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America's
Successful Men of Affairs
An Encyclopedia of Contemporaneous Biography
EDITED BY HENRY HALL;
Vol. I.
THE NEW YORK TRIBUNE-
1895
E
v
COPYRIGHT 1895
BY THE TRIBUNE ASSOCIATION
THE NEW YORK PRINTING CO
THE REPUBLIC PRESS
INTRODUCTION.
This encyclopedia of biographies of "America's Successful Men of
Affairs" is the only work of its class ever published. Thoroughly national,
covering every part of the United States, it presents sketches of the lives
of the most conspicuous of those who have been active in business since
the Civil War and have attained the most marked success. While nearly
all of the men, whose biographies appear in these volumes are or have
been persons of large possessions, they have not been included solely be-
cause of their wealth. Works of American biography have so far dealt
mainly with the lives of government officials, clergymen, poets, teachers,
soldiers, editors, authors, explorers, and other members of professions, who
while accomplishing a great work and exercising a useful influence, have
done comparatively little directly for the material welfare of their fellow
men or the actual development of their country. It is a singular fact that
these works have, with a single exception, almost absolutely ignored the
business men of the country, whether living or dead.
It would seem, however, as if the lives of the great pioneers, merchants,
manufacturers, railroad builders and other practical men of a nation like
America, constituted as important a part of the country's history as those
of any other class. In the field of purely material effort, it is these men
who have brought the wild lands under cultivation, developed the mines,
forests and farms, built the railroads, steamboat lines and canals, set afloat
and managed the shipping, organized the corporations, and introduced the
new processes in science and mechanics, which have so greatly reduced the
cost and promoted the comfort of living while contributing to the power
and prestige of the nation itself. They have dotted the surface of nearly
every State with manufactories and provided employment, wages and
homes for millions of their countrymen. The great cities are largely their
creation. In the realm of education, science and art, these men are the
pillars upon which the whole structure rests. It is by them that the col-
leges, schools, churches and philanthropic institutions are built and main-
tained. They found the great museums, provide the means for monu-
ments, statues, libraries, reading rooms and researches in science, publish
the books, buy the paintings, pay the larger part of the taxes, sustain the
political campaigns, and in general provide the subsistence and a stage for
the activities of the whole aggregation of other men, to whose lives exist-
ing works of biography are generally devoted.
AMERICA S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
The failure to consider the lives of men of affairs as of historical im-
portance is a curious feature of a great many otherwise excellent volumes
of biography. It is to remedy, in a measure, a serious omission in the
literature of the times that this compilation has been undertaken.
The majority of men whose lives are presented in this work are yet
active in affairs. These volumes are, therefore, almost wholly devoted to
contemporary biography. In this respect they are unique. When John F.
Slater, Daniel Hand and Seth Low each gave $1,000,000 to the cause of
education, and John D. Rockefeller and Daniel B. Fayerweather gave yet
larger sums, existing works could be searched in vain for the story of their
lives. From time to time, the attention and gratitude of the people of
America are powerfully awakened by the princely gift, personal achieve-
ment or public spirited labors of some fellow citizen, whose name may pos-
sibly be known outside of the circle of his immediate acquaintance but of
whose career there is no public record. A laudable curiosity is felt in such
a case concerning the new benefactor of his race. It is hoped that the
present work will meet in this respect a public want.
The biographies of prominent business men are of general interest.
All are full of instruction, some are replete with romance. One fact to
which they call renewed attention is that the vast majority of successful
men have made their own way in life, beginning with no capital beyond
their own good health, sound common sense and weekly wages in the store,
shop, mine, or mill, or on the farm or railroad; They illustrate the encour-
aging fact that America is a land in which a man can start from the lowest
level of poverty and obscurity and rise, honestly, by his own exertions, to
influence and fortune, if he is capable of self sacrifice, untiring labor and
intelligent effort. Men born upon the farm or in the country village,
orphaned when young, compelled to face the hardships of existence while
not yet of age, and forced into the arena with no other education than that
of the country school, have been able to educate themselves, to initiate
great movements, found institutions of learning and charity, exercise a
beneficent influence in the highest social circles, and sway the destinies of
a people by their talents in the field of practical affairs. These biographies
should teach a lesson of courage and hope to all young men who are start-
ing in life under inauspicious circumstances.
Volume I. is devoted to that cluster of communities known popularly
under the name of the Greater New York.
AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK.
HENRY EUGENE ABBEY, dramatic manager, descends from Connecticut ancestry,
and was born in Akron, O. , June 27, 1846. A student in the public schools of Akron
during boyhood, he began life as clerk in his father's jewelry store. He rose to
partnership, and in 1873, succeeded to the business. In 1869, he leased the Akron
Theatre, which he managed with so much success, that in 1876 he leased the Park
Theatre in New York city, and from that time forward devoted his energies entirely
to dramatic affairs. He is now the manager of Abbey's Theatre, at 1402 Broadway,
and the Metropolitan Opera House, 1415 Broadway, and, in Boston, of the Tremont
Theatre. Mr. Abbey was married in 1876 to Miss Kate Kingsley of Northampton,
Mass., who died in 1883. In 1886, he married Florence Gerard of Boston. His one
daughter is Kate Kingsland Abbey. Mr. Abbey has been elected to membership in
the New York, Manhattan, New York Yacht and Larchmont Yacht clubs, and the
Ohio Society.
ABRAHAM ABRAHAfl, a leading dry goods merchant of Brooklyn, was born in
New York city, March 9, 1843. His father, Judah Abraham, a native of Bavaria, one of
the earliest German settlers in this city, emigrated hither in 1835. The young man
learned the dry goods trade in Newark, N. J., as an apprentice, beginning at the age
of fourteen. Later he aided his father in a wholesale dry goods store, and then in 1865
formed a partnership with Joseph Wechsler, under the title of Wechsler & Abraham,
and started a small retail dry goods store on Fulton street in Brooklyn, with a few
employes. The partners were practical and extremely industrious, and their success
led to repeated enlargements, culminating in the erection of a large store at 422 Fulton
street. The interest of Mr. Wechsler was finally bought by Nathan and Isidor Straus,
and Mr. Abraham became senior partner of the present firm of Abraham & Straus.
He is an excellent merchant and his store is now the leading bazaar of Brooklyn,
employing more than 2,000 persons, and covering about thirty city lots. A large addi-
tion is now contemplated. Mr. Abraham is married and has four children, three girls
6 AMERICA S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
and one boy. He is president of Temple Israel, vice-president of the Hebrew Orphan
Asylum, Brooklyn, and director in The Brooklyn Society for Prevention of Cruelty to
Children, The Kings County Trust Co. and The Long Island Bank, and member of
Chamber of Commerce of New York, the Union League, Brooklyn, Oxford, and Law-
rence clubs of Brooklyn, and the Harmonic club of New York, as well as of numerous
charitable and other societies in both cities.
DAVID DEPEYSTER ACKER, founder and head of the house of Acker, Merrall &
Condit, merchants of fine groceries, one of the most active, capable and energetic men
of his day and an excellent representative of the last generation of the "merchant
princes" of New York, was born in Bergen county, N. J., June 13, 1822, and died
March 23, 1888. Successful in his plans, the soul of honor in every transaction, kindly
in every impulse, and unassuming in manner, his long and honorable record was free
from the slightest blemish, and he won the unqualified respect of all with whom he
came in contact.
He was fortunate enough to be the son of a farmer, and in the healthful open air
life of the country he gained, during his boyhood days, the vigorous health which fitted
him for the arduous labors of later life. He was of Dutch descent, his ancestors having
emigrated to America in the early part of the seventeenth century. The family
possessed high character but their means were limited, and David was compelled to
face the stern realities of life at an unusually early age. He came to New York city
in 1833 seeking employment, and found it in the little old store of T. & A. S. Hope,
afterwards Thomas Hope & Co., grocers, who then occupied the first floor and base-
ment of the Franklin House, on the corner of Chambers street and College Place. At
that period the homes of many cultivated people occupied the streets adjacent to this
corner, and the brothers Hope enjoyed a large trade among the highest class of patrons.
Their new clerk, even in the first years of his connection with the house, gave promise
of future usefulness He was honest, thorough, attentive to details, and obliging, and
soon rose into the confidence of the firm. He remained with the house for twenty-four
years, and became intimately identified with its business, and in time practically the
manager. His opportunity came in 1857, when the senior partner retired. Mr. Hope
transferred to Mr. Acker the business, which the latter had done so much to build up, '
taking his promises to pay, and Mr. Acker, in partnership with William J. Merrall and
John W. Condit, both of whom had been his fellow clerks in the old firm, now organ-
ized the new house of Acker, Merrall & Condit, which under the management of the
head of the concern, entered upon a career of great prosperity. Mr. Acker was the
inspiring element from the first. While the business was systematized and divided into
departments, Mr. Acker pervaded every part of the store and directed all of the firm's
operations.
In 1867, under the firm name of Acker, Edgar & Co., a branch store was opened
in Yonkers on the Hudson, with a local partner, an undertaking, which, in part, grew
- out of the annual exodus of society from New York city to summer homes along the
Hudson river. In 1871, the up town movement of population in the city led the
firm to establish a local branch at No. 1,472 Broadway, on the corner of 42d street.
Another large store was also opened at No. 1010 Sixth avenue, each one supplying a
special part of the best residence section of the city with the finest class of groceries.
Both to ensure the excellence of their goods and to be in a position to take proper
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. AC. 7
advantage of the markets, Mr. Acker established a purchasing agency in Paris in 1874.
These were all judicious ventures and every one of them was prospered.
The growth of the business finally compelled Mr. Acker to enlarge the wholesale
store down town, and in 1887 the old building on Chambers street was reinforced with
the addition of another twice its size. The firm were then employing 300 men, 125
horses, and 60 wagons in their flourishing trade.
For many years, Mr. Acker was a prominent figure among the guests at Saratoga.
He visited the springs every summer. He was always fond of the country, and he
spent every spring and fall at his beautiful country seat of Fairlawn, near Paterson,
N. J. During the last few years of his life, he spent the month of March in Florida.
While taking a lively interest in public affairs, he was never allured by public posi-
tion, and he refused positively to accept a nomination for Congress, which was once
tendered him by his neighbors in New Jersey.
Although closely devoted to the business of his firm, he found time to participate
in the management of The National Exchange Bank, of which he was vice-president,
and he was an interested member of the Produce Exchange and the Chamber of Com-
merce. He also belonged to The Holland Society, deriving his eligibility from his
ancestry. He was a devoted Episcopalian, and attended worship regularly at St.
Thomas's church in New York and St. Paul's church in Paterson. He died March 23,
1888, leaving his large fortune to his wife and seven children. Two of them, Charles
L. Acker and Franklin Acker were at the time members of the firm. — His son,
CHARLES LIVINGSTON ACKER, born in New York city, Oct. 13, 1846, died here May
26, 1891. He was a young man of great promise, received a sound education, and
at the age of seventeen entered the wholesale and retail grocery store of Acker,
Merrall & Condit. A thorough apprenticeship made him a good merchant, and
when he attained his majority he became junior partner in the firm. When the branch
store on Broadway at the corner of 42d street was opened in 1869, he was placed in
entire charge thereof. Of sturdy physique and exceptionally good health, he succeeded
in his management and had never been detained from business«a single day on account
of sickness until he contracted the malady which ended his life. Sept. 2, 1868, he was
married to Helena, daughter of the Hon. James J. Brinkerhoff, of New Jersey, and left
a son, Charles L. Acker, Jr., and three daughters. He was vice-president of The
Hudson River Bank, treasurer of several other corporations, and member of The
Holland Society. — FRANKLIN ACKER, merchant, son of the late David D. Acker, born
in New York city, Feb. 16, 1853, received his education at the public schools and in
Weston, Conn. He first engaged in business in 1870, with Acker, Merrall & Condit,
and having mastered thoroughly every detail of the business, became a member of the
firm in 1888. In 1892 his interest was sold to W. J. Merrall. Nov. 12, 1884, Mr. Acker
married Emma, daughter of ex-State Senator James J. Brinkerhoff, of New Jersey. His
family consists of two sons, David D. and Irving Fairchild Acker. He is a director of
The David D. Acker Co. of this city and The Fiberite Co. of Mechanicville, N. Y., and
a member of The Holland Society and Colonial and Hardware clubs.
WARREN ACKERMAN, manufacturer, born in 1826, died in Scotch Plains, N. J.,
Aug. 26, 1893. He began life modestly, possessed of sound character, a clear head,
and a worthy desire to succeed. During the Civil War he sold rubber goods, and filled
some profitable contracts for the Government. Later he became interested in the
AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
manufacture of hydraulic cement, as president and principal stockholder of The Law-
renceville Cement Co. In 1876, he married a daughter of Isaac L. Platt, one of the
founders of The Chemical National Bank. He retired from business several years
before his death, and devoted his time to a large estate, which included the beautiful
Glenside Park, or Feltville.
EDWARD DEAN ADAHS, banker, a man of special gifts and remarkable power of
organization, was born in Boston, Mass., April 9, 1846. His father, Adoniram Judson
Adams, a merchant, sprang from Puritan ancestry. Edward began his education as a
student at Chauncey Hall in Boston, and fitted there for college. He graduated from
Norwich University in Northfield, Vt., in the class of 1864, with the degree of
Bachelor of Science, and added to the scholarly equipment thus attained by two years
mainly spent in travel in Europe. Possessing excellent powers of observation and a
studious and retentive mind, Mr. Adams gained greatly by these travels; and the
knowledge thus acquired has since been regularly and extensively cultivated by travel
in later years both abroad and to all parts of North America, more particularly in the
United States, with all sections of which Mr. Adams is now intimately acqiiainted
The young man wished to become a banker, and gained his first lessons in the
requirements of this occupation by service, from 1866 to 1870, as bookkeeper and
cashier for a Boston firm of bankers and brokers. In 1870 he assisted in organizing
the banking house of Richardson, Hill & Co. , of Boston, which is yet in existence and
has always enjoyed a high repute. He remained a partner until 1878. He then
removed to New York city to accept a partnership in the old banking house of Wins-
low, Lanier & Co., famous for conservative and honorable methods and its relations
with important corporate interests. He was successfully occupied with the financial
operations of this house until 1893, when he retired to devote his time to various large
properties, in which in the meantime he had become deeply interested. During the
fifteen years of his partnership in Messrs. Winslow, Lanier & Co. , he participated in
many of the government, railway and municipal negotiations of that active period.
He was especially occupied with construction and reorganization enterprises, into all of
which his personality entered as a moving and controlling factor, and for which he was
responsible. Some of the more noteworthy of these may be referred to.
In 1882-83, ne organized The Northern Pacific Terminal Co., was elected president
thereof, provided the funds and constructed the terminal plant in Portland, Oregon,
which was afterwards successfully leased to The Northern Pacific Railroad and other
companies.
In 1883, he organized The St. Paul & Northern Pacific Railway Co., provided the
capital, and, as vice-president, supervised the acquisition and construction of the ter-
minal facilities at Minneapolis and Saint Paul, now leased to the Northern Pacific Rail-
road Co.
In 1885, he organized and constructed The New Jersey Junction Railroad Co., now
leased to The New York Central & Hudson River Railroad Co.
The same year, he prepared a plan for the reorganization of The New York, West
Shore & Buffalo Railway, The New York, Ontario & Western Railway, and The West
Shore & Ontario Terminal Co., and their allied properties, which plan was carried out
in 1886, with hardly any variation from the programme as first submitted by him to
Messrs. Morgan and Vanderbilt in 1885. The efficiency of his services in this undertak-
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. AD. 9
ing was officially recognized by The New York Central Railroad Co. He received a
graceful letter of thanks from Mr. Depew, president of The New York Central ; and
Drexel, Morgan & Co., in their circular to The West Shore bond-holders, made special
acknowledgment to Edward D. Adams, "who, for nearly a year past, has devoted
almost his whole time to perfecting and carrying out the plan which has resulted in
entire success. But for his activity and valued assistance, based on information which
he alone possessed, the difficulties of the situation would have been greatly enhanced."
T. Pierpont Morgan also made a generous and manly acknowledgment upon the success
of the great work in reorganizing The West Shore Railroad, which he declared due to
the special knowledge and personal devotion of Mr. Adams.
The rescue of The Central Railroad of New Jersey in 1887 from its receivership
was accomplished upon a plan, conceived by Mr. Adams and worked out by him with
infinite care and close regard for all the interests involved, as chairman of its Finance
Committee.
Modest, caring nothing for public recognition, but delighting in the solution of
intricate problems and the successful execution of carefully concerted plans, Mr. Adams
brings to labors of this class a power of analysis, specially his own, and an energy and
capacity for work, which bear the unmistakable stamp of genius.
In 1888, he rendered an important service to The Philadelphia & Reading Railroad
in the marketing of the new bonds of the company. The financial world places so much
reliance in the judgment and integrity of Mr. Adams that in an enterprise like this, he
succeeds where others are likely to fail. The directors of the company expressed their
gratitude to Mr. Adams for the service he had performed in their behalf, by a special
and expressive resolution of thanks.
In 1890 he undertook a work, which gave new proof of his abilities. The
American Cotton Oil Trust was then on the verge of bankruptcy. Mr. Adams entered
upon a close, careful and extended investigation, and, as a result, reorganized the com-
pany upon lines laid down and through channels and men selected by himself. He has
enforced a severely economical administration and placed in positions of responsibility
the men best fitted for their respective duties by natural gifts and experience, and con-
tinues to this date to direct the business of the organization as chairman of the board of
directors.. He exercises a daily scrutiny of the smallest details, and has rescued the
company, by his energetic and untiring labors, from the calamities which threatened to
engulf it in ruin.
The Cataract Construction Co. , at Niagara Falls, has been fortunate in enlisting
his co-operation. Of the two great engineering works of the present age, which, while
practicable, are tasks of difficulty, and which are destined to bring a distinct fame to
those who achieve them, one is the utilization of the enormous water power of Niagara
Falls for the purposes of productive industry. In 1890, Mr. Adams was elected
president of the company, which is developing the water power of Niagara, and has
successfully directed the engineering operations there to the present moment. The
Bachelor of Science has in this enterprise shown himself a master not only of science
but of finance.
In 1893, he accepted the proposals of a group of German bankers to represent
their interests in America, and formed the Reorganization Committee of The Northern
Pacific Railroad Co. , of which committee he is chairman. The fact that Mr. Adams
10 AMERICAS SUCCESSFUL MEN.
has accepted a responsible relation with a scheme of this class at once gains the public
attention, inspires confidence in the property, and supplies a guarantee of success.
Mr. Adams is now occupied as chairman of the directors of The American Cotton
011 Co., and president of its most important allied organizations; president of The Cat-
aract Construction Co., and its associate corporations; vice-president of The Central &
South American Telegraph Co., and director of The West Shore Railroad and The
Central Railroad of New Jersey and its subordinate companies.
He is very happy in his family life. His wife is Fannie A., daughter of William
E. Gutterson of Boston, to whom he was married in 1872. His children are Ernest
Kempton Adams, now an engineering student in Yale University, and Ruth, a young
daughter.
A gentleman of cultivated mind and agreeable manners, well informed, and of
spotless integrity, he is as much respected in the social world as in financial circles. His
resources for diversion are indicated by the following positions that he holds : Fellow
in Perpetuity of the National Academy of Design; patron (with right of succession in
perpetuity) of The American Museum of Natural History; trustee of The Metropolitan
Museum of Art and the Gift Fund of The American Fine Arts Society; and fellow of
The American Society of Civil Engineers. He is also a member of many of the lead-
ing clubs, including the Metropolitan, City, Union League, Players', Lawyers', Tuxedo,
Riding and Grolier, The New England Society of this city and the Chicago club of
Chicago.
GEORGE TOWNSEND ADEE, merchant and banker, was born in Albany, N. Y.,
April 7, 1804, and died in New York city, Nov. 20, 1884. He was of English-French
descent and son of William Adee, of Westchester. His mother was Clarissa Townsend
of Albany. His great-grandfather, John Adee, came from England to Providence
Plantations in the early part of the eighteenth century, and thence to Portchester, in
Westchester county, N. Y.
George Townsend Adee's education was gained at private schools in Portchester,
N. Y. , and Fairfield, Conn., and at an early age he began his business career in the old
firm of Adee, Timpson & Co., of Pearl street, New York, of which firm his father
was senior partner. There his close, steady attention to the firm's affairs, his natural
aptitude, broad views, probity and good judgment soon made him a partner. In due '
time, he took his father's place as head of the firm and remained an active member
until 1850.
In 1844 he married Ellen Louise, daughter of Philip Henry, merchant, of New
York, a veteran of the war of 1812, whose son, Joshua Henry, was the senior of the
>• firm of Henrys, Smith & Townsend, a leading dry goods house transacting a large bus-
iness North and South before the war of the Rebellion.
Mr. Adee's family, for several generations, had been residents of Westchester
county, N. Y. , his father's homestead being now the centre of Westchester town. In
1851 he purchased the country seat of Edward Le Roy on Throggs Neck, Westchester,
where he dwelt until his death and where his family yet reside. Here, on the border of
Long Island Sound, was his chief relaxation from business cares. In quiet retirement,
surrounded by his family, he indulged his taste for rural life, enjoying especially the
culture of trees, fruit and flowers. Dignified, serene and amiable, he commanded the
respect, admiration and regard of that community particularly. Always ready to sue-
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. AD. II
cor his neighbors with sound advice, he contributed freely to all worthy objects, and
lending his strong support to St. Peter's Episcopal Church of Westchester, of which he
was a member and for many years a vestryman, and in whose ancient church yard his
remains and those of his ancestors now lie.
His family consisted of his wife, Ellen Louise, and six children, George A., Clarissa
Townsend, wife of M. Dwight Collier, Philip H., Frederic W., Edwin M. and Ernest
R. Adee. All of his sons and his son-in-law were graduated at Yale College.
In 1842 Mr. Adee became a director of the Bank of Commerce, in New York,
and afterward, for ten years, its vice-president, and much of that time its acting presi-
dent. He was also a founder and one of the directors of The Equitable Life Assuralice
Society, the United States Trust Co. and The Republic Fire Insurance Co., and he held
and administered many arduous private trusts with unvarying fidelity and success, and
greatly to the advantage of the beneficiaries. His good citizenship, his unswerving
patriotism and devotion to the government and to the Union cause during the Rebellion
were notable. The exceptional success, at the time, of the great hospital for wounded
soldiers at Fort Schuyler, on Throggs Neck, was due as much to Mr. Adee's efforts as
to those of any one citizen, and his advice, on more than one occasion during the
Rebellion, was sought and received by the Governor of the State of New York and the
Secretary of the United States Treasury.
After his withdrawal from commercial business, Mr. Adee became, even more than
before, active, useful and prominent in regard to the great financial affairs of the city
and of the nation. His high personal character, his large experience and remarkably
cool, clear and sound judgment gave to his opinions great weight and influence, so
that, not only by the monied institutions with which he was connected, but by officers
of the Government and by financiers in other cities of this country and in England, his
opinion and advice were highly valued. For several years before his death, he was at
his business office at The National Bank of Commerce, daily, and entered it in his usual
good health on the day of his death. His wife and six children survive him.
Mr. Adee was a gentleman of refined, kindly and courteous manner, of dignified
bearing, and of commanding influence. He was long and most highly esteemed by a
large circle of social and business friends, among whom his name was a synonym for
honor and integrity.
niCHAEL JOSEPH ADRIAN, cigar manufacturer, was born in June, 1826, at Klin-
genberg on the Main, Bavaria. He was educated in his native village and in the night
schools of New York city. As an apprentice, after his arrival in this city in 1840, he
learned to make cigars, and later bought his employer's business for §100,000. Until
1865 he remained at the corner of Division and Gouverneur streets, and then removed
to 472 Grand street. As soon as he had made sufficient savings, Mr. Adrian began
buying unimproved local land and building thereon, and has been successful in a field
in which many others have failed. He foresaw the real estate panic, which began in
1870, and met it with prudence and advantage to himself. Some of his friends laughed
at his predictions and were ruined by their real estate speculations. He is now a large
owner of excellent realty. Since its organization, he has been president of The Ger-
man Exchange Bank, one of the soundest of local financial institutions, having a sur-
plus three times as great as its capital. Mr. Adrian is the father of six children,
Charles L., George S., Joseph M., Arnoa M., Marie M., and Frank L. Adrian.
12 AMERICA S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
FREDERIC KIRKHAfl AGATE, capitalist, born in New York city, Jan. 23, 1854;
died in Luzerne, Switzerland, Aug. 17, 1887. Of English extraction, his father, Joseph
Agate, of Yonkers, N. Y., was a wealthy man. Frederic graduated from Columbia
Law School in 1875, but never practiced his profession. Wealth came to him in part
by inheritance, but he employed his means with judgment and won a strong position,
and, by his character, the respect of all who knew him. In April, 1879, he was mar-
ried to Sarah Katharine, daughter of David T. and Elizabeth T. Jackson, who, with
two children, Frederick Joseph and Mary Virginia, survive him. They had lived in
New York since 1884. Mr. Agate, who had taken his wife and two children on a pleas-
ure tour in Europe, passed away while in Luzerne. He was a member of the New
York, Manhattan and Lambs' chibs.
JOHN W. AITKEN, head of the wholesale and retail dry goods house of Aitken,
Son & Co., Broadway, corner of i8th street, was born in this city, Jan. 31, 1850.
His father, John Aitken, born in 1806, in Cumbernauld, Dumbartonshire, Scotland,
was an only son in a family of five children. He received his early education in the
village school. On the death of his father, John, at the age of twelve, felt a strong
desire to come to this country, but repressed the wish until the death of his mother
and after the other members of the family had been comfortably provided for, when
he emigrated to this country. He landed in New York, July 20, 1833, and soon
obtained a situation in the dry goods house of Andrew Mitchell & Co. He filled his
place with satisfaction to his employers and credit to himself. A few years later, he
started in business on his own account. In 1843 ne entered into partnership with
James Miller, under the firm name of Aitken & Miller, on Canal street. Later the
firm removed to 405 Broadway, afterward to No. 423, again to No. 473, and finally to
Nos. 873 and 875. In 1873 Mr. Miller retired. Mr. Aitken then organized the present
firm of Aitken, Son & Co., taking as partners his only son, John W. Aitken, and
Archibald McLintock.
John W. Aitken was educated at the school of Dr. Clark, formerly on the corner"
of West 4th and Macdougal streets, and was prepared for Princeton College at the age
of fifteen. He graduated in 1869 with the degree of A. B., receiving three years later
the degree of A. M. On the completion of his college course in the spring of 1869,
he entered, as clerk, the store of Aitken & Miller, passing from one department to
another and familiarizing himself with every branch of the business in New York. In
1871, he accompanied one of the foreign buyers of the house to Europe for instruction
in the foreign branches of the business. In the summer of 1873, Just prior to the
dissolution of the firm of Aitken & Miller, Mr. Aitken went abroad to purchase a
diversified stock of new goods for the new house of Aitken, Son & Co. His thorough
knowledge of merchandise and close attention to details made the trip a successful
venture. He then returned to the active management of the business in New York.
In January, 1879, on the death of his father, he became the senior member of
Aitken, Son & Co., now widely known for its successful past and present prosperous
career.
As a merchant, Mr. Aitken has been distinguished for considerate treatment of his
employes, unbending integrity, sound judgment, quick perception, untiring patience,
perseverance and courage. He has, in addition to these personal qualities, a fine taste,
the exercise of which, in the selection of merchandise and the general conduct of busi-
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. — AL. 13
ness, has given his firm a national reputation for goods of the highest excellence in
quality and elegance in style.
Mr. Aitken has never sought or held public office. Although eminently qualified
by natural gifts, judicial temperament and liberal education for active leadership in
representative assemblies, he has always shunned rather than courted conspicuous
places. He has, however, faithfully and often laboriously co-operated with others
in matters affecting the welfare of the city and its worthy charities. He is a member of
The Chamber of Commerce, a director of The Second National Bank, The Hudson River
Bank, and The Broadway Insurance Co., and a trustee of The Bowery Savings Bank.
His club memberships are in the University, Union League, Metropolitan, Grolier and
City. He retains a deep interest in the affairs of Princeton College and is energetic
in the furtherance of its material and educational progress.
Mr. Aitken was married, Feb. 6, 1877, to Helen F. Powers, daughter of D. W.
Powers, the banker, of Rochester, N. Y. He has two children, a daughter and a son.
HERMAN DAGGETT ALDRICH, merchant, born at Mattituck, L. I., July 6, 1801,
died in New York city, April 5, 1880. His family was of English descent, his father being
James Aldrich, a resident of Long Island. Herman's early years were passed in his
native village, where his opportunities for education were limited. While yet a boy,
he came to this city and obtained employment in the store of Stephen Lockwood. He
possessed a strong constitution, a clear mind and great firmness of character, and, once
launched upon a mercantile career, made his way with admirable energy. Early in
life he associated himself with Robert H. McCurdy in the dry goods commission busi-
ness, the firm subsequently becoming McCurdy, Aldrich & Spencer. The partners
were all distinguished for uprightness of dealing and ability, and the business yielded
each partner a handsome fortune. In 1840 Mr. Aldrich was married to Elizabeth,
daughter of Samuel Wyman of Homewood, Baltimore county, Md. His children were
James H., William W., and Spencer Aldrich, Mrs. J. N. Steele, whose husband is con-
nected with Trinity Church, and Mrs. T. N. Dudley, wife of Bishop Dudley of Louis-
ville, Ky. He was a founder and trustee of St. Luke's Hospital, and greatly interested
in the Protestant Episcopal Church. A striking feature of his life was the close inti-
macy between him and his partner, Mr. McCurdy, extending from early youth to a ripe
old age. They came to New York at the same time, met as boys in Mr. Lockwood's
store, and shared the same room in the attic over the store. Their lives ran on side by
side, until the end. For thirty years they lived in adjoining houses, and then died
within a few hours of one another. Their funeral services were held in common, and
the\" lie buried in adjoining lots in Greenwood Cemetery.
JUNIUS B. ALEXANDER, banker, born in Virginia in 1814, died in New York city
in January, 1893. His father was a large landholder, who employed negro slaves in the
cultivation of his plantations. While a youth of 16, Junius went to Hardinsburg, Ky.,
began life as a clerk in a store, and rose to become a magistrate, president of a bank in
Owensboro, and in 1853 cashier of The Southern Bank in Louisville. In 1858, he
formed a partnership with H. D. Newcomb, of Louisville, to carry on a wholesale
grocery trade, under the name of Alexander, Newcomb & Co. He removed to St.
Louis, was a merchant and president of The Exchange Bank there, dissolved partnership
in 1863, and moved to New York, where he engaged in private banking. Twice married,
he was survived by his second wife and several children. He dwelt on Staten Island.
14 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
WILLIAM C. ALEXANDER, president of The Equitable Life Assurance Society,
born in Prince Edward county, Va., in May, 1806, died in New York city, Aug. 23, 1874.
He was the second son of Dr. Archibald Alexander, one of the founders and first pro-
fessor of the Theological Seminary in Princeton, N. J. Mr. Alexander graduated
from Princeton College in 1824, having distinguished himself there both as a writer
and speaker. Educating himself as a lawyer, he practiced his profession in New Jer-
sey for thirty-five years. Taking an active part in the canvass then being hotly con-
tested between Mr. Adams and General Jackson, his fame as an orator and a man of
genius soon spread throughout the State. In 1835 he was unexpectedly nominated for
the Legislature by the inhabitants of Middlesex county, but declined the honor and
warmly espoused the cause of the person substituted in his place. In 1836, without
his consent, he was again nominated and elected. On taking his seat, although one
of the youngest members, he became the leader of his side of the House, and shortly
afterwards, on the nomination of a member of the opposite party, was unanimously
elected Speaker. Mr. Alexander's speeches, during the years in which he served in
the Legislature, in behalf of education, civilization, the elevation of the workingman
and the establishment of common schools, won for him the deserved respect and admi-
ration of men of all parties. On several important occasions, he exhibited his inde-
pendence by dissenting in debate from the great majority of his party. He continued
to grow more prominent until, without his so'icitation, he was elected a member of
the Senate and re-elected at the expiration of his term, and was three times chosen
President of the Senate on the nomination of the opposition without a dissenting
voice. At one time, nominated as Governor of New Jersey, he was frequently urged
to allow his name to be used in connection with the United States Senatorship, when
an election would have been sure, and was brought forward at the Charleston Con-
vention as a candidate for the Vice-Presidency, but his preferences were in favor of a
private life. He attended the Peace Congress at Washington just before the late war,
and presided over that body during a great part of its sessions. In 1859 Mr. Alexan-
der became the president of The Equitable Life Assurance Society of the United
States, and thereafter his business life was passed in New York city. His fine intel-
lect found in the development of this great corporation a duty worthy of his powers.
His success was great.
FRANCIS ALEXANDRE, merchant, born on the Island of Jersey, in Great Britain,
Aug. 5, 1809, died in New York city, June 8, 1889. He was the son of a farmer. With an
inclination for a sailor's life, he went to sea at an early age, and acquired an education
by attending school during his stay in various ports and devoting the spare time on
ship-board to reading. At the age of twenty-one he took command of a vessel, which he
directed for years, renouncing in favor of his sisters the estate which he had inherited
from his father. When about twenty-eight years old, the young captain settled in New
York city, establishing a small commission house in South street, paying at first as annual
rental the sum of $25. In 1842 he established a line of sailing vessels between New
York and Honduras, and subsequently between New York, Vera Cruz and South
America. In this enterprise he succeeded so well that, in 1867, he sold the sailing
vessels, substituted steamers, and for nineteen years carried mails, freights and passen-
gers between New York, Havana and Mexico. Many remarkable ships were built for
this line in subsequent years, including among others the City of Mexico, City of New
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. AL. 15
York, City of Havana, City of Alexandria, City of Washington, City of Vera Cruz, and
City of Pueblo. The business transacted was large and profitable. His three sons
were successive!}" taken into partnership as they came of age, the great house taking
the name of F. Alexandre & Sons. In 1888 the firm sold its vessels and retired from
business. In 1838 Mr. Alexandre married Miss Civiles Cipriaut, of New York, who
died Feb. 13, 1882. Three sons, John E., Joseph J. and J. Henry survived him. The
secret of his success lay in his industry, integrity, exactness and justice of method, and
natural business ability. He enjoyed a high reputation among those with whom he
was associated. His sons have since attained prominence in the social life of the city.
JAMES P. ALLAIRE, iron manufacturer, born in 1785, died at Howell Works,
Monmouth county, N. J., May 20, 1858. He was the founder of the Iron Works, in
the quaint and now deserted village of Allaire, N. J., there being deposits of iron in
the vicinity, which were smelted at these works. At one time, he carried. on the
largest marine engine building shops in the United States. In this business he was
very successful, and gained both reputation and fortune.
GEORGE H. ALLEN, importer of wines, has gained his position in New York city
through the arduous labors of mercantile life, coupled with native shrewdness and
energy, and his partnership in the importing firm of Paris, Allen & Co., of which he is
now senior partner. He has also been, for a number of years, senior partner in W. A.
Gaines & Co., distillers, in Frankfort, Ky., incorporated with a capital of $600,000, who
control several distilleries in the West. Mr. Allen inherited some means from Marshall
Allen, one of the original partners of Paris, Allen & Co. He is a member of The Man-
hattan and New York Athletic clubs.
HENRY ALLEN, stock broker, was born in Lexington, Ky., in April, 1848. He
comes from English and Scottish ancestry, and his father was a native of Kentucky,
his mother of Mississippi. During early life he found occupation in operations
indigenous to the South, and was interested successively in farming, cotton, grain,
banking and stocks. During the Civil War, he espoused the cause of the Confederacy,
and later came North and opened a broker's office in this city. He is now senior
member of Henry Allen & Co., stock brokers, and has built up a large and desirable
business, with extensive collateral interests in railroads and railroad stocks. While
of social disposition, he is not a club man, but has joined the Democratic club, because
that organization represents his political faith.
JOSEPH JENER ALfllRALL, merchant, was born in Yillafranca del Panades, Spain,
in 1840. His early years were spent in his native land, where he received a sound edu-
cation. Coming to America, he established the firm of Almirall & Co , importers and
dealers of Havana leaf tobacco and general exporters. Competent, honest and per-
sistent, he has created a large trade and is now a man of fortune. He is a director of
The Chesebrough Manufacturing Co.
JOHN ALSTYNE, broker, a native of New York city, born March 24, 1801, died
here June 3, 1869. Of Dutch ancestry, his father was John Alstyne, a son of Jerome
Alstyne, whose father bore the same name. They lived in the last century in a house
owned by them at the junction of Maiden Lane and Liberty street, probably purchased
with thalers brought from Holland. John Alstyne, sr., lived on a farm called Seaton
Place, and afterward at Eastchester, but, after his death, his wife returned to the
Liberty street house, and later removed with her family to Madison street. The son
16 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
was educated in the family of the Rev. Platt Buffet, rector of the church at Stanwich,
Conn., who, in addition to his church duties, fitted boys for college or business. He
found his first employment as clerk for Mr. Beers, a leading broker in New York.
Leaving Mr. Beers, he formed a partnership with Mr. Dykers, son of the Governor of
one of the West India Islands, under the name of Dykers & Alstyne, Mr. Alstyne's
capital being derived from his father's estate. Later, Mr. Jarvis was taken into the
firm, which became Dykers, Alstyne & Co. Mr. Alstyne survived his partners. Mr.
Alstyne invested his profits largely in real estate in and around New York city, which
rose to great value. He was a man of strong will, kindly feelings, pleasant manners
and good appearance, and a favorite in social life. He was a strong churchman, and
always kind and attentive to his handsome mother, whose common sense was equal to
her beauty. His fortune descended, mainly, to his niece, Desier A., wife of George P.
Clapp of New York city, and daughter of Jasper Pryer. Mrs. Clapp died Sept. 17, 1881,
leaving her property mainly to her husband. Mr. Clapp died in Algiers, Africa, Jan.
25, 1884, and bequeathed the Alstyne property to charitable and religious institutions
in New York.
BENJAfllN ALTMAN, dry goods merchant, is a son of Philip Altman, who carried
on a moderate dry goods business in New York city, and was for many years well and
favorably known in the district devoted to that trade. He died in 1863, the business
being afterward continued by his two sons, Morris and Benjamin.
Morris Altman, Benjamin's eldest brother, was educated in the public schools,
entered a business career when quite a young man and founded the house of Altman
Brothers. He came into prominence as the moving spirit of the "Early Closing Asso-
ciation," which advocated shortening the working hours of the dry goods clerks. He
died in the prime of a promising manhood, in 1876, at the age of thirty-nine. A man
of fine presence, splendid address and talent as a speaker on economic, social and busi-
ness subjects, he was courteous and affable and commanded the respect and admira-
tion of those who came in contact with him.
Benjamin Altman, born in this city, July n, 1843, began his business career when
not much over twelve years of age, up to which time he had attended the public schools.
Such was his fondness for business, it may here be said, that after school hours he
would go behind the counters in his father's store to discharge the duties of salesman,
impressing his young mind at the time with all the requirements of a business man.
This experience served him well in later years. Under the discreet management of
the two brothers the business increased to such an extent that larger quarters were
secured at Third avenue and loth street. Shortly afterward yet more commodious
accommodations were sought for and obtained on Sixth avenue. Another removal
being deemed necessary, the present location, i8th street, i9th street and Sixth ave-
nue, was established in 1876. Mr. Altman remains unmarried, and has devoted him-
self to the care and education of the children of his brother Morris, to whom he has
been as kind as a father. The widow survived her husband only a few months. The
tender care bestowed upon these four orphan children cannot be too highly commended.
While devoted to his business, Mr. Altman is greatly interested in art matters. He
has a valuable and costly collection of art objects and antiques. Porcelains, paintings,
objects of Greek art, carvings in ivory, antique rugs and embroideries form part of a
collection, many examples of which he gathered while on a voyage around the world,
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. AM. 17
during which he enjoyed well earned and richly deserved recreation, the first in seven-
teen years. He is also a liberal patron of the works of native artists. He is a con-
tributor to philanthropic objects, his gifts, while open-handed, being, however, unos-
tentatious. Many generous donations have been bestowed with the single stipulation
that the deed should not be made public, so sensitive is he that his generosity should
not be misunderstood. His career is an evidence of what application to business, hon-
estly and persistently followed, will bring to a young man who devotes his young man-
hood unflinchingly to the establishment of a reputation which will serve him in the
later years of an honored life.
QUSTAV AflSINCK, merchant, a sound, energetic businessman, has been for forty
years an active spirit in the wholesale trade of this city. In 1861, he became a partner
in the firm of L. E. Amsinck & Co., of which Gustav H. Gossler became a partner in
1868. The present firm of G. Amsinck & Co., formed in 1874, are importers and com-
mission merchants, dealing in almost all kinds of merchandise and with practically all
parts of the world, a large portion of their trade being with Mexico. They also trans-
act a banking business. The success of the firm has been continuous, and Mr.
Amsinck's career has been characterized by energy, decision, integrity and scrupulous
exactness in his obligations. He is a director of The Bank of New York and The
Atlantic Mutual Insurance Co., and has done much to promote the higher interests of
New York city. The Union, Vaudeville, Liederkranz and Down-Town clubs have
enrolled him as a member.
ELBERT JEFFERSON ANDERSON, merchant, born in New York city, in October,
1800, died in Newport, R. I., Feb. 13, 1888. Elbert Anderson, his father, a merchant of
distinction, served in the War of 1812 as Lieutenant Colonel of militia and army con-
tractor. Visiting Troy, N. Y., he purchased beef and provisions for the army, from
Zbenezer and Samuel Wilson, the latter of whom was familiarly known as Uncle Sam.
Through the mark "E. A.-U. S." on Mr. Anderson's boxes of army material finally
arose the sobriquet of "Uncle Sam," as indicating the Federal Government. The
boyhood of Elbert J. Anderson was spent in New York city, and at the age of twelve,
he had the good fortune to be the first to convey to General Bloomfield, then in com-
mand of the troops gathered for the defense of New York, the news of the declaration
of war against Great Britain. He was educated in the local schools, and while not a
college graduate, became a man of excellent taste and extended culture. In 1820, he was
commissioned by Governor Clinton as ensign in the 85th New York Infantry, the crack
regiment of the day, and subsequently rose to be its Lieutenant Colonel. In 1827, he
became junior partner in the commission dry goods firm of Belah Tiffany & Co. , at the
corner of Maiden Lane and Pearl street, in which business he was active for many
years and greatly prospered. In 1825, he married Martha Maria, a daughter of one of
the Signers of the Declaration of Independence. She died in 1879, an^ was survived
by one son, Elbert Anderson, and four daughters, Mrs. George von Gorrissen of Ham-
burg, Germany; Miss Marie M. Anderson; Mrs. John Boker, now deceased; and Mrs.
Thomas G. Ford. In 1847, Mrs. Anderson inherited the Redwood farm at Portsmouth,
six miles from Newport, and eventually made his permanent residence there. The
subject of this sketch was a director of The Manhattan Fire Insurance Co., The Farmers'
Loan & Trust Co. and The Phoenix Bank. His high reputation for integrity and
capacity caused him to be selected frequently for service on boards of arbitration. By
i8 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
his quick intelligence, uniform courtesy and attractive manner, he won a large circle
of friends in Newport.
JOHN ANDERSON, conspicuous as a merchant, born in New York in 1812, died
in Paris, France, Nov. 22, 1881. He began life modestly in a little store, down town,
for the sale of cigars and tobacco, was successful in attracting purchasers, and grew
into popularity and a large trade. His store became famous through a tragic incident,
the heroine of which gave to Edgar Allan Poe the theme of his romance of Marie
Roget. Mr. Anderson conducted his business with success for about forty years, during
part of that time being a manufacturer. It was he who introduced the use of lead foil
as a wrapper for fine-cut chewing tobacco. John Anderson's Solace was known
to purchasers throughout the whole country. The income from his business was
invested mainly in real estate, and the great appreciation in value of property with the
growth of the city brought him a fortune of several millions. In the winter of 1873 he
founded The Anderson School of Natural History on Penekese Island, at the mouth of
Buzzard's Bay, giving the island and a liberal sum in money to the new institution.
The trust was in charge of Professor Louis Agassiz until his death. John Charles
Anderson, his son, and Mrs. Laura Appleton and Mrs. Fannie A. Barnard, his daugh-
ters, survived him. The family made their home at Tarrytown, N. Y., and Mr.
Anderson spent most of his time there during his later years.
LORINQ ANDREWS, merchant, born in Windham, Greene coiinty, Jan. 31,
1799, died in New York city, Jan. 22, 1875. He was of English descent, the pioneer
of the family in America having been a companion of John Davenport, who settled in
New Haven in the very early days. In the neighborhood of the birthplace of Mr.
Andrews, a thick growth of hemlock afforded material for the tanning of leather.
With an elementary education, the lad was apprenticed at the age of fourteen to Foster
Morss, one of the first tanners who brought leather to New York. With him the youth
remained for eight years. He then traveled in the West for two years, in the hope of
making a fortune. Finding the search elusive, he returned to Greene county and
entered into a business arrangement with Mr. Morss, by which the former was to trans-
port the hides and leather to and from the tannery and pay three cents a pound for
tanning. Beginning with a capital of fifty cents and a thorough knowledge of the
trade, Mr. Andrews was so able and shrewd that in four years he had made $4,000, and
then entered into partnership with his employer. In 1829 he came to New York city
with $7,000. He soon built up a trade of from 50,000 to 100,000 hides a year. In
1832, he formed a partnership with William Wilson, in which Gideon Lee and Shepherd
Knapp were special partners. The panic of 1837 swept away the profits of eight years.
Nevertheless, by retaining the control of large capital, he continued in business and
by prudent methods and close attention laid the foundation of a new fortune. In 1861,
Loring Andrews & Sons conducted several large tanneries, and by 1863, handled an-
nually 400,000 sides of hemlock cured leather. They ranked as the leading leather mer-
chants. Success came to Mr. Andrews as the fruit of untiring industry, perseverance and
sterling integrity. Like other merchants, he made conspicuously large purchases of
real estate, which proved profitable. In 1839, Mr. Andrews was married to Blandina
B., daughter of James B. Hardenbergh, D.D. His family consisted of seven children,
William L., James B., Constant A., Loring, Walter S., Clarence and Isabel, the latter
now married and living abroad. His -benefactions were systematic and large. The
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. AN. IQ
University of New York received from him $100,000 for the endowment of professorships,
and nearly ever}' other leading philanthropic institution of the city enjoyed his liberal
support. He was one of the early directors of The Mechanics' Bank, a founder and
first president of The Shoe & Leather Bank, vice-president of The Globe Life
Insurance Co., and a shareholder in The Atlantic Telegraph Co. — His son, CONSTANT
A. ANDREWS, banker, was born in this city, Feb. 25, 1844. He was educated
in Columbia College grammar school and in Germany. Soon after the close of the
Civil War, his father admitted him to partnership. Later, with his brother, William
L. Andrews, he continued in the leather trade and held a conspicuous position up to
the moment when the partners decided to retire from business. After spending a few
years in Europe, Mr. Andrews returned and engaged in banking. The firm of Constant
A. Andrews & Co. now occupies the same high position for conservative methods and
sound judgment as did the old house of Loring Andrews & Sons, and their advice is
sought in investments in street railroads, municipal bonds and business enterprises.
Mr. Andrews is president of The United States Savings Bank and The Elkhorn Valley
Coal Land Co ; a director of the Second Avenue Street Railroad, and largely influential
in other directions, where his interest and counsel are demanded. He was married in
1879 to Miss B lanche L. Vance, daughter of ex-Mayor Vance, of this city.
WALLACE C. ANDREWS, president of The New York Steam Co. , a man of marked
vigor and enterprise, is one of a large number of successful Ohio men, now engaged in
business in New York city. Mr. Andrews is of New England descent. He is a son of
the late Norman Andrews, who moved from Connecticut to a farm on the Western
Reserve in Ohio in 1816.
Mr. Andrews began life iipon the farm, and partly by inheritance, partly in the
wholesome life of the country, acquired the physical vigor which enabled him to per-
form great labors during his subsequent career. He revealed a talent for business early in
life. He succeeded from the start, and, by the strictest economy, managed to save a lit-
tle capital. When coal was discovered in the Mahoning Valley, his brother, the late
Chauncey H. Andrews of Youngstown, O., and he, invested their savings in explora-
tions for coal and the purchase of mines. They developed a large number of different
properties. At first, they met with poor success, but finally made valuable discoveries.
The two men looked after details themselves, conducted their business economically,
and were able to mine coal, even after the profits had fallen to 25 cents a ton. During
the petroleum excitement, they became operators in that industry also. They were
also promoters of many new enterprises. They built furnaces and rolling mills in Ohio,
and now and then a small railroad, and finally became the principal stockholders in a
railroad between Cleveland and Pittsburgh. They bought several coal mining com-
panies, working the mines themselves, but afterwards selling them at an advance. In
this way, in time, they became the largest miners of coal in the State.
At a later day, they bought the bed of one of the old-time Ohio canals and used it for
a railroad between Cleveland and Pittsburgh, a rival to the one they had already built.
Their operations were usually profitable, and the two brothers each gradually amassed a
fortune. With other capitalists, they finally secured a large area of coal lands in the Hock-
ing Valley in Ohio, and were interested in the purchase of The Hocking Valley Railroad
and its connecting lines and in the transaction by which the roads were consolidated and
the lands purchased. The schemes of Mr. Andrews were usually started with compara-
THE CITV OF NEW YOKK.^-AX. 21
tively little capital, but the projector threw his whole energy into development, secured
the investment of outside capital, made his projects profitable, and then often sold his in-
terests. By reinvesting rapidly, working somewhat with borrowed money, making use
of his more valuable securities as collateral, he has succeeded remarkably in the acquisi-
tion of wealth.
Mr. Andrews is one of the promoters of the original Standard Oil Co. and was a
director of the company for a long period of years and up to the formation of the Trust.
He is yet a large stockholder in the company. One of the most important of his enter-
prises is The New York Steam Co., a concern which supplies steam for heat and power
by underground pipes in various sections of New York city, and has initiated a new era
in the management of office buildings, by enabling their proprietors to dispense with the
annoyances attending the production of steam in their own premises. Mr. Andrews is
president of the company, and has managed its affairs with signal ability and success. He
was lately president of The Standard Gas Light Co. of New York and is its largest stock-
holder. He is a director in many local corporations, a man of unusual business sagacity,
of great power of application, and untiring energy, and his large fortune is entirely the
product of constructive talent and commendable business methods. The Ohio Society of
this city has enrolled him as one of its members from the beginning.
ADOLPH B. ANSBACHER, importer, is one of the leading merchants of paints.
From the time when he began business on his own account, he has shown himself
shrewd, diligent and wide awake, and was able, long ago, to expand his trade to
substantial and remunerative proportions. In 1883, he admitted to partnership
Maurice E. Ansbacher, who died in 1887, and Maurice D. Eger, thereafter doing
business under the name of A. B. Ansbacher & Co. Their trade extends to every part
of the United States, and, for a number of years, required the maintenance of a
branch office in Chicago.
EDWARD ANTHONY, civil engineer, born in Xew York, Jan. 31, 1819, died here
Dec. 14, 1888. Jacob Anthony, his father, was for many years one of the principal tellers
in The United States Branch Bank and cashier of the old Bank of the State of New
York. The family derives their descent from Allard Anthony, an immigrant from
Holland to New Amsterdam about 1628, who was one of the first five Schepens or
Councilmen of the new colony. The pioneer was a man of note and of sufficient stand-
ing to be sent as ambassador, on behalf of the new colony, to negotiate with the King
of Holland. The coat-of-arms of the Anthony family is the same as that of the old
Spanish Antonio family; and it is generally supposed that, during the wars of the
Netherlands, one of the Spanish Antonios was captivated, either by the arms of the
Dutch soldiery or the charms of a Dutch maiden and settled in Holland, in conse-
quence thereof founding the Dutch family of Antoni, whose name, in the course of
years, was modified to Anthony. Edward Anthony was in the seventh generation of
descent from Allard. He graduated from Columbia Colfege in 1838, with an excellent
record. Beginning life as a civil engineer, he obtained employment in building the
original Croton Aqueduct, through which New York long drew its supply of pure
drinking water from country streams and ponds. Before its completion, he was called
to accompany Prof. James Renwick in the survey of the northeastern boundary of the
United States, at the time of the dispute with Great Britain. He had for some time
amused himself with experiments in the new art of making pictures with the aid of
22 AMERICAS SUCCESSFUL MEN.
sunlight, just introduced by Daguerre. During the survey, he took satisfactory
images of the hills along the boundary line, the existence of which had been denied by
England. It was the first instance in which the art of photography had been made use
of in diplomatic controversy. These photographs are yet preserved in the archives at
Washington. After finishing the survey, Mr. Anthony engaged in photography, and,
after a short but successful practice embarked in the business of supplying materials to
the trade. His practical knowledge proved of invaluable assistance, and soon placed
the house of E. Anthony in the front rank in New York. Henry T. Anthony, his
brother, joined him in 1852, the firm becoming E. & H. T. Anthony & Co. In 1877, the
firm was reorganized as a corporation, with Edward Anthony as president, Henry T.
Anthony as vice-president, and Col. V. M. Wilcox as secretary. The corporation is
yet in business at 591 Broadway, with Col. V. M. Wilcox as president, Richard A.
Anthony as vice-president, and Frederick A. Anthony as secretary. Edward Anthony
. was married in 1848, to Margaretta R., daughter of James Montgomery, a direct
descendant of Count de Montgomerie of France, who accidentally killed Henry VII.,
in a tournament. The coat-of-arms of the Montgomerie family displays an arm, hold-
ing a broken spear. To Mr. Anthony and his wife were born, Richard A. Anthony;
Jane Kipp, wife of Charles Soleliac; and Eleanor Montgomery, wife of Louis Soleliac.
-His son, RICHARD A. ANTHONY, was born May 24, 1861, in New York city.
His parents gave him a careful education for two years in Rutgers College, followed by*
two years in Columbia College, from which he graduated in 1881, receiving the degree of
B.A. By a subsequent course of study, he gained a diploma as M. A. Attracted by both
the scientific and commercial aspects of the trade in photographic materials, he entered
the house of E. & H. T. Anthony as an employe, and after the death of H. T. Anthony,
in 1884, became secretary of the corporation. Since his father's death, he has been
the vice-president. He is an energetic, prudent and capable man and has greatly
promoted the trade of the house. Mr. Anthony is a trustee of The United States
Savings Bank, was a director of The Second Avenue Railroad for five years, and is a
member of the University, Storm King and Central Commercial clubs.
RICHARD KIP ANTHONY, merchant, born in New York, July 18, 1812, died in
Rye, N. Y., June 16, 1886. He was a son of Jacob Anthony, above referred to.
Richard received a common school training, and early in life entered the old-time wine'
importing house of Robert Gracie & Co. as clerk. While employed there, he acquired
the warm friendship of another clerk, William F. Nelson, with whom he went into
partnership, under the name of Nelson & Anthony. The firm carried on an extensive
business as wine importers and brokers, dissolving in 1861. Early in 1862, Mr.
Anthony entered the house of Bowie Dash & Co., coffee merchants, as clerk. Here he
-became a great favorite, and in 1870 was admitted into partnership, remaining with the
firm until 1880. He then retired. Rye, N. Y., formed his home after April, 1862.
He was an active member of Hose Company No. 16 in the old Volunteer Fire Depart-
ment, and in the great fire of 1835 rendered such faithful service as to gain honorable
mention. He was a member of the St. Nicholas Society, and one of seven brothers,
who were brought up in the old Dutch Reform church in this city. Mr. Anthony mar-
ried Ann Bowie, daughter of Daniel B. Dash, in March, 1849. Their children were
Annie, Daniel Dash Anthony, Frances, wife of George C. Park, Laura and Anzonetta
Dash Anthony.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. AP. 23
JUAN APARICIO, importer, a merchant of Spanish ancestry, began life as a planter
in Guatemala. To market his own productions, he came to New York city and opened
an office, and has since been engaged in the importation of coffee and other products of
Central America. He controls great plantations in Guatemala, a fruitful and only par-
tially developed region, where he has the advantage of low-priced labor. His success
in raising large crops and skill as a merchant, enable him to transact an excellent trade.
REHSEN APPLEBY, merchant, born in 1838, died in New York, Jan. 4, 1886.
His father, Leonard Appleby, was a merchant of tobacco and snuff, and an enter-
prising member of a very well-known family. While a young man, Remsen
engaged in the tobacco and snuff business at Pine and Water streets, where he remained
until 1865. His place was well known among the down-town merchants and business
men, who were attracted by the genial qualities of Mr. Appleby. Retiring from trade,
he became president of The Central Park Fire Insurance Co. When, a few years later,
this company went into liquidation, he embarked in the giving of concerts at the Central
Park Garden, which afforded great delight to the patrons of that resort. Later, he
resumed the tobacco business. He was married to Mattie Bryan, who, with two
children, Leonard Fletcher and Kate Remsen, survived him.
DANIEL APPLETON, publisher, founder of the house of D. Appleton & Co.,
born in Haverhill, Mass., Dec. 10, 1785, died in New York, March 27, 1849. He began
life as a dry goods merchant in his native town, subsequently went to Boston, and in
1825 removed to New York. Here he began the importation of English books, in
conjunction with the dry goods business. Their original place of business in New
York was in Exchange place. Mr. Appleton soon abandoned the dry goods business
and removed to Chirton Hall in Beekman street, thereafter giving his attention solely
to the importation and sale of books. The growth of the city subsequently made nec-
essary several removals to locations farther up town. In 1831 he made a venture in
the publishing business by printing a collection of religious extracts, entitled "Daily
Crumbs from the Master's Table." Of this work 2,000 copies were sold. From this
modest beginning, the house enlarged its operations until they have now extended
their publications into the entire field of literature. Mr. Appleton was one of the
public spirited merchants of his day and identified with many measures for promoting
the welfare of the city and its merchants. He was highly esteemed by his contem-
poraries. May 4, 1813, he was married to Hannah Adams, daughter of John Adams,
and from that union were born five sons, William Henry, John Adams, Daniel Sid-
ney, George Swett and Samuel Francis Appleton. These sons were successively ad-
mitted into partnership in the firm, which is yet carried on under the original title of
D. Appleton & Co. by the surviving son, William H. Appleton, and several grandsons.
COL. DANIEL APPLETON, publisher, born in New York, Feb. 24, 1852, is the son
of John A. Appleton, and grandson of Daniel Appleton. He received his education in the
schools of New York city and Carlsruhe in Germany, and, at the age of nineteen, entered
the Appleton publishing house as a clerk. In 1879, he was admitted into partnership
in D. Appleton & Co. Possessing fine business qualifications, he has been an efficient
member of the firm. Colonel Appleton has long taken an active part in New York city's
favorite militia regiment, the 7th, of which, July 18, 1889, he was by unanimous vote,
promoted from a Captaincy to the Colonelcy. He is a director of the American Book
Co. , and a member of the Union, Century, Aldine, Riding and New York Yacht clubs.
24 AMERICAS SUCCESSFUL MEN.
WILLIAfl HENRY APPLETON, publisher, son of Daniel Appleton, was born in
New York, Jan. 27, 1814. Educated at Andover, Mass., he entered his father's
store, where he was placed in charge of the book department. In 1835 he was
sent to represent the house in London, where the next year he established
an agency at 16 Little Britain. In 1838 he was taken into partnership. At
his father's death, in 1849, he inherited a moderate estate, which he has since
increased by his own energetic prosecution of the business and by active partici-
pation in other enterprises. Under his management the house devoted itself entirely
to the sale of its own publications and has come to rank among the half dozen
leading publishing houses of the United States. They have published the works of
the most noted scientists of Europe and the United States, while in general literature
their catalogue contains the books of Bancroft, McMaster, Bryant, Cooper, Dickens,
Disraeli, Kipling, Caine and other standard authors. The literature of the civil war
is represented on both sides by memoirs and biographies of eminent soldiers and states-
men. Illustrated works have been printed in large number, comprising many art col-
lections of a high order. Their text books embrace every subject taught in American
schools, and they have a special department of medical works and another of Spanish
books designed for the South and Central American markets. The American Cyclo-
pedia issued by this house, the most widely circulated work of its kind ever produced
in this country, brought them great reputation. The Annual Cyclopedia, a continu-
ation of the great work, is now in its thirty-third year. Mr. Appleton was married
in Lowell, Mass., to Mary Worth en, and his children are William Worthen, Kate,
Mary and Henry Cozzens Appleton. He is president of The Manhattan Safe De-
posit & Storage Co., and a director of The American Book Co., The Central Trust
Co., The Delaware, Lackawanna & Western Railroad, The New York Life Insurance
Co. and The New York Security & Trust Co. He is a valued member of the Union,
Aldine, Century, Players', Riding and Country clubs, and The New England Society.
WILLIAM' WORTHEN APPLETON, publisher, was born in Brooklyn, Nov. 29,
1845. He is a son of William H. Appleton and grandson of Daniel Appleton. He was
fitted in New York for Harvard College. Owing to ill-health he did not enter, but
travelled and studied abroad. He entered the house of D. Appleton & Co. in 1865 as
an assistant in the school book department, and subsequently took charge of the manu-
facturing department, being admitted to partnership in 1868. In recent years he has
given more of his time to the editorial department and the London office, and has
proved an active and capable member of the firm. He was married April 20, 1881,
to Anna, daughter of Henry I. Sargent, of Boston. Their children are Margaret,
William Henry, Mary and Sargent Appleton. He is a director in The American
Book Co., a corporation founded in 1890, with a capital of $5,000,000, and is actively
identified with the New York Free Library, of which he was one of the founders, and
has held continuously the chairmanship of the Library Committee. He is also a
director in The Bank for Savings and prominent in The Publishers' League, which
was instrumental in bringing about the International Copyright Law. A keen busi-
ness man, he is in social life a gentleman of courteous manners and a charming-
companion. His clubs are the Union, Aldine, Century, Knickerbocker, Grolier and
Riding, and he is also a member of The New England Society and Chamber of Com-
merce.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. AR. 25
CHARLES ARBUCKLE, coffee importer, born in Allegheny City, Pa., in 1833, died
in Brooklyn, X. Y., March 27, 1891. His early years were passed in Allegheny City,
where he became a prominent wholesale grocer. In 1871, Mr. Arbuckle, with his
brother John, established a factory for the preparation of roasted and ground coffee in
Brooklyn, and in 1875 transferred all his interests to that city. The business was at
first conducted under the name of Arbuckle Bro's, but increased to such dimensions
that it was, at one time, transferred to a stock organization, the Arbuckle Coffee Co.
Subsequently, however, the corporation was abandoned, and the old firm of Arbuckle
Bro's revived. The firm have imported immense quantities of raw coffee from Brazil,
and established a permanent house at Rio. They acquired a wide reputation through
the introduction of the " Ariosa" brand of coffee, which, roasted, ground and packed
in one-pound bags, met with an extensive sale. Mr. Arbuckle personally superin-
tended much of the work of the factory, and to his ability and untiring labor was
largely due the success of this house. He added much to the attractions of Brooklyn
by operations in real estate. Purchasing the old Dieter building opposite the City Hall
in Brooklyn, he built five stories thereon, and made it the largest office structure in the
city. He afterwards built an apartment house on Columbia Heights at Orange street,
with suites of rooms for thirty-nine families, and owned another in the West Side
region of New York. His country place at Brentwood, Long Island, contained 1,100
acres. He was never married.
JOHN ARBUCKLE, importer and manufacturer, spent his early life in Allegheny,
Pa. In 1871, he engaged with his brother Charles in the preparation of roasted and
ground coffee, their factory being located in Brooklyn, and he is now head of the firm
of Arbuckle Bros. He is also a director in The Importers and Traders' Bank, and is
president of The Royal Horse Association, a syndicate owning ranches in Wyoming
devoted to horse breeding. Several good clubs have elected him to membership, includ-
ing the Union League and Hamilton in Brooklyn, and the Down Town in New York city.
JOHN DUSTIN ARCHBOLD, oil refiner, was born in Leesburg, O., July 26, 1848.
His father, Israel Archbold, a Virginian, and a descendant from a Protestant Irish
family, which emigrated to America in 1786, married a daughter of Col. William Dana,
who removed from Massachusetts to Marietta, O., in wagons in the early days. John
was a student in the public schools until thirteen years of age, and gained his first experi-
ence in business pursuits as clerk in a country store in Salem, O., 1862-64. IQ l864 he
joined the rush to the Pennsylvania oil regions, and spent eleven years there in various
branches of the petroleum industry. He rose to prominence and has long been the
chief proprietor and president of The Acme Oil Co. Since 1875, he has been identified
with The Standard Oil Co. , and a director since its organization, and is now vice-presi-
dent of The Standard Oil Co., of New York. He is president of the trustees of Syra-
cuse University, and a director of The Post-Graduate Hospital and Training School,
and St. Christopher's Home and Orphanage. In 1870 Mr. Archbold married at Titus-
ville, Pa., Anna M., daughter of Major S. M. Mills, and his children are Mary L.,
Anna M., Frances D., and John F. Archbold. Mrs. Archbold is a sister of Col. Mills,
commandant of West Point Military Academy. Mr. Archbold dwells in a comfortable
home at Cedar Cliff, near Tarrytown on the Hudson. He is a member of several ex-
cellent clubs, including the Union League, Manhattan, Racquet, Riding, Whist and
Twilight, and of The Ohio Society.
26 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
OLIVER HAZARD PERRY ARCHER, capitalist, a native of New York, born
Jan. 14, 1825, is a son of Jonathan Archer, who, born in Tarrytown, died in 1832
at the age of sixty. The latter was a firm friend of Commodore Perry and named his
son after the old hero. Oliver made his entrance into the world of affairs at the
unusally early age of ten. While yet a clerk, he bought an existing city express busi-
ness and then another, and thereafter operated on his own account. The first baggage
express delivery on The Hudson River Railroad, originated with Mr. Archer, at the
time the railroad station occupied a site on Chambers street. Later, he contracted to carry
on the entire express business of that railroad. Thus launched upon a prosperous
career, he has continued in the management of various express, freighting and railroad
enterprises, in the prosecution of which he has been successful. At one time he was
chosen vice-president of The Erie Railroad. The first fast freight line ever known was
started by him over The Hudson River Railroad About 1849-50 he made a contract
to divert all the freight business possible to The Hudson River and The New York
Central Railroads at five cents per hundred pounds, and became a power in freighting.
The New York Central at that time yet consisted of a chain of independent railroads.
In 1858, he transferred his operations to The Erie Railroad and handled its freight.
The Joliet & Wilmington and The Suspension Bridge & Erie Junction Railroads were
built by him. In 1873, he retired from business, but has since become a large owner
of real estate. Mr. Archer is a trustee of Syracuse University and a manager of The
Board of Home and Foreign Missions of the Methodist Episcopal Church. June 4,
1845, he was happily married to Mary Dean. Their children are Oliver H. P. and
George D. Archer; Mrs. William P. Abbott; Miss Nellie L. and Dr. Henry M.
Archer.
DANIEL V. ARQUIMBAU, importer and broker, is a respectable Pearl street
merchant, who, during an industrious and varied career, has gained a strong position
by the ability with which he has conducted his business. Modest and unassuming, but
diligent and shrewd, he makes steady progress in the peaceful accumulation of the
fruits of his honest vocation. His transactions are largely in the nature of the broker-
age of merchandise. He makes his home in the Hotel St. George in Brooklyn. The
career of Mr. Auguimbau varies from that of thousands of men who devote their lives
to practical pursuits, mainly in the fact that he has succeeded where many others, either
from lack of capital or of talent, have failed.
ROBERT H. ARKENBURQH, tobacco merchant, born in Nyack, N.Y., in 1815, died
there, Sept. 20, 1890. He was a grandson of Daniel Arkenburgh, one of the original
Dutch settlers of Albany county. In 1836, the young man ventured to begin the man-
1 ufacture of cigars in Albany, succeeding from the start. In 1840, he removed to Phil-
adelphia for a few years, but in 1 844 came to New York city and established a whole-
sale trade in leaf tobacco, as R. H. Arkenburgh & Co. He was a splendid merchant,
very enterprising and energetic. Large contracts were awarded to him by the govern-
ment, both in this country and in Europe. After 1865, his firm bore the name of R. H.
Arkenburgh & Sons. He established branch houses in Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Ken-
tucky and Connecticut, and is said to have been the first merchant to ship tobacco in
hogsheads by railroad car to New York, the older method having been to bring the
staple by water from New Orleans. He added to his fortune by judicious investments
in local real estate, especially on the West side, and aided in founding The National
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. AR. 27
Park Bank and The Metropolitan Gas Co. , being president of the latter a number of
years. His wife and six children survive him.
