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Some Whose Riches
Were Not Made In The Mines
| ANDERSON,
CHAS. J. |
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There are few men in the Klondike more widely known or more justly popular
than Charles J. Anderson, the subject of this sketch. Charlie, as he is
familiarly known, first went to the lower river camps - Fortymile and Circle -
in 1893, and was there continuously until 1897, when he removed to the Klondike
and purchased No. 29 Eldorado, a claim which has become world-famous for the
richness of its gravel. He also purchased a three-eights interest in 32
Eldorado which, like the other, is very rich ground. At No. 29 he works a
crew of 26 men in two shifts, and utilizes the water of the creek by raising it
23 feet with a steam pump, by which it is again and again passed through the
sluice-boxes. By this ingenious device he is always provided with a
"sluice-head." If it were not that he is famous for many other good traits, Charlie's
popularity would still be boundless by reason of the generous manner in which he
treats his men. Notwithstanding the highest wages paid elsewhere are $1
per hour, while many men pay as low as 60 cents, Charlie has paid his employees
$1.50 per hour, and will probably continue to do so while he has a shovel or a
pick raised. This generosity is fully appreciated by his men, who work as
well while he is absent as they do while he is there. He is very
successful in his mining operations, and always washes from the top dirt down to
bedrock. His open, genial, honest ways have made Charlie a favorite, even
where he is not personally known, and that he may live long to enjoy his riches
in the wish of all.
Mr. Anderson went to the outside in the fall of 1898, which was the first
time since he came here in 1893. While abroad he purchased a handsome
country residence not far from San Francisco, where his Klondike friends will
one day see him living in ease and happiness.
Source: The Klondike
Nugget,
November 1, 1899. |
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BARTLETT BROTHERS |
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The firm of Bartlett Brothers, packers and freighters, is as well known
throughout the Yukon territory as the names of Eldorado and Bonanza.
Everyone who came over the White Pass during the rush of '97-'98 will remember
the long pack trains of the Bartlett Brothers which then did the work now being
done by the White Pass & Yukon Railway. Their train consisted of 100
animals and with these, hundreds of tons of merchandise were packed over the
White Pass to Lake Bennett for trans-shipment to Dawson.
When the rush of that busy period was over the Messrs. Bartlett came on into
the metropolis of the Yukon, bringing with them the big pack train which had
netted them a comfortable stake on the White Pass.
At the present time they are working 88 animals between Dawson and different
points on the creeks, including Grand Forks, Gold Bottom and Dominion. On
the latter creek they own large stables for the accommodation of their pack
trains.
The efforts of this energetic firm, however, have not ceased with the
handling of goods for other parties. On both Dominion ad Gold Bottom
creeks they have opened up large stores, which they have stocked with as fine
and varied assortment of goods as can be purchased anywhere in Dawson.
They also operate the largest hotels upon the two creeks named, and cater to the
wants of the public in a manner that is winning them a constantly increasing
army of patrons.
The different houses operated by the firm are stocked with the finest brands
of wines, liquors and cigars obtainable, and every effort is made to insure the
comfort of those who patronize them. The main office of the Bartlett Bros.
is on First avenue, in Dawson, with a branch establishment on Fifth avenue, near
the bridge.
Both the brothers, Michael and Edward, are young men who have only their own
industry and untiring attention to business to thank for the success which has
attended their efforts in the Klondike. In addition to their freighting
business they are largely interested in mining property, notably on a bench
opposite No. 5 below upper discovery on Dominion and a hillside opposite 24
below.
During the present winter they will operate a daily stage between Dawson,
Gold Bottom and Dominion. The site of their hotel and store on the latter
creek commands a striking view upon all sides. They have recently added a
meat market to their other business and are now furnishing their customers with
all classes of fresh meats, which the market affords.
Cariboo hotel, which is the name of the Dominion creek house, is a
pretentious two-story structure. The dimensions are 25x40 feet.
The Bartlett boys have been operating in the Klondike a little more than a
year and a half, and in that short time have won a marked and deserved success.
Klondike Nugget,
November 1, 1899. |
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| BERRY,
CLARENCE J. |
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Clarence J. Berry is among those fortunate ones who came up from the lower
country during the original Klondike stampede. Mr. Berry is a native of
California, in which state he was reared and educated. His experience in
the Yukon is by no means his first introduction into mining, as he had engaged
in the same pursuit for some years before leaving California.
Mr. Berry was at Fortymile when news of the strike on Bonanza creek reached
that camp. Leaving there with others who were bent upon getting in on the
ground floor, he succeeded in securing No. 6 on Eldorado creek, of which claim
he is the sole owner. Clarence was among the first to demonstrate the
wealth lying beneath the surface on Eldorado, the fame of which creek has since
gone around the entire world. He was also among the originators of the
idea that mechanical means could be successfully applied to the development of
ground in the Klondike. Mr. Berry owns altogether 838 feet of the richest
ground on Eldorado, including besides his original claim - No. 6, a half
interest in No. 5, and five fractions. Among his other holdings are No. 3
below and one half of No. 40 above on Bonanza, two-thirds of No. 21 below on
Hunker, and one-half of No. 42 on the same creek, and one-half of No. 18 below
upper on Dominion.
He makes his headquarters upon his Eldorado claim - No. 6, to the development
of which property he gives his personal attention. Forty men are employed
on the claim who are divided into two shifts of 20 each, working a period of 10
hours.
Realizing, as noted above, the advantage that would accrue from applying
mechanical methods in overcoming the peculiar difficulties that are met with in
the development of Yukon placer grounds, Mr. Berry has placed a large steam
plant upon his Eldorado ground.
A boiler of 30-horsepower and a 15-horsepower engine are now being used to
raise the surplus water from the creek to a height of 25 feet for sluicing
purposes. A centrifugal pump furnishes the force by which the water is
raised. It requires a total of 1000 feet of boxes to carry the water back
to the point where it joins the main run.
A most interesting feature on No. 6 is the system of derricks and hoists
employed in lifting the pay dirt. A series of buckets, working on the
endless chain principle, carry the rich pay dirt to the sluice boxes. The
buckets are large, averaging in capacity 35 pans. During a shift of 10
hours, the number of buckets of pay dirt taken out runs in the neighborhood of
750.
The waste is thrown back on the lower end of the claim from which the pay has
already been taken.
A plant for generating electricity has recently been placed on the claim.
The plant furnishes three arc lights and 30 16-candle incandescent lamps, a
portion of which are used in Mr. Berry's residence, the balance being employed
in lighting the claim during the working of the night shift.
Mr. Berry is a scientific as well as practical miner, having devoted a great
deal of time and effort in acquainting himself with the latest and most improved
methods of placer mining. While he remains at the diggings he gives his
personal attention to the direction of the work and keeps in touch with all its
numerous details. He does not, however, overlook the comforts and luxuries
of life, even while sojourning in the Klondike. His residence at No. 6 is
a commodious, two-story structure, the only one of its kind on the creek.
