THE 
 
 THOMSON-HOUSTON ELECTRIC COMPANY, 
 
 PROPRIETORS OF THE 
 
 THOMSON-HOUSTON 
 
 Electric Lighting System, 
 
 PRINCIPAL OFFICE, 
 
 No. 131 DEVONSHIRE STREET, 
 
 BOSTON, MASS. 
 
 FACTORY AT LYNN, MASS. 
 

THE 
 
 T^on]soi]-5onsToi] 
 
 Electric Company, 
 
 PROPRIETORS OF THE 
 
 THOMSON-HOUSTON SYSTEM 
 
 OF 
 
 ELECTRIC LI&pil]&. 
 
 MANUFACTURERS OF 
 
 Dynamo-Electric Machines, Electric Motors, Electric 
 Arc Lamps, Incandescent Lamps, Current Regu- 
 lators, Current Distributors, Lightning 
 Arresters, Cut-Outs, Switch-Boards, 
 
 Etc., Etc. 
 
 DEALERS IN 
 
 Klectkical Apparatus 
 
 GENERALLY. 
 
 Principal Business Office : 
 
 STREET, 
 
 BOSTON, MASS. 
 
CONTENTS. 
 
 I’AOZ. 
 
 Introductory 7 
 
 Description of Apparatus !i 
 
 Air-Blast Spark Controller 10 
 
 Arc Lamps 11 
 
 Focussing and Search Lamps ' 11 
 
 Automatic Regulator and Controller 14 
 
 Distributing Switch . . . . • 10 
 
 SUMMARA' OE FaCTS 10 
 
 Incandescent Distributing Sa'ste.m 20 
 
 Cost oe Operating Plants 22 
 
 Testimonials from Local Companies 24 
 
 Cities wherein this Compana' has superseded others 30 
 
 Klectricita' vs. Gas 30 
 
 Local Companies in United States and Abroad 42 
 
 Isolated Lighting 51 
 
Dynamo-Electric Machine, with Thomson's Spherical Armature. 
 
 

 I ■ 
 
 ) 
 
OFFICERS.^ 
 
 H. A. PEVEAR, President. 
 
 C. A. COFFIN, Vice-President. S. A. BARTON, Treas. and Manager. 
 E. I. GARFIELD, Secretary. ELIHU THOMSON, Electrician. 
 
 E. J. HOUSTON, Consulting Electrician. 
 
Digitized by the Internet Archive 
 in 2017 with funding from 
 Columbia University Libraries 
 
 https://archive.org/details/thomsonhoustonelOOthom 
 
INTRODUCTORY 
 
 I'lie Tliomson-IIoiiston system wiiich is now exciting so inucli inter- 
 est iiiul favoruljle eomincnt in Europe, has been in operation in various 
 cities of tlie I'nitecl States for tlic past three years. 
 
 'I'lie rai)itl clevelopment wliicli it lias acliieved in this sliort time, hav- 
 ing Iieen adopted in nearly one liundred cities and towns in tlie United 
 States, has placed it far in advance of its competitors, and lias won for 
 it the reputation of tieing the most simple, economical, and commercially 
 valuable system of electric lighting in the market. 
 
 The apparatus of the Thomson-IIouston Electric Company possesses 
 advantages of an important character over all others. 
 
 The dynamo machine is strictly automatic in character, admitting of 
 any number of lights being turned oft’ simultaneously without injury to 
 the machines or remaining lamps, or without the introduction of resist- 
 ance, and with a corresponding reduction of power. To illustrate : if 
 there should be forty-tive lights in use on a circuit and forty of them 
 should be turned off simultaneously, the dynamo would be perfectly 
 controlled by the automatic regulator, without any attention on the part 
 of an engineer or other person in charge, so that the remaining lamps would 
 receive only their proportion of electric current, and the power reduced 
 to that sutlicieut to run them. This is a feature which is possessed by no 
 other company in the world. 
 
 15y an ingenious and simple attachment, a constant and strong current 
 of air is forced upon the surface of the commutator directly in the path 
 of the brushes, so that the heating and sparking which is so troublesome 
 and dangerous in other machines is entirely overcome, allowing a free use 
 of oil on the commutator, and thereby reducing the wear and tear to a 
 minimum. This is an advantage possessed by the Thomson-Houston sys- 
 tem alone. 
 
 One of the principal items in tlie expense of operating an electric 
 light plant is the outlay for repairs on apparatus, through the burning out 
 of armatures, and wearing of commutators, brushes, etc. This has been 
 so skilfully provided against in the construction of the Thomson-Hous- 
 ton apparatus, that the annual charge for depreciation and repairs on a 
 plant of this system is reduced to a point far below that sustained in the 
 operation of any other in use, and makes it possible to do a profitable busi- 
 ness in supplying lights from a central station under circumstances that 
 
8 
 
 witli any other known .system would I’esult in a loss. This has been so 
 fully proven, that in many prominent cities in the United States entire 
 plants of other sj’stcms have been thrown out bodily and Thomson-Hous- 
 toi> plants installed in their place, a sufficient saving being eflected thereby 
 to place the companies which had before been conducting their business 
 at a loss, upon a paying basis. 
 
 It has been fully demonstrated in various parts of the United States 
 that in any one of three essential particulars, there can be eflected a 
 saving as compared with any other system, in an amount sullicient to pay 
 the interest on the entire cost of the apparatus. First, in the matter of 
 wear and tear and depreciation. Second, in the econoinj’ of power con- 
 sumed, because of the automatic regulation. Third, in the cost of attend- 
 ance resulting from the automatic features of the apparatus and its great 
 simplicity of construction. All of which constitute elements absolutely 
 necessary to secure a profitable and successful business in all places and 
 under all circumstances. 
 
 The Thomson-IIouston incandescent system of lighting possesses 
 equally superior advantages. Its dynamo for direct low tension incandes- 
 cent lighting possesses very superior features of simplicity and econ- 
 omy, and carries a greater number of lights in proportion to its weight 
 than any other made. During the past few months the company has in- 
 troduced a method for running incandescent lights on the same circuit 
 with arc lights, and in such a manner that each incandescent light is en- 
 tirely independent of the others, and can be extinguished or lighted at 
 pleasure. This is also a special feature possessed by no other company. 
 
 Because of the remarkable simplicity and economical features of 
 the Thomson-IIouston system, it is especially adapted for use in countries 
 remote from the source of supplies of electrical apparatus. So fully has 
 this been recognized that in all cases where there has been an intelligent 
 investigation into the merits of the diflerent systems for export trade 
 during the past two years, the Thomson-Houston has been selected as 
 oflering the best facilities for establishing a profitable business. This 
 company is rapidly pushing the introduction of its apparatus into various 
 foreign countries and cities. 
 
DESCRIPTION OF APPARATUS MANUFACTURED 
 BY THE THOMSON-HOUSTON 
 ELECTRIC CO. 
 
 Tlie DYNAMO-MACHINE of the present system, eml)odies 
 joint improvements patented by Elihn Thomson and Edwin J. Ilonston, 
 and improvements patented by Elihn Thomson. We call especial atten- 
 tion to the following: merits: — 
 
 1st. Extreme simplicity, there being only three coils of wire on the 
 revolving portion, or armature, and three i)ieces of copper in the com- 
 mutator. 
 
 2d. The complete enclosure of the armature by the coils and magnets 
 of the machine, concentrating the power where it should be applied to 
 produce the best results, and preventing injury to the moving parts, or 
 danger to the machine from iron objects being drawn into it. 
 
 3d. The highest ctliciency, due to the enclosure of all the wire of the 
 armature where the electricity is generated, by a most powerful magnetic 
 field, giving great saving in horse-power to produce a given result. 
 
 4th. The spherical form and small size of the revolving portion or 
 armature, giving the least possible air-resistance, or loss of power by fan- 
 ning air. 
 
 5th. The form and size of the armature, preventing the possibility 
 of injury due to centrifugal force. 
 
 6th. The compact and encased condition of the parts, such as insu- 
 lated wire, rendering them not subject to injury by contact with surround- 
 ing objects. 
 
 7th. The continuous character of the current and its conscciuent 
 advantages. 
 
 8th. The machine possesses the simplest commutator in the world 
 giving continuous currents ; and from its construction there is no danger 
 of injury to its insulation, so often the cause of putting the generators of 
 other systems out of service. With the air-blast attachment oil may be 
 freely used on the commutator, and the wear of its segments and of the 
 brushes then amounts to almost nothing. 
 
10 
 
 0th. The generator re<iuires less attention to keep in order than any 
 other, and with tlie automatic regulator attached its power is adapted to 
 the nuniher of lights it is desired to maintain. 
 
 10th. There is little noise or hum produced during running, so often 
 an ol)jectionable feature of other generators. 
 
 11th. The wearing in the boxes is reduced to a minimum b}’ the 
 lightness and balance ol* the revolving parts. 
 
 12th. The thoroughness of insulation of all its parts, where needed. 
 
 13th. The replaceability and interchangeability of its important parts. 
 
 14th. The freedom from risk of short circuits; the potentials being 
 so distributed as to secure this result. 
 
 THE ATR-BLAST SPAEK-COXTROLLER. 
 
 By an invention of the greatest value, protected by bottom patents. 
 Prof. Thomson has provided a complete solution of the problem of con- 
 trolling the sparking or flashing liable to be so troublesome at the com- 
 mutators of all dynamo-machines. This invention consists in forcing a 
 thin and forcible jet of air square against the ends of the brushes where 
 they bear on the commutator segments. With this attachment there is 
 no difticulty in taking oil’ from a single narrow commutator a high poten- 
 tial current for sixty or more lights in one circuit, and its use permits oil 
 to be applied with great freedom to the commutator, thus almost com- 
 pletely doing away with the wearing out of the brushes and com- 
 mutator. With this improvement on a machine the brushes have been 
 known to endure nearly three months’ use without trimming. 
 
 B 
 
11 
 
 ELECTRIC ARC LAMPS. 
 
 The followiiiii styles and iialtcriis of arc lamps, each adapted to par- 
 ticular uses or locations, arc provided. They are covered by patents of 
 Elilui Thomson, assigned to the Thomson-IIouston Electric Co. : 
 
 THE THOMSON STANDARD LAMP, for factories, mills, 
 foundries, depots, freisrht-yards, streets, etc., etc. 
 
 THE STANDARD DOUBLE LAMP, for all-night use. 
 
 The steady and quiet burning of the Thomson Arc Lamps — 
 a fact at present well recognized — renders their use practicable and 
 advantageous, on the score of beauty and economy, in theatres and con- 
 cert halls, where they have been frequently applied with the most 
 satisfactory results. 
 
 The THOMSON DIVIDED ARC LAMP marks a great ad- 
 vance in arc lighting. It supplies a light of moderate candle-power, 
 for locations where a 2000-candle power lamp gives more light than 
 can be economically utilized. This divided arc lamp is especially suited 
 for factory and mill use, where looms and other tall machines are liable 
 to be so closely placed as to make a comparatively large number of lamps 
 advantageous for avoiding shadows. Nearly twice as many of these 
 lamps can be supplied by a given expenditure of power and dynamo ca- 
 pacity as of the standard lamps. 
 
 The THOMSON FOCUSSING LAMP, shown in the cut, con- 
 tains several features peculiar to it, by which it is admirably adapted 
 for maintaining the arc or light focus constant in position during burn- 
 ing. Hoadlights for steamers, and search lamps, consisting of 
 our focussing lamps and proper reflectors and attachments which we pro- 
 vide, are in constant demand. They are substantial and reliable. 
 
 The lanqis above described are furnished with all appliances desir- 
 able for safety or convenience, such as switches, automatic safety de- 
 vices, etc. Their reliability and constancy are owing to their being 
 without clock-work, and without dash-pots with liquids in them, as also 
 to the care and study of details given lo the requirements of a practi- 
 cally perfect arc light. They are automatically extinguished when the 
 carbons arc sutliciently consumed. They arc self-adjusting in all respects, 
 not requiring expert attention. 
 
 These lami)s are of plain, yet neat and substantial design, and do 
 not need readjustment after leaving the factory. 
 
 Lamps, when used in situations where they are liable to be exposed 
 to the weather, are provided with protecting hoods above them. 
 
STANDAIM) I. AMT. 
 
 DOUIJLK LAMl*. 
 
13 
 
 THE ORNAMENTAL LAMP, jllustrati'il, iimkes a liandsonie 
 souroe of liglit for olllces, tine stores, <rniin<;-lialls, lecture-halls, 
 churches, etc. These are furnished double as well as single. 
 
 01!N.\MK.Nr.M. LAMP. 
 
u 
 
 THE AUTOMATIC CUR li EXT REGULATOR. 
 
 THE AUTOMATIC REGULATOR is lui attaclunciit of simple 
 constnietioii wliicli is sccureil to tlie maehiiie and adjusts the current 
 to a standard amount, rejiardless of the nnmbcr of lam|)s l)ein<; at any 
 time used. It serves also to compensate for changes in the speed 
 of the generator due to unsteady power, so that the lights may be 
 retained steady and of normal size, even though the motive power does 
 
 FOt'fSSINC I..VM1’. 
 
