GRAND RAPIDS Grand Rapids, the seat of the county of Wood, as well as being the chief city in the county, is the oldest town on the Upper Wisconsin River. It is situated in Township 22, north of Range 6 east, and lies wholly on the east bank of the Wisconsin, which is here interspersed with many small islands. The river, in passing the city, has a descent of thirty feet over an irregular and rocky bed, thus constituting the rapids which gave the name to the city and township. The water-power is immense; five thousand horsepower is still not utilized. The first settler to make improvements of a permanent and progressive character, was Nelson Strong, in 1838. As has been stated elsewhere, Mr. Daniel Whitney, of Green Bay, established the first saw-mill in the county, having received a permit from the War Department allowing him the privilege. In 1838, Strong obtained a similar permit, and secured, in connection with A. B. Sampson, who was at this time running Whitney’s mills at Whitney’s Rapids, the mill site at Grand Rapids. Sampson disposed of his claim to Strong, who associated himself with R. Bloomer, who arrived about that time on a prospecting trip. During this year, these two men built the mill, and manufactured the first lumber in the limits of the present city. George Kline, Jr., another prospector, arrived late in this year, and believing that the location was good, concluded to stop, going to work for Strong & Bloomer. They had at this early day, some little trouble in finding sufficient men to work the mills, but owing to the treaty recently made with the Indians, settlers were constantly arriving, and although many of them stayed but a short time, they soon found their full complement. This mill was in successful operation for some time. The first lumber manufactured by Messrs. Strong & Bloomer was used by the former to build a house for his family. This was in 1838, and was the first frame house in the county, and the second of any description in Grand Rapids. The first house was erected by H. McCutcheon, cook for the men at Strong & Bloomer’s mill; it was a small log house, located on the present site of John Bablin’s store. From this time, there was quite a number of frame and log houses erected, and the future city began to put on the appearance of a busy, thriving village. The earliest pioneer now living in the county of Wood is Mr. A. B. Sampson. He arrived in the county in 1832. He came hither under an agreement with Daniel Whitney, of Green Bay, as the superintendent of his mills, in connection with Mr. Whitney’s nephew, David R. Whitney. David Whitney died in 1838, and Sampson had sole charge of the mills at Whitney’s Rapids until 1840. In the year 1838, as has been stated, he, with Nelson Strong, took possession of the site at Grand Rapids but did not work the claim, disposing of his share to Strong. In 1840, Sampson gave up his position at Whitney’s Rapids and moved his family to the present city of Grand Rapids, where he has been a continuous resident ever since. In Mr. Sampson’s house at Whitney’s Rapids, in 1839, occurred the first marriage of Grand Rapids folks. The contracting parties were Mr. George Kline, Jr., of Grand Rapids, and Mrs. Maria Whitney, widow of David R., of Whitney’s Rapids, the knot being tied by S. R. Merrill, Justice of the Peace. In 1842, Rev. Mr. Hurlbut made his appearance, and began exhorting the settlers to “turn from the errors of their ways.” He had charge of a large circuit, and was a zealous worker in the good cause which he represented. By this time, owing to the great influx of pine seekers and prospectors, it dawned upon the mind of Nelson Strong that a hotel would not be a bad investment. Accordingly, in 1843, he erected one. This hotel, in a short time, was bought by A. B. Sampson, who for many years was noted for keeping the only public house in what is now the county of Wood. Mrs. Sampson, his wife, who came to him at Whitney’s Rapids, in 1838, was remarkable for her energy and bravery against pioneer hardships and Indian insolence. “Upon one occasion,” says Mr. Sampson, “three of Oshkosh’s tribe came to my house and asked Mrs. Sampson for something to eat. She, having never been known to refuse them when they came in a proper manner, gave all three quite a good meal. One of them, upon the food being handed to him, commenced to behave in a most shocking manner, eating and destroying his food in such a way that it was very disgusting. Mrs. Sampson, who had witnessed the act, became very much incensed, and spoke very sharply to him, telling him not to act like an animose (dog). This, in turn, angered the Indian, who jumping to his feet, threatened to shoot her, at the same time bringing his gun to bear