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HISTORY OF ERIE COUNTY 233
are growing in favor where the finer kinds of fish are available. A
considerable number of fishermen devote their efforts exclusively to this
species and find it highly profitable.
Like all other lines of business the fishing industry has become systematized
within the past few years. The old-time free and easy methods
of buying and selling have given way to modern methods, with the result
that there is a much steadier supply.
SAND INDUSTRY
Sandusky furnishes building sand for the greater part of Ohio and
a considerable part of other nearby states. The sand of Lake Erie, particularly
that found in the neighborhood of Pelee Island, is of superior
quality and is much in demand. F^our companies, operating six large
sand-suckers, are engaged in the business and about 200,000 tons of the
material is shipped out annually.
The business gives employment to sixty-six people and during the
summer season is very active.
Lake sand is used almost entirely now in building operations, though
about 10,000 tons annually go to railroads and electric lines for use on
engines and cars. The sand so used is of a specially fine grade and
brings a better price than that used for building purposes.
By the 1915 directory the City of Sandusky has '28 attorneys, 13
bakeries, 35 barber shops, 2 breweries, 56 building contractors, 13 cigar
factories, 23 churches, 16 dentists, 14 drug stores, 22 dry goods stores,
8 wholesale fish dealers, 4 foundries, 76 groceries, 11 hardware stores,
13 hotels, 33 factories, 24 doctors, 2 hospitals, 4 undertakers, 4 nevvspapers,
8 theaters and 45 saloons.