MOLINE FIRSTS

 

David B. Sears opened a small store in his own residence, which stood near the mill, in 1843. This was the first in the place.

Joseph Huntoon was the first shoemaker, commencing in 1842.

Geo. W. Bell commenced work at the tailor trade in 1844.

Chas. Atkinson in the fall of 1845 began merchandising on Wells Street, now Second Avenue. He carried a line of general merchandise.

Cyrus Kinzie started the first blacksmith shop in 1843, his shop being located where Deere's Plow Factory now stands.

Spencer H. White commenced the manufacture of brick in 1843.

The first hotel was kept by Huntington Wells, who opened his house for that purpose in the fall of 1843

The first drug store was kept by Addison Chamberlain in 1847.

There was no exclusive grocery store here for some years after the town was commenced,

 

Historical Encyclopedia of Illinois

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Illinois Ancestors

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