upon her. Before he could carry out his intention, Mrs. Sampson, with great presence of mind, shut the door in his face, and ran into another room. He, inflamed with rage, forced the door and followed her. In the meantime, Mrs. Sampson had secured a large stick of wood, and as he came toward the second room, threw the door open, rushed upon him, and, with one well directed blow, disarmed him; a second blow staggered him, and being followed up by others in succession, so completely demoralized the “noble red man” that he ignominiously fled, leaving his gun, which Mrs. Sampson retained, lying on the floor.” Of this kind were our brave pioneer women. In 1842, the first village “smithy” was started by J. B. Hasbrouck, who arrived that year. Mr. Hasbrouck still wields his hammer, and can be seen at his post in his shop, apparently as hardy as ever. In 1843, George Kline, Sr., and Ira Purdy settled here. During the next two years, quite a number of settlers made their appearance, prominent among them being Mr. E. S. Miner, who arrived in 1845, opening a general store. This year was one of note-worthy events. A post-office was established here, and E. S. Miner appointed as Postmaster, Miner appointing as Deputy his partner, John Warner. There was at this time only one mail each week, and that did not amount to more than a dozen or thirteen letters and two or three papers, when it arrived. There were a few new comers during the next year; L. Kromer, one of the first merchants, settled here this year. Mr. Kromer was for many years a prominent merchant in the city of Grand Rapids, but gave it up some time ago, accepting a position as agent for Adams Express Company. Joseph Wood, for whom the county was named, came here in 1848, and has held many offices of trust and honor in the county. The city was in its zenith from 1848 to 1857. In 1852, Mr. J. P. Powers made his appearance and hung out his shingle, and until 1858 was the only lawyer at the county seat. Early in that year, he was joined by C. M. Webb, ex-State Senator, who has been a leading attorney since his coming. Mr. Powers has been one of the most active citizens, and has been honored with some of the most important offices the county can confer. In the year 1855, Dr. G. W. Whitney settled here, and was the first resident physician in the county. He is still practicing at Grand Rapids. The Winter of 1856-7 was a period of peculiar interest to the residents of the present county of Wood. On the twenty-ninth day of March, 1856, all that territory known as the town of Grand Rapids, county of Portage, was detached from that county and organized as the county of Wood, at which organization, the present city of Grand Rapids was made the county seat, still remaining under town government. In 1859, Dr. G. W. Witter made his appearance in the county, settling at Grand Rapids. Since his coming, the doctor has been one of the most earnest and faithful workers for the success and prosperity of the city that she can boast of. Being a great advocate for good schools, he turned his mind and attention in that direction, and it is mainly through his indefatigable efforts that the schools have reached their present high standard. He was followed to the new town by his cousin, J. D. Witter, who has also been identified with the success and prosperity of the present city, since the date of his arrival in 1859. One of the new-comers this year, was Mr. T. C. St. Amour, now engaged in keeping a general store on the main street, near the bridge; upon his arrival in Grand Rapids, St. Amour commenced clerking for Mr. J. L. Mosher, one of the early residents, continuing in his employ until 1869, when he opened a clothing store, three doors from his present location. A few years later, Mr. St. Amour rented his present large store, and launched out into a regular general business, clothing, dry goods, groceries and boots and shoes. Mr. St. Amour is noted for his fair dealing, and his first-class business qualities. From 1850 to 1861, may be denominated the speculative period of Grand Rapids, while the era of permanent success occupies the time from the latter date to the present. Lumbering was the business toward which every one looked, and the thoughts of all reverted. Immigrants were constantly pouring in, and but few of them chose to locate back in the town, some settled on the west side of the river, in what is now the city of Centralia, then a part of Grand Rapids. Between these two settlements, a brisk rivalry has always existed, and when the county seat was established, the offices being on the east side, the west felt very much chagrined. The energy and industry of all classes, however, soon united in the common cause of progress, until 