Industry

The proximity to several markets such as Haymarket, Faneuil Hall, and Quincy Market made it so produce came to be a particularly popular industry within this parcel. In the year 1885 there were several produce companies lining the block including McCausland & Bailey at 17 Blackstone, Elon E & Co. Produce at 13 Blackstone, Nathaniel C. & Co Produce at 3 Blackstone and Duffy Co. Produce at 5 Blackstone. There were also others on the block throughout history -- these were just some of the few listed throughout various directories. 

B.S. Thompson, however, was not the only coffee producer on the block. Maynard Coffee was also mentioned within the 1895 directory. This business was found at 12 Blackstone Street. This business was a lot less visible in newspaper ads compared to B.S Thompson & Co., who seemed to have a larger presence within ads. 

Glass production was another industry that dominated Blackstone Street. Dean Foster & Co, located at 14 Blackstone seems to have been a large industry leader. While they are specifically listed as a “demi-john” producer, it seems that the purposes of their glassware spanned across many different items. Their items, as listed in the ad were specifically for druggists' and apothecaries' use. However, they also produced milk jugs and bottles and other nonspecialized bottles. They are a company mentioned in the news a lot. They seem to be a well known business  (not for all good reasons as one can see within the crimes, fires and fraud section), perhaps one of the more well-known of the block. Dean Foster & Co dissolved within the early 1900s, however, it is unclear exactly why. No matter what, it does seem like this company was able to make a name for itself within the glass industry of this time, not only in Boston but nationally. 

"Trade card for Dean, Foster & Co., manufacturers of druggists' and apothecaries' glassware, 14 Blackstone Street, Boston, Mass., undated." Card. Digital

Another well-documented company within the block was a company that seemed to hit a specific niche that seemed to be well-needed at the time. This company was a manufacturer of fruit jar rubbers. These rubbers were designed to protect the fruit jars and make it so the fruit did not go bad. The company was called “ Kold Prosso Fruit Jar Rubber” and it was located at 21 Blackstone. The company was run by three men with the last names, “Smally, Kivlan & Onthank."