Shibusawa Eiichi denki shiryō, Vol. 11

6th month of Meiji 5 (July/August 1872) [id: DK110001k] ……… p. 5

This month, under joint signature with Inoue Kaoru (井上馨) and Ueno Kagenori (上野景範), Eiichi submits a proposal to the Central Chamber (正院) promoting the paper making industry. Then, persuading the three groups of the Mitsui (三井), Ono (小野), and Shimada (島田), and others to join, and with the addition of Shibusawa Saisaburō (渋沢才三郎), Eiichi makes plans to establish a paper manufacturing company in the form of a gappon soshiki (合本組織, joint stock organization).

11th month of Meiji 5 (December 1872) [id: DK110002k] ……… p. 8

This month, a request for permission to found a paper manufacturing company is submitted to the Ministry of Finance (大蔵省) under the names of Minomura Risuke (三野村利助) and Furukawa Ichibee (古河市兵衛). Permission is granted the following year, on 12 February 1873. The company is named Shōshi Kaisha (抄紙会社, Papermaking Company) and its capital is set at 150,000 yen. Then, on 23 March, in Eiichi’s presence, a formal agreement on the purchase of production equipment is signed with Walsh & Co. (亜米一商会) of Yokohama.

January 1874 (Meiji 7) [id: DK110003k] ……… p. 13

Previously, in May 1873, Eiichi had left government service to enter the world of business. This month, he is entrusted with the business affairs of Shōshi Kaisha (抄紙会社, Papermaking Company). Then, in March, Keiteisha (景締社) is aquired and made into a branch company of Shōshi Kaisha. By simultaneously operating a printing business, Shōshi Kaisha worked to create demand for Western-style paper. Mechanical engineer Frank Cheethmen and paper-making engineer Thomas Bottomley are hired and, in July, Tani Keizō (谷敬三) is also engaged as the general manager.

September 1874 (Meiji 7) [id: DK110004k] ……… p. 24

It is decided to establish a Shōshi Kaisha (抄紙会社, Papermaking Company) mill in Ōji village, Kita-toshima district, Tokyo prefecture.

December 1874 (Meiji 7) [id: DK110005k] ……… p. 30

Shōshi Kaisha (抄紙会社, Papermaking Company)’s capital is increased to 250,000 yen.

June 1875 (Meiji 8) [id: DK110006k] ……… p. 32

With the completion of its factory, Shōshi Kaisha (抄紙会社, Papermaking Company) begins operations. It fails to perform well, however. Eiichi exerts himself in its management for half a year and, as the company reaches a somewhat successful level, an inauguration ceremony is held in December. In the meantime, the head office is moved to Ōji, the name of the provisional office located at the Dai-Ichi Kokuritsu Ginkō (第一国立銀行, First National Bank) is changed to the Tokyo Branch Company, and it is put in charge of printing and bookmaking as well as sales of paper products coming from the head office.

May 1876 (Meiji 9) [id: DK110007k] ……… p. 45

By order of the Paper Money Bureau (紙幣寮), Shōshi Kaisha (抄紙会社, Papermaking Company) is renamed Seishi Kaisha (製紙会社, Paper Manufacturing Company).

August 1876 (Meiji 9) [id: DK110008k] ……… p. 45

Seishi Kaisha (製紙会社, Paper Manufacturing Company) receives an order from the Paper Money Bureau (紙幣寮) and engages in the manufacture of land-title deed paper. From this time on, the company is able to gradually make good the losses incurred since its organization.

July 1879 (Meiji 12) [id: DK110009k] ……… p. 47

Previously, employment of Seishi Kaisha (製紙会社, Paper Manufacturing Company) engineers Frank Cheethmen and Thomas Bottomley had been terminated when their terms of employment had expired. This month, in order to train Japanese engineers, Seishi Kaisha employee Ōkawa Heizaburō (大川平三郎) is sent to the United States. Ōkawa returns to Japan in October of the following year, significantly improves the facilities, and succeeds in producing quality products.

June 1880 (Meiji 13) [id: DK110010k] ……… p. 59

Seishi Kaisha (製紙会社, Paper Manufacturing Company) abolishes the previously agreed-upon rules for running the company and lays down articles of incorporation to define its organization. In July, Eiichi and two others become representative shareholders.

May 1884 (Meiji 17) [id: DK110011k] ……… p. 67

Seishi Kaisha (製紙会社, Paper Manufacturing Company) sends employee Ōkawa Heizaburō (大川平三郎) to Europe to study how to use wood as a raw material to make paper.

27 March 1887 (Meiji 20) [id: DK110012k] ……… p. 71

Seishi Kaisha (製紙会社, Paper Manufacturing Company) increases its capital to 500,000 yen. Following this, a second factory is built on a plot of land adjacent to the head office. Also, Ōkawa Heizaburō (大川平三郎) is sent to the United States to purchase paper-manufacturing equipment and Hoshino Shaku (星野錫) is sent to the United States to study the printing industry.

December 1889 (Meiji 22) [id: DK110013k] ……… p. 75

Seishi Kaisha (製紙会社, Paper Manufacturing Company) builds the Keta Branch Factory.

24 September 1893 (Meiji 26) [id: DK110014k] ……… p. 78

With enforcement of the Commercial Law, Seishi Kaisha (製紙会社, Paper Manufacturing Company) renames itself Oji Paper Co., Ltd. (王子製紙株式会社). Eiichi assumes the post of chairman of the board of directors. He is subsequently reappointed chairman every term until September 1898.

