 In the late 1890s, a rail line was planned through the area, and local residents voted to establish a depot and village at the point where the line crossed the main state road.This turned out to be on Calkins's farmland, and in 1900 Calings opened his lands for purchase, founding the village of Perry.Calkins himself was instrumental in the growth of the village, starting the first general store, serving in various capacities in the village government, helping start a local bank and factory, and helping found three local churches.