A look back at early area history as found in the archives of the Enderlin Historical Society and Museum ��� by Susan Schlecht
The following article was found in the general news section of the September 29, 1904 issue of The Ransom County Independent published in Enderlin. Then, as now, the growth of businesses within the community was a major topic of interest.
�Perhaps many of our readers are not aware of the fact that the business of Mr. James Walsh is developing into something more than a meat market for the accommodation of local trade. During the past year this gentleman has, in his quiet, methodical way, made many additions and improvements to his establishment, to the end that he now has quite a complete packing and rendering plant. He has installed a twelve horse power gasoline engine, power meat choppers and large rendering vats. His shipments of lard alone the past week have reached several thousand pounds, one order alone, to a merchant at McHenry being for 500 pounds of lard.�
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Along that same line, we find the following article in the August 18, 1904 issue of The Ransom County Independent published in Enderlin.
An Independent Elevator
Mr. W. J. Loomis is having an elevator built on the railroad track near the west end of the yards which will be completed about the first of next month. The gentleman will buy all kinds of grain and our farmers seem pleased that they will have an opportunity to see a little competition in the grain market.
Mr. Loomis has been in business here long enough to have the confidence of the community in his integrity and will doubtless get his share of the business. Here�s success to the Independent Elevator.
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The April 20, 1905 issue contained the following ads:
Pasture
I will pasture stock, including the city cows, in the old Fowler pasture, beginning May 1st. Will collect and deliver cows morning and evening. Terms: Horses, $4.00 per season; cattle, $2.25. Town cows, $2.00 per month. John Janz
Pasturage
Good pasturage one mile east of Lucca. Season opens May 10. Address: Jos. Schlagel, Elizabeth, ND
Sue�s comments: It was evident that Enderlin was already a growing community in 1904-1905 with a meat market that was very progressive for its time. It is great that we currently have the same progressive spirit with our Maple Valley Meats! I also find it interesting that there were ads to pasture the �city cows� with delivery services! I had never thought about that before. Can anyone tell me where the old Fowler pasture was? Also, the address of Elizabeth, ND was new to me.