28 October 1894 (Meiji 27) [id: DK110015k] ……… p. 84

Eiichi delivers a congratulatory address at a ceremony to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the company’s inauguration.
He is presented with a letter of thanks and a commemorative gift.

18 September 1898 (Meiji 31) [id: DK110016k] ……… p. 92

Previously, a conflict had arisen between executives of the company, one faction representing the Mitsui (三井) family and one faction including Eiichi and others. Eiichi tried unsuccessfully to mediate, but in the end Executive Director Ōkawa Heizaburō (大川平三郎) resigned. Accordingly, on this day Eiichi also resigns as chairman of the board of directors.

27 June 1899 (Meiji 32) [id: DK110017k] ……… p. 107

On this day Eiichi invites Tokugawa Yoshinobu (徳川慶喜) to his Asukayama residence and requested this be preceded by a tour of the company’s factory. Yoshinobu arrives at the factory accompanied by Shinmura Takeo (新村猛雄) and is given a tour of the factory by Fujiyama Raita (藤山雷太) after which he proceeds to the Asukayama residence.

April 1902 (Meiji 35) [id: DK110018k] ……… p. 108

This month, Eiichi discusses remedial financial measures for the company with Inoue Kaoru (井上馨), Asabuki Eiji (朝吹英二), Hayakawa Senkichirō (早川千吉郎), Masuda Takashi (益田孝), Ōkawa Heizaburō (大川平三郎), and others. Then, in July, Suzuki Umeshirō (鈴木梅四郎) takes the post of executive director. With the intention of submitting the proposed financial adjustments to the general meeting of shareholders in January 1903, he first tries to obtain the approval of the Mitsui (三井) family, but is unsuccessful. Consequently, he shows the plans to Eiichi and asks for assistance. Eiichi approves them and exerts himself to help.

26 July 1902 (Meiji 35) [id: DK110019k] ……… p. 120

On this day, Eiichi is nominated as an advisor at a regular general meeting of shareholders of the company. He resigns in October 1904.

December 1887 (Meji 20) [id: DK110020k] ……… p. 121

This month, the Paper Manufacturing Department (紙質製造部) of Yokkaichi Kōgyō Kaisha (四日市工業会社, Yokkaichi Industry Company) in Hama-machi, Yokkaichi city, Mie prefecture, is separated and established independently as Yokkaichi Seishi Kaisha (四日市製紙会社, Yokkaichi Paper Manufacturing Company). Eiichi is a shareholder of the company and provides substantial assistance after its founding.

10 May 1906 (Meiji 39) [id: DK110021k] ……… p. 125

Eiichi, together with Ōkawa Heizaburō (大川平三郎), Tanaka Eihachirō (田中栄八郎), and others, makes plans to establish a paper manufacturing company in Nakatsu town, Ena district, Gifu prefecture. On this day they hold an incorporators’ meeting. Later, however, observing that starting up a new business has become inadvisable, they postpone their plans for a time.

5 October 1906 (Meiji 39) [id: DK110022k] ……… p. 128

Together with Ōkawa Heizaburō (大川平三郎), Tanaka Eihachirō (田中栄八郎), and others, Eiichi proposes the establishment of Chūō Seishi Kabushiki Kaisha (中央製紙株式会社, Central Paper Manufacturing Co., Ltd.). On this day, an organizational general meeting is held at the Nagoya Chamber of Commerce (名古屋商業会議所). Eiichi is nominated as and becomes an advisor.

6 June 1909 (Meiji 42) [id: DK110023k] ……… p. 131

Having reached his 70th year this year, Eiichi decides to retire from his business engagements, with the exception of the Dai-Ichi Ginko (第一銀行) and a few other companies. On this day, he resigns as an advisor to the company.

10 October 1908 (Meiji 41) [id: DK110024k] ……… p. 133

Together with Ōkawa Heizaburō (大川平三郎), Ōsawa Tatsujirō (大沢辰次郎), and others, Eiichi proposes the establishment of Kiso Kōgyō Kabushiki Kaisha (木曽興業株式会社, Kiso Industry Co., Ltd.). On this day, Eiichi presides over an organizational general meeting and appoints executives. Eiichi is nominated as and becomes an advisor.

6 June 1909 (Meiji 42) [id: DK110025k] ……… p. 134

Having reached his 70th year this year, Eiichi decides to retire from his business involvements, with the exception of the Dai-Ichi Ginko (第一銀行) and a few other companies. On this day, he resigns as an advisor to the company.

26 December 1880 (Meiji 13) [id: DK110026k] ……… p. 136

To promote the Seishijo Rengōkai (製紙所聯合会, Paper Mills Association), Eiichi holds a meeting on this day at the Ueno Seiyōken, where rules are established and attempts are made to reach an agreement on paper pricing.

April 1882 (Meiji 15) [id: DK110027k] ……… p. 139

Representing the Seishijo Rengōkai (製紙所聯合会, Paper Mills Association), Eiichi presents a petition to Foreign Minister (大蔵卿) Inoue Kaoru (井上馨) and Finance Minister (大蔵卿) Sano Tsunetami (佐野常民) calling for an increase of tariffs on imports of Western-style paper.

27 July 1883 (Meiji 16) [id: DK110028k] ……… p. 140

Previously there had been members who had argued for the dissolution of the association on the grounds that it had been unable to prevent a slump in the price of paper. This is opposed by Eiichi and others. On this day they agree to the withdrawal of the Osaka and Umezu paper mills and amend the rules in an effort to maintain the association.