15 
 
 not furnish a constant speed. It serves further to so adjust the com- 
 mutator of the machine, that any injury due to faulty adjustineuts 
 made l)y unskilled attendants, is completely obviated. It is especially 
 valuable as a safeguard to the machine and lamps in case of any accident 
 
 to tlie wires or short circuiting of the machine, and adds much to the 
 security against lire. By its use the lines are supplied with a standard 
 current, and lights may be interchanged from circuit to circuit without 
 readjustment. 
 
 COXTKOI.l.EU-MAGXr.T. 
 
 Tlic current regulator consists es- 
 sentially of a delicate contact control- 
 ling magnet placed in the line or main 
 circuit, governing tlie action of a sec- 
 ond electro-magnet which moves the 
 commutator brushes to positions of 
 practically constant current. The 
 operation is very simple, without com- 
 plexity or uncertainty. In these re- 
 spects it is unlike similar devices 
 appearing in other systems, at recent 
 dates, notwithstanding that such regu- 
 lators arc covered by the Thomson- 
 Ilouston Patents. 
 
16 
 
 THOMSON PATENT DISTRIBUTION SWITCH. 
 
 This valuable api)liance enables the lights in a mill to be controlled 
 from a central point so as to allow groups of lights to be extinguished 
 
 DisTniiu'Tiox swircu. 
 
 and relighted at will, or exchanged from the circuit of one generator to 
 that of another, without disturbing the circuit wires. The switch is 
 placed near the generators, and is conveniently given in charge of the 
 attendant. Shouhl the l)asement of a mill require to be lighted at an 
 earlier hour than other portions of the mill, the attendant adjusts his 
 switch accordingly, and may add the other lights at any subseiiuent time. 
 In like manner should it l)e desired to extinguish a group of lights in a 
 certain room at any given hour, the attendant can do so at his switch 
 without inconvenience. .Many applications under varied conditions will 
 suggest themselves. The current is absolutely cut off from the 
 lights, and line-wire thrown out of use l)y the use of the switch. On 
 street circuits, worked liy ligliting com]ianics. it is modilied to enable 
 lights in an y l)nilding to l)e al)solutely ciU-olf. so that the unused wires 
 ari' -‘il.'ad" wires for tlic time being, tlius completely fullilling the re- 
 
17 
 
 (|uiiH‘nieiits of the boaril of uiulcr\vriti.'rs. 'I'hc aclviiiitajres of the switch 
 liavc l)ec‘ii fully tested by loiijt |)racUcal use. 'I’his switch is also con- 
 structed, wlien needed, to admit of tlie sudden transfer of a circuit of 
 lijtlits, more or less in numl)er, from the circuit of one machine or set of 
 machines to another circuit of machines and lamps while running, and 
 without ilisturbing the operation or even momentarily extinguishing any 
 of the lamps. 
 
 We also are iirepared to supidy several approved designs of central 
 station switch-boards of 50, 100, 150, and 200 lights capacity, or over. 
 
 LIGHTNING ARRESTEES. F or local lighting companies, 
 protection is sometimes necessary against danger from lightning. Such 
 protection is alfortlcd in a novel way by Thomson’s new Lightning 
 Arrester, a simple and ctl'ective device. 
 
 CUT-OUTS. We make an improved and simple form of cut-out 
 for use at points where line-wires enter buildings. This cut-out works 
 without spark, and with perfect safety while its insulating surfaces are 
 ample in extent. 
 
 GALVANOMETERS. We also make galvanometers for the use 
 of local companies and experts in measuring and testing the current 
 from dynamo machines. 
 
 THE THOMSON-RICE INVARIABLE AMMETER is a 
 
 very useful instrument for standardizing currents, regulators, etc. De- 
 pending not upon terrestrial magnetism, or that of so-called permanent 
 magnets, but solely uiion the relative magnetic powers of two electro- 
 magnetic coils, its indicators may be relied upon at all times. 
 
 LINE WIRE, CARBONS, HANGING BOARDS, HOODS, 
 INSULATORS, etc. The Thomson-IIouston Electric Co. is prepared 
 to supply local companies, and private consumers, with all kinds of 
 electrical supplies used in the installation and maintenance of electric 
 lighting plants. 
 
 HAND DYNAMO. Pliysicists and lecturers in many depart- 
 ments of science, will welcome the ajjpearance of a hand dynamo suit- 
 able for the laboratory and capable of working a small arc light, or 
 several incandescent lamps, or producing other cllects often reiiuired in 
 practical work or lectures. The machine is of very great power for 
 its size and speed of running. It is also an admirable electric motor, and 
 has delivered over one horse power. 
 
18 
 
 ELECTRIC MOTORS. The electric transmission of power has 
 for a long time been regarded by the foremost practical electricians as 
 perfectly feasible. As a means of distributing motive power, the electric 
 motor seems destined soon to come into extensive use. The results thus 
 far obtained give promise of great success in the future. The Thomson- 
 Houston Electric Co. is provided with ample facilities for building 
 motors of various sizes to run economically upon arc-light or other 
 circuits. 
 
 ARC LAMPS IN MULTIPLE SERIES. It is believed that 
 this is the first time arc lights running in mutiple series have ever been 
 used in public. Prof. Thomson’s discovery and invention for making 
 this great desideratum an accomplished fact illustrates his genius as an 
 electrician. By the use of this apparatus arc lights of totally different 
 powers may be run from a single circuit, some in series, and some in mul- 
 tiple arc or in multiple series. Divisions and re-divisions, as well as 
 reunions of arc circuits, are easily practicable. 
 
 INSURANCE. 
 
 The Thomson-IIouston system of electric lighting has been examined 
 by the agents of insurance companies and pronounced perfectly satisfac- 
 tory in fulfilling all the requirements laid down by them, and all lines and 
 apparatus put up by the Thomson-Houston Electric Company conform to 
 insurance rules. The safeguards provided by this company in the way 
 of automatic regulation of the current to meet every demand, cannot be 
 equalled by any other company. 
 
 All our apparatus has stood the test of continued daily practical use, 
 and it is built and tested under highly skilled superintendence. 
 
19 
 
 SUMMARY OF WELL-KNOWN FACTS CONCERN- 
 ING THE THOMSON-HOUSTON SYSTEM. 
 
 The 'riioiusoii-Houston system is automatic and sclf-re<;ulatiiig. 
 T’licse highly essential and valuable features are possessed by no other 
 Company in existence. 
 
 Its lights can be turned on or off at will and without attention to the 
 tlymimo, tlius etfectiug a corresponding saving of power. This is not 
 pO'Sible with any other systsm. 
 
 The Thomson-IIouston system has in every case where it lias exhib- 
 ited in competition with others, received the I'lnsr ritizE for every valua- 
 ble feature. This cannot be said of any other Company in the 
 world. 
 
 .\t the great Industrial Exposition at Cincinnati, in the autumn of 
 1883, it received the kiust iuuzk for best system of arc lighting. At the 
 great e.xliibition lield at Louisville, the same year, it received the first 
 Mun.vL for BEST .\uc i.iGiiT. At the exhibition held at San Francisco in 
 the summer of 1884, it received the first goi.d med.vl. At the most 
 exhaustive competitive test of the various prominent systems ever made 
 by a city, given at Quincy, 111., its merits were fully recoyiiized by a 
 combined committee of mcrchauts, mechanics, and experts. The result 
 was tlie award to it of the contract for lighting tlie city. At the great 
 International Electrical Exhibition at Philadelphia (at which no awards 
 were made), in Octoiier, 1884. its lights were pronounced by the *• Amer- 
 ican Gas Light Journal,” a natural enemy of electric Uyhtiny in yeneral, to 
 
 BE THE FINEST .\N1) STE.VDIEsr OF .VLI. THE SYSTEMS EXHIBITED. 
 
 In a letter from Prof. Thurston, of Hoboken, to the .\rmington & 
 Sims Engine Co., reporting his tests of power recpiired in running 
 Thomson-IIouston standard arc lights, he stated that with sixty lights 
 running from two dynamos, the power was but 7-10 horse-power per 
 light of 2.000 C. P. each. 
 
 From a direct comparison of the Thomson-IIouston with other 
 apparatus at the Cincinnati Exposition of 1883, as to the average light 
 in all directions measured, and the relative illuminating power per unit 
 yf energy, the jury stated that “ there is a dilference of more than 
 forty per cent in favor of the Thomson-Houston.” [See 
 Science, ^'ol. 111.. No. 54. p. 184.] 
 
At no city in tlie Uniteil States lias it ever competed for city business 
 tliat it lias not iieen awarded tlie city contract. This cannot be said 
 of any other Company in the United States- 
 
 In many cities in various parts of tlie United States, particulars con- 
 cerning which can be had by application, entire plants of other systems 
 have been thrown out and the Tliomson-IIouston installed in their place, 
 thus fully corroborating what is claimed for it, viz. : that it is cheaper to 
 runciiASK Thomson-llonston lamps and dynamos than to operate any 
 other system .vs .v Git r. 
 
 The Tliomson-IIouston Electric Company, during the past year, has 
 installed by far a greater number of local company plants, in different 
 parts of the United States, tii.vx .vi.i. otiiku kliictkic i.ioiitixg com- 
 I’AXiKS coMiuxED. In proof of which, attention is called to the accom- 
 panying list of local companies operating its system, nearly all of which 
 have been organized irithin the past eUjhteen months. 
 
 For testimony with reference to the extraordinary merits of this sj's- 
 tem, we are permitted to refer to such eminent and trustworthy author- 
 ities as I’rof. Sylvanus Thompson, of England ; Howland 11. Hazard, Esq., 
 president of the Gramme Electric Company, of New York: the Electrical 
 llevicw, of New York; the Electrical \Yorld, of New York, or to any of 
 the local companies using its system, and especially to those that have 
 been the longest operating it, such as the Kawsmouth Electric Light Com- 
 pany, of Kansas City, Mo., operating nearly 300 lights; the Tliomson- 
 IIouston Electric Light Company, of St. Louis, operating 300 lights ; the 
 Merchants’ Electric Light and Power Company, of Boston, operating GOO 
 lights; the Syracuse Electric Light Comiiaiiy, operating 250 lights; the 
 New Haven Electric Comiiany, 200 lights; the Worcester Electric Light 
 Company, 250 lights ; and the Pacific Thomson-Houston Electric Light 
 Company, 150 lights. 
 
 THE INCANDESCENT DISTRIBUTING SYSTEM. 
 INCANDESCENT LIGHTS IN ARC CIRCUITS. 
 
 We have developed and are introducing a system of Incandescent 
 Electric Lighting by which incandescent lights can be successfully and 
 economically run from the same circuit with are lights. Hitherto a po.s- 
 sibility that the breakage of one or two Incandescent lamps of a group 
 might result in a further breakage and disruption of an entire circuit has 
 ])revented Lighting Comiianies from a general use of auy such method, 
 although some attemjits have been made. Our new improvements pro- 
 vide perfect safeguards against any trouble from accidental breakage of 
 a lamp or other unforeseen cause. By an automatic device in the arc light 
 current a grouji of eight incandescent lights, of twelve to sixteen candle 
 power each, can be substituted in place of one arc light. .Vll the lights 
 
•21 
 
 in iiii_v ijroup can he used at once, or any desired iininber of tliem can be 
 extinguished at iileasure as easily as gas lights. The device acts by elec- 
 trical means, being entirely independent of clock-work, and hence attbials 
 no chance for a careless attendant to i)rodnce disaster by neglecting to 
 wind up a inechanisin. tVe speak of a <jroup of lights, but it should be 
 understood that the lights of the group can be scattered about at pleasure, 
 and may be in various rooms if desired. It is also possible to have a 
 (lilferent number of incaiulesceuts in place of one arc light, by adapting 
 the number to the candle power reciuired in each lamp. Any number of 
 groups of incandescent lights within the power of a machine can be used 
 on one main circuit, or a part of these groups can be replaced by arc lights. 
 
 The transfer device, by which the current is distributed to a group 
 of incandescent lights, is contained in a neat box that can be placed at 
 any convenient part of the circuit, and is known as the Thomson-Kice 
 Incandescent Distributor, from its inventors, who have designed it with 
 a view to fultilling all conditions of ellectivcness and safety. 
 
 In this connection we publish the following letters: — 
 
 [copy.] 
 
 PuoviDKNX'K, R. I., June 25, 1885. 
 
 V. .V. Tiiom.vs, Sup’t Narragansett Electric Light Co. 
 
 Dear Sir: — The incandescent lights of the Thomson-IIouston system, 
 as run from distributing boxes, which were placed in our store some time 
 since, has given, it affords tis pleasure to say, the utmost satisfaction 
 since their being started. It is our opinion that the lights are fully equal 
 to the best incandescent lights we have ever seen. They seem to exactly 
 fill the want for a good incandescent system which can be operated at a 
 long distance from the central station. 
 
 Yours truly, 
 
 (Signed) JAMES, KENNEDY & CO. 
 
 Boston, July 1st, 1885. 
 
 Thomson-Hou.ston Er.KCTiuc Co. 
 
