March 14, 1861; The Charleston Mercury
Our readers throughout the Confederate States will be gratified to learn that the people of Charleston are making strenuous and successful efforts to establish themselves independent of the North, in business as well as political relations. It is too well known that every article which adorns the outer man, from his hat to his boots, has hitherto been manufactured in a section with which we now hold foreign relations; but it is equally well known that we have the means, the facility and enterprize to manufacture these articles for ourselves, and we are rejoiced to see that they are being called into requisition.
Already we have mentioned that a charter was granted by the Legislature to a company for the manufacture of boots and shoes on a large scale. An extensive hat factory is also spoken of. And on yesterday we were informed that the large clothing house of Messrs. MATHIESSEN, O’HARA & Co. has transferred its entire manufacturing interests from New York to his city.
This House, established in 1825, when clothing for the trade was made up in Charleston, continued to manufacture here until 1832, when, to complete with other flourishing establishments, they were compelled–through the last in the business to yield to the necessity–to open a branch house in New York for the purpose of manufacturing their goods with more economy. The New York branch, now, however, no longer exists; and Messrs. MATHIESSEN, O’HARA & Co. –the last to yield in 1832–are the first to return in 1861.
Messrs. MATHIESSEN, O’HARA & Co.Manufacturing Rooms are located in Hasel street, near King street, and in a few days will be in full blast, with upwards of one hundred operatives, when we may again recur to this and other praiseworthy enterprises.