1869, the two settlements were one. In the Fall of 1861, there were six general store houses in Grand Rapids, with an aggregate stock, amounting to about $175,000. Of other mercantile establishments, such as grocery, drug, clothing, hardware and tin stores, there were six; this number did not include the “grocery stores” where liquor was the chief commodity dealt in. The war of the rebellion came and the progress of the future city was checked, many of the brave defenders of the Union, never returning. Hundreds of the best men gave up their homes, wives and children, to respond to the call for troops to aid in quelling treason. A new generation has sprung up and business has again received an impetus, that the energetic and enterprising citizens of Grand Rapids will not fail to take advantage of. The reverses she has had to encounter simply checked and not diminished her prosperity. In 1868, there was a suggestion made by the residents, that the village of Grand Rapids be incorporated, that they might receive all the advantages from which they were debarred while under town government. The question was agitated, and finally culminated in a final meeting being held, and votes cast to decide whether the present village of Grand Rapids and county seat of Wood County should petition for a charter to incorporate said county seat as a village of appeal for a city charter. The majority were in favor of a city corporation, and the petition was forwarded to the proper authorities for consideration. Being favorably received, the charter incorporating the city of Grand Rapids was granted, on the first Tuesday of April, 1869. The following is a list of the Mayors elected since the incorporation. 1869 – S. Reeves; 1870 – L. P. Powers; 1871 – Joseph Wood; 1872-5 – J. F. Lunt; 1876 – G. R. Gardner; 1877 – J. L. Mosher; 1878-79 – J. L. Brundage; 1880-81 – C. U. Webb. Schools - The subject of education is one of prime importance to every community, and the degree in which it is fostered and promoted is always a sure index to the intelligence and liberality of the people. The first school in Grand Rapids was established by J. S. Hurlbut, in 1843, and was held in a log-house in the present city of Centralia. Mr. Hurlbut taught this school for a short time, but his duties as a missionary being very arduous, was compelled to give it up. It was then taken by Mr. John Warner, in 1844. Warner arrived this year, and had charge until 1845, when he gave it up to Mrs. Searles, Warner at this time going into partnership with Mr. E. S. Miner, who had opened a general store on the east side of the river in the present city of Grand Rapids. The school, at this time, was a very small one, comprising in all but eight pupils, and was maintained by subscriptions from those who had children. The next school was opened in 1846, by a Miss Hannah Davis, and was held in a private house, on Grand Rapids side of the river. In 1850, a regular school was organized, and Mr. Hasbrouck’s blacksmith shop was purchased, and with some little additions, made a very comfortable school building. At the time of the establishment of this school, Miss L. Compton was appointed teacher, being succeeded by Miss Powers, in 1854. This was the only school building in the city until 1861, when a suitable building was erected. At the completion of the building, the brave boys of the surrounding county were preparing for war, and the new building was dedicated by a supper and dance, in their honor. The first term in this new building commenced the first Monday in September, 1861, when the graded school system was adopted. The first principal of the school was Mr. Martin. The following able teachers have served as principals since that time, in the following order: J. A. Sabin, Prof. Jackson, H. H. Heinback. The school in 1867-8, was in a very prosperous condition, the citizens appreciating the value of good teachers, used the greatest efforts to obtain the best. The success of the schools is owing in a great measure to the energy and capability of the first Superintendent of Schools, Dr. G. F. Witter, who was elected to that office in 1862. The doctor served several consecutive terms as Superintendent, and by his earnest efforts, worked a complete change, stimulating by his example, others, to take the matter up, and push the subject of schools forward. The institute for teachers was organized this year, and the first session held in the school-house, in Grand Rapids, under the immediate direction and control of the able Superintendent. The schools from this time began to loom up. In 1873, Dr. Witter, who had again been elected as County Superintendent of Schools, made application to the State Superintendent of Schools, for