March 1885 (Meiji 18) [id: DK110029k] ……… p. 142

At the association’s request, Eiichi submits a petition to Finance Minister (大蔵卿) Count Matsukata Masayoshi (松方正義) calling for the products of the Printing Bureau (印刷局) Paper Making Department (抄紙部) not to be sold on the public market. The finance minister agrees to this and suspends such sales for two years.

April 1879 (Meiji 12) [id: DK110030k] ……… p. 147

Previously, the tanning and shoemaking businesses of the Yoda Nishimura-gumi (依田西村組, Yoda Nishimura Group), run by Nishimura Katsuzō (西村勝三), had fallen into a slump. Due to this, on the advice of Tokyo Prefectural Deputy Governor Kusumoto Masataka (楠本正隆), Nishimura had petitioned the Ministry of Finance (大蔵省) for a 100,000-yen loan from the Ministry’s industrial support fund. This month, a loan for half that amount is granted. Due to this, at Nishimura’s request, Eiichi meets with the group’s creditors and they decide on terms for annual installment repayments, thereby preventing bankruptcy. Later, in 1884, the group is renamed the Sakura-gumi (桜組, Sakura Group).

November 1898 (Meiji 31) [id: DK110031k] ……… p. 158

The Sino-Japanese War generated a large increase in product demand, resulting in a significant expansion of business. Thus, this month the group reorganizes as a limited partnership company (合資会社) with contributions from 17 people, including Eiichi. The contributions total 340,000 yen.

22 December 1887 (Meiji 20) [id: DK110032k] ……… p. 165

On this day, Eiichi submits an application, jointly signed by himself and eight others, including Nishimura Katsuzō (西村勝三) and Masuda Takashi (益田孝), to Tokyo Prefectural Governor Baron Takasaki Goroku (高崎五六) to establish Nippon Jukuhi Kaisha (日本熟皮会社, Japan Tanning Company). On 24 December they are directed to conduct business on the basis of private consensus until a company ordinance is established. The following year, on 15 March 1888, Eiichi becomes an advisor. Since the company sustained losses every year since its organization and announced a shortage of funds, it is ultimately dissolved in September 1892.

1892 (Meiji 25) [id: DK110033k] ……… p. 172

After the dissolution of Nippon Jukuhi Kaisha (日本熟皮会社, Japan Tanning Company), Itō Chōjirō (伊藤長次郎), Miyake Chūzō (三宅忠三), and other sympathetic shareholders take over the company’s assets and establish Jukuhi Kabushiki Kaisha (熟皮株式会社, Tanning Co., Ltd.). Eiichi is a shareholder. The company is dissolved in 1898.

1 April 1907 (Meiji 40) [id: DK110034k] ……… p. 173

Gōmei Kaisha Ōkura-gumi Hikaku Seizōjo (合名会社大倉組皮革製造所, Ōkura Group Tannery Unlimited Partnership Company), Tōkyō Seihi Gōshi Kaisha (東京製皮合資会社, Tokyo Tanning Limited Partnership Company), and the Sakura-gumi (桜組, Sakura Group) merge to organize Nippon Hikaku Kabushiki Kaisha (日本皮革株式会社, Japan Leather Co., Ltd.). Eiichi becomes an advisor.

6 June 1909 (Meiji 42) [id: DK110035k] ……… p. 176

Having reached his 70th year this year, Eiichi decides to retire from his business involvements, with the exception of the Dai-Ichi Ginko (第一銀行) and a few other companies. On this day, he resigns as an advisor to the company.

16 February 1894 (Meiji 27) [id: DK110036k] ……… p. 178

Previously, in 1889, when Sano Tsuneki (佐野常樹) had been sent to India to study the cotton industry, Eiichi had asked him to survey the conditions of the sugar industry in Southeast Asia as well. This year [1894], in an effort to promote the sugar refining industry in Japan, Eiichi, along with Matsumoto Jūtarō (松本重太郎) and others, starts by organizing the Seitō Jigyō Chōsakai (精糖事業調査会, Sugar Refining Industry Research Group) in Osaka on this day to experiment with sugar refining and conduct research overseas.

22 December 1895 (Meiji 28) [id: DK110037k] ……… p. 180

It is decided within the Seitō Jigyō Chōsakai (精糖事業調査会, Sugar Refining Industry Research Group) to establish Nippon Seitō Kabushiki Kaisha (日本精糖株式会社, Japan Sugar Refining Co., Ltd.). The inaugural general meeting is held on this day. Then an establishment license application is submitted on the 26th of this month and permission is granted on 15 January 1896. Eiichi serves as a director. The company purchases sugar-refining equipment from Britain and begins operations on 15 June 1898.

8 May 1906 (Meiji 39) [id: DK110038k] ……… p. 199

With economic conditions suddenly booming following the Russo-Japanese War, some amongst the shareholders of the company and those of Nippon Seiseitō Kabushiki Kaisha (日本精製糖株式会社, Japan Sugar Refining and Manufacturing Co., Ltd.) attempt to merge the two companies and expand business. Executives of both companies oppose this and resign en masse. On this day, Eiichi also resigns as a director of the company.

18 November 1895 (Meiji 28) [id: DK110039k] ……… p. 202

Together with Ōe Taku (大江卓), Torimi Seizaemon (鳥海清左衛門), and others, Eiichi proposes the establishment of Yaeyama Tōgyō Kabushiki Kaisha (八重山糖業株式会社, Yaeyama Sugar Co., Ltd.). On this day, the inaugural general meeting is held at the Nihonbashi Club in Tokyo. Eiichi becomes the chairman of the meeting and appoints directors and auditors. Eiichi is also chosen as an auditor. The company takes over the facilities of Nakagawa Nōjō (中川農場, Nakagawa Farm) and Yaeyama Kaikon Kumiai (八重山開墾組合, Yaeyama Reclamation Association) on Ishigaki Island and opens for business.

