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 41)
"American Hair-Cloth Padding Company. Messrs. Payne & Taylor, the former
hair-cloth company, erected a building, in 1854, upon the site of the old
anchor-shop of the Wilkinsons on East Avenue. Here they engaged in the
business of engraving for calico-printers. In 1855, a company styled the
Boston Hair-Cloth Company, began operations in this building, in the
manufacture of hair-cloth. They continued about three years, when they
abandoned it. In 1858, the Messrs. Payne & Taylor commenced the
manufacture of tailor's hair-cloth padding and skirting, using the
machinery that was left by the Boston company. In 1860, they discontinued
their business as engravers, sold their old looms, and secured the right to
use the Pawtucket Hair-Cloth Company's patent for feeding the hair, with
which they are furnished at present. In 1867, Mr. Payne died, and his son
succeeded him in the business. At this time the style of the firm was
changed, and took the title it now bears. They manufacture tailor's
hair-cloth padding, and ladies' hair-cloth skirting. They employ about
thirty operatives, and turn out six hundred yards per day.
James Q. Smith's Granite Works, located on Pleasant View, opposite
Riverside and Swan Point Cemetery. This extensive establishment was
founded by Mr. Smith, in 1869. He deals in all kinds of granite, and it is
the first establishment of its character located in the town. He has
facilities for the employment of twelve men, and keeps one team
employed. A splendid specimen of the work done at these granite works, is
found in the elegant monument of J. R. Fales in the Riverside Cemetery. It
was erected the present season, at a cost of $9,000, and is a fine specimen
of artistic skill.
French & Leach, successors of French Brothers, are engaged in the
manufacture of all kinds and styles of marble and granite work. Fine
specimens of their work are found in the various cemeteries and at their
place of business. John F. Kenyon, located on Pleasant Street, opposite
the Riverside Cemetery, is engaged in the manufacture of brooms."
continued in part 42.