E. R. THAYER. This gentleman has been connected with the commercial interests of Springfield for many years and still retains his active interest in two of the most flourishing business establishments of the city. One is the Springfield Woolen Mills, owned and operated by the firm composed of E. R. Thayer, J. T. Capps, and W. H. Bradish. The buildings occupied by the establishment were put up during the years between 1861 to 1888, additions being made as required. The present capacity is six sets and in the establishment employment is furnished to one hundred and twenty-five operatives. The annual consumption of wool is five hundred thousand pounds and the product of the looms amounts to $250,000 per year.

In 1851 what is known as the Springfield Woolen Mills was established by H. M. Armstrong and E. R. Thayer, and continued as a woolen manufactory under their management until 1863. Mr. Armstrong then retired and H. S. Dickerman was admitted, the firm name being Dickerman & Co. This continued in operation until 1881, when Mr. Dickerman retired and the present firm was formed.