20 August 1898 (Meiji 31) [id: DK110040k] ……… p. 222

From its organization, the company had failed to produce results and losses had piled up every term. In addition, despite plans to raise more capital in order to expand the business, obtaining adequate financing had proved difficult, thus a general meeting of shareholders is held on this day and it is decided to reorganize the business. Eiichi attends and states his views on the matter. Later, in April 1902, the company is dissolved.

10 October 1896 (Meiji 29) [id: DK110041k] ……… p. 244

Based on a proposal by Katō Tokuzō (加東徳三), Torimi Seizaemon (鳥海清左衛門), Tonoki Zenbee (殿木善兵衛), and others, Teikoku Seitō Kabushiki Kaisha (帝国精糖株式会社, Imperial Sugar Refining Co., Ltd.) is organized on this day. Eiichi is a shareholder. Although the company receives permission to establish the following year, on 26 February 1897, it has no chance of succeeding in the face of growing imports of foreign sugar and, as a result, is dissolved on 21 October of the same year.

13 June 1900 (Meiji 33) [id: DK110042k] ……… p. 251

A plan had been developing to establish Taiwan Seitō Kabushiki Kaisha (台湾製糖株式会社, Taiwan Sugar Manufacturing Co., Ltd.) with a new type of machinery in order to promote the sugar manufacturing industry in Taiwan. On this day, a gathering to announce the proposal is held at the Mitsui Shūkaijo (三井集会所, Mitsui Assembly Hall). The gathering also serves as an incorporators’ meeting. Eiichi attends as a guest. The company is organized on 10 December of the same year. Eiichi is a shareholder.

6 October 1906 (Meiji 39) [id: DK110043k] ……… p. 267

Previously, plans by Sōma Hanji (相馬半治), Ogawa Zenkichi (小川䤡吉), and others to establish Meiji Sugar Manufacturing Co., Ltd. (明治製糖株式会社) had materialized with the backing of Eiichi, Morimura Ichizaemon (森村市左衛門), and others. On this day, the first incorporators’ meeting is held. Eiichi becomes chairman of the organizing committee.

29 December 1906 (Meiji 39) [id: DK110044k] ……… p. 272

The company holds an organizational general meeting on this day. Eiichi becomes chairman of the meeting and appoints directors and auditors. Eiichi also becomes an advisor.

6 June 1909 (Meiji 42) [id: DK110045k] ……… p. 282

Having reached his 70th year this year, Eiichi decides to retire from his business involvements, with the exception of the Dai-Ichi Ginko (第一銀行) and a few other companies. On this day, he resigns as an advisor to the company.

5 November 1906 (Meiji 39) [id: DK110046k] ……… p. 284

On this day, Nippon Seiseitō Kabushiki Kaisha (日本精製糖株式会社, Japan Sugar Refining and Manufacturing Co., Ltd.) resolves, at an extraordinary general meeting of shareholders, to merge with Nippon Seitō Kabushiki Kaisha (日本精糖株式会社, Japan Sugar Refining Co., Ltd.) and elects new directors. Eiichi is nominated as an advisor. The merger is effective as of the 11th and the company name is changed to Dai-Nippon Seitō Kabushiki Kaisha (大日本製糖株式会社, Great Japan Sugar Manufacturing Co., Ltd.). The president, Sakō Tsuneaki (酒匂常明), is chosen on Eiichi’s recommendation.

11 January 1909 (Meiji 42) [id: DK110047k] ……… p. 305

After the merger of several sugar manufacturers, the company experiences financial difficulties and various rumors circulate about the reasons behind this. As a result of an investigation in November of the previous year [1908], undertaken by Uryū Shin (瓜生震) and others as auditors, incidences of corruption are revealed and president Sakō Tsuneaki (酒匂常明) and other directors underneath him resign one after another. On this day, Eiichi, taking responsibility for having recommended Sakō, also resigns as an advisor.

January 1909 (Meiji 42) [id: DK110048k] ……… p. 312

Auditor Uryū Shin (瓜生震) draws up a plan to reorganize and asks Eiichi, president of the Dai-Ichi Ginko (第一銀行); Hayakawa Senkichirō (早川千吉郎), managing director of Mitsui Bank (三井銀行); and Toyokawa Ryōhei (豊川良平), head of the bank department for Mitsubishi Gōshi Kaisha (三菱合資会社, Mitsubishi Limited Partnership Company), for their help. Eiichi and the others decline the request.

27 April 1909 (Meiji 42) [id: DK110049k] ……… p. 317

Previously, on 8 March, Eiichi had been asked by a group of major shareholders to choose candidates for successors to the directors. Eiichi and the other committee members worked on the selection and, at an extraordinary general meeting of shareholders on this day, name seven individuals including Fujiyama Raita (藤山雷太). Eiichi becomes an advisor again.

6 June 1909 (Meiji 42) [id: DK110050k] ……… p. 337

Having reached his 70th year this year, Eiichi decides to retire from his business involvements, with the exception of the Dai-Ichi Ginko (第一銀行) and a few other companies. On this day, he announces his resignation as an advisor to the company, but shortly thereafter he is requested to remain and agrees to serve as an advisor for a third time.

