Shopping for a new Model T Ford - Part II Submitted by Nute Chapman From Onaway Outlook August 15, 2014

Caption #1:  Northern Auto Co.  At the time Onaway has sidewalk, bit no pavement.




Caption #2: A winter's picture of State Street.  Note the sign that reads, Sales and Service, Lincoln, 
Ford, Fordson cars, trucks and tractors. The gas is White Star and Staroline Motor Oil.  across the street one could
buy Red Crown Gasoline.

 

  
  Last week we were on the inside of the Northern Auto Company.  This week we are on the outside.

  The Northern Auto Co. became part of the Onaway high school system and for many  years classes in wood
shop, metal shop, welding and agriculture were held in this building.  It was called the Onaway Trades
Building.

  We find that in 1947 the Onaway school system advertised the trades building for sale.

  From here we move onto the Black River Products.  This writer can remember Luke Madden being in charge
of the operation. I remember the metal lathes along the walls and lots of welding going on.  They made
commercial food grinders from stainless steel.

  Some names that come to mind are Clarence (Porky) Amyotte, Dormer Madden, Woody Veihl, Clarence Thomas, Robert
McArthur and Russell Paulus.  I remember Dusty Middleton being the boss in the last years of operation.  I can also
remember some nice stainless steel pike and sturgeon spears that came from this location.

  Today this building is known as the Michigan Works.



From the Onaway Outlook, August 15, 2014, page 3. 


Retyped by J. Anderson