Announcement.
_____
To the Voters of Crow Wing
County.
Learning on my return home this week that I am reported as a candidate for the office of Sheriff at the coming election this fall, I will state most possitively that I am not a candidate for sheriff or any other office this fall, but that I will be found in the future, as in the past, at the NEW LE BON TON Billiard, Sample and Lunch Hall, where I shall be pleased to see my friends both old and new. I am, gentlemen, your obedient servant. ED. R. FRENCH.
(Brainerd Tribune, 30 August 1879, p. 4, c. 3)
Ed. R. French is feeling pretty good over his new $40 suit of clothes and boots won from our genial livery man P. Mertz on the Ohio election, and Mertz is considerably disgusted with his native State. (Brainerd Tribune, 25 October 1879, p. 4, c. 1)
New Le Bon Ton.
_____
The following is a partial inventory of the immense and varied stock I keep on hand for my customers: McBrayer’s Sour Mash Whiskey, 3 years old. Stafford's Sweet Mash Whiskey, 2 1/2 years old. Staff of Life Ext. common whiskey, 2 years old. Scotch Whiskey, imported and genuine. California Brandy, 3 1/2 years old; California Port Wine, 3 years old; California Sherry Wine, 4 years old. Kummell’s imported, and 4 years in my cellar. Jamaica Rum. Rum Punch. Blackberry, Peach, Apple, Cherry and Ginger Brandy. Benz & Becht’s Premium Bitters, in bulk and bottles. Gin, Imperial, in bulk. Gin, Old Rotterdam, in bottles. Bitters. I have Reed’s Gilt Edge, Reed’s Cocktail, Pineapple, Boonekamp, Angostura, Bokers, Tanze, Checkerberry, &c., &c. Champaign—we have two brands, ie.: Piper Heidsieck, & Siegle’s extra dry. Kelly Island, Catawba and Concord Wines. Brandy, Cherries and Peaches. Absinthe, &c. And in the Lunch Department I have Bulk Oysters, fresh, and they are nice prime and never have been frozen, served Stewed or Raw. Cove Oysters, Sardines in oil, Russian Sardines, Lobsters, Russian Caviar, Boneless Pigs’ Feet, Pickled Pigs Feet, Tripe, Lamb’s Tongue, Holland Herring, Smoked and Dried Herring, Yarmouth Bloaters, Boneless Turkey and Chicken, Cervelat Sausage, Head Cheese, Limburger Cheese, Swiss Cheese, Smoked and Dried Salmon, Smoked and Dried Halibut, and a great many other things too numerous to mention. I have also Smoking Tobaccos, Chewing Tobaccos both fine cut and plug. Pipes, Cigarettes and Cigarette Holders, &c., &c. Now, friends and neighbors, come and see if I have these things or not.
ED. R. FRENCH,
Proprietor, and the Boss Muddler on the N. P.
(Brainerd Tribune, 31 January 1880, p. 4, c. 2)
The past week has been one of no little interest in the legal line, and bids fair, according to present indication to date, the nucleus for a number of law suits before the matters involved are disposed of, neighbors E. R. French and J. L. Starcher being the litigants. Mr. French is occupying a building, the one lately occupied by Guyllenberg's saloon, on Laurel street, for a store room which is owned by Mr. Starcher, and for which Mr. S. claims he has no lease. On Tuesday morning Mr. F. found his goods piled up in the street and the door and windows removed from the building. He replaced the goods and nailed up the door and windows, when Mr. S. set carpenters at work to remove the front of the building with a view to putting in a glass front and they had removed a few clapboards, when they were stopped by Mr. F. Mr. S. then had Mr. F. arrested for assault upon the carpenters. J. D. Ensign, of Duluth, was sent for to conduct the defense, and on Wednesday moring the action was dismissed. Mr. F. then instituted proceedings for false imprisonment claiming damages in the sum of $1000, the papers being served yesterday. Mr. S. proposes bringing suit for ejectment, and several other actions are talked of. Meantime the front of the building in question presents a rather dilapidated appearance. Though the TRIBUNE entertains no enmity towards the legal fraternity, its advice to the parties litigant would be, that lawyers charge heavy fees, and law, though a good thing in its place, is an expensive luxury. Better settle your differences amicably and be neighborly. (Brainerd Tribune, 08 May 1880, p. 1, c. 3)
French, Edward R.
Is the eldest son of A. R. French, who was born in the state of New York on the 25th of November, 1802. He came to Minnesota in 1834, and was a soldier in the Regular Army, stationed at Fort Snelling. In 1836, he married Mary Ann Henry, a direct descendant of Patrick Henry, and was soon after ordered away on duty. His wife returned to her home in Ohio, where our subject was born on the 24th of January, 1838. In June, 1842, she, with her son returned to her husband at Fort Snelling. The father remained in service till 1848, when he engaged in farming, between St. Paul and the Fort, till the spring of 1849; then lived in St. Paul till 1853. In the latter year, he removed to Dakota county, of which he was the first Sheriff. He served in the Civil War, as did also the subject of this sketch. In 1867, Mr. French, Sr. received an appointment in the Auditor's department at Washington, D. C., which position he still fills. Edward R., has spent his life in Minnesota, and since 1872, been a resident of Brainerd. Has since kept a house of public entertainment, and is at present proprietor of the new Le Bon Ton. He is a member of the board of County Commissioners. (History of the Upper Mississippi Valley, Winchell, Neill, Williams and Bryant, Minnesota Historical Company, Minneapolis: 1881; p. 647)
FIRE AT BRAINERD.
The Result of a Lamp Explosion
—Loss Stated at $17,500.
PARTIALLY INSURED.