It is lighted throughout by electricity and is furnished with all the
conveniences and luxuries that good taste and experience might suggest and money
procure. A stranger entering the house is impressed immediately with the
fact that feminine influence is present. The tastefully arranged and
daintily decorated rooms betray this, even before Mrs. Berry, the presiding
genius of the household, is met with. Mrs. Berry accompanies her husband
on his trips in and out of the country, and remains with him on the claim during
the sluicing season. She takes great pride in her Klondike home, and its
surroundings. She rejoices especially in the possession of two beautiful
Jersey cows, which were purchased in Dawson for $500 and $750 respectively.
The dairy is always plentifully supplied with butter and milk, and last winter
supplied many a poor sick fellow on the creek with nourishment he otherwise
would have been unable to obtain. The cows find splendid grazing on the
creek, and do as well, if not better, than in California. Six gallons of
milk per day is the average output of the dairy, which Mrs. Berry values more
highly than many of the rich pans that come from her husband's claim.
Mr. and Mrs. Berry have a beautiful collection of nuggets, ranging in value
from $118 down.
He found this large nugget since his return from the outside last spring.
Mr. Berry's great wealth has in no way affected his individual character, and
he is today the same genial and approachable man he was before he became famous
as an Eldorado King.
During his absence on the outside he leaves all his interests in charge of
Mr. J. H. Hammel, who himself is an old experienced California miner.
Under his careful and systematic direction the Berry properties are handled in a
manner most satisfactory to the owner.
Source: The Klondike
Nugget,
November 1, 1899. |
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BURPEE, ISAAC |
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The first claim staked on Bonanza after George Carmack's world-famous
discovery, was 14 below and it was located by H. F. Waugh, a native of New
Brunswick. This young and adventurous man came into the Yukon in the early
part of 1896 and prospected in the Hootalinqua country. Finding prospects
unpromising he started for the Fortymile diggings with two partners, but stopped
off at the Klondike just at the time of Carmack's discovery. The men went
up Bonanza gulch at once and stake Nos. 14, 15 and 16 below, choosing the
location because of surface indications and the presence of a bend in the creek
at that point. Their judgment proved true, for all the claims proved to be
very rich. On No. 14, Mr. Waugh's claim, the first log cabin built on
Bonanza was located and it was occupied by the first mining recorder of the
district. The first large pan of gold taken from Bonanza was also found on
No. 14. Mr. Waugh, it will therefore be seen, was a sort of history maker.
In the spring of '98 Mr. Isaac Burpee, also of New Brunswick, came to the
Klondike and purchased the interests of the other partners in the three claims.
He and Mr. Waugh have since then acquired Nos. 16 and 17 above on Hunker, which
are producers of exceptional richness.
The gentlemen are both young, energetic and industrious, with good business
ability, and promise to become heavy holders of good properties, as they
deserve.
Source: The Klondike
Nugget,
November 1, 1899. |
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| BURT, HERBERT |
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The above named gentleman is the proprietor of the Dominion Central hotel,
located at 36 below upper discovery on Dominion creek. Mr. Burt was
formerly associated with the Yukon Trading Company, but in May last established
himself in the hotel business. He originally came to the Yukon country in
the spring of 1897, via St. Michaels, stopping at Circle City. From there
he returned again to the States and came into Dawson by the up-river route in
the spring of 1898. Last winter he engaged in the business of freighting
between Dawson and Bonanza and Eldorado creeks. He is still successfully
conducting his freighting business, making use at the present time of six pack
animals. In connection with his hotel, he carries a large line of general merchandise
in which he is rapidly working up a fine business. During the approaching
winter he will operate a stage line between his hotel and Dawson, via Hunker
creek.
The new Dominion Central hotel is a pretentious and attractive building, and
the reputation earned by the house for excellent services is an indication of
what the traveler may expect in the new institution.
The hotel has ten large and completely fitted bed rooms. The carpeted
floors and spring mattresses are an agreeable surprise to all who have occasion
to patronize the house. In fact the entire interior of the hotel is rather
suggestive of what one may find in similar institutions in the states rather
than of a hotel in the Klondike.
A bunk house in connection with the hotel is now in course of construction,
and will shortly be ready for occupancy.
In consequence of a broad gauge policy the hotel enjoys a continually
increasing reputation as a first class stopping place and mine host Burt
naturally and justly feels proud of his success.
Klondike Nugget,
November 1, 1899. |
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DAY BROTHERS |
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Two hustling, energetic and successful Klondikers are found in the well-known
Day brothers, Hugh and A. H., and none are more deserving of their good fortune
than they. Hugh Day first came into the country in 1884, and after
prospecting for a time in the upper country he floated down the Yukon to the
Stewart, where he put in two years very industriously - 1885 and 1886.
Hearing of the strike at Fortymile, he went there, where he was joined by his
brother, A. H. In '96, when the strike on Bonanza had become known, the
brothers came to the Klondike together and have since been associated in a large
number of business and mining enterprises.
Among their belongings are a seven-eighths interest in No. 30 below on
Bonanza, where they employ 24 men in three shifts of eight hours each, and work
both summer and winter. They also own interests in No. 31 below on Bonanza
and No. 11 above on Bear, both of which are first-class properties.
Both are practical miners of wide experience, as their long residence in this
country would indicate, and give their personal attention to the superintendency
of their claims. These are also the gentlemen for whom the Day addition to
Dawson is named. It is correctly reported of Hugh Day that he has made ten
trips to the outside world, which is an achievement not connected with the name
of any other Klondiker, so far as The Nugget has been able to ascertain.
Source: The Klondike
Nugget,
November 1, 1899. |
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ENDELMAN, MAX |
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Grand Forks is a bustling little town at the junction of the
world-famous Eldorado and Bonanza creeks, and the pride of this village is the
Gold Hill hotel, which is one of the best hotels in the Yukon territory.
It was erected and fitted up by Max Endleman in the early part of this year and
has so rapidly won its way into public favor that it is accorded a leading
position among the first-class hotels of this territory. It is large and
roomy, and constructed and fitted up with a view to comfort as well as
convenience. In point of cuisine it is unsurpassed anywhere in the
Klondike country. Mr. Endleman gives his personal attention to the hotel,
though the management is vested in Mr. William Shooler, whose popular business
methods coupled with those of Mine Host Endleman, assures a continuation of
public favor.
In 1886, Max Endleman came to Alaska, making his headquarters at Juneau, and
was connected with the Alaskan government for many years, serving with
distinction as United States marshal. When the Bonanza discovery was made
he joined the rush to the Klondike and at once became identified with and
figured conspicuously in the development of the mining interests of Eldorado and
other creeks.
He is well posted on the location and condition off the various mining
sections of the country and well versed on mining topics generally. He is
possessed of a fund of valuable information to prospectors and investors, and
his geniality has won him an extensive friendship and acquaintance throughout
the surrounding country, especially among the traveling public.
