La Center Correspondence
Vancouver Independent
By Nathan Davis
December 4, 1875

Perhaps a few items from this section might interest some of the readers of the Independent. There in nothing of a sensational or tragical nature to chronicle, no murder, homicide, or ejectments; no appealing to J. P's., Sheriff or Marshal, for protection from assault; and. in short, none of the many evils that are peculiar to city life. But never mind, wait till we get a saloon started and then perhaps we can keep pace with neighboring towns in evil doings, have drunken brawls and other exhibitions of manhood, (?) and be somebody.

La Centre, like New Amsterdam, in colonial times, is growing in a slow but solid sort of way. True, the blacksmith shop being built some time ago by Mr. Ralph Lyons, has not been commenced yet, but that doesn't militate against the fact that here is a good opening for a mechanic of that persuasion, Messrs. Miller and Gaither, storekeepers, still do a flourishing business. 

Less than two years ago these two gentlemen began selling goods here, and by fair dealing and a strict adherence to business, nave built up a large trade. Verily integrity hath its reward. Our gentlemanly physician, Dr. Davis, still continues to cater to the billions, the "fever'n'aguerish" and the etc., of the community; he is always ready to go when called on, is generally successful, and moderate in his charges.

The Patrons of Husbandry, of La Centre Grange held their first meeting in their new hall the 20th inst. Presume 'twas dedicated with ceremony peculiar to the Order. The Grange is in a flourishing condition, and the members talk of opening a store in their new hall, also of building a steamboat to ply between here and Portland. Captain Weir of steamer Swallow, is building a boat for this trade, which will be launched about the first of the coming year. 

To Captain Weir belongs the honor of founding this town, if town it can hi called. Until he came (three years ago) no one could he induced to embark in a business enterprise on this river above Pekin. After merchandising a while he disposed of his stock of goods, and has since devoted his time to steam boating on Lewis River. A few more men of the Captain's caliber would be of vast service tot he country.

Stoughton, another trading post, two mile above here, on the river, has been abandoned by the traders. Mr. M. B. Jones, the last knight of the yard-stick located there, recently packed up his wares and betook himself to the Washougal. He leaves hosts of friends who wish him success in his new location. A few words about the Lewis River, bridge, three miles above here, and we'll close this budget of small talk.

These bridges, three in number, still stand as monuments to the skill and honesty of the architect, Mr. Gridley, of your city, notwithstanding the oracular predictions of several of the "oldest inhabitants," that the bridges would be swept away by the first rise of the river. Sanguine were they in then belief; so much so that they talked of petitioning the "County fathers" to furnish rope with which to moor the bridges when they should come floating past this, then embryo, city. 

N, D.