funds to help maintain the institute, and a person competent to conduct it, to be appointed to take charge of it. Both of the above mentioned requests were complied with, and the institute is now on a solid basis. The citizens of Grand Rapids should feel themselves under obligations to Dr. Witter for the earnest attention he has given, and the great interest he has always taken in the advancement of the educational advantages, not only of the city of Grand Rapids, but of the whole county of Wood. The Howe Free High School. – In August, 1875, at a meeting held by the School Board in Grand Rapids, the necessity and expediency of building a new high school was introduced, and favorably received. The actual necessity felt for an institution of this kind, induced the School Board to hurry the matter up, and in the same year (1875) the building was gotten under way. To raise the necessary funds to push the building, it was decided to take a loan of $10,000 from the State; this in connection with $10,000 left as a legacy by Howe, after whom the school was named, enabled them to forward the work with dispatch. The school was finally completed and furnished, early in 1877, the first school meeting for the Fall term. The actual cost of this handsome edifice was $32,000. The following principals have had charge since the building has been completed: I. N. Stewart, Prof. Chittenden, J. Rosholt, and the present principal, Mr. Frank Cooley. The following is a list of teachers since 1870: First Assistants – 1870, Ira Compton; 1871-2, Hester Baker; 1873, Frances Miller; 1874, Helen Mosher; 1875, Mrs. Pratt; 1876, Alice Grace; 1877-8, Mrs. Stewart; 1879-80, Helen Mosher; 1881, Miss E. Phalin. Second Assistants – 1870, Miss Frances Potter; 1871-2, Mrs. Emery; 1873, Clara Goodhue; 1874, Alice Mosher; 1875, Mrs. Vaughan; 1876-7-8, Mary Dougherty; 1879, Maggie Burns; 1880, Josie Kerns; 1881, Mrs. Vaughan. Third Assistants – 1876, Fannie Baker; 1877-8, Mary Dougherty; 1879, Lillie Grace; 1880, Miss Mitchell; 1881, Mary Dougherty. Fourth Assistants – 1877-8, Mrs. Vaughan; 1879, Mary Dougherty; 1880, Mrs. Vaughan; 1881, Miss Douglas. Fifth Assistants – 1879, Mrs. Vaughan; 1880, Mary Dougherty; 1881, Miss Abbie Barry. Societies – The common tendency of civilized people to form themselves into societies developed itself at a very early day in Grand Rapids. The F.&A.M. Society formed a lodge here as early as 1848, but the records have been destroyed, and nothing authentic can be learned regarding it. In June, 1861, the present lodge, known as Grand Rapids Lodge No. 128, A.F. & A.M. was organized under dispensation, the petitioners being S. J. Carpenter, Jesse H. Lang, A. Pierce, A. Lamb, Henry Clinton, Robert Farrish, Thomas Barbour, S. H. Pearson and J. Stanley Rood. The charter was granted July, 1862, the first officers under the charter being S. J. Carpenter, W. M.; Jesse H. Lang, S.W.; S. H. Pearson, J.W.; J. Stanley Rood, S.D.; Thomas Barbour, J.D.; Robert Farrish, secretary; Abijah Pierce, treasurer. In 1867, the records of this lodge were entirely destroyed by fire. The first record after that time is December 16, 1867, when the following officers were elected to serve the term of one year: A. Pierce, W.M.; C. S. Taylor, S.W.; J. D. Witter, J.W.; A. B. Sampson, Treas.; M. C. Stamer, Sec.; Peter Berg, S.D.; S. A. Spafford, J.D. 1868 – J. D. Witter, W.M.; C. S. Taylor, S.W.; H. B. Philleo, J.W.; E. Mennett, Sec.; L. E. Hitchcock, Treas.; L. Kromer, S.D.; J. G. Pomeroy, J.D. In 1869, the same were elected, with the exception of L. E. Hitchcock, who was succeeded by A. Pierce, as treasurer. 1870 – H. B. Philleo, W.M.; J. G. Pomeroy, S.W.; A. B. Hamilton, J.W.; A. Pierce, Treas.; L. Kromer, Sec.; F. W. Burt, S.D.; S. J. Purdy, J.D. 1871 – A. B. Hamilton, W.M.; J. A. Robb, S.W.; S. J. Purdy, J.W., A. Pierce, Treas.; F. W. Burt, Sec.; Charles Herschleb, S.D.; Eric McKay, J.D. 1872 – J. A. Rabb, W.M.; S. J. Purdy, S.W.; F. W. Burt, J.W.; Seth Reeves, Treas.; William Hooper, Sec.; Charles Herschleb, S.D.; Henry Pigg, J.D. 1873 – L. Kromer, W.M.; F. W. Burt, S.W.; Eric McKay, J.W.; R. C. Worthington, Treas.; H. W. Jackson, Sec.; Charles Herschlet, S.D.; W. L. Sprowl, J.D. 1874 – L. Kromer, W. M.; Charles Herschleb, S.W.; H. Piff, J.W.; R. C. Worthington, Treas.; H. W. Jackson, Sec.; F. W. Burt, S.D.; Ira Purdy, J.D. 1875 – L. Kromer, W.M.; Charles Herschleb, S.W.; H. Pigg, J.W.; N. E. Emmons, Treas.; William T. Jones, Sec.; F. W. Burt, S.D.; Ira Purdy, J.D. 1876 – Charles Herschleb, W.M.; H. Hayden, S.W.; F. W. Burt, J.W.; N. E. Emmons, Treas.; W. T. Jones, Sec.; T. M. Nash, S.D.; R. E. McFarland, J.D. 1877 – L. Kromer, W.M.; H. Hayden, S.W.; C. B. Garrison, J.W.; J. N. Brundage, Sec.; N. E. Emmons, Treas.; G. F. Witter, S.D.; R. E. McFarland, J.D. 