 Gentlemen : — In answer to your inquiry, we desire to say that the 
 plant of arc and incandescent combined of the Thomson-IIouston system 
 supplied to our station and yards by the Merchants’ Electric Light & 
 Power Company, using your system of electric lighting in Boston, have 
 given admirable satisfaction since they started and appear to us to lie just 
 what is wanted for a combined system of arc and incandescent. We can 
 most heartily recommend them to all inquiries for a thoroughly satisfac- 
 tory system of incandescent lighting. 
 
 Very sincerely yours, 
 
 J. R. KENDRICK, Gen’l Manager Old Colony R. R. 
 
 (Signed) 
 
22 
 
 ESTIMATED DAILY EXPENSE 
 
 OF OPERATIXG IXSTALLATIOXS OF XIXETY, ONE IIUXDRED AXD EIGIITA', 
 TWO IIUXDRED AXD SEVEXTY, AXD THREE HUXDRED 
 AXD SIXTY ARC LIGHT PLANTS, 
 
 These estimates of tlailj' running expenses arc based upon the supposi- 
 tion that the liglits are to be supplied an average of eight hours per night; 
 in cases where they are furnished for a shorter time, a saving in the con- 
 sumption of carbons and fuel would be efl’ected. AVe omit the item of 
 rent from the operating expenses because of the variation in prices which 
 exists in diflerent cities; it can very easily be added, however, according 
 to the amount cliarged. AVherever available water power can be obtained 
 the profits of the enterprise can be increased to the extent of the cost of 
 fuel which would otherwise be used. 
 
 COST OF OPERATING A 90 ARC LIGHT PLANT PER DAY. 
 
 Manager .$3 00 
 
 Cierk • I 50 
 
 Engineer 2 00 
 
 Tliree Assistants 3 00 
 
 Carbons 4 00 
 
 Fuel (estimated) 5 40 
 
 Taxes, Insurance, and Telephone 80 
 
 Depreciation and Repairs . 1 50 
 
 $21 20= £4-5 
 
 COST OF OPERATING A 180 ARC LIGHT PLANT PER DAY. 
 
 M.anager $3 50 
 
 Clerk 2 00 
 
 Engineer and Fireman 3 00 
 
 Five Assistants 5 00 
 
 Carbons 8 00 
 
 Fuel (estimated) 10 80 
 
 Taxes, Insurance, and Telephone 1 50 
 
 Depreciation and Repairs 3 00 
 
 .S3G 80 = £7-7-6 
 
•23 
 
 COST OF OFKKATIXG A 270 ARC LIGHT I’LANT I’ER DAAL 
 
 Manai;er 
 
 Clerk 
 
 Eiiijinecr and Two Firemen 
 
 Seven Assistants . . 
 
 Carltons 
 
 Fuel (estimated) 
 
 Taxes, Insurance, and 'I'eleplione • . 
 
 Depreciation and Repairs 
 
 $4 00 
 2 00 
 4 00 
 7 00 
 12 00 
 IC 20 
 
 2 20 
 4 50 
 
 §51 90 = £10-7-11 
 
 COST OF OPERATING A 360 ARC LIGHT PLANT PER DAY. 
 
 Manager 
 
 Clerk 
 
 Engineer 
 
 Two Firemen 
 
 Eight Assistants 
 
 Carbons 
 
 Fuel (estimated) 
 
 Taxes, Insurance, and Telephone 
 Depreciation and Repairs .... 
 
 155 00 
 
 2 50 
 
 3 00 
 2 00 
 8 00 
 
 16 00 
 21 60 
 
 2 80 
 6 00 
 
 $66 90=£13-7-ll 
 
24 
 
 TESTIMONIALS FROM LOCAL COMPANIES AND 
 INDIVIDUALS USING THOMSON-HOUS- 
 TON APPARATUS. 
 
 Mr. William Widlund, to whom man}' of the following com- 
 munications are addressed, having been granted by the Peruvian 
 Government the exclusive right of introducing electric lights 
 into the eight principal cities of that country, for a period of 
 twenty years, came to the United States with a view of thor- 
 oughly investigating the various systems of lighting here. After 
 five months spent in visiting different cities, and making an e.x- 
 haustive investigation of other systems, he was forced to the 
 conclusion that the Thomson-Houston light was superior to any 
 in the market, and consequently the proper one for him to adopt. 
 Acting upon this decision, Mr. Widlund immediately entered 
 into arrangements with us to furnish all the electric lights for 
 Peru for the full period of twenty years. 
 
 These letters are confined strictly to facts, and being an un- 
 biased expression of opinion on the part of those using our 
 lights, are the best evidence that can be offered respecting the 
 reputation and standing of the Thomson-Houston system. 
 
 Syuacush Ei.kctkic Light axd Powkk Co. 
 
 Syr.acuse, N. Y., March 26, 1885. 
 
 Mr. William Widhnul. 
 
 Dear Sir: Yours of the 24th iiist. is at hand, and would say in reply 
 that we are so well pleased with the operation and manj' points of com- 
 mercial advantage connected with the Thomson-Houston system, that we 
 take pleasure in answering your inquiries at length, hoping we may save 
 you the trouble of unsatisfactory and expensive experiment. 
 
 \Ye have tried in Syracuse most of the systems of electric lighting now 
 in use in the United States, including the “ Brush,” “ Fuller,” “ Parker,” 
 or “Kemington,” “ Sperry,” etc., none of which gave satisfactory results 
 either commercially or as regards steadiness and purity of light. 
 
 The Thomson-Houston was introduced here at a period when everybody 
 had become disgusted with the flickering and failures of electric lights, 
 and at once began to grow in public favor until their strongest compet- 
 itor, the Brush-Swan Company, ybiul/y icithclrew. 
 
 We have now a contract for lighting the city for three years, which 
 was awarded us at higher jirices than our competitors, after a thorough 
 investigation of .systems in use in other cities. In regard to this matter 
 
25 
 
 I should like to have you write to Mayor Thomas Hyan, who made very 
 thoroiiffh work of the investigation. 
 
 As to the satisfaction it gives our mercantile customers, we have many 
 who depend upon us entirely for light, ami use no other illuminant, at the 
 same time paying us from twenty to thirty per cent. m()re than they for- 
 merly paid for gas, though of course they get much more and a better 
 light. These, together with our city lights, yield a large net income, 
 which we are putting into ailditional i)lant of the 'I’homson-IIouston sys- 
 tem, which is, [lerhaps, as good e\ idence as can he given of our confi- 
 dence in the system. 
 
 In regard to eeouomy of running e.\|)euse, we are satisllcd that no sys- 
 tem ean be properiy run with less attendance or power, or so little repairs 
 or danger of accidental interrui)tion of the liglits. 
 
 If time will permit, you might communicate with our vice-president, 
 Mr. Butler, who lost money on the “ Fuller” system, or Mr. W. K. Fierce, 
 who is well acapiainted with tiie “ Brush ” scheme. 
 
 If there is any further information you desire which is in our power to 
 give, we shall he pleased to assist yon. 
 
 Yours respectfully, 
 
 F. II. Lkon.vud, Manager. 
 
 K.vxs.\s City Ei.ecthic Light Comp.vny, 
 
 K.vxs.is City, Mo., March 30, 1885. 
 
 IF)m. U’klliind, Boston, J\/ass. 
 
 Dear Sir: Your favor dated March 25th, 1885, is received, and 
 it affords us much gratilication to he able to speak in high commendation 
 of the Thomson-IIouston system. 
 
 We have been operating tiieir apparatus for three years, and have 
 thoroughly tested its clliciency, and have had much opportunity aiui occa- 
 sion to compare it with other systems, and we are satisfied it is the best 
 arc-light system in this country. 
 
 The light gives universal satisfaction to our [latrons. The machinery 
 is efficient and reliable, ami the most economical to operate of any of 
 which we have knowledge. Our service in June was 55,800 hours, and 
 cost in production, for steam power, dynamos, and lamps, .02588 cents 
 per hour, i. e., per lami) [icr hour. 
 
 The Thomson-IIouston Com])any is energetic and progressive, and 
 while they have the best arc-light system in the market, they are con- 
 stantly improving and developing it in such directions as tend to reduce 
 operating expenses and promote efficiency and economy. 
 
 AVe have always found the gentlemen who manage the business of the 
 company honorable and generous in their dealings, and ever ready to 
 assist us in extending our business, and we can cordially commend them 
 to your confidence. 
 
 Should there be any special inquiry which you might desire to make, 
 it will afford us pleasure to answer any questions you may ask. 
 
26 
 
 Of course we naturally feel a pride in the system of our adoption, 
 and an interest in its extension and reputation ; and while we have this 
 patriotie vanity, we also feel secure in our wannest recommendation of 
 the Thomson-Houston system. It will bear the closest comparison with 
 any other system, and vindicate its superiority every time. 
 
 I trust this will reach j’ou, and beg to subscribe mj'self, in behalf of the 
 Kansas City Electric Light Company, 
 
 Your humble servant, 
 
 I. W. Phillips. 
 
 Tiiic New II.wex Electric Light Comp.\xy, 
 
 New Havex, Ct., March 27, 1885. 
 
 To Mr. William Widlund, Boston, Mass. 
 
 Dear Sir : Yours of the 24th is just received. AYe are now using the 
 Thomson-Houston system for street lighting, also for commercial lights. 
 
 AA'e can say that it is simply perfect. We formerly used the United 
 States, or the New England AA^eston system, which after a trial of one and 
 a half years, we discarded, as it was a poor light, very unsteady, expen- 
 sive to run, and there was so much wear and tear, that it wrecked our 
 company. 
 
 Tliose of us who had some faith in electric lighting, formed a new 
 company, using the Thomson-Houston Co.’s system. 
 
 AA^e started our lights Dec. 1st, 1883, and have earned over sixteen 
 percent, net per year on our capital. 
 
 I can also say that before we took hold of this sj'stem, I personally 
 examined every system in the country, going into ever}' State east of the 
 Mississippi river on a pleasure trip, and whenever I remained over night 
 in a city where electric lights were used, I spent my evenings in their 
 stations getting all the information possible in regard to cost of run- 
 ning, etc. 
 
 I found the actual cost to produce lights with the Tliomson-Houston 
 system was about 25 per cent, less than by any other, and the lights were 
 much better. 
 
 AA'e think it is perfection, as do all our customers. 
 
 It is the only system which I have seen where the lights burn without 
 a flicker. 
 
 Should your business bring you this way, I would very much like to 
 have you call; we will gladly give you all our experience and will show 
 you a nice station. 
 
 Very truly yours, 
 
 F. A. Gilbert, Pres. 
 
Mi'NicirAi. Ki,kcti!ic Light Co. 
 
 Kxc'CiUive Ollice.s, 1(4 Bho.vdwav, 
 BiiooKi.YN, N, Y., March 2(;tli, 188."). 
 William Widlund, Eki/., Boston, Mass. 
 
 Dear Sir: In reply to yours of the 24th inst. in reference to onr 
 company using the Thoinson-IIouston electric system, and witli what 
 results, wonhl say that the system was selected by our company after 
 having spent much time and money investigating the various lights 
 brought to our notice, and we can cordially and frankly say that we have 
 never had cause to regret such selection, for in the matter of steadiness 
 of light, economical and satisfactory working order of dynamo, lamps, 
 and tlie marvelous certainty of the Automatic Regulator, we think that 
 no light yet presented to the public can compare with it. We have been 
 running one hundred and forty lights from an old-style Armstrong engine, 
 which is used every day furnishing power to a large factory, and liave 
 only lost twenty minutes in six months run; said delay was caused by a 
 (Ire in said factory. 
 
 We are now building a new station, sixty by one hundred feet, with 
 five entrincs and facilities for six hundred lights, and shall most certainly 
 give the order to the Thomson-IIouston Electric Co. for all electrical 
 apparatus needed to complete the same. 
 
 You will find that it will cost tjou less to run their system than any 
 other in the market, and that the saving in tlie i)oint of attendance and 
 power used, and repairs in lamps and dynamos, would amount to a very 
 large interest on the entire cost of plant. The Tliomson-IIonston Electric 
 Company and their people were entire strangers to ns when we were 
 investigating the matter of choice of systems, Init have found them to be 
 as good as their system, w'hich is saying a great deal, wlien we are of the 
 opinion that it is the best in the world. If yon are in the neighborhood 
 of our city, would be pleased to have you examine the station, &c. 
 
 Respectfully, 
 
 CiiAUi.Ks Cooi’KU, President. 
 
 St. Joskth Ei.?:ctuic Light Co. 
 
 St. Joskph Mo , March 2, 1885. 
 
 Wm. Widlund, Boston, Mass. 
 
 l>ear sir: Replying to your favor of Feb. 2()th, will say that w'c 
 are using the Thomson-IIouston system of electric lighting, which I 
 think cannot be equalled by any other .system in the country. There are 
 some features in this system which make it “ par excellence ” over any 
 other system within my knowledge. The horse-power consumed per 
 light being very low, about % horse-power for 2,000 candle-i)Ower lamps, 
 and about for the divided arc. The automatic regulation is a feature 
 that can hardly be estimated in dollars and cents. It thoroughly and 
 completely protects the machines and lamps from accidents by a short 
 
28 
 
 circuit. Any number of lamp.s may be turned on or off without any atten- 
 tion whatever beins given tlie machine by tlie attendant. As lamps are 
 turned off, tlie motive power consumed is corresiiondingly reduced. It 
 is my experience that the liglits give more universal satisfaction to sub- 
 scribers than any other system with which I am acquainted. They burn 
 perfectly noiseless and are no trouble to keep in repair. 
 
