provide means of crossing the river by bridges or otherwise, when the
wants of the public require them."
Even after this, the bold navigators stuck to the old idea that the
prior right was theirs ; that whenever they approached a bridge it must
fly open for them, no matter who wished to use it. Therefore it fre-
quently happened that a vessel, to save the cost of towage, would
"warp through" bridge after bridge ; that is, carry a cable along the
shore, hitch it to a pile, and then drag the craft slowly forward by wind-
ing up the line on the vessel's capstan. E. MacA'rthur charged the
Madison Street bridge tender with keeping the bridge open " an hour
longer than was necessary," and proved the fact; yet was not the
offender disciplined. It was not till 1852 that bridge-tenders were
LAND-TRAVEL AND WATER-TRAVEL.
£11
brought under law and compelled to give bonds ($500) for the faithful
performance of their duties. Still later were all sail vessels made to em-
ploy tugs. It is only within the last two decades that bridge-tenders have
been authorized and empowered to keep bridges open for land travel at
certain times, warning navigators to halt until their turn should come.
As late as 1860 Clark Street bridge was so low above the water that not
even the smallest tug could pass without the swinging of the bridge.
What a change has taken place since then may be imagined — and one
may also imagine a possible future time when bridges shall be perma-
JAHKZ K. BOTSFORD.
SILAS B. COBB.
nent structures of arched stone and iron; when all loading and unloading
of lake craft shall be done in the outer harbor and only lighters and
towing-barges shall navigate the rivers and penetrate the interior of the
huge metropolis. In other words, when our river above Rush Street
shall be like the Thames "above bridge," that is, further up stream
than London bridge.
In 1848 the first municipal building was put up. The City Govern-
_ . First City Hall
ment had up to this time "hired a hall to talk and act in. In 1837 it bum in state
Street.
had been in the Saloon building, Clark and Lake Streets. In 1842 they
moved to Mrs. Nancy Chapman's building, opposite the jail, at the
corner of Randolph and La Salle Streets. Captain Andreas says:
The public square at this time was fenceless, and presented such a dilapidated and barren
appearance that citizens were urged to improve the park by individual exertion. In April a number
of citizens did turn out with shovels, mattocks, etc., and planted a few trees and built a fence-
212
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
But . . . the " Democrat, " in May, noticed that " the fence around the public square on Clark
Street stands like a good many politicians we wot of — but half whitewashed." J. Young Scammon
and William H. Darns did much about this time to improve the appearance of the square.
The market building (put up in
1848) occupied the middle of State
Street, facing Lake Street from the
south. It was of brick with stone
basement. The ground floor had
thirty-two stalls, and the second
story had rooms for the council
Stage Manager,
Mr. .\. It. Clarke.
EXTRAORDINARY NOVELTY!
.
Of the Engagement of <he Distinguished, Tragedian^
MB. MURDOCH
Fust representation, of Schiller's great Tragedy of lie
1
I
TVhicU haa leen.for fiDme time m preparaGoni pitli_c!iararferia£Ifl
Jgcentni, StppolntoTcttlg. jrtjtofc., fee.
HR. HUBDOCfl as CHARLES DE MOOR,
Ai pffTormea by lira famlt tlip principal Tlifairel tf>nni£l«nil ibo IT. S- A
this Evening, SATURftil, NOT. J.Otli, 1849,
Will be iclci) ffie^rageoj-nt the
Tdaxamilliaia Count do Mow,
Mir. Clifford.
CHARLES DB MOOR, BIS
MR MURDOCH.
Francia do
Speidelberg,
GrioiiD,
Moor,
Young
Libertines |
Afterwards
IfeVickef;
Warwick.
Borgws.
BOSS, ,
Roller,
Kotcnlci,
Bumio,
Clark*.
\A\ S:
1 Bobbon. I Beaver.
fihjfturle,
A Commisnr
'»
Adams.
EUpard.
Hcrnin,
Daniel*
Meeker.
Darts.
Amcli*.
PAS DE DEUX
BY
MISSES EMMONS.
g*£*ji*
fiiU.
Tbo wliole to cjncUdc wilh the Fftrca of
ITwding,
Flicbl7,
Mr. McVick«r.
Warwick.
Bhipvd.
ISr fiat.
Metktr.
The following Song* «ad Dance Incident to tho piece.
Jir. "Htigio for * Hn.Dooi" «ia B. '
r
JOHN B R1OE.
meetings and other municipal pur-
poses. One may fancy the atmos-
phere in that council chamber,
during an August meeting, over
the market and under the heat of
the sky and of political agitation!
The building was removed in 1857.
In 1848, by the way, Clark Street
was numbered from South Water Street to Randolph.
We can not leave behind the great decade of the forties without a
glance back at the city in its physical aspect. " The" theatre — the house
built on the south side of Dearborn Street, east of Randolph, by John
On MondajTEvening, Mr. 'Murdoch's Benefit.
r 25 ta iMbroiorea'jFewons, 26stt
LAND-TRAVEL AND WATER-TRAVEL.
T. LYLE DICKEY.
B. Rice, in 1847 and burned in 1850 — was the chief place of public
amusement. Here had appeared
many actors, some famous already
and some whose names have be-
come
" Familiar in our mouths as household words"
in the years which have since
elapsed. Here James H. McVicker
and Mrs. McVicker appeared on the
evening of May 2, 1848, he playing
Mr. Smith in the farce of " My
Neighbor's Wife;" and she taking
the part of Louisa in the Yankee
comedy of "The Hue and Cry."
The world was satisfied with the
good old system of "stock com-
panies" then, and Andreas reports
that for 1849 as being composed
of Mr. and Mrs. Rice, Mr. and
Mrs. McVicker, Mr. and Mrs. D.
Clifford, Mrs. Coleman Pope, Jos.
W. Burgess, N. B. Clark, William Meeker, J. H. Harwick and C. H.
Wilson. Messrs. Beaver & Beck-
with were the "scenic artists," and
Perry Marshall, treasurer. He also
gives the bill of the play for Sat-
urday, November 10, 1849, when
Mr. Murdock played " Schiller's
Robbers." The bill was of the fa-
miliar, old-fashioned kind ; one's
feast for the evening was all simply
set before him, ungarnished and
undisguised; not as in the cumber-
some and troublesome fashion of
1891. , We reproduce the interest-
ing play-bill.
Meanwhile, music, another
branch of the fine arts, one in which
Chicago has always kept an ad-
vanced place, was taking firm hold
on public favor and support. Mr.
George Upton, more closely con-
nected with the art than any other Chicagoan, gives some items connected
Mr. McVicker
in song and
dance act.
GEORGE P. UPTON.
214
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Beginning; of
the City's
Musical Life.
with the times now under notice ; the very epoch of the arrival of a man
whom he calls the father of classical music in the West : George Dyh-
renfurth. Mr. D. arrived late in 1847, and on December 27 attended
the New England Festival, where George Davis, Frank Lumbard and
others sang. On the same day there was a concert at " the theatre,"
where the celebrated Sig. Martinez played the guitar. On February
14, 1848, Mr. Dyhrenfurth made his own first appearance in Chicago as
an amateur violinist. On September 13, 1849, he played at the City
Hall for charity, and appeared during the following year on various
occasions. Then came a great day in Chicago's musical history — Octo-
ber 24, 1850; when the first Philharmonic subscription concert took
place at New Tremont Hall under his direction. The series numbered
eight concerts, and formed the beginning of an organized musical cul-
ture which has affected and benefited this city through all its later life.
Ogden's lesson
to Prindiville.
CHICAGO IN 1845, ''ROM THE WEST.
Apropos to the endless subject of gains made from Chicago real
estate speculations, the following story from Captain Prindiville is
characteristic. William B. Ogden (when they were both engaged on
the Galena Railroad) offered him a five-acre piece on the West Side
for $1,000, "canal time." Prindiville hadn't the money. But Ogden
would trust him for a year for the first payment. Still the younger man
hung back. Well, Ogden would take the land back at the end of the
year if Prindiville didn't like the bargain. No, he did not see where he
was to get the cash to make the payments and wouldn't promise what
he might not be able to carry out. Ogden broke out: " Why, Redmond,
that is not the way to get along. When you are dealing with Chicago
property, the proper way is to go in for all you can get, and then go on
with your business and forget all about it ! It will take care of itself."
Another man took the bargain and made $4,000 on it in six months.
We are, luckily, also able to see Chicago as it appeared to Gov-
ernor Bross's backward gaze when he wrote his history in 1876. He
LAND-TRAVEL AND WATER-TRAVEL.
215
says that in 1848 he lived with the Rev. Ira M. Weed at Madison and
State Streets (the "Buck & Rayner corner"). That was considered GOV.
"far south," and he by custom selected the best sidewalk (that on Dear-
born street) to make his way out there.
The sidewalks, where such luxuries were indulged in, lay in most cases on the rich prairie
soil, for the string-pieces of scantling to which the planks were originally spiked would soon sink
down into the mud after a rain, and then as one walked, the green and black slime would gush
up between the cracks. ... In 1849 I bought of Judge Jesse B. Thomas forty feet on Michigan
Avenue, south of the corner of Van Buren Street, for $1,250. The Judge had bought at the canal
sales in 1848 for $800 on " Canal Time ; " a quarter down, balance, one, two and three years.
The lake shore was perhaps one hundred feet east of the street, and there my brother John and
myself, rising early in the morning, bathed in summer for two or three years. We had an excellent
cow — for we virtually lived in the country — that, contrary to all domestic propriety, would sometimes
wander away, and I usually found her out on the prairie in the vicinity of Twelfth street. I saw a
wolf run by my house as late as 1850. The rule of speculators at the canal sales was to buy all the
property on which the speculator could make the first payment; then sell enough each year to make
the others. . . . When my lot was struck off to me, Harry Newhall came across the room and
said, "Bross, did you buy that lot to live on ? Are you going to improve it" "Yes." "Well, I'm
glad of it ; I'm glad some one is going to live beyond me. It won't be so lonesome if we can see
some one going by every night and morning."
Bross- d«-
'
CHICAGO FROM THE LAKE, 1850.
Citizens' strug-
gles in start-
ing the first
railroad.
CHAPTER XXI.
THE COMING POWER.
||H|vEHOLD the strong new helper! "The
fifties" were eminently the years of railroad
beginnings on a large scale. January i,
1850, saw neither more nor less than
thirty-three miles of railroad completed
from Chicago; being the first difficult,
stumbling, halting steps of the Galena
line. It would take a volume, instead of
a chapter, to tell of the efforts required
to finish even so much of the work, and
another volume to tell of those expended
in its ultimate entire completion. The best
short story of it is to be found in Mr.
Scammon's and Mr. Arnold's obituary
sketches of William B. Ogden, published in Fergus' Hist. Series, No.
seventeen.
Mr. Scammon begins with tne public meeting at Rockford (half
way between Chicago and Galena) in 1846, where Judge Drummond
presided and where there were present among others the following Chi-
cago men: William H. Brown, afterwards president of the road and of
the Chicago Historical Society; B. W. Raymond, Isaac N. Arnold
(also a president of the Historical); Gen. Hart L. Stewart, Mr. Ogden
and himself, Mr. Scammon. In 1847 Mr. Ogden and Mr. Scammon
traveled (probable by stage) the entire distance from Chicago to
Galena, stopping along the road, holding and addressing meetings and
"going into the highways and byways to compel them to come in" to
partake of the feast.
The main Galena advocates of enterprise were Messrs. Drummond,
Hoyne, Hempstead and Washburn.* The Galena People, even then,
feared that their city would never be the better for the road, and only
the most solemn promises, public and private, sufficed to overcome their
fear. The promises were kept — as long as Ogden and Scammon were
in control. Afterwards they were disregarded, to the lasting injury of
Galena and the regret of those who, in perfect good faith, had uttered
the misleading words.
Before the road could be completed to Galena, the great Illinois
* The two latter names are recalled to mind by that of the Mayor of Chicago at this time (1891) Mr. Hempstead
Washburn, son of Elihu B. Washburn.
216
THE COMING POWER.
217
Central road, reaching from Cairo to Dunleith; from the southernmost
to the northwesternmost point of the State; laid out its line which
took in two of the stations of the Galena road; namely, Freeport and
Galena. Thereupon the Galena Company halted its road at Freeport
and arranged to run unbroken trains from Chicago through Freeport to
Galena. The line was completed; but being under two companies, and
besides, going beyond Galena to Dunleith, a point on the Mississippi
(Galena was on the Fever river, a small affluent of the Mississippi), it
failed to benefit Galena.
The next road to connect with Chicago was the " Michigan South-
ern & Northern Indiana," now the Lake Shore.
On February 20, 1852, the
first train arrived, greeted by cheers
and cannon firing, this being the
first eastern connection by rail:
Not all rail, however, as the link
from Buffalo to Toledo was not
made until 1857; meanwhile the
eastern connection for both the
Southern and Central roads was
by means of Lake Erie steam-
boats. And in the very year of its
establishment of a through all-rail
connection with the east, the Mich-
igan Southern Company went to
protest, its property was seized, and
the new Board of Directors, holding
its first meeting, was compelled to
borrow a few chairs to take the
place of those held by the sheriff.
Three months after the Southern began to run in, namely, on May
21, 1852, the Michigan Central made its way to the city, by utilizing
from Calumet, fourteen miles out, the track of the Illinois Central.
There was a bitter fight between the two Michigan roads, the right of
one road to cross the tracks of another (as the M. C. R. R. did those of
the M. S. & N. I. R. R. ) was not yet established and regulated bylaw.
It was soon so established, the settlement being hastened by a deplor-
able calamity which occurred at the crossing (the point now known as
"Grand Crossing," within city limits) on April 25th, 1853. The South-
ern, being the first in the field, denied to the other the right to cross
its tracks at all; and strove by injunction to prevent it. During the
legal contest it ran its road as if the other's did not exist, passing the
Bad faith in
dealing with
Galena.
KOSWKI.I. H. MASON.
Michigan
Southern
and Central
come in.
218
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Terrible ace
dent at Gra
Crossing.
The Illinois
Central.
crossing point at full speed. This recklessness led to the natural result;
two trains came together and as usual the innocent suffered from the
wrong-doing of the contestants. Eighteen persons were killed out-
right and some forty of the injured were brought to the city. An in-
dignation meeting was held and a demand made that every train should
come to a full stop before crossing, at grade, the track of another road.
That became the rule and so continues to this day.
The great Illinois Central now looms above the horizon. The
State had received from the general Government a grant of alternate
sections of land in a strip six miles wide on each side of a railroad to be
built from Cairo to Dunleith (on the Mississippi, opposite Dubuque), with
a branch from the main line to Chicago. This splendid gift was largely
the result of the efforts of Syd-
ney Breese, Stephen A. Douglas,
James Shields, John Wentworth
and William H. Bissell, all Illinois
members of the Senate and House
of Representatives of the United
States. Judge Breese, senator from
1842 to 1848, said in a letter he
wrote to Stephen A. Douglas in
1851 : " When my last resting-place
shall be marked by the cold marble,
which gratitude or affection may
erect, I desire no other inscription
than this:
" HE WHO SLEEPS BENEATH PRO-
JECTED THE CENTRAL RAILROAD."
The total quantity of land thus
set apart was 2,595,000 acres-
more tnan 4,000 square miles, or a piece over sixty-three miles square.
Owing to the character of the Prairie State, nearly every acre is arable
land; therefore there are whole States which have not as much produc-
ing capacity as this single public benefaction.*
Here come in some considerations usually overlooked in discussing
this land grant. The first is this: The Government, when it gave the
alternate sections, doubled the price of the alternate sections which it
retained. Then these retained sections found prompt sales at the
doubled price. Where, then, did the Government lose anything by its
•At the same time the donation sinks into insignificance when compared with some other subven-
tions. It amounted to 3,700 acres per mile of road. The grants to the Union Pacific, twelve years later, were 12.800
acres per mile, and a subsidy in Government bonds was added fit the rate of $i*,ooo, $32.000 and $48,000 per mile; the
object being to apportion the subsidy in ratio to the cost of the several sections. (Ackerman's " Early Illinois Rail-
roads.*1 Fergus' Hist. Series, No. 23.)
JUDGE SIDNEY BREESE.
THE COMING POWER.
219
bounty? The second is, that the grant was to the State; and the State,
before it surrendered it to the railroad company, stipulated that the
latter should pay, forever (in lieu of all other taxes), the large slice
of seven per cent, of the gross earnings it might gain from the opera-
tion of its road.* Where, then, did the State sacrifice anything? In
fact, the sums paid to the State Treasury, under this provision, are
enough (with proper economy) to run the entire State Government.
It is largely due to this fund that Illinois is one of the few States entirely
free of a State-debt. The payments made by the Illinois Central to
the State are as follows :
1855,129,752; 1856,177,632; 1857, $145,646; 1858,1132,006; 1859, $132,104;
1860, $177,557; 1861, $177,253; 1862, $212,174; 1863,1300,394; 1864, $405,514; 1865,
$496,489; 1866, $427,075; 1867, $444,007; 1868, $428,397; 1869, $464,933; 1870, $464,-
584; 1871, $463,512; 1872, $442,856; 1873,
$428,574; 1874, $394,366; 1875, $375,766;
1876, $356,005; 1877, $316,351; 1878,
$320,431; 1879, $325,477; 1880, $368,348;
1881, $384,582; 1882, $396,036; 1883,
$388,743; 1884, $356,679; 1885, $367,788,
1886, $378,714; 1887, $4M,374; 1888,
$424,955; 1889, $460,244; 1890,8486,281.
Total paid to the State, $12,620,915.
(Cents are omitted.)
Judge Caton recalls the fact
that when some local authority en-
deavored to levy a local tax, in spite
of this provision, on the ground
that the State could not barter
away the right of a minor munici-
pality to levy taxes for its support,
Mr. Lincoln argued the case for the
Road, and won it. Also that he charged his client $5,000, which
the local authorities paid, but which the directors objected to and ordered
should be reclaimed from the counsel. Also that Mr. Lincoln told one
of his quaint stories regarding the matter (which has never appeared in
print); which was about to this effect :
A farmer, much annoyed by the trespassing of an unruly bull be-
longing to a neighbor, drove the beast away, and cut off its tail as it
departed. Some one suggested that the owner might object, where-
upon the farmer replied that, object as he might, the tail would never
grow on again. Even so, the lawyer opined that that particular $5,000,
* Judge Caton suggests that this lien being seven per cent, of the Road's gross earnings (deducting nothing for
expense of operation) is at least equivalent to a sixth of its capitalized valuation. Also that this consideration
should make the State favor every increase of the road's capitalized value, and encourage it to invest still more money
in income- earning property. If, for instance, the corporation should add six millions worth of realty (Lake Front) to
its possessions, one million of the increment would, in effect, belong to the State, to have and hold forever.
State percent-
age of Illinois
Central earn-
ings.
JOHN u.
Mr. Lincoln's
little story.
220
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Threatened de-
struction of
Michigan Ave.
however much its payment might be objected to, would never find itself
back in the company's treasury. (This may not be exactly the story,
but it is sufficiently near to show the general drift and application.)
Now, as to the relations of the Central with the City of Chicago.
Many old Chicagoans remember — though a larger number, being
newer comers, never knew, heard or cared anything about it — that from
the time the North Pier was built and the southward current of sand
retained on its upper side, the resulting eddy began and continued to
eat away the land south of it. First the great sand spit disappeared and
deep water was where dry land had been before. Then the lake shore
itself was encroached upon, the
broad strip outside of Michigan
avenue grew narrower and nar-
rower. The coffins in the old Fort
burying-ground stuck out grimly
into the air, as the waves kept up
their ceaseless sound and motion
below. A plank facing and vari-
ous other weak expedients were
used to check the ominous waste
that was going on; but there was a
conflict of jurisdiction; the neigh-
boring owners called on the munici-
pality to interfere, the latter rather
thought it was the business of the
State, (holder of "eminent do-
main"), and all would have been
glad to shoulder it on the General
Government, which by building the pier had caused the abrasion.
Meanwhile the waves paused not at all "to parley or dissemble"
but merrily continued their destructive play. What -\vas to be done ?
It was a question of millions of money to be laid out, or other millions
lost in Lake Michigan. The city and the citizens could not, if they would;
the State and the Nation would not if they could. And, at last, in a
storm, the waters actually washed away a part of the eastern edge of
Michigan avenue itself; the lake park having already largely disap-
peared.
As usual in Chicago, when at the last extremity, help came. The
Illinois Central had money and needed access to business. The city had
no money; and it needed the business the road would create; but its
most present and urgent need was defence against Lake Michigan.
WILLIAM II. OSBORN.
THE COMING POWER.
221
Therefore the road was offered, not land, but water; no track, but a
right to build a track through the pathless waves, and the privilege of
protecting that tract, which in its turn should protect Chicago.
So said so done. The Illinois Central Company spent two millions
of dollars of its capital in a two-mile stretch of stone cribs sunk in the
lake, four or five hundred feet outside the shore line; and then drove two
double lines of piles inside the cribs whereon to lay its tracks.
Perhaps one in fifty of Chicago's present citizens remembers the
years in which they used to look across "the basin" at the piling track
and the stone crib beyond it, and sail, row, swim and skate there as the
seasons dictated; only thinking (those who thought at all) how lucky it
was that there was a power strong enough and liberal enough to pro-
vide the young city with such a
grand benefaction.
Those days are past. Chicago
pocketed the benefit and forgot its
source.- The city saw that the Cen-
tral had finally also been benefited
(though it was once afterward, in
1857, utterly bankrupt and in the
hands of assignees), and grew to
feel as if Chicago had done it all;
as if she had been the author of her
own well being and the giver of the
prosperity of the Illinois Central.
The fact is, Chicago never contrib-
uted appreciably toward the cost of
building any of the roads which have
done so much for her, either as a
municipality, or (except a little in
the early days of the Galena) by investments from the funds of private
citizens. The chief service Chicago men rendered or could render was
the bringing in of foreign capital. In the case of the Central it was a
three-sided arrangement, wherein the general Government, the State
and the railroad corporation joined, and wherein a fourth party, the
public, was the chief beneficiary, after all. Three servants plowed,
planted and harvested, and the master eats the crop — grumbling.
Roswell B. Mason, later Mayor of the city, and still (1891) an
honored citizen, was the first president of the Illinois Central Railroad
Company. It was under his wise guidance that the Lake Shore pro-
tection was effected between 1852 and 1855. 1° 1856 the Central took
the initiative in the matter of suburban traffic, since grown to such
The line of Crib
Protection.
WILLIAM K. ACKERMAN.
Foreign capital
to the rescue.
322
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
The makers of
tbe Illinois
Central.
great proportions. On June ist of that year it started its Hyde Park
train ; and in his daily telegram to Wall Street that evening, John B.
Calhoun, the local treasurer, used this sententious phrase: "The Hyde
Park train made its first trip to-day. Nary passenger, up nor down."
The next administration of the Illinois Central was a memorable
one for power and enterprise. William H. Osborn, who became presi-
dent in 1856, was a man whom every man who came in contact
with him pronounced one of the ablest men Chicago has ever seen.
John W. Foster was Commissioner of the Land Department; a scien-
tist, a man of wit and humor, and of varied accomplishments. William
K. Ackerman, successively Secre-
tary, Treasurer, Vice- President and
President, is still (1891) an honored
Chicago citizen; noted for executive
ability and high standard of per-
sonal and business honor and recti-
tude. Peter Daggy, now (1891)
one of Chicago's old and well-
JOSEPH F. TUCKER.
Streets general-
ly begin to be
numbered
and paved.
known citizens, Commissioner of
the Land Department. John M.
Douglass, who only lately died in
Chicago, full of years and of hon-
ors, was Counsel and later Presi-
dent. J. F. Tucker, beginning in
the freight office, became success-
ively General Freight Agent, Gen-
eral Superintendent, Master of
Transportation and Traffic Manager. Through the dark days of the
Illinois Central these men and others like them were its preservers
from utter ruin; and when it once more saw better days it was to them
that it owed its permanent prosperity.
With the beginning of this decade began the general numbering of
streets and also the use of the plank pavements of inglorious memory.
In dry weather the planked streets were not very bad; nor would they
have been if unplanked. In "wet spells," the planks were unfortunate'y
not submerged; they were afloat, and under the impact of wheels and
hoofs sent up streaks and shoots of vileness indescribable.
Grand opera began in a way that sadly prefigured much of its later
history. Captain Andreas says :
On the evening of July 30, 1850. an Opera Company consisting of Mr. Manvers, Mr. Giubelei,
Mr. Lippert and Miss Brienti, assisted by a home chorus and orchestra, began the first season of
THE COMING POWER.
22J
opera ever given, or rather ever attempted, in the city. The piece for the opening night was
"Sonnambula" and the place of presentation was Rice's first theater, located on Randolph street.
A fair audience was present and everything progressed smoothly until the rising of the curtain on
the second act. At this juncture the alarm of fire was given, and in an hour the theater lay in ashes,
involving a loss to its owners of over $4,000.
Undaunted by his ill-success, Mr. Rice soon purchased a lot on Dearborn street and began
the erection of a new theater.
Another account of the accident says :
The audience started to its feet in terror. . ' . . Serious injury to many might have
ensued had it not been for the presence of mind of Manager Rice. Hastening to the footlights, he
cried: "Sit down! Sit down! Do you think I would permit a fire to occur in my theater? Sit
down! "... Soon the building was cleared ot its audience. J. H. McVicker was on the stage
at the time. He began to pull down scenery, hoping to save something, but the flames spread so
rapidly that everybody was driven away. . . .
He was compelled to go to the Sherman House
in his stage costume. He lost everything except
the clothes then worn by him.
The opera company visited Milwaukee,
where a brief season of their so called Italian opera
was given. The lines were rendered in Italian
by those of the party who could speak that tongue,
and in English by those who could not.
An incident is related by Mr. McVicker
which illustrates the trials of those days. The
price of admission in country towns was twenty-
five cents. At St. Charles one of the citizens
waited on Mr. McVicker and said: "See here,
my family is five in number — the old woman and
three children. I think you ought to let us see
the show for a dollar." Mr. McVicker assented.
The next day his patron returned and said:
"See here; your show put my boy asleep last
night, so he didn't see any of it. I think you
ought to give me back a quarter. McVicker ar-
gued that he had received but twenty cents each,
but the man silenced him by saying: " Well, I
know; but it's worth twenty-five cents to carry a
boy home when he's asleep." The quarter was
refunded.
Rice's new theater was on Dear-
born street, south of Randolph.
Tremont Hall.a lame dancing room on the second floor of the Tre-
C5 O
mont House, facing Lake street, was used by local and traveling com-
panies between the times of Rice's first and second theaters. There
the infant prodigies — and real artists — Kate and Ellen Bateman,
appeared on November 18, 1850, and on two later evenings, with suc-
cess.
The first general charity hospital went into operation in 1850, being
located in the Lake House (already called the "Old Lake House"), and
in charge of those sterling citizens, Mark Skinner, Hugh T. Dickey
and Dr. John Evans. Dr. N. S. Davis lectured for its benefit and Dr.
Brainard served it as surgeon — all gratis of course, for who can set
bounds to the charitable work of the medical profession ?
Burning of
Rice's Theatre.
JAMES H. Me VICKER.
First General-'
Charity Hos-
pital,
224
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Douglas
silenced by
Anti-Fugitive
Slave Law mob.
The same year, 1850, saw occurrences elsewhere which had at least
a reflex influence on things in Chicago. The famous and infamous
fugitive slave law passed then, and Douglas, one of its adherents, came
back to Chicago, his home, and on Oct. 24, 1850, made, in defence of
the measure, what has been called the ablest speech of his life, a speech
which silenced, if it did not convince, the already half-rebellious demo-
crats. To anticipate a little, letlis look on to his return home in 1854,
and his effort to defend his Kansas-Nebraska bill. An article appearing
in the " Times " (Democratic), Aug. 19, 1877, tells the story fully, and
from it (as copied by Andreas) we quote :
The " Little Giant " determined to face the music, and it was announced that after his arrival in
Chicago he would take occasion to address his
constituents on the issues of the day, and, may-
hap, make a few personal explanations.
From numerous orthodox pulpits the fiat went
forth that this anti-Christ must be denied every
opportunity to pollute the pure atmosphere of
Illinois with his perfidious breath. . . It was
on the evening of Sept. I, 1854, that he was an-
nounced to speak in North Market Hall (where
the county jail now stands). . . Under such
circumstances as these, assembled the meeting
on that September evening. During the after-
noon the flags of such shipping as was owned by
the more bitter of the " fusionists" (a name early
given to the men of both parties who joined hands
against disunion, afterwards "republicans") were
hung at half mast; at dusk the bells of numerous
churches tolled with doleful solemnity. A little
before eight o'clock Mr. Douglas began to speak.
And still the crowd increased, completely filling
up Michigan street as far east as Dearborn and
west as Clark. The roofs of the opposite houses
were covered and the windows and balconies
filled, for the ' ' Little Giant" had a way of making
himself heard at a great distance On the questioning of some statement of the speaker by
a person in the crowd the rumpus began in earnest, and for two hours pandemonium raged.
It was reported at the time that the " Little Giant" was pelted with rotten eggs. This feature is
now called in question by trustworthy witnesses who substitute rotten apples. . . . From the
date of Douglas' rebuff Chicago men never ceased to be on the extreme verge of anti-slavery
excitement, and Chicago became the center of the Western movement which resulted in making
Kansas a free state.
The limits of a " story " do not permit a statement in detail of the
development of political opinion in the years which intervened between
the killing of Lovejoy in 1837 and the firing on Sumter in 1861. They
were years of progress — of revolution. At least as early as 1838 an
anti-slavery meeting was held in the " Saloon Building," where the Rev.
Flavel Bascom, of the First Presbyterian Church, and Charles V. Dyer,
Philo Carpenter, Robert Freeman and Calvin DeWolf were leading
spirits. A mob was then feared, a mob not of the kind which assailed
THE COMING POWER.
225
Douglas in 1854, but one of the opposite stripe, the Southern sympa-
thizers. In 1842 a black man, named Edwin Heathcock, was arrested
on the ground of being in Illinois without free papers, as prescribed by
the " black law." He was committed by Justice Kercheval and confined
in the log jail at the northwest corner of Court House square. He was
advertised to be sold Monday, Nov. 14, 1843, and then, in the pres-
ence of a crowd which blocked Randolph and La Salle streets, actu-
ally put up and "cried" by the sheriff (Lowe), who explained to the
crowd that it was only duty, not choice, that put the job on him.
For a long time nobody bid, and it seemed as if the poor, shivering
fellow would have to go back to
the wretched log jail. A voice was
raised from the opposite side of
the street: "I bid twenty-five cents."
It was the voice of Mahlon D.
Ogden. The man was " knocked
down " to him and he handed up a
silver quarter-dollar to the sheriff;
and then said: " Edwin, I have
Sale of
man a
tion.
a black
t auc-
You are my man—
Now go where you
REV. FLAVEL 11ASCOM.
bought you
my slave !
please!"
In 1848 the Democratic party
divided on the Free Soil issue, and
Cass lost his election to the presi-
dency in consequence. In 1850 the
colored people met in convention
at Chicago, and resolved not to fly
to Canada, but to remain and
defend themselves. In 1851 the
last Chicago fugitive slave case was tried, and the black man remained
free. The claimants were called upon by lawyer Collins, to prove, by
other than "hearsay evidence" that Missouri was a slave State, and
while they were engaged in the effort to do so, the great crowd
passed the negro over their heads and prevented the constable from
following him.
Zebina Eastman (then living at the town of Lowell) sent the
first passenger on the "Underground Railroad " (organized assistance
of slaves escaping to Canada) in 1839. It was a "strange, famished
and terrified negro," caught in a barn near Lowell and forwarded to
Dr. Dyer in Chicago, who smuggled him on board the steamer Illinois,
bound down the lakes for Buffalo. Captain Blake, of the Illinois,
226
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Abolitionists.
found among the firemen the "new hand" — gun, knife and all — and
exhibited much fury, vowing to kick him ashore at the first point he
stopped at. " So when he reached the Detroit river he made a grand
circuit, as if to show off his boat
to a crowd of admiring Southerners
on board, and then ran it into a port
on the Canada shore, where he had
no passengers to leave, but where
he furiously dragged the negro from
the lower regions and "kicked him
off into freedom ! "
To many readers all this will
seem like Greek. What do they
know about escaping slaves and
the "Underground Railroad"? But
such persons may be assured that
their ignorance is only the conse-
quence of the fact that they came
on the scene a few years late. Those
of the past generation (now them-
selves rapidly passing over to the majority) can recall the days of all
this turmoil, malice, mob-law and murder, and find the present smiling,
prosperous calm almost a matter of surprise; such a contrast is the con-
dition of "the nineties" to that of "the forties."
ZEBINA KASTMAN.
- — . 7-- . _.-
ILLINOIS CKNTRAL PASSENGER STATION; 1855.
CHAPTER XXII.
THE CITY COMES TO HERSELF.
H 1C AGO is often said to have been built
by nature rather than by any human inter-
ference. Now begin the days when her
various and infinite natural advantages come
most fully to light. From the earliest times
her position was conspicuously favorable.
She stands just where water-travel and N?yutoechicag£
marine freightage intrude furthest into the
bosom of the continent. All men may sail
to her, no man can sail past her. Short-
sighted observers fell into the error of think-
ing that certain places reached by river had
a better outlook. Cairo, for instance, was
pitched upon as the place for the greatest
city of the continent, as being near the geo-
graphical center and at a great river centre and being joined by the Ohio
with the Alleghany range, by the upper Mississippi and Missouri with
the Arctic and the Rockies, and by the lower Mississippi with the Gulf.
These very circumstances were fatal to greatness. Craft arriving from
either direction could sail on in either of two other directions without
pausing. Three mighty cataracts there, or some other impassable
barrier, would have made Cairo what its founders hoped ; but wherever
men can sail freely by, they are apt to do so. A warehouse in mid-ocean
would do no business save in ship chandlery and marine stores. Lon-
don is the head of marine navigation on the Thames, Liverpool on
the Mersey, Paris on the Seine and New York on the Hudson. Cairo
is a mere passing point.
This is the first of Chicago's natural advantages; the one without
which all her others would have been of small worth, but which itself
would have been of little value without some others easy to name.
First, the productiveness of her back country. As the lakes and sea Hcu"i°So~n.
in front of her are insatiable, so the land behind her is inexhaustible.
What next? Measureless forests of excellent pine and hardwood,
near by, to the northward; limitless mines of steam-coal still nearer to
the southward; great quarries of good lime-stone only eighteen miles
distant on the canal; iron mines accessible by sail from Lake Superior.
And, as if all this were not enough, the city rests upon layers of its own
228
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Built of materi-
al taken from
her own sub-
soil.
building material; a bed of brick clay comes close to the surface
almost everywhere, and where it is covered it is usually with a layer of
fine, sharp building-sand. It is an every day experience with builders
to take enough sand from the cellar to made the mortar and plaster for
the whole house. The docks, too, almost construct themselves; thus: A
man owning a water lot establishes a brick-yard and takes his clay from
his own land, moulds and burns his brick and sells them at a profit. When
this is done, he has his dock ready excavated, and all he has to do is to
put up his piers and wharves and let in the water. The city has in-
numerable " slips" along its dock front, a great many of them con-
structed by this simple device.
It was in 1852 that the convenient canal stone was first largely used.
STRAITS OF MACKINAW.
A competent geologist, Professor Hitchcock, examined and analyzed
the stone (a magnesian lime-stone) and named it "Athens Marble, "but
of late years it has been usually called " Lemont stone," from the dis-
trict whence it largely comes. The quarries are inexhaustible. An im-
mense quantity of the stone will be taken out of the new "drainage
channel."
The proximity of the great lakes offers pure lake water and pure
^a^e a'r> anc^ tnose w^o have ever lived in such proximity are apt to feel
cowpaendbheat. as if human life would be impossible in places not so blessed. The
coldest winds in winter and the warmest in summer come not over the
lake but over the prairies. The coolest airs in summer are, of course,
the lake breezes ; and in winter the lake never freezes over to any great
extent, consequently any wind which passes over its surface can not
remain very far below the freezing point.
Lake breezes
THE CITY COMES TO HERSELF.
229
All these physical glories and beauties did not befall without phys-
ical drawbacks. A prairie city, Chicago had a site almost marshy.
The prairies are anything but craggy and romantic — the picturesque and
the productive do not co-exist. Her long, deep, quiet rivers are very
far from being trout streams ; being what they are, they could not be
strung up the slope of a hill. Her hundreds of miles of level streets are
hard to drain, and her peaceful, tideless waters are hard to keep pure.
In tidal London, the great dock gates can open but twice a day. In
Liverpool the Mersey is navigable only about half of the twenty-four
hours; in Chicago all hours are alike fitted for business.
Drawbacks of 3.
level lite.
tire,
and streets.
CITY WATER WORKS (1854).
The excellent report of Mayor D. W. C. Cregier, for 1890, gives,
with innumerable other items of interest, a short historical recapitulation D[er"rfvee'r.Wa"
of the drainage, water supply, river, fire, sanitary and street systems.
On the subject of water, quoting Mr. Chesbrough, the report says:
In 1851, when the population was about 35,000, the present works were commenced. Under
the directions of the Board of Water Commissioners. John B. Turner, A. S. Sherman and H. G.
Loomis, the pumping works were located on the lake shore on the north side of the Chicago river.
The works were put in operation in February, 1854. They consisted of one reservoir, containing
about half a million gallons, and eight and three quarter miles of iron pipes, beside the pumping
works. The population at this time was about 70,000. The increased growth of the city after that
time and the introduction of sewerage, together with the establishment of packing-houses, distiller-
ies etc., caused such a change in the quantity of filth flowing into the lake that complaints began to
be made of impurity and offensiveness in the supply from the pumping works. What, however,
was at first apparent only to the most sensitive organizations sodn grew evident to all, and in the
course of two or three years more a remedy for this state of things could no longer be neglected.
2JO
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Chowder in
bath-tub.
At this time, be it remembered, the water was taken into the pump-
ing well (at the east end of Chicago Avenue) directly from the lake
shore, a few piles being driven around the inlet, about close enough
together to exclude a young whale. The small fry of the finny tribe
passed freely inward, and if they were lucky they passed out again;
if unlucky, they were sucked up by the pumps and driven
into, the pipes; where they made their way into the faucets of priv-
ate houses — even the hot water faucets, in which case they came out
the cooked, and one's bathtub was apt to be filled with what squeamish citi-
zens called chowder. At about this time a most sensational article ap-
peared in the " Times," gravely asserting that we were like cannibals, eat-
ing our ancestors. For, it said, the cemetery, being on the lake shore a half
mile north of the pumping works, was subject to overflow and abrasion
by the waves; wherefore the fishes were fed on the dead at the ceme-
tery, were sucked into the pumps, and were then fed to the living in
the city! Of course this was nonsense, but it was a kind of nonsense
that fastened public attention and made easy the next step in our
civil life, the tunneling the lake and bringing the water from the pure
depths two miles from shore. It was a bold, a startling project, success-
fully put in operation. Appended is a table with some interesting
figures:
Year.
Gallons per
day (j ciph-
ers omitted).
Gallons per
day to each
person.
Miles of
pipe in
use.
Population
(3 dpliers
omitted).
Cost of wks-
at close of
war ( ? ciph-
ers omitted)
Tons of
Coal used.
Collections:
(j ciphers
omitted).
l8<!4.. .
SOI
8 o
?o
6c
$CQC
CO4
18:;:;. .
2 1Q1
2 I .O
41
80
611
I Q7O
$ cS
l8q6. .
4 ooo
j6 s
?2
86
646
5* 0°
80
l8^7
1 Z C "*
?8 2
c8
o^
73Q
I 966
O7
1858
2 QQI
>2 S
72
QI
820
v/
1 02
18^0
3 877
8s
OOO
2 724
T 2 •=
1860
4 7O4
45 O
01
100
1,013
2,621
T 31
1890
152.372
126.8
1,205
I.2OO
16,902
46,190
2,109
The report treats at length of drainage.
In the year 1849 Madison Street, east and west, and State Street, north and south, were decided
on as the summit in the south division, the streets of that portion north of Madison and west of
State Street to drain into the main river. The portion east of State to slope east and drain into the
Lines of drain- |ake The part south of Madison and west of State to slope west and discharge into the South
age establish-
ed. Branch. Nothing was done in the way of drainage, except open ditches, until the year 1850, when
triangular-shaped wooden box sewers were built in Clark, LaSalle and Wells Streets from the main
river to the alley south of Randolph Street. The cost of these sewers was $2,871.90, wholly paid for
by the property benefited.
By act of the Legislature in 1852, Henry Smith, George W. Snow,
James H. Reed, George Steele, H. L. Stewart, Isaac Cook and Charles
V. Dyer were made Drainage Commissioners for Cook County. The
commission found awaiting its attention nearly 100,000 acres of swamp
THE CITY COMES TO HERSELF.
231
land ; much of it considered worthless, as its surface was but from five
to twelve feet above lake level. They saw that all it needed was ditch-
ing to reclaim it. In two years, at an expense of only $100,000, large i
tracts were made available which had been thought uninhabitable. These
tracts lay within four miles north, eight miles west and ten miles south
of the city. The change in the flooded flat traversed by the Galena track
west from Kinzie Street was doubtless due to this work.
A board of sewerage commissioners was organized in 1855, con-
sisting of William B. Ogden, Joseph D. Webster, and Sylvester Lind,
with Ellis S. Chesbrough as Chief, and William H. Clark Assistant
Engineer. The following was the system agreed on. It has remained
in force ever since and will continue perhaps as long as Chicago stands.
It will be observed that it follows
essentially the old plan as to levels
and slopes; State Street the summit
line north and South, and Madison
Street the summit east and west :
The South Division east of State Street was
drained by a main sewer in Michigan avenue,
from the river to Sixteenth Street, the summit
being at Van Buren Street ; that part south of
Van Buren Street discharging into the lake at
Twelfth Street, the part north of Van Buren
emptying into the main river [near Rush Street
bridge] ; the portion lying south of Washington
Street west of State to be discharged into the
south branch at various streets ; north of Wash-
ington by two foot sewers in each north and
south street, emptying into the main river.
From the outset Mr. Chesbrough insisted
on constructing sewers to discharge by gravity;
this necessitated raising all streets from one to
three feet above the natural surface of the ground,
in order to have sufficient cover over the top of SYI.VESTKK I.IMI.
the sewers to protect them from frosts and traffic.
At the end of 1856 there were in operation six miles of sewers; at
the end of 1890 there were seven hundred and eighty-five miles.
This shows that on even the south side, with its ready access to
river and lake, the ground had to be raised from one to three feet1
merely to give the requisite cover to the sewers. So it seems like the
constructing of a network of sewers on the surface, and then filling up
streets and house-lots to a point high enough to use those sewers by
draining into them ! No wonder the house-owner stood aghast and
even strove to prevent the carrying out of such a ruinous " improve-
ment!" Take a great brick hotel like the Tremont House ; how was
it to live when the street which had been level with its front door
was raised half way up to its second story windows ?
of
232
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Law of street
grades 6xed.
Raising of old
brick buildings.
One of Judge Caton's numerous reminiscences of occurrences on
the bench refers to the changes of street grade in their relation to pri-
vate rights. Lake Street was ordered to be raised, and the Couches,
owners of the Tremont House, prayed an injunction to stay the work;
which had already been begun. The crisis was so important that the
judge was induced to hold a special term of circuit court (which, as a
a Justice of the Supreme Court, he could do at his own discretion) to
hear the cause.
Court opened, and Beckwith, for the claimants, and Arnold, for the
city (evidently expecting several days of wordy war), came into the
room, each armed with a formidable pile of law books. Scarcely had
they got under way when the judge, instead of listening to their
speeches, began to ask questions regarding the facts of the case and
the points of law relied upon. Then
he asked that the papers in the
case be handed him, and without
consulting any authorities ad-
journed court and retired to his
room in the Tremont House, the
very property concerning which the
suit was brought, and overlooking
the street-filling which was objected
to.
Before he slept he had com-
pleted his examination and written
his opinion. Next morning he
walked over to the clerk's office,
found it locked, tossed the whole mass of documents in through the
transom over the door, and went back to the hotel; on his way telling
the contractor he could set his men at work, he had decided the case.
Before the court hour arrived he had started out of town.
His opinion was in favor of sustaining the power of the city
over the street grades, and that has been the law from that day to
this. The case was not even appealed.
With the trouble came (once more !) the remedy. A contractor
was found willing to raise the whole great, high building (the Tre-
mont House) to its new grade, without even interrupting its business
The cellar was vacated, huge timbers were introduced and placed so
as to take upon themselves the weight of the sustaining walls, 5,000
jack-screws were placed under the timbers and a small army of men
detailed to work by word of command, one man to four screws. Then,
at a signal given by the whistle of the foreman, each man gave each
FIRST RUSH MEDICAL COLLEGE.
THE CITY COAfES TO HERSELF. 233
jack-screw one half-turn ; and the whole structure, by imperceptible
steps, rose in the air, the bricklayers building up the walls as fast as
there came spare space wherein to lay a course of brick. It was said
the guests did not know they were mounting toward the sky. How-
ever that may be, not a wall was cracked, not the slightest accident or
untoward event took place to interfere with the entire and perfect
success of the novel experiment.
Soon after, the entire brick block of stores facing south on Lake
street, and reaching from Clark to LaSalle street, was similarly treated,
and these were only specimen instances of a great undertaking; the
lifting of a whole city out of the Slough of Despond on to dry ground.
The extent of that particular raising was from six to eight feet. Others
have occurred at especial times and places, so that many parts of the
city now tower fourteen feet above original levels. Men's feet are
above the place where passed the heads of their predecessors.
This enterprise benefited Chicago indirectly, thus : A young
man, born in central New York in 1831, grown up without wealth
and educated without help, having a widowed mother dependent on
him for support, had bravely undertaken a large contract for the rais-
ing of buildings along the Erie Canal to the new plane made neces- First work of
sary by the canal enlargement then recently affected. The knowl-
edge of the great task to be done in Chicago in the direct line of
his experience brought him out to the West, and he became the lead-
ing house-raiser in Chicago. The man was George M. Pullman.
After making much reputation and a little money in his original
business, he turned his attention to the greater job of improving the
system of long-distance travel, and began, in a small way, the enter-
prise which has revolutionized the passenger-carrying of the country,
and, to some extent, of the whole world.
It was in 1859 that he made a contract with Governor Matteson,
of the Chicago & Alton railroad, to fit up two old passenger cars on
that road as sleeping-coaches. This was the first step ; the next was in
1863 when he hired from the same Company the use of an old repairing
shed, secured skilled workmen and built the first " Palace car," a com-
bined day and sleeping coach. (Previous sleeping cars had been mere
bunking coaches, used only for the night.) The car took a year in
completion and cost $18,000. Like our friend the old-new locomotive,
it was christened the "Pioneer" and like that is still in existence, being
preserved for the sake of the vista of enterprise which opened with its
birth.
The next great step was the formation of a running arrangement
with the Michigan Central Railroad for the use of Pullman's cars on
234
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
The Sleeping
Car system.
that line for a term of years. The fact was soon apparent that any
road using those cars took the cream of patronage away from any
rival road not doing so, and from that day to this the course of the
sleeping coach and its originator has been onward and upward, until
to-day (1891) the Pullman Palace Car Company controls more than
2,000 cars running on 14,000 miles of rails, while all rivals and imitators
combined have perhaps as many more in their fields of operations.
In 1880 Mr. Pullman devised and built the model town of Pullman
(now within the corporate limits of Chicago), which will be treated
herein, when reached in due chronological order.
The early fifties were cholera years. The deaths by this strange
epidemic were as follows: In 1851, 216 out of 669 total deaths; in 1852,
630 out of 1652 ; 1853, 113 out of 1205 ; 1854, 1424 out of 3834; in 1855,
~
CAR AS IT LOOKS IN l8gl.
The Cholera;
1857 to 1855.
147 out of 1983. A few items from the record of 1850 may recall to our
minds the aspect of that half-forgotten terror. Captain Andreas quotes
from "an old settler who was participator in the horrors whereof he
wrote and had a narrow escape from death himself":
One Sunday morning in May, or perhaps June, on my way to church, I was crossing Rush Street
ferry when I overheard a fellow-passenger telling another that Captain Jackson had died of cholera
As the ferry landing was within a few rods of the Jackson dwelling, being one of the houses within
the fort, I hastened thither. I found William Jones alone with the corpse. The face was a shade
darker than usual and around the mouth were the dark purple spots which I soon learned to be the
unmistakable deathmarks of that dreaded disease. Mr. Jackson had been attacked the previous
afternoon while engaged in his usual employment of driving piles along the river; he hastened home
and died within a few hours.
I think the death of Mr. Bentley, the father of Cyrus Bentley, soon followed that of Deacon
Jackson. L. M. Boyce, a prominent druggist, died in his house alone, his family having just left for
the country. The Rev. W. H. Rice, pastor of the Tabernacle Baptist church . . . was intend-
ing to preach and was hastening for that purpose. I assisted him into the house of Mr. Pillsbury on
Dearborn street, a few doors south of where the Tribune building now stands. Dr. D. S. Smith
attended him. . . . He continued thus through the day when he again began to fail and soon
died. When Mr. Price was attacked the weather was very warm and so continued till there came
THE CITY COMES TO HERSELF.
235
one of our Lake Michigan chilling breezes. It was to this that I attributed his relapse, for I had
noticed that deaths were more numerous after these sudden changes from hot to cool. . .
That summer I boarded with Mr. T. C. James. One day when I went in to dinner, Mrs.
James asked me to go into another room and look at one of her daughters, a girl of fourteen, who
had just begun to complain and had lain down. I saw at a glance it was cholera. She died in about
seven hours. Another daughter was taken while returning from the funeral'and died before morning.
Judge Caton was holding court in Ottawa on a certain afternoon.
James H. Collins, his intimate friend and former partner, argued a case
up to adjournment of court ; apparently in good health and spirits. He
went to his room at the Fox River house and Judge C. went to his own
home. About day-break some one came to the judge's door and called
him, saying that Mr. Collins had died of cholera. Judge Caton went
at once to the hotel where he found the report to be true ; thence he
went to the telegraph office (he
was an officer of the company, car-
ried an office-key and was himself a
pretty good operator), and as he
entered he heard Chicago calling
Ottawa, the message being ad-
dressed to Mr. Collins, telling him
that a servant had just died of
cholera at his house. The judge
took the message, replied, in tele-
graphic custom, " O. K. ;" and
wired back to the sender the news
that Mr. Collins was dead.
Hospitals were established and
quarantine to isolate the sick on
arrival. In June, 1854, an incom-
ing train arrived, carrying Norwe- CHARLES v. DYER.
gian emigrants, among whom the disease was raging. Six were dead
on the train, and a seventh died a few minutes after being taken out.
Dr. Dyer used to tell this story at the expense of his profession:
" Deeming it requisite to establish a quarantine to prevent the
introduction of the disease, we organized an amateur board of health,
and hired a warehouse to be used as a hospital. Hearing that a steam-
boat was coming into port with eighteen cases of cholera on board, we
went out to the vessel and removed the patients to the improvised hos-
pital. On viewing the sick, nine were decided to be beyond medical
aid, and the remaining moiety were decreed to be favorable subjects for
pathological skill; but, unfortunately, the nine upon whom we lavished
all the resources of science died, and those who were esteemed to be
about in articulo mortis all got well."
Incidents of the
epidemic.
Dr. Dyer's good
story.
236
THH STORY OF CHICAGO.
Tie Lake Street
Fire of 1857.
The first Steam
Fire Rngine.
The fire department, in its volunteer stage, nas been already spoken
of. In 1850 "fire limits" were established, and no wooden buildings
were allowed to be built between Randolph street, the main river,
Wabash avenue and the South Branch. Up to 1855 fire alarms were
struck by the bell of the First Baptist church, Washington and LaSalle
streets, but in February of that year the large bell was hung in the
steeple of the Court House, a watch was set there, and whenever the
watchman detected a fire the bell was rung; and by day flags, and by
night, lanterns, were hung out to show in which direction citizens were
to look for the danger.
In 1857 a dreadful calamity occurred; the memorable "Lake street
fire," wherein the loss of property was only some half million dollars'
worth, but there were twen-
ty-three lives sacrificed,
many of the dead being lead-
J o
ing citizens. Water was
scarce and the flames raged
long and fiercely, but as
morning approached they
were getting somewhat un-
der control, when suddenly
the walls and upper floors
of Barnum Brothers' dry
goods store on Lake street
o
fell, burying more than a
score of men who were en-
gaged in removing goods
from the lower floor. Among
the well-known citizens crushed to death were: Ezra H. Barnum, E. R.
Clark, John High and Alfred H. P. Corning.*
The fire department on this occasion showed its inefficiency, dis-
organization and incapacity to deal with any serious fire. Two engines,
(No. 6 and 10) were out of order and did not work, having been injured
while competing for a silver trumpet. Hundreds of feet of hose had
been burst on the same festive occasion. A movement for a paid fire
department was instituted, supported by the best of the firemen and
opposed by the worst. The better counsels prevailed — though not with-
out danger of serious rioting. The first steam fire-engine, the " Long
John," was bought, tested at the foot of La Salle street and approved
— a death-blow to the volunteer system. Engine Companies No. 4, 10
and 14, Hose companies Nos. 3 and 5 and Hook and Ladder No. 3
* The writer was at work at the fire, heard the crash, and saw some of the blackened and distorted corpses
brought out next day.
LONG JOHN FIRK I-.NCINE.
THE CITY COMES TO HERSELF.
met on Clark street, traversed the principal streets and marched into
Court House Square, to show defiance of law and order. The mayor
(Wentworth) was equal to the occasion. He dispatched a force of 200 RKHOUS
policemen with orders to arrest the demonstrators for riot and disor-
derly conduct. A few arrests were made and the rest of the rioters fled,
leaving their apparatus to the police, who took the machines to the
armory and locked them up, arrangements being made with special
policemen to man them in
case of fire. On August, 2,
1858, the paid fire depart-
ment was established.
Concerning our highly-
prized, praised and perse-
cuted river, Mr. Cregier's
report is full of interest.
In July, 1856, the first
clearance from Chicago di-
rect from England was
made, the vessel being the
"Dean Richmond." Her
trip was probably not profit-
able ; she got no return
freight and was sold abroad.
In 1857 the "Madeira Pet"
left Liverpool April 24th
and arrived July i4th in
Chicago. The long and ex-
pensive voyage via ocean,
St. Lawrence river, Welland
canal and the lakes made a
loss of time, wages, insur-
ance and interest, which
more than counterbalanced
the gain by relief from cost of trans-shipments.
The original plan concerning river-banks was to arrange them in
levees, sloped and paved like those on the great rivers. Therefore,
"water lots" were not sold. The river-side streets extended to the
stream itself. But this system, excellent for the light draft Missis- Fate o<the
sippi boats, was not good for the deep-hulled lake craft ; their keels
would be on the bottom long before their bulwarks were within
reach of the bank. Thereupon some enterprising citizens, holding
lots fronting on the streets whereof the opposite sides were river-
MAVUK WENTWORTH.
river hanks.
'/'///<: STOKY OF CHICAGO.
banks, caused an act to be passed by the legislature allowing the owners
of such lots to take up, at nominal prices, the " river lots " opposite
their respective holdings, which they immediately turned into building-
spots ; a shallow store being placed on each with its face toward the
street and its back upon the river, with only a five-foot strip of wharf
between. This is the explanation of the unsightly condition of the
river-banks — a succession of back-walls instead of the open streets con-
templated by the original plan.
A great deal of litigation ensued, but it is hard to annul an act of
the legislature. The intruders held on, and, as to the law-suits, time
MADEIRA PET.
Uiver
bor
and Har
history.
has mad away with their memory and the great fire with their records.
There were, up to 1857, only six miles of dockage built along the
river-banks, including the basins. The length of dock at the present
writing (1891) is not given by the report, but it is stated by Mr. Cregier
verbally that, including the annexed towns, the running frontage of both
sides is forty-one miles, spanned by fifty-eight bridges and two tunnels.
An interesting letter, dated June 21, 1880, written by G. J. Lydecker,
Major of Engineers, U. S. A., to Rufus Blanchard ( " Discovery of the
Northwest and History of Chicago," p. 540), gives the Government ex-
penditures up to that time as $1,108,005, to which must be added $105,-
ooo appropriated in 1880 and laid out in the completion of the works
then under way. It would seem that the municipal expenditures on
rivers and harbor, excluding sums spent for deepening the Illinois and
THE CITY COMES TO HERSELF. 239
Michigan canal, and for building the tunnels and bridges, would be not
very far from equal to this amount.
An interesting circumstance connected with Chicago's lake and
river is the occasional advent of a " tidal wave," often several feet in
height, coming suddenly and departing in the same unceremonious fash-
ion. No satisfactory explanation of these phenomena has been offered;
nor of the slower and more majestic variations of lake levels. The
report so often quoted contains a very beautiful diagram or chart of
curves, showing, by colored lines, the variations in successive years of
the following historical items : Population, harbor expenditures, com-
W. B. SNOWHOOK.
THOMAS B CARTER.
merce by tonnage, canal tolls, and lake levels. The last named line
starts with the lowest level of the lake in 1855 (called "datum"), and
shows a gradual rise of the high-water mark up to four and three-quar-
ters feet in 1858, agradual fall to one and four-fifths feet in 1872, a grad-
ual rise to four and two-fifths feet in 1876, a gradual fall to two and
one-half feet in 1879, agradual rise to four and two-fifths feet in 1886
and a gradual fall to two and one-fifth feet in 1890. Low-water mark
in each year was pretty regularly about three and a half feet below the
high-water mark of the same year, except in 1 88 1, when it got away
down to two feet below "datum;" in other words, six and three quarters
feet below highest water recorded, and six and two-fifths feet below
o
high water of 1876 and of 1886.
240
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Referring to tidal waves, an interesting one of these phenomena
was observed by Judge Caton in 1838. His office was then in the
irregular " triangle" formed by Water, Market and Lake Streets. As
he was approaching the office and facing the river, he observed an
overflowing of the water, which flooded the street and checked his
progress. He halted until it receded, as suddenly as it had come ; then,
going on to where the wave had formed and left a pool in a slight
depression, he found imprisoned in the little pond a large fish, three
or four pounds in weight. He picked it up, floundering as it was,
took it home, and it was served for the family dinner.
The history of the Chicago river as a river is easy to write; as
water, it is more puzzling. In fact, in some times and places it has
ISAAC D. HARMON.
ISAAC N. HAP MOM.
been scarcely recognizable as water.* About the middle of the thirties,
Charles Cleaver speared a fine muskallonge in the North Branch.
Since those, its halcyon days, the long-suffering stream has over and
over gone from bad to worse, until the worse became intolerable, when
some costly expedient has been adopted looking to a " permanent " cure.
Before incorporation a township ordinance was passed, threatening
with fine any one who should put into the stream the carcass of any
dead animal. In 1848, the starting of the canal pumps to lift water
into the "shallow cut" was a prompt and welcome relief. In 1871 this
was supplemented by the completion of the " deep cut," at huge
* An old fable tells how a philosopher, to illustrate the evanescence of earthly things, said to one of his disciples,
"Wouldst thou know how long thou wilt be remembered when thou art dead ? Then thrust thy hand into the river and
mark how long the shape of it will endure in the water after thou hast withdrawn it." To which some Chicago man
added that if it was the Chicago River, he guessed it would last about an hour and a half.
THE CITY COMES TO HERSELF.
241
expense, and again the relief was welcome, but it helped only the south
branch and main river, the north branch having no source of supply to
drive its polluted mass toward the canal-gate. To remedy this, half a
million was spent in engines and a subterranean channel from the lake
to the river, along the line of Fullerton avenue. At this present writ-
ing (1891) we are brought face to face with a mammoth undertaking
—nothing less than the outlay of a score of millions, to send a whole
river of Lake Michigan water (600,000 cubic feet a minute) down to
the Illinois; whereby the city sewage shall not only be carried off,
but shall be so diluted as to be " oxydized," and therefore inoffensive to
the dwellers on the borders of the stream below.
This seems surely ample and final, and a permanent solution of the
fearful problem. The whole civic life of Chicago has been a succession
of strenuous throes, whereby she has kept barely ahead of her absolute
needs. Her citizens do not drag her car along ; they have all they can
do to keep from being overtaken and crushed by its irresistible prog-
ress. She is a Juggernaut to the laggard.
MICHIGAN AVBNUE IN 1859. RESIDENCE OF I. H. BURCH.
CHAPTER XXIII.
Banking and
Currency sys-
tem a failure.
THE STUMP-TAIL CHIMERA.
HILE glorying in and gloating over the
phenomenal gifts nature had heaped upon
her favorite garden-spot of ground, as
depicted in the last previous chapter, an old
Chicagoan, looking back in " the fifties,"
will be conscious of an uneasy sense that
all was not quite so rosy as, to a superficial
view, it appeared. He knows that at that
very moment there was a hidden weakness
in the foundation of things ; that the edi-
fice was based on a shaking quagmire,
and would take something more efficient
than jack-screws to lift it up to solid
ground.
It is impossible to overestimate the adequacy of the natural advan-
tages for business, or the inadequacy of some of the artificial expedients
by which it was being carried on.
Among others, the system of banking and currency was bad to the
point of absurdity. The banks started in the following order (i An-
dreas, 534):
1836. — Chicago branch of the State Bank of Illinois, corner La Salle and South Water Streets,
removed to Lockport in 1840; agency remained in Chicago till bank closed in 1843.
1837. — Strachan & Scott, remained in business until 1840; sold out private banking business to
Murray & Brand. George Smith succeeded them as agents of the Wisconsin Fire and Marine
Insurance Co. The Chicago Fire and Marine Insurance Co. did a full banking business, except
issuing bills. Its charter was amended in 1849, and it was the predecessor of the Marine Co. of
Chicago.
1840. — George Smith & Co. , La Salle Street bankers, continued in business in Chicago until
1856-57, at which time the business of the house was closed up. Mr. Smith, after an honorable and
successful career of twenty years as a Western banker, retired with a very large fortune and returned
to Scotland.
1844. — Murray & Brand, exchange brokers, corner of Lake and Clark Streets; Newberry (Wal-
ter L.) & Burch (I. H.), bankers, 97 Lake Street; Griffin & Vincent, brokers, Dearborn and State
Streets; George Smith & Co., private bankers and exchange brokers, Bank Building, La Salle Street'
Elijah Swift, broker, 102 Lake Street; R. K. Swift, broker, 102 Lake Street; H. W. Wells, agent of
Farmers' and Mechanics' Bank, 112 Lake Street.
The directory for 1849-50 has the following:
Money lenders. — G. P. Baker, 193 Lake Street; J. S. Dole, 181 Lake Street; Thomas Parker, 40
Clark Street; R. K. Swift, in Lake Street. Banks, bankers and dealers in exchange: Alexander
Brand & Co., 127 Lake Street; I. H. Burch, 125 Lake Street; Chicago Savings Bank, 125 Lake
Street; Chicago Bank, 125 Lake Street; Curtis & Tinkham, 40 Clark Street; D. C. Eddy, 97 Lake
Street; George Smith & Co., 41 and 43 Clark Street.
This showing, on the face of it, does not indicate anything essen-
242
THE STUMP-TAIL CHIMERA.
243
tially rotten. The banks named were " private banks " and dependent on
private capital and individual character, credit, means and responsibility ;
and their whole history shows the truth of what was said by the apolo-
gists of the system at the time: "Illegal banking honestly conducted
is better than legal banking dishonestly conducted."
The following extract from the "Democrat" of September 19,
1849, shows — or at least outlines — the chaos of money-matters as late
as forty years ago; the first schedule being the "current funds ;" i. e.
worth 99 cents on the dollar:
New England banks in good credit, New York State banks in good credit, New Jersey and
Maryland banks in good credit; Ohio, Indiana and Kentucky banks in good credit; Michigan, Vir-
ginia and Missouri banks in good credit; Wiscon-
sin Marine and Fire Insurance Company [George
Smith and Strachan & Scott] and Pennsylvania
banks not over one per cent, discount in New
York.
Uncurrenf. Canada, three per cent, dis-
count; Pennsylvania, par to three per cent, dis-
count; Tennessee not taken; State Bank of
Illinois, fifty per cent, discount; State Bank of
Shawneetown, seventy five per cent, discount.
Scrip: Chicago city orders, par to five per
cent, discount; Cook County orders, thirty to
thirty-five per cent, discount; Auditor's warrants,
ten to fifteen per cent, discount.
New York exchange was sold
for $10 premium per $ 1,000 for
coin, $15 per $ 1,000 for currency;
while in 1891 its average is not far
from par, and it is almost never at
so much as $i per $ 1,000; either
of premium or discount.
To those who lived and did bus-
iness through those strange days, it
would seem like the millennium to fancy many of the blessings now
enjoyed by all, especially those o'f a solid and stable currency, one "dol-
lar" as good as another over all the broad land! Then a study of
" Thompson's bank-note reporter," giving standing, credit, value, and
counterfeits on perhaps 1,000 banks in all the States of the Union, was
an indispensable part of the daily life of every business man.
As an illustration of the chaos of currency, Captain Andreas
quotes the list of bank-bills received and turned in by Oscar Caldwell, a
conductor on the C. B. & Q. Railroad, as taken by him on a single trip.
The whole amount was $203, and the hotch-potch was as follows:
Twenty-seven bills on five Georgia banks ; two bills on one Michigan
bank ; seven bills on five Illinois banks; three bills on three banks in
Chaos of Bank
notes.
GKORGE SMITH.
One day's col-
lections on tha
C., B. & Q.
244 THE STORY OF CHICAGO
New York ; three bills on three banks in Wisconsin ; one bill on a bank
in Ohio ; one on a bank in Connecticut ; one on a bank in Maine ; one
on a bank in Indiana; one on a bank in Tennessee ; one on a bank in
Virginia and one on a bank in Iowa. What a memory such a con-
ductor must have needed ! If he took a "bad bill" it was his own
loss.*
The " Democrat " was bitterly hostile to all this business of issuing
Thehard- " money " and is quoted by Captain Andreas as saying: "We under-
••Democrat." stand that before long we shall be blessed (?) with more home-made
money. Glorious times, by and by, if paper money will make them."
And the gold-and-silver organ did not have to wait long for its "glorious
times."
Up to 1837 there had been a revulsion in business affairs about
every ten years fora long time ; 1817, 1827 and 1837 being the years of
"liquidation." It is probable that somewhere about 1847 there would
have been another of these periodical spasms, if it had not been for the
intervention of the California bonanza, with its huge inflation of the
world's supply of solid currency. But the settling day was only delayed,
not abolished. Whether because of our stimulating climate, our quick-
ening pulse as the liveliest blood of many races meets and mingles, or
of some other disturbing element or circumstance, we seem doomed to
overdo, from time to time, our buying, selling, building, borrowing,
lending, etc.; and to be forced to a halt and a painful accounting.
The crops of 1854 were almost a failure. Wall street was shaken
to its foundation by the exposure of the " Schuyler fraud " — the over-
issue by Robert Schuyler of $2,000,000 of New York and New Haven
convulsions. Railroad stock. The political horizon was clouding up in anticipation of
the thunderstorm of 1861, and foreign capitalists were prone to dis-
believe in the future solvency and cohesion of our States as a Nation.
Rome was not built in a day, neither did it fall in a day; there were
years of fighting against the inevitable. Who shall tell of the desper-
ate struggles of business men through 1855, 1856 and the early part of
1857 to preserve at least an appearance of solvency? It was just
twenty years after the cataclysm of 1837 that the financial ground again
took to shaking under men's feet. On June 18,1857 the "Tribune"
announced the protest of Chicago city orders for non-payment. On
July 3d, the private banking-house of E. R. Hinckley & Co. closed.
On August 3d there was a run on Hoffman's bank, which it withstood
successfully. On September 2gth the great banking house of R. K.
* The witty John B. Calhoun. local treasurer on the Illinois Central Railroad, once said to the writer: " Curious
isn't it. that whenever we throw out a bill turned in by a conductor and he takes it back he 'most always finds the man
that gave it to him ! " This was a sarcasm, the hidden meaning being that the conductor simply passed off the worthless
token on some fresh victim.
THE STUMP-TAIL CHIMERA.
245
Swift, Brother & Co. failed. On November i6th the great house of
Walker, Bronson & Co., dealers in grain and provisions, suspended ;
after which everything seemed to go to ruin. An occurrence outside
Chicago which was typical of the state of things, was the failure on
August 4, 1857, of the Ohio Life & Trust Company of Cincinnati,
for $7,000,000. In the vast upheaval there occurred, in the United
States and Canada, 5,123 bankruptcies, with liabilities amounting to
$299,800,000; a sum equivalent to $1,000,000,000 in these later and
larger times.
Meanwhile, namely on October gth (direful date for catastrophes,
being the same as that of the great Chicago fire of 1871), every bank in
THE SECONI
JRT-IIOUSE, WITH ITS ADDED STORY.
New York, except the Chemical, suspended payment, and most of those
throughout the country followed suit, though, as we have seen, some in
Chicago stood firm. On that day, however, the Illinois Central railroad
was driven to the wall. The company, especially while operating discon-
nected bits of road, had not paid running expenses, and even its great Tribulation of
land sales had furnished little ready cash, being made chiefly on credit ; central.
and being, besides, of mortgaged lands, they yielded most ot their receipts
toward the redemption of bonds, not toward the payment of interest or
expenses. The Michigan Southern railroad was also forced to an
assignment. The Alton road had previously been in difficulties from
which it was still suffering. It is not now quite certain what other rail-
roads were practically bankrupt in 1857, but it is safe to say that tem-
246
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
porary insolvency was the rule ; regular payment of all demands when
due, the rare exception.
As ill-luck would have it, 1858 was another poor-crop year. The
enforced liquidation, return to safe bounds after perilous, disastrous
inflation, would have been hard enough even if nature had been especi-
ally bountiful instead of exceptionally niggardly. As it was, the feel-
Hard times ing once more prevailed, that "hard times " was the natural state of
come again. human affajrs . an(j ^^ any other condition was only a delusion, fleet-
ing and foolish. Once more we had come to look upon our currency as
mere token-money; perhaps available to pay debts with, but having no
special relation to the coin which it professed to represent. It was
(as had been the trash of 1837) called by a contemptuous nickname,
only this time instead of "wild-cat," "red-dog" or "shinplaster," it was
characterized as " stump-tail," in allusion to the diseased and mori-
bund milch-kine fed upon distillery
slops in low, pesti.'ential city milk
factories.
By a curious anomaly in finance,
badness in the circulating medium
serves a certain purpose in expe-
diting and facilitating liquidation
in times of business disaster. Dis-
trust in the currency prompts the
holder to thrust it upon his creditor,
if he have one. It often happens
that instead of a debtor's flying
from him to whom he is indebted,
he is seen pursuing him to force a
settlement Thus the questionable "money" gets chiefly into the
hands of the "creditor class," which class is, on the whole, better able
to stand its depreciation than is any other.
The natural law (announced by Gresham in the time of Henry
VIII.), that where two kinds of money are available the one having
least intrinsic value drives out the better one, had operated on the masses
"*"• unknowing of its existence. (As has been wittily said, "Nature plays
fair, but puts in force against you all the rules of the game, whether
you know them or not.") Bills of banks at a distance kept flying about
from hand to hand; but those of sound Chicago banks were no sooner
issued than they were presented at the counters of their respective insti-
tutions for redemption in coin or in Eastern or foreign Exchange.
This gave rise to the natural expedient of locating banks at inaccessi-
ble points.
• ~x~'^.-
FIRST UNIVERSALIST CHURCH.
THE STUMP-TAIL CHIMERA.
The Illinois banking law of 1851, prescribed that no Illinois bank
should issue its notes without having first deposited with the auditor at
Springfield, the State bonds of Illinois or some other solvent State, in
amount equal to that of the bills proposed to be issued. Then, and
not till then could it present its bills to be countersigned by the auditor;
and the issuance of bills not so countersigned was an offense to be
heavily punished. Several good Chicago banks began business on this
basis; but their bills came back upon them nearly as fast as they wereIllinoisBanking
put forth. Then Chicago men, desiring to earn the profit naturally a«d. Currency
attendant upon a currency bearing no interest, yet loanable on interest,
located many banks at out-of-the-way places, small towns far from any
railroad or river. Now, the bills being scattered in many hands, it was
rare that enough were accumulated at one time and place to make it
worth any one's while to send them home for redemption in any incon-
venient amounts This made, for some years, a comparatively safe and
respectable circulating medium.*
But, as there was a currency afloat intrinsically poorer, Gresham's
law came in and the Illinois banks were slowly driven to the wall.
