anaheim-gazette 1883-12-29

WEEKLY GAZETTE. SATURDAY...DEC. 29, 1883 SUBSCRIPTION, per year, $2. A HAPPY NEW YEAR. Before our next issue, 1883 will be numbered with the years that have passed, and 1884 will have come; therefore to-day the Gazette tenders to its readers most cordial greetings, and wishes them each and all a "Happy New Year." It is a good old custom to exchange this salutation on the morning of New Year's Day—for neighbor to greet neighbor with the wish that the coming twelve months may be filled with happiness; but the Gazette ventures the opinion that it has a more than usually solid basis upon which to build its greetings to its friends. We are not "the oldest citizen," neither are we a "weather prophet" and so we do not presume to declare that this is to be an unusually wet season. We hope it may, and if we could proclaim for a certainty that it would be, that would probably give more happiness than any other one thing we can now think of; but there are a few things we can speak of that promises better times for the community, and this is good occasion to review them briefly. For instance, the title of immigration has at last turned in our direction. We are not being overflooded yet, but it appears that people are at last discovering that not only is the land in our vicinity as good as that found elsewhere, but also that it is better economy to invest here at reasonable figures than elsewhere at fancy ones; and still further, that we are not only possessed of as good churches, of as commodious and well-taught schools as any other town of like size, but of social advantages that many younger settlements do not possess as yet. But the one great point upon which we than that attending the construction of a receiving and distributing reservoir—for one will serve in a dual capacity—in any other part of the State. Without this reservoir the production of Anaheim and its adjacent region must be limited; with it an area of many miles square would yield as much, acre for acre, as any other portion of our southern country. The policy of that man who opposes the construction of the reservoir, if there be any such, is simply short-sighted. Even though he have water enough for his own wants, he cannot close his eyes to the fact that the prosperity of his neighbors will add materially to his own. It is a well-settled principle of political economy that no man can make an improvement on his own land without the act reounding, in a greater or less degree, to the benefit of those whose land adjoins. It is fact also that if a community undertake a material improvement the beneficial result is even relatively greater. The prosperity of a Vanderbilt is greatly only relatively, and such an individual could not prosper unless his neighbors also were prosperous. It is not that without the reservoir the people of Anaheim will not prosper, but that with it they will prosper to a very much greater degree. Knowing the cost of constructing and maintaining a reservoir, and the amount of water it will supply, also the demand of water and its market value, it is a very simple matter to calculate the profit of the undertaking. In all parts of the world water-stocks are never to be had in the market except on the failure of some individual holding them or in order to settle an estate. Even were the reservoir to be built with capital entirely borrowed, after the yearly interest on the bonds were paid the stockholders would, it is claimed by many, divide paying dividends. WESTMINSTER. Ed. Gazette.—The progress of Westminster for the past year (1883) has been greater than for several years previous. The trustee has sold 880 acres of new land which, with the sales of private land, make an aggregate of about $90,000. Several hundred than that attending the construction of a receiving and distributing reservoir—for one will serve in a dual capacity—in any other part of the State. Without this reservoir the production of Anaheim and its adjacent region must be limited; with it an area of many miles square would yield as much, acre for acre, as any other portion of our southern country. The policy of that man who opposes the construction of the reservoir, if there be any such, is simply short-sighted. Even though he have water enough for his own wants, he cannot close his eyes to the fact that the prosperity of his neighbors will add materially to his own. It is a well-settled principle of political economy that no man can make an improvement on his own land without the act reounding, in a greater or less degree, to the benefit of those whose land adjoins. It is fact also that if a community undertake a material improvement the beneficial result is even relatively greater. The prosperity of a Vanderbilt is greatly only relatively, and such an individual could not prosper unless his neighbors also were prosperous. It is not that without the reservoir the people of Anaheim will not prosper, but that with it they will prosper to a very much greater degree. Knowing the cost of constructing and maintaining a reservoir, and the amount of water it will supply, also the demand of water and its market value, it is a very simple matter to calculate the profit of the undertaking. In all parts of the world water-stocks are never to be had in the market except on the failure of some individual holding them or in order to settle an estate. Even were the reservoir to be built with capital entirely borrowed, after the yearly interest on the bonds were paid the stockholders would, it is claimed by many, divide paying dividends. ANAHLE Its Steady and Subtle Convincing. Ed. Gazette.