1878 – G. F. Witter, W.M.; N. E. Emmons, S.W.; B. Silber, J.W.; G. J. Jackson, Treas.; E. S. King, Sec.; J. N. Brundage, S.D.; V. Talmadge, J.D. 1879 – L. Kromer, W.M.; G. J. Jackson, S.W.; Charles Herschleb, J.W.; V. Talmadge, Treas.; Seth Reeves, Sec.; R. Worthington, S.D.; E. S. King, J.D. 1880 – G. J. Jackson, W.M.; B. Silber, S.W.; C. M. Webb, J.W.; Seth Reeves, Treas.; E. S. King, Sec.; Charles Herschleb, S.D.; N. E. Emmons, J.D. The present number in the lodge is forty-nine, with seven Past Masters. The meetings are held every first and third Wednesday in each month, in their hall, over Seth Reeves’ store. The value of the lodge property is about $750. Grand Rapids Lodge, No. 91, I.O.O.F., was organized March 11, 1873, with the following charter members: Oscar Taylor, C. L. Powers, F. W. Burt, Seth Reeves and Lemuel Kromer. This lodge is in a highly prosperous condition; they number eighty-eight members in good standing, and own lodge property to the amount of $1,629.52. They have, in connection with the lodge, a circulating library of 350 volumes, valued at $500. The following is a list of the members who have been presiding officers since the organization of the lodge: Oscar Taylor, F. W. Burt, H. E. Benedict, A. B. Brastell (two terms), H. Pigg, J. W. Cochrane (five terms), L. O. Schultz, H. W. Lord and F. J. Wood. The present officers are: J. W. Cochrane, N.G.; George Hiers, V.G.; C. O. Doud, secretary; George R. Gardiner, treasurer. The lodge hold their meetings every Tuesday evening, in their hall over the First National Bank. Wood County Temple of Honor, No. 77, was organized and charter granted, November 20, 1876. At the time of organizing there were fifty-five charter members, among whom may be mentioned Paul Fontaine, J.D. Witter, F. J. Wood, J. Gaynor, J. E. Ingraham, George R. Gardiner and J. N. Brundage. The first meeting of this society was held upon the evening of November 20, 1876, and the following officers installed: Charles M. Webb, W.C.T.; Henry Hayden, W.V.T.; A. A. Brundage, recorder; F. L. Moore, assistant recorder; W. A. Roe, financial secretary; J. W. Hodges, treasurer; C. S. Haskell, chaplain; James Oliver, usher; George N. Wood, deputy usher; Charles Quinn, guardian; Paul Fontaine, sentinel. The lodge numbers at the present time (1881) seventy-five members. The elections are held in May and November, making six months a term. The officers elected May 1, 1881, are as follows: R. P. Bronson, W.C.T.; H. Worthington, W.V.T.; P. Rosholt, recorder; P. S. Bennett, assistant recorder; Paul Fontaine, financial secretary; Frank P. Solar, treasurer; W. E. Simons, usher; R. B. Emmons, deputy usher; Frank P. Solar, guardian; Thomas Frechette, sentinel; C. M. Webb, J. P. Horton and Paul Fontaine, trustees. The value of lodge property is about $500. They hold their meetings in a large room over J. E. Ingraham’s store, which they share in common with the Good Templars organization. The St. Jean Baptiste Societie was organized on the fifteenth day of June, 1856, with about seventy charter members. The originator of this order in Grand Rapids was Joseph Closuit, a Frenchman. The first officers of the society were elected by acclamation, upon the fifteenth day of June, 1876, and were as follows: Henry Ballanger, president; F. La Rochelle, first vice president; Thomas Leveque, second vice president; G. A. Janson, corresponding secretary; A. Masse, financial secretary; J. D. Labreche, treasurer; Oswald Voger, marshal. This society has for its object the welfare of their countrymen, emigrating to this county and to this section. None are eligible to become members, except those who are Frenchmen, or speak the French language, which they used in all their meetings, in order to perfect it. The society in Grand Rapids is an extremely flourishing condition. The officers selected from 1876 to 1881 are as follows: 1876 – John Arpin, P.; F. La Rochelle, 1st V.P.; N. Pepin, 2d V.P.; L. Gaudette, Sec. Min.; J. C. Closuit, Sec. Finance; R. Arpin, treasurer; J. Cottett, marshal; 1877 – John Arpin, P.; G. Corivau, 1st V.P.; Bernier, 2d V.P.; F. Pomainville, treasurer; L. Gaudette, Sec. Min.; F. LaRochelle, marshal: Joseph Closuit, Sec. Finance, 1878 – John Arpin, P.; J.; Biron, 1st V.P.; G. B. Landry, 2d V.P.; R. Arpin, Treas.; Joseph Gervase, Sec. Min.; Joseph Closuit, Sec. Finance; F. Rochelle, marshal; 1879 – G. Labreche, P.; F. LaRochelle, 1st V.P.; L. Bellefeuille, 2d V.P.; A. Masse, Sec. Min.; J. Closuit, Sec. Finance; W. Felton, treasurer; R. Arpin, marshal; Joseph Cottet, sergeant-at-arms; 1880 – G. Labreche, P.; H. Lambert, 1st V.P.; L. Garupy, 2d V.P.; A. Bernier, Sec. Min.; Joseph