February 1885 (Meiji 18) [id: DK110051k] ……… p. 340

This month, together with Gotō Shōjirō (後藤象二郎), Iwasaki Yanosuke (岩崎弥之助), Masujima Rokuichirō (増島六一郎), German Carl Rohde, and others from inside and outside of Japan, Eiichi invests in the purchase of the Spring Valley Brewery (スプリング・ヴァレイ・ブリユワリー), a brewery run by Copeland, an American in Yokohama. They reorganize it as a joint stock organization with $50,000 of capital and establish Japan Brewery Company Limited (ジャパン・ブリュワリー・コンパニー・リミテッド).

July 1889 (Meiji 22) [id: DK110052k] ……… p. 346

This month, Eiichi is nominated as a member of the company’s board of directors. He resigns the position in December 1896.

28 December 1887 (Meiji 20) [id: DK110053k] ……… p. 347

Having previously planned to establish a beer company with Asano Sōichirō (浅野総一郎) and others, Eiichi signs an agreement on the 24th of this month with Sapporo Brewery Factory (札幌麦酒醸造所) owner Ōkura Kihachirō (大倉喜八郎) to transfer ownership of the brewery and submits an application to Hokkaido Agency Director (北海道庁長官) Iwamura Michitoshi (岩村通俊) for permission to establish the company. Permission is granted on this day and Sapporo Beer Company (札幌麦酒会社) is launched the following year, in January 1888. Eiichi serves as the chairman.

25 February 1890 (Meiji 23) [id: DK110054k] ……… p. 362

Previously, on 10 October 1889, a request had been submitted to the government for permission to make annual payments for Sapporo Beer Company (札幌麦酒会社) land, buildings, equipment, and supplies purchased from the government. Permission is granted on this day. A directive is issued. Then, since the term of employment of Hokkaido Agency engineer (北海道庁技師) Max Pormann would expire in July of this year, the company submits another petition asking that he be permitted to continue working. Permission is granted on 11 September 1890.

24 May 1894 (Meiji 27) [id: DK110055k] ……… p. 368

With the enforcement of the Commercial Law, Sapporo Beer Company (札幌麦酒会社) is renamed Sapporo Bīru Kabushiki Kaisha (札幌麦酒株式会社, Sapporo Beer Co., Ltd.). Eiichi becomes the chairman of the board of directors and recommends Uemura Chōzaburō (植村澄三郎) as the executive director. Eiichi is reappointed and remains in this post until the company is dissolved as a result of a merger in March 1906.

21 March 1900 (Meiji 33) [id: DK110056k] ……… p. 381

On this day, Eiichi attends a meeting of the company’s executives and it is decided to build a branch factory at 1-banchi, Nakanogōkawara-machi in the Honjo ward of Tokyo (the former Satake residence) on a site slightly over 5,330 tsubo [about 17,600 m2].

26 March 1906 (Meiji 39) [id: DK110057k] ……… p. 392

Planning to merge three breweries—Sapporo Bīru Kabushiki Kaisha (札幌麦酒株式会社, Sapporo Beer Co., Ltd.), Japan Beer Brewery Co., Ltd. (日本麦酒株式会社), and Ōsaka Bīru Kabushiki Kaisha (大阪麦酒株式会社, Osaka Beer Co., Ltd.)—and establish DaiNippon Beer Co., Ltd. (大日本麦酒株式会社), an organizational general meeting is held on this day at the Tokyo Bankers’ Association (東京銀行集会所). Eiichi presides over the meeting as chairman and is recommended as a director of the new company.

6 June 1909 (Meiji 42) [id: DK110058k] ……… p. 408

Having reached his 70th year this year, Eiichi decides to retire from his business involvements, with the exception of the Dai-Ichi Ginko (第一銀行) and a few other companies. On this day, he resigns as a director of the company.

May 1887 (Meiji 20) [id: DK110059k] ……… p. 410

This month Eiichi and others, including Tanaka Gentarō (田中源太郎) and Hamaoka Kōtetsu (浜岡光哲), establish Kyōto Tōki Kaisha (京都陶器会社, Kyoto Ceramic Company). The company is dissolved in 1892.

February 1890 (Meiji 23) [id: DK110060k] ……… p. 417

Previously, Eiichi had planned to organize Tōkyō Jiki Kaisha (東京磁器会社, Tokyo Porcelain Company). At this time, however, he cancels his earlier plan to attempt producing asahiyaki ceramics, as invented by the German Wagener. Eiichi consults with Asano Sōichirō (浅野総一郎) and others to organize the Asahiyaki Kumiai (旭焼組合, Asahiyaki Association). The association is dissolved in 1896.

1907 (Meiji 40) [id: DK110061k] ……… p. 431

Yūgyokuen Seitōjo (友玉園製陶所, Yūgyokuen Pottery), which had been organized by Katō Tomotarō (加藤友太郎) in 1882, is re-organized into an anonymous partnership this year to develop its business. Eiichi becomes a partner together with Gō Seinosuke (郷誠之助), Uemura Chōzaburō (植村澄三郎), and others and remains so until 1916.

September 1887 (Meiji 20) [id: DK110062k] ……… p. 440

Together with Masuda Takashi (益田孝), Asano Sōichiro (浅野総一郎), and others, Eiichi organizes Iwaki Garasu Kaisha (磐城硝子会社, Iwaki Glass Company), but it is dissolved in 1890.

