Production Note
Cornell University Library produced this
volume to replace the irreparably
deteriorated original. It was scanned using
Xerox software and equipment at 600 dots per
inch resolution and compressed prior to
storage using CCITT Group 4 compression. The
digital data were used to create Cornell's
replacement volume on paper that meets the
ANSI Standard Z39.48-1984. The production of
this volume was supported in part by the New
York State Program for the Conservation and
Preservation of Library Research Materials
and the Xerox Corporation. Digital file
copyright by Cornell University Library 1993.»ILLUSTRATED. «	*
’ M‘A.
Ah
ft.
The; Gio^i^Ville
/s rim
Best f Weekly * Ncw8PaPeF
1*ITKTISHB» IN
GEMT^k .NEW Y0ffK.
--—It is the——-
Leading ^ephblicen Pmpev>
of Fulton County, and
OFFICIAL PAPER
of the City of Gloversville. A bright, newsy sheet, worthy of
admittance to every household.
Terms, -	-	-	-	&1.SO per year in Aclvnnoe.
H SPLENDID
Job Printing Department
connected with the.Publishing House.
FINE BOOK PRINTING A SPECIALTY.
13 SOUTH 7^HIN STR6ST,THE
INBtiSTRIAL ADVANTAGES
I ju 11 iB; * 1JO.JJL u;. si 1. a v
TOGETHER WITH A -V ACCOUNT OF HER
MATERIAL DEVELOPMENT a«d PROGRESS
A
SERIES OF COMPREHENSIVE SKETCHES
o/" hi:i*
Representative * BasiNEss » Enterprises.
COMPILED AND PUBLISHED UNDER THE SUPERVISION OF THE
BOARD OF TRADE.
GLOVERSVILLE, N. Y. :
GEO. H . COOK, PUBLISHER.
i8qo.Printed by
INTELLIGENCER PUB. HOUSE,
13 South Main Street.
Bound by
WILLIAM MUDDLE,
20 North Main Street.
Compiled and Published by
GEO. H. COOK.
Photo Types by	Photos from which Photo
{PHOTO TYPE COMPANY,	Types were made by
76 Beekman Street,	FRED GIRARD,
New York.	21 North Main Street.PREFATORY
The vast extent of country, the distance that often separ-
ates producer and manufacturer, and the obstacles to universal
travel, form an amply sufficient excuse for the publication of
this work. It is highly desirable that information with regard
to a community so useful and progressive in trade and manu-
factures should be as widely diffused as possible, and though
no claim is made that this volume is a perfect reflex of Glov-
ersville in this respect, it is confidently asserted that no prev-
ious publication, with a similar object, has contained so much
new or valuable matter. No one who has not had practical
experience in compiling such a work, can form any idea of
how much labor, patience and perseverance has been bestowed
on its preparation. In pursuing our investigations we have
been treated with universal courtesy, and are indebted to so
many that we cannot return thanks to each, individually, but
we here render our acknowledgment to all, collectively, and
more especially do we offer them to the active members of the
Board of Trade. The reader may be assured that an account
of the best, most honorable, intelligent and successful corpora-
tions, firms and individuals in Gloversville, together with a
detailed description of their enterprises, will be found within
these pages, designed for circulation among those residing
in other localities, as well as in this section, and who are
unacquainted with the true magnitude of this city and its
extraordinary facilities. We are assured that this work will per-
form a mission of the highest utility, and with this belief, we
commend it to the preservation and attention of our readers*
November, 1890.	The Publisher.CITY BUILDING, NORTH MAIN STREET.THE
• INDUSTRIAL * ADVANTAGES •
OH
->&GLiOL76z£RSI7ILiLiG3.£$<-
BY G. H. COOK.
America has been productive of startling changes. Events have trans-
pired within the domain of the republic the effects of which still impress
and sway the older nations. States have been carved from the expanse
of wilderness, and cities have grown up like an exhalation. Presage and
opinion have been at fault, convenience and facility have been poten-
tial, and the traveler of one period, looking upon an attractive and nat-
ural scenery in the seclusion of a forest, has returned to behold a city
with swarming thousands, replete with products of the soil, resonant
with the hum of manufacture, and abounding with the treasures of art.
A few years prior to the present century Gloversville was a place inhab-
ited only by straggling trappers and wandering Indians. To-day a
beautiful city, witfea population of nearly 15,000, stands on the banks of
the Cayadutta. Ascend to the roof of any of the towering blocks in the
central portion of the city, and look out at mid-day on the scene beneath
and stretching far around you. Lofty buildings, beautiful churches,
handsome streets, a teeming myriad of population meet the sight.
From the freight and passenger depots trains come and go at brief in-
tervals. Industry, affluence and enjoyment are evinced in every quar-
ter. There seems no merchandise but has its mart, no interest without
its representatives. All facilities for travel abound—the car upon the
block pavement, or the miles of walk for the passing throng. The mel-
ody of bells proclaims the passing hour, and the shriek of the steam
whistle announces the cessation or renewal of a multiform industry.
Indeed, a vast and varied change from solitude to the highest form of
civilization, a transformation of forest to a magnificent city has taken
place, realization has exceeded promise, and truth has been stranger
than fiction.
The birth and life of a city in many respects corresponds-with the
birth, infancy, growth and development of a human being. ThereView of Bleecker Street, North from West Fulton.THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE
7
were the earliest days and years ot its being, when its pulsing knew no
recognition beyond the fond associations which brought it forth and
nursed it with tender care. Then came the period of youth—it could
walk alone; could put on the habiliments of youthful manhood and begin
to breathe the air of independent action. Then it must pass through
the era of conflicting emotions and interests before it could harmonize
its antagonisms and vitalize its dormant energies. Through the earlier
days, through the period of boastful youth, through the struggles that
presage the strength of healthful manhood, this city now stands before
the world with its ten talents actively employed, with manifest intent to
assert its manhood and fulfil its mission of usefulness. There are few
business men who have either time or inclination for the study of
National Histories; and those are still more rare who discover an
interest in the chronicles of any locality other than that in which their own
energies center On the other hand none can be found who are indif-
ferent to such facts in relation to any important community as shall
more clearly convey an idea of its industries and resources, why it pros-
pers and developes in certain directions, and what claims it has to com-
mercial distinction. For such this work was designed and to such it is
dedicated. Intended especially to convey information concerning Glov-
ersville to those unfamiliar with its characteristics, this work will prob-
ably contain little not already patent to every intelligent dweller in
the city, but will excite attention, and will prove most useful the further
it circulates from the subject of its theme. A large amount of matter
that has been collected and published with regard to the early history
of this locality is doubtless highly interesting to those who by descent
are naturally interested in the exploits of their forefathers. To the
reader, however, for whom this work is more especially intended, such
details would prove of but little interest. To the present, therefore,
more than to the past, we devote this sketch. Our business is with
living men and their daily occupations, enterprises and successes; what
they are doing for themselves and others, in commerce, trade, manu-
factures, finances or by individual talent in the arts, sciences and pro-
fessions. To the past, however, we are not oblivious, and if only for the
sake of comparison, there are some salient points of historic interest
relating to Gloversville that should be in possession of every well
informed reader. It is not definitely known to whom belongs the dis-
tinction of having been its founder. The earliest settlements were made
about the close of the last century, but it was not until 1816 that the
locality was honored with a name. It was then proposed that it be
called “Stump City,” a name which was generally adopted. Whatever
may be said of its “beauty” its appropriateness will not be questioned
when we state that the site of the then growing village bristled with
pine stumps, from which it is supposed to have derived its name. It
bore this name till the year 1828, when, on occasion of locating a post
office, it was deemed advisable to designate it by a more elegant name;
accordingly, at the suggestion of Jennison Giles and Henry Churchill,
the name of the village was changed to that of Gloversville. For many
years the place gave no promise of its recent rapid growth. It probably
deserved no name previous to 1816, for in 1830 it had only fourteen
houses, and but two were added in the next two years. From that time
forward, progress in building became more rapid and in 1851 the vil-
lage-was'une^rporated^ and as a city February 19, 1890.Residence of M. J. Kennedy, Esq., West Fulton Street.THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
SITUATION.
Not many miles distant from the great metropolis, and nestled among
the foot hills of the north woods, Adirondacks, Catskills and Mayfield
mountains, lies the city of Gloversville. . Here the Cayadutta, a stream
that takes its rise in the northern hills, passes through the city, thence
through the village of Johnstown, and empties into the Mohawk at
Fonda, eight miles south. For many years the Cayadutta has served to
turn the wheels of industry and furnishes excellent water power for the
various operators of milling and machinery. The City of Gloversville
is situated on the Cayadutta and is surrounded by a picturesque and
smiling landscape. The surrounding country is exceedingly fertile and
the scenery is very beautiful, giving glimpses of mountain and valley,
field and forest. The business portion of the city, which contains many
handsome buildings, as will be seen by accompanying views of the
principal streets, are beautifully laid out and present an attractive
appearance. The line of goods carried in the stores is metropolitan, as
regards richness, style and variety. The streets are broad and lined on
either side by umbrageous trees, whose overhanging boughs and varie-
gated leaves shelter the many pedestrians from the glare of the summer
sun.
A CITY OF HOMES.
This designation cannot be improved upon, for after admiringthe splen-
did residences of the wealthy and the h mdso ne houses of the well-to-do,
the eye of the visitor will rest with infinite pleasure upon the house of
the mechanic, the clerk, the young business man an.d the laborer, miles
and miles of the street being lined with neat but inexpensive dwellings,
often surrounded by a plot of ground and each owned by its occupant.
Land has never been held at fancy prices, and the result is as has been
stated. The reasonable prices at which the working classes have been
able to obtain the great boon of owning their own domiciles, has
materially enhanced the welfare of the city, and apart from stimulating
habits of thrift, has created a class of citizens who are content, and
having a stake in the country are not so prone to become mixed up in
labor troubles. This is perhaps one reason of the inf requency of strikes
here, and, generally speaking, the relations between employe and
employed have been of the most friendly character. The savings banks,
and latterly, building associations, have done much good in this direc-
tion by loaning money at low rates of interest to mechanics and others,
to enable them to own their own homes. Numerous capitalists also
stand ready to build and sell houses, payments to be made in small
weekly sums, out of the savings of wages, and ho mechanic need be
without a home of his own in Gloversville for any length of time, if he
desires to have one. Hundreds of houses have been built in this way
in the past few years, and the suburbs of Gloversville are rapidly filling
up with neat and tasteful homes for the masses.
THE BOARD OF TRADE.
In order to promote the increase of traffic, both foreign and domestic,
the Board of Trade of Gloversville held their first annual meeting at
Memorial Hall on Monday evening, Feb. 17, 1890. At present the Board
is occupying pleasant rooms in the Darling Block.. Its membership
embraces nearly every department of mercantile, commercial and manu-View of North Main Street from Fulton Street.View of South Main Street from Fulton Street.I
Littauer Block, South Main Street.THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
13
facturing pursuits, and is composed of the leading representative and
active business men, bankers and professional men of Gloversville. The
object of the association is to promote the prosperity of the city by
offering inducements to companies and individuals to locate manufac-
turing and mercantile establishments here ; to introduce, foster and
protect manufactories, to advance the labor interests and thus con-
tribute to the advancement of the general interests of the whole city.
The Board of Trade is doing much towards the distribution of valuable
information concerning the unparalleled advantages the city has to offer
to any one seeking a location, either for business enterprise or for a
home for himself and family. The association stands ready to do any-
thing that may assist in building up the industrial resources of the city.
As an indication of the progressive and enterprising spirit which pre-
vails among our citizens, and voices their sentiments in the matter of
enterprise, the Board of Trade fulfills a worthy object. Its field of
action is more particularly at home, and in furthering the interests of
its own city. It is laboring diligently for this purpose, and by direct
and judicious action is striving to improve the trade of Gloversville,
extend her industries, remove onerous burdens, and encourage plans for
the general good. The Board was organized with the following list of
officers and charter members :
President,	.	.	.	.	.	Clayton M. Parke.
First Vice-President, .	.	.	.	.	. James S. Hosmer.
Second Vice-President,	.	.	.	.	.	Zenas B. Whitney.
Secretary, .	.	.	.	.	.	.	.	. William C. Mills.
Treasurer, .	.	.	.	.	.	.	. Chas. W. Stewart.
Standing Committees. — On Manufactures and Promotion of Trade,
Daniel B. Judson, chairman ; Daniel Hays, John H. Richardson, Way-
land D. West, Lawton Caten, Jas. S. Burr, Thos. A. Foster, Wm. E.
Whitney, C. S. Cummings.
On Railroad and Transportation.—Seymour Sexton, chairman ;
Samuel H. Shotwell, Hiram Darling, John B. Judson, Asa B. Beilis,
Geo. C. Burr, Fred M. Young, Eugene Mead, Benj. Newman.
On Taxation and Insurance.—James W. Green, chairman ; Wil-
liam H. Place, Zenas B. Whitney, Chas. W. Judson, Cyrus Stewart, Wm.
F.	Steele, A. Bloomingdale, John L. Getman, Jas. O. Parsons.
On Land and Legislation.—George M. Place, chairman ; A. D. L.
Baker, Jas. S. Hosmer, P. R. Furbeck, Charles Kiefer, M. V. B. Stetson,
N. M. Banker, Horton D. Wright, Jerome Eggleston.
On Statistics and Publication.-—Daniel F. Cowles, Chairman ; W.
E. Leaning, W. H. Demarest, W. S. Garnsey, Hervey Ross, N. W.
Welch, C. W. Rose, W. B. Collins, E. Harrington.
On Rooms and Membership.—Philo R. Smith, Chairman ; H. C.
Day, A. W. Locklin, Fred White, A. L. Henry, M. Klein, O. L. Everest,
G.	W. Hildreth.
MANAGERS.
Daniel B. Judson,
Philo R. Smith,
Eugene Harrington,
Samuel H. Shotwell,
Seymour Sexton,
Daniel F. Cowles,
Geo. C. Burr.
Hervey R.oss,
W. E. Leaning,
Curtis S. Cummings,
James W. Green,
George M. Place.Christ Church (Episcopal), Spring Street.THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.

MEMBERS.
Avery & Son, A. H., merchants.
Anibal, D. W., silk agent.
Brower & Dodge, leather m’frs.
Brower, A. D., glove m’fr.
Bloomingdale, A., real estate.
Burr Brothers, lumber dealers.
Banker, N. M., lawyer.
Booth & Co., leather m’frs.
Boughton, E. J., merchant.
Bellows, E. P., lawyer.
Baker & Burton, lawyers.
Christie, John, member of assembly.
Carson, Frank, contractor.
Caten, L., Supt. of F. J. & G. R. R.
Cowles, Hill & Co., merchants.
Collie, W., merchant.
Cummings, C. S., leather m’fr.
Collins, W. B., pub. Daily Leader.
Demarest, W. H., merchant.
Darling, H., merchant.
Durfee, D. C., correspondent.
Dewey, H. G., leather dresser.
Egelston, Jerome, lawyer.
Edwards & Co., D. M., merchants.
Egelston, Frank, foreman.
Everest, I. M., Jr., merchant.
Furbeck & Van Auken, merchants.
Furbeck, J. A., merchant.
Foster, T. G., leather m’fr.
Gross, S. S., merchant.
Getman, John L., insurance agent.
Getman, D. J., real estate.
Garnsey, W. S., physician.
Greene, Jas. W., merchant.
Griffin, Mark, merchant.
Hillabrandt, C. S., merchant.
Hosmer, Jas. S., manufacturer.
Harrington, E., R. G. Dun’s ag’cy.
Heacock & Co., merchants.
Hanson,.& Van De Water, m’ch’ts.
Hildreth, G. W., glove laundry.
Holden, Wm., lumber dealer.
Hill, J. M., merchant.
Houck & Patrick, druggists.
Hallenbeck & Son, glove m’frs.
Henry, A. L., contractor.
Hallenback & Co., J, M., merch’ts.
Huckans, H. C., merchant.
Hays & Co., Daniel, glove m’frs.
Judson & Co., C. W., glove m’frs.
Judson, D. B., glove manufacturer.
Judson, John B., printer.
Kiefer & Dressel, merchants.
Klein, M., merchant.
King, Morris, merchant.
Klock, W. H., merchant.
Kennedy, M. J., leather m’fr.
Kasson, A. J., prop. Memorial Hall.
Locklin* A. W., postmaster.
Lake, Geo. L., leather dresser.
Loyd, C. M. C., insurance agency.
Lobdell, B. N., merchant.
Littauer Bros., glove mfr’s.
Leaning, W. E., editor Intelligencer.
Mills Bros., leather manufacturers.
Mills & Co., insurance agents.
Mead, Eugene, truckman.
McSwiney, Jas., glove manufacturer.
McDowell, J. B., merchant.
Norton, A. D., jeweler.
Newman & Sons, B. W., merchants.
Nonotuck Silk Co., silk agency.
Place, W. H., Pres. M. and M. Bank.
Place, C. L., plumber.
Place, Geo. M., glove manufacturer.
Parker, H. H., lawyer.
Parsons & Potter, glove m’frs.
Peake & Levi, merchants.
Pauley, Philip, glove manufacturer.
Palmer, Chas., hotel.
Parke, C. M., lawyer.
Rea & White, glove manufacturers.
Ripton, W. N., silk agent.
Richardson & Steele, merchants.
Rose, C. W., glove manufacturer.
Rowley, C. R., clergyman.
Ross, Hervey, editor Standard.
Rogers & Everest, merchants.
Shaffer, F. W.,, merchant.
Shotwfell,* S. H., glovers’ materials.
Stewart & Co., thread and silkag’ts.
Sexton, S., merchant.
Smith, John H., glove manufacturer.
Smith, Philo R., merchant.
Schmidt, Louis, merchant.
Skiff, C. J., glove manufacturer.
Starr, Z. B., stone contractor.
Stetson, M. V. B., cash. M. & M. bank.
Steele, W. F., real estate.
Stewart, Cyrus, insurance agent.
SmithCo.,The D.M., hair & wool m’rs
Smith, E. M., insurance agent.First M. E. Church, Bleecker Street Square.THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
i7
Tuck & Co., S. M., druggists.
