For a short time, in 1890 and 1891, Fredonia had a canning company on the west side of town. This factory contracted with farmers for the planting of vegetables, assuring a reliable supply of produce for the cannery, as well as an assured market for the farmer's produce. Fruit also came in by the boxcar from a larger area and was canned. Produce was sold as far away as Chicago. Up to 200 employees were needed at times, and this factory gave a boost to the local economy. By the second summer, the Fredonia Canning Co. was also manufacturing their own cans. An evaporator was in use to turn the "waste" into product useable for jellies. An ice house was also built in this location, at the same time.
In the first months of 1892, the canning company was beginning to be sued for outstanding bills. In June of 1892 the Fredonia Canning Company was sold at a Sheriff's Sale. The building was torn down and the lumber sold in 1893.
Click on the link below to read the newspaper accounts from the inception of the Fredonia Canning Co., to the final dissolution of the company and building. Included is the obituary of R.T. Race, who stared the company.
In the first months of 1892, the canning company was beginning to be sued for outstanding bills. In June of 1892 the Fredonia Canning Company was sold at a Sheriff's Sale. The building was torn down and the lumber sold in 1893.
Click on the link below to read the newspaper accounts from the inception of the Fredonia Canning Co., to the final dissolution of the company and building. Included is the obituary of R.T. Race, who stared the company.
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This map shows the location of the Fredonia Canning Company. Note the street names, which were changed in 1902. The Cannery is on the extreme left of the map, to the west of the railroad tracks, between Madison and Jefferson streets.
Listen to Leanne Githens share the history of the Fredonia Canning Company. This presentation was the June 19, 2024 "Museum After Hours" program.
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