HERMAN OSS1AN ARIIOUR, member of a celebrated firm of packers and
commission merchants, was born March 2, 1837, at Stockbridge in Madison county,
N. Y. His father, Danforth Armour, represented the second generation of the founder
of the family in this country, James Armour, a Scotch- Irish emigrant^ and a native of
Ireland, who arrived in America about the middle of the last century. James was the
father of eight children, the sixth of whom was John, born Feb. 25, 1765. The latter
in turn was the father of nine children, the fourth of them being Danforth, born Jan.
5, 1799. Danforth married Julia Brooks of Ashford, Nov. 27, 1825. This couple had
eight children, the seventh of whom was Herman Ossian Armour. The other brothers
were Simeon Brooks, born Feb. i, 1828; Andred Watson, born Jan. 27, 1829, who died
in May, 1892; Philip Danforth, born May 16, 1832; Charles Eugene, born Sept. 10,
1835, a Union soldier in the Civil War, who died in hospital Aug. 12, 1863; and Joseph
Francis, born Aug. 29, 1842, who died Jan 5, 1881. The brothers now living are
Simeon Brooks, Philip Danforth, and Herman Ossian Armour.
The father of the Armour brothers was a sturdy farmer, of remarkable force of
character, an upright and worthy man, and the boys were brought up to hard work
under strict discipline on the farm. The vigorous health and strong constitutions
which nearly all of them have enjoyed are undoubtedly due, in part, to the whole-
some life, the habits of self-restraint, and the careful oversight of their physical as
well as mental welfare, of those early years upon the farm. As they advanced
to youth and early manhood, the restrictions of rural scenes and the limited
opportunities for the development of business ability led them, one after another, to
seek their fortunes amid more active surroundings. The education of all was neces-
sarily limited to the local schools, although some of the children entered the village
seminar}-. Early in life, Herman O. Armour was attracted by the business enterprises
which were looming into view in the great West. In 1855 he went to Milwaukee, and
after a few years of business training established himself, in 1862, in the grain commis-
sion business in Chicago. The youngest brother, Joseph, joined Herman in Chicago.
The latter in 1865 turned over the business he had established there to the care of
Joseph, and removed to New York city, where a new firm was organized under the
style of Armour, Plankinton & Co. Herman O. Armour proved himself a most
efficient merchant and possessed of great financial ability.
The firm name of H. O. Armour & Co., produce commission merchants, was
retained in Chicago until 1870. As early as 1868 the packing of pork was begun on
a large scale. The name of the firm was changed to Armour & Co. in 1870. The
following year, a branch establishment was opened at Kansas City with the style and
title of Plankinton & Armour, and placed under the management of the older brother,
Simeon B. Armour. The failing health of Joseph, who was in charge of the Chicago
house, finally led to the removal, from Milwaukee to that city, of Philip D. Armour,
who was five years the senior of Herman O. Armour. The brothers had thus been
brought together into a common business interest.
In 1879, The Armour Brothers Banking Co. was established at Kansas City, Mo.
One brother yet remained at the old homestead in New York State, namely, Andrew
Watson Armour. Having been invited to take charge of the new enterprise in Kan-
28 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
sasCity, he became its president and developed the same high quality of business tact,
judgment and energy, which have characterized the other members of this notable family.
The packing business of the Armour brothers is conducted on a stupendous scale.
Their abattoirs in Chicago are of immense capacity. Thousands of animals are slaught-
ered there every day. A member of the firm recently said, however, that he did not
think there was one of the brothers who could stand and watch the process, without
a sense of pity for the animals passing through the runways so innocently to their death.
The firm not only supply millions of the people of the United States annually with fresh
meats, through the method of distribution by refrigerator cars, but they are the largest
shippers of cured goods across the ocean for the supply of Western Europe. They give
employment in their several industries to upwards of 15,000 persons, while the auxiliary
branches of the business attain to the number of about three hundred.
Herman O. Armour is now one of the most respected merchants of New York city.
He has identified himself thoroughly with the business and social life of the metropolis.
His wife is Jeannie P. Livingston, a woman of noble character. The family spend
their winters in town and in the summer season occupy a country home near Tarry-
town on the Hudson. Mr. Armour has joined the Union League and Republican
clubs, and, like his colleagues in those public-spirited organizations, has aided in pro-
moting the interests of the great art museums of the city, and other public institutions.
PHILIP DANFORTH ARflOUR, a brother of Herman O. Armour, was born May
16, 1832, at Stockbridge in Madison county, N. Y. Philip's education was derived from
the country schoolhouse and in part from the local seminary. As a boy and youth, he
was conspicuous for physical and mental energy, as well as for geniality of disposition.
In the winter of 1851-52, he was seized with the California gold fever, which at
that time pervaded the whole country, and, with others, joined in an overland trip to
the Golden State. Leaving Oneida, N. Y., in the spring of 1852, the party reached
California after a journey of six months, during which they suffered the many trials
and dangers incident to a journey through the wilderness as it then existed. For more
than three years he pursued the rugged life of a miner. While subject to all the
temptations of his vicious surroundings, the strict discipline of life which had been
maintained under the paternal roof enabled him to withstand every evil influence tri-
umphantly. He returned to the East in 1856 to visit his parents at the old homestead.-
He had met with some rewards for his labor; and after a few weeks stay at the old
home, he started westward and settled in Milwaukee, where he engaged in the commis-
sion business. This was conducted successfully until 1863, when he entered into part-
nership with John Plankinton, for carrying on the pork packing industry. Mr. Plan-
kinton, the senior of Mr. Armour, recognizing the young man's ability and business
energy, induced him to dissolve the old firm and enter a new organization. Upon the
removal of Herman O. Armour to New York in 1865, the younger brother, Joseph, was
placed in charge of the business in Chicago. Owing to the ill health of Joseph, Philip,
in the year 1875, removed to Chicago to assume charge of the business in that centre.
One of these brothers was recently asked how the pork packing industry began.
The reply was characteristic: " It began itself ; it grew up, and we took hold of it and
helped it along by the application of hard work and by attending to our business." Of
the five brothers originally associated in the several ramifications of these vast enter-
prises, two are dead, namely, Joseph F. and Andrew Watson. The oldest brother,
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. AR. 29
Simeon B., resides in Kansas City, Philip D. in Chicago, and Herman O. in New
York
Of all the Armour brothers, Philip has probably attracted to himself more public
attention than any of the others, by reason of his remarkable personality and his prac-
tical philanthropy, in which, however, he has been sustained by the liberality of the
other brothers. The Armour Mission, one of the most conspicuous institutions in
Chicago, has been developed through his activity, originality and generosity from an
humble beginning to colossal magnitude. The youngest brother, Joseph, who died
Jan. 5, 1881, bequeathed $100,000 in his will for the founding of a Mission in Chicago,
to be conducted on certain novel lines. As the executor of the estate, Philip D.
Armour became peculiarly interested in the cam-ing out of the trust imposed upon
him. The Mission is incorporated under the laws of Illinois, and is managed by a board
of five directors. It is said that the present investment associated with the Armour
Mission represents the sum of §3,000,000. It is conducted on a self-supporting plan,
the method being to construct flats for occupancy by persons pursuing their business in
that immediate locality, who can, with their families, have the benefit of all the educa-
tional, religious and social features connected with the mission, and the charities
associated with it. A certain standard of care and cleanliness is exacted from every
tenant, while a most perfect system of sanitary regulation is observed by those in charge
of the trust funds under the law. Philip D. Armour is the moving spirit, and his
energy is untiring in the direction of the guidance of the Mission, the Institute, the
Manual Training School and other auxiliaries. The object of the institution is the
promotion of the highest physical, intellectual and moral improvement of children and
youths.
Philip D. Armour is a man of sturdy figure, a big head and small side whiskers.
In appearance he resembles more a Protestant Episcopal bishop than a man possessing
such transcendent business ability. He is an attendant of the Congregational Church,
but the Mission is conducted on non-sectarian grounds.
SIMEON B. ARflOUR, the oldest of the Armour brothers, was born Feb. i, 1828.
In the development of the vast industry created by these energetic men, he was an
active participant. The Kansas City branch came more directly under his supervision ;
and for many years he has been the leading commercial spirit in that active and thriv-
ing emporium. He lacks nothing of that keen business judgment which is so pre-emi-
nently a family trait. He is possessed, also, of that amiability, cordiality and directness
of speech characteristic of the family. One of the brothers, when asked to what one
quality more than any other he ascribed their phenomenal success in life, replied, "To
the distribution among us of the virtues possessed by our father and mother, and the
training we received as boys on the old farm at Stockbridge. That comprised the root.
What has developed since is the natural growth springing therefrom. We were taught
how to work and to work hard. We were taught how to make money and how to use
what we gained so as to make more. We had instilled into us as children some
of the hard, old-fashioned common-sense of our parents. We have not acquired
and held on to what we have without labor and care, and plenty of it, too."
PHILANDER BANNISTER ARMSTRONG, life insurance president, was born in
Brookville, Ind., Feb. 3, 1847. He is descended through the paternal line from a
Scotch-Irish family, and through the maternal line from French Huguenots. No less
30 AMERICA S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
than five of his ancestors took part in the American Revolution. His early life was
passed upon a farm. When of age, he went to Cincinnati, found employment with
The JEtna Life Insurance Co , and in 1869 became general agent in Southern Ohio for
The Guardian Mutual Life Insurance Co. Having conceived the idea of mutual insur-
ance as applied to merchants and mamifacturers, he founded The Phoenix Mutual Fire
Insurance Co., in 1875, with a capital of $50,000, introducing the idea of large lines of
insurance upon selected and protected properties. The directors opposed this policy.
Mr. Armstrong resigned, and in 1880 came to New York city, where he organized The
Mutual Fire Insurance Co., in which two hundred leading business houses subscribed
for shares. This enterprise met with success. For many years he was president of the
company. In 1888, he acquired a controlling interest in The Fire Association of New
York, and, in 1889, organized The Armstrong Fire Insurance Co., becoming president
of both. His methods were original, often opposed by conservative directors, but
usually successful. In 1893, he organized The American Union Life Insurance Co.,
the only financial institution founded in New York city during that trying year, and is
its president. Although a busy man, he has been identified with The Washington Loan
and Trust Co. of Washington, D. C., The Mercantile National Bank, and The Twenty-
eighth & Twenty-ninth Streets Railroad, of this city, and The Grand Rapids Hy-
draulic Co., of Grand Rapids, Mich. His almond orchard in California is the largest
in the world, there being 34,000 almond trees upon the ranch of 1,015 acres, with a
total of 70,000 fruit trees, including figs, oranges, olives, peaches, apricots, cherries,
pears, prunes, nectarines and lemons. He was married in 1872 to Josephine E., daughter
of Henry Nietert, of Cincinnati. He occupies a beautiful house in Brooklyn, and is a
life member of the Union League club of Brooklyn, of which he was one of the prin-
cipal founders, and The Ohio Society and Sons of the Revolution and Insurance club
of this city.
AARON ARNOLD, merchant, born in the Isle of Wight, in 1794, died in New York,
March 18, 1876. He was the son of a farmer. In 1825, he sailed for Philadelphia with
his wife and daughter. After a careful study of the comparative advantages of differ-
ent cities, he selected New York as the most desirable location, moved to this city, and
in 1827, established a dry goods store at the corner of Canal and Mercer streets, with
his nephew, George A. Hearn, under the firm name of Arnold & Hearn. On Mr.
Hearn's retirement in 1842, his place was supplied by Mr. Arnold's son-in-law, James
M. Constable, the firm thereupon taking the name of Aaron Arnold & Co. In 1853,
Richard Arnold, his son, and J. P. Baker were admitted to the firm, of which the title
has since been Arnold, Constable & Co. The rapid growth of the city, and the uptown
tendency of the retail business, led to the removal of the store, in 1868, to its present
quarters at Broadway and igth street. In 1877, Mr. Arnold retired. His children
were Richard Arnold and Henrietta, wife of James M. Constable. Mr. Arnold's success
was attributable to industrious habits, sterling honesty, business sagacity and stead-
fast adherence to his friends, whether rich or poor. — His son, RICHARD ARNOLD, born
in New York in 1825, died here, April 7, 1886. When of age he entered the store of
his father. He learned the trade thoroughly in all its details, and in 1853 was ad-
mitted to partnership. A man of strong common sense, capable, and foreseeing, he
proved .a competent merchant, gave the closest attention to details and directed the
affairs of the house with notable skill and success He promoted the investment of a
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. AR. 3!
part of the earnings of the house in real estate on what was then upper Broadway,
and the great appreciation in value of this property has proved the sagacity of this
venture. He was twice married, first to Pauline, daughter of Noel J. Bicar, and after
her death to Georgiana E., daughter of M. S. Bolmer. He left four children, three of
them now deceased.
HICKS ARNOLD, merchant, nephew of Richard.Arnold, was born in England, and
first engaged in business in his uncle's store as a salesman. A diligent man, he was in
time admitted to the firm of Arnold, Constable & Co. , and has since been an active and
capable member of the firm. His wife is Harriette, daughter of Jame3 M. Constable.
Mr. Arnold is a director in The Bank of the Metropolis.
WILLIAM H. ASPINWALL, merchant, born in New York, Dec. 16, 1807, died
here Jan. 18, 1875. He came from an honorable line of shipping men, his grandfather,
Captain John Aspinwall, having been a captain of vessels hailing from his port long
before the American Revolution, and his father, John, being a member of the famous
shipping and mercantile firm of Gilbert & John Aspinwall. This latter house dealt
largely in cotton, received goods on consignment from all parts of the world, and were
large exporters of American products. William attended a local boarding school, and
was trained as clerk for his uncles, Gardner G. and Samuel S. Howland. In 1832, he
became a partner, the name being changed in 1837 to Howland & Aspinwall. The
house transacted an immense business with the East and West Indies, the Mediter-
ranean, China and England, owning seventeen or eighteen ships, including several
Liverpool packets, and rose to be the largest shipping firm in the city. In 1850 Mr.
Aspinwall relinquished the active management to his brother, J. Lloyd Aspinwall, the
business thereafter taking the nature of banking, and devoted his attention to the
building of The Panama Railroad and creation of The Pacific Mail Steamship Co. In
the railroad enterprise he was aided by Henry Chauncey and John L. Stephens, and its
pecuniary success was a proof of Mr. Aspinwall's sagacity. The profits of the road
were $5,971,000 during the first seven years. The Pacific Mail Steamship Co. proved,
especially in its earlier years, very successful. Mr. Aspinwall retired from the presidency
in 1856, and devoted his remaining years to well-earned rest. He left five children, Lloyd
and the Rev. John Abel Aspinwall ; Anna Lloyd, wife of James Renwick, the archi-
tect ; Catharine, wife of Ambrose C. Kingsland, and Louisa, wife of John W. Minturn.
Mr. Aspinwall was widely known for his generosity. A liberal patron of the fine arts,
he collected a gallery of valuable paintings, including Stuart's head of Washington. In
his will, he specifically stated that he left no bequests to public objects, because he had
given according to his judgment during life. He enjoined his children to charity. — His
son, GEN. LLOYD ASPINWALL, born in New York in 1830, died in Bristol, R. I.,
Sept. 4, 1886. Early in life, he entered the firm of Howland & Aspinwall, of which
his father was a member. In time, he succeeded his father and stood at the head of
the firm at his death. He inherited large means, and added to them by his own effort.
He was married to Henrietta Prescott, daughter of William De Wolfe of Rhode Island,
who, with two sons, J. Lloyd and William H. Aspinwall, survived him. His military
title was derived from service in the National Guard of New York, which began in
1854. In 1857, he declined an election as Major of the 74th Regiment. In 1861, he
formed the Minor Grays, afterwards the 22d, with which he went to the front in the
fall of 1 86 1, as Lieutenant Colonel. Later, he was made Colonel and led the regiment
32 AMERICA S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
during its three months service in the Gettysburg campaign, serving with credit in
other capacities also during the war. In 1865-69, he served as Brigadier-General in
the National Guard. Three times president of the Army & Navy club and a promi-
nent member of The Military Order of the Loyal Legion and other veteran organiza-
tions, he was also a member of the Union League Club, and at one time declined a
nomination for Mayor of New York city.
JOHN JACOB ASTOR, the greatest merchant of his time, and founder of one of the
most conspicuous families in America, was born in Waldorf, near Heidelberg, Germany,
July 17, 1763, and died in New York city, March 29, 1848. He was the son of Johann
Jacob Astor, a respectable village merchant. Nature cast this young man in princely
mould and endowed him with a soul in keeping with his outward aspect. He possessed
a clear and courageous mind, an honest heart, and a spirit of unusual energy. In early
youth, he encountered much hardship, but plain living and toilsome work in his
father's store were interspersed with lessons at school and the reading of good books,
and the modest circumstances of the family proved an impetus and inspiration, not an
injury. His native village having become too small for the spirited and ambitious boy,
he resolved to follow his older brother, Henry Astor, to London. He walked to the
river Rhine, and voyaged down the river on a lumber raft, much as our American
country lads often make their first visit to New York by freight boat on the Erie canal.
In London he was employed by his uncle, who was the senior partner in Astor &
Broadwood, makers of musical instruments. Three years sufficed to teach the youth
the English language and a trade. In 1783, before the British troops had fully evacu-
ated New York, Mr. Astor sailed for the new world, with the purpose of becoming a
merchant there, bringing with him seven flutes and some other articles for sale upon a
commission. Landing in Baltimore, Mr. Astor made his way to New York, where his
brother Henry had already established himself as a merchant of cattle and meats, and
there entered the service of a Quaker merchant, from whom he learned the details of
the fur trade. He saved his earnings carefully, gained a little more by his own trading,
and then opened a modest store on Water street as John Jacob Astor, fur merchant.
In a little store on Queen street, he also became the pioneer merchant of musical
instruments in the United States.
Mr. Astor's occupation was the purchase of furs from the Indian tribes and the ship-
ment of them to Europe. While he employed many trappers and traders upon the out-
skirts of civilization at all times, he was nevertheless compelled to make many trips in
person into the dense solitudes of the primeval forests of the North and the region of the
Great Lakes. His life at this period was full of romantic adventure. To his honor, be
. it said, that his personal aspect, his integrity and justice, and his tact, won the confidence
and friendship of the wild tribes of the forests, and they always became his staunch
and loyal friends. His unceasing energy resulted in a rapid development of his fur
trade, and before the beginning of the present century, he was already worth $250,000.
In the North, he was opposed by The Hudson Bay Co., which aimed at an entire
monopoly upon that side of the American boundary. Nevertheless, Mr. Astor pushed
his enterprise into Canada by way of Lake Champlain and Buffalo and into the West
beyond Detroit. He even purchased furs upon the headwaters of the Mississippi and
Missouri rivers, which Pierre Chouteau, the founder of St. Louis, regarded as his own
especial field.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. AS. 33
The greatest venture of Mr. Astor was the founding of Astoria at the mouth of
the Columbia river in 1809. He planted there a fort and a settlement, in person, won
the friendship of the Indian tribes, and, during his four years oi control, carried on a
large trade. Mr. Astor aimed at securing the whole of the Oregon region peacefully
for the United States. In this he would have succeeded, in spite of the determined
hostility of The Hudson Bay Co., had not the War of 1812 frustrated the plan. His
agent betrayed his interests, dismissed \fr. Astor's Indian allies, and upon the first
approach of a British ship of war, struck his flag and surrendered the post.
The American Fur Co., which Mr. Astor organized, carried on a continental trade,
and its sales in New York city were attended by buyers from every part of the world.
At an early period, it became necessary for Mr. Astor to employ ships of his own in
exporting furs to Europe. The return of these vessels laden with merchandise led him
into an extensive foreign trade. He gradually acquired a large fleet, and his ships
ploughed every ocean of the globe and carried cargoes both to and from England, Ger-
many, France, Russia, China and America, the cargoes usually being purchased and
sold on Mr. Astor's account. His ships were dispatched to various parts of the world
with unerring judgment, and a single voyage sometimes brought him a profit of
§100,000 or more. For a long period, Mr. Astor invested two-thirds of each year's
earnings in real estate. He acquired large tracts of land in Missouri, Wisconsin, Iowa
and other parts of the West, and purchased many hundred acres upon the Island of
Manhattan. He believed that the enterprise of his fellow merchants and himself would
yet make New York the centre of a world wide trade and cover the rocks and swamps
of this island with the edifices of a stately city. Sagacious in investment, he bought
property in the city and its suburbs continually as opportunity offered. It was
characteristic of him that he seldom sold a piece of property and never placed a mort-
gage on any of his possessions. He constructed many prominent buildings, including
the Astor House. The growth of New York from a population of 80,000 in 1810
to half a million at the time of his death enormously increased the value of his
property and brought to him the greater part of his fortune of $20,000,000.
A daring enterprise in which he was associated in the early part of this century-
was an attempt to purchase Louisiana from Napoleon. Mr. Astor expected to gain
$30,000,000 had this purchase been consummated, but he was anticipated by Napoleon
himself, who offered the territory to President Jefferson in order that it might be saved
from capture by England.
Mr. Astor was a man of commanding personality and won his way to fortune by
intrepid, untiring and honorable effort and his early comprehension of the future of
New York city. He was remarkable for his integrity, and won the good will of his
fellow merchants by many helpful and magnanimous acts.
For a time after his marriage to Sarah Todd, whom he was accustomed to describe
as the best business partner he ever had, he made his home modestly at the store; but
when prosperity came to him, he moved to the lower part of Broadway. His home:
there was adorned with works of art and attended by a throng of servants, who were-
natives of China and other lands with which he traded. Intellectual and eminent in his.
attainments, he enjoyed the company only of men of merit. Albert Gallatin, Wash-
ington Irving and other persons of distinction were his intimate friends. He retired,
from business in 1822. Thereafter he spent many pleasant seasons in Europe.
34 AMERICA S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
In America, Mr. Astor maintained not only a residence in the city but a summer
place in Westchester county. He was fond of the simple and invigorating life of this
farm. Public objects enlisted his cordial interest. The village of Waldorf received
from him a $50,000 asylum for poor children, and his private charities were noble and
extended. In his will, a legacy of $400,000 provided for the founding of The Astor
Library. His children were John Jacob Astor, zd, William B. Astor and the wife of
Vincent Rumpff. John Jacob Astor, ad, received injuries in the head, while riding,
which unsettled his mind. He wrote some creditable verses after that, however,
lived for many years on what was then a farm, on i4th street near Ninth avenue,
the tract extending through to what is now isth street, and died when about
seventy.
WILLIAM BACKHOUSE ASTOR, son of John Jacob Astor, ist, began and ended
his life in New York city. He was born Sept. 19, 1792, and died Nov. 24, 1875. He
inherited the self-reliance and eminent character, rugged health and business capacity
of his father in a marked degree. His education at the public schools in New York,
was finished at Heidelberg and the University of Goettingen. He selected Chevalier
Bunsen as his tutor, and with him traveled in various parts of Europe. Napoleon was
then in the ascendancy upon the continent and Mr. Astor had the good fortune to
witness some of the stirring and memorable events at that time. He saw Napoleon's
troops assembling for the invasion of Russia, and later, the rising in Germany, when
the French Emperor had been driven back from Moscow. After his return to America,
Mr. Astor was married in 1818 to Margaret Rebecca, a daughter of Gen. John Arm-
strong, a man of distinction, and successively United States Senator, Secretary of War
and Minister to France.
In 1820, Mr. Astor was admitted to partnership by his father, and became an
efficient factor in a trade which extended to every part of the globe. The great fur
sales were conducted by him for a number of years. He was president of The Ameri-
can Fur Co., and during the latter part of his father's life held his father's general
power of attorney. After 1825, he gradually discontinued the commercial ventures of
the house, and that field was finally abandoned to other merchants. From his uncle,
Henry Astor, a merchant on the Bowery, he inherited the sum of half a million. From
his father he received the Astor House property. And by his excellent management
of the fur business he gained an independent fortune of his own.
Upon his father's death, Mr. Astor became the sole heir of an immense estate.
Thereafter, he devoted himself to the preservation and growth of his property. He was
a progressive man and one of the most active builders of his generation. It was said in
1867 that he had inherited and built 720 dwellings and stores in this city. He had also
promoted important railroad and insurance enterprises. He was liberal toward his
tenants and generous in charity ; and his hatred of wrong doing, his purity of character
and modest demeanor won the entire respect and good will of the community. His wife
passed away Feb. 15, 1872, and thereafter his private affairs and the enjoyment of his
library occupied his entire attention. He loved simple ways of living. Enthusiastic in
athletic exercises, he was a good horseman and in early life a fencer, and until the age
of seventy-five seldom allowed a day to pass without a brisk walk, regardless of the
weather. His children were John Jacob Astor, 3d; William and Henry Astor; Emily,
who married Samuel Ward and died early in life, leaving a daughter Margaret, who
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. AS. 35
married John Winthrop Chanler ; Alida, wife of John Carey of England ; and Laura,
wife of Franklin Delano, the merchant.
He added §250,000 to the endowment of The Astor Library, and made a total of
$550,000 in gifts to that institution. His estate was divided mainly and equally
between his sons John Jacob and William Astor.
JOHN JACOB ASTOR, third of the name, son of William B. Astor, was born in
New York city, June 10, 1823, and died here Feb. 22, 1890. He received a good edu-
cation and at an early age went into the real estate business with his father, assisting
in the management of the vast property which was later to come in part under his con-
trol. In 1846 he married Charlotte Augusta, daughter of Thomas Gibbes, of South
Carolina, a woman of noble character, devoted to good works. She died Dec. 12,
1887. From this marriage, one son was born, William Waldorf Astor. At the out-
break of the Civil War, Mr. Astor enlisted as a volunteer, and served with credit on
the staff of General McClellan. After the war, he remained in business with his father.
After his father's death, in 1875, Mr. Astor increased his inheritance by continu-
ing the purchase and improvement of real estate. He rarely sold. As a result of this
policy, he was at his death the largest owner of real estate in New York city, aside
from the Trinity Church corporation. He was a director and trustee in many institu-
tions, and a vestryman in Trinity Church, in the affairs of which he took a deep interest.
He was one of the principal owners of The United States Trust Co., and The Farmers'
Loan & Trust Co. , and a stockholder in nearly all the older banks of New York city.
In Mr. Astor's life, there were no incidents of public interest at all commensurate
with his fortune. He was a modest, unobtrusive, well balanced man, exact in business
matters, and generous in his charities. A master of both the French and German lan-
guages and fond of literature, he devoted his leisure to reading and study.
His estate was estimated variously between §75,000,000 and §100,000,000, the bulk
of it going to his son, William Waldorf Astor, now the head of the family. He gave
legacies of §400,000 to The Astor Library, §100,000 each to St. Luke's and the Cancer
hospitals, and other sums to kindred public objects.
WILLIAJ1 WALDORF ASTOR was born in New York, March 31, 1848, married
Miss Mary Dahlgren Paul of Philadelphia, June 6, 1878, and succeeded to his father as
head of the family in February, 1890. His life has been largely controlled by the
influence of two women of noble character. To his mother, in early manhood, he
owed his ideal; from his wife, in his maturity, he received an unfailing example of
courage, chant}' and good sense.
Upon the completion of his education, which was directed by private tutors and
finished in Europe, young Astor was taken into the office of The Astor Estate at the
age of twenty-three, his father having entered it at twenty-five, and his grandfather
at twenty-eight. Here, he was instructed in every branch of business routine, which
had gradually been developed into an elaborate and comprehensive system. He was
sent about the city with a pocket map-book until he knew all the family property.
He collected dividends, learned the art and mystery of coupon cutting, and listened
to the perennial complaints of tenants. Above all, he had before him the example of
his father and grandfather in the clearness, industry and justice, with which their
daily task was accomplished. Those were days of incessant labor and of much
vexatious routine, which might well have been remitted to a manager.
36 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
In the midst of the fudge which the newspapers print about this family, four mis-
takes deserve a passing correction First, it is supposed that the Astors delight in the
foreclosure of mortgages. The truth is, that a foreclosure being a disagreeable and un-
profitable process, is resorted to only in rare instances. Secondly, it is not true that
they are their own insurers against fire. Thirdly, the assumption that much of the
fortune was derived from the Astoria enterprise is incorrect, that brilliant and roman-
tic venture having resulted in heavy loss. And lastly, the alleged rule never to sell real
estate does not exist. Only narrow-minded and impractical men would imagine so silly
a rule. The first John Jacob Astor was continually selling houses and lands whenever
they could be disposed of at large profit. His son and grandson did the same as they
found it expedient. The subject of this sketch sold a million dollars' worth of unprom-
ising tenement-house property in 1890; and it is not rash to say, that he is alwavs ready
to part with any of his New York real estate for double its value.
The old office building, 85 Prince street, with all the accumulated ledgers, family
settlements, trust papers, letter books, records of the Astoria enterprise, and docu-
ments showing the management of the estate for over fifty years, passed in 1876, at
the division of the property under the will of William B. Astor, into the possession of
his eldest son, John Jacob, who bequeathed his entire estate, real and personal, abso-
lutely and in fee simple, to his son, William Waldorf, without any limitations or trusts.
He had previously received in 1878 a general power of attorney, by which his father
placed him wholly in control over all his interests, giving him authority to do any act
in connection therewith which he himself could legally perform. Mr. Astor's first act,
upon succeeding his father, was to name his place of business at 21 West 26th street,
"The Office of The Astor Estate." His next important decision was to erect at the
corner of Fifth avenue and 33d street the hotel, which bears the name of the German
home of the family at Waldorf. So successful has this venture proved, that it is about
to be imitated upon the adjoining corner.
Mr. Astor has received a more liberal share of newspaper abuse than falls to the
lot of most men. He has been derided and reviled, reported dead and insane, and
charged with mean and sordid motives. To all this he has made no reply, thinking it
beneath him to enter upon the contradiction of willful misrepresentations, and perhaps
knowing that many of his critics are destitute people, who have no other means of live-
lihood It can hardly be necessary to remind New York that the Astors have been
public-spirited citizens, given to service for the public good in hospitals, in the library
which bears their name, benevolent institutions, and works of charity. It cannot yet
be forgotten that in war times, John Jacob Astor, father of the subject of this sketch,
went to the front and served in the field with the Army of the Potomac. Nor can it
lightly be lost sight of that the name of Astor has been a synonym for honesty and high
character and pure life in the history of New York.
In September, 1880, Mr. Astor conceived the project of a London office, The ter-
mination of his embryo career in politics in 1881, after an entirely creditable record of
three years in the New York Legislature and his more than creditable career of three
years as Minister to Italy under President Arthur, turned his thoughts to a residence in
England, where he saw the possibility of a broader life than is included within the limits
of Wall street, Fifth avenue and Newport. In 1888 and 1889 he represented to his
father the advantages of a residence and office abroad, to which the latter agreed that
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. AS. 37
it would probably be conducive to comfort and happiness, and might be expected to
add to the security of the estate, though invariably declining to have anything to do
personally with his son's "English plan," as it came to be called between them. "I
am too old," he said, " for any change; some da}' you will take my place, and then you
can do as 3Tou please. But," he added on the last occasion when the project was dis-
cussed, "be quite sure, before beginning, that you have the nerve to carry it through."
This admonition was deeply laid to heart, and it may be said that Mr. Astor has
found the "nerve to carry it through," and to make for himself and his children the
opportunity for useful and happy and profitable lives. He cherishes, wherever he may
be, the remembrance of his childhood's home, of many kind and loving friends in
America, and of the enterprising genius of the great city of New York, where so many
years of his life were spent.
WILLIAM ASTOR, second son of the late William B. Astor, born in New York city,
July 12, 1829, died in Paris, France, April 25, 1892. An able and vigorous man from
his youth, he graduated second in his class from Columbia College in 1 849. Frank and
generous in his nature, self-respecting, loyal to his friends, enthusiastic in athletic
sports, he was exceedingly well-liked by all his classmates. He undertook a long journey
through Egypt and the East, after his college days were over, and this tour made im-
pressions upon his receptive mind which were never effaced and inspired in him a life-
long interest in Oriental art and literature.
Sept. 23, 1853, he was married to Caroline, daughter of Abraham Schermerhorn, a
descendant of an old and distinguished family, which was founded in America in 1642
and has always been conspicuous in affairs.
Immediately after his marriage, Mr. Astor entered the real estate office of his father
on Prince street, and undertook a share of the management of the vast properties be-
longing to the family, and, after half of it had come to him by inheritance, he increased
it largely by continual purchases and re-investment of receipts. Competent, judicious,
and successful, he possessed the faculty of so regulating his business interests as to leave
a portion of his time free for recreation. He was fond of farming and open air employ-
ments, and especially enjoyed the company of the sea. Many trips along the coast were
taken in his own steam yacht.
In 1875, a visit to Florida awoke his interest in the vast undeveloped resources of
that State ; and it is believed that his enterprise, during the next ten years, accomplished
more for Florida, than that of any of his cotemporaries. He built a railroad from St.
Augustine to Palatka, constructed several modern blocks of buildings in Jacksonville,
and led other men of means to join in the work of re-creating a new Florida in place of
the old one. His sendees were so valuable that the State Government voted him a
grant of 80,000 acres of land.
Both Mr. Astor and his wife were prominent in the social entertainments of the
metropolis. Their eminent purity of character, discriminating taste, refinement and
generous hospitalities made them the unchallenged leaders of the social life of the
city. The approval of Mr. and Mrs. Astor ensured the success of every movement
which depended in any manner upon the favor of the great and powerful. The}- were
both singularly generous in their charities and equally scrupulous in avoiding public
notice of them. Their children were Emily, who died in 1881, wife of James J. Van
Alen of Newport; Helen, wife of James Roosevelt Roosevelt; Charlotte Augusta,
WILLIAM ASTOR.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. AS.
39
wife of James Coleman Drayton ; Caroline Schermerhorn, wife of Marshall Orme Wil-
son; and John Jacob Astor.
A reference has been made to Mr. Astor's love of the ocean. The schooner yacht
Ambassadress, built for him in 1877, gave him much pleasure during the following
seven years. She was the largest sailing yacht ever constructed. In 1884, he caused
to be designed and built the Nourmahal, a steamer heavily sparred and capable of a
rapid run under sail alone. Mr. Astor projected a trip around the world in this sea-
worthy vessel, but did not live to carry out the plan. The Ambassadress was sold to a
Boston gentleman for private use, and several years later to a fruit concern in the West
Indies. She is probably the swiftest ship afloat in the fruit trade. Mr. Astor was also
the owner of the sailing yacht Atalanta, which won two out of three races in which she
entered and carried off the Cape May and the Kane cups.
Mr. Astor was also fond of fine horses and owned many thoroughbreds. Vagrant,
purchased in Kentucky in 1877, more than paid for himself before his owner saw him.
Another horse named Ferncliff, raised by him, was sold as a yearling for §4,800. A
stallion bought in England in 1890 for $15,000 sold within a year for §30,000.
JOHN JACOB ASTOR, fourth of the name, son of William Astor, was born
July 13, 1864, at Ferncliff, near Rhinebeck, his father's country house on the Hudson.
He is the most American of all the Astors, both by descent, marriage and patriotic sen-
timent. Through the maternal line, he is in the fifth generation of descent from
Robert Livingston, who received by royal patent the famous Manor of Livingston on
the Hudson River, comprising a large part of the land in Dutchess and Columbia
counties. His education, begun in St. Paul's School, Concord, N. H., and prosecuted
at Harvard University, from which he graduated in the scientific class of 1888,
has been continued by diligent reading and extended foreign travel. Before entering
Harvard, he made a trip to the Pacific coast by the northern route, enjoying the novelty
of travel by stage through the mountains and many expeditions on horseback and on
foot in pursuit of big game. Since then he has visited nearly even- country in Europe,
the West Indies, 'and many parts of South America. In Turkey the Sultan, Abdul
Hamed, paid him the honor of a personal audience, having first fully satisfied himself
that the young American was not an agent of Russia or England, or otherwise bent
upon overturning the Turkish throne and convulsing the whole of Europe with the
chaos of a general war. His originality has been repeatedly shown by avoidance of
ordinary routes of travel.
Upon his return from foreign travel, Mr. Astor identified himself with the manage-
ment of the family estates. He gained a thorough knowledge of the business and has
since devoted himself to practical affairs with abilit)r and success.
In 1891, he was married in Philadelphia to Ava, daughter of Edward Shippen and
Alice C. Barton Willing of that city, and thus became connected with a family of dis-
tinction, which, besides being notable for its loft}' character, has given birth to many
men of high social and official position. Thomas Willing, great-great-grandfather of
Mrs. Astor, was Mayor of Philadelphia, Judge of the Supreme Court, and first presi-
dent both of The Bank of North America and The Bank of the United States. He
aided in drawing up that immortal document, the Constitution of the United States,
and it was he who designed the United States coat-of-arms. Another ancestor of Mrs.
Astor was Coloney W. Barton, a Member of Parliament in 1653 By this marriage.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. AS. 4!
Mr. Astor gained the life companionship of a charming and congenial woman. His
wife is fitted by native refinement, a bright mind, and thorough education for the exalted
social position she occupies; and she enters graciously and with enjoyment into the
open air recreations for which the Astors have always been noted. She is a good marks-
man and with fire-arms made especially for her, has secured wild duck and other game
many times during the hunting expeditions of herself and husband. In fact, upon
their wedding trip, Mrs. Astor demonstrated the fact that she was a better shot, even
than her husband, with revolver and rifle. A piece of slate, completely concealed by a
half dollar coin, according to a spectator, was by her shot at and hit four times out of
five, at a distance of fifteen paces. Mrs. Astor now owns quite an arsenal. She is as
fond, not only of shooting but of open air amusements, as her husband, and frequently
plays tennis and golf, and joins Mr. Astor in sailing. Her influence in the promotion
of invigorating exercises is certain to prove far-reaching.
Mr. Astor is a good citizen, a progressive and capable business man, and a gentle-
man who has shown himself willing to endure discomfort in the public service. He
has served as juryman in the local courts with admirable patience and public spirit.
The influence of his name has been sought by financial institutions and he is a
director in The National Park Bank, The Title Guarantee & Trust Co. , The Mercantile
Trust Co. , The Illinois Central Railway, The Second National Bank, and The Plaza
Bank. He belongs to the Knickerbocker, Union, Metropolitan, Tuxedo, City, Riding,
Racquet, Country, New York Yacht, Down Town, and Delta Phi clubs, and is one of
the governors of the Newport Golf Club and the Newport Casino. It may also be said
that he is one of the patrons of the annual Patriarch's Ball, the greatest social event of
each winter season in the metropolis. Already the possessor of many buildings in this
city, Mr. Astor's civic pride, energy and business sagacity combined promise to place
upon the Island of Manhattan several splendid buildings during the long business career
which is before him. Various plans are now in. contemplation.
It is one of the developments of modern times that a talent for practical affairs
and literary ability are sometimes found united in the same man. This is the case
with Mr. Astor. He is fond of the study of science and philosophy, and he has written
a book, entitled, "A Journey in Other Worlds; A Romance of the Future," which,
superbly illustrated by Dan Beard under Mr. Astor's direction, and handsomely printed,
appeared in 1894 and attracted widespread interest and attention. In this entertain-
ing work, Mr. Astor assumes that the conquest of nature has been achieved and
that nearly all the forces which mankind is striving, so far in vain, to harness,
have been brought under control, while new ones have been discovered, among
them the principle of apergy, which tends to throw objects apart, as gravitation
draws them together. He indulges in this romance in clever and daring philo-
sophic speculation, revels in the luxuriant and wonderful life of Jupiter, makes
the flowers sing, creates extraordinary reptiles, discovers a water spider 600 feet
long, travels 300 miles an hour by railroad train, and, most marvelous of all, reveals
New York as possessing clean streets, rapid transit and a good city government. His
heroes visit Jupiter and Saturn and encounter strange and inspiring adventures, which
are described with so much force and felicity of language, as to create the hope that
Mr. Astor's pen may yet be employed upon other volumes. His first excursion into
the realm of literature, judged solely by its own merits, not by the merits of the man.
42 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
which are great, has received the approval of the most judicious critics. The work
will soon be published in Paris in the French language. It has already been printed
in London, and the sale of the London edition already exceeds the sale in New
York, although the book has reached its fifth edition here.
Mr. Astor has been commissioned a Colonel on the staff of Levi P. Morton,
Governor of the State of New York.
HUGH AUCHINCLOSS, merchant, born in New York, in 1817, died in New
Canaan, Conn., June 18, 1890. He was the son of Hugh Auchincloss of Paisley, Scot-
land, who in 1805 began in New York the importation and sale of dry goods and cotton
thread. At an early age the younger Hugh and his brother John were taken into the
firm, which until 1855 displayed the sign of Hugh Auchincloss, but then became known
as John & Hugh Auchincloss, later as Auchincloss Bro's. The firm rose to prominence
as the American agents for Coates's spool thread, of which they imported and sold
enormous quanties. They were also manufacturers of thread in this country, and long
held a high position in the mercantile world. Mr. Auchincloss left an only daughter,
Mary Baldwin, wife of Lewis P. Childs of New Canaan, Conn. He was a director of
various financial institutions, including The Merchants' National Bank and The Bleecker
Street Savings Bank. For many years, he was a member of Grace Protestant Episcopal
church and a man of the highest probity of character.
JOHN AUCHINCLOSS, merchant, born in 1811, died in Quebec, Canada, June 26,
1876. He was a son of Hugh Auchinchloss, of .Paisley, Scotland. Receiving a training
in his father's store, he became a partner, and, after the death of his father, in 1855,
joined his brother Hugh in continuing the business of the house, which was developed
to large proportions. At the time of his death, Mr. Auchincloss was the oldest dry
goods merchant in New York city in continuous management. He was a director of The
Merchants' Bank, a trustee of The Equitable Life Assurance Society, and identified with
various other institutions. Six sons and two daughters survived him. For many years
he had been a member of the Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church and was highly
respected in business and social circles.
ROBERT FRANKLIN AUSTIN, merchant, born in Brownville, N. Y., Sept. 21,
1827, died in Brooklyn, N. Y., March 31, 1885. His parents were of New England
descent. At the age of sixteen, the young man entered the general country store
of Daniel J. Schuyler at Three Mile Bay, afterwards rising to partnership. Mr.
Austin made himself so popular among his neighbors that, while yet a young man, they
sent him, in 1855, to the State Assembly for one term. About 1860, he removed to
New York, and found employment as a clerk with Earle & Co., grocers. In 1861, he
became a partner in Fitts, Austin & Turner in the same trade. Mr. Turner withdrew
in 1864. The store, originally in Warren street, was moved, in time, to larger quar-
ters in Murray street, and finally to Reade street. In 1878, the firm reorganized as
Austin, Nichols & Co. Mr. Austin soon took leading rank among the business men of
the city, the new firm being highly successful under his management. In 1880, they
removed to. a new store on Hudson at the corner of Jay street. Mr. Austin was a keen,
prompt, upright man, just, humane and democratic. In 1875, he was given a seat in
the Chamber of Commerce, and often took part in discussions there, being an excellent
speaker. In Augtist, 1850, Mr. Austin was married to Miss Anna Schuyler, daughter
of his first employer. To them was born one son, D. William Austin, who died Oct. 2,
XBHt
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. AY. 43
1894. Among the institutions with which he was identified were The Importers &
Grocers' Exchange, The Mercantile Exchange, The Board of Trade & Transportation,
and The Hanson Place Baptist Church, in Brooklyn.
FREDERICK FANNING AVER, a lawyer of high standing in New York city, a
son of the late Dr. James C. Ayer, of Lowell, Mass., was born in Lowell, Sept. 12, 1851.
This family have been identified with the history of the country for the last 200 years.
Mr. Ayer's paternal ancestors served in the American Revolution and in the War of
1812. Through his mother, he descends from Lawrence and Cassandra Southwick,
members of the Society of Friends, who were persecuted for conscience sake in colo-
nial days in Boston. Their heroic endurance has been commemorated by Whittier in a
poem. His mother's mother and the founder of the house of H. B. Clanin & Co , of
New York, were children of Major John Clanin of Milford, Mass.
Frederick F. Ayer was educated, first, in the public schools in Lowell, and in 1863,
he was sent to St. Paul's School in Concord, N. H., where he enjoyed a four
years' course.
He then left school for a while to learn a trade. Dr. Ayer, his father, was, at that
time, a large owner of stock in various mamifacturing companies. Some of these
concerns had met with serious losses, owing to the incompetence of their managers,
and the young man inherited from his father a conviction of the imperative necessity
of acquiring a practical knowledge of the details of any form of business in which he
might be engaged. It was certain that, in time, large manufacturing interests would
be entrusted to him ; and he resolved to gain a thorough acquaintance with the details
of the work in the mills. He entered Suffolk Mills, therefore, as an operative, begin-
ning at the beginning of the processes of manufacture, and working in every room of
the mill from wheel pit to belfry, until he had acquired a sound personal knowledge of
every process through which cotton passes on its way from the bale to the finished
cloth. Then, leaving the factory, he fitted himself for college.
In July, 1869, The Franklin Literary Association was organized by him and other
young men of Lowell. This was at first a large debating club. In that practical school,
Mr. Ayer acquired the habit of thinking while on his feet, which served him in good
stead in later years. Graduating from Harvard in 1873 with honor, he then spent some
time travelling in Europe with his father. In 1874 he entered the Law School at Cam-
bridge, being in due time admitted to the bar. In 1875 he began practice in partner-
ship with Lemuel H. Babcock. The first service of the young lawyer in court came
about in a sudden and unexpected manner. Dr. Ayer was then the controlling spirit
in the company formed to supply the city of Rochester, N. Y., with water from Hem-
lock Lake. Litigation had arisen between the company and the city. The case was
one in which the family were deeply interested, and while yet in the Law School, Mr.
Ayer had studied from curiosity the questions involved. When the case came up in the
Supreme Court at Rochester for argument, Mr. Ayer was present to listen. To his
great surprise, Judge Henry R. Selden, counsel for Dr. Ayer, introduced the young
man to the court as his associate from Massachussetts and declared that Mr. Ayer would
open the case. Mr. Ayer was taken unawares, but rose, without preparation, faced
the court with quickly beating heart and shaking knees, and spoke for half an hour.
He acquitted himself with such credit that his father presented to him a check for
$10,000, his first professional fee. This experience with the ways of senior counsel
44 AMERICA S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
made him shy of court rooms thereafter. In 1876, the failure of Dr. Ayer's health
compelled Frederick to abandon the practice of the law and assume the responsible
duty of managing Dr. Ayer's vast investments. He has since been fully occupied with
the care of large interests.
Mr. Ayer possesses the faculty of public speaking and has appeared before large
audiences many times. He was never more felicitous in his remarks, perhaps, than
upon Oct. 26, 1876, when, in behalf of his father, he made the address of presentation
of the new Town Hall of Ayer to the authorities of the town and delivered to them the
keys of the edifice. His father's life was drawing to a close and the occasion was an
affecting one. Mr. Ayer spoke with fine control and much feeling.
In 1885, he made an address in Michigan which was followed by important conse-
quences. Like his father, he had become greatly interested in corporation reform.
Among the first to see the justice and expediency of minority representation and cumu-
lative voting in the directory of industrial corporations, he urged this idea upon the
attention of public men; and when, in 1885, a bill to secure this result was introduced
in the Legislature of Michigan, Mr. Ayer made an argument in its behalf which was
so unanswerable that it led to the passage of the law. Similar laws have since then
been enacted by other States.
He has always taken a lively interest in public affairs and studied diligently the
various branches of economic science. He has always opposed by voice and pen every
successive scheme for debasing the currency, and has always favored a reasonable but
moderate tariff.
Upon his father's death in 1878, Mr. Ayer became the manager of the great proper-
ties which his father had created, and for many years was obliged to resort to law and
lawyers, as a client, to extricate the estate from dangers with which it was threatened.
He has displayed business ability of a high order, and his previous legal training has
aided to make him a successful financier.
Mr. Ayer is a man of generous impulses. Among many philanthropic acts, it is
told of him that in 1890 he gave $5,000 for books for a public library in the Town House
of Ayer, and later built for the town the Ayer Memorial Library building, at a cost of
about $40,000. There had previously been some attempts to maintain a public library
in the village. In one case, the library had been so very free, that all of its books had
disappeared within the fifteen years of its existence. Other attempts were made under
better management, and in 1890 a library of about 2,800 books had been accumulated.
Mr. Ayer's gift enabled the trustees to equip the shelves with a large number of the
most valuable standard books, and his later generosity gave the town an excellent
library building. He has also joined with his mother, Mrs. Josephine M. Ayer, in pre-
senting to the city of Lowell a beautiful home for children.
Mr. Ayer inherited a large interest in his father's property, and has many large
investments of his own. The fortune of Dr. Ayer has been more than doubled by the
jon by judicious investments. The latter is a director of The Lake Superior Ship
Canal Railway & Iron Co., The Portage Lake & River Improvement Co., The
Lowell and Andover Railroad, The J. C. Ayer Co., The Tribune Association in New
York, and the Tremont and Suffolk Mills.
In social life he is a man of cultivated taste, and, while not a club man, as that
term is generally understood, is nevertheless a member of many social organizations,
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. AY. 45
among them the Harvard, New York, Merchants', Riding, Down Town, New York
Yacht, Union League, and Metropolitan clubs.
MARSHALL AYRES, merchant, born in Truro, Cape Cod, Mass., in 1806, died in
New York, Jan. 15, 1888. Receiving a fair education and some training in business pur-
suits, he went, in 1835, with Josiah Lombard to Illinois, and passing through Chicago,
then a town of 5,000 inhabitants, settled at Griggsville, sixty miles west of Springfield.
They participated in the wonderful development of the great Northwest, and came
in time to control the agricultural, grocery, dry goods, provision and banking trade of
the county in which they had located. Both partners acquired fortunes. They built
the first steamboat which ran upon Illinois rivers, and became heavily interested in the
steamboat system of the Mississippi. In 1872, they sold their Western interests and
made their homes in New York. They were succeeded in business by their sons under
the firm name of Lombard, Ayres & Co., a prominent petroleum and lumber firm,
having interests in The Sea Board Lumber Co. and The Sea Board Manufacturing Co.
at Mobile, Ala. The two life long partners married each other's sister. Mr. Ayres
was survived by a son of the same name. The present Marshall Ayres is a director in
The Tide Water Oil Co., which is a consolidation of the oil interests of Lombard,
Ayres & Co., The Chester Oil Co., The Ocean Oil Co. and The Polar Oil Co., the latter
two of New York, and a member of the Harvard and Congregational clubs.
B.
B. T. BABBITT, manufacturer, born on a farm at Westmoreland, N. Y., in
1809, died in New York, Oct. 20, 1889. He received a scant education, his youth being
spent in the drudgery of the farm. He first learned the trade of blacksmith, removing
to Utica. Saving his earnings, he went to Little Falls later and began the manufac-
ture of farm machinery on a small scale with success, and, it is claimed, made the first
mowing machine which would mow ever made in the world. Having accumulated
about $10,000, he came to New York city in 1843 and began the manufacture of sale-
ratus, leaving his business at Little Falls in charge of a manager. The latter proved
recreant, and Mr. Babbitt lost every dollar he possessed. Undismayed, he soon dis-
covered a new process for making saleratus at a great saving of cost, and in a few
years acquired control of the trade of the whole country. He also manufactured soda
and potash. In 1858 he began the manufacture of soap, from which he amassed a for-
tune. In his factories were used many mechanical appliances of his own invention,
and among the curiosities of New York were his six kettles for boiling soap, their
aggregate capacity being 3,500,000 pounds, the value of the raw material required to
fill them before boiling being $216,000. He had branch houses in Philadelphia and
Cincinnati and a number in New York and elsewhere. His children were Ida J., wife
of C. M. Hyde, and Lillia E. Babbitt, now deceased. Mrs. Babbitt died Dec. 20, 1894.
GEORGE HERMAN BABCOCK, inventor, engineer, manufacturer and philanthro-
pist, distinguished in each of these fields of activity, a native of Unadilla Forks, a hamlet
near Otsego, N. Y., was born Jan. 17, 1832, and died at his home in Plainfield, N. J.,
Dec. 1 6, 1893. The family are of Rhode Island origin and were always thorough
Puritans, sound and reputable people and of the best blood of New England.
The father and mother of the subject of this sketch both came from families noted
for inventive genius, Asher M. Babcock, the former, being well known as a mechanic
and inventor of his times. The pin wheel motion in plaid looms, which sprang from
his ingenious brain, as well as a shoe peg machine and many other mechanical appli-
ances, were widely adopted by the manufacturers of his period and put into successful
operation in the industries. The mother of George H. Babcock, nee Mary E. Still-
man, was a daughter of Ethan Stillman, who attained distinction in the War of 1812 as
a constructor of ordnance for the Federal Government. Her uncle, William Stillman,
a lock maker and clock manufacturer, produced a pioneer unpickable bank lock, long
before the days of Chubb and Hobbs
George H. Babcock spent most of his boyhood in the villages of Scott and Homer,
both in Cortland county, N. Y. He was a good boy and the pride of his parents. The
family moved to Westerly, R. I., when he was twelve years old. George received a
fair education, mainly in the public schools, but studied for a year in the Institute at
De Ruyter, N. Y., and fhen, a bright, ambitious and earnest young man, seventeen
years of age, he acquired a little experience in the machine shop and factory. His
father was then a manufacturer of plaids.
In Westerly, the young man met Stephen Wilcox, a capable mechanic of the village,
and later famous as an inventor, destined to be his lifelong friend and longtime partner.
48 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
Mr. Babcock's health was impaired to such an extent that he suffered from scrofula
and was threatened with consumption. Unfitted for hard labor at a mechanical trade or
for serious responsibilities, but unwilling to remain idle, he found occupation in the then
aew art of daguerreotypy. Far from being injurious to him, the use of the chemicals
required for developing daguerreotype plates proved beneficial. Mr. Babcock always
believed that the fumes of the iodine, then freely used in his art, drove the scrofula from
his system. At any rate, he regained his health and the cure was permanent. He en-
joyed a remarkable amount of physical vigor during the remainder of his long and ardu-
ous career. Photography never lost its fascination with him, and he continued to practice
the art as an amateur the rest of his life, becoming successful and distinguished therein.
In 1851 he gave up his gallery, and for three years his active mind found congenial
employment in the publication of a newspaper. In the spring of the year named, he
started The Literary Echo and Pawcatuck Advertiser, the pioneer newspaper of Wes-
terly, organizing the first printing office in that locality. Although only nineteen
years of age. the young proprietor carried on his weekly newspaper with success for a
number of years as an adjunct to the general printing business, which is an inseparable
accompaniment of a country newspaper. The paper is yet in existence, under the
more practical title of The Westerly Weekly. Mr. Babcock sold his interest in 1854 to
resume the art of daguerreotypy.
Out of Mr. Babcock's experience as a printer grew his first invention. Until that
time, and, indeed, down to the present day, in all except a certain few large printing
offices, the production of a sheet of paper, upon which the impression is made in two
or more colors, involved as many separate printings as there were separate colors. Mr.
Babcock and his father studied the subject of a polychromatic press, by which a sheet
could be printed in three colors at once, and, in 1854, they perfected the first machine
of that kind ever known. Mechanically, the press performed what was required from
it, but it failed commercially, being many years in advance of the times. On the other
hand, an improved small foot power jobbing press, which the young man patented in
1857, became popular. It proved of direct value to small printers. The Babcock
presses were built by The Pawcatuck Manufacturing Co., of Westerly, now known as
the firm of C. B. Cottrell & Sons, and the progenitor of a dozen other firms, engaged
in manufacturing presses in different parts of the country, some of which are most
noted. The patents were subsequently held by Cottrell & Babcock. In 1855 this
press took a prize at the Crystal Palace Exhibition, in London, England. Its manu-
facture brought to its inventor the capital with which he subsequently engaged in the
production of other machines.
From work upon the perfection of their new presses, the Messrs. Babcock, father
and son, went back in 1858 to The Literary Echo, of which they resumed control in
company with J. Herbert Utter, changing the name to Tlie Narragansett Weekly. They
conducted the paper for about a year, and then the ruling passion again took possession
of them. In 1859 the Babcocks sold their interest to the Rev. George B. Utter, a
prominent clergyman and writer of the Seventh Day Baptist denomination, who lived
during the latter part of his life in Westerly, devoting himself mainly to the manage-
ment of The Narragansett Weekly.
In 1860 Mr. Babcock removed to Brooklyn, N. Y., and spent three years in the
office of Thomas D. Stetson, a prominent patent solicitor with a large practice. He
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. BA. 49
was so proficient in mechanical matters that the authorities of Cooper Union engaged
him to instruct a class in mechanical drawing, and his evenings were accordingly de-
voted to Cooper Union, greatly to the advantage of himself as well as of his pupils.
His reputation as a draughtsman and inventor led, in 1 860, to his employment by various
persons and firms, among them the officers of The Mystic Iron Works, whose shops in
Mystic, Conn., were then taking part in the construction of war vessels for the United
States Government. Soon afterward, The Hope Iron Works of Providence, R. I., se-
cured his services as chief draughtsman. For these two establishments, he designed
the machinery for a number of steam vessels belonging to the merchant marine and
the Federal Navy. Several of the latter performed good service in the blockading and
other fleets operating on the Southern coast. In this field of work, Mr. Babcock grad-
ually drew near the inventions which were destined to bring him fame and fortune.
During this period he improved the shrapnel shell, employed during the war in action
at close quarters.
Just before the Civil War, the depressed condition of American industry had led
Congress to enact the famous Morrill Protective Tariff Bill. Other laws followed, in
which, for the sake of revenue, the duties on foreign goods were largely increased.
An immense impulse was thereby given to manufacturing industry, and the subject of
boilers and engines became important both to inventors and the proprietors of shops
and factories. In 1867, Mr. Babcock and his friend Wilcox formed the firm of Babcock
& Wilcox, taking out a patent for a steam boiler, which will be referred to hereafter.
They also produced a steam engine, and in 1868 moved to New York city to push this
branch of their business to better advantage. Arrangements were made by them for
the building of their engines by The Hope Iron Works, of Providence; Morton, Poole&
Co., of Wilmington, Del. ; Poole & Hunt, of Baltimore, and The C. & G. Cooper Co.,
of Mount Vernon, Ohio. The machine possessed some singularly interesting and
ingenious elements of novelty and utility. The cut-off was effected by the action of
an isochronous governor, the steam valve being operated by a ' 'positive motion" and
the cut-off by a small independent steam piston, timed in its action by the governor
connection. Babcock & Wilcox incorporated The New York Safety Steam Power Co.
in 1868 to build their engines and boilers, and conducted the industry with satisfactory
results financially for several years, when, the expiration of the Corliss patents per-
mitting the builders of the whole country to flood the market with that form of engine
at ruinously low prices, the Babcock & Wilcox engine was withdrawn from sale. In
1878 the firm retired from The New York Safety Steam Power Co. and devoted them-
selves to their boilers alone.
Their most famous invention was the Babcock & Wilcox safety, or sectional, tubu-
lar steam boiler, based upon an earlier invention of Mr. Wilcox in 1856, and so con-
structed, as an earlier and equally famous inventor described it, that explosion would
not be dangerous. Mr. Babcock so designed the boiler, however, that anything like a
real explosion would not occur at all. The steam and water were confined in com-
paratively small vessels, a set of inclined tubes constituting the major part of the heating
surface, exposed to the action of the flame and the furnace gases. The larger volume of
steam and of water, requisite in all boilers for satisfactorily steady action, was enclosed
in steam and water drums above and removed from the localities of high temperature
These drums, also, were of comparatively small diameter, and therefore strong and safe.
jo AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
After 1867, when the first patent was taken out, scarcely a year passed by until
1883 without witnessing an improvement of some kind in the boiler. In 1869, a new
design, first manufactured by the firm at The South Brooklyn Steam Engine Works,
found its way to the market and met with instant success. In this design, wrought
iron legs took the place of cast iron headers ; the tubes were expanded with the inside
sheets ; and hand holes succeeded the large doors. The principal fault of this invention
was the large first cost. Year after year, the firm applied for new patents, their pro-
gressive improvements culminating in 1883, when, finally, the following principles were
triumphantly worked out: ist, Sinuous headings for each vertical row of inclined
tubes. 2d, A separate connection with the drum both front and rear. 3d, All joints
to be made without bolts or screw threads, thus avoiding leaks from unequal expansion.
4th, The absence of stays. 5th, The boiler to be supported independently of the
brick work. And 6th, Every part to be accessible for cleaning. Since 1883, the only
advance has been to make the whole boiler from wrought steel. The success of the
Babcock & Wilcox boilers has been, from the beginning, remarkable, in spite of ever
increasing competition and the yet more serious opposition growing out of the inertia
and conservatism of the public mind. The boilers have found their way to nearly every
part of the world. The large decrease in the number of frightful boiler explosions, so
numerous thirty years ago, is undoubtedly owing to the inventive genius of this firm
and the efforts of their competitors to produce boilers equally good. Substantially, all
explosions of this class occur with the older shell boilers, which the new inventions are
displacing; and the inventors of the "sectional" boiler have thus saved to the world
lives and property of inestimable value. Such inventions are doubly precious. For
many years' the Babcock & Wilcox boilers have been the most extensively built and
sold of all devices of this nature. Large works for their production have been built in
Elizabeth, N. ]., and in 1881, The Babcock & Wilcox Co. was incorporated, for the
the more convenient management of the industry, Mr. Babcock becoming its presi-
dent. In 1883, an English branch of the company was established, which met with
such an excellent reception that its proprietors transformed it in 1891 into an incorpor-
ated company. Works have been established in the city of Glasgow, from which the
markets of the world are supplied.
By a life of diligent and signally useful industry, Mr. Babcock gained both wealth
and a world wide reputation. In personal traits he was a strong man. Alert, quick to
comprehend, thorough in analysis and prompt in decision, he was, on the other hand,
never impulsive ; and if, upon occasion, he could bring tremendous energy to bear up-
on any work or operation he had in hand, he was nevertheless guided by previous
thought and sound and level headed judgment. He displayed a tenacious memory and
the ability to master a subject rapidly and gave new proof of this, after he was 58 years
of age, by learning French. He was patient and kindly with every sincere, painstaking
and conscientious worker in his employment, but never wasted time upon a man who was
careless or refused to follow proved methods of accomplishing work. The latter was
promptly dropped. To the cry of distress, he responded with generosity. Unbending
in integrity, just, serious and companionable, he attached his friends to him by the
strongest ties of affection.
Of his wealth he made a worthy use. For many years, he gave time, thought and
money to the promotion of the interests of the Seventh Day Baptists, the religious
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. BA. 51
body with which he identified himself, and to the advancement of the cause of educa-
tion, especially on its practical and technical side. He was deeply devoted to the cause
of his denomination. Nothing which concerned their welfare was to him a matter of
indifference. He made munificent gifts toward the educational, missionary and re-
ligious work of the body and guided its leading spirits with sound advice, which was
of even greater value. The American Sabbath Tract Society he served for nearly
twelve years as corresponding secretary. During i874-'85 he presided over a Sabbath
school in Plainfield as its superintendent, and gave a great impetus to the school by
blackboard illustrations. An incident of his career illustrates his love of Bible study.
In 1874, some of the commuters, who came from Plainfield daily to New York, used to
gather in one corner of the car and study the Bible. At first one double seat was occu-
pied, then two, and finally the class grew so large that it was widely spoken of by the
religious press. Mr. Babcock was the principal worker in this class. He was presi-
dent of the Board of Trustees of Alfred University, to which he gave large sums both
during his lifetime and by bequest, and a non-resident lecturer at Cornell University from
1885 to 1892 in the Sibley College courses in mechanical engineering. He prepared
his most important papers, mainly on the scientific principles involved in the genera-
tion and use of steam power and on the best modern methods of boiler construction,
for the last named courses. His last engagement, abrogated by his death, was for a
lecture in the spring of 1894. His papers were always well planned, thorough, full of
facts and useful knowledge and polished in expression. In delivery quiet but im-
pressive, he held an audience, whether of college students or business men, interested
and attentive to the end, however long the address. He wrote a large number of
treatises and in 1878 a " Natural History of the Bible," which possessed scientific
value.
. Mr. Babcock was a charter member and at one time president of The American
Society of Mechanical Engineers. He became a life member early in the history of
the Society. In 1870 he located in Plainfield, N. J., subsequently being elected presi-
dent of the Board of Education, holding this office until his death. He was president
of the Public Library of that city and of the trustees of Alfred University. By unceas-
ing efforts, he promoted the growth of both. Public spirited as a citizen, he did much
to improve the city of Plainfield by the erection of fine buildings and other improve-
ments, for which he was personally responsible, as well as by promoting, wherever
possible, all public works of value. A block of buildings constructed by him is con-
sidered the finest, architecturally, between New York and Philadelphia. His activity
and influence in the local congregation of which he was a member were equally marked
and effective. The church owes much to his energy and personal liberality. Mr.
Babcock was a man of culture and of broad and varied reading. He was devout and
honorable, kindly affectioned and thoughtful of others and a model of the good citizen,
the loving husband and father and the steadfast friend. In every relation of life he
exhibited lovely and admirable qualities.
Mr. Babcock was married Sept. 28, 1852, to Lucy Adelia Stillman, of Westerly,
R. I., who died May 20, 1861. Sept. 25, 1862, he was married to Harriot Mandane
Clarke, of Plainfield, N. J. She died March 5, 1881. His third marriage took place
Feb. 14, 1883, to Eliza Lua Clarke, of Scott, N. Y., who died March 21, 1891. April n,
1893, he was married to Eugenia Louise Lewis, of Ashaway, R. I. His children were
52 AMERICA S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
George Luason Babcock, born Jan. 7, 1885, and Herman Edgar Babcock, born July g,
1886, who died Aug. 6, 1886. His wife and one son survive him.
PAUL BABCOCK, jr., merchant, born in New York city, Aug. :8, 1841, is a son of
Paul Babcock, who was a dry goods merchant in this city during all his active business
life. The young man received his education in the free schools of New York city, with
one year at the Free Academy, when his father's poverty compelled him to begin to earn
his own living. He first engaged in business as a clerk, in the old firm of H. J. Baker
& Bro., where he continued until the war broke out in April, 1861. He entered the
army on the night of the firing on Fort Sumter, joining a volunteer company, which
tendered its services to the State of New Jersey and was the first company of organized
soldiers raised in the United States with special reference to the late war. He became
a director of The Standard Oil Co. in 1880, since which time he has been the president
of The Standard Oil Co. of New Jersey, and of The Soule & F'aming Manufacturing Co.
and of The Liebig Manufacturing Co. In 1865 he married Mary Webster, daughter of
Prof. Edwin D. Sanborn, and grand daughter of Ezekiel Webster, and their children
were Mary Webster, Emily, Paul and Alice. Mary Webster alone survives of his four
children.
SEflON BACHE, manufacturer, born in Fuerth, Bavaria, July 6, 1826, died in New
York, Jan. n, 1891. He was of Hebrew descent, and son of Joel Bach, a native of
Fuerth, who fought with Napoleon in Russia, was captured at Moscow, escaped, and
suffered so greatly from the cold, that all his toes were frozen, making amputation nec-
essary. Coming to this country in 1843, Semon spent a few years in Jackson, Miss.,
with an uncle named Engelhardt, and removed to New York city in 1846 to seek and
find his fortune. In 1847, with a capital of less than $10,000, he established the house
of Semon Bache & Co., importers of fancy goods and mirrors. Dependent entirely on
himself, he threw all his energy into business, made rapid progress, and gradually with-
drawing from the sale of fancy goods added all the different branches of the glass trade,
dealing in window, plate and mirror glass. In 1857, Siegmund J. Bach, a brother, was
admitted to the firm, and in 1883, Joseph S. Ulmann, a son of his old partner. In later
years, Leopold S. Bache, his own son, was admitted. Since 1891, the firm have con-
tinued under the original title. In 1890, they consolidated the German mirror plate
branch of their business with that of six competing houses, as The German Looking
Glass Plate Co. In 1893, they consolidated the plate glass branch with Heroy & Mar-
rener and Holbrook Bro's, under the title of The Manhattan Plate Glass Co. In 1849,
Mr. Bache married Elizabeth, daughter of Dr. Aaron S. Van Praag. His children are
Henrietta, wife of Julius Kayser; Sarah, wife of Adolph Thurmann; Blanche, wife of
Charles Neukirch; Jules Semon Bache; Leonora, wife of Leopold Rossbach; Leopold
Semon Bache ; and Mamie, wife of Siegmund Politzer. Mr. Bache had valuable invest-
ments in bonds, mortgages and real estate. He belonged to the Harmonic Club and
various charitable societies. It was by the advice of his uncle, Engelhardt, that he
Americanized his name by adding the final "e."
JAMES ANTHONY BAILEY, showman, was born in Detroit, Mich., in 1847.