Taylor, Geo. H.,-merchant.
Treadway, M. C., silk agent.
Thompson, D. S., merchant.
Van Gordon, C. M., merchant.
Wood & Kelly, glove m’frs.
Wood, J. E., leather m’fr.
Whitney, W. E., glove m’fr.
Wright, H. D., lawyer.
Whitney, Z. B., glovers’ material.
Weise, R. E. merchant.
Welch, N. W.
West, W. D., cash. Fulton Co. bank. Young, F. M., pres, board of ed.
Young, D. F.
CLIMATIC AND SANATORY
No consideration is more essential to the continued prosperity and
happiness of a community than healthful climatic conditions. Glovers-
ville has the lowest death rate of any city in the state. The natural fea-
tures of soil, climate and topography are conducive to health. The city
is swept by an abundance of fresh air from over the neighboring moun-
tains, and the air is mild and salubrious, the mercury seldom rising
above 85 or falling below zero. The city is being sewered as fast as
any new locality becomes populated, and public improvements and reg-
ulations are constantly lowering the mortality. It is a place for hay-fever
patients and those who would shun fever and ague and epidemics of all
kinds, for they abide not here. There are no cyclones or other convul-
sions of angry nature to shorten lile in this favored locality.
POPULATION.
Where in 1816 a little hamlet stood on the verge of civilization, peer-
ing timidly into the forest beyond, in 1890 an important city stands
with a population of nearly 15,000 inhabitants. The rate of growth
during the past few years has been much greater than at any other time
in its history, showing an increase during the last decade of nearly 100
per cent., which may be largely attributed to the untiring energy and
activity of our manufacturers, who have so enhanced the merits of their
output as to overcome the prejudices of those who demand foreign made
goods, and their products to-day are made welcome and compete favor-
bly in the most exclusive markets of the country, and in many instances
have driven foreign productions entirely from the field. In manufac-
turing as well as population, Gloversville has outgrown neighboring
villages that were old when it was only started. Had the same wise
spirit of industry pervaded in those villages which has ever been char-
acteristic of Gloversville, they need not have lagged so far behind in the
race for supremacy.Union Free School, North Main Street.THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
J9
WATER WORKS.
The supply of water for household and manufacturing purposes is un-
limited, and protection from fire is as completely assured as in any city
in the country. The water supply of Gloversville is secured by means
of the gravitation system, water being drawn from five reservoirs
located about three miles from the city, and at an elevation of about 250
feet above the business centre of the town. The five reservoirs now in
use have an aggregate capacity of 13,500,000 gallons, and plans are now
in progress to further extend the supply.
They are supplied from mountain streams fed by springs in the im-
mediate vicinity of each. Citizens of Gloversville may well congratu-
late themselves not only on the abundance of water with which the
city is blessed, but on its excellent quality, whether compared with that
which quenched the thirst of their predecessors, or with that which is
offered them when visiting other cities.
FIRE DEPARTMENT.
Among other good things Gloversville possesses an excellent fire
department, consisting of an electric fire alarm system and other neces-
sary apparatus of the latest improved character. The firemen are-
trained and expert, and the service has been put upon a most efficient
basis.
POLICE DEPARTMENT.
Ail parts of the city are well patrolled by a sturdy and experienced
force of police, which, we are happy to say, owing to the orderly char-
acter of the community and the absence of that tough element more
notable in large cities, has little occasion for extreme measures, though
the vigilance of the department is in no wise neglected for these reasons.
CITY VALUATION. NO DEBT.
The assessed valuation of the city is $4,000,000. The rate of taxation
is unusually low and we believe there is no city of similar size in theFremont Street Methodist Episcopal ChurchTHE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
21
union that can compare with it, either in point of enterprise, general
prosperity or low taxes. The city abounds with excellent and con-
venient sites for manufactories, and every inducement will be offered by
the Board of Trade, to manufacturers who wish to locate here.
FINANCIAL.
Gloversville’s banking business is perhaps the strongest support of
the manufacturing and mercantile interests of the city, and working in
alliance with these interests in all their legitimate phases, each apprecia-
bly influences and partakes of the tone and methods of the others.
Hence the banks of the city, like her business enterprises, are noted for
their sound, energetic, yet conservative management, command the
entire confidence of business men and capitalists, and hold a high rank
among the financial institutions of the State. There are two banks in
the city whose yearly aggregate of business is of immense proportions,
the sagacity displayed in their management having been well rewarded
by the fast growing interests of the city. As shown by their last annual
statement, the standing of the banks is as follows:
CAPITAL STOCK. SURPLUS FUND.
Fulton County National Bank -	-	$150,000	$90,000
Manufacturers & Merchants’ Bank -	-	50,000	17,000
BUILDING AND LOAN ASSOCIATION.
Owing to the aid afforded by building and loan associations in Glov-
ersville, large numbers of neat houses have been erected in the city
which are fast being paid for by the borrowers, and the habits of saving
and frugal living thus inculcated will continue to bear good fruit in the
future of this growing metropolis.
ELECTRIC LIGHT.
Two electric plants furnish light for the streets and business houses
and power for manufacturing purposes. Gloversville is among the best
lighted cities in the United States.New Baptist Church, S. Main Street, from Architectural Drawings,THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE
23
POST OFFICE BUSINESS.
Some idea of the city’s progress in a mercantile way may be had from
the annual report of business transacted in the post office. Here is a
table showing the total annual receipts of the office for the past five
years, ending June 30, 1890:
Gross income, June 30, 1885, to June 30, 1886................... .$10,490.60
“	“	“	1886,	“	1887.................   12,306.52
“	“	“	1887,	“	1888	   13,538.54
“	“	“	1888,	“	1889................... 14,946.06
“	“	“	1889,	“	1890................... 16,350.69
This shows the volume of business transacted to have greatly in-
creased during the past five years.
THE STREETS
are almost always the first subjects of remark by visitors to the city, and
worthily so, both on account of their width and cleanliness. The prin-
cipal streets are substantially paved with cedar blocks, curbed with
heavy flag-stone and kept in a cleanly condition. They challenge ad-
miration. There are from 60 to 70 miles of streets and avenues, which
are universally lined with handsome shade trees, the walks in the busi-
ness portion of the city, and on many of the avenues, being laid with
heavy flagging.
FRATERNAL SOCIETIES.
All the secret and beneficial societies are well represented. The
lodges are generally well furnished and great interest is taken in the
organization, as is testified by the constant growth of membership. The
societies which make the greatest point of insurance are numerous and
yearly do a vast amount of good in an unostentatious way. So far as
can be learned, these, as well as other fraternities, are in a most prosper-
ous condition. Every man who belongs to a secret society may be mor-
ally sure of meeting a cordial reception in the city These various
lodges cater strongly to the social element as a rule, and some form of
lodge entertainment is going on almost nightly.Congregational Church, East Fulton Street.THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
25
HOTELS.
The circumstance that many traveling men make it a point to stop
over Sunday in Gloversville speaks volumes for the hotels. The Wind-
sor is a large four story brick building in a central location. The
Alvord is large, capacious and comfortable and is centrally located. A
new five story building of brick and brown stone is in course of construc-
tion which, when completed, will be among the most modern and ele-
gantly equipped hotels in the state. Besides these first mentioned
there are numerous other smaller hotels with accommodations to fit any
purse. So far as hotels goes, Gloversville will not go to the rear for
any place of twice its population. The rates are reasonable, . service
first-class, and they can cater to the finest trade in the country.
AMUSEMENTS.
In the way of entertainments and amusements there is much to make
life in the city pleasant and sociable. There are social and society re-
unions, and a number of clubs of various descriptions. Kasson’s Opera
House, or Memorial Hall, occupies a massive brick building. This
house was erected in 1880 by Mr. A. J. Kasson, at a cost of $70,000, and
was opened to the public Feb. 1, 1881. The theatre has a seating capac-
ity of 1,200, and is fitted with all modern conveniences, including patent
folding opera chairs, eighteen different sets of fine scenery, and these,
together with the handso ne interior decorations, make it in some re-
spects a model. The stage,.33x45 feet in dimensions, has all the neces-
sary appointments for the display of scenic productions. The best en-
tertainments and stars on the road come to Gloversville, and our citi-
zens can listen to metropo’i an attractions in their own city. The winter
season is rendered very enjoyable to the public in the way of amuse-
ment, as the opera hoase is kept well occupied by the best trav-
eling companies. The house is admirably managed, and many cities
twice the size of Gloversville have not so good an opera house as this.
PROSPECT HILL CEMETERY
is one of the most beautiful cities of the dead in the country. It lies on
a grassy slope on the uplands situated in the eastern part of the city.
The surface is picturesquely irregular and studded here and there with
a large variety of beautiful trees and shrubbery. Art has come to the
aid of nature and laid out a system of Winding roads and paths thatPresbyterian Church, West Fulton Street.THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.	27
bring to view fresh beauties at every turn. Exquisite and loving care is
visible at every point in the neatly kept lots, and beautiful monuments,
from the simple headstone or slab to the more elaborate group or pile
surrounded by expensive statues of various sizes. There is no lack of
costly monuments to the old families, and these stones seen through
the leafy vistas makes a rarely beautiful and impressive sight. The
Catholics have a cemetery in the same ground a little apart from the
other.
THE PRESS.
The press of Gloversville is fully up to the highest grade of modern
newspaper enterprise, and in all the departments of news gathering and
of thoughtful discussion the papers of the city are true representatives
of its progress and its advancement. It has exerted a powerful influ-
ence in promoting the material prosperity of the city, and in contribut-
ing to the results which Liave culminated in the Gloversville of to-day.
The leading daily and weekly papers of Gloversville are:
The Gloversville Standard, established in December, 1856, was the
first paper published in Gloversville. Its founder was Wm. H. Case,
now deceased. It was an organ of the Republican party until 1872,
when under the editorial management of Joseph R. Arrowsmith it sup-
ported Greeley for the Presidential chair. In 1873 it was purchased by
Hervey Ross, its present proprietor. Under his control it has stead-
fastly advocated the principles of the Democratic party, and it has long*
been recognized as one of the ablest champions of that ancient political
faith in Fulton County. Since August, 1888, two editions have been
issued, weekly and semi-weekly. It is a large 4-page paper, 8 columns
to the page. Mr. Ross also publishes the Press, at Hope, N. Y.
The Gloversville Intelligencer ranks among the first weekly publica-
tions of the state. It’s republican tone is pronounced, and 'it is the
recognized organ of that party throughout the county.
The Intelligencer first unfolded its pages to the public in January,
1867, when our village had not attained one-half its present population
and business importance. Chas. H. Kelly was its progenitor, and its
birth-place was a cramped upper story in Park’s Block, on Main street,
which was afterwards destroyed by the great fire that swept away all of
the old wooden rookeries on Church and Main streets from Elm to Mid-
dle. Mr. Kelly’s death occurred when the paper was only a few months
old, and he was succeeded by Mr. Geo. M. Thompson, who altered the
complexion of the paper from that of an independent to a Republican
journal, removed the office to more suitable quarters, and commenced
upbuilding a more extensive business. In February, 1877, Mr. E. W.
Capron of Norwich, Chenango county, became associated in the busi-
ness with Mr. Thompson, and in August of the same year the latter
retired, his interest being transferred to Mr. Hiram L. Ward, also ofS. H. ShotwelPs Residence, South Main StreetTHE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
Norwich. The business continued under the firm name of Capron &
Ward until January 9th, 1879, when impaired health occasioned the
retirement of Mr. Capron, and Mr. Ward remained in sole possession
until April, 1881. A new partnership was then formed, under the title
of Ward & Blunck, the junior partner being a Cooperstown man. This
combination was destined to be short-lived, as the senior partner soon
fell ill of a malady from which there were no hopes of recovery, and in
August, 1881, just prior to his death, he sold his interest to Mr. W. E.
Leaning, and the business was continued until March 1st, 1888, under
the firm name of Blunck & Leaning.
Mr. Leaning became sole proprietor of the paper in the last men-
tioned month, and to his management is due its subsequent prosperity.
Mr. Leaning died May 15, 1890, and since that time the business of the
office has been conducted by Messrs. H. G. Dewey and C. O. Mills as
administrators, the editorial management devolving upon Mr. C. W.
Brockway. The office is provided with excellent job printing facilities,
and the style of work turned out has won for it an enviable reputation.
Daily Leader, established Aug., 1887. The Daily Leader is an even-
ing daily paper. It is Republican in politics, and is ably presided over
by Mr. W. B. Collins, who is both editor and proprietor. The Leader
is a large 4-page paper, 8 columns to the page, and is one of the most
readable of newspapers, with full telegraphic reports and articles of gen-
eral interest, and is intelligently edited. The use made of its columns
for advertising purposes, both by local and distant business men, give
evidence of the highest estimate in which its circulation is held, and its
prosperity and influence are annually increasing. It also maintains a
job printing department.
Glovers’ Journal, A special monthly paper published by O. H. Bame
& Co. for the further advancement of American glove manufacturers,
and as an assistant to glove buyers.
The Helping Hand. Monthly, C. H. Winne, editor.
Gloversville Methodist. Monthly, Rev. C. W. Rowley, editor.
The Association. Monthly, published by the Y. M. C. A.
CHURCHES.
Gloversville might well be styled a “City of Churches,” in view of the
fact that churches are numerous in proportion to its population. Many
of the Gloversville churches are remarkable for their architectural
beauty. Following is a list of the churches, together with their resi-
dent pastors: St. Mary’s, (Roman Catholic), Rev. Father M. Killeen.
First Baptist, Rev. A. W. Bourn. First Congregational, Rev. W. E.
Park. Christ Church, Rev. C. P. A. Burnett. First Methodist, Rev. C.
W. Rowley. First Presbyterian, Rev. Jas. Gardner, D. D. Fremont
Street Methodist Church, Rev. T. G. Thompson. St. James Lutheran,
Rev. A. M. Whetstone. North Main Street M. E. Church, Rev. E. Wise-Kingsboro Avenue Presbyterian Church.THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
3i
man. Kingsboro ave. Presbyterian Church, Rev. I. O. Rankin. First
M. E. Church Mission, Rev. B. A. Finch, and Zion M. E. Church. The
Catholic society has in course of erection a handsome new edifice, which
when completed will be a pride to the city. The Baptists are also erect-
ing a new church. Views of many of the churches will be found in this
volume.
EDUCATIONAL.
It may be taken for granted that a city of enterprise and intelligence
such as Gloversville has considered matters of education of primary im-
portance. No expense has been spared in perfecting and developing
completely a system of schools; and not content with this, other schol-
astic institutions of high rank have found here adequate support and'
management. Schools of the best order, freely accessible to the poorest
child in the city, are in daily operation. Every child so far belongs to
the State as to be entitled to a free education at the expense of the
State. Ignorance is more costly than schools, and no investment can be
so uniformly productive of good returns to the State as that devoted to
the culture of those who themselves are soon to be State. Hence the
doors of the public schools are thrown wide open, and the children are
welcome without money or price, not from the parlors of the rich only,
but also from the highways and hedges. In the matter of schools the
city has little to ask for. The seminary, known as the Union Seminary,
was built in the year 1884, at a cost of $21,000. The academic depart-
ment is presided over by a large corps of competent instructors, and
every facility is at hand for teaching the higher branches of learning.
The public schools are under the superintendence of a Board of Educa-
tion, and are conducted in a manner similar to that of all northern cities.
Taken as a whole, the citizens of Gloversville, including the working
people, are a cultured and moral class. The employed of this city are
remarkable for being as well dressed as their employers, and in many
cases it is hard to distinguish the clerk or mechanic from the capitalist.
TRANSPORTATION.
The means of transportation enjoyed by Gloversville include the
Fonda, Johnstown and Gloversville railroad, the Johnstown, Glovers-
ville and Kingsboro horse car line, and a plank road from Gloversville
to Fonda. The F., J. & G. railroad has its northern terminus at North-
ville, the gateway to the world-famous Adirondacks, and its southern
terminus at Fonda, where connection is made with the New York Cen-Passenger Depot, F. J. & G. R. R.THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
tral, West Shore railroad and the Erie canal. The last annual report
of this road gives some idea of the volume of business transacted in
Gloversville. It appears from this report that the gross earnings of the
road for the year ending Oct. i, 1890, were $227,493.09, and the number
of passengers carried was'239,880. Gloversville is the chief feeder of
the road, and the figures above given furnish satisfactory evidence
of the importance of the city as a manufacturing and business centre.
In this connection it ought to be said that another railroad is knocking
ar our doors. The New York Canadian Pacific road, now in course of
construction, is seeking connection with our city, and it is now practi-
cally 1 settled that the line will pass through Gloversville, thus giving
shippers the advantage of direct communication with the Canada Paci-
fic road, one of the strongest trunk lines in the world.
THE GLOVERSVILLE FREE LIBRARY,
founded in April, 1880, by the Hon. Levi Parsons, contains at the pres-
ent day 9,000 volumes and has a circulation of over 40,000 volumes per
annum. The library occupies now three large rooms in the Littauer
block, South Main street. Tfye accompanying illustration presented here-
with shows interior view of book room, 25x95 feet, and has shelf room
for 16,000 volumes; in the front part is the librarian’s office. The books
of the library are classified and the systematic and painstaking manage-
ment of the institution can be seen from the fact that from an issue of
227,456 volumes during the ten years past not a single volume was lost.
The free reading room connected with the library enjoys a great
patronage and contains the leading dailies and weeklies, as well as all
prominent monthlies and quarterlies; during the year closing June 15,
1890, it has been utilized by 19,741 readers. There is also a free refer-
ence library of several hundred volumes in constant use, and the insti-
tution is growing in appreciation and popularity.
The citizens of Gloversville take a just pride in their library, and in
accordance with legal enactment appropriate from public funds by tax-
ation, $1,000 for every 15,000 volumes circulated.
Private generosity has done a great deal for this educational institu-
tion; during the past ten years the citizens have contributed nearly
$18,000; in addition to this the ladies of the city united their efforts and
formed a Ladies’ Auxiliary Association, which association established
k a permanent fund for the purchase of books. A similar fund has been
given by Mrs. Sarah B. Place in memory of her husband, the late Mr. U.