Source: The Klondike
Nugget,
November 1, 1899. |
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FOSTER, WILLIAM |
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As is well known among all residents of the Yukon territory, the bars on
Stewart river had yielded good returns long before the Klondike gold fields were
known or even thought of. Among the early prospectors on the first named
stream was William Foster, the subject of this sketch. Mr. Foster, like
many others of our successful men, had been a miner by occupation long before he
came into the Yukon country. It was in the year 1886 that he first located
on the Stewart. After 12 months spent in bar digging and prospecting with
varying results he went to the Fortymile district in which camp he remained for
another year. At the expiration of that time he returned to the Outside and accepted a
position with the Treadwell Mining Company, with whom he remained for a period
of nine years.
He still retained, however, a lingering feeling that there was gold in the
Yukon and when the strike of '97 was reported outside, he left immediately for
Dawson.
His years of experience, both in placer and quartz mining, made his services
at once in demand and he was engaged by Messrs. Blake and Conrad to superintend
the development of their property, No. 15 above discovery on Bonanza creek, with
whom he has remained ever since. He will work a crew of about 20 men
during the approaching winter. Mr. Foster understands thoroughly the
handling of men and the methods which he has applied in the working of No. 15
have resulted most satisfactorily.
Klondike Nugget,
November 1, 1899. |
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GATES, HUMBOLDT |
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Humboldt
Gates is a native of Kilburn, Wis., but was removed to
California at a tender age. Nurtured amidst scenes and
stories of one of the greatest gold stampedes the world ever
knew, it is not at all surprising that at the age of 19 he
struck out for a new world in a search for the precious
yellow metal which is, after all, the inspiration of the
world. It was the spring of 1894, before Klondike was
dreamed of, that the subject of our sketch crossed the snowy
heights of Chilcoot, built his boat on Lake Marsh, and, with
his year's provisions, launched his craft and embarked upon
the mighty Yukon for he knew not whither Fortymile was then
the great camp on the Yukon, and, without much loss of time
the industrious Gates was at work upon Miller creek, upon a
claim staked by himself. He joined in the stampede of
'96 to the newly discovered gold fields of the Klondike and
arrived there in time to find the new Bonanza creek staked
to the headwaters. However, the then "Whipple" creek -
now Eldorado had vacant ground yet, and No. 28 was staked
and recorded in the name of Humboldt Gates. The most
wonderful discoveries on that stream the following winter,
which made millionaires by the dozen and turned the heads of
a world, gave the subject of this sketch at once ample means
to follow his bent and speculate to his hearth's content.
How well he invested his holdings will show. While
many an older miner struck greater luck at the first go off,
we cannot readily point out another than Alex McDonald
himself who more substantially and deservedly profited by
his first good luck than Humboldt Gates.
To illustrate the character of
our subject a story is told how in the height of the
Eldorado staking excitement of 1896-7, learning of the
critical condition of a miner at the then "Lousetown," he
did not hesitate a moment in speeding away for Fortymile for
the only qualified practitioner in the land. That the
wounded man's life was saved by this promptness is only one
of the many incidents of an eventful life. Many
stories are also told of his prowess as a hunter, the
results of his skill in tis line having in the early days
provided many a miner's table with the delicacy of fresh
meat in midwinter.
Notwithstanding his
remarkable success, Humboldt is one of the most easily
approached men in the district. Though of rigidly
correct habits himself, his leniency with the foibles of his
brother miners retains to him the hearty estimation which he
early secured. Today, though a wealthy man, his
frequent references to the past show him to retain a warm
place in his heart for the people and places of the early
days for the time when miners were more like brothers than
eager rivals.
At the present time Mr.
Gates is buffeting with the ice on the Yukon river.
One scow of machinery and provisions out of the three was
wrecked a few weeks ago in Miles canyon and one man lost.
The balance are frozen in on the way down. Mr. Gates
is a man of resources in extremity, and getting frozen in on
the Yukon, half way to Dawson, while of sufficient
importance to break the fortunes of some men will prove but
one more difficulty overcome to this manly young fellow, who
at 19 years of age had the courage to face a new life in the
unknown regions of the far north.
Mr. Gates has had the
cheering companionship of a number of his relatives in
Dawson at various times. His step0father C. W. Hall,
has acaquired several good interests, as has also a brother,
Edgar Gates, while Miss Mimosa Gates, a most estimable
sister, by an unusual business acumen, has become one of the
few self-made young ladies of America.
Humboldt Gates and Dr. L. O. Wilcoxon
For their age there are not two as successful Klondikers on the Yukon as the
subject of this sketch. Indeed, it is doubtful if there are many such in
the world. Read the following stupendous list of gilt-edge properties and
take into consideration the fact that not a dollar is owing on any of it:
12 below on Hunker.
24 below on Hunker.
6 below upper on Dominion.
11 above lower on Dominion.
8 below on Sulphur.
18 below on Sulphur.
29 below on Sulphur.
42 below on Sulphur.
51 below on Sulphur.
74a below on Sulphur.
112 below on Sulphur.
10 left fork, Eureka.
Everyone of the above is either being worked or undergoing extensive
preparations for work. Then there are the following, all bearing the name
of Gates or Wilcoxon, or both:
"Cariboo," quartz claim, Hunker.
Two hillside claims, 11 above on bonanza.
5 on Last Chance.
5 and 6 on Green gulch.
11 on Pure Gold.
23 above on American creek.
20 below on American creek.
Besides the foregoing the
young "hustlers" have several other claims on the Yukon and
extensive copper and quartz holdings at Haines' Mission and
Juneau.
The combined age of Messrs
Gates and Wilcoxon are not much more than that of the
average Yukoner, Mr. Gates being but 24 and Mr. wilcoxon 26
- a total of but 50 years. But in this rapid land of
the northwest it is not age that counts, but the qualities
of courage, brain and brawn. These, our subjects have
in large degree. Their grand good fortune is in no
particular the result of luck, but of industry, intelligent
grasp of opportunity, and a courage which must be born in a
man, for it can never be acquired. Both men are of
absolutely correct demeanor, perfectly upright in their
dealings, and inspire the confidence of all with whom they
are thrown in contact, to an unusual degree. Both are
perfect specimens of physical manhood - men to whom the
rigors of an arctic clime are mere nothings - simple
invigorators - and the enforced "mushing" of this strange
land merely invigorators and appetizers for the next meal.
To the confidence of youth
is added the wisdom of experience, which, together with
native shrewdness has landed them upon a wave of prosperity
which will quickly place them in a position, though only yet
on the threshold of life, to pursue their own ambitions no
matter to what heights they may soar.
Source: The Klondike
Nugget,
November 1, 1899. |
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| HAMMELL, M. A. |
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There is located on the east side of Second avenue, between Third and Fourth
streets, a well-stocked fancy and staple grocery store, managed and conducted by
Mr. M. A. Hammell.
