Local History by Dede Terns-Thorpe - Beers’ History of Greene County

JB Beers – 1867 “THE HISTORY OF GREENE COUNTY.”

Jim Plank calls it a historian’s bible.

Hunter tannery owner Colonel Edward’s monument may be seen in the growth of Hunter.

Beers said that Hunter’s Colonel Edwards, (the first tanner to arrive in the village of Hunter) had an inventive mind, with four patents granted him prior to1813. All four patents helped quicken and improve the tannery business. Among them were copper heaters (a heating component that was used to heat water or air when tanning), a hide mill (a crucial mechanical innovation used to make raw, tough hides pliable and to process leather after its been tanned) the application of hot liquor, and roller(the application of oils to soften the hide, provide water resistance, and nourish the leather.

Beers said Colonel Edwards had sold the business to his sons at least ten years before his death on December 29, 1851. Beers said, “the death of the righteous, has gone to his high reward”.

In researching Colonel Edwards (responsible for creating the beginning of Hunter’s industry) it’s been a difficult search due to his early years of 1817-1850ish.  

In an October 1831 paper I found the following:

Letters from the United States Patent Office were received explaining the improvements to the art of tanning, saving on labor, and increasing the quantity and quality of the tanned leather.

To whom it may concern - This may certify that Wm. W. Edwards did adopt at his yard in Hunter the sweating process, saying it was of great advantage to the tanner, after they acquired and learned the changes. The principle is safe, and there is no additional chance of damage to the hides.

Hunter, September 20, 1831.

“We the undersigned, have had the charge of the above factory, owned by Colonel William Edwards and fully concur in the above statements made by him.”

EPHRAIM SHELDON

HIRAM HATCH

Thanks for reading. Stay safe and be careful.

Dede Terns-Thorpe/Town of Hunter Historian