Sacrificing the advantages of a comfortable home, a spirit of enterprise led him at an
early age to secure work upon a farm at $3. 50 per month. This occupation proved dull,
and he proceeded on foot to Pontiac, Mich., and found employment as call boy in a
hotel. An agent of Robinson & Lake's circus, while a guest of this hotel, attracted by
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. BA. 53
the brightness and energy of the boy, then gave him a place in the corps of advance
agents of the show. He left the circus business in 1864 to become advertising
agent of a theatre in Nashville, then served as clerk to an army sutler, witnessing all
the battles from Chattanooga to Atlanta, and finally accepted a place once more in the
advance corps of the old circus. Here, he became so valuable that James E. Cooper
offered him an equal partnership in the circus business, and the firm of Cooper &
Baile)^ was thereupon formed. His enterprise resulted in a tour of the Sandwich
Islands, Australia, New Zealand, India and South America with the circus, which
proved successful. Upon the return to America, the Great London Circus was bought
and added to that of Cooper & Bailey and the firm engaged in a contest with P. T.
Barnum, which was conducted with so much shrewdness and energy, as to force Mr.
Barnum to abandon his favorite territory in the East. Mr. Barnum then offered Mr.
Bailey a partnership, which was accepted, leading to the firm of Barnum & Bailey. In
October, 1894, Mr. Bailey bought the interest of the heirs of his partner and so became
sole proprietor of The Barnum-Bailey Greatest Show on Earth, which he yet conducts.
His winter quarters are at Bridgeport, Conn. In 1868, Mr. Bailey married Ruth
Louisa McCaddon in Zanesville, O. He is a stockholder in the Madison Square Garden
in this city.
JAflES STANTON BAILEY, manufacturer, born in Lebanon, Conn., Dec. 9, 1817,
died in Brook^m, N. Y., Jan. 6, 1895. His family was planted in America by an im-
migrant from Yorkshire, Eng., to Newburyport, Mass., in 1638. In the maternal line,
he traced his pedigree to the Stantons and Shermans of Rhode Island, followers of
Roger Williams. James received a fair education, and in 1836, found employment as
clerk in a grocery store in New Haven, afterward acquiring a partnership. Having
saved a small amount of money, he came to New York in 1847, and in 1848, with
Charles F. Tuttle, as Tuttle & Bailey, began the manufacture of furnace registers and
ventilators. Through his energy, honesty and ingenuity, and various patents, the
little industry grew in the course of time to be the leading enterprise of its class in
the United States. In 1866, seven years after the death of Mr. Tuttle, the firm incor-
porated as The Tuttle & Bailey Manufacturing Co. , Mr. Bailey being its president.
Their goods have been sent to all parts of the world. The office is now in this city on
Beekman street; the factories in Brooklyn. A genial, kind-hearted, sagacious man,
Mr. Bailey enjoyed the respect of every associate. He was a strong Republican and a
reader of THE TRIBUNE from its first issue. In 1843, he married Augusta Caroline,
daughter of Capt Roswell Trowbridge of New Haven, and lived to celebrate his golden
wedding. Of his six children, five survived him He had been for many years presi-
dent of the trustees of The South Congregational Church in Brooklyn.
COL. ANDREW D. BAIRD, merchant, born in Kelso, Scotland, Oct. 14, 1839, is
the son of Andrew Baird, a stone mason. He acquired a public school education, and
in 1853 came to America with the family, which settled in the city of Brooklyn.
Andrew was first apprenticed to a blacksmith, but within a year afterward to the
stone-cutting trade in the employment of Robinson Gill in Brooklyn. May 13, 1861,
he enlisted in the 7gth N. Y. Vol's, the Highlanders, as they were called, the regiment
being composed of men of Scottish descent. He served entirely through the war,
taking part in forty-five battles and being wounded three times, and commanded
the regiment after May, 1864. After the peace, he returned to his stone yards and
54 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
quarries in 1867, becoming a partner in the firm of Gill & Baird, to whose affairs he has
since devoted his attention. The yards on Wythe and Kent avenues are among
the foremost in the United States. Colonel Baird is trustee or director of The Nassau
Trust Co., The Kings County Trust Co., The Williamsburgh Savings Bank, The Manu-
facturers' National Bank and The Twenty-sixth Ward Bank, as well as of other corpora-
tions. Greatly interested in municipal affairs, he has served as alderman several times
and twice as candidate for Mayor of Brooklyn on the Republican ticket. In 1866 he
married Miss Mary Warner, of Brooklyn, and several years after her death, Miss
Catherine Lamb, in 1882. He has several children. The Union League Club of
Brooklyn claims him as a member.
OSCAR EUQENE BALLIN, banker and stock broker, a native of this city, was
born Nov. 29, 1856, and is a son of Eugene S. Ballin, a German, who emigrated to
New York in 1846 and died in New York city in June, 1885. Oscar was educated in
Columbia Grammar School, and then, in 1873, found occupation in his father's banking
house. After the death of the senior Ballin, the bank was liquidated. The son inher-
ited means from his father, which he has increased by his own efforts at the Stock
Exchange, in dealing in investment securities. He is head of the firm of Ballin & Co.,
stock brokers, a director in The Iron Steamboat Co., and a member of the Lotus and
Manhattan clubs.
JACOB F. BAMBERQER, merchant, born in Germany, April 9, 1833, died in New
York city, Aug. 31, 1894. After a limited education in Germany, he came to this
country with his parents in 1 846, and began life in Louisville, Ky. , as clerk in a dry goods
store. Early discipline brought out his qualities, and in 1856 he engaged in a dry
goods business in Louisville on his own account. In 1862, in J. F. & L. Bamberger,
he undertook the dry goods jobbing trade. In 1872, two firms consolidated as Bam-
berger, Bloom & Co., the subject of this sketch being senior partner until his death.
In 1872, an office was opened in New York city on Worth street, in the down-town dry
goods district, and Mr. Bamberger thereafter made New York his home and became
the resident buyer. Diligence, close attention to the wants of customers, and sound
methods, brought 'him financial success. He never failed or compromised a debt.
Well known among dry goods men, he was active in the several campaigns in which
Mr. Cleveland was a candidate for office. He was one of the trustees of Temple
Emanu-El, a director in The Hebrew Orphan Asylum and The United Hebrew Chari-
ties, and a member of all of the Hebrew charitable and benevolent institutions in the
city, in each of which he took an active interest, and to all of which he contributed
generously. He was also a member of the Chamber of Commerce and the Harmonic
club. By his marriage in 1863 to Pauline Ullman, he had three sons, Leon Jacob,
Edward Sanford and Irving Washington Bamberger, all now living.
WILLIAn DUDLEY BANCKER, merchant, was born in New York, April 19, 1836,
and died in Brooklyn, Dec. 29, 1893. He was a son of Capt. Abraham Bancker, a for-
eign news collector and at one time an associate of Commodore Vanderbilt. He re-
ceived his education in the schools of Brooklyn, where the most of his life was passed.
Beginning life as a clerk for Dick & Fitzgerald, book publishers, he became a partner
and then engaged in the sale of books and newspapers in Ann street on his own ac-
count. His business, in time, assumed the name of The New York News Co. When
The American News Co. was formed in 1863 by a union of various wholesale firms in
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. BA. 55
the news trade, he joined the company, became its secretary in 1879 and in 1885 gen-
eral superintendent. He was a stockholder in the company and a man of force and clear
mind, and aided materially in developing the enormous trade of the concern in news-
papers, periodicals and books. Of the Washington Avenue Baptist church in Brook-
lyn, he was a deacon, trustee and Sunday School superintendent. Nov. 14, 1860, Mr.
Bancker married Jersey A. Huff, in Somerville, N. J. His family consisted of seven
children, five of whom survived him, namely: Abraham, Margaret B., William Dud-
ley, Edward Huff and Andrew Otterson Bancker. He was a member of the Oxford,
Germania, Montauk, Atlantic Yacht and Riverside Yacht clubs.
JAMES HOPSON BANKER, stock broker, born in New York city in 1827, died at
Irvington on the Hudson, Feb. 12, 1885. He was the son of Edward Banker, of the
old ship-chandlery firm of Banker, Schermerhorn & Co. Educated in the common
schools, he entered business life in his father's employment, succeeded to the business,
acquired a fortune and retired in 1869. The panic of 1873 called him from retirement;
and as a stock broker he became associated with Commodore Vanderbilt in his Wall
street operations. For several years, he served as a director of The New York Central
& Hudson River and The Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Railroads, being treasurer
of the last named, and when control of The Western Union Telegraph Co. passed into
the hands of Commodore Vanderbilt, he accepted the office of director of that company
also. During his later years, the Edison inventions interested him and led him to be-
come a director of The Edison Electric Light Co. and auxiliary corporations. He had
no children.
CHARLES BANKS, capitalist, born in this city, April 20, 1830, is a member of
an excellent family. Educated in private schools and a man of refinement, he has
devoted his business activity mainly to real estate investments. Large means have
come to him by inheritance, absolving him from the drudgery of daily toil, and he has
been able to spend his years largely in travel, cultivation and social enjoyment. He is
a member of the Union, New York, and South Side Sportsmen's clubs.
JAMES LENOX BANKS, fl. D., born in New York city, May n, 1832, died here
June 3, 1883. He was the son of William Banks, a well-known shipping merchant of
the last generation, and of Isabella Henderson Lenox, daughter of Robert Lenox. He
graduated from the College of Physicians and Surgeons in 1857, studied abroad for
two years, and in 1859 began the practice of medicine in this city. He inherited means,
but never abandoned his activity in the healing art. March 14, 1855, in this city, he
married Miss Isabella Mozier, daughter of Joseph Mozier, the American sculptor at Rome.
Mrs. Banks and eight children survived him, the latter being Isabella, wife of Thomas
E. Satterthwaite, M. D.; William B. Banks; Josephine Mozier, who married Charles
H. Marshall; James Lenox and Henry Lenox Banks; Maria, wife of Walter C. Taylor;
J. Fisher S. and Lenox Banks. Dr. Banks was a member of The American Medical
Association, The New York State Medical Society, The New York Pathological Society,
The Medical Society of the County of New York, The New York Academy of Medicine,
The New York Medico-Legal Society, and The New York Academy of Sciences, and
at one time president of The Society for the Relief of Widows and Orphans of Medical
Men. He served as consulting physician in The Presbyterian Hospital about eight
years and occupied a similar position in The Presbyterian Home for Aged Women.
He was also a trustee of The College of Physicians and Surgeons and The Lenox
56 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
Library, a manager of The American Bible Society, and a member of the Geographical
and Historical Societies.
AMZI LORENZO BARBER, A.H., LL.B., was born at Saxton's River, Windham
county, Vermont, on June 22, 1843. His father was the Rev. Amzi Doolittle Barber,
whose grandfather, Thomas, and father, Calvin, settled and lived in Townsend,
Vermont.
Thomas Barber, with two brothers, came to this country before the Revolution.
One brother, named Joseph, settled in Massachusetts; the other brother went West or
South, and of him nothing further is known.
Mr. Barber's mother was Nancy Irene Bailey, who was born in Westmoreland,
Oneida county, New York. His ancestors on his father's side were Scotch-Irish, and
on his mother's side French-English, and he has, perhaps, in some degree, inherited the
striking characteristics of these four different nationalities. His father was a self-
educated Congregational clergyman of great simplicity of purpose and strength of char-
acter. He was one of the students who left Lane Theological Seminary in Cincinnati,
because the discussion of the slavery question had been prohibited by the faculty of
that institution, and he walked across the State of Ohio to Oberlin and entered Oberlin
College, from whose theological department he graduated in 1841. Among his class-
mates were many men who became distinguished for philanthropy and other qualities,
among them ex-President James H. Fairchild and the Rev. Dr. M. E. Strieby of
The American Missionary Association. His father is yet (1895) engaged in ministerial
work at Castalia, O., and although eighty-five years of age, he enjoys excellent health,
retaining all of his faculties except hearing, and is rendering acceptable service to the
parish of which he has charge.
The subject of this sketch at first contemplated a professional career. The family
moved to Ohio in 1852 and lived at Bellevue, Huron county, until 1858, then in Cleve-
land until 1862, and afterward in Austinburg and Geneva, Ashtabula county. Mr.
Barber attended various schools and academies, including the high school of Cleve-
land, during his minority, and in 1862 he entered Oberlin College at the head of his
class in the preparatory department. An attack of pneumonia compelled him to leave
college for a year, which he spent in the wilds of northern Michigan. He graduated
from Oberlin College in 1867, taking the degree of Bachelor of Arts, and subsequently
received from that institution the degree of Master of Arts. By working upon farms
in the summer time and teaching school in the winter, he saved enough money to meet
his college expenses. While pursuing a post-graduate course in the theological depart-
ment of Oberlin College, he was invited by Gen. O. O. Howard, then at the head of the
Freedmen's Bureau, to take charge of the normal department of Howard University,
and in April, 1868, he moved to Washington for that purpose. Subsequently he took
charge of the preparatory department, and, later on, was elected to a professorship of
natural philosophy in that university. In 1872, he resigned his connection with that
institution and engaged in the real estate business in Washington. A year later there
followed the panic of 1873, which was commenced by the failure of Jay Cooke's bank-
ing house. The depression in prices was very great and continued for several years,
during which time many people engaged in the real estate business in Washington lost
heavily. Mr. Barber, however, held on to his real estate interests and ultimately sold
out to good advantage and realized a handsome profit.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. BA. 57
A dispute has arisen in recent years concerning the likelihood of success of a college
man in business. Mr. Barber's career is a signal example of the eminence to which an
energetic man can rise when his mind, naturally clear and active, has been trained by
years of study and close thinking.
Real estate operations in the District of Columbia led him to appreciate the value
of good streets, and in 1878 his attention was called to and he engaged in the laying of
asphalt pavements in the city of Washington. Many miles of streets in the Capital of
the nation were paved with the new material by him, and the business growing rapidly,
his operations soon extended to other cities. In 1883 he found it necessary to incorpo-
rate The Barber Asphalt Paving Co., in order to systematize the work and most
efficiently carry out the contracts which were obtained by his skill, energy and hard
work. During the four years, 1882 to 1886, inclusive, he averaged one thousand miles
of railway travel weekly, and slept an average of one hundred and twenty nights yearly
on Pullman sleeping cars. Including about eighty thousand miles of travel upon the
ocean, he estimates that he has traveled upwards of four hundred thousand miles in
establishing and carrying out the business of which he is the head, the equivalent of
circumnavigating the globe upwards of sixteen times.
In order to obtain under the most favorable conditions an ample supply of the raw
material, Mr. Barber negotiated in 1887 a concession from the Government of Great
Britain for a lease of the celebrated lake of natural pitch on the island of Trinidad for
a period of forty-two years. This reservoir of 114 acres contains an almost inexhausti-
ble supply of asphalt. To acquire and operate this concession The Trinidad Asphalt
Co. was organized in 1888. Mr. Barber is the leading stockholder, director and officer
of the two corporations above named, representing an aggregate capital and surplus of
nearly $7,000,000. Down to the present time, there have been laid upwards of 16,000,-
ooo yards, or 1,000 lineal miles, of Trinidad asphalt pavements in eighty cities of the
United States, at a cost of over $50,000,000. The Trinidad Asphalt Co. has supplied
nearly all the material for this work, and The Barber Asphalt Paving Co. has done
upwards of one-half of it, the remainder having been done by about thirty separate
companies or firms, in which neither of the two companies above named nor Mr.
Barber has any interest beyond supplying the material therefor. The pavement as
laid by these companies, especially the Barber company, has proved s^ acceptable that
it has come to be recognized as the standard pavement of the United States. Companies
are now being formed to introduce the pavement into foreign countries.
In 1868 Mr. Barber was married to Celia M. Bradley, of Geneva, Ohio, who died
in 1870. In 1871 he married Julia Louise Langdon, daughter of J. Le Droict Lang-
don, formerly of Belmont, New York. They have had five children, of whom four are
living, namely — Le Droict Langdon, Lorena Langdon, Bertha Langdon, and Roland—
the first three being adults and the last seven years old.
Mr. Barber retains a strong affection for Oberlin College, and has long served it as
one of its trustees.
In 1875-6 Mr. Barber took the course of lectures in the law department of Colum-
bian University at Washington, and received the degree of Bachelor of Laws. Subse-
quently he was admitted to the bar in Washington, but has never made a regular prac-
tice of law.
At one time Mr. Barber was a director of The Citizens' National Bank of Washing-
60 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
many important cases, being noted for his success and acquiring a fortune in his profes-
sion. At the age of twenty-three, he had charge of the settlement of claims arising
under the treaty with Mexico, from which he received extraordinary fees. His ability
to earn large fees was phenomenal. In one instance, he received $25,000 for half an
hour's work, which was willingly paid, owing to the magnitude of the interests involved
and his great tact in effecting an amicable adjustment. The firm of Bowdoin, Larocque
& Barlow was formed in 1852. After the death of the two senior partners in 1868 and
1870, Joseph Larocque, brother of the original member, William W. MacFarland and
Mr. Barlow formed a new firm, to which was added in 1873 Judge William D. Shipman,
Judge William G. Choate in 1881 taking Mr. MacFarland's place. A Democrat in poli-
tics, Mr. Barlow was for several years a large stockholder in The New York World, and
shaped its policy from 1864 to 1869. He was one of the founders of the Manhattan Club
and a member of the Union Club. He had a fine collection of paintings and engravings,
and his library of early American history was one of the most extensive in existence.
Mr. Barlow's wife, Alice Cornell, daughter of Peter Townsend, survived him, as did an
only son.— His son, PETER TOWNSEND BARLOW, lawyer, was born in New York
city, June 21, 1857. He graduated from Harvard University in 1879, fitted himself for
the law at the Law School of Columbia College and in the office of Shipman, Barlow,
Larocque & Choate. He was married in 1886 to Virginia Louise, daughter of Edward
Matthews. Their children are Edward M. , and Samuel L. M. Barlow. A gentleman
of education and fine mind, he has been elected to membership in many of the best
clubs in town, including the University, Harvard, Union, Metropolitan, Players', Tux-
edo, Racquet, Down Town and New York Yacht clubs.
ALFRED BARMORE, ice merchant, born in Rockland county, N, Y., June 15, 1807,
died in this city, May 13, 1875. Beginning life at the age of sixteen in the leather trade
of this city, he did not come into prominence until, after Croton water had been brought
into town, he began the sale of ice. Starting on a small scale, he devoted himself there-
after exclusively to the development of the ice trade. In 1856 he became president of
The Knickerbocker Ice Co., which position he held until his death. Under his energetic
fostering, the company grew into a large concern, owning many ice houses on the Hud-
son river, and retailing ice to every part of this metropolis.
ALFRED SHITH BARNES, publisher, a native of New Haven, Conn., born Jan.
28, 1817, died in Brooklyn, Feb. 17, 1888. He was descended from Stephen Barnes,
an Englishman, who settled on Long Island the latter part of the seventeenth century.
His early life was laborious. First a clerk in a shoe store, he then obtained employ-
ment in Hartford in the publishing house of D. F. Robinson & Co., and being depend-
ent entirely upon his own abilities, he made every effort to learn the business. At the
age of twenty-one, he published the mathematical works of Charles Davies in Hartford,
and successfully introduced his arithmetics and Mrs. Emma Willard's history as popular
school books. In 1840, he went to Philadelphia for four years, and built up a profitable
publishing business, which he then removed to New York city. His brother, five sons
and a nephew were associated with him under the title of A. S. Barnes & Co. The firm
attained eminence in the publication of school books. Mr. Barnes was connected with
the Central Branch of The Union Pacific Railroad, The New York Elevated Railroad,
The Hanover Bank, The Dime Savings Bank of Brooklyn, and The Home Insurance
Co. He was naturally attentive to educational interests and identified with Cornell
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. BA. 6l
University, the Fisk University in Tennessee, and the Polytechnic and Adelphi acad-
emies, in Brooklyn. He was a member of the Union League Club of New York, and
the Hamilton Club, The Long Island Historical Society, and The New England
Society of Brooklyn, and trustee of the Clinton Avenue Congregational Church of
Brooklyn, which city was his home for many years. To the Good Samaritan and
other institutions of Brooklyn, he was a generous donor, and he founded Barnes Hall,
one of the most prominent buildings at Cornell University. Mr. Barnes was twice
married, first in 1840 to Miss Harriet E. Burr of Hartford, and later in 1883 to Mrs.
Mary Matthews Smith. He left ten children by his first wife. His son, Alfred C.
Barnes, now represents the house in The American Book Co. The other children are
Mary C., Henry P., Sarah F., Harriet E., Edwin M., Richard S., William D., Annie
M., and Emilie B. Barnes.
DEM AS BARNES, banker, born in Canandaigua, N. Y., April 4, 1887, died in
New York city, May i, 1888. Leaving public school at the age of fifteen and starting
as clerk in a country store, four years later he went into business on his own account.
In 1849 he established himself in New York in the wholesale drug business, and by
untiring assiduity became a leading merchant of the city. In the early days, Mr. Barnes
crossed the continent in a wagon, making a careful examination of the mineral re-
sources of Colorado, Nevada and California. His experiences were afterward related
in a series of letters in the newspapers. He was an earnest advocate of The Union
Pacific Railroad. In 1866, his neighbors in Brooklyn elected him as a Democrat to
Congress, where he served on the Committees on Banking and Currency, and Education
and Labor. He was active in procuring legislation for the construction of the Brook-
lyn Bridge and a member of the first Board of Trustees. In 1870 he retired from
business. That able Democratic journal, The Brooklyn Eagle, at one time belonged to
him, and of The Brooklyn Argus he was the founder, continuing publication until
February, 1877. He was a director of The Long Island Railroad and several insurance
companies, a member of the New York club and prominent in many public institutions.
JOHN SANFORD BARNES, lawyer, was born in West Point, N. Y., May 12, 1836.
His father, General James Barnes, was a graduate from the Military Academy in
1825. John was sent to the Naval Academy in Annapolis, whence he graduated in
1854. He served through the Civil War, rising to the rank of Commander, and then
resigned, studied law and practiced his profession in Albany and New York. He was
for twelve years a partner in the late firm of J. S. Kennedy & Co., bankers, and with-
drew in 1879. In 1880, he retired from active business and has since devoted his atten-
tion to the- law. He was married in 1862 to Susan Bainbridge Hayes, daughter of
Capt. Thomas Hayes, U. S. N. , and grand daughter of Commodore William Bainbridge,
U. S. N., who in command of the "Constitution" captured the " Java" in the war of
1812, and their children are James, J. Sanford, Edith S., Charlotte Adams and Cornelia
Rogers Barnes. Mr Barnes is of social nature and well fitted for a life in which
refinement, a bright mind, abundant means and character are essential requirements.
He belongs to many clubs, including the Union League, Metropolitan, Union, Univer-
sity, Knickerbocker, Down Town, Whist and Westminster Kennel.
CHARLES TRACY BARNEY, banker, born in Cleveland, O., Jan. 27, 1851, is a
son of the late A. H. Barney, president of The United States Express Co. Charles
graduated from Williams College and then entered business life. He has been engaged
62 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
in banking in New York city for many years. Mr. Barney is a careful, competent and
courageous business man, interested in diverse enterprises. Through loans of money
to local builders, he has been led into real estate operations himself, one of them being
the purchase of the Donnelly tract on the West Side in this city. He is director of
The Safe Deposit Co., The New York Loan & Improvement Co., The Mercantile
National Bank, The Hudson River Bank, and The Knickerbocker Trust Co. His clubs
are the Metropolitan, Grolier, Century, Players', Union, University, City, Colonial,
Whist, Down Town, Riding, New York Athletic, New York Yacht, and Westminster
Kennel.
WILLIAM JOSHUA BARNEY, born at Fort Mackinaw, Mich., in March, 1823,
died in New York, Jan. 5, 1886. He was a great-grandson of Commodore Barney, of
the American Revolution, and the family yet possesses the sword presented to the
Commodore for his defense of Bladensburg in the War of 1812. His father, Captain
Joshua Barney, a graduate of West Point, was stationed for many years at Fort
Mackinaw. William graduated from Baltimore College with honor, became a lawyer,
and assisted his father in laying out the first Government road in Iowa, then a Terri-
tory. After Iowa was admitted, he entered the first land warrant. Later, he started
a bank at Dubuque, which he closed in 1857, removing then to Chicago, where he
opened a real estate office. In 1871, after the great fire, he came to New York to live,
although he continued his Chicago office. He acquired a fortune by real estate oper-
ations in the West and in New York. Mr. Barney married Georgiana F. Carroll, of
Kentucky, and left one son, I. C. Barney. He was a member of the Society of the
Cincinnati and one of the founders of the Chicago Club.
DR. JOHN C. BARRON, capitalist, began life as a physician and a Union volunteer,
and then, having inherited wealth, embarked in practical business, in which he has
since met with excellent success.
He is a native of Woodbridge in the county of Middlesex, N. J., where he was
born Nov. 2, 1837. He descends from an old and well-known family. John Barren,
his father, was a man of fine character and large possessions, prominent in his day and
of wide influence. His grandfather, Joseph Barren, was a farmer, merchant, tanner
and capitalist, and president of the famous old turnpike roa'd from Woodbridge ,to
Philadelphia, a great highway during the period before the advent of railroads, when
travel took place on horse-back or by stage-coach and carriage. An uncle, Thomas
Barron, was director of the Louisiana branch of The United States Bank; and a great
uncle, Ellis Barron, served as a captain of the ist Middlesex Regiment in the war
of the American Revolution. The maternal grand father of Dr. Barron was Col.
Richard Conner of Staten Island, farmer, merchant and a man of position, and member
of State Legislature when it took one week in the saddle to get to Albany from New
York city.
Mr. Barron received an excellent education. Choosing medicine for his profession,
he graduated from The College of Physicians and Surgeons in New York city in 1861.
The war for the Union had then broken out, and Dr. Barron, inspired by a generous
loyalty to his country, at once entered the Union army as a volunteer assistant sur-
geon. He was assigned to the "Mechanics' Rifles," and, soon afterward, at his own
request, to the 6gth New York Inf., then already in the field. One of the first of
his profession to volunteer in the four years' war, and enthusiastic in the discharge of
64 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
•
his duties, Dr. Barren spared no pains in watching over the health of the Union vol-
unteers, going so far on one occasion as to give $1,000 from his own means to the hos-
pital department for medical supplies. He took part in the first battle of Bull Run
with his command, the 6gth losing two hundred men in killed and wounded in that
memorable fight. Soon after the battle he was promoted to the rank of surgeon.
Returning to civil life at the end of his enlistment, he became a member and
surgeon of the famous 7th Regiment of New York city from 1863 to 1871, and, after
his resignation, he was appointed Surgeon General of the First Division of the National
Guard of New York, with the rank of Colonel.
After the war, Dr. Barren sought recreation in extended foreign travel. He
visited the important countries of Europe, and then, with an energy characteristic of
the man, made an adventurous trip of seven hundred miles up the river Nile.
Upon his return to America, having inherited large wealth, the care of his property
and the necessity of safe investment compelled him to abandon the practice of the
healing art. Business pursuits thenceforth claimed his attention, and in this field he
has proved an enterprising and successful man. He has made large investments and
is at the head of nearly all his properties, being now president of The Carpenter Steel
Works of Reading, Pa., The Kentucky Coal, Iron & Development Co., The Lyons &
Campbell Ranch & Cattle Co., and The Gila Farm Co., and a director in The Brooklyn
City Railroad Co., The United New Jersey Railroad & Canal Co., etc.
A man of refinement and social disposition, Dr. Barron has been admitted to a
large number of the most exclusive clubs in the city. He was one of the original
members of the Union League club, having joined in 1863. He is also an active
member of the Union, Down Town, New York Yacht, Seawanhaka Corinthian Yacht,
Larchmont Yacht, Jekyl Island and Currituck and Narrows Island Shooting clubs, and
has been vice commodore of the Atlantic Yacht club, rear commodore of the Sea-
wanhaka Corinthian and the New York Yacht clubs, and vice commodore of the
Hudson River Ice Yacht club. Dr. Barron is exceedingly fond of yachting, and was
the owner of the yacht Wave, one of the American boats, which, for the honor of this
country, raced with the Scotch cutter Madge, about fifteen years ago. He built the
yacht Athlon, and also owned the cutter Clara.
Dr. Barron is a patron of literature and art. He has long been trustee and treasurer
of the celebrated Barron Library in Woodbridge, N. J., founded by his uncle, Thomas
Barron, in 1876, and he is a life member of The New York Historical Society and life
fellow of The New York Geographical Society.
JOSEPH BURR BARTRAM, merchant, born in Black Rock, Conn., May 17, 1839,
is a son of Joseph Bartram, a sea-faring man in early life, and later part owner in many
vessels in the old house of Sturges, Clearman & Co. of this city. Joseph attended school
in Fairfield, Conn., and then, coming to New York in 1857, found a place as clerk for
Cartwright & Harrison, at 1 1 1 Front street, where he remained about six years. In
June, 1864, with his brother, Thomas W. , he established the firm of Bartram Bros,
shipping and commission merchants, with a capital of $20,000, supplied by their father.
Since the death of his brother in 1888, Mr. Bartram has continued the business under
the old title, but Jan. i, 1894, admitted two associates to partnership, one his son
Joseph Percy Bartram; the other his chief clerk. The business has grown to large
proportions. Mr. Bartram is extensively engaged in the importation of sugar from the
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. BA. 65
West Indies, having plantations on the islands of St. Croix and San Domingo, and con-
trolling the product of several others. The sugar is imported by the New York house
and sold for cash to the sugar refineries. In 1869 Mr. Bartram was married to Eleanor
C., daughter of Benjamin Wardwell, and their children are: Joseph Percy, Rensselaer,
Wardwell and Howard Preston Bartram.
EDWIN BATES, merchant, born about 1830, in Derby, Vt., died in the same
place, Xov. 27, 1887. He received such an education as the town academy supplied,
and left home at the age of sixteen to make his way in the world, without other
resources than the health, energy and character he had inherited from a Puritan
ancestry. He located first in Charleston, S. C., as a clerk in a dry goods house.
Thrift enabled him within a few years to establish the dry goods firm of McGahan,
Bates & Co. Trade brought him a considerable fortune. At the close of the Civil
War he came to this city, and with his brother, Charles K. Bates, established the
clothing house of Edwin Bates & Co., remaining active therein until his physician
warned him that his heart would not much longer perform its functions. His interest
in the old South Carolina firm was retained to the last, and he owned 800 acres of
land in that State, as well as a horse farm in Vermont. His wife, Mary E., daughter
of ex-Mayor Brackett, of Rochester, and two children, survived him.
HENRY BATTERflAN, merchant and banker, was born in Brooklyn, N. Y.,
where he has always dwelt, Nov. 5, 1849. His parents came to this country from Han-
over, Germany. Receiving an education in a business college, Henry learned the
requirements of trade as a clerk, and then in 1867, with borrowed capital, opened a
small retail dry goods store in Brooklyn. An excellent merchant, he made rapid pro-
gress, until the growth of his trade compelled him to build the present large store at
the corner of Broadway and Graham and Flushing avenues. He employs 500 clerks,
and conducts the most important trade in the Eastern district of Brooklyn. He is pres-
ident of The Broadway Bank of Brooklyn, and a member of the Hamilton, Union
League, and Germania clubs, and several charities. In 1870, he married Sarah E.,
daughter of John Cutter, and their children are Harry L. and Adelaide H. Batterman.
CHARLES ALFRED BAUDOUINE, manufacturer and realty owner, born June
i, 1808, in this city, died at his home on Fifth avenue, Jan. 13, 1895. His ancestors
were Huguenots, who had fled to this country from France. Having learned the art
of furniture making as an apprentice, Charles began on his own account at the age of
twenty-one, and became the founder and proprietor of a furniture making industry,
which, in 1850, had grown to be the largest of its class in the country. From this he
finally retired, and invested his fortune in realty in this city, which is well located and
has continually improved in value. He possessed exceptional capacity as a business
man, and in recent years was prominent at the annual Horse Show. June 3, 1833, ^e
married Ann P. Postley of this city. A son, Abram, and two grandsons, Charles A.
and John F. Baudouine, survived him.
GEN. HORACE HENRY BAXTER, railroad builder, born Jan. 18, 1818, in Sax-
ton's River, Vt., died Feb. 17, 1884, in New York city. His father, Horace Baxter,
a man of fine presence, a lawyer and judge in Vermont, intended to call his son to the
bar, but the latter preferred a different career, and began business life as assistant
bookkeeper in a dry goods commission house in Boston. Less than a year later, while
only sixteen years of age, he became head accountant, and served until his health failed
66 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
«
on account of overwork. After recruiting among the hills, he opened a store in
Bellows Falls, Vt., gave credit to those who could not pay cash, and made his first and
last failure in life, closing the store. An athletic man, of towering form, animated,
energetic, and capable of handling bodies of men, he found more congenial work
shortly afterward, upon taking a small contract to grade the depot grounds at Bellows
Falls. This led him into contract work on The Rutland & Burlington and The Western
Vermont Railroads. He was noted from the start for thoroughness. He then built The
Cleveland, Norwalk & Toledo Railroad, completing it in 1854, and next bought the
marble quarries at Rutland, Vt., which he operated until 1863, when he sold them.
At the outbreak of the Civil War, he attended the Peace Congress as a delegate from
Vermont, and when that meeting failed of its object, he became Adjutant General
of Vermont on a salary of $75 a year, and spent a small fortune in organizing and
forwarding to the front the volunteer troops of Vermont. After the war, he entered
Wall street, and, with Henry Keep, advanced the price of Michigan Southern Railroad
stock, gaining thereby a large profit. He followed Mr. Keep as president of The New
York Central Railroad, and was the only one of the old managers retained after Com-
modore Vanderbilt came into control. It was due to his persistent advice that the
Grand Central depot and the grain elevator on the Hudson river were built. General
Baxter also had a large interest in The Chicago & Northwestern Railroad, the Emma
silver mine in Utah, The Baxter National Bank in Rutland, The Pacific Mail Steam-
ship Co., The Hannibal & St. Joseph Railroad, The Panama Railway, The Conti-
nental Bank of New York city, and The Pullman Palace Car Co., being a director in
these enterprises, and also took part in the construction company which built some of
the elevated railroads of New York city. General Baxter was twice married, first, to
Eliza Wales, of Bellows Falls, Dec. 21, 1841, who died Sept. 8, 1849 ; and next, Dec.
8, 1851, to Mary E. Roberts, of Manchester, Vt. Two children were born to them,
Henry, May 18, 1856, who died March 20, 1860, and Hugh Henry Baxter, born Oct.
2, 1861. While New York city was the scene of his principal achievements, he made
Rutland, Vt., his home after 1854.
MOSES YALE BEACH, publisher, born in Wallingford, Conn., Jan. 15, 1800, died
there, July 19, 1868. Descended from some of the first settlers of Stratford, Conn., on
his mother's side, he was a relative of Elihu Yale, the founder of Yale College. In
youth he was apprenticed to a cabinet maker in Hartford, Conn., and by working
overtime managed to save $400. At the age of eighteen he purchased his release.
Then, with a partner, he began business in Northampton, Mass. A man of inventive
mind, he was associated with Thomas Blanchard in the construction of the first stern
wheel steamboat used on the Connecticut river. Among his devices was a machine
for cutting rags, now a part of the outfit of every paper mill, but he reaped little
benefit from this invention owing to delay in issuing the patent. In 1827, he moved
to Saugerties, N. Y., to engage in paper manufacturing. Through his wife, Nancy
Day, a sister of the late Benjamin H. Day, founder of The New York Sun, Mr. Beach
became interested in that paper. He bought a half interest from Mr. Wisner for
^5,200, and later purchased the other half for $19,000. Possessed of rugged abilities
and marked traits of character, prompt, energetic and far seeing, he insisted that The
Sun should have all the news, regardless of expense, and devised many novel schemes
for quick collection as well as for the rapid distribution of the paper after publication.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. BE. 67
Carrier pigeons, express trains, etc., were freely employed by him. He encouraged
Mr. Locke in the preparation of the celebrated story known as the " Moon Hoax," which
first appeared in The Sun. His children were Moses Sperry, Henry, Alfred Ely,
Joseph P., and William Yale Beach, and Brasilia Brewster. — His son ALFRED E.
BEACH, inventor and editor of The Scientific American, was born in Springfield, Mass.,
in 1826. He received an academic education, and, in 1846, with Orson D. Munn,
founded the firm of Munn & Co., and they became proprietors of The Scientific American.
For almost fifty years, Mr. Beach has been active in the editorship of this newspaper
and in the extensive patent business of the firm. In 1847 he invented a typewriting
machine, from which, it is claimed, the great typewriter industry of the world has
arisen. One of these machines, placed in operation at the Crystal Palace Exhibition of
the American Institute in this city in 1856, received the gold medal as ranking among
the most ingenious and important inventions of the time. The machine had the key
board, the pot of type bars, the ink ribbon, the spacing bar, the paper moved by the
keys, the separate adjustment for each type bar, etc., all now so generally in use. Mr.
Beach sold his patent for a small sum. Prior to 1868, Mr. Beach planned a system of
underground railways for New York, and in 1869, legislative authority having been
granted, he constructed a section of underground railway under Broadway, New York,
extending from Warren to Murray street. This work was executed while all the travel
of the street went on overhead, by means of the Beach hydraulic shield, which was the
first example of the hydraulic tunneling shield, now in common use by engineers in
all parts of the world. The Beach hydraulic shield was used in the construction of the
great railway tunnel under the St. Clair river at Port Huron and Sarnia, between the
United States and Canada, as well as in excavating the underground railway tunnels
in London and Glasgow, the Hudson river tunnel, and other similar works. Mr.
Beach is the designer of many other inventions.
OLIVER THOflAS BEARD, lawyer, born in New York city, Nov. 13, 1832, is one
of three notable brothers. His father, the late William Beard, a native of Ireland,
came to America in 1825, and through tireless- energy and unusual foresight rose to
prominence as a railroad builder and contractor, dying in Brooklyn, Jan. 7, 1886, at the
age of eighty-two. A portion of his property in Brooklyn consisted of wharves and
stores, now extremely valuable. Oliver studied during boyhood in the local schools
and at Nazareth, Pa. Inheriting his father's enterprise, he crossed the plains at the
age of sixteen and engaged in gold mining, the construction of wharves and similar
enterprises, and in 1852 in railroad building in South America. Returning to his
native land, he enlisted in April, 1861, as a private in the 7ist N. Y. Vol's, and rose
to be Lieutenant Colonel of the 48th N. Y. Moore's Rebellion Records give him credit
for commanding the first body of colored troops actually engaged in battle. During
the draft riots of 1863 in New York city, he aided in placing the office of THE NEW
YORK TRIBUNE in a state of defense with barricades of bales of paper, etc. After the
war Mr. Beard practiced law in Ohio and Michigan with some success, later edited The
Post and Tribune, of Detroit, and, being an ardent Republican, took an active part in
political affairs. For more than twenty years he served his party in various parts of the
Union as a campaign orator, and was chairman of the committee of the Union League
of America, which notified Mr. Lincoln of his re-nomination in 1864. He has written
much for publication, including novels and short stories, principally of a political
68 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
nature, his "Bristling With Thorns" being a study of Southern character. Mr. Beard
inherited a large property, which now occupies his time, consisting mainly of the Erie
Basin, Columbia Basin, and Amity and Congress streets warehouses in Brooklyn. He
married Elizabeth Mossgrove in Steubenville, O., and has five children, IdaM. Welton,
Ula Lanphere, Mary D. Perkins, Anson McCook Beard, and William Mossgrove Beard.
WILLIAM HENRY BEARD, contractor, born in Richmond, Mass., Oct. 12, 1839,
died Jan. 31, 1893. He was a son of the late William Beard, and gained an excellent
education in private schools and Kinderhook Academy. He then devoted himself to
the construction of improvements and public works under contract. Beginning with
a section of the brick conduit through which Brooklyn derived its supply of water,
he built twenty miles of sewer in that city, excavated Baislie's Pond, constructed parts
of The Sea Beach and The Manhattan Beach Railways, and the water works in Middle-
town, Conn., and fulfilled numerous other important contracts. The wharves and
improvements at the Erie Basin were superintended by him. Mr. Beard inherited a
large estate from his father, but his own rugged abilities and energy would have made
him a man of fortune without that aid. Contract work led him into various auxiliary
enterprises, and he was president of The W. H. Beard Dredging Co. and senior partner
in Beard & Kimpland, the largest dealers in wharf building materials in the United
States. His brothers and he owned a large interest in wharves and stores in Brooklyn.
He was a director in The Kings County Bank, member of the Oxford and Union League
clubs of Brooklyn and The Society of Old Brooklynites, a presidential elector and
member of the Republican State Committee eight years. His children were William,
Edith and Henry S. Beard.
GEORGE BECHTEL, brewer, born in Germany, Nov. 17, 1840, died on Staten
Island, June 16, 1889. While an infant of six months, he was brought by his parents
to America. Acquiring an education at the Columbia College grammar school, upon
the completion of his course, he entered, at the age of eighteen, as apprentice, the
brewery which his father had established at Stapleton on Staten Island in 1853. A
strong, hearty, energetic young man, he mastered every detail of the brewing business
ajid gained the experience to which, coupled with natural ability, was due the great
success which he afterward achieved.
From 1860 to 1865, he occupied the position of superintendent of the establish-
ment, and, while serving in this capacity, erected the first ice house ever operated in
connection with a brewery in the Eastern States. In 1865, he leased the property from
his father and, in 1870, purchased the entire interest, becoming sole proprietor. Finding
the old quarters inadequate to the demands of a rapidly increasing business, Mr. Bech-
tel, in 1871, built the present commodious brewery, giving special attention to its
thorough equipment. So energetically was the work of erection pushed, that ten
weeks after the first stone had been laid, brewing had been resumed. The continued
increase of his business grew out of the high excellence of all his productions. In
1876, his beer received the award of the Centennial Exposition; in 1877, the medal of
the Gambrinus Verein of New York; in 1878, a gold medal at the Paris Exposition;
and in 1879, the first prize at the Fair in Sidney, New South Wales. After an analy-
sis of his beer, Professor Doremus pronounced it pure and free from all deleterious
substances.
Mr. Bechtel's activity was by no means confined to his own business. He took a
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. BE. 69
leading part in all public and benevolent movements upon Staten Island. During the
draft riots in 1863, he sheltered numbers of unfortunate negroes, for which protecting
kindness the colored people of the island hold him in grateful remembrance. Upon
the incorporation of the village of Edgewater, Mr. Bechtel was elected trustee in the
face of strong opposition. From 1871 to 1879 he took no prominent part in politics,
but in 1879, he received a joint nomination by the Republican and Democratic parties
for supervisor and was elected by an overwhelming majority. Thereafter, the people
re-elected him annually for a number of years. When he first took office, Richmond
county bonds sold for 80 cents on the dollar, taxes ruled at eight per cent. , and the vil-
lage of Edgewater was in debt $125,000. When he retired, his good management had
resulted in payment of the village debt, a reduction of taxes to two per cent., and a rise
in value of the bonds to §1.12. Mr. Bechtel not only greatly improved the condition
of the public highways, but succeeded in refunding the $50,000 war debt at four per
cent, and a premium of i 1-2 per cent., a record not equalled in any other county in
the state.
In 1879, he attended the Democratic state convention as the first delegate ever
elected from Richmond county, was three times re-elected, and twice its first vice
president. While in the convention, he was appointed by the first Congressional dele-
gation a member of the state and executive committees of the party.
Mr. Bechtel's interest in public affairs did not cause him to neglect his industry
on Staten Island. He became so noted as a brewer, that in 1879, his establishment
was visited by the Japanese Embassy, in company with the Secretary of State and other
officials. The foreigners, delighted with what they saw, gave Mr. Bechtel an order
for 100,000 bottles for shipment to Japan. Upon reaching their own country, they
sent him many flattering letters and a pair of costly vases, in token of appreciation and
esteem. By reason of his large investments, he rose to be the largest individual tax
payer on Staten Island. Among his possessions, he acquired a water front of nearly
eighteen hundred feet, having an average water depth of thirty feet at low tide. He
created an extensive and complete brewery plant with commodious offices, handsomely
furnished and decorated, their general design being that of the Queen Anne period.
A feature of the establishment is the Russian bath house, laid in cement with imported
white and blue tiles. The brewery stables, which are models of cleanliness and com-
fort, commanded the special commendation of Mr. Bergh, president of The Society for
the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, of which society Mr. Bechtel was a member.
Previous to his improvement of the Edgewater roads, he was obliged to stable his
horses in New York city, employing a steamboat for their conveyance to and from the
island.
To Mr. Bechtel's influence and activity, the growth of Richmond county in his
time was largely due. He possessed foresight and judgment, was quick to discern the
need of improvements, and prompt to carry them to completion. He was the first to
introduce refrigerating machines and the electric light on Staten Island. Personally
genial in nature, kind and companionable, he was, like most other men, ambitious for
wealth, and acquired it by hard work. He held it with no miser's grasp, however,
and was liberal in gifts to public and private charities, ever ready to extend a helping
hand to the deserving poor. Many poor families on Staten Island were the recipients
of his bounty. It was his intention to found upon Staten Island a hospital for unfor-
70 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
tunates of all sects and nationalities, but his death prevented the completion of this
enterprise, upon the execution of which he had already entered, purchasing a house
and fitting it up with hospital appliances. The building has since been transferred to
The S. R. Smith Infirmary, a worthy institution, which sold the property and with
the proceeds erected a new pavilion, which in honor of the donor has been named the
"Bechtel" ward. When it was found that several thousand dollars were yet needed to
make the ward all which could be desired, Mrs. Bechtel promptly supplied the money
for its completion.
In 1865, Mr. Bechtel was married to Miss Eva Schoen, of New York city, who,
with four daughters and one son, survived him.
CHARLES BATHQATE BECK, philanthropist, who died in Richfield Springs,
N.Y., in October, 1893, derived a large property in land, in 1887, from his mother and
his uncle, Dr. James Bathgate. It consisted mainly of a farm, located originally in
what was Westchester county but now included within the northern boundaries of the
city corporation and the centre of a thickly populated district. This estate had already
become valuable. At his death, Mr. Beck willed the greater portion of his possessions
to Dr. Parkhurst's Society for the Prevention of Crime, Columbia College, The Presby-
terian Board of Home Missions, and The New York and The Presbyterian Hospitals,
making specific legacies of $100,000 to The First Presbyterian Church of West Farms
and about $55,000 to various local charities and societies.
NELSON HARVIN BECKWITH, merchant, born in Cazenovia, N. Y., 1807, died
in New York city, Sept. 24, 1889. He was a son of Judge Beckwith, a member of the
convention which drafted the State Constitution. In his earlier years, he filled various
mercantile positions in Canada and Europe, but about 1835, returned to New York,
where he began the importation of coffee and spices, being at one time in partnership
with George W. Dunscomb. He was at one time president of The Mutual Fire Insur-
ance Co. In 1852, he retired temporarily, but in 1857 went to Hong Kong to become
managing partner of the great mercantile house of Russell & Co., remaining there
three years. It was due to his efforts that American steamers obtained control in
Chinese inland waters. Removing to Paris in 1861, at the outbreak of the Civil War,
he and Consul General John Bigelow proved largely instrumental in preventing the
departure of certain Confederate vessels from French ports. At the Paris Expo-
sition of 1867, Mr. Beckwith served as Commissioner General for the United States
and won the high regard of Napoleon III., who bestowed upon him the Cross of the
Legion Of Honor. In 1876, he represented New York State at the Centennial Expo-
sition. He was married in 1842 to Frances, daughter of Colonel Grant Forbes. His
wife died in 1885. Their children were Leonard, who married the daughter of
Edwards Pierrepont; Arthur, an artist; and a daughter. Vice president of The
vSociety for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, he was also actively connected with
the Metropolitan Museum of Art and a member of the Century and Union clubs.
HENRY BEDLOW, capitalist, descendant of an old family, was born Dec. 21,
1821, on Harman street, now East Broadway, in this city. Isaac Bedlow, founder of
the family in America and owner of Bedlow's Island in New York harbor, who immi-
grated from Leyden, Holland, about 1639, was a son of Godfrey Bedlow, physician to
William, Prince of Orange. In 1668, the island to which he gave his name, came
to him by purchase, and there he made his home. One son in each generation has
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. BE. 7 1
since represented the family. William, grandfather of Henry Bedlow, served as one
of the commissioners to survey and establish the Military Academy at West Point, and
married Catherine, sister of Col. Henry Rutgers. His son, Henry, father of the
subject of this sketch, was the heir at law of Col. Henry Rutgers (in the event of the
Colonel dying intestate) and inherited property also from an aunt. Henry Bedlow, son
of the last named, studied under private tutors at Yale University, and graduated later
from Harvard Law School. He was admitted to the bar, but, instead of engaging in
litigation in the courts, he then studied medicine, both at home and in France. Early
in life he became an attache of the American Legation at Naples. He also served in
1848 as assistant physician of the American expedition to the Dead Sea. While
thoroughly a New Yorker, Mr. Bedlow long ago made Newport, R. I., his home, and
held the office of Mayor of that city in 1875, 1876 and 1877. The local press described
him as a splendid Mayor. A Union man during the war, educated, genial, public
spirited and clear headed, he is a worthy descendant of a noble family. March 2, 1850,
he married Josephine Maria De Wolf Homer, daughter of Fitzhenry Homer of Boston.
Their children are Harriet Hall, widow of Lieut.-Comm'r Francis Morris, U. S. N., and
Alice Prescott, wife of William Henry Mayer. Mr. Bedlow's clubs are the Reading
Room, Casino, Golf and Harvard clubs of Newport, and the Players' and Union League
of New York.
HENRY RUTGERS BEEKMAN, Judge of the Superior Court, a lawyer of recog-
nized ability and a member of the well-known Beekman family, was born in the city of
New York, Dec. 8, 1845. His paternal ancestors came from Holland and his maternal
ancestors from Ireland. He is a lineal descendant of Gerardus Beekman, at one time
Governor of New York. Gerardus Beekman was Major under Jacob Leisler and a
member of the Council at the time of the Revolution of 1688. After the arrival of
Governor Slaughter, when Leisler was condemned and executed for treasonable con-
duct in refusing to give up New York, Gerardus Beekmen was one of the eight who
were condemned with him but recommended to the Governor's mercy. He gained his
liberty, and in 1700 became Lieutenant Colonel under Governor Belmont, afterward
becoming a member of Governor Cornbury's Council.
When Governor Ingoldby was removed, Gerardus Beekman was made President
of the Council and acting Governor, filling this position until the arrival of Governor
Hunter in 1710. He afterward became a member of Governor Hunter's Council,
which office he held until his death, which occurred in 1728. He was also a physician
and a wealthy landowner.
Another member of this distinguished family was William Beekman, who sailed
with Peter Stuyvesant to the New Netherlands, and was an officer in the West India
Company and an alderman in New York under English rule.
Judge Beekman's mother was the daughter of William Neilson, a prominent New
Yorker.
At the age of sixteen, the young man entered Columbia College and soon became
known as a careful and industrious student. He graduated in 1865 and took up the
study of law in the Columbia Law College, from which he graduated, being admitted
to the bar in 1867. He enjoyed a lucrative and growing practice almost from the
beginning. Previous to his election as Judge of the Superior Court, he was a member
of the law firm of Ogden & Beekman.
•j2 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
As a citizen, Judge Beekman is broad-minded and patriotic and widely known as a
political reformer. He has held a number of appointive and elective offices, the first
being that of school trustee for the Eighteenth Ward in 1884. Then followed his
appointment in 1885, by Mayor Grace, as Park Commissioner. In 1886, he was elected
President of the Board of Aldermen, for which office he was nominated by the United
Democracy. In 1888 he was appointed by Mayor Hewitt, Counsel to the Corporation
of the City of New York, to succeed Morgan J. O'Brien, who had been elected Judge
of the Supreme Court. He was subsequently appointed by Governor Hill a member
of the Commission for the Promotion of Uniformity of Legislation in the United States
on Marriage, Divorce and other laws, all of which offices he has filled to the great
advantage of the city and the State. As Corporation Counsel, he gained the reputation
of being the most forcible and effective official who had ever appeared before the legis-
lative committees at Albany.
He advocated, when President of the Board of Aldermen, the establishment of
small parks for the city, and in 1887 succeeded in having a bill passed in the Legisla-
ture which embodied his ideas. While a member of the Park Board, he was an ardent
worker in behalf of the maintenance of public baths for the poor, to be erected in the
small parks situated in the thickly populated portions of the city.
For some years past, he has taken an active part in attempts to obtain legislation
which would enable the city of New York to secure adequate rapid transit facilities.
He drew the bill for the Chamber of Commerce which passed the Legislature in 1894,
reconstituting the Rapid Transit Commission and authorizing municipal construction of
a rapid transit road when sanctioned by a vote of the people, and on Nov. 6, 1894, this
measure was ratified by them. He was appointed Counsel to the Board by the Rapid
Transit Commissioners.
Mr. Beekman was nominated in 1894 by the Committee of Seventy for Judge of the
Superior Court. He received the support of all factions except Tammany Hall and
was elected by an overwhelming vote, his plurality over his opponent, Judge Truax,
being 40,019.
Judge Beekman is a member of the Union, Century, University, Manhattan, City,
and Democratic clubs. He was married in New York city, in 1870, to Isabella Law-
rence, daughter of Richard Lawrence, an old and prosperous East India merchant.
They have four children, Josephine L., William F., Mary E., and Henry R. Beekman.
JAflES WILLIAfl BEEKMAN, land owner, born in New York city, Nov. 22,
1815, died here, June 15, 1877. He was descended from Wilhelmus Beekman, the com-
panion of Peter Stuyvesant and was a second cousin of Henry R. Beekman. After
graduation from Columbia College, he came into possession of a large property from
his father, which was increased by inheritance from his uncle, James Beekman, of the
family estate in New York city on East River, near 52d street. Beekman Hill ran
from 42d to 5 5th streets on the East River, and thereon stood the old Beekman man-
sion, a place of historic interest, by reason of its prominence in the American Revolu-
tion. Mr. Beekman made this old mansion his home. He figured to some extent in pub-
lic affairs, and in iSsowaschosen State Senator from New York city, serving two terms.
Erastus Corning, Thurlow Weed and he attended the Peace Convention in Washington
in 1 86 1 as delegates Mr. Beekman made generous use of his means in charitable work.
The New York Hospital, of whieh he was vice-president, The Women's Hospital,
74
AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
of which he was president, and The New York Dispensary, of which he was a direc-
tor, found him a useful official, in consequence of his careful study of hospital methods
in England and on the Continent. Always proud of his connection with the original
settlers of the Island of Manhattan, he was a prominent member of The New York
Historical Society and president of the St. Nicholas and Century Societies. Two sons
and two daughters survived him.
JULIUS BEER, merchant, a native of Germany, was born Sept. 1,1832. After
roaming around the world for a year or two, visiting South America in 1848, and then
taking ship for California, he settled in San Francisco in 1849, and in tne firm of Weil
&Co., engaged in the tobacco trade. In 1865 he came to New York to manage the
affairs of the firm in this city. The San Francisco house was given up in 1874. Mr.
Beer is a large importer of leaf tobacco from Havana, and is now sole member of the
house of Weil & Co. He has made himself thoroughly at home in New York, is a
supporter of Mount Sinai Hospital, Montefiore Home, and other charities, and belongs
to several societies. In 1868 he married Sophia Walter, and has six children living.
EDWIN BEERS, lumber merchant, born in Cold Spring Harbor, N. Y., in 1821,
died in Brooklyn, Nov. 18, 1894. While a lad of thirteen, he came to the city of Brooklyn
and grew up in the insurance business, first as boy and clerk, and later aiding in the
organization of The Phenix Insurance Co., of which he was a director for many years.
Later yet, he became one of the organizsrs and secretary of The Montauk Insurance
Co. In 1860, Mr. Beers entered the firm of H. N. Conklin, Son & Beers, lumber deal-
ers, who were succeeded by Beers & Resseguie. His lumber yards supplied an im-
mense quantity of lumber for .the construction of homes and stores in Brooklyn. Pos-
sessing the power of acquisition, he gained a fortune, through the investment of which
he became, for twenty years, president of The Broadway Railroad of Brooklyn; di-
rector of The First National Bank of the Eastern district and The Nassau Gas Co;
chairman of the executive committee of The Long Island Loan & Trust Co. ; and trus-
tee for The Dime Savings Bank. For many years Mr. Beers served as vestryman in
the Church of the Holy Trinity and treasurer of The Church Charity Foundation. He
was also identified with The Brooklyn Institute of Arts and Sciences and The Brooklyn
Art Association, and helped found the Adelphi Academy. An adventurous tempera-
ment led him in early life into the militia and gained for him a commission as Lieuten-
ant Colonel, when 24 years old. During the War, he served as a captain in the 23d
Regiment. His widow, a daughter of the late Seymour L. Husted, and two children
survive him.
JOSIAH BELDEN, merchant, a native of Cromwell, Conn., born May 4, 1815, died
in New York city, April 23, 1892. He was a descendant from one of two brothers,
who settled in Wethersfield, Conn., in 1645, his mother being Abigail McKee. Left
an orphan at the age of fourteen, and entirely dependent upon his own exertions there-
after, his early life was full of toil. In 1830, he found a place as dry goods
clerk in New York, then learned the silversmith's trade in Albany, sailed before the
mast to Liverpool, and drifting South, became a merchant in Yazoo City, Miss. In
May, 1841, Mr. Belden started, with a party of thirty pioneers, for the Pacific Coast,
taking the overland route and arriving after six months of hardship and privation, liv-
ing on coffee and horse meat the latter part of the journey. At Monterey, in 1842, he
made arrangements with Thomas O. Larkin to take charge of a branch store at
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. BE. 75
Santa Cruz, and, from that time, was successfully engaged in mercantile pursuits.
When Captain Jones, of the frigate "United States," took possession of California for
the Government, Mr. Belden was appointed Alcalde of Santa Cruz, and, with his own
hands, raised the American flag in California for the first time. He returned to Mon-
terey in 1845, and in 1846 removed to San Francisco, then a village of about twenty
houses, engaged in business, and two j-ears later opened a store in San Jose. In 1 849,
he retired from active business, thereafter investing his means successfully in real
estate in San Francisco. First Mayor of San Jose in 1850, he made that town his
summer home, building a fine house there in 1855, in a park of ten acres of ground.
During the Civil War, his contributions to the sanitary fund were notably large. Mr.
Belden was married Feb. i, 1849, to Sarah Margaret Jones, of San Jose, who had
crossed the plains in 1846 with her father's family. His children are Charles A. Belden,
of San Francisco ; George F. Belden, of Cincinnati ; Mary E., wife of Luis F. Emilio;
Laura J., wife of George Rutledge Gibson, and Louise A., wife of Lewis M. Iddings.
Mr. Belden established his home in New York in 1881, and was a member of the Union
League club of New York and the Pacific Union club of San Francisco, and a director
of The New York, Lake Erie & Western Railroad. He owned a large amount of real
estate in New York, as well as in -San Francisco, and bore a reputation for the highest
integrity in all commercial relations.
fllLO flERRICK BELDING, silk manufacturer, was born in Ashfield, Mass., April
3, 1833. He is a son of Hiram Belding, a merchant, and grandson of John Belding,
who served in the war of the Revolution. The family is one of the oldest as it is one
of the most public spirited and influential in the United States, having been planted
here in 1635. The old homestead, built in 1800, is now in the possession of Mr.
Belding' s son.
Milo received an education at the Shelburne Falls academy, and spent his vaca-
tions in the wholesome labor of a farm. He began life when seventeen years of age,
with $20, borrowed from an uncle. Investing this small sum in sewing silk, bought
from a manufacturer in Northampton, he sold the goods in the towns of western
Massachusetts. The trip proved a financial success. Believing that the silk business
presented an excellent field for his vigorous enterprise, Mr. Belding took a position in
the firm of W. M. Root & Co., of Pittsfield, Mass., with whom he remained till 1858.
He then purchased a team and again became a travelling merchant in the eastern dis-
tricts of the commonwealth. His father and two brothers removed to Michigan in
1858, and, in 1860, Milo began sending them small invoices of silk thread to sell. The
success of this experiment led Mr. Belding, in 1 863, with two of his brothers, to estab-
lish a silk house in Chicago, and, in 1865, one in New York city. Of the latter he took
charge in person. In 1866, they started a silk factory in Rockville, Conn., having
leased a floor in a mill for that purpose. The brothers were very capable men and
pushed their industry with so much vigor that they were able in 1869 to buy the mill in
Rockville and occupy the whole of it. Later, it was greatly enlarged. In 1874, they
built a second silk mill in Northampton, Mass., and later one in Belding, Mich., the
latter a thriving city, founded by the family in Otisco township, which has grown up
around the industries they have established. They now have in operation five large
silk mills, including, besides the three mentioned, establishments in Montreal, Canada,
and Petaluma, Cala.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. BE. 77
Mr. Belding is now at the head of the firm of Belding Bro's & Co., of New York
city, the largest silk manufacturing house in the world, and the chief emporium for the
distribution of the products of their factories. They employ about 3,000 operatives and
consume in the manufacture of various kinds of silk goods about 2,500 pounds of raw
silk per day, a daily consumption of raw silk which is not excelled by any firm in the
world. Branch houses are maintained in Boston, St. Louis, Cincinnati, Philadelphia,
Chicago, St. Paul, Baltimore and San Francisco.
Mr. Belding has built up a city of over 5,000 inhabitants at Belding, Mich., where
the family have large real estate and manufacturing interests, including two silk mills
and a handsome fireproof hotel and opera house and various minor industries. He is
president of The Livonia Salt & Mining Co., at Livonia, N. Y., where salt is mined
from native beds in the earth, the works having a capacity of 3,000 tons of salt in
twenty-four hours. From his marble quarries at Gouverneur, N. Y. , a beautiful gray
marble is produced, resembling granite and splendidly adapted to building and monu-
mental purposes. Among his other possessions, are large interests in mining and tim-
ber lands in North Carolina and Tennessee, mining properties in the Harlem valley,
and a ranch in Montana, besides an ownership in numerous commercial enterprises.
He has been since its organization president of The Commonwealth Fire Insurance Co. ,
and is also president of The American Union Life Insurance Co., both of New York
city. Few men display the ability to manage so many independent enterprises with so
much skill, energy and success. Strong in personality, sound in judgment, and com-
manding large capital, he wields great influence in the world of affairs, and is one of
the men of constructive temperament who rank among the best examples of patriotic
and energetic American manhood.
In 1856, Mr. Belding was married to Emily C., also of Revolutionary ancestry,
daughter of William Leonard, of Ashfield, Mass. They have one son, Milo
Merrick Belding, jr. Too greatly occupied to give any important share of his time to
purely social relaxation, Mr. Belding is a charming companion nevertheless in private
life, and is a member of the Colonial club, Chamber of Commerce, Sons of the Revo-
lution, American Geographical Society, Silk Association, and several other like organ-
izations.
ROBERT LENOX BELKNAP, a gentleman of high social position, was born in
New York city, July 23, 1848. The surname of his family is of Norman origin, having
been originally spelled Belleknappe. It is supposed to have indicated a "beautiful
hill," and is first found recorded in English history about the year 1067, on the roll of
the Battle Abbey. Several men of the name achieved distinction in their day. Their
lives can be traced through the histories of Kent and Warwickshire. Sir Robert
Belknap, Knight, who died in 1400, Chief Justice of the Court of Common Pleas dur-
ing the reign of Richard II, possessed considerable land in the counties of Kent and
Sussex. His son, Sir Hammond Belknap, Knight, who died in 1428-29, was made Lord
Treasurer of Normandy. Sir Edward Belknap, born 1471, grandson of Sir Hammond,
had the custody of Warwick Castle in 1502, and the rank of Esquire of the Body to
King Henry VIII. The name cannot at present be found in England, nor has the
connection of the American family with the English family been established, except
by the fact that the early members in this country used the same arms as borne by
the English family. The American family is descended from Abraham Belknap. who
78 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
came to this country about 1625 and settled in Salem, Mass.. where he died in 1643.
The subject of this biography is descended from this Abraham Belknap through
Joseph Belknap of Boston, Mass, who died Nov. 14, 1712; Thomas Belknap of
Woburn, Mass., who died Oct. 15, 1755; Samuel Belknap, who died Jan. i, 1771; Abel
Belknap of Newburgh, N. Y., who died Nov. 15, 1804; Aaron Belknap of Newburg,
N. Y., who died March 14, 1847; and his father, Aaron Betts Belknap, a practicing
lawyer in New York city, who died June 4, 1880. His grandfather, Aaron Belknap of
Newburgh, married his cousin, Mary Josepha Lydia Stearns Belknap, who died July
20. 1862, and was the daughter of Capt. Samuel Belknap of Woburn, Mass., commander
of a, company of the ad Regiment of militia of Middlesex county, Commonwealth of
Massachusetts, and took part in the campaign for American independence, which began
with the Lexington alarm. Mrs. Belknap's brother, Samuel Belknap, who died May
19, 1845, was the father of Gen. William Goldsmith Belknap of the United States
Army, who served during the War of 1812 and the Mexican War and was the father of
Gen. William Worth Belknap, Secretary of War under the_ Presidency of General Grant.
Robert Lenox Belknap's mother was Jennet Lenox, the daughter of Robert Maitland
of New York and Eliza Sproat Lenox, his wife, the latter being the daughter of Robert
Lenox, a conspicuous merchant of the early part of the present century in New York.
Mr. Lenox was the brother of Major David Lenox of Philadelphia, President of The
United States Bank, an officer of the Pennsylvania Continental Line during the Revo-
lution. Mr. Maitland was of Scotch descent and a direct descendant of Thomas de
Mautlant, who died in 1228.
The subject of this sketch prepared for college at the Collegiate school under the
late George Payne Quackenboss, LL.D., and entered Columbia College, from which
he graduated in 1869. The same year he received the degree, ad cumici/i, from the
college of Princeton, New Jersey, and in 1872, the degree of A. M. from Columbia
College. He is a member of the Psi Upsilon and Phi Beta Kappa college fraternities.
In 1866, while yet a student, Mr. Belknap entered the 7th Regiment, N. G. , S. N. Y.,
the favorite military organization of this city, which then, as now, contained many
members of the leading families of the city. After six years of experience, he was in
1872 commissioned upon the staff of the First Brigade, First Division. In 1880 he
retired from active service, resigning his commission as Lieutenant Colonel and Assis-
tant Adjutant General, and being commissioned Colonel by brevet. During 1875 ne
served as Acting Assistant Inspector General of the State of New York.
Mr. Belknap inherited a large property from his father and mother, which he has
since doubled by his own efforts. The management and improvement of various large
properties now fully occupies him. His success is frequently pointed to as a proof that
the "college man in business " is capable of displaying the highest qualities of the
practical and executive faculty. From 1878 to 1888, he was treasurer of The Northern
Pacific Railroad Co., and is president of The Northern Trust Co., of Wisconsin, presi-
dent of The Duluth Gas and Water Co., director of The Land and River Improvement
Co., and trustee of The Real Estate Trust Co., of New York.
One of the most generous of men in the promotion of philanthropic work in this
city, he has lent the influence of his name to several important charitable and educa-
tional institutions. His service on several boards has been especially long and credita-
ble. Since 1877, he has been a manager of The Presbyterian Hospital, and was its
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. BE. 79
treasurer, 1880-92. He has been a manager of The American Bible Society since
1879, and of The New York Lying-in Hospital since 1881. The Presbyterian Church
on University Place elected him a trustee in 1882, and he retains this relation to the
present time, having been president of the Board since March, 1884. Since 1887, he
has been a trustee of the Theological Seminary in Princeton, N. J.
A man of cultivated tastes, genial in nature, broad and patriotic in his views,
animated by generous sentiments, and a charming companion, he is one of the leaders
of the social life of the city. His clubs are the Union, Union League, University, Down
Town, Columbia Alumni, New York Yacht, and Seawanhaka Corinthian Yacht clubs.
In the right of his great grand uncle, Major David Lenox, he enjoys the distinction of
membership in The Society of the Cincinnati, and by virtue of descent from Samuel
Belknap and Abel Belknap, his great grandfathers, is a member of The Sons of the
Revolution. He has also joined The Society of Colonial Wars.
Mr. Belknap was married Feb. 3, 1870, to Mary P , daughter of Henry Rutgers
Remsen, and his children are : Robert Lenox, jr. , Waldron Phoenix, Mary Remsen,
Jennet Maitland, Elizabeth and Maitland Belknap.
GEORGE BELL, shipping merchant, born in New York city, April 8, 1804, died
at his home, No. 20 West zoth street, Dec. 9, 1881. His life was a busy one, not
especially eventful, and prosperous. A partner with his father for a number of years
on South street, his mind occupied with ships, cargoes and questions of foreign trade,
he carried on the business afterward on his own account and gained a large fortune.
He was senior director of The National Fire Insurance Co. , and a director of The Butch-
ers and Drovers' Bank, at his death. His estate descended to his daughter, Catherine
B. Bell, and various collateral relatives.
ISAAC BELL, jr., capitalist, born in New York, Nov. 16, 1846, died here, Jan.