Closuit, Sec. Finance; W. Felton, treasurer; F. LaRochelle, marshal; A. Bassillon, sergeant-at-arms, 1881 – G. Labreche, P.; O. Denis, 1st V.P.; L, Limett, 2d V.P.; O. Rocheleau, Sec. Min.; Joseph Closuit, Sec. Finance; John Laudrey, treasurer; Joseph La Vigne, marshal; Louis Garupy, sergeant-at-arms. There are a board of directors elected every year. Following is a list in order: 1875 – H. C. Clermont, A. Morceau, John Cardin, H. Lambert, O. Leroux and O. Morin; 1876 – H. Lambert, G. Cardin, A. Masse, Joseph La Vigne, L. Meanier and M. Depres; 1877 – L. Garupy, Joseph Gervase, A. Morceau, A. Brazeau, R. Arpin and J. Biron; 1878 – R. Bernier, A. Masse, G. Cardin, Joseph La Vigne, H. Lambert, O. Rocheleau; 1879 – A. Bernier, G. Cardin, Joseph La Vigne, H. Lambert, A. Bassillon, L. Carupy; 1880 – L. Limett, A. Masse, N. Pepin, O. Denis, H. Clermont, Joseph La Vigne; 1881 – H. Clermont, A. Morceau, John Cardin, H. Lambert, O. Leroux, O. Morin. Excelsior Lodge, I.O.G.T., No. 295, was organized with twenty-one charter members, January 15, 1881. First officers were as follows: A. L. Fontaine, W.C.; Kitty Clark, W.V.; W. A. Roe, W.S.; J. M. Lord, F.S.; F. Solar, T.; Mamie Latham, A.S.; P. G. Bennett, Chaplain; Oscar Gagnon, M.; Lucy Woodworth, R. H. S.; Nellie Kromer, L.H.S.; Josie Kern, I.G.; George Zenier, W.S. At the second quarter, commencing April 1, 1880, A. L. Fontaine was re-elected W.C.; Ella Roe, W.V.; D. Worthington, S.; Oscar Gagnon, F.S.; C. Purdy, T.; J. S. Norris, Chaplain; W. W. Meade, W.M.; Carrie Butterfield, A.M.; Emma Zeiner, I.G.; Auren Kromer, W.S. Third quarter, August 1, 1880, W. W. Meade was elected W.C.; Minnie Spafford, W.V.; O. St. Amour, S.; Mrs. P. G. Bennett, Chaplain; W. Reeves, T.; F. Solar, M.; Auren Kromer, F.S.; Cora Kline, I.G.; Geo. Huntingdon, S.; Maggie Brazeau, R.H.S.; Miss Spafford, L.H.S. Fourth quarter, November 1, 1880: F. Solar, W.C.; Tamie Baldersen, W.V.; Ella Hathaway, S.; Hattie Kline, T.; Miss Douglas, Chaplain; O. St. Amour, F.S.; Auren Kromer, M.; W. A. Roe, A.S.; Maria Reeves, R. H. S.; Aurelle Fontaine, L.H.S.; Olive Huntingdon, I.G.; Fred Krugar, W.S. The fifth quarter, commencing February, 1881: F. Solar was again elected W.C.; Maggie Brazeau, W.V.; Minnie Spafford, S.; Hattie Kline, T.; George Brazeau, F.S.; Mrs. Beadle, Chaplain; M. Lesselyong, M.; Mabel Meade, A.M.; A. Frank, W.S.; Olive Huntingdon, I.G.; Maria Reeves, R.H.S.; Mamie Spafford, L.H.S.; F. S. Woodworth, A.S. Sixth quarter, beginning May 1, 1881: F. S. Woodworth was elected W.C.; Minnie Spafford, W.V.; Ella Hathaway, W.S.; Harry Worthington, F.S.; Ella Roe, T.; Charles Compton, A.S.; Anna Compton, Chaplain; M. Lesselyong, M.; Carrie Butterfield, A.M.; Maggie Brazeau, R.H.S.; Aurelle Fontaine, L.H.S.; Anna Hasbrouck, I.G.; Henry Edward, W.S. Seventh quarter, commencing August 1, 1881; F. Solar, W.C.; Ella Hathaway, W.V.; E. B. Brundage, S.; Hattie Philleo, F.S.; Maggie Brazeau, T.; Walter Wood, A.S.; Mrs. Beadle, Chaplain; William Dustin, M.; Jessie Huntingden, A.M.; Mabel Meade, R.H.S.; Minnie Spafford, L.H.S.; Anna Hasbrouck, I. G.; George Roe, W.S. The society has a membership in good standing, with a comfortable surplus in the hands of the treasurer. They hold their meetings Monday evening of each week, in the Temple of Honor Hall on Front street. In 1873, there was a Good Templars’ lodge started, but it was short-lived, being completely extinguished in the Fall of 1874. Religious Institutions – The history of religious institutions in Wood County, and particularly in Grand Rapids, dates as far back as 1843, when the Rev. Mr. Hurlbut, a Methodist missionary held his first services and preached the first sermon in the county at a place called “Four Points,” at the home of Mrs. Sanfords. The same year he held services in Grand Rapids and Centralia, then one town, and at “Point Bousse” and Mill Creek. The manner in which Mr. Hurlbut received pay for his services was indeed very primitive. The settlers would form together and present him with felled timber, which he would run down the river at opportune seasons, have it sawed into boards or slabs, and thus realize upon it. This additional work, when added to the already arduous duties he imposed upon himself, made his life a very hard and laborious one. Mr. Hurlbut was on the ‘circuit’ until 1850, when he was succeeded by the Rev. Mr. Haywood, then residing in Plover, Portage Co. The services held by Mr. Hayward were very irregular, and in 1853, Rev. Mr. Holmes was sent here by the Methodist Conference, staying, however, but one year. Rev. Mr. Annas preached a short period, being followed in the work by Rev. Edwards in 1856. Mr. Edwards this year held his services in La Vignes Hall, in Grand Rapids, every