 This company earned five per cent, quarterly last year. Three of 
 tliese dividends were paid in cash to the stockholders. The last one, 
 payable January 1st, was set aside. You will observe that we earned 
 twenty per cent last year, fifteen of which was paid in cash. 
 
 Yours very respectfully, 
 
 W. C. STEW-utT, Supt. 
 
 Amkric.vx Electric .\nd Ili.imix.\tixg Comi>.\xy, 
 
 TJ7 CoxGREss Street, 
 
 Bostox, April 1st, 1885. 
 
 William Widlund, Esq., care of Matthew Crosby, 92 State St., Boston. 
 
 Dear Sir: In answer to your Inquiry of the 25th nit., addressed to 
 the Merchants’ E. L. & P. Co., regarding the Thomson-Houston system, 
 would say : ^Ye send you by to-day’s mail a copy of illustrated pam- 
 phlet, which will give you our views on the subject. 
 
 Yours truly, 
 
 Americ.vx E. & I. Co., 
 
 per S. E. 
 
 The following are extracts from the pamphlet referred to in the fore- 
 going letter : — 
 
 “ The company, although organized in June, 1882, did not really get 
 to work until early in the following winter. It obtained from the Thom- 
 son-IIouston Electric Company a lease or license to operate the Thorason- 
 llouston system in the city of Boston. It was the hope and ambition at 
 the time to establish a lighting system in the city of Boston, and in time 
 to share the business of the city with the Brush' and Weston companies, 
 already established. 
 
 “ The excellence of the light, its pure white color, its steadiness and 
 comparative economy of production, began to attract very general public 
 attention, and applications were received from several New England cities 
 asking the company to establish and operate plants therein. Of the vari- 
 ous systems of electric lighting which have striven for public favor, it is 
 our proud boast to say that the American system, based on the Thomson- 
 Houston inventions, has proved itself to be not only the best but the most 
 economical method of producing and supplying the electric light. In 
 lighting, as in all other things, the [lublic want to get the best and the 
 most for their money, and they are keen enough and shrewd enough to 
 know when these conditions are best fullilled by any electric lighting 
 system. The gratifying progress of the .\merican system, therefore, is 
 not only an imiicatiou of its superiority over the other systems in use, but 
 its shows that it is also the most economical. Our success has been the 
 success of competition. It has not been lightly won. By the new system 
 of incandescent lighting devised by Prof. Elihu Thomson, by which the 
 
 
29 
 
 same electric current can he niaclc to operate liotli arc and incandescent 
 lani|)s, the Ainei'ican system can li”:lit not only streets, halls, stores, fac- 
 tories, and larice spaces, hut the incaudesceut lamps can he carried at the 
 same time into every place where ,i;as or kerosene is now the illuminant.’ 
 
 This company are now ruiinina: IhS arc liirhts from tlieir central 
 station, and during the past year have displaced i:52 Weston and 4,5 Brush 
 
 lights. 
 
 Thu IIaimkoui) Ki.kctiuc Light Co. 
 
 II.vuTFoni), CoNX., Feh. 27, 1885. 
 
 ir»i. jndhi/id, Esq., Boston. 
 
 Dear Sir: In reply to an impiiry made hi' Mr. Geo. Widlund, I will 
 say that we have heen using the Thomson-IIonston system for about two 
 years, and now consider it the most economical system for electric light- 
 ing extant 
 
 In regard to paying dividends I wiii say th.at we have expended sev- 
 eral thousand dollars on construction account, and tins has been paid 
 largelj' from the receipts of the liglits now running, and in the face of 
 that we are ahie now to declare and have declared a (luarterly dividend 
 payable iMarch 1. 
 
 In conclusion I will say that we consider it the best and most eco- 
 nomical system in use. 
 
 Yours truly, 
 
 F. A. Frkxch, Supt. 
 
 Citizens’ Ei.ecti!ic Illuminating Co. 
 
 Brooklyn, N. Y., March 24, 1885. 
 
 Mr. Widlund, 08 State St., Boston, 
 
 Dear Sir: Your letter of the 24th received, and in reply would beg 
 to say tliat the Tliomson-Houston system of lighting was introduced 
 here through the ell'orts of Messrs. Pope, Sewell & Co., whose card we 
 enclose. The members of this linn (one half owners of this company), 
 are electrical men who have devoted their entire business life to elec- 
 trical development, commencing as far back as 1801 as practical opera- 
 tors. I state this simply to show that it is reasonable to suppose the tirm 
 was fully competent to judge of the merits of the different systems. 
 
 Tliis tirm before introducing the Thomson-IIonston system here, 
 fully considered the various systems, and adopted the Thomson-IIonston 
 as preferable to all others botli in matter of efliciency and economy. 
 From our experience here and from the information we receive from 
 various sources, we believe it to be the oidy system that gives a profit- 
 able return ujjon the investment, and that is wholly satisfactory to cus- 
 tomers. and this is further evidenced by tlie fact that various cities and 
 companies have thrown out at great loss other systems and adofited this 
 in preference. 
 
 You can establisii this fact by inquiry in New Haven, Hartford, and 
 other cities. I can only speak favorably of the system. 
 
 Yours truly, 
 
 H. W. Pope, President. 
 
30 
 
 Ofi’ick of Thomsox-IIoustox Ei.f;cthic Light axd Powku Co. 
 
 814 Sixth St., S.ackamkxto, Cal., April C, 1885. 
 
 Mr. \YiUiam Wklluml, Esq., Boston. 
 
 Dear Sir : Yours of the 24tli of March received, and I must saj' the 
 Tliomson-IIoustoii system does all the compau}' claimed for it when I 
 was neirotiatiiia:. 
 
 It cost considerable more for extras .tlian I anticipated, but I am satis- 
 fied it costs the Brush people, with whom we are competing, quite as 
 mueh and more for repairs, especially to armatures, as they have burned 
 out several to our none. 
 
 tVe are paid about twice as much for our lights as the Brush Co., and 
 in a year we have lost but one customer. It costs a little more to run 
 than the estimate, but coal and labor are not so cheap here as in the East. 
 
 I spent two years time in investigating the various systems of lighting, 
 and one j’ear ago concluded the Tliomson-Houston system to be the best. 
 Our company purchased that system, and have not up to this time ex- 
 l)res.sed a regret, and are fully satisfied we have the best and most prac- 
 tical at present used in the world. 
 
 Yours very truly, 
 
 E. H. Watkihidfsk. 
 
 WOOX-SOCKET Ei.ECTKIC MaCHIXE AXI) Bowf.1! Co. 
 
 WooxsocivET, 1\. I., March 25, 1885. 
 
 Wni. Widlund, Boston, Mass. 
 
 Dear Sir: I received your letter of inquiry this morning and will en- 
 deavor to answer it, and I hope satisfactory to you. As you state, we “ do 
 use the Tliomson-Houston system of arc lighting,” and liave used it for 
 two years, and in the face of strong onposition (as the local gas company 
 is composed of the most infiuential men of the town), we have built up 
 such a strong feeling in favor of our lights that the town has contracted 
 for some of them to light their streets. In regard to the system itself, 
 as far as we are enabled to judge from experience, correspondence, etc., 
 it is the very best one at present in use in this country, notably for quan- 
 tity, quality, and steadiness of the light. Providence and Newport, the 
 two largest cities of the State, have discarded their old systems and sub- 
 stituted the Tliomson-Houston arc lamps, and are both well pleased with 
 the change. 
 
 Since we have started here the citizens have been more than satisfied 
 with our lights, and those of them who have travelled to other cities, 
 where other and dillercnt systems of electric lighting arc employed, have 
 returned and exiiress the opinion that those in their own town arc eciual 
 ami in many eases superior to those they have seen elsewhere. 
 
81 
 
 The ease and rapidity with wlucli our dynamo tlirows oil’ its full num- 
 ber of lifjlits and adjusts itself to a smaller nnmlrer or load, and rice versa, 
 witli no perceptible chan!>e or interruption of the steady current, has 
 always been a source of gratilication to us, anil cannot fail to commend 
 the same system to others. 
 
 I remain, respectfully yours, 
 
 Levi C. Lin’coi.x, Treasurer. 
 
 Till'. Gem City Ei.i'.crnic Licirr CoMP.iXY. 
 
 QfiXCY, Ii.i.., IMarch 2, 1885. 
 
 IThe IViiUund, Esq., Boston. 
 
 Dear Sir: lieplying to your inipiiry of the 27th regarding the Thom- 
 son-Houston system, will say that it has been in operation here for 
 the past eighteen months, to the entire satisfaction of consumers and 
 interested parties. The plant was started Aug. 30, 1883, with forty-five 
 lights. An addition of 125 lights was made on Jan. 10, 1885. The 125 
 lights are used for street illumination and are paid for by the eit.v. Am 
 at liberty to state that the original forty-five lights were run at a net 
 profit of more than ten per cent. With the recent additions this amount 
 will be much increased. It is unnecessary to speak of the superiority of 
 this light, as that is apparent. 
 
 In regard to economy, it has been put in places where other systems 
 have failed to pay running expenses, and has paid a good dividend. 
 
 The repairs on the original plant have not amounted to twenty-five 
 dollars per year. If the new plant is as economical in this respect, we 
 can find no fault. This amount does not cover breakage of globes, 
 which is a somewhat larger item, but as near as we can ascertain, no 
 more than with other systems. The system is all that it was represented 
 to be, and was selected aftera competitive trial with two other prominent 
 systems. 
 
 Yours very truly, 
 
 G. W. II.vuT, Snpt. 
 
 The Citizen’s’ Ei.ectuic Light Co., 
 
 .Vkuon, Ohio, March 20, 1885. 
 
 IFm. Wulluncl, care of Matthew Croshij, 92 State Street, Boston, Mass. 
 
 Dear Sir; Your favor of inipiiry of the 24th inst., at liand. In 
 reply will say that our plant has been in operation since about the 25th 
 of December last. I could not give you a practical answer so far as 
 economy or expense of running is concerned. 
 
 The light produced by the Thomson-IIouston system is a very supe- 
 irior light so far as steadiness and brilliancy and also color is concerned. 
 The latter point I consider a very imiiortant one. 
 
32 
 
 We liave a plant here of 150 full arc lights (2,000 caiullc-power nom- 
 inal), and thus far we feel perfectlj- satisfied. If you were here I could 
 give you some practical information that would be of value to you. 
 
 Should he pleased to hear from you again, and would like to know 
 what system you adopt. 
 
 Very respectfully. 
 
 S. 1). Stew.art, Sec. and Treas. 
 
 Connecticut District Telegr.\ph & Electric Co., 
 
 Waterisury, Conn., March 25, 1885. 
 Wm. Widlund, care Mathew Crosby, 92 State St., Boston, Mass. 
 
 Dear Sir: Yours of the 24th iust. received, and in reply will say that 
 before we accepted the Thomson-Houston system we gave the other sys- 
 tems a thorough ventilation and will say that after looking them over we 
 determined the Thomson-Houston Co.’s system to be the steadiest, most 
 economical, and reliable of them all, and its use here has been a perfect 
 success, and we take great pleasure in recomineuding its use to your 
 people. They will not only find it gives the most satisfactory light, but 
 will prove the most substantial financially. 
 
 Yours truly, 
 
 A. M. Young, Secretary. 
 
 The Essex Electric Company. 
 
 Haverhill, Mass., March 25, 1885. 
 
 Mr. Wm. Widlund, Boston, Mass. 
 
 Dear Sir: In reply to yours of the 24th, inquiring about the Thom- 
 son-Houston system would say that I think it the most perfect and 
 economical system in the market. Customers who have used in Boston 
 both the Brush and Weston systems in their stores, claim the Thomson- 
 Houston is far superior to cither, and I know from my experience that it 
 is the most economical, owing mostly to the perfect arrangement for 
 regulation. I should advise that you visit the company’s factory at 
 Lynn, Mass., and there yon can see and have explained all the details, and 
 1 think you will have no hesitation in saying with me that the Thomson- 
 Houston system is superior to all others. 
 
 Very respectfully yours, 
 
 D. W. Dt:NN, Manager Essex Electric Co. 
 
 The CxLOucester Electric Light Co. 
 
 Gloucester, March 24, 1885. 
 
 Mr. ITwi. Widlund, 
 
 Dear Sir: Your inquiry of the 23d iust. at hand. Would say that 
 we like the Thomson-Houston Electric Light very much. AVe have been 
 using the carbon feeding lamps, but do not like them very well, and are 
 
iioinic to exchange them for rod feeding lamps, of which we liave a few, 
 and like tliem verj' inucli. Tliey are very simple, and work for liours 
 witliont liissing or llaming, ami would recommend tliem to any one in 
 want of an electric light plant. 
 