20, 1889. He was the son of Isaac Bell, a prominent citizen of New York, who held
many positions of trust and served for years as Commissioner of Charities and Correc-
tion and member of the Board of Education. His mother, Adelaide, was a daughter of
Dr. Valentine Mott. Isaac Bell, his grandfather, was an old time shipping merchant
of this city in the East India trade. Isaac, jr. , as the subject of this sketch always
called himself, was educated in private schools and at Harvard College. He began life
as clerk in the bank of Brown Bro's & Co., and proved a competent business man.
Becoming finally interested in the cotton trade, first at Savannah, Ga., and afterward
as a member of the firm of Arthur Barnwell & Co. , of Charleston, he established two
houses, one in New Orleans and one in New York city, under the name of Isaac Bell,
jr. , & Co. He inherited means, but was a shrewd, upright and successful merchant
and retired with a fortune in 1877. He was married, in 1877, to a sister of James Gor-
don Bennett, and in 1880 made Newport, R. I., his home. Three children were born
to them, Isaac, Nora and Rita. Mr. Bell took an active part in the campaign of 1884,
as a Democrat, and was in 1885 appointed by President Cleveland Minister to the Neth-
erlands. He attended the St. Louis Convention in 1888 as a delegate from Rhode
Island. The Union and New York clubs of this city claimed him as a member.
AUGUST BELMONT, banker, born in Alzey, now a province of Prussia, Dec. 6,
1816, died in New York, Nov. 24, 1890. His father was a banker and land proprietor.
At the age of fourteen, he secured a position as errand boy in the banking house of
the Rothschilds at Frankfort, and three years later was their clerk in the branch at
8o
Naples. He proved efficient, took charge of the Naples branch, and there managed
some of the enormous financial transactions of the Rothschilds. At the age of twenty-
one, he came to New York as the agent of his employers and settled the affairs of
their branch in this city, which had suspended during the panic of 1837. Soon after-
ward, he embarked in banking on his own account, with moderate capital, but large
experience and abundance of energy, continuing to represent the Rothschilds. His
business was greatly prospered. In 1841, he fought a duel over a point of honor, in
which he was wounded, with the result of being lamed for life. Becoming a citizen of
the United States, he identified himself with the Democratic party. From 1844 to
1850 he was Consul General for the Austrian Government, and in 1853 was appointed
United States Charge d' Affaires at the Hague. In 1854, he was made Minister Resi-
dent, resigning in 1858, having first negotiated a highly important consular convention,
for which, with other diplomatic services, he received the special thanks of the depart-
ment at Washington. Upon his return to New York, he resumed banking and estab-
lished the house of August Belmont & Co., which is yet carried on by other members
of the family. He served the National Democratic Committee, 1860-72, as chairman
of that body. Mr. Belmont joined the Manhattan, Union, Knickerbocker, American
Jockey, Coney Island Jockey and New York Jockey clubs, and, for many years, ranked
as a social leader of New York. Wealth enabled him to gratify a liking for fine horses^
his stable sheltering many noted animals. His wife was a daughter of Mathew Gal-
braith Perry, brother of Commodore Perry, the hero of Lake Erie. To them were
born Perry, August and Oliver H. P. Belmont, a daughter who married Samuel S.
Howland, and Jane Pauline and Raymond, who died while young. — His son, PERRY
BELMONT, lawyer, born in New York city, Dec. 28, 1851, graduated from Harvard
College in 1872, and from Columbia Law School in 1876. Being admitted to the bar,
he practiced his profession until 1881. Having established his home in Oyster Bay, on
Long Island, he was, in 1880, elected to Congress. He served four successive terms,
until March 4, 1887. During his first term, he was a member of the Committee on
Foreign Affairs, and came into notice through his examination of James G. Blaine,
concerning the latter's supposed interests in the guano deposits of Peru, and his media-
tion between Chili and Peru while Secretary of State. In 1885, he was made chairman
of the Committee on Foreign Affairs, but resigned in 1888 to accept the position of
Minister to Spain. Mr. Belmont has an interest in the banking firm of August Belmont
& Co., but has taken no active part in its management, his inclinations being in the
direction of public and social life. He has joined many of the best clubs in town, in-
cluding the Metropolitan, Democratic, Manhattan, Bar, Union, Knickerbocker, Univer-
sity, Harvard, Racquet, Coaching, Country, Liederkranz, Fencers' and South Side
Sportsmen's clubs. — AUGUST BELflONT, banker, son of August Belmont, was born in
New York city, Feb. 18, 1853. Graduating from Harvard College in 1875, he entered
the bank of August Belmont & Co. where he soon proved a competent, clear-headed,
and prudent banker. He is now at the head of August Belmont & Co., the American
representatives of the Rothschild bank abroad. In 1881, he married Bessie Hamilton
Morgan, and has three sons, August, Raymond and Morgan. The family make their
country home at Hempstead on Long Island. Mr. Belmont is a director of the Bank
of the State of New York, The National Park Bank, The Chicago, Milwaukee & St.
Paul Railway, The Louisville & Nashville Railroad, The Manhattan Trust Co., The
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. BE. 8 1
Westinghouse Electric & Manufacturing Co. and The Kings Count}- Elevated Railroad.
He was at one time president of The New York Athletic Club, is one of the organizers
of the annual Patriarchs' Ball, and a member of more than twenty of the best clubs in
New York, including the Union, Manhattan, Knickerbocker, Country, Lawyers', Down
Town, Coaching, City, Harvard, and several of the nunting and yachting clubs.
ELIAS CORNELIUS BENEDICT, banker and stock broker, born Jan. 24, 1834,
is a son of the Rev. Henry Benedict. His native place is Somers in Westchester
county, N. Y. The family was planted in America by Thomas Benedict, an immi-
grant from Nottinghamshire, England, in 1638. At the age of sixteen, Elias, without
means and with only a fair education, began to master the mysteries of stock broker-
age, as clerk in the employ of Corning & Co., in New York city. In 1857 he opened
an office of his own on Wall street, displaying the sign of Benedict & Co. , and for
nearly forty years has been one of the most active, ingenious and indefatigable opera-
tors in the whirlpool of this centre of speculation. The Gold Exchange Bank, which
grew out of gold speculation during and after the war, originated with him. He has
always dealt largely in investment securities, and has especially represented transac-
tions in the stocks of gas companies. Mr. Benedict is a Democrat in political faith, and
an intimate friend of President Cleveland. His clubs are the Manhattan, Players' and
City, and several yachting organizations.
HENRY HARPER BENEDICT, one of the partners in the firm of Wyckoff, Seamans
& Benedict, who have attained a world-wide reputation as the manufacturers of the
Remington Typewriter, is a man of education and a successful and highly respected
citizen.
He traces his descent through a long line of worthy and capable ancestors, extending
back to William Benedict, who was living in Nottinghamshire, England, in the year
1500. William's great-grandson, Thomas Benedict, was born in Nottinghamshire,
England, in 1617, and came to America in 1638. He lived first on Long Island at
Southold, Jamaica and Huntington, and later in Connecticut. The first of the name of
Benedict in America, he was a notable man in his day. He was a deacon, and aided
actively in the founding of the first Presbyterian Church in America, at Jamaica. He
held a number of local offices on Long Island, and was appointed by Governor
Nichols a delegate to what is believed to have been the first legislative body ever
convened in New York, to settle "good and known laws" for the inhabitants of Long
Island. From 1670 to 1675, he served as a member of the General Assembly of the
State. Mr. Benedict died in Norwalk, Conn., in 1690.
His son James constituted one of the eight men who bought the land and settled
the city of Danbury, Conn. , and here James, grandson of the emigrant, was born in
1685, the first white male child of the place. John, a son of James, was a member of
the Connecticut Legislature for many years and acquired the title of Captain in military
service. His son James moved to Ballston, N. Y., after the Revolution, thence tf>
Auburn in 1793. The men of this line were all pioneers, enterprising and courageous,
and they acquired in the life of the frontier a self-reliance of character and sturdiness
of constitution which have always characterized the family.
Elias, the son of James, came to Herkimer county, N. Y., about 1790, and built the
log cabin in which his son Micaiah, the father of Henry Harper Benedict, was born in.
1801. Both Elias and Micaiah bore a man's part in the subjugation of the wilderness.
82 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
Micaiah Benedict was a remarkable man. He attended school one summer, when
about seven years old, and never received a day's farther training in any other school
than that of experience. Nevertheless he became a man of extended learning. A local
historian says "that which made him erudite was reading, thinking and remembering"
through his whole life. He read the best books diligently, and, possessing a wonderful
memory, merited more fully than many others to whom the term has been applied the
soubriquet of a ''walking encyclopedia." An ardent Democrat, he admired Andrew
Jackson, and served as a local magistrate for many years. He cast his last vote as a
Democrat for Franklin Pierce, and then became a Republican and remained such until
his death in 1881. He was an enthusiastic member of the Masonic order, and lectured
much on the subject of Masonry. For several years he occupied the position of Deputy
Grand Master in this State.
Henry Harper Benedict was born in German Flats, Herkimer county, N. Y., Oct.
9, 1844. His father, anxious that the boy should receive that scholarly tuition which
had been denied to himself, educated Harper at the public schools and at Little Falls
Academy and Fairfield Seminary in Herkimer county. Later the young man spent
some time at Marshall Institute at Easton, N. Y., and then enjoyed the regular course
at Hamilton College, being graduated therefrom in 1869. At college he joined the
Delta Kappa Epsilon fraternity.
The young man was an excellent student, and aided in his own education by
serving during 1867 and 1868 as professor of Latin and the higher mathematics in Fair-
field Seminary.
After completing his college course, Mr. Benedict entered the employment oi
E. Remington & Sons, manufacturers of rifles and guns at Ilion, N. Y. , in a confi-
dential position. He -won the respect of his employers at an early period, and showed
so much zeal and talent that he was elected in time a director of the corporation oi
E. Remington & Sons, and treasurer of The Remington Sewing Machine Co. With
characteristic energy he identified himself heartily with the local interests of Ilion, and
for thirteen years was regarded one of the most valued citizens of the place. He
helped to organize the First Presbyterian Church there, and served as an elder,
trustee and treasurer therein. He was also president of The Herkimer County -Bible
Society. When The Ilion Literary Association was formed, he became one of its lead-
ing spirits, and for many years its president. This association held annual courses of
lectures, and Mr. Benedict's duties as president brought him the acquaintance of many
of the most prominent people in the country.
In 1882, having been admitted to membership in the firm of Wyckoff, Seamans &
Benedict, he removed to New York city to engage in the sale of Remington typewrit-
ers. This remarkable invention made slow progress at first, but, once in practical use
among a number of firms, won its way rapidly into public favor. The machine has
been advertised with great ingenuity and energy, and its sale is now world- wide. In
1886, the firm purchased the entire typewriter plant of the Remingtons, including all
rights and franchises, and have since conducted the manufacture as well as the sale of
the machine, attaining a remarkable success.
In 1884, Mr. Benedict made a first trip to Europe in the interest of his firm, and
"has since been abroad many times, both for business and for pleasure. In his trips,
his family usually accompanies him. He has had charge of the foreign department of
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. BE. 83
his firm's business, which is now firmly established, with connections in every part of
the world.
In 1867, he married Maria Nellis, daughter of Henry G. Nellis, and granddaughter
of General George H. Nellis, of Fort Plain, N. Y. They have one child living, a
daughter, fifteen years of age. Their home has been at 1 1 6 Willow Street, Brooklyn
Heights. Mr. and Mrs. Benedict are members of the Fifth Avenue Presbyterian
Church in New York city, Dr. John Hall's, but attend the Church of the Pilgrims in
Brooklyn, the Rev. Dr. Storrs, pastor. Their daughter is a member there. Mr. Benedict
is a member of the Hamilton club and Long Island Historical Society in Brooklyn, and
of the Grolier, Republican, Delta Kappa Epsilon and Arkwright clubs in New York.
A man of refined tastes, he has made a collection of engravings and etchings by
the great masters, which is of the highest quality, perhaps unsurpassed by any other of
its size anywhere. He also possesses a good library and a collection of oil paintings,
mostly by American artists, which, like his prints, represent the several artists at
their best.
JAflES GORDON BENNETT, 'proprietor of The New York Herald, born in New
York city, May 10, 1841, is the son of James Gordon Bennett, founder of Tke Herald.
He was carefully educated, chiefly by private tutors, and prepared for journalism. It
was a cherished wish of the elder Bennett to see his son at the head of The Herald. The
latter was thoroughly trained in all branches of the newspaper business, and on the
death of his father in 1872 inherited both a fortune and The Herald. He has continued
the management of his successful morning journal down to the present time, exercis-
ing constant and careful supervision over both the business and editorial management.
While a resident of Paris, France, during recent years, his interest in the management of
The Herald never relaxes, the cable telegraph placing him in daily, almost hourly, com-
munication therewith. He has originated many remarkable enterprises, including
publication in England of storm warnings transmitted from the United States, the
Jeanette polar expedition, and the sending of Stanley to Africa in search of Living-
stone. He published for a time a London edition of The Herald, and conducts a suc-
cessful Paris edition. In 1883, with John W. Mackay, he organized The Commercial
Cable Co., which laid a new cable between America and Europe, to compete with the
combined English and French lines, and after a prolonged and anxious war with the
older cable companies, scored a triumphant success. Tlie Herald long occupied a site at
the corner of Ann street and Broadway but was recently moved to a beautiful building
on Broadway at 35th street. Mr. Bennett has always taken great interest in open air
sports, being a good horseman and a first rate yachtsman. While a resident of New
York city, he was the life of yachting, high class racing on the turf, polo, and kindred
sports; and his removal to Paris was a serious loss to the lovers of open air recreations.
He retains a home in New York, but owns houses also in Paris, and is a member of
the Union, Metropolitan, Racquet, Country, Coaching, New York Yacht, and New
York Athletic clubs of this city, the Meadow Brook Hunt, the Eastern Yacht club,
and other social organizations
JOSIAH S. BENNETT, merchant, a native of Connecticut, who died in this city,
June 6, 1887, in his seventieth year, was one of the old race of business men, whose use-
ful activities did so much to promote the growth of New York during the first half of
the present century. A nephew of Jonathan Sturges, he was a partner in Sturges,
84 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
Bennett & Co., for twenty years, and retired with ample means about 1865, being there-
after occupied with investments and the enjoyment of well earned rest. His wife sur-
vived him.
ADOLPH BERNHEIMER, merchant, born in Buttenhausen in the Suabian Alps, in
1833, died in this city, Oct. 19, 1894. Educated in a commercial institute in Bamberg, he
secured an apprenticeship in a wholesale dry goods house in Furth, Bavaria. He came
to New York city in 1852 and took his place as a clerk in the store of Bernheimer Bro's
& Co., a large dry goods house. Three years later, he was admitted to partnership,
and, as their buyer, made frequent trips to Europe. He conceived the idea of having
certain cotton fabrics made in this country, which he was in the habit of buying in
Manchester, and was operating factories in Rhode Island, when the outbreak of the
Civil War made the industry unprofitable. After the war, the firm of Bernheimer
Bro's was dissolved, and Mr. Bernheimer then began on his own account the manu-
facture of dyed and printed cotton fabrics. He was one of the pioneers of this industry
in the United States, all such goods having been previously imported from England,
and was largely instrumental in introducing American cotton goods into the West
Indies, Mexico and Central America. The surviving members of his family are his
wife Fannie, and three children, Leopold A. and Rosie Bernheimer and Mrs. Florence
B. Walter. He was a member of the Chamber of Commerce and of the Merchants'
Central chib, and conspicuous for his generous contributions to worthy charities.
ISAAC BERNHEIMER, clothing merchant, born in Jebenhausen, Germany, June
n, 1813, died in this country, July 23, 1893. He received his education in his native
land, but left school at fourteen to learn the trade of cotton manufacturing. After nine
years of toil in this occupation, he came to the United States in 1836 to establish a
business connection, and liked the country so much that he resolved to stay, thus
becoming the pioneer of his family in this country. In Cincinnati, he engaged in the
clothing and dry goods trade, afterward removing to Philadelphia and later to New
York, where he joined his brothers in this business. He retired in 1866, devoting his
attention thereafter to real estate, mining ventures, and The Central National Bank and
The Germania Life Insurance Co., of which he was a director. By his marriage with
Isabella W. Arnold of Philadelphia in 1846, he had eight children, Jacques A , Charles
D., and Meyer A. Bernheimer, Mrs. Kate Drey, Mrs. Charles Blum, and. Cora A.,
Blanche A. , and Alice A. Bernheimer Many charitable societies have cause to re-
member him with gratitude.
SIMON BERNHEIF1ER, clothing merchant, was born in Jebenhausen, Germany,
Nov. 20, 1819. He came to the land of freedom and business opportunities in 1838,
spent two years in Cincinnati, and then in 1840, joined his brothers, Herman and
Emanuel, in the clothing trade in New York. Isaac joined them later. Having
amassed a fortune, he retired from business in 1866, and since has lived quietly in town
in the management of investments. Since its organization, he has been a director of
The Central National Bank. By his marriage with Rosetta Gosling, in 1846, Mr Bern-
heimer is the father of twelve children, of whom the following are yet living: Jacob
S., Mayer S., Irving and Lorin Bernheimer, Mrs. Addie Seligman, Mrs. Lillie Lilien-
thal, and Beatrice Bernheimer.
SIMON E. BERNHEIflER, brewer, born in New York city, Nov. 26, 1849, is of Ger-
man descent and a son of the late Emanuel Bernheimer, a merchant and brewer for many
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. BE. 85
years of this city. After graduation from a commercial college, he served a year each in
the dry goods and clothing trades to gain experience, and then, about 1865, entered the
Lion Brewery, on io8th street. There he learned the mysteries of brewing. In 1878,
he assumed charge of the business, when the old firm of Bernheimer & Schmid, com-
posed of Emanuel Bernheimer and Joseph Schmid, proprietors of the establishment,
were succeeded by their sons, Simon E. Bernheimer and August Schmid, under the
same name. When originally started, the brewery was a very small one, but it grew
rapidly after the War, and the new partners developed the business to large propor-
tions, making it one of the largest in the city. Mr Bernheimer is a bachelor. He
takes a lively interest in the societies of the Hebrew race, and is liberal in his charities.
NATHAN BERNSTEIN, wholesale meat merchant, a native of Nassau, Germany,
born in 1830, died in Brooklyn, Oct. 7, 1894. Beginning life as a journeyman butcher,
he sailed for America in 1849, settled in Brooklyn, resumed the occupation in which he
had been trained, and during over forty years of active promotion of this honest trade
attained wealth. The large abattoirs he established in Brooklyn gave employment to
many men. He was a Hebrew by descent and a warm supporter of the charities of his
race in Brooklyn.
DAVID BETTnAN, oil producer, a native of New York city, was born July 9, 1848.
He is a son of Abraham Bettman, merchant. After graduating from the College of the
City of New York, he acquired an experience in mercantile pursuits as clerk for
Bernheimer Bro's and, in 1867, for Adolph Bernheimer, the latter a manufacturer of
cotton goods. In 1869, he became a partner in Adolph Bernheimer & Co. The house
dissolved in 1884 Like his brother Marcus, he invested his savings in petroleum
properties in Pennsylvania, Ohio, New York, West Virginia and Indiana, and his firms
of Stettheimer & Bettman, J. Stettheimer & Co., and Bettman & Watson are among
the largest individual oil producers in the United States. In 1880, Mr. Bettman was
married to Ida, daughter of Herman Bernheimer, and their children are Roland and
Harold.
MARCUS ABRAHAM BETTnAN, merchant and oil producer, was born in this
city, June 19, 1845. He is of German Hebrew descent, and a son of Abraham Bettman,
by occupation a dry goods merchant in this metropolis, who had emigrated hither in
1840. Marcus attended the public schools and the College of the City of New York un-
til the age of seventeen, and then found employment as a clerk with Bernheimer Bro's
and afterward with Bernheimer & Newman, merchants. A vigorous and capable man,
he rose to a partnership and when the firm dissolved in 1870, he joined that of Bern-
heimer, Son & Co., remaining until 1890. He was drawn to the oil fields of Pennysl-
vania in 1878, and has engaged in producing, with so much animation and perseverance,
that the oleic treasures of the earth have brought him a fortune. No less than 850 oil
wells belong to him, wholly or in part, in Pennsylvania, New York, West Virginia,
Ohio and Indiana, through his connection with the firms of J. Stettheimer and Co.,
Bettman & Watson, and Bettman, Watson & Bernheimer. His brother David and he
are classed among the largest oil producers in America, and they own a machine plant
in Belmont, W. Va., in which are made the boilers, engines, tools, and other appliances
required in their oil operations. Marcus is also the owner of much improved realty
in New York and other cities. In 1874 he was married to Emma, daughter of Herman
Bernheimer, and their children are Mabel, Gladys, Edyth and Man-in Bettman. Mr.
; 86 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
Bettman is a director of The Fourth National Bank and a member of The Manhattan
Club, which occupies A. T. Stewart's old marble mansion on Fifth avenue.
SOLOMON BEUTHNER, capitalist, born in 1824, died in New York city, June 5,
1889. A hard-headed, sturdy, positive man, he went to New Mexico in early life,
fought his way through all the trials which beset the pioneers, and was at one time a
partner of Lucien B. Maxwell, proprietor of the well-known Maxwell Land Grant. He
aided in the development of mining industries in the Territory, and had, besides his
office in New York, branches in Toas and Santa Fe. In his later years, he engaged in
mining in Germany, and amassed a fortune from his various enterprises. They called
him the " king of New Mexico." Self-made, unassuming and honest, he was a sterling
citizen.
ISAAC BIERMAN, merchant, a native of Germany, was born Dec. 31, 1824. He
is of Hebrew ancestry. Properly educated in German schools, he turned his face to-
wards the new world in 1845 and after a few years of honest occupation on this coast,
followed the Argonauts to California in 1849. Two years in that rough region sufficed
and he returned, locating in Pittsburg, Pa., as a clothing merchant. Thrifty, indus-
trious and capable, he fared so well in the smoky city, that he was able in 1 880 to estab-
lish himself in a large clothing business in New York. He is yet a member of Bier-
man, Hiedelberg & Co., on Broadway, but gives his time now almost wholly to The
Home for Aged and Infirm Hebrews, of which he is a director. Various other Hebrew
societies engage his attention also. He was married in 1848 to Miss Frowenfeld of
Pittsburg.
ABRAHAM BININQER, wine importer, born in New York city, April 3, 1816,
died in New York, April 16, 1894. He was of Swiss descent, his ancestor, Christian
Bininger, having come to this country in 1640. His grandfather, a resident of Wash-
ington county, N. Y., settled in New York city in 1776, and established the grocery
and wine firm of A. Bininger & Co., long and favorably known throughout the
United States and Europe. His son, Jacob Bininger, succeeded to the firm, and died
in 1737, when he was succeeded by his son Abraham. The subject of this sketch was
educated in Bethlehem, Pa., and by private tutors, and then travelled extensively through
Europe and the East. Returning, he became occupied with wine and grocery importa-
tions in the old firm. He inherited means, and gained a yet larger share of this world's
possessions by his own business talents. In 1846, he was married to Elizabeth, daugh-
ter of Alonzo Draper, once American Consul in Paris. Mrs. Bininger was lost at sea
on. the Ville du Havre, in 1873. His children are Miss E. D. Bininger; Harriet, wife
of Frederick A. Post, of London; William B. Bininger, and Frances, wife of the late
Francis R. Rives. A man of social accomplishments, he was a member of the Union
and New York Yacht clubs and of the St. Nicholas Society, and one of the founders
of the Knickerbocker club, of which his son, William B. Bininger, is a member.
HENRY BISCHOFF, banker, a native of Baden, near Bremen, in Germany, was
born Sept. 9, 1827. His father was Bruno Bischoff a lumber merchant and brick
manufacturer at Baden and Ohsen on the Weser. Educated by private tutors, he
served an apprenticeship with Waltjen & Co., merchants of great prominence at that
time in Bremen. He came to this country in 1847, an<l after a careful survey of possi-
bilities, began, in March, 1848, the importation of fruit and wines, adding thereto the
making of remittances of money and the collection and sale of bills of exchange, a then
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. BJ. 87
prevalent part of the business of all old country merchants. After 1858, he devoted
himself exclusively to banking and founded the now prominent banking house of
Bischoff & Co., of which he is the head. He owns valuable real estate in the metrop-
olis. Mr. Bischoff has always stood well in this city and his family have exerted a
strong influence in local affairs. In 1850, he married Amalie Louise Bolte, now de-
ceased, daughter of Frederick Bolte, and their children are Emily, now deceased, wife of
Paul von Frankenberg; Henry; Ernest, deceased; Franklin J. ; Amanda, wife of Ferdi-
nand von Graberg ; and Ottilie, wife of Theodore Brenzing. Henry Bischoff, jr. , is judge
of the Court of Common Pleas. The family lives at City Island on the Sound during
the summer season. Mr Bischoff is a director of The Union Square Bank; was one
of the earlier members of the German Liederkranz; and is among the oldest living
members of The German Society. He is also a patron of The Isabella Heimath,
founded by Mrs. Ottendorfer.
GEORGE HENRY BISSELL, founder of the petroleum industry, born in Han-
over, N. H., Nov. 8, 1821, died in New York city, Nov. 19, 1884. His family, Nor-
man French in origin, was planted in this country by emigrants from Somersetshire,
England. John Bissell settled in Windsor, Conn., in 1635. Isaac Bissell, father of
George H., a native of Connecticut, traded with the Indians for furs at Mackinaw and
Detroit during his earlier years; married Miss Nancy Wemple, daughter of John Wem-
ple, who owned a large estate on the Mohawk river, near Johnstown, N. Y. ; and died
when George was twelve years old. The latter graduated from Dartmouth College in
1845, earning his own support meanwhile, accepted a Greek and Latin professorship in
the University of Norwich, Vt., and was then successively Washington correspondent
for The Richmond Whig until 1846, a traveller in the West Indies, a journalist in New
Orleans, principal of the High School there, and Superintendent of Schools. He re-
signed in 1853 to come North on account of his health. During that summer he saw
a bottle of petroleum at Dartmouth College, which had come from Oil Creek, Pa.
Realizing intuitively the commercial value of petroleum, he went to Titusville and
with J. G. Eveleth as a partner leased about 200 acres of land, paying therefor $5,000.
In 1854, in New York city, the two men organized The Pennsylvania Rock Oil Co.,
the first petroleum company ever formed in the United States. By trenching, they har-
vested a few barrels of oil per season, selling the product mainly for medecine at one
dollar a gallon. In 1855, Mr. Bissell became a lawyer, and was admitted to the bar.
The same year, he reorganized the oil company with Prof. Silliman as president. The
discovery of small quantities of petroleum in a salt well at Pittsburgh, suggested the
idea of boring artesian wells on Oil Creek. Their efforts, at first fruitless, were finally
crowned with success. Aug. 28, 1859, the first vein of oil was reached by boring. A
natural flow of ten barrels a day was increased by pumping to forty barrels a day; and
a new industry then took its place in the commercial world. The excitement which
followed is historic. Mr. Eveleth died in 1863. Mr. Bissell retained his connection
with the industry for many years, built a railroad in the oil regions and established
several banks there. After 1863, he dwelt in New York city, and made large purchases
of real estate here. In October, 1855, he- was married to Ophie Louise Griffin, who
died in 1867. Their children were Pelham St. George and Florence Wemple
Bissell.— His son, PELHAfl ST. GEORGE BISSELL, real estate owner, was born in
New York city, Dec. 5, 1858. Isaac Bissell and Captain John Wemple, his great grand-
88 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
fathers, served for several years in the War of the Revolution, and other ancestors
were also soldiers in that war. Mr. Bissell received an excellent education at Columbia
College, graduating in 1880. He then found occupation as a dealer in real estate and
has continued therein down to the present time. A large amount of excellent real
estate on Broadway and other important streets, has descended to him from his for-
bears ; and the continual expansion of this emporium adds fresh value to his posses-
sions. The Adirondacks Pulp Co. was organized by him, afterward being merged in
The International Pulp Co. Mr. Bissell is a member of the New York Athletic and
Columbia Alumni clubs and The Sons of the Revolution, as well as a life member of
The New York Historical Society. His wife is Helen Alsop French, daughter of
Colonel Thomas J. French, and they have one child, Pelham St. George Bissell, jr.
JOHN MUNSON BIXBY, lawyer, born in the beautiful village of Fairfield, Conn.,
in February, 1800, died in New York city, Nov. 21, 1876. He was son of William
Bixby, and grandson of Elisha Bixby, a captain in the American Revolution, who was
promoted for gallant service at the storming of Stony Point. John began the study of
law in Wilkes Barre, Pa. , where he remained about two years, coming then to New
York city. Here he enjoyed a large and successful practice, retiring in 1849. He in-
vested his means in real estate in New York, from which he realized great gains. His
son, Robert F. Bixby, now receives an annual ground rent from the Union League
club larger in amount than his father paid for the property. In 1849 ^r- Bixby mar-
ried Miss Mary W. Poe, a cousin of Edgar Allan Poe, the poet. Three children were
born to them; Robert F., Grace S., and Berkeley Bixby. Mrs. Bixby died in 1854.
Mr. Bixby was a man of scholarly tastes, and the author of two novels, "Standish the
Puritan," and "Overing, or the Heir of Wycherly," both of which were published in
New York.— His son, ROBERT FORSYTH BIXBY, lawyer, was born near Augusta,
Ga., April 14, 1850. Through his maternal lins, he is a great great grandson of David
Poe, who served from Maryland in the War of the Revolution, and great, great, great,
great grandson of Sir William Beverly, Governor of Virginia. Graduating from
Trinity College in 1870, he fitted himself for the law at the Law School of Columbia
College. His father's death brought upon him the care of a large property, which he
has managed with excellent skill. He owns the Casino Theatre and property, the
ground whereon the Union League club stands, and a few scattered dwellings, includ-
ing a residence on Fifth avenue at 4oth street. He has joined the Union, University,
City, Union League, Calumet, Lawyers', Bar, New York Athletic, Trinity Alumni,
Liederkranz, Alpha Delta Phi, Seawanhaka Corinthian Yacht, and other clubs and as-
sociations.
EUGENE GILBERT BLACKFORD, merchant and banker, famous among ichthy-
ologists the world over, is a son of Gilbert L. Blackford, a carriage maker, and WHS
born in Morristown, N. J., Aug. 8, 1839. At the age of fourteen, the lad found em-
ployment in New York city and tried several occupations as a clerk, without finding
that which suited him, finally leaving A. T. Stewart's wholesale store to enter the fish
market of Middleton, Carman & Co. on Fulton street. In a few years he opened his
own stand in Fulton Market, and is now the proprietor of thirteen stands there and the
largest dealer in fish, turtles, crabs, oysters and lobsters in the country. In one year,
. his sales have amounted to 33,000,000 pounds, about three-fourths of the total of Fulton
Market. The now popular idea of signalizing April ist, the opening day of the trout
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. BL. 89
season, with an exhibition of live trout in tanks, originated with him. Since 1879 he
has been officially connected with the restocking of lakes and streams, and the hatching
of food fish, being for thirteen years president of the State Fish Commission. In spite
of the pressing duties of public and commercial life, he finds time to serve as president
of The Bedford Bank in Brooklyn and director of The City Savings Bank of Brooklyn,
The People's Trust Co., The Hide & Leather Bank, and The Schermerhorn Bank.
His clubs are the Manhattan, Reform and Fulton of New York, and the Union League,
Hamilton, Oxford, Brooklyn and Montauk of Brooklyn.
BIRDSEYE BLAKEMAN, book publisher, born in Stratford, Conn., Jan 25th,
1824, died in Stockbridge, Mass., his country home, Sept. 30, 1894. He learned the
requirements of business in Bridgeport, and began as a merchant on his own account
in that city in 1843. In 1844 he moved to Albany, N. Y., and soon afterward to New
York city, joining a book house, where his excellent judgment and sound sense soon
marked him as a rising man. A few years later, he was admitted to partnership in
Sheldon, Blakeman & Co., and remained with them until 1863, when he entered the old
book publishing firm of Ivison, Phinney & Co., which after twice changing its name
adopted that of Ivison, Blakeman & Co. The firm dissolved Jan. i, 1891, having sold
its school book interests to The American Book Co. Mr. Blakeman was made presi-
dent, retaining the position until 1893, when he refused re-election, being then succeeded
by David Ivison, son of his former partner. He was also president of the Spencerian Pen
Co. Mr. Blakeman headed the electoral ticket of the Republican party in New York
State in 1 884, being always a devoted Republican in politics. A man of quick discern-
ment and accurate judgment, courageous, upright and generous, he enjoyed the respect
of every business associate and the affection of a wide circle of friends. To his native
village he gave a public library, which cost more than $25,000. He was connected
with many of the important clubs of this city, including the Union League, Century,
Grolier, Ladies' and Aldine, and The New England Society. The surviving members
of his family are, his wife, Anna M., daughter of Dr. John Tomlinson, to whom he was
married Jan. 30, 1850, and his children, Louis Henry Blakeman and Marianna, wife of
John V. B. Lewis.
ANTHONY JAHES BLEECKER, auctioneer, born on his grandfather's farm in
Xew York city, Oct. 20, 1799, died in New York, Jan. 17, 1884. He was a son of
James Bleecker and grandson of Anthony Lispenard Bleecker, and came from the old
family which owned the estate through which Bleecker street now passes. Educated
in Dr. Eigenbrodt's school at Jamaica, Long Island, he began life as an auctioneer with
his father. In 1862, President Lincoln appointed him Assessor of Internal Revenue in
this city, and he served for six years. The taxes in his district were larger than in any
other in the United States, Alex. T. Stewart alone pa3>ing $460,000. At one time, he
also served as United States Marshal of the Southern District of New York. Politics
interested him early in life and he was the oldest Sachem in Tammany Hall at the time
of his death, although he was one of those who, in 1855, started the Republican party,
and a candidate for Mayor of New York in 1856 on the Fremont ticket. Owing to the
land proprietorship of his family, he was led at an early day into a real estate business
and became one of the noted auctioneers of this class of property. He conducted many
important sales. He sold the Tallman estate, near Central Park, for $1,500,000, and
Dr. Valentine Mott's property for $1,000,000. The annual sales by Mr. Bleecker
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. — BL. gi
amounted to millions, and it was his jocular boast that he had sold the Island of Man-
hattan, twice over. He certain!}' knew what the Island was worth, because he appraised
its realty in 1871, amounting to $247,000,000. With Judge Jones of Orange county,
Mayor William V. Brady, Cornelius W. Lawrence, Collector of the Port, and George
H. Purser, he laid out the Hudson River Railroad, and was chairman of the other com-
mission which extended Central Park from io6th to noth street, his associates being
Richard Kelly, now president of The Fifth National Bank, and Hawley D. Clapp, pro-
prietor of the Everett House. One of the stewards of The St. Nicholas Society, he
enjoyed the friendship of Washington Irving. Richard Grant White says that he had
no rival in his knowledge of Shakspeare. In October, 1825, Mr. Bleecker married
Cornelia, daughter of John Van Benthuysen, of Poughkeepsie. The children born to
them were, John Van Benthuysen Bleecker, who died during the war ; Sarah Bache
Bleecker, who died in 1867 ; Helena, who died in 1833 ; and James Bleecker, successor
to his father as an auctioneer. Mr. Bleecker was a vestryman of Trinity Church, as
were his father and grandfathers, and is buried in the family vault of that church yard.
CORNELIUS NEWTON BLIS5, merchant, a man of sturdy physique, clear mind,
and unquestioned force and probity of character, has, from a modest beginning, made his
way to the front in the business life of the United States and especially of the metrop-
olis, by honorable business methods and an unconquerable determination to succeed.
He was born in Fall River, Mass., in 1833. His ancestry was English, originating
in Devonshire and belonging to the yeoman class, which owned and tilled its own land.
They were Puritans of sturdy convictions and suffered persecution for conscience sake.
Mr. Bliss's immigrant ancestor came to America in 1633, settling first at what is now
Weymouth, but becoming later one of the original settlers of Rehoboth, Mass. The
father of the subject of this sketch moved to Fall River and died there at the age of
twenty-six, when Cornelius was an infant. The mother remarried and moved to New
Orleans, but the boy remained in Fall River in charge of his mother's family until he
had graduated from the common schools and Fiske's Academy. Thus at an early age
he was compelled to accept the responsibility and endure the labors which toughen a
man's fibre and develop his manhood. At fourteen, the lad went to New Orleans and
completed his school life there in the High School of that city.
He then entered mercantile life, gaining his first acquaintance with the require-
ments of trade in the counting room of his stepfather. After a brief experience there,
he returned North and secured a position in the house of James M. Beebe & Co. , of
Boston, then the largest dry goods importing and jobbing house in the country. He
proved a valuable clerk and solely upon his merits was in time admitted as a partner to
the firm succeeding J. M. Beebe & Co. In 1866, he became a member of the dry goods
commission house of J. S. & E. Wright & Co. Upon the death of the senior partner,
this firm was reorganized as Wright, Bliss & Fabyan; and later, it became Bliss,
Fabyan & Co., of Boston, New York and Philadelphia, and as such remains, having now
grown to be one of the leading commission dry goods houses in the United States, its
members highly esteemed and its trade one of great proportions. They occupy a large
store on Duane street at its junction with Thomas street, in the very heart of the down-
town wholesale dry goods district, their sign being one of the landmarks of that busy
region. The New York house has been conducted under the direct personal super-
vision of Mr. Bliss for many years.
92 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
Since his removal to New York, Mr. Bliss has entered heartily into every move-
ment which would promote the growth and welfare of this town. Few public spirited
projects fail to receive his contribution of time or money, and in all the numerous ad-
mirable schemes which have emanated from among his colleagues of the Union League
Club, he has taken a cordial interest. Mr. Bliss's strong character, high social standing
and financial strength have caused him to be much sought after as a trustee in financial
institutions in this city, the character of whose directorate is the important element in
securing the public confidence. He is a director and vice-president of The Fourth
National Bank (once having served as its acting president), The Central Trust Co.,
The American Surety Co., The Equitable Life Assurance Society, The Home Insur-
ance Society, and other important institutions, and is governor and treasurer of The
Society of the New York Hospital.
Always an active and loyal Republican in politics, Mr. Bliss has, however, never
sought public office and has never occupied official station, except as a member of the
International Conference in Washington, D. C., in 1889-90. A Cabinet position was
tendered to him during the term of President Arthur, but he declined that honor as
well as the suggestion of nomination for various elective offices.
While too preoccupied to serve his countrymen in public station, he has, however,
labored with energy to promote the practical work of his party. In 1884, he was Chair-
man of the Committee of One Hundred, appointed at a public meeting of the citizens
of New York to attend the Chicago Convention and urge the nomination of the Hon.
Chester A. Arthur to the Presidency. The committee failed to gain their object, and
thereupon became loyal supporters of Mr. Elaine. He has been for several years a
member of the Republican County Committee in New York, and was chairman of the
New York Republican State Committee in 1887 and 1888, as well as treasurer of the
Republican National Committee in 1892. He has long been a director, and is now
president, of The Protective Tariff League, which carries on a persistent appeal to the
reason and patriotism of the people of America in favor of the American system of
protection to domestic industry.
The social standing of Mr. Bliss is exhibited by his membership in the Union, Cen-
tury, Union League, Riding, Metropolitan, Merchants', Player' and other first-class
clubs, and in several of the public-spirited societies, which have developed the intellect-
ual and artistic life of the metropolis and filled the city with great museums and build-
ings of public importance.
ELIPHALET WILLIAHS BLISS, of Brooklyn, manufacturer, born at Fly Creek,
in Otsego county, N. Y., April 12, 1836, is the son of John Stebbings Bliss, a
physician, whose ancestors were English and settlers of Springfield, Mass. He was
educated in the public schools and Fort Plain seminary, and began life as a farmer.
Before the age of sixteen, he entered a machine shop in his native county, served there
until twenty-one, and then spent seven years in the Parker Machine Shops of Meriden,
Conn., as foreman. In 1866 he removed to Brooklyn, N. Y., and then in 1867
founded there the machine shops, which have since grown through his ingenuity and
constant perseverance into the corporation of The E. W. Bliss Co., now employing 600
men. The plant comprises extensive buildings and machine shops for the manufacture
of tools, presses, • dies, and patented articles of various kinds. Mr. Bliss supplied some
of the material for the Brooklyn Bridge, and has had contracts with the United States
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. BL. 93
for projectiles and torpedoes. He has pursued this business with great success, and is
largely interested in improved real estate and city railroads in Brooklyn, being vice-
president of The Brooklyn Heights Railroad. He is also connected with The Brooklyn
Gas Fixture Co. Mr. Bliss was married, June 19, 1865, to Miss Anna E., daughte
of Charles H. Metcalf, and there has been born to them one daughter, Eva M., now
wife of James Warren Lane, of New York. Mr. Bliss dwells on the heights at Bay
Ridge, and is a member of the Manhattan and New York Yacht clubs of New York, and
The Hamilton, Atlantic Yacht, Brooklyn, Marine and Field, and Ridge clubs of Brooklyn.
GEORGE BLISS, banker, was born in the beautiful village of Northampton, Mass.,
April 21, 1816.
The Bliss family in America is descended from the best Puritan stock. Tradition
represents them as living in the South of England, where they belonged to that staunch
class known as English yeomanry. From time immemorial, they regarded with extreme
disfavor the lax manners of the clergy and laity, and incurred the enmity of King
Charles I. by determined opposition to the court religion and their manifest resolution
to maintain their own views. The first, of whom there is trusworthy information, was
Thomas Bliss of Belstone Parish, County of Devonshire. A wealthy landowner, he
belonged in religion to the Puritans, so called on account of the simplicity and purity
of their forms of worship, and was persecuted by the civil and religious authority
under the direction of Archbishop Laud, maltreated and imprisoned, and finally ruined
in health and fortune by the indignities and hardships heaped upon him. The ani-
mosity of the dominant church party extended to the sons of Thomas Bliss, two of
whom, Thomas and his younger brother, George, turned their eyes to the new world
as an asylum, in which they could enjoy liberty of conscience. In the autumn of 1635,
the two young men embarked, with their families, for the wilderness of America.
Landing at Boston, Thomas located at Braintree, Mass., whence he afterward moved
to Hartford, Conn. He died in 1640, and his widow and children subsequently
removed to Springfield, Mass. From this family are descended most of those of the
name of Bliss in the old county of Hampshire. George, after remaining for a few years
at Lynn and Sandwich, Mass., finally settled in Newport, R. I. They maintained their
sturdy independence of character, and bore with fortitude the deprivations and hard-
ships which were the lot of the hardy pioneers of the new civilization. From Thomas
and George Bliss have descended large families, many of whose members have attained
eminence in the various walks of life.
George Bliss, the subject of the present sketch, is of the ninth generation in de-
scent from the original Thomas, and in the eighth from Thomas Bliss, the pioneer in
1635. His father was William Bliss, and his mother, Martha Parsons, daughter of
Timothy Parsons, of the same place. From these excellent parents, George inherited
a strong constitution, great natural ability and stern probity of character. With such
educational advantages as were afforded by the local schools, he began life in 1832 as
clerk in a dry goods store in New Haven, Conn. Here his diligence, fidelity and
intelligence soon won recognition, and after remaining less than five years in a
subordinate capacity, he was admitted to a partnership with his employer, the firm
taking the name of Sanford & Bliss. He continued in this firm for seven years. In
1844, he removed to New York city to become a partner in the firm of Chittenden,
Bliss & Co., jobbers of dry goods, which, while it continued, attained a commanding
94 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
position in the wholesale trade. After its dissolution, Mr. Bliss continued in the same
business under firm names of Phelps, Bliss & Co. and George Bliss & Co., until 1869,
when he retired to engage in banking.
In that year Mr. Bliss associated himself with the firm of Levi P. Morton & Co. ,
in the business of banking, under the name of Morton, Bliss & Co. The firm, with
their London branch of Morton, Rose & Co., now stand in the front rank among the
, financial institutions of this country. While dealing largely in foreign exchange, this
house has conducted an extensive business in investment securities and effected
numerous important railroad negotiations. Their conservatism, sound business
methods and success have won the entire confidence of the financial world.
Mr. Bliss's excellent judgment and capacity have caused him to be sought after as
trustee of important corporations, and he has filled acceptably the office of director of
The United States Trust Co., The Delaware, Lackawanna & Western Railroad, The
St. Paul, Minneapolis & Manitoba Railway, The Manhattan Elevated Railway, The
Mutual Life Insurance Co., The Atlantic Mutual Insurance Co., The Continental In-
surance Co., and The Western Union Telegraph Co. He has also held prominent rela-
tions with many other railroad and financial corporations. He has joined a number of
the best social organizations in town, including the Century, Union, Union League,
Metropolitan and Lawyers' clubs and Down Town Association, and The New England
Society. He is also a member of the Chamber of Commerce and, with the same public
spirit which animates his colleagues of the Union League club, has given his influ-
ential support to the great museums of the city. The purely material result of Mr.
Bliss's long career has been financial success. While attaining this end, however, his
just and honorable character has gained what is of greater value, the esteem and confi-
dence of his associates of the business world. He makes a worthy use of his means in
charities, deriving his satisfaction not from heralding his good actions but from the
good which follows them. Among the charities of a public nature which have drawn
largely upon both his time and means are The Woman's Hospital, of which he is a gov-
ernor, The Hospital for the Ruptured and Crippled, and The Protestant Half Orphan
Asylum, of both of which he is a trustee. He is also treasurer and trustee of The Pro-
testant Episcopal Domestic and Foreign Missions Society, and in addition to these; has
contributed freely to churches and hospitals.
Mr. Bliss was married Sept. 29, 1840, to Catherine S., daughter of Hervey Sanford
of New Haven. He lost his wife by death in 1862, and in 1868 was married to Augusta,
daughter of William M. Smith, a prominent resident of New Haven. Of the nine
children born to Mr. Bliss, five are now living, two sons and three daughters. They
are George T. and Walter Phelps Bliss ; Mary H., wife of A. Gifford Agnew ; and the
Misses Catherine A. and Augusta Bliss.
WILLIAM BLISS, merchant, born in Chipping Norton, England, July 4, 1833.
died in New York city, Jan. 2, 1890. He came to this country with his parents while a
young boy, and at an early age entered the employ of Dallett Bro's, shipping and com-
mission merchants of Philadelphia. After several years in their office, he went to
Puerto Cabello, Venezuela, where he soon became a partner in the firm of Boulton,
Bliss & Co. In 1860, after having spent eight years in Venezuela, he returned to Phil-
adelphia and joined the firm of John Dallett & Co. , which was established the following
year. In 1862 John Dallett, sr , died, and thereafter the responsibilities of the busi-
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. BL. 95
ness devolved principally upon Mr. Bliss and his life long friend, William G. Boulton.
In 1867, the firms of John Dallett & Co. and Dallett & Bliss, of New York, were con-
solidated, and Mr. Bliss thus became a member of the firm of Dallett, Bliss & Co. , as
the firm in New York were styled. Mr. Bliss continued to reside in Philadelphia until
1 88 1, when the house there was closed and the entire business was thereafter transacted ,
in New York, under the firm name of Boulton, Bliss & Dallett. The principal business
of the firm has always been with Venezuela, from which country coffee, hides, etc., were^
imported and to which American produce of almost every description was exported. At
first, small sailing vessels were employed to carry the firm's merchandise, but as the
business between the countries increased, steam was employed, resulting in the establish-
ment of the present Red " D " Line of American steamships, so called from the private
flag which had been used on the sailing vessels. In 1861, Mr. Bliss was married to Miss
Athenade Dallett, who died in 1872. He subsequently married Miss Anna Dallett, who
with his four children, John Dallett, William, Robert Parker and Anita, survived him.
WILLIAJ1 HETCALF BLISS, merchant and banker, born in Troy, N. Y., in 1812,
died at Orienta, his home in Mamaroneck, N. Y., Aug. 29, 1893. He sprang from Puri-
tan ancestry, his line producing many men eminent in the legal profession, for which
Mr. Bliss was himself originally intended. His father, of the same name, a man of
marked ability, served as Master of Chancery in Troy, for a long period. Carefully
educated, William came to New York while a young man, entered business life, and
with George Merritt, established the firm of Merritt, Ely & Co., with whom and their
successors he continued until his retirement in 1864. He belonged to the old class of
solid, upright New York merchants, having the dignified manners of his generation,
and distinguished both for ability and personal character. Nature endowed him with
a mind which would have commanded success in any calling, and he rose above the
trammels of mercantile life to larger position. Noble in appearance, chivalrous in
nature, a charming conversationalist, and a Christian gentleman, few excelled him in
the warm friendship and cordial respect which he inspired. He was prominent as
president of The Central National Bank, and a trustee of The Equitable Life Assur-
ance Society. He was twice married, first to Miss Champion, of Troy, and later to
Lucie Ann, daughter of Ellis Baker, of Albany.
JOSEPH BENJAMIN BLOOfllNGDALE, merchant, was born in the city of New
York, Dec. 22, 1842. His father, Benjamin Bloomingdale, had immigrated from Alten-
moor, in Bavaria, in 1837, being the first person to leave that section of the country for
the new world. The elder Bloomingdale made an effort to establish himself in New
Jersey and North Carolina, but finally moved to New York, where he has since resided
almost continuously. At the age when boys of the present day are compelled by law
to be at their books, Joseph secured a situation as clerk in a dry goods store on Canal
street, then the centre of the fashionable shopping district. In 1860, he went to the
Pacific coast, where he filled positions variously in San Francisco, Sacramento and Car-
son City, Nev. Having saved some money, he became infected with the fever to grow
rich suddenly, and invested what he had in mining stocks. This soon wiped out his
little surplus; and with this additional fund of experience, he made a fresh start, follow-
ing the tide of gold discovery into Oregon, Idaho and Montana, attempting various
occupations, including actual work with a pick and shovel on what afterward became
the famous Blue Cloud mine, taking off some pay-dirt from the surface and then selling
pfi AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
at what appeared to him to be a splendid profit. The purchaser of the claim made a fort-
une, while young Blooming-dale returned to the city of his birth. Here his father and
his brother Lyman were engaged in manufacturing hoop skirts, and Joseph secured a
position with them as travelling salesman. In this he was very successful, and, a short
time afterward, on the retirement of his father, he became a member-of the firm. Un-
fortunately, however, hoop skirts were becoming less fashionable. The two brothers
did not recognize this fact quickly enough to save themselves from loss, and, in 1871,
were obliged to make a compromise with their creditors. This overwhelming misfort-
une, however, really inured to their benefit. They established a small retail dry
goods store on Third avenue, near the corner of s6th street, under the name of Bloom-
ingdale Bros., and thus laid the foundation of one of the most successful department
stores in the world. Their success was immediate. In a few years, they were able to
pay their former creditors the balance of their claims, although under no legal obliga-
tion to do so. Removing shortly to the corner of sgth street and Third avenue, they
rented two buildings. Their buildings, which are seven stories high, now occupy
twenty-one city lots, with a total floor area of 490,000 square feet, their stock of goods
including almost everything required by man, woman and child, a great part of them
being manufactured on the premises. Some lines of goods are controlled exclusively
by them. Their trade is not confined either to the limits of New York city or State,
but includes almost every part of the habitable globe. Mr. Bloomngdale is a member
of or contributor to nearly every institution in the city of New York, without regard
to sect or denomination, and is vice-president of The Hebrew Technical Institute, and
of The United States Savings Bank. Physically, Mr. Bloomingdale is six feet one
inch tall, of fine physique, with a face which has been called handsome. He was
married in 1875, to Clara, oldest daughter of Lewis Koffman, an old-time New York
merchant, and has two children, a son and a daughter.
LYHAN G. BLOOMINGDALE, merchant, born in New York, Feb. n, 1841, is a
son of Benjamin Bloomingdale, a native of Bavaria. Lyman graduated from Smith's
Collegiate Institute and then went to Leavenworth, Kan., with his father. In that
town, he began life as an independent merchant with about $300 of borrowed capital,
starting a crinoline and dry goods store. He was doing well, when he was ordered
under arms with a militia company, in which he was a sergeant, to repel Confederates,
who were threatening a raid. After this service, he sold his store and came to New
York, where he joined his father in the manufacture of crinoline skirts. In 1872, he
aided in organizing the firm of Bloomingdale Bros. , to transact a dry goods and general
trade, and is senior partner of the firm. He has revealed remarkable shrewdness and
energy in adapting his store to the requirements of the dense population, which occu-
pies the East Side of the city.
EDWARD CUSHMAN BODMAN, merchant, was born in Charlemont Mass.,
March 22, 1840. His father, John Bodman, was a bank president and business man of
Northampton, Mass. Edward graduated from Williston Seminary in Easthampton,
engaged in the grain trade and banking in central Illinois, 1861-65, and carried on the
same business in Toledo, O., 1865-85, being president of The Northern National Bank
there, 1873-82. He came to New York in 1885, and his firm of Milmine, Bodman &
Co , have already won a name, ranking as a leading house in the grain trade. They
transact a strictly commission business, never speculating. For twenty years Mr. Bod-
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. BO. 97
man was largely interested in Illinois lands, at one time owning and cultivating 4,000
acres. Jan. 10, 1878, he married Ida M. Berdan, of Toledo, a niece of Chief Justice
Waite. Their children are Herbert L. arid George M. Bodman. He is a member of the
Union League club and the Ohio and New England Societies. Mrs. Charles H. Park-
hurst of New York is Mr. Bodman's sister.
ROBERT BONNER, proprietor of The New York Ledger, is a native of London-
derry, Ireland, where he was born April 28, 1824. His parents were Scotch-Irish.
Coming to this country in 1839, he learned the printer's trade in the office of The Hart-
ford Courant, and is remembered there as a smart and rapid compositor. He removed
to New York city in 1844, worked at his trade, and in 1850, for $900, purchased The
MercJiants' Ledger, then an unimportant commercial newspaper in drooping circum-
stances. He conducted this paper for four years, at first dealing with dry figures, hard
facts and prosaic statistics, without increasing its importance greatly, and then intro-
duced many new and spicy features, miscellany, stories, etc , and finally, in i&55>
changed its name to The New York Ledger and its contents to romance pure and sim-
ple. His first audacious move was the engagement of Fanny Fern, in 1855, to write a
continued story at $100 a column. By printing pure and sound romances and contri-
butions from the best known writers, and by astonishing enterprise and extraordinary
expenditures for advertising, he increased the circulation of Tlu Ledger until the
American people from the Atlantic to the Pacific were reading the paper. Staid old
merchants of that day shook their heads solemnly over the extravagant advertisements
of The Ledger, which they regarded as a new form of humbug, but Mr. Bonrier's cour-
age captivated the public mind and led to great success. One idea to which he rigidly
adhered was to keep his paper absolutely free from even a suggestion which would be
improper for the family circle. His writers included the most conspicuous men and
women of the day. At first, The Ledger contained advertisements, but these were
gradually withdrawn. Among the famous contributors to The Ledger have been Fanny
Fern, Mrs. Sigourney, Sylvanus Cobb, jr., Mrs. Southworth, Prentice, Saxe, Edward
Everett, Henry Ward Beecher, Horace Greeley, James Parton, and Dr. John Hall.
The abundant means which Tlie Ledger has brought Mr. Bonner have enabled him
to make large gifts to Princeton College and various churches and charities and to buy
noted horses. He has owned some of the most celebrated trotters in the world. Rigidly
opposed to betting and to racing for money, he has withdrawn his purchases from the race
tracks and keeps them for his own driving. Among his purchases were Peerless, Dex-
ter, and Maud S., for which he paid William H. Vanderbilt $40,000. In February,
1888, he presented his sons, Andrew Alley, Robert Edwin and Frederic Bonner, with
a large amount of real estate, as an incentive to application, and these young men now
have entire charge of the paper, as Robert Bonner's Sons.
PETER RIKER BONNE IT, merchant, born in Frankfort street, New York city,
Dec. 10, 1801, died at his residence in this city, Sept. 4, 1871. He was the son of
Peter Bonnett, a prominent leather merchant in " the Swamp," who had a large tan-
nery on the corner of Frankfort and Skinner (now Cliff) streets. The family came
from Huguenot ancestry. The pioneer, Daniel Bonnet, settled in America in 1 700,
after a residence of ten years in Bristol, England, having left Rochelle, France, in
1690, a few years after the revocation of the Edict of Nantes. Mr. Bonnett was
educated in the city, and in early life entered the employment of Harper & Arcularius.
98 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
wholesale grocers, in Front street, near Fulton. The firm subsequently became
Arcularius & Bonnett, and later Bonnett, Schenck & Co., when their location was
changed to Vesey street, where, for many years, they carried on a large wholesale
business with the West. Mr. Bonnett devoted his entire time to his business and
to home life, never occupying public or corporate office, although often urged to do so.
He was connected with St. George's Church. Aug. 17, 1835, he married Maria Salton-
stall, of New London, Conn., who, with two sons and four daughters, survived him.
DAVID AUGUSTUS BOODY, banker and broker, born in Jackson, Me., Aug. 13,
1837, is a son of David Boody, by occupation a farmer. He was educated in the public
schools, with six months in Phillips Academy, Andover. At the age of eighteen, he
found his first occupation as a school teacher. Beginning the study of law at twenty,
he was admitted to the bar when twenty-three. A year later, he came to New York
and entered the banking house of Henry H. Boody, at No. 12 Wall street. An alert,
progressive and able man, he began business on his own account two years later, and
has been successfully engaged in stock transactions to the present day, excepting only
during a period of three years, when absent from the city. Several large corporations
have secured his interest and he has been elected president of The Louisiana & North-
western Railway, vice-president of The Sprague National Bank, and trustee of The
People's Trust Co. At one time, he served as president of The City Savings Bank of
Brooklyn. His wife is a daughter of the late Henry Treat of Frankfort, Me. They
have five children. Mr. Boody has taken special interest in public questions and was
at one time president of The Civil Service Association of Brooklyn, in which city he
makes his home. He is a member of the Reform club and The New England Society
of New York city, and the Hamilton, Brooklyn, Montauk and Carleton clubs, New
England Society, and Young Men's Christian Association of Brooklyn.
HENRY AUGUSTUS BOORAEfl, merchant, born at No. 16 Dey street, in this
city, Sept. 3, 1815, died in Jersey City, Feb. 18, 1889. He was a son of Hendrick
Booraem, an old time merchant of dry goods on Pearl street. The emigrant ancestor
of this family, a native of Holland, came to this place in 1666, settling at Newtown on
Long Island. Henry went from the private schools of this city and Fordham directly
to his father's store, where he received a thorough training, after the fashion of the
times. While in Paris, France, just as he was attaining his majority, his father died.
Upon his return to New York, he became a member of the firm of L. & B. Curtis, of
which Lewis and Benjamin Curtis were partners, and for more than thirty years im-
ported French dress goods, silks and velvets to this city. He retired about 1869. Mr.
Booraem was justly esteemed for his character, ability and public spirit Grace Church
of Jersey City was organized in his parlors, and claimed him as a vestryman, and he
was a member of the Committee of One Hundred of Jersey City at the time of his
death. In 1838, he married Cornelia, daughter of John Van Vorst of the town of Van
Vorst, now a part of Jersey City, and a descendant of Governor Van Vorst, whom The
Dutch East India Co. sent out in 1638 as Governor of Pavonia. It is related that Gov-
ernor Wouter van Twiller, Eberardus Bogardus, the dominie, and Captain de Vries
visited the new Governor of Pavonia upon his arrival to pay their respects, and when
a salute was fired from a swivel, upon their departure, a spark set fire to the Van Vorst
homestead and burned it down. To Mr. Booraem were born : John Van Vorst Booraem,
consulting engineer-in-chief of The American Sugar Refining Co.; Frances D.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. BO. 99
Booraem; Henry L. Booraem, deceased; Josephine B. , wife of Augustus Zabriskie,
son of ex-Chancellor Zabriskie; Louis V. Booraem, the lawyer; Augustus Booraem,
who has charge of the Booraem estate; Robert Elmer Booraem, lately in charge of the
Blue Bird mine in Butte City and the Morning Star and Evening Star mines in Lead
ville; and Randolph M. Booraem of Philadelphia. John Van Vorst owned large tracts
of land on the west bank of the Hudson. The right of ferriage between Paulus Hook
and New York city, now owned by The Pennsylvania Railroad, was bequeathed by the
great grandfather of Cornelia Van Vorst to her father. In the settlement of the
estate it was transferred to Cornelius Van Vorst, his brother, and by him conveyed to
The Associates of The Jersey Company.
EDWIN BOOTH, the distinguished actor, born near Baltimore, Md., Xov. 13,
1833, died at the Players' club in this city, June 7, 1893. He was the fourth son of
Junius Brutus Booth, a figure as brilliant in the annals of the American stage as that
of Edmund Kean in England. His entrance upon a theatrical career occurred at the
Museum in Boston, Sept., 10, 1849, in Tressel in "Richard III." and grew out of a
desire to oblige the prompter, who had been cast for the part against his will. That
arrangement was made without the knowledge and approval of the elder Booth,
who for a long time opposed his son's adoption of the stage. Nevertheless, Edwin
drifted into that pursuit and persevered in it, and his father soon became reconciled
to his course. Mr. Booth identified himself from the first with the highest class of
dramas, and early in his career made a highly successful tour of the South, beginning
in Baltimore. It was in Richmond, during this tour, that he met for the first time Miss
Mary Devlin, who became his wife in New York city, July 7, 1860. Shortly afterward,
they sailed for England. His wife was an excellent musician and a pleasing actress.
They remained in England until September, 1862, their daughter Edwina, being born
at Fulham, London, Dec. 9, 1861. On their return to America, they established their
home at Dorchester, Mass. Mrs. Booth died Feb. 21, 1863. The opening of Booth's
Theatre in New York, Feb. 3, 1869, was the most important dramatic incident in the
metropolis at that period. Here he appeared in the dramas of Shakspeare, regularly
nearly every season, for many years. He was married again to Miss Mary McVicker
of Chicago, at Long Branch, X. J., June 7, 1869. Miss McVickers last professional
appearance was made at Booth's Theatre in the spring of that year as Desdemona. A
son was bom to them July 3, 1870, but died within a few hours. Mrs. Booth died in
New York, Nov. 13, 1881. Mr. Booth's long service upon the American stage was
never stained by an appearance in any except the most ennobling plays, and during
his time there was no greater exponent of Shakspeare than he. His influence was
good, his popularity unbounded, and his genius has inscribed his name forever upon
the pages of history. Incidentally, his impersonations of heroic characters brought him
a fortune. In San Francisco, during one engagement of eight weeks, the receipts
exceeded $96,000. While he made more than one visit to England, the most of his
career was upon the American stage. His last public sen-ice was his institution of the
Players' club of this city. The bulk of Mr. Booth's estate was left in trust for his
daughter, Mrs. Edwina Booth Grossman, although a number of societies and friends
were remembered.
HENRY PROSPER BOOTH, shipping merchant, was born in New York city, July
19, 1836, and comes from New England ancestry. At the Mechanics' Institute he
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. BO. IOI
gained a sound education, and then, as clerk for a shipping merchant, allied himself
with the commercial interests of the port, to which his life had been ably and prosper-
ously devoted. In 1856, he was admitted to partnership in James E. Ward & Co., and
is now senior member of the firm. Strong determination and great force of character
have brought him into prominence in the maritime world. He is a member of the
Manhattan and Colonial clubs.
GAIL BORDEN, manufacturer, born in Norwich, N. Y., Nov. 6, 1801, died in
Borden, Texas, Jan. n, 1874. His parents, who were of New England descent, left
New York State when Gail was thirteen years of age, settling after a time in Madison,
Ind. Gail attended the common schools and at the age of twenty-one removed to Mis-
sissippi, where he taught school and engaged in public surveys. In 1829, he pushed on
to Texas, acquired some prominence upon the establishment of the Republic of Texas,
and was appointed first Collector at Galveston, of which city he had made the first
surveys in 1837. In 1849, the need of more convenient food supplies for the emigrants
to the Pacific Coast led him to make a few experiments, with the result that he pro-
duced "pemmican," afterward used with such success in Arctic expeditions, and the
" meat biscuit," a simple and portable form of concentrated food. Though these inven-
tions brought him a medal from the World's Fair in London in 1852, and an honorary
membership in The London Society of Arts, they proved a pecuniary failure, and he
lost all his means. His attention had meanwhile been attracted to the preservation of
milk, and in 1853 he applied for a patent for "concentrated milk," which the Govern-
ment granted in 1856. This venture proved an unqualified success. Under the title
of The New York Condensed Milk Co., he established factories at Brewster Station,
N. Y., and Elgin, 111., and extended the operations of these by manufacturing an extract
of beef, for which he afterward built a factory at Borden, Texas. There then followed
preparations of cocoa, tea and coffee, and in 1862 a patent for condensing the juice of
fruits into a small fraction of the original bulk. Mr. Borden amassed a large fortune
and dispensed his means with a liberal hand.
MATTHEW CHALONER DURFEE BORDEN, merchant and manufacturer, a native
of Fall River, Mass., was born July 18, 1842. His father, the late Colonel Richard
Borden, was a conspicuous leader in all which contributed to the success and large
prosperity of Fall River, from the date of the organization of its first and greatest
manufacturing enterprises, beginning with the Fall River Iron Works Co. in 1821, down
to the close of his eventful and memorable life, in 1874.
The Borden family is of original French stock, and is traceable back to Bourdon-
nay, an ancient village in Normandy, from which it probably takes its name. The
first of the family found on English soil entered the British Isles with William the Con-
queror. After the overthrow of Harold and the Saxon regime, they were assigned
estates in the County of Kent. Giving their name to the estate, they founded a
religious parish there, which also bore the name of Borden. In 1635, Richard, then
the head of the family, emigrated to America, settling in Rhode Island. The birth of
Matthew Borden, in May, 1638, is mentioned in the Friends' Book of Records, and he
was the first child born of English parents on Rhode Island soil, thus fixing the date of
the first settlement at Portsmouth. From this point, the family descent is authentically
recorded down to the present time.
The subject of this sketch was fitted for a higher range of education at Phillips
i02 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
Academy, Andover, Mass, and graduated from Yale College in the class of 1864.
Almost immediately thereafter, he entered the employment of a leading dry goods job-
bing house in New York, as stock boy in one of the departments. Three years later,
he became a partner in a leading commission" house of New York, where he represented
The American Print Works as selling agent, continuing in this capacity until the end
of 1879. The American Print Works having failed, his connection with the house
referred to ceased.
Mr. Borden inherited a large share of the enterprise and capacity for management
of his worthy father, and mainly through the joint efforts of his eldest brother and him-
self, the company was reorganized and resumed operations under the name of The
American Printing Co., in January, 1880. At the same time, Mr. Borden made an
alliance with the commission house of J. S. & E. Wright & Co., now Bliss, Fabyan &
Co., with whom he has remained in the conduct of the business controlled by him
ever since.
In 1887, Mr. Borden bought his brother's interest in The American Printing Co.,
and from that time has been the capable sole owner of the works, which, in the number
of yards printed annually, is probably the largest establishment of the kind in the
world. The capacity of the Printing Company required from 60,000 to 70,000 pieces
of cloth weekly, and it finally appeared desirable to become independent of the open
market, as to a portion of the weekly consumption. In 1889, therefore, Mr. Borden
proceeded to build cloth mills in Fall River for this purpose, and, at the end of three
years, had erected and equipped in the most perfect manner possible three large mills
for spinning yarns and weaving the same into cloth for printing. The plant so estab-
lished, under the title of The Fall River Iron Works Co., a previous corporate name
having been retained for the sake of keeping the old charter, which is valuable, now
consists of the mills named, containing about 200,000 spindles and more than
5,000 looms, producing 35,000 pieces of print cloth weekly, or about one-half the
whole amount required by The American Printing Co. The two companies are of
enormous value to Fall River. They employ an army of well paid operatives,
whose earnings, being diffused through the community, quicken every branch of local
trade.
Since establishing his home in New York, Mr. Borden has identified himself with
the progress and social life of the city, and has gained the esteem, which is only ac-
corded to sound character, public spirit, and good business qualifications. He is a
director in The Manhattan Company Bank, The Lincoln National Bank, The Astor
Place Bank, The Lincoln Safe Deposit Co. , and The New York Security & Trust Co ;
trustee and treasurer of The Clinton Hall Association ; and governor in the Woman's
Hospital in the State of New York. In politics, he has been an earnest and uncom-
promising Republican for more than thirty years. Mr. Borden has never sought office
and never held office, except during one term as Commissioner of Parks, when he gave
a large portion of his time for six years to this public duty. Experience in the employ-
ment of a large body of working people convinces him of the value to American labor
of the protective system, and he advocates the policy which enables him to pay excel-
lent wages to his people. His public spirit is also illustrated by his contributions to the
support of the great museums of this city.
In 1865, Mr. Borden was married to Harriet M Durfee of Fall River. Seven
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. BO. 103
children have been born to them, of whom the following named four survive : Bertram
Harold, Matthew Sterling, Howard Seymour and Owen Ives Borden.
