from
History of the State of Rhode Island with Illustrations
Albert J. Wright, Printer
No. 79 Mille Street, corner of Federal, Boston.
Hong, Wade & Co., Philadelphia
1878.
pp. 224 - 252. (part 35)
"Cotton-Yarn Manufactures.
Besides the above firms, there are several others that are extensively
engaged in the manufacture of cotton-yarn. Prominent among these are the
Littlefield Brothers. They have conducted the business for twenty-five
years past. The original firm was David Ryder & Co.; but, in 1857, Mr.
Ryder retired, and the business was conducted by the above firm. They are
largely interested in various mills in other towns, but all the goods are
sold by them in Pawtucket. Their mill in this latter place contains some
twenty-four hundred spindles, and the class of goods manufactured is skein
sewing-cotton. Their office is located in their new block, on Mill Street.
The Dexter Brothers are also extensively engaged in the cotton-yarn
manufacture. Their father, Captain N. G. B. Dexter, began the manufacture
of cotton yarns in 1820, and acquired a wide reputation for the excellent
quality of his goods. His sons subsequently became associated with him in
the business, and the firm took the present name of Dexter Brothers. The
elder Dexter died in 1866, and the business passed into the control of the
two brothers. They occupy the mill erected by Messrs. Greene, Wilkinson, &
Co., in 1813, as is evidenced by the date-stone over the door. Through
some adverse fortune, their business is at present in the hands of a
trustee, but it is hoped that, with the return of business activity, they
will recover from their misfortunes and resume the control of their
business affairs.
R. B. Gage Manufacturing Company. The senior member of this firm has been
engaged in the manufacture of this class of goods for nearly thirty-five
years. He commenced to make hosiery yarns in 1845, at Attleborough,
removed from thence to Central Falls, and subsequently to Pawtucket. In
1868, he erected the large and commodious mills on Fountain Street, now
occupied by the above firm. They have in operation six thousand five
hundred and seventy-two spindles and ten knitting-looms. They make a
specialty of hosiery yarns and stockinets. Under the present management
the business has largely increased, and the quality of their goods has
acquired a well-merited reputation."
continued in part 36.