BRAINERD, Jan. 23.—This morning at 2 o'clock a lamp left burning in the new Le Bon Ton [South side of Laurel midway between Fifth and Sixth Streets], owned by Ed. R. French, exploded, cause unknown. Night Patrolman Evans, in the immediate vicinity at the time of the explosion, gave the alarm and aroused the inmates of the houses in the block. It was almost impossible to secure assistance, but in course of time a crowd gathered. Men were hampered by lack of facilities for procuring water. The little obtained was applied where it was of most service. After the Le Bon Ton was wrapped in flames Sumner & Irving's restaurant followed. Roscoe's saloon, on the corner, was next the victim. L. Hendrickson's gun store, his new shop and residence followed. The boot and shoe shop, and next the Gem saloon [?16 South Sixth Street] fell prey to the fire. Soon McKee's saloon, next in the row to the victims mentioned, took fire. The building known as the American House owned by J. J. Coon, now in Iowa, who is the heaviest loser, went next. The furniture store owned by W. W. Winthrop was nearly all burned, and M. Hagberg's blacksmith shop [?13 South Sixth Street] was totally destroyed. Most of the tools were saved. The wagon shop of Geo. Perley, in rear of the blacksmith shop, also burned. Mr. Hagberg's house caught fire, but was extinguished.
THE LOSSES.
The following is about the state of affairs as near as could be learned: James Roscoe, stock nearly all saved, loss light; Sumner & Irving, restaurant, loss $200; Wm. Madison, loss $1,200, insured for $600; E. R. French, Le Bon Ton, loss $5,500; insured $3,400; P. McStay, Gem saloon, loss, $200; H. Spalding, saloon building, loss, $1,500; H. J. McKee's sample room, stock saved; Charles Coon, American House, loss $3,500, insured for $1,500; W. W. Winthrop, loss on furniture of American House $900; M. Hagberg, blacksmith shop, loss $500, no insurance; Geo. R. Perley, wagon shop, loss $500; Mrs. Geo. Johndron, loss on building, $200; L. Hendrickson, gun store, loss $500. (Minneapolis Tribune, 24 January 1882, p. 2)
Yesterday Mr. L. Hendrickson opened the safe belonging to Ed. French that passed through the fire. Most of its contents were very badly injured. Billiard balls, keno cards, and some valuable papers were burnt so badly that they will be of no further use. The safe was a Detroit company’s make of many years ago. It had to be broken open. (Brainerd Tribune, 29 January 1882, p. 4, c. 3)
French’s Assignment.
Ed. R. French who made such a hit with his new Le Bon Ton has at last been compelled to give in to the force of circumstances and he Wednesday made an assignment to Wm. Paine for the benefit of his creditors, who are mostly St. Paul and Minneapolis wholesale men. Mr. French has been doing an exceptionally large business and has made numerous improvements to meet the demands; these it was understood were not entirely paid for, and the interruption to business, as well as the direct loss by the fire, have crippled Mr. French to such an extent that he deemed it wiser to take this step. Let us hope that Mr. French may soon recover and go into business again. (Brainerd Tribune, 29 January 1882, p. 5, c. 4)
Murray & McCabe have purchased the lot where Ed. French’s Le Bon Ton stood before the fire. (Brainerd Tribune, 06 May 1882, p. 5, c. 1)
Alderman Ed. R. French is confined to his bed with sickness. (Brainerd Dispatch, Friday, 15 August 1884, p. 3, c. 2)
Death of Ed. R. French.
DIED—At his residence in this city on Norwood street, August 20, 1884, E. R. French, aged 46 years and 6 months.
For some days it was known that Mr. French was quite sick but until the day before his death no serious doubts as to his recovery were entertained. He had not felt well for several days, but did not take to his bed until last week Wednesday when Dr. J. C. Rosser was called who did all that was possible for human aid to do. The disease was lumbago and other complications set in, which, with congestion, finally resulted in his death. At no time during his illness did he think that he was in danger and even when Dr. Hawley was called in for prayer he did not seem to realize the situation. The morning previous to his death he sat up on the edge of the bed and conversed with his wife and family, but was so weak that it was evident that life could hardly linger more than 24 hours at the least, and at fifteen minutes past 12 o'clock noon on Wednesday he breathed his last, passing away very quietly and without pain.
Mr. French's father and mother was the first white couple married in the territory of Minnesota, the ceremony being performed at Fort Snelling, November 29th, 1836. His parents returned to Zanesville, Ohio, where he was born in January 1838. Mr. French's early life was spent in St. Paul, where he enlisted in the army March 19th 1862, in company G, of the 5th Minnesota, and was married to Emma E. Sackett at St. Paul, July 14th 1864, while home on a furlough. He was mustered out of the service September 6, 1865.
In 1872, twelve years ago, when Brainerd was a new town he settled here where he has since resided, during which time he has been connected with, and foremost in nearly every public enterprise that has been put forward in the city, and was at the time of his death an honored member of the city council. He has been a member of the order of Odd Fellows since 1860, and of the U. A. O. D. since 1881, and in both orders he has been a diligent and tireless worker. He united with the G. A. R. Post here at its organization and in the latter order he will be greatly missed.
Mr. French leaves five children and a wife to mourn his death. His father is still living and resides in Washington as does his brother; he has another brother in Baltimore, and a sister in Brooklyn, New York, and also a number of relatives living at Farmington, this state. Mr. French made ample provision for his family by having a life insurance of several thousand dollars which, together with the property in this city will leave them in moderate circumstances.
The funeral took place this Friday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock at the Episcopal church, the services being under the auspices of Wildly [sic] [Wildey] I. O. O. F. of which lodge he was an active member. (Brainerd Dispatch, Friday, 22 August 1884, p. 3, c. 4)
_____
To the Voters of Crow Wing
County.
