Fantasy Jug for 2015 Chattanooga National

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Fantasy Jug for 2015 Chattanooga National

25 May 2015

Apple-Touch-IconANow, here is some exciting news. Jim Bender, FOHBC Historian, has commissioned Jim Healy from Tribes Hill, New York to make a commemorative stoneware jug for the upcoming 2015 Chattanooga National Antique Bottle Show. Bender adds, “Jim made this jug for me at no cost what so ever. I donated the jug and Jim donated the skill to turn it into what we see today”. Jim picked it up this weekend and sent me a few pictures. I suspect we will sell raffle tickets for the piece. From the looks of it, every person that has seen it so far would like it in their home! Way to go Jim & Jim!

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Some of you may remember the BOTTLES and EXTRAS story, “JIM HEALY, A man saving history one piece at a time” by Jim Bender in last years November-December 2014 issue. I thought I would share it with you. READ ARTICLE

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Posted in Advice, Bottle Shows, Bottles and Extras, Club News, FOHBC News, News, Stoneware | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Ponce De Leon Bitters

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Ponce De Leon Bitters

George Jefferson Howard and the Coca-Cola Connection

25 May 2015

Apple-Touch-IconAHere another great bitters square that John Pastor has in his current American Glass Gallery Auction 14 which is now online. The picture at the top of the post is from the auction. This folks, is the #7 top Georgia bottle (see list below). Juan Ponce de León (1474 – July 1521) of course, is associated with the legend of the Fountain of Youth, reputed to be in Florida. He was a Spanish explorer and conquistador and became the first Governor of Puerto Rico by appointment of the Spanish crown. He led the first European expedition to Florida, which he named.

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The Fountain of Youth, 1546 painting by Lucas Cranach the Elder.

Top Georgia Bottles

(with point values from 10 authorities – compiled by Bill Baab)

1. Black glass with seal, Dr. G./Harral/Druggist/Savannah, Ga. (7) 197.
2. Yellow-amber Dr. Wm. H. Tutt’s / Golden Eagle Bitters / Augusta, Ga. 124.
3. Yellow W.A. Carlton’s Antidyseptic & Tonic Bitters, Athens, Ga., 121.
4. Strawberry (red, pink) John Ryan / XX Phila. Porter / Savannah, Ga. 112.
5. Amber large size River Swamp Chill & Fever Cure / Augusta, Ga. 101.
6. Cobalt John Ryan / 1867 / Atlanta, Ga., attic mint, wire bail (1), 112.
7. Amber Ponce de Leon Bitters, Atlanta, Ga. 87.
8. Green pontiled Thomas Maher, Savannah, Ga., 86.
9. Aqua iron-pontiled Dr. J. Dennis’s / Georgia Sarsaparilla / Augusta, Ga. 85.
9. Cobalt C. Ells & Son / Mineral Water / Macon, Ga. 85.
11. Teal crown top Jones & Co. / Marietta, Ga. 84.
12. Cobalt John Ryan / Block R / Columbus, Ga. 76.
12. Cobalt iron-pontiled E.D. Meyer / Augusta, Ga. 76.
14. Amber Barrett, Land & Co. / Georgia Bitters / Augusta, Ga. (1) 69.
15. Clear Coca-Cola Hutchinson, no city name, 61.
16. Amber John Ryan / Ginger Ale / Savannah, Ga. (Round-bottom) 59.
17. Cobalt iron-pontiled L. Glinde / Savannah, Ga. 52
18. Aqua pontiled Woodruff’s Dysentery Cordial, Columbus, Ga. 47.
19. Pottery pig bottle, Elberton, Ga., 45.
20. Pottery pig bottle, Macon, Ga. 43.
21. Aqua E.P.C. Fowler Hutchinson, Tallapoosa, Ga. (1) 39.
22. Dark amber Dr. Wm. H. Tutt’s / Sarsaparilla & Queen’s Delight / Augusta, Ga. 3
23. Deep cobalt E. Sheehan / 1880 / Augusta, Ga. 35.
24. Dr. J. Dennis’s Georgia Sarsaparilla / Augusta, Ga., iron pontil, green tone. 34.
25. Aqua Life Everlasting Bitters / Atlanta, Ga. 25.

Johns auction description:

“PONCE DE LEON / BITTERS – GEO. J. HOWARD – ATLANTA. GA”, America, 1870 – 1880. Golden amber, square with beveled corners, applied sloping collar with ring – smooth base, ht. 9 3/8″; (does not appear to be a dug bottle, but has some moderate scratches down one of the beveled edges and minor exterior wear including a ¼” open surface bubble, but no other form of damage!) R/H #H202.5. Unique, or possibly one of two. There are rumors of an example possibly being dug in Atlanta.

The Carlyn Ring and W.C. Ham listing in Bitters Bottles is as follows:

H 202.5  PONCE DE LEON BITTERS
GEO. J. HOWARD // PONCE DE LEON / BITTERS // ATLANTA. GA. // f //
9 5/16 x 2 11/16 (7 5/156) 7/16
Square, Amber, LTCR, Applied mouth, 3 sp, Extremely rare
Only known example found in Atlanta.
Rarest Atlanta Bitters.

George Jefferson Howard

George J. Howard was born on 9 December 1831 in Augusta, Richmond County, Georgia and was one of the best-known druggists in the state. His parents were William H. Howard, Jr. and Martha Webb Howard. George J. Howard married Maria Louisa Goldsmith on 30 November 1853 in Cartersville, Georgia. Maria Louisa or Lulu as he affectionately called her, was born in 1833 or 1834 in Greenville, North Carolina.

Mr. Howard enlisted in Company E, Confederate States 1st Infantry Regiment on 18 March 1861 and was promoted to Full 1st Lieutenant on 04 April 1861. He mustered out on 12 January 1862. His war record was a good one. His company was sent to Pensacola where he was in Graddon’s brigade and served there until he was twice wounded.

George J. Howards name often comes up in connection with Asa Griggs Candler who was the founder of Coca-Cola. You see, Asa Candler moved to Atlanta in 1873, and with very little money and no job, went from drug store to drug store asking for employment. He was eventually hired as a clerk at George Jefferson Howard’s drug store on the east side of Peachtree between Line and Wheat streets (the block between the present Edgewood and Auburn avenues).

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Asa Griggs Candler

George J. Howard was also the father of Asa’s future wife, Lucy Elizabeth (Lizzie) Howard. Candler quickly worked himself up to the store’s chief clerk and fell in love with his boss’ 15 year old daughter Lizzie. To discourage the budding romance, Howard sent Lizzie and her sister, Alice, off to Salem College. This caused a falling out with his boss and Asa quit. A year later he married Lizzie, and three years after that he bought out his partner. After buying a portion of Dr. Pemberton’s interest and obtaining the remainder from intermediate owners, Candler owned all rights to Coca-Cola for a total investment of $2,300. This eventually brought him wealth beyond his most optimistic expectations.

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Mr. George J. Howard, Druggist – The Atlanta Constitution, Thursday, April 26, 1877

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A New Enterprise – The Atlanta Constitution, Tuesday, February 11, 1879

It was while Mr. Howard was in Atlanta, that he put out his Ponce De Leon Bitters. Howard initially was on his own and started George J. Howard & Brothers in 1871 with his brothers W. H. Howard, Jr. and Charles H. Howard from Augusta. Their wholesale drug house at 29 East Alabama Street was considered one of the largest in the south.

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Howard store for rent – The Atlanta Constitution, Sunday, July 9, 1882

George J. Howard eventually moved from Atlanta to Augusta in 1886 when the Howard & Willet Drug Company was formed and he was named president. As one of the most prominent and influential businessmen in Augusta, Mr. Howard was for a term, member of council from the First Ward and held the position of chairman of the finance committee of council. He was elected to council by a complimentary vote. He was vice president of the Planters Loan and Savings Bank and a director of all the expositions held in Augusta. He was one of the largest stockholders in the Enterprise Manufacturing Company, a director of the Augusta Real Estate and Improvement Company and a former director in the Commercial Bank. He was a member of the Confederate Veterans association and treasurer of the fund raised for indigent veterans. He was also a prominent Mason.

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George J. Howard died on 16 April 1898 in Atlanta, Georgia. The mayor and the entire city council attended in a body as a special mark of honor. He is buried in Augusta, Cemetery. Maria Louisa died on 4 August 1899 in Atlanta. A number of notices are posted below of his sudden demise and death.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * 

The Augusta Chronicle, Augusta, Georgia, Saturday, April 16, 1898, p. 5:

MR. G. J. HOWARD IS VERY ILL

Was Stricken Suddenly In Atlanta on Yesterday.

HE MAY NOT LIVE

So Telephone Message from Grady Hospital Last Night Said — Went Up Thursday Perfectly Well.

A private telegram received in Augusta yesterday afternoon shortly after 2 o’clock made the starling announcement that Mr. George J. Howard, of the firm of Howard & Willet, and formerly a member of council, had been sudden(ly) stricken with apoplexy while sitting in the office of Messrs. Ansley Brothers, one of whom is Mr. Howard’s son-in-laws.

Mr. Howard left Augusta on Thursday apparently in the best of health, and was to have returned home today. The first intimation that he was ill came to his family in the telegram as mentioned.

Mrs. Howard and her son, Mr. Turner Howard, left the city on the last train at 4:20 p.m. for Atlanta. Later, it was stated that Mr. Howard was carried from Ansley Brothers’ office to the Grady hospital, and that up to that time he had not regained consciousness.

About 8 o’clock last night a telephone message stated that Mr. Howard was not expected to live through the night.

At 10 o’clock another message said that there was apparently no change in his condition, and that the physicians were unable to state whether Mr. Howard was suffering from apoplexy or paralysis.

Mr. Howard’s friends in Augusta can but hope for the best. Mr. Howard is one of Augusta’s oldest and most prominent citizens, a son of the late Mr. William H. Howard and a brother of Mr. Charles H. Howard.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * 

The Atlanta Constitution, Atlanta, Georgia, Sunday, April 17, 1898, p. 10:

DEATH OF MR. GEO. J. HOWARD

A Man Well-Known Throughout the State Expired at Hospital Yesterday.

As the result of a stroke of apoplexy, which he suffered shortly before 12 o’clock Friday, Mr. George J. Howard, of Augusta, died yesterday morning at the Grady hospital. It was known that he would die, and when he passed away he was surrounded by friends and relatives. Death came just after 7 o’clock.

While in the office of his son-in-law, Mr. William S. Ansley, Friday, Mr. Howard was suddenly stricken with apoplexy, and the ambulance was called. Mr. Howard is survived by his wife, his brother, Mr. Charles Howard, of Augusta; his son, Mr. Turner Howard, of Augusta; his daughters, Mrs. Asa G. Candler, Mrs. T. J. Ripely and Mrs. W. S. Ansley.

The remains were taken to Augusta yesterday afternoon on the train leaving the city at 3:10 o’clock and the funeral services and interment will occur at that place today. The deceased was one of the best-known druggists in the state, and was for a number of years in business in this city.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * 

The Augusta Chronicle, Augusta, Georgia, Sunday, April 17, 1898, p. 8:

FUNERAL NOTICE.

HOWARD — The friends and acquaintances of Mr. GEORGE J. HOWARD and family, Mr. C. H. Howard and family, and Mr. Turner G. Howard and family, are invited to attend the funeral of Mr. GEORGE J. HOWARD, THIS (Sunday) AFTERNOON, at 4:30 o’clock at his late residence, 252 Broad street.

* * * * * * * * * * * * *

The Augusta Chronicle, Augusta, Georgia, Sunday, April 17, 1898, p. 2:

THE CHRONICLE TOLD OF HIS ILLNESS ON YESTERDAY.

DIED AT EIGHT O’CLOCK

His Remains Were Brought To Augusta Last Night and the Funeral Will Take Place This Afternoon.

Yesterday morning The Chronicle made the announcement of hte critical illness of Mr. Geo. J. Howard in Atlanta, stating at the time that there was but little hope entertained for his recovery.

At 8:15 o’clock Mr. Howard died at the Grady hospital in Atlanta, and while Augusta relatives and friends were prepared for the shock, it was no less severe. His death removes from the community one of Augusta’s most prominent citizens.