—To the Anaheim for the first time sent but little to indicate industrial or social posses has read of a hundred nominal growth of CA when he arrives here but streets thronged with him not see stately residence sides like magic, nor score of hungry real exhort him to invest in his fabulous prices; he does and sidewalk block waller, brick and mortar towns of phenomenal power has read so much; in those evidences of his prosperity which he exceeds perhaps he rushes off to without waiting to investigate affairs, or around for a day or two section and is induced by some unscrupulous hands solely for his commission; the interest or welfare is left to repent of his sins and make the most of his peat. Anaheim does no others favorably at first aim. To the visitor of four ago, who revisits this shows every evidence of growth, every evident substantial prosperity, comfortable homes owned prosperous families which was as a desert, where cactus grew, and where rabbit roamed at will; plains upon which cattle pastured have been traced or orchards and vineyards For instance, the title of immigration has at last turned in our direction. We are not being overloaded yet, but it appears that people are at last discovering that not only is the land in our vicinity, as good as that found elsewhere, but also that it is better economy to invest here at reasonable figures than elsewhere at fancy ones; and still further, that we are not only possessed of as good churches, of as commodious and well-taught schools as any other town of like size, but of social advantages that many younger settlements do not possess as yet. But the one great point upon which we predicate happiness for the coming year is this fact, that at last there seems to be a reasonable prospect that the lawsuits, which have so long caused bitterness among neighbors and retarded our growth shall cease, and that all will unite for the common purpose of developing our water resources and securing the largest possible amount of good for all. It is in our opinion the one thing that has been wanting to secure for Anaheim a leading place among all the settlements in this fair southern land county of action among the people. We look forward to this new year as one that shall mark an epoch in our history. With the acres of rich land surrounding us, with unrivalled facilities for storing the water by which alone those acres can become productive it needs only that our people shall work in harmony, bury all past issues and take a new departure and join hands all around, instead of each working for himself, to give us not only the reservoir but a better and more complete water system than we have ever had before. It is this that will draw to us new settlers and capital; that will cause the plains about us to be studded with new homes, new orchards and new vineyards; this that will add to the value of all the property now held here, give work to our laborers, business to our merchants, new life to every pursuit now carried on in our midst. And it is because we are convinced that our course of action, and because we are equally convinced that such a course will be certainly followed by such results, that we not only send out our greeting of Happy New Year, but feel assured that the year will bring happiness to all who will labor for these ends. THE ONE THING NEEDFUL. At the time of the founding of Anaheim its founders had the whole of Southern California where to choose. The problem presented to them was the selection of a locality possessing a region fit for swing all things, an abundant and never-failing supply of water for irrigation, situated near the sea and on the line of future railway communication, and having a health sustaining climate. If the sagacity of those men was ever questioned, it cannot now be a matter of doubt, for the ample harvest of each succeeding year is gathered by a happy people, each year becoming more prosperous. There is no need to speak of the foresight of those pioneers concerning their primal necessity of In the orchard department not so much progress has been made. Very few new orchards have been planted. The attention of our own people has been turned in other directions and outside fruit growers seem to have forgotten that we raise the best apples and pears, and as least as good prunes, apricots and peaches as any place in the State. Mr. Marquis sold five tons of fruit from one and a half acres of land, with 15 trees notcept on the failure of some individual holding them or in order to settle an estate. Even were the reservoir to be built with capital entirely borrowed, after the yearly interest on the bonds were paid the stockholders would, it is claimed by many, divide paying dividends. WESTMINSTER. Ed. GAZETTE — The progress of Westminster for the past year (1883) has been greater than for several years previous. The trustee has sold 880 acres of new land which, with the sales of private land, make an aggregate of about $99,000. Several hundred additional acres have been fenced, the total now being about 4,000 acres. Several head of recorded thoroughbred Durham stock have been purchased; the Jersey blood is well mixed in the dairies, and the number of milch cows and beef and stock cattle greatly increased. The pork packing establishment of Robert Easley has absorbed all competitors, both in Santa Ana and Newport, and therefore changed its local Westminster name to that of the Santa Ana Valley Packing House, and our neighbors in Santa Ana are priding themselves on it as one of their suburban industries. There is now hardly a vacant building to be rented, with increasing demand. All the advances now making are on the soft basis of past successes, and not on experiment or hopefulness. The people know what to plant and how to use their lands to best advantage; and are keeping the fruits of experience. Those who have gone through the times of depression and have not quite recovered from disappointments and mistakes are glad to hear from newsmen from other counties she praises they think we are entitled to for climate, pure water and growth of trees and plants and grasses. In fact the old settlers do not appreciate what they enjoy and what they have accomplished, and it will take another year to settle their