Georgia was perhaps the furthest off and least accessible of the "money
factories," therefore we observe in Conductor Caldwell's hotch-potch, 27
Georgia bills, and only two from all New England: To their honor be it
said, most of the Illinois banks, compelled to wind upat this time, finally
redeemed their bills at par, or near it, though forced to sell the bonds,
(especially those of the Southern States) at such discounts as used up
all the profits which had been so easily — and as it seemed so safely-
made when they were organized. Men can be named, now poor, who
were rich in the days when they were running these banks at full swing
and who impoverished themselves to redeem the bills when the bonds
deposited for their security became, through depreciation, insufficient for
the purpose.
Luckily — and Chicago has always had a good deal of this kind of
luck — the principal "Georgia banks " owned in Chicago were run by a
man who always paid dollar for dollar — George Smith. Therefore even G,°rdK'hfmitl1
the despised Georgia currency, so far as he controlled it, was also finally Banks!"
redeemed in full.
It is not to be understood that banks did not fail. They did, in num-
bers, and in their failure dragged down business men by the hundred;
* Absurd as it may seem, this system made it possible for a shrewd man of good character and credit, to start a
bank when he had only enough money to pay for engraving the bills! Thus: From a rich friend he borrows, say,
$10,000 worth of Missouri 6 per cent. State Bonds. These he deposits with the State Auditor and receives $10,000 worth
of legitimate bank bills. These he may use to square accounts with his rich friend ; or, slill better, he may, with his
$10,000 in bills, buy another like sum in bonds whereon to base another like issue in bills. And so on, he may turn his
fund over and over until he has say, $100,000 of bonds in the State's custody drawing interest, while he has outstanding
$100,000 in currency bearing no interest. (Of course when he chooses to stop buying bonds he pays his last $10,000 of
bills over to the friend who lent him the first bonds.)
248
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Chicago on the
Slavery Ques-
tion.
but in their failure the sufferers were their depositors, not the bill-hold-
ers. The system was like (though inferior to) the present " National
Bank" system ; in which banks may and do fail, yet the bonds (all
National bonds) placed in the U. S. Treasury by such banks, remain
there and are infallibly enough, and more than enough, to protect the
bank-notes issued by the bank and used by the public.
On the whole, the position in Chicago from 1857 to the breaking
out of the war in 1861 was " on the ragged edge." It was a time of
retrenchment, contraction, liquida-
tion. In the autumn of 1860, there
was $12,000,000 of Illinois cur-
rency afloat, secured* by $14,000,-
ooo of State bonds, of which $9,-
500,000 were of the Slave States !
Beside this mass, there was the
" Georgia currency," of unknown
volume ; and as to gold and silver,
scarcely enough to keep the com-
mon people in mind of what it
looked like ! Small change had
become so scarce that extraordi-
nary expedients were resorted to
to accommodate the people. The
State law prohibited the issuance
of bills for a less denomination
than $i, but it did not in terms
specify that all bills must be in
multiples of $i ; therefore bills
\vrrr issued for $1.25 and $1.50,
FIRST METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH. "Anything for change!" was the cry.
The financial disturbance came in company with a political crisis
which, compared to it, was as a cyclone to a zephyr.
Never, after Douglas' rebuff at North Market hall in 1854, was
there any doubt as to Chicago's position on the slavery question. The
" Free Kansas" movement had her indorsement and support. Captain
Andreas quotes at length from the "Tribune" of June 2, i856,an account of
a meeting, evidently composed of members of both the old parties, at
which men and money were pledged to oppose the " Border Ruffians:"
Illinois alive and awake! Ten thousand freemen in council! Two thousand Old Hunkers
[Democrats] on hand! Fifteen thousand dollars subscribed for Kansas!
The resolutions were as follows :
That the people of Illinois will aid in the freedom of Kansas. That they will send a colony
of five hundred actual settlers to Kansas and will provision them for one year. That these settlers
THE STUMP-TAIL CHIMERA 249
will invade no man's rights, but will maintain their own. . . . That an Executive Com-
mittee of seven, namely, J. C. Vaughan, Mark Skinner, George W. Dole, I. N. Arnold, N. B. Judd
and E. I. Tinkham be appointed with full powers to carry into effect these resolutions. That Tuthill
King, R. M. Hough, C. B. Waite, J. H. Dunham, Dr. Gibbs, J. T. Ryerson and W. H. tgan be a
finance committee to raise and distribute material aid.
************
About half-past twelve, Sunday having come, the meeting unwillingly adjourned and the crowd
reluctantly went home. At a later hour the Star-Spangled Banner and the Marseillaise, sung by
bands of men whose hearts were full of the spirit of those magnificent hymns, were the only evi-
dences of the event that we have endeavored to describe.
It is a bright and enlivening picture — that hilarious and shouting FreeKansf,
meeting of freedom-lovers, and the groups straggling homeward "5""
through the "wee sma' hours," singing the freedom-breathing songs in .
voices and volume which might reach almost from one end to the other
of the little city. Well for them that they did not see all the conse-
quences that were to flow from the movement so blithely undertaken!
In the next year occurred a most significant event — the election of
the "Old Hunker "-editor of the "Chicago Democrat," John Went-
worth, to the mayorality on the Republican ticket !
No fugitive slave was ever taken back to slavery from Chicago.
The efforts made in that direction were futile ; Chicago recognized some
riehts as inherent in a negro, and took care that the white man should
Injustice to
admit them, whether the constitution did or not. Most Chicagoans Judee Tan«y-
doubtless think to this day that Justice Taney said that a negro had no
rights which a white man was bound to respect ; whereas, wjiat he did
say was quite different — almost the opposite. He said (1857) that in
this day it was difficult to conceive of the state of public sentiment
regarding the negro, which prevailed for centuries before the constitu-
tion was adopted. He said : " They had been regarded as beings of an
inferior order and altogether unfit to associate with the white race,
either in social or political relations, and so far inferior that they had
no rights which the white man was bound to respect."
Events were crowding on thick and fast. In 1857 took place the
celebrated series of " Joint Debates" between Lincoln and Douglas, in
» ° Lincoln-DouK-
the effort to overthrow the Democratic majority in the Illinois Legisla- llsi:
ture, and elect Lincoln senator in place of Douglas. The debate did
not elect Lincoln to the senatorship, but it did more — it educated the
people to elect him to the Presidency, three years later. In 1858
occurred Join Brown's raid on Harper's Ferry, his death and burial ;
since which "his soul goes marching on," with a goodly host of fellow-
martys to the cause of freedom.
Douglas stuck to his party until its southern wing became involved
in the movement for disunion. He saw the peril the Union was in,
and tried to avert it by concession and compromise. (Perhaps if others
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Doujrlas1 strong
Unionism,
\
under
Mom. •
had had as clear vision as he to see the approaching reign of blood and
horror, they, too, would have taken the course which seemed to him the
safe one.) But from the firing of the memorable " first gun " on Fort
Sumter, the " Little Giant," true to his life-long devotion to the cause of
the union of the States, gave every thought of his heart, and every effort
of his great strength, to oppose those
who attacked it, although they were
men whom he had counted as friends.
Secessionist!!, whether Northern or
Southern, was always fought by Mr.
Douglas, from the beginning to the
end. No better statement of his last
public acts can be made than that
given by Capt. Andreas (2 Hist.
Chic. 305):
In 1858, speaking from his place on the floor
of the Senate, Douglas denounced in scathing terms
the Harper's Ferry insurrection, and charged the
Republican party with having abetted, if not insti-
gated it. This was his last public utterance of
sympathy with his old pro-slavery allies. When
the cloud of secession appeared on the political
horizon, Senator Douglas was one of (he first to see
and prepare to avert the coming storm.
From the moment when boomed the first gun which
consummated South Carolina's treason, to the hour
of his premature death, he gave to the Federal gov-
ernment all that he had of time, of strength, and of
devotion.
His support of the administration was hearty
and sincere, and Abraham Lincoln soon learned to
trust as a friend and counsellor the man whom he
had long since learned to respect as a foe. . . .
On May i, 1861, he returned from Washington to
Chicago. . . . All parties united in making his
return the occasion of an ovation. . . . A salute
of thirty-four guns was fired as he was escorted to the
old Wigwam, which had been rechristened National
Hall, where he addressed an audience of 10,000 on
the issues of the day. This was his last public ad-
dress. The malady from which he had long been
suffering, acute rheumatism, assumed a typhoid
type. On the morning of June 5, 1861, the spirit
of Stephen A. Douglas took its flight.
Judge Douglas lies under the monument erected to his memory, by
the State of Illinois, on the Lake shore at Cottage Grove (35th Street).
Clouds do not impede crops ; in fact, the alternation of storm and
sunshine is the condition of healthy, natural growth ; and this condition
surely has always prevailed in Chicago. Under the cloud she has
strengthened and under the sunshine she has blossomed. So during
DOUGLAS MONUMENT,
THE STUMP-TAIL CHIMERA.
the dark days that closed the fifties she went on laying stone on stone
and enterprise on enterprise. Street railroads began then. The city
council in 1856 granted to Roswell B. Mason and Charles B. Phillips
the right to lay tracks on State Street from Randolph south to the
southern city limits (then 22d Street) and on Dearborn and Franklin
Streets north from Kinzie to the northern city limits (then Fullerton
Avenue). The panic killed this grant, but in 1858 the council passed
. .. ,, T^II T^ II-T-. i Beginning of
another giving to Henry fuller, franklin Parmelee and Liberty Bigelow ^"lKai1'
the right to lay tracks on State Street and Cottage Grove Avenue, on
Archer Avenue and on Madison Street. Ground was broken November
i, 1858, in front of the Garret block, on State near Randolph Street,
Henry Fuller wielding the spade and William Bross the spike-maul.
Track was laid from Randolph to Madison Street, and two cars were
run back and forth (Andreas says) greatly to the amusement of the
public The line was opposed by property-owners but was opened to
1 2th Street on April 25th, 1859. It was a single track with turnouts,
the cars running every twelve minutes. Silver change was becoming
quite scarce, and the company found it necessary to resort to twelve-ride
punch-tickets, which it sold at fifty cents ; and before long these began
to be used as currency by the public, driven to its wits' end by lack of
small coin and forced to use postage-stamps, milk-tickets, bread-tickets,
and various other devices contrived by the mother of invention. Many
of these tickets were worn out, lost, burned, destroyed or laid away as
curiosities ; never presented for redemption.
In 1855 we bid good-bye to Fort Dearborn — new Fort Dearborn it
must be called, in deference to the structure burned by the fury of the
savages during or after their bloody deeds of August 15th, 1812. Now
the Illinois Central bought the historic ground and pulled down the
memorable buildings. The old blockhouse, so often drawn and painted,
lasted a year or two longer than the other fort buildings. The writer Disapj
remembers it with its picturesque over-hanging upper story, built in So™0'
that shape in order that it might be better defended from the torch of
the Indian. When he looked at it, where it stood, lonely and deserted
on the river bank, the thought struck him that it ought to be preserved
as a memento of departed perils and sufferings. The same thought
rose in the mind of others — even found expression in the newspapers—
but what is everybody's business is nobody's business. It was moved
somewhere, log by log, with the idea of preservation, but now no man
knows even the place or manner of its final disappearance from the
earth, any more than of the immortal old " Kinzie mansion," which had
antedated it eighty years, and endured to within twenty years of its end.
In 1856 a fine iron bridge (the first in the West) was built across
ice
of tort Dear
252
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
the river at Rush Street. Its cost was $48,000, of which the city paid
First irondraw-$J 8,000, and the Galena and the Illinois Central railroads $15,000 each.*
(The first bridge built entirely at the city's cost was that at Madison
Street, put up in 1857.)
December 2, 1858, the schooner "Charles Howard" was driven
hr.dge.
SECOND PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH.
ashore off Lake View. The crew was rescued in the yawl-boat of the
" Mohawk" manned by Captain Graw, N. K. Fairbank, Isaac Walker
and Captain Moore. (A story of the rescue is appended to this
chapter.)
The telegraph and express business was growing. We reproduce
statistics of railroads centering in Chicago as given in Bross's His-
* This bridge had a curious fate. In 1863 it was destroyed in consequence of being opened while a drove of cattle
was crossing. They took a stampede toward one of the unsupported ends and the whole structure toppled over, drown-
ing the cattle and sinking into irretrievable ruin at the bottom of the river.
THE STUMP-TAIL CHIMERA.
253
tory (p. 77) up to the close of 1857. (The change for the next three
years, clouded as they were by revulsion and disaster, was not marked.)
Mr. Bross does not give the final column (earnings per mile), but it is
made up from his figures and is at least nearly correct. The compari-Ra'iroad miles
. i . •! /• i and earnings
son with present earnings per mile of the same roads may be observed in l8"-
by those interested ; but should be noted with the fact that rates per
mile, both for passage and freight, have fallen more than one-half since
those days, so that twice as much service is now rendered for every
dollar paid.
WILLIAM BROSS'S TABLE FOR 1857.
Railroads, both Main and Branch.
Miles.
Chicago & Milwaukee 85
Kenosha & Rockford 1 1
Racine & Mississippi 86
Chicago, St. Paul & Fond du Lac 131
Milwaukee & Mississippi 130
Galena & Chicago Union 121
Fox River Valley 34
Wisconsin Central 8
Beloit Branch 20
Beloit & Madison 17
Mineral Point • 32
Dubuque & Pacific 29
Galena (Fulton) air line 136
Chicago, Iowa & Nebraska 36
Chicago, Burlington & Quincy 210
Burlington & Missouri 35
Quincy & Chicago 100
Hannibal & St. Joseph 65
Chicago & Rock Island 182
Mississippi & Missouri 88
Peoria & Bureau Valley 47
Peoria & Oquawka 143
Chicago, Alton & St. Louis 284
Illinois Central 704
Pittsburgh, Ft. Wayne & Chicago 383
Michigan Southern & Northern Ind 242
Cincinnati, Peru & Chicago 28
Michigan Central 282
New Albany & Salem 284
Gross
Earnings.
Earnings
per mile.
$794,34°
870,714
2,242,977
Totals 3,953 j$i8,s8o,7io
•2,275,955
1,977,257
998>309
2,293,965
1,652,728
2,186,125
3,288,340
$4,364
3,335
5, 1 80
5,55i
4,298
3,5'S
3,258
8,097
,703
The typical "grain of mustard seed" took root in 1850 when the
Chicago Board of Trade began its corporate existence. In the outset
it did not buy and sell and get gain; it merely collected $2 a year from
each member, appointed inspectors of fish, provisions and flour, commit-
tees on banking, etc., worked for public good in the matter of harbor
improvements, canal tolls, etc., passed resolutions concerning the free
navigation of the St. Lawrence, the Illinois Central Land Grant, and,
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Union Stock
Yards started.
in short, paid its respects to nearly every subject except the making
of money. (Its practice in this regard has not continued unchanged
to the present time, 1891.) Under these circumstances we are not
surprised to learn that at the annual meeting of 1851 the membership
was only 38, and the Board almost hopelessly in debt, owing $165.96.
Captain Andreas gives the following record of attendance: July 9,
Present, C. Walker. No transactions. July 10. — Present, C.Walker,
J. C. White, J. C. Walter. July 12.— Present, O. Lunt. July 13.—
Present, none. July 14. — Present, none. July 15. — Present, C.
Walker. July 16. — Present, none.
July 17. — Present, J. C. W'alter.
July 1 8. — Present, none.
New rooms were rented at the
corner of Clark and South Water
Streets ; and occupied for the first
time at the fourth annual meeting,
April, 1852.
In 1853 the meetings were held
in rooms at No. 8 Dearborn Street,
daily, at 10 A. M., and "regular at-
tendants" were provided with
crackers, cheese and ale. In 1854,
the Board took up the question
of grain measurement, which, up
to that time, had all been done by
the half-bushel measure! Through
its efforts all the grain-producing
States soon substituted weights for
measures, and thus made possible
the huge business now carried on.
Its next great public service was
ST. JAMES' CHURCH AND PARSONAGE. tne beginning, in 1857, of the an-
nual reports of the trade, commerce and manufactures of Chicago.
Captain Andreas well says:
Nearly all the modern means, methods and facilities for transacting business or carrying on
either local trade or foreign commerce had their inception in the Board, and were, in their perfec-
tion, evolved from its action. The inspection, warehousing and shipping of grain in well defined
and standard grades; the standards of inspection of flour, pork, beef, lard, butter, lumber, etc., were
all primarily established and ultimately perfected through its action. The rapid dissemination and
interchange of reliable commercial news and market quotations was evolved from the mutual neces-
sities of Boards of Trade in the business centres of the world. . . . The daily gather-
ing on the floor, the Babel of trade, where more business is done than in any like place in the world,
although the most conspicuous, is thus seen to be but one of the many phases of its work. In all
great crises the Board has come to be the true index of the patriotism, the benevolence and the
humanity of its members. Witness their acts of humanity when Chicago went up in flame and
THE STUMP-TAIL CHIMERA.
*55
smoke, and their never failing loyalty and patriotism in the dark and troublous times of the Rebel-
lion. The history of these years will in future volumes constitute the brightest pages in its annals.
The mayors from 1850 to 1860 inclusive were Curtiss, Gurnee,
Gurnee, Gray, Milliken, Boone, Dyer, Wentworth, Haines, Haines and
Wentworth. The population by years was as follows: 1850, 28,269 ;Pfiu!?sss in the
1851,34,437; 1852, 38,733; 1853, 60,652; 1854, 65,872; 1855, 80,028;
1856,84,113; 1857,93,000; 1858, 90,000; 1859, 95'°°°; 1860, 112,172.
In 1850 Chicago was an almost unknown wooden town in the
mud, in darkness, in comparative isolation, save for its lake and canal,
without water, without coal, without steam-tugs, without draw-bridges
except " floats," without suburbs, without a theatre though with many
churches, without elevators or stock
yards, almost without manufactures.
In 1860, Chicago was a thriv-
ing young city, raised up and
drained, connected by rail and wire
with the North, South, East and
West; having streets planked, cob-
ble-stoned or wooden-blocked, with
gas, water, coal, stone; with stages
and the beginning of street rail-
roads; with fine, high draw-bridges;
with many large factories; many
papers, daily and weekly; in short,
a place of great pretensions and
still greater hopes. The best resi-
dences were large, comfortable,
hospitable wooden houses, each
occupying, with barn, green-house,
out-houses, garden and shrubbery, the middle of an entire square, hav-
ing streets on its four sides.
The decade saw the end of the Taylor and Fillmore administration;
the, election where Franklin Pierce defeated the veteran Winfield
Scott; the consequent disintegration of the Whig party and the inaugii-Binhof the Re-
ration of the Republican— originally called the " Fusion Republican"- P*"*-
and the political battle between slavery and freedom wherein slavery,
under Buchanan, achieved a temporary triumph; and, all the while,
beneath the surface there was the unconscious embattling the hosts
that were to fight out the Secession question in the first half of the
next decennial period.
And so, amid doubt, dismay, determination and defiance, the after-
noon of the " fifties" comes to its sombre close.
GEN. HART I.. STEWART.
Friend of Stephen A. Douglas.
THR STORY OF CHICAGO.
Wreck of the
" Charles
Howard."
WRECK OF THE "CHARLES HOWARD."
NARRATIVE OP N. K. FAIRBANK.
On the night of December 2, 1856, I came into the Tremont House, where I lived, about nine
o'cloqk, and found a group of men quite excited over a message just received from Mr. Rees. of Lake
View, that a vessel had run ashore near the old Lake View House — that she had struck on the bar,
so far out that no assistance could be rendered by the people on shore. The sea was making a
clean break over her; her crew were in the rigging. It was a very cold night and a severe storm of
rain, sleet and snow was raging.
I started out at once with Mr. C. L. Bissell to see if we could not send a life-boat and crew to
their rescue. We first found Colonel Joseph Stockton, who put one of his large trucks, with a good
four-horse team and several men, at our disposal, and I think he went himself.
I then went around to several saloons on South Water Street where sailors congregate o'nights,
and telling the story of the peril of the crew as graphically as I could, called for volunteers to man
the life-boat. I soon had a good crew.
We first tried to get the government life-boat, which was stored on the pier of Clark Street
bridge, but found it unfit for use — no oars. etc.
I then went to a propeller lying at the dock,
roused the captain and told the story and asked
for his life-boat, which he willingly gave us.
(Don't remember the propellor or captain.) We
quickly loaded it on the truck and started them
off for the scene of the wreck.
Meantime I procured a good supply of
whisky, brandy, etc., and a quantity of clothing
and blankets to be used in resuscitating the men
if we should get them off, and followed the truck.
When we arrived at the scene we found a hun-
dred people gathered on the shore. They had
done all they could. We built a large fire, by
the light of which we could plainly see the vessel
and the crew in the rigging.
We were received with shouts, and the
crew could see by the light that a boat had arrived
and help was at hand, which they afterward said
encouraged them to hold on, although so be-
numbed with the cold that they were on the point
of giving up.
We had great difficulty in launching the
NATHANIEL KELLOGG FAIRBANK. boat> as there seemed ,o be no Qne among th(,
sailors I had hurriedly picked up who was a "captain." The boat was swamped several times, as
the water was shoal and the seas very heavy They would launch her on a big wave and before she
caught the next one she would strike the bottom and roll over. I finally called for volunteers and
took the command. I put twelve men on each side of the boat and we went into the surf and out
far enough and held her steady until they could catch a wave which we thought big enough to float
them on to the next as she rose to the top of that. I shouted " let go " to my men and "give way "
to the crew, and she caught the next wave without striking in the trough. This was only accomplished
after several attempts, so that we were all in the water up to our necks about half an hour; in fact
the final wave that floated her off lifted us off our feet and washed us ashore.
The boat carried out a line which I had brought out and with it reached the vessel. Making
the line fast to the wreck and a tree on the shore, we had a good rope ferry established and landed
them all safely filankets and brandy soon made us warm, and we returned to the city none the
worse for our adventure, though if that wreck had been on a prohibition coast, I doubt if any one
of the crew or participators in the rescue would have been left to tell the tale.
CHAPTER XXIV.
TO ARMS, YE BRAVE !
'HEN Greek meets Greek, then comes the
tug of war. When free men loyal to the
union of States are assailed by free men
loyal to the individual States, then it is a
fight to the death.
The story of Chicago during the mo-
mentous days of the Civil war is largely the
story of the whole country, but the limits
set for this especial narrative require that
only so much of the general course of
events be sketched as is indispensable to
the picturing of the city's doings, condition
and progress.
Chicago was the place, 1860 was the
time and the Republican convention the
circumstance which marked the opening of a new era in the national
career of the United States of America.
It is safe to say that if the selection of a place for the convention
had been left to New York, Chicago would not have been chosen. The
writer well remembers the mixture of surprise, amusement and incredu-
lity with which was received the whisper that Mr. Seward and the New
York delegation had brought along some hired professional bruisers to
see to their personal safety ! We peaceful, order-loving Chicagoans
could scarcely believe that anybody should have an idea that we were
so bad as to be dangerous to visitors, or, on the other hand, so weak as
to be unable to defend them from violence. But there they were — Mr.
Thomas Hyer (whom we recognized from his prize-ring pictures) and
other lights in the sporting world registered at the Richmond House on
the same page with Mr. William H. Seward and the other lights of
Eastern politics. To tell the truth, the confident expectation was enter-
tained at the East that Mr. Seward would be the nominee, and it was
equally expected that his nomination would lead to mob violence against
the Eastern man by the disappointed adherents of the Western favorite.
Lincoln had been a candidate for nomination to the Vice-presidency
with Fremont at the Philadelphia convention in 1856, receiving about a
third of the votes cast, Mr. Dayton getting the other two-thirds. In
1857 he wrote a letter saying that he and his friends were "setting no
257
Republican
Convention
of 1861.
Sewurd and the
New Yorkers.
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Lincoln on
his own
Candidacy.
stakes against Seward." In 1858 he made his carefully considered dec-
laration of opinion that the Union could not endure half free and half
slave. In the same year he said: " Nobody ever expected me to be
President. In my poor, lean, lank face nobody has ever seen that any
cabbages were sprouting." In 1859 he made his wonderful speech at the
Cooper Institute, New York; facing a magnificent audience of all the
best citizens, and having on the platform with him William Cullen
Bryant, Horace Greeley and a large number of others of the leaders of
thought in the country. Then the break in the Democratic ranks at
Charleston and Baltimore made the success of the Republicans probable,
and his friends grew more and more urgent in his behalf, he himself
being the most reluctant to take up the idea.
Mr. Seward seemed to have everything in his favor. He was an
WIGWAM.
Mischances.
experienced politician and statesman — a governor, senator, scholar and
gentleman. Ninety-nine in the hundred of the thinking men would
nd have said in their hearts (and been utterly wrong in saying it) that he
would make the best possible President. " Practical Politics " would say
that, though he might be the best President, he would not be the best
candidate, seeing that the enemies he had made would lose him the
"doubtful States," New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Indiana and Illinois.
The Lincoln headquarters were at the Tremont House, as the Seward
rallying point was at the Richmond (Michigan Avenue and South Water
Street). The Seward men had plenty of money, brass bands, flags,
torches and " organization. " The Lincoln men had David Davis and
the common people from all over the West to the number of 40,000.
Chicago was crammed to overflowing. On the night before the opening
of the convention Horace Greeley (who was not giving Seward a hearty
TO ARMS, YE BRAVE!
259
support) telegraphed his "Tribune" that Seward was sure to be nominated
because the opposition could not unite on either of the other candidates,
Lincoln, Dayton, Chase, Cameron
and Bates.
On the morning of May 16
1860, the convention met and be-
gan its labors ; George Ashmun of
Massachusetts being made chair-
man. May 1 8th was nomination-
day, and the Seward crowd indis-
creetly marched about the streets
in a noisy procession all through a
precious hour during which the
hall, except the part reserved for
delegates, was quietly occupied by
the Western men; so that when the
procession arrived but a small part
of it could find even standing
room. Senator Evarts nominated THK RFV- ROBERT
Mr. Seward, and the New York Delegates shouted, but the audience made
but slight demonstration. Then Norman B. Judd nominated Mr.
Lincoln, and his sympathizers made them-
selves heard in no uncertain tone. The
other possible candidates were named.
Indiana seconded Lincoln with increased
demonstrations from outside, and Michi-
gan seconded Seward, who also had an
ovation. A portion of the Ohio delega-
tion added its voice to the nomination of
Lincoln, which was the signal for a demon-
stration from the Westerners, which
dwarfed all previous experience. So says
a gentleman who was present: " It wasn't
a shout, it was worse than a shout. It was
an unbridled shriek such as I never heard
before nor since. It was almost unearthly.
It made the wigwam shiver. It made a
cold sweat come out on the brows of the
members of the New York delegation."
For a picture of the final scene nothing better can be said than the
words of an article in the Chicago "Tribune" of September 5, 1891 :*
* The Chicago Tribune of t86o must be credited with a piece of journalistic enterprise which was unprecedented
in those days. It reported the convention in full, proceedings, speeches, aspect and occurrences of ail kinds.
Scenes in the
Wigwam.
DR. MOSES Ol'NX.
260
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
The Balloting.
Union Mass
Meeting at
Bryan Hall.
The roll was called and the result of the first ballot was, Seward, 173^; Lincoln, 102. A second
roll call was ordered and the result was a gain of 179 for Lincoln. All the complimentar.es had
come to him. Seward had gained II . The result was, Seward, 184^; Lincoln, 181, scattering ()f)%.
Then the Lincoln crowd continued their hurrahs, yells and shrieks. No string of adjectives, no
matter how ably they might be arranged, could do justice to the scene.
On the third ballot Lincoln got .... 231 J^, Seward, 180. Total votes cast, 465; neces-
sary to a choice, 233. Lacking to nominate, ij£. A breathless moment actually came upon that
scene. The stillness was so effective that the flutter of fans by the ladies and the scratching of pen-
cils by the reporters could be heard distinctly. If New York could rally, the tide might yetbe
turned to Seward. Lincoln must win the next turn or he was liable to fall back and be lost. An
Ohio Delegate got up and announced a change of four votes from Chase to Lincoln. There was
another pause. The teller waved his tally sheet and announced a name. There was a cannon which
the Lincoln men had planted on the roof of the wigwam to be fired off when the nomination was
made. The cannonier got a tip and the explosion occurred. It shook that section of the earth, and
the great crowd in the streets yelled and shrieked and jostled .... The teller announced that
Lincoln had received 364 votes. Senator Evarts moved to make the nomination unanimous.
The momentous election of November, 1860, passed off quietly.
Illinois gave Lincoln over Douglas 11,646 majority; Cook County
giving4,743. (In 1856 Illinois had
given Buchanan over Fremont
9,098; Cook County 3,340 Fremont
over Buchanan.)
On Saturday evening, April 13, 1861, tele-
graphic dispatches announced the bombardment
of Fort Sumter. The following day was . . .
one of those beautiful, cloudless Spring days
that visit the West, and in the sweet April air
floated the old flag from every spire and bal-
cony, office and warehouse, mast and dwelling.
From early morning until late at night the usually
quietSunday streets were thronged with an eager,
indignant, troubled people, all intent on one sub-
ject ana swayed by one common feeling. Men
of all parties talked only of the indignity done the
flag of the country, and the necessity of preserv-
ing its honor as a priceless heritage
Dr. Patton, at the First Congregational Church,
told his congregation that the crisis had arrived
GKN. ]. B. LF.AKE. in which every Christian might rise from his
knees and shoulder his rifle, and that Sumter, if taken by the foe like Bunker Hill, so like Bunker
Hill it must be retaken. Robert Collyer, at the Second Unitarian; Mr. Corning, at the Plymouth
Congregational, and indeed the preachers at nearly every church in the city, spoke only of "war
and rumors of war." (2d Andreas, 160.)
On April i8th a mass-meeting was held in Bryan and Metropolitan
Halls. At the former a Union defence fund was started, to which
$9,000 was at once subscribed; $36,000 before the close of the next day.
The banks of Chicago offered the Governor $500,000 to be used in the
Union cause in advance of the assembling of the Legislature. A War
Finance Committee was appointed, which later was merged in the
" Union Defence Committee," composed of Judges John M. Wilson,
Grant Goodrich, Van H. Higgins, Thomas Drummond and George
Manierre, and Messrs. E. W. Willard, John M Douglas, Thomas
TO ARMS, YF. BRAVE!
261
Hoyne, Thomas B. Bryan, A. H. Burley, Edwin C. Larned, James. H.
Bowen, J. C. Dore, H. D. Colvin, John Van Arman, George Schneider,
Eliphalet Wood, Rosell M. Hough, P. L. Yoe and Charles G. Wicker
and Colonel Joseph H. 'Tucker.
Chicago, like all other cities, had had companies of "citizen soldiery"
from time to time, no two alike in arms, uniform, accoutrements or outfit.
Like other Northern cities she had given these self-sacrificing little
bands scanty support and encouragement. The adversity of the last
few years had worked against the militia-men, and they had been too
busy to give time, toil and attention to the thankless task, and too poor
to pay for arms, clothing, armory-rent and the many other things
required by such organizations as theirs. So, in fact. 1861 found this
city, containing i io,oooinhabitants,
possessed of not more than 150
armed, drilled and equipped militia-
men. The exigencies of the hour
now moved the public-spirited citi-
zens to fill up and improve these
skeleton companies so that, when
on April iqth Governor Yates
called on Gen. R. K. Swift to take
what men and arms he could mus-
ter and with them occupy Cairo,
he, in two days, started with 595
men and four six-pounders and
took temporary possession of the
important point — a point, by the
way, south of the latitude of Rich-
mond, Va. The companies A and GEN RICHARD s. TUTHH.L.
B Chicago Zouaves, commanded by James R. Hayden and John H.
Clybourn (it is pleasant to recognize this pioneer name again!); Chicago
Light Infantry, Captain Frederick Harding; Turner Union Cadets,
Captain Kowald ; Lincoln Rifles, Captain Mihalotzy ; Chicago Light
Artillery, Captain James Smith.
The President's call for 75,000 volunteers for three months quickly
followed, and six regiments were demanded from Illinois. Out of regard
for the six volunteer regiments (numbered one to six), which Illinois had
sent to the Mexican war, these new battalions were numbered seven to
twelve. Chicago at once recruited two companies, which were both
incorporated in the Twelfth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, under Colonel
(afterward Brigadier-General) John McArthur. The Twelfth was,
therefore, the first volunteer regiment embodying Chicago troops. The
in 1860.
262
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
izth and igth
Regiments.
33d ; Irish-
American.
Hecker Jaeger
Regiment.
companies were A, Captain Kellogg; and K, Captain James R. Hugunin;
General A. L. Chetlain and General A. C. Ducat were later connected
with this pioneer among the regiments.
The next regiment to be noticed is the Nineteenth, one of those
organized under the "Ten Regiments Bill." It, like the Twelfth, was
made up of companies from different parts of the State. It was largely
composed of bodies of militia which had been organized years before;
the Highland Guards (1855) and the Chicago Zouaves (1856),
which hastened to Cairo under General Swift as before-mentioned,
formed three of its companies. It was mustered into service "for three
years or during the war," on May
4, 1 86 1, under Colonel John B.
Turchin, an educated soldier and
engineer and an eminent comman-
der all through the war. The Chi-
cago Zouaves were the company
which, under the guidance and in-
spiration of Colonel Ellsworth,
became famous for drill and disci-
pline in 1859 and 1860, making a
tour of the United States and giv-
ing exhibition drills in Michigan,
Ohio, New York, Massachusetts,
Pennsylvania, Washington, Mis-
souri and Illinois, and being filed
and praised to the utmost. It is
said that, on their return to Chi-
cago, with all the decorations which
had been showered upon them,
they "looked like a Christmas tree."
The Nineteenth was a battle regiment. To follow it through its
trials and triumphs and its immense sacrifices, would be to write a
story of the war in the West. We are only writing the Story of Chi-
cago.
The Twenty-third was raised in response to a call to the Irish,
signed by James A. Mulligan and other patriotic Irish-Americans. It
was mustered in June I5th, 1861, under the colonelcy of James A. Mul-
ligan. The Twenty-third earned battle fame sooner than any other
Chicago regiment, through its heroic fight at Lexington, Missouri, Sep-
tember 18, 1861. General Mulligan was killed at Kernstown in 1864.
The Twenty-fourth was composed of German companies, and
originally called the " Hecker Jaeger regiment." Two of its companies
JOSEPH MEDILL.
TO ARMS, YE BRAVE!
263
UNION DEFENCE COMMITTEE OF CHICAGO, ORGANIZED IN 18CI.
364
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
34th ; German.
American .
37th; Fremont
Rifles.
39th; Yates
Phalanx.
had been the "Union Cadets" and the " Lincoln Rifles," which formed
part of the original Cairo expedition. The regiment was mustered in
on July 8, 1861. It was made of good men as its conduct showed later.
The Thirty-seventh was organized by Julius White, under the name
of the " Fremont Rifle Regiment." It was mustered in September 18,
1861. Mr. White was its first Colonel ; upon his promotion to brigadier-
general, Lieutenant-Colonel Barnes took command, and at the bloody
fight of Pea Ridge it was led by Major (afterward General) John Charles
Black, who was severely wounded.
The Thirty-ninth Regiment was called the Yates Phalanx. It
was mustered in in August, 1861;
Thomas O. Osborne being unani-
mously elected colonel, but resign-
ing in favor of Austin Light, who
had been a sergeant in the regular
army and had served in the Mexi-
can war. Lieutenant-Colonel Os-
borne and Major O. L. Mann in
succession came to command the
Thirty-ninth ; and under Colonel
Mann it had the distinction of tak-
ing by assault Fort Wagner.
The Forty-second was organ-
ized in Chicago and mustered into
service September 17, 1861, under
Colonel William A. Webb. Mur-
WILLIAM DE WOLF. * freesboro was its first severe battle-
experience, though it fought at Chickamauga, Mission Ridge, and at
4*d infantry, many other places where service was to be rendered and sacrifices
were to be made, ending with the terribly glorious day of Franklin,
Tennessee.
The Fifty-first was made up of home companies and called the
Chicago Legion. It was mustered in December 4, 1861, under the
colonelcy of Gilbert W. Cumming, who was later succeeded by Luther
P. Bradley. Its service was much like that of the Forty-second;
Murfreesboro, Stone River, Chickamauga, Mission Ridge, Peach-tree
Creek, Atlanta, and other names connected with bloody fighting.
The Fifty-seventh, called the " National Guards," was mustered in
December 26, 1861, under Colonel Silas D. Baldwin. It served at the
capture of Fort Donelson and the bloody battle of Shiloh.
* Son of William F. De Wolf, an old citizen of Chicago. The young soldier was wounded at Donelson. At
Williamsburg, May 4, 1862, he got a wound in the left thigh from a shell which killed his horse ; caught another horse and
kept his post, received a bullet in his right knee ; yet stuck to his battery all day ! He died of his wounds June 3
5ist; Chicago
Legion.
57th ; National
Guards.
TO ARMS, YE BRAVE!
265
The Fifty-eighth, called the "McClellan Brigade," was mustered in
January 25, 1862, under Colonel William F. Lynch. It fought at Donelson
(only a few weeks after it left Chicago), and again at Shiloh, where it
suffered heavily.
The Sixty-fifth, known as the "Scotch Regiment," was mustered
in on May 5, 1862, under Colonel Daniel Cameron. Its service was
severe and ended with the great battle of Franklin and the subsequent
pursuit of the enemy.
The Seventy-second was known as the " Board of Trade Regi-
ment," that institution taking the initiative and bearing the expenses of
the organization. It was (what most of the regiments were not) made
S8lh; McClellan
Brigade.
6sth: Scotch
Regiment.
72(1; Board of
Trade.
GEN. AUGUSTUS L. CHETLAIN.
GEN. ARTHUR C. DUCAT.
up almost entirely of Chicago officers and men. It was mustered in
on August 23, 1862, under Colonel F. A. Starring. It suffered terribly
in the fruitless and ill-advised assault on Vicksburg on May 22, 1863.
It was in the battle of Franklin, where its lieutenant-colonel, Joseph
Stockton, was severely wounded.
The Eighty-second was called "the Second Hecker Regiment,"
being, like the Twenty-fourth, largely German. It was mustered into
service October 23, 1862, under Colonel Frederick Hecker, who was
succeeded by Col. Edward S. Saloman. Its first heavy fights were in
the East, at Chancellorsville and Gettysburg; then it returned westward
and fought at Resaca and Peach Tree (where the men are said to have
fired more than 140 rounds apiece), and, after the march to the sea,
closed with the battle of Bentonville. As might be expected the losses
of this regiment stand almost unrivaled in the history of the war.
82d; Second
German-
American.
266
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
38th; second
Board of
goth; Irish
Legion.
The Eighty-eighth was the " Second Board of Trade Regiment." It
was mustered in on August 27, 1862, under Colonel Francis T. Sher-
man. Its baptism of fire was at Perryville, the first of many fights.
The Eighty-ninth was called the " Railroad Regiment," being
organized under the supervision of Robert Forsyth, of the Illinois Cen-
tral and W. D. Manchester, of the Michigan Southern. It was mus-
tered in September 4, 1862, under Lieutenant-Colonel Hotchkiss. Like
so many other Chicago regiments, the first battle of the Eighty-ninth
was Murfreesboro, and its last Nashville.
The Ninetieth was called the " Irish Legion." It was mustered in
September 22, 1862, under Colonel Timothy O'Meara, and on Novem-
ber 25th, fought its first battle, at
Mission Ridge. Its last was at Ben-
ton ville, March 21, 1865, and it
fought on many fields between.
The One Hundred and Thir-
teenth was the " Third Board of
Trade Regiment." It was mus-
tered in on October i, 1862, under
Colonel George B. Hoge. Its first
serious fight was the taking of Ar-
kansas Post in January, 1863.
The One Hundred and Twen-
ty-Seventh was mustered in on Sep-
tember 6, 1862, under Colonel John
Van Arman. It took part in the
terrible seige of Vicksburg in 1863,
and in all the subsequent struggles
of that force, including the March to the Sea and the actions of Fayette-
ville and Bentonville. It is claimed for it that it marched 3,000 miles
and was in 100 engagements.
The Fourth Cavalry had many Chicago men; among others
M. R. M. Wallace, later county judge of Cook county.
The Eighth Cavalry (Col. Farnsworth) was not a Chicago troop,
though Chicago furnished it at least one distinguished officer: Major
William H. Medill, brother of Joseph Medill, for many years a the
head of the Chicago "Tribune." The regiment won fame unsurpassed by
that of any cavalry regiment in the whole war, largely through the gal-
lant leadership of Major Medill, who gave his life to the cause ; being
killed in a bold effort to check Lee's retreat after Gettysburg.
The Ninth Cavalry was mustered into service November 30, 1861,
under Col. Albert G. Bracket. The Twelfth Cavalry was mustered in
GEN. JOHN C. BLACK.
TO ARMS, YE BRAVE!
267
h and i7th
Cavalry.
in February, 1862, under Colonel Arno Voss, succeeded by Lieut.-Col.
Hasbrouck Davis. The Thirteenth Cavalry was mustered in late in
1 86 1 under Col. Joseph W. Bell. The Sixteenth Cavalry was made up
of companies organized from time to time and mustered in in June, 1863,
under Col. Christian Thielemann. The Seventeenth Cavalry was mus-
tered in on January 22, 1864, under Col. John L. Beveridge, afterward
governor of Illinois.
The old Chicago Light Artillery was in existence as early as 1854.
On April 19, 1861, when men were called for to seize and hold Cairo, Anility,
the company was recruited up to its full strength in three hours after
the call was received, and the battery formed part of the expedition sent
down under General Swift. It later
formed Batteries "A" and " B " and
fought through the war, beginning
with Donelson and Shiloh. Battery
B, Light Artillery, known as
Bridges's battery, was formed of
Company G, Nineteenth Infantry.
After receiving its guns it served
through the heavy operations, be-
ginning at Chickamauga, and end-
ing with Franklin and Nashville.
Company I, First Artillery "Bou-
ton's Chicago Battery," was mus-
tered in on February 10, 1862, and
saw hard service at Shiloh. Battery
L, Second Artillery, "Bolton's Bat-
tery," was mustered in on February
28, 1 862, and, among other services, took part in the Siege of Vicksburg.
Battery M, Second Light Artillery, " Phillip's Battery," was mustered in
June 6, 1682. The Chicago Board of Trade Battery was mustered in on
August i, 1862. It had the inestimable advantage of the captaincy of James
H. Stokes, of the regular army, who had been instructor of artillery at
West Point. Its services were in accordance with its name and leader-
ship. The Chicago Mercantile Battery was mustered in on August 29,
1862, and served through the war.
It need not be said that a large proportion of the troops in these
regiments, squadrons and batteries came from parts of the State outside
of Chicago. It is also true that many Chicago men joined other regi-
ments than those here named.
ChicaofO commissioned officers who were killed in action or died of
o
wounds are given by Captain Andreas (2 Hist. Chi. p. 288-299) as
GENERAL I.YMAN KRIUCKS.
Stokes' Board
of Trade
Batter y.
268
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Dealh-Koll
of Honor.
Typical Memoir
of one
Chicago
Officer.
follows: Joseph R. Scott, James A. Mulligan, James Nugent, Thomas
Cliff, Geza Mihalotzy, Nathan E. Davis, Charles J. Wilder, George W.
Roberts, David Stuart, Edward H. Brown, Julius Lettman, George C.
Smith, Alfred O. Johnson, Henry
W. Hall, John S. Keith, Thomas
T. Lester, George L. Bellows, Otis
Moody, Henry A. Buck, Robert
D. Adams, Theodore M. Doggett,
Joseph C.Wright, Henry C.Mowry,
Richard Pomeroy, Edwin C. Prior,
Frederick Bechstein, George W.
Chandler, Charles H. Lane, Thos.
F. W. Gullen, Henry W. Bingham,
Duncan J. Hall, William H. Rice,
Henry L. Rowell, John W. Spink,
Herbert M. Blake, James J. Con-
way, John A. Bross, Henry A.
Rodgers, George Throop, Joseph
W. Barr, William H. Medill,
Frederick Schaumbeck, William COL- ALBERT ERSKINE, 13™ CAVALRY.
De Wolf, John H. Kinzie (Jr.) Lucius S. Larrabee and Richard Skin-
ner. (The last four names are inscribed on the tablet erected in the
vestibule of St. James' church in memory of its parishioners who were
soldiers in the Union War.)*
To lighten these cold-blooded details with
the touch of nature that "makes the whole world
kin," read a bit of biography typical of our best
volunteer officers. Major William H. Medill
entered (at 26) Barker's Dragoons, the first troop
formed in Chicago, signing the roll two days
after the fall of Sumter. This squadron took
part in McClellan's short, brilliant campaign in
West Virginia. At the affair near Beverley the
Dragoons fought on foot with their carbines.
Private Medill (always among the foremost)
advancing through the woods, saw a rebel lieu-
tenant aiming at him from behind a tree.
Taking a tree of his own, he waited till the rebel
had fired and missed ; then, rushing forward
before the other could re-load, he called to him,
in the stormy language natural to the occasion,
to surrender or he would let daylight through
him. In short order there was a rebel prisoner
marching to the rear, and now (1891) his straight,
rapier-like sword hangs in Joseph Medill's hall,
, ,,,r.,,, crossed with that of the captor's sword and with
V\ I I , [ . I A M rl. Mr.llll.i,.
another taken later in somewhat similiar fashion.
It was at Ashby'sGap in 1863. Medill, now Major of the Eighth Illinois Cavalry, was attacking
* This list is necessarily extremely imperfect. It is hopeJ that its publication in this shape will lead to the
receipt of facts to make it more nearly « true and complete Roll of Honor.
RICHARD SKINNER.*
* Omitted in first edition, to appear in its place in subsequent editions.
TO ARMS, YE BRAVE!
269
Stewart's Cavalry guarding the Gap. A little sergeant of the Eighth, somewhat separated from the
command, was marked for capture by the Colonel of the Eleventh Virginia Cavalry. Major Mcdill put
spurs to his "big bay " and dashed straight for the would-be captor who, giving up the lesser prize
for the greater, turned toward Medill, with sword upraised,
shouting, "surrender!" Still they drew near together,
and then the rebel saw the unionist's revolver with its six
bullets staring him in the face. He seemed to grasp the
situation and realize the shoitness of range of his sword
compared with that of the revolver; for he suddenly
shouted "Don't shoot, I surrender !"
The troopers who noticed the incident said : " That
makes the Major colonel of the Eighth." And so it would,
but that lie was marked for higher promotion — martyrdom.
In bidding his last good-bye to Chicago he said : " You'll
see me next with brigadier's stars, or in my coffin." It
was the coffin.
After Lee's defeat at Gettysburg, the Eighth and
Twelfth were hurried forward to harass his retreat to the
Potomac, taking over 2,000 prisoners and 800 army
wagons. They came to where the enemy were building a
bridge at Williamsport, and attacked the unknown force
without hesitation. Half the Eighth was dismounted,
fighting as skirmishers. Major Medill took a carbine and
fought with the rest. He was aiming it at the rebels when
a ball struck him in the lower part of the breast, penetrat-
ing bone and lung. He lived for ten days, during which
his brother Joseph arrived only to bid him good-bye. The
bad news was brought to him that Lee had got away. " I
wish I had not heard it ! " he cried. " I am going to die
without knowing that my country is saved." He was
greatly consoled, however, by the news of the capture of Vicksburg and Port Hudson. " Ah !" said
he, ''blood will tell. It takes the Western boys to handle the rebels." He asked that his body
might be embalmed, dressed in full uniform', and
buried from Chicago in Graceland cemetery,
because it was controlled by the patriot Thomas
B. Bryan, and that the funeral be conducted by
the patriot Robert Collyer — and so he died, f
soldier, a gentleman, a lover of his country.
In September, 1861, Camp
Douglas was established to serve as
a rendezvous for Illinois volunteers.
It was an irregular block belonging
to the Douglas estate, bounded by
3ist and 33d streets, and Cottage camp
Grove and Forest avenues. It was
in the open prairie far below the
southern boundary of the built-up
district. Colonel Joseph H. Tucker
was its constructor and first com-
mandant. Its design was changed
GEN. JAMES H. STOKES. after the taking of F"ort Donelson
(February, 1862), when some 8,000 or 9,000 prisoners from that victory
and the one at Island No. 10 were sent up. Much suffering ensued
JAMKS H. STOKES,
Captain of Battery.
270
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Prisoners' Atd
and Relief.
among the prisoners, and a public meeting was held at Bryan Hall,
where a relief committee was appointed and liberal contributions
received from public subscriptions and collections in the churches.
The philanthropic and patriotic Thomas B. Bryan was treasurer of the
fund. After this there was never any scarcity ot good and sufficient
food, but the unfamiliar climate and poor sanitary arrangements caused
pneumonia and camp fever ; and the deaths averaged six a day. The
dead were buried at the old cemetery on the lake shore, about six miles
south of the camp. In 1864 small-pox and other diseases attacked the
prisoners and 1156 died, out of the 12,000 confined — a record that shows
how Camp Douglas compared with Andersonville — as Paradise might
compare with sheol. The expenses
of the camp, not including pay of
the garrison, was $8,540 a day.
"The Camp Douglas Conspir-
acy " as recorded by William Bross
and the official report of General
B. J. Sweet, then commandant of
the camp, was a serious and danger-
ous plot set on foot, in 1864, by
Jacob Thompson (a member of
Buchanan's cabinet), to liberate the
prisoners of war and form a union
between them and Southern sym-
pathizers in the North, to aid the
secession cause by a Northern in-
surrection. The developments
were sufficiently grave to induce a
strong re-inforcement of the camp guard with infantry and artillery. No
overt act was attempted, though a large deposit of arms and ammunition
was found. Some Chicago men, and more Southerners, were arrested
and tried. Five were found guilty and served terms of imprisonment.
CcT,spira?y!s One, the venerable Buckner S. Morris, was acquitted of guilty knowl-
edge of the contemplated crimes, both by the court and by deliberate
public opinion. The war closed and most of the punishments were
remitted.
Time and space would fail to give even a sketch of the patriotic
self-devotion of the citizens of Chicago to the cause of the Union and
of humanity. Scarcely did the need arise for help to soldiers on their
way to or from the front, before the means were provided to meet that
need. There was a great meeting for the purpose as early as April 18,
1 86 1. The Young Men's Christian Association took the lead in organ-
THOMAS B. BRYAN.
TO ARMS, YE JiRAVE !
271
anitary
Commission.
ized effort, and with it was afterward combined the Chicago branch of
the Sanitary Commission, whereof the great and good Henry W. Bel-s
lows, of New York, was the head. Thomas B. Bryan — as usual — was the
most liberal among the liberal, the most devoted among the devoted,
the chief among the leaders in every movement of philanthropic
patriotism.
With him in the work were Mrs. George Gibbs, Mrs. O. E.
Hosmer, Mrs. Joseph Medill, Mrs. D. P. Livermore, Mrs. A. H. Hoge,
Mrs. Smith Tinkham, and a host of less well-known women. As the
demand grew, the supply came forward to match it ; the hosts of
wounded from Chickamauga and
Mission Ridge were no less well
cared for than the few early maimed
and helpless whose arrival first
brought home to swelling hearts
and tearful eyes the dread reality
of war. In July, 1863, the first
great Sanitary Commission Fair
was held, and netted $86,000. The
second was held in Dearborn Park
in March, 1864, and yielded $240,-
813 ! The published report of the
Sanitary Commission contains the
following summary of its work :
" In the four years of its existence
the Northwestern Commission dis-
bursed 77,666 packages from its
storehouse and $405,792.66 from its treasury." And even these large
figures are but a part of the universal outpouring of love and gratitude
to those who went forth to fight from those who stayed at home. Then
at least the men in the rear felt as if they could not do enough to put
themselves on an equality with the men at the front.
It was then as happy a task to give time and money for public
good as it is in these changed and later days to use them for private olddavs-
and personal ends.
* Another son of William F. De Wolf. He served in the «34th Regiment until the end of the war; and is now
1(1891) treasurer of the Illinois Central Rail Road.
HENRY DF. WOLF.
.ratl-
those
CHAPTER XXV.
Loss of the
Lady Elgin.
THF SIXTIES AT HOME.
AR did not invent death, nor can even blessed
peace prevent it. On Friday, November 7,
1860, the " Lady Elgin" (Captain John Wil-
son), one of the largest and finest of lake
steamers, left her dock at Chicago for a voyage
to Milwaukee, it being the return trip of an
excursion which she had brought from Milwau-
kee the day before. There were 393 persons
on board. In the night the steamer was run
into by the schooner " Augusta," lumber-laden,
bound south. The following is condensed
from the excellent account, given in much
detail, by Captain Andreas (2 Hist. Chic. 75) :
At two o'clock in the morning the vessel was off Waukegan, about ten miles from shore,
and the passengers were at the height of their merriment. . . . After the crash of the collision,
the music and dancing ceased of course ; but, though the lamps were extinguished by the shock, no
cry nor shriek was heard. The women stood in the cabins — pale, motionless, and silent. No
sound was heard except the escaping steam and the surging of the waves. As the vessel settled,
the passengers mounted to the hurricane deck. . . . Within half an hour after the collision,
the engine fell through the bottom of the vessel, and the hull went down immediately after, leav-
ing the hurricane deck with its vast, living freight, floating like a raft. . . . And now, drifting
before the wind, and tossed by the waves, the deck began to break up, and finally separated into
five pieces, to each of which, half-submerged, many of the passengers desperately clung ; but many,
as their strength gave out sank amid the tossing waves. One portion of the deck, on which the
captain was, held twenty-live persons. He was the only one who stirred from the recumbent position
necessary to keep a secure hold on the precarious support. . . . Day broke upon them, and found
them drifting southward, nearly off Winnetka. . . . Relief parties hurried to the scene from
Evanston, Winnetka, and along the shore. . . . The saving of John Eviston and wife created
great excitement. The gallant fellow was seen some distance out, on the wheel-house, on which he
firmly held his wife. As they neared the shore, the surf capsized the raft, and for several seconds
both were submerged. When they rose again to view, the wife was at some distance from the wheel-
house, to which Mr. Eviston was still holding. Seeing his wife, he swam out to her, and succeeded
in regaining the wheel-house with her. . . . At last the wheel-house grounded. Taking his wife
in his arms, he attempted to wade to the land, but sank exhausted. At this moment he was caught
by the brave Edward W. Spencer, and they were brought safely to shore.
It was past noon on Saturday before the last rescued passenger
was brought ashore. From the raft on which the captain was, not
more than seven or eight persons were saved ; the brave captain not
among them. As the raft neared the shore, it, too, capsized, and but
a few of the chilled and exhausted waifs who had clung to it up to
that moment, regained their hold. Captain Wilson managed to drag
272
THE SIXTIES AT HOME. 273
back to it one of the women washed off ; but a great sea swept them
off again, and both drowned, only a few rods from shore.
The lost numbered two hundred and ninety-seven, the great-
est single fatality Chicago or Milwaukee ever suffered, and a larger
death-roll than befell the soldiers of both cities in any one battle.
Years after the disaster there drifted ashore, in front of General
Simpson's place at Winnetka, a great piece of wreckage, part of the
keel, planking, and ribs of a side -wheel steamer, easily recogniz-
able as a relic of the " Lady Elgin." The pitiful skeleton lies there
yet (1891), and a picture of it in its present desolation is here-
with presented.
The bones of
the ship now
visible.
WRECKAGE OF THE "LADY ELGIN."
The next serious calamity was the foundering, in Lake Superior,
of the Chicago steamer " Sunbeam," in August, 1863, when, of a human
freight of twenty-six, only one was saved.
Another terrible disaster was the burning of the Goodrich steamer,
" Sea- Bird," off Lake Forest, in April, 1868, when sixty-seven of the
passengers and crew were drowned.
It has of late years been thought that for lake navigation, where
short, high waves are to be expected, the paddle-wheel steamer, with
its wide, weak " overhang," is not as well adapted as is the propeller,
with its smooth sides which give the waves no " hold."
There was no pause in the growth of Chicago before, during
Other Wrecks.
274
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Population
not checked
by War.
Lake Tunnel
Crib.
or after the war. If asked to tell, from the census, when the "drain
of men for soldiers " occurred, one would be completely at a loss. The
population stood as follows: 1860, 112,172; 1861, 120,000; 1862, 138,-
835; 1^63, 160,000; 1864, 169,353; l865- 178,900; 1866, 200,418;
1867, 220,000; 1868, 252,054; 1869, 273,043; 1870, 298,977. All
the works of peace went on in ever accelerating ratio. The Board of
Public Works was created in 1861 (Benjamin Carpenter, J. G. Gindele,
and F. Letz ; later, J. G. Gindele, F. Letz and O. J. Rose, together
with the mayor, F. C. Sherman) ; and its great work was the construc-
THE CITY WATER-WORKS, 1891.
tion of an inlet crib in the lake, two miles from shore, and a tunnel
to connect it with the water-works at the foot of Chicago avenue.
The shaft was sunk to the required depth (seventy feet), and the
drift begun May 26, 1864, after which it burrowed out in the hard,
blue clay at the rate of some ten feet a day. Ellis S. Chesbrough was
city engineer, one of the most trustworthy servants Chicago has ever
had. William H. Clarke was the engineer in charge, a most efficient
officer, who had under him a most efficient corps of helpers. The
lake crib was five-sided, each side of the outer shell 58 feet long, and
each side of the inner shell 22 feet long, which left a space 25 feet
THE SIXTIES AT HOME.
It was 40 feet high. The huge
E. S. CHESBROfGH.
wide between inner and outer shells.
structure was built on the south
side of the north pier, and was
launched on slanting ways, like a
great five-sided ship, July 25, 1865,
gliding gracefully into the river
without delay or accident. It was
towed at once to its destined place
over the proposed eastern end of
the tunnel, and the work begun
of filling with stone the space
between the two shells. A three-
days' storm came on before the
filling had gone far, and moved the
structure thirteen feet (against the
wind), and threw it out of the per-
pendicular. These imperfections
are still perceptible ; but from the
time the filling was complete no change or deflection in its position
has occurred up to this day (1891),
a period of twenty-seven years.
Mr. Cregier's report says :
A tremor is frequently felt during severe
storms, and when large fields of ice are passing.
The rubbing of field ice against the crib is
occasionally accompanied by a fearful noise. iakcDjfficul-
At such times the crib appears, to a spectator on
it, to be an immense plough moving through the
ice. On several occasions the broken masses
lodged on the south side of the crib, forming
banks several hundred feet long, and reaching
from the bottom of the lake to ten or fifteen feet
above the surface. . . . The work of tunnel-
ling was carried on from this end about as
rapidly as it was from the land shaft
When the work from the land shaft was within
one hundred feet, it was thought necessary to
stop the masonry there, and run a small timber
drift through to be certain as to how the lines
were going to meet. The two faces were brought
together November 30, 1866, when it was found
that the masonry at the east face was only about
seven and one-half inches out of the line from
the west end. This result, considering the diffi-
culty of getting a clear atmosphere in the tunnel,
was considered very good, and much better than
was generally expected. . . . Water was first
let into it on March 8, 1867. ... On the 24th,
about 4 r. M., the mouth of the old inlet was cut
ties overcome
WILLIAM H. CLARKE.
off from the lake.
The actual cost, up to April I, 1857, was $457,844.95.
The usual
276
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Beginning of
Lincoln Park
Sectional
Jealousies.
prices paid during the work were : Common labor, $2 ; masons, $5, and engine-men, $3 per day ;
for brick, $14 per thousand, and cement, $2.75 per cask of 300 pounds.
Once more the struggling citizens had leaped forward out of the
way of the advancing city ; but this was only for a time, as we shall
see hereafter.
The splendid park system of Chicago, constituting (with its con-
necting boulevards), one of the most extended in the world, took its rise
in the construction of Lincoln Park, and this in its turn was the off-
spring of the cemetery established in 1835, north of and adjoining what
is now North Avenue. In all, this burial-place included sixty acres of
what was once sand-hill and pine forest but became, by the care of lot-
owners, a fine and well-ordered graveyard. The city also owned sixty
acres north of and adjoining the burial-place. In 1860 the council passed
an ordinance forbidding the sale of lots and the interment of dead in
the last-named tract, and in 1864
another ordinance setting apart the
same for a public park, " to be
named Lake Park. " The latter
ordinance also forbade the sale of
more lots in the first plot, and the
interment of bodies on the part not
sold— the " potter's field. " *
Mr. Lawrence Proudfoot was
elected, in 1865, alderman of the
ward inclosing the 120 acres, and
to him belongs more credit than
to any other one man for the initial
steps that led to the dedication of
the Park which is now the pride of
the city ; the resort of uncounted
thousands who love the lake shore
and the lake breezes ; and the show-place for strangers whom it is desir-
able to impress with the beauty of Chicago's eastern water horizon.
It is the one place where innumerable inland dwellers can stand among
trees and look out to where sky and water meet.
The South and West Sides were jealous of so large a gift to the
North Side, and it was only the fact that they were more jealous of each
other than of the smaller North, and that the latter held the balance of
power between them, which made success possible. One thingwas evident;
* Numberless bodies, unclaimed and therefore unremoved, still repose where they were laid, quite undisturbed by
the footsteps of thousands of pleasure-seekers passing over them. One noticeable instance of this is the case of David
Kennison who was buried there in 1852. He was 114 years old and was the last survivor of the *' Boston Teaparty " of
1774. More than this; he was a soldier in old Fort Dearborn, and his name appears on the muster-roll of the Fort in 1810.
He was a pensioner and eked out his living by service in museum. George Fergus, of the Fergus Printing Co.,
is able to point out the spot where the old man lies, and would be glad to do so to any one who will provide a stone to
mark his grave.
LAWRENCE PROUDFOOT.
THE SIXTIES AT HOME.
277
the city having grown out around the cemetery, the latter must be
removed. This was first accomplished through the efforts of a committee
whereof Mr. Proudfoot was chairman; and the further disposition of the
land was next taken up. In season and out of season he urged the
importance of parks to a city's well-being, and the folly of falling into
the usual error of waiting before establishing them until land grew too Rt™e°c^ietery.
dear to be bought. The city was short of money, and a resolution was
offered directing that the vacated ground be subdivided and sold for the
benefit of the city. Proudfoot proposed as a substitute a resolution that
the property be dedicated as a public park. The latter policy prevailed.
In the meantime William C. Goudy was pressing upon the State
legislature a bill creating a " North Park Commission," to effect the
procuring of not more than a square mile of land for park purposes, and
THE LINCOLN STATUE.
the joining the same with the cemetery tracts already described. The
bill passed February 16, 1865, and Lincoln Park was safe. From such
small beginnings and by such great efforts and narrow margins was the
great Chicago Park System instituted.
In 1865 "Goose Island," a small triangle of dry land at the north
side of the junction of the North and South branches, was dredged away
and the fine large basin opened there which is so important an adjunct of
the river-harbor. A sand-bar had begun to form at the outer end of
the North Pier, so an extension of it was necessary. Congress made
the required appropriation, there was no Polk to veto it, and the work
was begun; to be finished in 1866.
One of the greatest " institutions" of Chicago — the greatest in
profits earned — dates from 1864; it is the "Union Stock Yards." At that
time the unparalleled growth of the trade in live-stock and its products
Enlargement
of the River
Forks.
TI-fR STORY OF CHICAGO.
>
X
c
THE SIXTIES AT HOME. 379
had made it evident that some plan must be evolved for bringing
together buyers, sellers, manufacturers and carriers. To quote Elias
Colbert ("Chicago," p. 60):
Very frequently it was the case that the market for cattle or hogs was quite active at one yard,
while at the others it was fearfully dull. Sometimes the receipts at one yard would almost equal the
combined receipts of all the others. . . The commercial reporters from the various papers had great
difficulty in making up an accurate summary of the daily market, from the conflicting reports of the
buyers and sellers at the various yards. The packers, particularly, found the system disadvantageous.
Finally the railroad managers saw the inutility of the old system. The expense of switching and
the wear and tear of rolling stock over the narrow and tortuous curves were eating a large hole in '"'h^Unjon
their profits. The trade had reached a magnitude never anticipated, and the then Eastern railroads Stock Yards,
found that they had as much to do in transporting stock as could be attended to.
The issuing of the prospectus was followed by an almost immediate subscription of the stock of
$1,000,000, of which $925,000 was subscribed by nine railroad companies Opened for business
December 25, 1865; area of ground, 345 acres; in pens, 100; acres for hotel and other buildings, 45;
present capacity, 21,000 head of cattle, 75,000 hogs, 22,000 sheep, 200 horses; total 118,200. There
are in the yards 31 miles of drainage, 7 miles- of streets and alleys, 3 miles of water-troughs, 10
miles of feed-troughs, 2,300 gates, 1,500 open pens and 800 covered pens. 22,000,000 feet of lumber
were used in construction, at a total cost of $1,675,000. The water is supplied by an artesian well about
1,100 feet deep.
Professor Colbert's statement of dimensions, capacities, etc., should
be doubled — many of them more than once — to fit the stock yards of
1891. It has been generally supposed that the grain trade was the
leading business in Chicago, but this is a mistake: Grain is enormous,
lumber is far larger than grain, and the stock yards larger than grain
and lumber together. Again: Manufactures far overshadow everything
else.
In 1865 the clearing house was established. James D. Sturges (later
National Bank Examiner) was its prime mover. It is a daily "bankers'
fair," where the claims of each bank against every other are adjusted and
the balances or "differences" only are required to be settled in money.
Before the invention of this labor-saving contrivance (in London, about
the beginning of this century) each bank had to send its claims on every
other bank to such other bank and get the money for them. The First,
having taken from its depositors and correspondents a thousand checks
and drafts on the Second, the Third, the Fourth and so on, had to sort
out these checks and drafts and hurry them around to the banks they
were respectively drawn on; while each of the other banks was doing the
same. The day was hardly long enough for the messengers racing about or the clearing
" House.
and passing each other on the streets. Under the clearing house system,
all their mutual claims are sent to a convenient upper chamber where they
are, by a simple arrangement of desks in a line, matched against each other.
The messenger goes there with his checks and drafts done up in neat
little bundles, one for each of the other banks, and he comes back with
another lot of neat little bundles, being the checks and drafts on his
bank sent in by the others ; also a memorandum of the cash balance
which his bank has to pay (or to receive, as the case may be) to "clear."
2SO
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
The River
again foul.
Within an hour the debit balances are all paid in cash to the clearing
house manager and he pays to each bank which chances to be "at
credit" the amount of its claim. Quietly, leisurely, orderly, between n
A. M. and i P. M. six days in the week, the whole business is done, the
liquidation (1891) of $15,000,000 to $18,000,000 of indebtedness.
Again Nemesis, in the shape of intolerable foulness of the river,
vvas fast overtaking the hard-worked city; and again was a desperate
effort called for to remedy the evil. This time the plan was to change
LA SALLE STREET TUNNEL.
the "shallow cut" canal into the deep channel originally planned. The
upper level is twenty-six miles long, and, though part of it had already
been cut deep, yet by far the larger part must now be deepened at
enormous expense ; the desideratum being a continuous movement of
The Remedy, water at the rate of 24,000 cubic feet per minute. (The minimum in
the drainage scheme of 1891 is 600,000 cubic feet per minute.) The
work was pushed vigorously — only in winter however, the use of the
canal being uninterrupted — and finally completed at a cost of $2,982,437.
It was on Saturday, July 18, 1871, that the final blow was struck;
THE SIXTIES AT HOME. 281
a temporary dam across the canal at Bridgeport was cut away, and,
as Mr. Cregier says : " Quite a strong current was at once created in
the canal, and an entire change in the water in the main river and the
South Branch was effected in about thirty-six hours. Tlrun*e0u.
Other noteworthy permanent public improvements were going on
at the same time. The tunnel at Washington Street was begun in
1866, and finished in 1869, at a cost of $517,000. The tunnel at La
Salle Street was built in 1871, and, having the advantage of previous
experience, only cost $566,276, though possessing an intrinsic value
certainly fifty per cent, greater than its forerunner.
Exactly how did Chicago and the West emerge from gloom of
many kinds to brightness of many kinds ? Strangely enough, it was
through the dark iron gate of war. Thousands died that millions
might live. Incalculable waste occurred that infinite prosperity might
follow. The flowers of happiness took root in a soil enriched by
countless nameless and forgotten graves.
The central government took hold of the affairs, not only of the
nation, but of the people ; and each loyal State (though not every citizen)
upheld the Federal Union in its strong-handed grasp of the situation,
leaving to some future day the re-establishment of the old " compro-
mises of the constitution." As war measures, legal-tender currency
was issued. National banks were organized, income and stamp- FederalAffairs-
taxes were levied and collected, the draft was enacted and enforced
by the Federal arm. Martial law was declared, and the writ of habeas
corpus suspended. No wonder that most Europeans thought our
boasted republican liberty to be gone forever.* Nor is it any won-
der that when the war was fought and won, and the volunteers hur-
ried back to their farms, their factories, their shops and their homes
as eagerly as prisoners freed from a dungeon, then the cause of free
government grew suddenly stronger the world over.
The withdrawal of workers from all fields of labor was slow to
make itself felt. The first change in daily life that affected every
body was the issue of the " greenback currency," the promissory
notes of the Federal government, made legal tender in all amounts
for all purposes except duties on imports. These bills were a posi- Greenbacks.
tive and welcome relief from the horrors of "stumptail," and the
" fractional currency," little halves, quarters, dimes, and half-dimes,
•William H. Russell, war correspondent of the London Times, said to a young volunteer officer: "It is all
very well to get a million men together and arm them ; but how will you ever get rid of them ? All history shows
teat a great army, when once it feels its power, is slow to give it up again. Suppose you whip the rebels — as I
think you will — then what?" "Pay off the volunteers and let them go home." "But suppose they won't go." "O
just give them the chance ! They'll go so quick it will make your head swim." " Suppose your own General
[McClellan] were to call on his army to follow him to Washington and seize the government." " He'd never think
of such a thing. He'd die sooner. And if he were to try it, his whole army would leave him — I among the first."
*' Aha ! That sounds well ; but you'll see. You'll see."
282
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
i. Maj. Gen. John M. Scho-
lield, U. S. A.
5. Brig. Gen. Francis T.
Sherman, U. S. A.
9. Col. Henry M. Kidder,
U. S. V.
13. Capt. Richard Robins,
U. S. A.
17. Col. Stephen V. Ship-
roan, U. S. V.
•:. Mai. Gen. George Crook
U.S.A.
fi. Capt. James A. Sexton,
U. S. V.
10. Maj. William L. B. Jen-
ney, U. S. V.
14. Capt. Ephraim Otis,
U. S. V.
18. Capt Edward A. Blud-
gett, U. S. V
-.. Gen. Philip H. Sheridan,
U. S. A.
?. Lieut. Richard Water-
man. U.S.V.
11. Col. ArbaN. Waterman,
U. S. V.
is. Capt. Eli Hugeins,
U. S. A.
19. Paymaster Horatio L.
Wait, U. S. N.
4. Bvt. Maj. Gen. Rufus Ir.-
galls, U. S. A.
6. Lieut. Col. Robert W.
dowry, U. S. V.
12. Surgeon Edmund An-
drews, U. S. V.
16. Brig. Gen Joseph B.
Leake, U. S. V.
20. Capt. George K. Dau-
chy, U. S. V.
THE SIXTIES AT HOME. 283
were eagerly welcomed to take the place of the postage stamps, car-
tickets, bar-tickets, and other scraps and valueless tokens of small
values. These had an intrinsic worth, in that they pledged the faith
of the nation to their holder; and they had a patriotic value — a sen-
timental beauty — well borne out by their handsome, tasteful, and
dignified appearance. Many can' not, to this day, see a new "green-
back " without a thrill of recollection of their first welcome.