He was president of the Howard & Willet Drug company, and came to Augusta from Atlanta, where he had been engaged in the drug business.

His family, who were living in Atlanta, came here later. Mr. Howard purchased the Campbell residence, No. 252 Broad street.

Mr. Howard was for a term member of council from the First ward and held the position of chairman of the finance committee of council. He was elected to council by a complimentary vote. He was vice president of the Planters Loan and Savings bank and a director of all the expositions held in Augusta. He was one of the largest stockholders in the Enterprise Manufacturing company, a director of the Augusta Real Estate and Improvement company and a former director in the Commercial bank. He was a (?) member of the Confederate Veterans association and treasurer of the fund raised for indigent veterans. He was also a prominent Mason.

He was 66 years of age and was born in December 1831 at Augusta. He afterwards moved to Atlanta, and came back to Augusta in 1886 when the Howard & Willet Drug company was formed.

His war record was a good one. His company was sent to Pensacola where he was in Graddon’s brigade and served there until he was twice wounded.

He was a son of the late William H. Howard and brother of Mr. Charles H. Howard of this city.

Mr. Howard leaves a widow and seven children to mourn his loss.

The children are Mrs. Alice M. Batey, Mr. Turner G. Howard, Mr. Charles H. Howard, Jr., Miss Fanny Sue Howard, of Augusta; Mrs. A. G. Candler, of Atlanta; Mrs. Thomas J. Ripley, of Kirkwood, and Mrs. W. S. Ansley, of Decatur.

The remains were brought to the city last night at 9:20 on the Georgia railroad fast train and taken to his late residence on lower Broad street where the funeral will take place this afternoon at 4:30 o’clock.

The pallbearers will be Messrs. A. B. Saxon, J. P. Verdery, L. C. Hayne, N. K. Butler, W. C. Roney, W. R. Young, F. E. Eve, J. F. Tarver.

The Confederate Survivors and the Masons will attend in bodies and will assemble at 3:30 this afternoon.

* * * * * * * * * * * * *

The Augusta Chronicle, Augusta, Georgia, Sunday, April 17, 1898, p. 4:

CONFEDERATE SURVIVORS.

Headquarters, C.S.A., Camp 435.

Augusta, Ga., April 16, 1898.

THE MEMBERS OF THE CONFEDERATE SURVIVORS’ ASSOCIATION, Camp 435, U.C.V., are requested to attend the funeral of First Lieutenant Commander GEORGE J. HOWARD, on SUNDAY, April 17, 1898.

Members will assemble at the Confederate Monument promptly at 3:30 o’clock p.m.

By order,

SALEM DUTCHER,
Captain and Commander.

Geo. W. McLaughlin, Adjutant.

* * * * * * * * * * * * *

The Augusta Chronicle, Augusta, Georgia, Monday, April 18, 1898, p. 5:

FUNERAL YESTERDAY.

The Remains of Mr. George J. Howard Laid to Rest.

The funeral yesterday afternoon of the late Mr. George J. Howard was one of the largest that has occurred in Augusta.

The funeral took place from the family residence, No. 252 Broad street, and so great was the gathering of friends that the house was not large enough by any means to hold them, and they stood about on the porches and on the sidewalk in front of the house.

The ceremonies were performed by the Rev. Dr. Lansing Burrows, pastor of the First Baptist church, and the splendid choir of the same denomination rendered sweet music.

The members of the Confederate Survivors association, Camp 435, of which Mr. Howard was a prominent member, attended in a body under the command of Capt. Salem Dutcher. The survivors were clad in the uniform of their camp.

There were also a large number of Masons present in a body, and at the grave they performed their Masonic burial rites.

The mayor and the entire city council attended in a body as a special mark of honor, as for many years, Mr. Howard was one of the representatives of the First ward in this august body.

There were a great many handsome floral designs sent. At the cemetery, many hundreds gathered.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * 

The Augusta Chronicle, Augusta, Georgia, Monday, April 18, 1898, p. 4:

The large crowd which attended the funeral of Mr. George J. Howard yesterday afternoon bore testimony to the esteem in which he was held. The services were very solemn and impressive, and with each appearance of the Confederate Survivors at the funeral of one of their number the thought of the ever narrowing circle and thinning ranks is brought home upon those who remain. A good soldier in war and a good citizen in peace has answered to the roll call up yonder.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 

The Atlanta Constitution, Atlanta, Georgia, Monday, April 18, 1898, p. O-2:

FUNERAL OF GEORGE J. HOWARD.

Augusta, Ga., April 17. — (Special.) — The funeral of Mr. George J. Howard was conducted by Rev. Lansing Burrows and very largely attended. The mayor and council, the confederate survivors and Masons attended in official bodies.

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The Augusta Chronicle, Augusta, Georgia, May 14, 1898, p. 6:

STATE OF GEORGIA — RICHMOND COUNTY — Whereas Turner G. Howard has applied for permanent Letters of Administration on the estate of George J. Howard, late of said County, deceased.

This, therefore, is to cite all persons concerned, to be and appear at the Court of Ordinary of said county, to be held on the FIRST MONDAY IN JUNE, 1898, at 10 o’clock, a.m., and show cause, if any they can, why said letters should not be granted.

Witness my official signature this sixth day of May, A. D., 1898.

ALEXANDER R. WALTON
Ordinary, Richmond County

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * 

The Augusta Chronicle, Augusta, Georgia, Thursday, June 9, 1898:

DEBTORS AND CREDITORS’ NOTICE

Estate George J. Howard. All persons having claims or demands against the estate of George J. Howard, late of Richmond County, deceased, are hereby notified to present the same properly proven, and all persons indebted to same estate are hereby notified to make payment at once to me.

TURNER G. HOWARD
Administrator

Howard & Willet Drug Company

Here is a cover and representative pages from within a Howard & Willet Almanac from 1896. The piece is held by the Biodiversity Heritage Library. The piece is full of seed and crop pages, 12 monthly almanac pages and lots of advertising.

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Early Atlanta Peachtree Street

Look at the two pictures below of early Atlanta on Peachtree Street. It is almost the same shot but differs in time. Look at the wagon train pulling in to town. Could be Howard’s drug store on middle right. Can not date the photos but probably too early.

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Early Peachtree Street scene in Atlanta – Hunnicutt’s Drug Store on right and Marble Shop on left at intersection – Library of Congress

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Early Peachtree Street scene in Atlanta – You can see part of H & R Drugs middle right. Is this Howard? – Library of Congress

Select Listings:

1831: George J. Howard was born on 9 December 1831 in Augusta, Richmond County, Georgia.
1853: George J. Howard married Maria Louisa Goldsmith on 30 November 1853 in Cartersville, Georgia.
1870: George J. Howard, 38, merchant, born abt 1832 in Georgia, home Decatur, DeKalb, Georgia, wife Maria, 36, children, William H., 15, Alice M., 13, Mattie W., 12, Lizzie, 11, Anna, 5, Turner, 4, Paul, 1 – United States Federal Census
1871: Howard starts George J. Howard & Brothers in 1871 in Atlanta with his brothers W. H. Howard, Jr. and Charles H. Howard from Augusta.
1898: George J. Howard (Lulu), pres. Howard & Willett Drug CompanyAugusta City Directory
1898: George J. Howard died on 16 April 1898 in Atlanta, Georgia.
Posted in Advertising, Bitters, Civil War, Druggist & Drugstore, History, Milk & Creamers | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Diamond’s Improved Swedish Blood Bitters – Buffalo, New York

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Diamond’s Improved Swedish Blood Bitters – Buffalo, New York

Diamond’s Blood Bitters

24 May 2015 (R•012918)

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Apple-Touch-IconAWell, I suppose I had to go here now that I posted on the Diamond B Stomach Bitters that referenced the Diamond “M” Bitters. What’s another diamond when you’re having fun? This time we are going to look at the Diamond’s Blood Bitters from Buffalo, New York which was put out by Charles A. Diamond. I guess he felt like he had to improve on the product so he also was the proprietor of Diamond’s Improved Swedish Blood Bitters. Maybe he married a Swedish lass?

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Diamond’s Blood Bitters advertisement – Wyoming County Times, Thursday, February 11, 1892

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Diamond’s Blood Bitters advertisement. – The Olean Democrat, Thursday April 21 1892

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Diamond’s Blood Bitters advertisement, Diamond Medicine Co. – The Olean Democrat, Thursday May 5, 1892

The Carlyn Ring and W.C. Ham listings in Bitters Bottles is as follows:

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D 70  DIAMOND’S BLOOD BITTERS
DIAMOND’S / BLOOD BITTERS / BUFFALO N.Y. //f // f // f //
7 3/4 x 2 3/8 (5 1/4) 1/2
Square, Amber, LTC, Applied mouth, Rare
Label: Bottled by Diamond’s Drug Store on Connecticut Street, Buffalo. Sold over the counter only, no other outlet.
D 71drawing
D 71  DIAMOND’S IMPROVED SWEDISH BLOOD BITTERS
DIAMOND’S IMPROVED / SWEDISH / BLOOD BITTERS // f // BUFFALO, N.Y. //f //
10 x 3 (7 1/2) 3/8
Square, Amber, LTC, Extremely rare
Buffalo City Directory: 1881-1921 Charles A. Diamond is listed as a druggist, manufacturing pharmacist, and a partner in Diamond Medicine Co.

“DIAMOND’S / BLOOD BITTERS / BUFFALO N.Y.”, (Ring/Ham, D-70), New York, ca. 1875 – 1885, reddish amber, 7 1/2”h, smooth base, applied tapered collar mouth. A number of scratches exist mostly on a label panel. A rare bitters bottle! – Glass Works Auctions | Auction #114

“DIAMOND’S IMPROVED / SWEDISH / BLOOD BITTERS / BUFFALO N.Y.”, (Ring/Ham, D-71), – eBay

Charles A. Diamond – Druggist

As far as I can tell, Charles A. Diamond was not a business tycoon, a Civil War hero, a politician, civic leader or from a family of American pioneers. He was simply a druggist, and probably a good druggist for many years who had two bitters associated with his name. Now that makes him pretty darn important, at least to us bitters collectors.

Born on 19 April 1849 in New York, he first clerks in a drug store in New York City in 1870 and from about 1872 to 1875 he clerks at a store in Buffalo. The next year he is a partner at Metcalf and Diamond and the following year, he is the proprietor of Diamond’s Drug Store in Buffalo. He is also listed as a manufacturing druggists so he is making and selling his medicines. In 1876, he is also listed as a showcard agent so he must have had time for another business. This might explain why he lists himself as a carpenter in the 1880 Federal Census.

Diamond moves around quite a bit judging by the different addresses in Buffalo directories. He business concern was called The Diamond Medicine Company. I first see listings for his company in 1892 and see it running through 1922. His wife was Margaret Anna Metzger and they were married in 1878. His father John Diamond who was born in New York or England depending on how Charles will fill out his census forms. His mother was from Vermont. Charles A. Diamond died on 4 March 1922 in Buffalo which would explain the demise of Diamond Medicine Company.

Only in 1892, can I find advertising for Diamond’s Blood Bitters in local Buffalo area newspapers. He is selling his Blood Bitters over the counter for 50 cents for a trial bottle. His advertising says his remedy is not a patent medicine and alludes that he is a doctor as it says, “Simply the result of a smart doctor’s investigations of blood troubles and their cures”. The bottle is 7 1/2 inches tall, square and amber. A labeled example exists.

Later or maybe earlier, hard to tell, he puts out Diamond’s Improved Swedish Blood Bitters. This bottle is rated extremely rare, square and is 10 inches tall and amber. Odd that I have not seen examples of either bottle.