Mr. Hammell was born in Mt. Gilead, Ohio, in 1855; he came west in 1871, and
at Oasis, Iowa, in 1879, he was married to the estimable woman who is now his
wife. For a number of years, he was engaged in commercial business in the
state of Montana. In 1885, Mr. Hammell first came to Juneau, Alaska, where
he devoted his attention to general merchandising. He and his wife enjoy
the distinction of being the first persons to transport a complete outfit over
the Skagway trail during the rush of 1897. Upon arriving in Dawson in the
summer of that year, his services were secured by the N.A.T.&T. Co., with whom
he remained until August, 1899. Then he opened his present establishment.
His stock comprises every food commodity required in the family household or
in the miner's cabin.
Klondike Nugget,
November 1, 1899. |
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HOBBS, O. W. |
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The Dawson Sawmill and Building company's establishment is the most complete
of its kind in the Yukon territory.
Mr. O. W. Hobbs is the sole owner and proprietor. He arrived in Dawson
in the spring of 1897, and by making a circular saw from pieces of an old
whipsaw and picking up a stray boiler and engine that had wandered into the
country, he was soon sawing lumber, and manufacturing store and office fixtures.
From this modest beginning, a plant representing a cash investment of
$100,000 stands today as a proof of his enterprise and confidence in the
stability of the town. In connection with his sawmill, Mr. Hobbs operates
a large planing mill and wood working department in which is manufactured a
variety of articles that range in quality from a dressed board to a roller top
office desk. He also carries for sale a full line of builders hardware,
wall and tar paper.
His undertaking establishment is the best in the territory, and it contains
the only assortment of burial cloths and casket trimmings north of Juneau.
This department is managed by an expert in the art of embalming bodies.
Last summer Mr. Hobbs directed his attention to the production of brick and
lime, in addition to his other interests. His brick kiln is located a
short distance from Dawson, up the Yukon. A splendid bed of clay has been
uncovered, from which there has been made already 150,000 of fine building
brick. The capacity of the kiln is 1,000 bricks per day. The lime is
secured about ten miles this side of Sixtymile. The deposit is extensive,
and the product is of excellent quality and well adapted for building purposes.
The success of Mr. O. W. Hobbs is well deserved.
Klondike Nugget,
November 1, 1899. |
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JOHNSON, J. SLOAN |
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It has been the custom of designate those men who came to Dawson before the
winter of '97 as "sour doughs." Subsequent arrivals are commonly known by
the tern "cheechako." Among this latter class is J. Sloan Johnson, who
reached Dawson on the 11th of May, 1898. Mr. Johnson is a miner of long years of experience and a specialist on
mineral formations and geological structures.
He lost no time looking about for nuggets in Dawson, but went immediately up
the creeks in order to investigate the district for himself, from the standpoint
of a geologist of practical experience.
After satisfying himself as to the future of the country, Mr. Johnson
established himself at No. 25 below discovery on Bonanza creek, and began
examining and experting properties for buyers. His headquarters have been
on the same claim during his entire stay in the Klondike, and in a period of
less than 12 months he disposed of properties aggregating in value more than
$235,000. Of all the properties he has handled, fully 99 per cent has
proven valuable and satisfactory to the purchasers.
While acting as agent for other parties, Mr. Johnson has not overlooked
picking up an occasional good buy for himself, all of which have resulted very
satisfactorily.
Having been tendered the superintendency of the great Garabaldi mine in
Mariposa County, California, he has disposed of all his Klondike interests and
has left for the outside. The Garabaldi is one of California's famous
mines, having now been actively worked for a period of more than 40 years.
There is a romantic feature in Mr. Johnson's life, which he refers to with
apparent pleasure. On the day previous to his departure from San Francisco
for Dawson he was married. His wife of one day bravely consented to his
proposed trip into the Klondike, upon agreement that he should send for her at
as early a date as possible. Mr. Johnson was as good as his word and early
last spring sent for his wife, who joined him in June last.
Mrs. Johnson accompanied her husband on his return trip to California, which
state she regards as her home.
Mr. Johnson's California headquarters will be with the Garibaldi Gold Mining
and Development Co., Room 6, Nevada block, San Francisco.
Source: The Klondike
Nugget,
November 1, 1899. |
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| JOSLIN, FALCON |
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Mr. Falcon
Joslin, the subject of our sketch, is the Dawson member of
the Seattle firm of lawyers, "Martin, Joslin and Griffin."
He was among the very first lawyers to reach the course of
the 1897 gold seekers. It is with amusement he relates
how upon his arrival there were neither law courts, lawyers
nor law practice. The most primitive law was dispensed
by the commander of the police detachment, while the
gold-commissioner decided hundred thousand dollar claim
cases with the ignorance of law and delicious abandon of a
child playing at keeping house.
To begin at the beginning,
Messrs. Joslin and Griffin, two partners of the Seattle
firm, joined in the stampede to the new land of gold in the
summer of 1897, and after killing the last of their 20
horses was tethered on the hills to browse and hung himself
by the neck in despair by throwing himself over the cliff.
Not at all disconcerted though feeling sorrow for the
faithful horses, the two determined partners loaded their
outfits onto a boat and, with the usual adventurous and hair
breadth escapes incident to the trip reached Dawson in just
60 days from the time of leaving Skagway. Though
thoroughly resolved to try their fortunes at mining upon
their arrival at Dawson the partners found mining business
in such a chaotic state from the lack of proper legal advice
on property and personal rights that they at once saw their
opportunity and opened up an office. Deeds, bills of
sale, options and contracts involving hundreds of thousands
of dollars had been carelessly drawn up without legal form
on angular scraps of paper of all colors and sizes, and from
the lack of anyone familiar with conveyancing so much
valuable property was on the ragged edge of insecurity, the
subject of our sketch, instantly upon his arrival found his
services in such urgent demand as to decide him at once that
the pick and prospect pan were not for him.
Judge McGuire came in over
the ice in February and opened the first court in the Yukon
territory, then the Yukon district - and for a time Mr.
Joslin, though an American, was allowed to practice in open
court. From then until the present time, Mr. Joslin
has conducted a highly successful legal brokerage and
business claims are managed for absentee owners in turst by
him, while his ten years' practice in Seattle gave him in
insight into corporation law most invaluable in this
district. Two important milling concerns availed
themselves of his services to close up their affairs - the
Arctic and Kerry companies, while a third, the White river
mill, is still being operated in trust by him. The
incorporation of important local concerns has been naturally
placed in the hands of this gentleman who for years was the
counsel of some of the largest Seattle concerns.
The firm lost some $60,000
in drafts, notes and mortgages in the destroyed vaults of
the Bank of British North America in the big Dawson fire,
but by a combination of good fortune and good management
have been able to duplicate everything without the actual
loss of a dollar. Clients with property in trust will
appreciate this more than the average reader. Mr.