contentment. Those who went away even as far as Washington territory and have come back again, reopening no place as good as the one they left, and they could not now be moved at any reasonable price. Stock of all kinds have done well this year. The bottom lands, which are now all sold, have produced enormous crops of corn, varying from 60 to 100 bushels to the acre large crops of potatoes have also been grown on these lands bringing in $100 per acre. The barley crop was very short, but alfalfa produced as usual and there is abundance of hay. Alfalfa land has been rented as high as $25 per acre for the season with profit to the buyer. The settlers from Fresno county are confident that they can grow the millet grass on any of our defective lands, and the results of the year seem to confirm it; but the experience of another year is needed before any large areas will be planted. Stock cattle and milch cows have been in demand and beef cattle are sold as fast as offered at Sand & Sycents dressed weight. Pork is low, in sympathy with the Eastern market, the packers paying 5 cents live weight. But corn is cheap and alfalfa abundant and the stock are thriving and producers satisfied. Tons of butter and thousands of boxes of eggs have been sent out at good prices. In the orchard department not so much progress has been made. Very few new orchards have been planted. The attention of our own people has been turned in other directions and outside fruit growers seem to have forgotten that we raise the best apples and pears, and as least as good prunes, apricots and peaches as any place in the State. Mr. Marquis sold five tons of fruit from one and a half acres of land, with 15 trees notcept on the failure of some individual holding them or in order to settle an estate. Even were the reservoir to be built with capital entirely borrowed, after the yearly interest on the bonds were paid the stockholders would, it is claimed by many, divide paying dividends. WESTMINSTER. Ed. GAZETTE — The progress of Westminster for the past year (1883) has been greater than for several years previous. The trustee has sold 880 acres of new land which, with the sales of private land, make an aggregate of about $99,000. Several hundred additional acres have been fenced, the total now being about 4,000 acres. Several head of recorded thoroughbred Durham stock have been purchased; the Jersey blood is well mixed in the dairies, and the number of milch cows and beef and stock cattle greatly increased. The pork packing establishment of Robert Easley has absorbed all competitors, both in Santa Ana and Newport, and therefore changed its local Westminster name to that of the Santa Ana Valley Packing House, and our neighbors in Santa Ana are priding themselves on it as one of their suburban industries. There is now hardly a vacant building to be rented, with increasing demand. All the advances now making are on the soft basis of past successes, and not on experiment or hopefulness. The people know what to plant and how to use their lands to best advantage; and are keeping the fruits of experience. Those who have gone through the times of depression and have not quite recovered from disappointments and mistakes are glad to hear from newsmen from other counties she praises they think we are entitled to for climate, pure water and growth of trees and plants and grasses. In fact the old settlers do not appreciate what they enjoy and what they have accomplished, and it will take another year to settle their contentment. Those who went away even as far as Washington territory and have come back again, reopening no place as good as the one they left, and they could not now be moved at any reasonable price. Stock of all kinds have done well this year. The bottom lands, which are now all sold, have produced enormous crops of corn, varying from 60 to 100 bushels to the acre large crops of potatoes have also been grown on these lands bringing in $100 per acre. The barley crop was very short, but alfalfa produced as usual and there is abundance of hay. Alfalfa land has been rented as high as $25 per acre for the season with profit to the buyer. The settlers from Fresno county are confident that they can grow the millet grass on any of our defective lands, and the results of the year seem to confirm it; but the experience of another year is needed before any large areas will be planted. Stock cattle and milch cows have been in demand and beef cattle are sold as fast as offered at Sand & Sycents dressed weight. Pork is low, in sympathy with the Eastern market, the packers paying 5 cents live weight. But corn is cheap and alfalfa abundant and the stock are thriving and producers satisfied. Tons of butter and thousands of boxes of eggs have been sent out at good prices. In reviewing the progress there are many which we are forced to teediousness and to tread them. During this period we collect them. During this period we have been耕 yards and orchards in new and comfortable halls Quite a number of strata settlement permanently,and have purchased land immediately planting same. With a reason this season there will allow vines and trees than in previous years. TONNAGE REPORT—ANY The total freight for at the Anaheim depot was as follows: MONTHE California where to choose. The problem presented to them was the selection of a locality possessing a region fit for sowing all things, an abundant and never-failing supply of water for irrigation, situated near the sea and on the line of future railway communication, and having a health sustaining climate. If the sagacity of those men was ever questioned, it can not now be a matter of doubt, for the ample harvest of each succeeding year is gathered by a happy people, each year becoming more prosperous. There is no need to speak of the foresight of those pioneers concerning that primal necessity of an American community rapid and regular communication with the rest of the world, and statistics