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SODA WATER
________

Consolidated Soda Water Works
Co., Ltd.

A review of the business enterprises of the country would be far from complete without a description of the establishment that provides the necessary aerated beverages for a thirsty community.
  Founded in 1863 by Messrs. Hollister & Hyland it has now been in constant operation for 34 years, and to estimate the output in that period of time would be an impossibility.
  Other establishments have been started only to be eventually absorbed in what is now the "Consolidated Soda Water Works Co., Ltd.," representing as it does the Soda Water Works of John A. Palmer & Co., Crystal Soda Works, Tahiti Lemonade Works and Hollister & Co., the successors of the original founders.
  The consolidation of interests and works enables them to manufacture high grade goods on an economical basis, thereby supplying their patrons at prices lower than the same quality are sold for in the United States.
  One idea has been adhered to throughout a long business career, and that is, an absolute purity of the beverages sent out.  To this end an elaborate filtration plant, furnishing absolutely pure water, is in constant operation.
  The advantage of this is evident, for, while removing the ordinary mechanical impurities, recent experiments carried on in Providence, R. I., and other eastern cities, have shown that the method in use in this factory successfully removes all the forms of bacteria and organic life.  The water, after passing the purifying apparatus, does not come in contact with any metals but pure block tin.
  The machinery used in carbonating the water is a combination of the "Continuous" and "Intermittent" systems, which experience has demonstrated to be best for this climate.
  The sugar used in the syrups is a specially refined article, free from color and other "whiteners."  Over 400 lbs. a day of this one item is consumed.
  The only acid employed in the syrup flavors is the pure concentrated juice of the lemon imported from Europe.
  Some idea of the business may be gained from learning of the enormous importation of bottles required to make good the loss by breakage and carelessness of patrons.  During 1896 over 4824 dozen or 57,888 bottles were imported, a recent shipment bringing 24,192 at one time.
  The system of washing the bottles, apparently a trivial matter, received in this factory as much attention as any other detail.
  When the bottles are ready to be filled they are as clean as brushing and washing can make them.
  The works employ a force of sixteen men and keep five delivery wagons in constant use.