Mr. Borden is a member of the following clubs : Union League, Metropolitan,
Republican, Merchants', Down Town, Players', Riding, New York Athletic, New York
Yacht, Seawanhaka Yacht, Yale Alumni, South Side Sportmen's, Jekyl Island and
Whist. He also belongs to The New England Society.
CHARLES HERBERT BOSHER, banker, a native of Richmond, Va., born in 1834,
died in New York city, May 19, 1894. He came from a well known and highly
respected family. After the civil war he removed to New York city, and in 1872 be-
came one of the original members of the banking firm of R. T. Wilson & Co. , with
which he continued until his death. Deeply interested in the revival of Southern pros-
perity, he aided in re-establishing the railroad systems of that part of the country, in
which patriotic work he gained his fortune. The wonderful recuperation of the South
from the terrible prostration which followed the war of 1861-65, was in part due to the
spirit of enterprise engendered by that historic struggle itself, but was mainly the
result of the energetic labor and sagacity of a group of men, among whom the partners
in R. T. Wilson & Co. stood in the front rank. They enlisted the interest of capital,
rebuilt the railroads, opened the mines, established town sites, and erected furnaces
and factories and gave a powerful impetus to the mercantile, industrial and financial
enterprise of that whole region. Mr. Bosher took an active part in many notable
schemes. He married Miss Ingram, of Kempsville, Va., and to them was born one
daughter. He was a member of the Metropolitan, Down Town and Manhattan clubs,
and The Southern Society, and had been for years a member of St. Thomas's Protes-
tant Episcopal Church.
IQNATZ BOSKOWITZ, fur merchant, is a native of Floss in Bavaria, Germany,
having been born there Feb. 13, 1837. He began life with his uncle, I. L. Honigs-
berger, in the cloth business, and when fifteen years of age, found employment in
banking in Leipzig. At the age of sixteen, he removed to America. Successively a
dry goods clerk, bookkeeper in a clothing store in Chicago, 1855-58, and merchant of
fur and wool, he came to New York in 1860, and has since conducted the latter business
here, under the name of I. & A. Boskowitz, with his brother, Adolph, as a partner.
Here they have gained a good name and a profitable business. Mr. Boskowitz is presi-
dent of The Mechanics and Traders' Bank, and finds recreation in the West End,
Harmonic, Freundschaft, Progress and Manhattan Chess clubs. His marriage with
Carrie Goldsmith, of this city, took place May 5, 1867.
JABEZ ABEL BOSTWICK, oil producer, a native of Delhi, Delaware county,
N. Y. , was born Sept. 30, 1830, and died at his home in Mamaroneck, N. Y., Aug. 16,
1892. His ancestors came from England to New England. Receiving a good busi-
ness education, he went to Covington, Ky. , when about eighteen years old, and
obtained employment in a bank. He subsequently removed to Cleveland, O., and
entered the commission and hardware firm of Reynolds & Bostwick, as a clerk, finding
occupation later as accountant in the bank of J. B. Tilford, in Lexington. After
several years of labor for others, he became a dealer in cotton on his own account in
Cincinnati, displaying excellent abilities as a merchant. In 1866 he removed to New
York city, and continued his dealings in cotton on a large scale, his firm being known
as Bostwick & Tilford. When dealing in petroleum rose into importance, his house
104 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
became receivers of oil and from this went on to undertake the refining business, soon
making a name in that industry as J. A. Bostwick & Co. When The Standard Oil Co.
was organized, Mr. Bostwick allied himself with its originators, and was for a number
of years one of the trustees. In charge of one of the departments of the company, he
became well-known on the speculative exchanges, and acquired a reputation as a Stan-
dard Oil magnate, which clung to him long after he nad severed his connection with
the trust. In 1887, Mr. Bostwick became president of The New York & New England
Railroad, resigning in January, 1892. Among his more recent ventures was The Stan-
dard Gas Light Co., and he was also interested in The New York Steam Co., and The
Gas Engine and Power Co. In 1866 he married Helen C., daughter of Smith Ford, a
retired tobacco merchant. The family made their home at 800 Fifth avenue, and at
Mamaroneck, N. Y., their house in the country adjoining that of James M. Constable.
His three children are Nellie B., wife of Francis Lee Morrell, of New York; Francis
B., wife of Captain Alfred Carstairs, of the Royal British Rifles; and Albert Bostwick.
His clubs were the Union League and New York Yacht, and he also belonged to The
Ohio Society. He gave freely from his large income to charitable objects, in a man-
ner always unostentatious. The Suffolk Street Baptist Church is one of the public
monuments to his liberality and devotion to the cause it represents, and his private
charities were generous and creditable.
WILLIAM GEORGE BOULTON, shipping merchant, born in La Guayra, Vene-
zuela, Jan. 24, 1832, died at his home in Orange, N. J., Sept. 10, 1891. The family from
which he descended came originally from the Lake district in England, settling in
Lancashire. Early in life, Mr. Boulton was brought to Philadelphia, where he was
educated in private schools. He then entered the office of Boulton, Sons & Co., Cara-
cas and La Guayra, Venezuela, as a clerk, became a partner, and in 1857 removed to
Philadelphia, where Oct. 28, the same year, he married Mary E., daughter of William
E. Bowen, banker, of Browns & Bowen. of Philadelphia, and Brown, Shipley & Co , of
London. Engaging in a commission business with Venezuela, he soon afterwards en-
tered the firm of John Dallett & Co., general merchants and shippers. In 1881, the
headquarters of the firm were moved to New York, the style being changed to Boulton,
Bliss & Dallett. This house has engaged extensively in a commission trade, the im-
portation of coffee, and management of ocean steamers. It controls the " Red D" line
of steamers, sailing to Venezuela and Curacao. Mr. Boulton was an excellent mer-
chant, a member of the New York Chamber of Commerce and Produce and Maritime
Exchanges, and a director of The Atlantic Mutual Insurance Co., of this city, The
Delaware Insurance Co. of Philadelphia, and until his removal to New York, vice presi-
dent of the Maritime Exchange of Philadelphia. To him were born a daughter who died
in infancy and one son, William Bowen Boulton, the latter a member of the firm. Mr.
Boulton was an earnest Episcopalian and for many years one of the wardens of the
Church of the Epiphany in Philadelphia. On removing to this city, he attached him-
self to Grace parish. He was especially noted for the interest he took in young men;
and the substantial assistance, which he rendered to many at the outset of their careers,
was a conspicuous illustration of his character.
GEORGE S. BOWDOIN, banker, born in New York city, Sept. 25, 1833, comes
from old American stock, and is a son of the late George R. J. Bowdoin, a lawyer.
Through the maternal line, he descends from Alexander Hamilton and General Philip
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. BO. 105
Schuyler, both soldiers in tire American Revolution, and through the paternal line from
Governor Bowdoin of Massachusetts. The late Robert C. Winthrop was his great
uncle. The young man was carefully educated, and had the advantage of three years in
the scientific course in Harvard University, His early business experience was gained
as clerk for Aymar & Co., shipping merchants on South street. In 1871, he became a
partner in the firm of Morton, Bliss & Co., bankers of this city, and Morton, Rose &
Co., of London, which relation he continued for thirteen years. In 1884, he joined the
banking house of Drexel, Morgan & Co., as a partner, and he is also connected with
Drexel & Co., of Philadelphia, and Morgan, Harjes & Co , of Paris. Clear-headed,
quiet and capable, he has borne his share of the labors of his great bank, and has been
identified with various railroad reorganizations, especially those of The West Shore, The
The Philadelphia & Reading and The Baltimore & Ohio Railroads. The New York
Life Insurance & Trust Co., The Mutual Life Insurance Co., The Commercial Union
Fire Insurance Co. and the Bank for Savings have been glad to elect him to their direc-
torates. He is also a governor of the Bloomingdale Asylum and The New York
Hospital, to the latter of which he has given a good deal of his time. By culture,
education and inherited refinement, Mr. Bowdoin is a man of attractive manners and
social temperament. He is a valued member of about twenty clubs and societies,
including the Metropolitan, Union League, Union, Knickerbocker, Century, Players',
City, Racquet, Tuxedo and New York Yacht clubs, and, by virtue of lineal descent, of
The Sons of the American Revolution. His wife is Juiia Irving, daughter of the late
Moses H. Grinnell.
HENRY CHANDLER BOWEN, proprietor of Tlte New York Independent, was born
in Woodstock, Conn., Sept. n, 1813. He is the son of George andLydiaWolcott Eaton
Bowen. One of his ancestors, Henry Bowen, was one of the twenty -two founders of the
town of Woodstock. He was educated in the local schools and the academy in Dudley,
Mass. , and began life as a clerk in his father's store. When eighteen years of age he was
appointed assistant to his father, then postmaster of the village. In 1833, the young man
came to New York by invitation, entered the employment of Arthur Tappan & Co. , silk
merchants, and throve so well in this store that several offers of partnership were made
to him. In 1838, Theodore McNamee, a fellow clerk, and he founded the firm of Bowen
& McNamee, merchants, aided by a loan of $25,000 from John Rankin, who became a
special partner. Mr. Bowen aided in organizing The Continental Insurance Co., in
1852, by giving the names of nearly forty of the forty-five original directors. So many
persons were anxious to serve as directors in that company that, forthwith, The Home
Insurance Co. was formed, the corporators and directors being named in Mr. Bowen's
office, one of them being Theodore McNamee. In 1848, The New York Independent was
founded by five men, of whom Mr. Bowen was one. Unprofitable at first, the property
finally came into Mr. Bowen's ownership, and he has been sole proprietor now for thirty
years or more. To this newspaper he finally devoted his whole attention and has
made it a profitable enterprise. Mr. Bowen is a resident in Brooklyn, but spends his
summers at Roseland, in his native town, has created the beautiful Roseland Park
there, and for more than twenty years has held public celebrations of the Fourth of
July on the grounds. These celebrations have become famous, the most distinguished
men in the country gracing them with their orator}-. Mr. Bowen has expended large
sums of money upon the Woodstock Academy, the village parks and the churches of
I06 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
the town. He is a Republican and a very capable and public-spirited man. His first
wife was a daughter of Lewis Tappan, his second a daughter of Hiram Holt. M.D., of
Pomfret, Conn. His children are Henry Eliot, Edward Augustus, Herbert Wolcott,
Clarence Winthrop, John Eliot and Franklin Davis Bowen, Mrs. Mary Louisa Holt,
Mrs. Alice Linden Richardson, Grace Aspinwall, Winthrop Earle and Paul Holt Bowen.
CALEB SHITH BRAGG, book publisher, born in North Sidney, Me., May 24,
1824, died suddenly from heart disease on a railroad train, near Altoona, Pa., March 8,
1894. He was educated in Waterville, Me., and in 1847 began life as a school teacher
in Northern Ohio. In 1849, he accepted an agency for W. B. Smith & Co., school book
publishers in Cincinnati, and proved so good a merchant that, in 1855, he began busi-
ness on his own account in Cleveland, as a bookseller, in Ingham & Bragg. In 1871,
however, he removed to Cincinnati and entered the book firm of Wilson, Hinkle & Co.,
who had succeeded W. B. Smith & Co., and who, in turn, were succeeded by Van Ant-
werp, Bragg & Co. The latter soon ranked among the best-known publishers of school
books in the United States. Their firm were consolidated in 1890 with Ivison, Blake-
man & Co., D. Appleton & Co., and A. S. Barnes & Co., under the title of The Ameri-
can Book Co. School book publishing brought Mr. Bragg a fortune. A short time
before his death, he established his home in New York, in order to serve as one of the
managing directors of The American Book Co. His wife was Mary A. Mills, daughter
of Mathew Mills, of Brighton, Canada, and the children born to them were Charles
Froom Bragg, now deceased, and Caius Cobb Bragg.
JOHN BRAND, tobacco manufacturer, a native of Elmira, N. Y., was born Feb.
26, 1855. He is of German descent, his parents having come to America in 1850. Re-
ceiving his education in the public schools, he began life in 1873 as clerk for his father,
a tobacco merchant, in Elmira. In 1879, he was admitted to partnership, and after his
father's death, in 1880, rose to the head of the firm. He carried on the trade in Elmira
for a number of years, but has lately come to New York city to live, although retaining
his factory in Elmira. An enterprising man, he has invested his earnings in properties
in Elmira, Buffalo, New York city, and Colorado. By his marriage with Clara E.
Woodruff, in 1879, he has three children, John Herbert, Charles George and Walter
Henry Brand. His clubs are the Elmira City and Century.
BENJAMIN BRANDRETH, manufacturer of medicines, born near Leeds, Eng-
land, June 22, 1808, died Feb. 19, 1880, in Sing Sing, N. Y. His father, a musician
of reputation, having been converted to the faith of the Friends, abandoned his profes-
sion for a mercantile life. Of his six children, two sons and four daughters, Benjamin,
the youngest, was born after his father's death. At an early age, Benjamin was taken
under the care of his grandfather, William Brandreth, with whom he studied medicine,
subsequently succeeding him in business at Leeds in making medicines. In 1827, he
was married to Harriet Smallpage, and had three children. He came with his family
to New York in 1835. His first wife dying in 1836, he married Virginia Graham of
New York city in the following year. To them were born ten children. In May, 1835,
Mr. Brandreth opened an office in Hudson street. The buildings there soon proved
too small for the business, resulting in a removal of the factory to Sing Sing in 1837,
where it has been conducted ever since. After coming to this country, he was gradu-
ated from the Eclectic Medical College of this city. In 1857, he built the Brandreth
House at the corner of Canal street and Broadway, his office being then established in
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. BR. IO7
this building. The secret of the enormous sale of the Brandreth medicines lay in the
fact that during the first fifteen years or more, he expended almost his entire profits of
$1 50,000 a year in advertising. In politics, a Democrat, Dr. Brandreth was elected to the
State Senate in 1849 and served four years. He was frequently a delegate to the con-
ventions of his party. In private life he had many friends. He distributed his wealth
liberally in acts of charity, especially among the families of his own employes.
JAMES CARSON BREVOORT, civil engineer and man of letters, bcm in Bloom-
ingdale, New York city, July 10, 1818, died in Brooklyn, N. Y., Dec. 7, 1887. He
descended from Elias Brevoort, one of the early land proprietors of the Island of Man-
hattan, and was a son of Henry Brevoort, who received his mercantile training under
the original John Jacob Astor, to whom he was apprenticed as a boy. From his father,
Tames C. Brevoort inherited a large property in real estate. The young man received
an excellent education, obtaining his diploma as a civil engineer from the Ecole Cen-
trale of Arts and Manufactures in Paris. He was employed for a time on the North-
eastern boundary survey under his uncle Professor James Renwick, and in 1838, went
abroad as private secretary to Washington Irving, then M inister to Spain. After serving
a year at Madrid, he devoted himself for a while to European travel. Returning, he
married, in 1845, the only daughter of Judge Leffert Lefferts, whose homestead com-
prised a large tract of land in the Bedford section of Brooklyn. Mr. Brevoort there-
after made his home in the old Lefferts mansion in Brooklyn, in which city he served
in the Board of Education and in the Water Commission, when the Brooklyn Water
Works were constructed. He was president of The Long Island Historical Society
1863-73 and 1876-78, superintendent of the Astor Library in New York, as well as a Re-
gent of The L'niversity of the State of New York, a member of The New York Histor-
ical Society, The Academy of Natural Sciences and of The American Geographical
Society, and numerous other associations. In 1863, Williams College conferred on
him the degree of LL. D. He wrote much on history, fish, bugs, and coins, and had
perhaps the finest private library in Brooklyn, containing about 100,000 volumes, some
of which he had inherited from his father. His collections in entomology and ichthy-
ology are now owned by public institutions. He left a son, an engineer, who married
a daughter of John Lefferts of Flatbush, L. I.
HENRY BREWSTER, carriage maker, born in New Haven, Conn., May 19, 1824,
died in New York city, Sept. 20, 1887. He came from old New England stock,
being a descendant of Elder Brewster, of the Mayflower. His father, James Brewster,
a carriage maker of New Haven, trained his boys to the trade, and took Henry and
James into the firm of James Brewster & Sons. Henry was finally sent to New York
to manage the sales of the firm in this locality, a factory being established in Bridge-
port, Conn. The young man started in business for himself in 1856, with partners, as
Brewster & Co., and devoted himself to the construction of fine carriages. The firm
soon became the largest of their class in the world. At the Paris Exposition, Mr.
Brewster won the gold medal arid the cross of the Legion of Honor, and on his return
to New York was presented with a testimonial from the carriage makers of the United
States. One of the organizers of The Union Leage club, he stoutly espoused the cause
of the Union during the Civil War. At the time of the draft riots, he hoisted a flag on
his building, and armed his workmen to prevent the mob from tearing it down. His life
was threatened, but he never flinched. He was a charming companion in private life.
I08 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
CALVIN STEWART BRICE, lawyer and statesman, a progressive and energetic
man in private life and one of the most able Democrats of the United States Senate, was
born in Denmark, Ohio, Sept. 17, 1845. His father, William Kirkpatrick Brice, was a
Presbyterian minister; his mother, Elizabeth Stewart Brice, was a woman of good
mind, eminent for the graces and charms of her personal character. The family re-
moved to Columbus Grove in Putnam county, Ohio, in .1848.
Great pains were taken with the education of young Calvin during his early life,
and he not only enjoyed the inestimable advantage of being reared under the care of
loving, superior and devoted parents, but received the benefit of the scholarly
tuition of his father until 1858. At thirteen years of age, he entered the prepara-
tory department of Miami University at Oxford, O. , to receive a higher education.
In April, 1861, at the outbreak of the Civil War, the young man, inspired with the
generous sentiments, which actuated the flower of the youth of the North, enlisted in
Captain Dodd's University Company, and was stationed with his associates at Camp
Jackson in the city of Columbus, the capital of the State. Returning to college in the
fall, he again enlisted in April, 1862, and joined a university organization under the
command of Captain McFarland, which became Co. A, of the 86th Ohio Infantry. The
summer of that year was spent in campaigning in West Virginia.
Later, Mr. Brice resumed the college course, thus interrupted by patriotic labors,
and graduated from Miami University in June, 1863. He ranked high as a student
and made himself conspicuous in his class for extensive reading of general literature.
A voracious reader of the best books, his mind had become richly stored with the
thoughts and philosophy of famous writers before he had fairly entered upon his dis-
tinguished and successful business career.
After graduation, the young soldier and scholar removed to Lima, O , and taught
for several months in the public schools, finding employment thereafter as clerk in the
office of the Auditor of Allen county.
In July, 1864, Mr. Brice again went to the front to uphold the cause of the Union.
He re-entered the Federal service in a company of Union volunteers, recruited by him-
self, and received a commission as captain of Co. E, iSoth Ohio Infantry. He served in
the field in the 23d Army Corps, in Tennessee, Virginia, Carolina and Georgia, until the
close of the war. He was appointed Lieutenant Colonel, but not mustered in.
In the fall of 1865, he attended lectures in the Law School of the University of
Michigan at Ann Arbor. Admitted to the bar in the spring of 1866, and to practice in
United States courts, he immediately formed a partnership with James Irvine, under
the name of Irvine & Brice, in Lima, O., and for ten or twelve years was actively
engaged in the practice of his profession. The partners became noted for high charac-
ter, ability and thoroughness, and their devotion to their clients led to a large and suc-
cessful practice, which brought to them both a good living and a moderate surplus besides.
It was during this period that Mr. Brice became interested in traffic enterprises;
and by the success which attended his skillful management of their business, he was
gradually led away from the law into the realm of practical affairs. His first railroad
experience was gained in the legal department of the old Lake Erie & Louisville Rail-
road, with which he had accepted a connection. He took an active interest in the
work of the company, acquired by purchase a moderate amount of its stock, and
played an energetic part in constructing extensions of the road. Through the efforts of
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. BR. 109
himself and associates, the property was greatly developed. His success in this enter-
prise led Mr. Brice and his associates to enter upon the construction of The Nickel
Plate Railroad, an enterprise which grew out of the refusal of The Lake Shore & Mich-
igan Southern Railroad to make satisfactory arrangements for taking care of the traffic
delivered to it by The Lake Erie & Western. The construction and subsequent sale
of The Nickel Plate is generally supposed to be the dividing line between his status as
a comparatively poor man and his later career as a man of extensive means and large
investments. With a capital which capable and energetic management had now
brought to him, he engaged more largely in traffic enterprises. His reputation and
notable skill resulted in Mr. Brice being called into a share of the management of all
the important lines with which he formed a connection. Railroads in the region between
the Gulf and the Ohio claimed a part of his attention, and he was an active spirit in
developing the lines of transportation of the New South. He has been a director in
late years of The" East Tennessee, Virginia & Georgia Railway, The Mobile & Bir-
mingham Railroad, The Memphis & Charleston Railroad, The Lake Erie & Western
Railroad, The Duluth, South Shore & Atlantic Railway, The Knoxville & Ohio Rail-
road, The Pacific Mail Steamship Co., and of other corporations. He is now chairman
of the Union Pacific Reorganization Committee.
In politics, Mr. Brice is an enthusiastic Democrat, and has long been known as one
of the most capable, safe, conservative and energetic leaders of his party. He served
on the Tilden electoral ticket in 1876 and the Cleveland electoral ticket in 1884. A
delegate-at-large from Ohio to the Democratic National Convention in St. Louis in
1 888, he was then selected to represent Ohio on the National Committee in the ensuing
campaign. As Chairman of the Campaign Committee he conducted the National cam-
paign of 1888. Upon the death of William H. Barnum, in 1889, he was elected chair-
man of the National Democratic Committee. He was delegate-at-large and chairman
of the delegation from Ohio to the National Democratic Convention in 1892.
In January, 1890, Mr. Brice was elected Senator from Ohio for the term beginning
March 4, 1891. In this exalted position, he has wielded a large influence among his
political associates. His advice is sought on all important questions and is always
judicious, being the result of a long experience in practical affairs, a penetrating mind,
extended reading, and a cautious and conservative temperament. His service has been
mainly upon the Committees on Appropriations, Pensions, Public Buildings and
Grounds, and Pacific Railroads, being chairman of the latter. He is also a member of
the " Steering Committee" of his party in the Senate.
In 1870, Mr. Brice was married to Catherine Olivia Meily, and gained thereby a
charming, judicious and valuable companionship for life. Mrs. Brice is a woman of great
culture and literary ability and a delightful hostess. She has devoted herself to the
education of their children, three sons and two daughters, all of whom have assisted
her in a busy social life in Washington as well as in Ohio, New York and Newport.
Mr. Brice is a man of fine personal presence, straight and commanding, his hair
and beard in early life quite red and later a dark brown, framing a face expressive of
keen intelligence, dignity and good nature. Slightly reserved in manner and careful
in speech, he is nevertheless an agreeable associate in private life, and an attractive
figure at public dinners ; and he has been elected to membership in all the prominent
chibs in Ohio and many elsewhere, including the Manhattan (the leading Democratic
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. — BR. Ill
social organization), the Lawyers', Riding, and Whist clubs of New York city. He is
also a member of The Ohio Society of this city and of the Delta Kappa Epsilon club.
ELBERT ADRAIN BRINCKERHOFF, manufacturer, born in Jamaica on Long
Island, Nov. 29, 1838, is the son of John N. Brinckerhoff, principal of Union Hall
Academy there from 1837 to 1865, and grandson of Robert Adrain, LL.D., a distin-
guished mathematician. His ancestry is traced back to the landing of the early Dutch
settlers in New Amsterdam in 1638. Elbert graduated from the academy, of which his
father was principal, and had turned his face toward college, when an opportunity
offered for a voyage around the world in a sailing vessel. In January, 1855, he sailed
from New York for San Francisco. The unexpected charter of the vessel in San Fran-
cisco for New York, instead of China, changed his plans. Accepting an offer from a
commercial house in San Francisco, he entered upon his work and remained in that city
from April, 1855, to August, 1860, when he returned home for a visit. Consideration
of the long distance from his parents, determined him to secure a position in New York ;
and in November, 1861, he was employed as bookkeeper and cashier by the firm of Fox
& Polhemus, then the leading commission merchants and manufacturers of cotton
duck in the city. In 1865 he became a partner in the house, and a few years later,
owing to deaths and retirement, the senior partner. Since 1870, the house has been
known as Brinckerhoff, Turner & Co. After more than twenty-five years in the manu-
facturing and selling of cotton duck, he retired, in 1887 from an active interest, with-
drawing entirely in 1890. In 1869 he married Emily A., daughter of the late Colonel
Washington R. Vermilye. Their children are Emily Vermilye, now Mrs. Frederick S.
Duncan; Mary E., now Mrs. James D. Armstrong; Elbert A. Brinckerhoff, jr., and
four younger daughters. The family live in Englewood, N. J., but business interests
call Mr. Brinckerhoff daily to the city. He is a member of the St. Nicholas and Hol-
land Societies and the Down Town and Presbyterian clubs; vice-president of The
American Bible Society and The Merchants' National Bank; treasurer of The Presby-
terian Hospital ; and trustee of The American Seamen's Friend Society.
ISAAC VAIL BROKAW, merchant, was born near New Brunswick, N. J., Nov.
-',• J835. His ancestors were French Huguenots, who settled in New Jersey afc an
early date, the first one to come to this country being Bourgon Broucard, who, with his
wife, Catherine Le Febre, landed in 1675 Mr. Broucard with a few others established
the first French Protestant Church in New York. The name was changed in process
of time to Brokaw. On the maternal side, Mr. Brokaw came from the well-known and
highly esteemed Vail family of Quakers, of New Jersey, William Vail the most promi-
nent. The young man received his education in New Brunswick. Being of an ambi-
tious temperament, he decided at an early age to enter upon a business career in New
York city. He first found employment as clerk in the well-known house of Wilson
G. Hunt & Co., at that time considered the leading cloth importers in this country.
By faithful and diligent service, Mr. Brokaw so won their esteem and confidence, that,
at the end of a short time, he was entrusted with the keys to the store containing goods
valued at a million dollars and over. By application and careful study of their texture,
he became an expert in the handling of woolens; and then, recognizing the fact that
his opportunity for rapid advancement was limited, owing to the large number of clerks
employed older than himself, he formed the plan of starting in business on his own
account. Accordingly, with the advice of his kind friend, Wilson G. Hunt, he formed
H2 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
a partnership and began a clothing business under the firm name of Dunham & Brokaw.
This business was most successfully carried on from 1856 to 1861, when Mr. Dunham
retired, and Mr. Brokaw continued the business under his own name. In 1866 he
admitted to partnership his brother, William Vail Brokaw, thereafter adopting the
name of Brokaw Bro's. The business has been highly successful down to the present
time. No firm are more highly esteemed in the United States, no trade better
managed.
Mr. Brokaw considers his success due to the fact that his business has been most
diligently conducted, that the goods purchased have been of the best quality, and the
productions of the firm constructed with the greatest possible care and attention. He
believes that the great success of any undertaking is accomplished by the greatest
energy and most eternal vigilance as to details.
In political faith Mr. Brokaw has always been a staunch Republican. He has
always preferred service in the ranks, however, and although well fitted by character
and ability for positions of trust and honor, he has firmly declined several which have
been offered to him. Other positions of prominence and places upon boards have also
been refused by him, because he has always preferred to devote his time and attention
to carrying on his own particular business. He is a member of the Union League club
and of The Huguenot Society of America, and was for many years an officer in the late
Dr. Howard Crosby's Church, which he attended for many years. Mr. Brokaw,
although not having held any political office, nevertheless has always taken the keenest
interest in public affairs and municipal government, and has allied himself with the
side of truth, justice and honest government at all times. He is a firm believer in
charities and religious work, many institutions owing their origin and advancement
to support received at his hands. The Bethany Mission of Dr. Kittredge's church and
the Brokaw Memorial at Princeton are examples of his generosity.
HENRY D. BROOKMAN, merchant, a native of Bucksport, Me., died in Brooklyn,
N. Y., Feb. 19, 1895. Bucksport is a shipping town, and Jwr. Brookman's father was
a merchant. The youth was led naturally into nautical and mercantile enterprises,
and* after an experience in his native place and in Boston, he came to New York in
1848 to open an office as a shipping and ship chandlery merchant. Having been joined
by his brother John, the two men formed the firm of H. D. & John U. Brookman, in
1851, and for twenty-three years carried on a thriving business. They became large
owners of vessels. The Civil War gave a rude shock to the maritime interests of
America, and in 1864, the brothers went out of business. But both had gained fortunes,
which they increased afterward by investment. He married Marion, daughter of John
N. Prentice, warehouseman, and left three children, Henry Prentice Brookman, Mrs.
Amory Carhart and Mrs. Philip Niles.
JOHN ULHORE BROOKHAN, shipping merchant, was born in Bucksport, Me.,
Nov. 25, 1830. His father, a Prussian by birth, settled in America about 1800. His.
mother came from an old colonial family. His education was finished at Wesleyan
Seminary in Kent's Hill, Me. At the age of sixteen, he began life as clerk for his.
brother Henry, commission and ship chandlery merchant. In 1851, John was admitted
to partnership in H. D. Brookman & Co., the style being changed in 1856 to H. D.
& John U. Brookman. The brothers worked hard, gradually gained large interests in
vessels and derived large profits, both from their store and in freighting cargoes.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. BR. 113
between the continents of the world. In 1 864, the firm dissolved, selling their vessels
as rapidly as possible. Since then, Mr. Brookman has transferred his interests mainly
to railroads and real estate. He is a capable, clear headed and successful man. At
one time, he served in the directorates of The Evansville & Terra Haute, The Chicago
& Eastern Illinois, The Louisville & Nashville and The Northern Pacific Railroads,
but retired therefrom when he sold his stock. At present, he operates mainly in real
estate and is aiding in the development of Tacoma, Wash. His wife, whom he married
in 1856, is Sarah, daughter of Colonel Rowland Carlton of Sedgwick, Me.
CLARENCE BROOKS, varnish manufacturer, born in this city, Aug, 27, 1826, died
in New York, March 25, 1891. His father was James Brooks, leather merchant, and
his grandfather, an emigrant from England, is reputed to have introduced the art of
tanning leather into this country. Clarence gained his education at Hubbs & Clark's
High School in 4th street, and at the age of twenty-eight engaged in business with
Tilden & Blodgett, varnish manufacturers. Having mastered the mysteries of the
craft, and feeling competent to conduct business on his own account, he established in
1859 the firm of Brooks & Fitzgerald, afterward known as Clarence Brooks & Co.,
which latter name is yet retained. He was for upwards of forty years successfully
engaged in this industry, and was always held in the highest regard. The factory
stood at the corner of West and West i2th streets. He was married Feb. 22, 1849, to
Maria Louisa, daughter of Jacob Bogert, and their two children are Ella Louise, wife
of N. W. Anthony, and Warren Ward Brooks.
ELISHA BROOKS, merchant, born in Rye, Westchester county, N. Y., June 15,
1815, died in New York, Oct. 26, 1876. He was the son of Henry S. Brooks, clothing
merchant, who founded in 1818 the great business, afterward carried on by Brooks
Bro's. Elisha gained a sufficient education in the public schools, and in 1830 entered
his father's store as clerk. He received a rigid business training, and being of the stuff
from which great merchants are made, he proved so efficient that he became a partner
in 1833. After the death of the senior Brooks, the business was continued by his five
sons. Elisha represented the firm in financial matters and consequently became director
and trustee in several banks, fire and life insurance companies, and other corporations.
During the Civil War his firm filled large contracts for army clothing and made large
profits. Two sons and four daughters survived him. He was a man of attractive and
genial manners, unswervingly faithful, his word as good as his bond, public spirited, a
stout Union man and a good citizen.
JOHN HAHIL BROWER, merchant, born on Gold street in Brooklyn, Aug. 12,
1801, died in New York city, June 15, 1881. He came from an old Dutch family, be-
ing a descendant of Jacob Brower. and Amantie Bogardus, the latter a grand daughter
of Aneke Jans Bogardus His father, Adolphus Brower, followed the occupation of a
ropemaker, married Elizabeth Baker, and served in the War of 1812. John left school
at the age of twelve to become the clerk of Augustus Wyncoop, a large grocer and gen-
eral merchant; and by strict, enterprising and unremitting attention to duty, he ad-
vanced from position to position until he became Mr. Wyncoop's confidential manager
and finally his partner. Upon Mr. Wyncoop's death, the house was reorganized as
Arthur & Brower. From about 1840, Mr. Brower managed the business alone and
after 1844, under the name of Brower & Neilson. In 1848, with his son-in-law, Benj. B.
Blydenburgh, he formed the firm of J. H. Brower & Co. At first, a grocer and mer-
ii4 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
chant in the West India trade, he extended his operations to insurance, commission and
ship owning. The New York & Texas packet line was his venture and, at one time,
fifteen vessels belonged to him and traded to all parts of the world. His ship Harvey
Birch, named after the noted spy of the American Revolution, was the first vessel cap-
tured and destroyed by the Confederates during the Civil War. Almost the first mer-
chant in the trade with Texas, he became the largest, and developed that field of com-
merce by his advice and operations. He was at one time Consul for Texas in the
United States and among the first to extend credit to the business men of that region
after annexation to this country. At the time of his death, he was the oldest merchant
in the cotton trade and a prominent member of the Cotton Exchange. During his
earlier life, he helped .organize the ;th regiment of this city and held a captain's com-
mission. While previously a director of The City Bank, The Bank of the Republic and
The Commercial and The Union Mutual Insurance Go's, he resigned from these boards
several years before his death and retained a place on the board of The American Fire
Insurance Co. only. He was universally respected for his intelligence, high character
and abilities. His wife, Ann S., daughter of George Duryee, died before him. Eight
children were born to them, Mary E., now deceased, wife of Benjamin B Blydenburgh;
Elizabeth B., wife of Morgan L. Smith; Annie B., wife of Mason B. Browning; Maria
P., wife of George W. McNeel; Susan R., wife of Joseph R. Pierson; Amanda E., wife
of Thomas B. Hewitt; Kate M., who died in 1863; and Morgan L. S. Brower, who
died in 1864 at the age of about thirty.
JAMES BROWN, banker, born in County Antrim, Ireland, in February, 1791,
died in New York city, Nov. i, 1877. He was the youngest son of Alexander Brown,
linen merchant, who came to this country in 1798, and established a linen store in Bal-
timore and afterward a famous bank. The parent house of Alexander Brown & Sons
having resolved to put forth branches in various parts of the world, James was sent to
New York in 1825 to establish the house now known as Brown Bro's & Co. While
their father lived, all the Brown brothers frequently resorted to Baltimore for advice
and consultation. James Brown became one of the representative bankers of New
York. In the panic of 1837, the English branch of the firm was able to secure a loan
of $10,000,000 from the Bank of England, which enabled the local firm to weather th
financial storm without suspension, and placed them in the front rank of the banke
of the world. The house has branches in Baltimore and Philadelphia in this country,
under different names, and in England under the name of Brown, Shipley & Co. Fo:
fifty years a member of the Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Brown was at the time of hi
death the third oldest member, his seniors being Wm. F. Gary and Caleb Barstow
His first wife was Louisa, the daughter of Rev. Joel Benedict, of Plainfield, Conn
Their three daughters were Mrs. Alexander Brown, of Richmond Hill, England, Mrs
Howard Potter, and Mrs. James Cooper Lord. From his second marriage, to Eliz;
daughter of the Rev. Dr. Coe, of Troy, two children were born, John Crosby, am
George H. Brown, both of whom became members of their father's bank. One othe
son, Clarence S. Brown, died early in life. Mr. Brown was noted for public spirit an
benevolence, and for a desire to avoid having his good deeds brought into public notic
His disposition was frank, generous and charitable.
JAMES flUNC ASTER BROWN, banker, born in Baltimore, Md., Dec. 8, 1820
died at Manchester, Vt., July 19, 1890. He was of Irish descent, and a son o:
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. BR. 115
Stewart Brown, well known in Baltimore in former years. When a young man, he
entered the bank of Alexander Brown & Sons of Baltimore, remaining with the firm
until 1844, when he came to New York to join the firm of Brown Bro's & Co., here.
He was identified with this great firm the remainder of his life, being at his death the
senior partner, and always active in the management. Mr. Brown lent his energies
and influence in a marked degree to the furtherance of benevolent and Christian insti-
tutions in this city, and was president of The New York Hospital and vice-president of
The American Bible Society. He supported The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty
to Animals, and succeeded Henry Bergh as its president. An earnest advocate and
supporter of The Young Men's Christian Association, he also promoted other charitable
organizations. A sturdy, judicious, sound man, he was for many years president of
the Chamber of Commerce, an election to that office being the highest compliment the
merchants of this town can bestow. He never held public office, but took part in a
quiet way in movements to promote municipal reform. By his marriage with Julia E. ,
daughter of the late Waldron B. Post, he had four children, Waldron P. Brown; Ellen
Whipple Brown; Julia Elizabeth, who married James Taylor Soiitter; and Mrs. Sarah
Elizabeth, wife of Anson W. Hard.
JOHN L. BROWN, contractor, born in Vermont in 1805, died in New York, March
29, 1875. A poor boy, he was obliged to go to work, with scanty education, early in
life, as a blacksmith. But brains, good character and perseverance enabled him to
make his way as well as many of the collegians. He came to New York about 1845,
and engaged in the manufacture of platform and other scales for weighing. He subse-
quently undertook construction work, and pushed ahead until he ranked as one of the
largest contractors of New York city. For a time partner of Charles Guidet, he helped
build a portion of the Brooklyn Water Works. In 1863, in company with William
Devoe and Shepherd L. Knapp, Mr. Brown obtained a contract to clean the streets of
New York city for ten years. A year later, the contract was sold to Judge Whiting,
who, in turn, sold it three years later to Mr. Brown, who held it until 1872, and then
disposed of it to the Police Commission. In 1868, he contracted to grade Central
Avenue from Macomb's dam to the Yonkers township line, and accomplished the work
in two }-ears. He built the high service tower at High Bridge, which is employed
to pump Croton water to the elevated parts of the city, and also contracted for laying
the water mains, six feet in diameter, from 92d street for a long distance towards High
Bridge. When The Long Island Bridge Co. was formed, with a view to bridge the
East River at the lower end of Blackwell's Island, he was made its president. He
retired from active business in 1872. A son was his only child.
WALSTON HILL BROWN, contractor and banker, born in Cincinnati, O., June
6, 1842, is a son of Augustus J. Brown, lawyer, who removed from Bangor, Me., to
Cincinnati and became a partner there of General Nat. McLean for many years, remov-
ing in 1852 with his family to New York. Walston graduated from Columbia College
in 1864, and was admitted to the bar in 1868. He never practiced, however. In 1869,
his father and he founded the banking firm of Augustus J. Brown & Co., in New York,
succeeded in 1877 by Walston H. Brown & Co. This house is yet in existence. Early
in his career, Mr. Brown was drawn into railroad building as a contractor. As a mem-
ber of the firm of Merriam & Brown, he aided in building in 1870 The Sioux City & St.
Paul Railroad, and was a member of a committee comprising David Dows, H . H. Por-
' rltrt*nA<w^/
^ h
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. BR. 117
ter and himself to reorganize The West Wisconsin Railroad and create the present
Chicago, St. Paul, Minneapolis & Omaha Railroad system. He was a member of
Brown, Howard & Co., who built the reorganized and extended Lake Erie & Western,
The Toledo & Ohio Central, The Peoria, Decatur & Evansville, The Buffalo, Rochester
& Pitsburgh, The New York, Chicago & St. Louis, and The Duluth, South Shore &
Atlantic Railroads. In the firm of Brown, Thomas & Co., in which General Samuel
Thomas is a partner, which in 1887 succeeded Brown, Howard & Co., he took a contract
from the corporation of New York to construct one half the Croton Aqueduct for over
$12,000,000. He was secretary of The Sioux City & St. Paul Railroad for several
vears, managing director of The Ohio Central for two years, and receiver and president
of The Cincinnati, Jackson & Mackinaw Railway for five years. In 1889, he married
Eva, daughter, of Robert G. Ingersoll, of New York, and their children are Eva Inger-
soll Brown and Robert Ingersoll Brown. His clubs are the Union League, Down Town
and Riding, and The Ohio Society, and a seat has been given him in The Chamber of
Commerce also.
JOHN HAZARD BROWNING, a prominent merchant of this city, was of the
sixth generation in descent from Nathaniel Browning, who came from England in 1645
and settled at Warwick, R. I., where he purchased a piece of land from the Indians for
three pounds of wampum.
The Browning family were, down to the fifth generation, Quakers.
The father of John Hazard Browning was William T. Browning, who married
Catharine Morey, Dec. 29, 1794, the father of the latter living at Newport, R. I.,
where he owned ships engaged in the West Indies trade and was considered wealthy
for those times After his marriage, he moved to North Stonington, Conn., and bought
a farm a few miles east of the village of Preston City.
Upon this farm, the subject of this sketch was born, July 21, 1801 When very
young he met with an accident by falling down a well, some forty feet deep The well
was dry of water at the time, so that he ran no risk from drowning, but the fall broke one
leg in two places and made a gash in his forehead and a scar which he carried until the
time of his death. The village physician insisted that the broken leg should be ampu-
tated, but the boy's heroic mother would not consent, and by her care and attention
the limb was saved and became perfectly well, so as to leave no mark of the injuries
in after life. The lad went on crutches for several years, or until he was fourteen
years old.
He was brought up on his father's farm, attended the district school and received
a common school education. He made his first start as a teacher in the same school
in which he had been educated. While there, he met the lady who afterward became
his wife, Miss Eliza Smith Hull, a daughter of Colonel John W. Hull, who was a farmer
and bank president, living in the neighborhood. They were married Sept. 21, 1829.
The first business venture of the young man, at his own risk, was a general store
at Middletown, now North Stonington, Conn. , where he dealt largely in yarns, produce
and merchandise, carrying his yarns by wagon to the mills at Providence. About
1830, he removed the business to New London, Conn., where he conducted a general
store for a few years. Leaving this place, he came to the city of New York in the
latter part of 1833, and started in the wholesale dry goods business under the firm name
of Browning & Pomeroy, afterward Browning & Hull, and then Browning, Hull &
n8 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
Marsh. He continued in the wholesale dry goods business until 1848, being widely
known and thoroughly repeated among the substantial merchants of the metropolis.
In the days of the California excitement, Mr. Browning started a general store
near the mines, in company with two partners, he taking charge of the business in this
city, his partners at the mines. Very shortly afterward, they removed the store from
the mines to the city of San Francisco. The partnership was entitled Jennings &
Brewster. Both these men were prominent merchants of New York city. The store
in San Francisco was carried on until 1860, when Mr. Browning withdrew from all
active business, except that he remained a special partner in the firm of Hanford &
Browning, the Browning of this firm being his eldest son, William C. Browning. In
politics, he started as an "old line" Whig, afterward identifying himself with the
Republican party. He was present at an historic abolition meeting in the Broadway
Tabernacle, then located in Pearl street, one of the first ever held in this city, and at
which a riot occurred on the assembling of the meeting. He seldom entered into poli-
tics more than to cast his vote, always applying himself closely and energetically to
his own extensive business. In early life he joined the Presbyterian Church, but after-
ward united himself with the Reformed Dutch Church, in which he held a prominent
position until the time of his death. In 1865 or 1866, he formed a syndicate for the
purchase of The Shelby Iron Co., in Alabama, whose works had been destroyed by
Sherman's army during the war. This proved a very valuable investment. He after-
ward started a similar industry in Cedartown, Ga. , where he possessed large interests.
He died March 21, 1877, leaving three children surviving: William C. Browning, of
the firm of Browning, King & Co., New York city; Edward F. Browning, and John
Hull Browning, president of The Northern Railroad of New Jersey.
Mr. Browning was an excellent example of the self made men of the United States.
Early acquaintance with the difficulties and trials which young men encounter, devel-
oped in his own character the qualities of humanity and sympathy ; and he was noted
at all times during life for his liberal spirit and generous nature.
WILLIAM CHARLES BROWNING, dry goods merchant, born in New York city,
Nov. 13, 1833, is a son of the late John Hazard Browning, merchant. The young man was
educated in his native city. He began business life as a boy in a broker's office, remaining
there a little over one year, when he became associated with his father for seven years.
In 1858, he formed the firm of Hanford & Browning, succeeded in 1863 by Wm. C.
Browning & Co., in which latter firm he associated himself with two brothers. In 1868,
the partners established the firm of Browning, King & Co. , to represent the manufac-
turing and retail interests of their clothing trade, their wholesale business being -carried
on in Chicago under the name of Henry W. King & Co. At the present time, they are
the largest manufacturers of clothing in the world. They have retail branches in Chi-
cago, St. Louis, Milwaukee, Cincinnati, Philadelphia, Kansas City, St. Paul, Omaha,
New York (Harlem), Minneapolis, Brooklyn, Boston, Lincoln, Providence and Cleve-
land. The firm made large contracts for army clothing during the war, and were
pioneers in the method of bringing their material at manufacturer's prices directly to
the consumer through their retail houses. Sound in judgment, able in enterprise, Mr.
Browning ranks among the leading merchants of this generation. He is a director of
The Mercantile National Bank, vice-president of The Northern Railroad of New
Jersey, and a large owner in The Cherokee Iron Co. of Cedartown, Ga. In 1861, he
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. BR. 119
married Adelaide a daughter of John D. Scott, and their children are John Scott, Wil-
liam Hull and Henry King Brdwning. He belongs to the Union League and Merchants'
clubs and is a member of The New England Society.
GEORGE BRUCE, type-founder, a native of Edinburgh, Scotland, was born July 5,
1781, and died in New York city July 6, 1866. Coming to America while a young man,
he first learned the bookbinder's trade, and then apprenticed himself to Thomas Dob-
son, a printer in Philadelphia. In 1798, Dobson's office was burned down and yellow
fever broke out, whereupon both George and his brother David left the city. George
had vellow fever at Amboy, but recovered. He worked at the printer's trade in Albany
for a short time, and then came back to New York. In 1803, he was foreman of The
Daily Advertiser, and in November became printer and publisher for the proprietor.
In 1806, David and George opened a book publishing office at the corner of Pearl street
and Coffee House Slip. Industry and excellent work brought them plenty of orders.
In 1809, removing to Sloat Lane, near Hanover Square, they had nine presses in oper-
ation, and published occasionally on their own account. In 1812, David went to
England, and brought back the secret of stereotyping. The brothers introduced this
process in this city, being compelled to cast their own type, so as to give it a deeper
shoulder. The}' invented various appliances to aid in stereotyping, and in 1816 gave
up publishing to start a type foundry. George gave his attention to type founding,
David his to stereotyping. When, in 1822, David's health failed, the partnership was
dissolved, and George soon gave up stereotyping for type founding, pure and simple.
In this trade he made reputation and a fortune. With his nephew, David Bruce, jr.,
he invented the only type-casting machine that has stood the test of time, and brought
out many new and beautiful styles of letters. Mr. Bruce was shrewd, but benevo-
lent, unflinching in his integrity, and prompt and decided in character. He was presi-
dent of The Mechanics' Institute for many years, and of the Type Founders' Asso-
ciation. Type founding and careful investments in real estate brought him a fortune.
WILLIAM BUCHANAN, manufacturer, a native of Edinburgh, Scotland, was
born June 10, 1828. He comes from a notable family, whose names are recorded in
the Register's Office, established in his native city in 1745. His father was Peter Bar-
nett Buchanan, born in Dunfermline, Scotland, Dec. 8, 1807, who was educated at Hax-
ton's School under the tutorship of the late Rev. E. Hawley, chaplain of the New York
State Senate. His mother, Isabella Cockburn, was born in Edinburgh. Mr. Buchanan
is the heir at law of the late James Buchanan, Councillor of the Sixth Ward of Edin-
burgh for about thirty years, whose widow enjoys his large fortune. His uncle, William,
served as British Commissary General of the Mauritius Isle of France for about thirty
years, and his grandfather was the W. B. of the story of the " Mysterious Disappear-
ance " in Wilson's "Tales of the Borders."
William received quite a cosmopolitan education, having studied successively in the
schools of Scotland, Ireland and Canada, and then, through an introdu^ ion from
John Sparrow, the great timber merchant of Waterford, Ireland, he got a r' .'nation as
clerk in the Montreal branch of the great shipping house of Pollok, Gilm r & Co.,
where he busied himself with ships and cargoes for six years. In 1853, i'. r iased His
Excellency, Lord Elgin, to appoint Mr. Buchanan second lieutenant in tn - Montreal
Rifles. Mr. Buchanan then decided, much to the regret of his employer:: t.o remove to
the metropolis of the United States, and Mr. Gilmour told him that if £.e should ever
THE CITY OF NEW YORK.. BU. 121
return to Montreal the best position in the house would be open to him. Coming to
Xe\v York in 1853, the young man went on in the shipping business, as clerk for
Francis McDonald, whose interests are now merged in the Anchor line, Wallace, Wicks
& Co., and Stanton, Sheldon & Co., all well known and influential merchants. Owing
to the fact that he never attempted any task which he did not possess the power to per-
form, and to the additional fact that nature had endowed him with the faculty of throw-
ing his whole soul into every undertaking, Mr. Buchanan is not conscious of ever having
had any early struggles in life, because success rewarded him from the start. An
illustration of the good will which followed him to New York, is afforded by the cir-
cumstance that Gilmour & Co. commissioned him to execute many orders for their
firm during one or two years here. One of these orders, which was for tobacco, finally
drew his attention to the possibilities of that trade.
In 1858, with such resources as he could command, he began the manufacture of
tobacco in Brooklyn, in partnership with the late W. W. Huse, under the style of Huse
& Buchanan. Two years later the firm dissolved, and David C. Lyall, a brother-in-law of
Mr. Buchanan, was then in 1860 admitted to partnership under the name of William
Buchanan & Co. The most harmonious relations existed between these two men, and
they spent thirty-two years in cordial co-operation and successful enterprise, the most
of the time under the name of Buchanan & Lyall. The junior partner died in 1892.
His interest remains in the business, however, and the old name is retained. The firm
operate a factory at Brooklyn, and they also own the Planet mills in Brooklyn for the
manufacture of hemp carpets, yarns and binding twine, and now enjoy an extended and
prosperous trade.
Mr. Buchanan was united in marriage, March 4, 1858, with Adele Jaclard, of New
York. Two children were born to them, William and Clara. After the death of his
wife, Mr. Buchanan married again, June 2, 1863, Mary Josephine Pise, of Brooklyn.
This union has brought them one son, Charles Peter Buchanan, who is now a member
of his father's firm.
Mr. Buchanan is a member of the Chamber of Commerce, and enjoys the reputa-
tion of an upright, driving and clear headed business man. Practical affairs necessarily
engage his principal attention, but he finds time for the more pleasant side of life,
which is to be found in the company of his family and occasional attendance at the
houses of various social organizations to which he belongs. He is a member of the
Union League, Manhattan, Tuxedo, New York Athletic, Down Town, New York Yacht
and New Rochelle Yacht clubs.
EDWIN BULKLEY, paper merchant, born in Southport, Conn., Dec. 2, 1817, died
in that town, July 7, 1881. He came from old Non-conformist stock, his ancestor, the
Rev. Peter Bulkley, having settled in Massachusetts in 1635 to enjoy freedom of con-
science. The youth grew up with a fair amount of schooling and a large inheritance of
health and brains. In 1837, he became one of the founders of the paper firm of Cross,
Bulkley & Goodkin, which was succeeded in 1848 by Bulkley & Bro., and in 1865 by
Bulkley, Dunton & Co. His mercantile career was long, honorable and worthily suc-
cessful. To extend his trade, he engaged in the manufacture of paper and in 1865,
with Colonel Alvah Crocker of Fitchburg, and others, started a mill at Turner's Falls,
Mass., a village which owres its origin to its water power. He was a large owner in
The Montague Paper Co. and The Keith Paper Co., of that place, both noted for the
I22 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
high quality of their productions, and a stockholder in The Winnipiseogee and The
Russell Paper Go's, The Crocker Bank, and The John Russell Cutlery Co. He dwelt
in Southport, Conn., and was a director of The Southport Bank there, and of The Bank
of North America and The Standard Fire Insurance Co. here.
WILLIAM LANflAN BULL, stock broker, born in New York city, Aug. 23, 1844,
is the son of Frederic Bull, and a descendant of that famous Jonathan Trumbull, Gov-
ernor of Connecticut and friend of George Washington, to whom the nickname of
"Brother Jonathan" was given. Mr. Bull's education was acquired in the College of
the City of New York, and he began his business career as clerk in the banking house
of Edward Sweet & Co. In 1867, he became a partner. This business was originated
by Edward Sweet in Boston over forty years ago, and afterward removed to New York
city. Mr. Bull is a brother-in-law of Mr. Sweet. The firm transacts an extensive
business in stocks and the investment of money for foreign houses, and has been
successful. Mr. Bull has been twice president of the New York Stock Exchange, and
is a director of The Northern Pacific Railroad, The East Tennessee, Virginia & Georgia
Railway and The Metropolitan Trust Co., and is also connected with The Atchison,
Topeka & Santa Fe Railroad. He was married Feb. 15, 1871, to Tasie W., daughter
of Henry R. Worthington, and his children are Frederic, Henry Worthington and
William Lanman Bull, jr. Well bred, well educated, courteous and able, Mr. Bull
enjoys a wide acquaintance in town, and is a member of most of the best clubs,
including the Metropolitan, Century, Union, University, City, Aldine, Grolier, Rac-
quet, Riding, Players' Church, Country, South Side Sportsmen's and Mendelssohn
Glee clubs. By virtue of lineal descent, he is a member of The Sons of the American
Revolution.
JAMES ABERCROHBIE BURDEN, manufacturer, born in Troy, N. Y., Jan. 6,
1833, is a son of Henry Burden, a Scot, who came to this country in 1819 and rose
to eminence as a manufacturer. James was educated by private tutors in New Haven,
and attended lectures in the Yale Scientific School and the Rensselaer Polytechnic
Institute. Inheriting his father's inventive genius, he gained a practical knowledge of
the business in his father's shops, where he first served as mechanical engineer and mill-
wright. He advanced step by step until he became president of The Burden Iron Co.,
of Troy and New York. He has obtained eighteen patents for inventions of his own
for machines used in the manufacture of iron, one of the most important being that for
making horse and mule shoes, this machine producing seventy finished shoes per
minute, punched with holes and prepared in every other way, ready for the horse's
foot. In 1883, he became president of The Hudson River Ore & Iron Co., with mines
in Columbia county, but resigned later on account of ill health. His iron foundries
and machine shops give employment to three thousand men. In 1891, he married
Mary, daughter of Richard Irvin, of New York. Their children are James A.,
Richard Irvin, Williams Proudfit and Arthur Scott Burden. He makes his home in
New York city about half the year. He has declined nominations as Mayor of Troy,
Member of Congress, and other offices, but has been twice a presidential elector on the
Republican ticket. He is a member of The American Institute of Mining Engineers,
president of The Society of New York Farmers, and member of the Union, Metropolitan,
Engineers', Union League and Riding clubs, and of several scientific societies in Great
Britain, and one of the influential supporters of the annual Patriarchs' Ball.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. BU. 123
JOHN BURKE, agent for the Guinness ales and porters, born in County Galway,
Ireland, Aug. 7, 1829, died Feb. 4, 1892. He was a son of the Rev. John Burke. The
boy received an excellent education, although never sent to college. He studied law
under private tutors, but did not practice, joining instead his brother Edward in distil-
ling liquors. After mastering the details of business, he went into partnership with
his brother, and helped found the now well known firm of E. & J. Burke, of Dublin,
whose Irish whiskey soon became known all over the world. Later, the firm began
the bottling of Bass's ale and Guinness's porter. Both men were energetic and shrewd
and met with great success. They maintained branches in Liverpool, New York and
Australia, and finally transacted so large a trade with America that, in 1859, John
Burke came to New York to take charge in this country, under the name of The E. & J.
Burke Bottling Co. The parent house finally took the name of E. & J. Burke, Ld.
Edward Burke died about 1889, leaving his entire fortune to John. The latter built
the Burke pavilion at the Orange Memorial Hospital in honor of Edward's memory, at
a cost of §30,000, adding $16,000 as well as §10,000 for the Hospital afterward. John
Burke was a man of warm feelings and generous nature, and gave largely to public and
private charities. He was twice married, his second wife being Elizabeth West, daugh-
ter of the Rev. John Watson, of Orange. His children were John Burke, jr. ; Mrs.
Moor, a resident of England; Edward F., Mabel and Edith L. Burke.
THOMAS BROWNELL BURNHAfl, manufacturer and social leader, was born in
New York city, Jan. 30, 1866. He descends from an ancient and distinguished family,
which traces its lineage directly back through English history to Walter Le Ventre,
who came from Normandy to England with William the Conqueror. The family was
planted upon the shores of the new world by John Burnham in 1635 and bore its part
in subduing the red man, bringing the wilderness under cultivation, and creating upon
the Western Continent the most progressive nation in the world. Captain Benjamin
Church, one of Mr. Burnham's ancestors, was active in the war with King Philip's Indian
tribe. Jedediah Burnham, his grandfather, was a land holder and farmer.
Gordon Webster Burnham, his father, was a remarkable man. Born upon the
farm in Hampton, Conn., March 20, 1803, and dying in New York city, March 18, 1885,
he devoted over fifty years of his life to large and successful operations in the field of
manufacturing industry. Leaving home at the age of fifteen and gaining an acquain-
tance with practical business in various employments, during a part of the time
being a merchant on his own account at Waterbury, Conn. ; he entered the firm of
Benedict & Co., in Waterbury, Conn., manufacturers of brass and copper utensils, in
1832. In 1834, in partnership with Mr. Benedict, he established what became The
Benedict & Burnham Manufacturing Co. , the largest manufacturers of brass and copper
appliances and fixtures in the United States, if not in the world. In 1836, Mr. Burn-
ham established a depot of supplies in New York city, and, the venture meeting with
success, he removed to this city permanently in 1837. A house was also established in
Boston. When the New York house was dissolved in 1863 and that at Boston in 1867,
Mr. Burnham found himself the possessor of a large fortune. Meanwhile, he had pro-
moted other industries and had become president of The Waterbury Clock Co. , The
Waterbury Watch Co., The Waterbury Brass Co., and The American Pin Co. He
was an ardent admirer of Daniel Webster, and, in 1876, presented to New York city
the impressive bronze statue of Webster, heroic size, which was erected in Central
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. BC.
I25
Park. To Bishop Brownell, of Connecticut, he also erected a bronze statue in Hart-
ford ; and his own monument in Greenwood, built before his death, is one of the finest
in that beautiful cemetery. Mr. Burnham was twice married, first to Ann Griswold
Ives, of Meriden, their son, Douglas W. Burnham, surviving him. Twenty years later,
he married Mary Louisa, daughter of Bishop Brownell, of Connecticut, and their son
is Thomas Brownell Burnham.
Thomas Brownell Burnham was carefully educated by his parents and prepared for
Harvard College, but did not enter. He has since found occupation mainly in the
supervision of the large fortune bequeathed to him by his father and of various Con-
necticut industries with which he is connected. He is a director in The Benedict &
Burnham Manufacturing Co., Holmes, Booth & Haydens, brass manufacturers, and
The Waterbury Watch Co., all of Waterbury, Conn. He is also a large stockholder and
director in The Sixth Avenue Railroad of New York city. Mr. Burnham leaves to
competent subordinates the details of management of the properties with which he is
connected, and spends much of his time in foreign travel and open air recreation.
A courteous address, a fine mind and hospitable nature render him a favorite among
refined people ; and he is conspicuous in the social interests of New York city and those
which centre at Tuxedo, and in the Union, Manhattan, Tuxedo, Racquet, New York
Yacht, and Westminster Kennel clubs, of which he is a member. He was married in
1885 to Agnes, since deceased, daughter of Henry Havemeyer, of this city, and has
one son, Gordon Le Roy Burnham.
CALVIN BURR, merchant, born in Hartford, Conn., Dec. 15, 1789, died in New
York city, Jan. 17, 1887. He was a son of Joseph Burr, at one time a wealthy man
who, however, lost his means and left his children in poverty. Calvin began life with
few advantages and roved around the world for many years, engaging in various occu-
pations. At different times he conducted business in Albany, Cazenovia and Ludlow-
ville, X. Y., meanwhile serving in the War of 1812. About 1847 he came to New
York city, with considerable means, and invested his money in real estate in New
York and South Brooklyn with such good judgment that the subsequent appreciation
in value brought him large wealth.
HENRY AARON BURR, manufacturer, born in Canaan, Columbia county, N. Y.,
in 1810, died in New York, Dec. 25, 1884. His father was a first cousin of Aaron
Burr, and his grandmother a sister of Jonathan Edwards, Educated in the local
schools of the village, Henry showed a great inclination for historical and scientific
books from boyhood. After service for several years as clerk in a store at Athens,
X. Y., he came to New York city in 1831. Finding employment as bookkeeper in the
hat store of Elisha Bloomer, he served there for five years, and then opened a hat
store on his own account. In 1845 he began to experiment with hat-making machines,
finally obtaining a patent and beginning the manufacture of hats. His invention was
eminently successful, giving him a virtual monopoly of the industry until his patents
expired in 1872. Large means accrued to him from his trade, through the invest-
ment of which he became a director of The Mechanics' National Bank and The Loril-
lard Insurance Co., and a Trustee of The Metropolitan Savings Bank. He was one of
the members of the Union League club, The New York Historical Society and The
American Institute, and for seventeen years president of the board of trustees of the
volunteer fire department. He took an active part in forming military companies,
I26 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
including the Ellsworth Zouaves, and sending them to the front during the war. He
left two daughters, Mary Eloise, wife of Frank D. Harmon, and Emma Louise, wife
of Cornelius H. Van Ness.
COL. JAflES BURT, broker, born in Albany, N. Y., Aug. 15, 1836, died in
New York city, July 6, 1892. A descendant from Puritan stock, he was a son of
Thomas M. Burt, once one of the proprietors of The Albany Argus. The emigrant
ancestor, Henry Burt, settled in Roxbury, Mass., in 1637. James graduated from
Union College in 1854, engaged in business, and for many years conducted a sugar
brokerage business, at 44 Pine street, in this city, with great success. Although not a
military man, he gained the title of Colonel by appointment on the staff of Gov.
Fenton in 1866, as Commissary General of New York. Service as Assistant Appraiser
of this port, 1869-73, rendered him an expert in the dutiable values of imported sugar.
A faithful and religious man, he attended the Church of St. Mary the Virgin, helped
found the Church club, and was treasurer of both. He also joined the Grolier and Com-
monwealth clubs. Col. Burt was married Oct. 18, 1865, to Euretta, eldest daughter
of the late Covington Guion, of Kinderhook, N. Y., who survives him, with two]
daughters.
THERON R. BUTLER, merchant, born in Poughkeepsie, N. Y., in 1813, died in j
New York city, Jan. 19, 1884. In 1828, while yet a lad, he went to Ohio, and en-
gaged in mercantile pursuits for several years. He returned to New York city in 1843,
and entered the dry goods trade, first as junior partner in the firm of Avery, Hilliard
& Co., of which he subsequently became the head. For about twenty years he carried
on a prosperous trade. In 1865 he was chosen president of The Sixth Avenue Railroad
Co., retaining that position until his death. He served for many years in the directorate
of The Erie Railroad Co., and was interested in other roads. In 1848 he married Maria
Miller of Ohio, who, with one daughter, the wife of Rev. H. M. Sanders, survived
him. Mr. Butler entertained a strong liking for fine paintings, of which he made a
large collection, including excellent examples of many famous European painters.
WILLIAH ALLEN BUTLER, lawyer, born Feb. 20, 1825, is a native of Albany,
N. Y., and a son of Benjamin Franklin Butler, one of the revisers of the Statutes of
New York, and Attorney General in the Cabinets of Presidents Jackson and Van Buren.
He traces his family line back to Jonathan Butler, of Saybrook, Conn. His grand-
father, Medad Butler, was the first judge of Columbia county, N. Y. The maternal
line originated in Nantucket, Mass. Mr. Butler studied at the Albany Academy and
in a private school in Georgetown, D. C. , and graduated from the University of the
City of New York in 1843. He began practice, with his father, in New York city, in
1846. In 1849, he formed a partnership with Hiram Barney, afterward Collector of
the Port, and later became head of the law firm of Butler, Stillman & Hubbard, lead-
ing commercial and corporation lawyers. Mr. Butler has argued many important
cases before the United States Supreme Court. Engrossed in his profession, he has
never held civil office except as a member of the Commission on Cities, appointed by
Gov. Tilden, but has been president of The American Bar Association and The Bar
Association of the City of New York. Mr. Butler is a man of cultivated tastes and is
often seen in many of the best clubs in town, in which he is a member, including the
Century, Union League, Grolier and Lawyers'. He is a trustee of The Central Trust
Co. and The Lenox Library and member of the council of the University of the City
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. BU. 127
of New York. March 21, 1850, he was married to Mary R. Marshall, and their chil-
dren are William A. Butler, jr., Howard R., Charles H., George P., Arthur W., Mary
M., Harriet A. and Margaret C. Butler. His published writings include " Nothing to
Wear" and other poetical works, many addresses and "The History of the Revision of
the Statutes of New York."
GEN. DANIEL BUTTERFIELD, soldier and banker, was born in Oneida county,
X. Y., in 1831, and is a son of the late John Butterfield, one of the originators cf The
American Express Co. , who aided in building the first telegraph line from New York
to Buffalo and was president of the overland mail enterprise to San Francisco. His
maternal grandfather, Gamaliel Olmstead, was a soldier of the American Revolution.
Graduating from Union College in 1849, the future soldier studied law, but was too
young for admission to the bar, and entered business life instead. When the Civil
War broke out, as Colonel ot the i2th N. Y. Militia, he tendered the services of his
regiment and himself to the Government and took his command to the front. There-
after, he served with distinction and chivalric courage, rising to the rank of Major
General, taking part in the campaigns in Virginia and all the battles of the Army of
the Potomac, until wounded at Gettysburg in 1863. Later he served in Tennessee
and the heavy fighting of the Atlanta campaign. Upon his return to the North, he
resumed business pursuits. Latterly he has been engaged in banking. His wife is
Julia L. Safford, widow of the late Frederick P. James. Gen. Butterfield is president of
The National Bank of Cold Spring on the Hudson. He is a man of courteous manners,
fine presence, and high character, and a member of the Union, Church, Sigma Phi and
Union Alumni Clubs, and of the Loyal Legion and the Sons of the Revolution.
c.
HUGH NESBITT CAMP, manufacturer, was born Oct. 14, 1827, in the village of
Livingston, N. J., about ten miles from Newark, at the house of his maternal grand-
father, Calvin Ely. In the following December he was brought to New York by his
parents, and New York has been his home ever since. His parents were Isaac Brook-
field Camp and Jeannette Ely, both natives of New Jersey and children of neighboring
farmers. Beginning life at fourteen, he was employed in various ways until 1843, when
he entered the counting house of James A. Edgar, then of the firm of Booth & Edgar,
commission merchants. In March, 1854, at the suggestion of Francis Skiddy, his life-
long and much loved friend, he formed a partnership for sugar refining in Bristol, R. I.
With $40,000 capital, loaned to the new concern by Francis Skiddy, Booth & Edgar,
and William Platt & Sons, of Philadelphia, the firm of Camp, Brunsen & Sherry engaged
in business and were highly successful. Within a year they repaid their borrowed
capital, and for fourteen years fortune smiled upon them. In 1868, the firm dissolved,
Mr. Camp buying the interest of Messrs. Brunsen and Sherry, and forming a new part-
nership, taking as partners George Robertson, one of his salesmen, and William McK.
Chapman, under the name of Hugh N. Camp & Co. During the war many competitors
came into the field, over-production followed, and Mr. Camp succumbed in 1870. He
prepared to resume, but finally concluded that the real estate business offered a greater
opportunity, and he opened an office in Pine street, as broker and auctioneer, and met
with success far ahead of his expectations. In 1880, he began buying and selling on his
own account, paying especial attention to lands in the 23d and 24th Wards. In these
dealings he has been successful. He is also and has been for many years largely inter-
ested in lead mining in Missouri, and in the cement business in Pennsylvania. In 1854,
Mr. Camp married Elizabeth Dorothea McKesson, daughter of John McKesson. Of
their eight children, six are living — Edward B., Maria Lefferts, who married Perry P.
Williams; John McKesson, Fred. Edgar, Alice Emily, and Hugh Nesbitt Camp, jr.
Their home has been since 1861 at Morris Heights, where in 1863 he built " Fairlawn.'
In 1880, Mr. Camp was appointed by Mayor Edson, one of the Committee of Seven, to
inquire as to the necessity of an additional supply of water for this city. From the
action taken at that time, the citizens of New York are indebted for the magnificent
supply of pure water it now has. Mr. Camp has been trustee of The Mutual Life
Insurance Co., director of The Mechanics' National Bank, The Continental Trust Co.,
The Title Guarantee & Trust Co. (and vice-president of the latter), and The Twenty- i
third Ward Bank; and trustee of Clinton Hall Association, of which he was secretary
about thirty years, The Skin and Cancer Hospital, and The House of Rest for Con-
sumptives. At present he is treasurer of The St. Joseph Lead Co., The Doe Run
Lead Co. , The Mississippi River & Bonne-Terre Railroad, trustee of several charities
and a member of The Chamber of Commerce. His clubs are the Century, Union
League, Grolier, Church, Republican and City. In politics Mr. Camp is a staunch
Republican, and has been since 1859.