Select Listings

1850: Carlos A. Diamond, age 1, birth 1849 in New York, living in Hamburg, Erie, New York, father John, 30, mother Sylvia, 20 – United States Federal Census
1870: Charles A. Diamond, age 21, clerk in store, birth abt 1849 in New York, living in New York City Ward 15 District 1, Daniel Diamond, age 41, also listed as clerk in store – United States Federal Census
1872: Charles A. Diamond, clerk, b. 145 E. Seneca – Buffalo New York City Directory
1873-1875: Charles A. Diamond, clerk, b. 26 Carroll, h. 45 1/2 Exch. – Buffalo New York City Directory
1876: Metcalf and Diamond (Charles A. Diamond), also showcard agent, 183 Seneca – Buffalo New York City Directory
1878: Charles A. Diamond, druggist, 17 William, home same – Buffalo New York City Directory
1879: Charles A. Diamond, druggist, 1575 Niagara – Buffalo New York City Directory
1880: Charles A. Diamond, age 31, carpenter, birth abt 1849, living BuffaloErieNew York, wife Margaret, 26, father from New York, mother from Vermont – United States Federal Census
1884-1886: Charles A. Diamond, druggist, 622 Clinton – Buffalo New York City Directory
1890: Charles A. Diamond, age 57, druggist, birth abt 1849, living Buffalo, Ward 10, ErieNew York, wife Margaret, 26, father birthplace England, mother from Vermont, children Herbert, 13, Homer, 9 – United States Federal Census
1892: Diamond’s Blood Bitters advertisement (see above), Diamond Medicine Co., 501-503 Washington Street – The Olean Democrat, Thursday May 5, 1892
1896-1899: The Diamond Medicine Co., (C. A. Diamond, prop.), mfg. druggist, 225 Broadway, Charles A. Diamond, drug store, 904 Clinton – Buffalo New York City Directory
1902: Charles A. Diamond, druggist, 904 Clinton – Buffalo New York City Directory
1905: Charles A. Diamond, age 56, birth abt 1849, living Buffalo Ward 18, ErieNew York, wife Margaret, 51, sons Herbert, 18, Homer, 19 – New York State Census
1906: Charles A. Diamond, druggist, 1401 Genesee – Buffalo New York City Directory
1910: Charles A. Diamond, age 61, druggist, birth abt 1849, living Buffalo Ward 12, ErieNew York, wife Margaret, 51, sons Herbert and Homer – United States Federal Census
1912: Diamond Medicine Co., Buffalo, New York – The Era Druggist’s Directory of the United States
1914: Charles A. Diamond, druggist, 695 Elm – Buffalo New York City Directory
1918: Diamond Medicine Co., (Charles A. Diamond), mgr, 664 Genesee – Buffalo New York City Directory
1920: Carlos (Charles) A. Diamond, age 70, druggist, birth abt 1850, living Buffalo Ward 13, ErieNew York, 664 Genesee Street, wife Margaret – United States Federal Census
1922: Diamond Medicine Co., Buffalo, New York, High and Elm Streets – Druggists’ Circular
Posted in Advertising, Bitters, Druggist & Drugstore, Medicines & Cures, Remedy | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Diamond B Stomach Bitters – Detroit Michigan

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Diamond B Stomach Bitters – Detroit Michigan

23 May 2015

Apple-Touch-IconAJohn Pastor has this pretty decent Diamond B Stomach Bitters (pictured above) from Detroit, Michigan in his present American Glass Gallery Auction 14. The bottle is embossed “DIAMOND STOMACH BITTERS DETROIT MICH” with a “B” inside of a diamond. John states that it is an extremely rare bitters and that the auction example was discovered in a box of junk at a small auction in Toledo. He also states that “it appears that only one, perhaps two, other examples have been offered at auction in more than 20 years!”

I have not thought about the Diamond B Stomach Bitters since April of 2013 when I did a post on the unlisted Diamond “M” Bitters from St. Louis which dated to around 1868. At that time, I wondered if there was a relationship between the two? The Diamond M Bitters was put out by Milligan & Company. I wonder who made the Diamond S Stomach Bitters?

Read: Unlisted Diamond “M” Bitters? – Saint Louis

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Diamond “M” Bitters listing – 1868 Edwards’ annual directory to the inhabitants, institutions, incorporated companies, business, business firms, manufacturing establishments, etc., in the city of Saint Louis

Here is my example below of the Diamond B Stomach Bitters in a nice orange amber coloration. Presumably the “B” stands for “Bitters”.

Diamond Bitters

Diamond B Stomach Bitters in orange amber – Meyer Collection

The Carlyn Ring and W.C. Ham listing in Bitters Bottles is as follows. Note that a second smaller size was dug in downtown Detroit.

D69Drawing

D 69  DIAMOND B STOMACH BITTERS
DIAMOND / STOMACH / BITTERS / DETROIT / MICH // motif with B
enclosed in a diamond // sp // motif with B in a diamond //
9 7/8 x 3 1/4 (7 1/4) 3/8
Square, Amber, LTCR, Applied mouth, 4 sp, Extremely rare
D 69.5  DIAMOND B STOMACH BITTERS
DIAMOND / STOMACH / BITTERS / DETROIT / MICH // motif with B
enclosed in a diamond // sp // motif with B in a diamond //
Smaller size than D 69. Dug in downtown, Detroit, Michigan

So who made the Diamond B Stomach Bitters?

DBC_Detroit

Diamond Bitters Company of Detroit (see above) noted in the Bulletin of Pharmacy, 1891 – Internal Revenue Record and Customs Journal: Official Register of U.S. Courts and Treasury Department in Revenue and Customs Cases, Volume 25

The break in the case was finding a reference to the Diamond Bitters Company in Detroit, Michigan in 1891 (see above). Further research found that they were addressed at 47 State Street with another business called the Diamond Tea Company (see below). Wanting to take it to the next level, I started looking for a person or persons related to the businesses.

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Diamond Bitters Co., Proprietary Medicines, 47 State (see below) – 1892 Detroit City Directory

This is when I found a listing for a James A. Hinchman who was the proprietor of Diamond Tea Company and Manager of the Diamond Bitters Company at 47 State Street.

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James A. Hinchman, Proprietor Diamond Tea Co. and Mngr Diamond Bitters Co. 47 State – 1891 Detroit City Directory

When you have an interesting name like Hinchman and find a number of listings in a directory, you make an obvious deduction that they are related. In this case above, James A. Hinchman is listed with a number of other Hinchman in Detroit including Charles C. Hinchman, Ford D. C. (DeCamp) Hinchman, Guy F. Hinchman, John M. Hinchman and Theodore H. Hinchman. Theodore must have been the father as a couple of them work for him at T H Hinchman & Sons who were wholesale grocers and druggists. He was also the president of Merchants and Manufacturers National Bank.

I now am wondering if the Hinchman of Smith, Hinchman & Grylls, who are word-class architects out of Detroit are related? We have done business together in the past.

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Augustus Woodward’s plan for the city following 1805 fire. The Hinchman business was located with in red circle in later years.

Theodore H. Hinchman

Historical and Biographical, Comprising a Synopsis of General History of The State, and Biographical Sketches of Men

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HON. THEODORE H. HlNCHMAN, a noted financier, and widely-known merchant of Detroit, was born in Morris County, New Jersey, March 6, 1818, and died May 12, 1895. He was a son of John R. and Mary (DeCamp) Hinchman, who were of families who had been settled in New Jersey for more than a century.

John R. Hinchman was a son of Joseph Hinchman. The occupations of both had been iron-mining and manufacturing. The business not continuing profitable after the close of the War of 1812-15, John R. Hinchman moved to New York City in 1825, and engaged in the grocery business. His son, Theodore H. Hinchman, attended public school in the primary and the higher grades until 1830-31. After a short period in a bookstore, he spent one year in a retail drugstore. In 1832 he was an office clerk in the wholesale groceryhouse of John Johnson & Sons, where he remained in a confidential capacity until May, 1836; attention to collections and banking were his duties. At that date, John Owen invited him to Detroit; the offer was so favorable that it was accepted. The population of Detroit then numbered between six thousand and seven thousand, and the State between sixty thousand and seventy thousand.

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Billhead showing the T. H. Hinchman name over a crossed-out J. Owen Co. name

A retail drug and grocery business was entered into, conducted by Chapin & Owen, which included such wholesaling as could be done in Michigan and Canada, the latter branch increasing slowly but steadily with the growth of the city and State. Dr. Chapin died in December, 1838. In 1842, Mr. Hinchman was admitted as a partner, and the firm was thereafter, until 1853, known as J. Owen & Co. The interest of Mr. Owen was purchased in 1853, and the business continued until 1864 in the name of T. & J. Hinchman; after that date by T. H. Hinchman alone until 1868, when John M. Hinchman, the oldest son, was admitted a member of the firm, under the style of T. H. Hinchman & Son. F. D. C. Hinchman was admitted in 1870, and C. C. Hinchman in 1873; and the firm became T. H. Hinchman & Sons.

After the death of the father, the firm became T. H. Hinchman Sons & Co., and later was amalgamated with the firm of Williams, Davis & Brooks, under the firm name of Williams, Davis, Brooks & Hinchman Sons, one of the greatest concerns of its kind in the entire country; known, also, for brevity, as “The Michigan Drug Company,” and of which Charles C. Hinchman is second vice-president, and John M. Hinchman treasurer and auditor.

Mr. T. H. Hinchman married Louisa, the eldest daughter of the late Dr. Chapin, in 1842. His tastes and inclinations were developed as a persistent reader when living in New York, and continued as time and the arduous duties of business and other employments would permit. He has also written much as occasion demanded. His military tastes were deficient, he having served as a soldier one month only during the patriot war. In 1839 he became connected with Fire Company No. 1, and served seven years. He was again a member, this time, of Continental Fire Company No. 8, from 1854 to 1862, and served the larger part of that time as foreman of the company. In 1867 he was appointed a member of the Detroit Fire Commission, and served with credit until nominated for public office in September, 1877; and was again appointed and served until 1881. He was also a sewer commissioner from 1853 to 1857. He was elected to the State Senate, and served during the term of 1877. He was made chairman of the Committee on Cities and Villages; member of the Committee on Incorporations; and of the celebrated University Committee that investigated the institution. He displayed ability in the Senate, and at once earned recognition as one of the few conspicuous figures there. Governor Jerome appointed him a member of the Board of Control of the Industrial Home at Adrian, and later Governor Alger designated him a member of the Semi-centennial Commission, in all of which he was indefatigable in his efforts, giving more attention to the duties of these positions than to his commercial business.

Upon the organization of the Merchants and Manufacturers Bank he was made its president, and successfully guided its affairs until 1877 when it was reorganized as the Merchants and Manufacturers National Bank, and he was again chosen president. When the Merchants and Manufacturers Exchange was organized in Detroit, Mr. Hinchman was prevailed upon to accept the presidency, and he serve seven years, through the experimental period of the existence of that important and useful society. He was treasurer of the Detroit and St. Clair Plank-road Company for ten years; and president and treasurer of the same for seven years.

During the later years of his life Mr. Hinchman did not shrink from the discharge of public and business duties, though retirement in the company of books and in the use of the pen was more congenial to him. He was the author and publisher of a volume of one hundred and seventy pages, entitled “Banks and Banking in Michigan,” which comprised a complete history of banking operations in the State, together with historical sketches and personal notices of prominent bankers, etc.; and it fills an important place in the historical literature of Michigan, and will prove invaluable in future years. He was also engaged in the compilation of a more extended work on commerce, finance, and kindred subjects; his more than fifty years of active business life, his wide acquaintance with men and measures of several generations, his familiarity with the legislative machinery of the State, his habits of study and close observation, all were advantages that probably gave to him a better equipment for work of such character pertaining to Michigan than was possessed by many other citizens of the State.

Mr. Hinchman joined the Democratic party in 1867, and had ever since been one of its wisest counselors. In religion he inherited a preference for the Presbyterian Church, and had always sought its highly intellectual and social advantages, contributing freely to its support. Mr. Hinchman was also the author of many able papers bearing upon the subject of fire protection, railroads, bankruptcy laws, banking, and other business matters, usually by appointment or request of the National Wholesale Druggists’ Association, or of the Merchants and Manufacturers’ Exchange.