M. Place, and there is no doubt that other public spirited men and wo-
men will from time to time make such donations as will secure the
future growth and prosperity of an institution that is doing so much
for the social, moral and intellectual development of this young and
beautiful city.t35
THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
The library management is vested in a board of directors of 22 mem-
bers, 12 of which are elected by the association. An annual payment
of $3 constitutes a membership in the association; the payment of $50
secures a life membership. While the use of the library is entirely free
to all inhabitants* only the members of the association have the right to
vote and are eligible to office. There are at present over 100 life mem-
bers.
The board of managers is constituted as follows:	Trustees for life,
Talmage Parsons, Seymour Sexton, A. D. L. Baker. Trustees ex-offi-
cio, the mayor and superintendent of public instruction and the pastors
of the six Protestant churches. Trustees by election, D. B. Judsort, J.
S. Burr, C. M. Parke, W. J. Heacock, Daniel Hays, L. Caten, S. H. Shot-
well, John McNab, Charles Kiefer, W. F. Steele, Jas. O. Parsons, John
C. Allen. The officers of the library are:	President, Daniel Hays; vice-
president, Seymour Sexton, secretary, C. M. Parke, treasurer, W. D.
West, librarian, A. L. Peck. The library is open 12 hours every secular
day.
The board of directors of the library also control the Levi Parsons
scholarship fund at Union college, Schenectady, N. Y. This fund of
$56,000 was established.by the founder of the library for the higher edu-
cation of the young men of Gloversville, who, in accordance with pro-
vision of the scholarship indenture, have always the preference in ap-
pointment to scholarship. Unio'n college is one of the oldest colleges in
the state, and maintains a high standard among the higher institutions
of learning; it is situated at Schenectady, only about 45 miles southeast-
from Gloversville.
The library also maintains successfully a free evening school, and
from the foregoing as well as from the history of the schools at Glov-
ersville, it becomes evident that the educational advantages of this city
are greater and better taken care of than in any other city of the same
size, a fact that ought to attract the careful consideration of all parties
who wish to settle in this enterprising city.
THE GLOVE INDUSTRY—ITS ORIGIN & GROWTH. OVER
$2,000,000 CAPITAL INVESTED.
Probably the most interesting characteristic of the growth of Gloversville
lies in the glove industry, which has been brought to such signal success
at this place. From a well-known work on the glove industry of Amer-
ica, the writer has gleaned many of the facts in reference thereto in this
article. The origin of this great manufacturing interest, which hasUnion Free School, Spring Street.37
THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
grown to such proportions as to overshadow all other industries, is
somewhat shrouded in uncertainty. Authorities differ as to the person
to whom is due the greater portion of the credit for establishing the
business, but the following account is believed to be as correct as car
be obtained. The business started first in Fulton county, at Kingsborc
in 1809. In that year Talmadge Edwards, formerly a leather dresser ir
England, moved from Massachusetts to these parts for the purpose oJ
teaching James Burr and W. C. Mills the art of dressing leather, th(
skins used being deerskins which manufacturers of tin-ware in this sec
tion had received in exchange for their productions. During the sam(
year Mr. Burr made up a few pair of rough mittens which he took uj
the Mohawk and bartered off, finding a ready sale among farmers anc
woodmen. In those days mittens and gloves were cut and made by wo
men. There were no sewing machines in those times. The mitten wa:
marked out with a pencil, using a paper or wooden pattern, cut witl
shears, sewed by hand and the seams pounded, and the mitten was thei
placed between two boards and the maker sat on them while making
another pair. The selling of the manufactured product was no eas]
task in those days, and the sale of a few dozen pairs to one customer wa
an achievement to boast of. Long and tiresome journeys were made ii
wagons filled with buckskin mittens and gloves.; Hundreds of mile
were traveled in this way, and the rivalry between salesmen was greate
than at the present time, and good salesmen, or peddlers, as they wer
then termed, were in great demand. The first load of gloves everdrivei
into Boston was taken by the father of D. B. Judson in the year 1825
the trip taking six weeks.
The process of makinggloves by hand with a common needle wa
slow and laborious, an 1 in 1852 the first sewing machine was introduced
From 1856 to 1861 little progress was made in glove making, but th<
impetus given to all business by the war brought other machines on th
market, and large quantities of gloves were- made on them. The ol(
style glove was plain, having little, if any attempt at decoration; a vin
•or something similar was marked on the back, exceptions, however, be
ing made occasionally in embroidering them in a more ornate mannei
But mark the change in 1890, from sixty years ago. To-day the fac
lories in Gloversville produce the finest gloves in America. These pro
ducts are equal if not superior to the most noted of foreign manufac
turers. When we consi ler what has been accomplished by the Ameri
can glover in the past fifty years, the possibilities of the future loom u
before us replete with wonderful results. Let us compare the glov
factory of half a century ago with one of the present day. As a rule i
was but a simple dwelling where one or two women were at work cut
ting and making their mittens wfith a pair*of shears and attending t
their household duties. The building of to-day is one of many stories
requiring several flight of stairs to climb or a steam elevator to reac
where hundreds of men and women are employed. The hurrying day
are now upon us. The lightning telegraph message is received Iror
all parts of the United States, reaching from Maine to California, “t
ship on dozens of cases at once.” _ This is the glove manufacture c
Gloversville. The record of its past is a brilliantly creditable page, an
the operations of its early days are still remembered by many of th
older residents of the city.St. Jarr.es Lutheran Church, Grand Street.THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
39
MANUFACTURERS.
No other city in the union offers so many advantages to the small or
large manufacturer as Gloversviile does at the present time. The
manufacturer who locates here will find everything at hand for the suc-
cessful furtherance of his enterprise. In brief, some of the advantages
and attractions of Gloversviile as an industrial centre are:
i.	It is the brightest, cleanest and most attractive city in the east.
2.	It is located in the most picturesque portion of central New York*
at the foot of the Adirondacks, is the seat of the glove industry of the
United States and the largest single glove producing center in the
world.
3.	It is situated contiguous to the N. Y. C. & H. R. R., one of the
greatest trans-continental routes in the United States and a road that
leads to all markets.
4.	The government of the city is based on strict ideas of economy,
consistent with safe and sure progress; the spirit of the people is de-
cidedly in favor of every measure introduced to make the rate of taxa-
tion low, while at the same time all public improvements are of the best
character, requiring no renewel when once completed.
5.	The water supply is of the purest quality, is adequate for all pur-
poses, and the rates are low.
6.	The cost of living, rents, fuel and taxes are comparatively low.
7.	Statistics show that it is one of the healthiest cities in the union, sub-
ject to no .contagious diseases, and entirely free from prevailing sickness.
8.	Its public school system has been placed on a satisfactory basis,
and affords excellent educational advantages and facilities. Its socialf*THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE
4i
advantages are numerous, the tone of society healthy, and the morals
of the community are beyond dispute.
The question is frequently asked, what can be manufactured in Glov-
ersville to the best advantage ? The simplest answer, and an absolutely
true one, is anything. A good idea of what can be done may be obtained
by a glance at the prosperous and flourishing branches of business now
‘carried on' They include over 117 glove and mitten factories, 17 glove
and shoe leather factories, carriages, glove and shoe dies, foundries,
sewing machines, bottling establishments, wood and paper box factories,
planing and sawing mills, wagon factories, button factory, machine
shops, forges, engine shops, patent medicines, roofing materials, knitting
mills, etc., etc.
SACANDAGA PARK.
Vacation is a cessation of work and a diversion of the mind into new
and pleasant channels. While it may seem like idleness to loll around
the seashore, the county farm or among the mountains, it is a repairing
and oiling of the machinery necessary to the better accomplishment of
work. If you can find rest and recreation during the summer months,
you gain thereby. To those who enjoy great nature’s work, we would
say that Sacandaga Park is among the grandest and most romantic of
spots. This park is owned by the F., J. & G. R. R., is distant 24 miles
from Fonda, 16 miles from Gloversville, and one mile from the village
of Northville, on the banks of the Sacandaga river. It covers an area of
from 75 to 100 acres of land, the whole of which is covered with one
labyrinth of evergreen trees, and from 125 to 150 cottages are scattered
over its grounds and along the banks of the river. The railroad com-
pany is now constructing a new hotel, which, when completed, will be
modern and strictly first-class in every respect.
The park is situated in a pleasant valley at the foot of the Mayfield
mountains, and in close proximity to the Adirondacks. There are walks
and winding paths of the most romantic character among its hills and
precipices, and the lover of mother earth will hardly grow weary of
wandering through its shaded glens, each day bringing to light some
new object of beauty and interest.
The location is beautiful, and no expense has been spared by the com-
pany in improving all its natural advantages. Delightful sites are here
afforded for cottages, as will be seen by glimpses of picturesque resi-
dences through the thick foliage of trees. The park is the scene of
many picnics every year, and the many advantages offered here to pic-
nicers and excursionists have made it immensely popular. Every sec-New Sacandaga Park Hotel, from Architectural Drawings.THE INDUSTRIES OF GLGVERSVILLE.
45
tion of the country sends visitors annually. Many are attracted by the
wonderful purity of the water and atmosphere, the climate being noted
as a sanitarium for hay-fever, rheumatism, bronchial affections, etc., as
it is one of the finest, purest, dryest, clearest and most healthful of at-
mospheres. Great numbers visit this region to escape from or get re-
lief of these maladies; many experience an improvement after a short
stay here. No other resort in this section possesses such entertaining-
features. At watering places generally the surrounding scenery is soon
familiarized to the eye, which then merely wanders over the commin-
gled throng of pleasure seekers, who seem bent only on the fleeting
pleasures of the hour, and soon returns to inspect the real or fancied
infirmaties of its possessor. A visit to Sacandaga Park reverses all this.
The attractions of the surrounding region are of a different and more
wholesome kind, and draw to them those who seek health and recrea-
tion, and offer a delightful hot weather asylum to all who need to es-
cape from crowded cities or a sultry climate.
YOUNG MEN’S CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION.
Young Men’s Christian Associations seek to unite those young men
who, regarding Jesus Christ as their God and Saviour, according to the
Holy Scriptures, desire to be his disciples in their doctrine and in their
life, and to associate their efforts for the extension of his kingdom among
young men. Young men are to be benefited spiritually, socially, intel-
lectually and physically. They are supported largely by the contribu-
tions of business men, and the management generally is in the hands of
practical young business men representing the different evangelical de-
nominations.
The Gloversville Young Men’s Christian Association was organized
in 1882 and incorporated Feb. 10, 1888. The first quarters was a room
on the third floor, hard of access, poorly furnished and not particularly
attractive. The next home was also on the third floor, but provided
# more room, and the next move was to the second floor. Then another
stage of progress found the association in charge of the entire second
floor of a new block, although only three rooms could here be provided.
The latest move has been into the building 64 North Main street, and it
finds the association better furnished than ever before. The whole
house is occupied, and without any alterations the rooms are adapted to-
reception, games, boys’ and toilet rooms, kitchen, Secretary’s office and
members, parlor on the first floor; with rooms for the educational classes,
directors and committee meetings on the second floor. This floor also
supplies storage rooms and a bed-room for the Secretary’s assistant.
The building is lighted throughout by gas and heated by a hot-air fur-Ill
■Hi
r	■ * ■■ :•	\	* J; ;/
First M. E. Church Mission, EastfFulton btreet.THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
45
nace. The inside appearance is really much better than the outside
would warrant.
The large yard has been found particularly attractive during the sum-
mer, and is much used for ball playing and light exercise. A great need
is felt of a gymnasium and good bath rooms, both of which will doubt-
less be furnished. Since the last removal the visits of young men to the
rooms have averaged over 1600 monthly, and probably during the win-
ter months 2500 visits will be made every month.
The Association has kept pace with the progress of the city, and its doors
have been kept open with a welcome to all young men. The city now
has a population of over 3000 young men, and as every city should fur-
nish such a place for the welfare of its future business and political
leaders, Gloversville will doubtless soon erect a building suitable to all
the needs of this work, and with rentals provide for the financial man-
agement.Residence of John McNab, Esq., West Fulton Street.Residence of Daniel B. Judson, Esq., State Street.GLOVERSVILLE
Its Leading Industries and Mercantile Establishments, with Sketches
of their Foundation, History and Progress, and Notes on the
Character and Extent of their operations.
DANIEL B. JUDSON,
Manufacturer of G-lo-veti and Mittens, 15 State.
One of the most prominent and representative houses in Gloversville
and one of the largest of the kind in the United States, is the one form-
ing the caption of this brief sketch. Mr. Daniel B. Judson, the sole pro-
prietor of this enterprise, commenced operations in a small and modest
way in 1840, at a time when Gloversville gave but little promise of her
present commercial importance, and by modern methods, industry, per-
severence and a strict adherence to integrity, the business has been in-
creased from year to year, until to-dav, as before stated, the house ranks
among the largest and most important of its kind in the country. The
best evidence of Mr. Judson’s success is, that since the inception of the
business the production has scarcely ever been equal to the demand, and
he has manufactured more leather gloves and mittens than anyone man
in the United States. The specialty of the house is in the production of
heavy goods from buck, calf, horse hide and sheep skin, although kid
goods are also manufactured quite extensively. The output is over
60,000 dozens of pairs annually, employment being furnished to fifty
skilled cutters and from seven to eight hundred operatives. The sales of
the house are principally with jobbers from all parts of the United
States, who visit the salesrooms of the factory annually. Mr. Judson
also-maintains :a branch house in Cincinnati, Ohio, for supplying the
Western and South-Western trade. The plant occupied by Mr. Judson
is a large and commodious one, which embraces, besides the glove fac-
tory, two large leather factories where he manufactures and dresses all
of his own leather. Mr. Judson also owns two general supply stores,
one located in the city and the other ac Northville, both of which are
conducted under his supervision, the sales from which amount annuallyTHE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
5°
to over $50,000. He also owns a beautiful stock farm of 150 acres, all
of which is in the eastern part of the city and inside of the corporation, and
well stocked with fine blooded Jerseys. This large tract of land con-
tains many eligible and attractive sites for building purposes, and will
doubtless, in the near future, be laid out in streets and avenues and
dotted with handsome residences, as Mr. Judson has already received
numerous applications for building lots. Mr. Judson is too well and
favorably^nown to permit of personal mention at our hands, but in
conclusion, we may be permitted to add that he is one of Glov-
ersville’s most public spirited citizens, and has done much to foster and
enhance the welfare and prosperity of the city. He is Vice-President of
the Fulton County National Bank, a director of the Fonda, Johnstown
and Gloversville railroad, a director of the Public Free Library, and an
active member of the Board of Trade, and the enterprise of which he is
the founder and promoter has had an important bearing in the growth
and development of this flourishing young city.
BROWER & BODGE.
With Converse, Stanwood & Co., South street, Boston, Mass.
Manufacturers of Shoe Leather, 67 Main street.
A prominent house devoted to the manufacture of leather in this city is
that of Messrs. Brower & Dodge. This house was originally established
in 1883 by W. H. Brower; in 1887 it was known as Brower & Sporborg,
the present style since 1889. The premises occupied by the firm consist
of the factory and shipping room located as above indicated, which is
thoroughly equipped with all necessary machinery and furnishes em-
ployment to sixty hands. Only the finest qualities of leather are pro-
duced, and a number of improvements in them are the results of the en-
terprise of this house. Messrs. Brower & Dodge manufacture all kinds
ot bright and dull Dongola, making a specialty of Excelsior Kid, which
is in great demand by shoe manufacturers throughout the country.
The trade of this house is very extensive, extending throughout the
United States. Mr. W. H. Brower and Samuel E.. Dodge are both active
and enterprising business men, giving their personal supervision to every
detail of the business, and all orders entrusted to them will receive
prompt and careful attention.
C. W ROSE,
Glove Manufacturer, Cor. Main and Pine Sts.
It was reserved for the present century and American genius to accel-
erate and heighten the progress of the art of manufacturing gloves, and
to combine the products of labor-saving machinery with due regard to
useful and durable goods. Gloversville has long held the leading posi-
tion in this trade, and the number of her establishments engaged in it is
very large. Each concern follows some special line of production to
which their entire attention is devoted, thereby securing the highest ex-
cellence of product at a minimum cost.
Among such, that of Mr. C. W. Rose may be mentioned as one of the
most prominent in the city. This enterprise was established in 1865THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE
5i
by its present proprietor, and has since acquired an extensive trade.
The premises occupied consist of one building two stories high, 60x24
feet in dimensions, and another three story building, 22x30 feet in dimen-
sions. These are heated by steam, thoroughly replete with all necessary
machinery, tools and appliances, and furnish employment to from 150 to
200 operatives. This house manufactures a fine line of kid gloves made
from various kinds of the best imported leather. A specialty is made in
dogskin driving gloves, which are of the finest make and are everywhere
held in high estimation by the trade, as being superior to any similar
glove made. The trade of this house, which is an extensive one, ex-
tends from the Atlantic to the Pacific coast. Mr. C. W. Rose is an active
member of the Board of Trade, an enterprising business man of push
and energy, and the success which has attended his past efforts is as
gratifying as it is well merited.
A. H. AVERY, SON & CO.,
Wholesale and Retail Dealers in Crockery, Glass Ware, Silver
Ware, Wall Papers and Window Shades, Damp Goods, &c.,
7 South Main street.
The extensive enterprise of
Messrs. A. H. Avery, Son & Co. is
among the most prominent of its
kind in Gloversville, having been
founded by A. H. Avery in 1870;
the present style since 1889. The
store, which is a veritable credit to
the city, is commodious and ele-
gantly arranged with an extensive
and costly line of goods. On en-
tering the store the visitor finds
himself in a palatial bazaar of
China, Cut Glass, Silver Ware,
Porcelain and beautiful Lamps,
whose beauty fairly dazzles and
bewilders him. On every hand are
articles whose costly beauty and
rich design make each a gem of its
kind, yet unsurpassed amid these
chef d'oeuvres are beautiful wares
whose prices place them within the
reach of all. Making a tour of the
main floor, the visitor is pleasantly impeded and delayed by new beau-
ties in rare crockery, artistic pottery, brass goods, unique wrought iron
work, whose antique appearance would suggest that it might have been
fashioned by the master hand of Quentin Matsys, lamps, chandeliers,
artistic wall paper, and and a thousand other lovely and useful things
too numerous to mention here. A large and well selected stock of holi-
day goods of their own importation may be found here before and dur-
ing the holidays. The trade of this house extends throughout the city
and vicinity, and by reason of their marked facilities for procuring
goods direct from manufacturers, they are enabled to put them before
the public at the lowest cash prices. The members of the firm, A. H52
THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
and W. J. Avery and C. H. Silvernail, have provided the most extensive
opportunities for procuring everything required in this line, from the
plainest and most servicable article of crockery to the most expensive
and artistic productions of the world.