given in another place prove conclusively that the beneficency of the climate of Anaheim is unsurpassed not only in California, but anywhere else on the globe. Thirty years ago the soil of Anaheim could not have given much promise to the superficial observer. It was simply the cactus-covered home of the jack rabbit, the gopher and the ground-squirrel. But those who acted for the colonists in selecting the land knew more than most Californians and all other men of that epoch. They knew that it contained all that it was necessary for a soil to contain, and that it needed only water to make it the garden that it is now. That water was to be had in abundance from the never-failing Santa Ana river. During the first few years the ordinary system of ditches sufficed for all the wants of the settlement, but it was found very soon that, inasmuch as the population of the town and of the surrounding region increased to a far greater extent than had been anticipated by all but a very few, some more extensive system of water supply was an absolute necessity. In the minds of many of the founders, however, this necessity had been apparent, as a contingency of the future, and it was known that in the foot-hills there existed ravines, which may be termed natural reservoirs, since at such a trifling cost they may be thus utilized, with a storage capacity greater than was needed, and that in these reservoirs the superabundant water of the Santa Ana, which during the rains runs to waste in the Pacific, could be stored for use during the long dry season of Southern California. Then skilled engineers were called into consultation, and it was found that a supply of water amply sufficient for the irrigation of even a greater extent of territory than that included in Anaheim proper could be secured at a cost much less and beef cattle are so fast as ordered at S. 85 cents dressed weight. Pork is low, in sympathy with the Eastern market, the packers paying 5 cents live weight. But corn is cheap and alfalfa abundant and the stock are thriving and producers satisfied. Tons of butter and thousands of boxes of eggs have been sent out at good prices. In the orchard department not so much progress has been made. Very few new orchards have been planted. The attention of our own people has been turned in other directions and outside fruit growers seem to have forgotten that we raise the best apples and pears, and as least as good prunes, apricots and peaches as any place in the State. Mr. Marquis sold five tons of fruit from one and a half acres of land, with 15 trees not bearing, and Mr. Isaiah McCoy's apple crop on two acres was estimated at ten tons. Wholesale buyers have made their appearance this year for the first time, attracted by our quality and disappointed by our quantity. A hundred acres of such Pearmain apples and Winter Nelis pears as we raise here would make a sensation in the market. Just here is a splendid opening for fruit men. Real estate is now steadily advancing. Many pieces that were in the market last year have been withdrawn, a large number have been sold, but there are still attractions for buvers, either for fruit, alfalfa or pasture, or for small, beautiful and profitable homes. We claim the healthiest climate, the best water and the best tested title in the State, and challenge comparisons. We do not conceal our alkali lands. No man buys them without knowing it. They are being turned into profitable pastures as fast as possible. But the land that grows our fruit our alfalfa, our corn, potatoes and grain is beyond reproach and speaks for itself in the markets of Anaheim, Santa Ana and Los Angeles. It will speak louder still year by year. R. S. Conrincing Proof. Some years ago, when Anaheim was the terminus of the railroad, and when there was a feverish and unsubstantial "boom" in the country, the Anaheim postoffice was raised to the dignity of a Presidential office, but when matters got down to their normal level it was again rated as a fourth-class office, and has so continued until this week. By an order made on Wednesday, the 26th instant, by the authorities at Washington, and of which notice has been received by telegram, the Anaheim Postoffice has been declared a Presidential office, with a salary of $1100 a year. The promotion is based upon the increase of business done; the business increases in proportion to the increase of population; ergo, Anaheim has not only been prospering in all its industries, but it has had of new settlers sufficient to justify the postal authorities in making the change noted. Mr. Richard Egan trano passed his Christmas hope it was a merry Mr. B. Dreyfus le yesterday. A wedding Mr. J. J. Weglein is tracting parties, will go and he will not return mony. Capt. H. Wrede from a prolonged visit ANAHEIM. Its Steady and Substantial Growth—Convincing Statistics Ed. Gazette. — To the stranger who visits Anaheim for the first time, the place presents but little to indicate its commercial, industrial or social position. Perchance he has read of a hundred acres of the phenomenal growth of California towns, and when he arrives here he does not see the streets thronged with busy people; he does not see stately residences going up on all sides like magic, nor does he meet with a score of hungry real estate agents who press upon him to invest in lands or city lots at fabulous prices; he does not find the streets and sidewalks blocked with piles ofumber, brick and mortar, as is the case in those towns of phenomenal growth of which he has read so much; in short, he does not find those evidences of business activity and prosperity which he expected to find, and perhaps he rushes off to some other locality without waiting to investigate into the real condition of affairs, or perhaps he looks around for a day or two, then visits another section and is induced to buy property there by some unscrupulous land agent who cares solely for his commission and