It will be noticed that the sons of Mr. Hinchman are the grandsons of Dr. Marshall Chapin, who commenced the drug business in Detroit in 1819, and that the Hinchman firm was a successor, or continuation, of that founded by Dr. Chapin. The sons conducted the business in all its details from the time Mr. Hinchman visited Europe in 1878; since when he traveled extensively, visiting every State in the Union, and familiarizing himself with the history and resources of every section of the country. The State of Michigan has reached that point in her development where the work and example of such men as T. H. Hinchman will have a far greater intrinsic value than is accorded by the thoughtless now. The period that has been so productive of men who have achieved grand successes as financiers, merchants, and manufacturers, has been far less fruitful of men who combine the elements of business success with the habits of a close student; and fewer still are the men who, like him, have won personal success and at the same time found opportunity to trace the tendency of their times during the formative period of the Commonwealth, and leave in permanent form something of substantial value to the student of later generations.

Mr. Hinchman, as a merchant, manufacturer, and banker, was closely identified with the commercial and progressive history of Michigan for a period of nearly sixty years, and upon it he left the impress of his strong individuality and indomitable energy. In addition to the three sons, who were his business associates, Mr. Hinchman is survived by his widow, Louisa, and two daughters, Miss Mary Hinchman, and Mrs. Herbert L. O’Brien. Thus, in the passing away of Theodore H. Hinchman, this State and its first city has lost another valued pioneer, a commercial landmark of whose memory they may well be proud. [1900]

Detroit in History and Commerce: A Careful Compilation of the History …

By James J. Mitchell

Hinchman1

T. H. HINCHMAN & SONS, 

Wholesale Druggists. Prominent among the old land-marks of Detroit is the well-known house of T. H. Hinchman & Sons, whose line of trade comprises all the general requirements of druggists. The original establishment dates as far back in the early history of Detroit as the year 1819, the firm then being N. Chapin Company, which afterwards changed to that of Chapin Owen, who were succeeded by T. H. Hinchman. 

Mr. Hinchman is a veteran in the field of business men and has so often been before the public in close relations with the welfare and interests of the city in which he has so long resided, that multiplied words would be superfluous as encomiums. The present prosperous condition of this old established house is due to his untiring supervision.

Associated with him are John M., Ford D. C. and Charles C. Hinchman, under the firm name of T. H. Hinchman & Sons, their place of business being at 76 and 78 Jefferson avenue. The size of their building is 40 x 175 feet, where they employ about twenty-five assistants, and have numerous travelers on the road through the States of Michigan, Ohio and Indiana, over which their territory extends. Added to their complete facilities for supplying and shipping to their customers is that greatest of all considerations, long life of practical experience in their line of trade.

Reminiscences of T. H. Hinchman. 

Detroit in History and Commerce: A Careful Compilation of the History …

By James J. Mitchell

“It was a long and tedious journey in those days,” said Mr. T. H. Hinchman, the veteran drug merchant of Detroit, speaking of his initial visit to the city of his adoption. “I came to Detroit by way of Lake Erie,” said Mr. Hinchman. “I was eighteen years old at the time I started for the West. We made the journey west on. board the steamer Thomas Jefferson. Our dock was at the foot of Woodward avenue. The dock was owned by Dr. J. L. Whiting. Near by was the warehouse of Oliver Newberry. On the day of our arrival all the people in the town, or a large proportion thereof, came down to the dock, according to custom, to see the steamer come in. At this time Detroit had 7,000 inhabitants, approximatly; and certainly it must have been a strange spectacle to see this great gathering down at the wharf on steamer days. Yet, as I afterward learned, this was a common procedure with early Detroiters, who looked upon a visit to the wharf as one of the special privileges of the day. We were very uncosmopolitan in those days. Often have I seen the leading men of the city going up and down the main street with their trousers tucked in their boots, and, perhaps, nibbling at a long wheat straw. The fashionable portion of Detroit lived on Jefferson avenue and on Wood bridge street. This aristocratic precinct was only broken over by the gradual expansion of business, and the widening of business centres.

“I was in Detroit during the dreadful panic of 1836. To say that all business was completely prostrated would be the mere expression of the truth. Everybody failed; all ventures went to the wall, and more especially in the real estate line. The panic was wide-spread and far-reaching. The craze for real estate speculation had led many persons to financial ruin. Values had been, just before the panic inflated again and again, until they had assumed proportions indeed startling. One of the good effects of the panic was to re-adjust on a relatively proper basis, the status of the realty market. The pendulum now took the opposite sweep, the result thereof being that land values went begging for purchasers. Every one was afraid to touch land. Those were the days that the foundations were laid for the immense fortunes that were afterwards realized by the heavy real estate production of Detroit. 

“Early Detroit was very hospitable and social in its ways. Its entertainments were always characterized by a broad spirit of welcome. Whist and card parties were the favorite social diversion. Occasionally a dance would be given in the town hall. To these dances all the city went. There were no closely drawn lines, as between classes, but all stood on terms of equality, alike invited and alike welcome. The language of the city was French. When I think back on the simply, unaffected diversions of the early days and contrast them with the methods and wage’ of to-day, you cannot blame me if I say frankly that the memory of the olden time still has the warmest spot in my heart.”

Guy F. Hinchman & James Abbott Hinchman

You will notice that James A. Hinchman is not mentioned as a son of Theodore H. Hinchman above which is interesting. Further research shows that James was born in 1862 and was the son of Guy F. Hinchman who later was in the real estate and insurance business sharing the 45-47 State Street address with his son who was making bitters and tea. Earlier he was the owner of a ship chandler and grocery business in Detroit. You can see an 1862 advertisement below. Guys father was Felix Hinchman who came to Detroit in 1827 on the Steamer Henry Clay, their point of origin being Canandaigua, New York.

GuyHinchmanAd1862

Guy F. Hinchman & Co. advertisement – 1862 Detroit City Directory

The 1863 listing below links Theodore H. Hinchman and Guy F. Hinchman at Guy F. Hinchman & Company who were Ship Chandlers at 16 and 18 Atwater. Theodore was probably supporting this business as he was a wholesale grocer and druggist at the same time.

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Guy F. Hinchman & Company, Ship Chandlers – 1868 Detroit City Directory

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Guy F. Hinchman & Co., Dealer in Ship Stores – 1867 Detroit City Directory

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Guy F. Hinchman & Co., Dealer in Groceries and Provisions – 1869 Thompson’s Coast Pilot Directory

So, I would conclude here that the Diamond B Stomach Bitters was made by Guy F. Hinchman and his son James A. Hinchman whose uncle was probably Theodore H. Hinchman. James advertised the bitters for a very short period of time around 1890. As noted above, I suspect his father had it on his shelves as the bottle has an applied top. I have found no support information to tie the Diamond B Stomach Bitters from Detroit to the Diamond “M” Bitters from St. Louis. That doesn’t mean that Guy F. Hinchman may have seen the product in 1868 and parked that name in his mind until a later time when he suggested it to his son. Oh, Theodore H. Hinchman Jr., from the architectural firm Smith, Hinchman & Grylls, was Theodore H. Hinchman’s son. Small world.

Smith, Hinchman & Grylls

Smith, Hinchman & Grylls is one of the oldest operating architectural offices in America. The firm began with architect, Sheldon Smith. Though never formally trained, Smith gained experience working for his brother, an east coast architect. Smith opened an office in western Ohio before moving to Detroit in 1855. His Detroit practice grew steadily as the city boomed. Smith’s son Mortimer, also an accomplished architect, became a partner in the firm in 1861. The Smith firm was well known for designing large commercial and civic projects, as well as institutional facilities like the Detroit House of Correction in 1859 and the Detroit Opera House in 1869. They adapted stylistically to the preference of the client, taking inspiration from and copying from architecture books to design various Classical Revival style structures.

After Sheldon Smith’s death in 1869, Mortimer Smith expanded the office and it became a place for many up-and-coming Detroit architects to apprentice and gain experience. One such architect was George D. Mason who went on to establish a successful practice in Detroit and to mentor architects like Albert Kahn.

Mortimer’s son Fred joined the firm in in 1881. The Smith firm won the commission to design the Michigan building for the World’s Columbian Exhibition in Chicago in 1893. After Mortimer’s death in 1896 Fred Smith hired two graduates of the University of Michigan College of Engineering, Henry G. Field and Theodore H. Hinchman Jr., to incorporate modern engineering and technological advances into the firm’s work. In 1903 the firm was renamed Field, Hinchman & Smith. The diversity within the office of both architects and engineers, was one of the first of its kind and produced extremely successful results such as the Olds Gasoline Engine Company factory in Lansing, Michigan (1903), and the Hiram Walker & Sons distillery in Ontario, Canada (1904). [Michigan Modern]

The firm is now SmithGroup.

Select Listings:

1827: Passage: I came to Detroit in May, 1827, with my mother and two sisters, on the steamer Henry Clay. We were under the friendly guidance of Mr. Felix Hinchman (father of Mr. Guy F. Hinchman), who took charge of us at Canandaigua, N. Y.
1861: Guy F. Hinchman, grocer and ship chandler – 1861 Detroit City Directory
1862: Guy F. Hinchman & Company, Grocers, 16 & 18 Abbott block, Atwater foot of Griswold – 1862 Detroit City Directory
1862: James Abbott Hinchman born 1 December 1862 in Wayne County, Michigan.
1868: Guy F. Hinchman & Company, Ship Chandlers (see above) – 1868 Detroit City Directory
1880: James A. Hinchman, single, age 18, bookkeeper, born about 1862 in Michigan, father Guy F. Hinchman, mother Kate, living in Detroit – United States Federal Census
1891: Diamond Bitters of Detroit (see above) noted in Bulletin of Pharmacy, 1891 – Internal Revenue Record and Customs Journal: Official Register of U.S. Courts and Treasury Department in Revenue and Customs Cases, Volume 25
1891: James A. Hinchman, Proprietor Diamond Tea Co. and Mngr Diamond Bitters Co. 47 State (see above) – Detroit City Directory
1892: Diamond Bitters Co., Proprietary Medicines, 47 State (see above) – Detroit City Directory
1900: James A. Hinchman, age 34, clerk, born in December 1862 in Michigan, father Guy Hinchman, mother Catherine, living in Detroit – United States Federal Census
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Dr. Lamot’s Botanic Bitters

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Dr. Lamot’s Botanic Bitters

Where are you from?

18 May 2015

Apple-Touch-IconAJohn Pastor has a rare Dr. Lamot’s Botanic Bitters square in his current American Glass Gallery Auction #14. I thought I would take a moment to capture the pictures as the example is pretty fine with a sticker from the Dan Murphy collection. I am also fortunate to have an example myself and it is also pictured. What is interesting here is there is a lonely listing in Bitters Bottles Supplement for a labeled Dr. Lamot’s Botanic Bitters in the form of an amber, 1/2 pint strap sided flask with an applied mouth. And no, I do not have a picture…darn!

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“DR. LAMOT’S – BOTANIC BITTERS”, America, 1875 – 1885. Golden amber, square with beveled corners and three indented panels, applied sloping collar – smooth base, ht. 8 ½”, near mint; (just a trace of very light interior residue and a tiny pinprick speck of roughness at the edge of lip, otherwise perfect). R/H #L9. A very rare bitters. Provenance: Ex. Dan Murphy collection. – American Glass Gallery, Auction 14

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Dr. Lamot’s Botanic Bitters in orange amber – Meyer Collection

The Carlyn Ring and W.C. Ham listing in Bitters Bottles is as follows:

L 9Drawing

L9  DR. LAMOT’S BOTANIC BITTERS
DR. LAMOT’S // f // BOTANIC BITTERS // sp //
8 1/2 x 2 1/2 (6 1/4) 1/2
Square, Amber, LTC, Tooled lip and Applied mouth, 3 sp, Rare

In Bitters Bottles Supplement there is the following listing for a labeled Dr. Lamot’s Botanic Bitters,

L 8 L … Dr. Lamot’s Botanic Bitters, A Tonic, motif of Indian, Invigorates the Digestive System, Improves…
6 3/8 x 2 1/2 x 1 1/4 (4 3/4)
Amber, 1/2 pint strap sided flask, DC, Applied mouth
Martinsburg

Street scene, Martinsburg, West Virginia

This is a tough bitters to track down. I sure wish I could find that labeled half pint flask. I do see a series of the same small advertisement in the Spirit of Jefferson (Charlestown, Virginia, now West Virginia) newspaper in 1876 and 1877. The Lamot’s Botanic Bitters is being sold at Gilbert’s Drug Store in Harper’s Ferry. So the thinking would be that this is a Virginia (West Virginia) bitters. Apparently he had another drug store in Martinsburg which is a bit northwest of Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia.