 Yonrs respectfully, 
 
 F. .V. Fi.sitnu, Snpt. (Jloncester Electric Light Co. 
 
 Tun Lynx Ei.kc rnic Ligutixg Co. 
 
 Lynx, Mas.s., Feb. 27, 1885. 
 
 Mr. n’idUiiul 
 
 Dear Sir; Y'onrs of yesterday is at hand. In answer to your in- 
 quiry, I would say that we have every reason to he well satisfied witli 
 the Thomsoii-llouston system of electric lighting, because the light 
 gives our customers complete satisfaction, and the stockholders good 
 profits. We have paid a dividend of seven per cent, from the start, 
 which was the spring of 1882, and have a surplus of .§5,000 to .§0,000. I 
 should be jileased to have you call down to Lynn, only half-an-hour’s 
 ride, and see our iilant, when I can give you any additional particulars 
 you would like to know. 
 
 Kespectfully yours, 
 
 IIknuy' 11. Valpey, Treas 
 
 Ofllce of The St. Louis Tiiomsox-IIoustox Electuic Co., 
 No. 323 North Third Street, 
 
 St. Louis, March 30, 1885. 
 
 IFm. Widlund, care of Matthew Croshy, 1)2 State St., Boston, Mass. 
 
 Dear Sir : lleplying to j-our favor of the 24tli inst., would say that 
 we believe the system of arc lighting controlled by the Thomson-IIouston 
 Company, of Boston, to be all that is claimed for it. We have been using 
 it without any serious trouble, and find it very satisfactory. It is un- 
 doubtedly the best sj'stem of arc lighting now in use. 
 
 AVe have no connection whatever with the parent company. 
 
 Very respectfully, 
 
 I). R. I’owELi., Pres’t. 
 
 New Bedfoud Ei.ectiuc Light Co. 
 
 Office, IG Fourth St. ; Central station, 3 School St. 
 
 New Bedfoud, Mass., Feb. 27, 1885. 
 
 Mr. Wm. Widhind, 
 
 Dear Sir: Yours of the 2Gth tluly received. In repljq would say 
 we have run a Thomson-Houston plant here for a year, and are very well 
 satisfied with it, and believe it to be the best light in use, and the most 
 economical for use. 
 
 We paid one dividend of tlirce per cent. .Inly 1, 18S4, and see no 
 reason why we should not continue to do so. 
 
 Yours truly, 
 
 .1. .VuGi'STUs Buowxei.i,, Trcasui'cr. 
 
34 
 
 Office of Lhavenwortii Coal Company, 
 
 Lea YEN WORTH, Kansas, March 30, 1885. 
 
 Wm. Widlund, Esq. 
 
 Dear Sir: In reply to j^ours of the 2-l:th iust., would say that we do 
 not believe the Thomson-Houston system of electric arc lighting can be 
 too highly recommended. 
 
 Its automatic and self-regulating features, its simplicity, durability, 
 economy, and steadiness of the light, renders it, in our opinion, superior 
 to all other arc-lighting systems in existence. 
 
 Kespectfully yours, 
 
 Leavenworth Coal Co. 
 
 Wachusett Electric Light Co., 
 
 Fitchburg, Mass., March 28, 1885. 
 
 William Widlund, Boston, 
 
 Dear Sir: Yours of the 2Ith is at hand, and in reply I will state 
 that we have been using the Thomson-Houston system of arc lighting 
 for the past two years, and we can say that it gives perfect satisfaction, 
 and we think it is the best in use. 
 
 Yours respectfully. 
 
 Geo. W. Pinkiiam, Supt. 
 
 The Salem Electric Lighting Company, 
 Salem, Feb. 28, 1885. 
 
 Wm. Widlund, Esq. 
 
 Dear Sir : In reply to yours of the 2Gth would say that this company 
 is using the Thomson-Houston system of lighting with entire satisfaction. 
 
 We have for sale three 10-light Weston machines and lamps. Price, 
 $000 for each machine and 10 lamps. 
 
 Yours truly, 
 
 H. M. Batchelder, Treas. 
 
 Lewiston & Auburn Electric Light Co. 
 
 Auburn, Me., March 28, 1885. 
 
 Matthew Crosby, Esq. 
 
 Dear Sir: Your favor of 23d inst. reached me to-day. In reply 
 can say that we arc running 112 Thomson-Houston arc lights, having 
 Iieen in the business eighteen months. We have found the lights very 
 satisfactory to ourselves and our customers. 
 
 I believe the Thomson-Houston system to be snperior to any other 
 that I have seen, in perfection of light and expense of running. 
 
 Very respectfully, 
 
 N. I. Jordan, Treasurer. 
 
35 
 
 IIhi.kna, Montana, July 15tli, 1885. 
 
 II. M. Ogdkn, Es(i., care of Montana Co., Limited, Marysville, Mt. 
 
 Dear Sir : In reply to your request that I would express inj' opinion 
 in refjard to the Thoinson-Hoiiston arc system of Electric Lighting, I 
 take great pleasure in expressing my entire satisfaction therewith. 
 
 Before seeing it I was very much prei)ossessed with the Weston, but 
 after several months experience with yours, I am prepared to say that it 
 is the equal of any light in purity, and superior to any in steadiness. 
 When the light in the shop was switched off we did not know it in the 
 office, and vice versa. 
 
 The Dynamo being self-regulating, it needs no attention, and never 
 had any at my place other than to keep it clean, renew the carbons, and 
 start and stop it. The man who had charge of it knew nothing about it 
 whatever until it was erected and run one day by yourself. Since that 
 time he has run it without instructions from anyone. 
 
 I consider that two of your lights are equal to three of the Brush, 
 not only as we have them in Helena, but under the most favorable con- 
 tlitions I have ever seen tliem. 
 
 Yours very trulv, 
 
 B. H. T.\TEM. 
 
36 
 
 C I T I E S 
 
 WHERE THE THOMSON-HOUSTON SYSTEM HAS 
 SUPERSEDED OTHERS, 
 
 Among the many cities throughout the United States which 
 have discarded other systems, even after the apparatus had been 
 paid for, and adopted the Thomson-Houston, may be mentioned 
 the following : — 
 
 Davenport, la., Salem, Mass., New Haven, Conn., Port- 
 land, Me., Lowell, Mass., Providence, R. I., Springfield, Mass., 
 Duluth, Minn., Newport, R. I,, and others. In connection with 
 the latter city, the following letter from Mr. W. B. Hosmer, a 
 director in the Newport Illuminating Company, and also one 
 from the president of the New Haven Electric Company will be 
 of interest, repeating as they do the experience of all the cities 
 above mentioned. 
 
 Pkuky Housk, Nicwport, April 11, 1885. 
 Mr. ir. W. Munroe, Boston, Mass. 
 
 Dear Sir : In reply to your inquiry aiklressed to the Newport Illumi- 
 nating Co., of which I am a director, in reference to the history of the 
 recent change of electric light systems in Newport, I will endeavor to 
 give you a few of the facts. 
 
 The United States or Weston system had been in use for some time for 
 street lighting, the city having contracted for fifty-eight lights. The 
 contract expired .Tan. 1, 1885, and so mucli dissatisfaction was felt with 
 the system tliat an order passed the council ordering the lamp com- 
 mittee to contract with the Gas Company for the ensuing year to light the 
 streets in i)lace of tlic electric lights. 
 
 A few days later the lamp committee met to execute the instructions 
 of the council, and were confronted with a remonstrance signed l)y the 
 best citizens of Newport, who believed tliat a satisfactory system of 
 electric lighting could be obtained. The matter was referred back to the 
 council, and after much discussion, tlie Lamp Committee were instructed 
 to make tlic fullest investigation possible, of different systems. Some 
 weeks were ocenpied in accomplishing this work, and finally a full report 
 was presented bj' the committee, accompanied liy a unanimous recom- 
 mendation that the city adojit tlie Tliomsou-IIouston system of electric 
 
37 
 
 li.ulitinir, ami a larire iiicrcaso he made in the miinbcr of street liithts. 
 The committee stated that tliey were fully satislied the Thomson-1 lous- 
 ton system was superior to any otlier in use. 
 
 The Newport lllmninatiiiif Comi)any was incorporated to operate this 
 system in Newport, and recei\ed tlic contract with tlic city for an in- 
 crease above the number of liitlits previously used. tVe started tlie en- 
 tire number of lii>hts tins week aiul can only say tliat tliey meet on every 
 side the most hearty aiiproval, and fully realize all the ijood thimjs that 
 were said of them. tVe anticipate a still further increase in tlie mimljer 
 of lights within six months. 
 
 Very truly yours, 
 
 tv. B. IIosMKU. 
 
 Tiik Nkw H.vvex Ei.ix'rnu' Comcaxy, No. 8S Tic.mim.e St. 
 
 New II.AVEX, Coxx., March 27, 1885. 
 The Thomson-Houston Electric Co., Bouton, Wisx. 
 
 Gentlemen : In reply to your favor of the 2r)th would say that after 
 something more than a year's trial of your system, we find it all tliat you 
 ever claimed for it, certainly far more than we ever expected. 
 
 Trior to adopting your system we had a most trying and unfortunate 
 experience in electric lighting. After operating the United States or 
 ■\Veston dynamos and lamps for some eighteen months, under the most 
 favorable circumstances, we found ourselves heavily in debt, and losing 
 money steadily. 
 
 tVe can frankly say that we did not l)clieve it possilile to do a iirotita- 
 Iile business with any system at tlie time we installed yours, but did be- 
 lieve it was the best system tlien in use. 
 
 It gives us pleasure now to state tliat the year's business has been 
 most gratifying. Our rentals for lamps liavc been the same as before the 
 change of systems, yet the economy of operating and maintaining your 
 apparatus is such that wliat was a losing Inisiness before, has been 
 changeil into a most jirofitable one, and our company has a net profit of 
 fully sixteen per cent, uiion its capital stock. 
 
 We have had such a complete demonstration of the great commercial 
 value of your system, that we do not hesitate to say that a local com- 
 pany operating it will earn a handsome jirotit under the same circum- 
 stances that with other systems would result in a loss. 
 
 More than this it is needless to say concerning it. 
 
 Very truly yonrs, 
 
 F. A. Gii.iiKur, I’res. New Haven Electric Co. 
 
 The New Haven Company further report that they are now accomiilish- 
 ing for $7 per day attendance what formerly cost them .821 per day, 
 when using the United States or Weston system. 
 
38 
 
 [FitoM Newport Daily News, Feb. 23, 1883.] 
 
 To the Editor of the Daily Xeics. 
 
 In an article of your issue of the 17th instant, on the Electric Light 
 controversy, the writer referred to the AVeston lights in Loweli, Massa- 
 cluisetts, as still in use, although the Thonison-Houston system had been 
 introduced there. I wrote the general manager of the Lowell company 
 for information on the subject, and hand you herewith his reply. 
 
 Kespectfull 3 % 
 
 AA'. B. Hosmer. 
 
 Boston*, Feb. 23, 1885. 
 
 W. B. Hosmer, Esq., Boston, Mass. 
 
 Dear Sir: Your letter of the 19th instant at hand inquiring in regard 
 to the merits of tlie Thomson-IIoustoii and AA'eston system of electric- 
 lights. In replj' would say our experience, after running both systems 
 for two j-ears, has taught us that no company can afford to use the AA^eston 
 sj*stem, as it would bankrupt them to keep them in repair and running. 
 And again, run them the best you can, you cannot give j-our customers a 
 decent light or a light they will be satisfied to pay for. On the other 
 hand the Thomson-IIouston sj-stcm can be run at comparative!}* no ex- 
 pense for repairs, and \-et j'ou get a perfectlj' wliite, steady light witliout 
 any hissing — a light that pleases everybody. I never have taken out a 
 Thomson-IIouston light on account of it not giving satisfaction, whiic 
 we have been obiigcd to take out every AA^eston light we had in stores 
 (about sixty in all), and replace them with Thomson-Houston, and as a 
 last resort we put the AA'estons on the streets because we did not have 
 Thomson-IIouston lainjis enough to fill our orders and could not afford 
 to buy more while we had eight AA'eston dynamos on hand. AA’^e Iiave 
 been trying to sell them for over a }-ear, but could not get an offer. As 
 soon as we put the AA'’eston lights on the street, the Superintendent of 
 street-lights and the public generally, began to find fault with them, and 
 there has been so much fault found, and they are such a poor light, so 
 unreliable and so expensive to run, that, at a meeting of the executive 
 committee of this company held yesterdaj*, it was decided to discon- 
 tinue running them altogether, and a meeting of the directors is called 
 for February 24th to autliorize the executive committee to purchase 
 Thomson-IIouston dynamos and lamps to replace them. AA^c are ready to 
 sell the eight dynamos and eight}* lamps at fifty per cent, off list price, 
 and take our pay in Thomson-IIouston dynamos at list price. If you 
 wisli more information, I would referyou to the Superintendent of street- 
 lights and to our leading merchants who have used and are now using 
 the Thomson-IIouston. I will send you a list of them, if you wish it. 
 