Joslin has owned and owns yet, numerous pieces of Klondike
property, but it is in his holdings on the famed Jack Wade
creek in the Fortymile district that he prides himself most
of all. The investments were made after personal
inspection, and a slight vanity when judgment is so amply
borne out by developments as has been the case on Jack Wade
creek, is both natural and excusable.
Mr. Griffin has returned to
the Seattle office of the firm as the general prosperity on
the coast has been reflected in the firm's business, and it
has grown beyond the power of one gentleman to control.
Mr. Joslin has sole control of the Dawson affairs of the
concern and will remain to care for their interests and to
carry out the many trusts imposed by absentees in Martin,
Joslin and Griffin.
Source: The Klondike
Nugget,
November 1, 1899. |
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LAURITZEN, P. J. |
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A splendid illustration of Klondike pluck, industry and success is found in
the career of Mr. P. J. Lauritzen, who operates a claim on the famous Adams
hill. The gentleman came originally from New York, where he followed the
profession of architect and engineer. In 1897 he went to the Tanana river
country, where he remained until June of '98, when he came to the Klondike.
He was joined here by his wife and son, and the first named was fortunate enough
to secure a piece of ground 110x130 feet in dimensions on Adams hill.
Being an engineer, a practical man and a worker, Mr. Lauritzen has been more
successful than most of his fellows. He connected the claim on Adams hill
with Bonanza creek by means of a tramway, which he constructed in just 12 days,
and on this he conveys the pay-dirt to the creek to be sluiced. The claim
is a very rich one, and Mr. Lauritzen has reaped a golden reward for his
industry. He is possessed of excellent judgment in mining matters and is
one of the safest buyers in the country, as is attested by the richness of his
possessions on Sulphur and Dominion creeks. The gentleman evidently
regards the future of the Klondike from a most self-satisfied standpoint, and if
no untoward event interposes he will one day be enumerated among the leading
individual holders in the country.
Source: The Klondike
Nugget,
November 1, 1899. |
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LEE, JOHN B. |
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The hardships and dangers that men have undergone in reaching the Yukon gold
fields can never be realistically portrayed on paper. They can be
appreciated only by the man who has been there. To understand it all
requires the actual experience. It requires that the man who would know
what hardship is should take his pack on his back and climb the Chilkoot summit
in the midst of blinding blizzards. It requires that he should go into the woods and whipsaw his lumber and
launch his own boat at the headwaters of the mighty Yukon. Let him bring
his frail craft through the dangerous succession of lakes and rivers. Let
him navigate the rapids and avoid, if he can, the rocks in the treacherous
Thirty-mile that loom up to impede his progress at every twist and turn in the
stream. And then, when he reaches the interior, let him again assume his
pack. Let him travel over hills and through swamps and morasses,
contesting every inch of the way with countless swarms of mosquitoes, following
blind trail or guiding himself by the tread of the mountains or the run of the
creeks. Let him be out in the open during the middle of winter, perhaps
with nothing to eat, a single blanket to shield him from the fierceness of
winter blasts and with no accurate knowledge of his whereabouts. It is
through such experiences as those that men came to know the meaning of hardship,
and it was after passing through just such experiences that John B. Lee, the
subject of this sketch, came to fortune on Eldorado creek.
Mr. Lee hails from Snohomish county, Washington, and came to Alaska during
the early days of the Fortymile excitement. When the Klondike discovery
was made he came on with the rush from Fortymile, securing a half interest in
No. 32 Eldorado, one of the richest claims on the creek. He also owns two
interests on Sulphur below discovery, and one-half of No. 4 on Gay gulch.
Mr. Lee and his pleasant little wife are now located on his Eldorado
property, where he employs and actively superintends 24 men, running day and
night shifts.
He is a mining man of a number of years' experience and was quick to realize
that the crude methods of working frozen ground which had previously prevailed
in the Yukon could be vastly improved. In consequence, he has placed a
steam plant upon his property, for the double purpose of thawing and hoisting
the dirt and pumping water for sluicing purposes.
In addition to his interest in 32, Mr. Lee has also been connected with the
development of several others of the richest claims on Eldorado creek, his
various interests having netted him a handsome fortune.
Mr. Lee is essentially a modest man, who dislikes notoriety of any kind.
He prefers to enjoy the results of his success in the Yukon in quiet without the
spectacular accompaniment of sensational newspaper displays. He is an
open-hearted and generous friend, to which fact many who have been the
recipients of his acts of kindness can testify.
Source: The Klondike
Nugget,
November 1, 1899. |
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LOWE, RICHARD R. |
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Richard R. Lowe is a name not often heard in the Klondike, yet it belongs to
a gentleman who is known and esteemed from one end of the Yukon to the other.
"Dick" Lowe was one of the noted seven who made the original gold discovery in
the Black hills, and was also a prominent figure in the development of the Coeur
de-Alene country. From there he went to Juneau, Alaska, and in 1890 he
crossed the famous Chilcoot into the little known country of the Yukon.
After prospecting on the upper waters for a time, he floated down to Circle
City, where he was when the famous discovery was made on Bonanza. He came
to the Klondike as soon thereafter as possible, which was in 1897 and located
his present ground, which is a fraction adjoining No. 2 above on Bonanza, and at
the mouth of Skookum. Dick Lowe's traction is known to everybody in the Klondike as one of the
richest pieces of ground in the district. It has doubtless produced more
gold than any other piece of like size. The claim has been working 14 men
in two shifts of seven men each, and they are just closing up the summer's work.
Personally, Mr. Lowe is a miner of extensive experience and excellent judgment;
he is a rustler of the best quality and is sensibly devoting a large portion of
his gold to the acquisition of new properties, the latest of which is in the
Jack Wade district. He is an exceptionally companionable fellow, whom
anyone might be happy and proud to call his friend.
Klondike
Nugget,
November 1, 1899. |
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McNAMEE, JAMES |
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There is no one in the Klondike but knows popular James McNamee, and there
are none but admire his genial, broad-gauged and open-hearted ways. The
gentleman was among the early argonauts of the Yukon, having made the perilous
trip in 1889. Hardship and toil were the constant companions of the hardy
prospector then, as those who have since come in, have reason to know, and those
were days when the best and worst traits of man were developed. Out of
this task was evolved the "Jimmy" McNamee of today - the genial, open-hearted,
accommodating sourdough. He located first, like most of his fellows, in
the Fortymile country, and stayed with it until the big strike on Bonanza.
Joining the rush which followed, he located No. 60 above on Bonanza, and has
since acquired No. 26 below on Bonanza, No. 6 above on Victoria, No. 8 on
Homestead, a third interest in No. 21 below on Hunker and all of No. 19 above on
Hunker. He also holds a quarter interest in the belongings of a company
which owns Nos. 8, 9, 27 and 28 above on Hunker, Nos. 14 and 15 Eldorado and No.
