Rensselaer Journal, Volume 11, Number 45, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 17 April 1902 — GENERAL PROSPERITY [ARTICLE]

GENERAL PROSPERITY

A Banker’s Views on Present Condition of Things. Indianapolis Sentinel, Mar. 1, 1902: R. Neptune, a prominent banker of Thorntown, was at the Grand last night. “This has proved a very prosperous year with us,” said Mr. Neptune. “The farmers of our county have enjoyed unusual prosperity. I know from my connection with the bank that this is so, since we now have more depositors among them that ever before in the history of the county. When the farmers are prosperous and are enjoying good times it is safe to sdy other people are doing the same. An example of the difference is shown by the fact that the price of farm land has advanced in the last six months anywhere from sls to $25 an acre. Land that a year ago would only have brought S6O an acre is now worth $75 to SBS an acre. “I believe the proposed electric railroad from Lafayette to Indianapolis will be built during the coming year, and this will prove a great boon to Thorntown, since the line will pass directly through the town. As yet it is only a paper rpad, but on account of the prosperity of the farmers I believe inducements will be offered the promoters of the road that will insure its construction.”