For years the sweet jingle of coin was, to the many, an unknown "JSed1 but
sound. Dollars and fractions of dollars rustled instead of rattling,
and their dwelling-place was the wallet, not the purse. The nickel
half-dimes were the first glimpse of a return to old-time moneys, and
many a dollar's worth of them was hoarded by simple folk as being
safer than paper, green or white.
To feel the pulse of an industrial community one must put his
finger on the banks. Chicago's was a fluttering pulse in the early
sixties. As Captain Andreas says :
The Illinois cuirency in circulation had no uniform value; it had been transformed into
a mass of bank debentures, the value of which could only be estimated by the value of the bonds
deposited for their redemption. . . . The Chicago bankers issued daily bulletins giving the
names of those banks whose bills were entirely discredited, such as would be received at a dis-
count, and such as would be received at par. Railroads, lumbermen, merchants, and the Board
of Trade each issued a list of the current value of bank bills, no two of which were alike, and none
of which remained unchanged long enough to be of any value. . . . The Marine Bank [not
George Smith's " Wisconsin Fire & Marine"] was the depository of the city funds, and its officers
declined to liquidate their indebtedness to the city in specie. On July 5, 1861, at a meeting of the
Board of Education, a proposition was submitted by the president of the Marine Bank [Scammon],
that the city accept sixty-five cents on the dollar ... of the school fund. In respect to other
city funds the proposition was not so favorable.
In November, 1862, there were but twenty-two solvent banks
reported in all Illinois, while ninety-three were reported as suspended,
or in process of closing business. Andreas gives a list of the rates at
which the bills of the failed banks were finally redeemed, five being
paid off in full, namely, Bank of Northern Illinois at Waukegan, BankT1d*er;J^dnks
of Peru at Peru, Chicago Bank at Chicago, E. I. Tinkham & Co.'s
Bank at McLeansboro, and Kane County Bank at Geneva. The
remainder ran from 49 to 95 per cent., with quotations at almost
every point between those two extremes.
The Merchants' Loan & Trust Company (originally called the
" Merchants' Savings, Loan & Trust Company)" is the only bank or
banking house which, dating from before the war, exists to this clay
(1891), in continuous strength and solvency under its original desig-
nation. And even this institution, having a " currency- mill " (the
"Reaper Bank") on its hands, was forced, on October it, 1864, to
a short suspension of active operations, though sound at bottom, as
it has always been, before and since.
284
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Unfailing value
of City
Securities.
The State Savings Institution (1861), which later (1877) became
a disastrous wreck, and a reproach to Chicago's fair fame, was, through
the troublous times of war and business disaster, a tower of strength.
George Schneider was its manager, and under him it paid all demands
in gold or its equivalent. His expedient was simple, as his foresight
was unimpeachable. He argued that, though States might fail, munici-
pal securities must be valid ; and as fast as the so-called " current
funds" poured into the savings depository he invested them in
Chicago Sewerage and Water-works bonds. These remained sound
and solvent, and so did the State Savings Institution, until its evil
days came on, years after he was out of it. (Even after its disastrous
failure, its assets, by careful management, and the rise of the real estate
which had been thrown on its
hands, became large enough to
have met its liabilities in full.)
How did the luckless debtors
and the almost equally unhappy
creditors get on in the troublous
times of the early sixties ?
The chief manifestation was
the utter collapse of the " stump-
tail " currency. It had long been
moribund, now it was in dissolu-
tion. Individual men in the early
sixties kept their strong shoulders
under the towering, tottering mass.
George Smith was the Atlas sup-
porting the Georgia banks of
Milledgeville and La Grange.
Against him and them fought
a fighter by nature. " He was a
fortified by its lead mines, the
R. K. Swift
ELIHU B. WASHBURN.
Farewell to
George Smith
Henry Corwith, described as
Galena banker, and Galena was
products whereof brought gold in the world's markets,
joined with Corwith in the effort to drive out George Smith by collect-
ing and sending down to Georgia by Elihu B. Washburn all the Mill-
edgeville and La Grange bills they could get ; but Smith was always
ready for them, redeemed the bills as fast as presented, and got back at
the senders with equal, or greater, sums of the bills of banks which they
had started. The Swifts were driven to the wall, and, at the breaking out
of the war, travel between North and South being interrupted, no more
demands on Georgia banks could be made. Nevertheless George Smith
finally redeemed every dollar of his currency at par.
THE SIXTIES A T HOME. 283
One naturally asks what became of those millions of slips of paper
after they had passed from hand to hand, from banker to public, from
buyer to seller, from debtor to creditor, from employer to employed,
from victim to robber, from philanthropist to beggar, from beggar to
grog shop — loans, legacies, payments, bribes, gifts, wages of labor and
of sin or what not. There must have been tons in all ; if not a car-Woidrradgsgo<?
load, at least a huge truck-load. Some of it exists, in the shape of curi-
ious relics. The Historical Society possesses some nominal thousands
in all stages of wear-and-tear, loaded with grime, grease and the sweat
of many palms. But all these would not fill a grip-sack. Where did the
great mass finally lodge and rest?
This seeming puzzle has a very simple answer, so far as concerns
the bills issued on the security of bonds deposited with the Auditor of
the State of Illinois or whatever officer in other States had charge of
securities deposited under laws similar to that of Illinois. He it was
who countersigned and issued the bills as he received the State bonds
furnished to him as security for them ; and he it was who must take them
back before he could return those State bonds to their owners. There-
fore the bankers, as fast as their issues were returned to them for
redemption, hurried them to Springfield, got back their bonds and sold
them in Wall street or where they could. The currency poured into the
State office at Springfield and was burned.*
When the war closed, business affairs in Chicago and the North-
west were in an easy, though not a healthy, state. Inflation still pre-
vailed, though it was national inflation instead of stumptail inflation.
Gold was worth two-and-a-half for one at the darkest days ; therefore a Grinfl«fon.
man who borrowed a dollar in 1860 could pay the debt with forty cents
in 1865. The apparent profits of investment in real or personal property
were fifty per cent, a year through the mere depreciation of currency.
Therefore was it said, with a kind of truth, that " the greatest fool was
the best man of business ; " that is, he who went most recklessly into
debt got rich the fastest.
Under these circumstances the rates paid for day labor grew in a triple
ratio. There was more to do because of the demands of Government
and the waste of war : There were fewer to do it because of the absence
of so many workers : The wages were paid in depreciated currency.
The chief sufferers were those who had to live on a stated income arising
from money lent, or in some other way established when things were
at a specie basis and unchanged when inflation made everything dear.
* A similar process is now (1891) constantly going on in the United States Treasury building at Washington regard-
ing such greenbacks or bills of national banks as «re to be redeemed because of being worn or mutilated or because the
issuing banks desire, for any reason, to have them retired. The process now, however, is to macerate the bills to a pulp
instead of burning them.
286
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
21. Col. Charles W. Davis,
U. S. V.
25. Maj. George Mason,
30. Capt. George M. Farn-
ham, U. S. V.
33. Lieut. Archibald Winne.
U. S. V.
37. Mai. William M. Luff,
U.S.V.
22. Maj. William E. Fur-
ness. U. S. V.
26. Capt. Horace H. Thomas.
U. S. V.
30. Col. William B. Keeler,
U. S. V.
34. Surgeon James N. Hyde,
38. Master Charles W. Ad-
ams, U. S. N.
23. Mai. Huntineton W.
Jackson, U. S. V.
27. Capt. John G. McWill-
iams, U. S. V.
31. Capt. Amos J. Harding,
35. Maj. Clarence H. Dyer,
39. Maj. Samuel E. Barrett,
U. S. V.
24. Col. Aldace F. Walker,
U. S. V.
28. Brig. Gen. Joseph Stock-
ton, U. S. V.
32. Lieut. Martin J. Russell,
U. S V.
36. Maj. Robert W. Mc-
Claughry, U. S. V
40, Col. John Mason
Loomis. U. S. V.
THE SIXTIES AT HOME.
287
dearer, dearest. A soldier's family, trying to get along on the money sent
back by the absent bread-winner — only thirteen dollars a month, even
when he sent every penny home, as many did, — and the thirteen dollars
dwindling month by month as the price of the necessaries of life climbed
out of reach; the thought of such sufferings and sacrifices brings a
swelling of the heart and dimming of the eyes which makes it hard even
to dwell upon them ! The relief societies of the rich did large and noble
work ; the neighborly help of the poordid ten times as much in unmarked
ways; all this was well, but, after all, the stay-at-home givers grew rich
and the absent fighters and their families grew poor, and so, to this day,
the respective classes have, on an average, remained. There was always
plenty of work and wages at the rear — and plenty of room at the front.
End of the
Stormy
Sixties.
But no\v the stormy "sixties" seemed to come to a safe, un-
troubled close. The war was five years past, the gold premium falling
every day, the national debt shrinking every month, the city growing
at every census, fresh water coining in floods from the new crib and
tunnel, the sewage departing through the deep-cut canal by its own "confidence,
gravity, the city government all in good working order.
The fire department was particularly ample, showing 201 men, 17
steam fire-engines, 54 hose carts, 4 hook-and-ladder trucks, 2 hose ele-
vators, i fire escape, 1 1 alarm bells and 48,000 feet of hose.
"Let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall."
CHAPTER XXVI.
The Great
Drought
before the
Great Fire.
Condition of
the city in
i87I.
THE GREAT FIRE.
ULY 3, 1871, was a "showery day," that is
to say, one -and -a- half inches of rain
fell. From that time to October 9,
1871, but two-and-a-half inches fell in all.
In other words in the ninety-eight days
there was only a total rainfall equal to
a day and two-thirds of showers,* about
one-fourth of the average supply at that
season of the year. Such dryness, if per-
petual, would make a desert of the Grand
Prairie. Meanwhile, the southwest wind,
the hot-haze-laden, the thirsty, the grass-killer, the corn-ripener, the
hay-fever-breeder, the Western sirocco — in short.the prevailing prairie
breeze which, even in ordinary seasons, blows strongly and steadily
perhaps four days out of five the year round, and perhaps nine days
out of ten during the summer, leaving its mark on the trend of the
branches of every pliable tree, from the willow to the cottonwood ;
this blast blew without ceasing.
It turned the prairies brown and dry as old hay, so that they
lighted at a touch, and burned as long as a blade or a leaf was in
the fire's path. The prairie fires ignited the grass in meadow and
the hay in stack, the grain in rick, and the corn in shock. The wind
sucked all the moisture out of the forests, so that by the square mile
and the township they burned like the grass and the crops. It turned
all the wood in wooden Chicago into tinder ; and as soon as the
fittest moment came, turned the tinder into flame and ashes.
Chicago had then a population of about 334,000. The city limits
were Fullerton Avenue on the north, the lake on the east, Thirty-first
Street on the south, and Western Avenue on the west, about eighteen
square miles, or 11,520 acres. The North Side had chiefly wooden
buildings ; varying from the elegant homestead, occupying a whole
square, to the miles of small, cheap tenements, each usually standing
alone, gable toward the street, and only a few feet from its neighbor
on each side, from which it was separated by high pine fences. The
pavements were wooden, but not inflammable ; while the sidewalks,
* The War Department records show even less ; namely, one-and-a-quarter inches for the ninety-eight daya.
THE GREAT FIRE.
289
almost entirely of pine plank, were generally raised, allowing a free
circulation of air beneath, and fit to burn like a box of matches.
The business part of the South Side also contained a great num-
ber of wooden buildings ; and even the brick structures were, as a
rule, of flimsy build, with wooden floors, doors, windows, lathing
and roofs. Of the West Side no account need be made, except to
say that from Jefferson and De Koven Streets to the South Branch
everything was wooden. Worst of all and most disastrous (and insane),
the Water-works (at the foot of Chicago Avenue) had a wooden ceil-
ing to its engine-room, and a wooden roof covered with a thin layer
of slate.*
The feast was spread, and only awaited the fiend ; and he deigned
to take a taste of it on Saturday, October 7, 1871. A fire occurred
THE BURNT DISTRICT.
that night, the largest, in extent of ground laid bare, that Chicago
had ever seen. Twenty-seven acres — four blocks, inclosed by Adams,
Clinton and Van Buren Streets, and the South Branch — were burned
over. The "Tribune" of the next morning reports the firemen as
working most heroically. It adds, however, that a saloon-keeper, at
the corner of Canal and Adams Streets, threw open his stock to the
public, and that the firemen availed themselves of that hospitality.
This brings to mind the talk which, in the days that followed, threw
discredit on the personnel of the Fire Department. It was reported
and believed that this branch of the city government, like most of
the others, had been controlled by party politics, and not in accord-
ance with the best interests of the city. Also, that Saturday, October
* It is reported that the roof and ceiling were originally of iron, but had been replaced with wood, because
the iron collected and condensed the steam, letting it drop in water on the machinery and injure it by rust.
Condition
of the Fire
Department.
2()O
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
7th, was pay-day in the department, which fact, added to the great and
exhausting labors of Saturday night, made Sunday, a day of — relaxation
to use no harsher term. Two of the seventeen engines were in the
repair-shop, and the rest were certainly not the better for their
The O'Lcary
House and
Stable.
WHERE THE FIRE OF i87» STARTED— 137 DE KOVEN STREET, 1891.
Saturday's experience, any more than were the men in charge of
them. Such was the angry gossip of the days we are now nearing.
On Sunday night there was a festive dance in the little wooden
house, No. 137 De Koven Street, occupied by Patrick O'Leary and
THE GREAT FIRE.
291
his wife Catherine, also their five children, also Catherine McLaughlan,
who occupied part of the house, and was on that evening entertain-
ing friends with music, dancing and the festive bowl. In the rear
of the house was a barn, of wood, two stories high ; the loft full of
hay, and the main floor containing a horse and wagon and some
cows which the O'Learys kept, making a business of supplying milk
to customers. A high wind was blowing from the Southwest.
Shortly before 9 r. M. fire was discovered issuing from the O'Leary
barn. So far, there is no conflict of testimony. The belief of the city Testimony
and the world was that the fire aforesaid was started by a kerosene
lamp, used by Mrs. O'Leary and upset by the cow. (A broken lamp
was found in the ruins of the stable.) But Mrs. O'Leary denied
under oath the soft impeachment. She testified " that she and her
family were in bed, but not asleep and knew nothing
of the fire until Mr. Sullivan . . . woke them up." Thereupon,
the captious world re-asserted its belief that Mrs. O'Leary knew all
about the fire before being awakened from the sleep into which she
had not yet fallen ; and that her denial was prompted by fear that
she might be called upon to make good the consequent loss of $200,-
000,000, which, even if she had been willing, she was quite unable
to do, seeing that, though her house was unharmed, she had lost her
barn, her live-stock, and consequently her milk-business.
So did a little laughter force its way through many groans, sighs
and tears.
There was miserable delay in getting the alarm to the depart-
ment, and in getting water to the fire after the alarm. The watch- Delay m giving
man on the court-house saw the light and misjudged it as being a
mile west of where it actually was; by which error the nearest engines
failed to get to the fire until it was beyond control, in the dry gale
that was blowing and the dry fuel that was ready to help it forward.
Now began a frightful scene. Great brands of fire were caught
up high in the air — observers say from 300 to 500 feet — and whirled
off to the northeast, dropping where they would, and starting new
fires far to leeward of the old, and of the few, puny, ill-manned engines
playing (rather than working), to hold it in check. At this point
occurred an incident which connects the great catastrophe with therheattack
old, peaceful, early days ; it is the burning of the house put up "in thedefenc
the prairie," by Judge Caton, as related in a previous chapter. The
incident is given (2 Andreas, 717) by William Bateham, an early
fire-marshal, and in 1871 a member of the city council. He says:
The northwest quarter of this large block of ground was known as the " Huntoon Place,"
having the appearance of a large country farm-house. The residence stood well back from the
street, and the lot was filled with large trees. The house was a land-mark, having been built
the alarm.
292
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
by Judge J. D. Caton, nearly half a century before. The quaint old mansion had twelve stacks
of chimneys, constructed in various parts of the house to accommodate the rooms. It was alto-
gether a picturesque place in the neighborhood of puffing and impertinent modern factories. . . .
Thus was the block bounded by Harrison, Mather, Canal and Clinton Streets not only a landmark
of the progress of the great fire, but also a site of historic interest.
Engine No. 14 was surrounded by fire at Canal and Van Buren
Streets, and abandoned to destruction. This was about half-past ten.
Now the flames had reached the space burned over on Saturday night,
and here, under ordinary circumstances, would the destruction have
been stayed. But that night no single ordinary circumstance pre-
vailed. To quote the account of Sheahan and Upton :
WASHINGTON STREET AND COURT HOUSE, OCTOBER 17, 1871.
There was probably not a person in the South Division who imagined for a moment that
the fire would extend beyond the portion of the city in which it originated. Indeed, when it
approached the burned district of the previous Saturday night, there was a universal sigh of relief,
for here, certainly, it would be stayed, notwithstanding the furious wind. The hope was futile.
At twenty minutes past twelve, a huge burning brand was blown across the river. Onward it
Flames jump sped, like a fiery messenger of doom, and lodged on the roof of a three-story tenement house
South Branch which was as dry as tinder. The roof was immediately in a blaze. . . . The house was about
midway between Adams, Monroe, Wells and Market Streets, and surrounded by wooden houses.
Through this wooden nest the fire spread with inconceivable rapidity, and soon attacked " Conley's
Patch," densely covered with saloons, tumble-down hovels and sheds, and peopled by the lowest
class in the rity. ' . . . The male inhabitants were absent at the fire in the West Division ;
and, as the flames reached it, squalid women and children rushed out in droves. Most of them
escaped ; but undoubtedly some were overtaken by the fire and miserably perished. Right and
THE GREAT FIRE.
left the flames spread as fast as a man could walk, and soon the gas works, and huge piles of coal
in the yard, took fire, and a red glare shone all over the doomed city.
The watchmen on the Court-house fought the flying embers, and
kept the great 10,000 pound bell ringing by machinery until they
were driven away by the ignition of the cupola (wooden), and the '
whole structure became almost instantly a mass of flames. The bell
rang on until it fell. The mayor, Roswell B. Mason, was in the
building as long as it was tenantable, giving such directions as seemed
best, among other things authorizing the use of powder by Alderman
Hildreth. This was about i A. M. The jail was in the basement,
and the prisoners, half-suffocated with smoke and frenzied with fear,
shrieked and shook the bars of their cells, until Captain Hickey, to
. ,. i j i , UseofGun.
save their lives, ordered the doors to be thrown open, when they po^er.
rushed out, half-naked, swarmed on a truck load of clothing that was
passing and then dispersed ; the one wretched fragment of humanity
bettered by the stupendous calamity.
This was the supreme moment of disaster ; for that building had
been the storehouse and was now the tomb of the public records.
The chain of title by which every owner held every foot of property
in Cook County, from the Government to the latest buyer and lender,
was coming to utter annihilation. All real estate — the burned, the
burning and the untouched — would lie, when those records werec<g;
destroyed, as naked of legal, recorded proof of ownership, as it had
been when Joliet passed it in 1673 > always excepting a slender thread
of evidence contained in certain "abstract books" and "indexes"
owned by private persons, all stored near by in buildings as certain
to be burned as the burning Court-house itself. Did this slender
thread also perish ? We shall see.
At about 3 A. M. the Postoffice and Sub-treasury were burned,
the latter with some $2,000,000 in currency and Government securi-
ties. A writer in the "Times" of October 18 said:
Hardly twenty minutes had elapsed from the burning of the Grand Pacific Hotel [La Salle
and Jackson Streets] before the fire had cut its hot swathe through every one of the intervening
buildings, and fallen mercilessly upon the Chamber of Commerce [La Sa'.le and Washington Streets].
The few heroic workers of the Police and Fire Departments, wno had not already dropped out of
the ranks of fighters, from sheer exhaustion, sought once more to check the devastation by the
aid of powder. A number of kegs were thrown into the basement of the grand business palace
of the Merchants' Insurance Company. A slow match was applied, and as the crowd drew back
the explosion ensued. A broad, black chasm was opened : but .... the arms of flame
swung over the gap, and tore lustily at the rows of banking houses and insurance companies
beyond.
One observer reported that the fire moved straight from its start-
ing point to the water-works, like a wild beast intent on destroying itsF'o"ht
worst enemy, the enemy which it must either kill or be killed by.
Another likens it to a torrent sweeping mainly straight onward, but
294-
TH E STORY OF CHICAGO.
Fire crosses
the main
river.
causing innumerable side eddies. Another calls it an army, pre-
ceded and flanked by skirmishers, and leaving in its track only dead
and wounded.
Up to the time of its passage of the main river, the fire had
done its work on the West Side (194 acres), and had partly done that
on the South Side (460 acres); now it began the unchecked devas-
tation of the North Side (1,488 acres). It was at half-past two, A. M.
that Wright's livery stable, at Kinzie and State Streets, only a stone's
throw from the river, caught fire and burned fiercely ; many fine horses
DEARBORN STREET NORTH FROM ADAMS, OCTOBER 17, 1871.
being lost through the suddenness of the attack. It took fire from
a car loaded with kerosene standing on the North-Western Railway.
At 3.20 A. M. the city water-works took fire in the inflammable
and unprotected roof. To avoid doing injustice to the persons in
charge of the one establishment the failure of which to do its duty
was the death-blow to all efforts to fight the fire, let their own words
be heard :
d'efend'the Frank Trautman, assistant engineer; S. W. Fuller, time-keeper; D. W. Fuller and others
Water Works were on watch, guarding every exposed point to the best of their ability. . . . As the walls
of the building were of stone, the roof covered with slate, and the whole structure quite as sub-
stantial as ordinary circumstances would require, there appeared no immediate cause for alarm.
THE GREAT FIRE.
295
, However, .... a line of hose was laid from the hydrant, and men with buckets
of water were stationed on the roof and between that and the ceiling
The roof of the main building, as before stated, was covered with slate ; the bays, and
that portion adjoining the battlements of stone three feet high were covered with tin. There
was no exterior woodwork in the cornice or elsewhere. However, but a short time elapsed before
the roof ignited, the fire communicated to the floors and other woodwork, and the interior became
a mass of flame. . . . Assistant Engineer Trautman, with the regular night corps of firemen
and others, courageously remained at their posts until a portion of the roof fell in, when the engines
were stopped, the fires hauled and the safety-valves raised, leaving the faithful men barely time
to escape from the burning building.
" The assistant engineer with the regular night force." Where
was the day-force, and, if needful, a hundred or a thousand extra
WASHINGTON STREET, WEST FROM WABASH AVENUE, OCTOBER 17, 1871.
men? It certainly must have been known that the ceiling of the
engine-room was of wood, as were the doors, floors and window
frames. All must have perceived that a fearful exigency was at hand,
wherein devotion to the very death might be called for. This WTater-
works squad was the forlorn hope, the last reliance of a beaten army,
and — it makes an orderly retreat; all hands saved. [See Fire Appendix. ]
The fire, having now reached the wooden North Side, laid low its
foes, the pumping engines, and entered upon an unopposed career of
rapine ; seemed to take on a new character, best described by a letter
Whose fault?
One woman's
story.
296
THE STORY OF CHICAGO
written to the East immediately afterward, and preserved in certain
family archives. The following are extracts from that letter :
. . . On Sunday morning, October 8th, Robert Collyer gave his people what we all felt to
be a wonderful sermon on the text : " Think ye that those upon whom the tower of Siloam fell were
sinners above all those who dwelt at Jerusalem ? " . . . We passed the pleasant, bright Sunday,
some of us going over to the scene of the West Side fire of the night before and espying, from a good
distance, the unhappy losers of so much property. ... At ten o'clock in the evening the fire
bells were ringing constantly, and we went to bed, regretting that there must be more property
burning up on the West Side. Eleven o'clock, twelve o'clock, and I woke my sister, saying : " It's
very singular; I never heard anything like the fires to-night. It seems as if the whole West Side
must be afire." One o'clock, two o'clock ; we get up and look out. "Great God! The fire has
crossed the river from the South ! Can there be any danger here ?" And we looked anxiously out,
to see men hurrying by, screaming and swearing, and the whole city to the South and West of us
one vivid glare. " Where are the engines ? Why don't we hear them as usual ?" we asked each
CITY WATER WORKS, BEFORE AND AFTER THE FIRE OF 1871.
other, thoroughly puzzled, but even yet hardly personally frightened, by the strange aspect of the
brilliant and surging streets below. Then came a loud knocking at the door : " Ladies, ladies, get
up ! Pack your trunks and prepare to leave your house. It may not be necessary, but it's well to
be prepared." It was a friend who had fought his way through the LaSalle Street tunnel to warn us
that the city was on fire. We looked at each other with white faces. . . . We determined to wait
till the last minute, and threw some valuables into a trunk, while we anxiously watched the ever-
approaching flame and tumult.
Then came a strange sound in the air, which stilled, for a moment, the surging crowd. Was
it thunder? No, the sky was clear and full of stars, and we shuddered as we felt, but did not say,
it was a tremendous explosion of gunpowder. By this time the blazing sparks and bits of burning
wood, which we had been fearfully watching, were fast becoming an unintermitting fall of burning
hail, and another shower of blows on the door warned us that there was not a moment to be lost.
. . . I ran down-stairs, repeating to make myself remember, " birds, deeds, silver, jewelry, silk
dresses," as the order in which we would try to save our property, if it came to the worst.
As I paused in our pretty parlors, how my heart ached ! Here lay a relic of my father's
library, a copy of a Bible printed in 1637, on one table; on another . . . the gift of a lost friend.
What should I take? What should I leave? I alternately loaded myself with gift after gift, and
dashed them down in despair. . . . But my poor parrot called my name and asked for a peanut,
and I could no more have left him than if he had been a baby. But could I carry that huge cage?
No indeed ! So I reluctantly took my poor little canary, who was painfully fluttering about and
THE GREAT FIRE.
297
wondering at the disturbance, and kissing him, opened the front door and sel him free — only to
smother, I fear.
What a sight our usually quiet street [Dearborn Avenue] presented ! As far as I could see, a
horrible wall— a surging, struggling, encroaching wall — like a vast surface of grimacing demons, came
pressing up the street — a wall of fire, ever nearer and nearer, steadily advancing on our midnight
helplessness. . . . A truck loaded with goods dashed up the street, and, as I looked, flames burst
out from the sides and it burned to ashes in front of our door. No hope, no help for property: what
we could not carry, we must lose. So, forcing my reluctant parrot into the little bird's cage, I took
him under one arm and a little handbag on the other, and started. The good friend who had warned
us appeared, and, leaving all his own things, insisted on helping my sister save ours, and he and she
started on, dragging a trunk. They were obliged to abandon it at the second corner. ... As I
turned wildly back once more, I saw the beautiful Episcopal Church of St. James in flames. They
came on all sides, licking the marble buttresses, one by one, and leaving charred or blackened masses.
But the most wonderful sight of all was the white and shining church tower, from which, as I looked,
burst tongues of fire. . . .
Constantly, faces that I knew flashed across me, but they were always in a dream, all black-
ened and discolored, and with an expression I never saw before. . . . Very little selfishness and
no violence did I see. . . . Some friend — it was days before I knew who — took my parrot and
ST. JAMES CHURCH, FROM RUSH ST.
FIRST METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH.
forced a little bottle of tea and a bag of crackers into my hand as I wandered. ... I found myself
opposite Unity Church. ... I was grieving enough, heaven knows, over my private woes;
but I awoke to new miseries when I saw our pastor's heart, which had sustained the fainting spirit
of so many, freely give way to lamentations and tears, as his precious library, the slow accumulation
of twenty laborious and economical years, fell and flamed into nothingness in that awful fire.
. A new sight soon struck my eye. What in the world was that dark, lurid, purplish ball, that
hung before me, constantly changing its appearance,, like some fiendish face that grimaces at our
misery? I looked and looked and looked again. May I never see the sun, the cheerful daily herald
of comfort and peace, look like that again. It looked devilish, and I pinched myself to see if I was
not losing my senses. It did not seem ten minutes since I had seen the little moon look out, cold,
quiet and pitiless, through a rift in the smoke-cloud, from the deep blue of the sky. . . .
C. S. K.
It is needless to follow the sickening details of the slow hours fol-
lowing the failure of the water-works. Many a man made frantic efforts
to save his home, only to see it lost at last. Each was like a private
soldier, facing a victorious enemy after his captain has fallen or fled.
298
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Pitiful
struggles.
Outpouring
the world
pity.
Many, out of the direct course of the wind, succeeded in their efforts.
They soaked carpets and blankets in the scanty and uncertain cisterns
and other deposits not dependent on the public supply, and with them
covered their roofs and window cases, while with their feet they stamped
out the stray brands that assailed them. So was the destruction stayed
on its Northwestern edge. The last house to be destroyed was that of
Dr. John H. Foster, on Fullerton Avenue, where it ends in Lincoln Park.
It burned at about half-past ten on Monday night, twenty-five hours
after the time, and four miles from the place, of the starting of the
flames.
Of the fire apparatus there were abandoned to destruction eight
engines, one hose-elevator, three hose-carts and three hook and ladder
MARINE BANK.
SOUTHEAST COR. OF LAKE AXD CLARK STS.
trucks. This is not, as might at first appear, a mark of cowardly
desertion ; rather the contrary, for it tends to show that the men kept
their machines in service until it was too late to harness the horses
to them ; and a steam fire-engine can not be dragged by hand with-
out leading-ropes, no matter how willing its crew might be.
The relief work, wherein all the world joined, is a familiar memory.
sf Volumes have been written about it, and still much must be left to
the imagination. At first, everybody was full of zeal in trying to
do everything for everybody else. The natural impulse was to get
rid of as many hungry mouths as possible, and so the railroads car-
ried away thousands and tens of thousands ; and, in an immense
number of cases, without charge. Special relief committees brought
money, provisions (cooked and uncooked), clothing, and all the imme-
THE GREAT FIRE.
diate necessaries of life. This generous course, indispensable at first,
could not go on without injustice to givers and receivers, for it offered
a premium on grasping beggary, and left honest want in the back-
ground.
It would be impossible to begin to name the benefactors. Once
begun, the list could never be closed without doing injustice to the
unenumerated. By telegraph came offers of $100,000 each from Bos-
ton, New York, Brooklyn, Philadelphia and Pittsburgh! Now, if one
could look at some of the small, smaller, smallest gifts, with knowledge
of the proportion they bore to the means of the giver, it is safe to say
that these great benefactions would dwindle by comparison.
A Relief Committee was organized, which appointed sub-com-
mittees in charge of health, the lost and found, the water supply,
First Relief
Committees.
TRIBUNE BUILDING, BEFORE AND AFTER THE FIRE OF 1871.
the shelter and provisions. Churches became the natural centres of
relief. All school-houses were devoted to sheltering the homeless.
The street watering-carts turned their attention from laying the dust
of the streets to moistening the clay of thirsty humanity. It is safe
to say that even on those terrible nights of Monday and Tuesday,
few if any went hungry to rest, though many had to sleep ouj: of doors,
under such slight shelters as ruins and scraps could afford. On Mon-
day night Chicagoans fed each other ; on Tuesday night the outside
world was feeding all together.
Some of the ablest, most noted, honored and trusted citizens,
banded together under the name of the Relief and Aid Society, met
and remained in almost continuous session, and gradually all the
scattered and sporadic movements were quietly turned over to their
The Chicago
Relief and
Aid Society.
300
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
charge. The Mayor was naturally the recipient of the great mass of
money, goods and offers of assistance; and, on Friday, October I3th,
he issued his proclamation turning over to this splendid organization
all the contributions which had reached him, and which should reach
him. The manner in which this trust was administered furnishes
the best possible testimony to the wisdom of the act. They perse,
vered in their devoted, unpaid servitude to the city not for days and
weeks only, but for months and years.
GENERAL RUIN; CHICAGO, OCTOBER 17, 1871
To preserve order some 500 citizens were sworn in as special
policemen, and many thousands enrolled themselves in volunteer
patrols by- which the unburned streets were watched day and night
Special Police ' •.-/•». i r i
sworn in. to guard against fire and against any organized movement of the
lawless class threatening peace and order. With the same object in
view Governor Palmer took into the State service and ordered to
the city six companies of the State militia. At the same time — or
rather, before the arrival of troops, for it was on the night of
October 10 — he sent three carloads of tents and supplies from Spring-
field, which arrived on Wednesday, the eleventh. On the same morn-
THE GREAT FIRE.
301
ing arrived two companies of regulars from Omaha, ordered in by
General Philip Sheridan, at the request of Mayor Mason, and under the
sanction of the Secretary of War, General Belknap. More were
under way and continued to arrive until there were on the ground
in all ten companies of regulars, and eight companies of State militia.
The city was never in better order — so far as administration of justice
was concerned — than then. It is not necessary to do more than
allude to a spasm of jealous State pride which made Governor Palmer
and others take offence at the use of United States troops on this
occasion. Everybody was working with the same object in view,
and the object was accomplished. That is all.
Militia and
regular
troops come.
Sensitiveness
regarding
U. S, soldiers.
MICHIGAN SOUTHERN R. R. DEPOT BEFORE AND AFTER THE FIRE OK 1871.
" Water" was now the cry. All the surviving steam fire-engines
were stationed where they could draw water from the river, and inject
it into the pipes of the city water-system. The Crane Brothers Manu-
facturing Company contributed some powerful steam pumps for the
same use, which were driven by steam from the boiler of a North-
Western railway engine ; and slowly, slowly, the pipes were filled
high enough to reach the level of the fire-plugs ; so that one cause
for dread was somewhat relieved. Then, eight days after the stop-
page, namely, on October 17, the main engine built up to that time
was restored to running order; and, with its 18,000,000 gallons per
day, made the temporary expedients with their few thousands quite
unnecessary, welcome as they had been in their day.
So disappeared from earth about 275 lives, $190,000,000 of pro-
perty, 17,450 buildings, including the homes of 98,000 persons, with
substantially all their household goods, chattels, books, pictures, cloth-
First new
supply of
water.
302
THE STORY OF CHICAGO
ing — in short, everything that goes to make a home. To help Chi-
cago sustain the blow, came funds about as follows : From insurers
(New York, Connecticut, Great Britain, Massachusetts, Ohio, Pennsyl-
onsvania, California and Rhode Island leading), between $45,000,000 and
$50,000,000.* From gifts in money and other valuables, sent freely
by a vast range of countries and a variety of ranks, embracing Eng-
land's queen and New York's newsboys, the African, the Japanese
and the Hindoo, something like $4,000,000. From the bone and
marrow, blood and sinew of Chicago herself, about $140,000,000 were
taken, after all alleviations are allowed for.
Nevertheless, the spirit of the citizens was too elastic to show
any long depression. What man has done man can do. Man had
Rebound of
I: '] '•
SHEPARD'S BUII.DIN'G, DEARBORN' AND MON'ROE STS., BEFORE AN'D AFTER THE FIRE OF 1871.
built Chicago, and could build it again. Some one saw a " burnt
outer" pick up a brick from his ruins, and asked him what he was
looking for. " Looking to see how soon they will be cool enough
to lay again," said he. Mr. Bross, traveling in the East to buy a
new outfit for the " Tribune," had occasion to speak in public in
answer to the oft-repeated question regarding Chicago's future. He
felt confident, and tried to express his confidence — tried not to tinder-
BTOSS under, state the city's future — but he failed; he did understate it in spite of
estimates the «.1rIT , • i • • ni
recovery. hmiselt. Here was his most extravagant prediction : " r5y the year
1900 the new Chicago will boast a population of 1,000,000 souls."
To-day (1891) the city contains a million and a quarter.
* Charles A. Hewitt, editor of the Albany "Argus," gives the following whimsical details concerning this
great sum : " Converted into $5 bills, it would make a greenback ribbon from Nev." York through Chicago to Daven-
prot, Iowa; or a legal tender blanket of thirty-eight acres. In $i bills it would make a railroad track (two rails)
from New York to San Francisco.
THE GREAT FIRE.
303
Close by St. James Church (corner of Cass and Huron Streets) stood one of the small
wooden houses so numerous all over the city, but particularly on the North Side. It was undis-
tinguished from the thousands of its kind ; except that it was the home of the writer hereof ; its
master away and its mistress and her three little children alone and unprotected. The mother
was wakened shortly after midnight by the roaring wind and the voices of people talking in the
street ; and looking out saw the southern sky red with flame. A brother living near by tried to
calm her fears by ridiculing the idea of danger, but maternal instinct forced her to arouse and
dress the children, and send them northward in his carriage, she remaining behind, and watch-
ing the ever-increasing glare, and the flight of sparks borne on the blast
Another friend appeared with offers of help, and by his aid she got her own pony-phaeton
from the livery stable where it was kept. Meanwhile she was packing the family silver and a
few garments into a bundle tied in a sheet ; these she put on the phaeton and carried northward
(the horse restive under the failing sparks), to the house where the children were already lodged
in temporary safety. Then she walked, facing the blast and the storm of sparks, back to a point
whence she could see the beloved home, but not reach it. All itf treasures were beyond human
help. The next day (Monday), the fire in its course was unhurried, as it was traveling across
the direction of the wind ; but, the water having failed, it was irresistible as ever. At about
SHERMAN HOUSE BEFORE AND AFTER THE FIRE OF 1871.
•6 A. M. they were compelled to leave the refuge of the night before, and this time they fled far
to the north, into the part, then sparsely peopled and covered with forest, lying quite beyond
Lincoln Park even as now (1891) extended.
It was after daylight on Tuesday that the writer arrived at Chicago, still unable to believe
that the destruction was quite so frightful as rumor had made it. The first startling and sug-
gestive indication was the sight of scores — hundreds — of people, armed with pails, pitchers,
casks, cans and even barrels, crossing and recrossing the Central tracks, dipping water from
the lake, and carrying it inland. Then the water-works were really destroyed ! This was bring-
ing it near home ! The train came no further than Twenty-second Street ; where began a memor-
able walk. At first nothing strange was met — except the "bucket brigade," and the occasional
overhearing of trivial, defiant, jocular allusions to the fire, uttered by men drunk either with
liquor or with over-wrought nerves. Walking northward on State Street, distant ruins began to
be visible; then, just as the last surviving structures were passed, there were several houses
ruined and prostrate, but not burned. These were no dcubt those which were blown up to check
the spread of fire southward, for beyond them all was chaos.
State Street was obstructed with street car rails bent, contorted, displaced by the heat,
and with tangled skeins of telegraph wire mixed with the brands of burned poles. Perhaps a
quarter of a mile away might be seen a building or two which seemed to have escaped the destruc-
tion ; but, on approaching, each one turned out to be only an empty shell, desolate and blackened.
One man's
recollections.
304
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
In hundreds of cellars the coal-pile was still slowly burning : and, by the way, when night fell these
scattered, lurid, half-buried flames were a most picturesque feature of the strange landscape.
It was a fresh Autumn morning, beautifully clear ; the slanting rays of the sun came over
the lake, and silvered the calcined walls and chimney-stacks with a cruel imitation of life, gayety
and brilliance. For the first time in many a
year the eye roamed at will from lake to river.
The masts of unburned craft in the South Branch
were plainly visible ; as were also on the bosom
of the lake the vessels freshly arrived, bringing
freight and passengers to the city which was no
city. If Captain Wells could now have looked
from the roof of the block house he might have
thought the flat waste of 1812 to have been
turned into a magnificent grave-yard.
Not many people were visible; and those met
had either never had any sensibilities aroused,
or had had them calloused by over-tension. Not
so the newcomer from outside ; no hard-fought
battle-field could have been more dreadful than
this vast waste of the products of human labor
and life. Every fresh vista of ruined beauty,
vanished riches, departed glory, was a fresh
poignant, tear-compelling pang.
It is not true that streets were obliterated
and landmarks destroyed. Any one familiar
How the streets with the city could go where he pleased with never more than a momentary doubt of his road,
newly arrived Far off on the r'Kht the great Illinois Central elevator was standing, towering like a huge elephant
Chicagoan. above the intervening ruins.
Toward the west arose the white marble walls of the Postoffice ; only its blind, glassless
windows and its roofless upper story showing that it was a mere empty shell. A fine tall arch
RESIDENCE OF WM. B. OGDEN.
Particular
ruins.
ST. PAUL UNIVERSALIST CHURCH, BEFORE AND AFTER THE FIRE OF 1871.
of pointed gothic was remarkable as it stood like a gateway; vacancy behind it. It was the
remains of the entrance to the Honore Building on Dearborn Street. Further in the same direc-
tion— a half-mile away, yet perfectly visible from State Street — was the well-known form of the
Court-House and City Hall. All these passed, by threading the way through the middle of streets
still quite impassable to vehicles of any kind, the La Salle Street tunnel was reached. This being
the only remaining passage way between the South Side and the North, was already well filled
THE GREAT FIRE.
305
with walkers. The covered part was in darkness, and the cry, " Keep to the right," was inces-
santly repeated, mingling with the tread of innumerable footsteps.
Even now it seemed as if some miracle
must have saved the little homestead; but emerg-
ence from the tunnel, showing a much more per-
fect clearance than even that of the South Side,
showing the naked tower of St. James Church
standing in solitary state, visible from summit
almost to base — this brought home the certainty
of homelessness and desolation. The tower
being a guide the intervening space was soon
passed, and there was the vacant lot ; there near
the front was the harp-shaped iron of the piano,
with a jangle of tuneless strings ; half-way back
lay the distorted remains of the heating-furnace;
beyond that again the fragments of the cooking-
range, and this was all. Not quite all either, for
under where the familiar "hall-closet" had been,
there lay three blackened, bared and twisted
strips of steel which had been swords — one Union
and two rebel.
No shadow of doubt had been felt (or
needed to be felt) as to the safety of the more
precious contents of the home. They must of
course be sought in the North. So Lincoln Park
was the next objective point. In passing through the park the attention was repeatedly drawn to
pitiful little heaps of ashes with spiral bed-springs and other scraps of iron scattered about them
Each of these told of some hurried deposit of household gear, brought thus far out of the burning, North Side
and here left to be set on fire by the flying embers. Desolation.
Somewhere along there a country visitor made his appearance driving a one-horse wagon.
ST. JAMES CHURCH RUINS, FROM HURON STREET.
On being thereto moved he named the moderate sum of one dollar as his price for turning round
and carrying a passenger indefinitely northward. A shorter task was his, however, for a scant
half-mile showed approaching the well-known phaeton and pony. "All safe!" "Of course,
with you to care for them. How about the old pictures?" "All gone!" "Everything else
gone?" "Everything, but silver and watches, and a bundle of clothing." "Well; we'll get
some more." — J. K.
Books about
the Fire.
CHAPTER XXVII.
A NEW STORY OF THE FIRE.
HE first book published about the Great
Fire was by Alfred L. Sewell. After that
followed volumes enough to form a small
library ; those of Sheahan and Upton,
of Elias Colbert, of Isaac N. Arnold,
and a host of others.* As even these
careful and able works, written at the
time and on the spot, could not exhaust
the great theme, it is vain to try to do
it any kind of justice in a short " story"
aimed at showing the before-and-after as
well as the famous event. He who would
gain an adequate idea of it may read any of the works, or all of them,
and the more he reads the more nearly he will come to a real conception
of the scenes and incidents. From one or other he will learn of the
F
SECOND PRESBYTERIA N CHURCH, BEFORE AND AFTER THE FIRE OF 1871.
sufferings of those who took to the lake shore for refuge, some of whom
were forced into the waves even up to the chin. He will read of the
•The list in the Chicago Public Library is as follows: "The Doomed City," "New Chicago," "Relief from
Artists of Paris and Dresseldorf," " Colbert and Chamberlain ; Chicago Fire," " Goodspeed ; Fires in Chicago and
the Northwest;" "Luzerne: Chicago, or the Fire-lost City," "The Ruined City;" "Sewell: the Great Fire of 1871:"
"Sheahan and Upton: Chicago Conflagration;" Strickland: the Chicago Fire. 1871;" Seeger and Schlaeger: Chi-
cago," and bound volumes of newspapers relating to the Chicago tire.
306
A NEW STORY OF THE FIRE.
307
bank-officer who saved the treasures of his bank, and find out how he
did it ; of those who passed up the river in a tug-boat threading its
way through masses of floating obstruction and between walls of fire ;
of the terrible experiences of the sick and the gruesome fate of corpses
awaiting burial.
In a previous chapter the destruction of the Public Records
was mentioned, and the existence of a thread of testimony which if
saved might mitigate the loss. To make this more clear it is neces-
sary to inform those who do not already know the fact that trans-
fers of real estate are, in this country, matters of public record. In
each county a " Recorder" is appointed, whose business it is to copy,
Fate of the
County
Records.
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, BEFORE AND AFTER THE FIRE OF 1871.
at full length, in a book or books provided for the purpose, every
deed, every mortgage, every judgment, and every release of mort-
gage or judgment. It is the duty and privilege of him who receives
any such instrument to present it at once for record ; and from that
moment the original instrument is almost a superfluity, for the record
of it answers all purposes which such original could serve. In Eng-
land, the owner of property which he wishes to sell offers to the
proposed buyer bundles and boxes full of documents showing who
has owned the land before him, from time immemorial ; thus estab-
lishing the chain by which the title has come to him. The exami-
nation of this mass of wills, deeds, mortgages, releases and what not,
makes fine pickings for attorneys, but it also makes the transfer of
land very awkward, slow and expensive. In America the buyer has
his recourse to the title as shown by the Public Records, which
he can have abbreviated and shown in one convenient document
American
Record
System.
308
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Maps and plats
of City prop-
erty.
called an " Abstract of Title," which presents, not copies in full of
the deeds, etc., as they exist on the Records, but a brief statement
of each, showing date, page of record, description of property, names
of grantor and grantee, witnesses, consideration, acknowledgment and
other particulars. The original documents may be, and usually are,
neglected, scattered, destroyed or otherwise lost sight of ; the Record
taking their place for all practical purposes. The great ledgers of
items accumulate by the thousand in the vaults of county buildings.
The property holder feels safe. Whether he lives or dies ; there is
the legal proof of his ownership, safe under the seal of law.
The public records included, besides, maps or plates of the whole
city, showing all the original boundaries and also the additions, sub-
RUSH MEDICAL COLLEGE, BEFORE AND AFTER THE FIRE OF 1871.
divisions and re-subdivisions — sometimes several successive cuttings
up of the same land, giving new lots, blocks, streets and alleys to
supersede the old — in which every foot of ground is displayed, and
according to which every conveyance is made. These maps and plats
were copied by the " abstract men," as well as the written instruments,
and were as necessary — indispensable — as they, to the integrity of
the private property of each citizen.
As these records are public ; absolutely open to every citizen,
high or low, lawyer or layman, property-owner or pauper ; there are
a host of industrious scriveners who spend their time in making
indexes of these transfers, and preparing the " abstracts of title "
before mentioned, as the convenient vouchers of ownership to accom-
pany every fresh transfer.
The Abstract
makers anc
their work.
A NEW STORY OF THE FIRE.
309.
This " Abstract Business," so-called, had been, up to 1871, a safe,
laborious and reasonably profitable
calling ; mainly in the hands of
Chase Brothers, Shortall & Hoard,
and Jones & Sellers ; and each of
these firms had a set of books, more
or less complete, showing indexes,
lot-records and press copies of ab-
stracts given out.
On the morning of October 9,
1871, within half an hour after the
Court-House bell fell (2.05), every
scrap and vestige of the Public
Records of Cook County vanished
into thin air and ashes.
What next? Suppose one to
have bought a lot, paid for it, built
a house on it and seen it burn, with
the deed which showed his owner-
ship ; how is he to make good his
claim ? Suppose another to have FERNANDO JONES.
sold a lot, but not got the pay for it in full ; how is he to prove his
lien ? Suppose a third to have lent
money on mortgage, how is he to
collect his debt ? Suppose a fourth
to have borrowed money on mort-
gage, and afterward repaid it wholly
or in part ; how is he to show his
credit? How are pending suits
concerning disputed titles to be
settled, now that Court Records
and County Records are alike lost?
The " abstract- men " natur-
ally had their offices, their indexes
and their lot-books all in the im-
mediate neighborhood of the
Court-House and the records which
formed the basis of their work; and
S.J.HAYES. there was not an hour's difference
between the burning of the first and the last of them. If there was
a thread or shred of evidence preserved by them to avert the unspeak-
able disaster which seemed to have overtaken all property -holders,
The real-estate
dilemma.
3io
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
A clue to the
labyrinth.
from the cottager to the millionaire, it was worth an incalculable sum.
"Its weight in gold" is an absurdly inadequate standard of value for
the occasion.
Happily, the golden thread, the clew to the labyrinth, was safe ; and
to show just how it chanced to survive, and at the same time to give a
fresh and hitherto unwritten account of the events of that momentous
night, we are favored with a narrative drawn from the excellent
memory of John G. Shortall ; a chief actor in the episode by which
his firm's part of the precious documents were preserved. They were
almost unharmed, and to this day (1891) they remain in the abstract
office (now Handy, Simmons & Company), as precious muniments to
show the origin of land-titles, as well as an interesting memento of
a terrible night's work :
all's
a night.
FIELD & LEITER'S STORE, BEFORE AND AFTER THE FIRE OF 1871.
I went to church Sunday night as usual; while we were walking home — Mr. and Mrs.
Hibbard and Mrs. Shortall and I — Mr. Hibbard said to me: "You should have seen that lire
last night ; it was an amazing spectacle ; the flames were fiercer, rose higher than I had ever seen
John G. Short* before," and he gave me a very vivid description of it. Naturally, inasmuch as it had occurred,
I regretted that I had not seen it. My interest was much excited by his description.
About half-past nine o'clock, as we were retiring, passing a north window, I noticed the
reflection in the sky of another great fire ; I thought at first it was that which remained of the
fire of the night before, but soon saw that it was too far south for that ; I stood there a few
moments, and presently concluded — doubtless impressed by Mr. Hibbard's description of an
hour before — that I would go out and see it — "run to a fire" — something I had not done for
ten years or more. Just as I was, with a velveteen house-coat I had on, I put on my hat
and started.
I followed the crowd down Michigan Avenue and across Harrison Street bridge, and then
turned again southward, until I came close to, but still northward and eastward of the fire. It
was even then an awful exhibition of the fury of flame uncontrolled. I retired before it, as it
moved from house to house, continually spreading, and a great stillness was upon the crowds
who had gathered; nothing was audible but the roar* of the flame and the crackling of the tim-
bers and sheathing of the houses. At that time I perceived one house, it must have been fifty
A NEW STORY OF THE FIRE.
feet by seventy feet, two high stories, with a sort of an attic — a very fine house, one of the
best of those days — and as I remember near if not upon Harrison Street. From curiosity, I
timed the burning of that house from the moment the cornice began to smoke, for it took fire
from the top, until there was not a particle of the woodwork of the structure left, and it was
all woodwork except the foundation; it took — it seems scarcely credible — just eight minutes pateofan at
to burn ; just eight minutes until there was nothing left but a heap of ashes.* The wind was landmark.
high, very high, from the southwest. I went along with the crowd, retreating before the fire,
burning clapboards and smaller stuff carried high over our heads, or falling about us, the air
being filled with the glowing particles that were carried on the wind, now risen to a heavy gale.
The heat was dreadful ; the heat of both air and fire.
By the time we reached Van Buren Street bridge, or near it, the whole air was filled, as
1 have said, with the movable burning embers, and with hundreds — thousands — of larger pieces
of burning material that had been wrenched away by the wind, ami were being hurled along
through space, northeasterly, toward our office, a mile away. I perceived here in the crowd, Mr.
B. F. Hadduck, an old friend and client of ours, as we were struggling across Van Buren Street
bridge, and I said to him (he was the only one with whom I spoke that night until I arrived
at my office): " I am afraid that these embers, driven by the wind, will set fire to the roofs or
curtains or screens in front of our buildings down town, and those buildings will be set on fire."
LAKE STREET FROM MICHIGAN' AVE., BEFORE AND
THE FIRE OF 1871.
He did not think it possible, but I made up my mind that our office building was in danger
from that cause. The great projecting cornices that were in those days all woodwork, the casings F
about the windows, and the window screens or awnings, would be easily set on fire, and when
any of these should catch, anything — everything — might be apprehended; so I started for the
office, resolved to cut down our awnings.
Our office — of Shortall & Hoard, Conveyancers — was in the building on the northeast
corner of Washington Street and Clark Street, directly opposite the Court-House and County
Record office. I tried to find the janitor, but failed. It was as quiet as the grave there at that
time. I broke open the office door and got inside, and began to cut down the awnings upon
which the embers were already falling, and the fire was approaching rapidly. At this time a
very curious thing occurred ; a sudden jet of flame appeared to rise, as I judged, about Lake
Street, near La Salle Sireet, a sudden bursting out of flame, out of the darkness of the night —
and I thought something had been set on fire by those flying embers, as I had expected. I did
not have time to watch its development— I was too busy with my own affairs.
But to resume; I got our awnings cut down, and they fell to the ground, but I found the
work done of no value, for all the front windows of the building being supplied with awnings,
the removal of our half-dozen was useless. I tried again to find the janitor to help me, but
again failed. Then I gave up the thought of saving the building, and made up my mind that
* This was the old " Caton house in the prairie," mentioned back in " the thirties."
irst appre-
hension of
the coming
catastrophe.
JT2
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
The fugitive
crowd.
I would get a truck, and get out our books, if I could. The street was now filled with streams
of people ; all sorts of vehicles, trucks, wagons, were flying by us, all going northward ; it seemed
that everybody was driving northward, or being driven, by the fire behind them.
It did not seem possible even then that the fire could cross the riiiti — the South Branch,
half-a-mile away — it could not be, unless it should have leaped, and fallen so, by the mode I
have suggested, that is, by the setting fire to awnings or cornices by the dropping embers. I
stood down on the street in front of our door, and I engaged, I am sure, fifteen trucks — stopped
them as they were (Tying northward, filled with all sons of household stuff, beds and bureaus,
chairs, clothing, people even, the old and helpless. I engaged them one by one to come back to
me ; not one of them returned. I offered them any price they demanded. The fact was they
were largely taken forcible possession of by people who were in diie distress, who insisted that
they should carry their goods and little things to a place of safety.
By this time I became convinced that I must act at once, and that it was rather danger-
ous to risk the return of any of those truck-men ; when my friend Mr. J. Young Scammon rode
by on a horse, and I said to him : " Mr. Scammon, I am afraid we are all going to burn up."
(At this time, I may say that several of the old clerks employed in our office, were gathering
about the entrance to the office — all faithful friends — ready to help in the endeavor to save our
PORTLAND BLOCK, BEFORE AND AFTER THE FIRE OF 1871.
Records, a great mass of heavy volumes in which were entered all matters pertaining to our
land titles, and from which we make our digests or abstracts). Mr. Scammon said : " Why,
Shortall, you have no idea that the fire will get as far as this?" I said: "I am very much
afraid it will, Mr. Scammon, and I wish you would do me the favor to ride over to Parmelee's
stables, and ask him to send me a couple of his largest wagons." "Oh," said he, '' I think
you are mistaken, but I will give you the horse if you wish, and you ride over." It was kind
of him, but I said I did not dare to leave my office, hoping some of the trucks would return.
Lucky failure and possibly our little force would scatter in my absence, so I waited. At one time during
meant'effort. tnese moments, that seemed as years, a most providential thing occurred, well worth consider-
ing. I tried to get into the Court- House at its eastern door — with the intention of carrying our
books in for safety, never dreaming of the possibility of its destruction — a large stone building,
isolated as it was. I found that east door locked, and I could not get the key. Had I found
it all our books would have shared the fate of the Public Records they duplicated.
Just then Mr. James W. Nye, who was in the hardware house of Hibbard & Spencer-
came up and said: "Mr. Shortall, what are you going to do? Are you going to get youi
books out?" "I want to," I said; "that is what I am here for, and we must have a truck,
or we are all lost." He said, " You stand here on Clark Street, and I will go around the corner
on Washington Street, and we will hire or take the first man with a wagon who passes by." That
was practical and timely help. I waited there, and Mr. Nye went around on Washington Street.
In a few minutes he called to m». I hastened to him. and found him holding an expressman's
A NEW STORY OF THE FIRE.
313
horse by the bit, while the driver was mad all through, as was natural, but useless under the
pressure. I soon had the horse's head myself; and the driver being now under some subjection.
I released Mr. Nye, with much gratitude, from his position. Before going he handed me a revol-
ver he had in his pocket, and said I might want to use it. I told the man there was no use in
his struggling ; we should hold the horse and wagon ; would release him if he desired, but the
horse and wagon we must have.
So I backed the horse up to the side entrance of the building on Washington Street. As
soon as our clerks saw this, they began to bring down the books from the office, and soon the
wagon, which was a small one and weak, was as full as it could be, and yet not one fifth of the
books we desired to save were down. It was a trying moment.
Just then our friend, Mr. John L. Stockton, came up with a double-team large truck ; I did
not know him, he was so black and grimy with smoke, cinders and dust. He said: "John, this
is what you want ; I have been trying to find one of our teams for you for the last hour."
Curiously, as I afterward found, this was one of the men I engaged hours before to come back
to me — but the Messrs. Stockton had given instructions to these men — all of them (they were
in the transportation business), to go out with their teams and save and help everybody they
could. This was a team and truck he had at last found, and brought around to us; of course it
Stocktons to
the rescue.
ARMOUR'S BLOCK, BEFORE AND AFTER THE FIRE OF 1871.
took but a few moments to unload the wagon, and get the books piled up snugly and carefully
on the new god-send, as I deemed it. I gave the expressman $5 for his five minutes — that was
about the time he was in our possession — and dismissed him with thanks.
It was now about 1.30 A. M. or 2 o'clock. At that time the air was fu'l of the fire, sweep
ing toward and all about us, and of cinders, that fell on the books, as I stood on the truck
stowing them snugly, and on horses and driver; it was a perfect rain of fire. No description is
adequate, and yet so wrought up was I that I did not feel it, barely was conscious of it, while I
brushed the burning cinders off the books, and occasionally shook myself, to keep free. We
then continued bringing the books down from the office, and the various port-folios and material,
and so with my aides I got everything out except a lot of the labor saving memoranda that we had
made in all the years preceding. But the books or records themselves were all on the truck
and piled up high upon it, as you may guess.
A serious difficulty occurred when it was reported that General Sheridan and some of his
soldiers were down there, at the corner diagonally opposite us, about Smith & Nixon's building
{where the Opera House Block is now) — to blow up the building, to stop the fire if possible. That
was a fact that filled the driver of our truck with alarm, and he said he'd be damned if he would con-
sent to be blown up for all the people in the city; and I threatened him, but did not blame him.
There was no cessation of our work, whatever danger might impend. The men kept steadily on
carrying the books down: but the driver would start up his horses every little minute, and when I
Books on the
truck and rain
of fire on the
books.
3'4
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
threatened, and in earnest, too, would stop, and then start and stop again, and so on through that
dreadful time, until the last load of books that came out of the office — and they came out only when
the fire was coming up through the floor of the office, from Buck & Rayner's drug store under-
neath — were placed on our wagon a block away from the door, to which point we had thus
nervously, spasmodically, come.
During that last hour, the Court-house, with all its contents, was burned down, and the great
bell came down, down through the floor of the belfry, and on down, crashing through one floor
after another to the bottom ; and fell within a few hundred feet of me, and I never heard it, the roar of
The peat bell the fire was so awful, and the hoarse noise of the frightened, panic-stricken crowd so great, to which
' was added my own great stress, so that the first I knew of it was when other people spoke of the
great crash afterwards.
Then we started, all being safely stowed on the truck. There were two prisoners who had been
allowed to escape from the jail (then in the Court-house) and I had one of these two on each side of
my overladen truck, to hold the books on. I formed the apex of the group, with my pistol, cocked
still, in my pocket, and directed the truck man to drive forward through the rain of fire so as soon
as possible, to get to windward of it ; and we worked to eastward, and southward, through
the dense crowds of people who were fleeing toward the north, until we got finally through the fire
falli
Help of the
jail-birds.
Back again tc
the fire.
COURT HOUSE, BEFORE AND AFTER THE FIRE OF 1871.
and brought our precious books down to my house and gratefully stowed them away there in safety
— in safety if the wind should continue southwest, and not change, of which there was much and
natural fear.
When we arrived at home, my jail birds, the truckman and I carried the books in, piling
them up in the hall, library and parlor — got them in any way. There must have been two hundred
record volumes — and this I may say, in parenthesis, that it took three trucks to carry those books
back again, to where they were lodged after the fire, when we built our vault for them in a basement
on Wabash Avenue. We lost nothing from the truck in that savage passage of wind and fire and
insanity.
What streets did we take? We went down Washington Street to State Street, along State to
Madison, along Madison to Wabash Avenue, Wabash Avenue to Adams Street, I think, and then
over to Michigan Avenue — Michigan Avenue was full of moving, fleeing people, bent on reaching
the lake shore with their goods and lives; the buildings were there yet untouched by the fire; it had
not yet worked so far eastward.
When I had gotten my books safely housed, I left them to return to the fire to help other
friends — Hibbard & Spencer and others. When I returned, the fire was destroying the west side
of State Street; it had gotten thus far.
While I was at the office, between i and 2 o'clock in the morning, Mr. Hoard, my associate,
came to the house to find me, and Mrs. Shortall told him that I had been gone since 9:30 o'clock.
A NEW STORY OF THE FIRE.
3'5
He said to my wife: " We are all ruined; our office is gone, the whole city is on fire; " — and went
on down town. While he was down town, I had carried the books up to the house, and, as I said,
returned to the fire to help my friends who were in the same agony of mind I had passed through,
and I did work, with them, until morning.
Hoard went from my house down town, as I said, and returned in a couple of hours — about
3.30 A. M., to my house — I having come home and gone again. He said, again: "We are all
ruined " — appearing to be entirely broken down — " I have been down town, and can not get within
three blocks of the office, everything is destroyed — gone utterly." As he was turning to go away,
Mrs. Shortall said, " Mr. Hoard, won't you step inside?" And when he saw the library in the house,
he threw up his hands, and said: " My God, who has clone this?" He was completely unnerved,
as I said. I speak of this to show how little one could have done had he not followed the progress
of the destruction as I did.
I went back again to help my neighbors, as I might be able to do, and did what I could. One Exasperating
incident will show the thoughtlessness of eome
men: Hibbard & Spencer attempted to save a
lot of their fine cutlery, and, after great effort,
got it carted over to that vacant space of ground,
east from the avenue — the north end of the
ground between Michigan Avenue and the lake
— and we all worked hard to cover it up with
sheet-iron and zinc plates to make it reasonably
fireproof Just as we had gotten it perfectly
packed and secure, as we thought, some one
came along with a great truck-load of boxes of
tea, and the truck man insisted on unloading it
in front of, and to windward of this valuable cut-
lery. We all expostulated, pleaded with him:
We said: " Please do not put it down there, it
is so inflammable; " but in spite of anything we
could do, he persisted, and unloaded it there; it
was not half an hour before the flames had fallen
upon the tea, and not only it, but all our fine cut-
lery was destroyed. Fancy that heat!
Worn out, and on my way home, I sat
down for a moment on the Western News Com-
pany's front doorstep on State Street — John R.
Walsh then had his news store where Mandel
Brothers are now — and there it was, that, for the
first time. I lost my nerve. Sitting there, I saw
the walls of the building just south of the First
National Bank building on the corner of Wash-
ington and State Streets crumble, as the fire swept through the buildings from the West. The
destructibility of all material, the instability of all substance, even the most impervious, shocked px^austed
me. I saw those walls crumble with the heat, they seemed to melt, slowly, steadily; one could see nature breaks
them moving in the process of disintegration, and presently sink helplessly down. I cried like a
child, and it was some time before I recovered myself sufficiently to go home.
Tuesday afternoon at Madison Street, standing on a slight elevation, say the height of an
omnibus, one could see the trees in Lincoln Park, two and a half miles away, with everything in the
intervening space utterly destroyed. That was slightly illustrative of the superficial extent of the
destruction. JOHN G. SHORTALL.
CHICAGO, July, 1891.
Such is the thrilling story; interesting as a mere narrative of struggle
with and victory over adverse future, doubly interesting by reason of
the magnitude of the interests at stake. True, these were only the
archives of one of the three " Abstract Firms," but their loss would not
only have ruined the owners — scattered to the winds the product of all
the myriad hours of human labor with mind and pen, that had been
JOHN G. SHORTALL.
3*6
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
The loss
averted.
savings.
Chain i- for
extortion.
spent in creating these records — but would have left a disastrous blank
in the " chains of title " of thousands of pieces of property: And in law,
as well as in mechanics, a chain is only as strong as its weakest link.
The other abstract firms (Chase Brothers and Jones & Sellers) had
somewhat different experiences. They carried away some things, saved
some in fire-proof safes, and left some to burn; for they were all literally
within a stone's throw of each other, and burned practically at the same
moment.
It curiously happened that, though the portion of records saved by-
each abstract firm was only a portion, yet the part lost by each was
saved by another, so that when combined the fragments made a total
whole and entire, lacking nothing in continuity or completeness. Chase
Brothers lost many of their press copies of abstracts given out, but saved
ST. JAMES CHURCH, BEFORE AND AFTER THE FIRE OF 1871.
Tract indexes, Judgment dockets, Tax sales, and some volumes of their
"Original entries." Shortall & Hoard lost their record of Original
Entries, but saved Tract indexes, Judgment dockets, Tax sales, and
some volumes of their Original entries. Jones & Sellers saved all
their Original entries and letter-press copies of abstracts given out.
So the past history of all Chicago real estate (and its future fate,
one might almost say) was in the hands of six men, their private prop-
erty, to do with as they pleased. They could destroy it without break-
ing any law. They could keep it to themselves, using their private
knowledge to unsettle titles, and take advantage of confusion and dis-
turbance to convert property to their own use. They might make
their ownership the means of immense extortion, of incalculable gain to
themselves and their heirs and successors forever. Who so rich as he
A NEW STORY OF THE FIRE.
317
who holds his fellows at his mercy and treats them without mercy ?*
A third course was open to them ; to use their precious records for
the benefit of the public, charging a reasonable price for reasonable ser-
vice. The last was the course pursued ; and the abstract business of the
three firms, combined into one vast establishment, is to-day what it was
before the fire, laborious, intricate, well done, prosperous and reason-
ably profitable ; its owners not the poorest men in the community, and
very far indeed from being the richest.
Such a course of conduct places these men in the list of Chicago's
worthies ; a long list, and yet one where there is always room. In 1673
and 1683 LaSalle and Marquette toiled, and died for an idea. In 1812
William Wells rode out to almost certain death in the effort to save the
helpless whites from the ruthless red men. In 1835 George W. Dole
Honorable
conduct.
BOOKSELLERS' ROW, BEFORE AXD AFTER THE FIRE OF 1871.
refused to trade upon the necessities of the hungry, or even to let
others do so. In 1861 thousands of citizens threw life and fortune into
* Evil-disposed persons tried, in the days that followed, to lure them into such schemes. Over and over they were
approached by sharpers anxious to pry into weak titles, in order to trouble innocent holders and get their holdings away
from them or levy " blackmail " on them ; but no : " What interest have you in the property in question ? " was asked :
and where the answer was not satisfactory, the precious books remained sealed to the knavish schemer.
The following letter, additional to the narrative furnished by Mr. Shortall, will speak for itself, and is printed as
corroborative of the opinions above expressed :
. . "After the fire it became necessary to reinstate, so far as practicable, the pending cases and dockets of the
various Courts, as well as the plats of Sub-divisions, in order that the business of the Courts and the work of the tax
collector's office might proceed with the least injury to the public interest- the whole Public Records, of that character,
as of its deeds, mortgages, etc., having been entirely swept away by the Fire This information was promptly and freely
given to the public by our firms, whenever and wherever requested by the authorities, without any charge being made
by us. The Surveyors of the city were also allowed free and generous access to our maps, for information for the public
interest. The well-known atlases compiled by Greeley and Carlsen were so compiled by them, for the most part, from
our original maps and tracings, without any charge by us, upon the theory that we were thus serving the public— replac-
ing and making accessible, in so much, the fundamental portions of the Public records.
" Our officers al ways stood between the assaulter of titles— professional or otherwise— and the owners of property,
in protection of the latter's interest. Information has invariably been refused, although continuously sought for, and at
any price, that would endanger property interests or serve to disturb the bona fide holders of Chicago real (state. . .
JOHN G. SHORTALL."
3*8
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Chicago
worthies.
the scale of patriotic duty. In 1871 Joseph Stockton (one of the wounded
veterans of 1861), and his brother and partner, John Stockton, when in
possession of a small army of teams and trucks, which might have been
farmed out at $ 1,000 an hour, simply sent them forth with orders to give
all the help they could to whomsoever might be most in need. (They
themselves were already "burned out," and heavy losers.) And to this
list of model citizens, arising in time of trial, tried and not found want-
ing, should be added the names of the Abstract-men of 1872.
It has often been said that the only building in the track of the
fire which escaped destruction was the wooden house of Mahlon D.
Ogden, which stood at about the center of the North Division (North
Clark Street and Walton Place). This is a mistake, as it loses sight of
the great Sturges& Buckingham " Elevator B" (also of wood) in the
HISTORICAL SOCIETY, COR. CLARK AND INDIANA ST., AFTER THE FIRE OF 1871.
Illinois Central freight grounds, at the junction of Chicago river and
Lake Michigan. The story of the saving of this important structure is
worth recording, but seems to have remained untold. Mr. Ebenezer
Buckingham relates it as it was burned in upon his memory at the time.
Putting this with the recollections of Joseph F. Tucker, general freight
agent of the Illinois Central road, the following facts appear:
Toward morning of Monday, Mr. Tucker became convinced that
the fire must reach the Illinois Central and Michigan Central grounds,
full as they were of buildings, trains and goods. He went down to the
machine shops at Twelfth Street, where the engines were stored and
where S. J. Hayes, master of machinery, lived, and with loud knocking
and calls awoke Mr. Hayes and told him that the yards must be cleared.
In a short time Mr. Hayes had a great force of engines fired up, manned
A NEW STORY OF THE FIRE.
319
and started, and as fast as cars could be coupled they were sent down
the road ; some of them switched out as far as Calumet, fourteen miles
away. All the cars were saved, with whatever of value they contained ;
but the buildings, with all goods, wares, merchandise and baggage
stored in them, were perforce left to their fate
Among the articles in the freight-yard were two steam fire-engines
shipped on a flat car from the " Fishhill Manufacturing Co." to Chicago
for forwarding, one to Racine, Illinois, and one to Manistee, Michigan.
On Monday morning, at about eight o'clock, Elevator A (only a few
hundred feet from B) caught fire from the flying embers, or from the
Illinois Central freight house or passenger station, and was soon a mass
of flame.
This was a matter of almost as much importance to the railway as
FIRST NATIONAL BANK, BEKORB AND AKTKR THE FIRK OK 1871.
to the owners ; for without elevators what could the road do with its
great grain business? It was a ticklish moment. The wooden coal-
shed of Elevator B took fire from the intense heat of its burning neigh-
bor, and all seemed lost.
In some way the knowledge of the presence of the new fire-
engines came to the helpless watchers, and they acted on the impulse of
the moment. Mr. John Buckingham, Mr. Hayes and Mr. Mitchell
(superintendent) seized a machine; Mr. Hayes fired it up, backed it to
where it could draw water from the river, and started the pump. Mr.
Mitchell held the hose, and though the fire had already burned through
from the coal-shed to the office in the engine-room of the elevator, the
building was saved.
320 THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
The elevator company gladly bought the engine, and, in honor of
its service, gave it the name of " Rescue," and a good house to itself;
and to this day (1891) it remains on the ground, in perfect condition
and well cared for, and once a month is fired up and put in operation
to test its continued efficiency.
Reverting to the matter of Cook County Records, some new and
interesting statistics and narratives are given as appropriate to the sub-
ject, although the statement of facts is anticipatory.
Accumulations New books, pens, ink, paper, desks, etc., were bought ; the interior
since the fire. * •• «
of the old water-tank at Adams and La Salle Streets was fitted up and
the gigantic task entered upon anew with unabated spirit.
Mr. W. Scott Kaufman, Deputy Recorder, is authority for the
following resume of the accumulations of the Record office in the
twenty years following the Fire (1871 — 1891):
Record Department. Pages.