HENRY H. PETTIT,
Manufacturer of Gloves and Mittens.
Among the important houses
engaged in the manufacture of
gloves in this city, that of Mr.
H. H. Pettit occupies a promi-
nent place. This house was
originally established in 1879
by McDougall & Pettit, the lat-
ter having become sole proprie-
tor of the business in 1883. In
1885 he built the large and ex-
tensive plant now occupied by
him, which is five stories high,
and 50x100 feet in dimensions.
The factory is thoroughly
equipped with all modern and
latest improved machinery, thus
affording every facility for the
rapid filling of orders, employ-
ment being furnished to one
hundred operatives. The house
manufactures gloves and mit-
tens of all kinds, mainly confin-
ing its energies to what is
known to the trade as a high
class of goods. The products
of the house embrace a general
line of goods which it would be
almost impossible to classify.
The output averages fifteen
thousand dozens yearly, and
they are unsurpassed both as
regards durability and elegance,
and they can compete with any
of the most celebrated European
houses. The goods made by
this house can be depended
upon for their superior charac-
ter, both as regards material
and workmanship. Every care
is exercised that the goods
shall only leave the establish-
ment in perfect condition, and
this cause has led to an in-
creasing and permanent trade,
in all cases holding its ownTHE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
53
in friendly rivalry with contemporaries. Although this house
in extent of operations is surpassed by some of larger dimensions here,
it is not excelled in the quality and prices which it is enabled to place
before its patrons. This house is represented by traveling salesmen in
all* parts of the country, and all orders are promptly and carefully filled
at the lowest possible prices, and dealers will find it to their advantage
to enter into business relations with this house. The trade of this house
extends from the Atlantic to the Pacific coast, and is anuually increas-
ing. Mr. Pettit is a gentleman of experience in the business he operates,
devoting his personal attention critically to its numerous details, and is
highly regarded in trade circles for his enterprise and integrity, and in
conclusion we would say that his house is eminently one with which it
is advantageous to open and continue business relations.
PHILO R. SMITH,
Healer in Hardware, Builders’ Supplies, Cutlery, Belting, etc., 40
East Eniton Street.
The last few years has signally marked the mercantile and commer-
cial interests of Gloversville wdth enlarged facilities for procuring sup-
plies in almost every department of commerce, and especially in those
branches pertaining to the hardware and tool trade. The youngest of
the hardware houses of this city is that of Mr. Philo R. Smith, who
founded this enterprise April ist, 1889, and has since so conducted his
business as to have built up a large and growing trade which is an-
nually increasing in volume. This has largely been due to the exercise
of enterprising and energetic business methods which experience has
showm to be useful. The premises occupied consist of two floors, 22x70
feet in dimensions, which contain a large and judiciously selected stock
of builders’, manufacturers and general hardware, mechanics’tools, man-
ufacturers supplies, paints, oils and varnishes, agricultural implements,
etc. . This house makes a specialty of carriage makers’ supplies. The
warehouse is located at 117 Bleecker street, and the trade of the house
extends throughout the city and vicinity. Mr. Smith is a progressive
business man, and an active member of the Board of Trade, and holds a
commanding position in the hardware trade of Gloversville, being pre-
pared at all times to confer advantages and benefits on buyers, in the
way of prices, etc., difficult to procure elsewhere.
A. D. NORTON, Jeweler, 18 South Main Street.
The attractive and popular jewelry store of Mr. A. D. Norton is one
of the most prominent and extensive of its kind in Gloversville, and the
stock of goods carried is the largest in variety and quantity in the city.
Its claims to distinction do not rest wholly on the extent of its trade,
since it is among the oldest jewelry stores in Central New York, having
been founded by its present proprietor in 1869, nearly a quarter of a54
THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
century ago. Enterprise and the long record of just dealing this house
has always pursued, is an emphatic evidence of the honorable position
it has always occupied in the community. The store, located as above
indicated, is among the largest and finest on the street, and presents to
the passer-by an attractive appearance, while the interior is both ele-
gantly and'admirably-appointed. Handsome plate glass show cases
and ornamental counters assist materially in the display of the wel-
assorted stock of diamonds, precious stones, jewelry, gold and silver
watches, silverware, novelties, etc. This house carries the most coml
plete stock of optical goods to be found in Central New York, and the
eyes are examined by a practical optician free of charge. Here, also, is
displayed a rich and varied assortment of the finest art goods, contain-
ing many antiquities and interesting articles of artistic character, many
of rhese being secured direct from the great art centers of the old
world.
The taste displayed in their selection is a matter of favorable com-
ment by all the patrons of the house and citizens in general. The com-
bined value of this collection involves a large capital, and it is conceded
that no other house in this section carries so fine and varied a collection
in this line. The house is well known throughout the city, and enjoys
an extensive trade throughout the county. Mr. A. D. Norton is an
active member of the Board of Trade, and as a representative business
man, he is among the foremost.
COWL.ES, hill & CO.,
Booksellers and Stationers, 9 North Main Street.
Along the main thoroughfare of Gloversville—one of the most beauti*
ful streets in Central New York, may be found many concerns w'hich
deserve particular mention at our hands. Among these the establish-
ment of Messrs. Cowles, Hill & Co. must be carefully included, particu-
larly as it is one of the most enterprising concerns in the city. The
business was originally established in 1870 by D. F. Cowles, the present
style since 1889. The premises occupied, located as above indicated,
are commodious and well adapted to the business, consisting of the
first floor and basement.
The house deals largely in books, stationerv, wall-paper, school sup-
plies, commercial and fancy stationery, periodicals, blank books, window
shades, pictures, toilet articles, art goods and in fact everything ordi-
narily found in first-class book and stationery establishments. In the
department of literature special facilities are available. The stock is
replete with works of history, science, biography, poetry, travel, fiction,
theology, etc., and all standard publications are here found on hand in
bindings ranging from the cheapest to the greatest triumphs of the
book binder’s art.
The proprietors of the firm, Messrs. D. F. Cowles, John J. Hill and
Seymour A. Casler, are all enterprising and liberal business men, who
enjoy a large trade throughout the city and vicinity by reason of the
fair and generous treatment accorded patrons. The firm are repre-
sented in the Board of Trade, and are closely allied with the industrial
advancement of Gloversville.55
THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
F. PAULEY & SOX,
Manufacturers of Gloves and Mittens, 53 Bleecker Street.
Gloversville is rich in glove manufactories, but contains none that
can better excel in the quality of goods produced than the subject of
this sketch, the well and widely known firm of Messrs. F. Pauley & Son.
This house was established in 1859 by F. Pauley, the present senior
partner, the son, Mr. C. A. Pauley, being admitted to partnership in
1884, tince which time it has grown to its present large dimensions
under their fostering care and assiduity. The name of this house is
familiar, and the goods for which they are identified by reason of their
fine quality are held in high estimation throughout the United States,
from which they draw a ready trade. The premises occupied are among
the most complete, comprising three floors, 30x50 feet in dimensions,
with an L, 30x30 feet in dimensions. These are equipped with all the
latest improved machinery, operated by steam power, and furnish em-
ployment to forty skilled hands. All the skins used by this firm are
dressed and tanned by themselves by a process peculiarly their own and
are noted for their fine quality. The specialty of this house is the man-
ufacture of Plymouth Buck gloves and mittens, for which they have an
envied reputation, enjoying a large and first class trade throughout the
country. The output of this firm, including many different styles,
marked by some excellence peculiarly their own, is annually increasing
in value and extends throughout every state in the Union. Messrs. F.
& C. A. Pauley are both enterprising business men and w^ell deserving
of the reputation they have gained.THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
57
G. LEVOR,
Manufacturer ol Dull ancl Glazed Shoe Kid,
Factory at Woodside ave., running through to Grove street, and cover-
ing an entire block, Gloversville, N. Y. Main sales-room, 176 Federal
street, Boston, Mass. Branches at New York, Philadelphia, St. Louis
and Rochester, N. Y. Main office at factory, Woodside ave., Glov-
ersville.
This extensive enterprise was established by its present proprietor in
the year 1880, and is one of the first Dongola Leather Mfg. Houses in
the country. The factory on the present site was built five years ago.
It has been enlarged yearly, and has now assumed enormous propor-
tions, its capacity having been trebled. The main buildingis 35x225 feet
with five floors, to which hare been added two wings, one 24x32 feet,
and one 34x36 feet in dimensions, and of same height as main buildings.
With the various outbuildings, such as stock rooms, lime house, drying
sheds, chemical rooms, etc., the largest of which is 26x75 feet, the entire
plant covers two acres of land.
The mechanical equipments of the factory embrace all of the latest
improved machinery, tools and appliances known to the trade. No
article instrumental in the manufacture of leather has been too high in
price, nor any experiment too costly if the promise of improving quality
and labor would justify its adoption. Hence this establishment is con-
sidered a model and ranks as one of the largest of its kind in the United
States. The quality of goods manufactured by this house is the finest
known in the trade, and the best judges of leather pronounce it as un-
surpassed for beauty, strength and finish. Among the different brands
of leather manufactured are the “Lion” Kid, the “Unicorn,” “Kangaroo”
and “Imitation Kangaroo,” all of which are matt, or dull finish.
The “Lion” Kid is the oldest brand of any Dongola leather in the mar-
ket ; it is manufactured of Brazilian and South American goat skins ;
its appearance is rich in the extreme, it has a soft and silky feeling and
is unsurpassed as to strength. The “Unicorn” brand is a similar arti-
cle, manufactured of “Tampico” skins, and must be seen to be appre-
ciated. Of “Kangaroo” and “Imitation Kangaroo” the sales have been
simply immense. Mr. Levor is constantly behind on his orders for this
stock and has been for years. This fact is one of the best recommenda-
tions that can be given to the leather.
It is partly owing to those goods that the so-called Matt Kid formerly
imported has been driven almost completely out of the market. The
sales of the house are immense, its products going to nearly every state
in the union, besides being exported. The main salesroom, at 176 Fed-
eral street, Boston, is under the management of Mr. Simon Cohen, form-
erly of this city! Mr. Cohen is well and favorably known by the princi-
pal shoe manufacturers in the country or their buyers, and has proved
himself to be the right man for the place, always at his post, ready to
talk business.
Mr. Levor employs upwards of 150 men, and only those who have
dealings with him have an opportunity of judging with what prompt-
ness and regularity the business is managed; wherefore his success has
been as marvellous as it is deserving. The establishment has grown so
extensively of late that only those who have transactions with the house
are aware of its magnitude. The enterprise is considered as one of the58	THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
most successful, and looked upon as one of the most important main
stays in this city ; therefore we are pleased to bring it to the notice of
the outside world and accord to it and its proprietor the above courtesy.
CHARLES F. ALLEN,
Manufacturer of Plain and Fancy Paper Boxes, Gloversville, N. Y*
The numerous manufactures of this city have called into existence
others which, while not so collosal, are necessary adjuncts to their suc-
cessful operation.
The relation in which the paper box makers stand to glovers, hatters,
milliners, confectioners, and varied other manufacturers, is a most
important one.
Engaged in this important line of trade we find Mr. Charles F. Allen,
successor to E. H. Mills & Co., who established here in 1870, the present
proprietor succeeding to the business Dec. 1, 1885, since which time it
has been carried on with the most complete success.
The manufacturing plant is embraced in three floors, each 30x90 feet
in dimensions, thoroughly replete with all necessary apparatus for the
work, and furnishes employment to fifteen operatives. Mr. Allen makes
a specialty of all kinds of plain and fancy paper boxes known to the
trade. The trade of this house is principally in the city and vicinity,
though some goods are manufactured for neighboring cities and states.
Mr. Allen superintends personally his business, thereby guaranteeing all
work emanating from his house as first-class in every respect. He is
well andfavorably known among the manufacturers of this city, and all
orders entrusted to this house will be executed promptly and at prices
that can compete with any similar manufacturer.
WEST MILL COMPANY,
Glove Leather Dressers, Oil Dressed Grain Leather, etc.,
Gloversville, N. Y.
This old and reliable house, which is an important adjunct to the
glove industry of the city, was established in 1850, and after several
changes in the personnel, it passed into the hands of its present pro-
prietors, Messrs. L. Caten, W. D. West, T. G. Foster and H. G. Dewey,
men whose names give character and standing to any enterprise with
which they may be associated. The company’s plant, which is em-
braced in several large buildings, is fully equipped with all necessary
machinery, tools and appliances of the latest improved make. It is op-
erated by water power and furnishes employment to about forty
workmen." The * specialty of the house is oil dressed and grain leather
for gloves and mittens, their entire product being consumed by local
manufacturers. The firm are also dealers in ice, supplying the local
consumption. The company’s houses are located on the banks of their
pond, from which they derive the motive power for operating their
factory; it being fed by mountain streams, gives them an abundant
supply of pure ice. The proprietors of this enterprise are too well
known to admit of personal mention; in conclusion we may add that
they are all enterprising business men of push and energy, and closely
identified with the growth and development of this city.THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
59
A. J. ZIMMER & CO.,
Manufacturers of Gloves and Mittens, 81 S. Main Street.
A striking example of progress and of what may be accomplished by-
energy, experience and fair dealing, is afforded in an account of the
house of Messrs. A. J. Zimmer & Co., which from a small beginning in
1880 has steadily enlarged its facilities and extended the scope of its
trade operations until to-day it is recognized as one of the most promi-
nent and important in the trade. The premises occupied are embraced
in two substantial brick buildings 60x120 feet in dimension, four stories
in height, which are fully equipped with sewing machines and all neces-
sary tools and appliances for the work in hand, and affords employment
to three hundred hands. The finished product of the house, which is in
active demand by dealers and consumers, finds a ready market in all
parts of the United States, and consists of a general line of gloves and
mittens which are manufactured from buck, sheep, goat, calf skin and
California leather. Kid gloves are also made to some extent, although,
the specialty of the house is in the former grades. The house is in a.
position to offer special inducements to the trade, as all goods are pro-
cured in large quantities direct from first hands and manufacturers and
produced at figures not easily quoted by other houses. Mr. A. J. Zim-
mer, the active member of the house, is an enterprising, progressive and
liberal business man, closely identified with the growth and develop-
ment of this city, and the present high standing and prominence of the
house, attained from a small and modest beginning ten years ago, is the
best evidence of its prosperity and stability.
JAMES JUcSWINEY,
Manufacturer of Gloves and Mittens, South Cayadutta Street.
As will be seen by a perusal of these pages, the manufacture of gloves
is the most important industrial interest of Gloversvillc, in which line
the favorably known establishment of James McSwiney holds a promi-
nent position. This enterprise was founded in 1868 by Thomas &.
McSwiney, and was continued under this title until 1880, when Mr.
McSwiney became sole proprietor. Mr. McSwiney is a manufacturer of
many years experience, practical and accomplished, and ready at all
times to meet the wants of an ever increasing trade.
The plant occupied for the business is very extensive, embracing-
three floors 46x30 feet in dimentions, with an extension of two floors*,
each 30x36 feet in dimensions. These are equipped with all the latest
improved machinery for the production of a superior quality of goods,,
and are operated by electric power, furnishing employment to about
one hundred and twenty-five skilled operatives.
The products of this house consist of an extensive line of gloves and
mittens, which are made in every conceivable style and design known,
to the trade, and are in active demand by first-class retail dealers in all
parts of the country. A specialty is made in the production of buck,
and grain goods, for which it may be said they have no equal. The
trade of this house extends throughout the United States, and is annu-
ally increasing.
The success of this enterprise need not be recounted here, since it is-
fully recognized by the trade as fair|dealing, trustworthy and honorable.THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
6r
FILMER BROS.,
Manufacturers of Goat au<l Kangaroo Shoe Kid, 11 Burr Street.
The rapid advancement in the commercial facilities of Gloversville
is a theme of the most favorable comment among business men gener-
ally, and the splendid results achieved are due to the untiring activity
and enterprise of her manufacturers. Among those houses which have
risen to a position of commanding importance and are contributing
largely to this city as a favorable site for manufacturing operations, the
house of Messrs. Filmer Bros, occupies an important position. This
house was established January ist, 1886, since which time they have
greatly enlarged their facilities and extended the scope of their trade
operations. The firm’s plant is embraced in a large and commodious
four-story building 132x26 feet in dimension, with an L 80x20 feet, the
whole of which is fully equipped with all of the latest improved
machinery, tools and appliances operated by steam power, and affords
steady employment to seventy skilled workmen, all of whose operations
are conducted under the personal supervision of the proprietors. of the
house, who are both practical manufacturers and bring a wide range of
knowledge to bear on every detail of the work. The finished product
of the house embraces a high grade of goat and kangaroo shoe kid,
which is disposed of principally in New York—the specialty .being
kangaroo. T he firm are in a position to offer special inducements to
the trade in quoting terms and prices. The individual proprietors are
Messrs. James W. and John H. Filmer, both of whom are enterprising
and liberal business men, and closely identified with the commercial
prosperity of Gloversville, and we are pleased to extend to them and
their enterprise the above courtesy.
THOMAS BROTHERS,
Manufacturers of Gloves and Mittens, North Main St.
The manufacture of gloves is the leading industry of Gloversville.
The trade is represented by a large class of houses, whose enterprise and
ability have largely contributed to the increased prosperity of this local-
ity. Prominent among those concerns who have done much to achieve
this result is the firm of Messrs. Thomas Brothers. This house, which
is about the oldest in Gloversville, was established in 1835, over half a
century ago, by J. W. and Elliot Thomas, the present style since 1884.