June 1888 (Meiji 21) [id: DK110063k] ……… p. 443

This month, in consultation with Nishimura Katsuzō (西村勝三), Masuda Takashi (益田孝), Kashiwamura Makoto (柏村信), and others, Eiichi takes over Shinagawa Garasu Seizōjo (品川硝子製造所, Shinagawa Glass Factory), previously privately run by Nishimura, and establishes Shinagawa Garasu Kaisha (品川硝子会社, Shinagawa Glass Company) with 150,000 yen of capital. Eiichi serves as an advisor. To expand business, the company increases its capital to 600,000 yen in June 1889, but it is dissolved in June 1893.

September 1906 (Meiji 39) [id: DK110064k] ……… p. 460

This month Eiichi establishes Tōyō Garasu Seizō Kabushiki Kaisha (東洋硝子製造株式会社, Tōyō Glass Manufacturing Co., Ltd.) together with Frenchman Robert Loonen and others. Eiichi becomes an advisor and counselor, but the company is dissolved in February 1909.

September 1890 (Meiji 23) [id: DK110065k] ……… p. 467

This month, Tanaka Eihachirō (田中栄八郎) assists Hata Kijūrō [?] (畑喜十郎) by organizing Tanaka Kōjō (田中工場, Tanaka Factory). Later, in 1898, the organization expands and becomes Tōyō Garasu Kabushiki Kaisha (東洋硝子株式会社, Tōyō Glass Co., Ltd.). Eiichi’s eldest son, Tokuji (篤二), is a shareholder.

--- [id: DK110066k] ……… p. 479

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1876 (Meiji 9) [id: DK110067k] ……… p. 483

This year, the Tokyo Gas Bureau (東京瓦斯局) sends their engineer Henri A. Pelegrin to Notsuke village in Gunma prefecture to investigate coal for use in manufacturing gas. The coal there is of poor quality, but good clay for firebricks is discovered nearby. Accordingly, Bureau Administrative Vice Director (事務副長) Nishimura Katsuzō (西村勝三) consults with Pelegrin and, as a result of testing, obtains a product comparable to those imported. Eiichi assists Nishimura in setting up a white-brick factory on the premises of the Bureau.

25 December 1876 (Meiji 9) [id: DK110068k] ……… p. 485

On this day, Eiichi, as the administrative director of the Gas Bureau (瓦斯局事務長), submits a request to the prefectural government, with a draft contract attached, regarding his wish to purchase, from manufacturer Nishimura Katsuzō (西村勝三), the firebrick stone needed to install an additional gas manufacturing furnace. Permission is granted.

28 January 1881 (Meiji 14) [id: DK110069k] ……… p. 486

Manufacturer Nishimura Katsuzō (西村勝三) had applied for a further five-year extension of his firebrick factory’s free lease on the vacant lot on the premises of the bureau. However, the prefectural government denied permission, which led Nishimura to reapply. On this day, Eiichi, as the director of the Gas Bureau (瓦斯局長), submits a request to Prefectural Governor Matsuda Michiyuki (松田道之) that, for compelling reasons, the land concerned should be leased through the end of 1882 and that he wishes to place an order for 10,000 firebricks from Nishimura. Permission is granted for both requests. After that, upon the expiration of the lease in December 1882, Nishimura again applies for and is granted an additional six-month extension.

20 July 1900 (Meiji 33) [id: DK110070k] ……… p. 491

Isekatsu Shiro Renga Seizōjo (伊勢勝白煉瓦製造所, Isekatsu White Brick Factory), managed by Nishimura Katsuzō (西村勝三), acquires 18 investors, including Eiichi, Masuda Takashi (益田孝), Magoshi Kyōhei (馬越恭平), and Dan Takuma (団琢磨), and organizes Shinagawa Shiro Renga Gōshi Kaisha (品川白煉瓦合資会社, Shinagawa White Brick Limited Partnership Company) with 80,000 yen of capital.

25 June 1903 (Meiji 36) [id: DK110071k] ……… p. 496

The company re-organizes and becomes a joint stock company. Eiichi is a shareholder.

30 March 1907 (Meiji 40) [id: DK110072k] ……… p. 496

Previously, on his deathbed, Nishimura Katsuzō (西村勝三) had expressed his wish that Eiichi take over affairs for the company. On this day, Eiichi becomes an advisor and supervises the company’s operations.

25 October 1907 (Meiji 40) [id: DK110073k] ……… p. 500

On this day, Eiichi attends the company’s extraordinary general meeting of shareholders. Eiichi’s reccommendation, Gō Ryūsaburō (郷隆三郎), assumes the post of executive director. Then, on 25 November, Eiichi attends a dinner party at the Imperial Hotel and delivers a speech recounting the company’s history since its organization.

6 June 1909 (Meiji 42) [id: DK110074k] ……… p. 511

Having reached his 70th year this year, Eiichi decides to retire from his business involvements, with the exception of the Dai-Ichi Ginko (第一銀行) and a few other companies. On this day, he resigns as an advisor to the company.

25 October 1887 (Meiji 20) [id: DK110075k] ……… p. 514

On this day, an application is submitted to Tokyo Prefectural Governor Takasaki Goroku (高崎五六) under joint signature by Eiichi and four others including Ikeda Eiryō (池田栄亮) for permission to establish Nihon Renga Seizō Kaisha (日本煉瓦製造会社, Japan Brick Manufacturing Company) with 200,000 yen of capital. On the 29th of the month, they receive word of the authorization and then Eiichi becomes director. The company imports a new type of kiln from Germany and builds a factory in Jōshikimen in Ōyori village, Ōsato district, Saitama prefecture. It is the beginning of the manufacture of machine-made bricks in Japan.