four weeks. This was a large commodious building upon the ground now occupied by the First National Bank. The services were very well attended, but the preacher worked under very difficult circumstances, says Mr. Philleo, an old resident. The hall was a good one, but had at that time to be divided into separate rooms for different purposes. The main room was divided into two apartments, by a partition near the rear entrance, which did not quite reach the ceiling.The rooms back of this partition being used as sleeping apartments for some “Kanucks” or French Canadians, who always seemed to make it a point to be late to bed and late arising, especially on the Sunday mornings the church met. It was no unusual thing to hear the snore of a lusty sleeper mingling with the “Amen” of the worthy preacher. Nor was it any more unusual to hear the “High, Low, Jack and Game” uttered in the broken English peculiar to their class, in a game of cards, during the progress of the minister’s sermon. Fumes of tobacco arising from filthy pipes – and plug tobacco of the vilest kind at that – made the entire hall redolent with the smell. Such were the early experiences of those whose efforts finally succeeded in planting the Standard of the Cross in Grand Rapids. The Baptist Congregational Society was organized in 1858, under the pastorate of the Rev. Mr. Smith. This organization comprised two congregations, the Baptists and Congregationalists, hence the name. The society at this time held their services in the old school-house, in common with the Methodists, and a small body over whom the Rev. Mr. Lewis, a Baptist minister, presided. Mr. Lewis arrived this year, for the purpose of holding services for those who were disinclined to enter into an alliance with the Congregational society. Mr. Smith continued with the society until 1860, when he was succeeded by the Rev. Mr. Freeman, who remained but one year, when he in turn was succeeded by the Rev. J. H. Harris, in 1861. During Mr. Harris’ pastorate the present church was organized in Hurley’s Hall, and by his energy and unfailing efforts the present church, on Water street, where the congregation now attend divine service, was erected. This was in 1864. A sad accident occurred, that served to throw a gloom over the whole place. In raising the structure, some part of it gave way, and several of those assisting, were seriously injured. The following are the names of the founders of the church in Grand Rapids, and the first members of the church: Mr. J. H. Harris and wife, Mr. J. H. Long and wife, Mr. and Mrs. B. Salmon, Mrs. H. F. Black, Mrs. Lemley, and Miss Lucinda Clark. None of the above are connected in any way with the church at the present time. The first board of trustees were, H. Wood, A. Pierce and Orestes Garrison. Mr. Harris remained in charge until 1867, when he was succeeded by Rev. Mr. Cameron, who remained until 1868. In this year, Rev. E. J. Carpenter was called, and spent two years laboring for the church. During Mr. Carpenter’s pastorate the church was blessed by a very successful revival. Mr. Carpenter was assisted in the good work by Rev. R. M. Webster, who afterward succeeded Mr. Carpenter, and continued with the people five years, at the end of that time he was called to another charge, and after an interval of about seven or eight months, the Rev. L. M. Foster was called, remaining for five years. After an intervening period of five months, during which time the congregation were without a regular pastor, the Rev. J. L. Norris was called, remaining in charge until about the middle of August, 1881, when he resigned his charge. At the present time there is no regular clergyman connected with the church, and the services are very irregularly held in consequence. The Sabbath-school connected with the church was also established by the Rev. Mr. Harris, who, for some time, officiated as its superintendent. The school has prospered greatly since its organization, a great deal of interest being shown by the congregation of the church in its welfare. The following gentlemen have been in order at the head of the school since its establishment: J. L. Emery, L. B. Warren, and its present superintendent. The school can now record fully 120 members, with a corps of efficient teachers. The Methodist Church. – The first Methodist Episcopal Church of Grand Rapids was organized in 1857, having but eight constituent members. The first resident pastor was the Rev. L. D. Tracey. The meetings at this early day were held wherever most convenient, sometimes at one of the members’ houses, and occasionally using La Vigne’s Hall. The church did not grow very materially during the years 1857-58 and 1859. Mr. Tracey was succeeded, in 1858, by