4,000 Record Books, averaging 640 pages each ......................... 2,560,000
325 Index 600 " " ......................... 195,000
53 Tract " " 75 " " ......................... 3,975
6 Index 600 " " ......................... 3,600
Abstract Department.
200 Original Land Entry Books, averaging 640 pages each ............ 128,000
300 Tract " " . 500 " " ............ 150,000
100 Recorded Abstract " 640 " " ............ 64,000
325 Tax-Sale 400 " " ............ 130,000
too Judgment Record " 400 " " ............ 40,000
120 Office Memorandum " . " 600 " " ....... .... 72,000
320 Press Copy Abstract " r,ooo " " ............ 300,000
5.829 Total ...................... 3,646,575
The entire number of documents recorded in the twenty years has
been 1,762,233. The number recorded in the year ending April 30,
1891, was 200,000; a number exceeding, it is said, those of New York,
Philadelphia and Boston put together. So active is the market for
lands and lots; and the buying, selling, incumbering, releasing, laying out
and indexing of real estate in the formation of a mighty city.
Mr. Kaufman was in charge of the U. S. Government Weather signal office at the time of the
Fire and sent off his final report for Chicago just before midnight. When he left the office he
observed the advancing glow in the southwest and walked toward it, crossed the river, turned about
Government and recrossed it at just the same time when the fire leaped over. He returned to the signal office
na*officersB~ (La Salle Street, opposite the Court House) and packed up his instruments for carrying away.
Before starting he went out on the roof and took a last look at his anemometer (wind gauge) and
saw that it registered sixty miles an hour! The additional resistance offered by his bodv to the
furious gale was such as to threaten the carrying away of the gauge frame, himself and all, and he
beat a hasty retreat; later pausing at the corner of Washington and Clark Streets until his office and
the Court House were all burning up together. His boarding house was on Michigan Avenue,
near Monroe Street, from which place he was driven by the flames shortly after seven on Monday
A NEW STORY OF THE FIRE,
morning. He dragged his trunk across the Lake Front Park (then filled with furniture, pictures,
books, baggage, etc., all doomed to destruction) and threw it into the water, covering it with a
drenched mattress to keep it under. Then he found a friend, and the two hired a boat, came back
for the trunk, tried to row the boat against the wind down to Twelfth Street, gave up the effort,
spent most of the day among the piles which supported the railroad track, and late in the after-
noon boarded a train which had backed down to about Madison Street to allow the refugees to get
on board, and so were carried South, out of the way of further harm.
FIRE APPENDIX.
That there are two sides to every question is a general rule, and it would be absurd to assume
that an exception existed in the matter ol the conduct of the Chicago fire department and water
department on that night and day of trial, failure and disaster. As to the destruction of the water
works, it should be noticed that D. W. C. Cregier, chief engineer, was out of the city. In reply to a Interyjcw with
question as to whether or not it would have made any difference if he had been here. Mr. Cregier Cregier.0'
says (1891) that the building would have gone just the same, only he would probably not have
remained alive to tell of it. He says that they had streams playing on the roof, and that
the south windows were where the fire came in, from the burning of Lill's carpenter-shop, and came
in such intensity that to stay would mean death, sudden and inevitable. He says that three men in
the brewery staid too long, and on coming out, crept into some lengths of large iron pipe lying
near by, where they perished, and whence he next morning pulled out their remains — a mere hand-
ful, without clothing or any semblance of humanity. He says that this building had never had a
metal roof; that the previous building (1854) had a ceiling of corrugated iron, which condensed the
steam and dropped the condensations, to the injury of the machinery; wherefore the use of wood on
the new building. Regarding the fire department he can say but little. It was not up to the wants
of the city, and never would have been but for the Great Fire and the fire of 1874. After the flames
got across the South Branch, no department in the world could have done anything with it in the
face of that furious dry gale, and in a city built as Chicago was at that time.
It is to be remembered that the steam fire-engines of that day were not equal to those of the
present; and that directed against the furious gale, an eye-witness says, " They wouldn't carry ten
feet!" In an interview with Chief Fire Marshal Williams, on November I4th, copied in Sheahan &
Upton's admirable "Chicago, Past. Present and Future," we read : " When I got to the fire I should
think there were six or seven buildings ablaze — sheds and out-houses. We got it under control Qiief'Fir*'"1
and it wouldn't have gone a foot further, but the next thing I knew they came and told me that St. Marshall
Paul's Church, two squares north, was on fire. . . . The Rehm stood on the corner of Church w'l'iams.
and Mather Streets, working that plug, and it was so hot the engineer had to put up a door to pro-
tect himself. The Gund was on the east side of ttie church and the Coventry on the north.
The next thing 1 knew the fire was in Bateham's planing-mill. When I got there I found that the
match factory was going, as was the lumber just north of it. We got two streams in there, but
couldn't do any good; as the fire was thick and heavy, and ran along to another lumber yard, north,
and spread east to the old red mill. I went north to head it off and found it was down to Harrison
Street. Commissioner Chadwick came to me, and said. ' Don't you know the fire is ahead of you?'
I told him it was getting ahead of me in spite of all I could do; it was just driving me right along.
I got down to Van Buren Street and was working the engines there, but it was so hot that the men
were obliged to run for their lives, leaving their hose on the ground. They came to me and asked
what they were to do about hose. I said, ' God only knows."
"We got the Gund located at the corner of Van Buren and Canal Streets. . . . The
flames rolled over the men who were with the engine on the corner and I told the foreman to get
her out or we would lose her. I asked some citizens to help and we ran up to uncouple the suction
from the plug, and others commenced to uncouple the hose. Just then a wave of flame came rolling
•over the street, and I was obliged to get away. Hose was afterward attached to the axle of the
Gund, and the citizens pulled her up on the sidewalk where she was burned up.
" I met Alec McGonigle. fireman of the Long John, and he told me there was a fire on the
South Side. I told him to go for it, and I jumped on a hose cart and went over too. ... I got
the Economy to work on the corner of Washington and La Salle Streets and led the hose in through
the stairway opposite. We were not in there three minutes before a sheet of flames rolled over us
and the boys dropped the pipe and ran for their lives. The wind was blowing so heavy that the
water would not go ten feet from the nozzle of the pipe. We could not strike a second-story win-
dow. ... I then went to work and got my two engines to play on the Sherman House. I
thought we would be able to save it on account of the open space opposite. But. my God! there
was a piece of board six feet long that came over and landed right on top of the [old] Tribune build-
ing on Clark Street, and it was not two minutes before that row was on fire. . . . While I
was wetting down the Sherman House I heard ihat the Water Works were on fire. I jumped into
my wagon and drove over to see if it was true, and when I got near there I saw that the roof was
all on fire, and the flames rolling out of every opening of the building."
CHAPTER XXVIII.
Splendid
conduct of
Insurance
companies.
Trepidation of
the timid.
DERRICK TIME.
ERRICK time" is the name which at-
tached itself to the years immediately fol-
lowing the great fire. Those who have
complained bitterly of an occasional
obstruction caused by construction can
partly appreciate the state of things when
everywhere in the burned district there
was either a blank or a brick-pile. Not
infrequently a derrick dropped its load to
the ground, or toppled over bodily into
the street. Occasionally some one — usu-
ally a laborer — was killed, or grievously
hurt. In such cases, the stricken family
was well and easily cared for, as it was
only one additional item on the hands of
the toiling, burdened, but inexhaustible Relief and Aid Society. The
poor, in those days, were the rich, and the rich were the poor, for com-
mon labor was in unparalleled demand ; the only trouble was to obtain
the money for settling-day. Even this was not a desperate thing, for
the blessed insurance companies — those which did not utterly fail — vied
with each other in promptness and liberality of payments, and $50,000,-
ooo is a huge sum! A. T. Stewart, shrewd old Scot, foresaw that the
worst pinch would come, not at once, but a few years later, when the
first outflow of cash should begin to diminish ; and he directed a part,
or the whole, of his large gift ($50,000) to the relief of the postponed
suffering.
A vast quantity of foolishness was talked, and some excusable
alarm was really felt, regarding the possibility of rebuilding on the old
lines and with the old stability. The first question was, "Who will lend
money where titles can not be shown of record?" This agitation was
soon quelled by the passage through the legislature of what is called
" The Burnt Record Act," which provided for the use of " abstracts of
title," and other documents (though in private custody) as foundation
for new records, and as proof of ownership under certain careful
restrictions. Suits brought under this act had a calendar of their own,
DERRICK TIME.
323
Record Act.
Words hearty
Many andtimely-
and were tried more promptly than other cases. This was the first
great step toward perfect relief; the next was the liberal and reasonable The Burnt
•course of the "abstract men," described in the last previous chapter.
Then came the question whether the city could be built, and busi-
ness credit re-established, by a set of " ruined " merchants. In answer
to this doubt came a cloud of telegrams from Eastern wholesalers and
manufacturers reading in this wise : " We suppose you are burned out.
Order from us what goods you want, and pay us when you can."
a man who, dry-eyed, had seen his property burn, felt the tears surging
up, as he spelled out this message.
To this, followed the doubt as to whether, even if rebuilt, the busi-
ness district would not be somewhere outside the old locality. Banks,
insurance companies, stores, hotels,
shops, etc., occupied the residences
lying south and west of the burnt
district ; would they not stay there
indefinitely, rather than rebuild in
their old places, having nothing to
rebuild with ?
The city council gave a good
deal of acceptable relief by leas-
ing out the east side of Michigan
avenue (Lake Front Park) in
twenty-five foot lots, at twenty-five
dollars a year, apiece, for one
year, to persons needing temporary
stores and shops while permanent
ones were preparing. The whole
space from Park Row to Randolph
street was soon filled with low, barn-like " shanties," which, though
small, dark and desperately cold in winter and hot in summer, served
a very good purpose. The Relief and Aid Society* spent nearly a Buildings
. r 1 • i
million dollars in structures, temporary and permanent, some of which
are still standing (1891). Between October i8th and November i 7th.
the society put up 5,226 houses, using 35,000,000 feet of lumber. The
reports of this great charity present a bewildering mass and magni-
* The following is an imperfect list of the workers in the Relief and Aid directly after the fire; incomplete as to num-
ber, and faulty in its failure to distinguish those more devoted than their fellows : Henry W. King. Wirt Dexter, E. C.
Lamed, T. M. Avery, T. W. Harvey, Marshall Field, John V. Farwell, N. S. Bouton, Murry Nelson, J. T. Ryerson, N. K.
Fair&ank, George M. Pullman, Dr. H. A. Johnson, H. E. Sargeant, Julius Rosenthal, C. H. S. Mixer, A. B. Meeker, B.
G. Caulfield, J. McGregor Adams, C. G. Hammond, Mayor R. B. Mason (ex-officio). Mayor Joseph Medill (ex-officio),
Rev. Robert Laird Collier, J. Mason Loomis, E. B. McCagg, Abijah Keith. George R. Chittenden, Rev. E. P. Goodwin,
Mrs. D. A. Gage, Louis Wahl, Mrs. J. Mason Loomis, Mrs. Joseph Medill, Mrs. J. E. Tyler, Orrington Lunt, Elijah K.
Hubbard, William E. Doggett, and Drs. J. E. Oilman, B. McVicker, Reuben Ludlam, M. J. Asch, J. H Rauch, M. Mann-
hcimer, Ernst Schmidt and R. C. Miller.
j. MCGREGOR ADAMS.
UP by *'11
&A.
324
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Doubls all
proved to
vain.
be
Mayor Medill
and the city
problem.
tude of statistics; and the services of its administrators, as a spectacle of
self-devotion, are such as the world has rarely seen in time of peace.
They must be added to the list of Chicago's " worthies."
Vain doubts. Substantially the same trades went back to the same
placed — often a firm hired a new building (as soon as it could be built)
on the very lot which it had before occupied. Those who had owned
the lots hastened to settle all doubts by building anew. " Build first,
and discuss afterward," was the principle acted on ; but how it piled up
the mortgages ! Every man asked himself and the lending world,
" How much can I borrow?" Not " How am I going to pay?" It was
a perilous system ; nothing can justify it except the result, which has
CHARLES 0. HAMMOND.
JOHN V. FARWELL.
been triumphant. Still, it should not be taken as a precedent, for the
world does not contain many Chicagos.
Another serious problem was to be met in the rehabilitation of the
city's terribly depleted finances. A new city government was elected
within the month fpllowing the fire, including, as mayor, Joseph Medill.
The new chief officer showed himself a man of immense power,
dauntless courage, tireless industry, unfailing shrewdness and unques-
tionable personal honesty. Even in the heat of political partisan strife,
it is difficult to find any serious attack on Mr. Medill's administration
of his office as the " Great Fire Mayor." In his inaugural message to
the council, he said :
Of the total property in Chicago created by labor and capital, existing on the 8th of October,
more than half perished on the gth The city, as a corporation, has lost its property and
income, precisely as have individuals .... As our citizens are retrenching expenses to meet
DERRICK TIME.
335
$14,103,000
557,000 $13,546,000
the exigencies, and keep within their means, so must the municipal government do likewise
I shall proceed to state the present fiscal condition 01 the city
Bonded debt
Less bonds in sinking fund -
The debt is composed of the following items :
Funded debt, old issues
new issues
School bonds
School construction bonds
Sewerage bonds . ....
River Improvement bonds
Water bonds -----
$ 342,000
2,192,500
1,119,500
53,000
2,680,000
2,896,000
4,820,000
$14,103,000
[Floating debt may be omitted, as it is nearly balanced by cash on hand. The loss of the city
in buildings, machinery, etc., is placed at $2,509,180, but was more.]
GEORGE SCHNEIDER.
EXRA B. McCAGG.
. . . What lesson should this cruel visitation teach us ? ... A blind, unreasoning
infatuation in favor of pine for outside walls, and pine, covered with paper and tar, for roofs, has
possessed many of our people. ... If we rebuild the city with this dangerous material, we
have a moral certainty, at no distant day, of a recurrence of the catastrophe. . . The outside walls
of every building hereafter erected within the limits of Chicago should be composed of materials as
incombustible as brick, stone, iron, concrete or slate.
In accordance with the mayor's suggestion, the " fire limits " (pro-
hibition of wooden buildings) were extended to the city limits, but not
without bitter opposition. People naturally cried out against a new
burden, added just when all were least able to bear it. The Relief and
Aid cottages were already built ; and, excepting some cases of unnoticed
breach of the law, no other wooden structures have been put up in, or
moved into, the city proper, since the great fire. To this is attributed
the comparative uniformity of architecture observable throughout the
burnt district at this time (1891). In New York, some thousands of
old, unsightly wooden tenements may be counted in even the ancient
Fire limits
extended.
936
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
portion of the city — say south of the line of Bleecker Street. One looks
down upon them from each of the elevated roads, wondering how they
could have been put up within modern days, or have stood since earlier
times. New York has had no Great Fire.
This brings up a question as to how grievous, after all, was the per-
manent loss in the destruction of buildings. Every day one sees, in
Chicago, large, costly brick buildings demolished to make place for
i« the it** of structures larger and more costly. How much worse would it be if
those buildings were burned instead of pulled down? It is rare that
the debris of a demolished building pays for the labor and loss of time
involved in its demolition. Suppose all the burned structures to have
been, by this time, doomed to destruction, to make way for better
How serious
is the loss c
old buildmps:-
Early recon-
struction.
UNION BUILDING, BEFORE AND AFTER THE FIRE OF 187L
things ; how much loss, if any, would be chargeable to their sudden,
wholesale removal ? Andreas says :
Within six weeks after the fire, 212 permanent stone and brick buildings were in ccurse of
erection in the South Division alone, their tutal street frontage extending 17,715 feet, or three-and-
a-half miles. Before December 1st. 250 building permits had been issued, and between December
I. 1871, and October :, i?72, the number of permits issued was 1,250, classified as follows :
As to material :
Frame (exclusive of temporary
structures). -
Brick
Iron
Stone
As to height :
965
20
200
One story
Two stories
Three stories -
Four stories
Five stories -
Six stories
Seven stories
The total frontage of these buildings was 43.413 feet; over eight miles.
Below is given the grand total of the first year's work :
Total frontage.
South Division - - 2 feet
North Division - 7.°9'
West Division - - 891
284
375
226
263
66
10
I
Total cost.
f??. 1 34.700
6.425.000
99! 500
Totals,
$45.558.200
DERRICK TIME.
327
Reverting to the matter of civic finances, one wonders how the
interest on the public debt can be paid, the absolute damages repaired, Civic finanees
and the defects remedied, which the fire has brought to light, all with
destroyed assessment rolls, and diminished tax-paying power. Mayor
Cregier's report, already quoted, gives the following items of destruction
of corporation property:
The fire spread over a territory about four miles in length by an average of two-thirds of a mile
in breadth, comprising about 1.687.69 acres, and finally ended at midnight of the second day, at the
extreme northeast portion of the city, having destroyed, with two or three exceptions, every build-
ing in its course. It burned over, on an average, sixty-five acres per hour, and the average destruc-
tion of property was about $7,500 ooo per hour, or (125,000 per minute .... The new City
Hall, which had been occupied only about a year, and which had cost the city about 1470.000, was
entirely ruined .... There were six vaults in the building, which were intended to be fire-
proof . . .In the first four, which were composed wholly of brick, everything was preserved
CROSBY'S OPERA HOUSE, BEFORE AND AFTER THE FIRB OF 1871.
uninjured, while in the last two, in consequence of the giving way of the 5tone which was used for
the floors, the contents were destroyed. [The general experience was to the effect that brick stood
the fire better than stone.]
The great fire inflicted material injury on the harbor. Several vessels were sunk, and being
abandoned by their owners, the city had to remove them. All the plats of the river survey
were destroyed. The following is an estimate of damages resulting from the fire, inflicted upon
public property relating to the harbor: Bridges and viaducts. $204,310; river tunnels, $6. ooo:
docks at ends of streets, $6,000; removing sunken hulls, f 7,300 ....
At this trying juncture occurred something which illustrated the
soundness of Mr. Schneider's saying ; that municipal securities are safer
than other public obligations, because there is tangible property to show
for them. The city had taken hold of the Illinois and Michigan canal,
and enlarged it at an expense of $2,955,340. Now the State legislature
(convened by Governor Palmer to devise measures of relief) took
from Chicago its lien on the canal, paying to the city its sorely needed
$2,955,340 ! The act provided that not less than a fifth nor more than
Schneider's
saying about
metropolitan
securities.
328
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
a third of the sum should be applied to the re-building of bridges and
other structures of a permanent character, while the remainder should
go to the payment of interest on the public debt and the maintenance
of the police and fire departments. This was in the form of a purchase
(in fact, if the city had not had this to offer as an equivalent, the legis-
lature could not have appropriated the money, for the lack of constitu-
aiityofthe tional authority), but it was in truth a noble act of benevolence; showing
that though Chicago's rural neighbors may sometimes feel or pre-
tend to feel a certain jealousy and distrust of metropolitan airs, graces,
pretenses and extravagances ; yet when evil days fall upon the chief
town of the State, it suddenly becomes evident that blood is thicker
than water, and that all Illinoisans are of one blood, from the Cairo
point to the Wisconsin line.
State Gov-
ernment.
POST OFFICE, BEFORE AXD AFTER THE FIRE OF 1871.
The Rookeries,
old and new.
The city, owning the lot (i"]^> feet square) whereon stood the great,
ugly, circular, iron water-tank or reservoir, at the corner of LaSalle and
Adams Streets, proceeded to build around it a City Hall, uglier if pos-
sible than the tank itself.* This, from its barrack-like squalor and
dusty desolation, acquired the name of the " Rookery," and in revenge,
the same lot now shows ( 1891 ) one of the most beautiful office-build-
ings in the city or the world ; the name " Rookery " still sticking to it
and being glorified by its new application. The old "rookery "was
begun a week after the fire and finished, furnished and occupied in little
more than seventy days, at a cost of $75,000. Bad as it was, it served,
for want of a better, for fourteen years ; when its gigantic successor, on
the old Court-house lot, took its place ; more imposing, more costly,
* One critic said that the tank looked like the basement of the Tower of Babel, while the Rookerv looked as if it
had been a formless product out of the waste material after the confusion of tongue*.
DERRICK TIME.
329
more pleasing to the eye, more satisfying to civic pride, but scarcely
less faulty, being perishable, dark and incommodious.
To make a long story short, the city's public losses were met ; the
damages of all kinds were repaired; the buildings, bridges, lamps, pumps,
hydrants, fire-engines and houses, alarm system, tunnels, docks, viaducts
and ten thousand other necessaries of civic life have been provided and
paid for; and after it is all done and doubled and re-doubled in the
twenty years that have elapsed, the city debt, $14,103,000 in 1871,15
$13,545,400 in 1891, of which nearly a million ($983,900) has arisen
from the assumption of the debts of annexed suburbs. Can history
show a parallel to this achievement ?*
The first new structure in the business district was built almost
before the fire had spent its force in the north. It was a board hut put
Unparalleled
achievement
by the city.
FIRST BUILDING ERECTED AFTER THE FIRE.
up by William D. Kerfoot, real estate agent, in front of his old office,
89 Washington Street, between Clark and Dearborn, and was begun
and finished on Tuesday, October loth. It was 12 by 16 feet, had
board sides, floor and roof, and was surmounted by the proud sign,
" Kerfoot's Block." (He would have built it on the lot instead of the
street, but the bricks were still too hot.) Here was the gathering-
* A change in method of collecting taxes suspended and finally defeated parts of the tax-levy of 1873, '74 and '75,
amounting to $900,000. A defalcation of the City Treasurer, amounting to $500,000, brought the total deficit up to $1,400,-
ooo. Meanwhile City scrip was issued for pressing needs, relying for its redemption on these "assets,1' so called, which
scrip being based on an unlawful assessment, and in excess of the constitutional limit of indebtedness, could not be col-
lected by law. The City was morally bound, but legally free. Thereupon Mayor Colvin called a meeting of leading
citizens at the Old Rookery. One and all, Marshall Field, John V. Farwell, and others (whose names ought to be remem-
bered but are not) declared in favor of payment, and a bill was prepared and pushed through the Legislature, providing
for the re-assessment of the old defeated levy, which re-assessment was made in 1878 and collected in 1879, and every
dollar of the indebtedness paid— a really voluntary act on the part of a " soul-less " corporation. Chicago worked as hard
to find an expedient for paying, as some others have worked to find an excuse for repudiating.
330
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
place, the half-way house between the South and West divisions —
there was no North. Here people put up their names and new
addresses, and here were the notices of meetings, etc., affixed.
What quiet reigned for a few days and then what a busy hum began !
The telegraph wires and contorted street-car rails were shoved aside,
on certain streets, especially those leading to the tunnels, enough of
the debris of fallen walls was removed to make a passage, narrow and
Gradual clear-
obstructed' tortuous, for wheeled vehicles, and in about a week these could make
their way about the desolate wastes ; not on all the streets, but on
many; the number being daily increased. Meanwhile the streets and
bridges just outside the destroyed part were crowded with carriages
and wagons of all kinds; and foot-passengers brought in by business or
curiosity tramped among the ruins. Whole rows of dwellings in the
Rehabilitation
of the news-
papers.
UNITY CHURCH, BEFORE AND AFTER THE FIRE OF 1871.
far south, and in the not-so-distant west, were turned into hotels.
Many single residences, and the front rooms of others, were let at great
rentals for banks, business offices, etc. The postoffice was established
in a convenient church. The newspaper offices were opened chiefly on
the West Side, as that was nearest to the ancient news center. The
"Journal" had almost alone the distinction of continuous publication.
Regarding the " Tribune" we have the vivid word-painting of Mr. Bross :
On Monday afternoon Mr. Medill sought for and purchased Edwards' job office, No. 15 South
Canal street. When I arrived, I found him in the upper stories among the types and printers, doing
all he could to get ready to issue a paper in the morning. . . . My next duty was to get up four
stoves. For these I started west on Randolph Street, but every store had sold out. At the corner
of Halsted Street I found the four I wanted, price $16 each. Told the owner. . . . they were
for the Tribune Company ..." I don't know about dat," said the worthy Teuton; " I guess I
must have de money for dem stoves." . . . On Saturday our note would have been good for
$100,000, and on Tuesday we could not buy four stoves on credit. . . . My first question, half
joke, half earnest, to every friend I met was " Have you got any money?" The tenth man,
DERRICK TIME.
331
perhaps, said: "Yes; how much do you want?" "All you can spare." And he handed me $60.
. . . Coming back to the office I found a dozen or two more of our leading citizens, like myself,
all " strapped," till, at last, E. S. Wadsworth handed me $100 . . . But money soon began to
flow in. Between three and four o'clock our clerk, Mr. Lowell, came to me and said: " There are
some people here with advertisements for lost friends." I said: " Take them and the cash,
registering in your memorandum book," and, upon a dirty old box on the window-sill fora desk, the
" Tribune " at once commenced doing a lively business. . . Another sleepless night: and in the
morning, as I sat sipping my coffee, I saw Sheridan's boys, with knapsacks and muskets, march
proudly by. Never did deeper emotions of joy overcome me. Thank God, those most dear to me,
and the city as well, were safe.
As might be expected, the earliest impulses were the most generous
and unquestioning. Where delay occurred, other interests came in,
calculation took the place of impulse and men began again to see that
"business is business" after all. The most conspicuous example of
this was in the effort to move Congress to rebate the duty on building
materials absolutely used in reconstruction ; as had been done in the
Failure of Con.
gressional ef.
lorts at relief.
RESIDENXE OF GKO. RUMSEY, BEFORE AND AFTER THE FIRE OF 1871.
Andreas (2 Hist.
case of the Great Fire in Portland, Maine, in 1866.
Chic., p. 59) says:
When the measure was first proposed it encountered no serious objection; but before the bill
was taken up for action, the enthusiasm of sympathy had cooled, and an opposition, headed by the
lumber interest, had been formed. A long and bitter fight over the passage of the bill ensued,
resulting in its enactment, with the rebate clause relating to lumber stricken out. Chicago derived
but little benefit from the enactment, owing to the dilatoriness of the Treasury Department in
adopting rules to give it efficacy. Many difficulties were interposed and not a little bitter feeling
toward the Secretary of the Treasury was engendered by what was believed to indicate a disposition
on his part to defeat the object of the act.
The upshot of it was that only a single block of buildings (east
side of Rush Street, between Ohio and Indiana Streets) was built
wholly or largely of material imported free of duty.
Derrick time was not an unhappy time. All were in similar straits,
all busy, all hopeful, all economical together. A certain informality,
All poor, busy,
hopeful and
economical.
332
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Relics of the
Court-House
fire.
East-bound
trains.
comradeship, frankness, is the inevitable result of this state of things;
shipwreck brings all passengers to a level of helplessness or helpfulness,
as their nature may be ; whether they be first cabin, second cabin or
steerage. The natural leaders go to the front, and the natural workers
follow them. Economy and benevolence were the fashion. The earli-
est gaiety was the establishment of a dancing-class wittily named "The
Cinders." The old Court-house bell was bought by an enterprising
speculator who broke it up and melted it down into innumerable tiny
bells suitable for a lady's chatelaine, and the " Cinders" dances were
vocal with a silvery tinkling ; a sound, by the way, that was also audible
at the dispersing of certain church congregations, until it was frowned
away as being unsuited to the time and place. These bells are still
(1891) for sale in town.
MICHIGAN AVE. NORTH FROM MADISON ST., BEFORE AND AFTER THE FIRE OF 1871.
The east-bound trains for days and weeks were loaded to their full
capacity with women and children, in almost all stages of destitution as
to clothing. For once the baggage cars were not filled proportion-
ately with the passenger coaches. Most of the refugees had nothing
whatever to take along. As has been said, a vast number of these were
transported by the railroads without charge, though the roads themselves
had shared the losses of the people.
Severed families were many ; the bread-winners toiling among their
ruins while their hearts were away with the loved ones at the " old
home" in the East, whither their thoughts turned whenever they were
free to turn at all. Meanwhile the "mother-in-law" — derided in fiction
and journalism, though beloved in real life — was caring for wife and
babies. It is safe to say that in ten thousand hearts there arose the
consoling thought, even while the fire was raging, that " Father's" was
DERRICK TIME.
333
the safe and certain refuse ; and that ten thousand wandering, home-
less, uncomfortable little ones were comforted by the assurance that
all would be well as soon as they could get to "grandmother." It
with a feeling of shame that an old " burnt-outer" comes across the
current gibes and jeers at mothers-in-law ; and he wonders if the wit-
lings remember that every grandmother is necessarily a mother-in-law;
that that position comes successively to every woman who, with her
offspring, perpetuates the race.
£«• *
FIRST MERCHANTS IN THE BURNT DISTRICT.
About ten A. M., Wednesday, October II, 1871, Mr. Shock, T. J. Bigford and myself, walking
along State Street, below Harrison, noticed an old mahogany sideboard. It was suggested that we
purchase it and start business, so we made a bargain with the owner, a second-hand dealer.
Our combined cash capital being less than $5.00, we had to make the most of it. Our pur-
chases consisted of the old sideboard, an empty barrel, a water bucket and six glasses, which cost us
$2.50. We then hired an expressman to take the things down to the Lake, fill the barrel with water
334
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
and haul it to the corner of Deaiborn and Monroe Streets, opposite the old Post Office. While this
was being done, I went over on West Lake Street, where the commission men were opening their
stores, and purchased a barrel of cider, a barrel of apples and some grapes, getting trusted for them.
At about one o'clock we opened the first store in the burned district, our stand being located
at 169 Dearborn Street. We cleared about $25.00 that afternoon, selling our goods at the " old
prices." The photograph of our stand was taken by Coplin.
The next day Mr. Bandwin opened a book and news stand near us, Frank Barker, then a
little boy, clerking for him. — H. W. KENNICOTT.
RELIC HOUSE.
(A buildinr entirely made of fragments collected from the ruins of the North Side. Still
standing in iSgi.)
CHAPTER XXIX.
churches
SOCIAL RE-ORGANIZATION.
CERTAIN metropolitan character began, from
and after the Fire, to mark Chicago society
for the first time. As already observed, the
beginnings of social life had been largely con-
nected with the several churches, and there-
fore clannish, rather than homogenous. Now
the congregations were scattered, some of them
* **
never to re-unite, for the principal church- '
buildings, to the number of thirty-nine,
were burned; and such as had been central
in place, so as to draw attendance from all
over the city, were not rebuilt in the same
spots (the land being at once too valuable,
and too far from the homes of the people),
but were moved out to one or other of the three residence districts,
which are north, south and west of the business area.
This scattering was painful at the outset, but advantageous in the
end, for it tended to break up cliques, and to favor the formation of
society on its proper basis; association induced by intellectual sympathy
instead of mere church membership. . Social growth on this basis has
been rapid and creditable, although subject to a disadvantage springing
from the topographical character of the city; in that it is divided into
three widely separated areas, the North, the South and the West Sides,
by the main river and its sprawling north and south branches. Adjoin- of omm*
• 1 • -1 t 1- j- . • tionsbythe
ing the mam river are some square miles ot solid business streets. bre-
Along the banks of each branch are long lines of the sordid and rather
squalid growth which is inevitable to commercial water-ways. Far on
the outskirts of the region thus useless for society are three " centers/'
of social life; three large cities instead of the one very great one which
alone could make the full and adequate tabernacle of culture, art, fash-
ion and luxury for a rich metropolis of a million and-a-quarter of inhab-
itants; for the Chicago of 1891. The day will come when one or other N
of these three will take its unquestioned place as the Holy of Holies
for worshipers at the shrine of "good society." In the meantime the
lingering provincialism of the three smaller circles is not without its
compensating advantages. As social life grows in magnificence and
335
336
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Hospitality and
Benevolence.
None rich by
inheritance.
splendor, it loses the gentler graces of youth and simplicity; graces which
still flourish in Chicago, associated with a degree of gay hospitality and
inclusiveness which it will lose when exclusiveness shall be forced upon
it by metropolitan proportions and aristocratic aspiration.
Unquestionably, some of the most hospitable and benevolent people
in the world live in Chicago. Their houses, their opera-boxes, their car-
riages, their luxuries of all kinds are kept for the use of their friends as
well as themselves. The city is not yet old enough (especially since
the Fire) to have lost the personal love and pride of its citizens. No
Newport competes with it for their devotion. London, Paris, Rome
HENRY W. KING.
WIRT DEXTER.
and Berlin are all very well to visit — with Chicago as a line of retreat
and base of supply.
The thing to be borne in mind in studying Chicago social phenom-
ena, is the fact that all the riches of the community are still in the
hands of the men who have, by labor, power, good luck and good man-
agement, earned and won them. Not one of the hundreds of million-
aires, and scarcely one of the thousands of smaller fortune-holders, is
rich by inheritance. Each has earned and counted his dollars as they
came in. Therefore, when he is economical he krows it, when he is
extravagant he knows it, when he is (as he very often is) liberal, hos-
pitable, charitable, generous, — even lavish — he knows it all the time.
Let him (as he constantly does) travel abroad en prince, give great
sums to the cultivation of the arts, entertain his friends with unbounded
hospitality, endow charities, colleges and churches splendidly ; he does
SOCIAL RE-ORGANIZA TION.
337
it all with a full knowledge of the value of money and a keen enjoyment
in the use of it for the benefit of others. It is not " easy come, easy
go " with him ; it is the deliberate outlay of hard won wealth, keeping a
proper application of means to ends ; so that no matter how much is
paid or given, nothing is wasted.
If the true Chicagoan allows himself, in his general good nature
and tolerance, to hate anyone, it is the man who, having found Chicago
a good enough place to make a fortune in, looks for some better place
wherein to enjoy it. There have been a few such, but their memory
is not fragrant in their old home. The question naturally arises : " If
EDWIN C. LARNED.
JOSEPH T. RYERSON.
Absenteeism
not favored.
Chicago is deficient in any of the arts and graces, why not stay and
help remove the imperfection ?" And this is the course most of her
children are pursuing with great pleasure and great success.
" With age our faults diminish, while our vices increase." It is to
be feared — not hoped — that when the three big social circles shall have
merged into one, these youthful exuberances will disappear and be
replaced by the more dignified, self-centered, aristocratic characteristics
of the communities full of inherited fortunes, where luxury and idleness
are taken as the natural endowment of the "upper ten thousand"
instead of the reward of labor well done, and of brave fighting in the
battle of life.
The old-world " nobility" which " draws the line " at any trade or
profession where money is to be made ; the supercilious indifference to
all things and persons outside a narrow pale ; to all labor and usefulness
One circle in
the far future
33*
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
No tr
except as it is the labor of outsiders, useful
sources of their luxury so long as
the luxury itself is unstinted ; this
"nobility "is beyond the scope of
the present generation of Chica-
?rarcy m'c'ht goans. They know how hard they
*"'' themselves or their fathers have
worked and are not ashamed of it.
And just now it seems more prob-
able that the " great world " will
come to their way sooner than
they will go to its way.
Social clubs are later develop-
ments of the change wrought by
the Fire. In Chicago as else-
where, they are a mixture of good
Dcv.ub°pmentofand evil. As an elevating and
brightening influence for men with-
out families, they seem indispens-
able to modern city life ; as an influence
to the chosen few, to all the
ART INSTITUTE, FORTNIGHTLY AND LITERARY CLUB.
ures ; but behind its front doors, from the
DR. HOSMER A. JOHNSON.
adverse to the taking up of
family cares, and a drawback
to home purity, integrity,
happiness and sufficiency,
they are disastrous. Of all
Anglo-Saxon true nobility
and stability, the home, the
ancestral homestead, the
household, the fireside, and
the family, are the root, the
trunk, the branches, the
flower and the fruit. The
best of clubs is that which
a fortunate man gathers
about his own hearthstone,
his wife and children being
his fellow- members. The
true glory of Chicago is to
be found, not in its parks
and boulevards, stock-yards,
elevators, factories, banks,
newspapers, shipping, rail-
roads or sky-scraping struct-
proudest to the humblest.
SOCIAL RE-ORGAN I /.A TION.
339
Between churches and social clubs, as nuclei of gregarious human-
ity, no philanthropist, whether churchman or not, can hesitate to
give the preference to the churches. They tend to unselfishness
instead of mere pleasure, to cultivation instead of mere amusement,
to " faith, hope and charity," instead of (possible) dissipation. Above
all, they make no invidious distinction between the sexes ; they seek
to enfold man, woman and child in happy and virtuous communion.
The earliest of the great ^^^^==^^^^^^«|^^^^^^^^^HM^MI
clubs, properly so called (as I
distinguished from socie-
ties organized for special
purposes, such as music,
dancing, athletics, etc.) was
the Chicago Club, chartered
March 25, 1869; with Ezra
B. McCagg as the first
president. Almost at the
same time (April 5, 1869)
the Standard, specially in-
stituted by Jewish citizens,
was incorporated, its first
president being E. Frank-
enthal. The third in order
of precedence is "The Fort-
nightly," organized June 4,
1873. Its object is the in-
tellectual and social cult-
ture of women. Mrs. Kate
Newell Doggett was its
prime mover and its first
president. Its meetings oc-
cur on alternate Fridays of
the Spring, Autumn and
Winter months. At each
there is an essay, discus-
UNION LEAGUE CLUB.
ard
sion, reading or concert. At this present writing (1891) the I- rort- T1J=ecsht'ac»|;
nightly is approaching its three hundredth successive meeting ; and has *$,{!£ Foft"
at least a fair showing of right to accept the position attributed to it
by an English visitor, that of " the greatest of women's clubs of its
kind in the world."
Next came the Chicago Literary Club, organized in 1874, for
" social, literary and aesthetic culture." Its first president was the
340
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
The Literary.
The Union.
The Illinois.
The Union
League.
Rev. Robert Collyer. Every Monday evening (except in summer) it
meets in its handsome rooms overlooking Lake Michigan, for an essay,
conversation or reception, and now (1891), in its seventeenth year, is
holding its fifth hundred of consecutive sessions. (It is characteristic
of Chicago's newness that such a space of time is cherished as ven-
erable, rock-rooted antiquity and stability.)
The Union Club was organized in 1878, Henry W. Bishop betng
its first president. This is the North Side club, being finely located
on Washington Square.
THE UNION' CLUB HOUSE.
The Illinois Club was chartered April 26, 1878, its first president
being John G. Rogers. The Illinois is the West Side social club, its
home being on Ashland Avenue, between Monroe and Adams Streets.
The first club to unite political with social aims was the Union
League. Though the name " Republican " was not used in its pro-
gramme, yet the phraseology was so framed as to emphasize the prin-
ciples which had been the groundwork of that party, and which had
called it into being ; and it is recognized as a Republican stronghold.
It was organized in 1879, with Lewis L. Coburn as its first president.
Its club-house, facing the government building from the south, is the
most imposing of all in the city.
SOCIAL RE-ORGANIZA TION.
341
The Iroquois Club was the next to recognize party distinctions.
It was organized by leading members of the Democratic party in 1880,
its first president being Perry H. Smith, Jr.
These are the leading clubs of the city dating earlier than 1880,
leaving out of view those which have no permanent abiding-place, or
are devoted to the interests of citizens coming from some particular
state or foreign nation, or to the study of some particular art, science,
or accomplishment. Their comparatively rapid growth in the years
following the fire is
a mark of the
The Iroquois.
great
'metropolitan change
which was one of the
conspicuous conse-
quences of that mo-
mentous cataclysm.
When a Chica-
goan turns to the
purely benevolent,
philanthropic and pa-
triotic side of his
city he finds much to
be proud of. True,
there are other cities
where more money
is invested in public
charities — or rather
private charities for
public use -- larger
and more numerous
endowments and
foundations ; but
none where, within
the same space of
time, anything like
an equal sum has been given ; and it has come mostly from living men,
who have themselves earned and saved what they gave.
The Relief and Aid Society, so fully spoken of in connection with
i <•* . T^< . « i T. . r •. Relief and Aid
the Great r ire, was organized in 1857. To mention the names of its society.
incorporators is somewhat like writing a directory of leading " Old
Citizens." They were Edwin C. Lamed, Mark Skinner, Edward I.
Tinkham, Joseph D. Webster, Joseph T. Ryerson, Isaac N. Arnold,
Norman B. Judd, John H. Dunham, A. H. Mueller, Samuel S.
CALUMET CLUB.
342
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Its most
devoted
servants.
Home for tne
Friendless.
Greeley, B. F. Cook, N. S. Davis, George W. Dole, George M. Higgin-
son, John H. Kinzie, John Woodbridge, Jr., Erastus S. Williams, Philo
Carpenter, George W. Gage, S. S. Hayes, Henry Farnham, William
H. Brown, Philip J. Wardner and others.
In the work following the fire (October 18, 1871, to April 20, 1873,
in which space of time relief was extended to the extent of $8,923,400)
the great mass of free, unpaid supervision was exercised by Henry W.
King, Wirt Dexter, Edwin C. Larned, T. M. Avery, T. W. Harvey
Charles G. Hammond, Nathaniel K. Fairbank, Dr. H. A. Johnson, J.
McGregor Adams, Ezra B. McCagg, the Rev. Robert Laird Collier and
others too valuable to be forgotten, but too numerous to be named
here. It is with extreme regret that this inestimable benevolence is
here dismissed with words so few and inadequate. A chapter would
scarcely do it greater justice in proportion to its deserts. Those who
desire a more complete appreciation of the possibilities of charity and
knowledge of how to apply wisely immense means to an immense
object, should buy the handsome
volume comprising the Society's
Report for 1874, written by Sidney
Howard Gay and published by
Houghton, Mifflin & Co., Boston.
In 1858 the Home for the
Friendless was organized. The
names of the incorporators, being
those of women, are less known
though not less notable than those
connected with the Relief and Aid.
They are Martha A. Wilson, Ada-
line R. Judd, Julia Dole, Julia A.
Warner, Anna M. Gibbs, Marga-
retta Varian, Margaret M. Gilman,
Jane C. Hoge, Adaline C. Morgan,
Lavinia Morris, Maria Excern,
Emily S. Roy, Minerva Botsford
and Emma F. Haines. Jonathan Burr was the greatest benefactor of
the institution, both during life and by bequest; and George Smith and
Flavel Moseley were also among the early supporters.
The Nursery and Half-Orphan Asylum began in 1859, when, as
Mrs. Samuel Howe and a few other ladies under-
took the task of maintaining a day school for little ones whose mothers
were unable to care for them during working hours." From this small
beginning grew up a great charity.. In 1869 it received $17,000,
JOHN I.. HEVEREDGE.
Nursery and
Half-Orphan
Capt. Andreas says,
SOCIAL RE-ORGANIZATION.
343
bequeathed by the sainted Jonathan Burr; and William B. Ogden, with a
few others, endowed it with a large lot on the corner of North Franklin
and Burling Streets, where its asylum still stands. At the Great Fire
it was not finished, but the children, driven from their former refuge,
were huddled there for shelter — then carried further on the approach of
the flames — then returned there ; for the destruction had halted two
squares away !
The Old Ladies' Home was begun in 1861 by Miss Caroline Smith.
Upon Miss Smith's death she bequeathed to it $1,000, and also
devised to it two lots on Wabash Avenue, near 35th Street. Its perma-
nent home is in Indiana Street, near 27th. The Society was incorpor-
ated in 1865 by Benjamin W. Raymond, O. H. Tiffany, George D.
Cummings, W. W. Everts, F. W. Fisk, William H. Ryder, Jonathan
Young Scammon, Robert Collyer, Mark Kimball and S. P. Farrington.
The Chicago Historical Society seems, in the view of a writer
of history, to deserve a chapter to
itself, so grand is its aim and so
laborious and painstaking have
been the efforts of its faithful
friends. Its prime mover was the
Rev. William Barry, who started
it in 1856. Again do we seem to
be making a list of early Chicago
worthies as we copy the names
of the incorporators. William H.
Brown (president), Wm. B. Ogden
and J. Young Scammon (vice-pres-
idents), S. D. Ward (treasurer),
William Barry (recording secre-
tary and librarian), Charles S. Ray
(corresponding secretary), Mark
Skinner, M. Brayman, Isaac N.
Arnold, George Manierre, John H.
Kinzie, J. V. Z. Blaney, Edward I. Tinkham, Joseph D. Webster, W. A.
Smallwood, Van H. Higgins, N. S. Davis, Mahlon D. Ogden, F. Scam-
mon and Ezra B. McCagg. (Of all these, only four are alive at the
present writing, 1891.) The devoted services of its friends managed, in
the first fifteen years of its life, to accumulate a mass of historical treas-
ure. There were some 20,000 volumes, 1,738 files of early newsppers,
4,689 manuscripts (including the entire Kinzie collection), portraits of
noted men of early times in the West, and last, but not least, the original
draft of Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation ! These call a glow to
Old Ladies'
Home.
WM. BARRY.
Historical
Society.
344
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
The Athe-
naeum.
the heart, only to be followed by a spasm of pain, for every vestige of
them all was destroyed in the Great Fire. After this disaster many
friends sent boxes of books addressed to the society, which were stored,
awaiting some movement for rehabilitation ; and again, in the Fire of
July, 1874, these, too, were burned.
If this had been all, it seems impossible that even such faithfulness
as theirs could have survived in the hearts of its friends ; but there were
funds, which must be administered, notably the "Gilpin Fund," which
was a sum of money bequeathed by Henry D. Gilpin, of Philadelphia,
(Solicitor of the Treasury in 1839), which, with accumulations, amounted
in 1874 to over $72,000. There were also debts to be paid, so it was :
" Once more into the breach, dear friends,
once more,"
and E. H. Sheldon, B. F. Culver,
Geo. F. Rumsey, Isaac N. Arnold,
George L. Dunlap, W. S. John-
son, Levi Z. Leiter, Mark Skinner-,
Julian S. Rumsey, J. S. Waterman,
E. T. Watkins, Charles B. Farwell,
John Wentworth, Jonathan Young
Scammon and others put their
weary and burthened shoulders to
the wheel and lifted it out of the
Slough of Despond. At this
present writing (1891) it has gotten
together a new lot of treasures,
though, alas ! still in mourning for
the old. They are now stored in
an old, low, one-story " fire-trap,"
but the funds of the Society have accumulated to over $110,000, and
the new, permanent, fire-proof building will very shortly take shape and
substance.
The Athenaeum is an institution most creditable to Chicago, and
one of the most admirable in the world. It is quite independent of
sects — except as unsectarianism is itself stigmatized as a sect — and
enjoys the support and honor of liberal men of all creeds and professions.
It is devoted to the dissemination of useful knowledge, and this it does
through a reading-room and library, a gymnasium, with bath-rooms, etc.,
and eight class-rooms. In these, nearly a thousand pupils are taught
each year, at charges which barely cover the mere cost, for it is not a
charity school. Every beneficiary pays something, however small.
The existence of the Athenaeum dates from the very month of the
REV. CLINTON LOCKE.
SO CIA L RE-ORGANIZA TION.
345
Great Fire. To quote from its report : " Then the fairest portion of the
city lay in ashes, and it was this great calamity that prompted a few
earnest spirits to plant amidst the ruins an institution which should help
to build up true manhood as the best criterion of progress."
The Athenaeum is allied with the Mechanics' Institute, quite the
oldest of Chicago benevolent associations, dating, as it does, from 1843.
The religious charities of Chicago are beyond count. Each church
is in itself a vast benevolence, and each has some one or more separate
dependent charities, whether reformatory, educational, or simply
humane.
One, destined to reach immense proportions, not confined to any
one denomination (though largely composed of Methodists), was the
Young Men's Christian Associa-
tion. It was started as early as
1858, under the leadership of Cyrus
Bentley, Henry Howland, John
V, Farwell, T. M. Avery, E. W.
Blatchford, and others.*
This great agency for scrength-
ening the weak, raising the fallen,
finding work for the strong and
bread for the weak, has never
ceased it blessed ministrations for
a single day, through fire and trial
of all kinds, through the days of
danger and suffering, and the still
more perilous times of prosperity
and indifference. It, with its con-
genial and connected Young Men's
Christian Temperance Association,
Women's Christian Temperance Union, and other allied societies,
has done a mass of public service which defies the power of imagination.
The Illinois Humane Society has for its motto the gentle words
" We speak for those who can not speak for themselves." It was incor-
porated March 25, 1869, by George C. Walker, Thomas B. Bryan, Julian
S. Rumsey, Belden F. Culver, I. N. Wilcox, and T. D. Brown. The
objects of the Society were the pledging of the State to the protection
of its children and animals from unnecessary cruelty, and the enforce-
ment of such laws in that behalf as might be enacted. It is an honor-
able mark of any time and place that such laws exist, that such societies
have their administration in charge and that public sentiment is in
•The far-famed Dwight L,. Moody began his work, a very young man, in this association, and, gathering strength
by the use of his abilities, graduated from it to be the great power for good he later became and still is (1891).
Young Men's
Christian As-
sociation.
EDWARD I. TINKHAM.
Humane
Society.
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
sympathy with them. At this time (1891) its president and untiring
supporter is John G. Shortall.
The Great Secret Societies, Free Masons, Odd Fellows, etc., have
their favorite field in Chicago. Here they exercise all their benevolent
^societies. and ennobling influence, and mould and sway an innumerable host of
the bone and sinew of the land. A mere catalogue of their Lodges,
Posts, Circles, Encampments, etc., would fill a page of our Story. The
Grand Army of the Republic had its origin in Illinois and has in Chicago
its largest or nearly largest "stamping ground" and the largest Post
union war (No. ';, the "George H. Thomas") in the whole organization. The
Veterans. \ *J' o
Veteran Union League, the Union Veteran Club, the Military Order of
the Loyal Legion, and many veteran regimental societies, are all strong,
well ordered and flourishing mementoes of the War for the Union.
The Art Institute is perhaps
the most distinguished, successful
and prosperous of all the undertak-
ings for advanced culture which
exist in Chicago. It is the succes-
sor of the Academy of Design,
which was organized in 1866, and
which, in 1869, was incorporated
by E. B. McCagg and others. The
Academy included among its mem-
bers some artists of world -wide
reputation, notably George P. A.
Healy, whose long course of
splendid work, beginning in 1836,
and continuing even to the present
writing (1891 ), places him easily in
G. P. A. HEALY. the front rank of portrait-painters
of this country. The fire, destroying at once nearly all the art products
and quite all the demand for art, was a terrible blow to the Academy
The Art and t'le ^na^ re30'1 was tne institution, in 1879, °f a new Society,
institute. with the same general purpose of the old.
The new enterprise, the " Art Institute," was incorporated by Mar-
shall Field, Murry Nelson, Charles D. Hamill, Ferd W. Peck and
George E. Adams. By slow, strong and steady steps it reached a
height of achievement scarcely hoped for by its founders, having a
splendid building overlooking Lake Michigan, a magnificent collection
of pictures, ancient and modern (owned by the Institute or loaned to
it), a large and flourishing school of design, and, better than all, a corps
of strong and devoted friends, proud of its progress hitherto and
SOCIAL RE-ORGANIZA TION.
347
resolved upon still greater advance in the future. Among them are
Charles L. Hutchinson, Edson Keith, Lyman J. Gage, James H. Dole,
Charles D. Hamill, W. F. Blair, W. T. Baker, D. W. Irwin. E. W.
Blatchford, N. K. Fairbank, O. S. A. Sprague, H. N. Hibbard, George
E. Adams, S. M. Nickerson, Levi Z. Leiter, Marshall Field, Lambert
Tree and John C. Black. William M. R. French is Director of Schools
and Galleries, and to his artistic ability, his business capacity and his fine
personal qualities is attributable an incalculable proportion of the
remarkable success of the great institution.
The Art Institute has 265 " governing members," 5 " honorary mem-
bers," and 2,070 " annual members." Its students number from 500 to
700 a year. In his report for 1890, Director French observes:
It is an extraordinary fact in our history that the Art Institute has never had any endowment,
has never received any bequests, and has never
required contributions for current expenses.
The only considerable gifts have been to the
building fund and collections. While almost al
the other museums of the country have at least
received the privilege of building upon public
land, the Art Institute has bought all its real
estate. The regular sources of income, aside
from gifts, are membership fees, exhibition
receipts, tuition fees, and rents. . . . The
expenses of the Museum for the last year have
been $25,559.53. The earnings of the Museum
have been $26.010.35. The expenses of the
school were $12,315.25, and the earnings $14,"
881.13. The expenses of the library were
$674.04, and the receipts $831.42.
Like other young cities, Chi-
cago has been better as a market
for art produced elsewhere, than as
a place for the production of salable
work. A conspicuous and unmistak-
able mark of provincialism is lack ENOCH WARD, Artist, now of London.
of confidence in one's own judgment, in social, artistic and literary mat-
ters. Every new community looks to an older one for guidance in these
respects. "A prophet is not without honor save in his own country,"
and a Western man or woman who does anything worthy of honor must,
ordinarily, look for recognition in some older community before he or
she can enjoy it at home. The home-bred author, painter, etc., finds his
home fame dependent on what New York, Boston and Philadelphia
critics say about him. This reminds one of a story familiar in army
circles: It is a well known military principle that "any fortress can be
taken if the assailant be strong enough." A certain instructor, who had
inculcated this lesson on his class, asked* later on, what would be the
best expedient for the defence in a given case, to which a bright student
Chicago as an
art centre and
art market.
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
replied: ''Move out; get the assailant inside, and then defeat him." So,
in matters of taste in a provincial city, it can more readily be captured
from without than from within. These remarks apply to Chicago, par-
ticularly, during " the seventies."
While Chicago was experiencing great triumphs and great
reverses, places just below her horizon were going on in the even tenor
A (fiance back o »
: of their way. The following sketch in the quiet life of one of those
localities was crowded out of the page in " the thirties," where it might
more appropriately have found a place; but it perhaps fits here well
atat
time an
place.
P. H. HOLDEN.
MRS. BETSEY (PARKER) HOLDEN.
enough as a '' foil " to the great things which were happening " so near
and yet so far;" for the glare of the Great Fire was quite visible from
the place in question.
A few miles from the Israel Blodgett settlement on the DuPage
is the inappropriately named " Skunk's Grove," on Hickory Creek.
Hither came the parents of Charles C. P. Holden, already mentioned;
Phineas, born in New Hampshire in 1792, and Betsey (Parker)
Holden, born in Massachusetts in 1793. They arrived in Chicago,
June 30, 1836, and put up for a short time at the old Green Tree
House, the first shelter of so many Chicagoans. (It still exists and
should be placed in some appropriate spot and custody for long years
of future preservation.)
SOCIAL RE-ORGANIZATION.
349
Naturally, being farmers, they liked not at all the little, dirty, dis-
orderly, squalid trading-post, and were very glad to find such a garden-
spot as the DuPage Valley, a leafy forest meandering through grassy
prairies. Here they lived, prospered, grew old, died and are buried;
another grafting on the young West of old New England strength.
A curious anecdote is told by C. C. P. Holden, illustrating the
habitual and affectionate reference (more frequently made then than
now) to the charters of our liberties. At a celebration — Independence
Day, probably — there was a gathering at "the Grove," and loud calls The Deciara-
were made for the reading of the Declaration of Independence. For a pe"den«read
time no copy could be found, as books, whether of law or of history, handkerchief.
were still a rare possession. At last the deficiency was supplied, the
desired scripture was found ; where does one suppose ? Printed on a
woman's pocket-handkerchief!
RESIDENCE OF GENERAL TORRENCE; LAKE SHORE DRIVE.
CHAPTER XXX.
PANIC OF l8/;.
R uins of twen
ty-nine bank-
ing-houses.
Only one safe
failed in its
duly.
Consternation
first and de-
liberation
next.
WHISKY RINC;.
FIRE OF 1874.
IGHTEEN of the nineteen Chicago Na-
tional banks were burned in the Great Fire,
together with eleven other banks, includ-
ing savings-banks. Twenty-nine piles of
ruins confronted, on Tuesday morning,
the eyes of bankers, depositors and pub-
lic. Perhaps no more fearful suspense
can be imagined than the state of mind
with which the slow cooling of these piti-
ful heaps of chaos were watched. It was
at once evident that the contents of the
Sub-treasury were hopelessly lost; what
better chance had the private hoards ? One
by one the vaults were reached and opened.
Great care was needed; for in at least one
case, where air was admitted before the inside temperature was suffici-
ently lowered, the whole contents, though safe till then, burst into a
blaze. Great care was used; in fact the operation of opening was, in
most cases, a job, not for the cashier with keys or combination, but for
a blacksmith with sledge-hammer and chisel.
Only one serious loss occurred ; that of the bank of Lazarus Silver-
man, whose safe, containing $50,000 in gold and currency, was destroyed.
The safety of the others was due to the fact that they were universally
built into brick vaults, the foundations whereof rested on the solid earth.
No "safe," elevated above the ground and liable to fall into a bed of
coals when the floor beneath it should burn away, could be counted on.
The trouble in the case of the Sub-treasury was due to the fact that the
brick vault was held up clear of the ground by iron pillars, supporting
bars of railway iron, which bent when hot and let the whole mass fall in
ruins.
Two days delay was enough — Monday for consternation and Tues-
day for deliberation. On Wednesday a meeting was held at Standard
Hall, Wabash Avenue, presided over by W. F. Coolbaugh, President of
the Union National Bank, and all resolved on starting again as soon as
each could find a place to start in. Before that night half of them had
secured quarters of some kind ; a parlor on Wabash or Michigan Ave-
350
PANIC OF 1873. FIRE OF i874. WHISKY RING.
351
nue, or the cross-streets between them ; a room or two in some of the
small buildings on the old " Wolf's Point," west of the forks of the river,
or some other place where clerks and tellers could sit or stand, and
where customers could apply for cash or drafts, or could bring cash for
deposit. This last may seem to be an unnecessary provision, but not so.
The deposits came in faster than they were drawn out, almost from the
very start.
On Thursday most of the banks had recovered, or were recovering,
the contents of their vaults, and it was publicly given out that all deposi-
tors could have fifteen per cent, of their funds on demand — savings
banks paying in full all demands not exceeding twenty dollars by one
person. By the next Tuesday (i7th of October), most of the institu-
tions had begun paying all de-
mands in full. Andreas (3 Hist.
Chic., 434) says :
The deposits exceeded the drafts, even
with the Savings-banks. Among the causes of
this fact may be named the circumstance that
large sums of money were forwarded here for
relief, and millions of dollars paid by Insurance
Companies in settlement of losses.* In addi-
tion, much Eastern capital was sent here for
investment in real estate at the anticipated low
prices. . . . On October i6th, Comptroller
Hubbard made an official examination of the
Chicago banks and reported their condition as
satisfactory, and from the date of the resump-
tion forward, for a period of some months,
money was so " flush " in the city that the banks
had more cash than before the fire, notwithstand-
ing that immense sums were sent East in pay-
ment of mercantile indebtedness. . . . The
announcement of their intention by the Savings-
banks resulted in but little demand for money,
except from small depositors.
It was just two years after the Fire that the " pinch " came again upon
the city and the financial world. Wall Street in a manner suspended
payment ; so did Boston, Philadelphia and most of the other money
centres. The clearing-houses were the crucial tests, for when a bank
can not "clear," that is, make good to its sister banks the checks upon
it they have taken from its depositors, then such bank has failed. But a
pooling expedient was invented in Wall Street and copied by the cities
which take their cue from New York ; and that expedient was the use
between banks of "clearing-house certificates." A bank which can not
"clear," sends a mass of securities, in place of cash, to the clearing-house,
and the latter thereupon delivers vouchers, or " certificates," to the
•The Phenix, of Brooklyn, claims the honor of having made the first payment on account of the Fire losses. It
was a draft for $5,000, dated October 12, 1871, in favor of Hart, Asten & Co., well-known manufacturers of paper bags.
Banks begin
again to pay
out money.
I.VMAN TRUMBULL.
352
THE STOXY OF CHICAGO.
Gearing-house
certificates
not used.
Collapse
averted .
Failures.
creditor banks. This of course is good for the feeble bank and bad for
the strong, for a depositor who draws his check on the former and
deposits it in the latter, can get his cash from the latter, while it gets
only a "clearing-house certificate" in return. On a certain day this
quasi stoppage took effect in the Eastern cities, and the question arose
of the taking of similar action in Chicago. One would expect the
stricken and struggling burnt-out city to be helpless, the earliest to
succumb, stunned, if not paralyzed, by the first blast of monetary strin-
gency. There was a meeting of Chicago bankers in the clearing-house
room, and a stormy debate lasting till two A. M. A few heroes of financial
courage withstood the natural impulse to follow Wall Street's comfort-
able example. A clear numerical
majority was in favor of it, but Geo.
Schneider, Lyman J. Gage, C. B.
Blair and others opposed it, and
this is an operation which could not
go on without their co-operation,
for they could insist on receiving
their balances in cash, being them-
selves ready to pay cash. Mr.
Blair said : " I don't care what
others may do, and I don't know
how I shall come out ; but no
matter who stops, I go on pay-
ing." The First National was
called on for its vote on the ques-
tion of a resort to clearing-house
certificates, and Lyman J. Gage
answered, " No." The die was
cast, and the general collapse being averted, even those who had falt-
ered came into line or tried to do so, and soon most of them — all
who ought to survive — were going on as usual. Among these were
National banks as follows : The First, the Fifth (now the National Bank
of America), the Merchants', the North-Western, the Illinois, the Com-
mercial, the Union, the Hide & Leather, the Home, the Corn Exchange,
the Stock Yards and doubtless others. Among non-National banks,
there were the Merchants Loan & Trust, the Illinois Trust & Savings,
the Hibernian and many others not now recalled to mind. The banks
which failed at this crisis or within the year were: the Second, Fourth,
Cook County, Manufacturers, City and German National banks, and
the Franklin Savings Bank; beside others now forgotten by all except
perhaps some of their unlucky depositors and share-holders. The bill-
holders could lose nothing.
LYMAN J. GAGE.
PANIC OF 1873. .FIRE OF 1874. WHISKY RING. 353
The fact is that what the Chicago Board of Trade buys and sells is
more staple than what the New York Stock Board buys and sells. Wall Food roduc( •
Street owns securities, La Salle Street owns food. Grain and meats
have a world-wide value and salability, which stocks and bonds can not
claim. The latter exist for generations, whereas the former are neces-
sarily created, sold and eaten each year, since mankind must have them
or perish ; while the paper muniments of ownership are always subject
to the fluctuations of popular favor — the luxuries of the rich, instead
of the necessities of all. When the panic came, our English and Cana-
dian neighbors rushed in to buy up, not Erie seconds, but wheat, corn,
oats, beef and pork. There is a whimsical parallelism between the sta-Awhim
bility of Western banks when the Eastern banks gave way, and the P"8"'1-
firmness of brick vaults compared
to the failure of the Government
depository. The latter had most
funds in store, but it was insecurely
based on railway iron ; while the
former rested on the solid earth,
the soil itself, whence comes all
permanent stability.
For this reason, among others,
Chicago failures have rarely been
total wrecks. In the cases of bank-
rupt National banks, the proceeds
of their United States bonds have
always redeemed the bank-notes,
the other assets have partly or
wholly paid the other liabilities,
and the shareholders have usually
made up the deficiency, if any. POTTER ™LMER.
Now (1891) the stock of one bankrupt bank (the Third National) is
worth 250 per cent, or more, through the advance of real estate which
was among its abandoned resources.
The only really disastrous banking convulsion which has struck
Chicago since 1837, was that of 1878, when the State, the Beehive,
the Fidelity and the German savings-banks went down, chiefly because
of real estate loans, the security for which was valuable, but inconvert-
ible. The losses were terrible, not because of their magnitude, but of
the helplessness of the losers, they being savings depositors. The State
was precipitated by wrong doing and flight on the part of its manager,
D. D. Spencer. George Schneider had been out of it for fifteen years,
and the sound principles which guided him had been replaced by a very
354
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
State, Beehive,
Fidelity, and
German Sav-
ings-Banks.
Building Socie-
ties and their
mission.
different spirit.* The others were recognized as being the victims of
misfortune and bad judgment. The two largest, the State and the
Fidelity, finally paid between fifty and sixty per cent of their indebted-
ness, but most of the small depositors had already sold their claims for
a song. At prices afterward reached, the land securities would have
paid all claims in full with interest. The moral effect of these failures
was bad, as many of the sufferers were discouraged from ever again
practising the painful economies whereof the results were so pitifully
lost.
Other savings-banks have sprung up, and the innumerable "build-
ing associations" have formed attractive, profitable, and hitherto safe
channels or reservoirs for savings, through which tens of thousands of
homes have been built up and occu-
pied. Properly managed "building
societies," namely, those which lend
to individual heads of families and
not to building speculators, are safe
beyond peradventure.
At the same time, savings-
banks are now (1891) coming
again into favor. As fast as homes
are built and paid for (probably
faster in Chicago than in any other
city on earth), the habit of saving
becoming formed, other healthy
investments will follow. Speed the
day! The additional sums which
might be saved to American labor-
ing classes, if there were no spirits
or beer in the world, would trans-
fer to their ownership all the most valuable property in the country,
railways, mines and manufactures, in a single generation. It is calcu-
lated that the "drink bill " of Chicago (not taking into account the indi-
rect injury caused by the drink habit) amounts to between $20,000,000
and $30,000,000 each year, chiefly from the earnings of labor. The rich
are not saving money half as fast as the poor are throwing it away.
The mass of ashes, stone-fragments, brick-bats, mortar-dust, slag,
metallic debris, melted and agglomerated nails, spikes, horse-shoes, bars,
bundles and other forms of iron, crockery, china and glass-ware and ten
* Mr. Schneider is characterized by a friend as " the man to whom is justly due the honor of having done more
than any other journalist to bring the Germans of the Xorthwest into line with that great anti-slavery movement
which, taking its rise in England under Wilberforre, Clarkson, George Thompson, Daniel O'Conncll and others, saw
the consummation ot its labors in the emancipation proclamation of Abraham Lincoln."
'
V
LEVI. Z. LETTER
PANIC OF 1873. FIRE OF 1874. WHISKY RING.
355
thousand thousand other relics, impossible of grasp by memory or imag-
ination, remained to be disposed of.* If the fire had annihilated them
all it would have been well ; but there they lay, the bones of the old
Chicago to be buried out of the path of the new. Burdensome as they
were, they were not entirely useless. In the first place, the occasion
was seized for raising the established grade in some places ; and in
others, raising the actual grade to the established standard. Then again
there was the "basin" in front of the Lake Front Park and within the
Illinois Central breakwater. This had long been a weedy, half stagnant
eyesore; now it was the convenient dumping-ground. Thither went
the wagon-loads of debris, almost by the million. The place was filled ;
and if at some far distant age Macaulay's fancied " New Zealander"
shall sit on the ruins of the ancient
Chicago and wonder at the great
remains of past glory, he may be
led to excavate the bank which
the lake will have abandoned, and
if so he shall there have rich finds
of the relics of a forgotten race.
The " Little Fire," the great
fire of July i\, 1874, seemed like
adding insult to injury; like plung-
ing the same dagger afresh into the
old, half-healed wound. Captain
Andreas says (3 Hist. Chic. 462) :
The starting point was a low shanty in the
rear of No. 527 South Clark Street, occupied by
a rag peddler as a store-house. . . . The first
estimate of the loss was $4,025,000, but this was
subsequently reduced to $3 845 ooo. The loss to
the insurance companies was about $2,200,000,
leaving a loss to property owners of between $i, 600. coo and $2,000,000, The fire lasted from 4:30
p. M. on the I4th till 3:30 A. M. on the ijth, and at one time it looked as if the city was menaced by
another sweeping conflagration At an early hour in the evening the apprehension was so great that
many firms began carting their valuable goods to the West Side. Guests left the hotels and people
on the North Side began preparing for another visitation by packing up their chattels.
The Fire, driven by a southwest wind, as was its greater predeces-
sor, swept from its origin on Clark Street eastward to the Lake, skirting
the southern edge of the rebuilding "burnt district," and doing little
damage, if any, to the new brick structures. But it was the " last straw"
on the back of the patient insurance interest. Anticipating the inevit-
able outcry, the local insurance agents met on the day after the disas-
ter and agreed to insist on a " new deal." The fire department must be
*Even while these pages were preparinz, a huge mass of iron melted together in an obstinate henp. has lain in
the way of the erection of one of the great new structures (the Masonic Temple), and has Hnally been raised and trans-
ferred to the "Libby Prison Museum."
Relics of the
past made
foundations
for the future.
A new blow on
the old sore
spot.
356
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
re-organized, the chief must have absolute control, the fire-limits must
be strictly observed and respected in all building, the water-mains must
Last straw on be enlarged, extra hazardous merchandise must not be stored, wooden
the insurance awnings, cornices and cupolas must be removed. In spite of all this the
Companies
National Board of Underwriters in Philadelphia, on October ist
resolved that all its companies should retire from Chicago, and the with-
drawal actually began.
At this alarming juncture the Citizens' Association (working with
Citizens- ASSO- the Board of Underwriters) raised $5,000 to carry into effect the reform
rescue. of the Fire Department. Franklin MacVeagh went East, argued the
matter before the Board of Underwriters and engaged General Shaler,
of New York, an old soldier and
an experienced fireman, to come to
Chicago and re-organize the fire-
fighting service, and the second
conflagration, severe trial as it was,
proved to have been a blessing in
disguise, for from that day to this
(1891) no fire has got beyond the
control of the department, so as
to outflank it, jump* over it, defy it
and rage unchecked over any large
extent of ground, although Chicago
still remains largely a " wooden
city."
The Insurance Companies, it is
needless to say, cheerfully — even
eagerly — returned to Chicago, and
have found it a profitable field for
their tillage ; although one of the
authorities on the subject assures
the writer (1891) that the net profits of the business here can never
repay the big loss ; for the reason that they can not pay the interest on
it, year by year. At six per cent, this would amount to $3,000,000 ;
and, compounding interest for the delay, would now take perhaps
$10,000,000 per annum to be gained before any beginning is made
11*1 ...
toward reducing the enormous principal.
The growth of the Fire Department from the fifteen poor rotary
engines of 1871, which could scarcely throw a respectable stream against
the wind, may be judged from the following extract from Mayor
Cregier's report of 1890, dated April 27, 1891 :
The fire department continues its usual efficiency. This arm of the service consists of 914
men in all capacities, 209 fire apparatuses, 89 stations, 387 horses and 115,000 feet or nearly 22 miles
J. VAN OSDEL.
The companies
forgive, but
do not forget
PANIC OF 1873. FIRE OF 1874. WHISKY RING.
357
°
of hose. During the year the department has responded to 4,639 alarms, of which 3,459 were fires.
104 men were injured while in the discharge of duty, but not a life was sacrificed during the year.
The new fire-boat " Yo Semite " was completed and put in service December iqth, and has a The new army
capacity to deliver 24 one-and-one-fourth streams simultaneously. This fire-boat has thrown a
single four-inch stream a distance of 420 feet. The power and utility of this boat will prove an
important addition to the department.
This one flood-thrower, drawing water from the river regardless
of any water-works, would alone have quelled the fire-fiend of 1871.
Its power is probably three times as great as that of all the apparatus of
the older days put together. There are more machines now than there
were men in the ante-fire days.
A very striking and noteworthy experience in the business history
of Chicago was the exposure and
punishment of the " whisky frauds'*
in 1875. The large internal rev-
enue tax laid on distilled spirits by
Congress in war time ($2 a gallon,
later reduced to 90 cents a gal-
lon), offered an overpowering
temptation to fraud and conceal-
ment, the tax being more than ten
times the cost of production.* The
frauds had been of long standing,
and, as is usual in such cases, the
offenders had grown bold and care-
less, regarding " beating the Gov-
ernment" as a kind of recognized
game of chance and skill — even
as certain women look upon the
introduction of foreign finery in
defiance of the customs laws. The
conspiracy involved many Govern-
ment officers. One member of President Grant's Cabinet was considered
.to be implicated, and people went so far as to charge the President
himself with privity in the swelling of campaign means by "whisky
money," or corruption funds, paid for convenient blindness on the part
of tax-collectors. This accusation, false as it proved, found many believ-
ers among his political opponents. General Grant's famous phrase,
"Let no guilty man escape," was the keynote of the prosecution, and
it went on to a triumphant conclusion.
Secretary Bristow was the instigator of the whole proceeding, and
* When corn is low and beef and porlc are high, spirits can be distilled in the West almost for nothing, seeing
that the " slops," or remains from distillation, are nearly as valuable for fattening cattle and hogs as was the corn before
"mashing."
