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HISTORY OF ALPENA COUNTY AFTER 1870 BY WILLIAM BOULTON IN 1876
Great changes have been wrought since that dreadful fire, and instead of the wooden business houses we have now magnificent structures of brick in which a great deal of the business of the city is done.
"At the time of the fire there had been but little done in the county in the farming line, but many of those who lost their all by the calamity, and not-having heart or means to make another commencement, turned their steps toward the country, sought out lands, cleared, cultivated, and in due time they reaped a reward highly gratifying, as the yield of their soil was and is still much in excess of what any one had expected of Alpena lands. The example has since been followed by many others who do not regret their undertaking, and who now have no desire to return to city life, as they feel that they are doing better by farming than they possibly could by following the uncertain pursuits of life in the city. "
July 23, 1872, the shingle mill of Bewick, Comstock & Co., was burned down Loss about $15, 000. Insured for $5, 000. This mill was one of the best shingle mills in the city. The present mill was erected on the site of the old one during the winter of 1873-4.
The Frolic was first issued August 20th, 1873, the office being situated in the backwoods of Alpena township, and a mile and a half from the nearest
neighbor.
In 1873 the township of Alpena was subdivided into the townships of Alpena, Long Rapids, and Wilson, the county then comprising the city corporation and four townships, Alpena, Long Rapids, Wilson, and Ossineke. This change increased the board of supervisors to eight members. By act of legislature, approved April 4th. 1873.
Alpena Michigan
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