not a whit for the interest or welfare of the purchaser, who is left to repent of his purchase at leisure and make the most of his bargain. We repeat, Anaheim does not impress such strangers favorably at first sight. To the visitor of four or six or ten years ago, who revisits this section, the place shows every evidence of a real and stealthy growth, every evidence of a real and substantial prosperity. He finds scores of comfortable homes owned by happy and prosperous families where before the land was as a desert, where only sagebrush and cactus grow, and where the coyote and jackrabbit roamed at will; he finds that the plains upon which cattle and sheep once pastured have been transformed into thrifty orchards and vineyards. He does not find a score of hungry real estate agents who press upon him to invest in lands or city lots at fabulous prices; he does not find the streets and sidewalks blocked with piles ofumber, brick and mortar, as is the case in those towns of phenomenal growth of which he has read so much; in short, he does not find those evidences of business activity and prosperity which he expected to find, and perhaps he rushes off to some other locality without waiting to investigate into the real condition of affairs, or perhaps he looks around for a day or two, then visits another section and is induced to buy property there by some unscrupulous land agent who cares solely for his commission and not a whit for the interest or welfare of the purchaser, who is left to repent of his purchase at leisure and make the most of his bargain. We repeat, Anaheim does not impress such strangers favorably at first sight. NORTH ANAHEIM. A Vivid Description of This Fertile Locality Ed. Gazette. — In Southern California, where the rainfall cannot be relied upon for the maturing of crops every year, settlements are formed only where water can be procured for irrigation. These settlements are sometimes contiguous to each other, while others are separated by several miles of dry unimproved land. Each is named according to its situation, or the fancy of its inhabitants may dictate, to distinguish it from some other colony. The quantity of water and fertility of the soil determines the size and prosperity of the settlement. One of these fertile spots, famous throughout Los Angeles county, lies two rules north of the city of Anaheim, and extends four miles west and five miles east, by from two to three miles wide. The lower or western portion is christened Orange thorpe, and the upper or eastern, Placentia, which latter means "Beautiful Situation." The settlements when first made were several miles apart and were watered by different canals; but as the fertility of their soil became known, each received a liberal share of immigration until both are merged into one, and are now known as North Anaheim. By the perseverance and energy of a few public spirited men, who sacrificed their time and means, a canal capable of carrying ten heads of water was cut, fourteen miles in length along the foot of the hills, at a cost of over sixty thousand dollars. Portions of the way was cut through solid rock, deep canyons or ravines were crossed by large flumes, one of which is forty feet high and one quarter of a mile long. No obstacle, however formidable, seemed to impede their progress or discourage their efforts until the water of the Santa Ana river was diverted from its natural channel and stored in a capacious reservoir at the head of the valley where it is distributed by numerous ditches during the day over the lands below, giving life and beauty to the fertile soil, and health and prosperity to its many inhabitants. A PRINCELY ESTATE. The Famous Stearns Ranches—Once a Desert. Now a Garden. The transformation wrought during the past ten years in the 140,000 acres of land which have for a quarter of a century or more been known as the Stearns Ranches, is a never-failing subject of comment among those whose memory embraces the period when it was given over as range for countless herds of cattle and horses. With the exception of a small and insignificant settlement at Los Nietos and the oasis of Anaheim, one could travel on the main road between Los Angeles and San Juan Capistrano and not see human habitation. Now there are a dozen or more important towns and settlements; farms, vineyards and orchards give support to thousands of families, and of the 140,000 acres which comprised this princely estate less than 80,000 acres now remain unsold. The past year has been a busy one for Mr. R. J. Northam, the agent of the company at Anaheim. There has been a continuous inquiry for land, and the sales made during the past twelve months foot up a good round sum. In our last annual review we gave a brief description of the ranches, as seen in a day's jaunt with Mr. Northam, from which we take the following pertinent extracts: As we drive through this region [North Anaheim], our companion points to vineyards planted last year in which over ninety percent of the cattings flourished; to orange orchards, young and old, in which the trees are as thrifty and clean as it is possible for trees to be. There are some very beautiful places in North Anaheim, and land there is changing ownership quite often, and always at an increased rate. The Land Company, as the owners of the Stearns Ranches are commonly designated, have a few small tracts for sale in this vicinity at reasonable figures. Some choice land is held by private parties at $100 per acre, and the tendency of prices is still upward. Traveling west, by barely perceptible roads, but which are perfectly familiar to our chaperone, we pass over some hilly countryside. To the visitor of four or six or ten years ago, who revisits this section, the place shows every evidence of a real and steady growth, every evidence of a real and substantial prosperity. He finds scores of comfortable homes owned by happy and prosperous families where before