Learning on my return home this week that I am reported as a candidate for the office of Sheriff at the coming election this fall, I will state most possitively that I am not a candidate for sheriff or any other office this fall, but that I will be found in the future, as in the past, at the NEW LE BON TON Billiard, Sample and Lunch Hall, where I shall be pleased to see my friends both old and new. I am, gentlemen, your obedient servant. ED. R. FRENCH.
(Brainerd Tribune, 30 August 1879, p. 4, c. 3)
Ed. R. French is feeling pretty good over his new $40 suit of clothes and boots won from our genial livery man P. Mertz on the Ohio election, and Mertz is considerably disgusted with his native State. (Brainerd Tribune, 25 October 1879, p. 4, c. 1)
New Le Bon Ton.
_____
The following is a partial inventory of the immense and varied stock I keep on hand for my customers: McBrayer’s Sour Mash Whiskey, 3 years old. Stafford's Sweet Mash Whiskey, 2 1/2 years old. Staff of Life Ext. common whiskey, 2 years old. Scotch Whiskey, imported and genuine. California Brandy, 3 1/2 years old; California Port Wine, 3 years old; California Sherry Wine, 4 years old. Kummell’s imported, and 4 years in my cellar. Jamaica Rum. Rum Punch. Blackberry, Peach, Apple, Cherry and Ginger Brandy. Benz & Becht’s Premium Bitters, in bulk and bottles. Gin, Imperial, in bulk. Gin, Old Rotterdam, in bottles. Bitters. I have Reed’s Gilt Edge, Reed’s Cocktail, Pineapple, Boonekamp, Angostura, Bokers, Tanze, Checkerberry, &c., &c. Champaign—we have two brands, ie.: Piper Heidsieck, & Siegle’s extra dry. Kelly Island, Catawba and Concord Wines. Brandy, Cherries and Peaches. Absinthe, &c. And in the Lunch Department I have Bulk Oysters, fresh, and they are nice prime and never have been frozen, served Stewed or Raw. Cove Oysters, Sardines in oil, Russian Sardines, Lobsters, Russian Caviar, Boneless Pigs’ Feet, Pickled Pigs Feet, Tripe, Lamb’s Tongue, Holland Herring, Smoked and Dried Herring, Yarmouth Bloaters, Boneless Turkey and Chicken, Cervelat Sausage, Head Cheese, Limburger Cheese, Swiss Cheese, Smoked and Dried Salmon, Smoked and Dried Halibut, and a great many other things too numerous to mention. I have also Smoking Tobaccos, Chewing Tobaccos both fine cut and plug. Pipes, Cigarettes and Cigarette Holders, &c., &c. Now, friends and neighbors, come and see if I have these things or not.
ED. R. FRENCH,
Proprietor, and the Boss Muddler on the N. P.
(Brainerd Tribune, 31 January 1880, p. 4, c. 2)
The past week has been one of no little interest in the legal line, and bids fair, according to present indication to date, the nucleus for a number of law suits before the matters involved are disposed of, neighbors E. R. French and J. L. Starcher being the litigants. Mr. French is occupying a building, the one lately occupied by Guyllenberg's saloon, on Laurel street, for a store room which is owned by Mr. Starcher, and for which Mr. S. claims he has no lease. On Tuesday morning Mr. F. found his goods piled up in the street and the door and windows removed from the building. He replaced the goods and nailed up the door and windows, when Mr. S. set carpenters at work to remove the front of the building with a view to putting in a glass front and they had removed a few clapboards, when they were stopped by Mr. F. Mr. S. then had Mr. F. arrested for assault upon the carpenters. J. D. Ensign, of Duluth, was sent for to conduct the defense, and on Wednesday moring the action was dismissed. Mr. F. then instituted proceedings for false imprisonment claiming damages in the sum of $1000, the papers being served yesterday. Mr. S. proposes bringing suit for ejectment, and several other actions are talked of. Meantime the front of the building in question presents a rather dilapidated appearance. Though the TRIBUNE entertains no enmity towards the legal fraternity, its advice to the parties litigant would be, that lawyers charge heavy fees, and law, though a good thing in its place, is an expensive luxury. Better settle your differences amicably and be neighborly. (Brainerd Tribune, 08 May 1880, p. 1, c. 3)
French, Edward R.
Is the eldest son of A. R. French, who was born in the state of New York on the 25th of November, 1802. He came to Minnesota in 1834, and was a soldier in the Regular Army, stationed at Fort Snelling. In 1836, he married Mary Ann Henry, a direct descendant of Patrick Henry, and was soon after ordered away on duty. His wife returned to her home in Ohio, where our subject was born on the 24th of January, 1838. In June, 1842, she, with her son returned to her husband at Fort Snelling. The father remained in service till 1848, when he engaged in farming, between St. Paul and the Fort, till the spring of 1849; then lived in St. Paul till 1853. In the latter year, he removed to Dakota county, of which he was the first Sheriff. He served in the Civil War, as did also the subject of this sketch. In 1867, Mr. French, Sr. received an appointment in the Auditor's department at Washington, D. C., which position he still fills. Edward R., has spent his life in Minnesota, and since 1872, been a resident of Brainerd. Has since kept a house of public entertainment, and is at present proprietor of the new Le Bon Ton. He is a member of the board of County Commissioners. (History of the Upper Mississippi Valley, Winchell, Neill, Williams and Bryant, Minnesota Historical Company, Minneapolis: 1881; p. 647)
FIRE AT BRAINERD.
The Result of a Lamp Explosion
—Loss Stated at $17,500.
PARTIALLY INSURED.