DR. N. S. DAVIS.
Bursting of the
Whisky ring.
" Let no guilty
man escape.''
358
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
to him, perhaps, more than to any other one Government officer, was
due the great reform, comparable to that which ousted the "Tweed
Ring," in New York, in the same year,* a campaign whereof the glory
is assigned to Samuel J. Tilden. Special Deputies Tutton, Asa
Matthews and Captain William Somerville (the two last named Illinois
men) made the arrests and seizures. Judge Mark Bangs was the
United States District Attorney and managed the attacking force. He
had the help of some of the best legal talent in the city, Wirt Dexter,
B. F. Ayer, and L. H. Boutell; and, of course, was opposed by all the
ingenuity and ability that the profession could furnish and money could
employ: Robert G. Ingersoll, Emory A. Storrs, Leonard Swett, Sydney
Smith and others.
Eight large distilleries and
numerous rectifying and wholesale
liquor houses were seized, and
goods bearing the marks of these
houses were confiscated all over
the country, wherever found. The
"first batch" of the accused ar-
rested were scarcely in custody
before some of them showed symp-
toms of weakening. They knew
that the Government would have
little or no trouble in making out its
case, and finally, with one accord,
offered their testimony against
others on the hope of obtaining in-
demnity from the penalties of their
wrong-doing. After much consul-
tation and mature deliberation, Judge Bangs concluded to put them
prop- on the witness stand, they to rely on the clemency of the Government
as the consideration for their repentance and becoming its friends and
allies. Thereupon about a score of more distinguished culprits were"
arrested, including some men widely known and highly esteemed.
The trial was sensational, the court room crowded, the public-press
sensational alive with staring headlines and full columns. All defence was practi-
and sentences, cally hopeless, in view of the extreme severity and far-reaching pene-
tration of the revenue laws. Every gallon fraudulently distilled and
marketed was a separate offence calling for fine, confiscation and impris-
* It is partly in consequence of the uncounted stealings of the " Tweed Ring " that the public debt ol New York
is so great and so complicated that no man can give a complete statement of its amount. It has been estimated at
$140,000.000, which is somewhat more than ten times that of Chicago. Chicago naturally boasts of the difference, and of
the fact that in spite of all the charges, true and false, of fraud and peculation in her city government, no official or con-
tractor has grown rich on his city business.
MARK BANGS.
ong men
PANIC OF 1873. FIRE OF 1874. WHISKY RING.
onrnent. As millions of gallons had been "crooked," all the money in
the country would not have paid the possible fines, and centuries would
not have exhausted the possible terms of imprisonment. Frantic efforts str
were made to have the sentences confined to money penalties, but
imprisonment, with its accompanying stigma, was insisted on in every
case, and men of age, wealth and standing broke down in tears on being
condemned to the common jail.
Afterward came the question of the extent of indemnity to be
allowed to the " State's evidence " men. The Government was disposed
to insist that only imprisonment should be spared them ; that all fines
and confiscations should be enforced, and further, all liability as surety '".^TJiakre
on the bonds of the very men whom their evidence had brought to
justice. As finally settled, the "squealers" submitted to the loss of
the distilleries and liquors siezed, also to all the taxes proven against
them as being unpaid, but escaped the money penalties and liabilities
on bonds, the latter chiefly by compromise, for they were stripped of
their property and could not go into business again with the old liabili-
ties hanging over them. " Let no guilty man escape" was carried out
so far as the law or the public could identify him. Even if the " State's
evidence" men had got off scott free, it would only be in accord with
the general common-law principle of expediency. "Approvers" have
been favored, from very ancient times, on the ground given by an old
English commentator who says that a main safeguard for the upright is
found in the mutual distrust of the knaves who fear betrayal at each
other's hands.
The years 1873 to 1878 were years of extreme business depression ;
usually called years of "disaster;" but Judge Caton wisely calls them
years of prosperity, seeing that they were those where the process of
economical repair and renewal went on. In 1873, he observes, the im-
ports were $300,000,000 more than the exports ; indicating wild extrava-
gance in the use of foreign luxuries. This was quenched by the "hard
times," and economy took its place. Debts were liquidated and the
balance restored; so that in 1878 the exports were $300,000,000 above seeming tm
the imports. The process of contraction was not one of destruction bun-^uet
but of reconstruction; not an attack of melancholia, but the return to
reason after drunken foolishness. The "ministry of pain" is a blessing;
deeply disguised, but a blessing nevertheless when it is a preventive of
grealer pains.
Sure it is that every check which Chicago has ever met, be it war,
pestilence or (money) famine ; flood, fire or scandal, has only marked a
pause in her progress, a halt to gather strength for a higher leap.
THE STORY Of CHICAGO.
In the Mayoralty, Roswell B. Mason was succeeded in 1871 by Joseph Medill
next (1873) came Harvey D. Colvin; next (1876) Monroe Heath; next (1879"
Carter H. Harrison, who had the unprecedented honor of serving through four
successive terms with marked ability.
PANIC OF 1873. FIRE OF 1874. WHISKY KING.
After Mr. Harrison, came (1887) John A. Roche, and next (1889)
DeWitt Clinton Cregier, who was followed (1891) by the present
Mayor, Hempstead Washburne.
JOHN A. ROCHE. DE WITT CLINTON CREGIER.
Chicago should congratulate herself on the high character for per-
sonal honesty which has marked her chief executives without exception.
In war and peace, through dark
days and bright, through fire and
flood, through riots and other
epidemics, they have served her
faithfully. In many cases the
choice to the high office has
seemed to raise its incumbent to a
higher plane of principle than had
ever before been attributed to him.
Partisan rancor has often accused
them of partisan bias; never of pri-
vate peculation. So far as known,
they, one and all, have left the
Mayoralty poorer than they entered
it; in spite of the fact that in the
meantime huge sums have been
spent upon public works of great
extent and magnificence, offering
crookedness."
Uniform integ-
rity of the
Mayors of
Chicago.
HEMPSTEAD WASHBURXE.
temptations to all kinds of
CHAPTER XXXI.
The 1
the
the
uxury of
poor and
rich.
THE BEAUTY SPOTS.
ARKS are among the many luxuries which
the advance of the world's means and
appliances for human enjoyment has
brought into the category of necessaries
of life. Warmth, light, air, sport, beauty
and music (among thousands of other
comforting and elevating gifts) are now
offered to the poorest, to a degree which
even within historic times, was beyond
the dream of the most favored of men.
And city parks are the purveyors of
warmth, light, air, sport, beauty and
music, to vast crowds of city-dwellers, who
otherwise would find very little of either
in their lives.
Reference has already been made to the establishment of Lincoln
Park, the pioneer of the magnificenj: park system of Chicago. Those
SEA LION POND, LINCOLN PARK.
362
THE BEAUTY SPOTS.
363
who, with so much courage and persistency, carried through that enter-
prise, established not only a park, but a precedent. The legislative
commission, with its powers, duties and limitations, was the all-potent
machine by which, in 1869, the South and West Divisions effected for
themselves what the North Division had devised for itself.
On February 24, 1869, an act of the legislature was passed and
approved, which created a commission, consisting of John M. Wilson,
George W. Gage, Chauncey T. Bowen, L. B. Sidway and Paul Cornell,
to locate and maintain a park in the towns of South Chicago, Hyde
Park and Lake, authorizing them to obtain certain designated lands by
purchase or condemnation, to cause the appointment of assessors by the
Circuit Court to levy taxes, to issue bonds secured on the park and its
improvements, and generally to do all things needful in the premises.
South Park
Commission.
GATES AJAR, WASHINGTON PARK
After nearly two years of hard work, the Fire came and swept
away almost all the visible result, namely, the magnificent plans and
specifications prepared by Olmstead & Vaux (landscape architects of
New York Central Park), the maps of the region, with ownership, etc.,
the Board records and books of account, all contracts, estimates, accounts
and vouchers, and, perhaps worst of all, the roll of "assessment for bene-
fits." In spite of this, and in accordance with the spirit which animated
the community, they were soon at work again, making up for lost time.
In 1872, '73 and '74, boulevards were laid out and graded, an artesian
well was sunk, water-mains were extended, sewers built, hundreds of
acres of land planted and fertilized, artificial lakes excavated, a tempo-
its Fire lo*
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
rary music-stand was erected and Hans Balatka's orchestra employed to
give weekly concerts.
To quote Andreas (3 Hist. Chic., 170):
Up to 1875 the whole amount of land purchased was 1,045 acres. . . 350 acres had been
tilled, seeded down and planted with forest trees, of from three to twelve inches diameter. That
part of it known as the "South Open Green " had been laid out as a lawn — probably the most exten-
sive in America — and the four main boulevards, Grand, Drexel, Pavilion and Oakwood, had been
built and completed, affording eleven and one-half miles of road. A connecting drive between the
h'a'ses^nd East and West divisions of the park, beside other minor boulevards, some five miles in length, had
improvements been constructed. The nursery furnished several thousand trees each season, which were planted
in the park, their places being supplied with young stock. The floral department and botanical gar-
den were well established, with good hot-houses, steam forcing apparatus, etc., and the Board found
itself able to furnish therefrom all the plants for the walks and drives in the parks.
The various boulevards and portions of the park were named from
time to time. The East became Jackson Park; the West, Washington
Dr««istai
FLORAL GLOBE, WASHINGTON PARK.
Park. The boulevards were named Grand, Garfield, Drexel, etc. In
acknowledgment of the last, the Drexel heirs in Philadelphia furnished
that boulevard with a handsome bronze fountain, surmounted by a statue
of A. J. Drexel, the founder of the family, and a distinguished philan-
thropist. The greatest innovation was that which connected the park
w't^ t'le centre °f tne citv by the adoption by the Board, and repaving
and improving as a boulevard, of Michigan Avenue, for nearly its whole
length, namely, from Jackson Street to 35th Street, a distance of over
three miles. This cost more than $500,000.
Under the provisions of the Park acts, any street " boulevarded "
is placed under the control of the Park Board, as to its care, government
THE BEAUTY SPOTS.
365
and use, and the Board can assess adjacent property for its reimburse-
ment. The Board thereupon forbids the use of the roadway for busi-
IN THE PALM HOUSE, LINCOLN PARK.
ness travel (and even for funerals) except so far as absolutely necessary
to the residents on the street itself. The Board must be applied to for
permission by any railway which desires to cross its boulevards ; in short,
366
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Hardship of
Boulevarding
some streets
at the cost of
others.
the whole length of each is treated as part of the park. This is not
looked upon with favor by the residents on parallel streets near by, as
it not only gives the favored avenue a certain glory and distinction, but
also throws on the other roadways more than their share of the public
business, the traffic which is heavy, dirty, noisy, unsightly, undesirable
and pavement-wearing. Still, they submit, perforce, and with as good a
grace as may be. " It is for the city's good."
The South Park Commissioners' report for 1890 gives the total
outlays since 1869 as $11,101,935, and the entire remaining debt as
$281,000. In other words, the taxpayers of the South Division have in
FLORAL DESIGN IN LINCOLN PARK.
policy
eighteen years freely paid $10,820,935, and wiped out the cost of lands
and everything else, except the paltry sum of $281,000. This is a fresh
and strong illustration of the severe " pay as you go " policy which has
pay-as-you.?o always characterized Chicago and resulted in making all her immense
outlays, both before and after the Fire, without increasing by a dollar
the old debt of less than $14,000,000.
The South Park is to accommodate the World's Fair. It has sur-
rendered to the "Columbian Exposition Board" the whole of Jackson
Park and the midway Plaisance. This makes 666 acres, including a mile
and a half of lake frontage. As Paris managed to do fairly well with
THE BEAUTY SPOTS.
367
225 acres and no lake frontage, it may be supposed that the Columbian
will not suffer for elbow room.
Some idea of the work required to keep the South Park in shape
may be gained from the list of equipments, etc., it has in use: 53 wagons,
8 phaetons, 23 sprinkling wagons, 5 carts, i steam roller, 121 horses, 85
boats, and tools and implements beyond count. The park has 40 tennis
courts, 10 base ball fields, three skating ponds and one curling pool.
The receipts from sale of hay, hire of phaetons and boats, sales at
refreshment counters, etc., were over $24,000.
The Commissioners' report for 1890 gives the following:
TABLE OF THE AREAS AXD DISTANCES OF THE SOUTH PARKS AND BOULEVARDS.
Equipment
needed by a
park.
< £
"3 «
W)
75 ^
Improved Area,
Acres.
Improved Drives,
Miles.
524
84
371
171
6 18
20
80
i S3
Drexel Boulevard 200 feet wide.
Oakwood Boulevard 100 feet wide . . . .
. 50
. 50
c . 71
i 77
Thirty-fifth Street Boulevard
3 • 50
» 17
2.8l
I 7Q
,03
• °3
One
1 6 17
IC£
28. iJ.
Table of areas
and distances.
The total area of the territory embraced within-the limits of the South Parks and Boulevards
is 1,306 acres.
The commissioners are (1891) William Best, Joseph Donners-
berger, James W. Ellsworth, John B. Sherman and Martin J. Russell.
The act for incorporating the West Park Board was passed Feb- w«t
ruary 27, 1869, the commissioners being Charles C. P. H olden, Henry
Greenebaum, George W. Stanford, E. F. Runyan, Isaac R. Hitt, Clark
Lipe and P. W. Gates. The act provided for a boulevard, beginning
at the North Branch north of Fullerton Avenue, running west to a point
west of Western Avenue; then southerly, as the commissioners might
direct, to the line of the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railway; and
parks were to be situated along the line of this boulevard, in the dis-
cretion of the Board. With this large liberty of choice, the Board laid
out four boulevards, namely, Douglas, Central, Humboldt and South-
inK cf
Side
system.
36$
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
west ; with a total surface of 262 acres, and a length of 8^ miles.
These boulevards join together the three great new parks : Douglas,
180 acres; Garfield, 186 acres; and Humboldt, 200 acres; covering,
Douglas, Gar- with the boulevards, 828 acres. Besides these laid out by the Board, it
has had assigned to its charge five older parks, namely: Union, 15
acres ; Jefferson, 5 acres ; Vernon, 4 acres; Wicker, 5 acres, and Camp-
bell, half an acre. Also five older boulevards, namely: Washington,
Jackson, Ashland, Twelfth Street and Ogden Avenue ; which bring the
total surface of West Side parks and boulevards up to about 940 acres.
field and
Humboldt.
Great Boule-
vards on the
West Side.
SCENE IX LINCOLN' PARK.
The boulevards are 250 feet wide; and, starting from Lincoln Park,
and running west to Humboldt, thence south through Garfield Park,
they continue until they join the South Park system. This carries the
roadway on southward to a point parallel with Jackson Park; there it
turns eastward, reaching, through the South parks, Lake Michigan, which
it quitted at Lincoln Park, some nine miles north, having, in the meantime,
traversed seventeen miles of continuous boulevard and park cultivation.
There, the traveler can, if he so choose, turn northward, and by Grand
and Michigan Boulevards return to the place he started, after making a
grand tour of twenty-six miles.
THE BEAUTY SPOTS.
369
As yet, this long detour is through the outskirts of the city (except
the Michigan and Grand Boulevards stretch), but within the not distant Future
future the city "without the wall"* will be larger than that within it, and b*"ui"-
it is easy to fancy the grandeur and beauty of this system under those
circumstances.
WASHINGTON PARK KOl'NTAIN.
TABLE OF WEST PARKS AND BOULEVARDS.
Area,
Acres.
Improved
Acres.
Length,
Miles.
Humboldt Park
200 ^£
QC
Humboldt Boulevard
2 \4
Garfield Park
185^
114
Central Boulevard
\1A
Douglas Park ...
I7Q3/
I7Q3/
Southwestern Boulevard
2A
Wicker Park
.ll/
ll/
3?|
I'nion Park
14^
I43/
I
Jefferson Park
5 '4
Twelfth Street Boulevard
Vernon Park
4/4
4'A
ilA
Campbell Park
¥
X
Jackson Boulevard ...
3M
Total acres ....
;nl .
4IQ
Total miles
i6W
Acres and
miles of West
Side system.
The outlay on the West Side parks and boulevards for 1890 was
$148,150 for maintenance, and $i 14,361 for improvement. The miscel-
laneous receipts from boat-hire, rents, etc., were $17,647.
The Board of West Park Commissioners for 1891 comprises
George Mason, Henry S. Burkhardt, Fred M. Blount, Willard Wood-
ard, Harvey L. Thompson, C. K. G. Billings and John Kralovec.
•The original signification of " Boulevard " is bulwark or rampart.
370
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Lake Shore
Drive; the
Glory of the
North Side.
Lincoln Park, on
the North Side, has
the peculiar and in-
estimable advantage
of a Lake Shore
drive ; the beginning
of a roadway des-
tined to be at some
future time continu-
ous to Milwaukee;
if not to far away
"Devil's Door," the
entrance to Green
Bay, 300 miles to the
northward. Already
(1891) it is completed
or in a fair state of
forwardness, from the
heart of the city to
Fort Sheridan, the
United States Mili-
tary Post, twenty-two
miles down the lake,
passing through an
almost continuous
line of pretty sub-
urbs. Wherever pos-
sible, the drive skirts
the lake itself ; else-
where it keeps the
water in view through
the trees or over the
bluff, and at still other
places it is driven
quite inland by the
irregularities of sur-
face or by the un-
willingness of private
owners .to be sepa-
rated from the beach.
Doubtless, as time
goes on, changes will
BEAR PIT IN LINCOLN PARK.
THE BEAUTY SPOTS.
37'
be made in its location, and always in the direction of nearer conformity
to the meandering shore ; for nothing in all the joys of mere travel can
compare with the delight of speeding over solid land beside open water
— unless it be sailing along smiling water in view of a pretty landscape.
Of this peculiar opportunity the Lincoln Park Commissioners took
shrewd and early advantage. Almost the first outlay they incurred was
the preparation of .the driveway along the Park front. This was atn
~ . / . O Primeval Sand-
once (in 1870) made much use of, even while most of the Park land bills
was still in its normal and primeval condition of barren, bare or weedy
sand-hills. The driveway served a double purpose : it pleased the North
Siders and made them, .one and all, willing to pay the new assessment
which added to their tax burden, and it shut out and made forever
SCENK IN' DOUGLAS PARK.
impossible the alienation of the Lake Shore for a railway entrance to
the city; a fate which overtook the whole South lake front at a day so
far back that it was in the time when the shore was regarded as a dreary
waste instead of a refreshing pleasure-ground.
It is easy to perceive that a range of wind-swept sand-hills is an
unpromising place fora park, but hard to conceive of the immensity of
the task of subduing it to verdure and beauty. On the other hand, there
are some compensatory features; the sand is easy to move by plow and
scraper, and is a self-draining material when reduced to the desired
form. On the whole, one would rather attack for park purposes warm
sand than oold, refractory soaked clay or hardpan. A design once fixed
on, with a pond here and there to be excavated, a hill or two or three
Exclusion of
Shore rail-
ways.
372
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Blossoming .
the rose.
to be brought low, a mound to be raised, a slope to be graded, a ridge
to be ranged, numberless rlower beds to be started, a hot-house, a con-
servatory, a green-house,a palm-house,a boat-house, a tool and-machinery-
house, a keeper's dwelling and bafn to be built — all these things and a
thousand others being laid out for deliberate achievement, the thing
goes on step by step, and the change, to an occasional visitor, seems
almost magical. ioo,ooocubic yards or more of clay make a substratum
to the grass-plats ; tens of thousands of loads of black soil and the fer-
tilizing city street-sweepings make the top-dressing ; thousands of trees,
home-grown and imported, soon stand in orderly confusion, and behold!
the wilderness blossoms as the rose.
Lincoln Park, itself, is the only park under the control oi the Com-
SCEXE IN DOUGLAS PARK.
missioners of Lincoln Park ; its acreage, including the area within the
shore protection now in process of construction, is 325 acres, of which
300 acres are improved. Its driveways, outside its own limits and those
of the Lake Shore Drive, are :
Lincoln Park Boulevard, one-fourth of a mile (being Pine Street
from Pearson to Oak Street).
North Avenue Boulevard (Clark Street to Lake Shore Drive),
one-fourth of a mile.
North Park Avenue Boulevard (Center Street to Fullerton Avenue),
one half-mile.
Lake View Avenue Boulevard (Diversey Avenue to Belmont
Avenue), one half-mile.
THE BEAUTY SPOTS.
373
Diversey Avenue Boulevard (Clark Street to Lake Shore) one-
fourth of a mile.
The city council of Chicago recently transferred to the Lincoln
Park Board control of Fullerton Avenue from Clark Street to North
Park Avenue, nearly one-fourth of a mile, and it is now being improved ;
the city council also transferred the control of Diversey Avenue from
Clark Street west to the North Branch (the exact distance unknown).
It has been conditionally accepted by the Commissioners — but it is
probable an amendatory ordinance will be passed before the Board
assumes control.
Miles and acres
of the Lincoln
Park system.
SCENE IX DOUGLAS PARK.
The Board issued seven per cent, bonds for land amounting to
Of these 650 have been paid
Outstanding
$900,000
650,000
$250
Original cost
,OOO and present
debt.
$50,000 of this issue is retired in April of each year. Beside
these, $350,000 of five per cent, bonds have been issued for the con-
struction of the outer drive and protection.
There has been expended on account of Land Improvement and
Maintenance, from 1869 to April i, 1891, the sum of $5,250,264, and
the only sum unpaid is the bonded debt of $600,000 before mentioned.
For the year ending April 30, 1891, the receipts were $347,566,
and the outlays $341,364.
374
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
The successive Commissioners have been Ezra B. McCagg, John
B. Turner, Joseph Stockton, Jacob Rehm, Andrew Nelson, Samuel M.
Nickerson, William H. Bradley, Francis H. Kales, Belden F. Culver,
Frederick H. Winston, Anthony C. Hesing, Thomas F. Withrow, L. J.
Kadish, Max Hjortsberg, Isaac N. Arnold, Charles Catlin, and J.
McGregor Adams. The Commissioners for 1891 are William C.
Goudy, President; C. J. Blair, Treasurer; E. S. Taylor, Secretary, and
Horatio N. May, Andrew E. Leicht, Joseph Stockton and John Worthy.
It is unquestionable that the park and boulevard system of Chicago
was planned and carried out far ahead of the city's actual needs. In
SCENE IN GARFIELD PARK.
Park System
stiii beyond
present needs.
truth, even at the present writing (1891 ) they are beyond all proportion
to the use made of them. Large expanses of park are lonely solitudes,
except on some special feast day. Long stretches of boulevard are as
inappropriate to their respective neighborhoods as would be a cathedral
. ,„..,. 11-11 11
in a country village. 1 his being so when the city has long passed the
*
million mark, how almost absurd must they have seemed when they were
laid out encircling (though far away from) a town of only 300,000 souls!
They fitted about as well as a wedding ring on a baby girl's finger. But,
all this being true, it only proves the projectors to have had the gift of
second-sight. If it had not been done when it was, it would have been
impossible ever afterward. In spite of the loudly-blamed greed of the
property owners (who in general, though not invariably, got every
THE BEAUTY SPOTS.
375
penny they could) the land was bought at prices far below present
values. The limit of permitted rates of assessment (between one and
two cents on the hundred dollars of value) gave, at first, very scanty
means for improvements and sinking funds ; but as surrounding lands
and lots rise (partly by aid of the parks and boulevards themselves) the
same old rates give generous yearly sums to the successive Boards)
while the lessening of the debt, by calling in bonds for the sinking
GRANI
:LEVARD.
funds, reduces year by year the interest charges, so that in the Colum-
bian year the whole system will be substantially clear of incumbrance,
while the available funds will authorize expenditures not less than mag-
nificent. Not only has this generation planned for the next and its
successors a princely pleasure ground, it has bought it and paid for it,
and devises it to the future free of the usual purchase-money mortgage.
And this, too, achieved by the burnt-out generation, the rebuilders of
the ruined city.
ncreasmg
means and
Bought and
paid for; a
free Rift to
the future.
CHAPTER XXXII.
RIOTS AND THEIR SUPPRESSION.
VERY city, the majority of the citizens
whereof are householders, is safe, not
from riots, but from successful riots. He
who has much to lose is a sure defender
of law and order. Building societies are
the best form of special police and civic,
unarmed militia. The dangerous classes
are nomadic; rovers, " foot-loose," dwell-
ers in tents, figuratively, if not literally.
The home-lover is not formidable for
attack and aggression, but for defence he
is invincible.
A city of homes
safe from
certain
dangers.
Trade unions
necessary and
proper.
The Pittsburg
Riots.
On the other hand, combinations of
wage-earners are natural and proper, as
are also combinations of employers. The
latter are not prone to advance wages (however reasonably) except upon
necessity, and that necessity is not brought to bear, except by the refu-
sal of employes to work at the lower rates ; nor will the wage-earners
consent to a reduction (however necessary) except by the refusal of all
employers to pay the higher. Both seem to be as necessary as are two
parties in national politics. Their contests and clashings are inevitable
and lawful (so long as peacefully carried on), and from them comes the
" market rate," the meeting point of supply and demand.
In July, 1877, occurred what were known as the "Railroad Riots,"
in reality a combined and premeditated effort on the part of wage-earn-
ers all over the Union to force down the hours of labor and force up the
rates of wages, the railroads being chosen as the point of attack. In
many Eastern cities there were great riots, with bloody results, espe-
cially in Pittsburg, where the killed and wounded, among citizen-soldiers
and citizen workmen, numbered hundreds.* In Chicago on July 23rd,
a mass-meeting of laborers was called at Market Square (Market,
Madison and Washington Streets), at which speeches were made, coun-
* In Pittsburg, mismanagement (complicated with treachery or cowardice) led to dreadful disaster. The local
military refused or failed to support the civil power, whereupon regiments from other pans of Pennsylvania were brought
into service. These probably opened fire too soon— certainly stopped too soon after the fight was upon them. The
enraged rioters by thousands surrounded them, and drove them into the railway machine shops and engine houses, then
set fire to the places of refuge. The militia sought refuge m the armories of the city companies and were refused. They
dispersed and were killed and wounded in large numbers. Every vestige of railway property was burned— buildings,
machinery and rolling stock, including 125 first-class engines. The loss aggregated $10,000,000.
376
RIOTS AND THEIR SUPPRESSION.
377
Chicago.
selling mob violence. On Tuesday some hundreds of men and boys
marched down Canal Street, warning from their work all laborers in
coal-yards, lumber-yards, factories and railway-yards, and threatening Fi
with violence any who persisted in their occupations. These were dis-
persed by the police, but the isolated bands continued their paralyzing
interference, so that before the next morning industry was almost at a
stand-still. The railroads, except some mail-trains, were entirely
stopped.
Warned by the occurrences at Pittsburg, where gun-stores were
raided and the mob armed with their contents, the Police (M.C. Hickey,
Supt., and Joseph H. Dixon, Deputy) requested fire-arm dealers to re
move all weapons from their win-
dows to a place of safety, a request
which they willingly complied with,
well knowing that if called on to
part with their wares it would be
in a way devoid of profit to their
pockets. Handbills were circu-
lated calling another mass-meeting
at Market Square on Tuesday
evening, but the assembly was
prevented by the police, who dis-
persed the crowds as fast as they
arrived. By Tuesday evening 322
special policemen had been called
into service, and over 125 rioters
arrested and confined. Mayor
Heath issued his proclamation call-
ing on citizens to organize protec-
tive associations in each ward, and the First and Second Regiments of
militia, with Bolton's Veteran Battery, the Battalion of Cavalry and
some smaller armed companies were assembled at their respective
armories. Beside these, the Grand Army posts and other veteran
.. . i • r i • f
organizations offered their services, and, as if by magic, a force estimated Defence.
at 20,000 men was enrolled for the defence of law, order and property.
A. C. Ducat, Major General, and Joseph T. Torrence, Brigadier
General of State Militia, and took immediate command of the force,
making up their staffs from such material as could be readily found,
availing themselves, as far as possible, of men who had seen service
during the rebellion, as both the generals named had done. Mayor
Heath placed the public defence entirely in their hands, ordering the
police force to report to General Torrence for orders.
GEN. JOSEPH T. TORREVCE.
forces lor
37S
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Outbreak and
bloodshed.
Points to be
defended .
The earliest, longest and latest parts of the struggle fell necessarily
on the police, which certainly acquitted itself admirably. To quote
Andreas (3 Hist. Chic., 109):
The first actual violence occurred on Wednesday. The rioters, growing bolder, began driving
men from work and destroying property in the lumber districts, and massed 900 strong near
McCormick's reaper factory on Blue Island avenue. Here a detachment of police, under command
of Lieutenants Cailahan and Vescy, routed the mob. A second mob, at Van Buren Street bridge,
was dispersed by Lieutenant Ebersold; and still another, in the vicinity of the Illinois Central eleva-
tors, by Lieutenant Bell and Sergeant Brennan. Before noon a dozen outbreaks occurred in the
various divisions of the city, in which men were beaten, windows broken and street cars stopped.
The saloons were ordered to be closed, trucks were kept in readiness to carry the police.
A mass-meeting of the rioters was broken up and their platforms torn down. . . At the Burling-
ton & Quincy Round-house, on Sixteenth Street, Lieutenant Macauley and Sergeant Ryan's detail
had a half-hour battle with the rioters, during which five of the latter were shot dead. That evening
Pribyl's gun store on South Halsted Street was raided, and the arms taken by the mob.
DAVID QUIRK.
MAYOR HEATH.
Thursday morning the rioters were massed in the vicinity of the Sixteenth Street viaduct
Lieutenant Bischoff's detail were fired on, special policemen Landacher and Shanley being wounded.
. . Alarming rumors of riot and carnage were afloat and each fusillade intensified the popular
excitement. The hour for decisive action had come, and the First and Second regiments, com
manded respectively by Colonel S. B. Sherer and Colonel James Quirk, were ordered by General
Torrence to report at the scene of disturbance to Police Captain Seavey.
The points of first importance to be protected were the water-
works, the fire department whenever it should be called out by an
alarm, the various distilleries with their large stores of spirits, and
whenever they should resume their operations, the railroads. The resi-
dence portions of the city were protected by organized bodies of citizens
who patrolled the streets by regular "reliefs" and made any organized
attack on private property hopeless — if any plan for such attack was
ever entertained, which is not proven and not probable.
RIOTS AND THEIR SUPPRESSION.
379
Turning now to General Torrence s report, it appears that :
The Union Veterans, a force wholly composed of old and tried soldiers, not connected with
the State military organization, but sworn in as special policemen, reported to me for duty and
obeyed orders from headquarters. The command was organized and equipped under the efficient
supervision of General Reynolds, Colonel Owen Stuart, General O. L. Mann and General Martin
Beem, on the 24th of July [Tuesday]; and from that time forward was almost constantly engaged
in the performance of duties which were of the first importance to the preservation of public order.
Company A, Captain Lewis F. Jacobs, and Company D, Captain Charles H. French, were on duty
for several days, guarding the Phoenix Distillery [Clybourn Ave. Bridge], which was seriously
threatened by mobs. Company B, Captain L. W. Pierce, was the first fully organized and equippedj
and was employed in guarding the North and West Side water-works. Company F, Captain C. R.
E. Koch, was mainly occupied in protecting the distillery at the corner of Canalport Avenue and
Morgan Street. General Lieb also recruited and commanded a company of veterans, which was of
the greatest service
The infantry was moved from its armories for the first time on
Thursday, July 26th. The First was then marched to the Exposition
building (Lake Front Park) and the Second
to the Rock Island Railway Station. At
10 A. M. Captain Williams, with Lackey's
Zouaves, the North Chicago Light Guard
and his own company of the First, marched
to the corner of Milwaukee and Chicago
Avenues, near Halsted Street bridge, where
the police were hard pressed. At 1 1 A. M.
.the main body of the First was marched to
the Harrison Street Police Station, where
it was joined by one gun of Bolton's veteran
battery, when the force was marched to
the eastern end of Twelfth Street bridge,
where the gun was placed in position to
command the bridge, the infantry support- CAPTAIN JOHN BONFIELD.
ing. The Second at the same time took its position at the West
Twelfth Street Station, supporting a second gun of Bolton's battery.
Thursday night the troops occupied the following positions: Four
companies of the Second, under Colonel Quirk, on Halsted Street via-
duct, and three companies under Major Murphy between the viaduct
and Twelfth Street; two companies of the First at Twelfth Street
bridge, two at Jefferson Street and two near West Twelfth Street
Turner Hall.
General Torrence's report continues :
On the 26th of July [Thursday] a strong veteran cavalry force of about 150 men was
organized by Major James H. B. Daly, assisted by General Shaffner. . Immediately upon
being mounted and equipped, the troops under Captains Waters, McNeill and Agramonte were
ordered to the scene of disturbance— the Halsted Street viaduct— in the neighborhood of which
they remained on duty all day, making many charges and capturing a number of prisoners, some
in the open streets and others in houses from which shots had been fired, and dispersing groups of
rioters. General Torrence took command of the cavalry on Halsted Street and at the viaduct in
person. The conflict on Halsted Street having terminated in the discomfiture of the rioters, the
'*"^ To|J'',nC''*
forces.
United States
Regulars.
Unanimity in
thedefendeis.
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
cavalry was employed for the remainder of the time in patrolling the disaffected districts. It would
be difficult to overestimate the services rendered by the cavalry, some of whom were almost con-
stantly in the saddle performing duties of the most exhausting and harassing nature.
Two companies of United States infantry arrived during the prog-
ress of the affair, and their soldierly quiet and dignified bearing were a
matter of admiration and inspiration to the local forces. They reported
to the State commanders and were posted in exposed positions. As is
usual wherever they appear, all over the Union, they were received
with respectful welcome. Even in cases where local militia are subject
to jibes, if not opposition, "the regulars" never fail to meet with
cordiality. Men may be jealous of their neighbors in arms, but are sure
to look upon National soldiers with pride and affection.
It is certain that all the troops
behaved with exemplary faithful-
ness, discipline and self-restraint.
They were never in the way when
the police found themselves ade-
quate to the emergency, and never
out of the way when the civil force
required help. It was a task of
some delicacy to assign its place to
each body of troops, not because
any hung back, but because each
chafed at being held back. The
First was stigmatized as the " silk-
stocking" regiment, and the Second
was even (by persons who did not
know it well) distrusted as possible
sympathizers with the striking riot-
ers. The Second burned to show
its loyalty, and when the First was
moved from the armory before orders were received by the Second, the
latter made known its displeasure in no uncertain terms. In fact, there
was not, nor has there ever been, any feeling in either except eager-
ness to prove its usefulness and devotion to duty, harm who it might.
The same is true of the troops judged by nationality. The Clan-na-
Gael Guards were as trustworthy as Lackey's Zouaves or the North
Chicago Light Guard : All were simply Americans and citizen soldiers
of Chicago.
The grand display of force made any severe use of force needless.
It seems that riots do not start out with many persons resolved to break
law, but grow by the excitement of any early success that may attend
them, drawing into their bad influence idle spectators, carried away by
JUDGE JOSEPH E. GARY.
RIOTS AND THEIR SUPP RESSION.
38J
the infection of excited example. Panics grow and spread in like
manner. Men may be " stampeded " forward as well as backward ; to
attack as well as to fly. This riot was like an Alpine snow-ball scattered
by a timely obstruction ; but for which it might have become an ava-
lanche.
The stampede, in this case, seized upon the "upper classes," at the
dawning of the day of trouble. Not that there was any general exodus
(though some few men were "compelled to leave town" with their
The threatened
avalanche
scattered at
the start.
HAY MARKET.
families), but there was general alarm, consternation, dismay, earnest
appeal to all who had any experience in military matters — a degree of
trepidation which was not without its entertaining features to such
as did not share it. The newspapers blazed with what are technically
called "scare headlines." At the first collision one saw "the pale air
streaked with blood." At this stage the force which stood between
property and its perils were " brave defenders," and nothing they could
ask was too good for them. They asked nothing but arms, ammuni-
tion, supplies and means of transportation ; these furnished, they did
their duty quietly, incessantly for seven days and nights, till all anxiety
was over, the railways again running, the wheels of industry turning
and life and money-making going on as usual. Then all was changed,
Fear ol the mob
succeeded by
jibe* at the
military.
Thankless
of the m
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
blanched faces grew red with laughter, the timid grew jocular — it had
been a huge joke ! The public press was not ashamed to turn the
defence to ridicule, publishing the names and personal characteristics
of inconspicuous actors in the drama, and, with exquisite irony, prefix-
ing the title of " General " to each. If the militia had originally paused
to raise the question of regimental armories, money for uniforms, flags,
music and other requisites of fine " soldiering," they might have gotten
iitia. all they had been so long asking in vain. But they stopped for noth-
ing, and consequently are still (1891) giving, not only their time but
much money they can ill spare, all in the service of a heedless and
ungrateful public.
Probably very few of those who " turned out " thought of any pos-
sible money equivalent for their efforts, but as soon as the Legislature
met all were paid in proper proportion to their rank and term of service.
THE ANARCHIST RIOT AND ITS SEQUEL.
It seemed likely that a generation might pass before there would
come another collision between law and lawlessness. Such storms are
wont to clear the air and make all ready for a long calm diversified by
only gentle showers and soft zephyrs. So far as concerns anything like
a popular uprising the railroad riots -may turn out to be the last for
several decades, but within a single one a new collision between law and
The \narchit anarcny took place ; the latter being a struggle wherein reputable labor
movement, had no recognized place. It was in 1886 that certain professed and
professional law contemners (all of foreign birth) tried to bring the
masses of American working-men to the principles or sentiments enter-
tained by certain European theorists who hold with Marat that "prop-
erty is robbery," that law is oppression, and that order is slavery.
Right or wrong, the American public disagrees with them, and they
are in a minority so hopeless as to be pitiful. They are not either
loved, hated or feared ; they are only laughed at.
In that year they fancied that the time was ripe for a revolution in
their favor. This was only one of their delusions, as the world thinks and
RIOTS AND THEIR SUPPRESSION.
3S3
as the result tends to prove. Two newspapers, the " Arbeiter-Zeitung "
and the " Appeal," socialistic, communistic or anarchistic, it is hard to
say which, had been leading a struggling existence for some time, the
former edited by a zealous and able man named August Spies, and
f>
printed and published by him in connection with Balthazar Rau, Albert
Parsons, Michael Schwab, Gustav Fischer, Rudolph Schnaubelt, Louis
Lingg and others; and these men had really formed sundry clubs, called
'X**S:e«^
JURY IN THE ANARCHIST CASE.
"Lehr und Wehr Verein,"with "Armed Groups," which were secretly
sworn in, armed, drilled and organized for a war with the great Ameri-
can Nation. They were not crazy enough to fancy that these squads
could, single-handed, cope with the powers that be; but just crazyTheirfoUy>
enough to believe that a little bit of success at the start would bring to
their side the mass of wage-earners of Chicago, and then those of other
towns and cities. (What part the far greater masses of agriculturists
•were to play does not appear.)
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Difference be
tween labor
unionists and
anarchists.
Shorter hours of labor was the reform aimed at in the agitation of
1885-86. This the communists did not favor, calling it a half-way meas-
ure, likely to postpone complete communism. Albert R. Parsons wrote
in the "Alarm" :
The private possession of property, or ownership of the means of production and exchange,
places the propertyless class in the power and control of the propertied class, since they can refuse
bread, or the chance to earn it, to all the wage-classes who refuse to obey their dictation. Eight
hours, or less hours, is, therefore, under existing conditions, a lost battle. The private property
system employs labor only to exploit (rob) it, and while the system is in vogue, the victims — those it
disinherits — have only the choice of submission or starvation.
The McCormick Reaper Works, after long and bitter negotiations
with their men, closed voluntarily on February 16, 1886. This was the
communists' opportunity, 'and they urged the idle wage-workers to
violence. They formed and drilled two " armed groups," experimented
with dynamite and the making of bombs, and looked for the "Great
upheaval." At the same time the McCormick Company hired detect-
Trouble at
McCormick's
Reaper-works.
ives, and the regular police placed 500 men on the ground to preserve
order. Under the advice of the press and leading citizens, the Company
raised wages, but insisted on employing whom they pleased, union or
non-union. This started the works — and the disturbances; for every
" scab" was marked for insult and injury by the " unionists."
Saturday, May i, 1886, was the day set for the universal eight-hour
strike. On Monday, May 3rd, a crowd of 10,000 collected not far from
the McCormick Works. August Spies addressed the men, advising them
to arm themselves with "dynamite, rifles, shot-guns, pistols, clubs, sticks,
stones" — anything they could use, and make a bold stroke for "freedom."
The factory was attacked, the chief sufferers being non-union moulders
in the foundry. Two officers, Condon and West, trying to defend the
" scabs," were badly beaten. Reinforcements of police arrived and a
fierce struggle occurred. About half a dozen rioters were killed and
half a hundred wounded. From this scene Spies went to the office of
the "Arbeiter-Zeitung," and there wrote a circular, as follows :
Revenge! Workingmen, to arms ! Your masters sent out their bloodhounds, the police. They
killed six of your brothers at McCormick's this afternoon. They killed them because they had the
courage to disobey the supreme will of your bosses; they killed them because they dared to ask for
the shortening of the hours of toil; they killed them 10 show you, free American citizens, that you
RIOTS AND THEIR SUPPRESSION.
3S5
must be satisfied and contented with whatever your bosses condescend to allow you, or you will get
killed. You have for years suffered unmeasurable iniquities, you have worked yourself to death,
you have endured the pangs of want and hunger, your children you •have sacrificed to the factory
lords— in short, you have been miserable and obedient slaves all these years. Why? To satisfy the The "Revenge"
insatiable greed, to fill the coffers of your lazy, thieving masters. When you ask them now to lessen
the burthen, they send their bloodhounds out to shoot you — kill you. If you are men, if you are the
sons of your grandsires, who have shed their blood to free you, then you will rise in your might,
Hercules, and destroy the hideous monster that seeks to destroy you. To arms ! We call you to
arms ! YOUR BROTHERS.
The " brothers" in whose name he signed the " Revenge " circular
were the little separate knot of communists. To each of their "armed
groups "was sent the word " Ruhe "( Rest), which, as afterward dis-
closed, was the agreed watchword for a forcible uprising which should
put into use their warlike preparations.
That night a meeting took place in Haymarket Square (West
Randolph and Desplaines Streets), which soon moved north on Des-
plaines to the nearest alley, where stood a convenient truck to serve as
a speakers' stand. At this meeting were Fischer, Engel, Schwab, Par-
sons, Fielden, Spies, and others of the same kidney.
Reporter Hull, of the " News," quotes Parsons as saying :
We speak harshly of the scabs. . . . What is a scab? He is a flea on a dog. Now the
trade-unionists want to kill the scab, or flea, while the socialists want to kill the dog itself and pre-
vent fleas.
This is an apt illustration of the difference between a labor rioter
and a communistic agitator. The blows of the former are struck
against laborers who propose to underbid the unionists ; the latter
aims at the employer.
Parsons in his speech also said :
You have nothing more to do with the law except to lay hands on it and throttle it until it
makes its last kick. . . . Keep your eye upon it. Throttle it. Kill it. Stab it. Do every-
thing you can to wound it — to impede its progress. . . . Don't turn over your business to any-
body else. No man deserves anything unless he is man enough to make an effort to lift himself
from oppression.
Six platoons of police now came on the scene. They took up the
whole width of Desplaines Street and swept it clean as they advanced—
the people retiring without resistance. Captains Bonfield and Ward
marched in front of the leading platoon. On reaching a point near the
Parsons* speech
at the Hay-
market.
386 THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
speakers' stand (the truck) Captain Ward gave the word " Halt;" then
stepping forward to within three feet of the truck he cried, "I com-
mand you, in the name of the people of the State, immediately and
peaceably to disperse ;" and turning to the right and left added, " I com-
mand you, and you, to assist."
There was a hissing sound from the ground in the middle of the
police array and then a tremendous explosion. Sixty-seven of the
Erosion, police were wounded (of whom seven died): A moment's conster-
"e°auth.sa nation seized the unhurt, but not a moment's disorder, for on the
instant rang out the voice of Officer Fitzpatrick: " Close up, form into
line and charge." The conspirators had perhaps expected that more
than one bomb would be thrown ; at any rate, except a pistol fusillade
(afterward denied by the accused), they fled in disorder, leaving many
wounded on the ground, victims of the pistols rapidly and effectively
used by the advancing officers.
Next day, Wednesday, May 5th, began the arrests. Fielden,
Spies, Engel, Neebe, Schwab, Fischer, Lingg, Rau and others were
Arrests. taken into custody. Rudolph Schnaubelt was taken, but for some rea-
son or other released; though later the opinion gained ground that he
was the one of the conspirators who actually threw the fatal bomb.
Dynamite, loaded and unloaded bombs, moulds, fulminating caps, pipe
and lead for making bombs, arms, ammunition and incendiary literature
were found at the " Arbeiter" office, at Louis Lingg's home, underside-
walks and in lumber yards, and at many other places, some quite near
the scene of the explosion.
On June 7th the trial began. In impaneling the jury, twenty-one
days were consumed and 982 men examined, under the cumbersome
Trial, and fictitious system which rules criminal practice in Illinois; a system
£Sni's'hm0entan that has survived from the old days when the accused were really in
danger from the oppression of the court. The trial lasted sixty-two
days. The prosecution called and examined 143 witnesses and the
defence 79. Parsons, Spies, Engel, Fischer, Lingg,- Fielden and Schwab
were found guilty; the four first named were hanged, Lingg killed him-
self by exploding a fulminating capsule in his mouth, and Fielden and
Schwab were sent to prison for life; where to this time (1891) they
remain.
Julius S. Grinnell was State's Attorney, and to his excellent con-
duct of the prosecution was its success attributable more than to any
Judge Gary . .. . . . . ,. -
and Prostcmorother one agency; while the wise, able and correct rulings or the veteran
Grinnell. *> • '
Judge Joseph E. Gary were the efficient cause of making the proceed-
ings invulnerable on the review by the Supreme Court.
Loud outcries are made by sympathizers with communism,
JtfOTS AND THEIR SUPPRESSION.
387
impugning the fairness of the trial, the sufficiency of the evidence, the
treatment of the defence, etc. These are the points dwelt upon, not the
probable guilt or innocence of the accused. But the world will take a
view forbidden to court and jury; will start from the other end, asking:
"Was dynamite prepared ? Were bombs cast, loaded and capped ? If
so, by whom, and with what possible lawful purpose ? Were articles
published advising violence ? If so, by whom ? Were men killed by
dynamite while in the act of breaking up a communistic meeting? If
so, by whom?" So, by "exhaustive analysis," will the world probably
come to the conclusion that justice was done.
The most noteworthy thing of the whole momentous story is not the
conduct of the offenders, or of the police, but of the true working masses
of the City, State and Country, not. one of whom raised hand or voice to
defend these " Saviors of Labor," or made any public utterance, except
to disclaim part or lot in the effort to disturb the law of the land; that
system of government wherein they and each of them has his share of
control through the ballot-box.
The erand plan
and its origin-
«or.
CHAPTER XXXIII.
PULLMAN.
\BOR, law-abiding industry, leads the Chicago
annalist quite naturally to the discussion of the
great Pullman experiment — say rather enter-
prise, seeing that at the present writing (1891)
it seems to have passed from the stage of inno-
vation to that of approved invention. Like other
new things, it received scanty approval, and still
more sparing help, from any one except the orig-
inator and advocate himself. It is an old saying
in military matters that " a council of war never
fights," and it is equally true that' an industrial
corporation never innovates. In each case, the
new departure must be substantially undertaken
and carried through by the Commander-in-Chief.
If he chances to be a Marlborough, a Frederick,
or a Clive, he wins all; if a Napoleon III., he
loses all, and the glory or the ignominy is deserved
and bestowed accordingly.
In 1880 the idea long entertained by George
M. Pullman began to take physical shape in
architectural, mechanical, commercial, industrial
and sociological detail. It was, perhaps, quite
as well that he had to carry on alone the cam-
paign his mind had conceived. Divided counsels
are not strong in any case, and Mr. Pullman's
nature is one that demands not countenance, but
seconding. He welcomes knowledge from every source, but would
not care to drive a team, he holding one rein and some one else the
other. So, having ample power, though little sympathy or encourage-
ment, he managed every detail, and even since success has crowned
the work there is no man who disputes with him the credit of devising
it, or of arranging its details down to the smallest particulars.
The tract of land now " Pullman " at the beginning of 1880 was a
lonely waste of low, nearly level, grassy prairie, on the west shore of
Lake Calumet, fourteen miles south of the centre of Chicago and eight
miles south of Hyde Park, the nearest suburb of the city itself. It
PULLMAN WATER TOWER.
PULLMAN.
3S9
extended about two miles north and south, by a mile and a half of
average width. It was crossed lengthwise by the Illinois Central and
Michigan Central Railways.
This was the unpromising plain whereon the prescient eye pictured
—what ? That which exists ten years later ; namely: nearly eight miles
of paved and drained streets, including a grand boulevard (now inth
street of the city of Chicago), 100 feet wide, abutting on the lake: Twenty-
five blocks of brick dwellings along these streets, capable of housing
1,750 families : A steam-heated arcade building 250 by 164 feet, con-
taining all the mercantile stores, the bank and the post-office, and, in
its second story, rented offices, a public library and reading-room, and a
pretty and well-appointed theatre; while its third story holds lodge-rooms
for societies : A handsome and
well-kept hotel: School houses(now
in charge of the Chicago Board of
Education), where 1,000 pupils a
day are taught: A water-tower 195
feet high, having one tank contain-
ing 500,000 gallons, at an elevation
great enough to throw water over
the highest building, in case of fire:
A market no by 100 feet in size,
with stalls for meat, vegetables,
fish, poultry, etc.; and in its upper
story a public hall capable of seat-
ing 600: Gas-works connected with
every house in town: Green-houses
for furnishing the town, its parks
and gardens with flowers and
shrubs: Brick-yards, ice-houses along the lake and lumber yards
covering eighty acres. Finally, the soul of the whole and the reason of
its existence, the great Pullman car-works, the Union Foundry, the
Drop Forge and Foundry, the street-car works, the Terra-Cotta works,
the Standard Knitting-mills, the Columbia Screw factory, the Allen
Paper Car-wheel works, the Calumet Paint-manufacturing works, the
Pullman Iron and Steel works and other enterprises
It is perhaps too much to say that any one mind could grasp in
advance each of these details, but the idea contained the " plan and
potentiality" of them all, and laid the broad and deep foundations
on which they could rise, have risen and are' constantly growing.
Then, too, Mr. Pullman's designing mind has seized each position and
made it a stepping-stone for each further advance. It has been his
An unpromising
spot.
GEO. M. PULLMAN.
Magical trans-
formation.
jpo THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
" daily thought and nightly dream," and nothing has seemed to him too
good and great for his " model town."
The commercial result may be loosely summed up as the produc-
tion on weekly average of ten passenger coaches, three sleeping-coaches,
Tan<Tt°hrework. 24° freight cars, and several street cars (making about four cars an hour
during working hours), 240 paper car-wheels, 600 tons of rolled iron,
1,200,000 brick, and many other articles of minor importance, whereof
the value is estimated at $14,000,000 a year. This comes by the labor of
about 5,250 operatives whose average earnings are $2 a day each. Of
these only a few are children (perhaps 200 in all), and still fewer women,
of whom only 1 50 are employed. Some of the latter hold clerkships,
some work in the upholstering rooms, and some in the knitting-mill.
The largest single motor is the famous '"Corliss Engine," which
won so much admiration by its majestic beauty of form and opera-
coriiss Engine, tion as the source of motive power for the Philadelphia Centennial
Exposition. It is a simple condensing engine of 2,500 horse-power.
(The total engine force in all the works is rated at 8,632 horse-power.)
The Corliss is ample for its purpose, easily run and cheap to keep in
repair and will doubtless last for many years unless displaced by a
" triple condensing " engine, or some still better device for saving fuel.
The " triple condensing" has a scientific beauty, buttptheuninstructed
eye compares but poorly with the stately Corliss, with its two great
eleven-ton walking-beams held up twenty-five feet above the floor by the
great A-shaped frame. The engine-room is sixty feet high, and brilliantly
lighted.
The buildings, both for business and for residence, are mainly in
the various modifications and varieties of the Oueen Anne architecture,
Architecture.
pleasantly diversified and adapted to the purpose of each edifice.
Turning now to the less obvious features, one finds still more to
admire. The sewerage and surface drainage preceded the population,
sewerage and being established at the same time when the dwellings were building.
''The surface drainage carries the rainfall into Lake Calumet. The
sewerage proper is a separate system, connected with every sink and
cesspool, and taking the entire sewage from houses and shops. (Each
house is supplied with sanitary plumbing, and there are no out-of-door
closets.) The sewage is conducted below the surface to a huge tank
beneath the water-tower, whence it is pumped and piped ( 1,800,000
gallons a day) to the " Pullman farm," three miles away to the south-
west, to be used as a fertilizer. The sewage-tank is thoroughly venti-
lated through pipes debouching above the top of the water-tower, and
has, besides, a connection with the tall chimney of the boiler-house,
PULLMAN.
39*
which outlets, combined, produce a down-draught in all the neighbor-
ing sewer openings. The town has no evil odors.
The water supply (except for the fire service) is not brought from
the water-tower, as usually imagined, but is furnished from the Chicago
water system, which sells it (by metre measurement) to the Pullman w««r supply.
Company, and the latter collects water-rates from the householders.
The town has about fifteen miles of water mains.
The brick-kilns are supplied with good clay dredged from the bot-
tom of the lake, which, in this process, is being gradually deepened for Brick K,in« and
commercial use. The ice-houses have a storage capacity for 25,000 tons.
The Pullman farm consists of 140 acres, thoroughly piped and
underdrained for the reception, purification and utilization of the
Ice Houses.
RAILWAY STATION.
Pullman village sewage. Hydrants are placed so that the distribution
can be conveniently done. All organic matter in the sewage is taken
up by the soil and the growing vegetation, and the water (which is, of
course, by far the greater mass) runs off through the underdrains to
the ditches, and they deliver it, pure and clear as spring-water, into thepuii
Calumet river. In winter the sewage runs upon one field or one filter-
bed, and then on another, the filtering process appearing as perfect as
in summer. Thus are the waste products largely transmuted by vital
chemistry into luxurious vegetable forms. The most profitable crops have
been found to be onions, cabbages, potatoes and celery. One acre takes
care of the sewage of one hundred of the population. This solution
answers one of the problems so often propounded in relation to the
man
Sewage Farm.
392
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Lesson Regard-
Growth of a
Car.
A Train a day
produced.
sewage of Chicago, namely: "Why not utilize it for fertilization?"
At one acre to the hundred of population, it would need twelve
thousand acres to dispose of the sewage of Chicago — twenty square
miles from which settlers would have to be excluded. At some future
day, when lands naturally fertile and spontaneously productive shall
have grown more scarce and distant, this may be effected, but now it is
a manifest impossibility. Even in old Europe, where there are at least
150 sewage farms, there is scarcely one which pays expenses of hand-
ling, instead of the large profit which might be expected from a free gift
of unlimited manure. On the other hand, guano is brought from far
away, and finds ready sale at all times. The difference seems to be in
the impossibility of rotting or properly " composting " the crude elements
of the sewage. The Pullman farm pays a reasonable profit.
THE FIRE DEPARTMENT AXD STABLES.
The growth of a freight car in the works is a most interesting pro-
cess. The wheeled axles roll in on the track, and from that moment its
course (though not its motion) is continuous, through process after pro-
cess— timber, lumber, iron, bolts, nails, screws, plates, springs, chains,
patent appliances, etc., and finally paints, and lubricating oil for the jour-
nals— until it issues gaily forth for all the service, the hardships, the
vicissitudes of its hundreds of thousands of miles of motion.
Cars equal to a full train a day of new-built passenger and freight
cars leave Pullman to carry, to feed, to warm, to shelter the people.
One of the main beauties of the town is a negative adornment : It
has no drinking shops, no gambling houses and no alms house. A
PULLMAN.
393
cemetery it can not quite dispense with ; but the " City of the Dead "
is of slow growth. The Pullman " death-rate " is one of the smallest
in the world, having never exceeded eleven per thousand, which is less Health of the
than half the average for American cities, and only one third of the
world's average, while the birth-rate has run as high as forty-six per
thousand. One is not surprised to learn this after looking at the big
crowd of little folks swarming about the beautiful public school.
The absence of " saloons," those forcing-beds of depravity, is due
to the fact that the Company has not parted with its realty , in fact, it
was chiefly to insure this that it resolved on that policy. Whenever TemPw»n«-
and wherever public sentiment is up to it, they can be excluded by
popular consent ; but in this case the promoters preferred to take no
HOTEL FLORENCE.
chances ; and " prohibition prohibits !> at Pullman, however it may
struggle, prevail, triumph and fail elsewhere. At the same time, nobody
is prohibited from drinking. In fact, just outside the town limits there
are drinking places enough, and drinkers patronizing them can, if they
choose, bring into the town itself the cup which inebriates but does not
cheer. Therefore drunkenness is not unknown; but it is marked, excep-,
tional and disgraceful. The sight of it under these conditions is not so
much corrupting as warning. It serves the purpose for which the
Spartans of old forced their slaves to become drunken ; namely, that
their young might look on drunkenness and be disgusted. At any rate,
the poison is not paraded and disguised, with all the art of luxury and
light, to lead youth into the damning error that spirituous stimulation
is the parent of joy instead of the solemn truth that it is its deadly,
'ersonal
liberty.
394
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Free public
opinion.
Religion.
Aspect of the
town.
sneaking assassin. The operatives doubtless know which of them are
drinkers and which are not, and form their likes and dislikes accordingly;
but the management leaves it all to them, taking no cognizance of the
matter. Freedom is held to be the only condition for a healthy, stable
growth of morals, manners, intelligence and wealth.
At Pullman, personal liberty of thought is associated with that
of action. Religion is not assailed and dwarfed by patronage — certainly
not by opposition. There are eight places of worship in town, repre-
senting as many shades of sectarian belief. Each is (of course),
entirely sustained by the voluntary contributions of its members. The
company built, at the outset, a beautiful green-stone church, but it is
rented to a congregation like any other edifice or tenement
esting
LAKE VISTA.
Mr. Duane Doty, of Pullman, is the inexhaustible source of inter-
information concerning the enterprise in all its aspects. He
says :
The portion of the city already built is about half a mile in width, and it is two miles from the
north to the south end of the town. The successive blocks are unlike, giving pleasing changes to
the views along any street. There are now about seven miles of paved streets, and twelve miles of
sidewalks. At intervals of thirty feet, shade-trees are planted along both sides of the streets, and
on the main streets flowers are grown around the trees. Open spaces planted with shrubbery and
flowers really constitute a large park, in the midst of which the homes of the people stand. The
monumental buildings and vast shops in the long stretches of meadow, walks and shrubbery, empha.
sizes the park features of Pullman.
There is one style of flats having from two to four rooms each, which rent from six to nine
dollars a month. Of these there are now six buildings, each containing twelve families, one build-
ing containing twenty-four families, two containing thirty-six each, and one containing forty-eight
families. There is not a room in these buildings which has not one or more windows, giving resi-
dents abundance of fresh air and light. These flats and their surroundings are kept in order by the
PULLMAN.
395
company. Blocks 14, 27 and 30 contain about 300 flats, each apartment containing from two to five
good rooms and its proper proportion of basement. Still another style of fiats is seen where every
family has a separate entrance, and is accommodated with five good rooms and a basement. These
flats rent from $14 to f 16 a month. There is now a tendency in cities to build flats, and the
advantages in them are usually set forth about as follows The tenant secures a home fora lower rent,
and is brought nearer his place of work and business. In case of sickness and trouble he has help "
close at hand ; the common hallway is lighted and the whole building cared for by a janitor, services
which can not be rendered in single houses. By accommodating many families upon a small tract
of land, men are able to reduce their living expenses to a minimum, while all have the advantages of
living upon improved streets, and in close proximity to parks and gardens. Of course, separate
sinks, water-taps and closets, all inside the houses, are provided for every family.
There is a variety of single houses with rents ranging all the way from $16 to $50 a month.
These houses are adapted to the needs of men receiving from $2 a day to $5,000 a year. The average
rental of all the tenements in Pullman is only $14 a month.
The average monthly rental per room, including basements used as
THE ARCADE BUILDING.
kitchen and dining-room, in houses occupied wholly by operatives is
$2.50.
The population of Pullman grew between 1881 and 1885 from
nothing to 8,603. The census of 1890 showed 10,680, of whom 5,223
were workmen; the latter classified as to nativity as follows: Americans,
l<73& (33 Per cent.); Scandinavians, 1,137 (21.8 per cent.); Irish, 318
(6.1 per cent.); Other British, 685 (13.1 per cent); German and Diitch,Stpopuiat?on,
1,177 (22-5 percent.); Latin races, 56 (i percent.) and all others 112.
In 1891 the total population is 1 1,000, of whom 6,083 are workmen ;
the latter classified as to nativity as follows: Americans, 2,086 (34.3 per
cent.); Scandinavians, 1,375 (22-44 Per cent.); Irish, 315 (5.18 per
cent.); Other British, 796(13.1 per cent.); German and Dutch, 1,348
(22.15 Per cent.); Latin races, 107 (1.76 per cent.); and all others, 56.
396
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Savings in
Bank.
Spontaneous
'good order.
The labor
troubles of
1886.
It is not improbable that these percentages would hold mainly
good throughout the manufacturing population of Chicago.
The Pullman Loan and Savings Bank is the local financial deposi-
tory of the Company, and also the custodian of the voluntary hoards of
the citizens. Its savings deposits in 1891 amount to $467,981.45, in the
names of 1,828 depositors. The average sum held by each savings
depositor in 1884 was $145.43. In 1890 it had grown to $243.97, and
in 1891 is $256. By purchases in the immediate vicinity, 885 of the
operatives are freeholders in their own right. In all, 2,297 live outside
the town. All employed are free to live where they please — but
Pullman town is always full.
No reserve or " hospital money," or " insurance fund" is exacted by
the Company, nor are any store accounts collected on the wages pay-roll.
(The Company is not interested in the shops except as landlord of the
shopkeepers.) The only deductions from the earned wages are rents
due by those who occupy Company houses or fiats.
Good order in the community is always maintained, without interfering with the freedom of
the individual, so long as his freedom does not trespass on the liberty of another. There has never
been any attempt (by the founders) to set up any religious denomination in the town. There was a
church building constructed at the outset, but it was rented to a society which represented a major-
ity in the town. Within a stone's throw of the green-stone Presbyterian church is a new building
put up by the Catholics. In addition to this the Swedish Lutheran and other denominations have
rooms where services are held. . . . There is no artificial stimulus anywhere. There are no
lectures given to the workmen. Neither politics nor religion has any part in the administration;
that is left to the individual. Sunday is a day of relaxation; many go to church; many go to the
lake shore and take part in the out-door games. . . . The town gave a small democratic major-
ity at the last election. The men know that they are perfectly free from criticism on the part of the
management, whatever result is declared at the polls.
The connection of the Pullman Company with the so-called "labor
riots " treated in the last preceding chapter was short," but full of
interest for the moment, and suggestion for the future. Pullman
industries were a shining mark, and the elements of destruction would
score a brilliant victory if they could lay them low. Therefore, the
attack was expected, and it came — from the outside, of course. With
a shrewdness worthy of them, the assailants chose, as the weakest point
in the industrial citadel, the cabinet-shop, which was largely filled with
foreigners, not yet imbued with the "American Idea."
The foreign idea of irrepressible conflict between laborand capital,
and of "Internationalism" as the only refuge of the former from the
oppression of the latter, these men had either brought over with them
or readily absorbed from the plausible talkers sent among them. The
mass of other workmen, not so much convinced by argument as
moved by brotherly feeling, consented to join in the demand for an
eight-hour day and other proposed changes, and at an appointed time
a committee called on Mr. Pullman to lay that demand before him.
PULLMAN.
397
Arrival of the
walking dele-
gate.
WATCHMAN AT GATE.
The committee, as usual in such cases, was chosen mainly from
the men known to and respected by their employers ; but contained
also some of the "walking delegate"
element; men who had entered the
employment on purpose to inter-
fere with it. Mr. Pullman, recog-
nizing easily the "outsiders," invited
a statement of their position. They
had free scope to ask what they
had determined on, and to enforce
the demands by such arguments
they thought best. When they
had entirely covered the ground he
said, in substance, as follows:
That it was evident that the
advocates had come with the delib-
erate purpose of either controlling
the works or stopping them. Con-
trol them they could not, for the
Pullman Company was satisfied with its present management, and was
as free in its actions as were its employes in theirs. Stop them they
very possibly might, and what then ? The Company could live, doing its
work elsewhere, or not doing it at all, but how about the wage-earners ?
The Pullman Company was paying out $10,000 a day in wages for
work, and when work stopped wages must stop. The shop-keepers in Mr pulllian,.
the Arcade would look pretty blue at the prospect of unpaid accounts;
even the saloon-keepers down at Kensington were likely to feel unhappy,
and though these delegates might be far away, propagating dissension
elsewhere, yet the mass of men, hitherto doing well, would still be here,
sitting about on doorsteps and fences and doing nothing, and unable
to explain to their families why they are idle. How were all these to be
satisfied? Had not the delegates taken a pretty big contract? Were
they sure they could fill it ?
The sight of all these manufacturing shops standing idle, nothing
moving but their shadows as the sun advanced, would not be pleasant,
but he could stand it as long as anybody. He had not the slightest
apprehension concerning their safety, for he knew the nature of the"'
American workman. The buildings as long as they stood idle would
take care of themselves ; there were no policemen here, nor were any
needed. And idle they must stand until their owners and their oper-
atives should agree to start them ; a thing which neither could ever do
alone or on compulsion, or otherwise than as free agents.
reception of
the committee
lis answer.
39*
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
One thing more he had to say, namely, that as each side had
had its hearing, the subject, being exhausted, would close with the
Finality. of the end of this interview, and no other would be held. The delegates
would, of course, be expected to call the men together to " report
progress;" but he could assure them there could be no progress to
report as far as the Company was concerned.
He then stopped to hear further from the committee, and they
talked for some time, but, as he had nothing to add, the}' bid him good-
afternoon ; and immediately upon their departure, the watchword being
I
THE MAIN ADMINISTRATION' BUILDING.
The strike is on
given, the operatives filed out of their shops in orderly fashion, and
the procession began its parade. " The strike was on." The men
next morning sat around in sun and shade, listless and ill at ease,
the officials giving to the works such care as was requisite to prevent
injury by non-use — there was no need of any other watchfulness. So
passed the idle days — idle yet not restful.
One day certain leading Socialists arrived bent on an interview. Mr.
Pullman, sitting working in his office, heard the confab in the ante-
room. The agitators asked for him and were told he was engaged. The
visitors answered that they had business with Mr. Pullman and wanted to
see him, and that at once. Their card was brought in, and Mr. Pullman
sent word back that he was quite certain he had no business with
them and should not see them, whereupon they departed. Looking
from the window, it was observed that the esplanade was crowded
PULLMAN.
399
with workmen, doubtless gathered to see the result of the issue between
the great leaders of disorder and the great leader of order. The latter
knew men — knew these men espe-
cially— and, his business being end-
ed, alone and defenceless, he went
out (the crowd dividing for him
without a sign of disfavor), and
walked over to the hotel to supper.
The next development was a
request on the part of the foundry-
men, a very large, strong and re-
spectable body, that they be allowed
to go to work ; that the whistle
should blow next morning, and that
they would take care of themselves.
That night a great meeting was
called. Next morning the first man
at the gate, in his working-clothes,
and with dinner-bucket in hand, was
DAUGHTERS OF PULLMAN WORKWOMEN. ^ c/lairman Qf tkat meetingf The
great Pullman strike was ended. It had lasted two weeks, a space of
time well invested to the saving of time in the future.
To the superficial view, this
must seem like a victory for capital
over labor, for the few over the
many. Not so. It was a victory
for the many order-lovers over the
few law-contemners. George Pull-
man simply took his natural place
as a leader of men ; and the best
men — of course a majority of all-
followed his lead, maintained their
individual liberty to work such
hours as they chose at such wages
as suited them. In short, they re-
asserted the "American Idea" of
free competition, in opposition to
the un-American doctrine of en-
forced combination or communism.
That this happy outcome of a critical epoch was in no proper sense
a " victory " for one or a " defeat " for another, is proven by the fact
* This great engineer, engaged on the Pullman works, was accidentally killed during its progress.
Attempted so-
cialist inter,
vention.
Foundrymen
come forward.
End of strike.
400
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Piece-work at
Pullman.
that that outcome was by no means a closing of discussion between
employer and employed ; on the contrary, it was a re-opening of it.
The work at Pullman is largely (as largely as possible) piece-work, that
bite noir of the socialist and the communist, who desires to put all men
on a dead level. This piece-work depends to a great extent on arrange-
ments, appliances, proportionings of advantages and profits ; and these
are the themes of frequent free discussions between the management and
the operatives. These conferences are carried on in a friendly — not servile
— spirit, and sometimes result in convincing the one party, sometimes
the other; oftenest in a com-
promise of conflicting inter-
ests and claims. What will
be the consequence of the
next great, far-reaching busi-
ness depression it is hard to
predict ; but it is not too
much to hope that Pullman
will fare as well as the best,
perhaps better. The vast
resources of the Company
enable it to go on with work
through "hard times" (even
at an apparent loss), in which
case its reserve capital acts
as a balance-wheel, an " in-
surance fund for the perpet-
THE SCHOOI
uation of wages."
This chapter of history is "fors clavigera, " as Mr. Ruskin says;
" perhaps a key-bearer." Before the civilized world a great vault seems
Pbelaarer*ke>~ to stanc^ ! a vault with a locked door, a stronghold containing prosperity
and peace and other blessings which all desire and few possess.
Shall the stronghold remain locked ? It can not. Shall it be taken by
assault ? That would destroy its contents as by fire. Shall it be opened ?
If yes, then where is the key? Is it nowhere, or is it now here?
The historian is not the prophet, but it may be said without undue
presumption that if — {/"the path in front of Pullman proves as fair to the
: foot as its vista appears to the eye, then the enterprise sounds the key-
note for the full and final chorus of concord between labor and capital.
In that case its founder has, single-handed, built the enduring monu-
ment of the passing XlXth century; a pyramid, the broad, deep ground-
course whereof is human nature, while its sun-lit cap-stone is peace.
is peace.
CHAPTER XXXIV.
THE THRIFTY EIGHTIES.
OTHING teaches more effectually the
vastness of "a million," so easy to write,
to speak of and to treat as a unit, than
the effort to summarize the doings and
sayings, haps and mishaps of a city as it
nears, reaches and passes the million-
mark. Whichever way one turns, the
vista stretches to an infinite and invisible
horizon. Each subject touched seems to
call for a volume. Individual men, who,
while the city was young and small, would
have loomed up into heroic proportions
and called for corresponding attention,
must be ignored or treated, not as inter-
esting individuals, but as types, imper.
sonal and therefore shorn of attractive characteristics. Events, incidents
and accidents are swamped by their own number, and dwarfed into
. . . ~ T i r • • 1 *1 • Vastness of the
insignificance. In the forties a single railway train a day ran slowly """"on.
out a few miles and came slowly back when it was convenient; in the
eighties hundreds of trains each day rush thundering out and in; and
more wayfarers are accidentally killed — all unnoticed, save by those per-
sonally concerned — than the entire death-list of fifty years ago. Then
a church festival was a notable event, making a stir proportional to
that now created by a presidential convention. In the thirties the mark
for a rich man was the possession of $10,000; and the entire annual Then and now.
transactions did not usually reach a million dollars ; now the fortune
of a single merchant is rated at $30,000,000, and the business of a single
packer at $1,000,000 a week. In 1833 one farm wagon coming in from
the " Wabash region" with butter, eggs, apples, honey and poultry,
would draw about it half the housekeepers in town. Now, on the
Board of Trade, the daily transactions in food-products often reach a
magnitude which would relieve the Russian famine. A single bank now
handles, out and in, $10,000,000 a day.
Chicago in 1891 embraces the Southern end of Lake Michigan Chicago in 1891.