32 above on Bonanza. It will thus be seen that Mr. McNamee is one of the
largest and richest holders of property, and is justly classed among the
celebrated Klondike kings. Mr. McNamee's genial ways and open-heartedness have surrounded him with a
wide circle of friends in whom he finds his chief delight. He is fond of
devoting his large wealth to their gratification and to the alleviation of the
sufferings of the unfortunate, though his gifts are always extended in the
modest, unostentatious manner, which indicates a genuineness of spirit which
prompts him. hat he will live to a green old age, with faculty to enjoy
his wealth to the end, is the earnest wish of all who know him.
Klondike Nugget,
November 1, 1899. |
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MATLOCK, GEORGE H. |
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Among the well-known, but most modest of the Bonanza claim owners is George
H. Matlock, a partner of James Monroe in No. 16 above on Bonanza.
This gentleman, like the other old timers, first located in the lower country
in 1887, coming from the state of Iowa. He came to the Klondike with the
rush in 1807 and located the claim with which his name has become connected.
He is a pleasant gentleman, somewhat retiring, but being widely known, just
the same, through his kindly ways and high integrity.
No. 16 is not so rich as some of the claims which have made Bonanza
world-famous; but it is a good claim, just the same, and is making its owners
rich men. The paystreak is very wide and deep, and the pay uniform, which
are the best feaures of a good claim.
Mr. Matlock works a corps of ten men on his ground, using the most approved
methods, and has proven very successful.
Source: The Klondike
Nugget,
November 1, 1899. |
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PINSKA, MARTIN A. |
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Probably no firm in Dawson is better or more favorably known than that of
Sargent and Pinska, whose line of clothing, furnishing goods, hats, shoes, and
furs, is one of the finest in the city. Mr. Charles S. Sargeant is from Duluth, Minn. He came to Alaska in the
fall of 1897, and spent the following winter in Skagway. He arrived in
Dawson in July 1898 and proceeded to direct his attention to mining.
Mr. Martin A. Pinska came from St. Paul, Minn., to Dawson in September, 1898.
He brought with him a large stock of furs, which was displayed in a neat store
on the water front, opposite the old Pioneer. In February, 1899, the
present partnership was formed. After suffering losss by fire, the firm
conducted business for some time on Second avenue. This summer they
removed to their present stand, which is situated on the corner of First avenue
and Second street - the best location in the city. During the summer, the
firm secured a large patronage by having the largest and finest stock of shoes
in the territory. Next December one of the partners will make a trip
Outside over the ice. Stock will be selected from the principal houses of
New York, Boston and Montreal, and no expense will be spared in landing it in
Dawson early next spring.
Klondike Nugget,
November 1, 1899. |
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RHOADS, L. B. |
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One of the most successful and competent mine superintendents in the Klondike
is L. B. Rhoads, of Nos. 21 and 23 above on Bonanza. Mr. Rhoads was the
original locator of No. 21, and purchased No. 23, but sold them to the Reliance
Mining and Trading Co., who retained him as superintendent for their properties,
which position he has held since 1897. No. 23 is not being worked, but on
No. 21 Mr. Rhoads has a corps of 23 men, employed in two shifts of ten hours
each. Both are rich claims, and a fortune is being turned out each year
from the one now under the pick and shovel. Mr. Rhoads uses the latest
methods obtainable in his work, and the claim is one of the most interesting in
the Klondike to the many people who visit it.
Mr. Rhoads came from Colorado and Wyoming, where he had been engaged in
placer and quartz mining since 1882. In the springs of 1805 he located in
the Fortymile district and the next year removed to the Klondike. He has
therefore, grown up with the country, obtaining a wide knowledge of its
conditions and the most successful methods for working its mines; this, with his
extensive experience on the Outside and the excellent judgment which he
possesses, explains his success in the conduct of famous 21. Mr. Rhoads
is, personally, of a very genial disposition, and delights in the possession,
and delights in the possession of a host of warm friends, among whom are most of
those who knew him in the trying days of '95-6.
Klondike Nugget,
November 1, 1899. |
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ROGERS, DR. T. N. |
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The gold discovery of Bonanza and Eldorado creeks, which made the Klondike
country famous throughout the world, brought us doctors, lawyers, preachers and
men of every profession, as well as the laity of every clime and country, among
whom was some of the best talent that culture and natural ability could produce.
An illustration of this fact is that during the early part of 1898, Dr. T. N.
Rogers, of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, arrived in Dawson and began the practice
of his profession. In this country, as well as elsewhere, merit wins and
the doctor went immediately into a good practice and stands exceedingly well in
his profession. Seeing the advantages of a location in Grand Forks he
moved his office there in March of this year. Being fully awake to the
speculative opportunities here he has acquired some valuable mining properties,
owning claims on Little Blanche creek, No. 13 Adams, No. 51a Eldorado, the four
hillside claims opposite Nos. 34 and 35 on the right limit, upper Bonanza, and
is largely interested in claims Nos. 3 and 8, Whitman gulch, and two benches off
the right limit of upper Bonanza.
The doctor was reared on the farm, where his youthful training and education
was fashioned after the good old-time way and his early manhood spent in
teaching school. He is a graduate of the Normal School of Ottawa and the
Toronto Medical University. At Sault Ste. Marie he established the only
hospital in the place, which he and his partner yet own ad conduct, and which
has won distinction as one of the leading institutions of its kind in the
Northwest. Notwithstanding his lucrative professional interests at his
Michigan home he is a permanent fixture in the Yukon and Grand Forks is to be
congratulated on securing his location. The doctor left recently for a
visit to the Outside.
Klondike Nugget,
November 1, 1899. |
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SARGEANT, CHARLES S. |
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Probably no firm in Dawson is better or more favorably known than that of
Sargent and Pinska, whose line of clothing, furnishing goods, hats, shoes, and
furs, is one of the finest in the city. Mr. Charles S. Sargeant is from Duluth, Minn. He came to Alaska in the
fall of 1897, and spent the following winter in Skagway. He arrived in
Dawson in July 1898 and proceeded to direct his attention to mining.
Mr. Martin A. Pinska came from St. Paul, Minn., to Dawson in September, 1898.
He brought with him a large stock of furs, which was displayed in a neat store
on the water front, opposite the old Pioneer. In February, 1899, the
present partnership was formed. After suffering losss by fire, the firm
conducted business for some time on Second avenue. This summer they
removed to their present stand, which is situated on the corner of First avenue
and Second street - the best location in the city. During the summer, the
firm secured a large patronage by having the largest and finest stock of shoes
in the territory. Next December one of the partners will make a trip
Outside over the ice. Stock will be selected from the principal houses of
New York, Boston and Montreal, and no expense will be spared in landing it in
Dawson early next spring.
Klondike Nugget,
November 1, 1899. |
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SPARKS, GEORGE F. |
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Among the throng who built their boats at the lakes in the spring of '98 and
piloted their own craft down the river to Dawson was the subject of this sketch,
George F. Sparks, who tied his boat alongside the water front of the city in
July of that year. Mr. Sparks had but one object in view in connection
with thousands of his fellow argonauts and immediately took such steps as in his
judgment would best enable him to realize his expectations.