BRAINERD, Jan. 23.—This morning at 2 o'clock a lamp left burning in the new Le Bon Ton [South side of Laurel midway between Fifth and Sixth Streets], owned by Ed. R. French, exploded, cause unknown. Night Patrolman Evans, in the immediate vicinity at the time of the explosion, gave the alarm and aroused the inmates of the houses in the block. It was almost impossible to secure assistance, but in course of time a crowd gathered. Men were hampered by lack of facilities for procuring water. The little obtained was applied where it was of most service. After the Le Bon Ton was wrapped in flames Sumner & Irving's restaurant followed. Roscoe's saloon, on the corner, was next the victim. L. Hendrickson's gun store, his new shop and residence followed. The boot and shoe shop, and next the Gem saloon [?16 South Sixth Street] fell prey to the fire. Soon McKee's saloon, next in the row to the victims mentioned, took fire. The building known as the American House owned by J. J. Coon, now in Iowa, who is the heaviest loser, went next. The furniture store owned by W. W. Winthrop was nearly all burned, and M. Hagberg's blacksmith shop [?13 South Sixth Street] was totally destroyed. Most of the tools were saved. The wagon shop of Geo. Perley, in rear of the blacksmith shop, also burned. Mr. Hagberg's house caught fire, but was extinguished.
THE LOSSES.
The following is about the state of affairs as near as could be learned: James Roscoe, stock nearly all saved, loss light; Sumner & Irving, restaurant, loss $200; Wm. Madison, loss $1,200, insured for $600; E. R. French, Le Bon Ton, loss $5,500; insured $3,400; P. McStay, Gem saloon, loss, $200; H. Spalding, saloon building, loss, $1,500; H. J. McKee's sample room, stock saved; Charles Coon, American House, loss $3,500, insured for $1,500; W. W. Winthrop, loss on furniture of American House $900; M. Hagberg, blacksmith shop, loss $500, no insurance; Geo. R. Perley, wagon shop, loss $500; Mrs. Geo. Johndron, loss on building, $200; L. Hendrickson, gun store, loss $500. (Minneapolis Tribune, 24 January 1882, p. 2)
Yesterday Mr. L. Hendrickson opened the safe belonging to Ed. French that passed through the fire. Most of its contents were very badly injured. Billiard balls, keno cards, and some valuable papers were burnt so badly that they will be of no further use. The safe was a Detroit company’s make of many years ago. It had to be broken open. (Brainerd Tribune, 29 January 1882, p. 4, c. 3)
French’s Assignment.
Ed. R. French who made such a hit with his new Le Bon Ton has at last been compelled to give in to the force of circumstances and he Wednesday made an assignment to Wm. Paine for the benefit of his creditors, who are mostly St. Paul and Minneapolis wholesale men. Mr. French has been doing an exceptionally large business and has made numerous improvements to meet the demands; these it was understood were not entirely paid for, and the interruption to business, as well as the direct loss by the fire, have crippled Mr. French to such an extent that he deemed it wiser to take this step. Let us hope that Mr. French may soon recover and go into business again. (Brainerd Tribune, 29 January 1882, p. 5, c. 4)
Murray & McCabe have purchased the lot where Ed. French’s Le Bon Ton stood before the fire. (Brainerd Tribune, 06 May 1882, p. 5, c. 1)
Alderman Ed. R. French is confined to his bed with sickness. (Brainerd Dispatch, Friday, 15 August 1884, p. 3, c. 2)
Death of Ed. R. French.
DIED—At his residence in this city on Norwood street, August 20, 1884, E. R. French, aged 46 years and 6 months.
For some days it was known that Mr. French was quite sick but until the day before his death no serious doubts as to his recovery were entertained. He had not felt well for several days, but did not take to his bed until last week Wednesday when Dr. J. C. Rosser was called who did all that was possible for human aid to do. The disease was lumbago and other complications set in, which, with congestion, finally resulted in his death. At no time during his illness did he think that he was in danger and even when Dr. Hawley was called in for prayer he did not seem to realize the situation. The morning previous to his death he sat up on the edge of the bed and conversed with his wife and family, but was so weak that it was evident that life could hardly linger more than 24 hours at the least, and at fifteen minutes past 12 o'clock noon on Wednesday he breathed his last, passing away very quietly and without pain.
Mr. French's father and mother was the first white couple married in the territory of Minnesota, the ceremony being performed at Fort Snelling, November 29th, 1836. His parents returned to Zanesville, Ohio, where he was born in January 1838. Mr. French's early life was spent in St. Paul, where he enlisted in the army March 19th 1862, in company G, of the 5th Minnesota, and was married to Emma E. Sackett at St. Paul, July 14th 1864, while home on a furlough. He was mustered out of the service September 6, 1865.
In 1872, twelve years ago, when Brainerd was a new town he settled here where he has since resided, during which time he has been connected with, and foremost in nearly every public enterprise that has been put forward in the city, and was at the time of his death an honored member of the city council. He has been a member of the order of Odd Fellows since 1860, and of the U. A. O. D. since 1881, and in both orders he has been a diligent and tireless worker. He united with the G. A. R. Post here at its organization and in the latter order he will be greatly missed.
Mr. French leaves five children and a wife to mourn his death. His father is still living and resides in Washington as does his brother; he has another brother in Baltimore, and a sister in Brooklyn, New York, and also a number of relatives living at Farmington, this state. Mr. French made ample provision for his family by having a life insurance of several thousand dollars which, together with the property in this city will leave them in moderate circumstances.
The funeral took place this Friday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock at the Episcopal church, the services being under the auspices of Wildly [sic] [Wildey] I. O. O. F. of which lodge he was an active member. (Brainerd Dispatch, Friday, 22 August 1884, p. 3, c. 4)
Announcement.
_____
To the Voters of Crow Wing
County.