Martinsburg, Virginia (now West Virginia), is the county seat of Berkeley County, was in 1860 the Shenandoah Valley’s second largest town, with a population of 3,364. Located in the northern portion of the valley, Martinsburg enjoyed a booming economy because of its location along the paved Valley Pike and because it was a major depot along the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. The same strategic location that made Martinsburg economically prosperous prior to the American Civil War however, also spelled its wartime demise. The town changed hands between Confederate and Union forces thirty-seven times.

UseLamots_Spirit of Jefferson, April 10, 1877

Use Lamot’s Botanic Bitters advertisement – Spirit of Jefferson (Charlestown Virginia, (West Va.), April 10, 1877

Finding no Dr. Lamot in the vicinity I did find out some information on Gilbert’s Drug Store from The History of West Virginia, Old and New, Published 1923, The American Historical Society, Inc., Chicago and New York, Volume III, pg. 323-324. I think Arthur Merryman Gilbert may have been the proprietor of Dr. Lamot’s Botanic Bitters. Again, we really need to find that labeled example. Apparently it reads, “A Tonic, motif of Indian, Invigorates the Digestive System, Improves…”

ARTHUR MERRYMAN GILBERT is one of the veteran business men of Martinsburg, where he has been a druggist over forty years and where his judgment has been enlisted in the service of several other substantial institutions. He has been a public-spirited citizen as well, and a brief account of his career and of his family merits a place in this publication.

He was born on a farm bordering on Opequan Creek, one mile from Middleway, in Jefferson County, Virginia, now West Virginia. His father, Jacob Gilbert, was born at Middleway in 1801. His grandfather, Henry Gilbert, was born in Scotland, learned the trade of weaver, and on coming to the American colonies settled in Jefferson County, at Middleway. Here he put up his hand loom and did a thriving business greatly needed in a community whose people still depended upon the home art of manufacturing cloth from the wool grown on sheep and the cotton raised in the fields of that locality. He reared three sons, Bernard, Henry and Jacob.

Jacob Gilbert spent his early life as a farmer. His first wife was Mrs. Walter Burrell, of Jefferson County, owner of two plantations, upon which they continued to live and at her death he succeeded to the ownership of the property, together with many slaves. At the breaking out of the Civil war he freed the slaves and moved to Middleway, where he owned a large stone house set amidst pleasant surroundings, and remained there until his death at the age of seventy-eight. For his second wife Jacob Gilbert married Sarah Harvey Merryman, who was born at Tomonium, Baltimore County, Maryland, daughter of Nicholas and Rebecca (Harvey) Merryman. The Merrymans and Harveys were well known old families of Maryland, and Doctor Ridgley, of Baltimore, has compiled a history of the family. Nicholas Merryman was a farmer and breeder of thoroughbred race horses, and was well known on the turf. Mrs. Sarah Gilbert died in 1879, at the age of thirty-seven. She was the mother of five children: William H., who died at Middleway in 1906; Arthur Merryman; Mary Elizabeth, of Middleway; Roberta, who married T. A. Milton, a lawyer of Kansas City, Missouri; and Sarah M., who married Dr. D. P. Fry, of Hedgesville.

Arthur Merryman Gilbert attended private schools at Middleway, and soon after completing his education, in 1876, he came to Martinsburg and began an apprenticeship in the drug store of William Dorsey. It was in 1883 that he established himself in the drug business, and for many years had conducted one of the best drug stores in the Eastern Panhandle.

In 1893 Mr. Gilbert married Mabel Rodrick, a native of Frederick County, Maryland, daughter of Daniel W. and Mary Priscilla Rodrick. Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert have two sons, Arthur M., Jr., and Webster Rodrick. The son Arthur is a graduate of the Martinsburg High School, spent two years in Washington and Lee University, and in 1918 joined the service at Camp Lee at Lexington, Virginia, and remained there until the signing of the armistice. He is now a teller in the Old National Bank at Martinsburg. Webster, the younger son, is a sophomore in the Martinsburg High School.

Arthur M. Gilbert was a member of the city council at Martinsburg from 1892 to 1894 and was city treasurer in 1913-16. He cast his first presidential vote for Grover Cleveland, and has been active in the interest of the democratic party. He has been a director of the Martinsburg National Bank and its successor, the Old National Bank, for a quarter of a century, is affiliated with Equality Lodge No. 44, A. F. and A. M., and for upwards of thirty years has been a member of Trinity Episcopal Church.

Select Listings

1876-1877: Use Lamot’s Botanic Bitters advertisement (see above) – Spirit of Jefferson (Charlestown Virginia, (West Va.), April 10, 1877
Posted in Bitters, Druggist & Drugstore, History, Tonics | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Lud’s Aromatic Stomach Bitters – Lawrence, Kansas

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Lud’s Aromatic Stomach Bitters – Lawrence, Kansas

Reuben Winchell Ludington

10 May 2015

Apple-Touch-IconAWhile poking around the internet this morning, which is something akin to looking at the sky with a telescope, I spotted a listing for a Lud’s Aromatic Stomach Bitters. Not recognizing the name, it immediately required a second look and a refocusing of my lens. You can see a portion of the listing below.

LudsBittersDetail_The_Daily_Kansas_Tribune_Sat__Dec_29__1866_

There is an incomplete listing in Bitters Bottles by Carlyn Ring and W.C. Ham, meaning obviously that there is no known bottle and little information. The listing:

L 130  LUDINGTON’S STOMACH BITTERS
R.W. Ludington, Lawrence, Kansas
Atlas of Douglas City (Kansas) 1873

While I find no reference to Ludington’s Stomach Bitters put out by R. W. Ludington in 1873 in Lawrence, Kansas, I can track down the Lud’s Aromatic Stomach Bitters, made by the same.

Reuben Winchell Ludington

Reuben W. Ludington was one of the true pioneer businessmen of Lawrence, Kansas and considered a Free-Stater, which were antislavery settlers in Kansas Territory in the 1850s. He was also another Mayor who made a bitters.

Ludington was born in West Springfield, Holyoke, Hampden County, Massachusetts on September 1, 1827. Both from New England, his father was Henry Ludington and his mother was Vilitty (Winchell) Ludington. They were described as well educated and connected deeply to history.

His father was an orderly sergeant in the War of 1812, enlisting for a soldier for a regular term, staying until the end of the war with an honorable discharge. He was in several engagements including an attempt of the British to capture New London, Connecticut. His grandfather, Daniel Ludington, was a Captain in the Revolutionary War, serving faithfully through the conflict for Independence. His grandfather, on his mother’s side, Elisha Winchell, was a Revolutionary soldier, holding the position of Lieutenant. The family actually has a record of the Winchell’s running back to 1293, when Robert Winchelsen was elected Archbishop of Canterbury. There is quite a bit more history here but that is another story.

Reuben W. Ludington, was educated in the common schools of New England receiving the equivalent of a business education. With school completed, he moved to Hartford, Connecticut and worked as a clerk and salesman for three years on the low salary of fifty dollars per annum which included board. He prospered and in 1849, he returned to Holyoke, married and started a store of his own which was reasonably successful. He also established a postoffice at Rock Valley and was the first postmaster.

After a time, Ludington bought the home formerly owned by his mother’s father, and there he continued the family gatherings which had been so notable during his grandfather’s lifetime. In the spring of 1857, he came to Kansas. His cousins, the Eldridges, were in Lawrence, and he visited them. Being pleased with the prospects, he decided to remain. I suspect he also saw the war clouds coming between the North and South and headed west.

Ludington next started a livery business (the old Eldridge house stable) having as a partner Col. S. W. Eldridge, but he soon sold to his partner, and opened a mercantile store on Massachusetts street. In Lawrence, he carried on the business of a merchant. The first listing for him I could find was in 1859 and an advertisement below in 1860, “R. W. Ludington, Importer and Dealer in Foreign & Domestic Liquors”. He was also a tobacco dealer selling “Every Kind of Havana, Domestic, German Cigars, Tobacco, &C.” He said he would sell his goods at Saint Louis prices with freight added. He asked prospective buyers to call on him first instead of going to Leavenworth, Kansas where freighting was twice the distance. Shipping was a much bigger deal back then.

LudingtonR_The_Topeka_Tribune_Sat__Dec_29__1860_

R.W. Ludington, Importer of and Dealer in Foreign & Domestic Liquors advertisement –The Topeka Tribune, Saturday, December 29, 1860

Quantrill’s Raid

Quantrill_Raid

A painting depicts Quantrill’s raid on Lawrence on August 21, 1863

The Lawrence Massacre, also known as Quantrill’s raid, was a rebel guerrilla attack during the American Civil War by Quantrill’s Raiders, led by William Quantrill, on the Union town of Lawrence, Kansas. The attack on August 21, 1863 targeted Lawrence due to the towns long support of abolition and its reputation as a center for Jayhawkers and Redlegs, which were free-state militia and vigilante groups known for attacking and destroying farms and plantations in Missouri’s pro-slavery western counties. Quantrill and a band of men had been meeting in the hills southeast of Kansas City and making forays into Kansas. Quantrill attacked Olathe one night and stole considerable property. One person was killed. Most of the raids were for plunder, but the raid on Lawrence on Aug. 21, 1863, according to the Rev. Richard Cordley, was deliberately for slaughter.

Fortunately, on the day of Quantrill’s raid, Ludington and his family were visiting in Massachusetts. He did lose two buildings and substantial stock entailing a loss of $30,000, most of it destroyed by fire. An attack was also made upon his house and a neighbor, Mr. Lowe, was able to save. Had Ludington been in the city he would probably have lost his life. It would take hime a decade to recover his wealth. On his return he sold his house and started anew in business.

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Ludington Thacher house

In the spring of 1864, Ludington was elected mayor, succeeding George W. Callomore, who had been killed in the Quantrill raid. In his inaugural address he referred to the past history of the city, its trials and vicissitudes, and the losses which all of the citizens had experienced, but, at the same time, he declared his faith in the future city, recommended the enlargement of schools, the organization of a fire department and purchase of grounds for a cemetery (which resulted in the selection and beautifying of Oak Hill cemetery), also recommended the improvement of streets, and a vigilant system of military defense by the erection of block houses. Five of these block houses were put up, in order to protect the city against future raids. Under his administration good order was restored and general confidence inspired. In 1876 the city again had financial reverses and he was again elected mayor and re-elected in 1877. He succeeded for the second time in placing the city’s finances on a firm basis, and retired from ofiice, with the confidence of the entire citizenship.

Ludington also made the first plea for a new cemetery in his May 1864 mayoral inaugural address. He cited the need for a site with “sepulchral fitness for sacred reminiscences where departed friends could be remembered”. The landscape designer who worked on Oak Hill came from Ohio, and boarded with Ludington at his home, which still stands on Tennessee Street. It is known as the Ludington Thacher house and is a distinctive icon in Lawrence and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Here is an interesting story about a grand residence on Tennessee Street in Lawrence, Kansas. See the image below and read, 1613 Tennessee Street, The Real Story by Stan Hernly.

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1869 Reuben W. Ludington Purchase – 1613 Tennessee Street, The Real Story, Stan Hernly

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R.W. Ludington, Importer and Dealer in First Class Liquors advertisement – The Osage County Chronicle, Saturday, March 19, 1864

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R.W. Ludington Liquors advertisement – The Daily Kansas Tribune, Saturday, June 10, 1865

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$25 Reward: Horse lost on Ludington Farm notice – The Daily Kansas Tribune, Wednesday, October 11, 1865

The Lud’s Aromatic Stomach Bitters makes an appearance in the below advertisement and only appears in 1867. That would explain the scarcity of information. By now Reuben W. Ludington is a distiller, rectifier and dealer in wines, liquors, bitters, lamp chimneys, coal oil and tobacco. He does say he is the manufacturer of the Lud’s bitters and that he would sell it by the case or in bulk. He really sounded like a big-time Chicago or St. Louis liquor merchant by now. He was even selling Drake’s Plantation, Kelly’s Old Cabin, Swain’s Bourbon and Red Jacket Bitters. This would be the liquor store to shop at in Lawrence! Unfortunately his Lud’s Aromatic Stomach Bitters did not sell. If I was his partner, advisor or advertising agent, I would have suggested using his full last name instead of “LUD”. Maybe he went locally by Lud, but certainly folks from afar may have not recognized Lud over Ludington.