The premises occupied by the firm consist of three floors 35x80 feet in
dimensions, fully equipped with all necessary machinery for systemati-
cally carrying on the work, and employment is furnished to a corps of
one hundred skilled operatives. The productions of this house, which
are varied, embrace an extensive line of gloves and mittens made from
the very best grade of calf, buck and sheepskin, including every size and
style known, which are offered to dealers and consumers at the lowest
possible prices. The demand for these goods is annually increasing,
and their trade to-day extends from the Atlantic to the Pacific coast.
The proprietors, Messrs. E. G. and C. D. Thomas, have been engaged in
this business for many years, and are fully conversant with the wants of
their patrons. In all respects the house is a reliable one with which to
enter into business relations, and as such we recommend it to our
readers.THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
63
KENNEDY & CO.
Manufacturers of Shoe Leather, West Fulton Street.
The above named house, which occupies a prominent position among
the successful manufacturing houses of this prosperous young city was
established here in i860 by M. J. Kennedy, who conducted its operation
until July 1, of the present year, at which time he admitted his sons,
Daniel and John, to an interest in the business; The. premises occupied
are embraced in a main building 277x105 feet in dimensions,' besides
several smaller buildings, the whole ranging from two to six stories in
height. The mechanical equipment of the plant embraces all of: the
late improved machinery, tools and appliances for the work in hand and
affords steady employment to 105 workmen. The product of the house
embraces a high grade of kangaroo, goat, calf, sheep and glazed shoe
kid, which is disposed of principally in New York and Boston. The in-
dividual proprietors of the enterprise are Mr. M. J., founder of the busi-
ness, and his two sons, Daniel and John Kennedy,all of whom are enter-
prising, progressive and liberal business men.
PETER DIEHL,
Machinist and Engineer, Cayadutta Street.
The enterprise of Mr. Peter Diehl is deserving of particular consider-
ation in this work, both on account of the excellence of its products
and its well known reputation since its establishment in Gloversville.
This enterprise had its inception here in 1884, Mr. Diehl having formerly
been engaged in business in New York city.
The premises utilized for the business consist of two floors 30x93 feet
in dimensions, which are fully equipped with all necessary machinery
and operated by steam power, employment being furnished three skilled
mechanics.
The products of the house comprise all kinds of machinery known to
the trade, and an extensive line of shaftings, pulleys, hangers, etc., are
kept constantly on hand and made to order. This house makes a spe-
cialty of repairing engines and other machinery and carries a full line
■of engineers’ and mill supplies. All kinds of jobbing is promptly and
accurately attended to, and all dealings with this house cannot but im-
press dealers as to its reliability and methods of fair dealing. In all the
products of this house the best materials are used; and none but the
most perfect workmanship is allowed to pass the critical examination of
those in charge. The trade of this house extends throughout the United
States, and some articles of manufacture have found sale in the Euro-
pean countries. Mr. Diehl is a thoroughly practical machinist and
engineer who takes special care of all work executed by him, thereby
greatly enhancing the interests of his patrons, and we commend this
bouse to the public as one which can confer benefits upon those who
effect transactions with it.6*4 ‘	THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
JAMES A. McDOUGAL & CO.,
Manufacturers of Gloves and Mittens, Gloversville, N. Y.
Perhaps no single industry better illustrates the increased wants of
modern society than the great and varied extent of the above named.
Unlike many other industries, the manufacture of gloves has no impor-
tant invention as an initial point, but its growth has been a gradual one
and it has no written history, its present importance being an incident
only in the rise and progress of the useful arts. If high quality, superb
workmanship and finish of production constitute a valid claim to pre-
eminence, Messrs. Jas. A. McDougal & Co. are justly entitled to such
distinction in the manufacture of all descriptions of gloves and mittens.
This house was originally established in 1880 by McDougal & Pettit;
this firm was dissolved in 1884, and continued by Mr. McDougal until
1888, after which date it has been known as the present style. The
plant occupied by the firm is embraced in a brick building comprising
four floors, each 24x100 feet in dimensions, with an L in the rear. The
mechanical equipment of the establishment embraces the very latest
improved machinery and appliances, and furnishes employment to fifty
skilled operatives. The products of this house consist of all kinds of
heavy, light and medium gloves and mittens, all of which are made of
the best materials and in the most scientific manner. The individual
members of the firm are Messrs. Jas. A. McDougall and E. C. Collins,,
who are too well and favorably known to require personal comment at.
our hatids. The trade of this house, which is an extensive one, is prin-
cipally to retailers throughout the United States. In conclusion we
would say that those entering into business relations with this house
will find liberal treatment and marked advantages in terms and prices.
J. A. & A. V. Quackenbush,
Manufacturers of Gloves and Mittens, 6 Spring Street.
The above named house, by reason of its long standing in Glovers-
ville, occupies a commanding position in the trade. This enterprise
was originally established in 1856 by Messrs. Van Slyke, Quackenbush
& Co., and after undergoing several changes, the present style was or-
ganized in'1887. The plant is commodious and embraces all the latest
improved machinery known to the trade, and furnishes employment in
the different departments to from fifty to seventy-five skilled hands.
The factory produces gloves and mittens of every imaginable shape,,
style and kind that are demanded by the trade, grain goods being a
specialty, and they annually turn out of these goods enormous quantities.
Their grain goods are among the best in the market and all their goods
are of the highest standard of excellence, and are offered to the trade
at the lowest possible prices. The trade of this house, which is a large
one, extends from Main to California. The individual members of the
firm, Messrs. J. A. & A. V. Quackenbush, are enterprising business men,
and among the prosperous establishments of Gloversville, this is one of
the busiest, most successful and representative.THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
65
THRALL BROTHERS.
Taxidermists, Collectors and Dealers in Sportsmen’s Supplies,
etc., 41 West Fulton Street.
The sportsmen of Gloversville and vicinity need hardly be reminded
of the well known establishment of Messrs. Thrall Brothers, which is
the leading enterprise of its kind in the city, being the chief and favor-
ite resort for hunters and fishermen. This house was founded April 1,
1890, by its present proprietors. The premises occupied for carrying on
the business located as above consist of one large floor and basement,
used as salesrooms. The stock here shown embraces all the apparatus
and implements that go to make up a sportsman’s outfit, and includes
breech and muzzle loading shot guns and rifles from the most noted
manufacturers, cartridges, powder, shot, ammunation of all kinds,
pistols, hunting and fishing tackle, as well as scissors, pocket cutlery,
etc. They are also extensive dealers in furs, rugs, robes, etc., and keep
a large stock constantly on hand which are placed on the market at
lowest cash prices. The firm are also taxidermists, and birds, animals,
fishes and reptiles are preserved and mounted to order; in which line
they make a specialty. The trade of the house extends largely through-
out the city and neighboring towns and is fast increasing. Only the
most reliable goods are handled, and the long experience and practical
knowledge possessed by Messrs. Joseph and F. E. Thrall enables them
to furnish the best goods in their line at the lowest possible prices. We
commend this house to the lovers of the noble sports of hunting and
fishing as one in every respect capable of filling all orders in the most
satisfactory manner.
BURR BROTHERS,
Lumber Merchants and Manufacturers of Dressed Lumber,
Building Material, etc., Green Avenue.
The above named house, which is the largest and most extensive of
its kind in the city, was established here in 1878 by its present proprie-
tors, who have conducted its operation with annually increasing success
and prosperity. The house, which forms an important adjunct to the
building interests of the city, is recognized by builders and consumers
as headquarters for building materials. The firm’s plant, located on
Green avenue, is about seven acres in extent, upon which are built a large
sawing and planing mill, lumber sheds, etc. The mill, which is
equipped with all of the latest improved lumber dressing machinery
known to the trade, is operated by a fifty-horse power steam engine and
affords steady employment to thirty workmen. The firm handles all
kinds of rough and dressed lumber for building purposes and the stock
carried is well seasoned and complete in all particulars. All lumber is
received direct from first hand and manufactured in large quantities,
and is furnished to the trade and consumers at lowest prices. The
individual proprietors of the house are Messrs. George C. and James S.
Burr, both of whom are enterprising, liberal and progressive business
men, closely identified with the growth and development of this city, of
which their own enterprise is a prominent and valuable feature.66
THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
MILLS FURNITURE CO.,
Furniture Dealers and Undertakers, 45 North Main Street.
Among the most prominent furniture emporiums in this city devoted
to the sale of fine furniture, none takes a higher position in the trade
than that of the Mills Furniture Co., which was founded in 1886 by Mills
& Morhouse, the present style succeeding to the business in July of 1889.
The premises occupied by the firm consist of a four story building 175x25
feet in dimensions, with several floors, which are used for the furniture
salesrooms, the upholstering departments and the undertaking depart-
ment. The stock covered embraces everything that may be desired in
fine and medium furniture, chamber sets, parlor sets, dining room,
library and hall furniture, baby carriages, etc. All goods are purchased
direct from manufacturers, and are offered to the public at lowest prices.
The firm also sells goods on installments, payable monthly, which is a
marked advantage to consumers. In the undertaking department of the
business every requisite for the burial of the dead is furnished—casket,
hearse, carriages, etc., and funerals are decorously conducted by a mem-
ber of the firm in person. It has always been the aim of this house to
furnish such furniture as should rank superior in quality of materials,
finish and workmanship, and much of their stock is indeed matchless
for costly elegance and tasteful and artistic composition. A specialty is
made in the upholstering department, where the most elegant of fabrics
are used, and this is accomplished under the supervision of the firm on
their own premises. In all respects this well-known house occupies a
leading position in the furniture trade of Gloversville, and whether it be
in the purchase of furniture or the employment of the services of the
firm as funeral directors, our readers may be assured that their interests
will be greatly enhanced by a connection with it, while in the matter of
prices nothing will be left to be desired. The trade of this house ex-
tends throughout the city and county, and to some extent into neighbor-
ing towns and villages outside the county. The members of the firm
are Edward H. Mills, residence 86 Bleecker street, and Elliot F. Mills,
residence 21 High street. Both are highly respected citizens in this
community, possessing every requirement regarding their profession as
undertakers, and have always given great satisfaction to the public of
Gloversville.
ADAM HUNTER,
Proprietor of the Gloversville Monumental Works, 1 1 O East Ful-
ton Street.
The trade represented by the above named house is second to no
other of its class which may fairly claim to combine with a manual
handicraft the richest embellishments of art. The perfection now at-
tained in this direction may be plainly seen in the work turned out by
Mr. Adam Hunter, whose works are located as above indicated, where
may be found a large variety of designs in monuments, headstones, etc.,
which evince a combination of taste and skill rarely seen in domestic
manufacturers of the kind. The cemeteries of Central New York are
noticeable for their beautiful monuments, many of which are the pro-THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE
67
duct of the skill of Mr. Hunter. This house was founded in 1870, by G.
L. Wood ; present style since 1888. The premises occupied are com-
modious and furnish employment to three skilled workmen. The pro-
ducts of this house comprise monumental work only, and include all
kinds and designs of monuments, headstones, memorials, vaults, etc.,
which are made from the best foreign and domestic granite. Mr. Hunter
is a practical marble-worker, with an extended experience, and is well
known for his skill in executing and taste in designing, by reason of
which he has established a large and extensive trade which extends
throughout Fulton, Montgomery and Saratoga counties. To those of
our readers contemplating the erection of family monuments, we com-
mend this house as one with which it will be found to the interest of
patrons to enter into relations, and where many advantages are offered
both in quality of work and price.
DEWITT A. HAYES.
Builder and Contractor, Dealer in Rough and Dresssd Lumber.
Sash, Doors and Blinds.
The city of Gloversville may justly make claim to be among the
handsomest cities of its size in the country, not only as regards natural
beauty, but from an architectural point of view. Especially during the
past few years has the city greatly improved, and we believe much of
this gratifying result is due to the admirable facilities afforded by the
location here of a number of experienced and intelligent firms of builders
and contractors, of which the house now under comment is a leading ex-
ponent. The date of the inception of this house was in 1875, when Mr.
Hayes commenced business as a contractor ; in 1888 he added to that of
contractor the business in which he is now engaged, and during his
career as builder and contractor he has established a wide-spread and
enviable reputation. The premises occupied for the purpose of carrying
on the business consists of a large planing mill with three floors 120x120
feet in dimensions. These are thoroughly replete with all the latest wood
working machinery, with all necessary tools and appliances and operated
by a seventy-five horse power Corliss steam engine; employment being
furnished to from ten to fifty skilled workmen, according to the differ-
ent seasons of the year. The energies of Mr. Hayes are directed to the
•erection of buildings by contracts from the designs of the architect or
individuals, which work is executed in the most artistic manner, and the
workmanship is equal to the very best in the city. Many public and
private buildings have been erected by this house in this city and vici-
nity. Among them we instance the Mills Brothers factory, Kennedy &
Wood’s factory, also many others, and at present Mr. Hayes is at work on
the new City Hall. Besides the business of contractor and builder, Mr.
Hayes deals in all kinds of mouldings, newel posts, brackets, stairs, stair
rails and balusters, window and door frames and casing, turning,
planing, scroll sawing, etc., which is offered to the public at lowest
cash prices. This house is altogether a most reliable one, and well de-
serving of the popularity it has gained.68
THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
DEMPSTER & PLACE.
Manufacturers of Cloves and Mittens, 60 Bleecker St.
The above named house, which has steadily maintained its prestige in
the trade and enlarged its facilities from year to year since its inception
eleven years ago, is recognized to-day as one of the most prominent and
important concerns of its kind in the country. The premises occupied
by the firm are embraced in a handsome four-story brick building, 35x75
feet in dimensions, which are fully equipped with sewing machines and
all necessary tools and appliances for the work in hand, and afford em-
ployment to one hundred operatives. The product of the house em-
braces a general line of gloves and mittens, all of which are manufac-
tured from the best procuable material direct from first hands and manu-
facturers. The firm is represented on the road by ten traveling sales-
men, and sell principally to the retail trade throughout the eastern,
middle and western states. The individual proprietors of the firm are
Messrs. D. S. Dempster and G. M. Place, both of whom are enterprising,
progressive and liberal business men, and closely identified with the
growth and development of this city, and have done much to foster and
enhance the welfare and prosperity of the home of their industry.
THE D. M. SMITH CO.
Hair and Wool Packers, Office 25 West Fulton St.
The leather manufacturing interest, while great in itself, as will have
been seen by the numerous houses noted in these pages, has also occa-
sioned the origination and growth of other branches of industry, -which
add greatly to the general prosperity, and conserve in a great degree
that line which called them into existence. This is vividly illustrated in
the business of hair and wool packers, as will be seen from the following
sketch: This house was founded in 1885 and has since been conducted
with annually increasing success and importance. The plant occupied
embraces three floors, 80x60 feet in dimensions, which are thoroughly
replete with all necessary machinery for the work in hand, and operated
by steam power, employment being furnished to fifteen skilled work-
men, besides which they have a storehouse on West Fulton stret, 34x60,
three stories in height. The specialty of this concern is the packing and
curing of hair and wool, an immense supply of which is procured from
the numerous leather manufactories of Johnstown and Gloversville.
This house handles the largest quantity of hair and wool in this section,
and their facilities for obtaining such are more than ordinarily availa-
ble. They enjoy the patronage of a large number of the prominent
manufacturers of the country, their products being sold principally to
upholsterers, harness and saddle makers, carpet and hat manufacturers,
and for plastering purposes, etc. The trade of this house is an extensive
one, reaching from the Atlantic to the Pacific coast. The individual
members of the firm, Messrs. H. P. Shutts and E. S. Parkhurst, are
prominent and enterprising business men, and in concluding this brief
sketch of their enterprise we do so with the assurance that they possess
facilities and resources in their line of business which are not to be com-
peted with by any similar establishment.7o
THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
MAN U FACTU RERS
AND MERCHANTS’
BANK.
5 South Main Street.
The prosperous bank
which was established here
May i, 1887, ranks among
the most prominent banks
in Fulton county and has a
capital stock of $50,000
backed up with a surplus and
undivided profits of $17,000.
The bank is justly regarded
with favor and confidence
by the business men and
general public of Glovers-
ville, its safe and conserva-
tive methods and sagacious
management having pro-
cured for it the accounts of
a number of the leading
manufacturers, merchants
and capitalists of the city.
The officers of the bank are:
President, Wm. H. Place;
vice president, Cyrus Stew-
art; cashier, M. V. B. Stet-
son; directors, Wm. H.
Place, Cyrus Stewart, J. A.
Miller, J. H. Drake, J. A.
Quackenbush, Geo. C. Burr,
Erastus Darling, W. E.
Whitney, James M. Thomp-
son, A. J. Zimmer and" D.
F. Cowles. A general bank-
ing business is carried on,
including making loans, dis-
counts and collections, as
also issuing drafts on all
principal cities. The aid of
this important organization
of capital and enterprise is
promptly and liberally ex-
tended to all worthy appli-
cants, and accounts of banks,
bankers and corporations
are solicited and the most
advanced facilities are ac-
corded all who make use of
its accommodations.THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
7i
J. C. ALLEN,
Successor to Berry & Allen, Manufacturer of Gloves and Mittens,
Gloversvflle, N. Y.
The magnitude and importance of Gloversville’s manufacturing in-
dustries are not fully understood outside of the city’s immediate vicinity,
and indeed are not infrequently as much a matter of surprise to her own
citizens, as to those who have never set a foot within her borders. The
extensive proportions to which some of her enterprises have attained
are remarkable, and among those which have advanced to a leading
position in the trade stands the establishment of Mr. J. C. Allen. This
house was established in 1865 by Messrs. Berry & Allen, the presentpro-
prietor succeeding to the business July 1st of the present year. Since
the foundation of this enterprise up to the present time it has been held
in. high estimation by the public, and to-day stands a monument to the
enterprise, energy and perseverance of its projectors. It would require
more space than we have at our disposal to give more than a brief sketch
of the present status of this concern. The main factory used in the
conduct of the business is built of brick, is five floors in height and is
60x125 feet in dimensions. It is equipped throughout with all necessary
machinery, operated by electric power, and furnishes employment to
several hundred skilled operatives, male and female. The products of
this house are very extensive, including all kinds and styles of medium
priced gloves and mittens made from the very best obtainable skins and
sold to wholesale dealers throughout the country at the lowest possible
prices. The house makes a specialty in the manufacture of napa
patent dressed buck and goat goods, for which it has a large and fast
growing trade, and the reputation of its goods on the market is unex-
celled.