Learning on my return home this week that I am reported as a candidate for the office of Sheriff at the coming election this fall, I will state most possitively that I am not a candidate for sheriff or any other office this fall, but that I will be found in the future, as in the past, at the NEW LE BON TON Billiard, Sample and Lunch Hall, where I shall be pleased to see my friends both old and new. I am, gentlemen, your obedient servant. ED. R. FRENCH.
(Brainerd Tribune, 30 August 1879, p. 4, c. 3)
Ed. R. French is feeling pretty good over his new $40 suit of clothes and boots won from our genial livery man P. Mertz on the Ohio election, and Mertz is considerably disgusted with his native State. (Brainerd Tribune, 25 October 1879, p. 4, c. 1)
New Le Bon Ton.
_____
The following is a partial inventory of the immense and varied stock I keep on hand for my customers: McBrayer’s Sour Mash Whiskey, 3 years old. Stafford's Sweet Mash Whiskey, 2 1/2 years old. Staff of Life Ext. common whiskey, 2 years old. Scotch Whiskey, imported and genuine. California Brandy, 3 1/2 years old; California Port Wine, 3 years old; California Sherry Wine, 4 years old. Kummell’s imported, and 4 years in my cellar. Jamaica Rum. Rum Punch. Blackberry, Peach, Apple, Cherry and Ginger Brandy. Benz & Becht’s Premium Bitters, in bulk and bottles. Gin, Imperial, in bulk. Gin, Old Rotterdam, in bottles. Bitters. I have Reed’s Gilt Edge, Reed’s Cocktail, Pineapple, Boonekamp, Angostura, Bokers, Tanze, Checkerberry, &c., &c. Champaign—we have two brands, ie.: Piper Heidsieck, & Siegle’s extra dry. Kelly Island, Catawba and Concord Wines. Brandy, Cherries and Peaches. Absinthe, &c. And in the Lunch Department I have Bulk Oysters, fresh, and they are nice prime and never have been frozen, served Stewed or Raw. Cove Oysters, Sardines in oil, Russian Sardines, Lobsters, Russian Caviar, Boneless Pigs’ Feet, Pickled Pigs Feet, Tripe, Lamb’s Tongue, Holland Herring, Smoked and Dried Herring, Yarmouth Bloaters, Boneless Turkey and Chicken, Cervelat Sausage, Head Cheese, Limburger Cheese, Swiss Cheese, Smoked and Dried Salmon, Smoked and Dried Halibut, and a great many other things too numerous to mention. I have also Smoking Tobaccos, Chewing Tobaccos both fine cut and plug. Pipes, Cigarettes and Cigarette Holders, &c., &c. Now, friends and neighbors, come and see if I have these things or not.
ED. R. FRENCH,
Proprietor, and the Boss Muddler on the N. P.
(Brainerd Tribune, 31 January 1880, p. 4, c. 2)
The past week has been one of no little interest in the legal line, and bids fair, according to present indication to date, the nucleus for a number of law suits before the matters involved are disposed of, neighbors E. R. French and J. L. Starcher being the litigants. Mr. French is occupying a building, the one lately occupied by Guyllenberg's saloon, on Laurel street, for a store room which is owned by Mr. Starcher, and for which Mr. S. claims he has no lease. On Tuesday morning Mr. F. found his goods piled up in the street and the door and windows removed from the building. He replaced the goods and nailed up the door and windows, when Mr. S. set carpenters at work to remove the front of the building with a view to putting in a glass front and they had removed a few clapboards, when they were stopped by Mr. F. Mr. S. then had Mr. F. arrested for assault upon the carpenters. J. D. Ensign, of Duluth, was sent for to conduct the defense, and on Wednesday moring the action was dismissed. Mr. F. then instituted proceedings for false imprisonment claiming damages in the sum of $1000, the papers being served yesterday. Mr. S. proposes bringing suit for ejectment, and several other actions are talked of. Meantime the front of the building in question presents a rather dilapidated appearance. Though the TRIBUNE entertains no enmity towards the legal fraternity, its advice to the parties litigant would be, that lawyers charge heavy fees, and law, though a good thing in its place, is an expensive luxury. Better settle your differences amicably and be neighborly. (Brainerd Tribune, 08 May 1880, p. 1, c. 3)
French, Edward R.
Is the eldest son of A. R. French, who was born in the state of New York on the 25th of November, 1802. He came to Minnesota in 1834, and was a soldier in the Regular Army, stationed at Fort Snelling. In 1836, he married Mary Ann Henry, a direct descendant of Patrick Henry, and was soon after ordered away on duty. His wife returned to her home in Ohio, where our subject was born on the 24th of January, 1838. In June, 1842, she, with her son returned to her husband at Fort Snelling. The father remained in service till 1848, when he engaged in farming, between St. Paul and the Fort, till the spring of 1849; then lived in St. Paul till 1853. In the latter year, he removed to Dakota county, of which he was the first Sheriff. He served in the Civil War, as did also the subject of this sketch. In 1867, Mr. French, Sr. received an appointment in the Auditor's department at Washington, D. C., which position he still fills. Edward R., has spent his life in Minnesota, and since 1872, been a resident of Brainerd. Has since kept a house of public entertainment, and is at present proprietor of the new Le Bon Ton. He is a member of the board of County Commissioners. (History of the Upper Mississippi Valley, Winchell, Neill, Williams and Bryant, Minnesota Historical Company, Minneapolis: 1881; p. 647)
FIRE AT BRAINERD.
The Result of a Lamp Explosion
—Loss Stated at $17,500.
PARTIALLY INSURED.