FELIX CAMPBELL, merchant and banker, a native of Brooklyn, N. Y. , where he
is a resident, was born in 1829, of Scotch-Irish parentage. He left the public schools
THE CITY OF NEW YORK.. CA. 129
at the age of twelve, to learn the trade of printer in the office of The Brooklyn Daily
Eagle, and followed this calling for several years in Brooklyn. In 1848, he entered
the factory of Walworth, Nason & Guild, No. 79 John street, New York city, to learn
steam heating and engineering. Having mastered the art, he was made foreman at
the age of twenty-two, and held this position for ten years, leaving only to go into
business for himself. The old firm having removed to other quarters, he hired the old
place on John street and established himself in business. A few years later, he pur-
chased the building and has carried on the business there successfully down to the
present time. Mr. Campell is a Democrat, and has been selected by his party for
public position. At twenty-three he was elected to the Board of Supervisors of Kings
county, and, although the youngest member, was chosen president of the bod}'. He
was a Fire Commissioner during the volunteer days, and, under appointment by Gover-
nor Tilden, in 1876, a member of the Centennial Committee. For twelve years a
member of the Brooklyn Board of Education, he was, in 1884, elected member of
of Congress from the Second District of Brooklyn, being re-elected three times in
succession, and ceased to represent Brooklyn at Washington only upon his positive
refusal to accept a fifth nomination. While in Congress, he procured an appropriation
of nearly §1,500,000 for the new Brooklyn Post Office. The building is probably the
only building of its class in this country completed under its original appropriation.
As a private individual, Mr. Campbell has done much to promote the efficiency of the
public schools. He is president of The People's Trust Co. and The Brevoort
Savings Bank and a director of The American Bank Note Co., The Union Ferry
Co., The Brooklyn Art Association, and other important institutions.
GEORGE W. CAHPBELL, manufacturer, born in 1813, died June 4, 1893. In
1851, with about $30,000 of joint capital, George A. Thayer and he engaged in the
useful and lucrative industry of manufacturing linseed oil in the firm of Campbell &
Thayer. For twenty years prior to his death, the firm ranked among the best known
manufacturers of this commodity in the country. Mr. Campbell never slept over his
business affairs. He was keenly alert, and drove his trade with great energy, and,
having attracted attention and commendation, became by election a director in The
National City Bank and several insurance companies. The married life of Mr. Camp-
bell and Virginia W. , his wife, was a happy one. There were born to them ten children
— Euphemia; Moses T. Campbell, now deceased; Samuel, George W., Allen W.,
Catharine, Harriet, Eliza S , Helen K. , and Jane Allen Campbell.
RICHARD L. CAflPBELL, merchant, who died while at sea, Feb. 3, 1884, in the
forty-fifth year of his age, was a lifelong resident of New York. He was sent to school
at White Plains, but did not go to college. His first important business connection
was with John H. Hall and Augustine Smith, merchants and manufacturers of paper.
Starting in early life, he continued a member of this firm until a short time before his
death, when failing health compelled his retirement. He owned a large interest in The
Chelsea Paper Manufacturing Co., and was a member of the Union League club, but
refrained from outside business ventures, devoting his whole time to his business. He
married a sister of Henry E. Coe, who, with two daughters, survived him.
SIR RODERICK WILLIAfl CAMERON, shiping merchant, born in Glengarry
county, Canada, July 25, 1825, and educated in a district school in Kingston, came to
Ne\v York city in 1852 to charter a ship, in which a party of young Canadian adven-
I30 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
turers were to make a voyage to Australia. The venture proved a success and the future
knight decided to establish himself in this city in business as a shipping merchant.
Although a novice, he succeeded so well that within the first three years he dispatched
to Australia more than 3,000 emigrants and several thousand tons of American prod-
ucts, and since then has carried on a commission business with success. In 1870, he
admitted to partnership his clerk, William A. Street, then adopting the title of R. W.
Cameron & Co., which is yet retained. The firm have branches in Sydney, N. S. W.,
and in London. Although an ardent admirer of the American Republic and at one
time, in 1861, a Union volunteer in the ypth Regiment, Sir Roderick has always
remained a British subject. He was knighted in 1883 for his services as an honorary
commissioner from Australia to the World's Fair of Philadelphia in 1876, and Paris in
1878, and from Canada to those at Sydney and Melbourne in 1880 and 1881. The same
honor was bestowed upon his ancestor, Sir Roderick Ivor McLeod, by King James in
1713. Sir Roderick is a member of the Metropolitan, Tuxedo, Knickerbocker, Down
Town and New York Yacht clubs and of various clubs in London. He was married
first to Miss Cumming in Quebec, who died in 1859. In 1861, he married Miss Leaven-
worth, of this city, by whom he has had seven children.
JOHN CAREY, capitalist, born in London, England, May 21, 1821, died in New
York city, April 2, 1881. He came to this country when nine years old, with his
father, John Carey, who died in 1880. Graduating with honor from Columbia Col-
lege, where he had for a classmate John Jacob Astor, he studied civil engineering,
and practiced it with success until, in 1850, he married Mary Alida, second daughter
of William B. Astor. Shortly after this, he retired from business, devoting himself
exclusively to the management of his own and his wife's property. About this time,
he purchased the estate in Newport, R. I., known as Grassland, at the corner of Nar-
ragansett avenue and Spring street. For several years he dwelt in Europe, spending
most of his time in Germany, where his children were being educated, and thereafter
lived in New York in the winter season and in Newport in summer, being conspicuous
in social life.
THOflAS FAIR CARHART, merchant, born in 1827, in Warren county, N. J., died
in White Plains, N. Y., Dec. 6, 1882. He was a descendant of early Dutch settlers of
New Jersey. After an education in private schools, he entered business life as early
as 1848, in Newark, N. J., and carried on a trade in clothing in that city, New Orleans
and, after 1854, in New York city, until his death. By careful cultivation of the
qualities which ensure progress, and the possession of a good mind and character, he
achieved distinct success. In 1858 he married Marie Louise, daughter of Lewis.
Castera, a leading lawyer of New Orleans, and dwelt for many years with his familj
at White Plains, north of the city. His wife, two sons and three daughters survived
him.
RICHARD F. CARMAN, real estate owner, born in 1801, died July 13, 1867, in
Carmansville, on the northern part of this island. He began life a poor boy, making
packing boxes for merchants. Then, as a carpenter and builder, he gained sufficient
means to enable him, after the great fire of 1835, to take contracts for rebuilding the
ruined structures. When these contracts were made, labor was scarce and material
was high in price, but this fact attracted so large a rush of workmen and selling agents
to New York city that wages and prices depreciated and he completed his contracts at
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. CA. 131
great profit. He followed his.vocation for many years and then devoted himself to
real estate, founding and creating the beautiful village of Cannansville, fronting
the Hudson River, on the upper part of the island. This suburb, then far north of
the city, is now surrounded by a dense population, and the land is enormously valuable.
His children were Richard, Charles E. and Frances Sage.
ANDREW CARNEGIE, iron and steel manufacturer, a native of Dunfermline,
Scotland, born Nov. 25, 1837, is the son of a weaver. The family came to America
in 1848 and settled in Pittsburgh. In 1849, Andrew took charge of a small stationary
engine and later became a telegraph messenger and operator. One of the first to read
telegraphic signals by sound, he rose to be clerk to the manager of the telegraph lines
of The Pennsylvania Railroad. While in this position he joined Mr. Woodruff,
inventor of the sleeping car, in an effort to introduce the new car. The success of
this venture gave him the nucleus of his wealth. He became in time superintendent
of The Pittsburgh Division of The Pennsylvania Railroad. His first large operation
was a share in the purchase of the Story farm on Oil Creek, for §40,000. The oil
wells on this tract yielded in one year over $1,000,000 in cash dividends. With the
capital thus obtained, Mr. Carnegie joined with others in establishing iron bridge shops,
and, from this beginning, went on until he had become the controlling owner of the
largest iron and steel industry ever developed in the United States. His success has
been phenomenal, and is attributable to concentration. Every offer of a directorship
has been declined by him. During the Civil War he was appointed Military Superin-
tendent of Government Railways and Telegraphs, and he was afterward appointed by
President Harrison a Delegate to the Pan-American Conference. A few years ago all
his interests were consolidated in The Carnegie Steel Co. (Limited), with a capital of
$25,000,000. The plants comprise eleven blast furnaces in Pittsburgh, Pa., capable of
producing 1,200,000 tons of pig iron per year; The Edgar Thomson Steel Works at
Bessemer; The Keystone Bridge Works, The Allegheny Bessemer Steel Works, The
Pittsburgh Steel Works, The Beaver Falls Steel Co., The Frick Coke Co., and other
properties. These works rank as the largest producers of pig iron, steel rails and coke
in the world, and now make armor plate for war ships. Mr. Carnegie is a good deal
of a Scot yet. He long ago owned eighteen English newspapers, which he conducted
in the interest of radicalism, and has received the freedom of seven cities of his native
land. In 1879, he erected swimming baths for the use of the people of Dunfermline,
Scotland, and in 1880, a free library. In 1884, he gave $50^00 to Bellevue Hospital in
this city for a laboratory; in 1885, §1,100,000 to Pittsburgh for a public library, music
hall and art gallery and a second million to endow the art gallery and museum ; in
1886, $250,000 to Allegheny City for a music hall and library, and §300,000 to Edin-
burgh, Scotland, for a free library. He has also established free libraries at Braddock,
Ayr and Johnstown, Pa., Fairfield, Iowa, and other places. His gifts now exceed
§5,000,000. Mr. Carnegie is the author of many essays on labor and economic questions.
His "Triumphant Democracy, "published in 1886, a review of the progress of America
under the Republic, attracted attention, went through eight editions, and has been
published in French, Italian, Spanish, Dutch, and even in Japanese. An essay on
"How to Get Rich," in THE NEW YORK TRIBUNE, in which he declared that a college
education was not essential to business success, greatly aroused the college men and
led to controversy. His other books include " Round the World" and "An American
132
AMERICAS SUCCESSFUL MEN.
Four in Hand in Britain," but the most important essay is the one on "Wealth,"
which attracted the attention of Mr. Gladstone, and was, at his request, reprinted in
Britain under the title, "The Gospel of Wealth." It holds that " Surplus wealth is a
sacred trust which its possessor is bound to administer in his lifetime for the good of
the community from which it is derived. It teaches that the man who dies possessed
of millions of available wealth, which was free and his to administer during- his life-
time, dies disgraced."
OLIVER STANLEY CARTER, merchant and banker, a native of New Hartford,
Litchfield county, Conn., born July 25, 1825, is a son of Hernias and Hannah Booth
Carter. Reared upon a farm, he gained an education at the public schools during the
winter seasons, and at seventeen years of age obtained a situation as clerk in a wholesale
grocery house in Hartford. There being little prospect for advancement, he came
to New York early the next year with good letters of recommendation, went from store
to store in search of employment, and found it in the store of Civill & Whitlock, grocers.
The firm did not employ a porter. That work was expected from the youngest clerk.
The business was small and proved of great advantage to Mr. Carter, as it gave him a
knowledge of different details of the business. Correspondence was principally done
in the evening by the junior partner. The letters being copied by hand instead of by
letter press, this afforded advantages to the young man. The senior partner soon re-
tired. Mr. Kellogg was admitted and the firm took the name of John W. Whitlock &
Co. Mr. Carter made no agreement for salary after the first year. His compensation,
at first $150, upon which he had to live, was increased from time to time, and made
$3,000 in 1853. Jan. i, 1854, Mr. Carter was admitted to the firm, which then displayed
the sign of Whitlock, Kellogg & Carter. The business had now increased about three-
fold. After Mr. Whitlock's death, in 1858, the firm took the name of Kellogg, Carter
& Hawley, the latter bringing considerable capital. Mr. Kellogg died in 1859, when
Mr. Carter admitted a brother of Mr. Hawley with additional capital, and the firm
became Carter & Hawley; afterward, in 1868, Carter, Hawley & Co. Jan. i, 1880,
George H. Macy, Mr. Carter's son-in-law, was admitted. Mr. Carter retired from
business April i, 1884. At the expiration of the co-partnership, Mr. Carter having
given Mr. Hawley permission to do business under the firm name of Carter, Hawley
& Co., satisfactory terms could not be made between Mr. Hawley and Mr. Macy, in
consequence of that permission to him individually, and Mr. Carter then joined Mr. Macy
as Carter, Macy& Co., associating with them two employes who had been with the house
for many years. The firm have increased the business largely over that formerly carried
on, and become by far the largest importers and distributors of teas in the United States.
Mr. Carter was elected a director of The North American Fire Insurance Co., in
1856, and The Home Insurance Co., about 1860, which positions he has since held.
He has been trustee and director of several other institutions. In 1874, he was elected
director of The National Bank of the Republic, and after Henry W. Cannon had resigned
to take the presidency of another bank, Mr. Carter was made vice president. Not
being closely confined to his tea business, he displayed rather more interest in the bank
than usual for a director. On the death of the president, the Hon. John J. Knox, in
February, 1892, Mr. Carter was persuaded to accept the presidency of the bank, which
he has since held. He owns the Carter Building at Broadway and 8th street, the
Carter & Macy Building at 140-142 Pearl street, and some other realty.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. CA. 133
By his marriage with Elizabeth Hyde Coley, daughter of John H. Coley, of New
Haven, he had one son, who died in infancy, and five daughters, who are married and
settled in their own homes. In 1887, he was married to Isis Yterbide, daughter of
Woodburn Potter, of Washington, D. C. Mr. Carter lived in New York city two or
three years, when he moved to Brooklyn. In 1862, by the advice of a physician, he trans-
ferred his residence to Orange, N. J. His beautiful home there is the largest in the
place. Mr. Carter is a member of the Chamber of Commerce and the Union League
and Down Town clubs of this city, and The New England Society of Orange.
WALDEMAR CASPARY, cloak manufacturer, born in Berlin, Germany, Jan. i,
1841, began life as a salesman in his native city. Doubtful of an advancement, equal
to his ambition, at home, he arrived in New York city May 16, 1872, with several trunks
full of samples of Berlin made garments, and visited in turn all the large cities of the
United States as far west as St. Louis, meanwhile closely observing the shape of
American clothing. Laden with orders from importing merchants, he returned to
Berlin. In 1873, he opened an office on Mercer street in New York city, for his firm
of Hahn & Benjamin, and next year was admitted to partnership. He was the pioneer
in the introduction of Berlin made garments to the American market. For several
years he imported largely, removing in 1875 to Broadway, and in 1877, succeeding the
old firm in the new one of Benjamin & Caspary. The American tariff finally compelled
him, in 1882, to undertake to manfacture his cloaks here. He has gradually developed
the industry to large proportions. In 1 884, the store was removed to more spacious quarters
at Broome and Greene streets. In 1876, Mr. Caspary married Miss Amelia Hexter of
this city, and has three children, Alfred, Alice and Howard. He is a member of the
Progress Club.
JOHN CASWELL, merchant, son of William and Mary Buloid Caswell, was born
at Newport, R. I., Dec. 6, 1797, and died in New York March 29, 1871. He came to
New York in 1811, being then fourteen years old, to serve as clerk for his uncle, Robert
Buloid, then in business on Broadway between Maiden Lane and Fulton street. In
1820, the business was removed to Front street, near Burling Slip, and conducted under
the name of Buloid & Finch. Upon the death of Mr. Finch in 1822, Mr. Caswell was
taken into partnership, and the firm became Buloid & Caswell, until the death of Mr.
Buloid several years later. Mr. Caswell then carried on the business in his own name
for a time, but soon, with his brother, Solomon T. Caswell, and others, formed the firm
of John Caswell & Co., about 1836. They remained at No. 87 Front street until the
death of Mr. Caswell. They were one of the representative houses in the trade with
China. By industry and integrity Mr. Caswell acquired a high reputation and a fortune.
He was a modest and retiring gentleman, shrewd and sagacious, and distinguished for
his conscientious character and unostentatious charity. A regular attendant at St. John's
Chapel, then at the Church of the Ascension, and afterward of Trinity Chapel, he served
as a vestryman of Trinity Church for many years. He was also one of the founders
of St. Luke's Hospital, a director of The Union Bank, The United States Trust Co.,
The Continental Fire Insurance Co., and The Second National Bank, and at times
held other positions of fiduciary trust. His property descended to his wife and five
children.
JULIUS CATLIN, merchant, a native of Hartford, Conn., born in 1833, died in
Quebec, Canada, July 20, 1893. Beginning life with no other advantages than his fel-
AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
low clerks in the dry goods trade, he excelled many of them in spirit, fidelity and
power of application and in the courage finally to undertake business on his own
account. His house, known successively as Hunt, Catlin & Valentine, Catlin, Brun-
drett & Co., and Julius Catlin & Co., was for a business generation conspicuous in the
wholesale dry goods districts of New York and Boston. The friendships made among
his associates led to his election as director of The United States Life Insurance Co.,
The Importers & Traders' National Bank and The Greenwich Savings Bank. He was
married to a daughter of Seth B. Hunt and to them were born Julia Hunt, wife of
Trenor L. Park, and Mary Helen and Edith Raymond Catlin. Mr. Catlin lived in
Morristown, N. J , but was nevertheless a member of prominent clubs in New York,
including the Union League, Union, City, Merchants', Yale Alumni and New York
Yacht. He also belonged to the Morristown Club and The New England Society.
Warm hearted and liberal, he gave generously to the worthy poor.
CHESTER WILLIAflS CHAPIN, railroad president, born in the town of Ludlow,
Mass., Dec. 16, 1798, died in Springfield, Mass., June 10, 1883. Although not a New
Yorker by birth, he was one to whose memory conspicuous place must be given in any
adequate review of celebrities of the metropolis, by reason of the prominence he com-
manded in some of the most important traffic enterprises in which this city had a finan-
cial and commercial interest.
He was a typical American, a direct lineal descendant in the sixth generation from
Deacon Samuel Chapin, who came from Wales to this country in 1675, and was one of
the founders of the city of Springfield, Mass. Ephraim Chapin, grandfather of the
subject of this sketch, was one of the principal land owners of the old Bay State, his
property comprising considerable portions of the towns of Chicopee, Ludlow and
Springfield. The portion thereof lying in the western part of the town of Ludlow,
upon which was the old "Torrey house," passed to his son Ephraim, and there Chester
W. Chapin was born, the youngest of seven children.
While he was yet a boy, the death of his father, during the absence of his older
brother Ephraim at college, threw upon him the cares of manhood and the manage-
ment of the large family estate, thus imposing at an unusually early age a severe but
excellent practical training, which was of inestimable service in developing the .enter-
prise, self-reliance and prudence, which were his distinguishing traits in after life.
His formal education was limited to the district school and the Westfield Academy;
but his active mind, rare faculty of observation, and the instructive experience of
public life, speedily equipped him with an education so thorough and practical that he
was enabled easily to win distinction as a leader among men, both in commercial affairs
and legislative councils.
Upon attaining his majority, Mr. Chapin went to Springfield. There he engaged
in mercantile business, married a daughter of Colonel Abel Chapin, of Chicopee, and
built, by contract, the paper mill at Chicopee, the first in which paper was made by
machinery in this country. This narrow field did not content him. His enterprising
spirit sought wider employment and found it, in the interest which has enlisted such a
number of the ablest and most progressive of our public men and built up so many of
the largest fortunes in this country, that of traffic enterprise.
Like Commodore Vanderbilt, he began in a modest way, although, perhaps,
with some advantage in the matter of capital. The Commodore's first venture as a
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. CH. 135
master of transportation was in a pirogue ferryboat, of which he was commander and
crew. That of Mr. Chapin was in a stage coach line between Hartford and Brattle-
boro. He not only invested his money in this enterprise, but managed it, and even on
occasion held the reins. The stages were well conducted and popular, and the line
speedily became profitable, being fully up to all the requirements of that day. Mr.
Chapin was not slow to realize that the progressive spirit of the age would soon "make
the ancient good uncouth," and by the utilization of steam as a motor, both on land
and water, do away with the stage coach in the more densely populated parts of the
country. Not a few of the old-time stage-line owners ruined themselves by obstinate
contention against the new order of things. Mr. Chapin, however, not only foresaw
clearly, but gracefully accepted, and, with characteristic promptness and energy, made
the most of the inevitable change ; and he took early measures for transference of his
interests to the new and greater field.
Soon after Mr. Blanchard's demonstration, in 1830, of the practicability of steam
navigation between Springfield and Hartford, Mr. Chapin bought the steamboats
which were employed in that trade, and for a dozen years controlled that profitable
line of water transportation on the Connecticut river. During the same period, he
also acquired a large interest in The New York & New Haven Steamboat Line, which he
retained the whole of his life. From the stage coach to the steamboat was a long
stride in advance, but he realized that it was hardly half which the requirements of
traffic would demand.
The railroad was, in the natural order of things, a necessity of the then immediate
future. Mr. Chapin consequently took a leading part in procuring connection by rail
between Springfield and Hartford, becoming a director in the corporation, controlling
that line when it was formed, and taking an active and most efficient part in the
management.
It is illustrative of his resourcefulness and careful conservatism that in spite of all-
these important changes, Mr. Chapin did not allow himself to lose the old stage coach
line, which had been the foundation of his prosperity. Its usefulness in the original
field was at an end, but demand could be made for it elsewhere. Securing extensive
postal contracts in the West, he took these stages out to that part of the country, and
established a mail coach line between St. Louis, Mo. , and Terre Haute, Ind. , which
proved as successful as all his other ventures.
In 1850, Mr. Chapin became a director of The Western Railroad, and in the same
year resigned that position to accept the presidency of The Connecticut River Railroad.
Four years later he was made president of The Western Railroad, also, and in 1855,
effected in London a loan of one million dollars to that corporation by English capital-
ists. The judicious expenditure of that money, in improvement of the road and ex-
tension of its facilities, put the company, for the first time, upon a solid dividend paying
basis. The Albany bridges, the iron bridge at Springfield, the continuous double
track, the consolidation of The Western \vith The Boston & Worcester Railroad Co. into
the Boston & Albany, with magnificent tide-water facilities, a huge elevator at Boston,
and a great depot at Worcester, all were due, in great part, to President Chapin's
admirable judgment and shrewd management. The development of The Boston &
Albany Railroad he made the principal work of his life. Of that company he was
president for many years.
!36 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
Among the more important of his widely diversified interests outside the traffic
lines mentioned, may be noted his directorship in The New York, New Haven & Hart-
ford Railroad; his ownership of a controlling- share of The Collins Paper Co., at Wil-
braham and The Agawam Canal Co., at West Springfield; his presidency of The
Chapin Banking & Trust Co., of Springfield, formerly The Agawam Bank, of
which he was founder; and the Manhattan Elevated Railway.
The diversity and magnitude of his business concerns did not preclude his taking a
prominent part in public affairs, wherein his advice and conclusions were always of mo-
ment. In 1853, he was a member of the Massachusetts Constitutional Convention, and in
1874, was elected a representative from his native state to the XLVIth Congress. In all
his career Mr. Chapin distinguished himself by a rare blending of conservative prudence
with liberal and energetic enterprise, which in many instances seemed impelled by
prescient inspiration. In manner, he was cool and decided, but considerate, kind and
obliging, never hasty, but always prompt. Of all the various enterprises, traffic, mer-
cantile, manufacturing and financial, with which he was connected, and which were
wholly or largely under his control, not one failed of important benefit by his shrewd
foresight and skillful management. When his long and useful career was ended by his
death, the inheritors of his well won honors and name were his three children, Chester
W. Chapin, Mrs. William Bliss and Mrs. James A. Rumrill.
ISAAC F. CHAPMAN, ship owner, born in Damariscotta, Me., April 8, 1812, died
in Brooklyn, Jan. 30, 1895. He came from a family planted in this country in 1635.
Robert Chapman, his father, was a farmer, the owner of large tracts of timber land
and a saw mill, and a ship carpenter, as was his father before him. Isaac spent his
youth on the farm and at country school and, learning, in 1828, the shipwright's art
in his father's employment, for eight years he helped frame, plank and launch wooden
vessels. In 1837, he became a storekeeper in Damariscotta, but, in partnership with
Benjamin Flint, soon afterward built a small bark of 280 tons, for general trading
purposes. This led the two men into more extended operations. Chapman & Flint
located in Thomaston in 1843, opened a ship yard, and thereafter built a wooden ship
about once a year, for the general carrying trade of the world. In 1858, Mr. Chap-
man settled in Brooklyn, in order to manage the fleet of about fifteen large ships to bet-
ter advantage, and, by his energy, close attention to business, and careful management,
placed the name of Chapman & Flint in the front rank in American maritime circles.
After 1868, Mr. Chapman's ships were constructed in Bath on the Kennebec, under the
supervision of John McDonald, one of the best builders in New England. They were
among the largest carriers in the sailing fleet of the country. In 1880, the old firm
dissolved, to be succeeded by I. F. Chapman & Co., in 1883, Albert G. Ropes, a son-
in-law, being admitted as a partner. During the War, Mr. Chapman and Mr. Flint
built all the houses on the east side of Montague Terrace, Brooklyn.
NELSON CHASE, lawyer, died in Ridgewood, N. J., March 18, 1890, at the age
of seventy -nine. In early life, while studying law in Saratoga county, N. Y., he
formed the acquaintance of the celebrated Madame Jumel, of New York city, and of
Mary Jumel, her niece. An attachment to the latter led him to New York, where, in
the office of Aaron Burr, he finished his legal studies. Two years later he married
Mary Jumel, and later, through his wife, inherited a large share of his mother-in-law's
fortune of about $3,000,000, consisting largely of real estate on Liberty street and
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. CH. 137
Broadway, the famous mansion and grounds on Washington Heights, and a farm in
Saratoga county. He dwelt in the Jumel mansion until his wife's death, about 1845,
and thereafter until 1888, when he removed to Ridgewood, N. J. For fifty years he
practiced law in New York city. About 1870, he married again. Three children sur-
vived him, Eliza Carye, and William and Raymond Chase.
ROBERT AUGUSTUS CHESEBROUQH, inventor and manufacturer, while born in
London, England, Jan. 9, 1837, is a scion of some of the most patriotic and ancient
American families. The paternal ancestor of the family was William Chesebrough,
who sailed from Cowes with Governor John Winthrop, March 29, 1630, and settled in
Boston, Mass. Here he filled several official positions, and in 1634 was chosen High
Sheriff. In 1651, he obtained by grant from Connecticut, about 2,300 acres of land,
which grant was confirmed by the general court at Pequot, on which he settled and
built a homestead. On this land now stands the present city of Stonington, Conn. ,
where live many of his descendents. A new commonwealth was here established.
William Chesebrough, the first "Comytioner" or magistrate thereof, was in 1664
chosen as first representative to the General Court at Hartford to adjust the dispute as
to boundaries with the State of Connecticut. Robert Chesebrough, the paternal
grandfather of the subject of this sketch, was the fifth son of Nathaniel, who was the
grandson of William Chesebrough.
Henry A. Chesebrough, father of Robert A. Chesebrough, was a dry goods mer-
chant of New York city, who lived at No. 7 Bridge street, then a fashionable place of
residence, and grandson of Robert Chesebrough, dry goods merchant and founder and
president of The Fulton Bank.
Through the maternal line, the subject of this sketch descends from William
Maxwell, founder and president of The Bank of New York, the first financial institu-
tion ever established in this State, who upheld the cause of the American Revolution
and derived his pedigree from a family prominent in Scottish history. The Maxwells
were earls of Nithsdale and barons of Herries. James Homer Maxwell, son of William,
married a daughter of the patriot, Jacobus Van Zandt, whose family were driven from
New York city by the British occupation and saw much of the operations and experi-
enced many of the hardships of the heroic struggle for American independence. Miss
Van Zandt became an actual eye witness of the battle of Monmouth, and, as a bride,
she had the honor of opening the first inauguration ball as the partner of General
Washington. Their son, William H. Maxwell, was the titular earl of Nithsdale at the
time of his death in 1856. Mr. Chesebrough's mother was a daughter of Richard M.
Woodhull, and granddaughter of James Homer Maxwell, and also a grand niece of
General Woodhull of the American army, who fell in the battle -of Long Island. The
family Bibles of the Maxwells and Van Zandts are yet preserved in this family, and
rank among the most interesting and valuable relics of that time. But there are two
others of note, which may be seen in the old Senate House in Kingston, N. Y., being
large oil portraits of the father and mother of the wife of William Maxwell, which
display a number of holes, punched by the bayonets of the British soldiers, when the
latter occupied the Maxwell home on Wall street. They were presented to the collec-
tion by Mr. Chesebrough.
The subject of this biography attended the best schools in New York during boy-
hood, and, in 1858, began the manufacture of the products of petroleum. This in-
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. CH. 139
dustry, yet in its infancy, had attracted attention for a few years only, and Mr. Chese-
brough became one of the pioneers in the utilization of petroleum for the purposes of
man. Success attended his efforts from the start.
As a result of continual experiments in distilling and filtering petroleum, he dis-
covered and patented, in 1870, the substance now known as vaseline. When the value
and uses of this product had been developed and introduced by him, Mr. Chesebrough
engaged in its manufacture, and has introduced it not only to the people of the United
States at large, but to the inhabitants of nearly every civilized country under the sun.
In 1880, the business was incorporated as The Chesebrough Manufacturing Co., with a
capital of $500,000, Mr. Chesebrough acting as president from 1880 to the present
time. The production of vaseline has increased steadily, and a growing foreign trade
has resulted from the establishment of branch offices and distributing depots in Lon-
don, Paris, Berlin and Montreal.
His discoveries and enterprise having been followed by a suitable reward, Mr.
Chesebrough has now become a large owner of realty in the metropolis. In 1881, he
erected the huge office building, which bears his name, facing the Battery, and was
led by scientific interest to devote his personal attention to its arrangement. He intro-
duced heating and ventilating appliances of his own invention into this structure ; and
these have since attracted wide attention among architects and owners. The Real
Estate Exchange originated with Mr. Chesebrough, and he was second vice-president
and one of the building committee of the Consolidated Stock Exchange. The removal
of the immigrant station from Castle Garden to Ellis Island in the harbor grew very
largely out of his vigorous efforts in that direction. The Battery Park is now no
longer flooded with unattractive strangers and emigrants, as in former years.
The action of Mr. Chesebrough, in 1878, with reference to the Paris Exposition,
illustrated his energy and public spirit. The Federal Government had been unac-
countably slow in providing for a general display of American products and, finding
the inertia of the authorities too great to be overcome, Mr. Chesebrough called to-
gether a number of Americans who wished to exhibit at Paris, and, through Frederick
R. Coudert, the lawyer, secured from the Duke Descazes permission for a display of
products by Americans on their private account. This proceeding spurred the State
Department into action, and an American exhibit finally took place under proper
authority.
During the exciting Mayoralty contest in Long Island City, between Mr. Gleason and
Mr. Sanford, in 1892, the Street Improvement Commission of that city, of which Mr. San-
ford was president, was accused of gross frauds and irregularities. At a citizen's meet-
ing, Mr. Chesebrough was elected chairman of an Investigating Committee to ascertain
the facts. He employed an expert accountant to examine the books and contracts, and
a few days before election made his report, exonerating Mr. Sanford and the Commis-
sion, which, being published in the Long Island City newspapers, resulted in the elec-
tion of Mr. Sanford by a few hundred majority, showing a marked change of public
sentiment against Mr. Gleason.
Mr. Chesebrough has always shown an interest in public affairs, and in 1894, he
received a nomination for Congress from the Republicans of his district in this city.
He made a gallant fight, but the time was too short for a suitable canvass against the
heavy Democratic majority of the district ; and, although he cut down the Democratic
i40 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
majority from over 10,000 to 1,300, he suffered the same fate as Levi P. Morton when
he first ran for Congress, and was beaten.
By his marriage with Margaret McCredy, sister of Mrs. Frederick R. Coudert,
April 28, 1864, Mr. Chesebrough has three sons and a daughter, Robert M., William
H., Frederic W., and Marion M. Chesebrough. Mrs. Chesebrough died April 3, 1887.
The summer home of the family was formerly at Legget's Point on the Sound, north
of the city, but has now been sold to an English syndicate for division into lots. The
family live at No. 17 East 45th street every winter, and usually spend their summers
either in travel or in the suburbs. Mr. Chesebrough is a member of the Union League,
Riding and Manhattan Athletic clubs, and was president of the Down Town Republican
Club in 1890. He is a writer of ability, and author of "A Reverie and other Poems,"
which were favorably reviewed by the press. A calm, judicious, energetic business
man, he has won position by his own efforts, and the general esteem by his upright
character.
SIMEON BALDWIN CHITTENDEN, merchant, born in Guilford, Conn., March
29, 1814, died in Brooklyn, N. Y., April 14, 1889. After preparing for Yale College,
he was obliged to abandon the college course, which was his ambition, and, at the age
of fifteen, he entered a store at New Haven, Conn. Having saved a little money, he
carried on business on his own account for a while, and came to New York in 1842,
where he opened a dry goods store, and was, until 1874, one of the prominent mer-
chants of the city, gaining a large fortune. He was vice-president of the Chamber
of Commerce, 1867-69 a founder of The Continental Bank and The Continental Fire
Insurance Co. , a director in the Delaware, Lackawanna & Western and other railroads,
and president of The New Haven & New London Shore Line Railroad in Connecticut.
During the War, he served upon the Union Defense Committee of New York and the War
Fund Committee of Brooklyn, and gave generously to the support of the Government.
He always dwelt in Brooklyn, and was elected to Congress from that city, serving from
Dec. 7, 1874, until March 4, 1879, as an Independent Republican. Mr. Chittenden
gave liberally to the Long Island Historical Society and other institutions and, in 1887,
presented $125,000 to Yale College for a library building. He also gave the site for a
building in Brooklyn to the Young Woman's Christian Association. He married a
daughter of Sherman Hartwell, of Bridgeport, Conn. To them were born two chil-
dren, a son, Simeon B. Chittenden, who survived him and resides in Brooklyn, and a
daughter, now deceased, wife of Dr. William T. Lusk, of New York city.
JOSEPH HODGES CHOATE, lawyer, one of the leaders of the New York bar, a
native of Salem, Mass., was born Jan. 24, 1832. His family is an old and conspicuous
one. Graduating from Harvard College in 1852, he studied law and was admitted to
practice in Massachusetts in 1855. He came to the metropolis in 1856, and has since
attained distinction in the law, public oratory and statecraft. If the fees paid to Mr.
Choate are sometimes enormous, his clients are always willing to admit that his serv-
ices have been worth the money. He has appeared in many noted cases. One of the
old Committee of Seventy, which routed the Tweed Ring, he obtained the reinstate-
ment of Gen. Fitz John Porter to his rank in the army after a prolonged struggle, and
successfully defended the Cesnola collection of ancient statuary in the Metropolitan
Museum of Art against imputations affecting its integrity. He is noted both as a
public and an after-dinner orator and for his independence of mind. In 1894, he was
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. CH.
141
chairman of the Constitutional Convention, and had the pleasure of seeing the work,
for which he had labored with great ability and energy, triumphantly ratified at the
polls. He is a member of the most important clubs in the city, including the Union
League, University, City, Century, Grolier, Bar, Harvard, Down Town, Racquet,
Riding, Alpha Delta Phi, New York Athletic and Mendelssohn Glee, and The New
England Society, and various other organizations.
AUSTIN CHURCH, manufacturer, a native of East Haddam, Conn., born Jan 8,
1799, died in Brooklyn, N. Y., Aug. 7, 1879. His father, Oliver Church, was a school
teacher. Left an orphan at an early age, the youth of Mr. Church was full of hard-
ship, but, chiefly by his own efforts, he gained an education in the Yale Medical School.
During the practice of his profession in Ithaca, Rochester, Utica and Cooperstown,
X. Y., he originated the notion of substituting bi-carbonate of soda in place of the
kindred preparation of potash for baking purposes, and, in 1832, established in Rochester
the pioneer factory in this line. Success rewarded his enterprise, and, in 1845, he removed
the business to New York city, where his firm of Church & Co. rose during the thirty
years following to a leading position in the trade. By means of travelling agents, Mr.
Church increased his sales year by year, and saw his production increase from one ton to
10,000 tons a year. Since his death, the trade has more than doubled. While his
office was at No. 132 Front street, the factory was in Brooklyn, in which city he dwelt
for over twenty-five years. Mr. Church was liberal in charity and an excellent man.
In 1827, he was married to Nancy, daughter of Dr. Elihu Dwight, a prominent physi-
cian of South Hadley, Mass., and lived to celebrate his golden wedding in Brooklyn,
in 1877. There were born to them James A., Elihu Dwight, and Fannie Church, who
live at the old home in Brooklyn, and Mrs. Henry Pease, of Hartford, Conn., now
deceased. Mrs. Church died in January, 1 890. The two sons now manage the firm of
Church & Co.
HORACE BRIOHAM CLAFLIN, merchant, a native of Milford, Mass., born Dec
1 8, 1811, died in Fordham, N. Y., Nov. 14, 1885. His father, John Claflin, was a
country storekeeper, farmer, and justice of the peace. Horace graduated from Milford
Academy, and became a clerk for his father. In 1831, with his brother Aaron and his
brother-in-law, Samuel Daniels, he succeeded to his father's business. In 1832, they
opened a branch dry goods store in Worcester. In 1833, Aaron took the Milford store,
leaving to the other partners the Worcester business. In 1843, Horace removed to
New York city, and with William F. Bulkley organized the importing and wholesale
dry goods house of Bulkley & Claflin, at No. 46 Cedar street. In 1850, the firm built
a store at No. 57 Broadway, which they occupied until 1853. Mr. Bulkley withdrew
in 1851, the business being conducted as Claflin, Mellen & Co. Meanwhile, the trade
had increased rapidly. To obtain larger accommodations, Mr. Claflin, with others,
erected the Trinity building at No. 1 1 1 Broadway, whither the business was transferred.
In 1 86 1, the great warehouse on Worth street, extending from Church street to West
Broadway, was secured, and this gigantic store was for many years one of the curi-
osities of New York city. The Civil War found the firm's assets rendered almost
worthless ; and they were compelled to ask an extension of time, which was promptly
granted. The liabilities were paid with interest long before maturity. Thereafter,
the house entered upon a career of unparalleled prosperity. In 1864, the firm assumed
the name of H. B. Claflin & Co. Mr. Claflin's sales were enormous, often amounting,
i42 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
in a single year, to $70,000,000. From 1865 to the time of his death, this house was
the largest of its class in the world. Mr. Clanin invested large sums in real estate in
Brooklyn, and at Fordham in the upper part of New York city. He was a man of
domestic habits and of exemplary life, fond of books and of horses. Almost daily he
drove from ten to twenty miles. He was a prominent member of Henry Ward
Beecher's church in Brooklyn, where he resided every winter. A large hearted and
generous man, his readiness to assist young men was a marked trait of his character.
Probably no other person in the United States aided so many beginners with money
and credit, until they were able to sustain themselves. In politics, an opponent of -
slavery and a Republican until 1884, thereafter he supported Mr. Cleveland. John
Claflin his son, is now the head of the firm, while Arthur B. Claflin, another son, is a
banker.
GEORGE P. CLAPP, merchant and philanthropist, a native of Woodstock, Vt,
born Sept. 6, 1831, died in Algiers, Africa, Jan. 25, 1884. He descended from
New England ancestry, and his father, Joel Clapp, was an Episcopal clergyman
at Woodstock. Coming to New York city about 1857, he entered the employ-
ment of Pinneo & Co. in Chambers street as a clerk. Saving, diligent, and de-
ermined to succeed, he was able, in 1862, to found the firm of George P. Clapp &
Co., importers and jobbers, in this city, subsequently carrying on the business in the
firm of Clapp & Braden, later, Clapp, Braden & Co. In 1877, he retired, after a
successful career. He was married in 1867 to Desier A. Pryer, the niece of John
Alstyne, then residing at No. 27 Madison avenue. Mrs. Clapp inherited a large
property from Mr. Alstyne, and, by her will, gave it to her husband upon her decease,
in 1 88 1. During their happy married life, Mr. and Mrs. Clapp gave away large sums
of money for benevolent work. The Church of St. Paul's- Within-the-Walls, in Rome,
Italy, was one recipient of their bounty, and the Church of the Holy Trinity, in Paris,
France, received large gifts. Upon the decease of Mr. Clapp, more than $500,000
of the Alstyne property was distributed under his will to worthy religious and charit-
able institutions, mostly in the city of New York. A man of great energy and
strength of character, a gentleman of cultivated manners and attractive personality,
Mr. Clapp earned from the Rev. Dr. Morgan the encomium that he combined, "in rare
association, the simplicity of childhood with the wisdom of age." He was buried in the
cemetery in Algiers, where a granite monument marks his resting place.
GEORGE A. CLARK, cotton-thread manufacturer, born in Paisley, Scotland, in
1824, died Feb. 13, 1873. He was a son of John Clark and descendant of Peter Clark>
who, in 1812, made the first cotton thread ever used in sewing. When Napoleon seized
Hambuyg and destroyed the silk in that port, Peter Clark, who had been making silk
needle twine in Paisley, found himself obliged to search for a substitute for silk in its
manufacture, and made experiments with cotton thread, winding it on bobbins with his
own hands, for sale to ladies in Paisley. Convinced that his discovery was valuable,
he abandoned the making of twine and founded the great spool cotton industry, which
has ever since been carried on by the family. George A. Clark began life in the
employment of Kerr & Co., of Hamilton, Ont. Four years later he returned to
Scotland, to engage in the manufacture of Paiseley shawls. In 1850, his brother-in-
law, Peter Kerr, and he undertook the manufacture of cotton thread, their interests
being afterward merged with those of the Clark Bro's. In 1856, Mr. Clark came to
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. CL. 143
New York, to promote the sale of Clark threads here, and, in 1864, was led by the
American tariff on foreign thread to start a small factory in Newark. In 1865, The
Passaic Thread Co. was organized by him, with George A., Alexander and William
Clark and Thomas Barbour as incorporators. Gigantic works were constructed and
put into operation in 1866. Their venture was successful. Mr. Clark was a member
of The Board of Trade of Newark and The People's Fire Insurance Company.
HORACE F. CLARK, LL.D., lawyer, a native of Southbury, Conn., born
Nov. 29, 1815, died in New York city, June 19, 1873. He was graduated from Williams
College in 1833, and in 1837, began practice of the law, attaining distinction as a hard
working, prudent and far-seeing practitioner. In 1848, he married a favorite daughter
of Commodore Cornelius Vanderbilt. He served in Congress an an anti-Lecompton
Democrat, 1857-61. After 1857, railroads occupied his principal attention, leading him
into the directorate of The New York & Harlem Railroad and various other lines;
and into heavy and successful operations in stocks in Wall street. He displayed great
capacity, and, at the time of his death, was an officer in the management of as many
miles of railroad as any other man of his day. He was president of The Lake Shore,
Michigan Southern & Northern Indiana and The Union Pacific Railroads; and a director
of The New York Central & Hudson River, The Harlem, The New Haven, Hartford
& Springfield, The Shore Line, The Chicago & Northwestern Railroads, among others,
as well as of The Western Union Telegraph Co. He was also president of The Union
Trust Co. In the assault upon the Tweed ring, Mr. Clark did valiant work. When
the robbers had been driven out he joined Tammany Hall. Mr. Clark had one child,
Marie Louise, who was thrice married and died in 1894.
WILLIAM CLARK, manufacturer, born in Paisley, Scotland, in 1841, is a son of
the late John Clark, of James & John Clark, manufacturers of cotton thread. He was
educated in the local grammar schools, and at once entered the thread factory founded
by his ancestors. Coming to the United States in 1860, he joined his brother, George
A. Clark, in the general agency of the Clark threads in America. In 1 864, the broth-
ers started a cotton thread factory in Newark, being identified with The Passaic Thread
Co. from the start. In 1873, William Clark rose to seniority in the house. A
great spooling factory was built and the thread works were enlarged under his adminis-
tration. The works now occupy ten acres of ground on the banks of the Passaic
river. He is treasurer of The Clark Thread Co., a partner in George A. Clark & Bro.,
and a member of the Union League, New York Yacht and American Yacht clubs of
New York, and the Essex and Essex County Country clubs, of Newark. Numerous
public institutions owe much to his generosity.
BENJAfllN Q. CLARKE, iron manufacturer, born in Easton, Pa., in 1820, died in
Antwerp, Belguim, Aug. 12, 1892. Early in life he began business in the iron and
steel trade, and remained prominent in the industry until the end of his days. He was
a founder of The Thomas Iron Co. , at Hokendauqua, Pa. , one of the largest pig iron
concerns in the country, and largely interested in The Lackawanna Iron & Steel Co.,
The Lackawanna Iron & Coal Co. , The Delaware, Lackawanna & Western Railroad,
The Tilley Foster Iron Co., The Hudson River Ore & Iron Co., The New Jersey Zinc
& Iron Co., of which he was president, and eight or ten other pipe, iron or steel com-
panies. During the Civil War, Mr. Clarke excelled in devotion to the Union. His
advice was often sought on matters of importance by the Government, and he devoted
144 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
much of his time and means to the Union cause, until the War was over. A man of
noble presence and generous heart, he took great interest in assisting young men in
their early struggles. He was a member of the Union League Club, a member of Dr.
Parkhurst's church, and much interested in the local reform movement initiated by that
clergyman. Mrs. Mary E. Thompson, Mrs. Julia M. Finck, and Anne M. and Ada
Clarke are his children.
HENRY CLAUSEN, brewer, born in New York city, Aug. n, 1838, died here,
Dec. 28, 1893. He was the son of -Henry Clausen, founder of the brewing establish-
ments of this family. The lad's education in the public schools and under private
tutors was supplemented by four years of study abroad. He grew up in the brewery
started by his father about 1857, and became a partner in 1866, and when, in 1870, a
corporation was formed, its president. A few years ago when English capital sought
investments in the United States, H. Clausen & Son, and Flannagan, Nay & Co., con-
solidated and organized The New York Breweries Co., with a capital of $4,500,000,
admitting a syndicate of English capitalists to part ownership. Mr. Clausen retained
his individual interest. He was at one time president of The United States Brewers'
Congress and of The Brewers' Association of New York city, and one of the managers
of The Produce Exchange. At his death, he held the positions of vice-president of The
Murray Hill Bank and Brewers' Ice Co., and director in The Harvey Peak Tin Milling
& Mining Co., The Mount Morris Electric Light Co., and The Consolidated Gas Co
The Manhattan and Liederkranz clubs admitted him to membership. In politics, he
was naturally a Democrat, and served in the State Assembly, and as Alderman-at-large
of this city. Three sons and a daughter survived him.
HENRY CLEWS, stock broker, banker and author, a native of Staffordshire,
England, is the son of a manufacturer of goods for the American market. His parents
wished that he might enter the ministry, but temperament fitted him for a more active
life. At the age of fifteen, he visited America with his father, and became so fascinated
with the animation and opportunities of the new world, that he decided to remain here.
After a thorough training in the store of Wilson G. Hunt & Co., importers of woolen
goods, he entered Wall street in 1859, as a partner in Stout, Clews & Mason, stock
brokers and bankers, afterward Livermore, Clews & Co. During the Civil War, his
firm acted as agents for the sale of Government 5-20 bonds, and, with Jay Cooke
& Co., were largely instrumental in making that loan a success. After the War, he
devoted his attention to banking and a commission, bonds and stocks business. He
organized the present firm of Henry Clews & Co. in 1877, the different members of
which pledged themselves never to take speculative risks. They deal in investment
securities, have excellent connections abroad, and employ over a hundred clerks. A
few years ago, Mr. Clews wrote " Twenty-Eight Years in Wall Street," which was well
received and is yet frequently quoted. He is a liberal contributor to the support of
public institutions, and a member of the Union League and Union clubs. In 1874, he
married Miss Lucy Madison Worthington of Kentucky, a grand niece of President
Madison.
WILLlAfl P. CLYDE, shipping merchant, born in November, 1839, is a son of the
founder of the Clyde line of coasting steamers. He graduated from Trinity College,
and began business life in the office of his father, where he received such a training
as acquainted him fully with the management of freight and passenger steamers. He
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. CO. 145
has succeeded to the business which is now conducted under the name of William
P. Clyde & Co. Mr. Clyde is one of our most respected merchants. He has become
thoroughly identified with the life of the city, and is a member of the Union League,
Down Town, Riding, St. Anthony, Racquet, New York Yacht, and Trinity Alumni
clubs.
GEORGE SinMONS COE, banker, a native of Newport, R. I., was born March
27 1817. Anglo-Saxon in his ancestry, he descends from John Alden and Priscilla
Mullins, the latter the first female child born in America in the earliest Pilgrim com-
pany. His father, Adam S. Coe, a man of strong common sense and religious faith,
was a maker of cabinet furniture. George went from the common schools at the age of
fourteen, to a country store, where he served for four years. He then entered a bank as
general clerk, sweeper and messenger, later being bookkeeper and teller. Meanwhile,
bv extra services, he added to his earnings, and by constant reading improved his store
of knowledge. In 1838, he entered the bank of Prime, Ward & King, in New York
city, where he continued about six 3rears, and then removed to Cincinnati, to represent
the firm in a banking and commission business. Later, he became cashier of The Ohio
Life Insurance & Trust Co., in New York, resigning to engage in banking on his own
account, as partner in a house already established. In 1856, he was elected cashier of
The American Exchange Bank, of which institution, in a few months, he became vice-
president, and, in 1860, president, which office he held until 1894, when he was forced
by illness to retire, after a service of nearly forty years. It was Mr. Coe who conceived
the idea of combining the local banks in the Clearing House, and of making use of
Clearing House certificates. James Punnett, president of The Bank of America, and
James Gallatin, of The National Bank, strongly endorsed the young financier's idea,
and it was unanimously adopted. Clearing House certificates have since been re-
sorted to in the years 1873, 1884, 1890 and 1893, on each occasion with good results.
By the same expedient, the banks were enabled to combine their resources so as to
subscribe for §150,000,000 of Government bonds at the beginning of the War, which
they would not otherwise have done. Mr. Coe has taken an active interest in The
National Bankers' Association, and, in 1881, was elected its president. He is treasurer
of The Children's Aid Society, trustee of The Mutual Life Insurance Co., director of
The Fidelity & Casualty Co., The Commercial Cable Co., and The Postal Telegraph
Cable Co. ; an officer in the Presbyterian Church ; and member of The Board of Foreign
>ns. Mr. Coe has lived in the beautiful suburb of Englewood, N. J., for a num-
ber of years, but is a member of the Reform Club and New England Society. He was
married, June 15, 1843, to Almira Stanley, of New Britain, Conn., and on Nov. 5,
1887, to Mary E. Bigelow, of Englewood. To him and first wife were born Edward
Paine and Alice Stanley Coe.
CHARLES LEWIS COLBY, banker, a native of Roxbury, Mass., now part of
Boston, was born May 22, 1839. He is a son of Gardner Colby, and descends from
English ancestry. Graduating from Brown University in 1858, with the degree of B.A.,
he found his first occupation in the shipping house of Page, Richardson & Co. In
1 86 1, he made his home in New York city, and organized the shipping firm of Dunbar
& Colby, of which, in 1 864, on the death of the senior partner, he became sole pro-
prietor. In 1870, at the request of his father, he interested himself in the construction
of The Wisconsin Central Railroad, and finally abandoned business in New York to
I46 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
devote himself entirely to railroad and mining interests in the West. This resulted, in
1874, in removal to Milwaukee, where he became an active citizen, interested in many
useful and public enterprises. Gardner Colby, president of The Wisconsin Central
Railroad, being obliged by reason of ill health to resign his position before the line was
completed, Charles succeeded him in the presidency, finished the railroad, and assumed
a leading part in building up the railroad system of Northern and Central Wisconsin.
He was president and treasurer of The Wisconsin Central Railroad, The Milwaukee &•«
Lake Winnebago, The Wisconsin & Minnesota, The Chippewa Falls & Western, The
Minnesota, St. Croix & Western, The Penokee, The Chicago, Wisconsin & Minnesota,
and The Chicago Great Western Railroads. He was also the first to develop the iron
regions of northwestern Michigan. The Colby mine, the first one opened, belonged
to The Penokee & Gogebic Development Co., of which Mr. Colby was president and
treasurer. He afterward became president of The Consolidated Mines and The Aurora
Iron Mining Co. Greatly occupied with all these interests, Mr. Colby, nevertheless,
found time for charitable religious and educational work. He contributed the larger
portion of the funds required for the construction of two churches in Milwaukee, was
next to one of the largest contributors of the Y. M. C. A. building, and gave the Babies'
Home the land on which their building stands, besides being a regular contributor to,i
and efficient friend of, most of the charitable institutions of that society. The Wayland
University at Beaver Dam received a large gift from his generous hand. In politics,
Mr. Colby is a staunch Republican, and his speeches during the Garfield and Elaine
campaigns met with an enthusiastic reception. He was a member of the Wisconsin
Legislature in 1876, and was sought for other higher political positions, which, how-
ever, he declined on the ground that duty to his associates in business would not
permit him to forsake them. Mr. Colby returned to New York in 1890, and has since
been senior partner of the firm of Colby & Hoyt, in Wall street. He is a member of
the Union League, Metropolitan, Lawyers', Down Town, University, and Brown Uni- '•:
versity clubs, and the Alpha Delta Phi, The Sons of the Revolution, and The New
England Society; and a honorary member of The American Society of Civil Engin-
eers. Since graduation, the honorary degree of A. M. has been bestowed upon him,
as well as an election as honorary member of £. B. K. He has for several years been
president of the Brown University club, and is also a Fellow of that University. He
has also served at different times as president of the international convention of the
Y. M. C. A., vice-president of The American Baptist Foreign Mission Society, trustee
of the Y. M. C. A. of New York city, and president of The New York Baptist Mission
Society. Mr. Colby is a director of The Mercantile National Bank, and The Farmers'
Loan & T*rust Co.
JAHES B. COLGATE, banker, born in New York city, March 4, 1818, is a son of
William Colgate, who came to America in 1798, settled in Harford county, Md., and,
in 1804, removed to New York, where he established the now widely known industry
of manufacturing Colgate's soaps. James B. Colgate has been for many years a
banker and dealer in securities and bullion. Although he makes his home in the
adjoining suburb of Yonkers, he has contributed generously to the support of the
great museums and art institutions of New York and to the promotion of the work of
the Baptist church. One of his latest gifts was a $60,000 house of worship for The
First Baptist Church of White Plains. Large donations have been made to The War-
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. CO. 147
burton Avenue Baptist Church in Yonkers, Madison University, Rochester University,
Rochester Theological Seminary, Colby Academy, Peddie Institute and Columbian
University. He is a member of the Down Town and New England Society.
ROBERT COLGATE, manufacturer, born in 1812, died July 4, 1885. He was the
oldest son of William Colgate, manufacturer of soaps, and had the advantage of
beginning life in an established industry. While long connected with his father's firm,
his greatest achievement was the manufacture of white lead by corrosion for use in
paints. About 1845, he organized the firm of Robert Colgate & Co., built works in
the city of Brooklyn under the name of The Atlantic White Lead & Linseed Oil Co.,
and by able management and courageous perseverance, made his factories the largest
of their class in the world. His children were Robert, Abner W., Romulus B.,
.,'iana and Alice R. Colgate. The family made their home in Riverdale on the
Hudson. — His son, SAflUEL JAMES COLGATE, manufacturer, born in this city, in
died here, Feb. 15,1 893. He entered The Atlantic White Lead & Linseed Oil Works
at twenty-one years of age, and in 1885, succeeded his father as president, continuing in
the office until 1889. While the inheritor of large means, he was a man of enterprise,
and conducted his business successfully. In 1882, he married Cora, daughter of
Samuel Smith of New Orleans, and his wife, with one daughter, Adele S. Colgate,
survived him. Mr. Colgate was prominent in social life, possessing the acquaintance
of a large circle of refined friends, and being a member of the Union, Knickerbocker,
Racquet, Down Town, Riding, Hudson River Ice Yacht, New York Yacht, Seawanhaka
Corinthian Yacht clubs. He was the first commodore of the latter club and the origin-
ator of the Corinthian races. At Uplands, his country place at New Hamburg, N. Y..
Archibald Rogers and he managed the Dutchess County Hunt.
SAMUEL COLGATE, manufacturer, son of the late William Colgate, was born in
Xc\v York city, March 22, 1822. At an early age he took a position in the works of
Colgate & Co., manufacturers of soap, and has since devoted his business life to this
industry, being now senior partner in the concern. Mr. Colgate has been a patron of
the benevolent enterprises of the Baptist denomination. In conjunction with his
brother, James B. Colgate, he erected the Colgate academy building, in Hamilton,
X. Y., at an expense of $60,000. He is president of The New York Baptist Educa-
tion Society, and of The Society for the Suppression of Vice, and a member of The
Board of the American Tract Society.
DAVIS COLLAMORE, merchant, born in Scituate, Mass., Oct. 7, 1820, died in
Orange, N. J., Aug. 13, 1887. His ancestors were among the first settlers of the town,
coming from England in 1640. The pioneer, Peter Collamer, died without children,
leaving his estate to his nephew, Anthony Collamer, who was the progenitor of nearly
all of the name in this country. About 1700, the spelling of the name was changed to
, Collamore, although some of the descendants of Captain Anthony, among them the late
Hon. Jacob Collamer, of Vermont, have retained the original orthography. Col. John
Collamore, father of Davis, a man of the stern old Puritan type, was twice a member
of the Massachusetts Legislature and one of the Convention to revise the State Con-
stitution in 1820. His wife, Michal Curtis was a woman of sweet and gentle nature.
', Davis Collamore, the youngest of twelve children, inherited from his parents that
mingling of strength and gentleness so attractive in his character. In 1836, he came
to New York and entered the china and glass store of his brother, Ebenezer Collamore,
•
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. CO. 149
Xo. 151 Broadway. It had been his earnest desire to study law, but his resolute
character appeared in the fact that, having once decided to give up a cherished plan,
he entered thoroughly into the vocation chosen for him and pursued it to success. In
1842, "he established himself in business, at his own risk, at No. 595 Broadway, and
was enabled about a year later to marry Hannah Augusta Fiske, a Bostonian by birth.
Thev had four children. Mrs. Collamore died Nov. 13, 1882. Mr. Collamore's refined
taste led him to emphasize the artistic quality of his china. He did much to cultivate
public taste, and to increase the love of ceramic art. In 1886, the firm of Davis Colla-
more & Co. became a stock company, with Mr. Collamore as president. As a young man
Mr. Collamore was a member of the 7th Regiment, and on duty at the the Astor Place
riot. The recollection of his boyhood home was ever fascinating to him, and as soon as
business cares would allow, he purchased a beautifully wooded tract of seventy acres on
the eastern slope of the Orange mountains. There he built a country home, which was
a constant source of pleasure to him. It was beautiful, not only from its surroundings,
but on account of what it grew to be under the direction of a man of true culture and
refinement. Mr. Collamore was an active member of The American Jersey Cattle
Club, and a founder of The New England Society of Orange, N. J. The members of
the society respected Mr. Collamore for the purity of his life, the gentleness of his
manners, and the traits which marked him pre-eminently the Christian gentleman.
WASHINGTON EVERETT CONNOR, financier, one of the most conspicuous
stock brokers in Wall street for many years after his entrance to the Stock Exchange
in 1871, now occupies an enviable position in the financial world. He was born Dec.
i ; . 1 849, on Spring street in this city, in a house standing next to that in which his
grandfather had been born, and which, with some adjoining property, had been owned
by Mr. Connor's father for more than half a century. This locality was included in
the ancient village of Greenwich, whither the city government of New York fled in
1822-23, for security during the cholera epidemic. The elder Connor was a well
known merchant of the Ninth Ward, and, for over thirty-six years, connected with The
Greenwich Bank.
At an early age, the boy entered the public school in Clark street, from which he
graduated to enter the College of New York, then known as the Free Academy. He
proved a bright scholar, always ranked high in his class, and especially excelled in
mathematics.
After a year in college, he entered commercial life, having secured a clerkship in
the banking house of H. C. Stimson & Co. The head of this firm being a heavy
speculator in stocks, Mr. Connor was thus brought into contact with many noted figures
in financial circles, among them Commodore Vanderbilt, and secured a valuable train-
ing in Wall street tactics. His experience developed the possession of unsuspected
talent and determined his vocation for life. Ready, appreciative, and faithful to duty,
he soOn acquired a technical knowledge of the stock brokerage business, and, when he
came of age, self-reliant, conscious of his own strength, and ambitious, he purchased a
seat in the Stock Exchange, and was admitted to membership Oct. 6, 1871.
From the beginning of his Wall street career, Mr. Connor met with marked suc-
cess. Clear headed, prompt, devoted to the interests of his clients, and agreeable in
manners, he soon drew to himself a large number of important clients. Having
attracted the notice of Jay Gould, Mr. Connor was entrusted by him with various com-
rgo AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
missions, which he executed with brilliant energy and entire success. The great
financier was a competent judge of men, and, in 1881, he formed a partnership with
the young broker, under the name of W. E. Connor & Co., and, in time, pleased with
his adroitness, energy and audacity, admitted him to intimate friendship. George J.
Gould became a member of the firm upon attaining his majority. For many years,
both before and after 1881, Mr. Connor was the confidential representative of Jay
Gould, and was entrusted with the management of many important operations in Wall
street. He was also a favorite broker of Russell Sage and other leading capitalists in
Wall street. By unsparing labor and able and sagacious, management, he created an
extensive business, which, with his own operations at the Exchange, brought him an
ample fortune.
The successes of Mr. Connor and Mr. Gould have been world famed. While that
partnership existed, financiers marvelled at the secrecy with which they conducted their
business. Mr. Connor had learned the art of dealing through a large number of
brokers at once, some of them buying, some of them selling stocks for him, and all
unaware of the real object of the campaign in which they were engaged. When Jay
Gould made his famous campaign in the stock of The Western Union Telegraph Co. ,
which resulted in the transfer of control from the Vanderbilt to the Gould interest, the
purchases of stock made by W. E. Connor & Co. were so well covered that Wall street
entertained the impression that the firm were heavily short of the stock, when, as a
matter of fact, they were the the principal buyers. Washington E. Connor himself
conducted all the operations ; and the manner in which the transaction was managed was
always a matter of much satisfaction to Jay Gould, who subsequently frequently
referred to the articles published in the newspapers, predicting that he would be
defeated.
During the panic of 1884, it was ascertained that W. E. Connor & Co. were bor-
rowers to the extent of $12,000,000; and a combination was promptly formed on the
street to force Mr. Connor and Mr. Gould to the wall. Attacks were made on their
credit, various brokers and financial institutions were induced to exclude Missouri Pacific
securities from their loans, and every pressure which could be brought to bear against
them was used as strongly as possible. The policy of the firm, however, of giving twice
as much margin for their loans as other houses and of "notifying the loaners of money
that they could have more margin if they desired, demonstrated that they were in pos-
session of ample security. Wall street, instead of forcing Mr. Connor and Mr. Gould
to sell their securities, made heavy losses through being "short" of Missouri Pacific.
So great were these losses, that, when the time for reckoning came, there were one
hundred and- forty-seven houses on Wall street "short" of and borrowing Missouri
Pacific stock from W. E. Connor & Co. The price of the stock was rapidly carried
from 64 to par; and the principal t"bears" saw themselves forced to cover at between
95 and par, at great loss to themselves and equally great gain to W. E. Connor & Co.
In 1886, Mr. Gould retired from Wall street and Mr. Connor followed a year later.
During recent years, Mr. Connor has gained an interest in The Louisville, New
Albany & Chicago and The Wheeling & Lake Erie Railroads, and various other corpo-
rations, and devoted himself to improving his properties. He has been a director of
The American Union Telegraph Co., The Credit Mobilier, The Texas & Colorado Im-
provement Co., The Metropolitan, The Manhattan and The New York Elevated Rail-
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. CO. 151
way Go's and The New Jersey Southern Railroad, and president of The Central Con-
struction Co.
Wall street draws heavily upon the vitality of the leading spirits in that theatre of
exciting competition, but Mr. Connor has preserved his health, clearness of mind, and
physical vigor by open-air recreations. He was the owner of the steam yacht Utowana,
and has spent much time cruising upon salt water. He is also a regular attendant at
the opening nights of new plays and operas, a good billiard player, and a familiar fig-
ure in many social clubs, in which his unfailing good nature, clear head, and wide
experience render him a popular associate. A reader of excellent books, his mind is
well stored with general information. His winter home is at No. 532 Madison avenue,
and he maintains a summer cottage at Seabright on the Jersey coast. He has been
elected to membership in a number of exclusive social clubs, including the Union
League, Republican, Arkwright, Lotus, New York Athletic, American Yacht, Larch-
mont Yacht and Boston Yacht, and with praiseworthy public spirit has long been a
supporter of various important public institutions, including the three which have done
so much to develop the art and educational interests of New York, The Metropolitan
Museum of Art, The American Museum of Natural History, and The Metropolitan
Opera House Co., having been one of the original stockholders of the latter.
Mr. Connor also stands very high in the Masonic fraternity. In 1877-78, he was
Master of St. Nichola Lodge, 321; in 1879, District Deputy Grand Master of the Sixth
Masonic District; in 1884, Grand Representative of the Grand Lodge of Virginia, and
in 1885 was made Chief of Staff of the Grand Lodge of New York and Grand Treasurer
1887-89. He is now the Representative of the Grand Lodge of England.
JAHES MANSELL CONSTABLE, merchant, was born in Sussex, England, in
1812. While a young man, he was persuaded by an uncle to accompany him on a
pleasure trip to the United States. After his return to England, the future of the
United States appeared so bright to him, that as a result of thinking the matter over
for two or three years, he decided to make this country his future home and in 1840
sailed for New York. Upon his arrival, he visited Aaron Arnold, then of the firm of
Arnold, Hearn & Co., founded in February, 1827, whom he hadknown on his previous
visit, and decided to enter their employment. Two years afterward, in 1842, upon the
retirement of the Messrs. Hearn, he became a partner of Mr. Arnold under the firm name
of A. Arnold & Co. In 1853, when Richard, the only son of Aaron Arnold, was admitted
to the firm, the style was changed to Arnold, Constable & Co., and as such has been con-
tinued ever since. Mr. Constable married Henrietta, only daughter of Aaron Arnold,
in 1844. Their surviving children are Frederick A., Harriet M., wife of Hicks Arnold,
and Amy H., wife of Edwin H. Weatherbee.
JOHN H. CONTOIT, realty owner, born in 1798, who died Oct. 2, 1885, was a son of
John H. Contoit, a native of France, who established himself in this city in the early part of
the century as a merchant of confectionery on Broadway between Murray and Warren
streets. He was the favorite purveyor of ice cream for the prosperous families of that
time. Mr. Contoit gained large means which he invested in real estate. The son suc-
ceeded his father in the business and conducted the New York Garden and confection-
ery store on Broadway, opposite the old Carlton House, which he made a famous and
fashionable resort. He was a very clear headed, capable, and judicious man, and with
confidence in the future of New York as the commercial emporium of the United States,
152 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
followed his father's example and invested his means almost wholly in real estate, which
afterward increased enormously in value. His children were Maria Hall and Charles
H. Contoit.
HENRY HARVEY COOK, capitalist, a native of Cohocton, Steuben county, N. Y.,
was born May 13, 1822, and is the oldest surviving son of the late Judge Constant Cook,
lawyer and farmer of Warren, N. Y. The family traces its line to persons of noble
extraction in England, and was founded in America by Capt. Thomas Cook of Earle's
Colne in Essex, England, who settled in Boston before 1637. Henry left the academy
in Canandaigua to serve as a dry goods clerk in Auburn and in Bath, N. Y. , a year in
each place, and in 1844, engaged in mercantile pursuits in Bath, retiring ten years later
with means. In 1854, his father and he organized The Bank of Bath under State
laws, reorganizing as a national bank in 1864. Mr. Cook served as cashier until 1874,
and then became president of the bank. Mr. Cook came to New York city in 1875,
entered financial life, and is now a prominent man in the railroad world. He inherited
some means, but has made his way chiefly by his own abilities. Operations in stocks
have occupied him to some extent, and his ventures have been exceedingly successful.
He is a director of The Union Pacific Railroad, The American Surety Co., The New
York, Lake Erie & Western Railroad, The Buffalo, New York & Erie Railroad, The
State Trust Co. and The National Bank of North America. His wife is Mary, daughter
of William W. McCay of Bath, agent of the Poultney estate, and his children are Mrs.
Clinton D. MacDougall, Mrs. M. Rumsey Miller, Mrs. C. F. Gansen, and Mrs. C. de
Heredia. Among his clubs are the Metropolitan, Union League and Riding. He is
also a life member of The Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the Historical and Geo-
graphical Societies.