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R.W. Ludington Manufacturer of Lud’s Aromatic Stomach Bitters – The Daily Kansas Tribune, Friday, April 12, 1867

As Ludington rebuilt after the Civil War, he went to old Franklin and bought a Methodist Church building, which he moved up to Lawrence and transformed into a store. The next year he built a three-story brick building, 25 x 80, at No. 707 Massachusetts street, and there continued business until I881, when he retired from the mercantile business. From I884 to 1893 he was a member of the wholesale grocery house of A. D. Craigue & Co., on North Tejon street in  Colorado Springs, Colorado. Ludington spent his later years as a gentleman farmer and died on 13 October 1905.

During the war, while mayor of Lawrence, Mr. Ludington was a member of Company E, Third Kansas Militia, that saw service during the Price raid. He was a member of Washington Post No. I2, G. A. R. He was also affiliated with the Republicans, but later was a Democrat. Fraternally he was connected with Lawrence Lodge No. 6, A. F. & A. M.; Lawrence Chapter No. 4, R. A. M.; DeMolay Commandery No. 4, K. T., in which he held various offices. He was a stockholder and the last president of the Lawrence Street Railway Company, also served as a director in the Second National and Lawrence Exchange Banks, and has been a director in the St. Louis, Lawrence and Southwestern Railroad Company. Quite a man.

Select Listings:

1827: R. W. Ludington born in West Springfield, Holyoke, Hampden County, Massachusetts on September 1, 1827.
1849: May 10, 1849, Mr. Ludington was married to Miss Eunez B. Winchell.
1859: R. W. Ludington, Lawrence, Kansas – Kansas State Census Collection
1860: Advertisement (see above) R.W. Ludington, Importer of and Dealer in Foreign & Domestic Liquors advertisement – The Topeka Tribune, Saturday, December 29, 1860
1860: Wholesale LiquorsCigars & TobaccoR.W. Ludington, s. w. cor. Massachusetts and Henry – The Lawrence City Directory and City Mirror
1867: Advertisement (see above) R.W. Ludington Manufacturer of Lud’s Aromatic Stomach Bitters – The Daily Kansas Tribune, Friday, April 12, 1867
1878: On September 12, 1878, Judge Foster was married to Angie V. Ludington, who was a daughter of R. W. Ludington, a prominent citizen of Lawrence, Kansas. Mrs. Foster still survives, with two daughters, Beatrice and Lillian; they reside in a beautiful residence on the corner of nth and Harrison streets, and move in thebest society of Topeka. During the later years of Judge Foster’s life, the family traveled in many lands, in a vain search for health for the beloved husband and father. Although perfect recovery from his malady was not granted, his days were prolonged. He was permitted to pass away surrounded by his family and friends and in the city where he had gained so many legal triumphs. – Shawnee County KS Archives Biographies…..Foster, Cassius G. 1837 – 1899
1878: KALLOCH KEEPS A SALOON. At this time, amongst other occupations, he kept a saloon, where he compounded (with his own hands) mint julip, brandy smashes, cock-tails, and his own favorite beverage, “whisky skins.” The city records show that he took out license for his saloon for the years 1872 and 1878. Of the quality of his liquors, some of his patrons say they were bad, some say that they were medium, others that he kept good whisky. For himself, he always kept the best.
PUTS UP A JOB ON WASHINGTON LIBBY, OF CHICAGO, AND BEATS HIM OUT OF $8,000. BEATS OTHEB FRIENDS OUT OF A LARGE SUM OF MONEY.
In July, 1878, Kalloch was having some business transactions with R. W. Ludington, of Lawrence, Kansasin which Kalloch was to pay Ludington $8,000. Ludington knew Kalloch too well to take his promissory note for that amount, but agreed to take a note, payable in one year after date, if he (Kalloch) would get it endorsed.
1888: R.W. Ludington, r. ne. cor. Winthrop and Connecticutt – Lawrence City Directory
1893: R.W. Ludington, farmer, r. 640 Connecticutt – A Directory of the City of Lawrence and Douglas County
1905: Ludington death. – Oskaloosa Independent, 13 October 1905
COL. LUDINGTON DEAD.
Lawrence, Kan., Oct. 7.–Col. R. W. Ludington died this morning about 4:30 o’clock as a result of an apoplectic stroke which rendered him helpless the first part of the week.
In 1857 he came to Kansas. At the time of the Quantrell raid his two buildings and stock were destroyed by fire. An attack was also made upon his house, for he was a pronounced free state man. Mr. Ludington bought the Methodist church building at Franklin, following the raid, moved it to Lawrence, and resumed business. The next year he built the three story brick building at 707 Massachusetts street, Eldridge hall, in which he always owned a large interest. He continued in business here until 1881.
May 10, 1849, Mr. Ludington was married to Miss Eunez B. Winchell, who was born in West Springfield, Mass., and was a cousin. Mrs. Ludington and two children survive, Wilbur Ludington and Mrs. C. G. Foster, of Topeka. In the spring of 1864 Mr. Ludington was elected mayor of Lawrence succeeding Geo. W. Collamore, who was killed during the Quantrell raid. In 1876 the city again had financial reverses and he again elected mayor and re-elected in 1878.

 

Posted in Advertising, Bitters, Civil War, History, Liquor Merchant, Revolutionary War, Tobacco | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

John T. Pendleton and his Pendleton’s Pineapple Bitters

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The Nashville Wharf, photographed shortly after the American Civil War

John T. Pendleton and his Pendleton’s Pineapple Bitters

07 May 2015

Apple-Touch-IconAYesterday I put up a post on C. G. Pendleton’s Tonic, The World-Renowned Stomach Bitters from Bridgeport Connecticut. The bottle dates from 1866 to 1867. There seems to be some confusion on the internet saying that this bottle is related to the Pendleton’s Pineapple Bitters from Nashville, Tennessee, which is probably from the same time period. The Bridgeport bottle was put out by Charles Gay Pendleton while the Nashville bottle was put out by John T. Pendleton. So what goes here for these Civil War era bottles?

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1864 Civil War map for Nashville

The Carlyn Ring and W.C. Ham listing in Bitters Bottles is as follows:

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P 38  PENDLETON’S PINEAPPLE BITTERS
PENDLETON’S // PINEAPPLE BITTERS // NASHVILLE, T. // f // b // L&W
9 x 2 3/4 (6 1/2) 3/8
Square, Amber, LTC, Applied mouth, 3 sp, Extremely rare

John Thompson Pendleton

John Thompson Pendleton was born on 19 June 1815 in Christian, Kentucky. His parents were John Pendleton (1780-1838), and Frances Jackson Thompson (1784-1863). The father was from Spotsylvania, Virginia and the mother from Hanover, Virginia.

The story here really starts with the Ewin, Brown & Co. and then the Ewin Brothers (W.D. Ewin, John H. Ewin and William H. Ewin) who were wholesale and retail druggists in Nashville, Tennessee. You can see an 1851 Ewin, Brown & Co. and 1853 Ewin Brothers advertisement below. In 1858, John T. Pendleton partnered with John H. Ewin and they started Ewin, Pendleton & Company. They were wholesale druggists located on the Public Square in Nashville, Tennessee.

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Ewin, Brown & Co. advertisement – Fayetteville Observer, Tuesday, November 11, 1851

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Ewin Brothers advertisement – The Nashville Union, January 7, 1853

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Ewin, Pendleton & Co. successors to Ewin Brothers, Wholesale Druggists – Nashville Union and American, Tuesday, February 23, 1858

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Ewin, Pendleton & Co. advertisement, Nashville, Tennessee – 1860 Nashville City Directory

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Ewin & Pendleton notice – Nashville Union and American, Wednesday, March 13, 1867

They remained partners until about 1875 when John T. Pendleton’s son, Henry Ewin Pendleton took over the concern. Henry E. Pendleton was then advertised as a wholesale druggist also dealing in paints, oils, glass, liquors, etc. at 55 N. Market Street. John T. Pendleton, his father, was a bookkeeper and John E. Ewin, his fathers partner was a salesman. I guess the fathers were demoted. Later, in 1887, the business was renamed Pendleton Drug Company with Henry E. Pendleton president. They still sold wholesale drugs but were addressed at 13-15 N. Market Street in Nashville. John T. Pendleton died on 10 November 1909 in Nashville. 

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1887, Pendleton’s Compound Syrup of Hypophosphites, Pendleton Drug Company – Southern Practitioner: An Independent Monthly Journal Devoted to Medicine and Surgery

The L&W that is embossed on the bottle of the Pendleton’s Pineapple Bitters stands for Lorenz and Wightman in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (1862-1874). These guys were major bottle producers and their mark is known on a very large variety of bitters and medicine bottles and fruit jars.

As far as connecting the C. G. Pendleton’s Tonic from Bridgeport, Conn. and the Pendleton’s Pineapple Bitters from Nashville, I find none. I also can not find any pictures of a Pendleton’s Pineapple Bitters. Obviously an example of this extremely rare bottle exists as a drawing is in Bitters Bottles and it is pictured further above.

Drugs and Chemicals in Nashville

Nashville and Her Trade for 1870: A Work Containing Information Valuable … By Charles Edwin Röbert

As a Wholesale Drug and Chemical Market, Nashville, it is said, is fully equal to any importing market in the West, both in the amount of its business, as well as its advantages, while the abundance of capital employed in its conduct, enables our dealers, at all seasons, to be well supplied with the amplest and most varied stocks to be met with in the Southwest, and which they are fully prepared to, and we believe do, undersell any competing market that is not extensively engaged in the manufacture of standard articles. As a class of merchants, they enjoy the most enviable reputation for liberality, fairness and reliability, while extended experience has not only been a good schoolmaster to them in the way of teaching them to select none but goods of the purest, freshest and most exact natures, but has given them decided knowledge of the wants and demands of the Southern trade. That they are uniformly conscientious in their figures, a steady and influential trade,—wedded to these, their idols, fully attests, and that they sell as low as can be sold from manufacturers’ first prices, is undeniable. Their stocks, as before stated, are always ample and well assorted, and embrace almost innumerable articles included under the general heads of Drugs, Chemicals, Medicines, Paints, Oils, Dye Stuffs, Perfumery, Fancy Articles, etc., etc., many of which are as familiar in the mouths of the “initiated” as household words.

They also deal largely in Window-Glass of all sizes and qualities) and a number of them carry on, in connection with their general business, the manufacture of various standard articles, such as “Bitters”, Perfumes, Soaps, etc., etc., all of which have an extensive sale, and are well-known by merchants trading with Nashville. They are also Importers of and Jobbers in various Pharmaceutical Implements and Surgeons’ Instruments, together with a legion of useful and highly necessary articles that are found in all first-class houses of their character.

These enterprising, extensive and responsible houses, five in number, to whom it gives us pleasure to refer to as representing the Wholesale Drug interests of Nashville, are as follows: Messrs. Berry, Demoville & Co., 5 and 6 Public Square; Ewin, Pendleton & Co., 58 Public Square; Kinkade, Handly & Co., 63 and 64 Public Square; E. P. Jenkins, 39 North Market; and Litterer & Cabler, corner Broad and Market streets. The sales of this trade last year amounted to fully nine hundred thousand dollars—at an underestimate. The limits of this branch of business penetrates into nearly every State in the South, and with its thirty-three and a third per cent increase over sales prior to the war, gives most fair and flattering promise of a wide future extension.

