1883-12-19oo

Construction on James street north had a negative impact for pedestrians in the vicinity, notably on the west side of the street, south of Merrick:

 “An accident occurred on James street last night to Mr. Joseph Rousseaux, employed at Messrs. Wanzer & Co.’s establishment, which will be the means of keeping him in the house for some weeks to come.

“Mr. Rousseaux was walking with a friend in the vicinity of the new Arcade. It will be remembered that the fence is still up and the sidewalk outside of it for the accommodation of pedestrians is in very dangerous proximity to the street railway track. Two street cars were passing, but in the darkness Mr. Rousseaux stepped out into the street for the purpose of crossing when he was struck by one of the horses and knocked down. A car wheel crushed his left ankle badly. The gentleman was stunned by the accident. He was lifted into a cab and driven to his residence on Vine street, where he now lies in great pain. Fortunately, Mr. R. had very heavy top boots on at the time of the mishap; otherwise the injuries would have been much more severe. The leather was cut through. Dr. Husband attended the injured man.

“A great many people think that now the outside work at the Arcade is finished, that old fence and sidewalk on the middle of the street should be removed. Is the contractor of the same opinion, or will he wait until some more serious accident than that recorded above happens?¹

¹ “Accident Last Night : Mr. Joseph Rousseaux Run Over and Injured By a Street Car.”

Hamilton Eveing Times. November 9, 1883.