“The extensive cooperage business of Herman V. Bostwick, whose works are located on Clinton street, a short distance east of Cayuga street, is the only concern of its kind in Ithaca. The business was established originally in 1867. In the spring of 1873 the factory was destroyed by fire. Rallying quickly from this misfortune, Mr. Bostwick caused the shops to be rebuilt on a larger scale and by virtue of his energy and persistence has succeeded in building up a large trade. Twenty-five employes find occupation at these works and from one to two thousand cords of wood are worked up each year. The products of the factory include barrels, firkins and general cooperage.”
D. Morris Kurtz, Ithaca and Its Resources, Ithaca, NY: Journal Association Book and Job Print, 1883, 84.