Nashville, Tennessee Bitters

Nashville and Her Trade for 1870: A Work Containing Information Valuable … By Charles Edwin Röbert

The branch of business in our city coming under the above caption, is one that has come into notice within the last few years, and has grown to such formidable proportions that we give it prominence in a separate and special chapter. Our manufacturers and dealers in this line have admirably succeeded in introducing their health-giving preparations into all portions of the South; and persons who formerly purchased none but liquids, whose constituents, to say the least, were dubious, are using almost exclusively those manufactured in Nashville. Numerous advertising devices have been resorted to by them to bring their “Bitters” to the attention of the public, some of which are so novel and attractive as to challenge notice, be the observer never so dull and short-sighted. In truth, our “Bitter” men may be called the “Helmbolds of Nashville.” As we take it, this evidence of enterprise in advertising is pretty good evidence of the same admirable characteristic in the mode of conducting their business, and in this we fully believe Nashville Manufacturers are eclipsed by but few if any.

Jenkins’ Stomach Bitters. – Some two years ago Mr. R. P. Jenkins, Wholesale Druggist, No. 39 North Market street, introduced a preparation which he styled “Jenkins’ Stomach Bitters.” He claimed for them superior qualities as an antidote for all miasmatical disorders, dyspepsia and diseases of the stomach. So soon as they became fairly known in the country adjacent to Nashville, they grew rapidly in favor, and indeed attained such celebrity that he was induced to take out letters patent for their manufacture, and to-day they are extensively used in the South and Southwest. The Laboratory for the manufacture of “Jenkins’ Bitters” is established in connection with Jenkins’ “Wholesale Drug House, and in this department alone employment is given to a number of hands who are engaged in the various offices of decocting, bottleing, labeling and packing, so that at all times full supplies are ready for the market. Mr. Jenkins also makes and sells other specialties known as “Jenkins’ Buchu,” “Vandoin’s Fever and Ague Cure,” “Jenkins’ Vegetable Pills, etc., etc.

Berry & Demoville’s Orange Stomach Bitters. – The Wholesale Drug firm of Berry, Demoville & Co., Nos. 5 and 6 Public Square, are also engaged in the manufacture of a line of specialties that are rapidly coming into favor wherever they are known and used. Their “Fine Aromatic Orange Stomach Bitters,” although No. 39 North Market Street, opposite Union but recently introduced, yet, by their delightful aroma and agreeable flavor, are destined to have a successful and popular run. During 1869, as their books show, they sold upwards of 7,500 dozen of their Bitters. In this connection, we would take occasion to remark that this firm also manufactures quite a number of other Pharmaceutical preparations, which are made under their own personal supervision, a fact which stamps their reliability at once, and which, as they advertise, are not “patent nostrums,” but whose component parts are known to many leading physicians both in the city and country, most of whom have evinced their appreciation of their merits by prescribing them in their daily practice. The most prominent of these preparations are Demoville’s anti-Chill and Fever Pills, Demoville’s Compound of Prickly Ash, Demoville’s Jaundice and anti-Dyspeptic Tonic, Demoville’s Vegetable Cough Mixture, Demoville’s Compound Chloroform Liniment, Demoville’s Compound Dysentery Cordial, and Demoville’s All Healing Ointment.

Read: Fine Aromatic Orange Stomach Bitters – Berry, Demoville & Co. – Nashville

Cotton’s Southern Star Stomach Bitters. – There is still another brand of “Bitters” manufactured in Nashville and but recently offered to the public. “We refer to the “Southern Star Stomach Bitters” manufactured by M. C. Cotton, 292 South Cherry street, a Chemist of well-known ability. The manufacturer, in his explanatory circular, says that “these Bitters are purely medicinal and arc presented to the public as a remedy prepared especially for the miasmatic diseases of the South,” and that their reputation as a medicine is stamped in the fact that no social license is required to manufacture and sell them. Already they present signs of much success, and are highly recommended by all who have used them.

Read: Cotton’s Southern Star Stomach Bitters

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A photograph of the F.W. Greenhalge Apothecary at 7 Lafayette Street in Nashville, Tennessee. Taken in 1872, this photograph shows men and some children standing outside the storefront of the retail druggist. Nashville Public Library Digital Collections

Select Listings:

1815: John Thompson Pendleton was born on 19 June 1815 in Christian, Kentucky.
1855: EWIN BROTHERS, Wholesale Druggists, 7 N. College st. (W.D. Ewin, John H. Ewin, William H. Ewin) – Nashville Business Directory
1858: John T. Pendleton marries Amelia Pinchvey Webb, from Virginia on 25 January 1858
1860: EWIN, PENDLETON & CO., (John H. Ewin, John T. Pendleton, W. H. Ewin) Wholesale Druggists, North Side Public Square, both Ewins live above firm, Nashville, Tennessee advertisement (see advertisement) – Nashville City Directory
1860: John H. Pendleton, 45, druggist, born about 1815 in Kentucky, living in District 10, Davidson, Tennessee, Post office, Nashville, wife Amelia (22), Henry Ewin (13), Theresa (1/2) – United States Federal Census
1866-1867: EWIN & PENDLETON (John H. Ewin & John T. Pendleton) Wholesale Drugs, Medicines, etc.  19 s s Public Square – Nashville City Directory
1868: EWIN, PENDLETON & CO., (John H. Ewin, John T. Pendleton, W. H. Ewin) Wholesale Druggists, Public Square, W. H. Ewin was a clerk  – Nashville City Directory
1871: EWIN, PENDLETON & CO., (John H. Ewin, John T. Pendleton, C. Dupree) Wholesale Druggists, 58 Public Square – Nashville City Directory
1874-1875: EWIN, PENDLETON & CO., (John H. Ewin, John T. Pendleton) Wholesale Drugs, 58 Public Square – Nashville City Directory
1876-1881: HENRY E. PENDLETON, wholesale druggist, paints, oils, glass, liquors, etc. 55 N. Market, John T. Pendleton, bookkeeper, John E. Ewin salesman – Nashville City Directory
1880: John H. Pendleton, 65, druggist, born about 1815 in Kentucky, living in Nashville, Davidson, Tennessee, Father and mother born in Virginia, wife Amelia (22), H. Ewin Pendleton (31), Theresa (18) – United States Federal Census
1882-1883: PENDLETON, THOMAS & CO., (H.E. Pendleton, J. Thomas jr. E.W. Connell & W.M. Cassetty), wholesale druggists, 59-61 N. Market *John Thomas Pendleton was still a bookkeeper – Nashville City Directory
1884: PENDLETON, THOMAS & CO., (H.E. Pendleton, J. Thomas jr. E.W. Connell & J S Ross), wholesale drugs, 13-15 N. Market – Nashville City Directory
1887: PENDLETON DRUG COMPANY, H. E. Pendleton president and J.R. Handly sec and tres, wholesale drugs, 13-15 N. Market – Nashville City Directory
1909: John T. Pendleton died on 10 November 1909 in Nashville, Davidson, Tennessee.
Posted in Bitters, Druggist & Drugstore, History, Medicines & Cures, Questions | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

C.G. Pendleton’s Tonic, The World-Renowned Stomach Bitters

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C.G. Pendleton’s Tonic, The World-Renowned Stomach Bitters

… and Baseball

06 May 2015 (R•050715)

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Apple-Touch-IconAWhile working on the Curtis’ Little Giant Bitters post from Bridgeport, Connecticut, I came across this advertisement below for C. G. Pendleton’s Tonic, The World-Renowned Stomach Bitters in an 1867 Bridgeport City Directory. Who was this C. G. Pendleton, and why haven’t I seen or have an example of his bitters in my collection? It’s all part of the journey and the hunt.

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C.G. Pendleton’s Tonic. The World-Renowned Stomach Bitters – 1867 Bridgeport, Connecticut City Directory

The Carlyn Ring and W.C. Ham listing in Bitters Bottles is as follows. This may want to be updated for Bitters Bottles Supplement 2.

P 37  L … Pendleton’s Calisaya Tonic Bitters
C. G. PENDLETON’S CALISAYA TONIC // f // f // f //
Square, amber, LTC

There is some speculation that this is a southern bottle, possibly from Tennessee. This is probably because of examples being found in the south and the P 38 Pendleton’s Pineapple Bitters from Nashville in the same shape. The druggist Pendleton in Nashville was John T. Pendleton. He was a partner With John H. Ewin at Ewin, Pendleton & Company in the 1860s. Different fella. I will follow-up with more research. Possibly C. G. Pendleton sold out to a a Tennessee concern in 1867. My bags are packed for Tennessee. Was just in Music City last Friday.

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Ewin, Pendleton & Co. advertisement, Nashville, Tennessee – 1860 Nashville City Directory

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C. G. Pendleton’s Tonic. This bitters type of bottle was found under a house in downtown Savannah. The house was built in the 1880’s. Just think a bottle like this was thrown into an empty lot and then a few years later a house was built on top of the lot. The ground was not cleared off and what was left behind stayed there under that house. – Collectors Weekly

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P 37 C. G. PENDLETON’S CALISAYA TONIC BITTERS AND PENDLETON’S FLORIDA WATER, reverse, bust of George Washington, Gold colored metal – Bitters Bottles Supplement

Charles Gay Pendleton (1838 – 1905)

Charles Gay Pendleton was born in New Haven, Connecticut 0n 30 September 1838. As a young man, he took a course in surgery and then carried on in business as a chemist and druggist for nearly ten years in Bridgeport, Connecticut, addressing at 58 Noble Street.

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Mr. Pendleton was a well-to-do citizen, and at the age of 21 joined the Bridgeport Masons. He was also a member of the Jerusalem Royal Arch Chapter of Bridgeport, and Hamilton Commandery Knights Templar. He adored baseball and was a major supporter of this growing American sport. In recognizing baseball as a positive element in urban quality of life, Bridgeport businesses were consistent supporters of the sport. Initially, this included providing equipment and a place for employees to play. There were also women company teams at least as early as 1875. Later, during the professional era “Be-for-Bridgeport” companies helped support the team financially, and even closed early for important weekday games.

OldBallAs a public service, basic weather information was maintained at C. G. Pendleton’s Drugstore and reprinted in the Bridgeport Evening Standard under the heading of “Thermometrical and Barometrical Record Kept at C. G. Pendelton’s Store, E.D”. Of course if you were playing or going to watch a baseball game, weather is important. Charles G. Pendleton also produced a “Pendleton Bat Trophy” that would proudly be displayed by Bridgeport merchants. The rosewood bat was secured atop a black walnut framed case. A silver engraving proclaimed. “Presented to Bridgeport Base Ball Club, Champions of Bridgeport, 1866, By C. G, Pendleton”. The ornate box was constructed on three sides with glass; a mirror in back enhanced viewing of the baseballs taken in victory by the Bridgeport Club. Each ball was inscribed with the name of the defeated club, the date, and the final score. There was even a “Pendleton Championship Series”.

Pendleton served as the city’s assistant engineer and ran for Justice of the Peace on the Democratic ticket. He was often found with the rest of Connecticut’s elite aboard the steamship Ella heading out for a romp at the summer resort on nearby Charles Island. He founded his drugstore in Bridgeport in 1859 or so and sold it in 1867, so we have a pretty short period of time that he was in business in Bridgeport. In 1867 he advertised his C. G. Pendleton’s Tonic “The World-Renowned Stomach Bitters”. He said it was an infallible preventative for afflictions of the liver, dyspepsia, disordered digestion, fever and ague, etc. etc. The word “Bitters” would not be embossed on the bottle.

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C. G. Pendleton’s Tonic – HistoricBottles.com

C. G. Pendleton was married on 30 September 1860 to Sarah R. Hyler who was born on 03 December 1838 in New York City. She was the daughter of Adonijah and Catherine (Paris) Hyler. The Pendleton’s Bridgeport years were filled with sadness as two of their children died before reaching the age of three. Three other children prospered and later married, Charles Gay Pendleton, Jr., Carrie Louise Pendleton and Clarence Arthur Pendleton. During 1866, the druggist himself fell prone to recurring fevers of some unknown nature. Later he moved on to Chelsea, Massachusetts, where he continued to ply his trade as a druggist. He died as a highly regarded citizen of Holbrook on 30 June 1905. It’s likely few, if any, remembered his contributions to baseball or his bitters, until now.

Much thanks to Marianne Dow for assistance with this post.

