R & I Meeks |
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The oldest business house in Muncie, with possibly a single exception, and the only establishment in the city engaged exclusively with the manufacture and sale of furniture, is that which forms the subject of the present sketch in which for a period of 40 years has been a familiar landmark to the citizens of Delaware and adjoining counties. This representative house, which was formed as early as 1844, commenced business upon a cash capital of only five dollars, and from this comparative insignificant commencement has grown the extensive establishment which today ranks among the leading industries of Central Indiana. The sales and warerooms occupied by Messrs. R. & I. Meeks & Co. at No. 73 E. Main St., comprise a commodious three-story building 42 x 90' in dimensions, where will be found at all times largest limit of furniture, from the finest the most expensive parlor, drawing room, bedroom and library sets to the common and cheaper varieties, adapted to the requirements of the more economically inclined. The factory building, located on Elm, between Main and Washington streets, is a two-story structure 25 x 60' in size and equipped throughout with machinery for the manu- facture of all kinds of furniture and cabinet work, with the exception of chairs and upholstered goods nine or 10 workmen are employed and the motive power for the machinery in use is supplied by a steam engine and boiler. Messrs. R. and I. Meeks are brothers and natives of Western Virginia. They have been residents of this state for nearly half a century and are both practical and experienced cabinet makers. The flattering degree of success which has entered their career since embarking in business in the city on their own account has been richly merited and fairly earned by an honorable and enterprising method of conducting their business which is gained for them the confidence and respect of the entire community and trade extending throughout this and adjoining counties. |
A Review of their Manufacturing, Mercantile and General Business Interests, Advantageous Location, &c Including a Brief Historical and Statistical Sketch of Their Rise and Progress Resources and Industries of Indiana, Part V |