132 THE WHEAT INDUSTRY 



did not endure, for the successful operation of one 

 elevator enabled the owner to buy another from 

 some one less fortunate and soon the advantage 

 of organization became apparent. Companies 

 were formed which bought all the elevators along 

 a given line of railroad or in a certain territory. 

 These became known as Mine elevators." They 

 were managed by men who were expert in following 

 market conditions and who were able to find the 

 best places to sell. The large volume of grain at 

 their disposal was of advantage not only in securing 

 the best prices but also in obtaining cars when 

 needed. 



A local manager was placed in charge of each 

 elevator. His business was to weigh the grain, 

 look after the mechanical work, and submit daily 

 reports on the business done. He had no dis- 

 cretion as to prices, for daily instructions were 

 sent from company headquarters. In the event 

 of sudden changes in the market, telegraphic 

 instructions were sent. An important task of 

 the manager in this case was to keep the good will 

 of the farmers. 



Conservative buying, close watch of market 

 conditions, and keen business methods through- 

 out are strong arguments in favor of the exten- 

 sive elevator companies. In some localities all 

 the elevators passed into the hands of one com- 

 pany ; and, since, having become accustomed to 