(the head of the lake) and extends northward along its west bank some
401
4O2
THE STORY OF CHICAGO
Her relative
position.
fifteen miles. Her nearest seaports on the Atlantic are Boston, 1,150
miles east by north ; New York, 91 1 miles east ; Philadelphia, 822 miles
nearly east ; and Baltimore, 850 miles east by south. Her nearest ports
on the Pacific are Vancouver, 2,350 miles north-westward ; Portland,
2, 450 miles west by north; and San Francisco, 2,450 mileswest by south.
BRONZE STATUE OF I.INN/F.rS IX LINCOLN' PARK. (Gift of Scandinavian citizens.)
New Orleans, on the Gulf of Mexico, is 920 miles south. The centre
of population in the Union is about 200 miles south of Chicago and a
little to the eastward, but moving slightly north of west at every census.
Therefore Chicago is very much nearer the centre of population than
any other great city. This fact was duly considered in connection with
the choice of place for the Columbian Exposition, together with the
THE THRIFTY EIGHTIES. 403
further fact that of all visitors to the Fair, ninety-nine in the hundred
will be Americans.
In his "World's Fairs, Past and Future," the late Colonel other world*
Charles B. Norton (a veteran of the Union war) whose lamented
death occurred in Chicago in 1891, while engaged in indefatigable
labors for the Columbian Exposition, gives the following table of
nationalities forming the population of Chicago in 1890, with his
remarks thereon :
Kairs.
American 292 463
German 384,958
Irish.
215,53-1
Bohemian 54,209
Polish 52,756
Swedish...., 45,877
Norwegian 44,615
English 33,785
French 1 2,963
Scotch 1 1.927
Welsh.... 2,966
Russian 9 977
Danes 9 891
Italians 9,921
Hollanders 4 912
Hungarians 4.827
Swiss.
R
2 735
oumanians 4 35O
Canadians 6989
Belgians 682
Greeks 698
Spanish 297
Portugese 34
East Indians 28
West Indians 37
Sandwich Islands 31
Mongolians 1,217
1,208,679
Thus it will be seen that there are few nations in the world that are not represented in
Chicago, and certain sections of this great city are almost entirely given up to special nationalities,
so that in 1893 every foreigner will be sure to receive a hearty welcome in his own language. One
would suppose that in so large a body of representatives of all nations that there would be an increased
mortality, but, as indicated below, Chicago is an exceptionally healthy city, comparing most
favorably with the three cities in Europe 'n which Worlds' Fairs have been held. The annual
mortality per 1,000 is :
London 21.92 ' New York t 26.27
Paris 27.02 Boston 25.18
Vienna 2719 Philadelphia 21.19
Chicago 17.49 : Brooklyn 22.05 i
The number of births for the year 1889 was 20,995, and the number of marriages for the
same period, 12,500.
The population of the city since the fire has grown by the follow-
ing striking steps: In 1872, 367,396; in 1874, 395,408; in 1876, 407,66 i:Grc>wthofC1)i_
in 1878, 436,731 ; in 1880, 503,298 ; in 1882, 560,693 ; in 1884, 629,985 ; KE"
in 1886, 825,880 ; in 1887, 850,000 ; in 1888, 875,000 ; in 1889, 900,000,
and in 1890, 1,208,669, of which 200,000 are due to the annexation of
the great suburbs which now form part of the city.
The public schools, absolutely free to every child without regard
to race, color or nationality, number 286, the teachers 2,920 and the
pupils 1 19,602, to which should be added 341 private schools, attended
bv 65,000 pupils. The number of adults in Chicago who can neither
read nor write is 2,635.
The growth of the city, at this present writing (close of 1891)
is estimated at 100,000 a year. Does anyone, without having his
.attention specially called to it, appreciate what this means? There are
404
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Present growth
and what it
means.
Demand again
overtakes sup-
ply.
Good-bye to
Gurdon Hub-
bard.
2,000 additional souls and bodies a week to care for, to house, to feed,
to clothe, to warm, to govern and protect, to transport, to provide with
mail and banking facilities, medical attendance, legal advice, news,
instruction and amusement. In short, one large town of 2,000 inhabit-
ants must be built and equipped within Chicago city limits between
every Monday morning and its following Saturday night.
The industry and devotion of business men are inconceivable and
the rush and crush of traffic unparalleled. Once more the car of
progress is overtaking the moving mass of humanity, and once more
must every facility for existence be enlarged. The intramural travel
is beyond the means of car-
rying it on, and its avenues
are almost hopelessly con-
gested. Two great elevated
railroads are approaching
completion — and none too
soon. A third, the elevated
terminal, is projected, more
far-reaching in its scope than
any existing in any city,
and even that is not likely
to over-top the demand. A
moving sidewalk, of very
great carrying capacity
(four times that of any
railway), is in the experi-
mental stage, with fine pros-
pects of success.
The events of most
painful public interest in
the decade of the "eighties"
— the anarchist riots, trial and punishment — have already been detailed.
An occurrence of private loss and regret was the death, in 1886, of
Gurdon S. Hubbard, our pioneer hero, venerated patriarch, beloved
friend. His losses by the fire and other adverse fatalities were never
repaired ; and worst of all, his health gave way, his eyesight failed,
and when too late his old friends awoke to the consciousness that
they had not made the utmost possible of his declining years, either
for his sake or their own.
Now to turn to some of the inestimable blessings the past decade
has brought ; its charitable and benevolent bequests and gifts.
LAST PORTRAIT OF GURDON S. HUBBARD.
THE THRIFTY EIGHTIES.
405
As controlled by Government surveys, the land next north of the
main river was taken and held in three eighty-acre subdivisions ; each
bounded on the north by Chicago Avenue and on the south by Kinzie
Street, which streets are half a mile apart. (A Government " eighty "
is always half a mile long -by a quarter of a mile wide.) The eastern
tract (Kinzie's addition) extends from the Lake to State Street ; the
next (Wolcott's addition) from State to LaSalle ; the next (Newberry 's
addition) from LaSalle to
Market Street. Kin^s-
O
bury's addition, broken by
the North Branch of the
river, lies west of New-
berry's. Each of these was
bought from the Govern-
ment at $1.25 an acre. The
Kinzies and Wolcotts sold
theirs early at what seemed
a fine profit, but Walter L.
Newberry held on to his till
it became an enormous for-
tune.
Mr. Newberry came to
Chicago in 1833 (it is
believed), and his name is
one constantly recurring in
its annals from that time
until his death, in 1868;
while his memory must
endure for countless years
to come. From Andreas
we learn that he offered
"valuable lots for sale" in
the "land boom" of 1835-6.
In the latter year he was one
of the petitioners for a city charter. 1840 was the year of the great
bridge contest, when the South and West Sides tried to prevent the North w
from having any bridge across the river. The contest was close and
(it is said) in the nick of time, Messrs Ogden and Newberry, advocates
of the bridge, gave to the Catholic Church the lots it still owns on the
corner of State Street and Chicago Avenue — and the bridge was voted.
(The anti-bridge men sneeringly " put this and that together," but later
all agreed that the bridge ought to have been built, by all means.)
W. L. NEWRKRRY.
aiter
406
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
In 1841 Mr. Newberry was President of the "Young Men's Asso-
ciation," which may be considered as the pioneer of Chicago's great
Public Library — a foretaste of the greater service he was to render in the
same direction in the magnificent endowment of the Newberry Library.
In 1843 he served on the Board of Health; and he and William B.
Ogden joined in the gift of a lot on the corner of Ohio and LaSalle
Streets for the Lutheran Church, which still (1891) occupies that place.
In 1846 he took part in the
convention assembled in the
interest of Common Schools.
In 1847 he was a director in
the pioneer railway, the Chi-
cago and Galena. In 1848
he sold, for public school
purposes, 85 feet frontage
on Ohio Street for $1,050—
a little over $12.25 a front
foot. This seems cheap
enough, yet also dear
enough, considering that
each front foot brought ten
times as much as each acre
had cost only fifteen years
before.
In 1851 Mr. Newberry
was City Comptroller and
for a time acting Mayor.
In 1857 he was one of the
organizers of the "Mer-
chants' Loan and Trust
Company," the only bank-
ing institution which, in
1891, dates back to ante-
war times. From 1859 to
His public acts. 1863 he was a member of the Board of Education and in the latter
year President of the Board. In 1862 he gave $1,000 to serve as a
permanent fund for providing books for indigent scholars in the New-
berry School. In 1863 he helped the Sanitary Fair by lending works
of art to the exhibition held in its aid. In 1864 he gave to the Charita-
ble Eye and Ear Infirmary the use of a lot in East Pearson Street. In
1857 he became a member of the Historical Society, and its president
in 1863, and remained its friend and benefactor up to his death in 1868.
MARY LOUISA NEWBERRV.
THE THRIFTY EIGHTIES.
407
Mr. Newberry possessed much public spirit, as his numerous public
services attest. His gifts of money were doubtless very far greater than
are now known or can be known. At the same time he was a man of
exceeding thrift in money matters, a characteristic which grew upon him
with years. As age and illness impaired his faculties this tendency grew
to a mania, and he was possessed with an unreasoning terror of coming to
want. During his last illness (consumption) he consulted his physician
as to the probable duration
of his life, and learned that
even with all possible care it
might not last six weeks.
Thereupon he proceeded to
settle his earthly affairs and
make ready for a voyage to
Europe, where his wife and
daughters were living. He
had a faithful nurse whom
he was urged by his most
intimate friend, Judge Skin-
ner, to take with him, but
his only reply was " I can
not afford it." The attend-
ant did go with him as far as
New York, only to be there
dismissed; and the unhappy
millionaire died alone in his
state-room during the pas-
sage outward.
This trait interfered with
the personal affection which
his other and more impor-
tant characteristics should
have inspired. On the other
hand, this very quality of
acquisitiveness became, through the happening of unforeseen events,
the cause of a blessing of almost infinite value to the city which
had made the immense fortune wherefrom he drew so little happi-
ness. It was through the inspiring suggestion of that good
man, Mark Skinner, coming opportunely to aid Mr. Newberry's own
philanthropy, that this grand result was made possible, and, as events
turned out, actual and certain. Mr. Newberry called upon Judge
Skinner to draw his will, and the latter, under instructions, devised and
Personal char-
acteristics.
JULIA ROSA NEWBERRY.
408
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
bequeathed everything in trust for the benefit of Mr. Newberry's wife
and daughters, during their lives, with remainder over to their heirs.
Judge Skinner then observed that there might be no direct heirs and
suggested a library as the alternative inheritor. Mr. Newberry thought
the contingency most improbable, but co-incided with Judge Skinner's
suggestions for providing for it, and added the clauses under which
Chicago is receiving and is to receive the grandest endowment ever
made for such a purpose in America, a benefaction which, by present
appearances, may reach to $4,000,000.
Judge Skinner, in his position of friend and legal adviser, suggested
other possible bequests which should take effect, even if the great gift
should never fall in to the benefit of Chicago, suggesting the Historical
Society; but Mr. Newberry said all
must remain as it stood; adding, as
if with a new thought at variance
with his former idea : " I feel in my
heart a prophecy that my property
will never reach my descendants.
It will go to the city."
The pregnant clause in his will
reads as follows :
In case of the death of both of my said daugh-
ters without leaving lawful issue, then immedi-
ately after the decease of my wife, if she survives
my said daughters, my said trustees shall divide
my estate into two equal shares, my said
trustees being the sole judges of the equality
and correctness of such division, and shall at
once proceed to distribute one of such shares
among the lawful surviving descendants of my
own brothers and sisters, such descendants
taking per stirpes and not per capita.
The other share of my estate shall be applied
by my said trustees, as soon as the same can con-
veniently be done, to the founding of a free public library, to be located in that part of the city of
Chicago now known as the "North Division." And I do hereby authorize and empower my said
Mr Newbcrry.s trustees to establish such library on such foundation, under such rules and regulations for the gov-
"'"• ernment thereof, appropriate such portion of the property set apart for such library to the erection of
proper buildings and furnishing the same, and such portion to the purchase and procurement of
books, maps, charts and all other articles and things as they may deem proper and appropriate for a
library, and such other portion to constitute a permanent fund, the income of which shall be appli-
cable to the purpose of extending and increasing such library, as they may judge fit and best, having
in view the growth, preservation, permanence and general usefulness of such library.
Mr. Newberry had planned to make Judge Skinner his executor and
trustee; and, though the latter objected strenuously, for professioual
and personal reasons, his objections were overborne by Mr. Newberry's
judge swnner. appeaj^ based on inability, in his failing health and strength, to take
care of the matter. Even then it is unlikely that Judge Skinner would
have consented, but for the possible public service which might result
THE THRIFTY EIGHTIES.
409
from his doing so. He joined with him in the trust Eliphalet W. Blatch-
ford, and later, compelled by his own declining strength, left the charge
to the trustworthy hands of Mr. Blatchfordand Mr. William H. Bradley.
The daughters died unmarried ; Mary Louisa, February 14, 1874,
at Pan, France; and Julia Rosa, April 4, 1876, at Rome, Italy. Mrs.
Newberry died at Paris, December 9, 1885. The nine years interven-
ing between the end of any possibility of direct descendants and the
close of Mrs. Newberry's life were troubled by much discussion and '
some litigation. The descendants of Mr. Newberry's brothers and sis-
ters naturally sought for a division which should enable them to begin
itigation.
WILLIAM H. BRADLEY.
WILLIAM F. POOLK, LL. D.
the enjoyment of their portions; and they brought suit, which the trus-
tees were compelled, for their own protection, to defend, willing as they
would have been to begin administering the library bequest should the
courts so decide. The decision was against the claimants and favorable
to a strict and literal obedience to the dictates of the will.
The daughters left all their property to their mother, and the latter,
at her death, bequeathed her large accumulations to her own relatives
at the East.
At the settlement of the estate in 1886 the inventory and appraise-
ment amounted to $4,298,403, of which the moiety reserved to the
library was $2,149,201. The trustees wisely chose for custodian William
F. Poole, Esq., L.L. D., then librarian of Chicago Public Library (a
life-long librarian and, perhaps, the most distinguished in America, if
not in the world), and the buying of books began. A depository was
410
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Location of
permanent
library.
established in Ontario Street, adjoining the open square which had been
Mr. Newberry'shome in his lifetime and had been vacant since the great
fire. A very large proportion of the persons most interested thought
that this fine square would have been the best and most appropriate
place for a "Scholar's Library" (the founder's plan does not include the
lending of books), but the trustees decided against it, and bought the
" Mahlon Ogden lot," fronting on Washington Square, Clark Street,
Oak Street and Dearborn Avenue, where a great building is planned
and begun, the library, meanwhile, occupying a temporary structure
built for the purpose at the corner of Oak and State Streets.
The lot selected is, in its way, memorable. For many years before
the fire, as the residence of Mahlon D. Ogden, the house on it was one
of the handsomest dwellings in the
F n city, the home of elegance and of
boundless hospitality. Later, when
the Fire swept the North Side, this
house had the distinction of being
the only structure spared in its
course. It had, to the windward of
it, first, Washington Square, and
beyond the square the large tree-
covered lot of Mr. McCagg, with
only one house and barn to carry
forward the conflagration.* Then,
too, there was a zealous and sys-
tematic defense, headed by General
Wm. E. Strong (Mr. Ogden's son-
in-law), who, after being driven
from his own home, found refuge
there, and by the help of other
refugees actually preserved the
place entire. As the homestead ante-dated the water system, there were
in the grounds wells, cisterns and tanks which contained a little of the
precious fluid, and these sufficed to wet carpets spread on the roof and other
cloths covering the window frames, so that the fiery hail assailed it in
vain. But alas! the desolation about it for miles on every side made it
nearly intolerable as a residence, and after lying idle for years it was
leased to the Union Club, and later was left tenantless until the lot was
taken for the Library, when the old landmark (in 1890) was pulled
down.
JOHN MOSES (Custodian of the Historical Society).
* Curiously enough, the great green-house, adjoining Mr. McCagg's beautiful home, lived through the fire, and
was a marked object neit day, standing fresh aid fair, with scarcely a pane of glass broken.
THE THRIFTY EIGHTIES.
To quote from an address by Dr. Poole :
411
The largest legacy made (or a public library in this country has recently fallen to the benefit
of the citizens of Chicago, by the death of Miss Julia Newberry, last surviving daughter of the late
Walter F. Newberry, of Chicago. She died at Rome, Italy, April 4, 1876. The value of the Newberry
estate is now estimated by the trustees at $4,000,000. One-half of the estate is to descend to the
heirs of the testator's brothers and sisters, and the other half is to be devoted to the foundation and
support of a free public library, to be situated in the North Division of Chicago. Mr. Newberry
died on the 6th of November, 1868, leaving his whole estate to Mark Skinner and E. W. Blatchford as
executors and trustees, with full powers to administer the same and to appoint their successors.
After providing for the widow, his two unmarried daughters and other relatives, his executors
were required to pay to his daughters, or to the survivors of them, annually the net income of the
estate. After the death of the daughters, if they married and had issue, the estate was to be divided
among such issue. •
Mr. Newberry, formerly a resident of Detroit, came to the city when it had less than ro.ooo
inhabitants. He brought with him money which he judiciously invested in land, which has
increased enormously in value.
His business habits were singularly exact and methodical. He never contracted debts or
allowed incumbrance on his property. To the attorney who drew up his will he stated the estimate
he had made that one-half of his estate would go to the founding of a library eventually.
For several years before his death he was president of the Historical Society, and took great
interest in the institution. It was a surprise to the society that it received no legacy in his will.
Dr. Poole's
remarks.
NEWBERRY LIBRARY BUILDING, (Under construction January ist, 1892.)
The plans for the Newberry library building have been prepared Tnc bu,iding
with the most anxious and painstaking care, and the lower stories of the
first building are even yet (1891) only fairly begun. The building will
be 300 feet long and 60 feet deep; and all the resources of art, science
and experience will be exhausted to make' it absolutely perfect as to
safety, light, air, convenience and beauty. It is planned with a view to
adding other buildings as they may be required. The librarian's latest
report gives the whole number of books on January i, 1891, as 60,614,
and of pamphlets, 23,958. The average attendance has risen to about
forty a day, even in the present temporary, inconspicuous and incomplete
quarters.
412
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
The death (in 1890) of John Crerar is the latest of the bereavements
whereby Chicago, while gaining a vast benevolence, loses the presence
of a good and worthy citizen and a much-beloved man. He was of Scotch
descent, born in New York in 1827, where he was at one time president
of the great Mercantile Library Association. He came to Chicago in
1862 as a member of the
railway-supply firm of Jes-
sup, Kennedy & Co., later
merged in the great house
of Crerar, Adams & Co. In
1863 he became a director in
the Chicago & Alton Rail-
way. He was one of the
original incorporators of the
Pullman Palace Car Com-
pany and always a director.
In 1883 he is named as a
director in the Liverpool &
London & Globe Insurance
Company.* He was one of
the original and constant
stockholders of the Illinois
Trust and Savings bank ;
and in 1877, when the State,
the Fidelity, the Beehive
and the German went
down, the Illinois, then
newly organized, paid out
"a cold million" as fast as
it was demanded and came
forth with its credit only
JOHN CRERAR.
burnished
hard
its
by the
terribly
rubbing.
A few of his
business con-
nections.
These are but a few of Mr. Crerar's business connections, which
were vast and varied. And when one turns to his charitable works, he
finds them to be beyond count. In innumerable cases they were known
at the time to no one on earth except the giver and the receiver.
Among those recorded are gifts to the Relief and Aid, the Historical
Society, the Presbyterian Hospital, the Chicago Orphan Asylum, and
' The " Liverpool and London and Globe •' telegraphed from its main office, two days after the fire, " Draw at sight
and subscribe, for the benefit of sufferers, ten thousand dollars : " and it paid, in settlement of Great Fire losses^
$3,270,000. Only the "./Etna," of Hartford ($3,700,000), exceeded this stupendous outpouring; and only one other,
the "Home," of New York, reached $3,000,000.
THE THRIFTY EIGHTIES.
4'3
the Chicago Manual Training School ; and the Musical Festivals of
1882-84. He was a Vice-president of the Young Men's Christian
Association. He was one of the founders of the Commercial Club,
and a very long time member of the Literary. In the First Presbyte-
rian Church Mr. Crerar was an elder, a constant attendant, and an
unfailing, liberal supporter of " every good word and work." In 1871
he was one of the Vice-presidents of the Young Men's Christian Asso-
ciation.
But Mr. Crerar's largest — perhaps not most precious — services to
Chicago and to humanity were to come out after his death. His will,
made in 1886, appoints Huntington W. Jackson and Norman Williams
his executors and trustees ; and,
after a great number of special
gifts to relatives and friends,
makes the following charitable
bequests : To the Second Presby-
terian Church, Chicago, $100,000,
and for Mission Schools a like
sum: To the Scotch Presbyterian
Church, New York, $25,000 : To
the Chicago Orphan Asylum and
the Nursery and Half Orphan
Asylum, $50,000 each : To the
Historical Society, the Presby-
terian Hospital, St. Luke's Hospi-
tal and Bible Society, 25,000 each :
To the American Sunday School
Union, the Relief and Aid Society,
Training School for Nurses, Man-
ual Training School, Presbyterian
League, Old People's Home, and Home for the Friendless, $50,000
each : To the St. Andrews Societies of New York and of Chicago, and
the Chicago Literary Club, $10,000 each: For the erection of a colos-
sal statue of Abraham Lincoln, $100,000: To the Greenwood Ceme-
tery Association, $1,000, and to the Young Men's Christian Associa-
tion, $5,000.
Then follow these cordial, cheerful, loving words :
Recognizing the fact that I have been a resident of Chicago since 1862, and that the greater
part of my fortune has been acquired here, and acknowledging with hearty gratitude the kindness
which has always been extended to me by my many friends and by my business and social
acquaintances and associates, I give, devise and bequeath all the rest, remainder and residue of my
estate, both real and personal, for the erection, creation, maintenance and endowment of a fiee
public library, to be called "The John Crerar Library," and to be located in the City of Chicago,
the preference being given to the South Division of the city, inasmuch as the Newberry Library
will be located in the North Division.
.'.T Trrrar's
will.
HUNTINGTON W. JACKSON.
The Crerar
Library.
414
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
A message from
beyond the
The Armour
Mission and
its founders.
This hearty greeting seems like a voice from beyond the grave;
like a cheery call from a departing traveler as his steamer leaves the
dock: " Good-bye, dear friends, till we meet again soon! " and a toss back
of a precious keepsake to each, which he had .been thoughtfully provid-
ing for the occasion.
The gift will probably reach $2,000,000. The directors whom he
asks to have appointed for the first year of the corporate life of the
library are Marshall Field, E. W. Blatchford, T. B. Blackstone, Robert
T. Lincoln, Henry W. Bishop, Edward G. Mason, Albert Keep, Edson
Keith, Simon J. McPherson, John
M. Clark and George A. Armour.
John Crerar lived and died a
bachelor. His demeanor to his
fellow men was the very type and
example of equable, dignified gay-
ety, good humor, kindliness and
charity toward all the world. He
was fond of the best society. His
favorite attitude was standing firm
and erect, the lapel of his coat
thrown back, and his thumb caught
in his vest. To see him in this
position was a signal for gay, wel-
coming recognition from friends
and acquaintances — perhaps to the
number of a thousand or more.
NORMAN WILLIAMS.
When rallied on his insensibility
to feminine charms, his customary answer was, " I am in love with all."
A great charity — the largest in Chicago springing from an individual
gift — is the Armour Mission. It was established in November, 1886,
and owes its origin to a provision in the will of the late Joseph F. Armour,
bequeathing $100,000, for its founding. He entrusted the carrying out
of his design to his brother Philip D. Armour, who in administering the
trust has given to it the same tremendous energy and close attention
he shows in managing his business affairs ; and no man excels him in
these qualities. With characteristic shrewdness he has elected to
administer his charity himself, leaving nothing to the chances of post-
mortem litigation. In this line he has united with his brother's bequest
a great gift of his own, and the entire foundation now reaches the large
sum of a million dollars. It is in the hands of a corporation, having a
THE THRIFTY EIGHTIES.
4'5
JOSEPH F. ARMOUR.
board of five directors, Philip D. Armour, John C. Black, William J.
Campbell, Jonathan O. Armour and Philip D. Armour, Jr.
The foundation is established
... , i ,
and its income made perpetual by a
block of buildings containing 194
separate flats whereof the revenue
is collected by the corporation and
applied to the use of the Mission.
The corporation also owns adjoin-
ing ground upon which Mr.
Armour is erecting a manual train-
ing school, to supplement the
instruction given in the Mission.
The construction of the school
building is only commenced. It
is designed for giving boys an
education in all manual training,
* 1 i r • 1 • M
with departments for girls in
cooking, dress-making, millinery,
type-writing, etc. It will be for
education only, and not for maintenance. There will probably be
sessions both day and evening. It will be a magnificent building, and
as complete in every department
as any similar institution in the
country. It will cost upwards of
$300,000.
The Mission is strictly non-
sectarian ; free and open to all to
the limit of its capacity, without
condition as to sex, race, creed
or other peculiarity. Its build-
ing fronts north on 33<-l street,
adjoining Armour avenue, and
is very handsome without and
within. The first floor contains
a large room fitted up to receive
the creche or day nursery, kitchen,
day-room, kindergarten room, read-
ing-room, bath-rooms, etc., and four
rooms used as a free dispensary for
the sick poor. The second floor contains pastor's study, library,
officer's rooms and a main audience room capable of seating 1,300, but
divisible by ingenious glass partitions into nine separate rooms for
anual Train-
inK school.
PHILIP I). ARMOUR.
416 THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
classes, etc. The third floor contains a large audience-room with stage,
organ, etc., and a smaller place for lectures. The building will accom-
modate about 2,500 in all.
Allusion has already been made to a bequest in the will of William
William B. J .
omen's g Ogden which was expected to inure to the benefit of Chicago.
Further inquiries develop the fact that the disposition of this fund was
not specified, but was left to the discretion of his executors and trustees.
The bequest was in these words :
To such charitable uses as I shall hereafter designate without the solemnity of a will ; or, in
default of such designation, as a majority of my said Executors and Trustees may select and appoint,
the remaining one and-a half shares, or seven and-one-half per centum of said income and distribut-
able moneys. But in this connection \ authorize and empower my said Executors and Trustees, or
a majority of them, in their own discretion and not otherwise, to apply not exceeding the said one-
half share at any time or from time to time, in case and so long as it may not have been applied to
such charitable uses, to ihe use of all or any of my heirs who they may deem in need, or worthy of
and entitled to receive the same.
The above is the eighth section of the third clause in the will,
which clause was in relation to the income of the estate. In a later
part (the eighth section of the sixth clause) he made a similiar dis-
position of one-and-a-half shares in the principal of the estate.
It will be observed that he meant one share to go to outside
chanties, and one-half share to the same, except so much of it as his
executors and trustees might see fit to give to heirs named elsewhere
in the will, who might be " in need or worthy of and entitled to
receive the same." The entire one-and-a-half shares were devoted, by
the testator, to kindly charity.
Now (1801), a strange thing has come to pass ; some of the persons
Fate of his well- o > r '
Eh!" effort"" interested in that will (and largely benefited by it) have sued in the
New York courts to have this bequest annulled, for their further bene-
fit. The legal technicality which they urge to defeat the wishes of
Mr. Ogden is the absence of an existing beneficiary. " There is no
one who could sue in any court for its enforcement," and it is held
that under the New York Code a clause of that character must
be set aside. So does law sometimes lend itself to the robbery of the
dead and the living.*
Not presuming to determine the ethics of this proceeding, it maybe
observed that it is not probable that the same trouble would have over-
taken Mr. Ogden's intended benevolence if he had remained a resident
of the city where he gained his fortune ; for, as Justice Caton points
•The complainants in the case are five, all bearing names noted and honored in Chicago, though neither of the
five is now among its residents. All the other heirs, declining to join in Ihe proceeding, are made parties defendant;
together with the Executors and Trustees.
Since the above remarks were penned Mr, William Fitz Hugh Whitehouse (apparently on behalf of the com-
plainants; has published a statement to the effect that the proceeding was instituted, not to thwart the wishes of Mr. Ogden
but to enable or compel the trustees to carry them out or to place the fund (now $300,000) in possession of those legally
entitled to it. He adds : "Possibly it might be well to wait and see what they do with the money It may b«
that their use of this charity fund will be quite as appropriate as that which seems liltely to fail for the present."
THE THRIFTY EIGHTIES. 411
out with justifiable pride, the early decisions of the Supreme Court
of Illinois made the intention of the testator the rule for the courts,
and following those precedents, it is only in a case where that inten-
tion can not be ascertained that they can assume any control over
the bequest.
A still more gratifying circumstance in this : That a very large
part of the property left by Mr. Ogden is in the shape of Chicago real
estate ; also that by law real estate follows the rule of the State wherein
it lies (while personalty is governed by the domicile of its owner); and
that therefore it is probable that in administering on that realty the
clauses quoted may be held valid ; and some hundreds of thousands of
dollars may after all be disposed of as Mr. Ogden desired, intended
and willed.
Difference
be ween New
Yorkand Chi-
cago charita-
able bequests.
WILLIAM T. SHERMAN AND OFFICERS.
CHAPTER XXXV.
THE WORLDS COLUMBIAN EXPOSITION.
HE tenth decade of this greatest of cen-
turies comes upon Chicago "with the
burden of an honor unto which she was
not born." Still she takes it up stoutly
and bravely, smiling as is her wont alike in
storm and sunshine. Work is her play.
Judging by her past, she will make no
failure in the future. The undertaking of
a World's Fair which at least shall not
fall behind any of the thirteen chief inter-
national expositions that have preceded
it is bold almost to rashness ; but its very
boldness is an element of probable success.
The idea of celebrating the four-hundredth anniversary of Colum-
bus' discovery was of course a spontaneous thought in thousands of
minds; an idea which, without any definite moment of origin, has grown
with the growth of the century. The first tangible entity was a cor-
poration formed in 1889 under the laws of Illinois, under the name of
"The World's Exposition of 1892." The next the passage by Con-
gress and approval by President Harrison, on April 25, 1890, of an
act whereof the following are the preamble and first section :
WHEREAS, It is fit and appropriate lhat the four-hundredth anniversary of the discovery of
America be commemorated by an exhibition of the resources of the United States of America,
their development and the progress of civilization in the New World; and
WHEREAS, Such an exhibition should be of a national and international character, so that not
only the people of our Union and this continent, but those of all other nations as well, can partici-
pate, and should therefore have the sanction of the Congress of the United States: Therefore,
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America, in Con-
gress assembled, That an exhibition of arts, industries, manufactures and products of the soil, mine
and sea shall be inaugurated in the year 1892, in the city of Chicago, in the State of Illinois, as
hereafter provided.
The act adopts the name " World's Columbian Exposition" and
provides for the appointment and payment of a National Commission
empowered to accept for the Exposition such site and such plans and
AaofCongress.specifications of buildings as may be tendered by the "World's Colum-
bian Exposition " (as the Illinois corporation was newly named), provided
that the site and plans seem adequate, and provided "that said com-
mission shall be satisfied that the said corporation has an actual, bona
us
Undertaking of
the World's
Columbian.
THE WORLD'S COLUMBIAN EXPOSITION.
fide and valid subscription to its capital stock which will secure the pay-
ment of at least five million dollars . . . and that the further sum
of five million dollars . . will be provided by said corporation
in ample time for its needful use during the prosecution of the work*-'
for the complete preparation for said Exposition."
The first contest was before the Congressional Committee, to
secure the location at Chicago. Her central position, her lake frontage,
her large hotel-room, her wealth, prosperity and enterprise, and the
onditional on
certain funds.
ll Wli is '
ADMINISTRATION BUILDING.
enthusiastic confidence of her press and people turned the scale in
favor of Chicago against many contestants. Then a popular subscrip-
tion, taking in all classes from the multimillionaire to the day-laborer,
and from the railway corporation to the dime museum, provided the
five million dollars first exacted. The second five million was provided
by an issue of city bonds which it took an act of legislature and an
amendment of the State Constitution to authorize.
Naturally, among the subscribers to the stock, along with persons
actuated by pure and unmixed public spirit, were many who (beside
Funds pro-
vided.
43O
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
agp
extortion.
their unquestionable public spirit) had much to gain by the coming of
the Columbian to their city. Among these were innkeepers, caterers,
etc., and the cry arose that they meant to recoup themselves by raising
the prices of entertainment. To quiet this, an agreement was circulated
and signed by all the prominent firms, disclaiming any such purpose
etc..piedEed and pledging themselves to maintain their customary rates. What did
against »
happen, however, was an effort of certain trades' unions to do some-
thing of the same sort, namely, to prevent the employment of wage-
earners not members of one or other of their bodies ; and to forbid the
contracting for, or performance of, more than eight hours as a day's
work on the Fair grounds; or the payment or receipt of less than cer-
tain wages, even though employers and employed might agree upon it.
This was also effectually disposed of, and the immense and inconceiv-
able task of surveys, plans, specifications, working drawings and details
was begun; to go on unceasingly for many a month to follow.
h
UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT BUILDING.
Naval reviews.
The true
versary
Anni-
The further sections of the Act of Congress provide for a Naval
Review in New York harbor in April, 1893, foreign navies to be invited
to participate therein. Also for the dedication of the Fair in Chicago
on October i2th, 1892 (the aniversary of the day of landing), and the
opening of the exhibition not later than May i, 1893, and its closing
not later than October 30, 1893, a maximum interval of 184 days.
It may seem strange that an anniversary occuring in 1892 should
be mainly celebrated in 1893, but it should be considered that the exhibi-
tion must be held in the summer months, and that, to hold it in the
summer of 1892, would be to anticipate the event, and to begin the
celebration of the landing on a day of the year when Columbus had not
yet set sail. An inaugural ceremony on the exact anniversary and a
formal opening at the earliest practicable day afterward seems a happy
compromise; especially as the time for preparation is short at best.
THE WORLD'S COLUMBIAN EXPOSITION, 421
The next provision of the act is for the issuance of the President's
proclamation announcing the enterprise to all the World ; copies to be
officially communicated to all foreign representatives near our Govern- president's
. . . . . • • • * %T • • i proclamation.
ment, with invitation to their respective Nations to take part in the
Exposition and appoint representatives to it. The next allows dutiable
articles to be imported for the Fair, under proper regulations, free of
customs dues and fees. The proclamation was issued December 24,
1890. Its chief clause reads as follows:
And in the name of the Government and of the people of the United States, I do hereby invite all
the nations of the earth to take part in the commemoration of an event that is pre eminent in human
history and of lasting interest to mankind, by appointing representatives thereto, and sending such
exhibits to the World's Columbian Exposition as will most fitly and fully illustrate their resources,
their industries and their progress in civilization.
Peale's "Artistic Guide to Chicago and the World's Columbian
Exposition" gives the following condensation of the fundamental facts
of the enterprise :
The management of the Exposition includes four organizations:
1. National Commission (authorized by Act of Congress).
2. World's Columbian Exposition (organized under laws of the State of Illinois).
3. Board of Lady Managers (authorized by Act of Congress).
4. World's Congress Auxiliary.
The National Commission, which is a supervisory body, is composed of eight commissioners-at-
large, with alternates, appointed by the President, and two commissioners and two alternates from
each State and Territory and the District of Columbia, appointed by the President on nomination of
their respective Governors. This commission has held four sessions, and has now practically dele
gated its authority to eight of its members who constitute a Board of Reference and Control, and who
act with a similar number selected from the World's Columbian Exposition.
The World's Columbian Exposition, as its corporate name reads, is composed of forty-five
citizens of Chicago, elected annually by the stockholders of the organization. To this body falls the
duty of raising the necessary funds and of the active management of the Exposition. Its committees Four orBanjza.
supervise the various departments into which the work has been divided. tions.
The Board of Lady Managers is composed of two members, with alternates, from each State
and Territory and nine from the City of Chicago. It has supervision of women's participation in
the Exposition and of whatever exhibits of women's work may be made.
The World's Congress Auxiliary is organized to provide for and facilitate the holding of a
series of congresses of thinkers, or to supplement the exposition that will be made of the material
progress of the world by a portrayal of the achievements in science, literature, education, govern-
ment, jurisprudence, morals, charity, art, religion and other branches of mental activity.
The Director-General is the chief executive officer of the Exposition, and the work is divided
into the following great departments:
A— Agriculture, Food and Food Products, Farming Machinery and Appliances.
B— Viticulture, Horticulture and Floriculture.
C— Live-stock, Domestic and Wild Animals. ?UM
D — Fish, Fisheries, Fish Products and Apparatus of Fishing. depaitmenii.
E — Mines, Mining and Metallurgy.
F — Machinery.
G — Transporation Exhibit; Railways, Vessels, Vehicles.
H — Manufactures.
J— Electricity and Electrical Appliances.
K— Fine Arts; Pictorial, Plastic and Decorative.
L— Liberal Arts; Education, Engineering, Public Works, Architecture, Music and the Drama.
M— Ethnology, Archaeology, Progress of Labor and Invention, and Collective Exhibits.
N — Forestry and Forest Products.
O — Publicity and Promotion.
P — Foreign Affairs.
422
General
officers.
Board mem-
bers.
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE EXPOSITION.
DIRECTOR GENERAL: George R. Davis.
NATIONAL COMMISSION: President, Thomas W. Palmer; Vice-
Presidents, Thomas M. Waller, M. H. de Young, D. B. Penn, G. W.
Allen, Alex. B. Andrews; Secretary, John T. Dickinson.
WORLD'S COLUMBIAN EXPOSITION: President, W. T. Baker; Vice-
Presidents, Thomas B. Bryan, Potter Palmer; Secretary, J. A. King-
well; Solicitor General, Benjamin Butterworth; Treasurer, A. F. See-
berger; Auditor, W. K. Ackerman; Chief of Construction, D. H.
Burnham.
JOINT BOARD OF REFERENCE AND CONTROL.
From the Commission — Thomas W. Palmer, Michigan, President;
James A. McKenzie, Kentucky; George V. Massey, Delaware; William
GEO. R. DAVIS.
W. T. BAKER.
Lindsay, Kentucky; Michael H. de Young, California; Thos. M.
Waller, Connecticut; Elijah B. Martindale, Indiana; J. W. St. Clair,
West Virginia. From the Directors — Lyman J. Gage, President;
Thomas B. Bryan, Potter Palmer, Ferd. W. Peck, Edward T. Jeffery,
Edwin Walker, Frederick S. Winston, W. T. Baker.
In order to judge of the probable or possible magnitude and mag-
nificence of the Columbian, it is worth while to glance backward at
some recorded items concerning past exhibitions. The following table
is made largely from facts scattered through Col. Norton's book,
"World's Fairs."
THE WORLD'S COLUMBIAN EXPOSITION.
433
Exhibitions.
Exhibit-
ors.
Visitors.
Visitors in a
Single Day.
Days
Open.
Total
Outlays.
Area in
Acres.
Rec'ts for
Admis'on.
Estimated
Gain to City.
London 1851.
ILQl?
6,039,195
144
$i 584 ooo
21
$i 780 ooo
Paris, 1855...
London. 1862.
23.954
28,653
5,162.330
6,250,000
123,017
67.981
200
121
2,257,000
2,300,000
41
24
644,000
1,644.000
30,000,000
Paris 1867...
50,226
10,200,000
117
87
2 103 600
Vienna 1873
70 ooo
7,254,687
186
7,850 ooo
280
Philad'a 1876
30,864
9,910,966
274,919
184
285
3,813 724
Paris, 1878...
Paris, 1889 . .
40,366
55,000
16,032,725
28,149,353
200,613
400,000
163
159
8,000,000
8,300,000
100
173
2,531.650
9.900,000
15,000 ooo
50,000,000
Statistics of
previous fairs.
When the Chicago plans are compared with even the largest of
these, namely the Paris Exposition of 1889, it seems small. The means „
* How Chicago
" in sight" for Chicago are : Popular subscription and city appropriation
$5,000,000 each : Estimated gate receipts, $7,000,000; Concessions
$1,000,000, and salvage, $3,000,000. These make $21,000,000. Then,
ILLINOIS STATE BUILDING.
the several States and Territories which have acted on the subject are
as follows : Delaware, $10,000; Vermont, Idaho and New Jersey, 20,000
each ; Arizona, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, North
Dakota and Rhode Island, $25,000 each; Wyoming and Arizona, $30,000
each ; Maine and West Virginia, $40,000 each ; Iowa, Minnesota, Mon-
tana and Nebraska $50,000 each ; Wisconsin, $65,000; Inclianaand Mas-
sachusetts, $75,000 each; Colorado, Michigan, Ohio and Washington
Ten, $100,000 each ; Missouri, $150,000; California and Pennsylvania,
$300,oooeach; Illinois, $800,000. These make $2,700,000, with a third of
all the States and Territories yet to hear from, beginning with old New
York and ending with young Alaska. These will doubtless bring the
total to $4,000,000, making a sum of $25,000,000 ; to which may possi-
bly be added a loan or gift of $5,000,000 from the United States, which
Action of
States and
Territories.
424
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
has already voted $1,775,000 for the expense of its own commission and
the governmental exhibits. Section sixteen of the act provides as
follows :
That there shall be exhibited at the said Exposition, by the Government of the United States,
from its Executive Department, the Smithsonian Institution, the United States Fish Commission,
and the National 'Museum, such articles and materials as illustrate the function and administrative
faculty of the Government in time of peace, and its resources as a war power, tending to demon
ART PALACE.
Action of the strate the nature of our institutions and their adaptation to the wants of the people, and to secure a
government comp'ete and harmonious arrangement of such a government exhibit, a board shall be created to be
charged with the selection, preparation, arrangement, safekeeping and exhibition of such articles
and materials as the heads of the several departments and the directors of the Smithsonian Institute
and National Museum may respectively decide shall be embraced in the said government exhibit.
The President may also designate additional articles for exhibition. Such board shall be composed
Government
exhibits.
TRANSPORTATION BUILDING.
of one person, to be named by the head of each Executive Department, and one by the directors of
the Smithsonian Institution and National Museum, and one by the Fish Commission, such selec-
tions to be approved by the President of the United States. The President shall name the chairman
of the said Board, and the Board itself shall select such other officers as it may deem necessary.
That the Secretary of the Treasury is hereby authorized and directed to place on exhibition,
upon such grounds as shall be allotted for the purpose, one of the life-saving stations authorized to
be constructed on the coast of the United States by existing law, and to cause the same to be fully
equipped with all apparatus, furniture and appliances now in use in all life-saving stations of the
United States, said building and apparatus to be removed at the close of the exhibition and re-erected
at the place now authorized by law.
THE M'ORLD'S COLUMBIAN EXPOSITION.
425
EXPENDITURES.
The total disbursements to November i, 1891, for all purposes,
have been $1,694,575. The estimated total expenses to be borne by
tlie Exposition Company are : Grounds and Buildings, $ 12, 966,890 ; °±yis,,1V£erto
organization and administration, $3,308,563 ; operation expenses, May
to November, 1893, 1,550,000. Total, $17,825,453.
The foreign nations and colonies which have formally determined
to participate in the Exposition, and the amounts of their appropria-
tions made or officially proposed, as far as information concerning them
has been received at headquarters, are the following :
Guatemala $120,000
Hayti
Honduras 20,000
Japan 500.000
Mexico 750,000
Netherlands (declined)
Dutch Guiana 6,000
" West Indies 10,000
Nicaragua 50,000
Paraguay
Persia
Peru 100,000
Russia
Argentine Republic $ loo.ooo
Austria-Hungary 147,000
Belgium
Bolivia 150,000
Brazil 550,000
China
Chili 100,000
Colombia 100.000
Costa Rica 100,000
Denmark
Danish West Indies 10,000
Ecuador 125,000
France • 400,000
Algeria--: •;ialvaIdor-. 30.000 Aaion of for.
rrench Guiana San Domingo eii;n nations.
Germany 25o,coo Siam
Great Britain 125,000: Spain
Barbadoes Cuba 25,000
British Columbia Porto Rico
" Guiana 20.000 ! Turkey
" Honduras 7,ooo j Uruguay
Cape Colony Venezuela
Ceylon 40 ooo Zanzibar
Jamaica 10,000
New South Wales Total $3,887.500
New Zealand 27,500
Trinidad 15,000 \
The other foundations for grandeur are not out of proportion to
the financial outlook. The ground, as already observed, is 666 acres—
.. . • • i /r *ll A mile squareof
over a square mile — and wherever more is required (tor agricultural lamiamimore
competitions, military and civic encampments, etc.) more is available in
convenient proximity. The boulevards of the city, all connected
together and connected with the Columbian Grounds, measure about
forty-five miles.
Quoting from the report made by Lyman J. Gage before his resig-
nation as president of the corporation:
The ground is being prepared for a system of lagoons and canals from 100 to 300 feet wide,
which, with the broad, grassy terraces leading down to them, will pass the principal buildings, inclose
a wooded island 800 feet long and form a circuit of three miles, navigable by pleasure boats. These
canals, which will be crossed by many bridges, will connect with the lake at two points, one at the Thc i,|,ean<i
southern limit of the present improved portion of the Park, and the other more than half a mile fur- the water
courses.
ther south, at the great main court of the Exposition. At this point, extending eastward into the
Lake 1200 feet, will be piers which will afford a landing place for the lake steamers and inclose a
harbor for the picturesque little pleasure boats of all epochs and nations, which will carry passengers
along the canals, stopping at numerous landing-places.
426
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Statueof
liberty.
The harbor will be bounded on the east, far out in the lake, by the long-columned facade of
the Casino, in whose free spaces crowds of men and women, protected by its ceiling of gay awnings,
can look east to the lake and west to the long vista between the main edifices as far as the gilded
dome of the Administration Building. The first notable object in this vista will be the colossal Statue
of Liberty, rising out of the lagoon at the point where it enters the land, protected by moles which
will carry sculptured columns emblematic of the thirteen original States of our Union. Beyond this,
beyond the first of many bridges, will lie a broad basin, from which grassy terraces and broad walks
will lead, on the north, to the south elevation of the enormous Main Building, and on the south to
the structure dedicated to agriculture.
The Main Building, extending northwestward a third of a mile, will be devoted to manufac-
tures and Liberal Arts, and will receive from all nations the rich products of modern workmanship.
Recalling architecturally the period of classic revival, it has the vivacity, the emphatic joyousness
of that awakening epoch. The long, low lines of its sloping roof, supported by rows of arches,
will be relieved by a central dome over the great main entrance; and emblematic statuary and float-
ing banners will add to its festive character.
The north elevation of the classic edifice devoted to agriculture will show a long arcade
behind corinthian columns, supporting a series of triple arches and three low, graceful domes. Lib-
erally adorned with sculpture and enriched with color, this building, by its simplicity, refinement
MANUFACTURES AND LIBERAL ARTS BUILDING.
General
architectural
scheme.
and grace, will be idyllically expressive of pastoral serenity and peace. At its noble entrance a
statute of Ceres will offer hospitality to the fruits of the earth. Behind it, at the south, sixty-three
acres of land will be reserved for the live stock exhibit.
The lofty octagonal dome of the Administration Building forms the central point of the arch-
itectural scheme. Rising from the columned stones of its square base, 250 feet into the air, it will
stand in the center of a spacious open plaza, adorned with statuary and fountains, with flower-beds
and terraces sloping at the east down to the main lagoon. North of the plaza will be the two build-
ings devoted to mines and electricity; the latter bristling with points and pinnacles, as if to entrap
from the air the intangible element whose achievements it will display.
South of the plaza will be Machinery Hall, with its power-house at the southeast corner.
A subway at the west will pass under the terminal railway loop of the Illinois Central Road to the
circular machinery annex within. North of this railway loop, and along the western limit of the
park, will be the Transportation Building. Still further north, lying west of the North Branch of the
lagoon at the point where it encloses the wooded island, will extend the long shining surfaces and the
gracefully curving roof of the Crystal Palace of Horticulture. Following the lagoon northward, one
Machinery Hall. wjjj pass tne \yornen's Building, and eastward will reach the island devoted to the novel and inter-
esting fisheries exhibit, shown in an effective, low-roofed romanesque structure, flanked by two vast
circular aquaria, in which the spectator can look upward through the clear waters and study the
creatures of ocean and river. This building will be directly west of the northern opening of the system
of lagoons into Lake Michigan, and in a straight line with the Government Building and the Main
Building which extend along the lake shore to the southeast.
THE WORLD'S COLUMBIAN EXPOSITION.
431
North of the lagoon which bounds this fisheries island lies the present improved portion of
Jackson Park, which will be reserved for the buildings of States and of foreign governments. The
Illinois Building will occupy a commanding position here, its classic dome being visible over the
long lagoon from the central plaza. Along the Midway Plaisance will be placed a number of special Fisheries
exhibits, like the historical series of human dwellings, reproductions of famous streets, etc., and it is 'slan<1-
probable that some of these may overflow into Washington Park.
This admirable and picturesque description, from the pen of one
who has been in and of the business since its very beginning, is neces-
sarily the best forth-setting possible to find or to make. One would
wish that every intelligent being in all civilized lands might read it, to
get an idea of the vast use which is to be made of such vast means.
General Nelson A. Miles, com-
manding the Military Division in
which Chicago is situated, has been, Genera, Miles
'
by the War Department, appointed
in charge of the military features
of the Columbian. He thinks there
should be here 5,000 United States
regulars, including five regiments
of infantry, two regiments of cavalry
and four batteries of light artillery.
Also at least 10,000 militia and, if
possible, 2,000 Indians from various
tribes. Colorado, California, North
Dakota, Kansas, Indiana, Ohio and
Troops and
Pennsylvania propose to send some Indians-
of their best companies of citizen
soldiery ; and it is said that the
famous " Ancient and Honorable
Artillery," of Boston, an organi-
zation dating from 1640, will be
present.
There might be (what is so
fine a feature of foreign reviews) a
sham battle ; an attack and defence of a fortified post ; or the meeting
of two armed forces of which one (the weaker) intrenches itself under
cover of its skirmishers, who, when driven in by overwhelming num-
bers,. retire only to unmask the "deadly earthwork," pierced for artillery
and topped by a solid line of musketry. The entire paraphernalia of Possible sham
war should be there ; the intrenching tools, the military telegraph, the
balloon service, the ammunition hurried up from the rear, the stretchers
picking up wounded, the field hospitals with their terrible appliances
and all. These, with the roar of artillery, the rattle of musketry, the
bugle calls and shouts of command, would make a splendid spectacle.
GEN". NELSON A. MILES.
428
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Pride in sho\
ing how few
soldiers we
need.
Thousands of veterans would feel their hearts thrill anew at the
long-remembered sights and sounds. Patriotism would revive, in hearts
long given over to the pursuit of gain, at the sight of a living picture
of the late deadly struggle by which their prosperity was made possible.
As to visitors from foreign military nations, we should be proud to show
"them, not how great is our military strength, but, on the contrary, how
little is needed in a nation of self-governed freemen. They well know
that, strong or weak in a show of arms, we are invincible in the defence
of our home.
The Board of Lady Managers is composed as follows : President,
Mrs. Potter Palmer ; Vice-presidents — First, Mrs. Ralph Trautman, of
New York ; Second, Mrs. Edwin C. Burleigh, of Maine ; Third, Mrs.
WOMEN'S BUILDING.
Charles Price, of North Carolina ; Fourth, Mrs. Catharine L. Minor,
of Louisiana; Fifth, Mrs. Beriah Wilkins, of the District of Columbia;
Sixth, Mrs. Susan R. Ashley, of Colorado ; Seventh, Mrs. Flora Beall
LadymanaKers.Ginty, of Wisconsin ; Eighth, Mrs. Margaret Blaine Salisbury, of
Utah ; At Large, Mrs. Russell B. Harrison, of Montana.
Vice Chairman Executive Committe, Mrs. Virginia C. Meredith, of
Indiana. Secretary, Mrs. Susan G. Cooke, of Tennessee.
The Board is constituted in the same way as is the Columbian
Commission ; eight delegates and eight alternates by Commissioners-at-
Lady delegates. Large, and two delegates and two alternates from each State and Ter-
ritory. This, with the officers, brings the number to over one hundred.
The duties of the Board, as prescribed by the Columbian Commission,
are : To appoint one or more members of all committees authorized to
THE WORLD'S COLUMBIAN EXPOSITION.
439
award prizes for exhibits which may be produced in whole or in part by
female labor: To manage and control the "Women's Building "on theTh(.irpowers
Fair grounds : To have general charge and management of all the '
interests of women in connection with the Exposition ; so that its man-
agement, so far as it relates to women's work, exhibits and interests in
general, shall be under the direction of the Board of Lady Managers,
through its President, shall be necessary before final and conclusive
action is taken.
The first meeting of the Board took place November 19, 1890.
President Thomas W. Palmer made an excellent address, expressly dis-
carding the old style of talk used when women were regarded as with- Firsl m«tm«-
out powers or duties except those for promoting philanthropic or
sentimental enterprises.
FISH AND FISHERIES BUILDING.
Mrs. William Felton, of Georgia, elected temporary chairman,
made a speech of admirable temper and timeliness. She said :
As a Southern woman, I certainly appreciate this compliment at your hands, and my own
inexperience gives me more serious concern at this hour than at any time in my life before. I can
only promise to do my very best in this unexpected position. . . . My heart is full of kindness
to every one of you. I know no North, no South, no East, no West. We are all dear sisters
engaged in a work full of patriotism and loyalty under the grand old flag in the home of our
fathers.
At the next meeting Mrs. Potter Palmer, of Chicago, was elected
President; and in her turn made an admirable speech. Among others
things she said :
I regret, after such a mark of confidence, that I have to ask the indulgence of the ladies for
my inexperience in presiding. I hope that when we have been holding meetings as long as the
other sex have, a knowledge of parliamentary law will be taken as a matter of course in every
woman's training. In ihe meantime, we may amend an amendment just a few times too often.
... We may surprise Roberts and Gushing by proving that motions put down in their manuals
as undebatable present no difficulties in that line to us. . .
and Mrs.
Palmer.
4JO
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Mrs. Palmer's
foreign trip.
The full benefit of this intermingling will not be felt unless we, each and all, are generously
willing to leave for a time the narrow boundaries in which our individual lives are passed, to give
our hearts and minds an airing by entering into the thoughts and aspirations of others and enjoy
ing the alluring: vistas which are open before us.
The second session of the Board was held in September, 1891.
Mrs. President Palmer reported a trip abroad which she had taken, at
her own expense, in the interest of the board. She also mentioned the
fact that a salary of $5,000 a year had been kindly and considerately
appropriated to the office she held, although she felt obliged personally
to decline it, feeling that there would be other ways of spending all the
money that the available sources would supply. In Europe she had
found many women most favorably disposed toward the Women's Board
and enthusiastic in their wishes to help it. She had found that it was a
How royalty
and aristoc-
racy look at
the move-
ment.
MACHINERY HALL.
mistake to think that this was the first movement of the kind, for the
French Government had created a committee of women in connection
with the Paris Exposition of 1889, to organize and carry on a " Con-
gress of Feminine Works and Institutions," the congress having been
shared by all countries which desired to do so, and the expenses being
paid by the French Government, the women being entertained as gov-
ernment officials by M. Guiot (a great champion of women) and other
ministers.
It may interest you to know that I found, as might be expected, the persons highest in rank
the most conservative. Princess Christian, and later Madame Carnot, were opposed to any extreme
views about women, deprecated their trying to enter the learned professions and to take the highest
honors at colleges, as they thought it led to nothing. They disapproved, consequently, of the suf-
frage movement, but were extremely interested in all plans to educate women so that they might gain
THE WORLD'S COLUMBIAN EXPOSITION. 43i
better wages in the employments usual to their sex, and especially in all that tended to make good
wives and mothers and happy homes.
Princess Christian has for years been at the head of many of the most important industrial
movements in England such as the South Kensington School of Art Needlework, and has recently
assisted at the opening of a college, of which she is the patroness, and of which she spoke with great .,
interest. In this college women are taught, beside all the industrial arts, such as carving, model-
ing, etc., household economy and sewing. The Princess was greatly pleased with our plans from
the standpoint to be made of the showing for industrial women, and before I left there proposed
forming a committee to aid us.
I must forewarn you that we American women will find it difficult to come up to the expecta-
tion formed of us abroad. We are considered very advanced, especially in the matter of organiza-
tion and cohesion: There each woman carries on her own work by the impulse she individually
gives it, and when she dies or drops out, the work falls to pieces. ... I must say again to our
members that we, as women of America, have been given an opportunity such as has never before
occurred. . . If we do not realize the almost solemn nature of the trust placed in our hands, we
shall set back the clock of time half a century for women. If we live up to the possibilities, we shall
open a new era for them. "
HORTICULTURAL BUILDING.
At the meeting of the State Boards on December u, 1891, Mrs.
President Palmer, on invitation, addressed the delegates. She said :
" No sentimental sympathy for women will cause the admission of
second-rate objects; for the highest standard of excellence is to be strictly
maintained." She also gave an explanation of what the Commissioners,
co-operating with the Board of Lady Managers, would be asked to aid
in doing. First, to get a representative exhibit of women's work ;
second, to get statistics of women's work that may enter to other exhibits ;
third, to find women's work worthy to be shown in the " Women's build-
ing " ; fourth, to recommend to the general Board women fit to serve
on juries of award ; fifth, to see that their educational work should
have its proper showing; sixth, the same regading their charitable
work ; seventh, to secure the desirable publicity ; eighth, to aid in the
collection of a loan exhibition of old lace, embroideries, fans, etc. ; ninth,
to secure the books written by women to be in the Women's Library,
especially books relating to the exact sciences, philosophy, art, etc.
Mrs. Palmer's
address to the
commissioners.
432
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Mrs. Palmer announced that she had addressed an official lettter to
the chief lady in each of the foreign governments and courts, asking
co-operation in the effort making in relation to the sex in the Columbian
Exposition.
The "Auxiliary " aims to do for mind what the other departments
do for matter. " Not things, but men " is its motto. To use its own
language :
The World's Congress Auxiliary of the World's Columbian Exposition is an organization
authorized and supported by the Exposition corporation for the purpose of bringing about a series
MINES AND MINING BUILDING.
The Amili °' wor'd's conventions of the leaders in the various departments of human progress during the
exposition season of 1893. The Auxiliary has also been recognized and approved by the government
of the United States. Its general announcement has been sent to foreign governments by the
Department of State and an appropriation on account of its expenses has been made by act of Con-
gress. . .
ELECTRICAL BUILDING.
The Auxiliary has no jurisdiction over any exhibit of material things, but will deal exclusively
with conventions of persons and their proceedings. The Exposition will present the progress of
mankind as represented by material forms ; while the Auxiliary will portray that progress with the
pen and the living voice and will endeavor to crown the whole glorious work by the formation and
adoption of better and more comprehensive plans than have hitherto been pursued to secure the
THE WORLD'S COLUMBIAN EXPOSITION. 433
progress, prosperity, unity, peace and happiness of the world. ... We are informed that at
Paris there were about sixty different conventions and congresses during the last exposition there,
and we suppose there will be many more during the exposition here.
Among prominent subjects to be discussed in congresses to be
brought together under these auspices are Education, Temperance,
Moral and Social Reform, Labor, Literature, Law Reform, Commerce
and Finance, Agriculture, Arbitration and Peace, Music, Art, Women's
welfare, etc. To avoid the confusion which might arise from the acci-
dental occurrence of too many conventions at any one time, the sub-
jects have been divided into groups and each group assigned to one of the
months during which the Exposition shall be open. The Auxiliary will
avoid interference with any of the conventions, except so far as it may
help them by furnishing places of meeting and other needed facilities.
A large number of corresponding and honorary memberships of the
Auxiliary have been created, and many cordial responses have been
A congress of
congresses.
AGRICULTURAL BUILDING.
received from the distinguished persons to whom they have been offered,
including such men as Lord Tennyson, Archbishop Ireland, James G.
Elaine, Carl Schurz, Edward Everett Hale, Robert Collyer, Andrew
White, John G. Whittier, Phillips Brooks, James Brice, Sir Edwin
Arnold, Theodore Thomas, etc. The officers of the Auxiliary are
C. C. Bonney, president; Thomas B. Bryan, vice-president; Lyman J.
Gage, treasurer; Benjamin Butterworth, secretary.
This "Auxiliary" seems to those engaged in it the one feature of
the Columbian which is entirely new, and an advance on all previous
World's Fairs. This fact makes it all the more difficult to arrange, and
the difficulty is increased by the intangible nature of the things to be set
forth — thoughts, conclusions, results of study and research, immaterial
products of the brain of man, instead of the material work of his hands.
It is a convention of conventions, a congress of congresses.
real men
who have
responded.
434
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
BUILDING PLANS AT THE OPENING OF rSgz.
BUILDINGS.
Length,
feet.
Width,
feet.
Height,
ieet.
Cost.
ARCHITECTS.
Administration
260
420
700
700
800
1. 000
850
1,151
400
498
1,688
500
200
960
1,000
500
348
450
300
200
200
300
260
350
350
345
500
778
5°o \
57o f
2CO
298
788
320 )
I 2O )
250
2,0
2OO
70
1 6O
125
9i
65
75
% 220
150
162
112
130
$ 450,000
400,000
260,000
375,000
540,000
200,000
1,200,000
I2O.OOO
2OO.OOO
1,100,000
500,000
280,000
300,000
100,000
100,000
250,090
35,000
30,000
150,000
150,000
Richard M. Hunt (N. Y.)
Windrim & Edbrooke.
S. S. Beman (Pullman).
Van Brunt & Howe (Bost'n).
McKim, Meade& White
(N. Y.)
Peabody & Stearns (Bost'n).
Sophia G. Hayden (Bost'n).
Henry Ives Cobb (Chicago).
George B. Post (N. Y.)
C. B. Atwood (Chicago).
Adler & Sullivan (Chicago).
W. L. B. Jenney (Chicago).
United States Government
Electrical
Agricultural
" Annex and Assembly Hall
Machinery Hall .
130
85
144
So
125
112
113
" Annex and Power House
Building plans "
Manufactures and Liberal Arts . .
Fine Arts
Transportation
Horticultural
United States Battle Ship
Sawmill
Casino (including cost of pier). . .
Total up to date
$6. 740.000
The Exposition Company has very large expenditures to meet in
addition to the cost of the buildings. In fact, the latter does not con-
stitute one-half of the total amount necessary to carry through the
Exposition enterprise. In a recent report made by the Grounds and
Buildings Committee, the following estimates of such expenses were
given :
Grading, filling, etc $ 450,400
Landscape gardening 323,490
Viaducts and bridges.. 125,000
y P^rs 70,000
Waterway improvements 225,000
Railways 500,000
Steam plant 800,000
Electricity 1,500,000
Statuary on buildings 100,000
Vases , lamps and posts 50,000
Seating $ 8,000
Water supply, sewerage, etc 600,000
Improvement of lake front 200,000
World's congress auxiliary 200,000
Construction department expenses, in-
cludingfuel, etc 520.000
Organization and administration 3.308,563
Operating expenses 1,550,000
Total $10 530,453
Seventeen mill-
ions to be laid
out.
Fire depart-
ment.
Adding to this the amount estimated to be necessary for buildings
($7,295,000), and the grand total sum to be expended by the Exposi-
tion Company, stands at $17,825,453. All of the great buildings have
been contracted for and are under construction. On several the work
is proceeding night and day, and all are being pushed to completion by
large forces of workmen. Insurance is placed and increased on the
buildings as their construction proceeds. It is the intention to carry
insurance aggregating $300,000,000 on the buildings and exhibits.
For protection against fire there are, and are to be, an organized
fire-brigade and reels of hose in convenient places on every side. Dur-
ing the early stages of construction three million-gallon pumps will be
relied on for the checking of any blaze; later, four great pumps of a
THE WORLD'S COLUMBIAN EXPOSITION.
435
capacity of forty million gallons in twenty-four hours, will be provided,
which will ordinarily supply the fountains, etc., but can be instantly-
turned into an efficient fire-service. Chicago is a trained veteran in
that warfare !
The materials for the structures will, of course, be iron and steel,
glass, slate, tiles, wood, stone, brick, cement, asphaltum and con-
crete. To these ordinary building articles will be added, in large
measure, " staff," which is the name given to plaster of paris through
which jute is mixed to hold it together, as straw was used for bricks by
the Israelites in Egypt.
Sewerage will be carefully provided, and the sewage pumped to a
central station, where it will be separated ; the liquid part, well diluted
Building
materials.
Sewerage.
WALTER FEARN.
CHARLES C. BONNEY.
and carried off by sewers, and the solid portion be treated, pressed, and
dried, to be burned or sold for fertilizing purposes.
At this present writing (end of 1891), the Columbian mile-square
looks like a city of incipient palaces, hillocks, slopes, pleasure-grounds,
lakes, water-ways, etc., just springing up on a lonely coast, as if at the
waving of an enchanter's wand. One would not imagine from this
sordid toiling and moiling, that minds' eyes from all over the world
below the horizon are directed that way. But so it is : Thought is bent
upon that shore, and whither thought turns, footsteps follow. Delighted,
edified, instructed, broadened and softened will be the vast crowds who
will tread that mile-square in 1893.
Aspect of the
ground in
Dec. 1891.
436 THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
TRANSPORTATION.
The problem of transporting visitors to and from the Columbian grounds has yet to be
solved. The avenues of travel already in existence are quite inadequate ; and the difficulty is one
not met with, in its present degree, at any previous World's Fair, because neither of them has been
as far from the main body of its city as is the Columbian from the centre of Chicago. In Paris, as
statistics show, the average attendance was 137,289 ; and the estimate of the largest attendance on
any single day was about 400,000 (probably an overestimate). Now, taking that as a guide, how is
an equal number of visitors to be carried to Jackson Park in any six or eight hours ? And, still
more puzzling, how is that number, or anything like it, to be carried away from the grounds at the
close of any day, the time when most visitors will desire to depart thence ?
A late report (October 31, 180.1) of the Columbian sub-committee having the matter in charge
gives the following estimates of the capacity of all methods now in existence :
Walking and carriages, per hour 15,000
Chicago city cable lines " 12,000
Illinois Central Railroad " 6,000
Other railroads " 1,000
Water craft " 5,ooo
39,000
The committee proceeds to make suggestions as to possible enlargements, such as Lake
Front viaducts, to facilitate water transportation, and a viaduct over the Illinois Central track adjoin-
ing the grounds, to give greater freedom to foot and carriage passengers, which, it is thought, might
add 6,000 per hour, making 45,000, a still inadequate number. Next, an independent loop at each
end of the cable line, and a connection between the State Street line and the Park would add 8,000
per hour during two hours at morning and evening
These changes, producing a total of 53,000 per hour, might be considered as an approach toward
sufficiency; but it is obvious that the slightest accident or delay in any branch of the service, a blow
on the lake, a rain, a breakdown on the railway or a "hitch" in the cable would produce an
intolerable delay and congestion. The system must be so varied, so pliable, so extensive that no
one or two failures could do more than divert the travel to adjacent routes.
The committee then proposes elevating the Illinois Central tracks, further increasing the
facilities for loading and unloading cars at both ends of the line, establishing a "block system" of
signals so as to allow trains safely to follow each other at intervals of two-and-a-half minutes, and
providing additional cars and engines to make these additional ways available — all at a cost of
$3,174,600. This would increase the Illinois Central capacity from 6,000 to 21,000, and the total
from 53,000 to 68 ooo per hour, to which is to be added the completion of the "Alley Elevated Rail-
road " (now nearly finished) with a possible capacity of 20,000 per hour, making a maximum grand
total of 88,000. These improvements would place the supposed maximum number of visitors in one
day (400,000 or less) at the Fair gates in about five hours and remove them in a similar length of time.
Meanwhile the "movable sidewalk" proposes, at small expense, to do the same service, or
any part of it, from any distance in any direction, with equal speed and greater personal conven-
ience; at a minimum cost per passenger. This mode of transportation is already (1891) on exhibition
on the Fair grounds, where passengers are daily transported over an elevated track, very much to
their satisfaction.
CHAPTER XXXVI.
ON NEW-YEAR'S DAY, 1892.
H ICAGO during its civic life hitherto has
been pretty nearly "all work and no play,"
and (the world is prone to say) has not
escaped the fate proposed for that state
of things by the old proverb. Especially
since the Fire have men kept their noses
to the grindstone until they have grown
too sharp for beauty. The lawyer, in all
companies, is prone to think and talk law,
the doctor to talk physic, the merchant to
talk merchandize, the Board of
man to talk trades, the real estate dealer
to talk lands and lots, the manufacturer
to talk wages, tariffs and patent devices.
There is no company where the word
"dollars "may not be overheard. Ethics
and aesthetics are alike out of the question
to men working, working, working, early
and late, in storm and calm, in good times
and bad, from youth to old age. Leisurely
quiet does not exist in Chicago even for men in a position to command
Chica
Trade bus
PRAIRIE AVENUE.
it, for excess of work, like any other excess, perpetuates itself by becom-
ing a fixed habit, a second nature. Men enjoy their work and its results
437
438
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
The idle man
lonely man.
to the exclusion of other enjoyment. Then, too, by reason of their
strength and wealth, combined with many fine qualities, the leaders make
working the custom and fashion, so that the non-worker is exceptional,
lonely, out-of-place. He is tempted to depart for some spot where he
can find others of his kind. Unfortunately this isolation spreads even
to some workers, namely, those whose work is not money-making. The
student, the artist, the writer, is only in very late years beginning to
find an element in which he can breathe and thrive.
So high is the standard of personal achievement under these stim-
ulating influences that the man who merely "does his duty" is left
Doing only
one's duty is
not enough.
GRANT MONUMENT IN LINCOLN PARK.
behind by men who do more: who reach out for new duties and obliga-
tions, who are insatiable for work, who are always learning and always
inventing; whose memory is perfect and whose judgement and foresight
are unfailing; who know on the instant what to do and what not to do.
In the hands of such men the conduct of business rises to a science,
and its devotees show all the enthusiasm which characterizes the pursuit
of science. They are the Humbolts, Darwins, of commerce, manufact-
ures and the professions.
Many will see in this devotion to labor no beauty or praiseworthi-
ness, but if they look below the surface of things they discover, in the
ON NE W- YEAR'S DA Y, 1892.
439
first place, a good reason for it in the engulfing Fire that swamped the
community under a load of debt such as was probably never before
borne by men; and, in the second place, a good result of it, in that the
debts are essentially paid off, principal and interest, and a splendid new Th«be»utyof
city built on the ruins of the shabby old one — all by hard work. Then,
too, the aspect of these over-tasked men is a standing refutation of
the notion that profitable labor, well-paid toil (although excessive) is
depressing. They are bright in their way, and gay even to hilarity. It
is not the gayety of Regent Street, the Boulevards, or Monte Carlo, but
it is the better (though less polished) exuberance of the fresh West.
it-paying,
peace and
plenty.
POTTER PALMER'S RESIDENCE ON LAKE-SHORE DRIVE.
The whole region believes that the fiat, "In the sweat of thy face shalt
thou eat bread," is not a curse but a blessing, and it acts on the belief.
To the honest worker debt is not a natural, inevitable and contin-
uous evil; "duns" are not beings of a lower order, nuisances to be fought Debl_piiyi
off by locked doors and ingenious evasions. That view is reserved to
the " hieher civilization " — save the mark ! To him his creditors are
O
friends who have trusted him and whom he is glad to seek that he may
render them their own and so relieve himself of a burden of obligation.
What is the result where all men work ? Peace and Plenty, and an
assimilating of the conditions of life between the rich and the not rich.
America is not (and never will be while present conditions obtain) on
440
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Suppose labor
were excep-
tional.
Effect of
success not
all good.
the " ragged edge " of possibility of want. Suppose, instead of a com-
munity of universal work, ours were one where there were an Imperial
Court and nobility doing no productive labor, a huge army, navy and
police, an innumerable corps of thieving officials, a horde of blood-suck-
ing tax-gatherers, and almost worst of all, a black swarm of priestly
drones, to add spiritual bondage to the temporal slavery — all engaged
in the self-profitable task of governing the real workers ! Then would
famine be possible in America as it is in Russia, a land having a climate
as varied and favorable
and a soil as produc-
tive as ours.