PETER COOPER, manufacturer, born in New York city, Feb. 12, 1791, died here
April 4, 1883. At the time of his birth, this city contained less than 30,000 inhabitants.
His father and his mother's father were soldiers of the American Revolution. The early
life of Peter Cooper was full of hardship, and his original schooling was confined to
an attendance every other day for one year. To earn a support, he secured employ-
ment in a carriage shop in 1808, at $25 a year and board, and when he had become an
expert workman, invented a machine for mortising the hubs of carriage wheels, which
proved of great value. His earnings were at first spent largely for books and the
services of a teacher in the evening. At Hempstead, L. I., he toiled for five years at
$1.50 a day, and having saved $500, illustrated the nobility of his character by giving
it all to relieve the necessities of his parents. Having invented an apparatus for
shearing the nap from woolen cloth, he manufactured a number of the machines and
then returned to New York, where he established himself as a merchant of groceries.
Prosperity now rewarded his enterprise, and he soon established a glue and isinglass
factory. Mr. Cooper was a very ingenious man, and he so improved the manufacture
of glue as finally to control the trade of the country. This industry was the foundation
of his fortune. In 1828, he purchased 3,000 acres of land in Baltimore, Md., on which
he built iron furnaces and a rolling mill and a few locomotives. In 1830, he constructed
from his own designs, for The Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, what is said to have been the
first locomotive constructed on this continent. The Baltimore industry he sold a few
years later at a profit. He also built in New York wire works and a rolling mill, which
were afterward removed to Trenton, became the pioneer manufacturer of railroad iron
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. CO. 153
in this country, and operated blast furnaces at Trenton and Philipsburg. A supply of
iron ore was drawn in part from mines of his own at Andover. In his various
industries, 2,500 men found employment. Mr. Cooper possessed remarkable mechanical
ability and inventiveness. He was active in the development of the telegraph system
of the United States, becoming president of The American Telegraph Co., and The
North American Telegraph Association. Marshall O. Roberts, Cyrus W. Field,
Wilson G. Hunt and he and a few other associates, laid the first Atlantic cable. Mr.
Cooper's greatest philanthophic work was the founding of The Cooper Union for the
advancement of Science and Art. Begun in 1854, the building was finished five years
later, at an original cost, exclusive of the site, of nearly $1,000,000. The public hall
in the basement of this building has since become historic for the large number of
great public meetings held within its walls. Mr. Cooper was married in 1813 to Sarah
Bedel, at Hempstead. Two children survived him, Edward Cooper and Sarah Amelia,
wife of Abram S. Hewitt. — His son, EDWARD COOPER, manufacturer, grew up in
the counting room of Peter Cooper & Co., and since 1883, has been the senior partner
of the house, now known as Cooper, Hewitt & Co. He is a very capable and energetic
man, has made his own position, and is a highly respected citizen. Under his admin-
istration. The Trenton Iron Works, The Trenton Iron Co., The Pequest Furnace in
Oxford, N. J., and The Dunham Iron Works at Riegelsville, Pa., all well managed
concerns, have increased their production to about 60,000 tons of pig iron annually,
and a large quantity of bridge, roof and other structural iron and steel. Mr. Cooper
has taken part in the direction of The United States Trust Co. , The American Sulphur
Co., The New Jersey Steel & Iron Co., The New York & Greenwood Lake Railway,
The American Electric Elevator Co., The Chrysolite Silver Mining Co. and The Metro-
politan Opera House Co. He is a Democrat and has been Mayor of New York.
AUSTIN CORBIN, railroad president, a native of Newport, N. H., was born July
ii, 1827. His father, Austin Corbin, was a farmer and for several years a State Sen-
ator in New Hampshire. The son graduated from Harvard Law School and practiced
law for two years in New Hampshire, having as a partner Ralph Metcalf, afterward
Governor of the State. In 1851, he removed to Davenport, Iowa, practiced law with
success, and then engaged in banking, being the only banker in Davenport who did not
close his doors in 1857. He reorganized, June 29, 1863, as The First National Bank of
Davenport, having the honor to be the first man in the United States to begin banking
under the Federal law. In 1865, he came to New York and engaged extensively in
banking and the negotiation of mortgage loans on farms in Iowa and other Western
States. The Corbin Banking Co., of which he is the head, was established in 1873. He
has become famous chiefly through his marked ability and success in railroad enter-
prises. His first operation was the reorganization of The Indiana, Bloomington &
Western Railroad, which under his presidency was made a paying property. In 1 880,
he turned his attention to The Long Island Railroad, purchased a large number of
shares, and became receiver and president of the company, Jan. i, 1881. Mr. Corbin's
management resulted in payment of the debts, reconstruction of the roadway, and a
high state of prosperity. He promoted travel by developing the attractions of Coney
Island, Manhattan Beach, Rockaway Beach, Long Beach, and other resorts on the sea
coast, gradually placing the road in excellent condition and its traffic upon a profitable
basis. Having revealed himself as one of the most capable and practical railroad men
AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
in the United States, he became prominently identified with the reorganization of The
Philadelphia & Reading Railroad Co., and served as its president from September, 1886,
to June 27, 1890. Having been appointed receiver of that company in October, 1886,
he repeated his previous successes with great eclat. He is now president of The Long
Island Railroad, The Elmira, Cortland & Northern Railroad, The Manhattan Beach
Co., The Manhattan Beach Hotel & Land Co., and The New York & Rockaway Beach
Railway; and a director of The American Exchange National Bank, The Western Union
Telegraph Co., The New York, Brooklyn & Manhattan Beach Railway, The Nassau
Fire Insurance Co., and The Mercantile Trust Co. In 1853, he was married to Hannah
M., daughter of Simeon Wheeler, of Newport, N. H., and his children are Isabella, wife
of George S. Edgell, Anna and Austin Corbin, jr. One other daughter, Mary, the eldest
of the family, married Rene Cherennot Champollion, grandson of the famous Egyptian
scholar, but she died in Paris, June 5, 1892. The husband had previously died in this
country. They left one son, Andre, the only male descendant of the family of the illus-
trious Champollion, who is being educated in America. Mr. Corbin's clubs are the
Manhattan, Reform, Players', Lawyers', Seawanhaka Corinthian Yacht, Meadow Brook,
and South Side Sportsmen's clubs.
JOHN B. CORNELL, manufacturer, born at Rockaway, on Long Island, Feb. 7,
1821, died in Lakewood, N. J., Oct. 26, 1887. His ancestor, Thomas Cornell, of
Cornell's Neck, born in England in 1595, died in Portsmouth, R. I., in 1655. Reared
'upon his father's farm, Mr. Cornell, at the age of fifteen, began to learn the trade of
iron manufacturing. In 1847, with his brother, W. W. Cornell, he opened a factory in
New York, which subsequently grew to large proportions. At these works the pro-
prietors made an immense amount of architectural iron, including the iron for the
elevated railroads in New York city. In 1867, Mr. Cornell admitted his son to partner-
ship, taking the firm name of J. B. & J. M. Cornell. A devoted member of the
Methodist Episcopal Church, and a practical" Christian. Mr. Cornell devoted a certain
percentage of his annual income to benevolent purposes. As his wealth increased, his
gifts grew proportionately. His annual contributions to the Methodist church fre-
quently amounted to $50,000. Over 100 churches, within as many miles of New York,
profited more or less by his munificence. At the time of his death, he was active in
various charitable societies and the Union League club, a director of The Broadway
Savings Bank, and the only Christian member of The Hebrew Society for the Improve-
ment of Deaf Mutes. Seven children were born to him. — His son, JOHN n.
CORNELL, iron manufacturer, was born in New York city, Aug. 27, 1846. He left
school at fifteen years of age, and then learned a trade in his father's shops. Upon
attaining his majority, he was taken into partnership in J. B. & J. M. Cornell, and
since 1887, has been sole proprietor of the works. The use of iron and steel in the
framework of modern buildings is a new science, to which Mr. Cornell has given
patient and careful study, and he has manufactured enormous quantities of these
metals in structural shapes. Some of the most conspicuous buildings in New York city,
erected since the era of gigantic structures began, about twenty years ago, have been
supplied with the interior frame work, which supports all the rest, from the Cornell
shops. Among them are the Hotel New Netherland, the Hotel Waldorf, The Times
building, and numerous edifices in the lower part of the city. Mr. Cornell is a member
of the Reform, Building Trades and Riding clubs.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. CO. 155
PETER CORTELYOU CORNELL, manufacturer, born in Red Hook, on Long Island,
X. Y., in 1803, died in the city of Brooklyn, May 5, 1885. He was a son of John Cornell,
proprietor of a large flour mill. The family were of English and Dutch pedigree, the
Cornells tracing their line to the Cornewells, who ranked among the landed gentry of
England several centuries ago. Thomas Cornell, founder of the family here, received a
grant of Cornell's Neck from Governor Kieft, in 1646. Peter entered business life at an
early age, and promoted a great variety of enterprises. He was for many years prosper-
ously engaged in the manufacture of gunpowder, as president of The Hazard Powder Co.
on Wall street. He also aided in the establishment of local gas works, ferry lines, banks,
and white lead works in Brooklyn. His wife was Elizabeth Bunce. They had no children.
HANSON K. CORNING, merchant, born in 1821, died in Para, Brazil, April 22,
1878. He was one of the leading merchants in the South American trade in this city,
and imported rubber and other tropical products for many years with success. He
owned a large area of land in Minnesota, Wisconsin and Dakota. Retiring in 1856,
he was succeeded by his son, Ephraim L. Corning, who, later, himself withdrew from
business, and made his home in Geneva, Switzerland. Three children were born to
him, Ephraim L. Corning, Margaretta C. Stone and Anna M. Eraser. An invalid
during the last twenty years of his life, he bore his sufferings with fortitude, and dis-
played the beauty of his character by large contributions to The Presbyterian Mission
in Brazil, The American Bible Society, and other philanthropic institutions.
FREDERICK H. COSSITT, merchant, born in Granby, Conn., Dec. 18, 1811, died
in Xew York city, Sept. 23, 1887. His ancestors, French by descent, enrolled them-
selves among the early settlers of Connecticut, going there as early as 1720. Mr.
Cossitt received his education in the public schools and Westfield (Mass.), Academy.
In 1827, a relative conducting a dry goods store in Clarksville, Tenn., gave the young
man employment and a business training. Five years later, Mr. Cossitt removed to La
Grange, Tenn., where he managed a dry goods house with an uncle. From 1835 to
1842, he was a dry goods merchant in Pontotoc, Miss., and Helena, Ark., and in the
latter year started a wholesale dry goods store in Memphis, which he conducted until
1861. Finding it necessary to be represented in Xew York, he made his home in this
city in 1850, thereafter making the purchases for his Southern trade. His attention
having been drawn to metropolitan real estate as an investment, he made heavy pur-
chases on Broadway and other important streets, and the increase in value of this
property brought him a fortune. He was well informed concerning railroad properties,
and served as a trustee of The Mutual Life Insurance Co., vice-president of The
Central Trust Co., and director of The Atlantic Mutual Insurance Co., and The
Greenwich Savings Bank. Three daughters survived him, May C., wife of George
E. Dodge; Helen M., wife of Augustus D. Juilliard; and Mrs. Elizabeth R. Stokes.
PATRICK CARROLL COSTELLO, tanner, was born in 1829, and is a son of Will-
iam Costello, a tanner. He is of Irish ancestry. From the common schools he went
into his father's tannery. Having learned the useful art of making leather, he became
an operator on his own account in 1848, at Camden, X. Y., in the firm of P. & P. Cos-
tello. Success inspired him with ambition, and, in 1873, he became a partner in the
firm of Lapham, Costello & Co., of Xew York city. Thoroughly practical, clear-headed
and energetic, Mr. Costello has risen to be one of the foremost tanners of these times.
In 1886, the house was reorganized as P. C. Costello & Co. He has been a resident of
I56 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
New York city since 1881, and his name is one of the most conspicuous in the leather
trade in "the swamp." His firm dissolved in 1893, to join The United States Leather
Co., one of the greatest corporations in the country, of which he is a director. He is a
member of the Hide and Leather and Down Town clubs.
CHARLES HENRY COSTER, banker, born in Newport, R. I., July 22, 1852, is
a son of George W. and Elizabeth Oakey Coster, both of New York. His grandfather,
John Gerard Coster, came from Holland at the close of the American Revolution, and
rose to prominence as a New York merchant. The maternal grandfather, Daniel
Oakey, an Englishman by birth, was also a merchant in this city. Sept. 12, 1867,
Charles went down town to enter the office of Aymar & Co., at 34 and 35 South street,
as a clerk. Occupied with the importation of tea, coffee, etc., for five years, Nov. i,
1872, he identified himself with Fabbri & Chauncey, at 47 and 48 South street. This
firm took over the business of Aymar & Co. They were shipping and commission
merchants, dealing principally with the West coast of South America and the Philippine
Islands. Mr. Coster remained with them until October, 1883. Jan. i, 1884, he was ad-
mitted to partnership in the great banking house of Drexel, Morgan & Co., of this city,
Drexel & Co., of Philadelphia, and Drexel, Harjes& Co., of Paris, resident in New York.
He has since proved a prudent, capable and useful member of these firms. Mr. Coster
has joined the Metropolitan, City, St. Nicholas and Reform clubs, and is prominently
connected with The Chesapeake & Ohio Railway, The Southern Railway, The Elgin, Jo-
liet & Eastern Railway, The General Electric Co., and The Edison Electric Illuminating
Co. June 2, 1886, he married Emily Pell Coster and has two children, Emily and Helen.
AMOS COTTINQ, merchant and banker, a native of Boston, Mass., born about
1827, died in New York city, May 13, 1889. He was a very enterprising and courageous
man, who having spent about fifteen years in the dry goods business in St. Louis, came
to New York with large means in 1866 with his partner, Mr Jameson, and established
the bank of Jameson, Smith & Getting. Equally as successful in finance as in trade,
Mr. Cotting retired Jan. i, 1889. He belonged to the Union League and other clubs,
and was one of the most highly regarded men in the city.
STAflATY COVAS, importer, born in Greece in 1816, died in New Brunswick,
N. J , Sept. 16, 1881. He came to this country in 1851, locating in New Orleans as a
merchant in the firm of Covas & Negreunde, but in 1861 removed to New York, where
for twenty years he carried on a large exportation of raw cotton, and an importation of
general merchandise. He was a member of the Produce and Cotton Exchanges, and
by a long life of patient industry gained a large fortune. His wife Ethelind, and two
children, survived him. The family made their home in New Brunswick, N. J.
ELLIOT CHRISTOPHER COWDIN, importing merchant, born in Jamaica, Vt,
Aug. 9, 1819, died in New York city, April 12, 1880. He was a son of Angier Cowdin,
landowner, and came from Scottish ancestry. Capt. Thomas Cowdin, his grandfather,
of Fitchburg, Mass., served his country in the American Revolution. Elliot spent
his youth in Boston. After leaving the public schools he was employed by Allen &
Mann, merchants of ribbons and millinery. Nine years of diligent and progressive
service led to his admission as partner to the succeeding firm of W. H. Mann & Co.
In 1853, he came to New York, and in the firm of Elliot C. Cowdin & Co., engaged
in the importation of silks and silk ribbons, rising to a prominent place in the trade.
The panic of 1857 left him almost impoverished, but his coolness, tenacity, and per-
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. CO. 157
sistent enterprise finally brought a large reward, and he retired in 1877 a man of
means. During his whole life, Mr. Cowdin was remarkable for activity. A member of
the Chamber of Commerce, and once president of The New England Society, he
aided in founding, and became one of, the vice-presidents of the Union League club.
He also joined the Century club. The purchase of merchandise led him constantly to
Europe, and, in all, he crossed the Atlantic ocean eighty-six times. In general, he
held aloof from political strife, but was, in 1862, defeated for Congress, and in 1876
elected to the State Assembly. In politics, a Republican, he spoke frequently on
public matters, was vehement in his loyalty, outspoken in his views, and emphatic,
though courteous, in their expression. For several years after 1869, he lived in Paris.
On the approach of the Prussian army, during the Franco-Prussian war, he was
obliged to leave the city. As a Commissioner to the French Exposition, Mr. Cowdin
made a report on silk culture which received much praise. In 1853, he married Sarah
Katharine, daughter of Samuel Wallis Waldron, of Boston, and their six children were
Katharine Waldron, wife of Gaspar Griswold; John Elliot Cowdin; Martha Waldron,
wife of Robert Bacon; Winthrop Cowdin; Alice, wife of Hamilton L. Hoppin, and
Elliot C. Cowdin.
ALFRED ABERNETHY COWLES, manufacturer, born in Torrington, Conn.,
Sept. 28, 1845, is a son of George P. Cowles, vice-president of The Ansonia Brass &
Copper Co., until his death in 1887, and springs from English and Scottish ancestry.
His mother was a daughter of Gen. R. C. Abernethy, of Scottish descent. Educated
in the schools of Connecticut and at the Sorbonne in Paris, he began life as teller in
The Ansonia National Bank. Through service in various positions in this institution
he gained a thorough knowledge of banking. In 1867, he entered the employment of
The Ansonia Brass & Copper Co. , gave close attention to the business, took charge of
the New York office, and has risen to be vice president and executive manager of the
company. The Ansonia Clock Co., which he took an active part in organizing in
1879, is now the largest establishment of its kind in the world. These two industries
give employment to thousands of working people. Mr. Cowles has invested his savings
largely in other industries, and is vice president of The Ansonia Clock Co. , president of
The Birmingham Water Power Co., treasurer of The Ansonia Land & Water Power Co.,
and a director of other companies. In 1872, he was married to Miss Frances, daughter
of William Bailey of Devonshire, England. Their children are Russel A. and Frederick H.
Cowles. His clubs are the LTnion League, Fulton, Blooming Grove Park and Suburban.
LOTTA M. CRABTREE, actress, while certainly not a successful man, is a very
beautiful, worthy and successful woman. She was born in New York city, Nov. 7,
1847. Her father kept a book store for many years in Nassau street, New York, went
to California in 1851, and there engaged in gold mining. His wife and daughter
followed in 1854. Lotta made her first appearance on the amusement stage in 1855, as
a singer in an amateur entertainment at La Porte. At the age of eleven she plaved the
part of Gertrude in the "Loan of a Lover," at Petaluma. Shortly afterward the mother
and daughter both became members of a theatrical company, which travelled through
California in 1860. The success of Lotta was very great. To a piquant and bewitch-
ing manner, she joined vigorous health, a bright mind and dramatic ability; and when,
in 1864, she appeared in New York city in spectacular plays at Niblo's Garden, her
audiences were large and the receipts profitable. Her reputation was established first
i$8 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
in John Brougham's " Little Nell and the Marchioness." She soon became a favorite
with the American public, both in the large cities and the smaller towns, in comedy,
and has usually played parts especially written for her. Her chief successes have been
as "Topsy," " Sam Willoughby," "Firefly," "Zip," "Bob," "The Little Detective,"
and " Nitouche." Lotta is a good business woman, and has had the prudence to invest
her earnings in real estate in New York city and Boston, the appreciation in value of
which has made her rich.
JACOB CRAfl, merchant and realty owner, born in Exeter, N. H.. about 1783, died
in New York city, July 6, 1869. He was a classmate of Daniel Webster and Lewis
Cass in the Exeter academy. He began the study of theology, but gave it up for a
commercial life, entering a leading store in Boston. Gaining experience, to which he
added by a tour of Europe, he returned and engaged in business on his own account.
In 1816, he came to New York city, and was long known as a sound, upright, and
enterprising merchant, gaining the confidence and esteem of the whole community.
His fortune was invested mainly in uptown real estate, which rose enormously in value
as the tide of population surged northwards over the island. He also owned property
of this class in Chicago. Two sons, Henry C., and John Sergeant Cram, and two
daughters survived him.
WILLIAM CRAWFORD, dry goods merchant, born in Lanarkshire, Scotland, in
' August, 1845, after attendance in the parish schools, began life as an apprentice in the
dry goods store of Thomas Chalmers & Co., in Glasgow. In 1866, he came to America
and found a clerkship with Hogg, Brown & Taylor, dry goods merchants, in Boston.
Three years later, Scottish thrift enabled him to start a store of his own in Nashua,
N. H. Later, he added branch stores in Manchester, N. H., and Taunton, Mass. At-
tracted to New York by a favorable offer, he joined the firm of Richard Meares & Co.,
retail dry goods merchants, in September, 1877. He infused great energy into the
affairs of the firm. In August, 1879, the house reorganized as Simpson, Crawford &
Simpson, to succeed the business of Mr. Meares. Under the new firm, a highly suc-
cessful dry goods business has been conducted, and the store on Sixth avenue is one of
those which now form a necessary part of the route of ladies on a shopping tour. Both
his partners have died, and Mr. Crawford is now sole proprietor, although retaining the
previous name. He has joined the Manhattan, Lotus, Colonial, New York Athletic
and Larchmont Yacht clubs. He is not married.
RAMON FERNANDEZ CREADO Y GOMEZ, planter, born in Guines, Cuba, Dec.
20, 1825, died in Havana, June 8, 1882. His father was Fernandez Creado, a planter of
Spanish blood, owned large estates and was widely known and respected. While
Spanish rule in Cuba-had been uninterrupted, it had been frequently disturbed by
insurrections, many of which during Mr. Creado's boyhood and youth were extensive
and serious. The island abounded with rumor and intrigue, and the elder Creado deter-
mined to educate his son in the United States, where he could have the advantage of
the finest facilities and political tranquility. Accordingly, about 1840, the young
Cuban began his studies in St. Mary's College, Baltimore, where he spent several
years. Of an ardent and earnest nature, he early became an admirer of the American
republic and qualified as a citizen of the United States. This step, whether entirely
due to admiration for his adopted country, or the result of the unsettled condition of
Cuba, proved the means eventually of preserving his life and preventing the loss of his
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. CR. 159
estate. Called home by the death of his father, Mr. Creado found himself an object of
suspicion. Having quelled the rebellion, the rapacity of the Spanish authorities knew no
bounds. They plundered and maltreated wealthy planters at will, and the mere charge
of sympathy with the rebellion was sufficient justification for any excess. Conspicuous
wealth made Mr. Creado an object of attack. It is true that he freed every slave in his
possession and treated those belonging to the undivided estate with great kindness, and
that, beholding the outrages to which his friends were subjected, he sympathized
secretly with the struggle of the insurgents for liberty in 1868, but well understanding
the futility of the catise, he gave it no countenance by word or deed. This, however,
was immaterial. The Spanish authorities desired his large estate, proclaimed him a
rebel, and ordered the confiscation of his property. Escaping to the United States, Mr.
Creado proved his citizenship in the United States, and for many years with slender
resources, he struggled in vain to secure his property, William M. Evarts acting as his
counsel. After long correspondence between the State Department at Washington and
the Spanish Government, the justice of Mr. Creado's contention was recognized, the
decree against him was rescinded, and in 1877 his property was restored. As soon as
he considered it safe, Mr. Creado returned to Cuba and occupied himself with the mani-
fold requirements of his neglected property, which consisted not only of extensive plan-
tations but also of large blocks of valuable real estate in Havana. On his plantation
'• Xeda," and wherever his influence could be felt, he introduced American improve-
ments, and the American system of education. He also made every effort to compel
the government to repay the income wrongfully appropriated during the years of his
exile, but in this he failed. Mr. Creado made annual visits to New York, which he
had learned by many years of residence to regard as home. He never married.
JOHN DANIEL CRIMMINS, conspicuous as a contractor for the building of private
and public works, descends from Irish stock, and was born in New York city, Ma)' 18,
1844. His father, Thomas Crimmins, was a man of sound sense and great enterprise,
who, having settled in New York in 1837, engaged in contract work in 1849, and retired
from business in 1873, the possessor of a fortune. John gained his education in the
public schools and St. Francis Xavier College, and then, at the age of sixteen, found
occupation as a clerk in the office of his father. The vocation suited his enterprising
nature, and he entered upon the master}- of all necessary details with ardor and ability.
At the age of eighteen, he was made superintendent of his father's business, and at
twenty was admitted as a partner, the firm name being Thomas Crimmins & Son.
The contracts executed by the firm previous to this date were confined mainly to
excavations, water front improvements, heavy foundations, etc. The influence of the
junior partner was now seen in an extension of the operations of the firm to the con-
struction of buildings under contract. The first work of this nature was performed in
1866, and since that year more than 400 houses have been erected in various parts of
the city. This branch of the business has always been under the direction of John D.
Crimmins, and has given excellent scope for the power of organization, the foresight,
energy and good management, which are characteristic traits of the man. The erec-
tion of dwellings for others has led Mr. Crimmins into real estate transactions on his
own account, and he has gradually become one of the largest operators in the city.
The influence of Mr. Crimmins was also seen at an early day in the employment
of machinery upon a large scale in making excavations. H e was the first contractor in
160 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
New York city to adopt machinery for this purpose ; and his greater promptness in
executing contracts and ability to perform the work at a reasonable compensation
quickly resulted in a large increase of the general contract work of the firm. To a
greater or less extent, Mr. Crimmins has now for thirty years been identified with all
the large construction work projected in New York city, especially with operations
requiring the highest degree of ability in the contractor. He accepts few if any con-
tracts from the city. His work is almost wholly performed for corporations, estates
and individuals. He laid the foundations for The Manhattan Railway, built the elec-
trical subway, has laid many miles of gas mains, built the tank fotindations for various
gas companies, and constructed the Broadway and the street railroads on Lexington,
Lenox and Columbus avenues.
Since 1873, he has been senior member and the leading spirit of the firm. Mr.
Crimmins gives to every contract the closest personal attention, and has carried forward
to a successful completion every enterprise in which he has been engaged. His work
is thorough and satisfactory, and contracts are generally awarded to him without com-
petition. He is one of the largest employers of labor in the city, seldom carrying fewer
than 2,000 men upon his pay rolls, and often as many as 6,000. He has weathered every
financial storm with skill, and has never missed a pay day or disappointed a creditor.
His influence with his workmen is remarkable. Patient, an attentive and sym-
pathetic listener, just in his conclusions, while at the same time ready to defend with
reasonable argument his position against unwarranted demands, he has never failed to
reach a friendly settlement of every dispute with his own men. He has frequently
been called upon to serve as arbitrator in strikes, and in most cases has aided in adjust-
ing differences to the entire satisfaction of all concerned. The principal office of the
firm, at 50 East spth street, is to-day within half a mile of the spot where Mr. Crim-
mins was born.
Mr. Crimmins is now largely associated with street railroad enterprise in the city
and is an important stockholder in The Metropolitan Traction Co., of the metropolis,
and The Consolidated Traction Co., of Jersey City. He is allied with the progress,
development and commercial life of the city at many points. A member of the
Chamber of Commerce, he is a director in The Fifth Avenue Bank and The National
Union Bank, president of The Essex & Hudson Land Improvement Co , and trustee
of The North-Western Mutual Life Insurance Co. of Milwaukee. He is also a member
of several boards of trustees of charities connected with the Roman Catholic church, and
of the building committees of three of them, and has superintended the building of
various convents, schools, asylums and churches, and the house of the Catholic Club.
In politics, a Deniocwat, Mr. Crimmins has played some part in public affairs,
although too busy a man to enter upon a political career. He was a Park Commis-
sioner, 1883-88, and served at various dates as either president or treasurer of that
board. At one time appointed by the President a member of the Board of Visitors to
the Military Academy at West Point, he has also been a Presidential Elector and
member of the State Constitutional Convention of 1894. He has also been a valued
member of all the special committees of citizens, formed during the last ten years to
represent the people of the city in public commemorations and the achievement of non-
partisan objects, in which prominent people are accustomed to co-operate. He is one
of the Executive Committee of the Prison Association.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. CB» Xgj
In manners, he unites courtesy and refinement with the thoroughness of discussion
and quickness of decision of an experienced business man. Several of the best known
business and social clubs of the city have elected him to membership, including the
Manhattan, Lawyers', Democratic, Catholic, Players', Suburban, Stamford Yacht, and
Building Trades; and he is also a contributor to the support of The Metropolitan
Museum of Art and The American Museum of Natural History.
April 1 5th, 1 868, he was married to Lily L. Lalor, a daughter of Martin Lalor.
His family now consists of himself and eleven children. He maintains a city home at
40 East 68th street, near Central Park, and in the summer dwells at his fine country
seat of Firwood on the Sound, near Noroton, Conn.
FREDERIC CROnWELL, treasurer of The Mutual Life Insurance Co., a man of
notable personality and a valuable citizen, was born in the village of Cornwall on the
Hudson, Feb. 16, 1843. He is a son of the late David Cromwell, who retired from
business in New York city nearly sixty years ago and built a residence in Cornwall,
where he died in 1857. The family is of English ancestry, tracing its descent from Col.
John Cromwell, a brother of the Protector and third son of Richard Cromwell. John
Cromwell, a son of John, emigrated from Holland to New Amsterdam, and in 1686
resided at Long Neck in Westchester county, afterward known as Cromwell's Neck.
Through his mother, Rebecca Bowman, the subject of this biography is descended from
John Bowman, an Englishman, who died in 1661, and whose son Henry joined the
Society of Friends in 1666.
After a full experience in preparatory schools, Mr. Cromwell entered Harvard
College, graduating in 1863. Of the following two years, the first was devoted to study
of the law, the second to European travel. Every experience is useful to a man of
retentive mind and progressive spirit, and while Mr. Cromwell preferred an active to a
professional career, his legal studies proved of value to him in later years. In 1865,
he established himself in the occupation of importing British cloths, relinquishing this
in 1868, in order to devote more attention to other important interests.
Mr. Cromwell was one of the originators of The People's Gas Light Co., of Brook-
lyn, and in 1870 became its president. He was also interested in the gas companies of
Baltimore, Md. His experience with the manufacture of illuminating gas led him, in
1870, to remove to St. Louis, Mo , where he resided four years. There, under his
direction, The Laclede Gas Light Co. constructed its works. He managed the company
from its inception and until its affairs were placed upon a firm and profitable basis, one
third of the gas used in the city being supplied by these works. After a year in
Europe, he returned to Brooklyn in 1875, where he interested himself in a number of
corporate enterprises. In conjunction with his brother-in-law, he purchased control of
one of the street railroad companies of Brooklyn, and for several 3-ears directed the
extension of the lines until an important system had grown into existence.
The people of Brooklyn remember Mr. Cromwell with affection. While a very
active business man, he was much interested in matters of public concern. When a
Civil Service Reform Association was formed in Brooklyn, he became its first president,
and afterward he served as a member of the first Civil Service Commission. Further,
he was active in promoting the higher interests of the people of the city, especially
those which center around The Brooklyn Art Association, which he served as president,
and The Philharmonic Society, of which he was vice-president.
i6z AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
It was in 1880, that Mr. Cromwell was chosen a trustee of The Mutual Life Insur-
ance Co., one of the soundest financial institutions in the metropolis, which occupies
the site of the old New York post office, formerly an historic church, on Nassau street.
His services in the board resulted in his election, in 1884, to the responsible position
of treasurer of the company. Great as are the interests centering- in the city of New
York, it may be safely stated that no corporation among its numberless institutions
places a heavier burden of trust and responsibility upon its financial officer than does
The Mutual Life Insurance Co. All the loans of the company, running into the
millions, fall under the guidance of the treasurer. To those unacquainted with the
details of the operations of this corporation, an adequate idea of what it is to be its
treasurer can only be given by citing a few figures. The assets of the company are
$200,000,000 and its annual receipts and disbursements above $50,000,000, while loans
have been made upon proper security to the amount of $75,000,000. These trans-
actions, stupendous to the ordinary mind, require the supervision of a treasurer and
board of directors, calm and sound in judgment, thoroughly acquainted with financial
affairs, upright and beyond suspicion, and capable of untiring labor. It is a sufficient
comment upon the personal quality of Mr. Comwell, to say that he holds the position
of treasurer of this company, and has filled it for ten years to the eminent advantage of
the interests he serves and the satisfaction of the trustees, of whom he is one. Upon
accepting this position, Mr. Cromwell became a resident of New York city, spending his
winters in town and dwelling during each summer upon his farm at Bernardsville, N. J.
Mr. Cromwell is represented in many prominent financial institutions and bears
an active part in their counsels. He is a director of The New York Guarantee &
Indemnity Co , The National Union Bank, The Brooklyn Trust Co. , The Bank of New
Amsterdam and other institutions, including The New York & East River Gas Co.,
which recently completed a tunnel under the East River.
A man of fine presence, large, dark featured, courtly in demeanor, Mr. Cromwell
enjoys the acquaintance of a wide circle of the choicest people of the city. He married
Esther, daughter of Seymour L. Husted, and has had five children, of whom four are
living, one son and three daughters. He is associated with several charities.
He has joined a few clubs, including the Century, Metropolitan, University,
Harvard and Down Town of this city, and the Hamilton of Brooklyn.
WILLIAM BEDLOW CROSBY, realty owner, born in New York city, Feb. 7,
1786, died here, March 18, 1865. His grandfather was Judge Joseph Crosby, his father
Dr. Ebenezer Crosby, a leading physician of this city, while his mother was Catharine,
daughter ot William Bedlow, whose family possessed Bedlow's Island in New York
bay, and of Catharine Rutgers, daughter of Hendrick Rutgers. Left an orphan at the
age of two, William entered the family of his great uncle, Col. Henry Rutgers, who
adopted him as a son. By inheritance from his mother, the young man received a
large share of the old Rutgers estate, which included the greater portion of the Seventh
Ward in New York city and became very valuable. Mr. Crosby's time was greatly
occupied with the care of his property. He found, however, both time and inclination
to engage largely in philanthropic enterprises, taking an active interest in various soci-
eties of a public character and giving liberally of his large means to colleges and
charity. The American Bible Society especially enlisted his interest. In 1821, he
became a life director, and in 1853, a vice-preside'nt. His father having rendered
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. CR. 103
efficient service as a surgeon during the Revolution, William B. Crosby became oy vir-
tue thereof a member of The Society of the Cincinnati. He was married, Feb. 7, 1807,
to Harriet A., daughter of the Rev. William Clarkson, and grand daughter of William
Floyd, a Signer of the Declaration of Independence. His children were William Henry,
John Player, Robert Ralston, Clarkson Floyd, who died Feb. 22, 1858, Edward Nicoll,
the Rev. Dr. Howard Crosby, a leading Presbyterian minister of New York city, Cath-
arine Clarkson, Eliza Smedes, and Mary; and Clarkson, Anna Bancker, and Harman
Rutgers, who died in infancy. Mrs. Crosby died Dec. 13, 1859. — His son, JOHN
PLAYER CROSBY, lawyer, born in New York city, May 22, 1810, died from heart
failure while bathing off Fire Island on the Long Island coast, Sept. 19, 1876. Gradu-
ating from Columbia College in 1827, he studied law and engaged in the active prac-
tice of his profession until his death. He was first associated with R. M. Blatchford, a
son of Judge Blatchford, afterward with F. F. Marbury. Yet later, he was a member
of the firm of Crosby, Ostrander & Jones, and finally of Crosby, Hoffman & Crosby.
During his later years, he attained especial prominence as referee and trustee of large
estates. He belonged to the Bar Association and earnestly promoted the work of sev-
eral religious and charitable institutions. Nearly all his life he served as an elder in
the Presbyterian church. In February, 1835, Mr. Crosby married Ellen, daughter of
John R. Murray. His wife died in May, 1836. In 1840, he married a daughter of the
late Benjamin F. Butler, Attorney General during part of President Van Buren's admin-
istration. Six sons and three daughters were born to him. Franklin Butler Crosby, one
of his sons, was killed in the battle of Chancellorsville. Mr. Crosby was a man of
singular frankness and courtesy, and his cordial and generous disposition drew about
him a large number of warm friends.
JEREMIAH CURTIS, manufacturer, born in Hampden, Maine, in 1804, died in New
York city, March 24, 1883. While a young man, he established a bank in Calais, Me.,
and later built the first railroad in Maine, from Calais to Middletown, and accepted the
Abolition nomination for governor of his State, being, however, defeated. He came
: Xe\v York about 1863, and entered the drug business, in which he was remarkably
successful. The owner of several formulas for medicines, he manufactured largely,
and from the sale of Winslow's Soothing Syrup, Brown's Bronchial Troches, etc.,
amassed a large fortune. Several years before his death he retired from business,
leaving the industry to the conduct of his sons. He was a man of estimable private
character, and until age compelled him to retire, he was accustomed to gather around
him a circle of choice friends.
DON ALONZO CUSHflAN, merchant, born in Coventry, Conn., Oct. i, 1792, died
in New York city, May i, 1875. The Cushman family was planted in America by
Robert of that name, who, in June, 1620, chartered the Mayflower, which brought over
the first company of Pilgrims, and who followed them to New England on the Fortune
in the following November. Allerton Cushman of this line was a resident of Coven-
try, Conn. His son, Minerva, one of the pioneers of Otsego county, N. Y., gave all
of his children at least one name beginning with D, and his fifth son was Don Alonzo
Cushman. Alonzo grew up on the Otsego county farm, gained what teaching he could
in the country schools, and in 1805 entered a store in Cooperstown, N. Y., where he
learned to sell dry goods and groceries. He took private lessons in arithmetic, became
bookkeeper for Col. Russell Williams, and through the kindness of the latter secured a
164
AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
place in a retail dry goods store on Broadway, New York city, in 1810. He had saved
up to that time just $17, and this small sum was soon consumed in New York. Here,
thrown entirely on his own resources, he learned at the outset that frugality, industry
and merit must be his sole reliance for success. During the War of 1812 he served
three months in one of the forts of the harbor. In 1815, Charles Weed, his employer,
sold his store on credit to Mr. Cushman and Archibald Falconer, and invested a few
thousand dollars as their partner in Cushman & Falconer. The young merchant expe-
rienced many and great trials at different times but by perseverance finally built up an
immense trade, which after 1824 was confined to the wholesale branch of the business.
The house finally became known as D. A. Cushman & Co. In 1855, Mr. Cushman re-
tired. He was a pioneer in the development in the Chelsea district, extending a distance
of several blocks on Ninth avenue above i4th street. Upon a large tract of land there
he created a village of well-to-do families, and established his own dwelling on Ninth
avenue, opposite the Episcopal Theological Seminary. Since his death, the house
has been occupied by some of his family. This region, once an independent village, has
since been swallowed up by the rush of population northwards, and is indistinguishable
now from the rest of the densely inhabited region of which it is the center, except that
it retains some of the characteristics of the older New York. Mr. Cushman was presi-
dent of The Greenwich Savings Bank, and director in several insurance companies.
Married in 1815 to Matilda C. S., daughter of Peter Ritter, thirteen children were
born to him, Mary Matilda Falconer, wife of Philip F. Pistor, of this city; Alonzo
Ritter; Catharine Ritter, wife of N. B. Smith, of New Orleans; Caroline Thomas, wife
of James Talman Waters; John Henry Hobart; Angelica B., wife of Gustavus W.
Faber; Emily A., wife of George Wilcoxson, of Nyack; Archibald Falconer, Ephraim
Holbrook, James Stewart and William Floyd Cushman. Julia Josephine and Elizabeth
Emeline died while young.— -JAflES STEWART CUSHHAN, fifth of the six sons of
Don Alonzo Cushman, born in New York, Nov. 19, 1836, died Nov. 25, 1894. He was
educated in the Columbia College grammar school, and began life as clerk for Reed,
Drexel & Co. He started in business for himself in the stock brokerage firm of Cush-
man & Gignoux, who were succeeded by Christmas, Cushman & Hurlbut, and later
by Cushman & Hurlbut. A member of the Stock Exchange and one of the original
members of the Gold Board, he became prominent as a stock broker and operator in
Wall street, but withdrew about 1880 to confine his attention to the management of real
estate inherited from his father. He was a man of solid and sincere character, influen-
tial, well known and universally respected. Although fond of fine horses and the owner
of several, he was too conservative to become greatly addicted to the race track. He
dwelt in his father's old mansion on Ninth avenue, where he maintained the Chelsea
traditions and hospitable customs for which the homestead was famous. His clubs
were the Union League, New York and New York Athletic.
FRANCIS BROCKHOLST CUTTING, an eminent lawyer, born in New York in
1805, died here June 26, 1870. He was a son of William Cutting, lawyer, and grand-
son of the Rev. Leonard Cutting, proprietor of a noted grammar school. Graduating
from Columbia College, he entered the law and advanced in the arduous labors of this
profession to great distinction, largely on account of his profound acquaintance with
commercial law. From 1840 to 1855, few cases were tried in the metropolis, involving
this branch of legal knowledge, in which Mr. Cutting was not retained as leading coun-
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. CU. 165
sel. He found time to take an active interest in politics, and frequently gave the Demo-
cratic party the benefit of his talents as a public speaker. During- 1836 and 1837, he
represented New York city in the State Assembly. The sessions were exciting and
Mr. Cutting held a conspicuous place in the debates. In 1853-55, he represented one
of the New York city districts in Congress. Kansas and Nebraska were leading topics
at that time. Mr. Cutting refused to follow the lead of the pro-slavery Southern Con-
gressmen who controlled their part}", and he became involved in a personal quarrel with
John C. Breckinridge, which was finally adjusted without a duel. At the outbreak of
the war, he supported the Union as a War Democrat vigorously, and aided the second
election of Lincoln, thereafter retiring from politics to follow his profession. Wealth
came to him in part by inheritance from his father, who was the principal owner of
the old Brooklyn Steamboat Co., whose boats plied as a ferry between New York and
Brooklyn, and from his mother, Gertrude, daughter of Walter Livingston of Living-
ston Manor. He added to his means, however, in the practice of the law and by invest-
ments in local real estate. He was esteemed as a man of fine intellect, graceful accom-
plishments and kindly manners. His son, Gen. William Cutting is now the only
survivor of his children, two other sons, Heyward and Brockholst, having died.
ROBERT LIVINGSTON CUTTING, sr., son of the late William Cutting, born in
New York, in February, 1812, died in New York, Feb. 25, 1887. He graduated from
Columbia College, and afterward established himself in a stock brokerage business in
Wall street. Attractive and winning in manner, clear headed and capable, he was
associated with some of the giants of Wall street in various stock operations and notably
aided Commodore Yanderbilt in large transactions, when the latter began to deal in
the stocks of The Harlem and Hudson River Railroads. He was, in 1865, president of
the Stock Exchange. Aided by inheritance, he became a man of fortune. About
1870, he retired from business, and six years before his death, sold his seat in the
Stock Exchange. He was prominent in the social and club life of the town, a member
of the Union Club, a stockholder in the Academy of Music and a promoter of grand
opera. In 1871, he joined the Committee of Seventy and labored efficiently for the
overthrow of the Tweed ring. In 1835, he was married to Juliana, daughter of James
DeWolf, of Bristol, R. I., and was survived by two children, Robert L. Cutting, jr., and
Walter, who lives in Pittsfield, Mass.— His son, ROBERT LIVINGSTON CUTTING,
broker and banker, born in this city, July 2, 1836, died here, Jan. 13, 1894. He was
educated at Columbia College, graduating in 1856, and fitted himself for the law, but
finally entered the stock brokerage business with his father. He became a member
of the Stock Exchange, May 13, 1864, and later special partner in the firm of John
Benjamin Lee & Co., which succeeded his own. At the time of his death, he held
a similiar interest in Lee, Livingston & Co. Mr. Cutting was one of the best known
men in social life in New York. He belonged to the Union, Metropolitan, Knicker-
bocker, Manhattan, New York Athletic, Racquet, Tuxedo and Delta Phi clubs, and
the Alumni Association of Columbia College. He was handsome and commanding
in appearance, a prominent patron of the opera, a stockholder in the Academy of
Music and Metropolitan Opera House, and an epicure of wide reputation, while at the
same time a generous giver to charity and a regular contributor to the support of many
public institutions. His wife, Judith E. Moale, of Baltimore, a sister of Mrs. I. Town-
send Burden, and two sons, James De Wolf and Robert L. Cutting, survived him.
D.
CHARLES FREDERICK DAflBMANN, merchant, a native of Wiesbaden, Ger-
many, died June 26, 1868, in this city, at the age of fifty-five. The family had made
their home in Wiesbaden for generations and were reputable traders and merchants.
The subject of this memoir might have made his mark in the fatherland, because his
friends noted in him from youth the spirit of enterprise, clearness of vision and origin-
ality of thought; but these very qualities led him, after a short experience in a mercan-
tile clerkship, to come to America while a young man and seek the enlarged opportunities
of the new world. He. was a born merchant, and after a modest beginning in New
York city, he established his own business, and in the firm of C. F. Dambmann & Co.,
importers of laces, velvets and kindred fabrics, won a pronounced success. The house
first occupied a store on Park Row, later on Franklin street. In due time, when large
means had come to him in consequence of the prudent and energetic prosecution of his
trade, he made numerous investments of his capital in corporations. Mr. Dambmann
was connected with The National Park Bank, various gas companies and other cor-
porations, and aided in founding The Continental Insurance Co. , and The Continental
Bank, being a director of both until his death. A well educated man, he joined various
German societies and clubs, whose members esteemed him highly for his soundness of
judgment, well informed mind and probity. By his marriage with Sarah, daughter
of George Long, book publisher, he had four children, George John Adolph Damb-
mann; Louisa, wife of Gustave Cambefort, now living in Lyons; and Charles Frederick
William D. Dambmann, jr., a resident of Baltimore, Md. , and another now deceased.
CHARLES ANDERSON DANA, editor, of The New York Sun, was born in Hins-
dale, N. H., Aug. 8, 1819. The first of the family, Jacob Dana, came from France
to Boston about 1640, in consequence of the revocation of the edict of Nantes, and
Daniel Dana, great grandfather of Charles, was killed in the massacre of Wyoming.
His father, a country merchant, failed while Charles was a boy, and the latter left
school at the age of ten. A year or two later, the youth began life in Buffalo -as clerk
in a dry goods store, where he stayed several years. Having fitted himself for college
under many discouraging circumstances, he entered Harvard in 1839 and remained
until the end of the sophomore year, when serious trouble with his eyes compelled him
to abandon the idea of finishing his college course. Later he obtained his full degree.
In 1842, led by sentiment, Mr. Dana became one of those philanthropic souls, who
engaged in the famous experiment at Brook Farm, being associated therein with
George Ripley, Nathaniel Hawthorne, Theodore Parker, Margaret Fuller, George
William Curtis, William Henry Channing and others, who afterwards rose to distinc-
tion. These philosophers strove for a high plane of social and intellectual life, but
Mr. Dana was their only practical man and the experiment finally came to an end.
A close thinker, sound in his reasoning, and capable of expressing himself in
forcible language, Mr. Dana, then at the age of twenty-seven, began writing for The-
Chronotype of Boston, receiving during a year and a half the munificent salary of $5
a week He had had previous experience upon The Harbinger, devoted to reform and
general literature, and now learned the requirements of a daily newspaper. In 1847,
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. DA. 167
he came to New York, procured the place of city editor on THE TRIBUNE at $10 a week,
subsequently raised to $14, and made his mark at once. In 1848, he spent eight
months in Europe as a correspondent, and upon his return in 1849, became managing
editor of THE TRIBUNE at §20 a week and one of its stockholders. This position he retained
for fifteen years, his compensation being increased until it reached $50 a week. Mr.
Dana brought the force of tremendous energy into the operations of THE TRIBUNE, and
labored diligently with Mr. Greeley to arrest the extension of slavery to the Territories
and to oppose the acquisition of any foreign domain, which should increase the area
of American soil devoted to slave holding. He was especially hostile to the repeal
of the Missouri compromise and the attempt to fasten slavery upon Kansas and
Nebraska. Between Mr. Dana and his chief, there long existed a most intimate
friendship and the spirit of harmonious co-operation. In 1861, Mr. Dana spent con-
siderable time in Albany in an almost successful but finally fruitless effort to secure
the election of Mr. Greeley as United States Senator. The outbreak of the Civil War
led to a disagreement between the two men, and Mr. Dana resigned.
Called, thereupon, to the service of his country in the War Department in Wash-
ington, and employed by Secretary Stanton in special work, his efficiency resulted in
his appointment as Assistant Secretary of War in 1863. For the duties of this office,
he was fitted not only by natural force and a capacity for untiring labor, but by his
trained judgment of men and measures, and accurate information of affairs. Both the
President and Mr. Stanton relied greatly upon Mr. Dana during this period ; and it is
recollected that the latter's confidence in the abilities of General Grant was very influ-
ential in saving that rising officer, at one time, from a concerted effort on the part of
his opponents to destroy his prestige and promotion. Mr. Dana spent some time at the
front during the war and rode in the saddle during the campaigns about Vicksburg
and Chattanooga and in those in Virginia during 1864-65.
After the war, Mr. Dana edited The Chicago Republican for a short time, which
failed, owing to no fault of the editor, and in 1867 he returned to New York to enter
upon a career of intrepid endeavor and phenomenal success. With a few friends, he
bought from Moses Y. Beach The New York Sun, an independent daily newspaper of
the Democratic faith, whose first number under the new management was issued Jan. i,
1868. Nearly thirty years have elapsed and Mr. Dana is yet in charge. One of the
equipped, ablest and most trenchant wrriters in American journalism, he has made
the editorial page of his paper famous for its force, purity of diction, and individuality.
The Sun has become a tremendous power both in attack and defense. His warfare
upon General Grant, by whom he considered himself affronted, was one of the most
remarkable to which a prominent man in America was ever exposed. His criticisms
of the administration, while General Grant was president, exposed Mr. Dana to an
attempt in July, 1873, to t^6 him to Washington for trial in a police court for libel.
The enterprise was frustrated, however, Judge Blatchford of the United States Dis-
trict Court in New York city refusing a warrant on the ground that the proposed form
of trial was unconstitutional.
Mr. Dana spends his winters in New York and his summers at Dosoris, an island
near Glen Cove on the Long Island coast of the Sound. He finds happiness in direct-
ing the operations of his paper, and recreation in the society of his library, rather than
in social life. He is a charming, dignified and always instructive and entertaining
i68 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
public orator, and graces every occasion when he is present as a speaker. In conver-
sation, in editorial work, and in utterances from the platform, he is concise, forcible,
and entertaining in expression, and always impatient of cant and verbosity. By virtue
of lineal descent, he is a member of The Sons of the American Revolution, and has
been their Vice President General. He also belongs to the New England Society.
He was married March 2, 1846, to Eunice Macdaniel, and has four children, Zoe,
Ruth, Paul and Eunice.
A number of books have issued from his pen, including " The Black Ant," a
volume of stories, translated from the German; a Life of General Grant, in collabora-
tion with Gen. James H. Wilson; and the " Household Book of Poetry," a charming
collection, of which many editions have been printed. With Rossiter Johnson, he also
edited " Fifty Perfect Poems," and with George Ripley he planned, in 1855, and edited
the " New American Cyclopedia," published by the Appletons.
ALFRED B. DARLING, the senior proprietor of The Fifth Avenue Hotel, for many
years the most famous and successful of American houses for the accommodation of
travellers, is the direct descendant of an English sea captain, who came to the new
world from Darlington in the north of England and settled in Kingston, N. H., about
the year 1660. Many of the family name had been seafaring men, captains of mer-
chant vessels, but in the new world they adapted themselves to the occupations of the
pioneers of a new country, and many attained eminence in the various walks of life.
Their ancestor, the settler of Kingston, had a large family and all the Darlings in
A.merica are believed to be his descendants.
One of the sons of the English sea captain was Lieut. John Darling, born at
Salisbury, Mass., in 1714. His son, Peter, born July i, 1752, married and settled at
Hopkinton, N. H. The latter's son, Major Ebenezer Darling, the father of Alfred
B. Darling, settled in Caledonia county, Vt., was a soldier in the War of 1812 and after-
ward a Major in the State militia. He represented his town three times in the Legis-
ture and otherwise took prominent part in public affairs.
Alfred B. Darling was born March 23, 1821, in Burke, Vt. At the age of fourteen
he left home to live with his uncle, Timothy Fisher, a successful farmer, with whom he
remained until twenty-one years of age. Mr. Fisher became so much attached- to the
young man that he proposed to deed to him the farm they were cultivating, Alfred, in
return, to take care of the old people while they lived. But Mr. Darling's views of
life and its opportunities led him to seek a wider field of activity and usefulness.
An expedition to Boston by the two men, both driving teams loaded with produce
of the farm, changed the whole current of Mr. Darling's life, as many another unim-
portant incident has opened a new career and brought fortune to others of America's
successful men. Arriving at Charlestown Neck, the two men stopped at the inn
established in earlier years by the Hon. James Sullivan, a sturdy promoter of the
American Revolution, a writer and in 1807 Governor of Massachusetts. The proprietor
of the house gained a great liking for Mr. Darling during their brief stay at the inn,
and the result was that the latter left the farm and went to the hotel on Charlestown
Neck for the period of two and a half years. There he formed those plans which
he has steadfastly followed and which have made him in later years one of the most
famous hotel proprietors in the world.
He removed next to Boston, where he was employed by Paran Stevens, the lead-
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. DA. 169
ing man of his profession, in the old Revere House, famous in that day as a hostelry
for eminent men, notable among them being Daniel Webster.
In 1852, Mr. Darling became associated with Mr. Stevens, as partner, in the man-
agement of the Battle House in Mobile, Ala., then one of the finest and most costly
hotels in the South.
It ^Yas finally resolved to engage in the hotel business in New York city. The
Fifth Avenue Hotel was then in process of construction. Mr. Darling came to New
York in 1858, before the roof had been placed on the building. In 1859, a partnership
was formed between Paran Stevens, Hiram Hitchcock and Mr. Darling, under the title
of Hitchcock, Darling & Co., and the firm leased the hotel which was destined in follow-
ing years to shelter more men of public and social distinction than any other in the
United States.
In 1867,- the interest of Mr. Hitchcock having been bought by Mr. Griswold, the
firm name was changed to Darling, Griswold & Co. ; but in 1879, Mr. Hitchcock bought
back his interest, and the old name was re-adopted and has ever since been retained.
The Fifth Avenue Hotel has been a remarkably successful house. Owing to good
management, the comfort of the hotel, its excellent table, its location upon the beauti-
ful Madison Square at the intersection of Fifth Avenue and Broadway, and its nearness
to the shopping region, the hotel not only soon became the resort of travellers of
fashion and social position from all parts of the United States and Europe, but also the
favorite abiding place in the town of public men. The successive registers of this great
hotel bear upon their pages the autographs of nearly every eminent American and
European who has visited New York since 1859 They form a historical record of im-
posing interest. The stories of entertaining and important incidents in the history of
the house would fill a volume. Political committees have made the place their head-
quarters for years, and in spite of the modern rage for the construction of gigantic and
beautiful hotels in other parts of the city, the old Fifth Avenue, under its experienced
proprietors, retains its prestige unshaken.
Mr. Darling is a man of decided convictions and of broad views upon all questions
of public interest. He has attained a high position, and has become one of the sub-
stantial men and highly esteemed citizens of the metropolis, because of his inherent
force of character and business ability. His fortune has been bravely and honestly
earned by a life of untiring industry. Mr. Darling has served from time to time as
director in important institutions, among them being The Second National Bank, The
Fifth Avenue Safe Deposit Co., The Union Dime Savings Bank, etc. He is one of the
earlier members of the Union League club and of The New England Society. All
patriotic and honorable causes receive his sympathy and approval.
JAHES DARRAQH, merchant, born in Lurgan, Ireland, in 1827, died in Cairo,
Egypt, in December, 1889. He emigrated to America while a boy and found employ-
ment in New York city in the manufacture of coir mats and matting. Learning that
labor was low in price in India and that mats could be woven there at the smallest ex-
pense, he sailed for Aleppy on the west coast of Malabar, where, although beginning
with small means, he gradually developed a factory, employing a thousand natives in
this industry. He spoke the native language with fluency, made friends among the high
caste residents, was kind to the poor, and acquired such influence as to earn the title of
"King of the Coast." The house in this city took the name of Darragh & Smail, in
170 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
consequence of the admission of Henry Smail, a son-in-law, to partnership. Mr. Dar-
ragh was the first person to manufacture cotton spool thread in Travancore. His mill
at Quilon cost $350,000 to build and gave employment to 1,500 natives and a few ex-
pert Europeans. The Maharajah and his cabinet opened the mill with formal cere-
monies. Mr. Darragh's family consisted of his wife and two daughters, the latter
being Mary, wife of Henry Smail, and Ellen, wife of John McStay of Belfast, Ireland.
BOWIE DASH, merchant, born July i, 1834, on Varick street, opposite old St.
John's Park in this city, died on his farm at Kingsbridge, Sept. 28, 1895. He was the
ninth child of Daniel Bowie and Anzonetta Burke Dash, and grandson of John Balthus
and Ann Bowie Dash, all natives of this city. He first attended the private school of
Mr. Greenough and then the University of the City of New York, and received a busi-
ness training in the firm of Wolfe & Gillespie, hardware merchants. In 1860, he mar-
ried Louisa Scott, daughter of William Scott, a coffee merchant well known in business
and church circles, and, by her, had seven children. One son and two daughters
are now living. Mr. Dash happened to be in Montgomery, Ala. , when Jefferson Davis
was inaugurated President of the Southern Confederacy, going there against the advice
of John Sherman and others, who said that he would risk his life. Mr. Dash advised
his firm of Wolfe, Dash & Fisher, to accept cotton in payment of their claims against
Southern merchants, but this they decided not to do. Mr. Dash was a Democrat in
politics, becoming a strong Republican thereafter. Unable to enlist in the Union
army, he gave his time to raise money to equip a regiment of volunteers, and succeeded
Charles Strong as treasurer of the Ladies' Union Bazaar. Forty thousand dollars
passed through his hands for the benefit of the families of New York soldiers. About
1865, Mr. Dash succeeded the firm of Scott & Wisner, under the firm name of Scott &
Dash, and afterward became a large importer of fine teas and coffees, continuing in
active business until his death. In his enterprise he met with the varied success and
adversity experienced by all merchants. He was honest, capable and constantly
sought for as an arbiter by his fellow merchants. Several times, he served as foreman
of grand juries and was untiring in his efforts to secure justice for all men. One of
the vestryman of Trinity Church, he served that corporation with zeal and loyalty, and
was also a vestrymen of the Church of the Mediator at Kingsbridge, where he made
his home on a farm of sixty acres, cut in half by Broadway and adjoining Riverdale
avenue and Van Cortlandt Park. He belonged to The Sons of the Revolution and the
Down Town association; and was a man who pleased not himself but labored for the
welfare of his city and country and of his generation.
JOHN BALTHASAR DASH, merchant,^, born in New York city, Aug. 12, 1818,
died here, May n, 1888. The son of Daniel Bowie and Anzonetta B. Dash, and grand-
son of John B. Dash, a hardware merchant transacting business at No 145 Broadway,
he was educated at Mr. Pond's school in Westchester, N. Y., and left his studies at the
death of his father to go to London for a training in the hardware business. He
entered the house of Jacob & Co., and under the care of Joseph Farrell, with whom he
lived, remained in London a suitable time, and then returned to New York. Here he
took charge of his father's business and estate, consisting of property at 145 Broad-
way and 86-88 Liberty street, which has now been a family possession for more than a
hundred years, and at 70 Cortlandt street, and 219 Fulton street. He was at one
time with Wolfe & Bishop, hardware merchants, and later a partner in Wolfe Dash &
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. DA. 171
Fisher. A conservative man, a good financier, and a rare judge of real estate, honest,
and of the highest character, he prospered greatly in his business affairs, and was
greatly respected. Property which he purchased near Kingsbridge has since grown
valuable. He never married, and was for thirty years a member of the Union club.
He attended Trinity chapel on West 25th street. Upon his death his estate was left to
his brother and sisters, Bowie Dash, Mrs. Margaret B. Bininger, Mrs. Anzonetta B.
Wolfe, and Arabella B., wife of Walter H. Lewis.
JOHN DAVIDSON, lawyer, was born in Berwickshire, Scotland, March i, 1837.
He is the son of George Patterson Davidson, a merchant in Berwick-on-Tweed. John
came to America when ten years of age. He attended the College of the City of New
York, studied law with William R. Stafford, and was admitted to the bar in 1859. He
has conducted a large and profitable practice in New York city for thirty years, largely
in the field of real estate law. He has bought land and built houses in New York,
Brooklyn, and elsewhere, and has large interests in The Sherwood Park and other land
companies, The New York & West Shore, The Northern Pacific and other railroads.
He has been active in Republican politics in New Jersey. Important public positions
were offered to him by Presidents Lincoln and Grant, but declined. Interested in
philanthropic work, Mr. Davidson has served as superintendent of a Sabbath School
in Elizabeth, N. J., for nearly thirty years. In 1860, he married Adelia S. Wait, of
Perth Amboy, N. J. They have one son, William Newcomb Davidson, and two daugh-
ters, Jenny, wife of Prof. Hibben, of Princeton University, and Margaret Newcomb
Davidson. His home is in Elizabeth, N. J., but he has joined the Republican and
other clubs of New York city.
JAJ1ES MORGAN DAVIS, stock broker, was born on Staten Island, April 10, 1837.
Always from youth intelligent and progressive, he left the Episcopal Collegiate Insti-
tute, determined to make his way. After an apprenticeship as clerk in the office of a
Wall street firm, he joined the Stock Exchange in February, 1860. A partner of Will-
iam R. Travers for three years, he retired in 1863, but subsequently entered the firm
of Work, Davis & Barton. In 1873, he formed the well known firm of Davis & Free-
man. Mr. Davis has been active in the development of Staten Island, especially in The
Staten Island Rapid Transit Railroad. He belongs to the Metropolitan and New York
Yacht clubs. By his marriage with Mary D. Hazard in Brooklyn in 1874, he has three
children, Morgan, Edythe and Anna Davis.
HENRY DAY, lawyer, a native of South Hadley, Mass., born Dec. 25, 1820, died
in New York city, Jan. 9, 1893. He came from old New England stock, some of his
ancestors figuring as "minute men" during the American Revolution. The family
were not rich in this world's goods, and a brother, the Rev. Pliny Da}-, assisted in the
education of Henry by sending him to school at Deny. By his own labor, he then
earned enough money to enter Yale College, whence he graduated in 1845, supporting
himself while studying there by teaching at Fairfield, Conn. One of his pupils was his
future brother-in-law, George De Forest Lord. After graduation from the Law School
at Harvard, Mr. Day came to New York city, where in 1849 he married Miss Phebe L.,
daughter of Daniel Lord, the latter taking him into partnership in the firm of Lord,
Day & Lord. Through the possession of marked ability, Mr. Day became a noted law-
yer and a prominent figure in the social life of the city. An associate of Henry B. Hyde
in the organization of The Equitable Life Assurance Society, he was elected attorney
172 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
and director of the Society, and was also director of The Consolidated Gas Co. , The
Mercantile Trust Co., and The Lawyers' Title and Guarantee Co. Various important
estates were entrusted to him, including those of S. F. B. Morse and William Morgan.
For many years he managed the legal affairs of the Astor estate. Religious mat ers in-
terested him greatly, and he took an active part in the councils of the Presbyterian
church, accepting the place of director of the Union Theological Seminary and defend-
ing Dr. Briggs in his controversy with the church authorities. Formerly devoted to the
"old school" branch of the Presbyterian church, he earnestly advocated union between
the old and new schools, and when this was effected, in 1869, he drafted the articles.
Mr. Day wrote much for publication, among his works being "The Lawyer Abroad"
and "From the Pyrenees to the Pillars of Hercules." At his death, he was the sole
surviving member of the original law firm of Lord, Day & Lord. The Union League
and Reform clubs both enrolled him a member. He was survived by his wife and three
children, George Lord Day, Sarah Lord, wife of R. H. McCormick, of Chicago, and
Miss Susan De Forest Day.
FREDERICK DE BARY, merchant, born in Frankfort, Germany, Jan. 12, 1815, is
of Huguenot descent. His father, Christian De Bary, was a banker in Frankfort.
Frederick began life as salesman for a large manufacturer of dry goods. In 1852, he
established himself in this city as agent of G. H. Mumm & Co. 's champagne and other
high class wines. He has been very successful, and since 1869, when Adolph De Bary,
a son, was admitted to partnership, has displayed the firm name of F. De Bary & Co.
He is the proprietor of several orange groves in Florida and other real estate, is
closely devoted to business, and derives his prosperity from concentration and unceas-
ing enterprise. In 1843, ne was married to Julia Scherpenhausen. To them have
been born two children, Adolphe De Bary and Mrs. Eugenie von Mauch.
ALFRED DE CORDOVA, stock broker, born Aug. 19, 1848, on the island of
Jamaica, is a descendant of Gen. Gonzalvo de Cordova, who annexed Grenada to Spain
and stood in high favor at the court of Ferdinand and Isabella. His education, begun
in the West Indies, was finished in New York city, whither he removed early in
life. First a broker in petroleum, he purchased a seat in the Stock Exchange in, 1875,
and his firm of Alfred de Cordova & Son have since been successful in the brokerage
of stocks. In 1894, he was elected a governor of the Exchange. Possessing some-
thing of the enterprise of his military ancestor, Mr. de Cordova is fond of yachting,
fine horses, and carrier pigeons. A large trotting horse farm in New Jersey affords
him both pleasure and health. He has been elected to membership in the Lotus, Mer-
chants', Manhattan, Colonial, New York, Lajchmont Yacht, American Yacht, New
York Athletic, Suburban, Cuttyhunk, Riding and Driving clubs, and was the first com-
modore of the American Yacht club. He was married to Mrs. Helene Louise Schroe-
der-Loweree, Aug. 19, 1889, at the Church of the Heavenly Rest.
CORNELIUS VANDERBILT DE FOREST, born in New York city, Aug. 16, 1818,
of good old Dutch stock, died here Nov. 9, 1887. He was the son of John De Forest
and of Charlotte Vanderbilt, oldest sister of Commodore Cornelius Vanderbilt. After
receiving a common school education on Staten Island, where his parents settled during
his early childhood, he was apprenticed to his cousin, Cornelius Simonson, a ship-
builder. On reaching manhood, he returned to New York and engaged in various en-
terprises with more or less success, until he finally settled upon the manufacturing of
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. DE. 173
machinery oils, in which business he continued for many years, becoming widely known
through all the manufacturing districts of New England. In 1863, he acquired a for-
tune in Wall street through the good offices of the Commodore, who always looked upon
him as a favorite nephew and felt for him a strong attachment. Mr. De Forest remained
almost constantly at the bedside of his uncle during the latter's last illness, comforting and
cheering him to such a degree, that the Commodore desired his continual presence. Dur-
ing this illness Mr. De Forest's mother contracted a heavy cold, which soon developed
pneumonia and her death followed that of the Commodore within about twenty-four hours.
Having retired from the oil business, he accepted the position of purchasing agent of The
New York Central Railroad, and for thirteen years served the road with the strictest in-
tegrity, doing his best for the corporation and receiving on his retirement, which was due
to impaired health, most flattering testimonials from the officers of the road. In 1879,
he withdrew from active business, retaining an interest in the firm of Colbron, Chauncey
& Co. of Wall street. Always a lover of good horses, he enjoyed for many years his
daily brush on the road with Frank Work, Joseph Marker, Wm. Turnbull, Wm. H.
Vanderbilt and other owners of fine horses. In early life, he married Miss Katherine
Rice, daughter of a sea captain of Nantucket and of old Dutch stock through her
mother who was a Van Pelt. Mr. De Forest left an unblemished record and possessed
the sincere affection of hundreds to whom he was always ready to extend a helping
hand, being of a most genial and kindly nature. He left a son, now living in the West,
and a daughter, Isabel De Forest, the wife of Wm. T. Colbron of New York.
HENRY P. DE QRAAF, merchant and banker, born in Herkimer, N. Y., Nov. 24,
1825, is of old Holland Dutch descent. Remarkable even in youth for stature, at the
age of fourteen, when he first left home, he had already grown to be over six feet in
height. Ambitious to make his way in the world, he learned the cabinet maker's trade
in Little Falls, and in three years' time Young & Co pronounced him the best of their
sixty workmen. Mr. De Graaf practiced the trade for several years in Albany and
Canajoharie. In 1849, he went to California in a ship so crowded that there was not
space enough for the whole company to sleep at once. Arriving in San Francisco
after a voyage of six months and mine days, he proceeded to the mines. While pros-
pecting for gold, he was induced by the high price of provisions, pork then selling at
$2 a pound, to hunt for game and sell the meat to the miners. He received 70 cents a
pound for venison and a share of the profits of the miners whom he supported, and
gained a little capital in this occupation. A thirteen months' stay in California com-
pletely satisfied the young New Yorker, and in 1851, he resumed the cabinet maker's
trade in Canajoharie. Later, he again visited California, and opened the pioneer ship
chandler)' store of San Francisco. This venture was successful. In 1852, he came to
Xe\v York city, and found work in the furniture shop of the firm of Wentworth & Sons,
and thereafter for many years followed this honest calling. Honest, competent, untir-
ing, an excellent workman, and able to deny himself unnecessary luxuries, he gained
sufficient capital to venture in business alone, and in 1857, he started a furniture factory
of his own on Pearl street. This enterprise was profitable from the start, although
exposed to keen competition from a rival store adjoining. The firm of De Graaf &
Taylor, founded in 1860, moved to the Bo%very, and in a few years attained great
importance. In 1865, this firm shipped a large amount of furniture of their own mak-
ing to the Pacific coast. The consignee refusing to accept the goods, De Graaf & Taylor
174 AMERICAS SUCCESSFUL MEN.
promptly established their own branch store in San Francisco. They gained the point
they had in view, and then, in 1867, sold the store. In New York city, their trade
gradually attained large proportions and brought to its enterprising proprietors ample
rewards. When Mr. De Graaf was elected president of The Bowery Bank, he placed
his oldest son in charge of his interests in De Graaf & Taylor, and has ever since given
his attention to the bank. Upon the death of his son, Mr. De Graaf sold his interest in
the factory, which is continued by The De Graaf & Taylor Furniture Co. Mr. De Graaf
has been once around the world and has crossed the Isthmus of Panama three times,
and visited portions of Central and South America, as well as Europe. He spends his
winters in New York city, his summer home being at Oscawana near the Hudson
river. By his. marriage in 1843 with Amanda M. Lloyd, of Canajoharie, he had two
sons and a daughter.