Ascertaining the fact very rapidly that there were no choice Eldorado claims
left un-staked, Mr. Sparks proceeded to look for such opportunities as might
present themselves. It was at this time that Gold Hill, since famous the
world over, began giving indications which promised great things for the future.
The attention of Mr. Sparks and his partner, Mr. W. A. Whitley, was attracted
toward the hill as a promising spot for investment. It was contrary to all
tradition that gold should be found on the hill tops, but these gentlemen rather
placed their faith in the theory that gold is exactly where it is found.
After carefully examining the field, they accepted an offer to purchase an
interest in the well-known Travarro claim, located on the second tier off the
left limit of No. 2 Eldorado creek.
The claim is considered to be one of the richest on the hill, having already
produced several times the purchase price of $20,000. The claim, however,
has not as yet begun to be worked out, and thousands of dollars are still in the
gold laden gravel waiting to be taken out.
The claim is celebrated for the number and beauty of the nuggets which have
been taken from it. Many of them have been sent to the Outside as
keepsakes owing to their size and the oddity of the shapes they assume.
Single pans running as high as $96 have been found and by no means in
exceptional instances.
While working their rich Gold Hill ground, Messrs. Sparks and Whitley have
not been unmindful of other opportunities and now are possessed of several
properties, all of proved value.
They have recently bought into a bench off of No. 23 below discovery Bonanza,
on the left limit, paying $10,000 for their interest. This piece of
property, as far as prospected, is proving as rich as their Gold Hill claim.
They are working both of these properties with the latest approved machinery.
Messrs. Sparks and Whitley are natives of California, and possess the natural
miner's instinct. Each had spent a number of years in the various pursuits
of mining prior to the Klondike excitement. Their cabin is noted as a
center of pleasant hospitality, to which their friends who have been the
recipients thereof can well testify.
Klondike Nugget,
November 1, 1899. |
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| STEVENSON,
JOHN W. |
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Hoffman
House. Without doubt the Hoffman house is one of the most modern and most complete
establishments of the kind in Dawson. It is situated on the east
side of First avenue, between Second and Third streets. The first floor of
the main building is occupied by the saloon and bar. The finest of liquors
and cigars are dispensed by polite attendants and at reasonable prices. At
the entrance to this part of the establishment, there is located the office,
which is neatly furnished, and which contains the only Diebold time lock safe in
the Yukon territory. The second and third floors of the main building are
comprised of sleeping apartments, which are fitted with every modern
convenience. Adjoining the rear of the main building, has been constructed
the cafe addition, the ground floor of which contains a large horse-shoe eating
counter and five tables. The second floor of the cafe is divided into ten
private boxes, especially arranged for exclusive patrons. An expert chef
superintends the culinary department. In connection with the cafe, there
are a bakery, in charge of an experienced baker, and a butcher shop conducted by
an experienced butcher. The store house is filled with eatables of all
description, no inconsiderable portion of which are 30 head of dressed corn-fed
beef, direct from Kansas City, and 4,000 pounds of moose, bear and cariboo
meats. This establishment feeds 1,200 people daily.
Mr. John W. Stevenson is the sole proprietor and manager of this vast
enterprise. He is a native of Shasta county, California, and was born in
1858. His lifetime has been devoted to the hotel business; and he has
conducted successfully such establishments in San Bernardino, Redlands and Los
Angeles, California. On October 20th, 1898, Mr. Stevenson arrived in
Dawson. He immediately opened the Madden house cafe, but a constant and
rapid increase of patronage necessitated his removal to his present quarters on
July 4th of this year. The experience and ability of Mr. Stevenson have
earned for him the respect and confidence of his fellow men. His invested
capital in the Hoffman house amounts to the sum of $35,000. Mr. Stevenson
has every confidence in the future of Dawson and has demonstrated his faith
accordingly.
Klondike Nugget,
November 1, 1899. |
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SUTTON, J. H. |
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J. H. Sutton is one of the pioneers who has largely aided in the development
of this country. He is a native of New Castle, New Brunswick, and after
many years spent on the frontier of the Northwestern country, emigrated to
Alaska in 1897. Here he engaged largely in freighting for the Canadian government, packing
immense quantities of government provisions over the passes when the trip was
the most hazardous. After a very successful season, in the spring of '98
he continued on to Dawson, bringing in with him a consignment of provisions,
which he sold at an immense profit.
He then became interested largely in mining properties, and in the fall of
'99 received from the Canadian government a contract to build a public road
along the ridge.
As the contract was given late in the fall, it necessitated the employment of
a large force of men to complete it before winter interfered with its progress,
and Mr. Sutton rushed it through with the utmost expedition, paying for labor
the sum of $8 per day to each laborer, probably the highest wages ever paid for
unskilled labor on any road in the history of this country. The road is in
splendid condition, and the satisfaction it merits from all who have traveled
over it, is an evidence of the ability of its builder.
Klondike Nugget,
November 1, 1899. |
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| TOZIER, LEROY |
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Leroy Tozier
is a native of Portland, Oregon. He came to the
Klondike in the fall of 1897, and soon thereafter
established himself in the business of mining brokerage in
partnership with Lincoln Davis, under the firm name of
Tozier & Davis. The firm had their office in a corner
of the old Pioneer saloon building, and being one of the
first to engage in their line were enabled to acquire
valuable interests. Mr. Davis sold his holdings in
June, 1898, and returned to his home in Tacoma, Washington.
Mr. Tozier then formed a partnership with his former
associate in Seattle. Mr. N. D. Walling, a prominent
attorney of Washington. They control and own several
large blocks of mining property in the Dawson district and
in the American side of the Fortymile mining division, which
were acquired during the partnership that terminated in
June, 1899. Mr. Tozier is now located in the Joslin
building, No. 111 Second street, this city, where he is
enjoying a lucrative brokerage business. He is a
member of the committee on mines, mining and smelting of the
Dawson Board of Trade; takes an interest in public affairs,
owns individual interests on Bonanza, Bear, Hunker,
dominion, Sulphur and Quartz creeks and will undoubtedly
meet with success in keeping with his efforts and ability.
Source: The Klondike Nugget,
November 1, 1899. |
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TWEED, JAMES |
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JAMES TWEED.
One of the successful early timers, and one who richly earned his good
fortune by hardships and industry, is James Tweed, an Illinoisan. This
gentleman first located in 1895 in the Birch creek country, but in 1897 he came
to the Klondike. He located No. 30a Eldorado and worked the property for a
time, but later he sold out and purchased an interest in No. 7 above on Bonanza.
This claim, which lies by the town of Eldorado and at the mouth of Eldorado
creek, is a rich one, and is being systematically worked by Mr. Tweed, who
strips the ground in the summer and employs eight men in shoveling into the
sluice box; he also operates extensively in the winter. Mr. Tweed is also
interested in No. 4 above on Bear creek, which is exceptionally fine property.