10 May 1890 (Meiji 23) [id: DK110076k] ……… p. 535

Previously, due to the the company’s inadequate facilities it had not performed as expected. Moreover, a lack of means of transportation to deliver products to the capital had plunged the company into serious difficulties. Eiichi became the chairman of the board of directors himself and made Moroi Tsunehei (諸井恒平) the manager in an attempt to improve the situation. On this day, the company increases its capital by 20,000 yen to 220,000 yen. In addition, it floats a corporate bond, using the funds to improve facilities and for a newly established shipping department.

June 1891 (Meiji 24) [id: DK110077k] ……… p. 542

The company holds an extraordinary general meeting and decides to float a second corporate bond worth 20,000 yen, but there are no subscribers. Eiichi thus consults with Marquis Hachisuka Mochiaki (蜂須賀茂韶) and they each contribute 10,000 yen.

8 August 1893 (Meiji 26) [id: DK110078k] ……… p. 545

With the enforcement of the Commercial Law, the company revises its articles of incorporation and is renamed Nihon Renga Seizō Kabushiki Kaisha (日本煉瓦製造株式会社, Japan Brick Manufacturing Co., Ltd.). Following this, Eiichi takes up the post of chairman of the board of directors and is later reappointed to the position every term until June 1909.

13 April 1894 (Meiji 27) [id: DK110079k] ……… p. 549

Previously, in 1890, the company had established a shipping department and attempted water transport, but the faults of this have now become clear. Accordingly, in an effort to float a new corporate bond to finance construction of a railway between Fukaya and the factory, Moroi (諸井) and Kitagawa (北川) visit Eiichi at his residence in Fukagawa on 9 January this year [1894] to appeal for assistance. Eiichi agrees to it and the general meeting of shareholders held on this day [13 April] votes to adopt the proposal. Eiichi works hard in support of the construction of the aforementioned railway, which opens on 18 July 1895.

26 January 1898 (Meiji 31) [id: DK110080k] ……… p. 553

The company has finally started to perform well, recouping losses from preceding years and paying off its debts. For the first time the company pays out a dividend of 10 percent per annum. Throughout this time, Eiichi exerted himself as the president in many ways.

6 June 1909 (Meiji 42) [id: DK110081k] ……… p. 556

Having reached his 70th year this year, Eiichi decides to retire from his business involvements, with the exception of the Dai-Ichi Ginko (第一銀行) and a few other companies. On this day, he resigns as the chairman of the board of directors of the company.

February 1907 (Meiji 40) [id: DK110082k] ……… p. 559

Along with Nezu Kaichirō (根津嘉一郎), Hibiya Heizaemon (日比谷平左衛門), Suenobu Michinari (末延道成), Moroi Tsunehei (諸井恒平), and others, Eiichi proposes the establishment of Tōbu Renga Kabushiki Kaisha (東武煉瓦株式会社, Tōbu Brick Co., Ltd.) with one million yen of capital. However, in the end the post-war financial slump means this is not realized.

16 April 1883 (Meiji 16) [id: DK110083k] ……… p. 560

On this day, the Building and Manufacturing Bureau (工作局) of the Ministry of Public Works (工部省) grants Asano Sōichirō (浅野総一郎) a lease on the Fukagawa Cement Factory (深川セメント工場). Eiichi negotiates and uses his influence with the authorities in the bureau on this matter. On 8 July of the following year, Asano is further permitted to buy the factory and Asano Semento Kōjō (浅野セメント工場, Asano Cement Factory) is established. Eiichi assists in its management.

17 February 1898 (Meiji 31) [id: DK110084k] ……… p. 569

Asano Semento Kōjō (浅野セメント工場, Asano Cement Factory) is re-organized and established as Asano Semento Gōshi Kaisha (浅野セメント合資会社, Asano Cement Limited Partnership Company), with 800,000 yen of capital. Eiichi becomes a partner. He is elected as an auditor at the first general meeting of partners on this day. After that he is reappointed and serves until June 1909. The company increases its capital to 5 million yen in March 1907.

6 June 1909 (Meiji 42) [id: DK110085k] ……… p. 573

Having reached his 70th year this year, Eiichi decides to retire from his business involvements, with the exception of the Dai-Ichi Ginko (第一銀行) and a few other companies. On this day, he resigns as an auditor of the company.

27 March 1889 (Meiji 22) [id: DK110086k] ……… p. 574

Eiichi became the representative incorporator and, with Asano Sōichirō (浅野惣一郎), Ōkura Kihachirō (大倉喜八郎), Ōkawa Heizaburō (大川平三郎), and others, tried to establish Moji Semento Kaisha (門司セメント会社, Moji Cement Company). On this day, the organization application is submitted to Tokyo Prefectural Governor Baron Takasaki Goroku (高崎五六). Capital is set at 200,000 yen, the head office is established at 1-banchi, Kiyosumi-chō, Fukagawa ward, Tokyo city, and efforts are made to establish a factory in Yanagigaura village, Kiku district, Buzen province, Fukuoka prefecture. Although authorization for establishment is granted on 1 April, the company is hit by a credit crunch and dissolved before the factory is built.

May 1891 (Meiji 24) [id: DK110087k] ……… p. 582

Eiichi provides guidance on the management of Mikawa Semento Kōjō (三河セメント工場, Mikawa Cement Factory), located in Tahara town, Atsumi district, Aichi prefecture, and owned by the Dai-Ichi Kokuritsu Ginkō (第一国立銀行, First National Bank).

