A view of the west bank of the river in the area occupied by businesses that were powered by the water from the feeder.

The Ottawa [Illinois] Free Trader, February 14, 1852, p. 4, col. 4

Water Power to Lease

The undersigned offer great inducements to capitalists and manufacturers, as they have decidedly the best water power in the state, having over 25 feet head and fall, and situated in Dayton, 4 miles above Ottawa, and drawn from the Fox river Feeder, which is kept in repair by the state, without any cost to the undersigned. They have water to lease for a term of years sufficient to drive 20 run of 4 ½ feet burrs, and will lease on very liberal terms to any good responsible company.

This is a rare chance for men of capital who may wish to go into the manufacturing business. The location is very healthy and admirably situated, as it is on a navigable feeder, within 4 miles of the contemplated Rock Island rail road, and the head of steamboat navigation. For further information, address John Green & Sons.

Dayton, may 31.