the land was as a desert, where only sagebrush and cactus grew, and where the coyote and jack rabbit roamed at will; he finds that the plains upon which cattle and sheep seen pastured have been transformed into thrifty orchards and vineyards. He does not find a city of twenty thousand inhabitants, but he finds an infrequent town with good government, free from taxes and with money in the treasury, a town with excellent churches, with one of the best schools in the county, and with an almost perfect water system. Nearly every branch of trade is represented, and our business houses are large and complete of their kind, our mechanics and artisans of the best. A half dozen religious denominations are represented here, and as many secret societies have flourishing lodges. Yes, he who takes the time to look about him after arriving here and to properly investigate the matter of this section cannot but become convinced that it is one of the best places where he can bring his family and take up his home. Anaheim is possessed of natural advantages in soil, climate and location which with proper grit and energy should long ago have placed her where she should be as the second place in Southern California. These natural advantages are bound to assert themselves, and though the progress of the section has been slow, it has been real and substantial. When her water tractors have been settled amicably (which water question has been the most serious drawback to its prosperity), and when a few more men of capital and enterprise shall have been attracted father, it will be but few years until she takes that position which her superior advantages as a place of business and residence entitles her. In reviewing the progress of the current year there are many statistics of interest which we are forced to omit owing to the tediumness and to the tune required in collecting them. During the year several thousands and acres have been planted to new vineyards and orchards in this valley, and many new and comfortable homes have sprung up. Quite a number of strangers have arrived to settle permanently, and a great many more have purchased land with the intention of immediately planting and improving the same. With a reasonable amount of rain this season there will be a larger area set to vines and trees than in any previous season. As the chief value of statistics depends upon their correctness, we present below only items which can be relied upon as correct, and they will give a fair idea of the business and social condition of our people during the year which is almost closed. TONNAGE REPORT—ANAHEIM R. R. DEPOT: The total freight forwarded and received at the Anaheim depot since last December was as follows: In length along the foot of the hills, at a cost of over sixty thousand dollars. Portions of the way was cut through solid rock, deep canyons or ravines were crossed by large flames, one of which is forty feet high and one quarter of a mile long. No obstacle, however formidable, seemed to impede their progress or discourage their efforts until the water of the Santa Ana river was diverted from its natural channel and stored in a capacious reservoir at the head of the valley where it is distributed by numerous ditches during the day over the lands below, giving life and beauty to the fertile soil, and health and prosperity to its many inhabitants. North Anaheim contains about ten thousand acres of best class farmland. It is bounded on the north by a low range of mills, which divide the coast valleys from the great interior valleys of the county. The valley slopes gently to the south and west, from the mills; it is not cut up by sloughs, monos or depression, which renders irrigation easy and practicable. The soil is a deep, dark, rich loam formed by the decomposition of vegetable matter, covered by the wash from the mills which is also very rich. It contains no gravel and but little sand, is all of uniform quality, and we say without fear of contradiction that it is the richest land in Southern California. Its attitude presents a grand panoramic view of the surrounding country. Orange, Santa Ana, Garden Grove, Westminster and Anaheim are distinctly visible to the south and west. The high range of the Sierra Madre mountains, whose lofty peaks are frequently covered with snow, is twelve miles to the north. Old Baldy, San Bernardino and San Jacinto towering high above the lower range, standing as sentiments to guard the surrounding country, seem but a few miles distant. The gentle breeze from the Pacific whiff waters are distinctly visible of eagings, tempering the climate during the greater portion of the year. Frost seldom falls before Christmas and fogs are of rare occurrence. No contagious disease has ever visited the valley, although diphtheria has visited the adjacent country several times during the last few years. About four thousand acres are under cultivation, one half of which is in fruit. Wheat is grown on limited quantities, and yields twenty-sacks per mere. Barley seed on produces twice twenty-five sacks per acre and frequently from thirty-six to forty. Barley is sown for hay and yields from two and one-half to three and one-half tons per acre. Corn is a profitable crop but requires one irrigation during the dry season. Alfalfa, beans and pumpkins are the standard feed for cows, and only grown to supply the home demand. Citrus fruits are free from scale, smart or disease and are bright and clear, although no insecticide has ever been used to prevent their introduction. Our oranges command the highest market price, and their reputation is well established in the San Francisco market. Walnuts are as profitably grown as in any part of the county and yield good crops. Rusk grapes are yet raised in limited quantities, as the wine grape is less expensive, more easily disposed of, and less hard to damage by the early rains, although rye raspin is manufactured—second to none in the