Chicago is typical of
the West; showing how
hard men work when
they are free to work,
and how strong and
supple their muscles
and minds grow by use
in their self-imposed
tasks. At the same
time the result of this
strenuous devotion to
"the main chance" is
not all good in its effect
on character. While
some men seem to
grow to broader hor-
izons by climbing,
others seem to be
darkened by delving.
The truly great man
finds in his riches glor-
ious means for public
benefaction; the little
soul sees in money only
MRS. POTTER PALMER. the means for making
more money. One newly rich will appear unpleasantly conscious
of his wealth, another not less unpleasantly unconscious of his. The
latter goes on in his old economies; he does not feel his millions, and
his followers observe with a quiet smile " he hasn't heard the news yet."
Avoiding personal eulogy, it may be said that one of the most inter-
esting developments of modern Chicago, especially in connection with
ON NEW- YEAR'S DA >', 1892.
44'
the Women's Department in the Columbian Exposition, is the energy,
enterprise, ability — even brilliancy — which the gentler sex displays on
being brought into situations of unaccustomed and unexpected public
service. Women endowed with fortune, station and every person al Won>»» ••> &
J new place.
charm, resist the impulse which would keep them in the well-trodden
road of fashion, frivolity and self-indulgence, and startle their fellow-
citizens by their success in the management of matters long thought to
be beyond their scope, mental and bodily. It is pleasant to think that
this is a natural result of the freedom and plenteousness of Western life;
that the present proofs of force and
self-reliance are but a foretaste of
other progress, as yet scarcely
dreamed of, even by the long-time
advocates of "Women's Rights."
As the better half of mankind grows
stronger, the stronger half must be
bettered, in ways uncountable.
The religious growth of Chicago
has gone on with its material in-
crease, and if not in full proportion
to it, at least as nearly so as is the
case in other great cities. The
church-goers are still the leaders in
society and in business, as well as in
morality, philanthropy and general
good citizenship. Toleration and
a sense of the brotherhood of all
grows everywhere in the Christian world, in Chicago as fast as elsewhere,
and perhaps faster. No man is smiled or frowned upon because of his
belief or unbelief. Each is judged by his acts and not by his thoughts. MenjudKed by
Under the influence of such leaders, the standard of manly conduct in Soul's.'
Chicago has always been high, and dissipation, though not unknown or
even rare, is not fashionable or reputable.
A sign of the times may, perhaps, be observed, by whomsoever will,
in two late ecclesiastical trials for heresy, their result and their conse-
quences. The first case was that of the Rev. David Swing, long recog-
nized as one of the brightest lights in the Presbyterian Church ; the
second, that of the Rev. Hiram W. Thomas, who held a similar eminence Eccicsia,lica,
in the Methodist Church. The former resulted in acquittal, but after it
Mr. Swing voluntarily withdrew from his denominational connection.
In Dr. Thomas' case the decision- of the court was adverse, and he was
expelled from the Methodist Church. Both ministers had enthusiastic
MISS FRANCES WILLARD, President of the W. C. T. U.
442
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Two creedless
churches.
adherents — in fact, their powers, virtues and personal charm were undis-
putable, even by those who differed from their views — and in each case
a new path was stfuck out; each clergyman established a creedless
WOMEN'S CHRISTIAN TEMPERANCE UNION BUILDING.
church of his own, and disregarding the traditions of form as well as of
doctrine, called his people together, not in a building set apart for
church purposes, but in one of the common meeting-places of men.
ON NEW-YEAR'S DA Y, 1892.
Mr. Swing's people selected Central Music Hall, then the largest
audience-room in Chicago, and engaged it permanently for Sunday use,
and now (1891) for fifteen years there has gathered at that place, weekly, ce«™i church,
a great audience of devout and earnest worshipers, who listen with rapt
attention to discourses of deep thought, broad sympathy, fervent piety,
and shrewd common sense ; all framed in language eloquent, poetic and
appropriate. To hear Mr. Swing is one of the prized privileges of the
Chicagoan, churchman or not ; and strangers flock into the vast, free
audience-hall to be delighted and to carry away new ideas of the possi-
bilities of future freedom of thought and hope.
Dr. Thomas' meeting (called the People's Church) began by using
Hooley's theatre, but later took a permanent Sunday lease of McVick-
er's, one of the largest in the city; and there Dr. Thomas has drawn Peopie-schurch
audiences similar in size and character to those of Mr. Swing, and exer-
cised the same broad and broadening influence.
Another " sign of the times " was the breaking up, in 1 884, of a long
continued and disgraceful course of "manipulation" of election returns.
The case in point was an outrage perpetrated by Joseph Mackin and
some associates in stealing a ballot-box with its ballots, election returns,
etc., and first substituting false returns ; and, when it was evident that
the ballots would be overhauled, causing an entire set of false ballots to
be printed and put in place of those originally cast. The fraud was
attempted in favor of the Democratic party, but the committee of citi-
zens which unearthed it was composed of men of both parties, working
together for public good ; among them an honored Chicago resident
since appointed by President Cleveland to the Chief-Justiceship of the
U. S. Supreme Court. The committee was composed of E. Nelson
Blake, A. A. Carpenter, Melville E. Stone, General Isaac N. Stiles,
Edwin Lee Brown, Albert M. Day, Edward F. Cragin, Erskine M.
Phelps, Melville W. Fuller and others. The democratic representative
who had been returned by the help of the forgeries promptly resigned, Non-parti»n
and his opponent took his place in the State legislature ; a proceeding ^ff^
which resulted in the return of General John A. Logan to the U. S. [™^werc
Senate, to prevent which the whole plot had been hatched. The con-
spirators were convicted and punished, and no election fraud of that
kind has since been attempted. The "Australian ballot system,"
adopted in 1890, seems likely to add to the safety and purity of the
ballot-box for the future. The problem of popular government in great
cities is not yet solved; but there are signs of the existence in Chicago
of a body of voters independent, in municipal matters, of party ties,
who will influence nominations for office, not by engaging in the caucus,
444
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
MASONIC TEMPLE, NORTHEAST CORNER OF STATE AND RANDOLPH STREETS.
Approximate cost, $2,000,000; height to cornice, 226 feet; height to ridge, 269 feet; height to
top of skylight, 305 feet; dimensions, 170 feet on State Street, 113 feet on Randolph Street. Number
of stores, 47 — first to ninth story, inclusive. Number of offices, 250— tenth to sixteenth story,
inclusive. Commandery and Consistory, eighteenth floor; Masonic rooms, toilet rooms and barber
shop, nineteenth floor; cafe in basement.
»riner-
ON NEW-YEAR'S DAY, 1893.
but by making its efforts fruitless, when they result in the selection of
unworthy candidates, through the defeat of such candidates at the polls.
While on the subject of corruption in high places, it should be
observed that no rich man in Chicago can be pointed out as having
made his fortune by his connection with "politics," National, State or
City, or by any dealings with the civic government.* The fierce glare
of partisan strife, as refracted through an almost unbridled public press,
' No Chicago
has at least this saving grace ; that, while subjecting to general view (^""a
much that should be sacred privacy, it also makes nearly impossible any pTJndcr.
underhanded plotting for nefarious purposes. No " Tweed ring" has
ever existed, or can exist, in Chicago. This is partly because the prying
eyes of press and public are always on the watch to turn any crimes,
arising in one political party, to the advantage of the other, and partly
because New York has passed through the trial and come out trium-
phant. Chicago (in spite of frequent tiffs and hard words) looks on Ncn,caeo-8
New York as her elder sister in blood-relationship, her senior partner • enior
in business, and her benefactor in time of dire distress; and is ready and p»
willing to learn, thankfully, whatever the elder municipality may teach —
either by example or by warning.
Passing from moral to material characteristics, the practical city is
scarcely (as yet) the ideal abode of elegance and ease. The old resi-
dent, unforgetting of the days when the air was pure and liquid mud
spurted up between the planks in Lake Street, thinks that the pave-
ments are now quite respectably kept, but that the smoke-laden atmos-
phere is intolerable ; while the visiting Londoner, on the contrary, would
say that the air is very fair, but the mud disgraceful. It all depends on
the standard and point of view. Both nuisances are bad, and both can
be, will be and are being abated. The smoke evil springs from one of
the chief commercial advantages of the situation, namely, the abundance
and cheapness of coal. This, it is needless to say, is the very foundation
of all prosperity springing from the use of machinery, as well as an
inestimable blessing to the wage-earners in their daily home-lives. True,
nature might have made the immense coal-beds of Illinois a little purer
& . . . Smoke, dim
in quality while showing such lavishness as to quantity; but no one and mud.
place can have every conceivable blessing — not even Chicago. Care
and pains, the stern administration of law and lavish use of money, may
mitigate the smoke-evil; though London, Manchester, Leeds and Bir-
mingham have not yet cured it. The most efficient means of reform
•On the other hand, much wrong may be done by corruption whereby the corrupted public servant profits but
little, while the corrupting outsider profits hugely. The charge is freely made that the legislative branch of the city
government is hopelessly corrupt; that even legitimate measures for public good can not be passed without a lavish use
of money and that franchises of fabulous value are constantly and thamelessly bartered away. Meanwhile, men in
general are looking for .ome Messiah to arise, who will clear out the temple with a knotted scourge-but each man ii
individually " too busy " to stir in the matter.
446 THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
will be found in the removal of the stock-yards and other great smoke-
producing industries to more distant location (not to windward, that is
southwest, where they now are) ; then the use of anthracite coal, coke,
etCi> may De f°rced upon railway engines and river tugs, and so finally
the main city be lightened of its prevalent pall, and the fine goods now
ruined by millions of dollars' worth every year, be saved for their more
legitimate kind of use. The mud is merely a matter of "wasteful econ-
omy." The street-cleaning must be brought up to a higher standard, and
that promptly. The prevailing prairie breeze, blessing though it be on
the whole, intensifies the curse of dust which dominates the city. The
profuse spread of literature (such as it is) seems typified by the wild
whirl of waste-paper-scraps which disfigure the streets. They come in
clouds from the alleys where they have been deposited with other sweep-
ings, and whence the scavenger-carts would remove them if they would
only stay to be removed, instead of taking to themselves wings and riot-
ing in freedom. If it were made a part of good housekeeping to burn
all waste paper, a great nuisance would suddenly abate.
As to the care of the more solid waste matter, that only needs larger
Money growing
pkmy. appropriations, and better scrutiny of the manner in which they are
expended. Now that the Fire-damages are practically repaired and the
liabilities for parks and boulevards discharged, there will be, or should
be, abundant means to spare for the more ornamental uses of money.
Business first and pleasure afterward. The best use for money is to pay
debts with it ; the next best, perhaps, to beautify the home.
Chicago, while preserving many of the excellent characteristics of
youth, has some village habits that sit upon her like a child's clothes on
a grown person. Horses are left tied and untended even in the crowded
business streets, and often are to be seen feeding at the curbstone.
Vehicles stand idly for hours beside thronged thoroughfares. Others
v'cha«acter- are backed up to sidewalks, projecting so far into the street that passage
is seriously impeded and sometimes quite blocked. Cases may daily be
observed where drivers, finding the edge of the street occupied, station
their vehicles near its middle, awaiting their turn at the sidewalk and at
the same time preventing the proper use of the roadway. It would prob-
ably be a new idea to most Chicago horse-owners were they told that
they have no right to keep a vehicle standing (longer than absolutely
required for loading or unloading its passengers or freight) even at
their own front doors. Yet such is the common law. The street is only
for passage, not for storage. Every man may have a privilege — not a
right — to occupy the space at his own door or elsewhere, when his doing
so does not interfere with the legitimate use of the street, which is simply
for passing to and fro. " Move on " is a lawful command at all times in
the " public highway."
ON NEW-YEAR'S DA Y, 1892.
447
The sidewalks are used for storage and handling-places to an
unreasonable degree; while there (as in the street) the articles and
their movers have no rights except the right of prompt passage.
Then, too, the notion prevails that the street railways have a better
claim to the space between their rails than have other persons, and that
at street crossings and elsewhere the street cars must be given the first
chance. This is a mistake ; the streets belong to all alike, and it is only
wanton and needless obstruction which can be punished.
The gay good-nature with which these infringements of popular
rights are submitted to is a trait of Chicago character. " It's all for the
good of trade " is the feeling and the saying, and so trade dominates
and imposes on individual comfort and convenience. This toleration
looks foolish and provincial to a stranger, and, what is more important,
tends to encourage, perpetuate and
increase the wrong. If, suddenly,
by some miracle, the "law of the
road" were made universally oper-
ative in Chicago, perhaps a tenth of
all the public would feel as if their
rights were taken away, while in fact
it would be only a tardy restoration
of rights to the other nine-tenths.
It is a pleasant fact that in Chicago,
a woman, especially if she be old,
or burdened, or in any way infirm,
is sure in a crowded street-car tohave
a seat offered her by any man who
has one to offer ; but this custom
works in favor of the owners and
operators of the street cars, who de-
liberately plan and arrange to have
their vehicles overcrowded, by running a number insufficient to seat all
the persons who pay for using them. Great profits are thus gained.
One often sees every seat in a car occupied by women, while every
foot of standing room is filled by men, holding on to straps, dependent
from the roof, and kindly furnished for their accommodation. Innumer-
able persons, using the cars at the most crowded times, scarcely expect
ever to be allowed to enjoy the seat they have paid for.*
So it comes about that not only foreigners but Chicagoans who
have traveled abroad (and almost every one in comfortable circum-
stances has done so, once or oftener) feels that the city is, after all, only
* In Chicago, men RettinR on or off a ftreet car rarely brin* it to a full stop.
Patience under
FRANKLIN MACVEAGH.
given up to
women.
448
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
•What's all
this?"
a great, overgrown, smiling village, that does not even now " take itself
seriously." It seems like "a young giant, refreshed with new wine," or
a budding girl, not yet used to being gazed at. The hundreds whose
birth antedates the incorporation (1837) can scarcely greet each other
without a smile that seems to ask, "Why, what's all this?" Well, "all
this" is simply a glorious opportunity to establish order, cleanliness
and that good government under which each must use his own without
injuring another; to frown upon impositions instead of smiling at them;
to enjoy good fortune with manly reticence instead of childish exuber-
ance ; in short, to preserve every good and pleasant trait, while doing
away with the others.
The over-crowding of the streets
themselves (in spite of their unusual
breadth) is a terrible and growing
evil, fostered by the extravagant
height to which buildings have be-
gun to be carried. One of the man-
ifestations of thrift in the "thrifty
eighties" is the making more use of
a given number of superficial square
feet of the earth's surface than
has ever been achieved at any other
time or place. Beginning with the
"Montauk Block" of ten stories,
and going on step by step to the
" Masonic Temple " with nineteen,
the art of building made a great
CYRUS H. MccoRMicK. advance in that decade, and what
may be called a new style of civic architecture has been instituted,
whereby inordinate height is shown to be not incompatible with a certain
stately beauty. But when a house is so spacious that the length of street
over-crowding 'in front °f it can not contain its occupants, there comes a dead-lock. It
aris?ngcfrom is easy to say, "Let them spread out in front of their neighbors' houses,"
of houses, but suppose the neighbors also to have built " sky-scrapers," what then ?
In a city or even a street of such edifices the inhabitants would be com-
pelled to use the street in turn, for it is a physical impossibility for all
to be abroad at once. It seems manifest that a limit must be set to the
height of buildings ; whether by the London plan of proportioning them
to the width of the street in front of them, or by some other standard
of restriction. As in all the other interferences of statute with personal
conduct, public good must prevail over private greed. It will be diffi-
cult, seeing that the ability to make so much use of well-placed lots
ON NEW-YEAR'S DAY, 1893.
449
•THE CHICAGO CONSTRUCTION." A FRAME THAT HOLDS UP THE WALLS.
450
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
John W. Root
and the
Chicago
construction.
has enhanced their value to something very near the prices prevalent in
the Heart of London ! But, how-
ever difficult, it is necessary, and
in such a case Chicago takes no
account of obstacles.
The " Chicago construction "
is not the invention of any one
mind, but it is probably due more
to the genius of the late lamented
John W. Root than to that of any
other person. He first devised the
system whereby the weight of the
structure is spread over the whole
of the ground it covers, instead of
being carried by walls alone. In
the Montauk Block he used the
plan of laying iron or steel beams
side by side, and crossed at right
angles by other similar beams, over
the entire surface to be built upon, and then imbedding the whole
mighty mass in cement. On this impregnable base is placed the super-
JOHN WELBORN ROOT.
COOK COUNTY HOSPITAL. HARRISON" STREET.
structure, several series of columns in orderly array, forming the walls
and carrying the floors of every apartment in the structure. To this the
outside shell or covering is merely an addition ; the frame carries the
OAr NEU'-YEAK'S DAY, 1892. 45i
walls instead of being carried by them as of old. The towering Masonic
Temple is the final work of Mr. Root's short but crowded and brilliant
career; having been begun and finished according to his plans, but after
his untimely death.
In dwelling upon the growth of Chicago the historian is prone
to treat it as if it had arrived at its acme; forgetting that every E£|} 1;<'°tri™
past chronicler has done the same, and been belittled by later progress. p"*fCfSMt-
Mr. Balestier in his paper read before the "Lyceum" in 1840, when the
population had reached the proud eminence of 4,479, exults thus:
"Chicago has sprung, as it were, from the very mire, and assumed
the aspect of a populous city. . . . The memory is at fault when
it attempts to keep pace with this rapid progression. Well may we
rejoice in a result so glorious ! No curiosity is excited by the advent of
a schooner, and even the vapor-driven monsters which frequent our
harbor have ceased to call forth our wonder!"
Such enthusiasm as Mr. Balestier's in 1840, Gov. Bross's in 1856,
and in fact, everybody's who has successively treated the subject, com-
pels a smile as one looks back upon it ; and he is likely to forget that
his own observations will be no less amusing to the writers who shall
come later. Yet he has always the comforting thought that each laugher
in turn, through a long series, will furnish amusement to those who fol-
low him, even as the annalist of 1840 is smiled at by him of 1891.
PROF. COLBERT'S FIGURES OF 40 YEARS' PROGRESS IN MANUFACTURES AND WHOLESALE TRADE,
CHICAGO TRIBUNE, JANUARY 1, 1892.
1850 $ 20,000,000
1860 97,000,000
1868 310,000,000
1869 336,000000
1870 377,000.000
1873 514,000,000
1874 575,000,000
1875 566,000,000
1876 $ 587,000,000
1877 595,000,000
1878 650,000,000
1879 764,000,000
1880 900,000,000
1881 1,015,000,000
1882 1,045,000,000
1883 '1,050,000,000
1884 $ 933,000,000
1885 959,000,000
1886 997,0(i(l,000
1887 1,103.000,000
1888 1,125.000000
1889 1,177.000.000
1890 1,380,000,000
1891 1,459,000.000
Time and space are not adequate to the presenting of anything like
a complete sketch of the present greatness of Chicago. Fortunately
this is not a report, a compendium or a guide book ; it is merely a
story, and at best can only, by a touch here and there, indicate the
ascending steps, leaps and bounds by which the fair city has advanced ;on«i
not portray or depict the wonderful result. Onward and upward she
climbs. On the shining height, the point which was her goal yesterday
is her starting-place to-day, and to-morrow will be far behind her, a mere
study for her future historian.
FINIS.
INDBX.
Abbot. Dr., 67.
Aborigines, 8.
Abstracts of Title, see Real Estate.
Academy of Design, 346.
Ackerman, Wm. K., 171, 218, 222, 422.
Aco, Pierre, 25.
Adams. George E., 346, 7.
J. McGregor, 342, 374.
Robert D , 268.
A. F. & A. M.,346.
Agramonte, Capt., 379.
Albany, "Journal," 197.
"Argus, "302.
Aldermen, see Municipal Government.
Algonquins, 8.
Allen, G. W., 422.
Alton, see Railroads.
American, The, 181, 189.
Fur Company, 81, 93.
Anarchist Riot.
"Alarm, The," 383.
" Appeal, The," 383.
" Arbeiter Zeitung," 383, 384, 386.
Arrests, 386.
Beginnings of, 382.
Bomb-throwing. 386.
Clubs formed, 383.
Haymarket meeting, 385.
Incendiary speeches, 385.
McCormick Reaper Works closed. 384.
Police sweep the square, 386.
Short hours aimed at 384
Spies' Address, 384.
Trial and sentence, 386.
Andersonville, 270.
Andreas'. Hist, of Chicago. 32, 35, 39, 48, 50, 71,
87, 89, 90, 96, 98, 99, 117,133. 144, 158,176,
181, 183, 184, 185, 190,201,204,211,213,
222,224. 242, 243, 244. 248, 250, 254, 260,
267. 272, 283, 291, 331, 353 , 364, 378, 405
Andrews, Alex. B., 422.
St. Ange de Bellerive, 25.
Anti slavery movement, see Slavery.
"Appeal" (anarchist organ), 383.
"Arbeiter Zeitung," 383.
Archer, Col., 112, 113.
Archer's Road (Archer avenue), 112.
Arkansas. 25.
Armour, Geo. A , 414.
Jonathan O., 415.
Joseph F., 414
Philip D., 414, 415.
Philip D.. Jr., 415.
Armour Mission, 414.
Arnold. General Benedict, 34.
Sir Edwin, 433.
Isaac N., 113, 146, 147. 155, 156, 184, l!)t.
232, 249. 306, 341, 343, 344, 374.
Art Institute, 346-7
d'Artaguiette, 25.
Ashby's Gap, 268.
Ashland avenue, see Streets.
Ashley, Mrs. Susan R., 428.
Ashmun, George, 259.
Astor, John Jacob, 81-83.
Astoria, Irvine's. 83.
Athenanim, 344-5.
Atlanta, Battle of, 264.
Atlantic Ocean, 1-9.
Austin, 4.
Australian Ballot System, 443.
A very, T. M.. 342-345.
Ayer, B. F.. 353.
Aztecs, 7.
B
Bailey, Jonathan N., 90-128.
Baker, Col. E. D., 206.
G. P., 242.
Major, 85.
W. T., 347-422.
Balatka, Hans. 364.
Baldwin, Col. Silas D., 264.
Balestier, Joseph N., 16U, 161, 168, 451.
Ballance, 84-85.
Ballot-box Frauds, 443.
Baldwin. Mr., 334.
Bangs, Judge Mark, 358.
Banks and Banking
Brokers, 242.
Building Associations, 354.
Chicago Savings, 242.
Clearing House Certificates, 352.
Collapse Averted, 352.
From 1836 to 1844, 242.
Failures, 166.
In New York, 245.
In '73, 3.r.2.
Farmers and Mechanics. 242.
Food Products as a Financial Basis, 353.
Illinois Law, 247.
Insurance Payments, 357.
Kane County Bank, 283.
Marine, 283.
Merchants' Loan & Trust Co., 283, 406.
National System, 248
Notes, 243-246.
Payments resumed after Fire, 351.
Private Banks, 243.
Reaper Bank, 283.
Savings Bank Disaster, 353-354.
Silverman's, 35C.
State Bank Fails, 166.
Union National, 350.
Vaults in the Fire, 3.">0.
War, Support offered, 260.
Wildcat Banks, 212.
Bank of England chartered, 25.
Baptist Indian Missions, History of. 81.
Barclay, Commodore, 77.
Haring Brothers, 184.
Barnes, Lieut.-Col., 264.
Barnum Brothers. 206.
Barr. Joseph W., 268
Barry. W.. 343.
Bascaut. Pierre. 32.
Bascom, Rev. Flavel, 224.
454
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Bateham, Wm., 291.
Bateman, Kate and Ellen, 223.
Bates, Candidate for Presidency, 259.
Edward, 198.
Hon. Geo. C., 95.
John, 130, 181.
John, Jr., 129.
Batteries: See War.
Beaubien, Alexander, 99, 123.
Frank G., 135.
Henry, 123.
Jean Baptiste, 19, 65, 79, 86, 87, 89, 90,
93, 95, 98, 99, 100, 108, 122, 127, 135,
141, 157, 15».
Mark, 100, 118, 135, 159.
Philip, 123.
Beauharnois, Marquis de, 32.
Beaver and Beckwith, 213.
Beaver dams, 5, 12, 79.
Bechstein, Frederick, 268.
Beckwith, Hiram W., 90.
Beckwith, Judge, 232.
Beem, Gen. Martin, 379.
Beggs. Rev. Stephen Ruddel, 105, 177.
Belknap, Gen., 801.
Bell, Col. Joseph W., 267.
Lieut., 378.
Bellefontaine, Mo., 50.
Bellows, George L., 268.
Bellows, Dr. Henry W., 271.
Bentley, Cyrus, 234, 345.
Benton, T. H., 195.
Bentonville, Battle of, 265, 266.
Bessemer Steel Invented, 25.
Best, Wm., 867.
Beveridge, Col. John L., 267.
Bigelow, Liberty, 251.
Big Foot, Chief of Pottawatomies, 84.
Bigford, T. J., 333.
Billings, C. K. G., 369.
Bingham. Henry W., 268.
Bischoff, Lieut., 378.
Bishop, Henry W., 340, 414.
Bissell, C. L., 256.
Bissell, Wm. H., 218.
Black, Gen. John Charles, 264, 266, :>47.
J. C., 415.
Blackbird, Pottowatomie Chief, 68.
Black Hawk, Indian Chief, 103, 104, 105, 132.
Black Hawk War, 104.
Black Hole of Calcutta, 25.
Black Partridge, 12, 61, 68, 75, 76.
Blackstone, T. B., 414.
Elaine, Jas. G., 433.
Blair, C. B., 352.
C. J.,374.
W F 347
Blake, Capt/S. S., Illinois, 225.
E. Nelson, 443.
Herbert M.. 268.
Blanchard, Rufus, 80, 91, 113, 120, 206, 238.
Blaney, J. V. Z., 343.
Blatchford, £. W., 345, 347, 409, 411, 414.
Blaye, Alexis, 32.
Block House, 62, 72, 80. 81.
Unveiling of Tablet, 72.
Blodgett, Judge Henry W., 132, 152, 167, 172, 188.
Israel P , 186. 187, 188.
Blount. Fred M.,369.
Blue Licks, Battle of, W.
Board of Trade. 189, 352.
Attitude towards currency, 283.
Incorporated, 253.
Innocent Beginnings, 254.
Board of Trade Regiments, 256-7.
Bogardus, John L. , 97.
Boisbriant, 25, 28.
Bolton's Battery, See War
Bonfield, Capt. John. 379, 385.
Bonnell, J. D.,157.
Bonney. C. C., 433.
Boone, Daniel, 36, 43, 44.
Boston Capital in Western Roads, 183.
Botsford, jabez K., 211.
Botsford, Minerva, 342.
Boulevards, see Park System.
Boutell, L. H.,358.
Bowen, James H., 261.
Bowers, " Professor," 141.
Boyce, L. M.,234.
Brackett, Col. Albert G.. 267.
Braddock's Defeat, 25.
Bradley. Cyrus P., 198, 207.
Capt. Hezekiah, 80, 85.
Col. Luther P., 264.
Wm. H.. 374, 409.
Brainard, Dr. Daniel. 131, 133, 147, 194, 223.
Brand, Alexander & Co., 242.
Bransart, Laurent, 32.
Brayman, M., 343.
Breakwaters, 120.
Breese. Senator Sidney, 197, 218.
Brennan, Sergt., 378.
Brice, James, 433.
Bridewell, 18
Bridgeport (Canalport), 113.
Bridges, Gen. Lyman, 267.
Bridges' Batteries, see War.
Bridges:
Clark Street, 120, 207, 210, 211.
Dearborn Street, 119, 120, 210.
During the Flood, 2U7.
First Iron, 251, 252.
Future of, 211.
Kinzie )
Madison \ Streets, 210.
Wells )
See also Ferries.
Bristol, R. C., 207.
Bronson, Arthur, 113, 144, 184.
Brooks, James, 195.
Samuel, 134. 136, 137.
Phillips, 433.
Bross, John A., 268.
Ex-Gov. William, 120, 133, 158, 214, 215,
251-3, 270, 302. 330.
Brown, Edward H.,268.
Edwin Lee, 443.
Miss H. E., 129.
Judge Henry, 57,
ohn, 43, 249, 250.
T. D., 345.
William H.. 172, 216, 342,343.
Bryan Hall. 260, 270.
Bryan. Thomas B , 261, 209, 270, 271, 345, 422,
433.
Bryant, William Cullen, 258.
Buck, Henry A., 268.
Buckingham, Ebenezer, 318,319.
Buffalo, 3. 69, 74, 83.
Building Associations, 354.
Buildings, High, 448.
Chicago Construction, 450.
Masonic Temple, 444, 448.
Montauk Block, 448,450.
Buildings. Raising, 232-3.
Bunker Hill, Battle of, 25.
Burch, I. H., 241, 242.
INDEX.
455
Bureau River, 84.
Gurdon Hubbard's Fur Trade, 84.
Jones' Settlement, 187.
Burgess, Joseph W., 213.
Burgoyne, General, 25, 50.
Burkhardt. Henry S , 369.
Burlings, Mrs. Edwin C., 428.
Burley, Arthur G , 173, 174, 176, 203.
Augustus H., 173, 174, 176, 203.
Burlingame, A., 195.
Burnett, William, 48, 81.
Burnham, D. H., 422.
Burns, John, 62.
Burr, Jonathan, 342, 343.
Burying Grounds.
First Public, 151, 181, 182.
Graceland, 91, 141, 269.
Lake Front Park, 80.
Garrison Cemetery in 1816.
Lincoln Park, 91. 182, 276.
Business, devotion to, 437-8.
Butterfield, Justin, 113, 155, 175, 184.
Butterworth, Benj., 422, 483.
Butler, Charles, 144, 158.
C
Cadillac, 81.
Cahokia, 37.
Caldwell, Billy (Sauganash), 76, 77, 107, 123.
Oscar, 243, 247.
Calhoun. Alvin. 207.
John, 116, 130, 147, 169, 194.
John B.,219. 222, 244.
California Gold Discovery, 25.
Callahan, Lieut., 378.
Cameron, Col. Daniel, 259. 265.
Campbell Park, see Park System.
Campbell, T. H., 170.
Win. J., 415.
Canada. 15. 29
Canal. Illinois and Michigan, 80.
Benefits of, 185.
Buffalo united with New Orleans, 83. 185.
Canal Scrip, 113, 185, 189.
Canal Time. 215.
Cholera, 167.
Commissioners. 114.
Convention, 194, 199.
Deepening, 280. (See Drainage.)
Divided Dominion, Saved from. 184.
First shipments, 185.
Finished, 1848, 113.
Inauguration, 112.
Opened 1848. 189.
Receipts of, 201.
River and Harbor Bill, 192, 194.
Subscriptions for, 184.
State generosity, 327.
Canning, George, 56.
Carnot, Mme., 430.
Carpenter. Mrs. A. E.,123.
A. A.. 443.
Benjamin, 274.
Philo, 117, 125, 141. 221, 342.
Carriages. 121, 141. 142.
Cartier, Admiral, 15.
Car works, see Pullman, town of.
Cass, Gen. Lewis, 82, 83, 85, 89, 90, 225.
Catlin, Charles, 374.
Caton Chief Justice John Dean. 11. 13. 19, 25,
33, 51, 95, 108, 109, 121, 131. 133 137. 138,
149 150, 152, 166, 171. 173, 190, 1!^,219,
235. 291, 292, 311. 359.
Mrs. John Dean, 138, 139.
Cavelier, Robert, Sieurde La Salic. 8, 19-22. 25-
27,30, 78, 114, 317.
Cemeteries, see Burying Grounds.
Central Boulevard, see Park system.
Central Music Hall, 413.
Chain of Acquaintance, from first explorer to the
present day, 25.
Champlain, 15, 18
Chancellorsville. Battle of, 265.
Chandonnais, 73.
Chapman. Mrs. Nancy, 211.
Chappel, Miss Eliza, 123, 124.
Charities:
Armour Mission, 414, 415.
Athenieum, 344.
t-'irst General Charity Hospital, 223.
Home for the Friendless, 342.
Illinois Humane Society, 345.
John Crerar's Will, 413.'
Nursery and Half-Orphan Asylum, 842.
Ogden, Wm. B., Bequests of, 415.
Old Ladies' Home. 342.
Relief Societies. 287, 298.
Relief and Aid Society. 299, 322, 341 , 342.
Supervision after the Fire, 342.
Women's Christ'n Temperance Union, 345.
Young Men's Christian Assoc., 270, 345.
" Charles Howard." 252. 2K6
Chart showing retirement of Niagara, 3.
Chartres. Fort, 15, 17, 25, 28, 29, 83, 33, 86.
Chase, Salmon P., 259.
Bros., 309.
Chauvin, Lady Michelle, 32.
Cherokees, 40.
Chesapeake American frigate. 56.
Chesbrough, Ellis S , 231, 274, 275.
Chetlain, Gen. A. L., 262, 265.
Chicago —
Beginnings.
Board of Trade Established, 189.
Canal Established, 189.
City Charter, 154.
Early Amusements, 121, 189, 214.
Customs and Courtesies, 88, 89.
Hotels, 9(i. 97, 109, 110, 139, 174.
First Book published, 189.
Buildings on North Side, 87
Carriages, 121, 141, 142.
Cemeteries, 80, 91, 151, 181, 1H2, 276.
Census, 152.
Chicago-built Vessel, 153.
County Court House, 158.
Daily Paper, 181.
Drawbridge. 119.
Ferries. 52, 97, 117, 118, 209.
Fire-engines. 125, 152.
Fire-proof building, 173.
Jail, 149.
Laying out Town, 114, 117,
Lighthouse, 141.
Locomotive, 189.
Meat packed. 189.
Newspapers, 116, 130, 189.
Pound. 149.
Propellor launched, 1*~9.
Protestant sermon, 83.
Railroad, 189.
School building, 189.
Street improvements, 255, 274. 276, 277.
Telegram received, 189.
Theatre. 189.
Vessel on River, 121, 1!)0, 189.
Waterworks, 189.
Wedding of note, 137.
456
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
First House of Business, 173, 174.
Reaper Factory started, 189.
Nationalities in Population, 403.
Suburbs annexed, 403.
Transportation Problem. 404.
Chicago, name and derivation.
Checaugou, 8. '
Chica-a-go, 92.
Chicagou. 8, 9, 17, 25, 32, 47.
Wild onion, leek or garlick.
Chicagu, 8.
Chicagua, 8, 32.
Chicauga, 74.
Chickahou, 8.
Chikago, 50.
Chikagou, 8.
Chikagu, 8.
Choc-cu-go (destitute), 8.
Eschikagou, 8, 25, 39.
Gitchi Kage.
Shecaugo, 8.
Shegahg, 8.
She-gau-ga-winzhe, 8.
American, see Newspapers.
Bank, 242, 283.
Burlington & Quincy R. R., see railroads.
Construction, see Buildings.
Democrat, see Newspapers.
Fire, see Fire of 1871.
Fire and Marine Ins. Co. ,242.
Magazine, see Newspapers.
River, Fishing in, 240.
Impurity of, 240, 280.
Navigation, 237.
Permanent Improvement, 241.
Skating on, 139.
Savings Bank, 242.
Chickamauga, Battle of, 264-267.
Chickasaw Indians, 32, 40.
Childs. Luther, 125.
Childs, Mr., Chicago Engraver, 169.
Chippewa Indians, 8, 86, 111.
Cholera Scare, 131, 132, 176, 234, 235
Christian, Princess. 430.
Church, Thomas, 196.
Churches.
Baptist, 81, 126.
Creedless, 442.
Episcopal (St. James), 101, 127, 254.
First Baptist, 126.
" Congregational, 260.
" Methodist, 125, 126.
" Presbyterian, 124, 126.
" Universalist, 246.
" Father Walker's Log Cabin," 126.
Lutheran, 406.
Methodist, 125, 126
Plymouth Congregational, 260.
Presbyterian (cor. Lake and Clark streets),
124, 136.
Roman Catholic Cathedral, 120, 127.
Second Unitarian, 260.
St. James, 101, 127, 136, 254, 297.
St. Mary's Roman Catholic Society, 127.
Unity, 296, 330.
Temple Building, 126.
Centres of Relief after the Fire. 299.
Thirty-nine burned in Great Fire, 335.
Prof. Swing, 441-3.
Dr. Thomas, 441-8.
" Clarissa," the first Chicago-built Vessel, 153.
Clark, E. R., 236.
Clark. General William, 103.
Clark, George Rogers, 17, 25, 36. 37, 39, 40, 41,
42, 43, 44,84, 114.
John K.,95,97, 98, 100.
John M., 414.
N. B., 213.
Dr. Wm., 150.
Clarke, W. H., 231, 274, 275.
Clay, Henry, 195.
Clearing House, 279.
Cleaver, Charles, 136, 139, 140, 141, 178, 240.
Clermont. Jeremy, 100.
Cleveland, Grover, 443.
Cliff, Thos , 268.
Clifford, D., V13.
Clubs-
Debating, 136.
"The Club," 141.
Development of, 338.
Chicago, 339.
Standard, 339.
Fortnightly. 339.
Literary, 839.
Union, 340.
Union League, 339, 340.
Illinois, 340.
Iroquois, 341.
Calumet, 341.
"Cinders, The," 332.
Citizens' Association, 356.
City Charter, 154.
City Hall, 328.
City Scrip, 168.
Clybourne Family, 35, 93, 95.
Clybourne Archibald, 35, 97, 98, 99.
Henley, 35, 98.
John H., 261.
Jonas, 35, 98, 100.
Cobb, Mr., 194.
Cobweb Castle, 87.
Colbert, Prof. Elias, 138, 168, 279, 306, 451
Colburn, L. L., 340.
Colfax, Schuyler, 195.
Collier, Rev. Robt. Laird, 342.
Collins, James H., 205, 225, 235.
Collyer, Rev. Robert, 260, 269, 296, 340, 343,433.
Columbian Exposition, see World's Columbian
Exposition.
Colvin, H. D., 261, 329, 360.
Companies, see War.
Conant, Mr., 87.
Concerts, see music.
Confute Indians, 67.
Convention of 1860, see Republican Convention.
Con way, James J., 268.
Cook, B. F., 342.
Cook, Daniel P., 112.
Cook, Isaac, 230.
Cooke, Mrs. Susan G.,428.
Cooper Institute, 258.
Cooper Isabella, 76.
Coplin, Mr., 334.
Copper mines, 7, 10, 14.
Corbin, Mrs. Philin, 70.
Corliss Engine, 390.
Corning, A. H. P., 236, 260.
Corning. E., 195.
Corwin, Thos., 197.
Corwith, Henry, 284.
Cotton Gin, Invention of, 25.
Couch, James, 194, 232.
Council Bluffs, la., 48, 88, 83, 111.
County Court House, 153.
Contra Louis, 100.
INDEX.
457
Cox, Wm. L.,122.
Crafts, John, 100
Cragin. Edward F., 448.
Crane Brothers, 301.
Crawford, Col. Wm., 85.
Creek Indians, 40.
Cregier, D. W. C., 229, 337,875, 231, 321, 827 361
Crerar. John, 412, 413, 414.
Bequests of, 413.
Founds the Crerar Library, 413-4.
Crerar Library, 413-4.
Crfeve-Coeur, Fort, 22.
Crib and Tunnel, see Water Works
Crooks, Ramsay, 83.
Culver, B. F., 344, 345, 374.
Cumming, Col. Gilbert W., 264.
Cummings, Geo. D., 343.
Currency, 125. 175, 242, 243, 246, 247, 248, 281
282, 283
Greenbacks, 281.
"Michigan money," 167, 168.
Stump-tail Chimera, 242, 246, 282.
Token-money, 246, 283.
Curtis, James, 204.
Curtis & Tinkham, 242.
Daggy, Peter, 222, 224.
Daly, Major James H. B., 379.
Dane, Nathan, 49.
Danville Volunteers in Winnebago Scare, 89 60
184.
Darris, William H., 212.
Davis, David, 258.
George, 137, 214.
George R., 422.
Col. H.,267.
Gov. John. 184.
Nathan E., 268.
Nathan S., 223, 342, 343.
Day, Albert M., 443.
Dayton, 257, 259.
" Dean Richmond," clears from Chicago to Eng-
land, 237.
Dearborn, New Fort. 80, 85, 93, 98. 110, 251.
Dearborn, Old Fort, 48, 51-6, 72, 73, 154, 276.
Dearborn, Gen'l, 50.
Debating Society, 99, 136.
Debou, 54.
Debt, Chicago's and New York's, 358.
Declaration of Independence, 2~>.
Deerfield Massacre, 25.
Democrats. Leading, 131.
De Puyster. Col. Arent Schuyler, 8, 25, 39, 40.
Des Champs, 84.
Des Plaines River, 1, 4-6, 18, 20, 22, 84, 92; 206.
Detroit, English stronghold, 34.
Founded, 25.
River. 21, 36, 40.
Dexter. S. M., 173.
Win, 842, 358.
De Wolf. Henry, 271.
William, 264, 268.
William F.,264.
Dickey, Hugh T., 223.
Judge T. Lyle, 174.
Dickinson, John T., 422.
Divide, The, 1, 6. 8, 20.
Dixon (Ferryman), 104.
Joseph H., 377.
Doggett, Kate N., 339.
Theodore M.. 268.
Dole, George W., 138, 147 150, 194, 204, 249
317, 342.
Dole, Julia, 342
J. H.,347.
J. S.. 242.
Donelson. Fort, 264, 265, 2«7, 269.
Donnersberger, J., 867
Dore, J. C., 260.
Doty, Duane, 894.
Douglas Boulevard: See Park System.
Camp. Conspiracy, 269, 270
Park: See Park System.
Douglas, Stephen A., 143, 163. 165. 197 218
224, 248, 249. 250.
Douglass, John M., 222, 260.
Drainage, 140, 230, 280.
Commissioners, 230,231.
In Early Days, 140, 231.
Sewers, 280.
Raising City. 231.
Deepening Canal, 185,241. 280.
Drexel, A. J., 364.
Statue, 364.
Drink Bill. a54.
Drummond, Judge Thomas, 210, 216 260
Ducat, Gen. Arthur C., 262, 265, 377.
Duncan, Gov., 163-5.
Dunham, John H., 249. 341
Dunlap, George L., 344.
Dunn, Charles, 114.
Du Pratz, 32.
Dust nuisance. 445-6.
Dutch. First Settlement of, 17.
Dyer, Charles V., 224. 280, 235.
Rev. Palmer, 127. 225.
Thomas, 205.
Dyhrenfurth, George, 214.
E.
Eastman. Zebina, 225, 226
Ebbert, John, 202, 208.
Ebersold, Lieut , 378.
" Economy "(Fire Engine), 321.
Eddy, D. C., 242.
Edmunds, of Kaskaskia, 114.
Education, see Schools.
Edwards, A. H., 72, 75.
Egan, Dr. Wm. Bradshaw. 112, 113, 114 138
132. 133,147, 157, 181, 194, 249.
Election Frauds, 443.
Electrical Inventions, 25.
Elgin, 111., 176.
Ellis & Fergus, 57, 143.
Ellsworth, Jas. W., 367.
Col., 262.
England:
Alliance with Indians, 34, 85.
National Debt Begun, 25.
Peace with, 25.
War of 1812,56.
Engel, Geo , 385.
Episcopal Church, see Churches: Religions.
Erie. Lake, 2, 3. 18, 21, 40.
Erskine, Col. Albert. 268.
Eschikagou, 8, 25, 89.
Estray Pen, 149.
Evans, Dr. John, 228.
Evanston, 111., 48, 272.
Everts, Senator, 259.
Everts, W. W., 343.
Eviston, John, 272.
Excern, Maria. 342.
Exhibition, First Public, in Chicago. 141.
Expositions: See World's Columbian Exposi-
tion.
45*
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Expositions: Statistics of World's Fairs, 423.
Eye and Ear Infirmary, 406.
Fairbank, N. K., 252, 256, 342, 347.
Farmer's and Mechanic's Bank, 242.
Farnham, Henry, 342.
Farnsworth, Colonel, 266.
Farrington, S. P., 343.
Farwell, C. B , 344.
I. V., 329, 345.
Felton. Mrs. Wm., 429.
Fergus, George, 276.
Fergus, Robert, 57, 143, 180, 194.
Fergus Historical Series, 11, 13, 48, 50, 51, 57,
67 72, 90, 101, 119, 122, 136, 147, 160,
171,193,203-5, 216, 218.
Fergus Printing Co., 57.
Ferry, Rope, 52, 209.
Person, John, 50.
Julia, 50.
Mary La Duke, 50.
Field, D. D. 195, 196.
Field, Marshall, 329, 346, 347, 414.
Field sports, 141.
Fielden, Sam'l, 385.
Finley, Dr. Clement A., 93.
Fires: (See Fire of 1871. Fire of 1874. Early
Fires, 236. First Engines, 125, 152 Lake
Street Fire, 236.)
Fire of 1871.
After the Fire.
Building up, 322, 324, 326.
Debris, Use of, 355.
Description of Scenes, 304, 318.
Financial Condition, 323, 325, 327, 329.
Fire Limits Extended, 325.
First Business Efforts, 329. 333.
Insurance Settlements, 322, 351, 356, 412.
Military Aid, 301.
Recovery Prophesied, 302.
Safes and Vaults opened, 350.
Water, Lack of, 301.
Descriptions of,
Bateman's, 291.
D. C. Cregier's. 321.
Kauffman's, 320, 321.
C. S. K's. 296-7.
J. K's, 303-5.
Sheahan & Upton's, 292.
Shortall's, 310.
Bibliography of, 306.
Williams' (Fire Marshall), 321.
Destruction by,
Bateham's Planing Mill, 321.
Caton House. 311.
Court House Be 1 falls, 314,
Hibbard & Spencer's cutlery, 315.
Last House falls, 298.
Old Buildings, 326.
Park Plans, 363.
Records: See Real Estate.
Safes and Vaults. 350.
Sherman House, 321.
Summary of Losses and Compensations,
301, 30"2
Tribune Building, 321.
Water Works. 295, 321.
Suffering Relieved,
Credit from the East, 823.
I OOO 451
Insurance Settlements, -J 0-a' xio'
Other Cities send aid. 299, 302, 322.
Relief at Home, 298, 322.
Fire of 1871 — Suffering Relieved,
State Legislature to the Rescue, 327.
A. T. Stewart sends aid, 322.
Miscellaneous.
Course of the Fire, 293, 294.
Elevator Rescued, 318, 319.
Exodus of Women and Children, 332.
Fire Department, 287-90,321.
Freight in Yards Saved, 318, 319.
Gen. Stockton's generosity, 312.
Mayor and Relief Society, 300.
Origin of the Fire, 291.
Police, Special Sworn In, 300.
River Crossed by the Fire, 292, 312.
Sun, Appearance of, 297.
Troops Called Out, 313.
See, also, Real Estate.
Fire of 1874.
Fire Department, 355-6.
Origin, 355.
Losses by, 355.
Fischer, Gustav, 383, 385.
Fisk, F. W., 343.
Flood of 1849, 205-9.
Fonda, John H., 92, 93.
Food, Scarcity of , in 1834, 138.
Forbes, Stephen, 122.
Ford, Gov., 165. 166,191.
Forsyth, Robert A., 122. 266.
Thomas, 88.
Foster, Geo. F., 160.
John H., 182,298.
John W., 222.
Fort Dearborn, See Dearborn Fort.
Fowle, Maj. John. 95.
Fox Indians, 25, 30. 32.
Frankenthal, E., 339.
Franklin. Benjamin, 25, 36, 46.
Frederick the Great, 25.
Freer, Dr. Otto. 101.
Freeman, Robert, 224.
Rev. Allen B., 126.
Free Soil, 225.
French Alliance with America, 25, 36, 37.
Community in Illinois, 15.
Explorations in America. 15.
First Settlement in Illinois. 17.
Negro Slavery Brought to Illinois, 26.
French, Capt. Chas. H., 379.
Wm. R., 347.
Frink, John, 180, 194.
Frink & Bingham. 181.
Frink & Walker, 181.
Frontenac, 22.
Fry, Jacob, 113. 169, 171.
Fugitive Slave Law, 49, 224, 225.
Fuller, D. W., 294.
Henry. 251.
Melville W.,443.
S. W.,294.
Furman, Lieut. John G., 93.
Gage, Geo. W..342.
Gage, Lyman J., 347, 352, 422, 425. 433.
Gaines, Gen., 103, 104.
Gale, Stephen F., 178, 178, 192.
Galena, 32. 216, 217.
And Chicago Union R. R., 176, 189, 203-
205, 218, 252.
Galewood, 4.
Galloway. James, 98.
Mary, 98.
INDEX.
459
Game in pre-historic times, 5, 7, 98.
Garfield Park, see Park System
Garlick Creek, 9. 47.
Portage, 77.
Wild, 8, 9.
Garrett, Aug , 158.
Gary, Judge Joseph E., 386.
Gates, General. 34.
P. W., 367.
Gay, S. H., 342.
Geographical position of Chicago, 402.
George II, 24, 25.
George III, 26, 33. 45, 56.
Georgia Banks, 243, 247, 284.
Gettysburg, Battle of, 256, 266, 269.
Gibault, Pere, 87.
Gibbs, Anna M. 342.
Dr., 249. '
Mrs. George. 271.
Oilman, Margaret M., 342.
Gilpin, Henry D., 344.
Gindele, J. G , 274.
Ginty, Mrs. F. B , 428.
Girardot (Cape Girardeau), 25.
Girty, Simon, 35.
"Gitchikago " 9.
Glamorgan, 39.
Goodhue, Josiah G., 149, 150.
Goodrich, Judge Grant. 160 194. 260.
Goodrich Steamboat Dock, 121.
Grounds, Burying.
"Goose Island." 277.
Goudy, Wm. C., 277. 374.
Government Land Sales, 158.
Graceland, 141.
Grade Crossings, 218.
Grand River, 86.
Grand Army of the Republic, 346.
Grant, James, 93.
Gravier, S. J., 24, 25, 28.
Graves, D . 141.
Graw, Capt., 252.
Great Lakes Course of, 1.
Changed direction of, 1, 2.
See also Lake Michigan
Lake Superior, etc.
Greeley & Carlson, City Surveyors, 317.
Greeley. Horace, 195, 196, 197/258.
Samuel S., 342.
Green, Capt., at Ft. Dearborn, 85.
Green Bay, Joliet's Voyage, 18.
Green Tree Tavern: See Hotels.
Greenebaum. Henry, 367.
Greenville, Treaty of. 49, 79.
Gresham's Law, 246, 247.
Griffin & Vincent. 242.
Grignon, Augustin, 25, 39.
Peresh, 39.
Grinnell, Julius S , 386.
Gross Point. Evanston, 48.
Growth of Chicago since the Fire, 403.
•• Grutte." 65. 80.
Guarie, 43 51, 62.
River, North Branch, 51, 56, 62.
Guiot, M.. 429.
Gullen. Thos. F. W.. 2R8.
" Gund " Fire Engine, 321.
Gurley, 194.
H
Hadduck, B. F.. 311.
Hage, Joseph, 184.
Haines. Emma F., 342.
Haldimand, Sir Frederick. 39.
Mss, 34 39.
Haldimand, William 39
Hale, Rev. E. E.. 433
Hall, David, 97. 98, 107.
Duncan J., 268.
Henry W.. 268
W. M., 193; 199.
Hull. mi, Rev. Isaac W., 127.
Halsted Street, 54.
Hamill, Chas. D., 346, 347.
Hamilton, Col. Henry, 34, 39, 40, 41 42 44
Hamilton, R. J. 105. 117, 123, 129.
Hammond, C. G., 342.
Handy, Simmons & Co. 310
Hardin, John J . 150.
Harding, Capt. Frederick, 201.
'• Hardscrabble " 18, 54. U8.
Harmer, 61.
Harmon, Dr Elijah D., 131, 182 141
Isaac D., 141.
Harmonic Society, See Music.
Harper, City Supt., 120.
Harrison, President Benjamin. 418.
Hon. Carter H. 360, 361.
Mrs Russell B., 428.
Hartzell, Thos., 159.
Harvey. T. W., 342.
Harwick, J. H.,218.
Hayden, James R., 261.
Hayes, S. J., 318 319.
Hayes, S. S., 342
Heacock, Russell E., 133
Heald, Hon. Darius, 72, 74.
Capt. Nathan. 56, 57, 59, 60, 61. «4 6.S
66, 67. 72, 73, 74, 77.
Mrs. Rebckah, 5y, 62, 67, 73, 74, 70 126
Healey, G. P. A.. 346.
Heath, Mayor, 360, 377.
Heathcock. Edwin, 225.
Hecker. Col. Frederick, 265.
Helm. Lieut . 64, 67.
Mrs. Margaret McKillop, 58, 64. 60, 67,
74, 75, 76. 77, 107.
Hempstead. Mr. ,216.
Hennepin, Father, 8. 26.
Henry, Patrick. 36, 40, 44.
Hesing, Washington, 374.
Hester, Alex., 125. 200.
Hewitt, Chas. A., 302.
Hibbard, Mr.. 310.
H. M.. 347.
Hibbard & Spencer, 312, 314, 315.
Hickey, Capt., 293.
M. C., 377.
Higgins, Judge Van H., 260.343,
Higginson. G. M .342.
High, John, 176. 236.
Highland Park, 4.
Highwood. 4.
Hildreth, Alderman. 293.
Hinckley. E. R.. 244
Histories referred to:
Andreas' History of Chicago.
Ballance's History of I'eoria.
Blanchard's Northwest.
Brown's History of Illinois.
Fergus' Historical Series.
Hurlbut's Chicago Antiquities.
Moses' History <>f Illinois.
Schoolcraft. Indian Chronicles.
Historians of Chicago, 451.
Historical Society. 25. 27.45. 47,81. 87. 101, 130,
216. 285. 343. 344, 406.
of \Vi-ronsin. 39.
Hilchrock. Prof.. '."'S.
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Hitt, Isaac R., 367
Hjortsberg, Max, 374.
Hoffman's Bank, 244.
Hogan, J. S. C., 112, 128, 129, 168.
Hoge, Col. Geo. B., 266.
Jane C.,342.
Mrs. A. H.,271.
Holden, C. C. P., 191, 192, 248, 349, 367.
C. N., 161.
P. H., 348.
Home for the Friendless' See Charities.
Hone, Philip, 195.
Hosmer, Dr. Arthur B., 101.
Mrs. O. E., 271.
Hospitals: See Charities.
Hotchkiss, Lieut. Col., 266.
Hotels.
City Hotel, 174.
Green Tree House. 96, 348.
Lake House, 139.
Miller House, 97.
Richmond House, 257, 258.
Sauganash, 100, 109, 139.
Tremont House, 110. 258.
Wolf Tavern, 96.
Hough, R. M., 249. 261.
Houghton, Mifflin & Co., 342.
Howe, Mrs. Samuel, 342.
Howland, Henry, 345.
Hoyne, Thomas. 194. 216. 260.
Hoyt, W. H. & Co.'s Store, 51, 52, 72, 81.
Hubbard, Gurdon Saltonstall, 25, 71, 80, 84, 89,
90, 91, 92, 93, 101, 113, 404.
Henry, 112, 146, 147, 194.
Hugunin, Hiram, 131.
Capt. Jas R., 262.
Hull, Gen.. 56, 59, 62.
Humboldt Boulevard: See Park System.
Park: See Park System.
Hunter, Gen. David, 53, 64, 95, 122, 160, 178,
180.
Mrs. David, 53, 64, 95, 107.
Huntington, Alonzo, 194, 196.
Hurlbut, Henry H., 65, 81, 86, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93,
105, 117, 124, 125, 129.
Huron, Lake, 1, 21.
Hutchinson, C. L., 347.
Hyde Park. 61.
Hyde, Dr. J. Nevins, 129.
Hyer, Thos., 257.
I.
Illinois.
Banking Law, 247.
Boundaries fixed, 48.
Central R. R.: See Railroads.
Humane Society, 345.
Interest, failed to pay in '42, 113.
Indian Tribe, 9, 13. 27. 30.
Battle with Fox Tribe, 32.
Extermination Attempted, 27.
Land Company, 47.
Legislature.
Bill passed over Governor's veto, lf>3,
165.
Foolish Enactments, 161.
Recoups Chicago. 327.
River. 1, 6, 18, 22, 23, 27, 79.
State Bank of. 242.
Steamship, 225.
Valley, 1, 5, 6.
Illuminating Gas Invented, 25.
Indiana.
Boundaries fixed, 48.
Indians.
Black Hawk War, 104.
Calumets' Prediction, 58.
Hostilities, 103, 104.
Habits, 10, 12, 14, 27, 30, 106.
Outrages, 13, 14, 32-4.
Treaties, 105-7.
War Dance, 108.
Inflation, 285.
Ingersoll, Robert G., 358.
Insurance.
Re-organization after Fire of '74, 356.
Settlements for Fire of '71 ; 351, 412.
Insurance Companies.
vEtna, 412.
Chicago Fire & Marine, 242.
Liverpool & London. & Globe, 412.
Wisconsin Fire & Marine, 242.
Internal Improvements.
Craze for, 163-5, 170, 171.
Enactment, 113.
Lincoln supports, 117.
I. O. O. F., 346.
Ireland, Archbishop, 433.
Iroquois Indians, 13, 22, 27, 30.
Irving, Washington, 83.
Irwin, D. W.. 347.
Ishenvood, Harry, 185.
Isherwood & McKenzie, 181.
Jackson, Capt., 234.
Huntington W.,413.
Jacobs, Capt. Lewis F..379.
Jail, log, 149.
James, T. C., 235.
Jayne, Dr., 114.
Jeffery. E. T., 422.
Jesuits, 18, 19, 21, 25.
[ohnson, Alfred O., 268.
Captain, 132.
Dr. Hosmer A., 342.
Mrs. Seth, 125.
W. S., 344.
Johnston, Shepherd, 116.
Joliet, 17. 18, 19, 24, 25, 26, 78.
Lake, 1, 5.
River, 2, 5, 6.
Jones, , 187.
Fernando, 141, 173, 182.
Wm., 182. 234.
Jones, King& Co.. 176.
Jones & Sellers, 309.
Jordan. Walter, 67.
Jouett, Charles, 53, 133.
Journal, The: See newspapers.
Judd, AdalineR., 342.
Judd, Norman B., 147, 154, 194, 249,341.
K
Radish, L. J., 374.
Kales, Francis H., 374.
Kanawha Valley, 46.
Kane County Bank, 283.
Kansas.
Free state, 224.
Kansas-Nebraska Bill, 224.
Kaskaskia.
Fort at, built by La Salle. 22, 25.
Named " Creve-coeur," 22.
Surrenders to English. 33.
Taken by Clark. 17, 25, 37, 40. 42, 44.
INDEX.
461
Kaskaskia.
Indian village:
First settlement, 18, 25, 27, 36, 103.
Land Companies at, 47.
Moved South, 25, 28.
Mission at.
Founded by Marquette, 25.
Moved south, 29.
River. 37.
Kaufman, W. Scott, 320-1.
Keating, Wm. H., 92.
Keep, Albert, 414.
Keith, Edson 347, 414.
John S 268.
Kellogg, Capt , 262.
Kennicott, H. W., 422.
Kennison. James. 276.
Kentucky taken from Indians, 36.
Kerchival, B. B., 159, 225.
Kerfoot, S. H. & Co., 159.
W. D.,320.
Kerfoot's Block, 329.
Kernstown, Battle of, 262.
Kickapoo Indians, 67.
Kimball, Mark, 343.
W., 112.
Kimberly, E. S., 150.
King, Henry, 342.
Tuthill, 249.
Kingwell, J A., 422.
Kinzie, Elizabeth, 35, 97.
Ellen Marion, 53, 64, 91, 95, 181.
Gwenthlean Whistler, 51, 90.
James, 35,95-8, 107, 133, 159.
John, 24, 25, 35, 52, 53. 54, 56, 57, 59, 60, 62,
64. 67, 74-5, 76, 77-8. 79, 84. 86, 87, 88,
89, 90, 98, 100. 101, 107-8, 123, 133, 159.
Mrs. John, 64, 65, 94.
John Harris, 53, 57, 59, 64, 74, 87, 94, 107,
127, 182, 342, 343.
Mrs. John Harris, 54, 57, 58, 59, 61, 65,
67, 69, 72, 74,75,80,94,122.
John Harris, Jr., 268.
Maria Indiana, 53, 64.
Col. Robert A., 51, 53, 64, 93, 95, 107, 112,
137.
Mrs. Rob't A.: See Kinzie, Gwenthlean W.
William, 35. 96, 107.
Kinzie Ancestors, 35.
Kinzie Family, 144 405.
Kinzie Mansion, 51
Knights, Darius, 207
Koch, Capt. C. R. E., 379.
Kowald, Captain, 261
Kralovec, John, 369.
L.
Labor troubles: See Anarchist Riot. Pullman
Strike, McCormick Reaper Works.
Labrador, 10.
Lackey's Zouaves, 379.
" Lady Elgin," Wreck of, 272. 273.
Lady Managers, See World's Columbian Exposi-
tion.
La Framboise, Josette, 65, 79, 83, 99.
La Frank, Claude, 98, 100.
Francis, Sr., 98, 19.
Francis, Jr.. 98.
Joseph, 98, 100, 127.
La Hontan, 8.
Lake, Wells, 202.
Lake Erie. 2, 3, 18, 21.
Lake Forest, 4.
Lake Front Park, 80.
Lake Huron, 1, 21.
Lake Joliet, 1.
Lake Michigan. 1. 3, 4, 18, 20, 21. 50.
Height, 239.
Tides, 239.
Lake Navigaiion:
Exports and Imports by Lake, 153.
First Lake Vessels, 21.
Lake Steamboat Association. 193.
Wrecks, 252, 256. 272-3.
Lake Ontario, 2.
Lake Shore Drive, See Park Sysiem.
Lake St. Clair, 21.
Lake Street Fire, See Fires.
Lake Superior. 1, 7.
Lakeside, 4.
Lake View, 252, 256.
Lalime. John, 54, 101.
Lalime's Skeleton unearthed, 101.
Landacher (policeman), 378.
Lane, Charles H., 268.
Lamed, Edwin C., 261, 341.
Larrabee, Lucius, 268.
LaSalle, III., 32.
LaSalle, See Cavelier.
Latrobe, C. J.. 105-6.
Law.
Early Laws, 149.
Lawyers in Chicago, 134, 152.
Law, John. 25, 29, 30.
Lawton, Barney, 98.
Leake, Genl. J. B. 260.
Leavitt, David, 113.
Le Bar, 22
LeBrise, Francoise, 25.
Le Clerc, Peresh, 69.
Lee, Mr., 54. 63.
Genl. R. E., 269.
Thomas, 46.
Leek (Wild Onion), 8. 9.
Leicht, Andrew E. , 374,
Leisure Class, few in Chicago, 437, 438.
Leiter. Lev! Z., 344, 347.
Le Mai, Joseph, 25, 48, 52.
Lemont Stone, 228.
"Leopard," English frigate, 56.
Lester, Thomas T.,268.
Lettman, Julius, 268.
Letz, F., 274,
Lexington, Mo., battle of, 262.
( Crerar Library.
Libraries, see j Newberry ., •
Lieb, Gen., 379.
Light, Austin. 264.
Lighthouse, first, 141.
De Lignerie, Commandant, 25, 32.
Lill (carpenter), 321.
Lincoln, Abraham, 25,92. 104,113, 150,161.163.
164. 195, 196, 197, 200, 219, 249. 2.50,
257, 258, 259.
Hon. Robert A., 57, 72.
Lincoln Park, see Park system
Lind, Sylvester, 231.
Lindsay, Wm., 422.
Lingg. Louis, see Anarchist Riot.
Lipe, Clark. 367.
Literature, First book. 189,
Little Turtle. 12, 50, 60, 61.
Livcrmore, Mrs. D. P., 271.
Liverpool & London & Globe Insurance Co. .412.
Lockport, 5, 112.
Lockwood, Judge, 150, 190.
Locomotive, First in Chicago. 201, 202.
462
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Logan, Hugh, 70.
Gen. John A., 443.
S. T., 150.
London "Times" started, 25.
Long, James, 189.
"Long John,'' (fire engine), 321.
Loomis, H. G., 229.
Louis XIV., 8, 24, 25.
Louis XV., 33.
Louisburg, Capture of, 25.
Louisiana. 23, 80.
Lovejoy, Killing of, 224.
Lowe, Sheriff, 225.
Lowell, Mr. of "Tribune," 331.
James Russell quoted, 193.
Loyal Legion, 346.
Lumbard, Frank, 214.
Lutherans, see Churches.
Lydecker, Major L. J., 120. 238.
Lynch, Col. Wm. F.,265.
M
Mac Arthur, E., 209.
Macauley, Lieut., 378.
Mackin, Joseph, 443.
Mackinac, see Mackinaw.
Mackinaw, 83.
Fort, 56. 74, 84.
Straits of, 26. 58.
"Madeira Pet "237-8.
Madison, James, 56, 80.
Magazines, see Newspapers.
Magie, H. H., 176.
Magill, Juliette A.: see Kinzie, Mrs. John H.
Man, first approach of. 7,
Manchester, W. D.,266.
Manierre, Judge Geo., 260.
Mann. Gen. O. L., 264, 379.
Manning, J , 169.
Mansfield, Co!., 115.
Manvers (Opera singer), 222.
Marest, Pere, S. J., 25, 28.
Margry (Historian), 21, 25, 41.
Marine Bank, 283.
Marion, Gen., 34, 43.
Markets, Building, 212.
Marquette, Pere, 18. 19. 25, 26, 27, 127. 317.
Marsh, Sylvester, 188, 189.
Marshall, Chief Justice, 44.
Perry, 213.
Thomas. 44.
Martindale, Elijah B., 422,
Mason. E. G., 25, 26, 68.
Geo., 369.
Roswell B., 217, 221, 251, 283, 360.
Masonic Temple. 444,448.
Masons, See A. F. & A, M.
Massac, Fort, 37.
Massacre Elm, 71, 78.
Massacre at Fort Dearborn.
Darius Heald's account, 73.
Capt. Heald's mistake, 66.
Mrs. Helm's account, 66-9.
Horrors of, 66-71.
Murder of Children, 69-71.
See also Dearborn, Fort, and Massacre
Elm.
Massey, Geo. V., 422.
Matagorda, Benj., 23.
Matteson, Gov., 233.
Mauhews, Asa. 358.
Geo., 100.
Mrs. Geo., 135
Maumee River. 30, 40.
Maxwell, Dr. Philip, 93.
May, Horatio N., 374.
Mayors of Chicago.
See Municipal Government.
McArthur, Col. John. 261.
McCagg, Ezra B., 339, 342-3, 346, 374, 410.
McClellan, Gen. Geo. B.,268.
McCormick Reaper Works.
Origin ot. 189.
Strike at, 383.
McCoy, Rev. Isaac, 81, 83, 126.
McGonnigle, Alex.. 321.
McKee, Daniel, 98, 100, 187, 188.
McKenzie, Jas. A., 422.
McKenzie & Isherwood, 181.
McKenzie, see McKinzie.
McKinney. 11.
McKinzie, Elizabeth, 35, 97, 98.
Isaac. 35. 95, 97.
Margaret, 35. 95. 96, 97, 98.
McVicker, James H., 213, 223.
Mrs, James H., 213.
McVicker's Theatre, 443.
Medill, Joseph, 262, 266, 324-5, 360.
Mrs. Joseph, 271.
Major Wm. H., 266, 268, 269.
Meeker, G. W.. 194.
Meeker, Wm., 213.
Menard, P.. 159.
Merchant's Loan & Trust Co , 283, 406.
Meredith. Mrs. Virginia C, 428.
Me-tee-a, 86.
Metropolitan Hall, 260.
Mexican War, 191-2.
Miami Indians, 22, 61, 64.
Michigan Central R R.:See Railroads.
"Michigan Money", 167-8.
Michigan Southern R. R.: See Railroads.
Michilimackinack 9, 22.
Mihalotzy, Capt., 261, 268.
Miles, Gen. Nelson A., 427.
Miller, Samuel, 97, 117.
Miller's Tannery, 152.
Miltimore, Ira, 184, 189.
Milwaukee "Advertiser," 162.
Minor, Mrs. Catherine L. , 428.
Miqueloh, 15.
Mirandeau. 89.
Mission Ridge. Battle of, 264, 266, 271.
Missions, See Religion.
Mississippi River, 1, 18. 21, 22, 23, 25,27.
Mitchell, Mr. (Supt. I.C.R R.), 319'.
Mobile, Ala., 28.
"Mohawk." Rescues the "Charles Howard,
252-256
Money,
Abundance of in Chicago, 446.
Lenders. 242.
Montauk Block, 448.
Montreal. 15. 18, 22, 23.
Moody, Dwight L., 345.
Moody, Otis, 268.
Moore, Captain, 252.
Moreau, Pierre, 18.
Morgan, Adaline C., 342.
Morgan. Geo C.. 202.
Morris, Geo. P., 160.
Buckner S.. 270.
•Lavinia. 342.
Moses, Judge, 11, 28, 45, 49, 164, 165-6.
Mott, August, 70.
Mound Builders, 7, 14.
Movable Sidewalk. 404.
INDRX.
463
Mower, Capt. L., 191.
Mowry, Henry C., 268.
Mud in Early Days. 140.
Nuisance at Present, 445-6.
Mud Lake, 1, 6, 20, 84, 04, 206.
Mueller, A. H., 341.
Mulligan, Gen James A., 262, 268.
Multiple Dispatch Railway, 404.
Municipal Government,
Aldermen. First Board, 154.
Mayors, Succession of, 360-1.
Murfreesboro, Battle of, 264-6.
Murphy, Major, 379.
Murray, Wm.,9, 25, 47.
Murray & Brand, 242.
Music in Chicago, 213, 214.
Choir of St. James. 136.
Concerts in the Parks, 364.
First Concert. 136-7.
" Organ, 136.
" Piano. 135.
Harmonic Society, 136.
Philharmonic Society, 136.
N.
Nadeau, Monique, 100.
Naperville, 111., 187.
Napoleon born, 25.
Nashville, Battle of, 266-7.
Nationalities in Chicago, 403.
Natural Gas Discovered. 25.
Navigation, see Chicago River, Lake Navigation.
Neads, John, 70.
Mrs. John, 70.
Nelson, Andrew, 374.
Murry, 346.
Nepven Family, Murder of, 32.
Nes-cot no-meg, 85.
Newberry. Julia R.,408, 411.
Mary Louisa, 408.
Oliver, 195.
Walter L., 242.405-411
Newberry & Burch. 242.
Newberry Estate, 408.
Conditions of Will, 408.
Litigation over. 409.
Newberry Library, 406-8.
Bequest for, 409.
Librarian, 409.
Location, 410.
Plans for, 411.
New England Festival, 214.
New France, 23
Newhall, Harry 215.
New Orleans, 29. 30.
Newspapers, Periodicals, etc.
Chicago Publications:
••American." 154, 158, 181, 189.
" Chicago Magazine." 87, 136, 168, 172.
" Democrat," 116, 130, 141, 180, 207,208,
209, 2!2. 243. 244.
" Democratic Advocate," 180.
••Journal," 193, 195.207, 209,330.
" Times," 119, 120. 224. 230. 293.
"Tribune," 147, 160, 244. 248, 259, 330.
Milwaukee " Advertiser," 162.
New York " Herald." 194.
" Mirror," 160.
"Tribune," 196.
Niles "Weekly Register," 69, 70, 72, 74.
Washington " Union," 197.
Newton, Isaac, died, 25.
New York.
Chicago's Elder Sister, 445.
New York.
Dutch Settlement, 25
See also Newspapers.
Tweed Ring, 358.
Niagara Falls, 2. 3. 7.
Niagara River, 1, 2. 5, 21, 30.
Nickerson, S M., 847, 374.
Nicolet, 18.
Niles "Weekly Register," see Newspapers.
Noble, John, 99.
Mark. 90.
The Misses, 125.
Norton, Col. Chas. B., 403, 422.
Nelson R., 119, 153.
Nugent, Jas., 268.
Nursery and Half Orphan Asylum. 342.
Nye, James W., 312, 313.
O.
Oakley, Charles, 184.
Oak Park, 4,
Odd Fellows, See I. O. O. F.
Ogden, J. De P., 195.