BRAINERD, Jan. 23.—This morning at 2 o'clock a lamp left burning in the new Le Bon Ton [South side of Laurel midway between Fifth and Sixth Streets], owned by Ed. R. French, exploded, cause unknown. Night Patrolman Evans, in the immediate vicinity at the time of the explosion, gave the alarm and aroused the inmates of the houses in the block. It was almost impossible to secure assistance, but in course of time a crowd gathered. Men were hampered by lack of facilities for procuring water. The little obtained was applied where it was of most service. After the Le Bon Ton was wrapped in flames Sumner & Irving's restaurant followed. Roscoe's saloon, on the corner, was next the victim. L. Hendrickson's gun store, his new shop and residence followed. The boot and shoe shop, and next the Gem saloon [?16 South Sixth Street] fell prey to the fire. Soon McKee's saloon, next in the row to the victims mentioned, took fire. The building known as the American House owned by J. J. Coon, now in Iowa, who is the heaviest loser, went next. The furniture store owned by W. W. Winthrop was nearly all burned, and M. Hagberg's blacksmith shop [?13 South Sixth Street] was totally destroyed. Most of the tools were saved. The wagon shop of Geo. Perley, in rear of the blacksmith shop, also burned. Mr. Hagberg's house caught fire, but was extinguished.
THE LOSSES.
The following is about the state of affairs as near as could be learned: James Roscoe, stock nearly all saved, loss light; Sumner & Irving, restaurant, loss $200; Wm. Madison, loss $1,200, insured for $600; E. R. French, Le Bon Ton, loss $5,500; insured $3,400; P. McStay, Gem saloon, loss, $200; H. Spalding, saloon building, loss, $1,500; H. J. McKee's sample room, stock saved; Charles Coon, American House, loss $3,500, insured for $1,500; W. W. Winthrop, loss on furniture of American House $900; M. Hagberg, blacksmith shop, loss $500, no insurance; Geo. R. Perley, wagon shop, loss $500; Mrs. Geo. Johndron, loss on building, $200; L. Hendrickson, gun store, loss $500. (Minneapolis Tribune, 24 January 1882, p. 2)
Yesterday Mr. L. Hendrickson opened the safe belonging to Ed. French that passed through the fire. Most of its contents were very badly injured. Billiard balls, keno cards, and some valuable papers were burnt so badly that they will be of no further use. The safe was a Detroit company’s make of many years ago. It had to be broken open. (Brainerd Tribune, 29 January 1882, p. 4, c. 3)
French’s Assignment.
Ed. R. French who made such a hit with his new Le Bon Ton has at last been compelled to give in to the force of circumstances and he Wednesday made an assignment to Wm. Paine for the benefit of his creditors, who are mostly St. Paul and Minneapolis wholesale men. Mr. French has been doing an exceptionally large business and has made numerous improvements to meet the demands; these it was understood were not entirely paid for, and the interruption to business, as well as the direct loss by the fire, have crippled Mr. French to such an extent that he deemed it wiser to take this step. Let us hope that Mr. French may soon recover and go into business again. (Brainerd Tribune, 29 January 1882, p. 5, c. 4)
Murray & McCabe have purchased the lot where Ed. French’s Le Bon Ton stood before the fire. (Brainerd Tribune, 06 May 1882, p. 5, c. 1)
Alderman Ed. R. French is confined to his bed with sickness. (Brainerd Dispatch, Friday, 15 August 1884, p. 3, c. 2)
Death of Ed. R. French.
DIED—At his residence in this city on Norwood street, August 20, 1884, E. R. French, aged 46 years and 6 months.
For some days it was known that Mr. French was quite sick but until the day before his death no serious doubts as to his recovery were entertained. He had not felt well for several days, but did not take to his bed until last week Wednesday when Dr. J. C. Rosser was called who did all that was possible for human aid to do. The disease was lumbago and other complications set in, which, with congestion, finally resulted in his death. At no time during his illness did he think that he was in danger and even when Dr. Hawley was called in for prayer he did not seem to realize the situation. The morning previous to his death he sat up on the edge of the bed and conversed with his wife and family, but was so weak that it was evident that life could hardly linger more than 24 hours at the least, and at fifteen minutes past 12 o'clock noon on Wednesday he breathed his last, passing away very quietly and without pain.
Mr. French's father and mother was the first white couple married in the territory of Minnesota, the ceremony being performed at Fort Snelling, November 29th, 1836. His parents returned to Zanesville, Ohio, where he was born in January 1838. Mr. French's early life was spent in St. Paul, where he enlisted in the army March 19th 1862, in company G, of the 5th Minnesota, and was married to Emma E. Sackett at St. Paul, July 14th 1864, while home on a furlough. He was mustered out of the service September 6, 1865.
In 1872, twelve years ago, when Brainerd was a new town he settled here where he has since resided, during which time he has been connected with, and foremost in nearly every public enterprise that has been put forward in the city, and was at the time of his death an honored member of the city council. He has been a member of the order of Odd Fellows since 1860, and of the U. A. O. D. since 1881, and in both orders he has been a diligent and tireless worker. He united with the G. A. R. Post here at its organization and in the latter order he will be greatly missed.
Mr. French leaves five children and a wife to mourn his death. His father is still living and resides in Washington as does his brother; he has another brother in Baltimore, and a sister in Brooklyn, New York, and also a number of relatives living at Farmington, this state. Mr. French made ample provision for his family by having a life insurance of several thousand dollars which, together with the property in this city will leave them in moderate circumstances.
The funeral took place this Friday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock at the Episcopal church, the services being under the auspices of Wildly [sic] [Wildey] I. O. O. F. of which lodge he was an active member. (Brainerd Dispatch, Friday, 22 August 1884, p. 3, c. 4)
_____
To the Voters of Crow Wing
County.