the Rev. Mr. Wood, who, in turn, was succeeded by the Rev. Charles Smith, who remained until 1860. Rev. G. W. Slater took charge in 1860, remaining until 1861. He was succeeded in turn by Rev. B. C. Hunt, who remained until 1862, serving two years. During Mr. Hunt’s pastorate, the church was blessed with a very encouraging and profitable revival season, increasing its membership to quite an extent. Mr. Hunt was appointed to another church in 1863, and the Rev. A. S. Tompkins was appointed to fill the vacancy. He remained but one year, Rev. Mr. Ames taking charge, also remaining one year, being succeeded by the Rev. W. G. Bancroft, who remained until 1867. During Mr. Bancroft’s incumbency the project of a church building was broached, and plans were proposed, which culminated in an eligible site being chosen, and ground broken. The church was finished during this year and 1868, under the supervision of the Rev. W. J. Mitchell, who succeeded Bancroft in 1868. This church building was erected at a cost of $2,500. In 1870, Rev. J. D. Cole was appointed to succeed Rev. Mitchell, staying in charge until 1873, when he was succeeded by the Rev. Jesse Cole, who was the pastor for two years, being succeeded by the Rev. M. Evans in 1875, Rev. C. S. Haskell in 1876, Rev. W. C. Waldron in 1878. In 1878 the present efficient and worthy pastor was appointed, remaining in charge until the present year, 1881. During Mr. Bennett’s pastorate the church has been singularly blessed. The church has experienced some very profitable revivals, and the membership been very much increased. There will be deep and sincere regret felt by the congregation, when their beloved pastor leaves them for a new charge. The value of the church property is about $3,500. The first Catholic Church was organized and built in Centralia, situated on the west side of the Wisconsin River, opposite Grand Rapids, in 1854. Previous to this time in the same year, Father Vanderbruck, of Green Bay, was in the habit of visiting the people and holding services. After the first church was built it was visited by the Rev. Father Dale, of Fond du Lac, who died there in 1879. In 1856, the church was destroyed by fire, and in 1857, rebuilt on the Grand Rapids side. The people of this denomination will long hold in grateful remembrance the memory of Mr. Francis Beron, through whose great liberality the church was re-built, and also for the pecuniary aid he proffered to help the church support a resident pastor. By the efforts of Mr. Beron, the Rev. Father Stehl arrived and took charge this year, remaining six months, when he was succeeded by the Rev. Nicholas Stehl, his brother. In June, 1859, Father Nicholas was in turn succeeded by Rev. Father Davids, during whose pastorate the present parsonage was erected. Father Davids remained in charge until August, 1861, when he was appointed to another charge, leaving the church without a pastor until January, 1862, when the Rev. Father Hens made his advent. Previous to this, during Father David’s pastorate, the church was supplied with a bell, which is still in use at the church. In 1864, Father Hens was removed, and the church was again for a few months left without a pastor, it being visited, however, during the interval by Fathers Stehl, Griffin and Schweback, the latter coming from Stevens Point. In June, 1867, Father J. Gleason received the appointment, remaining two years. Father Gleason, during his pastorate, began building the present church edifice, but was removed before it could be completed. His successor, who came in 1871, a young French Canadian, named Father F. Tonguay, succeeded in finishing and paying for the church in one year. In June, 1873, Rev. Wm. DeKeller made his appearance, being in turn succeeded by the Rev. Father Perrin, during whose pastorate the church building was partly destroyed by lightning, and was rebuilt by the kindness of the two insurance companied in which it was insured. Both of these companies presented the church with $250. The present incumbent the Rev. Father C. Beyerle, succeeded Perrin. In 1880, the church was again so unfortunate as to take fire, and it was only by the zeal and good management of the Grand Rapids fire company that it was not entirely destroyed. As it was, the damage and loss was considerable, amounting to fully $1,000, which however, was covered by insurance. The congregation of this church numbers 140 families, or about seven hundred souls. The proportion of the different nationalities making up this are about one-third Irish, one-third French Canadians, one-sixth German, one-sixth Polanders. The value of the church property is estimated at $12,000.
GRAND RAPIDS
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