market and commands a first-class price. The numerous wineries at Anaheim have warranted the planting of large vineyards of wine grapes of many varieties, all of which yield abundant crops, and find a ready market at remunerative prices. Of the fruits now in bearing may be mentioned—the orange, lemon, lime, pomegranate, citron, figs, walnuts, peaches, pears, From any elevation in Anaheim, where the view is unobstructed by foliage, one can plant last year in which over ninety percent of the cottings flourished; or orange orchards, young and old, in which the trees are as thrifty and clean as it is possible for trees to be. There are some very beautiful places in North Anaheim, and land there is changing ownership quite often, and always at an increased rate. The Land Company, as the owners of the Stearns Ranchos are commonly designated, have a few small tracts for sale in this vicinity at reasonable figures. Some choice land is held by private parties at $100 per acre, and the tendency of prices is still upward. Traveling west, by barely perceptible roads, but which are perfectly familiar to our chaperone, we pass over some hilly country on which thousands of sheep find rich pasture, and find ourselves in Orangeshorne district. The soil here is of a different character from that previously described, but is as fertile, judging from the appearance of the vinegards and orchards which here cluster quite thickly. The Company has several tracts in this district, ranging from $45 to $55 per acre. Now we reach the Artesia district, and our guide discourses at length on the size of the pumpkins and corn which everywhere meet the eye. Artesia is certainly a most prolific country, and corn; barley; alfalfa; stale; yield heavily. As its name implies it is in the artesian belt, and flowing wells are obtained at an average depth of 200 feet. The ground is too damp and the winter cold to severe for successful growth of the orange and lemon; but vines do well. The Company have choice tracts for sale at from $35 to $40 per acre. Centralia, a few miles east of Artesia, is quite a settlement, and there are a number of very thrifty, handsome farms in the district. Northain calls our attention to several orange orchards which look clean and healthy, and we know of our own knowledge that the grapes raised here are very superior. Land is also valued here at from $35 to $40 per acre. Driving in a southerly direction we reach Westminster, where the Company has quite a large body of land. No extended reference to this thriving locality is needed from our pen; for has not our valued correspondent depicted elsewhere in this issue its advantages; triumphs and achievements in a manner at once convincing and interesting? Traveling still towards the south we reason the ranchos La Bolba Chicha and Los Bolbas,a famous "bog and homo," locality. It is preeminently a own country,andthe yield of some of the fields is simply marvellous. Land is selling here at from $35 to $45 per acre,andthe agent is sold without applications forthe purchaseoflandinthisrancho. Turning homeward,and approaching Anaheim fromthe southwest.Mr.Northam points out several fine tracts of land near town which range in price from $25 to $45 per acre.It is all good vineyard land,and suitable for general farming,and will doubtless be longbeethehomesofmanypeople. Suchisabriefandgeneraldescriptionoftheterritoryseenduringaday'sdrive.Wehavepassedoverhalfa dozen different kindsofsoil,andexperiencedhalfa dozen differentclimatesforitisapeculiarandnoticeablefactthattheatmospherevaries greatlyinlocalitiesnotfar apart.Buttakeitallinallwe doubtwhetherinanypartoftheinhabitableglobethereisafinerbodyoflandofsimilarextent.oronwhichcanbegrownproductionsasdiverseandnumerous. THE FLOURING MILL. From any elevation in Anaheimwheretheviewisunobstructedbyfoliage,一能discoverthetallestknownasdiverseandnumerous The number of carload lots forwarded was 187. The exports for this month up to the 25th were as follows: 88 casks wine, 152-880 pounds; 1 car ties, 20,000 pounds; 639 boxes rains, 15,695 pounds; miscellaneous freight, 76,521 pounds. Total 265,096 pounds. WELLS, FARGO & CO.'S EXPRESS. The total number of packages received at Wells, Fargo & Co.'s Express for the year was 2,600, and the total number forwarded was 1,391. ANAHEIM POSTOFFICE. The amount of stamps cancelled at the Anaheim postoffice since January 1st was $1,612.73. The number of letters and packages registered for the same period was 402, and the number of registered packages and letters received was 526. From October 1st until the present time there were issued from the same office 50 postal notes. During the past year there were received at Anaheim station 200 carloads of assorted lumber, or about 1,200,000 feet. This represents about the amount that has been used for building, fencing and staking purposes. The real estate transactions in this vicinity that have been recorded during the past year number 128. The number of marriages during the year was 9, births 23, deaths 12. E. J. P. Mr. Richard Egan of San Juan Capistrano passed his Christmas in Anaheim. Let us hope it was a merry one. Mr. B. Dreyfus left for San Francisco yesterday. A wedding, in which his nephew, Mr. J. J. Weglein, is one of the high contracting parties, will occur on January 8th, and he will not return until after the ceremony. Capt. H. Wrede returned on Tuesday from a prolonged visit to San Francisco. THEODORE STALEY. Such is a brief and general description of the territory seen during a day's drive. We have passed over half a dozen different kinds of soil, and experienced half a dozen different climates for it is a peculiar and noticeable fact that the atmosphere varies greatly in localities not far apart. But take it all in all, we doubt whether in any part of the inhabitable globe there is a finer body of land of similar extent, or on which can be grown productions as diverse and numerous. THE FLOURING MILL. From