Mr. Tweed has acquired a wide knowledge of mining affairs, and is thus able to
operate in the most economical manner. He is a clever, genial fellow, of
easy ways and popular with his friends.
Klondike Nugget,
November 1, 1899. |
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WAUGH, H. F. |
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The first claim staked on Bonanza after George Carmack's world-famous
discovery, was 14 below and it was located by H. F. Waugh, a native of New
Brunswick. This young and adventurous man came into the Yukon in the early
part of 1896 and prospected in the Hootalinqua country. Finding prospects
unpromising he started for the Fortymile diggings with two partners, but stopped
off at the Klondike just at the time of Carmack's discovery. The men went
up Bonanza gulch at once and stake Nos. 14, 15 and 16 below, choosing the
location because of surface indications and the presence of a bend in the creek
at that point. Their judgment proved true, for all the claims proved to be
very rich. On No. 14, Mr. Waugh's claim, the first log cabin built on
Bonanza was located and it was occupied by the first mining recorder of the
district. The first large pan of gold taken from Bonanza was also found on
No. 14. Mr. Waugh, it will therefore be seen, was a sort of history maker.
In the spring of '98 Mr. Isaac Burpee, also of New Brunswick, came to the
Klondike and purchased the interests of the other partners in the three claims.
He and Mr. Waugh have since then acquired Nos. 16 and 17 above on Hunker, which
are producers of exceptional richness.
The gentlemen are both young, energetic and industrious, with good business
ability, and promise to become heavy holders of good properties, as they
deserve.
Source: The Klondike
Nugget,
November 1, 1899. |
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WILCOXON, DR. L. ORVILLE |
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The doctor is
a native son of Iowa, though he grew to manhood in Chicago.
The medical profession attracted him and he followed his
bent with an unwavering persistence which promised much in
future conflicts for the hand of Dame Fortune. Special
studies were taken up at Rush Medical college, and it was in
the class of '96 that he graduated from the C.H.M.C., and
received his sheepskin. Hospital practice was
secured at Cook county hospital, besides several private
sanitariums with which he was connected.
In 1898 the stories of
Klondike's opportunities for the brave and the hardy caused
him to quit his hospital and private practice and engage
with one of the numerous Klondike expeditions as chief
surgeon. As was the case with so many of these
Klondike companies, it went to pieces at the first reverses
encountered. The doctor found himself on the Klondike
without the backing of his company, but fully equipped by
nature to hold his own in any event. No trip was too
arduous, no hardship too considerable and the early winter
found him well on his way to fortune. During the
winter a partnership between Messrs. Wilcoxon and Gates was
brought about by a mutuality of interests, similarity of
tastes, and the perfect trust between the two men.
In the summer of 1899 was
consummated the one cherished romance of the doctor's life -
he returned to civilization with ample means to
appropriately welcome "the girl he left behind him," when he
started out on his chase of fortune. The Chicago
Times-Herald, speaking of the wedding said: "The bride is a
beautiful young lady.... and a talented young woman of a
decided brunette type. She is a graduate of Salina
university, of Kansas." The doctor's many friends
united in congratulating him that in his but little more
than one short year he was able to return to the girl of his
choice with the wealth to establish a home beyond the
heart's fondest desire. The young lady was Miss
Claire Josephine Foote, the confidante of the young man's
earliest ambition; his encouraging angel in his long
struggle for an education and practice, and whose promise to
wait had proved the one spur necessary to fully arm him to
wrest fortune from an unwilling land that the ambition of a
life might be consummated.
The doctor attends strictly
to his numerous business affairs, the hour never being too
late, the journey too long or the burden too heavy, wherever
his business interests require him.
Humboldt Gates and Dr. L. O. Wilcoxon
For their age there are not two as successful Klondikers on the Yukon as the
subject of this sketch. Indeed, it is doubtful if there are many such in
the world. Read the following stupendous list of gilt-edge properties and
take into consideration the fact that not a dollar is owing on any of it:
12 below on Hunker.
24 below on Hunker.
6 below upper on Dominion.
11 above lower on Dominion.
8 below on Sulphur.
18 below on Sulphur.
29 below on Sulphur.
42 below on Sulphur.
51 below on Sulphur.
74a below on Sulphur.
112 below on Sulphur.
10 left fork, Eureka.
Everyone of the above is either being worked or undergoing extensive
preparations for work. Then there are the following, all bearing the name
of Gates or Wilcoxon, or both:
"Cariboo," quartz claim, Hunker.
Two hillside claims, 11 above on bonanza.
5 on Last Chance.
5 and 6 on Green gulch.
11 on Pure Gold.
23 above on American creek.
20 below on American creek.
Besides the foregoing the
young "hustlers" have several other claims on the Yukon and
extensive copper and quartz holdings at Haines' Mission and
Juneau.
The combined age of Messrs
Gates and Wilcoxon are not much more than that of the
average Yukoner, Mr. Gates being but 24 and Mr. wilcoxon 26
- a total of but 50 years. But in this rapid land of
the northwest it is not age that counts, but the qualities
of courage, brain and brawn. These, our subjects have
in large degree. Their grand good fortune is in no
particular the result of luck, but of industry, intelligent
grasp of opportunity, and a courage which must be born in a
man, for it can never be acquired. Both men are of
absolutely correct demeanor, perfectly upright in their
dealings, and inspire the confidence of all with whom they
are thrown in contact, to an unusual degree. Both are
perfect specimens of physical manhood - men to whom the
rigors of an arctic clime are mere nothings - simple
invigorators - and the enforced "mushing" of this strange
land merely invigorators and appetizers for the next meal.
To the confidence of youth
is added the wisdom of experience, which, together with
native shrewdness has landed them upon a wave of prosperity
which will quickly place them in a position, though only yet
on the threshold of life, to pursue their own ambitions no
matter to what heights they may soar.
Source: The Klondike
Nugget,
November 1, 1899. |
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| YOUNG, ANDY |
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The Nugget's
special number would not be complete without a sketch of its
popular, hustling salesman, "Uncle" Andy Young. Uncle
Andy has been selling The Nugget on the streets of Dawson
for more than a year, and in that time has made his call
"the dear little Nugget," so well-known that it has passed
into common use, and become celebrated from Skagway to St.
Michaels. Andy is a Californian, "with all the
Californian's hustling qualities. He has a peculiar
genius for selling papers and is never so happy as when on
the street serving his customers with The Nugget.
At the expiration of his first
year's work, Andy finds that he has averaged a little more
than 450 copies per issue for 105 numbers, making a total
number of papers sold during this period of 47,250.
His commissions during this time, at 10 cents per paper,
have therefore aggregated the snug sum of $4,725, a
considerable portion of which has been sent to his family in
West Berkley, California.
Uncle Andy is one of
Dawson's interesting characters, without mention of whom no
history of the town would be complete.
Source: The Klondike
Nugget,
November 1, 1899. |
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