Select Listings

1859: Pendleton’s Drug Store founded by Mr. C. G. Pendleton – Leading Business Men of Fairfield County; and a Historical Reyiew Of The Principal Cities, 1887
1862-1865: C. G. Pendleton, Retail Liquor Dealer – U.S. IRS Tax Assessment
1866: As a public service, basic weather information was maintained at C. G. Pendleton’s Drugstore and reprinted in the Bridgeport Evening Standard under the heading of “Thermometrical and Barometrical Record Kept at C. G. Pendelton’s Store, E.D.* At noon on Friday, November 1866, the temperature was 52 degree F and Wednesday, December 5, 1866, the temperature hit a noontime high of 53 degrees F. – Base Ball Pioneers, 1850-1870The Clubs and Players Who Spread the Sport, 2012
1866: C. G. Pendleton, Manufacturer – U.S. IRS Tax Assessment
1866: C. G. Pendleton, Apothecaries, 58 Noble, E. Bridgeport – Bridgeport, Connecticut City Directory
1867: C. G. Pendleton’s Tonic. The World-Renowned Stomach Bitters advertisement (see above), C. G. PENDLETON, druggist, Noble n Washington ave., E. D. – Bridgeport, Connecticut City Directory
1870: C. G. Pendleton, Patent Medicines, 18 Dey – The New York State Business Directory
1887: H. W. Bunnell, Apothecary, 197 Noble Avenue. – An old-established and thoroughly reliable East Bridgeport drug store is that conducted by Mr. H. W. Bunnell, at No. 197 Noble avenue. This establishment was founded twenty-eight years ago by Mr. C. G. Pendleton, who nineteen years ago was succeeded by the present proprietor. The store occupied is 20 x 45 feet in dimensions, and is supplied with all the usual facilities and appointments for carrying on a first class apothecary business. – Leading Business Men of Fairfield County; and a Historical Review Of The Principal Cities, 1887
Posted in Advertising, Apothecary, Bitters, Druggist & Drugstore, History, Liquor Merchant, Medicines & Cures, Tonics | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Curtis’ Little Giant Bitters “The King of Tonics”

CurtissLittleGiant_GourdCurtis’ Little Giant Bitters “The King of Tonics”

The Cheapest Drug Store in the World!

05 May 2015 (R•052419)

Apple-Touch-IconAThe other day, I did a post on The Little Clark’s Giant Bitters that inspired bitters ephemera collector Joe Gourd, to send me three images for Curtis’ Little Giant Bitters, which is a different brand. Don’t you love that name!

All three advertising trade card images used in this post are from Joe’s collection. This brand is unlisted in Bitters Bottles and Bitters Bottles Supplement and will be represented in the next edition, Bitters Bottles Supplement 2, that is being put together by Bill Ham.

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The Curtis’ Little Giant Bitters, or “The King of Tonics” was made by Curtis & Hair who were chemists and druggists out of Bridgeport, Connecticut. They addressed on Main Street at the corner of Elm. How charming. There is nothing left but boarded up property at that location now. Not so charming. They sold their bitters for 25 cents and a $1.00 a bottle, obviously meaning two sizes. The stock trade cards use a kitten, children and flowers with Curtis and Hair marketing sur-printed on the cards. They are obviously targeting a female purchasing audience.

I am not aware of any bottles in collections. I also suspect the bottle was labeled only, meaning without bitters being embossed on the bottle.

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Lewis Frederick Curtis

Lewis F. Curtis was born in Connecticut on June 10, 1836 and came from a prominent family, both parents also from Connecticut. He was, for many years, a successful business man of Bridgeport, Conn., where he acquired a large fortune in the drug business. He his early 20’s he started out in business and is listed as a merchant in the 1860 United States Federal Census. His wife was Mary Cornelia Baldwin and they had a son, Frederick B. Curtis who would later carry on the business.

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Curtis’ Pharmacy advertisement – 1874 Bridgeport, Connecticut City Directory

By 1867, Lewis F. Curtis has regular yearly listings in the Bridgeport City Directory as a druggist though a later advertisement from 1906 says he started his drug business in 1864. The ad says “Our Prescription Books Date Back to 1864!” They sold drugs, medicines, chemicals, patent medicines and other drug store items.

His drug store was located at the corner of Main and Elm Streets. He also had a business named Curtis & Peck and they sold shoes. Later he would have additional addresses in close proximity where I assume he manufactured his drugs. From 1874 to 1883 he was partnered with George M. Teeple and they called their business Curtis & Teeple. In 1884, D. S. Lacey was his partner.

By 1886, Lacey is gone and he partners with James E. Hair in business and their concern is called Curtis & Hair. That name appears on the trade cards above and the 1886 New England Almanac where a page is dedicated to Curtis and Hair, products. They were still addressed at the corner of Main and Elm Streets in Bridgeport.

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Curtis Pharmacy advertisement – 1906 Bridgeport, Connecticut City Directory

In 1889, James Hair is gone and Lewis Curtis practices as the sole proprietor pretty much until his death in 1912. He died at New Milford, Conn., from a chronic trouble which confined him to his home. His business was then managed by his son, Frederick Baldwin Curtis.

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Busy Bridgeport, CT, circa 1910

One of my underlying goals of this post was to try to link Mr. Curtis to the rather well-known and liked Curtis Cordial Calasaya Stomach Bitters. I have been unsuccessful so far. Lewis F. Curtis was also from the same stock that made the Curtis & Perkins Wild Cherry Bitters.

Stay tuned.

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The Cheapest Drug Store in the World – Curtis

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Fire at L.F. Curtis Drug Store. Pumping whiskey from a barrel in the basement! – The Bridgeport Telegram, Monday, November 9, 1920

The new listing in Bitters Bottles Supplement 2:

Trade Cards
C 258.8 CURTIS’ LITTLE GIANT BITTERS, Curtis and Hair, Chemists and Druggists, Main St. cor. Elm, Bridgeport, Ct., Curtis’ Little Giant Bitters, “The King of Tonics.” 25c. and $1.00 a bottle. Stock trade cards with proprietor and product information printed on front. Reverse blank. Lewis F. Curtis and James E. Hair.
Almanac Advertisement
C 258.8 CURTIS’ LITTLE GIANT BITTERS, Full page advertisement for Curtis and Hair products within 1886 Middlebrook’s New-England Almanac, Bridgeport, Price 6 Cents single copy. Don’t Forget Curtis and Hair, the Cheap Cash Druggists, Corner Main and Elm Streets, Bridgeport. Curtis’ Little Giant Bitters, the King of Tonics. Price 25c. per bottle. Lewis F. Curtis and James E. Hair.

Select Listings:

1836: Lewis Frederick Curtis born June 10, 1836 – Find a Grave
1860: Lewis F. Curtis, 23, merchant, born abt 1878 in Connecticut, living BridgeportFairfieldConnecticut, wife Mary Curtis, 19 – United States Federal Census
1867: L. F. CURTIS & CO., druggists, Lewis Curtis, E. Washington av. E. Main, E. D., also CURTIS & PECK, shoe dealers, same address – Bridgeport, Connecticut City Directory
1870: Lewis F. Curtis, 32, druggist, born abt 1838 in Connecticut, living BridgeportFairfieldConnecticut – United States Federal Census
1873: CURTIS & PECK, wholesale and retail druggists, 291 Main, CURTIS & CO., druggists, Washington Ave., Lewis F. Curtis, druggist, 291 Main c Elm, also selling boots and shoes at Washington address – Bridgeport, Connecticut City Directory
1874: CURTIS’ PHARMACYL. F. Curtis, Proprietor, 291 Main, corner of Elm – Bridgeport, Connecticut City Directory
1874-1883: CURTIS & TEEPLE (L. F. Curtis and George M. Teeple), druggist, 836 Main, Curtis also sold drugs at 481 Main – Bridgeport, Connecticut City Directory
1880: Lewis F. Curtis, 43, druggist, born abt 1837 in Connecticut, living BridgeportFairfieldConnecticut, wife Mary C. Curtis, 35, father and mother from Connecticut, Frederick B. Curtis, son, 5 – United States Federal Census
1884: L. F. CURTIS & CO. (Lewis F. Curtis and D. S. Lacey), druggists, 481 Main – Bridgeport, Connecticut City Directory
1886: New England Almanac (above) with page dedicated to Curtis and Hair, the Cheap Cash Druggists, Curtis’ Little Giant Bitters, Corner Main and Elm Streets, Bridgeport
1888: CURTIS & HAIR (L. F. Curtis, Jas. E. Hair), druggists 481 Main – Bridgeport, Connecticut City Directory
1889-1890: L. F. Curtis and Lewis F. Curtis, druggist, 163, 481 and 837 Main, East Washington av, res New Milford – Bridgeport, Connecticut City Directory
1891-1892: L. F. Curtis or Lewis F. Curtis, druggist, 481 and 837 Main, res New Milford – Bridgeport, Connecticut City Directory
1896-1899: L. F. Curtis, druggist, 481 Main, res New Milford – Bridgeport, Connecticut City Directory
1900-1911: L. F. Curtis, Lewis F. Curtis, druggist, 1149 Main, res New Milford – Bridgeport, Connecticut City Directory
1906-1911: Curtis Pharmacy advertisement (see above) – Bridgeport, Connecticut City Directory
1912: Lewis F. Curtis, estate of, 1149 Main – Bridgeport, Connecticut City Directory
1912: Lewis Frederick Curtis died April 25, 1912, also on grave, Mary Cornelia Baldwin, Frederick Baldwin Curtis and his wife Emma Keeler – Find a Grave
1912: Lewis F. CurtisFor many years a successful business man of Bridgeport, Conn., where he acquired a large fortune in the drug business, Lewis F. Curtis, 76, died at New Milford, Conn., recently from a chronic trouble which confined him to his home. His Bridgeport business is now managed by his son, Frederick B. Curtis. He was a native of Stratford and came from a prominent family. – The Pharmaceutical Era, 1912
Posted in Advertising, Bitters, Druggist & Drugstore, History, Medicines & Cures, Tonics, Trade Cards | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Loss of Jim Springer of Marshalltown, Iowa

Jim Dandruff Cure Sample

Loss of Jim Springer of Marshalltown, Iowa

04 May 2015

It is with deep sorrow to inform you that a Midwestern legend in privy digging and bottle collecting has lost his 10 month battle with brain cancer on March 24th at the age of 56. Jim Springer of Marshalltown, Iowa died at his home surrounded by family.

My brother, Jim, started collecting and digging in the early 1980’s while fishing on a river and nearby a quarry where he found a B.A. Morgan Marshalltown, Iowa druggist bottle in a small dumpsite. He then began his adventure looking for bottles at auctions – buying boxes full of bottles.

One auction day in 1986 his life was about to change. He may not have won any of the bids on the bottles that day, but he was able to meet Tom Southard, Iowa Antique Bottleers president at that time, and was also introduced to privy digging. He joined the Iowa Antique Bottleers Club and started his digging adventures with Tom Southard and Mike Burggraff that year. The following year, as a very young teenager, I was introduced to privy digging while our dad and I tore off the back porch of our old house and found dozens of bottles and a few jugs and crocks. Our adventure had started and we proceeded to find and dig 4 privies on the old property.

Jim’s enthusiasm for adventure gave him the knack for getting people excited about history and privy digging. In the late 1980’s to early 1990’s he gave talks to many people in the local area on his hobby of privy digging and bottle collecting.

Jim’s adventures and historical research led him to dig over 1700 privies, speak to thousands of people about the subject, and feature in dozens of newspaper articles in the Midwest. He has one of the largest collections of Marshalltown, Iowa bottles and had contributed information to the “The Antique Bottles of Iowa, 1846 – 1915” book.

There was much age difference between Jim and me; however the adventures of privy digging and bottle collecting allowed me the privilege to get to know my brother as a friend and to share 28 years with a common passion. Our adventures gave us the ability to dig together on just over 1000 privies and to create many stories and memories.

Within the last year Jim’s son, Mick, started to dig a little deeper into his dad’s affinity for bottles and began digging privies and collecting bottles while spending time with his dad creating memories. I’m sure we’ll have many years of digging adventures together as well.

Jeff Springer

Jim Marshalltown

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