 Hespectfully, 
 
 J. Y. Bradbury, General Manager. 
 
ELECTRICITY vs. GAS. 
 
 THE FORMER AN ALLY RATHER THAN COMPETITOR 
 OF THE LATTER. 
 
 Within the past few montlis, the gas companies have been 
 gradually awakening to the fact that, so far from being a com- 
 petitor, electric lighting, if properly introduced and managed, 
 may prove a valuable ally to their business, inasmuch as it very 
 naturally creates a demand for more brilliant illumination gen- 
 erally. 
 
 It is a peculiar but nevertheless well-established fact, 
 that in all large cities where electric lights have been successfully 
 introduced, and established upon a paying basis, there the gas 
 companies are carrying on a more ju'osperous business than ever 
 before in the history of tlieir organization. This belief has be- 
 come so thoroughly impressed upon the minds of the officers in 
 several large gas companies, that they have purchased Tlrom- 
 son-Houston apparatus, which they are now using very si:ccess- 
 fidly in connection with their gas. A few letters of recent date 
 from several of these companies we publish below, and we would 
 here take the opportunity of inviting officers of gas companies 
 and capitalists interested therein, to correspond with us with a 
 view to testing the success of furnishing arc lights in connection 
 with gas. 
 
 The day for unreasonable prejudice is past, and now, in con- 
 sideration of the high perfection attained by the Thomson-Hous- 
 ton system, in all prominent cities where a demand for electric 
 lights exists or cair be created, the local gas companies should be 
 the very first to take steps toward securing the field and furnish- 
 ing the lights to such of their patrons as may desire them. 
 
 Office of the Musc.vTiNr; G.vs Light and Coke Co. 
 
 jMuscatixe, Iowa, April 2, 1885. 
 
 The Thomson- Houston Electric Co. 
 
 Gentlemen : In repl.v to your letter of March .80, would say that 
 since the introduction of the electric light in our city, we find that the 
 consumption of gas has increased about ten per cent, or more. 
 
40 
 
 The conviction is dail.v growins: upon us tliat the electric arc light, so 
 far from being a detriment to tlie use of gas, has increased it without a 
 doul)t. 
 
 We feel pleased with our investment, and M'ould recommend all gas 
 companies to adopt its use, believing that they will find the investment a 
 profitable one. 
 
 Yours very truly, 
 
 T. CowicLL, Sec. and Treas. Muscatine Gas Co. 
 
 [ COPY.] 
 
 Ofiick op Utic.v G.vs Light Co., 23 Whitesboro’ St. 
 
 Utica, Nkw Yohk, July IG, 18S5. 
 
 J. D. Higgins, Esq., Sup’t Koine Gas Light Co., Rome, N. Y. 
 
 Dear Sir: — We are answering many inquiries like your own, as to tlie 
 efi'ect of electrical arc lighting upon our gas lighting interests. We have 
 been experimenting two years witli a limited plant used principally for 
 street and out door lighting for which it seems generally well adapted. 
 Our experience and observation leaves us in no doubt that the introduction 
 of electric arc lighting here lias increased our sale of gas. 
 
 Truly yours, 
 
 11. H. FISH, Treas. 
 
 [copy.] 
 
 Davkxpout Gas LiGiir Company, 
 
 Davf.npout, Iowa, Jpi.y 21, 1885. 
 
 S. A. Bap.ton, Es(]., Gen’l Manager Thomson-Houston Electric Co. 
 
 Dear Sir: — It will doubtless interest you to learn some particulars 
 of our experiment in the use of your system of electric illumination in 
 connection witli gas lighting. 
 
 We liave now operated two of your 25-light machines for somewhat 
 over one year. 
 
 We are lighting the city itself with gas, under contract. 
 
 In this union of electricity witli gas, our company was the pioneer, 
 and despite the warnings and forebodings of our associates, the experi- 
 ment has turned out au entire success. 
 
 Your lights have not only given our customers entire satisfaction, 
 but many of them are almost enthusiastic in their expression of appro- 
 bation. 
 
 We have found your system safe, easy, and economical in operating, 
 and it is diflicult to see wherein it can be improved. 
 
 There is one result of our experiment with electricity, which should 
 commend itself to gas companies generally, and tliat is its tendency to 
 increase the consumption of gas. This is easily explained by the fact 
 that it educates the eye up to a higher standard of illumination. 
 
41 
 
 Customers not iisiiiij the electric lijjht eiulcavor to vie with its jjreater 
 brilliancy by burninjj: jias at fnll head, aiul this incnaises their consnini)- 
 tion. 
 
 Thus ainonji: our larire consumers, we have a capacious and popular 
 liotel. The proprietor, over a year since, displaced gas in the ollice and 
 corridors with electricity, using live of your arc lights. The curious and 
 important result is, that his consumption of gas in the remainder of his 
 house is larger than his entire consumption before adoi>ting the electric 
 liglit. 
 
 I must not omit to mention that while our adoption of electricity as 
 part of our system of illumination has not decreased our gas profits, there 
 is a fair prospect tlial tlie experiment itself will turn out remunerative. 
 
 If tlie system continues to work in the future as in tlie i)ast, we shall 
 easily be al)le to make as large, if not larger, dividends upon our electric 
 light, as upon our gas plant. 
 
 Very truly yours, 
 
 CII.AS. E. EUTM.VN, Prest. 
 
 The following gas companies have purchased Thomson-riouston Elec- 
 tric Light apparatus and are running the same very successfully in con- 
 nection with tlieir gas works. 
 
 NAMK OF COMl’ANV. 
 
 I.OCA'riON. 
 
 
 NO. OF 
 LIGHTS. 
 
 The Muscatine Gas Light Co., 
 
 Itinscatine, 
 
 Iowa. 
 
 27 
 
 Davenport Gas Light and Coke Co., 
 
 Davenport, 
 
 “ 
 
 50 
 
 Twin City Gas Liglit Co., 
 
 lai Salle, 
 
 III. 
 
 50 
 
 Ereeport Gas Liglit and Coke Co., 
 
 Freeport, 
 
 “ 
 
 (10 
 
 Oakland Gas Light and Coke Co., 
 
 Oakland, 
 
 Cal. 
 
 75 
 
 Ashland Gas Liglit Co., 
 
 .Vshland, 
 
 Penn. 
 
 2.5 
 
 Leavenworth Coal Co., 
 
 Leavenworth, Kan. 
 
 102 
 
42 
 
 LOCAL COMPANIES, 
 
 OPERATING THE THOMSON - HOUSTON SYSTEM. 
 
 ■\Ve publish below a list of the local illuminating companies which have 
 adopted and are now using the Thomson-Houston system. This list is 
 constantly being added to, ami at the time of going to press a number of 
 other companies are about being organized, and will soon be in active op- 
 eration. 
 
 NO OF 
 
 NAME OF COMPANY. LOCATION. LIGHTS. 
 
 Consolidated Electric Light Co., 
 
 r Portland and Old 
 \ Orchard, Me. 
 
 Lewiston and Auburn Electric Light Co., 
 
 Lewiston, Me. 
 
 Bar Harbor Electric Light Co., 
 
 Bar Harbor, “ 
 
 Merchants’ Electric Light and Power Co., 
 
 Boston, Mass. 
 
 Union Electric Light Co., 
 
 East Boston, “ 
 
 Lynn Electric Lighting Co., 
 
 Lynn, “ 
 
 Salem Electric Lighting Co., 
 
 Salem, “ 
 
 Worcester Electric Lighting Co., 
 
 Worcester. “ 
 
 Middlesex Electric Lighting Co., 
 
 Lowell, “ 
 
 Wachusett Electric Lighting Co., 
 
 Fitchburg, “ 
 
 New Bedford Electric Ligliting Co , 
 
 New Bedford, “ 
 
 Fall River Electric Light Co., 
 
 Fall River, “ 
 
 Essex Electric Light Co., 
 
 Haverhill, “ 
 
 Gloucester Electric Light Co., 
 
 Gloucester, “ 
 
 Spriiigfleld Electric Light Co., 
 
 Spriiigfleld, “ 
 
 The Jenny Electric Light Co., 
 
 Brockton, “ 
 
 North Adams Electric Light and Power Co., 
 
 North Adams, “ 
 
 Cottage City Electric Light Co., 
 
 Cottage City, “ 
 
 Woonsocket Electric Machine & Power Co., 
 
 Woonsocket, R. I. 
 
 Narragansett Electric Light Co., 
 
 Providence, “ 
 
 Pawtucket Electric Liglit Co., 
 
 Pawtucket, “ 
 
 Newport Electric Illuminating Co., 
 
 Newport, “ 
 
 Hartford Electric Light Co., 
 
 Hartford, Conn. 
 
 New Haven Electric Light Co., 
 
 New Haven, “ 
 
 Bridgeport Electric Liglit Co., 
 
 Bridgeport, “ 
 
 Norwich Electric Light Co., 
 
 Norwich, “ 
 
 Conn. District Telephone and Telegraph Co., 
 
 Watorbiiry, “ 
 
 Syracuse Electric Liglit and Power Co., 
 
 Syracuse, N. Y. 
 
 Central N. Y. Electric Light and Power Co., 
 
 Utica, “ 
 
 Auburn Electric Light Co., 
 
 Auburn, “ 
 
 Citizens’ Electric Illuminating Co., 
 
 Brooklyn, “ 
 
 Elmira Electric Light Co., 
 
 Elmira, “ 
 
 Municipal Electric Light Co.. 
 
 Brooklyn, “ 
 
 Bethlehem Electric Light Co., 
 
 Bethlehem, Pa. 
 
 200 
 
 150 
 
 100 
 
 498 
 
 100 
 
 1G5 
 
 175 
 
 200 
 
 250 
 
 139 
 
 119 
 
 131 
 
 87 
 
 56 
 
 106 
 
 60 
 
 38 
 
 50 
 
 28 
 
 470 
 
 50 
 
 75 
 300 
 162 
 241 
 
 76 
 80 
 
 266 
 
 53 
 
 103 
 
 137 
 
 28 
 
 125 
 
 121 
 
43 
 
 NAME OF COMPANY. 
 
 NO OF 
 
 LOCATION. LIGHTS. 
 
 McKeeseport Electric I.ijilit Co., 
 Germantown Electric Liiiht Co., 
 Champion Electric Li_olit Co., 
 
 Columbus Electric Eisht and Power Co., 
 Chillecothe Electric Lie:lit Co., 
 
 Citizens’ Electric Liiilit Co., 
 
 Cleveland Electric Light Co., 
 
 Gem City Electric Light Co., 
 
 East St. Louis Electric Light Co., 
 
 The Thomas Electric Light Co., 
 
 Pontiac Electric Light Co., 
 
 Streator Electric Light Co., 
 
 Mendota Electric Light Co., 
 
 Citizens’ Electric Light Co., 
 
 McKeeseport, Pa. 50 
 
 Germantown, “ 50 
 
 Springtield, Ohio, 80 
 
 Colnmbns, 
 
 Chillecothe, 
 
 Akron, 
 
 Cleveland, 
 
 Quincy, 
 
 E. St. Louis, 
 
 (Ottawa, 
 
 Pontiac, 
 
 Streator, 
 
 IMendota, 
 
 Des Moines, ! 
 
 “ 1.55 
 
 “ !) 
 
 “ Ml 
 
 “ 180 
 
 111. 18:5 
 
 “ 100 
 
 “ 85 
 
 “ 25 
 
 “ 25 
 
 “ 2(5 
 
 owa. 50 
 
 Pilcher Improved Electric Light Co., 
 
 Council BTfi’s, Iowa. 
 
 75 
 
 St. Louis Thomson-IIouston Electric Light Co.,St. liOuis, Mo. 
 
 200 
 
 St. Joseph Electric Light Co., 
 
 St. Joseiih, “ 
 
 95 
 
 Kawsmouth Electric Light Co., 
 
 Kansas City, “ 
 
 227 
 
 Oshkosh Electric Light Co., 
 
 Oshkosh, M’is. 
 
 00 
 
 Janesville Electric Light Co.. 
 
 Janesville, “ 
 
 50 
 
 Badger Electric Light Co., 
 
 Racine, “ 
 
 100 
 
 Leavenworth Coal Co., 
 
 Leavenworth ,Kan. 
 
 102 
 
 ■Western Construction Co., 
 
 Atchison, “ 
 
 75 
 
 Dnlnth Electric Light Co., 
 
 Duluth, Minn. 
 
 75 
 
 Excelsior Electric Light Co., 
 
 Port Huron, Mich. 
 
 00 
 
 Terre Haute Electric Light Co., 
 
 Terre Haute, Ind. 
 
 105 
 
 Atlanta Electric Light Co., 
 
 .Vtlanta, Georgia. 
 
 45 
 
 Electric Light and Power Co. of Mobile, 
 
 Moliile, Ala. 
 
 50 
 
 Pacific Thomson-IIouston Electric Light Co., 
 
 Sacramento, Cal. 
 
 212 
 
 Jacksonville Electric Light Co., 
 
 Jacksonville, Fla. 
 