Learning on my return home this week that I am reported as a candidate for the office of Sheriff at the coming election this fall, I will state most possitively that I am not a candidate for sheriff or any other office this fall, but that I will be found in the future, as in the past, at the NEW LE BON TON Billiard, Sample and Lunch Hall, where I shall be pleased to see my friends both old and new. I am, gentlemen, your obedient servant. ED. R. FRENCH.
(Brainerd Tribune, 30 August 1879, p. 4, c. 3)
Ed. R. French is feeling pretty good over his new $40 suit of clothes and boots won from our genial livery man P. Mertz on the Ohio election, and Mertz is considerably disgusted with his native State. (Brainerd Tribune, 25 October 1879, p. 4, c. 1)
New Le Bon Ton.
_____
The following is a partial inventory of the immense and varied stock I keep on hand for my customers: McBrayer’s Sour Mash Whiskey, 3 years old. Stafford's Sweet Mash Whiskey, 2 1/2 years old. Staff of Life Ext. common whiskey, 2 years old. Scotch Whiskey, imported and genuine. California Brandy, 3 1/2 years old; California Port Wine, 3 years old; California Sherry Wine, 4 years old. Kummell’s imported, and 4 years in my cellar. Jamaica Rum. Rum Punch. Blackberry, Peach, Apple, Cherry and Ginger Brandy. Benz & Becht’s Premium Bitters, in bulk and bottles. Gin, Imperial, in bulk. Gin, Old Rotterdam, in bottles. Bitters. I have Reed’s Gilt Edge, Reed’s Cocktail, Pineapple, Boonekamp, Angostura, Bokers, Tanze, Checkerberry, &c., &c. Champaign—we have two brands, ie.: Piper Heidsieck, & Siegle’s extra dry. Kelly Island, Catawba and Concord Wines. Brandy, Cherries and Peaches. Absinthe, &c. And in the Lunch Department I have Bulk Oysters, fresh, and they are nice prime and never have been frozen, served Stewed or Raw. Cove Oysters, Sardines in oil, Russian Sardines, Lobsters, Russian Caviar, Boneless Pigs’ Feet, Pickled Pigs Feet, Tripe, Lamb’s Tongue, Holland Herring, Smoked and Dried Herring, Yarmouth Bloaters, Boneless Turkey and Chicken, Cervelat Sausage, Head Cheese, Limburger Cheese, Swiss Cheese, Smoked and Dried Salmon, Smoked and Dried Halibut, and a great many other things too numerous to mention. I have also Smoking Tobaccos, Chewing Tobaccos both fine cut and plug. Pipes, Cigarettes and Cigarette Holders, &c., &c. Now, friends and neighbors, come and see if I have these things or not.
ED. R. FRENCH,
Proprietor, and the Boss Muddler on the N. P.
(Brainerd Tribune, 31 January 1880, p. 4, c. 2)
The past week has been one of no little interest in the legal line, and bids fair, according to present indication to date, the nucleus for a number of law suits before the matters involved are disposed of, neighbors E. R. French and J. L. Starcher being the litigants. Mr. French is occupying a building, the one lately occupied by Guyllenberg's saloon, on Laurel street, for a store room which is owned by Mr. Starcher, and for which Mr. S. claims he has no lease. On Tuesday morning Mr. F. found his goods piled up in the street and the door and windows removed from the building. He replaced the goods and nailed up the door and windows, when Mr. S. set carpenters at work to remove the front of the building with a view to putting in a glass front and they had removed a few clapboards, when they were stopped by Mr. F. Mr. S. then had Mr. F. arrested for assault upon the carpenters. J. D. Ensign, of Duluth, was sent for to conduct the defense, and on Wednesday moring the action was dismissed. Mr. F. then instituted proceedings for false imprisonment claiming damages in the sum of $1000, the papers being served yesterday. Mr. S. proposes bringing suit for ejectment, and several other actions are talked of. Meantime the front of the building in question presents a rather dilapidated appearance. Though the TRIBUNE entertains no enmity towards the legal fraternity, its advice to the parties litigant would be, that lawyers charge heavy fees, and law, though a good thing in its place, is an expensive luxury. Better settle your differences amicably and be neighborly. (Brainerd Tribune, 08 May 1880, p. 1, c. 3)
French, Edward R.
Is the eldest son of A. R. French, who was born in the state of New York on the 25th of November, 1802. He came to Minnesota in 1834, and was a soldier in the Regular Army, stationed at Fort Snelling. In 1836, he married Mary Ann Henry, a direct descendant of Patrick Henry, and was soon after ordered away on duty. His wife returned to her home in Ohio, where our subject was born on the 24th of January, 1838. In June, 1842, she, with her son returned to her husband at Fort Snelling. The father remained in service till 1848, when he engaged in farming, between St. Paul and the Fort, till the spring of 1849; then lived in St. Paul till 1853. In the latter year, he removed to Dakota county, of which he was the first Sheriff. He served in the Civil War, as did also the subject of this sketch. In 1867, Mr. French, Sr. received an appointment in the Auditor's department at Washington, D. C., which position he still fills. Edward R., has spent his life in Minnesota, and since 1872, been a resident of Brainerd. Has since kept a house of public entertainment, and is at present proprietor of the new Le Bon Ton. He is a member of the board of County Commissioners. (History of the Upper Mississippi Valley, Winchell, Neill, Williams and Bryant, Minnesota Historical Company, Minneapolis: 1881; p. 647)
FIRE AT BRAINERD.
The Result of a Lamp Explosion
—Loss Stated at $17,500.
PARTIALLY INSURED.
