2022.97.09

The "article gives a vivid description of the industry situated along the Kalamazoo Rover in the villages of Allegan, Saugatuck, and Douglas, and an account of farming and prominent local men." The glowingly-optimistic article specifically mentions: - the Ira Chaffee's tri-weekly routes between Saugatuck, Douglas and Allegan - Allegan's founders Ira Chaffee, Judge Kellogg and Col. Fisk - the financial crisis of 1837 and recovery of 1843 - the Allegan fall (9 feet) powering mills for Ira Chaffee, J.D. Bush, Braden & Co., A. & H.G. Case, H. Carter & Co. - the costs of the ships Lavinda, O.R. Johnson, Ira Chaffee, Aunt Petsey, Helen Mar, George Dunbar, Moteagle, Day Spring, White Oak, You Tell and other boats built at the Ira Chaffee shipyard - Allegan's leading businesses - production/business information about Saugatuck and Douglas mills, tanneries and stores including the Dunning & Hopkins saw mill (which had 2nd mill upriver) - Saugatuck merchants R.T. Clements, John Burns, S.A. Morrison and J.H. Harris drug store - "The people of Saugatuck are just completeding [sic], at a cost of $10,000, a house 40x64 feet, with two wings, each 10x30. It occupies a beautiful situation, and is a credit to the young village." - Douglas mill owner Abbott, the Douglas Union School, fruit growing, M.B. Spencer docks and the harbor improvements. Strangely, there are no mentions of Singapore in this pro-business piece.

Nautical1870 Fruit growing, farming, agricultureCommercial businesses

Winthers, Sally

01/08/2023

03/29/2024