 00 
 
 Poughkeepsie Electric Light Co., 
 
 I’onghkeepsie, N. Y. 
 
 79 
 
 Omaha Electric Light Co., 
 
 Omaha, Neb. 
 
 120 
 
 Long Branch Electric Light Co., 
 
 Long Branch, N. J. 
 
 90 
 
 Plainfield Electric Light Co., 
 
 Plainfield, N. J. 
 
 50 
 
 Brookline Electric Iliuminating Co., 
 
 Brookline, Mass. 
 
 90 
 
 York Electric Light Co., 
 
 York, Pa. 
 
 180 
 
 Asbury Park Electric Light Co., 
 
 Asbury Park, X. J. 
 
 50 
 
 Bangor Electric liluminating Co., 
 
 Bangor, Me. 
 
 114 
 
 Camden Electric Light Co., 
 
 Camden, N. J. 
 
 100 
 
 Auburn Electric Light Co., 
 
 Auburn, Me. 
 
 25 
 
 Keokuk Electric Light Co., 
 
 Keokuk, Iowa. 
 
 00 
 
 Crawfords ville Electric Light Co., 
 
 Crawfordsville, Ind. 
 
 45 
 
 Rockaway Beach Illuminating Co., 
 
 Rockaw.ay Beach, L. 1. 45 
 
 Jacksonville Electric Light Co., 
 
 Jacksonville, 111. 
 
 30 
 
44 
 
 FOREIGN COMPANIES. 
 
 NO. OF 
 
 NA.ME OF CO.MPANY. 
 
 LOCATION. 
 
 LIGHTS. 
 
 Ottawa, 
 
 Ontario. 
 
 200 
 
 St. Catharine’s, 
 
 “ 
 
 100 
 
 Peterborough, 
 
 “ 
 
 125 
 
 Hamilton, 
 
 “ 
 
 150 
 
 Montreal, 
 
 Quebec. 
 
 350 
 
 Quebec, 
 
 i ( 
 
 200 
 
 Halifax, 
 
 Nova Scotia. 
 
 100 
 
 St. .Johns, 
 
 New Brunswick. 
 
 100 
 
 St. John, 
 
 Newfoundland. 
 
 00 
 
 Kio de .Janeiro, (In course of construction.) 
 
 Brazil. 
 
 
 l^ara, “ “ 
 
 “ 
 
 
 I..ima, “ “ 
 
 Peru. 
 
 100 
 
 Callao, “ “ 
 
 “ 
 
 
 Guayaquil, “ *• 
 
 Ecuador. 
 
 50 
 
 Guatemala Electric I.,ight Co., 
 
 Guatemala, C. A. 
 Mazatlan, Mexico. 
 
 300 
 
 Caui.tox IIousi;, Capk May Poixt, X. J., Aug. 2, 1882. 
 Thomsoii-llouston Electric Light Co. 
 
 Geiitleiiicn : — We have now had your Thoinsoii-llouston Electric 
 Liglit ill operation one month, and I can, without hesitation, say that it 
 gives us entire satisfaction. We think it as near perfect as it is possible 
 to get a light, and it is the admiration of all who see it. 
 
 Yours truly, 
 
 A. II. IIamii.tox. 
 
 Fauist Sticei. Co., 
 JIUIDGEPOKT, Coxx. 
 
 The Thoms^on-Hoiiston Electric Co. : 
 
 Gentlemen: In reply to yours of the 5th, inquiring something of 
 my exiierience while serving on the Committee of gentlemen of this city 
 ap])ointed to investigate and reiiort on the liest Electric Eight, I will saj' 
 that after seeing the Cnited States, the Weston, tlie Hrnsh, and the 
 Thomson-IIouston Electric Lights in oiieration, we decided that the 
 Thomson-IIonston Light was far the liest, for the following reasons: — 
 First — The steadiness of the light. 
 
45 
 
 Second — The soft or easy liijht to the eye, while retniiiiiii>: the power 
 and brilliancy of any liitlit seen. We l)elieve, so far as our exi)eriencc 
 ftoes, that it is Ihe most economical system to run tliat is now used. 
 
 We arc at this time i)ultinjt up a new i)lant of your system in com- 
 petition with the Brush Co.’s system, and we expect soon to have the 
 city lighting. 
 
 Bespectfully yours, 
 
 .Toki, F.viust. 
 
 [Since the above was written, the city lighting in Bridgc|)ort has 
 been awarded to tlic Bridgeport Electric Light Co., using the 'J’hoinson- 
 Ilouston .system.] 
 
 B.vxxtm Ton.icco Wouks, 
 
 UiciiMOXD, V.V., July 2(’)th, 1884. 
 
 Dear Sir : Replying to your impiiry as to how we have been pleased 
 with the Electric Light, known as the “ Thoinsoii-IIouston System” with 
 which you supplied us, it gives us pleasure to state that we have found 
 it in every way all that you claimed for it. The light given is bright and 
 clear, and free from that tlickering which renders the most lights of the 
 kind unsatisfactory. Under this light the color of the wrappers is 
 brought out as clear as in daylight, enabling ns to work without inter- 
 mission during cloudy weather or at night. Again, this light throws out 
 but little heat. Our works arc conseciuently much cooler and more com- 
 fortable than when gas is used, the volume of light being at the same 
 time immensely greater. Besides tlie cost of the machine and expense of 
 putting it in, we have been at no expense in running it, save for the 
 “ Carbon Points,” which we liave found not to exceeil fifty cents a niglit 
 for the ten lamps in ojieration. We have of course furnished our own 
 power, but tliis we have found to lie scarcely noticeable, as we but use 
 the steam necessary for the proper working of our estal)li.shment. We 
 would most cordially recommend your system to any one desirous of 
 using “ Electric Light.” 
 
 We remain yours truly. 
 
 La w h kxck Lotti ki{. 
 
 Tiik Lyxx Ei.kctuic Ligiitixc, Co. 
 
 ' Lyxx, Mass., Sept. 1), 1882. 
 
 The Thomson- Honsiton Electric Co. 
 
 Gentlemen: You ask me wliat I can say of yonr system. In reply Avill 
 say, I cannot speak too highly of it. I regard it as the most practical, 
 most economical, and the easiest system to run now in use. 'I'lie value 
 of the Automatic Regulator cannot be over-estimated. 'I’liat and the .Vir- 
 Blast Attachment arc almost indispensable to the perfect and economical 
 working of a system of arc lighting. Owing to the frcqnent closing of 
 
tlie stores in this cit}' during the summer months, we should have been 
 compelled to run our business at a loss this season, had it not been for the 
 Automatic Regulator, which admits of a corresponding diminution of mo- 
 tive power as we diminish the number of lamps in actual use. And to give 
 you my opinion of the Air-Blast, perhaps I can do it in no better way 
 than to state that I find it impossible to flash the 2G-lighter which has it 
 on, and the saving in brushes and wear on commutators is considerable. 
 Although the machine has been running nearly three months toe haoe not 
 found it necessary to trim the brushes, and the wear on the commutator is 
 not noticeable. In conclusion, the merits of the system cannot be set 
 forth too highly ; suflice it to say we could not be induced to exchange for 
 any other system now in use. 
 
 Yours veiw truly, 
 
 Hknuy R. Valpej-, Manager Lynn Electric Lighting Co. 
 
 Ofeice of the H.vrtfoud Silk M’f’g Co. 
 
 Tauiffville, Coxx, June 28, 1883. 
 The Thomson- Houston Electric Co., 131 Devonshire St., Boston, Mass. 
 
 Gentlemen: We have had in use for the past year three of your ten- 
 light machines, and have to say that we are much pleased with the work- 
 ing of the same, and are well satisfied that we get a licttcr light and at a 
 very much less expense than can be had by any other .system of lighting. 
 Expense of repairs has been nothing, and the cost of keeping the light in 
 order very small in proportion to results obtained. 
 
 Yours truly, 
 
 E. A. Freemax, Treas. 
 
 Office of Johnson M’f’g Co., 
 
 Manufacturers of Ginghams. 
 
 North Adams, Mass., July 11, 1883. 
 Messrs. Thomson- Houston Electric Light Co., Boston, Mass. 
 
 Gentlemen: Your favor of the 10th inst. received. The Electric 
 Lighting apparatus, put by you into our works, runs to our entire satis- 
 faction. We have had one or two other makes here on trial, but for our 
 purpose your machine is tlie best of them all. We are pleased to be able 
 to recommend the machine. 
 
 Yours very truly, 
 
 Joiixsox M’f’g Co., R. II. Sykes. 
 
 riTTSHURGii, Ra., July 10, 1882. 
 The Thomson-Houston Electric Light Co., Philadelphia, Pa. 
 
 Gentlemen : We have used, during the past winter, sixteen lights and one 
 Dvnamo-Electric Machine, of your make, and are pleased to state that so 
 far we are perfectly satisfied with the same. 
 
 Yours respectfully. 
 
 Keystone Bridge Co., A. Gotti.ieu, Pres. 
 
47 
 
 Fuom TiiK KAWSMorni Elkctkic Luiirr Co. 
 
 Kaxs.v.s City, Xov. 22, 18S2. 
 
 S. Barton, Esq., Gen. Manager Thomson- Houston Electric Co., Boston. 
 
 Dear Sir : Our company have been usinji for several months the 
 Thomson-IIouston system of electric liithting, and supplying satisfactory 
 lights to our customers. tVe have one hundred and ten lights now in use, 
 and will soon add to the number to meet the increasing demand for them. 
 I regard the lights furnished as exceeding in quality, brilliancy, and stead- 
 iness, any others that I have seen ; and I believe the system to be the 
 most economical, most practical, and the easiest to run of any sj'stcm in 
 use. Your system was adopted after an investigation of other systems, 
 and I have no reason to regret our choice. The business is highly satis- 
 factory. Yours truly, 
 
 W.M. Hoi.MUs, Fres’t Kawsmouth Electric Light Co. 
 
 Since the receipt of the above letter the Kawsmouth Co. have 
 taken four additional 2.5-light dynamos. 
 
 Nkw Bkit’aix, Conn., Jan. 11, 1882. 
 
 To ichom it may concern : — 
 
 We can heartily recommend the Thomson-IIouston Electric Light, hav- 
 ing used it in our store. It brings out the colors of all classes of goods, 
 and lights our store as thoroughly and satisfactorily as daylight. 
 
 Any one once using the lights will find it very hard to come down to gas. 
 Ecspectfullv, 
 
 F. H. Ai.i.is & Co., Clothiers, Furnishers, and Hatters. 
 
 Continental Bunn e h y , 
 
 riiiLADELPiiLi., July 10, 1882. 
 
 Thomson-IIouston Electric Light Co. 
 
 Gentlemen; In reply to yours of the 8th inst., inquiring as to our 
 opinion of j’our Electric Lighting apparatus, we reply that during the 
 time we have used it, since October, 1879, our appreciation of it has 
 steadily increased. Our whole establishment is now lighted almost ex- 
 clusively by it, and it has given us such satisfaction that upon the com- 
 pletion of contemplated improvements, whereby our brewery will be 
 greatly enlarged, we shall undoubtedly call upon you to furnish us with 
 more apparatus. Very truly yours, 
 
 John Gaudineu & Co. 
 
 Edge Moon, July 29, 1882. 
 Thomson-IIouston Electric Light Co., Philadelphia. 
 
 Gentlemen: We have had one of your 16-llght machines running at 
 these works since April, 1881, and added a second one in January of the 
 present year, both of which have given us entire satisfaction. We are 
 
 Amours truly. 
 
 Edge Moor Iron Co. 
 
48 
 
 Baldwin Locomotivk 4yoKKS, 
 
 Fhiladklpiiia, July 26, 1882. 
 The, Thomson- Houston Electric Lujht Co., City. 
 
 Gentlemen : We have luul in use in our erecting shop since October 
 last j'our system of arc lights. One of your 18-light Dynamo Machines 
 is employed, and is driven by a special engine which is used expressly for 
 driving three dynamo-machines of three difterent sj'stems of electric light. 
 The light has given us good satisfaction and answered our purpose well. 
 We have found no difficulty in keeping it in order and obtaining from it 
 constant service. We have run most of the time twenty and twent 3 ’-one 
 liglits on the Dynamo, although you have frequently reminded us that 
 eighteen good lights was the capaciti' of the machine, and that with a 
 larger number we could not expect such good results. 
 
 In the latter part of our experience with the lights during last spring 
 we found an improvement in respect to their steadiness. 
 
 We have not kept our accounts in such a wa.v as to show the co.st of 
 running the light anj' further than the indicator cards taken from our 
 engine have shown the consumption of II. P. of 15 4-10, including fric- 
 tion, for twenty’ of your lights. This result as to II. P. was not sur- 
 passed in the same test bj' any of the other sj'stems which we have in use. 
 
 Very truly yours, 
 
 BruNiiAM, Pauuy, Williams, & Co., 
 WOOLI.VEN. 
 
 Philadelphia, 15th, 7 mo., 1882. 
 
 I'o the Thomson- Houston Electric Liyht Co., Philadelphia. 
 
