hubert howe bancroft - Central Pacific Railroad Photographic History ...

VARIOUS INDUSTRIES. 71
to the extent of more than a dozen million dollars,
largely for export. The fine malt and hops, and the
difficulty of introducing beer by sea in good condition,
favored breweries, whose production in 1888 exceeded
four million dollars. Fine and abundant fruit, vegetables,
and salmon led to the establishment of numerous
canneries, which sustained several vinegar
factories, and consumed a large proportion of the
seven million dollars' worth and more of sugar from
the local refineries. Proximity to the Hawaiian Islands
for raw sugar was a fostering factor. The
excellence of the chestnut-oak bark raised tannery
products to three and a half million dollars, and brought
a foreign demand, which extended to saddlery, shoes,
gloves, and belting, with a total out-turn of more than
six million dollars. The abundance of tallow and
other substances account for soap factories. A fine
quality of wool and a substantial weft sustained the
mills against many adverse influences. Simplicity of
fabrication and nearness of sources for raw material
built up jute and bag factories, while paper-mills
found an abundance of good straw and rags. The
discovery of antimony brought type foundries to the
front. The risk and cost of transporting crockery
and glassware gave an opening for potteries and glassworks.
The possession of quartz promoted a special
branch of jewelry. The lead joint for water-pipes,
the pneumatic clock, and the photography of animals
in motion are also among California's inventions. A
number of other devices might be named which have
contributed to her fame, and to the increasing development
of her resources.
The general wealth has maintained large orders at
high rates for domestic purposes, so as to support
many otherwise impracticable industries. A number
of others are due entirely to Chinese, whose cheap and
in many respects undesirable labor is largely forced
upon the country by white workingmen.
High wages have been sustained by a variety of