(Continued)

Location
To the east, northeast and north, the territory of Ely is cut off by the Cedar river, at a distance of from five to ten miles, but the natural obstruction also confines the territory of the towns north of the river, giving to each a sort of protection in the form of running water that is not frequently bridged nor conveniently forded.

By the diagonal wagon road, Ely is about eight miles from the business section of Cedar Rapids, about the same distance by rail - the Rock Island. The one time flourishing trade and educational center, Western College, is three miles to the west, while Fairfax is about thirteen miles distant. The trade territory of Ely therefore embraces practically Putnam township, southwest Franklin, southeastern College and a considerable scope of country in the northern part of Johnson county.

The farm land is of the most excellent character as a rule and has been brought to a high and profitable state of cultivation by the residents, who as the majority of the officers of Ely would indicate, are of Bohemian origin, a sufficient indication of thrift, stability and industry.

The Municipal Family
The municipal family of Linn County is becoming large and important and there are none of the indications of race suicide that have alarmed the president of these United States. In fact there are fine prospects for additions to the list. The corporations of the county with their population according to the last census are as follows:

This would show Linn county to be one of the most fruitful of Iowa parents in the line of incorporated towns, and the other possibilities are such that there is no temptation to throw away the high chair and discard the perambulator.

There are Fairfax, Troy Mills, Prairieburg, Bertram, Waubeek, Viola, Whittier, Palo, Covington that may bethink themselves of incorporation at almost any time and a village is almost certain to be created on the Prairie creek flats, near Beverly. Here is wishing long life and rapid growth to Ely and a kind inquiry as to "what would the little lady have."

Will Make Improvements
One of the first questions, in fact the first question, of the new town will concern improvements. A general clean up of the corporation has been determined upon and it will be made to wear a village aspect instead of the appearance of a rather populous farm. Cleanliness will be the motto. No elaborate outlines have been made as to what will be done, but it has been determined to build a sidewalk around four blocks in the business part, an improvement that will be appreciated by the people as well as by the numerous customers of the business men of that place.