any elevation in Anaheim, where the view is unobstructed by foliage, one can easily discern the tall structure known as the Burrnel Point Mills, albeit they are distant nearly five miles from town. The mill was established only two years ago, but even in that short time its product has become known far and wide, and the problem which confronts its managers is not how to dispose of their output, but how to supply the demand. The building is 3½ stories high, is 36x44 feet in size and cost, including the plant, about $15,000. The mill is operated on the gradual reduction system, using French burrs and Steven's patent rollers—the latest and best devices in use. The power is supplied by a Leffel 26¼ inch double Turbine water wheel, working under a 30 ft. head, and will develop seventy-one horsepower; but only thirty-five horse-power is required to operate the mill with its present capacity. This reserve power may soon be called into requisition, as in building the mill and arranging the machinery, the possibility of increasing the capacity of the mill was remembered and provided for by allowing room for more rolls to make it an entire roller mill for reducing the wheat, thus making the capacity of the mill one hundred barrels for 24 hours. Its present capacity is 60 barrels of flour and 25 tons of feed per 24 hours. During the month of November 1250 barrels of flour were made. As horticulture and viticulture have largely supplanted farming in this vicinity, the mill has to look to other localities for its wheat. The San Fernando valley and the vicinity of Wilmington, Pomona and Spadra are the principal sources of supply. The water power, supplied through the S.A.V.I.Co.'s ditch, is undoubtedly the best in Southern California. The proprietors of the mill are Messrs. Thomas Dillin and Louis Schorn. The latter gentleman is a resident of Anaheim, and gives his time principally to the care of his large orchards here. GRAND OPENING AT THE DRY GOODS PALACE. OFRIMPAU BROS. SATURDAY, DECEMBER 22, 1883. The Largest Importation OFDRY GOODS, Fancy Goods, Clothing. Boots and Shoes HOLIDAY GOODS. "Quick Sales and Small Profits." We shall also have a very large assortment of Ladies' Winter Goods —And a large assortment of— Plain Silks and Satins as well as Brocaded Silks and Velvets. Agents for DEVLIN & CO., We shall also have a very large assortment of Ladies' Winter Goods —And a large assortment of— Plain Silks and Satins as well as Brocaded Silks and Veluets. Agents for DEVLIN & CO., MERCHANT TAILORS OF NEW YORK. Suits ordered from samples and a perfect fit guaranteed. NUMEROUS SAMPLES ON HAND. FALL, WINTER AND HOLIDAY GOODS. I have received a complete assortment of Dry and Fancy Goods, Consisting of VELVETS, SILKS, RIBBONS, HOSE, EMBROIDERED FLANNELS, HANDKERCHIEFS, CORSETS, WORSTEDS, BEADS, SLIPPER PATTERNS, FANCY JEWELRY And a number of Fancy Articles suitable for Holiday Presents The numerous mention. Also, a full line of Gents Furnishing Goods, Ladies', Men and Children's Gaiters, BOOTS and SHOES. All of which I will sell at the LOWEST LIVING PRICES. First-class Groceries and Provisions Always on hand. HIPPOLYTE CAHEN, CORNER CENTER AND LOS ANGELES STREETS. Thermometrical Record. The following is our record (taken 14 miles North of town) for the week ending Wednesday P.M. Dec. 26, giving lowest point by night preceding date and highest by day: DATE Lowest Tailless Highest Total Dec ..... 20 54 54 64 61 ** ..... 21 58 8 63 60 ** ..... 22 56 56 62 58 ** ..... 23 48 48 60 54 ** ..... 24 41 41 58 53 ** ..... 25 41 41 62 54 ** ..... 26 40 40 63 55 Average Temperature ..... 53° highest and lowest ..... 55 LOS ANGELES MARKETS. EVERYTHING In the line of Watches, Jewelry and Silverware Suitable for HOLIDAY PRESENTS Can be found at the Store of P. PELLEGRIN, - Anaheim. Only Gorham Solid Silverware and Rogers Bros. Table Ware kept in stock. Also, Quadruple plated ware. Examination of Teachers. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT AN EXamination of teachers will be held by the County Board of Education in the Assembly Room of the HOLIDAY PRESENTS Can be found at the Store of P. PELLEGRIN, - Anaheim. Only Gorham Solid Silverware and Rogers Bros. Table Ware kept in stock. Also, Quadruple plated ware. Examination of Teachers. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT AN EXamination of teachers will be held by the County Board of Education in the Assembly Room of the Normal School Building, Los Angeles city, commencing Tuesday, January 8th, 1884, at 9 o'clock A.M., and continuing three days. All applicants for certificates must be present at the commencement of the examination. All teachers now holding temporary certificates granted upon Normal School, Educational or Life Diplomas, and deiring permanent certificates, and all applicants for the renewal of certificates, must file their applications and testimonials with the Secretary of the Board on or before January 7th, 1884. By order of the Board. J. W. HINTON. Secretary. Los Angeles, December 10, 1883. GRAND NEW YEARS BALL New Year's Eve. Fireman's Hall, Anaheim. For the benefit of Confidence Fire Co. No. 1. Characteristic Midnight Waltz. Music at 8:15. Tickets per couple $1.25; to be had of any member of the Club. COMMITTEE OF MEASUREMENTS—Prof. Hinton, W. Wolf, F. C. Kimpan, P. C. Smythe, E. J. Pellegrin, A. Langenberger, S. A. Dennis, C. A. Norman. RECARTING COMMITTEE—A Langenberger, P. C. Kimpan, C. Hingus, N. A. Bitner, H. Breermann. FLAG MASTERS (white rosettes)—Prof. Hinton, P. C. Smythe, E. J. Pellegrin. Particular attention will be paid to all strangers and invited guests. Members of the Santa Ana dancing school cordially invited. Excellent Music—the latest and best. THEPlows, Cultivators, Harrows —and Farming Implements— Manufactured by FIRST & BRADLEY Manufacturing Company of Chicago, are first-class and guaranteed in every respect. Sold by deci9 RICHARD MELROSE, NOTARY PUBLIC Gazette Office.