1898 Merrick Thread Company sold to American Thread Company, a thread trust. 1899 American Writing Paper Company forms a paper trust. The trust will eventually acquire sixteen of Holyoke's paper companies. 1900 - 1929 Nineteenth century immigrant groups achieve social and economic advancement. 1900 Mater Dolorosa Polish church is completed.
Strikes occur within the paper industry.
American Writing Paper declares bankruptcy and goes into receivership. 1927 American Writing Paper is reorganized. The Lyman Mills are closed. 1930 - 1939 National Blank Book becomes a force in the nation's paper converting industry while Farr Alpaca, the city's major textile manufacturer closes. The testing flume is put out of service.