 We have had in use for over a year one of your 12-light machines with 
 excellent results, and now think we would be unable to conduct business 
 at our factory witli only our former lighting by headlight oil in lamps and 
 lanterns. We do not hesitate to recommend your apparatus as reliable 
 and economical. When we purchased it we gave it the preference over 
 tliat of your competitors after a thorough acquaintance with all in the 
 market. Kespectfully, 
 
 John M. Shaupi.ess & Co., 
 
 Philadelphia and Chester, Pa. 
 
 Dei.awake Roi.lino Mills, 
 
 PlIH.ADELPHIA, July 10, 1882. 
 The Thomson- Houston Electric Liyht Co., City. 
 
 Gentlemen: We have had one of your G-light Electric Machines in 
 use in our works since February, 1881. It has given us entire satisfaction. 
 Yours respectfully. 
 
 llfCHES & Patteuson. 
 
49 
 
 Spuing FoiuiK, I'.v., ITlli, 7 iiio., 1882. 
 .Vgs-.sv.s'. 'rinmson-IIonslon Electric LUjlit Co. 
 
 (iciitlciiien ; I have been iisini;' your Eleetric Maeliine for nine 
 months and it lias always given entire satisfaction. I can cliccrfnlly 
 recommend it to parties who are in want of an Electric Light. I remain, 
 Vonrs respectfully, 
 
 P. II. Gi..vrKKL'i r,R, per "W. 
 
 The following is a copy of a letter lately received by Carroll & Pow- 
 ell, St. Louis, from tlie Captain of one of their steamboats on tlio Mis- 
 sissippi River, the light being the Thomson-IIouston : 
 
 Messrrt. Carroll if Poxrell. 
 
 Your letter of Oct. 23d to hand and noted. I should have complied 
 ere this but was waiting to see the result of your light. 
 
 Tlie Eleetric Liglit lias been comiileted and has ever since given entire. 
 satMaclion, and can undoubtedly say it is the best Uujht I ever saw, and 
 other steamboat men recommend the same, and I can recommend it as 
 being a No. 1 light. (Signed) 
 
 1). .V. CUBIIEIU.Y. 
 
 To \V. B. IIOSMEK, Esij. 
 
 Dear Sir: Yours of Eeb. 
 duly to hand. 
 
 S.VLKM, M.\ss., Feb. 17, 1885. 
 Ihtli in regard to electric lighting came 
 
 I would hardly like to prejiulice any one against the 'Weston svstem, 
 but will merely state the facts. ALe were running five ten-light Weston 
 machines for perhaps one year and a half. AYe liad so mucli trouble with 
 tliem that we tried one twenty-five light Thomson-IIouston maeliine as 
 an experiment, and tlie result has been that we have taken out all of the 
 AA-eston and are running about eighty of the Thomson-IIouston with ex- 
 cellent success. 
 
 I think it fair to state that the AA^eston is a good light, but needs 
 great care m running, while the Thomson-IIouston re.iuire verv little 
 care, comparativeh-. 
 
 Do you know of any one that wishes to buy four Weston machines ' 
 Be paid .seventeen hundred dollars each. AVould sell f„r six hundred 
 each, with lamps. 
 
 Hoping this will prove satisfactory, I am, with respect. 
 
 Yours, etc.. 
 
 1. P. Il.umis, 
 
 Director in S.u.em E. L. Co. 
 
50 
 
 [Fuom tiik Sacuamkxto (Cai..) Sunday Capital, Mahch 30, 1884.] 
 
 The Electric Light Companies had tlieir lamps liglited last evening 
 and the city presented a fine appearance, and nothing was talked of but 
 Electric Lights. The two sj'stems used are the Brush and the Thomson- 
 llouston, and it is very plain to be seen that the latter takes the lead in 
 must every respect, and it was so decided by cverybodj' we talked with on 
 the subject. 
 
 Mr. S. 11. Taylor, who came from the East to assist Messrs. tVater- 
 house and Coleman in getting the Thomson-Houston light iu operation, 
 stated to a Capital reporter that it did not astouisli him that their sys- 
 tem hail taken the lead, for it was the case in every place where it had 
 come in competition with others; and we do not doubt it, for it certainly 
 is by far the finest sj'stem we have ever seen. 
 
 At a private exhibition of the Thomson-IIouston light on last Friday 
 evening, when were present Gov. Stoneman, Secretary of State Thomp- 
 son, Mayor Brown, the Directors of the Brush Company, and many prom- 
 inent citizens, we were shown the merits of this light. 'We never sup- 
 posed the electric light could reach such a perfection as is combined in 
 this system. Among the most important features are : — 
 
 The lights are eiitirel.v free from the hissing noise which is so disa- 
 greeable iu other systems. 
 
 They Inirn perfectly steady, and consequently make a pleasant light 
 both for in-doors or out. 
 
 So jierfect is the action of the machinery tliat in a circuit of twenty- 
 five to thirty lights, lights may be removed or init out iu rapid succession 
 without atl'ecting those that remain. 
 
 Each subscriber can have perfect control of his lamp, as it can be 
 turned off or lighted at will. 
 
 The above are only a few of the merits that were shown us, but 
 they are a sulticicnt guarantee that it has no e(iual on this coast. 
 
 tVe predict for the Thomson-IIouston a grand rush, and doubt if the 
 Facitic-Electric I>ight and Motor Company will be able to supply the im- 
 mediate (hunaiid. 
 
 [Fuom tiik Iowa Static Hkgistku, Aug. 8, 1883.] 
 
 'I’he Xew Electric Light Company iu Des INIoines has produced a gen- 
 uine sensation by the great excellence of its light, and by the steadiness 
 and softness of the blaze. Every one who is acipiainted with electric 
 lighting, and who has seen the lights of this new company for the past 
 two or three nights, jironounces it the best, steadiest, most illuminating 
 and pleasant electric light they have ever seen. It is the Thomsou-IIous- 
 ton patent, which is now fast suiierseding all other lights iu New York 
 and New England. It is soft and pleasant to the sight, burns without a 
 Ilieker, and with none of the unpleasant hissing souiui so inseparable 
 from other lights. All who have seen these new lights are delighted 
 with them, and orders are being made for them by business men beyond 
 the present capacity of the eomiiauy to furnish. 
 
51 
 
 ISOLATED LIGHTING. 
 
 Aiiioiia: the many isolated iilants installed in mills, faetoi'ies, and 
 other industrial establishments throui>:hont the Uidted States by the 
 'riiomson-llouston Company, may be mentioned the followin';: — 
 
 I’enobscot Chemieal Fibre Co., 
 Wentworth Hotel, 
 
 Harnaby Mannfactiirin?; Co., 
 Johnson Manufacturing Co., 
 Carson & Hrown, 
 
 Carew iMannfactiiring Co., 
 
 Geo. II. Gilbert Mfg. Co., 
 
 T. J. M. Smith & Co. , 
 
 Chas. Farker Co., 
 
 Hnssell & Erwin Mannf’g Co., 
 Stanley Tack Co. 
 
 I’. & F. Corl)in, 
 
 Windsor Locks Steel Co., 
 Waterbary Grass Co., 
 
 Farist Steel Co., 
 
 Hartford Silk iMfg. Co., 
 
 New Haven Wire Co., 
 
 Higgs House, 
 
 Hnssell & iM organ I’rinting Co., 
 Litchtield Car and ^Machine Co. 
 National Hotel, 
 
 Matteson House, 
 
 Hush Street Hridge, 
 
 -C L. Ide, 
 
 Globe Woolen iMills. 
 
 Hutl'alo Electrical Works, 
 
 Hauncr Tobacco Works, 
 Jacksonville Hotel Co., 
 
 Chatfee Bros., 
 
 .Steamer “ Chas. NIerriam” 
 Steamer “ Minnetonka” 
 
 Steamer “ Chas Morgan,” 
 
 Win. .Vngus, 
 
 J. H. Booth & Co., 
 
 Midvale Steel Works, 
 
 I’enncoyd Iron fVorks, 
 
 Baldwin Locomotive "Works, 
 Delaware Holling Jlills, 
 
 W. C. Allison & .Sous’ Car Shop, 
 
 AVest Great AVorks 
 
 . Me. 
 
 Newcastle, 
 
 N. 11. 
 
 F'all Hiver, 
 
 Mass. 
 
 North .Vtlams, 
 
 “ 
 
 Dalton, 
 
 “ 
 
 South Hadley, 
 
 “ 
 
 AA'are, 
 
 
 Boston, 
 
 ( ( 
 
 Meriden, 
 
 Conn. 
 
 New Britain, 
 
 
 New Britain, 
 
 “ 
 
 New Britain, 
 
 “ 
 
 AA'indsor Locks, 
 
 “ 
 
 AA’^aterbnry, 
 
 '• 
 
 Bridgeport, 
 
 “ 
 
 TarillAille, 
 
 
 New Haven, 
 
 “ 
 
 AA’ashington, 
 
 1). C. 
 
 Cincinnati, 
 
 Ohio. 
 
 Litchlicld, 
 
 111. 
 
 Peoria, 
 
 i ( 
 
 Chicago, 
 
 
 Chicago, 
 
 “ 
 
 Spriuglield, 
 
 
 Ctica, 
 
 N. Y. 
 
 Buffalo, 
 
 “ 
 
 Hiclimond, 
 
 Va. 
 
 Jacksonville, 
 
 Fla. 
 
 Etiwanda, 
 
 Cal. 
 
 Mississijipi Hiver, 
 
 Ky. 
 
 Mississi|)pi Hiver, 
 
 
 riississi))])! Hiver, 
 
 •• 
 
 ^Montreal, Canada. 
 
 ( H'.awa, 
 
 
 Nice town. Philadelphia. 
 
 near Philadelphia, 
 
 Pa. 
 
 I’liiladclphia, 
 
 '• 
 
 Philadelphia. 
 
 
 I’hiladelphia. 
 
 
52 
 
 Chas. Spencer & Co., Knitting Mills, 
 rhocnix Iron Company, 
 
 Lackawana Iron and Steel Co. 
 
 Chester llolling Mills, 
 
 Cambria Iron Company, 
 
 Keystone Bridge Company, 
 rhiladelphia & Beading R. R. Company. 
 Cumberland Valley R. R. Company, 
 American Ship Building Company , 
 Grand laike Coal Company, 
 
 Continental Brewing Company, 
 
 Firth & Foster Bros., Dyers, 
 r. II. Glatfelter, Baper Mill, 
 
 Fllitherpe & Co., Knitting Mills. 
 
 .las. Doak, .Ir. & Co., Worsted Mills, 
 
 A. B. Farquhar, 
 
 Michael Schall, 
 
 Schall & King, 
 
 Giliser Manufacturing Company. 
 
 H. Leh & Co., 
 
 Baltimore & Dhio R. R. Companj , 
 
 Ross & Sand ford, 
 
 Edgemoor Iron Company, 
 
 Steeve Worsted Mills, 
 
 Meriden Rink Corporation, 
 
 Electrical Supply Co., 
 
 ^litchell Bros. 
 
 Berlin Iron Bridge Co., 
 
 .\ubuni Woolen Co., 
 
 Elmira Rolling Mill, 
 
 Stein Bros., 
 
 Bolton Carbon Co., 
 
 Blonegren Bros., 
 
 Race Bros., 
 
 Monger Bros., 
 
 1st Reg. Armory, 
 
 National Printing Co., 
 
 Germantown, Philadelphia. 
 
 Phoenixville, 
 
 Pa 
 
 Scranton, 
 
 
 Chester, 
 
 
 .Tohnstown, 
 
 (( 
 
 Pittsburgh, 
 
 
 Reading, 
 
 
 Chambersburg, 
 
 1 1 
 
 Philadeliihia. 
 
 i ( 
 
 Pittsburgh, , 
 
 ( 
 
 Philadelphia, 
 
 ( 
 
 Philadelphia, 
 
 i 
 
 Spring Forge, 
 
 i l 
 
 Philadelphia, 
 
 * * 
 
 Philadelphia, 
 
 k i 
 
 York, 
 
 k i 
 
 York, 
 
 t k 
 
 Middletown, 
 
 k k 
 
 Wayiieslioro’, 
 
 ik 
 
 Allentown, 
 
 i k 
 
 Baltimore, 
 
 Md. 
 
 Baltimore, 
 
 
 Wilmington, 
 
 Del. 
 
 Providence, 
 
 R. 1. 
 
 Meriden, 
 
 Conn. 
 
 .Vnsonia, 
 
 
 Norwich, 
 
 
 East Berlin, 
 
 
 Auburn, 
 
 N. Y. 
 
 Elmira, 
 
 t k 
 
 Cleveland, 
 
 Ohio. 
 
 Cleveland, 
 
 “ 
 
 Chicago. 
 
 111. 
 
 Chicago, 
 
 * 
 
 Chicago, 
 
 
 Chicago, 
 
 
 Chicago, 
 
 
 'Phe 
 steamers 
 failed to 
 
 Thomsou-lR.uston lights are also nsed on very nnuiy of the 
 plying upon the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers, and Inn e not 
 give entire satisfaction in every instance. 
 
 ^ T 
 
 -r 
 
 AVERY LIBR 
 
 o' 1