C. S. & G. W. SCHERMERHORN.
Manufacturers of GIove§ and Mittens, 12 First Avenue.
Among the prominent and enterprising concerns engaged largely in
the manufacture of gloves and mittens for the retail trade, the above
house is entitled to a leading position. This enterprise was originally
established in 1880, by H. Jordan & Co., the present firm succeeding to
the business in 1886. The facilities of the firm are ample and complete
for the work in -hand, thoroughly replete with all necessary tools and
appliances, employment being furnished to fifty skilled operatives. The
products of the house embrace a general line of light and heavy gloves
and mittens, which are equal, if not superior, to any made, and are sold
to the trade at remarkably low prices. These goods are made in every
style and design known to the glove manufacturers, and are everywhere
held in high estimation for their strength and durability. The trade of
this house is chiefly to retailers throughout the United States. The ex-
cellent manufacturing facilities and ample resources possessed by
Messrs. C. S. & G. W. Schermerhorn in the’way of filling orders, com-
bined, with experience and liberal management, have made the house a
favorite one with the trade.Plant of Daniel Hays & Co., showing rear view,THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
73
DANIEL HAYS & CO.,
Manufacturers of Fine Leather Gloves and Mittens.
Throughout the entire country the fame of Gloversville is well estab-
lished as headquarters for the manufacture of gloves and mittens. It is
here that the industry first received that impetus which renders us each
year more and more independent of foreign producers. No location in
America could be better selected, for it is in Central New York that we
find that intelligent and industrious class of population which yields us
the best of operatives. Among the leading manufacturers of gloves in
Gloversville, attention is particularly directed to the firm of Daniel
Hays & Co. This enterprise was founded in 1854 by the senior member
of the present firm, which was formed January 1st of the current year.
In connection with the work in hand they occupy for manufacturing a
factory of five floors, built of brick, 150x35 feet in dimensions, a tannery
four floors, 150x65 feet, a beam shop of two floors of the area of 65x60
feet, and a two story store-house 30x35 feet in dimensions. There are
also two sheds 180x30 feet and 150x30 feet respectively. The works are
replete with the best of approved appliances suited to the business,
employment being found for about 250 operatives. The firm are manu-
facturers of kid, suede, mocha, buckskin and gloves and mittens, and
these goods are equal to the best of the grades specified, and are placed
at the disposal of the trade at the lowest prices. The firm tan all their
own skins as they come off the back of the animal, until they leave the
factory as the finished product. Thus they are enabled to assure uni-
formity and quality. The members of the firm are Messrs. Daniel Hays
and Lewis A. Tate, both represented in the Board of Trade, and gentle-
men who possess a thorough knowledge of the business to which their
efforts are devoted. With a history of over thirty years’ duration, always
distinguished for enterprising methods and honorable principles of busi-
ness, this house may justly claim to be one of the pioneers and leading
exponents of the principal industry of Gloversville.
GEORGE M. BURDICK,
Glove Manufacturer, 260 North Main Street.
Among the popular business then in this city engaged in the glove
manufacturing business, Mr. George M. Burdick holds a prominent posi-
tion. The above house was originally established in 1887 by Madden
& Burdick, the present proprietor succeeding to the business in Decem-
ber, 1889. The manufacturing plant is embraced in a four story build-
ing, 46x66 feet in dimensions, fully equipped with all necessary machinery,
and furnishes employment to about forty hands, all of whom are expert
operatives. The products of the house consist of a large line of heavy
goods, made from buck, calf, goat and sheep skin. The range of manu-
facture comprises many different styles and designs, heavy goods being
a specialty, and the output of this concern is of great importance, extend-
ing as it does throughout the United States. Mr. Geo. M. Burdick, the^
present officer of this company, is an active business man and may be
relied upon at all times for promptness in filling orders at the shortest
notice.Interior view of G. Levor’s Factory. See page 57,THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
75
JAMES S. HOSMER,
Manufacturer of the Palmateer Overstitch Sewing Machine, 34*
South Main Street.
In a descriptive review of the trades and industries of Gloversville it
is highly important that all those vocations contingent upon any staple
line of constructive enterprise should be noted. In such a connection
we may not overlook the fact that Mr. James S. Hosmer is engaged in a
business of great importance to a large number of the manufacturers
here as elsewhere. The enterprise was established here in 1876. The
manufacturing plant is thoroughly equipped with all necessary tools
and appliances, operated by steam power and employment is furnished
to a number of skilled artisans. The leading specialty of this house is
the manufacture of the celebrated Palmateer overstitch machine, which
is the only machine of American manufacture upon which fine overseam
gloves are made, it having received the first premium at the American
Institute, Mr. Hosmer having control of the patent. This machine is
highly regarded by both the hat and glove trade and is quite extensively
used in the knitting factories, giving at all times the most complete
satisfaction, and it is safe to say that it has no competition on the Ameri-
can continent. A general machinists’ business is carried on, such as re-
pairing and furnishing special parts for all kinds of glove machinery.
A specialty is made in repairing the Union wax thread sewing machine,
of which Mr. Hosmer is also the manufacturer, all of which is done in
the most scientific manner. The products of the house stand in high
repute for excellence of workmanship and adaptability to the purpose
for which thev are constructed, as is evinced by the fact that the sales
are not confined to this city alone but extend into the eastern, middle
and western states and to some extent throughout the United States.
Mr. James Hosmer is a prominent business man, an active member of
the board of trade, and in conclusion we may say that with a reputation
of such a character and established for so long a period it is unnecessary
for us to make further commendation, other than to say that our readers
abroad will be amply justified in reposing the highest degree of confi-
dence in the house and its products.
HOUCK & PATRICK,
Druggists, 14 South Main Street.
Among the most prominent and favorably known drug stores in
Gloversville, that of Houck & Patrick is entitled to special mention in
this volume. This house was established in 1887, by the present firm.
The premises occupied are commodious and handsomely appointed,
elegantly fitted up and stocked to repletion at all times with a full and
complete line of pure drugs, family medicines, toilet articles, perfumery,
chemicals, proprietary medicines, druggists’ sundries and in fact every-
thing usually found in a first-class drug store. This house makes a
specialty in the compounding of physicians’ prescriptions, in the filling
of which the greatest accuracy and skill is employed. All orders receive
the greatest care and dispatch. Messrs. Peter L. Houck and Charles E.
Patrick are both enterprising business men, and prepared at all times
to meet the demands of a large trade, which extends throughout the
city and vicinity and is annually increasing.THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
77
BOOTH & CO.,
Manufacturers of Glove and Shoe Leather and Dealers in Salted and
Hair Skins, Main Office 15 Frankfort Street, New York City.
The extensive enterprise of the above named house is the largest and
most prominent industry in this city and one of the most extensive and
important of its kind in this country. The business was originally
instituted by James Kent in 1869, and changed to Kent & Stevens in
1873, to Kent & Co. in 1876, to Booth & Kent in 1878, passing into the
hands of its present proprietors in 1886. Some idea may be had as to
the extent of their operations when it is stated that their immense fac-
tories, which are several in number, hare an aggregate floor area of
seventeen acres fully equipped with all of the latest improved machinery,
tools and appliances necessary for the work in hand and operated by
a powerful steam engine, and furnishe employment to from 250 to 350
workmen. The products of the house embrace a high grade of glove
and shoe leather of all kinds, which is in active demand by the trade and
finds a ready market in all parts of the United States. The individual
members of the firm are Messrs. Alfred and Charles Booth and Thomas
Fletcher, all residents of England, and maintain offices at Liverpool and
London and at 47 High street, Boston, for the sale of shoe leather, at 141
Purchase street, Boston, for the sale of salted stock, etc., and at 183
William street, New York city, for the sale of daisy, lilly, dahlia, butter
cup and pansy shoe kid. In concluding this brief sketch we may be
permitted to say that interested buyers would conduce to their own best
interests by getting terms and prices from this old and reliable house
before placing orders elsewhere.
REA & WHITE.
Manufacturers of Gloves, 13 First Avenue.
Among those establishments that have gained a high repute for the
perfection of their products in the above named line is that of Messrs.
Rea & White, which they instituted in 1880. The premises occupied
embrace a large and commodious plant, which is equipped with all
necessary improved machinery and tools, and furnishes employment to
one hundred skilled and efficient operatives. The products embrace a
general line of kid and fur top goods ; kid goods forming a specialty.
These gloves are made in all the latest styles and designs, widths and
sizes known to the trade, and are always highly satisfactory to pur-
chasers. All the products are made of the best materials in the market
and by the most skilled hands, and nothing is permitted to leave the
works that is not first-class in every particular. The firm make no
effort to compete wdth inferior work, but they guarantee to give full value
to all who desire first-class goods. The trade radius of this house is
principally to jobbers throughout the United States. Messrs. Rea &
White are progressive business men, members of the board of trade, and
their enterprise is an important adjunct to the great glove manufactur-
ing industry of this locality.THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
79
MILLS BROTHERS,
Manufacturers of Shoe Leather.
One of the principal points in the United States for the manufacture
of leather, and that, too, of unrivalled excellence, is the city of Glovers-
ville, N. Y., which has for many years afforded rare advantages to con-
sumers in this important product.
One of the most prominent houses engaged in the manufacture of this
staple article is that of Mills Brothers, which had its inception here in
December, 1884, since which time it has continued to increase in influ-
ence and usefulness until at present it is the peer of any of its contem-
poraries and second to none in regard to the quality and quantity of its
products.
The buildings of this firm are among the largest in this great state,
covering a floor area of 80,000 square feet. The main factory building
is thoroughly equipped with the best and most improved machinery that
can be advantageously employed in producing and finishing a high
grade of leather. In addition to this large building are others for stor-
age of skins in their raw state, the drying house, the boiler and engine
house from whence comes the force to keep the wheels moving. All this
space is covered by “the automatic sprinkler” as a protection against
fire.
This firm employs a large number of hands in the various departments
of the business; its weekly pay roll of employees forming no inconsider-
able factor in the commercial prosperity of the city.
The products of this concern are what are known in the shoe trade as
“Dull Dongola,” (mat kid), and Glazed Kid. They are made from the
best goat and kangaroo skins by a special process of their own and
recognized by the trade as very superior leather. When the fact is men-
tioned that the leather manufactured by this firm is the well-known and
popular brand of “Jewel Kid,” nothing more need be saidas to its merits,
for it is well known from British to Central America and from the
Atlantic to the Pacific ocean. This leather has been upon the market
under the above brand through one of the largest and most popular job-
bing houses in New York, but Mills Brothers, desiring to come into
closer relations with the glove manufacturing trade, determined to place
their stock upon the market themselves and have opened a store in “The
Swamp,” No. 178 William street, New York, where, upon one particular
line of stock, the name “Jewel” will be succeeded by that of “The Suc-
cess.” This, together with their superior finish of glazed kid and kan-
garoo leather, will form the staples of their output. Messrs. W. E. and
C. O. Mills are representatives of the Board of Trade and are both wide-
awake business men, full of enterprise and push, and thoroughly
acquainted with every detail of the business in which they are engaged.
WM. H. SULLIVAN,
Dealer in Boots, Shoes and Rubbers, 59 North Main Street.
There are few, if any, emporiums in the city for the sale of the above
named line of goods, that are more justly popular than that of Mr. Wm.
H. Sullivan, located at 59 North Main street. The remarkable success
of this house is the more conspicuous, as it has been established but lit-
tle more than one year, and is, therefore, perhaps the junior among its8o
THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
contemporaries, though the volume of business it transacts is quite as
large as that of any of its more ancient rivals. The premises occupied
are centrally located, large, light, attractive and well arranged for the
display of the stock of goods at hand, which for variety and complete-
ness is equaled by few and surpassed by none in Gloversville. All goods
are procured direct trom the best manufacturers, and all staple goods
and prevailing styles are found here in large quantities, the latest nov-
elties in fine shoes for ladies’, gents’, children’s and misses’ wear being
obtained here as soon as issued by the manufacturers. This house is
sole agent here for John Kelly’s celebrated ladies’ fine shoes, oxford ties
and slippers, which are manufactured at Rochester, N. Y., and for beauty
of fit and elegance of design they are unsurpassed by any similar con-
cern in Rochester. The trade of this house extends throughout the city
and vicinity, for which market the goods are selected with great care,
and the prices are remarkable for their moderation, and we commend
this house to your patronage.
DAVID S. THOMPSON,
Wholesale and Retail Dealer in Foreign and Domestic Dry Goods,
4 and 6 West Fulton Street.
One of the most important and favorably known commercial enter-
prises of Gloversville is that now conducted by Mr. David S. Thompson,
which was founded in 1880 by E. A. M. Smith, the present proprietor
succeeding to the business in 1888, since which time it has grown to be
one of the most tastefully and luxuriously arranged and appointed dry
goods establishments in Central New York, and is transacting a business
that has but few equals outside of the Metropolis. The extensive sales-
rooms, which are embraced in a double store occupying two floors, are
commodious and centrally located, and are filled to overflowing with
the choicest goods in foreign and domestic dry goods, mourning goods,
dress goods, cloaks and shawls, ladies’ underwear, ribbons, toilet articles,
fancy goods, laces, trimmings and notions. Its counters are at all times
crowded with the wealth, fashion and good taste of Gloversville and
vicinity, in search of the very latest styles and most reliable fabrics
from the celebrated English, French and American looms. This house
has always made a specialty of carrying the finest goods in the market ;
rich silks and velvets, and a comprehensive stock of the latest novelties,
and no other house in the trade has better facilities for procuring these
goods and placing them in the hands of patrons at low prices. Every
accommodation that modern business methods have rendered desirable
is provided patrons. Twelve courteous and attentive salesmen are em-
ployed, and goods are promptly delivered to all parts of the city, and to
trains for out-of-town customers. Mr. David S. Thompson, the present
proprietor of the firm, is an active and enterprising business man, a
member of the board of trade, and he ranks to-day among the most
prosperous dry goods merchants of Gloversville.THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
81
JACOB ADLER & CO.,
Manufacturers of Gloves, 471 Broadway and 44 Mercer Street,
New York. Factory, Gloversville, N. Y.
It has excited the amazement of the world that America should take
in hand the manufactures of Europe and produce a class of goods which
are certainly equal if not superior to the very best made in the old
world. This has been accomplished by the push and persistence of our
manufacturers who have so enhanced the merits of their products as to
overcome the prejudice of those who demand foreign goods, and our
wares are made welcome in the most exclusive markets in the country.
In the manufacture of fine gloves there are a few concerns who are
making gloves which cannot be surpassed for quality and finish any-
where, and this is essentially true in referring to the enterprise con-
ducted by Jacob Adler & Co. This house was established in 1868.
The offices of the company are located in New York city, and the fac-
tory is located in Gloversville. The plant occupied in the conduct of
the business embraces four floors and a basement, ei ch .35x80 feet in
dimensions, and is provided with steam power and every requisite
appliance for the economical and systematic carrying on of the business.
This house furnishes employment to 400 skilled hands in the several de-
partments of the business. The products of this house consist of an ex-
tensive line of fine gloves, in the production of which they have no su-
perior, being everywhere regarded for their uniform elegance of style
and beauty of finish, which have made them sought for in all lands.
The trade of this house, which is an extensive one, extends throughout
the entire United States. The individual members of the firm are Al-
fred and Charles Adler, William J. Still and Ben. Lichtenberg, gentle-
men who are both active and energetic in the advancement of their en-
terprise and thoroughly alive to the demands of an ever increasing
trade. This house bears a high reputation in trade circles, while the
extent and character of its output is another evidence that Gloversville
posseses advantages as a manufacturing centre, which must result in fur-
ther extending and increasing her relations with the outside world.
W. E. WHITNEY,
Glove Manufacturer, Prospect St., cor. Yale.
The glove trade of Gloversville may justly be regarded as an interest
of the utmost importance, and conducive in no small degree to the in-
dustrial and commercial thrift of the community. The amount of busi-
ness done here in each particular branch of the trade is exceeded by no
other city in the country, and it is annually increasing in amount. This
house was founded here in 1871 by Mr. W. E. Whitney, the present pro-
prietor. The premises occupied for the transaction of the business are
commodious, thoroughly equipped with all necessary tools and appli-
ances, and furnish employment in the several departments to thirty
skilled hands. The range of manufacture comprises many different
styles of gloves, which are made from kid only, lined fur top kid gloves
and mittens being a specialty. This house does a large jobbing trade,
which extends throughout the country. The proprietor of the business,
Mr. W. E. Whitney, is well and favorably known to the trade, an active
member of the Board of Trade, and is a gentleman of practical and wide-
spread experience in everything relating to the glove industry.82
THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
BYARD McGUIRE.
Foundry. Castings of All Kinds in Brass and Iron. Works, West
Fulton Street.
There are houses in this city that have achieved a reputation and
acquired a trade that places them in the front rank of enterprise and
success. Of such that, of Mr. Byard McGuire holds a prominent posi-
tion in the manufacture of all kinds of brass and iron castings. Estab-
lished in 1874 by the present proprietor, the business has rapidly grown
until to-day it ranks among the foremost in the trade. The prem-
ises occupied for the business consist of three floors, each 70x75 feet in
dimensions, fully equipped with all necessary tools and appliances
operated by steam power and furnish employment to nine moulders.
The business done at this establishment is so extensive and the produc-
tions so varied that it would be almost impossible to enumerate them
in detail. In the foundry castings of all kinds, including brass and iron,
building materials such as columns, girders, stove fronts, etc., fencing,
balcony and roof castings, window caps and sills, plow work, &c., also a
large and varied assortment of garden vases for decorating lawns and
cemeteries are kepr constantly on hand. These goods are made to order
on the shortest notice, and estimates are furnished on all kinds of iron
work, and these are executed at the lowest possible price. This house
also makes a specialty of building work and jobbing and repairing in all
its branches. The trade of this house, while being largely local, is cen-
tered to some extent all over the United States. In conclusion we may
say that the work turned out here is of the very best character, meeting
the conditions of all contracts and giving the house the esteem and con-
sideration of all patrons.
