The Craighead & Kintz factory building has a fascinating history that includes the possibility of arson, insurance fraud, fears over the short-lived Spanish American War, and – dare I say – “hoo-doo.”
Sometimes, things are a little bit Too Much of a coincidence. I doubt that insurance fraud was involved if the goods belonged to more than one company.
Good point, Doug! Years ago, a History Center board member described history as gossip about people who aren't here to defend themselves. This could certainly be a case of that!
Very interesting and a great presentation. Wonder if "hoo-doo" had hoodoo in mind? An interesting lookup. From one of the newspaper clips Ballardvale also seems to have had a rail yard or railroad facility worthy of mention.
Sometimes, things are a little bit Too Much of a coincidence. I doubt that insurance fraud was involved if the goods belonged to more than one company.
Good point, Doug! Years ago, a History Center board member described history as gossip about people who aren't here to defend themselves. This could certainly be a case of that!
Very interesting and a great presentation. Wonder if "hoo-doo" had hoodoo in mind? An interesting lookup. From one of the newspaper clips Ballardvale also seems to have had a rail yard or railroad facility worthy of mention.
Thanks, Larry! I've been thinking about writing some posts on Ballardvale and the other mill districts in town. Stay tuned!