Mahlon D., 225, 410.
William B., 113, 115, 144-6. 154, 160, 172,
182, 184, 194, 205, 214, 216, 231. 343,
405-6. 41«-7.
Ogaen Estate, Litigation over, 416-7.
Ogden Residence. 410.
Ogden-Wentworth Ditch. 1.
Ogee, Mrs. Sophia (Beaubien). 135.
Ohio, admitted to the Union, 115.
Boundaries fixed, 49.
Ohio Company, 46.
Ohio Life & Trust Co.. 245.
Ohio River. 28, 46.
Oklahoma, 111.
Old Ladies' Home, 342.
O'Leary, Mrs. Patrick, 290, 291.
Olmstead & Vaux, 363.
O'Meara. Col. Timothy, 266.
Onion, Wild, 8, 9.
Ontario Flat, 2.
Ordinance of 1787, 49.
Organ, First, 136.
Osborne, Lieut. Col. Thomas O., 264.
Wm. H., 222.
Ottawa Indians, 11, 13. 86, 88, 111.
Ouillemette. Antoine, 48, 52. 62, 75. 78. 79, 84, 93,
100, 107.
Owens,. Geo.. 123.
Thos. J. V., 105, 123. 127, 130.
William, 123.
P.
Packing Industr) .
G W. Dole the Father of the System. 138.
First Meat Packed, 189.
Page, Peter, 195.
Palmer. Gov.. 300. 327.
Palmer. Potter, 422.
Mrs. Potter. 428-32.
Thos. W.. 422. 429.
Panic of 1*37. 117. 163, 168.185, 189.
Of 1873. 352. et seq.
Pare au Vaches, 88.
Park System.
Boulevards, 364-9, 370-2.
Miscellaneous.
Debt Lessened. 3"?5.
Early Purchases. 364.
A Free Gift to the Future, 375.
Losses by Fire, 363.
Present Needs Outrun, 374.
464
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Park System. — Continued.
Parks.
Campbell Park, 368.
Douglas Park, 36S.
Drexel Statue, 364.
Garfield Park, 368.
Humboldt Park, 368.
Jackson Park, 366.
Jefferson Park, 368.
Lake Front Park, 80.
Lincoln Park, 1*2, 276, 277, 362, 368,
370-2, 374.
South Park, 363, 366-8
Union Park, 368.
Vernon Park, 368.
West Side Parks, 367-9.
Wicker Park, 368,
Statistics.
Lincoln Park, Acreage, 372-3.
Cost, 373. Debt, 373.
South Park Equipment, 367.
South Side Parks. Table of Areas, 367.
West Side Parks. Table of Areas, 369.
Parker, Thos. 242.
Parmelee, Franklin, 251.
Parsons. Albert, 383, 385.
Parthenon destroyed, 25.
Patriotism during the Civil War, 270-1.
Patton, Rev. Dr., 260.
Pavements, 140, 212, 222
Peace with England, 25.
Peach-tree Creek, Battle of, 264-5.
Peale's " Guide," 421.
Pea Ridge. Fight at, 264.
Pearson, Hiram, 119.
Peck, Ebenezer, 131.
Ferd. W., 346, 422.
Judge, 147.
Pee-so-tum, 68, 69.
Penn, D. B., 423.
Penn, \Vm., 25.
Peoria, 84.
Peoria Ferry, 97.
Peoria Indians, 39.
Peoria Lake, 92
Perryville, 266.
Peru, Bank of, 283.
Peter the Great, died, 25.
Petroleum discovered, 25.
Pettell, 52.
Phelps, Erskine M., 443.
Philadelphia founded, 25.
Philharmonic Society, 214.
Phillips, Chas. B., 251.
Phonograph invented, 25.
Photograph invented, 25.
Physicians. 131-3.
Pianos. Business in Chicago, 135.
First in Chicago, 135, 137.
Piche, P., 100.
Pierce, Capt. L. W..379.
Piers. 121, 277.
Pilgrims, Landing of, 15, 17.
"Pioneer" first locomotive, 189, 202-3.
Pitt, Fort, 39, 40, 44.
Pointe de Sable, Jean Baptiste, 25, 39, 40, 47, 48.
52, 62
Politeness, a Chicago Trait, 447.
Political Opinion, Development of, 224.
Polk, President, 193.
Pomeroy, Richard. 268.
Poole, \Vm. F , 409, 411.
Pope, Coleman, 213.
Population, 153, 255, 274, 403.
Port Hudson, 269.
Portage, The, 9, 18, 20. 178, 206.
Portage River. 48, 56, 63, 185.
Porter. Geo. B., 105.
Jeremiah, 124. 125.
Porthick : See Porthier.
Porthier, Jean, 127.
Joseph. 89. 98.
Position of Chicago. Geographical, 402.
Postage Stamp, invented, 25.
Postal Service.
In Early Days, 143.
Post Office. Early, 128, 143.
Rates. Early, 143.
Pottawattomie Indians, 8, 11, 13, 48, 54, 68, 86,
111.
Pound, The, 149.
Prairie du Chien, Massccre at, 104.
Prairie Schooner, 119, 176.
Presbyterians : See Churches, Religions.
Pribyl's Gun store, 378.
Price, Mrs. Chas , 428.
Prickett, D., 169.
Prindiville, Capt. Redmond, 202, 203, 214.
Prior, Edwin C., 268.
Prisons, 149.
Proctor, General, 77.
Prophet, The, 55.
Proudfoot, Lawrence. 276, 277.
Provisions. Scarcity of in 1834, 138.
Public Improvements: See Internal Improvements
Public Works, Board of, 274.
Pullman, George M., 71.233. 234,388, 390-9.
Pullman, town of, 71, 234, 388, 400.
Architecture, 390.
Corliss Engine, 390.
Description of town, 394-5.
Drainage. 390.
Labor troubles, 396-9.
Liquor Question, 393.
Origin of, 388.
Output of, 390.
Piece work at, 400.
Population, 395.
Present Condition, 389.
Public Health, 393.
Religion, 394.
Savings Bank, 396.
Schools in, 389.
Se.wage Farm, 391-2.
Water Supply, 391.
Pullman's Palace Car Co., 234, 412.
Puritans, First Settlement, 17-8.
Q
Buebec, 25.
uirk, David, 378.
Col. James, 378-9.
R.
Railroads.
Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe, 1.
Chicago & Alton, 1, 233, 245.
Chicago, Burlington & Quincy, 243.
Chicago & Eastern Illinois, 84.
Chicago & Galena Union, 176, 189, 203-5,
216.
No faith in, 205,252.
Profitable investment. 205.
Chicago & North- Western, 187,301.
Illinois Central, 217, 218, 219, 220. 221,
245, 251, 252, 266, 318, 319, 436.
JWDEX.
465
Railroads. — Continued.
Lake Shore & Michigan Southern, 183 217
245, 266.
Michigan Central, 183, 217, 233
Wabash, 183.
Statistics.
Earnings in 1857,253.
Transportation.
Advantage to the City, 220, 221.
Elevated Road, 404.
Movable Sidewalk. 404, 436.
Rapid Transit. 404.
World's Fair Problem, 436.
Miscellaneous.
After the Fire, 298, 301, 332.
Birth of American Railroads, 94.
Bond-voting, Early. 163.
Boston Capital in Western Roads 183.
Early Building, 171, 203, 216.
Land Grants, ?.18.
Palace Cars Begun, 233.
Railroad Regiment, 266.
State Repaid by I. C. R. R., 219.
Rau, Balthazar, 383.
Ray, Charles S., 343.
Emily S., 342.
Raymond, Benjamin W., 120, 173, 216, 343, 360.
Real Estate.
Abstracts of Title.
Burnt Record Act, 322.
Record Offices, 309.
Record System, 308.
Saved From the Fire. 312,313,310.
Burnt Record Act. 322.
Destruction of Records in the Great
Fire, 293, 307, 308, 312.
English & American, 307.
Present System, 320-1.
Sales.
1830-7. 156-8.
1831, School Section sold, 117.
1835, Government Sales, 158.
1835, Kinzie Sales, 144.
1848, Newberry Sales, 406.
1849-50, 214.
Values.
1835-7, Inflated, 156-7
1837-8, Panic, 163-8.
1842, Leland Hotel Lot, 174.
1842, 174.
1853-1891, 159.
Affected by burning of records, 322.
Tremont House Lot, 157.
Reaper Bank, 283.
Reaping Machine Invented, 25.
Reaper Factory, McCormick s, 189.
Rebellion: See War.
Records: See Real Estate.
"Red Dog" Michigan Currency, 168.
Reed, Jas. H., 230.
" Rehm " (fire engine), 321.
Rehm, Jacob, 374.
Reign of Terror, 25.
Relic House, 334.
Relief Law, 190.
Relief Societies: See Charities.
Religion- See also Churches.
Baptist, 81, 126.
Congregational, 260.
Episcopal, 101, 127, 254.
Methodist, 125. 120.
Presbyterian, 124, 136.
Religion: See also Churches.
Roman Catholic, 120. 127.
Unitarian. 260, 296. 330.
Universalisl, 246.
Ecclesiastical Trials. 441.
First Religious Movements, 136.
Independent Churches, 442.
Religious Growth, 441.
Missions.
Baptist, 80, 126.
Jesuit, 17, 18. 19. 27.
Methodist, 126.
Renault, 25.
Republican Convention of 1860.
The Balloting, 260.
Lincoln's Chances, 258-9.
Seward's Chances. 258-9.
Scenes, during, 259-60.
Republican Party, 255.
Resaca, Battle of, 265.
" Rescue," Fire Engine, 319.
Revolutionary War, 46-7.
Reynolds, Gen., 379.
Gov. John, 103.
R'alto, The (first Theatre), 181.
Rice, John R., 189, 212, 213.
Rice, Rev. \V. H., 284, 268.
Riches. Effect of, 440.
Ridgeland, 4.
Ridges along Lake Shore, 2.
Rights of Landsmen and Sailors, 209.
Riots : See Anarchist Riot, Riot of 1877
Riot of 1877.
Alarm felt, 381.
Forces, Disposition of, 379.
Gun Stores Raided, 378.
Militia Called out. 377.
Preparation's for Defence. 877-8.
Regular Troops Called out. 380.
Subsiding of the Turmoil, 381
Torrence, Gen., Report of, 379.
Violence and Bloodshed, 878.
River. See Chicago River.
River and Harbor Bill, 120, 189, 192, 1»9, 238.
Riverside, III., 4.
Roberts. Edmund. 114, 159.
Geo. W., X63.
Robinson, Alexander, 75, 77, 98, 100. 127.
Rocheblave (French soldier), 25, 33, 37.
Rodgers, Henry A., 268.
Rodgers. John G., 340.
Roman, Ensign, 64, 67.
Rookery Building, 328.
Roosevelt. Theodore, 13, 34, 35, 37, 40.
Root, John W.,450.
Rope Ferry, 52, 209.
Rose, O. J.,274.
Rowell, Henry L.. 268.
Rudd & Childs, 169.
Rumsey, George F.. 344.
I'ulian S., 344,345.
Runyan, E. F.,367.
Rush Street Iron Bridge, 251-2.
Rope Ferry, 52, 209.
Russell. J. B F.; 112
Martin J., 307.
Wm. H., 281.
Ryan. Michael. 184.
Sergeant, 378.
Thomas, 159.
Ryder. W. H., 343.
Ryerson, Joseph T., 249,341.
466
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Sacs and Foxes, 25, 30, 32.
St. Ange de Bellerive, 25.
St. Clair, Gen., 50. 61.
J. W., 422.
St. Clair Lake, 81.
St. Cosme (Cinq-Hommes), 82~>.
St. Cyr, Father, 127.
St. Ignace, 26.
St. James Church : See Churches.
St. Joseph, Mich.. 48. 74.
St. Lawrence Gulf, 23.
River. 1, 10, 21, 30.
St. Louis, Mo , 9, 25, 28, 50.
St. Louis, Fort, 27.
Saint Pierre, 15.
Salem Witchcraft, 25.
Salisbury, Mrs. M. B..428.
Saloman, Col. Edward S., 265.
" Saloon Building," 143.
Samson, Geographer, 8.
Sandusky, 3.
Sanitary Commission, 271.
Saratoga, N. Y., 34, 50.
Sauganash, The, 76, 123.
Hotel, 100.
Savings Banks : See Banks & Banking.
See also Pullman.
Sawyer, Sidney, 160.
Scalping, 12, 14, 30, 34.
Scammon, F., 343.
Jonathan Young, 141, 182, 191, 205, 212,
216, 283, 343, 344.
Schaumbeck. Frederick, 268.
Schnaubelt, Rudolph, 383.
Schneider, George, 284, 327, 352, 353.
Schoolcraft, H. R., 85, 86, 92.
John L., 195.
Schools.
Convention of 1846, 400.
First Public School Building, 189
Indian Education, 123.
Newberry School, 406.
Sale of School Section, 116, 117.
Shelters after the Fire, 299.
School Teachers.
Chappel, Miss EHza, 123.
Forbes, Stephen, 122.
Sproal, Granville T., 123.
Warren, Miss Sarah L., 123.
Watkins, John, 123.
Statistics of Public Schools, 403.
Wells' History, 116.
Schurz, Carl, 433.
Schuyler, Gen'l, 34.
Robert, 244.
Schuyler Fraud, 244
Schwab, Michael, 383, 385.
Scott, Joseph. R., 1, 268.
Capt. Martin. 93.
Sir Walter, born, 25.
Gen'l Winfield, 131, 255.
Scrip, Canal. 168.
City, 168.
Counterfeit, 170.
Fac Similes, 169. 171.
" Sea Bird " Wreck of the, 273.
Seavey, Police Capt., 3T8.
Sections, Government, 115-6.
Seeberger, A F., 422.
Seward, William H., 257-9.
Sewell, Alfred L., 306.
Sewerage : See Drainage
See also Pullman, Town of.
Sewing Machines Invented, 25.
Seymour, James, 203.
Shaffner, Gen., 379.
Shaubena, 104. 108.
Shaw nee-aw-kee, 74, 108.
Sheahan & Upton, 306.
"Shecaugo," 8.
"Shegahg," 8.
"Shegau ga-winzhe," 8.
Sheldon. Edwin H., 145, 344.
Sheldon Thompson, steamer., 131.
Sherer, Col. S. B.,37«.
Sheridan, Genl. Philip, 301, 313.
Mrs. Philip. 51.
Sherman, A. S.,229.
Col. Francis T., 266.
Frank, 195.
John B., 367.
Sherman House, 321.
Sherwood, Thomas, 194.
Shields, James, 218.
Shiloh, Battle of, 264, 265, 267.
Shock, Mr., 333.
Shortall. J. G., 310-18. 346.
Shortall & Hoard, 309, 311.
Sibley, Solomon. 86.
Sidewalks Impeded. 446,
Sidewalks, Early, 215.
Siette, de, 25, 32.
Simpson, Genl., 273.
Six Nations Indians, 46.
Skinner, Judge Mark, 147. 160, 180, 194, 223,
249, 341,344, 407, 408, 411.
Richard, 268
Skokie, The, 4, 8.
Slavery.
Anti-Slavery Movement. 224, 248-9, 255.
Sleeping Cars, Development of, 233-4.
Smallwood, W. A.. 343.
Smith. Dr. D. S.,234.
George, 205, 242, 247, 284.
George C., 26S.
Henry, 230.
v Capt. James, 261.
Smith, Judge, 113.
Perry H., Jr., 341.
S. L., 194.
Sidney, 358.
Smith & Nixon. 313.
Smoke Nuisance. 445,446.
Snow, George W., 112, 230.
Societies.
A. F. & A. M., 346.
Art Institute. 346.
G. A. R.. 346.
I.O. p. F.,'346.
Illinois Humane Society, 345.
Harmonic : See Music.
Loyal Legion. 346.
Military, 346.
Philharmonic : See Music.
Secret, 346.
W. C. T. U.. 345.
Y. M C. A.. 345.
See also Clubs, Music.
Society in Chicago.
Amusements in Early Days, 139.
Aristocracy. 338.
Church Gatherings, 136, 137.
Hospitality and Benevolence, 336.
North. South and West Sides, 335.
Present Aspect of. 437-51.
Public Exhibition, earliest. 141.
Re-organization after the Fire, 335.
467
Society in Chicago. — Continue J.
Wealth as a factor in, 337.
Somerville, Capt. W., 358.
South Park ) c
Southwest Boulevard fSee Park System.
Specie Payments Suspended, 165, 167 175
Spencer, D. D., 353.
Edward H., 272.
J. C.. 195.
Spies, August, 383, 385.
Spink, John W., 268.
Sprague. O. S. A., 347.
Sproat, Granville Temple, 123.
Stage Lines, 180, 181.
Standish, Miles. 43.
Stanford, Geo. W., 367.
Stanwix Treaty, Fort, 46.
Starring, Col. F. A., 265.
Starved Rock. 13, 22, 27, 33.
State Bank fails, 166.
Bonds. 1836-7, 161.
Debt, 165. 166.
Savings Institution, 284.
Steamboat invented, 25.
Steam Engine invented, 25.
Steele, George, 230.
Stewart, Hon. Andrew, 196.
A. T.,322.
Genl. Hart L., 216, 230, 265.
J. T., 150
Stiles, Genl. Isaac N., 443.
Stockton, John, 313, 318.
Genl. Joseph. 139, 256, 265, 313. 318, 374.
Stockyards, 277, 279.
Stokes, Genl James H., 267, 269.
Stone, D , 150.
Melville E., 443.
Stone River. Battle of, 264.
Storrow. Judge Samuel A., 85.
Storrs, Emery A., 358.
Strachan & Scott, 242.
Streets after the Fire, 330.
Draining. 140, 230.
Laying Out, 114, 117.
Mud in Early Days, 140.
Nuisance at Present, 445-6.
Naming, 114. 116, 117.
Numbering, 212,222.
Raising, 141.
Street Cars, Women in, 447.
Strikes, See Labor Troubles.
Strode, Col. J. M., 175.
Strong, Wm. E . 410.
Stuart, David, 268.
Robert, 83.
Sturges, James D . 279.
Sturges & Buckingham, 318, 319.
Sumter, Fort, 260.
"Sunbeam," Wreck of the, 273.
Sweet, Genl. B. J..':70.
Swett, Leonard, 358.
Swift, Elijah. 242.
Genl. R. K., 242. 245, 261, 262. 284.
Capt. Wm. H.. 113, 184.
Swing, Rev. David. 441-3.
T.
Taney, Justice, 249.
Tannery, Miller's, 152.
Taxes, 1825, 100.
1836-1840, 153.
Taxpayers in 1825. List of, 100.
Taylor, Anson N., 90.
E. D., 112.
E. S.,374.
Tecumseh. 50, 58, 76. 77.
Telegraph Invented. 25.
Telephone " 25.
Temple, Dr. John T., 110, 126. 12!». 180.
Ten Regiments Bill. 262.
Tennyson, Lord. 433.
Territorial Government Organized, 48.
Texas, 23.
Theatres.
Early Program, 212, 213.
First Stock Company, 213.
Grand Opera House, 222, 223.
McVicker's, 443
Rialto, 181.
Rice's, 189, 212-14, 223.
New Theater, 223.
Tremont Hall. 214. 223.
Thielemann, Col. Christian, 267.
Thomas. Rev. Hiram W.. 441-3.
Judge Jesse B., 215.
Theodore, 433.
Thompson. Harvev L., 369.
Jacob, 270. '
James, 114.
Lieut. James, 93.
Thompson's Bank Note Reporter, 243.
Thornton, W. F., 169-71.
Throop, George, 268.
Tidal Waves in Lake Michigan, 231". 240.
Tilden, S. J., 145. 358.
Times. Chicago: See newspapers.
Tinkham, Edward L, 249, 283, 341, 343.
Mrs. Smith, 271.
Tippecanoe Hall. 127.
Todd, John, 25, 36, 43,44.
Toledo, 3.
Tonty, 9,21, 22,24-6
To-pee-nee-bee, "Topenebe," 12, 64, 65. 83.
Torrence, Gen. Joseph T., 377, 379.
Townships, 115, 116.
Trades.
Fur Trade. 81,^83.
Grain Trade, 279.
Lumber. 283.
Provisions: See " Packing Industry."
Stock Yards. 277, 279.
Tannery, 152.
Trades and Manufactures, 40 years com pared. 451.
Trades Unions. 376.
See also " Labor Troubles
Transportation Problem: See " Railroads."
Trautman, Frank, 294.
Mrs. Ralph. 428.
Treaties with Indians:
Gen Cass's. 82.
Greenville, O., 49, 79.
Fort Stanwix, 40.
Last at Chicago, 1833, 105-7.
Tree, Lambert, 347.
Tremont Hall. 214, 223.
Tremont House, 157, 231. 232.
Tribune. Chicago, 147, 160. 244. 24*. 259. 330.
Tucker. Joseph F.. 222, 318.
Joseph H., 261,269.
Tuley." Judge M. F., 191.
Tunnels.
LaSalle Street, 280, 281.
Washington Street, 281.
Waterworks. 230. 274.
Turchin. Col. John B.. 262.
Turner. John B., 229, 374.
Tuthill, Gen'l Richard S.. 261.
Tutton, Deputy. 358.
Tweed Ring. 359.
Twelfth Illinois Volunteer Infantry. 261.
468
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
U.
Underground Railroad, 225, 226.
Union Defence Committee, 260, 261.
Union National Bank, 350.
Union Veteran Club, 346.
United States.
War declared against England, 56.
Upton, George P., 222, 306.
Utica, III., 27.
V.
Valley Forge, 42.
Van Arman, Col. John, 261, 266.
Van Buren, Martin, 195.
Van Voorhees, Dr. Isaac, 66-8, 131.
Varian, Margaretta, 342.
Vaughan, J. C., 249.
Vaults in the Fire, 350.
Versailles, Treaty of, 44.
Vesey, Lieut., 378.
Veteran Union League, 346.
Vicksburg, Siege of, 265-9.
Victoria, born, 25.
Village like Characteristics of Chicago, 446.
Vincennes. 17. 36, 39, 40, 42, 44.
Virginia, 36, 39, 42-4, 48.
Voltaire, 25.
Vos, Col. Arno, 267.
W
Wabash. " Ouabache," 30, 32, 40, 41.
Wabash Land Company, 47.
Wadsworth, E. S., 331.
Wagner, Assault of Fort, 264.
Waite, C. B.,249.
G. W., 202.
Walker, Capt. A., 131.
Charles, 172, 185.
Edwin, 422.
George C., 345.
Isaac, 252.
Rev. Jesse, 126.
M. O., 181.
Walker Bronson & Co., 245.
Wallace, 98.
Judge M. R. M.,266.
Waller, Thomas M., 422.
Walpole, Thomas. 46.
Walsh, John R., 315.
Wa-nan-ga peth, 62.
War.
Revolutionary, 1775-1783.
Clark, George Rogers, 36-45.
English Alliance with Indians, 34.
English Headquarters at Detroit, 34.
Hamilton, "Hair-buyer General," 34,39,40.
Indians at Kaskaskia, 36. 37.
Killing of Col. Crawford, 35.
" John Todd, 44.
Massacres by Indians, 34, 35.
Rocheblave's surrender of Ft. Kaskas-
kia, 37.
Vincennes captured by Hamilton, 40.
Recaptured by Clark, 42.
See also Clark, G. R.
1812.
Fort Mackinac surrenders, 56.
Hull orders Ft. Dearborn evacuated, 56,59.
Massacre at Ft. Dearborn, 66-71.
United States declares War, 56.
See also Detroit, etc.
Mexican.
Chicago Companies, 191.
General Taylor's Invasion, 191.
Volunteers called for, 191.
Rebellion.
Battles of
Arkansas Post, 266.
Ashby's Gap, 268, 269.
Atlanta, 264.
Bentonville, 265, 266.
Beverly, 268.
Chancellorsville, 265.
Chickamauga, 264, 267.
Fayetteville, 266.
Fort Donelson, 264-5, 267, 269.
Fort Wagner, 264.
Franklin, 265.
Gettysburg, 265,266,269.
Kernstown, 262.
Lexington, Mo., 262.
Mission Ridge 264, 266.
Murfreesboro, 264. 266.
Nashville, 266, 267.
Pea Ridge, 264.
Peach Tree Creek, 264, 265.
Perryville, 266.
Resaca, 265.
Shiloh, 264, 265, 267.
Stone River, 284.
Vicksburg, 265, 267.
Chicago Artillery.
Battery A, 267.
Battery B (Bridge's), 267.
Battery L (Bolton's), 267.
Battery M (Phillips'). 267.
Board of Trade Battery, 267.
Bonton's Chicago Battery, 237.
Chicago Mercantile Battery, 267.
Chicago Companies.
Highland Guards, 262.
Light Artillery, 261.
Light Infantry, 261.
Lincoln Rifles. 261.
Turner Union Cadets, 261.
Zouaves, 261.
• Chicago Regiments
Cavalry.
Fourth, 266.
Eighth, 266.
Ninth, 266.
Twelfth, 266. 267
Thirteenth, 267.
Sixteenth, 267.
Seventeenth, 267.
Infantry.
Twelfth, 261, 262.
Nineteenth, 262.
Twenty-third. 262.
Twenty fourth, "Hecker Jaeger Regt.,"
262.
Thirty-seventh, " Fremont Rifle Regt.,"
264.
Thirty-ninth. " Yates Phalanx," 264.
Forty-second. 264.
Fifty-first, ''Chicago Legion," 264.
Fifty seventh, " National Guards," 264.
Fifty eighth, "McClellan Brigade,"265.
Sixty-fifth, " Scotch Regiment," 265.
Seventy-second, "Board of Trade Regt. ,"
265.
Eighty-second, "Second Haecker Regt.,"
265.
Eighty-eighth, "Second Board of Trade
Regt., "266.
Eighty-ninth. "Railroad Regt. ,"266.
Ninetieth, " Irish Legion," 266.
One Hundred-thirteenth, "Third Board
of Trade Regt.," 266.
One Hundred twenty seventh, 266.
INDEX.
469
Rebellion. — Continued.
Miscellaneous.
Andersonville, 270.
Camp Douglas, 269, 270.
Conspiracy, 270.
Fort Sumter, 260.
Illinois Militia in 1860, 261.
Medill, Major, Biography of, 268-9
Officers Killed, 268.
Republican Convention of 1860, 257-60.
Sanitary Commission, 271.
Ten Regiments Bill, 262.
Union Defence Committee, 2GO-1, 263.
Volunteers, First Call for, 261.
War Dance, Indian, 108-110.
Ward, Police Captain, 385, 386.
Wardner, Philip J., 342.
Warner, Julia A., 342.
Warren, Miss Sarah L., 124.
Washburne, Elihu B., 216, 284.
Hempstead, 361.
Washington, Augustine, 46.
George, 25, 33, 34, 42. 46
Lawrence, 46.
Washington Heights, 5.
Washington Union, 197.
Waterman, J. S., 344.
Waters. Captain. 379.
Watershed, Northwestern, 1.
Waterworks.
Account of First, 184, 189.
Commissioners, 229.
Crib and Tunnel, 230, 274, 275.
Imperfections of, 229, 230.
In 1854. 229.
In the Fire. 289, 294.
Primitive Piping, 190.
Watkins. E. T., 344.
John, 123.
Waubansa Stone, 154, 155.
Waubansee, 68.
Wau bee-nee-mah, 69.
" Wau-Bun," Mrs. Kinzie's Book, 54, 57, 59, 60
65, 67, 69, 72, 74, 77-80, 94.
Waukegan Point, 4, 272.
Waves, Damage by, 205-9, 220, 230.
Wayne, Fort, 57. 59. 61.
Wayne, Genl. Anthony, 49, 50, 61, 62.
Wealth in Chicago, 336. 439, 440.
None based on public plunder, 445.
Weatherford, Wm., 105.
Webb, Wm. A., 264.
Webster, Daniel, 155, 195.
Genl. J. D., 199. 231, 341, 343.
Weed, Rev. Ira M.,215.
Thurlow, 195, 107-9.
Wells, Capt. E., 191.
H. W.,242.
Samuel, 61.
Capt Wm., 50, 61, 62, 64-7, 73, 74, 114,
317.
W. H..116, 123.
Wentworth. Elijah, 96.
Elijah, Jr.. 128.
John, M,57, 67, 72, 74, 75, 119. 128, 129,
131, 135, 147, 157, 180, 184, 218 237,249,
344
Western News Co., 315.
Wheeler, John S., 182.
Whisky, 56, 59, 60, 83.
Whisky Ring.
Cabinet Implicated, 357.
Distilleries Seized. 358.
Frauds in 1875. 357.
Indemnity to Informers, 359.
Whiskey Ring. — Continutii.
Internal Revenue Tax, 857.
Penalties Inflicted, 359
Trial, 358.
Whistler, Major George. 50.
Gwenthlean, See Mrs. Robt. A. Kinzie.
Capt. John, 48.50.
John Harris 53.
Major Wm., 50, 51, 132, 177.
Mrs. Wm.,50, 51.
White, Andrew D., 195. 433.
Julius, 264.
Liberty, 54.
White Cloud, The Prophet, 104.
Whitehouse, Wm Fitz Hugh, 416.
White Raccoon, Indian Chief 69.
Whittier, J.G., 433.
Wicker, Charles G., 260.
Wilcox, I. N., 345.
Wilder Charles]., 268.
Wild fowl, 4.
Game in Early Days, 141, 148.
Wildcat Banks. See Banks and Banking.
Wilemet See Ouillemette.
Wilkes, George. 199.
Wilkins, Mrs. Beriah, 428.
Wilkinson, Genl. ,50.
Willard, E. W., 260.
Williams, Capt., 379
E. B., 194.
E. S., 342.
Wilmette. town of. 448.
Williamsburg, Va., 44.
Wilson. C. H., 213.
Capt. John. 272.
Judge John M., 260.
Martha A., 342.
Mr., 147.
W. D.. 194.
Winnebago Indians, 67, 89, 90.
"Winnebago Scare," 89, 90.
Winnemeg, 12. 56, 57.
Winnetka. 4, 272. 273.
Winston, Frederick H., 374.
Frederick S., 422.
Winter of 1834, Severity of, 138.
Wisconsin Fire and Marine Insurance Company.
242.
Witchcraft, Salem, 25.
Withrow, Thomas F., 374.
Wolcott, Dr. Alexander, 53, 64. 86. 87, 90, 91.
95, 98, 100, 114, 131, 159. 192.
Mrs. Alexander, 53, 64, 91, 95, 107.
Wolf Point, 98.
Women's Christian Temperance L'nion, 345.
Woman in Chicago, 441.
Courtesy towards, 447.
Woman's Rights, 441.
Sphere of Labor, 441.
In the World's Fair, 431.
Wood. A. C.. 173. 206.
Eliphalet, 261.
Woodard, Willard, 369.
Woodbridge, John, Jr., 342.
Woodruff & Childs, 170.
Woodworth. James H.. 182, 185.
Work, Value of in Chicago. 489, 440.
World's Columbian Exposition.
Preliminary efforts.
Chicago' fitness as the Site, 41!*.
Contest for Location. 419.
Hotels pledged against extortion, 420.
Incorporation, 418
Subscriptions and Stock. 419.
470
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
World's Columbian Exposition. — Continued.
Executive.
Departments, 421.
Lady Managers. 428-30.
Management. 421.
Officers, 422.
World's Congress Auxiliary, 422. 433.
Features.
Dedication, 420.
Exhibits, 424.
Grounds, Description of, 425, 42t>.
Military Display, 427.
Naval Review, 420.
Watercourses, 425.
Women's Work, 431.
World's Thinkers, Congress of, 433
Reports.
Mrs. Potter Palmer's, 430-1.
President Gage's. 425-6.
Present Aspect, 435.
Statistics.
Appropriation's, Foreign. 425
State, 423.
Expenditures, 425.
Previous Fairs, 425.
World's Columbian Exposition. — Continued.
System.
Building Materials. 435.
Plans, 434.
Expenses, 434.
Fire Department, 434.
Insurance, 434.
Plans and Specifications, 420. 423.
Sewerage, 435.
Transportation Problem, 436
Worthy, John. 374.
Wrecks: See Lake Navigation.
Wright, Ann D., 1«9.
Joseph C, 268.
Mr., 294.
Silas, 195.
Wynbago: See Winnebago.
Y
Yates, Governor, 261.
Yoe, P. L., 260.
Yorktown taken, 25.
Young, Judge, 133.
M. H. de, 422.
Young Men's Christian Association, 270, 345,
406.
MAJOR KIRKLAND'S THREE WESTERN NOVELS. 471
HE WEST is the fairest work ever done by
kind Mother Nature, and when she made
it she made (as Znry says) "the poottiest
kedntry that ever laid on' doors." Then when
she brought white folks to people it she
picked them out, the best, brightest, bravest
and hardest-working folks the sun ever shone
upon. But when she had brought the people
and the prairies together she left them to
fight it out as best they could. She didn't
give them any easy job !
How did Zury come in? A boy tramping
beside a " prairie schooner " with his father,
mother and sister, not to speak of two mares
and colts, one cow and calf, and last, but not
least, "Ole Shep" the dog. And how did
Zury come out ? The richest man in Spring
County, and (for a good part of his life) the
meanest. One whole chapter of "Zury" is devoted to tales showing
"How the meanest man
got so mean and how
mean he got." But as
Zury himself says:
"Honest! Me? Wai, I guess
so. Fustly, I wouldn't be noth'n
else, nohoaw ; seck'ndly I kin
afford t' be, seein' as haow it
takes a full bag to stand alone ;
thirdly, I can't afford to be
noth'n' else, 'cause honesty's
the best policy."
And as one of his
neighbors expressed it:
"Th1 ain't noth'n mean abaout
Zewry, mean as he is. Gimme a
man that sez right oatit look
aout fer yourself and I kin git
along with him. It's there h'yer
sneakin' fellers that's one thing
afore your face and another be-
hind yer back, th't I can't
abide "
Did Zury stay mean
all his life? No. As his
friends all say,, "not by
a long shot !" There
came to Spring County
a charming young
Yankee School-ma-am,
Anne Sparrow, and
then there was a school
exhibition where Anne
was dressed up as a
puritan maiden, and
then — many things ANNE SPARROW AS "THE PI'RITAN MAIDEN.'
472
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
happened — She married one McVey and was soon a widow with a boy
and girl, living and thriving at the growing town of Springville. And
to Springville Zury followed her and watched the children grow up
strong and fine while she stayed young and fair. The boy became
engineer on the Galena railroad, driving the old " Pioneer " the " first
engine that ever turned a wheel in Chicago." (By the way, the
Pioneer is still on deck in the North Western R. R. shops.)
THE PIONEER AS SHE LOOKS IN 1X92.
Long wooing brought Zury's reward at last, and pretty Anne
Sparrow-McVey, made him happy, also made him a gentleman out-
wardly as he had always been at heart 'though under a very deep
disguise'; and made him the soul of benevolence and liberality.
It takes one book (" Zury ") to tell of life on Zury's farm, and
another (" McVey's ") to tell of life at Springville and Chicago—
with a glimpse of Lincoln, Douglas, David Davis, etc. — and bring
Zury and Anne together. Of these two books, Hamlin Garland in the
Boston Transcript says:
But the full revelation of the inexhaustible wealth of native American material
. . . will come to the Eastern reader with the reading of " Zury." . . . It is as
native to Illinois as Tolstoi's "Anna Karenina" and Tourguenieff's " Father and
Son" are to Russia, its descriptions are so infused with real emotion and so
graphic. The book is absolutely unconventional . . . not a trace of the old-world
literature or society — and every character is new and native. . . The heroine is a
Boston girl, . . a bouncing, resolute and very frank personage, able to care for her-
self in any place. The central figure ... is Zury. This is a great and con-
sistent piece of character painting. He fills the book with his presence and his
inimitable comments upon life and society. A man whose better nature flowered
late.
" McVeys: An Episode," has the sincerity of history, and while one reads it
he is in the very atmosphere of Spring County. The surveying crew, the railroad
MAJOR KIRKLAND'S THREE WESTERN NOVELS.
473
building and final jubilee, the lead mining, all goon under the eye, and Springville
itself, though touched but generally in description, is always present as the setting.
The story is not strictly a continuation of "Zury," but is an " episode;" that is to
say, the reader's attention is transferred from Wayback to Springville and centered
around Anne (Sparrow) McVey, who married and moved to Springville in the his-
tory of " Zury." The story of Anne and her children forms the connecting thread
of a book of great power and freshness. . . . Listen to this conversation between
Phil (cashier of the surveying crew) and the widow Tansey relative to the charges
for feeding and lodg-
ing eight men :
" How much is it ?"
"Oh, I didn't 'llaow to
charge ye nothin'! 'T ain't
aour way hereabouts to
take folks' money that
stops with us fer a meal 'o
vittles er a night's lodg-
inM"
"Well, that's all right
for just common way-
farers, but you see here
are eight of us, and the
railroad hires us and pays
our expenses."
"T wouldn't cost ye a
cent, hey?"
" Not a cent."
" Wai, then, would a
dollar be out o' the way?"
"TheMcVeys," by
the author of "Zury,"
one of the strangest
novels of late years,
will attract man}'
readers. It has feat-
ures in common with
the earlier tale, but it
is much better con-
structed and will
afford the reader a
higher degree of
pleasure. — Cleveland
Sun.
It is full of humor,
of quaint wit and wis-
dom, with sufficient
love and tragedy to
lend vivid interest to
the plot. — Mid-Conti-
nent, St. Louis.
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
} AR for the Union broke out and patriotism
swept the West like a prairie fire. As
private Mulvany says: " That is another
story;" and another story it makes, "The
Captain of Company K "; in which western
men develop into patriotic heroes.
Following the good' practice of "letting
the other men do the talking," here are
some of the innumerable favorable reviews
which came crowding in after the publica-
tion of " The Captain of Company K."
"The Captain of Company K," by Joseph
Kirkland, is one of the very few later stories of '61
which cannot fail to interest everybody. To those
readers who are already acquainted with Mr. Kirk-
land's " Zury " and "The McVeys," and they are
not a few, " Company K " will be a double treat,
as it carries some of the delightful characters he has portrayed in them through the
scene of the great rebellion. The style of the book is clearly hinted at in its unique
COMPANY K AT THE BATTLE OF. SHILOH. P.
dedication to "The survivingmen of the firing line; who could see the enemy in front
of them with the naked eye, while they would need a field-glass to see the history-
makers behind them." The private's impressions of war, formed in the teeth of
musketry, may be of less value to accurate history than the view from the epaulette
quarter, but for dramatic purposes the foot-soldier's story is best, as Mr. Kirkland
proves by his success with a military novel. — Kingston (N. Y.~) Freeman.
I read the story at one sitting and morning found me closing the volume. You
have written a true book. That intimate image of certain phases of the civil war
which the mind's eye of the soldier alone retains, and which, already dimmed by
years, would have been blotted forever, has been caught and fixed in literature. —
.Ifti/or Henry A. Huntington.
ZURY; THE MEANEST MAN IN SPRING COUNTY, one voi.,cioth, $1.75
THE MCVEYS; AN EPISODE, - - One voi.,ciotn, $1.25
THE CAPTAIN OF COMPANY K, Illustrated, One Vol., Cloth, $1.OO
The Three Volumes Together $3.OO.
Any or all sent carriage prepaid, on receipt of price, by
DIBBLE PUBLISHING CO., 26O CLARK ST., CHICAGO.
AMERICAN POETRY AND ART.
475
O WORLD upon the hurry-
ing train,
Fly on your way ! For me,
A saunterer through the
slighted lane,
A dreamer, let me be.
My footsteps pass away in
flowers,
So fragrant all I meet:
Use all the minutes of the hours.
The days die here so sweet
A Page from "American Poetry and Art. See Page 478-479.
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
1607A LIBRARY OF AMERICAN LITERATDRE.J891
In Eleven Elegant Large Octavo Volumes, with over 6,000 Pages, Handsomely
Illustrated with 160 Full-page Portraits. Compiled and Edited by
EDMUND CLARENCE STEDMAN AND ELLEN MACKAY HUTCHINSON.
From HON. JOHN BIGKLOW, Ex-l'uited States Minister to France.
21 GRAMERCY PARK, Nov. 22, 1889.
This library is one thing at least we may exhibit at the GREAT FAIR of 1892, without the slightest apprehen-
sion of any competition from abroad. I do not know of aiiy greater tribute that has ever been paid by the nation to
Columbus, or indeed can be. JOHN BIGKLOW.
arranged chronologically, so that the trend ol thought
viewed as reflected in the great writers of that period.
CONTENTS:
Vo,
V.!
I.— EARLY COLONIAL LITERATURE, 1607-11)75.
. II. — LATER COLONIAL LITERATURE, 1676-1754.
. III.— LITERATURE OK THE REVOLUTION, 1765-1787.
. IV. — LITERATURE OF THE REPUBLIC, Coustitu-
onal Period. 1788-1820.
V.— LITERATURE or THE REPUBLIC, 1821-1834.
s. VI., VII., VIII.— LITERATURE OK THE REPUBLIC,
1S35-1860.
Vols. IX.. X., XL— LITERATURE OF THE REPUBLIC. Isiil-
1891. Fully representing writers that have arisen since
the beginning of the Civil War. Vol. XI contains BIO-
GRAPHICAL NOTICES of all authors quoted, selections
from recent literary productions, and an exhaustive
topical index of the entire work.
FromjrOffA' GREENLEAF WHITTIEK: The plan and execution are deserving of unqualified praise.
NORTH AMERICAN REVIEW: A mental feast unparalleled in completeness and excellence.
DR. W. T. HARRIS, V. S. Commissioner of Education : I do not see how any school in America
can spare this work.
THE CRITIC : Earnest gratitude is due to the editors whose combined study has produced so valuable
a work.
WILLIAM DEAN HOWELLS : A prospect of American Literature that could hardly have been more
complete.
YOU SHOULD DISCRIMINATE AS TO THE BOOKS YOU READ.
YOU CANNOT READ ALL THAT ARE PRINTED.
YOU HAVE NOT THE TIME. MANY OF THEM ARE NOT WORTH READING.
LARGE PARTS OF OTHERS ARE OF QUESTIONABLE WORTH.
WHY NOT CHOOSE THE VERY BEST?
WHY NOT BUY AND READ THIS "THE LIBRARY OF AMERICAN LITERATURE?"
The cream of 500,000 works copyrighted by American writers. 1,207 authors quoted. Over
2,671 selections, covering every branch of literature from 1607 to 1890, chronologically arranged.
Biographical notice of each author. Exhaustive topical index.
From MARK TWAIN.
If one would think, or laugh or cry, or feed his pity or love or charity, or lash himself into a fury, he may choose
his emotion and turn to the things that will lift it to an ecstasy every time.
With it on the shelf, one may sav to anybody — Name vour mood, and I will satisfy its appetite for you.
S. L/CLF.MENS (MARK TWAIN).
FIVE FINE PORTRAITS AND SPECIMEN PAGES SENT FREE.
$3.00
3.00
Cloth, with ink and gold back and side stamp, per i>ol., - ...
Plain cloth, gill lop, uncut edges, professional edition, per vol.,
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Half Turkey morocco, gilt top and back, cloth sides, and broad margins per vol., $.00
The price is only $3.00 per volume, in the best American cloth binding, and we will deliver a
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mainder at the rate of only $3.00 per month, aggregating only ten cents a day.
Sold only by Subscription. A 1 Salesmen Wanted.
CHARLES L. WEBSTER & CO., Publishers, 67 Fifth Avenue, New York.
CHARLES L. WEBSTER & CO. 477
NEW STANDARD PUBLICATIONS.
NEW HOLIDAY SET OF MARK TWAIN'S BOOKS.
The Prince and The Pauper. Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.
Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court.
These are the three most popular of Mark Twain's stories. They are specially hound, profusely illustrated,
square octavo, and uniform iu style. Sold only in sets. SET COMPLlETK, IN A 'BOX , $<I.OO.
Special edition of the above books, fully illustrated and handsomely bound, sold separately :
The 1 rince and The Pauper, - $3.00
Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, 2.75
Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court, j.o'o
CHEAP EDITION OF HUCKLEBERRY FINN, $1.00.
LIFE OF JANE WELSH CARLYLE.
Itv MKS. ALEXANDER IRELAND,
Vellum cloth (half hound], gilt top, $1.75.
ADVENTURES OF A FAIR REBEL.
Hy MATT CRIM,
Author of "Zeke'l," " Bet Crow." "S'fhiry Ann." " Was It an Exceptional Case?," etc
A story that is sure to be eagerly sought after ami read by Miss Crims' many admirers.
Stamped cloth, - - - $1.00
Paper cover, • - - .50
THE OLD DEVIL and the THREE LITTLE DEVILS,
And Two Other Stories.
By COUNT I,KO TOLSTOI.
Translated direct from the Russian by Count Xarraikow. Illustrated by Grabeyadoff.
These three stories are the beginning of a series 'of twelve stories by Tolstoi, to be issued in four 12mo volumes,
illustrated by the celebrated Russian artist, GrabeyadofT. only two of these stories have ever been translated before,
and none of them direct from the Russian. They show Tolstoi at his best. They are written for a purpose and are
PURE, SIMPLE and STRONG. A book that young people as well as those of mature years can read with interest and
benefit,
Handsome cloth binding, - $1.00
PHYSICAL BEAUTY:
How to Obtain and How to Preserve It. by Annie Jen ness Miller ; including chapters on Hygiene, Foods. Sleep.
Bodily Expression, the Skin, the Eyes, the Teeth, the Hair, Dress, the Cultivation of Individuality, etc., etc. An
octavo volume of about 200 pages. Cloth, $2.00.
INSIDE THE WHITE HOUSE IN WAR TIMES.
By \V. O. STODDARD, one of Lincoln's Private Secretaries.
I2nio. 250 pases. Illustrated.
Humorous, pathetic, and exciting incidents follow one another through the pages of this hook, making it in-
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its title.
Fine stamped cloth, $1,00
THE PERIL OF OLIVER SARGENT.
Hy EW.AR JANES lli.iss.
12mo, '217 Pages. Frontispiece.
The new story on the dual nature of man.
Stamped cloth, - $1.00
Paper cover, - - .f>o
THE HAPPY ISLES,
And Other Poems, by Hon. S. 11. M. livers, author of" Sherman's March to the Sea. " Small 12mo.
Cloth btndinU, $1-00
fur sale frv booksellers. Sent, post-paid, on receipt n/ frier.
CHAS. L WEBSTER & CO., 67 Fifth Avenue, New York City.
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
Book-making is the best conceivable means of recording, for the
benefit of the present and all future generations, that which is best
worth knowing of the past. Books, however, have become so numerous
that it requires great care in selecting from the millions now in exist-
ence those that contain that which is worthiest and most satisfactory.
This fact becomes more firmly impressed upon the mind as one attempts
with a limited amount of means to select books for the home library.
The ordinary knowledge-seeker, on entering a great retail book-
store, is utterly at a loss, bewildered by the magnitude and variety of
the treasures set before him. This fact is the perfect excuse for the
existence of that much abused yet useful and indispensable agent of
intellectual progress, the canvasser, or book-agent.
Many years ago, while soliciting for works of art, science, history
and literature, through the many inquiries made for a work that should
contain the best poems that could be selected from all that had been
written by American poets, we determined to publish a work entitled
" American Poetry and Art." Having some acquaintance with John
James Piatt, the poet (his wife and daughter also poets), we arranged
with him to edit the work which we published in 1880, and which
proved a great success, meeting with with the approval of Henry
Wadsworth Longfellow in the following words :
" American Poetry and Art " is an elegant work, and the editor, Mr. Piatt, has shown great
taste and judgment in his selections. I hope this publication will meet from the public the recog-
nition it so well deserves.
Dr. Oliver Wendell Holmes in his letter says :
Dear Sirs: — I have had great pleasure in looking over the work edited by Mr Piatt, and
published by yourselves, "American Poetry and Art." It is a noble and stately volume, com-
mended to the reader by great beauty of type and admirably executed illustrations. What has
most struck me is the number of pleasing, and often striking, poems by authors with whose names
I was not familiar. The volume bears ample testimony to the westward movement of that higher
cultivation to which Poetry, deserving the name, and Art, worthy of its companionship, are con-
spicuous landmarks. OLIVER WENDELL HOLMES.
John Greeleaf Whittier, in acknowledging receipt of a copy of the
work, speaks of it in the following graphic manner :
W. E. DIBBLE: Dear Sir: — I congratulate thee on the complete success of thy beautiful
publication, "American Poetry and Art." It is every way creditable to the Queen City of the
West, its publisher and editor. I am glad to find in it such ample selections from the authors of
the different parts of the country, and especially from the South and West. It will have a ten-
dency to promote a kindly feeling and a national pride in sections so recently in open hostility.
If the literature of the country is united, politicans can not divide us. As in the lay of Ossiau,
"the battle shall cease along the plain, for the bards have sung a song of peace."
I am truly thy friend, JOHN G. WHITTIER.
AMERICAN POETRY AND ART.
•f79
Edmund Clarence Stedmau, says :
I now have the American Poetry and Art " in its complete form, and am pleased with the
great beauty and copiousness of the volume. No other collection of purely American verse is ,
once so varied and so complete. The illustrations are very attractive and on a liberal scale.'
And the following letter from A. R. Spofford, Librarian of Con-
gress, shows his appreciation of the work :
Messrs. W. E. DIBBLE & Co., Gentlemen. --1 have had the oleasure to receive a copy of
your truly sumptuous publication entitled, " American Poetry and Art,'" anil a careful examination
with some familiarity with previous collections of poetry, enables me to say that this volume is
the most elegant one of the kind which has been produced. The paper, type, and illustrations
furnish a fit setting for the multitude of gems of American poetry which the'collection embraces'
Ihe work of the editor, Mr. John J. Piatt, has been admirably performed.
Very respectfully, A. R. SPOKFOKD,
Librarian of Congress.
The work contains over 300 illustrations. There are 640 large
imperial quarto pages, artistically printed on heavy cream-tinted paper
made expressly for this work. It contains the best poems written by
Bryant, Longfellow, Whittier, Holmes, Emerson, Poe, Lowell, Stedman,
Taylor, and 270 other American poets. These poems, over 600 in
number, are copiously illustrated with numerous engravings, true to
nature, life and character, of mountains, rivers, lakes, forests, water-
falls, historical buildings, and other picturesque features of our country;
also including full-page portraits of leading poets, etc., etc., drawn by
the best artists, skilled in their particular specialities, and engraved by
the most skillful engravers of the land. Each geographical portion of
our Union is represented by its Poets, Artists, Engravers, and char-
acteristic scenery.
Popular edition, full morocco, antique, gilt, price, $7.00.
" American Poetry and Art " proved in every way satisfactory, it
having been subscribed for by five presidents of the United States, U.
S. Grant, R. B. Hayes, James A. Garfield, Chester A. Arthur, Benjamin
Harrison, also many of the leading publishers and literary people of
America. In view of this it was determined further to meet the wants
of many people by publishing a series of volumes of American thought
to be entitled " A Library of American Literature."
480
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
A Library of American Literature.
The plan of the work was to begin with the earliest A.merican
writers, taking up those who had written that which would interest the
greatest number of persons in early Colonial times, and following the
writers up in chronological order, so as to give to the reader a complete
literary history of America by the best known authors, who had written
on the most important topics which had arisen in the minds of the
people from the discovery of America to the present. But whom could
we get to undertake the gleaning of the richest and rarest gems from
over 500,000 volumes already published ? Henry Wadsworth Long-
fellow, on being ap-
proached in regard to it,
said, " No, you must get
a younger man. My
time here is too short. I
would suggest Edmund
Clarence Stedman. He
is the best man living to
undertake a work of
such great magnitude."
Dr. Holmes could not
do it for the reason that
his time was all taken up.
Whittier, Lowell, Emer-
son and Piatt all agreed
with Longfellow that
Mr Stedman was just
the man to do the work
if he could be induced
to undertake it.
After carefully stating
the case to Mr. Stedman,
also the unamimous
judgment of the great
authorities already con-
sulted, he agreed to do
the work with Ellen Mc-
Kay Hutchinsou as co-
editor. The contract be-
ing drawn up and signed,
work began. Buying, borrowing and in whatever way we could secur-
ing books on early colonial literature, beginning with Capt. John Smith,
in 1607, and going forward from this point, the undertaking seemed to
grow and increase in interest, magnitude and multiplicity of difficulties.
First it was to be determined what authors should be quoted, what
books were wanted and how they should be obtained. We must have
catalogues of all the leading libraries of the whole country. We must
hunt up all the collectors of rare books in order to secure such books
as we had to have for copy, oftentimes being almost completely at a
EDMUND CLARENCE STEDMAN.
A LIBRARY Of- AMERICAN LITERATURE. 481
standstill for want of some old book out of print, often finding that the
book we wanted we could not buy at any price but were compelled to
send a copyist to transcribe the desired matter with the book in the
possession of its owner. In this manner, we finally succeeded in
crossing ever}' bridge as we came to it.
Coming down to the writers whose works are covered by the copy-
right laws, we had much less trouble in finding the books wanted, as
copies of them are to be found in the Congressional Library. But we
must now have the consent of authors and publishers for the right to re-
publish the very cream of their best thoughts and publications, a con-
tract having to be made and signed with each author and publisher
setting forth the conditions under which the right to publish the articles
desired was granted; all of which consumed many years of tedious
labor and large sums of money. This makes it all the more gratifying
to know the people are pleased with the work, and speak in the very
highest terms of the merits "A Library of American Literature."
The remarkable growth of the plan during its progress carried it
beyond the means of Mr. William E. Dibble, its originator and first
promoter; but it fortunately came into the strong and liberal hands of
Messrs. Charles L. Webster & Co., of New York, for whom Mr. Dibble
(now the Dibble Publishing Co.) act's as exclusive agent within his own
territory; glad enough to be even second in the splendid enterprise
where in lie once fondly hoped to be first.
We will send on application to parties residing in the States of
Ohio, Indiana, Illinois and Southern Wisconsin, specimen pages, sam-
ples of the portraits and general synopsis of the Library of American
Literature, furnishing any information desired in relation to subscrib-
ing or soliciting subscriptions for the work.
DIBBLE PUBLISHING CO., 260 SOUTH CLARK STREET, CHICAGO.
[Copy of letter from Wm f Harris, U. S. Commissioner of Education, Washington, D. C]
I have received n volumes of "The Library of American Literature," having become a sub-
scriber while in Massachusetts. I think it is my duty to write you a word, expressive of my appre-
ciation of the great value of the work as a means of national education.
Mr. Stedrnan and Miss Hutchiusou have made their selections include productions from so
wide a list of authors that this fact alone makes their "Library" indispensable to all who set out to
study our national.literature in its scope and bearing. Their selections are in such admirable taste,
and at the same time so characteristic of the style and thought of the several authors, that the work
reveals our national character and aspirations almost in their entire scope. For a nation's liter-
ature is the expression of just these things.
I do not see how any school in America can spare this work from its reference library for
teachers and pupils, and I am sure that every private individual will purchase it for his own
library, if he has to cut off for a time the purchase of other literature
WM. T. HARRIS, Commissioner.
NOTRE DAME, IND., February 8, 1891
DEAR SIRS. — In reply to your note, I am glad to «ay that I consider Mr Edmund Clarence
Stedman's " Library of American Literature " the most valuable work of the kind printed in the
English language. " No library should be without it. I find it invaluable as a reference book. It
is in almost daily use at the University and St. Mary's It is unique, thorough, and the work of
our first American Critic, and the greatest, after Whittier, of our poets, assisted by the foremost
literary woman of our country Sincerely yours,
MALTRICK FRANCIS EC.AN.
OAK KNOU., DANVERS, MASS., 9 Mo., 14, iSSS.
I have been looking over the noble volumes with hearty satisfection. The great work is
admirably done. The plan and execution seem to me deserving of unqualified praise. A breath
of the New World blows through it. JOHN G. WHITTIER.
4.82
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
THE BACKWOODSMAN , OR TALES OF THE BORDER, BY WALTER
W. SPOONER, is a very attractive illustrated volume of 608 pages of thrilling
narrative, having the double merit of historical accuracy and romantic merit.
Among the celebrated pioneers whose wonderful adventures are related in this
book, are Robert McClellan, Captain Samuel Brady, Lewis Weitzel, Daniel Boone,
Simon Kenton, John Slover, William Kennan, and Samuel Davis. The stories are
of the most varied character, relating hair-breadth escapes from torture, captivity,
and imminent death, remarkable instances of courage and resolution, and prodigies
of valor, strength and skill. The authenticity of the narratives commends the work
to all who are interested in the early history of the West.
Price delivered, Cloth with Ink and Gold Back and Side Stamp, $2.00.
"UNCLE DICK WOOTTON "; BY HOWARD Louis CONARD. With an in-
troduction by Maj. Joseph Kirkland. Illustrated by Louis Braunhold, W. A.
McCullough and other famous artists. Fifty-three years a hunter, trapper, trader,
Indian fighter and government scout.
"UNCLE DICK'S " TRUE STORY of Pioneer days and Border life graphically told
by a living eye witness is surely stranger than fiction, and a thousand times more
fascinating. We are morally sure no one seeing the work-and examining its pages,
portraits and pictures, who is at all interested in the earl}' history of our frontier
settlements, and those who cleared the land, broke the prairies, fought the Indians,
killed the deer, bear, buffalo and other wild animals that roamed over the prairies,
through the dense forests, or along the mountain sides, opened up navigation, built
our trans-continental railways, and made it possible to build our great commercial
cities, and myriads of now happy homes on what was, fifty years ago, naught but
wilderness, can posssibly resist the temptation to subscribe for a copy, and thereby
contribute something toward the support of "Uncle Dick " in his old days. To him
the people of this country are largely indebted for aiding in the settlement of the
far west now so rapidly growing into an immensely wealthy portion of our vast
country, and for his kindness to those whom he so often befriended in time of need.
The thirty-two full-page cuts are printed on fine, heavy plate paper.
The letter-press is printed from new, clear type, with the best ink, and on good
paper, all of which is made expressly for this work. It is handsomely and sub-
stantially bound, with new and unique designs, and will be sold and delivered to
subscribers at the following extremely low prices :
Extra fine Cloth, ink and gold back and side stamp, $3>oo
Half Morocco, marbled edges, - 4-5Q
Full Morocco, antique gilt edges, 6.00
Agents wanted. Please apply immediately for choice 01 territory.
DIBBLE PUBLISHING CO., 260 South Clark Street, CHICAGO.
4*3
Round the
A RACE WITH THE SUN.
A RACE WITH THE SUN ; BY HON. CARTER H. HARRISON
world in sixteen months. Thirty-two full-page half-tone illustrations
This bewitchingly charming story told in the simplest and most vivid descrip-
tive manner, is intensely interesting and wonderfully instructive. It is difficult to
conceive of a more delightful volume.
The pen pictures of
mountains, lakes, rivers,
waterfalls, forests, foun-
tains, flowers, monu-
ments, cities, inhabi-
tants, in fact every con-
ceivable thing that goes
to make up the countries
visited, are so beautifully
portrayed by the pen of
the author, that we had
almost forgotten to men-
tion the thirty-one ele-
gantly superb full-page
Photogravure pictures,
which of themselves
form an art collection
worth far more than the
price of the work, and
all bound in the most
elegant and substantial
manner known to the
art of book making.
There is 574 pages.
The author has care-
fully photographed
everything from the
smallest object of inter-
est to the loftiest peaks
and grandest mountain
ranges. In fact, he has
given a perfect inven-
tory of a wide belt of the
globe, beginning at Chi-
cago, and running west
around the world, until
Chicago, the great mar-
vel of the igth Century,
looms up again. The
whole is portrayed in such a flowing and inviting manner that you really feel you
are journeying with the author, as he describes the objects of interest along the way.
The text, illustrations, paper, printing and binding are in excellent taste and
the material of the very best. Sent by mail prepaid, on receipt of price.
Popular Edition, Plain Cloth, with plain cut edges, $2.00
Fine Ed'n, Fine Cl. , extra wide margins, gilt top and uncut edges, 4.00
The same, Fine Half Morocco, marble edges, 5.00
A SUMMER'S OUTING AND THE OLD MAN'S STORY: BY HON.
CARTER H. HARRISON. Is an intensely interesting book of 304 pages, beautifully
written in a pleasant and readable style, carrying the reader with the writer from
Chicago to Alaska and return, taking careful note of the lovely scenes Nature, in
her most wonderful and marvelous ways, has ever produced. The writer has so
accurately described what he saw that it seems a waste of space to put in the beauti-
ful photogravure pictures with which the book is elegantly illustrated. The book
concludes with a thrilling and tragic story founded on facts.
Handsomely bound in cloth. By mail prepaid, on receipt of price, $1.00.
HON. CARTER H. HARRISON.
484.
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
AGENTS
WANTED.
HELEN ; A POETICAL ROMANCE, BY CAMPBELL WALDO WAITE, relates the
experience, of a young artist who, threatened with death from consumption,
leaves his home in the East and lays aside his palette and easel, and, by the
advice of his old and trusted family physician, " roughs it " upon the prairies
of the far West. But into his new life he throws the refinement inherent in his
nature, and carves out for himself a career that is really as elevating as would have
been his career as an artist.
ADDRESS :
DIBBLE
PUBLISHING
CO..
260
CLARK
STREET,
CHICAGO.
The heroine, however, is the most engaging character in the book. Sue
illustrates, throughout a series of struggles and heart-trials such as rarefy fall to
the lot of women, the noblest qualities of wifehood, motherhood, and the truest and
highest womanhood.
There is a masculine strength in the character of the hero of the work, which
has the freshness of the prairie breeze. The author has made an especial point of
his treatment of his dumb domestic companions, especially his horses and cattle,
which constitute a new feature in romance-writing.
The work is profusely and richly illustrated with original drawings by Mr.
Louis Braunhold, the leading young designer of the West; many of them being
engraved on wood by Mr. William Mollier, and all executed with especial elegance
and effect.
The paper is exceptionally fine, the printing and binding is executed in the
most artistic and skillful manner, thus making a very attractive work.
Price, in fine Silk finish Cloth, with Ink and Gold Back and
Side Stamp, Plain Edges, $ 2 oo
Price, in fine Half Morocco, Cloth Sides and Gilt Edges, 3 50
WASHINGTON, D. C., May 24th, 1890.
I think "Helen" a well written poem, closely modeled after Lord Lyttons'
"Lucille." The characters are excellent, the sentiment chaste and full of beauty:
the entire story is well conceived, very attractive and admirably carried out; the
morality is unexceptional; many of the situations are quite dramatic, while the
entire flow of the poem is gentle and sweet as the course of a beautiful stream; the
paper, type, printing, illustrations and binding are very neat and artistically done:
on the whole I think "Helen" should meet with a large sale.
MRS. MARV E. XEALY.
AGENTS WANTED.
IONA ; A LAY OF ANCIENT GREECE, BY PAYNE ERSKINE. By universal
assent, this poem, in richness of thought, variety of metaphor and vast survey of a
most engaging field, is taking rank among the finest productions of American
literature. 'The aim of this book," as the author states, "is to show the desire
that exists in every human being, — unaided by the teachings of Christianity, — to
live on after this life is over ; the natural out-reaching of every human spirit toward
the divine, calling for eternal life. The still, small voice floats upward, piercing
the density of human wisdom, and is heard through all, and above all."
There is no indication of borrowing from Lord Macauley's " Lays of Ancient
Rome," yet many critical scholars have placed this volume alongside the immortal
work of the great Englishman in that both have successfully awakened and devel-
oped the supreme faculty of intuition and, at the same time, given pleasure through
the exercise of the imagination.
The illustrations, paper, printing and binding are in excellent taste and will be
delivered carriage-paid to any address on receipt of $1.25.
Chicago Inter Ocean say of lona: The poem-story is beautiful in conception
and in literary execution. " Its scenes and events are placed before the Christian
era, in order to leave the thought unbiased by Christian teaching, admitting only
the philosophy that may be gained from the teachings of Socrates and Plato, or by
the true love of and communion with nature. ' '
The plot is new, the classic spirit and feeling are well sustained, and the cadence
of the singing stream which tells this story "of long ago, ere time was old," is so
exquisitely sweet and varied to suit the different characters and scenes, that the
reader finds an irresistible charm which holds him not only to the end but until he
has " passed along " to some friend either the book or some strong words of praise
for it.
The book is neatly bound in blue and white and has several finely drawn
illustrations. Altogether, the book must win many admirers and prove of literary
and ethical service to its readers.
To THE READER : — We shall be pleased to quote you prices and
terms for supplying any books or sets of books published, either for cash
or on easy monthly payments. We do not claim to be able to supply
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enable you to secure those we cannot supply and will gladly do so, and
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taking your order can do the same.
To AGENTS soliciting for the Story of Chicago we will be pleased to
give all the information desired in relation to securing subscriptions,
or an agency for any of the books mentioned in this volume, or if you
prefer to do so please write direct to the publishers of the book or books
you wish to know about.
To SUBSCRIBERS and readers of the Story of Chicago we shall
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DIBBLE PUBLISHING CO., 260 S. Clark Street, CHICAGO.
4S6
THE STORY OF CHICAGO
Autobiographical publications have nearly aiways met with a large
sale from the fact that the lives of others are so closely connected with
our own that we are anxious to know what they have done and how the}'
did it, especially if the author has written a correct account of himself
and his life has been an eventful one full of successes.
The history and personal
reminiscences of Major-Gen-
eral Benjamin F. Butler, as
set forth by himself in the
volume entitled
"BUTLER'S BOOK,"
is certainly a full and com-
plete history of the most
eventful career of any man
now living. Starting in
youth with few advan-
tages except those supplied
by nature, he has fought
his way manfully from pov-
erty and obscurity through
riots, wars, litigations, and
a multiplicity of difficulties,
to high positions, honor and
wealth. A good fighter,
good soldier, governor, sen-
ator, la\vyer, a noble and
generous citizen, and now
a biographer and historian,
handing down to future
generations the true history
of all his important acts as
a citizen, lawmaker, lawyer,
soldier and governor; his
sharp, shrewd, all-searching
scrutiny has enabled him to give to the public the facts concerning
thousands of important points in the history of the last half century.
In a masterly hand, and in the most comprehensive manner, he
proceeds to unravel and reveal the secret history of our country from a
political, military, legislative, administrative, social and religious stand-
point, both at home and abroad. Parties and their leaders are handled
without fear or favor, and those who as he thinks deserve exposure
are showed up through a connecting chain of original documents, much
to the credit of many who have stood calumny rather than rush into
print and to the injury of some who have, so far, escaped the righteous
judgment that should have been dealt out to them long ago.
Men both North and South have called Butler very hard names,
but no man ever called him a coward or a fool.
An unreconstructed rebel, not very long ago was railing at Gen.
Butler, when his interlocutor observed that at least he had cleaned up
A. Af. THAYER & CO. 4S7
New Orleans so that yellow fever never came near it. " Yellow fever
and Ben Butler both in the same year ? No sir ! It could not be !
There is still a merciful God in Heaven ! ''
PRESS COMMENTS.
New York World : — Few Americans have been more famous and have exhibited more
versatility in public affairs during a long and crowded career, and few have been so thoroughly
abused or have borne calumny and invective with greater equanimity than Benj. F. Butler.
Few writers can be more interesting than the doughty old General. He is as terse and
idiomatic as Franklin, and tells his story that holds the attention with a strong and natural
interest.
New York Sun : — The long-expected autobiography of Benj. F. Butler will soon be in the
hands of the American people. The preface of the work itself is so interesting that it is worth a
complete reproduction. It is a characteristic of this work, and, unlike most prefaces, it will
receive as much attention from the reader as any other portion of the book.
New York Mail and Express : — Geti. Butler is giving to the world in one huge volume his
memoirs. Butler is a remarkable man. When he was young he was ambitious, and many of tin-
great dreams he dreamed of success were realized. His book will create a breeze.
Harper's Weekly : — To labor is to pray. The sincerity of prayer against pestilence is best
shown by the unsparing and intelligent diligence in observing the laws of health so effectively
done in 1862 by General Butler in New Orleans. The same effective precautions which he took
in New Orleans he took two years later in Norfolk, and with similar good results. His forthcoming
book will, therefore, not only be political but we trust explicit regarding his ideas of sanitation.
Probably our modern physicians will find some good points in it
Philadelphia Public Ledger : — No figure in American history is grander or more picturesque
than that of General Butler. In the light of time historians will do this greatest of soldiers and
statesmen justice. He has been misunderstood, misjudged, and reviled, and has borne injustice
with a silence and patience as pathetic as noble ; but in his autobiography, which he is now soon to
give to the world, he will speak and tell truly what has been so often misrepresented.
Boston Journal : — The book will be an epitome of the history of the United States from the
time General Butler first entered upon the scene of action down to to-day.
Chicago Herald : — The style is peculiarly Butlerian,— curt, original, breezy, and indepen-
dent. Old age ne'er cools the Butler blood ; he is just as free and vigorous in his printed utter-
ances as he ever was on the political platform or before a jury.
The Herald, Cleveland, O. : — General Butler's forthcoming autobiography contains much
history and personal matter never before published. The contents — well, they must be read to be
appreciated. Everything is being done by his publishers. A. M. Thayer &. Co., of Boston, on an
elaborate scale to make the book one of the most attractive of the century. In point of typo-
graphical beauty and mechanical and literary executions it will be a gem.
Rocky Mountain News, Denver, Col. : — No little interest is being attached to the review
copies sent out by A. M. Thayer & Co., the wide-awake publishers of Boston, on the forthcoming
autobiography and personal reminiscences of General Butler. It is a book for the millions and we
hope it will be bought by the millions.
Evening Tribune, Des Moines, la. : — Butler's Book will be a most valuable addition to the
literature of our day, and an invaluable contribution to the literature of the historic period in
which he has figured and played so conspicuous a part.
BUTLER'S BOOK is sold only to subscribe! s by our agents and
cannot be had at the book stores.
Should our agents fail to call on you with a copy of the Butler
Book, we will esteem it a favor if you will call our attention to
the oversight.
To Agents: We will be pleased to have you apply for circulars,
terms, territory, etc. We will assign you exclusive territory on liberal
terms and special inducements, with full instructions insuring success.
We have, in addition to the Butler Book, several first-class standard
subscription books, and solicit correspondence from all agents wishing
to better their condition.
A. M. THAYER & CO., 6 Mount Vernon St., BOSTON, MASS.
4$8
THE STORY OF CHICAGO.
./to
THE OONOHUE 8< HENINEBERRY BUILDING,
THIS HOUSE, among the oldest, most extensive, and most successful of its kind
in the West, has long been closely identified with the history and marvelous growth of
fflarjufaeturipg ir?
having always been foremost in the effort to secure for this City a recognized standing as a
publishing center.
Traveling men, and others well informed, state that it is the
LARGEST AND MOST THOROUGHLY EQUIPPED
Printing and Binding Establishment in the United States (with a single exception, the Government
Institution at Washington).
This business occupies the structure known as the DONOHUE & HESNEBERRY BUILDING, (erected
especially for its accommodation), with a frontage of 200 feet on Dearborn St.. the same frontage
on Third Ave , and extending through the block, from street to street, eight stories, with basement
for large presses and heavy machinery.
The members of the firm are practical men, of large experience, thoroughly versed in every
detail of manufacture, who promptly adopt every improvement of practical value, in machinery,
material, or methods, and spare neither pains nor expense to produce satisfactory and creditable
work.
These facilities are at the service of publishers throughout the country.
WE INVITE CORRESPONDENCE AND INSPECTION.
Authors intending publication will do well to confer with us.
Especial attention is devoted to Illustrated Work of various kinds, Large Catalogues, High
Class Periodicals, Artistic Work, and Large Editions.
Frequent additions are being made to our
LARGE LIST OF STANDARD PUBLICATIONS.
Dealers, among our customers, will be kept constantly advised of the issue of new and salable
books, and in every way possible the interests of our patrons will be carefully considered.
OUR SUPPLY DEPARTMENT
will furnish, in addition to an extensive line of our own manufacture, any article procurable in
Chicago in the line of Stationery and General Supplies.
Catalogues, Descriptive Circulars, and Special Prices sent on application.
DONOHUE & HENNEBERRY.
407 to 425 Dearborn Street, Chicago.
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