CHARLES GEIRCKE,
Manufacturer of Glove and Shoe Leather, Green Avenue.
This house, which was established here in 1884 by its present proprie-
tor, occupies a prominent position among the manufacturing industries
of this city. The premises occupied are embraced in a main building
40x60 feet in dimensions, three stories in height, engine room 24x26 and
vat room 28x40. The mechanical equipment of the plant embraces all
of the latest improved machinery, tools and appliances, operated by a
forty horse power steam engine, and furnishes employment to eighteen
skilled workmen, all of whose operations are conducted under the per-
sonal supervision of the proprietor, who is a practical manufacturer of
many years experience. The product of the house embraces a fine
grade of goat, calf, mochos and cabbettes, glove and shoe leather. The
trade of the house in glove leather is principally local, while the trade
in shoe leather extends throughout the United States. The proprietor,
Mr. Charles Giercke, is an enterprising and progressive business man,
and the success which has attended his past efforts is as gratifying as it
is well merited.THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE
83
KIEFER & DRESSEL,
Merchant Tailors, 16 Church Street.
It has come to be a recognized fact with the best classes of the city
of Gloversville that the merchant tailoring establishment of Messrs.
Kiefer & Dresselis one of the most prominent in the city. This has been
the result of the aim of the proprietors to produce only first-class garments
The making of gentlemen’s fine wearing apparel to order, by meas-
ure, is one of those arts which requires for its successful operation the
highest degree of artistic knowledge in every department of the business,,
and these requirements are possessed by Messrs Kiefer & Dressel who
are both practical cutters. This enterprise was originally established
in 1878 by Charles Kiefer; the present style since February, 1890. From
its inception the principle of this house has been to give highest value
for money expended, the best materials, fit and workmanship, and thus
a Clientelle has been gradually acquired among the most exacting of our
citizens, and garments are also shipped to various points distant from
the city. The premises occupied for the business consist of a store,
22x70 feet in dimensions, which is replete with the finest fabrics from
the most celebrated looms of Europe, embracing an extensive variety of
suitings, coatings, trouserings, cheviot and plaid homespuns, overcoat-
ings, silk, fancy and white vestings, etc. A large variety of pantaloons is
kept constantly on hand. Fifteen skilled hands are employed by the
firm. The individual members of the firm are Charles Kiefer and W. J.
Dressel, both of whom give their closest attention to the business, and
by reason of their long experience they may be said to be the most
accomplished and artistic designers ofrgentlemen’s attire in Central New
York. _ We may say in conclusion that the business is conducted upon a
policy which has for its basis the fbstering of the interests of customers,
and our readers will, beyond question, find relations with the house
always of the most satisfactory character.
A. KLEIN.
Manufacturer of GloVes and Mittens of all Kinds. Office and Fac-
tory 121 South Main St.
The extensive enterprise of the above named house in the manufac-
ture of gloves and mittens occupies a prominent position among the
glove manufacturers of this city. The business was established by Mr.
Klein here in 1868, at a time when Gloversville gave but little promise
of her present commercial importance, since which time he has greatly
enlarged his facilities and extended the scope of his trade operations,
until to-day the house is recognized as among the most prominent and
successful in the trade. The premises occupied for the business are em-
braced in a three-story building, 60x100 feet in dimensions, which are
fully equipped with sewing machines and all necessary tools and appli-
ances, and affords employment to from seventy-five to one hundred em-
ployes. The finished product of the house embraces a general line of
high grade and medium gloves and mittens, the specialty of the house
being buck and kid goods. The trade of the house, which is annually
increasing in volume, is principally with jobbers. Mr. Klein is among
the most prominent and public spirited citizens of this prosperous young
city, and closely identified with its growth and development.THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
*4
HON. JOHN J. HANSON,
Manufacturer of Tin and Sheet Iron Ware and Dealer in Stoves*
Ranges, etc., 12 Church Street.
One of
the most
prominent
and repre-
sen t ativ e
houses in
Glovers-
v i 11 e en-
gaged in
the manu-
facture of
tin ware
and sale of
the celebra-
ted .Andes
stoves, and
West Shore
ranges, is
that of Mr.
John J.
Hanson,
whose es-
t a b 1 i s h -
ment may-
be justly
quoted as
being both
a landmark
and leader
in its par-
ticular line	* - ** '-
of industry,
having been established by its present proprietor, April i, 1858. The
premises occupied are . embraced in a commodious store which consists
of three floors 24x100 feet in dimensions, besides which he occupies a
store house on Fulton street wiiich is utilized for the manufacture of
tin ware, sheet iron, etc., and furnishes employment to ten skilled
mechanics. The stoves and ranges sold here aie known as the “Andes,’*
and the “West Shore Range” and they are the highest types of the
development in this manufacturing art. Both as regards efficiencv of
service, durability, economy of fuel, and artistic style and finish, the
Andes stoves and West Shore ranges are as near perfection as it is pos-
sible for human ingenuity to attain. Besides these stoves and ranges
the stock of goods carried, which is the largest and most complete in
the city, embraces a general line of stoves, tin, sheet iron, stamped, Jap-
paned, pressed and glassware, foreign and domestic cutlery, silver and
plated ware, besides an extensive line of kitchen furnishing goods,
which are sold to consumers at lowest cash prices. Mr. Hanson was first
mayor of this city and the last president of the village.THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
85
S. H. SHOTWEEL,
Importer and Dealer in Domestic and Imported Kid, Gold Tan
Leather, Flesher, Buckskin, Bark and Alums, 55 and 57
South Main Street, and Factory 74 Spring Street.
An industry of such importance as that conducted by Mr. Shotwell
has so large a bearing upon the trade of this city, and is altogether,
directly and indirectly, so conducive to the general prosperity as to
demand more than ordinary5 consideration at our hands. This house
was founded in 1873, and its claims to distinction may be traced to its
honorable business methods, as well as the liberal and fair treatment
accorded patrons. The premises occupied consist of a double store,
embracing four floors and basement. The factory, located at 74 Spring
street, which is utilized for dressing kid, calf and gold tan, is three
stories high and 100x50 feet in dimensions. The salesrooms are stocked
to repletion with all kinds of glover’s materials, including domestic and
imported kid, gold tan leather, salted fleshers, buckskin, bark, alum and
saranac leather, white and colored skivers, antelope, goat and chamois.
The accommodations of this house for supplying goods are among the
-most extensive in the country, and this establishment is recognized by
the trade generally, as being the headquarters for reliable and first-class
supplies. All goods are received direct from first hands, both from
America and European countries, and are offered to the trade at lowest
prices. The trade of this house is principally local and to some extent
throughout the United States. Mr. S. H. Shotwell is an active member
of the board of trade, an enterprising and progressive business man,
and closely identified with the leather trade of Gloversville.
FRANK C ALVORD,
Dealer in Glovers’ Materials, Furs, Skins and Evans Artificial
Leather, 22 South Main Street.
A reference to the leather trade of Gloversville suggests at once the
well-known and popular establishment of Mr. Frank C. Alvord. This
house was established in 1880 by the present proprietor. The premises
occupied are commodious, embracing one large floor for the display of
goods. The stock carried by this house is an exceptionally large one,
and embraces a great variety of glovers’ materials, furs, skins, etc.
Richard Young, of 35 Spruce street, New York, is represented by this
house in the sale of California dressed skins, imported kid, chamois
skins, etc., for which this house has a large demand. Mr. Alvord is sole
agent in this market for the “Evans Artificial Leather,” which is manu-
factured in Boston, Mass. It is said to be the only artificial leather which
can be utilized as upper leather; is not affected by temperature; is im-
pervious to water. It is made in all weights, colors, etc., and cannot,
when made up, be distinguished from real leather. It is available for
boot, shoe, carriage, hose and trunk manufacturers; in fact for all sub-
stances which require a light leather in their composition. We thus set
forth the qualities and advantages of this leather for the benefit of such
as may not be acquainted with its history. The trade of this house is
altogether a large one, extending from the Atlantic to the Pacific coast,
and all those interested in the production of artificial leather will find it
to their benefit to open business relations with this house. All inquiries
by mail will receive prompt attention.THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
87
FULTON COUNTY NATIONAL. BANK.
The Fulton County National Bank is among the most substantial and
best managed fiduciary institutions of Central New York. Its career
has been one of the most creditable character, alike conducive to the
financial welfare of its stockholders, depositors and customers. This
bank was established in 1852, as the Fulton County Bank, reorganized
in 1865 as National Fulton County Bank, and in 1885 as Fulton County
National Bank. By the statement issued July 13, 1890, it will be seen
that the resources were $1,060,961.14 and that the capital stock was
$150,000.00, with a surplus and undivided profits of $99,321.57, which
makes it one of the strongest banks in this section of the country. It
has held a high place in the confidence of the public throughout its en-
tire corporate life, pursuing a safe and conservative course, and enjoy-
ing the advantages of sagacious management and the supervision of a
board of directors always composed of leading and wealthy citizens and
successful business men. A general commercial banking business is
transacted. The officers of the bank are: President, John McNab; Vice
President, D. B. Judson; Cashier, W. D. West; Directors, John McNab,
D. B. Judson, C. W. Judson, I. V Place, Daniel Hays, Seymour Sexton,
James W. Green, W. J. Heacock, F. M. Young, John C. Allen, E. L, Hea-
cock, W. D. West, Nathan Littauer, A. D. L. Baker and W. L. Sporborg.
This institution, as will be seen from the foregoing statement, is con-
ducted upon a sound, conservative policy, which cannot fail to be ad-
vantageous and satisfactory to depositors and stockholders alike.
YALE & BILLON,
Jewelers and Dealers in Diamonds, 7 South Main St.
The jewelry business is well repre-
sented in this city by the firm of Messrs.
Yale & Dillon, who established here in
June, 1889, and there is every reason to
predict, in view of the success already
obtained, that it is destined to become
one of the most popular establishments
of the kind in Gloversville. The prem-
ises occupied are centrally located, hand-
somely appointed and arranged, and are
filled to repletion at all times with a
costly and elegant variety of fine jew-
elry, diamonds, watches, clocks, solid
16-size, No. 7.—Pat. Reg., Chron. Bal. silver and silver plated ware, optical
Ac.justed to*H., C., Position and goods, etc. The firm make a specialty
Isochronism. Nickel,	of repairing and engraving, to which
branch they give their personal supervision. This house is distin-
guished for carrying the finest line of jewelry manufactured, and their
prices are both fair and reasonable. The trade of this house extends
throughout the city and vicinity, and is annually increasing. Messrs.
Yale & Dillon are both practical jewelers and skilled workmen, and per-
sonally direct all the operations of their establishment, nothing being
permitted to leave the premises other than in perfect condition. This
enterprise is of great value to the residents of this city, arid we commend
them to your patronage.38
THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
HOSMER & WILLIAMSON.
Clothiers, No. 11 North Main Street.
The most casual observer, must accord to the firm of Hosmer & Wil-
liamson, a foremost position in the commercial resources of Gloversville.
This house, for many years at the head of the wholesale and retail
clothing trade of the city, was originally founded in 1856 by G. W. Fay,
the present proprietors succeeding to the business in 1885, since which
time they have enjoyed an annually increasing trade by reason of serv-
ing patrons with reliable goods at fair prices. The firm occupies a
commodious and well lighted store at the address above indicated, com-
prising three floors and basement, each 25x75 feet in dimensions, which
is completely filled with clothing, mens’ furnishing goods, boots* shoes,
hats, caps, shirts of all kinds, etc. All goods are procured direct from
the most reliable manufacturers, and are warranted to be fully equal in
all respects; fit, style, finish and workmanship, to the productions
of the custom tailor, and at very much lower prices. The public is fast
learning that better value is obtained in ready made clothing, when
purchased from a reliable and fair-dealing house, than is possible to be
obtained from the custom tailor. The explanation is a simple one; the
wholesale tailor is enabled to make a thousand garments fora much less
cost than the custom tailor can make one, and the retailer of ready
made garments is satisfied with a smaller profit on a single garment
where he is selling many every day than the custom tailor could be,
who can at best dispose of but few suits a week. The inference is ob-
vious; the people appreciate the situation, and Messrs. Hosmer & Wil-
liamson, taking advantage of the demand, are prepared to supply the
most reliable clothing in the market at fair prices. The trade of this
house extends throughout the city and vicinity; with such experienced
management, ample facilities and large stock, it is easy to account for
the prominence of this house and we commend it to your patronage.
FIDOE & RADFORD,
Glove Manufacturers, IO School Street.
The manufacture of gloves in this country has, within the past quar-
ter of a century, become one of our most important industries, and the
demand for these products, which were formerly supplied by English
manufacturers, are at present almost entirely monopolized by our home
producers. Prominent among those who are contributing to this result
is the firm of Fidoe & Radford, established January 1st, .18.70, ■
who have built up a large and annually increasing trade,
principally among jobbers, which extends throughout the country.
The plant occupied by this firm is embraced in a three-story brick
building, 30x40 feet in dimensions, thoroughly replete with all neces-
sary machinery and run by electric power. Employment is here fur-
nished in the several departments to upwards of forty skilled operatives.
This house manufactures all kinds of high-grade goods, fine kid being a
specialty. These are made in all the latest styles and designs known,
and are offered to the trade at the lowest possible prices. The individ-
ual members of the firm are Messrs. John Fidoe and James Radford,
both of whom are experienced and competent glove manufacturers, and
we commend them to your patronage as being reliable, fair dealing and
trustworthy.THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
89
SEYMOUR SEXTON,
Dealer in Shelf and Heavy Hardware, Groceries and Provisions,
No. 20 South Main Street.
The above house may be justly quoted as both a landmark and one of
the most prominent in the hardware trade of Gloversville, since it has
been identified with every step of its progress for nearly a half century.
There are in Gloversville a number of extensive concerns, whose busi-
ness history has been contemporaneous with the growth and develop-
ment of the city, and of these the house now under comment furnishes a
striking example, Mr. Sexton came here when the place was a mere
hamlet and established a permanent business. In 1850 this enterprise
had its inception, and has continued up to the present, with an unbroken
career, and with a business which lacks but a few years of a half-
century’s honorable existence. The premises occupied, located as above,
are comprised in a large brick building owned by Mr. Sexton, who occu-
pies first floor and basement, 100x24 feet in dimensions, where is carried
a large stock of goods, consisting of a well assorted and complete line
of hardware, groceries, provisions, etc. The upper part of the building
is rented for various avocations. Ample accommodation is at hand for
carrying a most complete, varied and well selected stock, which may be
said to include, shelf and heavy hardware, builders, machinists, mill, fac-
tory and mechanics’ supplies, agricultural implements, tinners’ stock, tools
and supplies, cutlery, tinware, nails and an endless supply of goods
generally included in these lines. In every respect this house is in a
position to compete favorably with its contemporaries. Mr. Seymour
Sexton is director of the a Fulton County National Bank, a director in
the Gloversville Free Library, an active member of the Board of Trade,
and a highly esteemed citizen who enjoys a consideration in this com-
munity that is a just tribute to his worth.
CUMMINGS & BURR,
Manufacturers of Glove Leather, Gloversville, N. Y.
This house, which forms an important adjunct to the glove industry
of this city was originally established in 1857 by John Stewart, since
which time there have been several changes in its management; the
present firm succeeding to the business in 1886. The premises occupied
by the firm are embraced in a large and commodious plant, which is
fully equipped with all of the latest improved machinery, tools and
appliances, operated by steam power, and furnishes steady employment
to seventy workmen. The finished product of the house embraces all
kinds of glove leather, and consists of goat, buck, sheep, calf, kid, hog
and horse hide, their entire product being consumed by the local manu-
facturers. The individual proprietors of the house are Messrs. C. L.
Cummings and H. L. Burr, both of whom are progressive and enter-
prising business men and closely identified with the commercial develop-
ment of this city.9°
THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
GEO. lu LAKE,
Dresser of Fine Shoe Feathers, Gloversville, K. Y.
Among the well-known and prominent leather dressing establish-
ments of Gloversville that have won a wide celebrity in the trade by
reason of their excellent products, that of Mr. Geo. L. Lake occupies a
leading position. This enterprise was established in 1887 by the pres-
ent proprietor, and to-day it ranks among the prominent concerns of
the kind in Central New York. The plant utilized for the transaction
of the business is large and commodious, thoroughly equipped through-
out with all the latest improved machinery and appliances known to the
trade, and operated by steam power, and furnishes employment to
thirty-five skilled hands. The products of this house embrace every-
thing in the way of shoe leathers, patent tan, glazed and dull finished
kid, etc., all of which are of a high standard of quality, a fact which has
been maintained since the inception of the business, as nothing of an
inferior quality is handled or permitted to leave the establishment
unless it bears the imprint of excellence. A specialty is here made in
the production of Kangaroo and goat, and all goods are offered to
manufacturers at lowest cash prices. The products of this house are
held in high favor with the trade and give universal satisfaction. The
trade of this house is centered chiefly in New York and Boston. Mr.
Geo. L. Lake is a progressive business man and experienced manufac-
facturer, and is closely identified with this city’s industrial resources.
Z. B. WHITNEY,
Dealer in California Glove Stock and all Novelties, No. 5 Burr St.