28 September 1895 (Meiji 28) [id: DK110088k] ……… p. 590

On this day, in Nagoya city, Eiichi holds important discussions on the factory with those from the city including Okaya Sōsuke (岡谷惣助), Yamanouchi Masayoshi (山内正義), Sofue Jūbee (祖父江重兵衛), and others. Mikawa Semento Kabushiki Kaisha (三河セメント株式会社, Mikawa Cement Co., Ltd.) is established in June 1898 and separated completely from the ownership of the Dai-Ichi Kokuritsu Ginkō (第一国立銀行, First National Bank).

12 November 1906 (Meiji 39) [id: DK110089k] ……… p. 593

Intending to establish Tōyō Aen Renkōjo (東洋亜鉛煉工所, Tōyō Zinc Refinery) with Nakano Buei (中野武営), Asada Masabumi (浅田正文), Hotta Rentarō (堀田連太郎), and others, Eiichi attends the incorporators’ meeting held at the Imperial Hotel on this day. Then, in January of the following year, he sets to work solicitating shares for 3 million yen of capital.

18 February 1907 (Meiji 40) [id: DK110090k] ……… p. 594

Together with over 160 others including Maejima Hisoka (前島密), Eiichi had been planning to organize Nippon Chūō Seiren Kabushiki Kaisha (日本中央製錬株式会社, Japan Central Refining Co., Ltd.), with 10 million yen of capital. On this day, he attends an incorporators’ meeting held at the Bankers’ Association (銀行集会所) and nominates 12 persons, including Maejima Hisoka and Kusaka Yoshio (日下義雄), as members of the organizing committee.

28 May 1900 (Meiji 33) [id: DK110091k] ……… p. 596

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1886 (Meiji 19) [id: DK110092k] ……… p. 599

Previously, around 1882, Eiichi had arranged a loan from the Dai-Ichi Kokuritsu Ginkō (第一国立銀行, First National Bank) for Hirano Tomiji (平野富二), the manager of Hirano Zōsenjo (平野造船所, Hirano Shipyard). Later, Eiichi had also persuaded the noble families of the Date (伊達) from Uwajima and the Nabeshima (鍋島) to contribute funds, and together they had assisted with the management of the shipyard. However, since the shipyard needed even more money, Umeura Seiichi (梅浦精一) and others were added to the two aforementioned families and an anonymous partnership is organized this year to support the shipyard.

10 January 1889 (Meiji 22) [id: DK110093k] ……… p. 606

An application is submitted to the Tokyo prefectural government on this day in an effort to re-organize Ishikawajima Hirano Shipyard (石川島平野造船所) and establish Yūgen Sekinin Tōkyō Ishikawajima Zōsenjo (有限責任東京石川島造船所, Tokyo Ishikawajima Shipyard Limited Liability Company). Permission is granted on the 17th of the same month. Eiichi serves as a director.

23 April 1891 (Meiji 24) [id: DK110094k] ……… p. 616

Previously, when the site of the shipyard, which had been under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of the Navy (海軍省), was transferred to the Ministry of the Imperial Household (宮内省), the shipyard filed a request to lease the site from the Ministry of the Imperial Household. The Ministry’s Imperial Estates Bureau (御料局) was going to authorize a short-term lease, but Eiichi interceded with Imperial Estates Bureau Director Viscount Shinagawa Yajirō (品川弥二郎) and a 30-year lease is granted on this day.

5 September 1893 (Meiji 1829) [id: DK110095k] ……… p. 619

On this day, the shipyard holds an extraordinary general meeting of shareholders and is renamed Kabushiki Kaisha Tōkyō Ishikawajima Zōsenjo (株式会社東京石川島造船所, Tokyo Ishikawajima Shipyard Co., Ltd.). Eiichi is elected as the chairman of the board of directors and is thereafter reappointed and serves until 13 July 1909.

11 June 1899 (Meiji 32) [id: DK110096k] ……… p. 632

Previously, the shipyard had built a branch shipyard in Uraga, Kanagawa prefecture. It was completed in November 1898 and the opening ceremony is held on this day. Eiichi attends and delivers a speech as the chairman of the board of directors.

28 August 1901 (Meiji 34) [id: DK110097k] ……… p. 640

The shipyard’s Uraga branch builds its first vessel, the oceangoing steamer Kōtsū Maru (交通丸). The launching ceremony is held on this day. Eiichi attends and delivers a speech.

22 October 1901 (Meiji 34) [id: DK110098k] ……… p. 643

Previously, fierce competition had arisen between the shipyard and Uraga Dock Co., Ltd. (浦賀船渠株式会社). Eiichi was apprehensive and attempted to merge the two companies with the mediation of navy officials, but Uraga Dock did not approve and no agreement was reached on the proposed merger.
On this day, the shipyard holds an extraordinary general meeting of shareholders specifically to report on this matter.

4 May 1902 (Meiji 35) [id: DK110099k] ……… p. 652

The shipyard sells its Uraga branch factory to Uraga Dock Co., Ltd. (浦賀船渠株式会社), reducing its capital from 1.5 million yen to 600,000 yen. Consequently, all the directors take responsibility by resigning. However, Eiichi is reelected as the chairman of the board of directors.

27 April 1907 (Meiji 40) [id: DK110100k] ……… p. 658

The shipyard holds a ceremony to celebrate 30 years since its organization. Eiichi attends and delivers a speech.

6 June 1909 (Meiji 42) [id: DK110101k] ……… p. 661

Having reached his 70th year this year, Eiichi decides to retire from his business involvements, with the exception of the Dai-Ichi Ginko (第一銀行) and a few other companies. On this day, he resigns as the chairman of the board of directors of the shipyard.