BRAINERD, Jan. 23.—This morning at 2 o'clock a lamp left burning in the new Le Bon Ton [South side of Laurel midway between Fifth and Sixth Streets], owned by Ed. R. French, exploded, cause unknown. Night Patrolman Evans, in the immediate vicinity at the time of the explosion, gave the alarm and aroused the inmates of the houses in the block. It was almost impossible to secure assistance, but in course of time a crowd gathered. Men were hampered by lack of facilities for procuring water. The little obtained was applied where it was of most service. After the Le Bon Ton was wrapped in flames Sumner & Irving's restaurant followed. Roscoe's saloon, on the corner, was next the victim. L. Hendrickson's gun store, his new shop and residence followed. The boot and shoe shop, and next the Gem saloon [?16 South Sixth Street] fell prey to the fire. Soon McKee's saloon, next in the row to the victims mentioned, took fire. The building known as the American House owned by J. J. Coon, now in Iowa, who is the heaviest loser, went next. The furniture store owned by W. W. Winthrop was nearly all burned, and M. Hagberg's blacksmith shop [?13 South Sixth Street] was totally destroyed. Most of the tools were saved. The wagon shop of Geo. Perley, in rear of the blacksmith shop, also burned. Mr. Hagberg's house caught fire, but was extinguished.
THE LOSSES.
The following is about the state of affairs as near as could be learned: James Roscoe, stock nearly all saved, loss light; Sumner & Irving, restaurant, loss $200; Wm. Madison, loss $1,200, insured for $600; E. R. French, Le Bon Ton, loss $5,500; insured $3,400; P. McStay, Gem saloon, loss, $200; H. Spalding, saloon building, loss, $1,500; H. J. McKee's sample room, stock saved; Charles Coon, American House, loss $3,500, insured for $1,500; W. W. Winthrop, loss on furniture of American House $900; M. Hagberg, blacksmith shop, loss $500, no insurance; Geo. R. Perley, wagon shop, loss $500; Mrs. Geo. Johndron, loss on building, $200; L. Hendrickson, gun store, loss $500. (Minneapolis Tribune, 24 January 1882, p. 2)
Yesterday Mr. L. Hendrickson opened the safe belonging to Ed. French that passed through the fire. Most of its contents were very badly injured. Billiard balls, keno cards, and some valuable papers were burnt so badly that they will be of no further use. The safe was a Detroit company’s make of many years ago. It had to be broken open. (Brainerd Tribune, 29 January 1882, p. 4, c. 3)
French’s Assignment.
Ed. R. French who made such a hit with his new Le Bon Ton has at last been compelled to give in to the force of circumstances and he Wednesday made an assignment to Wm. Paine for the benefit of his creditors, who are mostly St. Paul and Minneapolis wholesale men. Mr. French has been doing an exceptionally large business and has made numerous improvements to meet the demands; these it was understood were not entirely paid for, and the interruption to business, as well as the direct loss by the fire, have crippled Mr. French to such an extent that he deemed it wiser to take this step. Let us hope that Mr. French may soon recover and go into business again. (Brainerd Tribune, 29 January 1882, p. 5, c. 4)
Murray & McCabe have purchased the lot where Ed. French’s Le Bon Ton stood before the fire. (Brainerd Tribune, 06 May 1882, p. 5, c. 1)
Alderman Ed. R. French is confined to his bed with sickness. (Brainerd Dispatch, Friday, 15 August 1884, p. 3, c. 2)
Death of Ed. R. French.
DIED—At his residence in this city on Norwood street, August 20, 1884, E. R. French, aged 46 years and 6 months.
For some days it was known that Mr. French was quite sick but until the day before his death no serious doubts as to his recovery were entertained. He had not felt well for several days, but did not take to his bed until last week Wednesday when Dr. J. C. Rosser was called who did all that was possible for human aid to do. The disease was lumbago and other complications set in, which, with congestion, finally resulted in his death. At no time during his illness did he think that he was in danger and even when Dr. Hawley was called in for prayer he did not seem to realize the situation. The morning previous to his death he sat up on the edge of the bed and conversed with his wife and family, but was so weak that it was evident that life could hardly linger more than 24 hours at the least, and at fifteen minutes past 12 o'clock noon on Wednesday he breathed his last, passing away very quietly and without pain.
Mr. French's father and mother was the first white couple married in the territory of Minnesota, the ceremony being performed at Fort Snelling, November 29th, 1836. His parents returned to Zanesville, Ohio, where he was born in January 1838. Mr. French's early life was spent in St. Paul, where he enlisted in the army March 19th 1862, in company G, of the 5th Minnesota, and was married to Emma E. Sackett at St. Paul, July 14th 1864, while home on a furlough. He was mustered out of the service September 6, 1865.
In 1872, twelve years ago, when Brainerd was a new town he settled here where he has since resided, during which time he has been connected with, and foremost in nearly every public enterprise that has been put forward in the city, and was at the time of his death an honored member of the city council. He has been a member of the order of Odd Fellows since 1860, and of the U. A. O. D. since 1881, and in both orders he has been a diligent and tireless worker. He united with the G. A. R. Post here at its organization and in the latter order he will be greatly missed.
Mr. French leaves five children and a wife to mourn his death. His father is still living and resides in Washington as does his brother; he has another brother in Baltimore, and a sister in Brooklyn, New York, and also a number of relatives living at Farmington, this state. Mr. French made ample provision for his family by having a life insurance of several thousand dollars which, together with the property in this city will leave them in moderate circumstances.
The funeral took place this Friday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock at the Episcopal church, the services being under the auspices of Wildly [sic] [Wildey] I. O. O. F. of which lodge he was an active member. (Brainerd Dispatch, Friday, 22 August 1884, p. 3, c. 4)
Inscription
E. R. FRENCH
CO. I
5TH MINN. INF
Family Members
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