Mr.
Packard became interested in mining and continued to identify himself
with that industry for some time. He was manager of the Star Consolidated
Mining Company's mine in Tintic. This mine was one of the best producers
in the state for several years and considered a valuable property. The
home office was in Springville. He also became interested in a number
of lesser mines in the Sevier District and at Marysvale.
He was also interested in the Butte, Montana District, when those mines
were opened up.
At
this same time in history, there was another Packard miner from Johnstown,
Fulton, NY, named John Querius Wynkoop Packard, the son of Joseph Packard
and Sally (Sarah) Wynkoop. He had moved to this area of Utah and was
one of the main promoters of the Eureka District mines. He never married,
but became very wealthy at mining and donated a library building to
Salt Lake City as well as to Marysvale.
In
1873, Milan and his brother Nephi, built a small store on First South
and Main Street. The store was well stocked with general merchandise
and was a great success. As time passed, larger quantities were needed
so a larger building was erected on the southeast corner of First North
and Main. This store was also a successful enterprise, and at the time
it was considered one of the largest mercantile establishments in Utah
County. The store was divided up into various departments such as; groceries,
dry goods, shoes, implements, etc. Through this store one could also
buy carpets, hardware, and furniture. The success of this store was
undoubtedly due to the aggressive management of Mr. Packard and his
inherent sense of business values.