One of the most prominent emporiums in Central New York engaged
in the sale of California glove stock is that of Mr. Z. B. Whitney, which
was established here in 1885, and has since built up a high reputation in
the city and vicinity, by reason of the superior quality of stock carried,
as well as for the fair and liberal treatment accorded patrons. Mr. Whit-
ney enjoys special advantages in the selection of all stock, as he was
engaged in the manufacturing of gloves for ten years previous to enter-
ing into his present business. The salesrooms, located as above indic-
ated, comprise three floors 26x46 feet in dimensions, which are fully
stocked with the finest production of the most noted European and
American leather manufactories, and all the novelties connected with
the glove manufacturing trade:	The leading specialty of this house is
the handling of the celebrated California glove stock, also buck, calf, seal,
goat, horse and sheepskins, for which he has a large demand among
glove manufacturers generally. This house handles large quantities of
leather, and in ail lines the connections are such as to enable it .to be
constantly in receipt of supplies, which are received direct from first
hands, and kept in stock in such quantities as to fill the largest orders
at the shortest nctice. The city trade is an important one, and orders
are also promptly filled from all parts of the United States at prices the
most favorable. Mr. Whitney is second vice president of the Board of
Trade, an active and energetic business man who has done much to fur-
ther the industrial advantages of Gloversville. and is deserving of
particular mention in this work.FACTORY OF GEORGE L. LAKE. See opposite page.92
THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
DARLING & BARD,
Furniture Dealers and Upholsterers, Darling* Block, N. Main St.
There is no branch of productive arts in which such rapid progress
and improvements have been made within recent years as in the manu-
facture of fine and artistic household furniture. One of the oldest and
most prominent establishments in Central New York, and the most ex-
tensive in Gloversville devoted to the sale of furniture is the one form-
ing the caption of this brief sketch. The business was originally estab-
lished by Messrs. Copeland & Hutchinson in 1864, when Gloversville
gave little promise of its present commercial importance. The present
members of the firm are Messrs. Hiram D. Darling and Fulton Bard,
who succeeded to the business in 1886, since which time they have re-
ceived a liberal and substantial patronage and have achieved a wide-
spread popularity and prominence by reason of the superior line of
goods carried. The firm have the largest warerooms in the city for the
display of their fine furniture, embracing five floors, all of which
are connected by elevator, the whole covering an area of 20,000 square
feet, where they carry a stock which embraces every article required to
furnish the most humble cottage or the most elegant mansion complete,
from the front hall entrance to the kitchen scullery. This house makes
a specialty of all the latest and prevailing styles in cabinet and uphols-
tered furniture, chamber suits, side boards, book cases, and in fact every-
thing from the medium priced to the most expensive antique and six-
teenth century. The firm has the most favorable arrangements for pro-
curing goods, and buying in large lots, they obtain such concessions in
prices as to justify them in selling all goods at prices that make their
establishment a resort for all who are in quest of the best goods at a
reasonable cost. The trade of this house is by no means confined to the
city, but extends into many of the neighboring towns and villages; to
the public of which localities equal advantages are offered as to those
in Gloversville. The firm also carry on an undertaking business, which
is conducted by Mr. Bard, who is a practical man of many years experi-
ence at the business, and everything in the way of fine caskets, etc.,
may be had here. Carriages, hearse, etc., are furnished on application.
As the foremost furniture emporium in Central New York, we are happy
to extend to Messrs. Darling & Bard the above courtesy.
W. D. GREGORY,
Manufacturer of Gloves and Mittens, 17 Kingsboro Avenue.
Among the many houses engaged in the manufacture of gloves in this
city we have now to mention the well-known enterprise of Mr. W. D.
Gregory. This house was founded in 1885 by Messrs. Foster & Gregory;
present style since April, 1887. The premises occupied for the business
are large and commodious, furnished with all necessary machinery for the
work in hand, and furnish employment to fifteen operatives. The pro-
ducts of this house consist of all kinds of calf and sheepskin gloves
and mittens, the very best known to the trade. This house makes a
specialty of knitting wrists and backs for gloves, for which they have a
wide local trade. Mr. W. D. Gregory is an enterprising business man
who can be depended upon for fair goods at reasonable prices, and we
commend him to your patronage.DARLING & BARD’S FURNITURE HOUSE. See opposite page.94
THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
LITTAUER BROTHERS,
Leather Dressers and Manufacturers of Gloves 92 South Main
Street,
The magnitude of some of the manufacturing interests of the city-
only becomes apparent when a thorough disclosure is made of the re-
sources and capabilities of each individual establishment. To present
to the notice of the outside world the character and extent of the manu-
facturing industries in successful operation here is the object of this
work, and in pursuance of our design we now direct the reader’s atten-
tion to the enterprise of Messrs. Littauer Brothers, which may be quoted
in the manufacture of gloves and mittens as the largest and most exten-
sive in the United States. The enterprise was originally established in
i860 by Nathan Littauer, father of the members of the present firm. Suc-
ceeding to his business January 1, 1882, the Littauer Brothers have
greatly enlarged their facilities and extended the scope of their trade
operations. The company’s plant is one of the most complete and per-
fect in the country. It consists of a main factory, 278 feet long, 30 feet
wide and three stories in height, a new addition now being erected,
40x80 feet and four stories high, a leather dressing factory, irregular in
shape and covering about 100 square feet of ground, dry sheds and
numerous other outside buildings. The mechanical equipment of the
works includes the latest improved machinery, with all necessary tools
and appliances for making fine and heavy gloves, operated by steam
power, and furnishes employment to three hundred and sixty-two
skilled hands and to many others outside the factory. The leather
dressing mill gives employment to seventy-five additional skilled work-
men. The products of this house embrace every description of gloves
made in the country, from the heaviest and cheapest to the finest and
most expensive. The operations of the company are not confined ex-
clusively to glove manufacturing, but also include leather dressing,
the former, however, being the chief product. The great success of the
company may be largely attributed to the high standard of
their productions in all details, which was fixed at the beginning and
has been inflexibly maintained down to the present day. The products
are not only of the highest standard of excellence, but of the best work-
manship and most artistic design. This house handles a large and ex-
tensive variety of goods, which are offered to the trade at lowest possi-
ble prices. The trade of this house extends throughout the United
States and Canada and is annually increasing in volume. The offi-
cers of the company are Eugene Littauer and Lucius N. Littauer, active
members of .the Board of Trade, both of whom are interested in the
prosperity and advancement of Gloversville, and have done much to
direct the attention of the outside world to this city as a favorable lo-
cation for diversified industries.
BOSTON DRY GOODS STORE,
W. Collie, Proprietor, 39 and 41 North Main Street.
Among the most prominent and well known dry goods enter-
prises of Gloversville is that of the Boston Dry Goods Store, which had
its inception here in I882, since which time it has grown to be one ofTHE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
95
the most tastefully and luxuriously arranged and appointed
dry goods establishments in Fulton county, and is transacting a busi-
ness that has but few equals in this section. The extensive salesrooms,
occupying two floors, are 50x70 feet in dimensions, centrally located,
and are filled to overflowing with the choicest goods in foreign and do-
mestic dry goods, mourning goods,* dress goods, cloaks and shawls,
ladies’ underwear, ribbons, toilet articles, fancy goods, laces, trimmings,
notions, etc. Ten courteous and attentive salesmen are given employ-
ment in the several departments of the business. The management has
learned by long experience what is required in this market, and the
salesrooms have long been the resort for people in search of the
very latest styles and most reliable goods and fabrics from the cele-
brated English, French and American looms. This house has always
made a specialty of carrying the finest goods in the market, rich silks
and velvets, and the choicest imported goods, and no other house in the
trade has better facilities for procuring these goods and placing them
in the hands of patrons at low prices. This house enjoys a large local
trade, which is annually increasing. Mr. W. Collie, the proprietor of
this establishment, is an enterprising business man, and is well deserv-
ing of the popularity accorded him by the public in general.
GLOVERSVILLE KNITTING WORKS.
Manufacturers of Knit Wool Goods, Mittens, Glove Backs, Wrists,
etc., No. 90 South Main Street.
The Gloversville knitting mills are the most prominent representative
of the glovers knit goods industry in the United States and are the only
mills here producing a complete line of glovers’ knit goods, mittens, etc.
The Gloversville knitting mills were established in 1884 by E. H. Mills
& Co., present style since 1887. The plant is embraced in a two story
building, 30x90 feet in dimensions, which are completely equipped with
knitting machines, which embrace forty hand and ten power machines,
and in fact all latest and modern improved machinery used in the pro-
duction of knit goods; here employment is furnished to upwards of
thirty skilled hands. The products of this house include the finer
grades of glovers knit goods, which are equalif not superior to the finest
foreign goods, and are in great demand throughout the country. They
embrace all kinds of knit wool goods and novelties, mittens, etc., a
specialty being made in the manufacture of glovers’ knit goods, includ-
ing knit backs, wrists, etc. These goods are made in all the latest styles
known to the trade, and offered to manufacturers and dealers at the
lowest cash prices. The Gloversville knit goods from the start estab-
lished a reputation for excellence, which the present proprietor, Mr. F.
W. Belden, has felt a pride in maintaining, sparing no effort or expense
in providing such additions and improvements as the growth of the
business required, and as a consequence he has built up a trade which
extends throughout the United States and Canada. All orders entrusted
to this house will be promptly filled and samples will be sent to manu-
facturers or dealers on application.96
THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
GEORGE W. MANDRILL,
Glove Manufacturer, 6 Division Street.
A representative house in Gloversville, engaged largely in the manu-
facture of gloves is that of Mr. George W. Mandrill. This enterprise
had its inception herein 1880, since which time its business operations
have greatly increased in magnitude, and to-day it ranks among the
leading and prominent houses in the city. The manufacturing plant,,
located as above indicated, occupies three floors, each 35x60 feet in
dimensions, which is thoroughly replete with all necessary tools and
appliances for the systematic carrying on of the work in hand, is-
operated by electric power and furnishes employment to upwards of
seventy-five skilled operators. The products of this concern, which are
varied as to variety and style, embrace an extensive line of goods made
in all the prevailing styles and shades from the very best kid and castor,
light goods being a specialty. The high estimation in which these goods
are held by the trade may be easily estimated when we state that they
are sold throughout the entire United States. Mr. George W. Mandrill,
the present proprietor of the business, is an active and enterprising busi-
ness man, and all dealings with this house cannot fail to result in
pleasant business relations; therefore we take pleasure in commending
it to your patronage. Mr. Mandrill will forward samples of his special-
ties on application, quoting terms and prices to jobbers only.THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
97
HEACOCK & CO..
Dealers in General Hardware, No. 13 Nortli Main Street.
One of the most notable and prominent establishments in Central New
York, devoted to handling the above named line of goods, is that of
Messrs. Heacock & Co. This house was established here in 1879 by the
present firm. For the accommodation of their business the firm occupy
at the above location, two floors, and part of a third floor 75x28 feet in
dimensions, also a large storehouse, all of which are replete with a large
and complete stock of hardware, agricultural supplies, etc., including
all kinds of dairy-supplies, hardware, cutlery, refrigerators, house-fur-
nishing goods, tools, grindstones, woodenware, horticultural and agri-
cultural supplies, and, in short, everything necessary or useful on or
about a farm. The trade of this house has become an extended one,
being centered throughout the city and surrounding territory. This
house, by reason of their marked facilities for procuring goods direct
from manufacturers and in large quantities, are enabled to offer goods;
to the trade at lowest cash prices, and can compete with any similar
concern in the country. The house carries one of the largest varieties;
of goods to be found in this section of the country, and all orders willr
receive prompt and accurate attention. In conclusion we would say-
that in every way this house is#a most reliable one, having from its,
inception maintained a high reputation in the trade, which has ranked
it among the foremost in its line and warrants us in saying to our
readers, that they will confer a favor on themselves by entering into>
business relations with it. We commend it to your patronage.
M. BEEBER & CO.,
Manufacturers and Jobbers of Gloves and Mittens, Factory &&
South Main Street, Gloversville. Salesroom, 475
Broadway, New York.
Established in 1868, by its present proprietors, this house has steadily
maintained its prestige among the trade, and increased the scope of its
trade operations from year to year, until to-day the house is recognized
as one of the largest and most important in the glove industry of this
country. The fir/n’s plant, located as above indicated, is embraced in a
building 216x25 ^eet m dimensions, and ranges from three to four sto-
ries in height, and has a floor area of over 16,000 square feet. The me-
chanical equipment of the plant embraces 101 sewing machines, which
are operated by a thirty-five horse power steam engine, and afford
steady employment to sixty cutters and two hundred and three opera-
tives. The firm make no specialty or run on any class of goods, but
produce a general line of gloves and mittens of the latest prevailing
styles and shades. The house is in a position to offer special induce-
ments to the trade, as all materials are purchased direct from first hands
and manufacturers and the finished products offered to the trade at fig-
ures not easily duplicated elsewhere. The individual members of the
firm are Max Beeber and Jacob Lehman, both of whom are progressive
and liberal business men, closely identified with the commercial devel-
opment of Gloversville, of which their own enterprise is a valuable and
prominent part.98
THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
T. G. FOSTER,
Manufacturer of Shoe Leather, Gloversville, ]ST. Y.
The above named house, which occupies an important and prominent
position among the manufacturing industries of this city, was established
here by its present proprietor in 1878. The premises occupied are em-
braced in a five story building, 40x150 feet in dimensions, which is fully
equipped with all of the latest improved machinery, tools and appliances,
operated by steam power. The product of the house embraces a fine
grade of shoe leather, which finds a ready market and is in active
demand by the trade. The house is an important factor in the com-
mercial resources of this city, and its proprietor is among the most pro-
gressive and energetic business men of this thriving young city. He is
a member of the Gloversville board of trade, prominently identified
with various other enterprises, and wTe are pleased to extend to him and
his enterprise the above courtesy.
CHARLES B. BRYCE,
Leather Dresser, Cayadutta Street, Opposite Alvord House.
Eminent among those houses engaged in a similar line of business,
that of Mr. Charles B. Bryce stands conspicuous, and occupies a posi-
tion that fully entitles it to consideration in this work. This house
was established in 1885 by its present proprietor, since which time it has
assumed its present encouraging proportions, with an annually increas-
ing trade. The plant of this house, located as above, is embraced in a
three story brick building 30x150 feet in dimensions. It is thoroughly
replete with all necessary and improved machinery operated by a 20
horse-power steam engine, and furnishes employment to twelve skilled
workmen. The productions of the house comprise* several lines of
'leather, all of which are of the most improved character and marked by
some process peculiarly their own. They include all kinds of glove
leather, kid and golden tan of a superior quality, and find a ready
market with the glove manufacturers of the city, where this house's
trade is principally centered. In conclusion we would say that this
house as in every way a reliable one with which to open and continue
Ibusdmess relations and we commend it to your patronage.
E. M. BROWN.
Manufacturer of Gloves and Mittens, 9 State Street.
Prominent among the diverse and welUknown industrial establish-
ments of Gloversville is that conducted by E. M. Brown. This house
was originally established in 1868 by O. and F. Brown; in 1873 it was
known as O. Brown & Son, in 1885 as Brown Bros., the present pro-
prietor succeeding to the business in March of the present year. The
manufacturing plant located as above indicated is embraced in three
floors, 34x50 feet in dimensions, equipped with all necessary machinery
and furnishes lucrative employment to about fifty operatives in the
different departments of the business. This house manufactures all
kinds of gloves and mittens made from the best quality of buckskin,
calf, hog, sheepskins and horse hides, making a specialty of buck goods.
The prices charged for these products are reasonable and they are in
great demand by consumers and dealers where ever known.THE INDUSTRIES OF GLOVERSVILLE.
99
JOHN B. JUDSON,
Fine Job and Art Printer, 1 3 State Street.
The above named house, which is headquarters for glove manufac-
turers’ supplies and fine art printing, had its inception in 1875. At the
location mentioned, commodious premises are occupied, where every
modern facility is at hand for the prompt execution of engraving, print-
ing and embossing. The plant, which is fully equipped with all of the
latest designs of a first class printer’s outfit, is operated by steam power,
and furnishes employment to a number of competent artists, all of whose
operations are conducted under the personal supervision of the proprie-
tor, who is a practical printer, himself, of long experience. Mr. Judson
undertakes all descriptions of Glovers’ work, mercantile, fine art and
society printing; and it is conceded that the output of this concern bears
the ear mark of neatness and originality, and is not excelled by that of
any similar establishment in the state. The specialty of the house is in
colored, illuminated and embossed glove bands and labels. The scope
of the business may best be known when it is stated that Mr. Judson’s
customers are found not only in Fulton county, but throughout the
United States and Canada. Outside of the reputation which this house
has attained among its customers for superior printing, it has been ac-
corded recognition from some of the leading printing trade journals of
this country, as the following clipping from the American Art Printer
will show:
John B. Judson, 13 State street, Gloversville, N. Y., sends us two dozen samples of
elegant commercial printing. It is very evident to us that neither money nor time
are spared by Mr. Judson to produce the best results with the finest kinds of material.
As we view the jobs one by one we observe the prevailing color of bronze, that seems
to illuminate every specimen sent. A noticeable job among this collection is Mr.
Judson’s own bill-head, the prominent features of which are a pretty gold crescent
that runs' under a ribbon panel at the left, and a large initial F, printed in red with a
black border which begins the line “Fine Printing.”
A. V. FONDA,
Mauufacturer of Gloves and Knit Goods, 1 04 S. Main Street.
The above named house occupies a prominent position in the trade,
acquired through the superior character of its output. This house had
its inception here in 1873, known as Fonda Bros., the present proprietor
succeeding to the business in January of 1888. The business premises
occupied by him embrace a three story building, 50x75 feet in dimen-
sions, thoroughly fitted up and furnished with every modern conven-
ience for facilitating rapid and perfect production, employment being
furnished to upwards of fifty skilled hands. Mr. Fonda manufactures
only the finest grade of goods, chiefly from buckskin, calf, kid and sheep-
skin, and these are lined and unlined, to suit the demands of the trade.
In every respect his productions are first-class and will compete with
any in the market. The styles and designs are always in keeping with
fhe demands of fashion, and are widely recognized as unsurpassed for
quality, reliability and uniform excellence. Mr. Fonda also manufac-
tures a line of knit goods, including risbands, backs for heavy gloves,
etc. Mr. A. V. Fonda, the proprietor, is a progressive business man of
push and energy, a credit to this community and the enterprise he rep-
resents.FRED. GIRARD,
4*E)l?otogFapfyep,ir
;	Studio 21 and 23 North Main Street,
(EDWARDS BLOCK,)
GLOVERSVILLE, - X. V.
A Specialty made of Babies’ Pictures and Large Work.