HENRY DELAFIELD, merchant, born at his father's beautiful country seat on the
East River, now forming a part of Long Island City, N. Y., July 19, 1792, died in this
city, Feb. 15, 1875. His father, John Delafield, who had removed from London to New
York in 1783, was the eldest lineal representative of his family, who for centuries had
been prominent proprietors in the shires of Buckingham and Oxford. Henry prepared
for Yale College, but, impatient to enter upon business life, gave up a collegiate course.
After a few years of experience in subordinate capacities, he founded, with his twin
brother William, the firm of H. & W. Delafield, and conducted an extensive foreign
trade with England, India, China, South America, and later with the West Indies. At
one time the firm owned the largest merchantman, flying the American flag, sailing
from the port of New York. The great fire of 1835, with the consequent ruin of all
except two of the insurance companies, reduced their large fortune to such an extent,
that they practically had to begin business life anew. Again, . they met with well de-
served success. Both brothers were highly esteemed and were identified as directors or
officers with many corporations. Both served as privates in the war of 1812 in Captain
Swartwout's Iron Grays. When Faustin Soulouque was established as Emperor of
Haiti, Henry was appointed Consul for that country in New York, retaining the office
during the Emperor's reign and a part of that of his successor, President Jeff rard. Early
in the century he inherited a life interest in the Baker estate, a property of over forty
acres on the East River, near what is now 75th street, and almost opposite his birth-
place on the other shore. This was his summer home, until in consequence of the ever
advancing throng of buildings and the heavy assessments for avenues and streets, he
united with his brother, who followed him in the entail, and transferred the property to
its final owner, The New York Protestant Episcopal Public School. William died un-
married Nov. 20, 1853. A few years afterward Henry admitted Tallmadge Delafield,
a son of his brother John to the firm, which was thereafter known as Henry Delafield
& Co. In 1857, Henry retired from shipping and foreign business, retaining only cer-
tain banking and trust interests, which a few years later were transferred to Maturin
L. Delafield, a son of his brother Joseph. Both of Mr. Delafield's nephews were suc-
cessful in the business so acquired. Two older brothers, Major Joseph and Dr. Edward
Delafield, died respectively on Feb. 12 and 13, 1875. The almost simultaneous death
of the three brothers, all of them over four score years of age, and their joint funeral
from Trinity Church, excited more than a passing interest. Henry married late in life,
Mary Parish, daughter of Judge L. Monson of Delaware county, N. Y., and had an
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. DE. 175
only child, Mary Frances Henrietta Delafield, born June, 1869, who died unmarried
Oct. 27, 1886.
JOSEPH RAFAEL DE LA MAR, gold and silver miner, born in Amsterdam,
Holland, in 1848, has had a singularly romantic and striking career, of which some
account should be given in these pages. His grandfather, a banker in Paris, estab-
lished a branch bank in Amsterdam, which he placed in charge of Joseph's father.
The latter married a charming woman, a native of Holland, but of German descent,
and thus Joseph is of mingled French and German extraction. His father's love of
art and painting led him to name the boy after the great painter Rafael.
Left an orphan at the age of six by the death of his father, Joseph's self-reliance
and love of adventure asserted themselves even at this tender age ; and, at seven, he
ran away from home, secreting himself on a Dutch vessel outward bound in the East
India trade. When the young stowaway was discovered, the captain made him cabin
boy and assistant to the cook, without wages. The voyage was an exciting one to his
mind. He entered heartily into the work of the ship, gained the favor of the captain,
and on the homeward trip earned his first money, his wages being fixed at the munifi-
cent sum of one guilder, or 40 cents, a month. He followed the sea for many years,
encountering all the vicissitudes of a sailor's life and sailing to nearly every part of the
world. His education was gained mainly on shipboard, with the assistance of the
officers, whose kindness he recompensed by various services. Only one text-book was
available, the " Navigator's Epitome." From this he learned the art of navigation,
while acquiring the rudiments of a general education. At the age of twenty, he
gained a master's certificate, and at twenty-three, the captain of his ship having
died in a distant port, he brought the vessel safely home and obtained a captain's
command.
Although his advance thus far had been reasonable, Captain de la Mar appreciated
the fact that his profession held out no very nattering promises of advancement. His
alert mind was at this juncture attracted to submarine work, a vocation then profitable,
owing in part to the Civil War in America. With characteristic energy, he abandoned
the merchant service and became a diver. His success on the surface of the water was
repeated in the exploration of its depths. He soon became a submarine contractor on
his own account, with headquarters at Vineyard Haven, Mass. , but operating along the
entire coast to the West Indies. During this period, he raised not less than forty -one
sunken vessels and had many interesting encounters with the inhabitants of the deep.
His last successful operation was the raising of a cargo of 1,600 tons of Italian marble
from the ship Charlotte, of New York, submerged off the Bermudas, many years
before, which had baffled the attempts of three previous wrecking companies. The
steamer William Tibbetts, which had grounded on the rocks off Pesque Island, near
Martha's Vineyard, led to an adventure which nearly cost him his life. Going down in
his diving suit to examine the damage personally, he lost track of the flight of time and
failed to observe the ebbing of the tide, when, suddenly, he discovered that the ship
had ceased rolling and had settled down in her bed and made him a prisoner under its
bottom. There was no chance of escape for hours. He waited until both the wind
and tide should cause the ship to become waterlogged again and resume rolling. His
armor had been leaking and the water crept in up to his neck. It was the month of
February and the water chilled him to the bone. He finally lost consciousness but
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. DE. 177
returned to life to find himself on board his own ship, having been rescued by the
energy and untiring devotion of his mate, after thirty-six hours' imprisonment in the
depths of the sea. This experience, and others which preceded, led Captain de la Mar
to relinquish submarine work.
Having accumulated some means, Captain de la Mar studied the opportunities of
trade with Africa, a country which he had visited during his early voyages as a sailor.
Finally convinced that Africa held out the promise of both adventure and gain, he
assumed charge of a vessel with a cargo of suitable goods and sailed for the land
of Ham. Previous to that time, trading companies had confined their operations
mainly to the coast, where they met the natives from the interior. They sold to the
Africans bars of copper, iron flint lock guns, powder, calicoes, salt beef, flour and
tobacco, exchanging these things for ivory, gum copal, palm oil, bees' wax, dry and salted
hides, etc. The native goods were brought down to the coast on the shoulders of
negroes, sometimes coming several hundred miles and growing dearer in price according
to the distance carried. On the other hand, the articles supplied by the traders had to
be carried back in the same manner, growing higher in value the farther they were
transported. Captain de la Mar had the shrewdness to perceive the value of bringing
the t\vo markets together and doing the trading in the interior. The scheme involved
danger and hardship. Nevertheless, it was at once carried into execution. A small
vessel, capable of navigating the African rivers, was equipped with four small cannon
and a dozen blunderbusses, the crew being armed with rifles and ammunition, while
about twenty-five fighting negroes were taken aboard. Thus this little vessel was
fitted up very much like a man of war. Captain de la Mar pushed on to the interior,
exercising constant vigilance to prevent attacks from hostile tribes. The venture was
crowned with complete success. By gaining the highest selling prices for his goods
and buying from the natives at the lowest prices, Captain de la Mar soon distanced his
competitors in the trade. Danger and adventure thronged upon him during this
period, but he reaped a satisfactory reward before his imitators had crowded the field.
He kept a vessel busily engaged plying between New York city and the coast for three
years, and was the pioneer in the section in which he traded, his operations being
carried on principally on the Gambia and Great Jeba Rivers, southwest coast of Africa.
That which led him to abandon this trade was the climate. Several of the white men,
whom he had brought to the coast, died every year from African fever, and_he was
himself frequently attacked. Finally, when his men lowered over the side of the vessel
the body of his faithful mate, the last of the original white crew, he determined to
return to New York, and in 1878, sold his outfit to an English company.
At this time, the mining excitement at Leadville and throughout the Rocky Moun-
tains was attracting the attention of the country. Something in a miner's life appealed
irresistibly to Captain de la Mar's adventurous spirit. Repairing to the West, he recon-
noitered the country and had the sagacity to decide, without delay, not to be governed
by the impulses of the amateur miner and follow the blind rush to new "diggings,"
but on the other hand to acquire a sound knowledge of metallurgy and chemistry, in
order more judiciously to invest his means. • He therefore returned to Chicago, engaged
the sen-ices of a professor, and devoted himself assiduously to stud}'. At the end of
six months, he had become sufficiently educated in mining engineering, analysis and
assaying. He then bought the Terrible lead mine in Custer county, Col., for $3,500,.
I78
AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
worked it profitably until 1886, and sold the mine to The Omaha & Grant Smelting
& Refining Co., for a handsome profit. Two years of travel among the mining camps
resulted finally in locating on a mountain, six miles west of Silver City, Idaho, where he
bought a group of claims for a small sum. By filing a number of other claims, he came
into control of a property a mile long and three-fourths of a mile wide, covering the
whole mountain. Many large veins of gold and silver were discovered on this property
by means of tunnels driven through the mountain, and the owner sold half of his
interest in 1891, after he had taken about $1,500,000 from the mines, to The De Lamar
Mining Co., of England, for $2,000,000.
He was an active worker for the admission of Idaho as a State and in 1891 served
as State Senator in the first Legislature, where he occupied the chairmanships on
Finance, Railroads and Constitutional Amendments. On adjournment, he decided to
leave Idaho and retire from business, much against the wish of the representative men
of his State, who were anxious to have him enter the political field, assuring him of
hearty co-operation in securing the highest honors in the gift of the State. But politics
being distasteful to him, he removed his residence to New York city, where, May
1 8 1893, he married Nellie Virginia Sands, whose mother belonged to the old
Virginia Adams family and was a direct descendant of John Quincy Adams, and whose
late uncle, Dr. Henry Burton Sands, left behind him a record as the greatest surgeon
of his time.
In February, 1893, Captain de la Mar, concluding that mining life had not lost all
its fascination for him, once more embarked in mining, this time in southeastern
Nevada, where he made extensive purchases, and is now building large reduction
works, telegraph lines and waterworks, and is employing a large number of men. He
has also built reduction works in Colorado's great gold field, called Cripple Creek,
near Colorado Springs. Occasionally visiting his Western enterprises, he spends his
summers on his yacht. He is of a retiring nature, and a member of only one club in
this city, the New York Yacht club. Like the great Hiram S. Maxim, he believes in
aerial navigation, and is devoting considerable study to this subject, believing that
the conquest of this most difficult problem is among the possibilities of the future.
In the event of non-success in this special venture, he will leave behind him, neverthe-
less, a record of having added many millions to the gold and silver reserves of the
world, and of building three prosperous mining towns on sites where he scarcely found
more than a man and a dog on his arrival, viz.: Use, Colorado; De Lamar, Idaho;
and De Lamar, Nevada. The latter two were christened after him by his appreciative
employ6s.
Although so actively engaged in business pursuits, Captain de la Mar has not lost
sight of the refinements of life, and takes especial pleasure in the collection of fine
paintings, of which he has now a number of masterpieces, painted by the best
European and American artists.
CORNELIUS HENRY DE LAMATER, manufacturer, born Aug. 30, 1821, in
Rhinebeck, N. Y., died in this city, Feb. 7, 1889. On his father's side, his ancestors
were Huguenots. His mother was Scotch, her maiden name being Douglas. He was
an only child. Beginning life in a hardware store in New York city, kept by a Mr.
Swords, he was only there a few years, when he left to become a clerk in The Phoenix
Iron Foundry, of which James Cunningham was proprietor. When about twenty-one
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. DE. 179
years of age, he took the f oundry and two years later moved to the foot of West 1 3th
street, and about 1851 founded The De Lamater Iron Works. They had run the works
about four years when Mr. Hogg, his partner, wishing to embark in sugar refining, sold
out his interest to Mr. De Lamater, taking his notes in payment. Before these fell
due, Mr. Hogg urged payment of them in cash. Mr. De Lamater complied, in order
to accommodate him, and thereby became so embarrassed that he had to ask an exten-
sion of five years from his creditors, they taking his notes for that length of time with
interest. A little over two years later, the Civil War broke out, giving a great impetus
to the foundry business, and work became so remunerative that Mr. De Lamater
rapidly made money, and when the notes were two and one half years old he took them
up with interest. Owing to an intimate friendship with Captain John Ericsson, Mr.
De Lamater built the engines for the ship Ericsson, the largest hot air engines ever
manufactured. The ship proved to be both a commercial and a mechanical failure.
The investors lost heavily, one of them being ruined. Captain Ericsson and Mr. De
Lamater continued to experiment with hot air engines, however, for many years, at
heavy cost. About 1875, ^r- De Lamater designed the present style of Ericsson hot
air pumping engine, which is closed, with a vertical cylinder, and uses the same
air over and over again. This engine is now in extensive use all over the country.
Mr. De Lamater was a pioneer in many respects. The Iron Witch, the first iron
wheel steamboat on the Hudson, and the Matanzas, the first iron ocean-going steamer
built in America, were both constructed by him, and he led in the manufacture
of screw propellers for many years. He also built the engine for the first Monitor,
waiting for payment until the boat had been tested in action. Later, he built the
machinery for a large number of monitors, and the hull and machinery for the Dicta-
tor, at that time the largest of her class. Government work brought no profit, owing
to the rapid increase in cost of labor and material, but it did bring reputation and ren-
dered his work for private individuals lucrative. A natural sequence to engine build-
ing was the acquirement of a large interest in steamship property, and Mr. De Lamater
joined with H. B. Cromwell and C. H. Mallory in the lines running to Galveston and
New Orleans. One of the undertakings which illustrated his energy was the contract
he filled for the Spanish Government for furnishing thirty gunboats inside of eight
months. Since 1889, general business has been discontinued at The De Lamater Iron
Works, and operations are confined to hot air engines, by a son, William De Lamater,
and his brother in law, Leander A. Bevin, the present proprietors. Mr. De Lamater
married, when twenty-two years old, Ruth O. Caller. They had seven children, one
girl dying in infancy. Six are living at the present time, five daughters and one son.
He was Rapid Transit Commissioner, a member of the Union League club, and for
many years prominent as a member, and at one time president, of The General Society
of Mechanics and Tradesmen.
JOHN DE LAHATER, builder, born in New York city, July 30, 1792, died here
Dec. 21, 1877. His great grandfather came to this country from France, with other
Huguenots, about 1700. Learning the carpenter's trade, he followed this industry all his
life, and helped build many of the large warehouses and public edifices of his times.
He was one of the prominent men who, about 1835, moved from Greenwich, in the old
9th Ward, to the i6th Ward. For more than fifty years, after the common schools were
instituted in this city, until his death, he was connected with those useful institutions,
180 AMERICAS SUCCESSFUL MEN.
either as founder, commissioner, inspector, or trustee, and he devoted the last twenty
years of his life to the schools of the i6th Ward. He represented the 9th Ward as
Alderman in 1834 and 1835. He was a charter member and director of The Greenwich
Bank, The Greenwich Savings Bank and The Greenwich Insurance Company. By his
marriage with Eliza Ostrander, of Walden, N. Y., he became the father of Samuel,
Benjamin, Charles H., and John W. De Lamater and Mrs. Eliza H. Allason and Mrs.
Harriet Myers.
JOHN F. DELAPLAINE, lawyer, oldest son of John F. Delaplaine, was born in
New York city, April 24, 1815, and died at his home, No. 27 East 63d street, Feb. 14,
1885. His father, an honorable, enterprising and successful shipping merchant, like so
many others of the founders of families on the Island of Manhattan, purchased large
blocks of land in this city when the price was low, both in town and in the outlying
districts north of the center of the city, and gained a second fortune from the rise in
value of his property alone. He possessed not only the piers on the East River from
Burling Slip to Fly Market Slip, but lots and buildings on Broadway, the Bowery,
Monroe, Rivington and Pike streets, and some in Brooklyn, New Jersey and elsewhere.
The son graduated from Columbia College and studied law but never practiced. His
time was fully occupied with the management of his father's estate. While William
H. Seward was Secretary of State, Mr. Delaplaine was appointed Secretary of the
American Legation at Vienna, which position he held for nearly twenty years. At
Vienna, he was noted for his hospitality. Thoroughly versed in the continental lan-
guages, he gave many entertainments cosmopolitan in their character. While in
Vienna, he made a notable collection of pictures, statuary, clocks and other works of
art. He returned to New York in 1884. He died unmarried, and his fortune de-
scended in part to two daughters of his brother Isaac, but a large sum was given to
charitable institutions.
DAVID A. DE LlflA, commission merchant in the South American trade, born
in the Island of Curacao, Dutch West Indies, Feb. 19, 1837, died in New York city,
May 5, 1891. He was of Dutch descent, his ancestors coming from Amsterdam to
Curagao in the latter part of the seventeenth century. He received his education in
the island, and there also began his business career. He was married in 1860 to Sarah
Wolff, daughter of Ralph Wolff and Judith Pinto, who, with five children, survived
him. His sons are Elias, Edward and Charles, and his daughters Esther and Lylia.
In 1870, Mr. De Lima came to this country, and, with a capital of $10,000, established
a commission house, which, by dint of great perseverance, he gradually built up into
one of the most important in its line. He was a-sound, conservative and enterprising
merchant, limiting himself strictly to his own affairs, and avoiding always all tempta-
tions of outside enterprises. Since his death the business has been continued by his
oldest son and his son in law, under the firm name of D. A. De Lima & Co. During
the years 1870-74, and 1877-78, Mr. De Lima represented the Dominican Republic in
this city, as its Consul General. While acting in this capacity, he did everything in his
power to secure the annexation of Santo Domingo to the United States. He was a
director of the Board of Trade and Transportation, and The Panama Railroad, and a
member of the Chamber of Commerce and Coffee Exchange.
JOHN DELflAR, realty owner, was born in Ireland, Sept. 6, 1838. The family
moved to the United States in 1849, locating in Brooklyn. Mr. Delmar's first venture
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. DE. l8l
on his own account was, in 1860, the sale of milk, his office being at the corner of
Second avenue and pth street. After three years in this trade, he entered politics,
for which his countrymen have a passion (and these two cities present such great oppor-
tunities), and became chief clerk to the Superintendent of the Poor in Brooklyn.
Elected Justice of the Peace in 1867, and twice re-elected, he became County Clerk in
1876. This office gave him an acquaintance with the values of real estate in Brooklyn,
and led him in 1881 to open a real estate agency at the corner of Fifth avenue and Ninth
street in that city. A large amount of property has been transferred through his
office, and by investments of his own, mainly near Prospect Park, he has gained a
fortune. He is the leader of the Democrats of the Twenty-second Ward of Brooklyn,
and is a director of The City Savings Bank and The Fifth Avenue Bank, and president
of The Citizens' Electric Illuminating Co. , all of Brooklyn, and is connected with The
Knickerbocker Steamboat Co. and other enterprises. He served in the old volunteer
fire department, and was foreman of Hose Co. No. 14, for several years, and for twenty-
five years director, and for the last seven years treasurer, of the Widows and Orphans
fund of the old department.
CHARLES C. DELMONICO, restaurateur, born in 1840, died near Orange, N. J.,
Jan. 5, 1884. He belonged to a family long famous as restaurateurs and wine mer-
chants, who came to this country from Switzerland early in this century. The great
reputation which the Delmonicos acquired as caterers was largely due to the ability and
untiring efforts of Lorenzo Delmonico, who was distinguished for his politeness and
the excellent cooking and purity of the wines supplied to patrons. Francois and Siro
Delmonico, his brothers, were associated with him in business, Francois, in fact, being
the proprietor of the original restaurant on William street. One or two restaurants
were always maintained down town, as well as one up town. To this business Charles
succeeded, rising to its head after the death of Siro and Lorenzo in 1881. Under his
administration, the large banquet hall in the upper part of the up-town restaurant
became the scene of many important balls and functions in social life, and of a constant
succession of notable public banquets, and famous throughout the United States and
Europe. The Chamber of Commerce, The New England Society, and other great
organizations have held their annual banquets here for years, and nearly all the most
conspicuous men in the United States have been heard at public dinners there. Mr.
Delmonico's fortune descended to collateral relatives.
LORENZO DELHONICO, the most famous restaurateur and caterer of the United
States, born in the Canton of Ticino, Switzerland, March 13, 1813, died in Sharon
Springs, N. Y., Sept. 3, 1881. He came to America at the age of 19. His uncles had
established a small candy store at No. 23 William street, and Lorenzo was taken by his
unwilling relatives into their employment. This proved afterward of great advantage
to them. In 1833, the first Delmonico restaurant was opened, only to be burned in the
great fire of 1835. They started again at No. 78 Broad street, with a lodging house
attachment. This new restaurant was burned in 1845, and next year a new one was
opened on Broadway at Morris street. The finest cooking and finest wines in the city
soon made this place famous and the best in the city. About 1856, it was removed to
the corner of Chambers street. Later, the famous cafe at the corner of Fifth avenue
and i4th street was established, followed by the restaurants at No. 22 Broad street, the
one on Fifth avenue at 26th street, and one at No. 112 Broadway. In 1876. the branches
182 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
at the corner of Chambers street and i4th street were discontinued. The management
of the great business devolved entirely upon Lorenzo Delmonico, who was distinguished
by -his courtesy and business ability. He lost about half a million of money in 1861 by
a speculation in petroleum, but paid the debt in full in a few years. While married, he
had no children, and his business descended to his brother Siro and his nephew Charles.
WILLIAM DEMUTH, merchant and manufacturer, born in Germany in 1835, is
the son of Zacharias Demuth, who was engaged in the insurance business. After
his education, ambition at the age of seventeen led him to the new world, apd in
New York he entered the business of importing smokers' articles. After years of con-
scientious attention to the interests of his employer, he foresaw the greater possibilities
of manufacturing on his own account, and with enterprise opened a small store and
factory in Liberty street. These quarters, ample at the beginning, became, through
the energy instilled into the business, too contracted, and he found larger and more
prominent quarters on Broadway. Here, by honorable business methods and untiring
zeal, he has built up a business which is the largest of its kind. Mr. Demuth has
demonstrated to the world the superiority of American made smokers' articles, not
alone through exhibits at the Centennial and Chicago World's Fairs, but also by enter-
ing, as it were, the lion's den, and taking away the gold medal at Paris. His creation
, and enlargement of the industry in this country have naturally made him an ardent
Republican and protectionist.
CHAUNCEY MITCHELL DEPEW, LL.D., president of The New York Central &
Hudson River Railroad, descends through remote paternal ancestors from French Hugue-
nots, who were among those who came to America in the early days of the country
and founded the village of New Rochelle, in Westchester county. His mother, Martha
Mitchell, was of illustrious and patriotic New England descent, being a member of the
family to which belonged Roger Sherman, a Signer of the Declaration of Independence,
and he is a lineal descendant of the Rev. Josiah Sherman, Chaplain of the 7th Conn.
Continental line, and Gabriel Ogden of the New Jersey militia, both of whom served in
the American Revolution. The ancestors of Mr. Depew settled in Peekskill, N. Y., two
hundred years ago, and the farm they then occupied yet remains a family possession.
Mr. Depew was born in Peekskill, April 23, 1834. He received an education in his
native village and graduated from Yale College, with honors, in the famous class of
1856. Returning to Peekskill, he studied law with the Hon. William Nelson and was
admitted to the bar in 1858. Successful from the start, interested in the higher politics
and the national issues of the day, and a passionate lover of human liberty, he joined,
while yet a young man, the new Republican party, then rising from the ruins of the
old Whig organization, and became one of its most active champions. His talents
being promptly recognized, he was chosen a delegate to the State Convention in 1858.
In 1860, Mr. Depew took the stump for Abraham Lincoln. He made many speeches
and displayed a solidity of logical argument, a brilliancy of wit, and a power of holding
the steadfast attention of an audience, which placed him at once among the successful
orators of the period. Elected by personal popularity to the Legislature in 1861 and
1862, in spite of Democratic ascendancy in his county, he revealed extraordinary abilities
during his two terms in that body, and was seen to be a man with a great and brilliant
future. In 1863, he was elected Secretary of State by 30,000 majority, reversing the
majority of the year before for Horatio Seymour as Governor. Declining a renomina-
AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
tion, as well as the position of Minister to Japan, tendered him by Secretary Seward,
he resumed the practice of law.
In 1866, his abilities having attracted the attention of Commodore Vanderbilt and
of his son, William H. Vanderbilt, Mr. Depew was appointed attorney for The New York
& Harlem Railroad. In 1869, he was made attorney for The New York Central &
Hudson River Railroad and afterward a director. This was the period of the develop-
ment of the Vanderbilt system of railroads. Mr. Depew was a constant adviser of the
Vanderbilts, and by his good judgment and excellent advice maintained their constant
respect and friendship. In 1875, he was made General Counsel for the entire system
and a director in each one of the roads.
His growing popularity led to his being named, in 1872, by the Liberal (or Greeley)
party of New York, for Lieutenant Governor of the State, but he shared in the defeat
of his colleagues, and, the Liberal party having run its course, he again became an
ardent Republican.
In 1885, he was prominently named for United States Senator, and, although
reluctant, assented to the use of his name in the contest, which took place over filling
the vacancies caused by the resignation of Senators Conkling and Platt. In the joint
meeting of the Legislature at Albany in the early part of 1885, there was a stirring
contest. Mr. Depew's name gradually made its way to the front among those who had
been nominated, until on the nineteenth ballot it came within ten votes of an election,
and on the thirty-fourth ballot it was yet as near to the goal. On the fortieth ballot,
his strength yet undiminished, Mr. Depew withdrew.
In 1884, he was tendered an election as United States Senator by all factions
of the Republican party, and would have been elected without opposition had he not
become so committed to business obligations as to be compelled to decline.
In 1885, Mr. Depew, after three years of service as vice president of The New
York Central Railroad, was elevated to its presidency. While thus given a position of
great influence in the business world, his growing reputation made him eligible for
greater political honors than any for which he had yet been named. In 1888, he was
the candidate of the Republicans of New York State at the National Convention of the
party for President of the United States. He received the solid vote of the New York
delegation, but withdrew his name. President Harrison offered him the position of
Secretary of State, to succeed Mr. Blaine, but Mr. Depew again declined.
He is now president of two railroads of the Vanderbilt system and a director in
twenty-eight others, besides being a director in The Wagner Palace Car Co., The Union
Trust Co., The Western Union Telegraph Co., The JSquitable Life Assurance Society,
The Western Transit Co., The West Shore & International Bridge Co., The Morris
Run Coal Mining Co., The Clearfield Bituminous Coal Corporation, The Hudson River
Bridge Co., The Canada Southern Bridge Co., The Niagara River Bridge Co., The
Niagara Grand Island Bridge Co., The Tonawanda Island Bridge Co., The American
Safe Deposit Co., The New York Mutual Gas Light Co., and The Brooklyn Storage
and Warehouse Co.
Mr. Depew stands extremely high socially, and is a member of many of the first
class clubs of New York city, including the Union League, Metropolitan, Lotus,
University, Century, Lawyers', Tuxedo, Republican, Press, Players' and Quaint.
He is also a member of several yacht clubs and societies. He was president of
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. DE. 185
The Union League Club for seven years, a term longer by several years than that given
to any other occupant of this distinguished position ; declining a re-election, he was
made an honorary' life member. He was for ten years president of The Yale Alumni
Association, and at the close of his decade of service, was elected an honorary member
for life. He is president of the local Society of the Sons of the American Revolution.
While a successful lawyer and business man, Mr. Depew is, if possible, more widely
known as one of the most brilliant and entertaining of the orators of this generation.
For over thirty years he has been continually in demand for addresses at public dinners
and in celebrations of public moment of the most important and impressive character.
He has probably been invited more times than any other man in the United States, to
speak to public assemblages. His presence as a speaker ensures the success of any cele-
bration; and his wit, scholarship, strength of argument and clearness of exposition, never
fail to charm and delight his hearers. He is without an equal in America as an after
dinner orator.
FREDERIC JAMES DE PEYSTER, lawyer, born in this city, Feb. 5, 1839, is a
son of Capt. James Ferguson De Peyster, and his wife, Frances Goodhue Ashton. The
men of the family have been prominent as land holders, and in public affairs for 250
years. He graduated from the College of the City of New York, and fitted himself
for the legal profession at Columbia Law School. Mr. De Peyster is exempt from
the necessity of daily toil, and devotes his abilities to the study of history, public
lectures and addresses, and the management of various societies. He is president
of The Society of Colonial Wars, The St. Nicholas Society, and an officer of various
charitable institutions. For many years president of The Archaeological Society, he
took a leading part in the founding and building of an American school of classical
study in Athens. Oct. 10, 1871, he married Augusta McEvers Morris, daughter of
William H. Morris, of Morrisania.
JOHN WATTS DE PEYSTER, Brevet Major General, State of New York, was
born March 9, 1821, at No. 3 Broadway, New York city, the only child of Frederic De
Peyster and Mary Justina, youngest daughter of the Hon. JOHN WATTS, II, and Jane
De Lancey. The history of his ancestors on both sides, his blood relatives and connec-
tions, was the history of New York, down to the close of the Revolution ; on his father's
side, ' 'through six generations, from father to son, each a leader of men in his day, and
charged with civic trusts when public life meant honorable fame." The grandfather
on his mother's side, John Watts, vir equanimitatis, who was the last Royal Recorder
of, and founder and endower of The Leake & Watts Orphan House in, the city of New
York, was born in that city, Aug. 27, 1749 (O. S.), and died there, Sept. 3, 1836 (N. S.).
He was the second son of the Hon. John Watts, I., president of the King's Council, first
president of The New York City Hospital, etc., and in high favor and respect Avith the
Home Government, in consequence of which he was put under the ban, and his ample
fortune, among other properties his beautiful country seat about Twenty-first street on
the East river in New York city, confiscated by the Revolutionary authorities. A por-
tion of this property was purchased from the Committee of Sequestration by John
Watts, II. (not restored, as often falsely stated), perhaps owing to the fact that his
brother Robert married Mary, daughter of William Alexander, titular Earl of Stirling,
Continental Major General, whose grandmother was daughter of Johannes, first
De Peyster in this country.
i86 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
Frederic de Peyster, vir auctoritatis, was born in New York, Nov. n, 1796, and
died at Rose Hill, Dutchess county, N. Y., Aug. 17, 1882. He was sixth in descent
from Johannes, who was Schepen, 1655-65, Alderman under the English and Burgo-
master under the Dutch administrations, Deputy Mayor 1677, and appointed Mayor
the same year, but declined. His two sons, Abraham and Johannes, were Mayors of
New York, the former 1691-95, the latter 1698-99. Abraham was the most distin-
guished of the family, of superior ability and worth: Colonel, commanding Regiment
of New York city Troops, horse and foot, 685 men, in 1700, Alderman 1685, Mayor
1691-95, Assistant Judge of the Supreme Court 1698, Chief Justice 1700, President of
the King's Council and, as such, Acting Governor 1701, Treasurer of the Provinces of
New York and New Jersey 1706-1721, confidant of New York's best Royal Governor,
the Earl of Bellomont, and friend of William Penn. He was born July 8, 1657, and
died Aug. 2, 1728.
Frederic de Peyster's three grandsons served in the Union Army during the Slave-
holders' Rebellion, and two lost their lives in consequence. The eldest, John Watts de
Peyster, jr., was Major, ist New York Volunteer Artillery, and brevetted Colonel,
U. S. V., principally for distinguished conduct at Chancellorsville. The second,
Frederic de Peyster, jr., was brevetted from 2d Lieutenant to Major, U. S. V., and
to Colonel, N. Y. V., especially for gallantry, etc , at first Bull Run, 1861; and the
third, Brevet Lieutenant Colonel, U. S. V., and Colonel, N. Y. V., for general merit
and for having had the signal opportunity of hoisting "the first American flag" over
the Capitol of captured Richmond, April 9, 1865.
John Watts de Peyster is as much a self-educated man as a majority of those who
have won that reputation, and through study and observation and reflection, assisted by
marvellous memory, his forecasts and judgments in matters to which he has given his
attention have proved almost infallible. A catalogue of his literary, historical and
scientific works, by no means complete, in the Annual Reports of the American His-
torical Association, occupies more than a dozen pages. These works have won for their
author all the university degrees, honorary or corresponding memberships or fellow-
ships, in historical, literary and scientific societies, at home and abroad, and many val-
uable medals and decorations, the latest — the "Gold medal, for 1894, of the' Society
of Science, Letters and Art, of London," "for scientific and literary attainments." In
the military service of the State of New York he rose to the rank of Brigadier General,
and is the first officer so appointed by any Governor individually, his every promotion
having been made for special services, and, in 1866, he was commissioned Brevet Major
General, "for meritorious services rendered to the State^and the United States prior to
and during the Rebellion," by special act or concurrent resolution of the State Legis-
lature, and he is the first and only officer receiving such a distinction from the State of
New York or any State. By inheritance from his grandfather, John Watts, he was the
last Patroon or owner of the lower Claverack Manor and other lands in Columbia
county, N. Y., virtually confiscated by the Legislature pandering to Anti-Rent, and
through his father of extensive hereditary lease-lands in the county of Dutchess, N. Y.
NICHOLAS DE PEYSTER, who died in New York city, Feb. 17, 1889, was a direct
descendant of Johannes De Peyster, first of the name in New York, 250 years ago.
Nicholas was educated by private tutors. He inherited large means from the De
Peyster estate, but increased it by his own efforts. In 1849, ne went to California,
190 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
in Morrisania, and two farms at New Rochelle, these last containing 300 acres. He
died in 1743 in Morrisania. His oldest son, Frederick de Voe, jr., born in 1684, died
in 1753, leaving a large estate. Frederick de Voe, son of the latter, born about 1710,
settled upon a farm on the Philipse manor, below Yonkers. When the Revolution
occurred, he was too far along in years to bear arms, but his son John was a soldier in
the southern battalion in the town of Yonkers. The family suffered the loss of all
their possessions for their loyalty during the War. After the peace, John bought 136
acres of the old Philipse manor, and there dwelt the remainder of his days.. In 1779,
he married Rebecca De Voe, a daughter of his father's half brother Daniel. Eleven
children were born to them, of whom John was the father of the subject of this sketch.
John De Voe possessed the martial spirit of his father, and served a part of the first
year of the War of 1812 in the regiment of Lieut. Col. Jonathan Varian. In 1807, he
married Sophia, daughter of Thomas Farrington, of Mile Square, in Yonkers. Of his
family of ten children, Frederick William De Voe was the youngest.
Frederick was educated in private schools, and in 1843 became a clerk in the coun-
try store of his brother Isaac, in Spotswood, N. J. The training in these country stores
is always an excellent one, and Frederick was well equipped for more important labors,
when, in 1846, he returned to New York city to enter the store of Jackson & Robins,
drug and paint brokers on Wall street. This engagement proved congenial to him and
fixed his occupation for life. His brother John was a junior partner in the firm, who
were engaged in the trade of paints, varnish and oils, succeeding the old house of
William & Gerardus Post, at the corner of Water and Fletcher streets.
In 1848, Frederick improved his position by becoming clerk for Butler & Raynolds.
He was able, diligent and ambitious, and, by 1852, felt sufficiently confident of himself
to undertake business on his own account, and formed the firm of Raynolds & Devoe.
In 1855, the firm established their store on Fulton street, succeeding Schanck &
Downing in the paint and varnish business. The partners displayed all the qualities
which are necessary to business success and made their way steadily.
In 1864, the firm reorganized as F. W. Devoe & Co. They have made steady
progress until the present time and during their history of thirty-one years have, borne
a high reputation for enterprise and business honor.
For several years Mr. Devoe was also engaged in refining petroleum and the ship-
ment of it in cans and cases. His product, called " Devoe's Brilliant Oil," enjoyed a
very extended sale, and was shipped to Germany, the Mediterranean, the East Indies,
Australia, China, and the Pacific coast, besides having a large sale in the United States.
This branch of the business was afterward carried on under the name of The Devoe
Manufacturing Co. , and was sold, in 1873, to other owners. Although thus largely
interested in petroleum, Mr. Devoe was never in any way connected with any of the
land companies formed for the production of crude oil.
Mr. Devoe has a natural taste for mechanics, and much of his machinery and fac-
tory plant were built after his own plans, during the early part of his career. In 1890,
the business was incorporated under their former name, with Mr. Devoe as president.
In 1892, by a consolidation of two concerns, the business assumed the name of The
F. W. Devoe & C. T. Raynolds Co. Both firms were on Fulton street, occupying large
stores nearly opposite to each other. The present company is one of the leading con-
cerns in the country, and Mr. Devoe is its president and treasurer.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. DE. 19!
Mr. Devoe has little taste for political life, but has served his city and State
acceptably in several official positions. He was appointed by Mayor Cooper, in 1880,
a Commissioner of Education, and was reappointed by Mayors Edson, Hewitt and
Grant. He resigned from the Board in 1891. His labors in this position were devoted
to such changes and improvements in the course of study, as to render a public school
education of more practical utility. His persistent efforts did much towards preparing
the way for the industrial schools, which are now a valuable feature of the public
school system.
Governor Hill appointed him in 1890 as a trustee of The Middletown Homoeopathic
Hospital for the Insane, in place of Fletcher Harper, deceased. Mr. Devoe is also a
trustee of The New York Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital. In 1890, when
the "Greater New York" commission came into existence, he received the honor of
appointment as one of its members. To the duties of all these positions he pays close
attention. The work to which he is most actively devoted is The New York Juvenile
Asylum, of which he became a director in 1890, being elected vice-president in 1893.
He is now its president.
He was married in 1853 to Sarah M., daughter of Walter Briggs. This union
brought them five children. Two daughters died in infancy, and Henry Meyer De
Voe, the only son, when eight years old. The family now consist of Mr. and Mrs
Devoe and two daughters, young ladies. They have a charming home on Jerome avenue,
in Fordham, now a part of the Twenty-fourth Ward, opposite St. James's Episcopal
Church. Mr. Devoe is strongly opposed to social club life, is fond of home life, and
enjoys the respect of a wide circle of friends. He is a member of the Holland and
St. Nicholas Societies, as well as of The New York Microscopical Society. The family
possess cultivated musical taste, and are associated with several musical societies.
Finally, it may be said that Mr. Devoe is one of the wardens of The Church of Zion
and St. Timothy on West 57th street.
HENRY DEXTER, president of The American News Co., was born in West Cam-
bridge, Mass., March 14, 1813, and is a son of Jonathan Marsh Dexter, a fur merchant.
The latter was the oldest son of David Dexter, who, with his younger brother, the
well known Dr. Aaron Dexter of Boston, professor in Harvard College, 1783-1829,
was born in Maiden, Mass., the original seat of the Dexter family in this country,
where land, purchased in 1663, has been continuously held in the Dexter name to this
day. They were sons of Richard, son of Richard, son of John, son of Richard Dexter,
who seems to have fled from the massacre of the Protestants, which took place in Ire-
land in October, 1641, and who was probably descended from Richard De Exeter,
Governor of Ireland in 1269. The subject of this biography was educated in West
Cambridge, and in publishing houses in Boston and Cambridge. He removed to New
York city in 1836, and carried on the hardware business for several years with the
Whittemores, the inventors of the famous cotton card making machine. In 1842, be-
coming convinced of the capabilities of the wholesale trade in books, magazines, peri-
odicals and newspapers, which his brother George had already taken up, he joined the
latter and laid the foundations of the eminence, to which he has since attained. Mr.
Dexter originated the conception of The American News Co., which he was finally able,
with the aid of others in the same business, to realize in 1864. Under the enterprising
management of himself and associates, this company has extended its operations to
192 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN
every part of the United States and Canada, and transacts business in England, France
and Germany, as well as South America and the East Indies. Its sales amount to more
than twenty-five millions of dollars annually. Mr. Dexter, who has thoroughly grasped
the principles of the business, is a clear headed man, of great purity of character. He
has travelled extensively, both on this continent and in Europe, Egypt and Palestine.
The family own a little less than 2,000 acres in the Adirondacks, which they use for a
summer residence. Oct. n, 1853, Mr. Dexter married Lucretia Marquand Perry,
daughter of Orrando Perry of Easton, Conn. They have surviving a daughter and one
son, Orrando Perry Dexter.
WATSON BRADLEY DICKERMAN, stock broker, born Jan. 4, 1846, is a native
of Mount Carmel, Conn., and a son of Ezra Dickerman. Every drop which flows in
his veins is derived from the Puritans of New England. The pioneer of the family
settled in Massachusetts in 1635. Receiving an education in Williston Seminary, East-
hampton, Mass., the young man found his first employment in the banking house of
Jacob Bunn, in Springfield, 111. This engagement fixed his occupation for life. In
1868, he joined the Open Board of Brokers in this city, subsequently consolidated with
the Stock Exchange, and in 1870, with W. G. Dominick, established the brokerage firm
of Dominick & Dickerman. He has been successful both in his business and in win-
ning the confidence and entire goodwill of his fellow brokers. In 1890 and 1891, they
elected him president of the Stock Exchange. He is president of The Norfolk &
Southern Railroad, and director of The Long Island Loan & Trust Co. In 1869, he
was married to Martha E., daughter of Samuel and Mary Phelps Swift, of Brooklyn.
Their child, a son, died when two years old. The family make their home at Hilland-
dale farm, near Mamaroneck, N. Y. Mr. Dickerman has joined the Metropolitan, Union
League, Country, New York Yacht, and Brooklyn clubs.
PATRICK DICKIE, merchant, a native of Balquhine, Scotland, born June 26,
1793, died in this city, Nov. 16, 1877. A shrewd, wide awake yoting man, he began
life in London, and came to the new world in 1817, establishing here the drug store
in which he made his fortune. His trade was very extensive. Samuel Houston
received aid from him in the form of medical supplies for the Texan army, and in his
gratitude gave Mr. Dickie nearly 75,000 acres of land. This grant was repudiated,
however, after the battle of San Jacinto. Mr. Dickie filled excellent contracts with
the city government in New York. He was far seeing enough to invest his savings
in local real estate; and a public garden, which he bought in 1820, at the corner of
Broadway and Canal street, realized a million dollars in profits in the next
forty-two years. Married to Susan Orr Perry, his children were Emma D. , wife of
Jasper T. Van Vleck; Serena D., wife of Charles I. Turrell; Charles P. Dickie, now
deceased; Edward P. Dickie; Helen D., wife of Jay L. Adams; Horace P. Dickie, and
Susan Dickie, now deceased.
JOHN BUMPSTEAD DICKINSON, merchant, born in New York city, June 29,
1814, died in Chicago, March 16, 1875. He lived with his uncle, P. K. Dickinson, in
North Carolina, until about sixteen years of age, and then came to New York to connect
himself with commercial pursuits, in which, from the outset, he was successful to a
marked degree. For many years he was a member of the firm of Wakeman, Gookin &
Dickinson, in the California trade, and amassed a large fortune. A director of The
National Shoe and Leather Bank, The Union Mutual Insurance Co., The Broadway
THE C1TV OF NEW YORK. DI. iq-j
Insurance Co., and The Brooklyn Dry Dock Co., and at one time president of The
Tenth National Bank, he was also president of The Missouri, Kansas & Texas Railway
and largely interested in The Brooklyn Ferry Co. His election to these trusts
illustrated the integrity and ability of his character. Though reared an Episcopalian,
he united in early manhood with the Methodist Episcopal Church, whose interests and
welfare he loyally promoted. Mr. Dickinson was twice married, his first wife being
Almira Cocks, sister of John D. Cocks, president of The Atlantic Fire Insurance Co.
His second wife, who survived him, was Mrs. Mary C. Lowe, of Massachusetts, a lady
of rare culture, well known for her lifelong work along educational, literary and
philanthropic lines. Mr Dickinson contributed largely to the benevolent enterprises
of his church, and his private charities were numerous and unostentatious. As trustee
and director, he managed the affairs of others with the same fidelity and prudence
which marked the direction of his own business. Eight children survived him:
Platt K., John P., Howard C., and Frank F. Dickinson; and Almira, widow of
Benjamin F. Sherwood, of San Francisco; Adelaide, widow of Frank Harrison Carter;
and Jane Vance and Mary Dickinson.
SIDNEY DILLON, railroad president, born in Northampton, Montgomery county,
X. Y., May 7, 1812, died in New York city, June 9, 1892. His father was a farmer,
and his maternal grandfather a soldier in the American Revolution. From the
common school he went, while yet a youth, to a situation as errand boy on The
Mohawk & Hudson Railroad, and afterward held a similar position on The Rensselaer
& Saratoga Railroad. Next, overseer for the contractors, who were building The
Boston & Providence Railroad, later he was employed as foreman and manager of
work upon The Stonington Railroad, and foreman in some heavy rock work on The
Western Railway of Massachusetts. Acquiring confidence, he made a bid for a section
of the latter work, which he successfully completed in 1840. This was the beginning
of Mr. Dillon's career as a contractor. He next took a heavy contract on The Troy &
Schenectady Railway, employing for the first time a steam excavator; and after that
time, either alone, or in association with others, he successfully completed a number
of large contracts in the construction of railroads, including The Hartford & Spring-
field, The Cheshire, The Vermont & Massachusetts, The Central of New Jersey, The
Boston & New York Central, and The Philadelphia & Erie roads. He was remarkable
for energy, power of organization, and ability in the management of forces of men. In
1865, Mr. Dillon identified himself with construction work on The Union Pacific Rail-
road, and meantime filled several other important contracts. In 1869, Mr. Dillon laid
the last rail which established railroad connection between the Atlantic and Pacific
coasts. He was twice president, at intervals, of The Union Pacific Railroad, and held'
that position at his death, and was also intimately associated with various other rail-
road systems. He was a director of The Canada Southern Railroad, The Chicago,
Rock Island & Pacific, The Delaware, Lackawanna & Western, The New York, Lacka-
wanna & Western, The Manhattan Elevated and The Missouri Pacific Railways, The
Pacific Mail Steamship Co., The Wabash Railroad, The Western Union Telegraph
Co., The Mercantile Trust Co., The Safe Deposit Co. of New York, and other corpora-
tions. In 1841, Mr. Dillon married Hannah Smith, who died Dec. 6, 1884. Two
daughters, Julia D., wife of J. D wight Ripley, and Cora D., wife of Peter B. Wyckoff,
survived him. While brusque in manner, as men of force sometimes are, he was clear
194 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
and direct in conversation, kindly and generous in his disposition, and highly re-
spected.
WILLIAfl B. DINSMORE, president of The Adams Express Co., was born in
Boston in 1810, and died in New York city, April 20, 1888. Deprived of the advantages
of early education, William went to work on a farm at the age of eleven, remaining
there for three years, when he returned to Boston and obtained employment in a
saddlery establishment. A few years later, he made the acquaintance of Alvin Adams,
who sent him to New York to take charge of the Adams express business here.
After a hard struggle, Mr. Dinsmore placed the local branch upon a good footing. His
energy and power of application were remarkable. He afterward took John Hoey
into his employment, and from that time these two men toiled untiringly to build up
The Adams Express Co. In a few years, they had extended the route of the company
to all parts of the country. Mr. Dinsmore was a large owner in the stock of the cor-
poration. He was also a director of The American Exchange Bank, The Pennsylvania
Railroad and The New York, Lake Erie & Western Railroad, and a member of the
Union and New York clubs. A liking for the country led Mr. Dinsmore to establish
a stock farm for Alderney cattle, as soon as he gained the means, and he made it the
largest of its kind in the United States. His wife, Augusta M. Snow, of Boston, with
'two sons, survived him, the latter being William B. Dinsmore, jr., and Clarence Gray
Dinsmore. His name, throughout a long career, was a synonym for integrity, manli-
ness and energy.
CHARLES HEALY DITSON, publisher of music, was born Aug. n, 1845, and is
a son of the late Oliver Ditson, founder of the house of Oliver Ditson & Co. , in Boston.
He was educated in the schools of Boston, and began business life as an employe in his
father's store. He showed capacity and was admitted to the firm in 1867. The same
year the firm established a branch house in New York city, under the name of Charles
H. Ditson & Co. , incorporated under New York laws, and Charles has, since that time,
made New York city his home. He is treasurer of the now incorporated firm of The
Oliver Ditson Co., in Boston, which owns the branch house in Philadelphia, and is part
owner of Lyon & Healy, in Chicago. Mr. Ditson belongs to the Players' club and The
New England Society of this city, and The Algonquin club of Boston.
ALFRED P. DIX, note broker, a native of Massachusetts, was born Dec. 12, 1839.
He is a grandson of Gen. Artemas Ward of the Continental army in the American
Revolution, and the possessor of a valuable collection of papers and letters, belonging
to the period of that war, including letters from George Washington, General
Gates, General Ward, Lord Howe, John Winthrop arid others. Alfred left the
Lawrence Academy in Groton, Mass., to spend five years in a clerkship in a dry
goods store in Worcester, and five years more in the same occupation in Boston.
He came to New York city in 1864, and was a partner for five years in Harden
& Dix, commission merchants, and five years the representative of the Lawrence
aid Pemberton Mills of Lawrence, Mass. In 1875, he engaged in banking, dealing
in credits and the purchase and sale of notes. John J. Phyfe joined him the following
year. The firm of Dix & Phyfe originated the business of discounting the notes of
merchants, who were required to establish a credit with their bankers as well as with
their selling agents. This system has since come into general use. The caution and
discrimination of Dix & Phyfe cause paper approved by them to be in demand in
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. — DO. 195
banking circles. Mr. Dix was married in 1866 to Miss Carruth of Boston, and has one
daughter living, Mildred Carruth Dix.
WILLIAn EARLE DODGE, merchant, born near Hartford, Conn., Sept. 4, i8os>
died in New York city, Feb. 9, 1883. His father, David Low Dodge, a cotton manu-
facturer in Bozrahville, near Norwich, Conn., gave William employment for a time,
after a brief attendance at the public schools. About 1818, the family removed to New
York, when the son became the boy of all work in a wholesale dry goods store. In
1827 he started a small dry goods store on his own account. Conspicuous from youth
for an agreeable presence and high character, about 1830, he was married to a daughter
of Anson G. Phelps, who, with Elisha Peck, had established an important business in
the importation of metals. In 1833, Mr. Dodge was taken into the office of Phelps &
Peck. Shortly afterward, the house reorganized under the name of Phelps, Dodge &
Co. , a title which has been retained to the present time. The energetic policy of Mr.
Dodge, who, for years, directed the operations of the house, resulted in a trade, conti-
nental in its extent and highly profitable to the firm. As he gained the means, Mr.
Dodge invested his earnings in important enterprises and was an extensive operator in
lumber in Michigan, Wisconsin, Georgia, Texas, West Virginia and Canada, where he
owned several million acres of forest lands. He was also a director of The New York,
Lake Erie & Western Railroad, and prominently connected with The Delaware & Lack-
awanna Iron & Coal Co., The Delaware, Lackawanna & Western Railroad, and other
corporations. Mr. Dodge attained distinction no less through the elevation and purity
of his character than through phenomenal success in business pursuits. He was
unbending in his advocacy of the sacredness of the Sabbath day and left the directory
of The Erie Railroad when the company began to run .trains on Sunday. His contribu-
tions to religious, charitable and educational institutions were extensive. The devotion
of a portion of his income to philanthropic work began early in life and was with him
systematic. For several years, his contributions amounted to from §200,000 to $350,000
to worthy objects, and over §300,000 was given in his will to institutions. His wife,
Melissa P., and seven children survived him, the latter being William E., Anson G. P.,
David Stuart, Charles C , George E., Norman W., and Arthur M. Dodge. — His son,
WILLIAM EARLE DODGE, jr., merchant, born in New York city, Feb. 15, 1832,
received his education in this city. Associating himself with his father's business, he
was admitted to partnership in Phelps, Dodge & Co. , which afterward became one of
the leading houses in the city in the importation of metals. While inheriting a portion
of his father's estate, he has increased his patrimony in the management of the old
house, of which he has been since one of the senior members. He is a man of marked
ability and fine character. His firm control The Commercial Mining Co., at Prescott,
Arizona, and valuable mines at Big Bug and Senator, Arizona, including the Hack-
berry mines, the Senator gold mines, and The Copper Basin Mining Co. Mr. Dodge
is president of The Ansonia Brass & Copper Co., and The Ansonia Clock Co., and
director or trustee of The Copper Queen Consolidated Mining Co., The Commercial
Mining Co., The Detroit Copper Mining Co., The Atlantic Mutual Insurance Co., The
New York Life Insurance & Trust Co. , and The Lackawanna Steel Co. ; and president
of the trustees of The Young Men's Christian Association, and of The Evangelical
Alliance. The clubs to which a man belongs illustrate his tastes and social standing,
and on this point it is sufficient to say that Mr. Dodge belongs to the Metropolitan,
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. DO. 197
Union League, City, Century, Down Town, Riding, Reform, Presbyterian, Country, and
Commonwealth clubs, and The New England Society.
ALFRED DOLGE, manufacturer, one of the most remarkable men for whom
America is indebted to the mother land of Germany, was born in Chemnitz in that
country, Dec. 22, 1848. His father, August, was one of the leaders of the Revolution
of 1 848-49, and the honor of being twice tried by court martial was accorded to him.
Twice he was sentenced to death, but the penalty of his courageous efforts for liberty
was afterward changed to imprisonment for fifteen years.
Alfred attended the public schools of Leipzig during his boyhood, and then learned
the trade of piano making in his father's factory, an art requiring the highest mechani-
cal skill. Attracted to America by the greater liberty and more promising opportuni-
ties of the new world, he landed at Castle Garden on the gth of September in 1 866. A
strongly built, capable and practical youth, he accepted the first employment which
offered, and found work on a farm in Wisconsin for one season. Returning then to
the East, he spent two and a half years at his trade of piano making. With $500,
which he had earned by diligent labor at the bench and saved by careful economy, Mr.
Dolge began, in July, 1869, the importation of piano materials from Europe. The
felts employed by piano makers in this country were at that time purchased abroad,
but Mr. Dolge believed that they could be, and should be, made in America. To
believe is, with a nature as energetic as his, to act. In 1871, therefore, Mr. Dolge
began the manufacture of piano felts, in Brooklyn, and thus became the actual
pioneer of this valuable industry in the LTnited States. In 1874, he moved the
works to Dolgeville, in Herkimer county, N. Y. In this beautiful town, a large
factory has gradually come into existence through his persistent energy; and at these
works Mr. Dolge has also developed the most highly approved felt machinery known to
the whole industry. Departments for making the different parts of pianos have been
added to the factory', one after another, until Mr. Dolge is now the proprietor of the most
complete, the largest and most highly developed piano material manufactory in the
world. Employment is given to a large force of skillful operatives; and probably no
where in the United States can there be found a finer group of working people than
those to whom Mr. Dolge has been both an employer and benefactor. His enterprise
has finally put an end to the importation of piano materials from Europe, and rendered
America entirely independent of every other land for its supply of these articles. If
it be added that the performance of public services of great utility has brought Mr.
Dolge a fortune, it must be said on the other hand that he has bestowed far greater
benefits than he has received.
But to say that he is a successful manufacturer, by no means sums up the remarka-
ble career of Alfred Dolge. The village of Dolgeville, founded by him, has become the
model industrial town of American origin, both in its social and economic aspects. It
has all the advantages of modern ideas and city methods, without the disadvantage of
the paternalism usually associated with so called ideal towns. A free public school
and an academy of the highest order, fully equipped with scientific apparatus and with
all the modern appointments, have been built by Mr. Dolge and given to the town.
Houses containing from six to nine rooms have been built, many of them wholly or in
part by Mr. Dolge, and now belong to the workmen themselves. Mr. Dolge has also
converted the woodlands surrounding the town into parks, which will always remain a
198
permanent and beautiful feature of the place. In all which pertains to making Dolge-
ville a model town in its sanitary, educational and picturesque aspects, Mr. Dolge has
shown a practical good sense, amounting to real greatness. He is the leader of his
people, not their patron.
The most significant of the new ideas introduced at Dolgeville, and the one whose
influence will be the most permanent and far reaching, is Mr. Dolge's contribution to
the solution of the labor problem. One of the most depressing features of the present
industrial system, apparently the one most difficult of treatment, is the discharge of
workmen, when they reach the stage of " diminishing returns," or declining efficiency.
It is a complaint against modern capital, that it takes labor when it is young and
vigorous, exploits its vitality, and ruthlessly throws it aside, when it has passed the
prime of life or approaches old age. The workmen are then too old to learn a new
trade. Except in rare cases, they are liable to become recipients of charity or entirely
dependent for support upon the younger members of their families.
It is thus held, and not without force, that a hopeless old age is all the average
working man can hope for, unless he dies in the harness. This is made the basis of
much of the Socialistic attack upon modern capital.
For this complaint, Mr. Dolge has, by experiments continued through twenty
years, developed a successful remedy, based upon economic and scientific principles,
which enables every workman to retire at the age of sixty with a competence for the
remainder of his life. It is a system of industrial insurance, which is to labor what a
depreciation fund is to capital. It provides for the retirement of workmen when they
reach the age of declining efficiency, in the same way that a depreciation fund provides
for replacing old machinery with new. This system entirely eliminates the inhumanity
hitherto involved in the discharge of old and often faithful workmen. By providing
for them a permanent income for the remainder of their lives, the hopelessness of old
age is entirely overcome.
In an article in The Social Economist for June, 1892, presenting the leading features
of his system, Mr. Dolge says: " In order, therefore, to obtain the best results from
laborers, they must not only live under good conditions while working, but they must
be placed beyond the fear of want in their old age. To secure this, a labor deprecia-
tion or insurance fund should be made an established part of the cost of production,
just the same as depreciation for machinery is provided for now. From these, two
important advantages are obtained: (i.) Laborers can be retired without becoming
paupers, when they cease to be profitable factors in production, or when they reach
what economists call the stage of 'diminishing returns.'1' (2.) Their future being
assured, laborers would feel safe in keeping their wives at home, sending their children
to school, and otherwise living up to the full extent of their income. Thus, instead of
constantly trying to restrict their standard of living to provide for old age, they would
have every inducement for extending it, which would tend to increase their intelligence,
social character and individuality, and develop not only more efficient laborers, but a
higher manhood and superior citizenship among our people."
Mr. Dolge's plan is entirely free from the slightest taint of paternalism, being based
upon strictly economic and thoroughly practical business principles and verified by a
test of twenty years. It is susceptible of universal application. If this were made a
national policy, as it easily might be, it would tend to eliminate pauperism from this
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. DO.
199
country, might do it altogether, and would certainly do much to destroy the acri-
monious spirit which is creating a social antagonism against present methods of pro-
duction.
In this, Mr. Dolge has proved himself a social philosopher as well as a successful
manufacturer, qualities rarely found together. To grow rich, and at the same time
to become more democratic towards the masses, is a quality of greatness.
Mr. Dolge is now the head of the great firm of Alfred Dolge & Son ; a partner in
C. F. Zimmerman & Co., manufacturers of autoharps; and Daniel Green & Co., second
vice president of The Little Falls & Dolgeville Railroad, and in New York city, trustee
of The German Savings Bank, and member of the Republican and Liederkranz clubs.
By his marriage, Dec. 22, 1868, to Anna Auguste Horn, he has five children,
Rudolf, William, Ernst, Henry and Fritz Dolge. His home is now in New York city,
where he has become widely known and greatly respected. He is an interesting
speaker and has frequently been heard with profit before public assemblages in ex-
planation of economic questions.
JOHN DOLLARD, merchant, born in County Kilkenny, Ireland, March 15, 1840,
died in New York city, July 4, 1892. He was the son of Patrick Dollard, prominent as
a grain merchant and the owner of large real estate interests in the southern part of
this city. The father died about 1890, leaving a valuable estate. John attended the
public schools and finished his education in St. Peter's parochial school in the basement
of the church on Barclay street. A messenger and clerk in a Wall street bank about
six years, he then joined his father and succeeded him in the grain business, which he
managed with ability. His office was at 63 Pearl street. He was a vigorous, active
man, and at one time a member of Washington Engine Co., No. 20, in the old volunteer
days. He was married in 1868, to a daughter of John Galavan ; his wife and five
sons survived him, the latter being Patrick A. and Kerrin X. Dollard, both now grain
merchants; James J. Dollard, lawyer, John and Edward Dollard.
WILLIAM PROCTOR DOUGLAS, capitalist, born in October, 1842, in New York
city, is a son of George Douglas, gentleman farmer, who, born in 1792 and a descend-
ant of the great Scottish family of Douglas, spent most of his life on a large estate
at Douglaston, L. I. The family sold their lands in Scotland and bought property in
America. William received his education in Edinburgh, Scotland. The town house
of the family was at 26-28 Park Place, this property being yet one of the many pieces
of realty owned by Mr. Douglas in this city. When Park Place filled up with stores, the
family moved to i4th street, where they occupied a large mansion, situated in grounds
comprising nine city lots, which, superbly kept, were for years the talk of the town.
Every lover of art remembers this mansion as long the home of The Metropolitan
Museum of Art before its removal to Central Park. Mr. Douglas inherited from his
father the manor of about 270 acres at Douglaston, Little Neck Bay, Long Island, and
a large amount of property in this city. He has managed his estate capably and is a
director in The Greenwich and The North River Insurance Go's, and a stockholder in
several banks. Mr. Douglas is known all over the world for his patriotic efforts in the
defense of the America's Cup against British challengers. The Sappho which defeated
the Livonia in 1871 was his boat. For a later contest, James Gordon Bennett and he
built the Priscilla. In 1879, he married Adelaide L., daughter of Effingham Townsend,
the dry goods auctioneer. Their children are Edith Sybil and James Gordon Douglas.
200 AMERICA S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
Mr. Douglas belongs to the best clubs of the United States and Europe, including the
Metropolitan, Union, Racquet, Tuxedo, Coaching, Lambs', Country, Carteret Gun,
New York Yacht, Corinthian Yacht, Douglaston Yacht, Austrian Yacht, Westminster
Kennel, New York Athletic, Palmer Island, Rockaway Hunt, and Meadow Brook.
DAVID DOWS, one of the most distinguished merchants of his time, was born on
a farm in Saratoga county, N. Y., Nov. 16, 1814, and died in New York city, March 30,
1890. The Dows or Dowse family, which originated in the neighborhood of Colchester
and Billerica in Essex, England, was of the strict Puritan type, and one of its members,
Eleazar, served as a Colonel under Oliver Cromwell in the army of the Common-
wealth. About 1630, Ebenezer and Maximilian Dowse, brothers of Eleazar, sought
freedom of worship in the Colonies, and under the leadership of Governor Winthrop
aided in the founding of Boston. Later, Ebenezer settled in Charlestown, Mass., and
from him was descended Eleazar (father of David Dows), who was born in 1764. Be-
coming a soldier in the War of the Revolution, Eleazar served under General Sullivan
in Rhode Island and subsequently at West Point under the command of Benedict
Arnold. In 1788, he established himself on a farm near Schenectady, in what was then
a wilderness. His ability, energy, and decision of character soon brought him success
and made him the leading man in his part of the county. By his marriage with Linda,
daughter of Capt. John Wright, of Ballston (an officer of the Continental army), he be-
came the father of six sons and six daughters. David Dows was the youngest of the sons.
David worked on his father's farm and attended the district school until he became
fourteen years of age. Then, in accordance with the example of his older brothers, he
decided to leave home and make his way in the world. His first step in this direction
was to obtain a clerkship in a dry goods store in Albany, one of the duties of which was,
to open the shop every morning and make as attractive as possible a display of goods
in the show window. It is not without interest to note that the compensation for his
services, which were rendered with characteristic energy and intelligence, was $100,
$150, and $250 per annum respectively, in the first, second and third years of his ser-
vice, and that he boarded and clothed himself.
While David was thus employed, his brother John, a man of remarkable business
sagacity and strength of character, was building up a profitable business as a forwarder
of grain, first on the Mohawk river, later on the Erie Canal, with headquarters in New
York. Feeling that he could make use of his brother's services, John, in 1832, invited
David to take a clerkship in his firm of Dows & Gary, which was gradually withdrawing
from the transportation business in order to attend to the rapidly growing commission
business which had been undertaken. Various changes now_occurred in the composi-
tion and name of the firm, and in 1837, at the age of twenty-three, David was admitted to
partnership in the newly constituted house of Dows & Cary. In 1844, John Dows died
and David continued the business with Mr. Cary as an equal partner. In the following-
year, in the midst of the universal money stringency, Dows & Cary were compelled to
suspend payment on those acceptances, which, owing to the failure of certain country
dealers to forward the produce, had not been covered by shipments of property. Owing
to the confidence of their creditors, they were enabled almost immediately to resume
business, and in the following year, one of unusual activity and large profits, the firm
proved that this confidence was well placed, because it paid all its obligations, dollar
for dollar with interest, including those which had been legally compounded.
THE CJTT OF NEW YORK. — 2OI
;rred. Mr. Cary was forced by ill health to leave
'•-.- nant ,f the house fell to Mr Dows. This was
.sped it with a firm bant!. Foilowtng a broad and
»'»n pro J to him from the interior and suc-
j.nd imp :es of trade His intcgnty, sound judg-
n«*w firm of David Dows & Co.,
;ii of Mr. Dows's nephew,
i\(-u*e xn New York. Indeed, the
that Mr. Dows, in spite of an iron consti-
•ork, and on this account made certain
the firm, which resulted, in 1861, in the
•ry marriage), and the restoration of the
'ifd to the present time. The pres-
- survival m that fierce stru^^.c : -r
Tar. and in which so many
- mora! influence, derived from
the Federal Government should
. >vernmvnt soon stood in need
•\. The task to which Mr. Dows
..
/ in i .-
c firm jr
.ic need of • . ;
ic composition ,\
Alexander E. Orr (a nt-v/ •
d Dows & Co., \
o firm was soon yet farther >
existence, which marked
institutions went to t
-•sses, which made it natural :
'avid D<
•igthe large armies \vhu •:•
pply himself was the pi:
eculators, who sougi.
run up the pric<
:d with absolute secrecy as to tlv
ii during the progress of tht
millions of dollars, that
le national bank system, the
e bonds of the g
is of the utmost imp
mid receive the coi.
But when the Secret?.:
k. should be a
A- systen^
Critical t
-iit and a(
•.;s quantities of provisions with-
-.-viive profits out of the govern-
This was done with signal
»n.
y did, the disburse-
Chase -t steps towards the
ite puqxise .>»' which was to create a
e needs of the Treasury were press-
ountry that the system suggested by
pport of the leaders in the financial
York and urged that a prominent
rder to secure th
This el- . • :pport i. a success and was of
o the g>) ;it in ii . "ic>st admirable financial' system.
h which this system has bv« <j«»- estabiished, makes it hardly possi-
; of men to realiit bow much public spirit and pluck were
ketch, note has been :*k*n of the chief features of Mr. Dows's
; . mere-ham it remains to make some mention of his
,>f the country. When Mr.
cart'. ^1 K*j ;ust begun to mak
^! ° pr- .d t»i, years before he came
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. DO. 2O1
An important event now occurred. Mr. Gary was forced by ill health to leave
active business, and the management of the house fell to Mr. Dows. This was Mr.
Dows's opportunity and he grasped it with a firm hand. Following a broad and bold
policy, he made large advances on property shipped to him from the interior and suc-
ceeded in opening up new and important avenues of trade. His integrity, sound judg-
ment and high credit soon made Dows & Gary, and the new firm of David Dows & Co.,
formed on the death of Mr. Gary in 1854, by the admission of Mr. Dows's nephew,
John D. Mairs, the most prominent commission house in New York. Indeed, the
business of the firm grew to such proportions that Mr. Dows, in spite of an iron consti-
tution, felt the need of relief from detail work, and on this account made certain
changes both in the composition and name of the firm, which resulted, in 1861, in the
admission of Alexander E. Orr (a nephew by marriage), and the restoration of the
name of David Dows & Co., which has been continued to the present time. The pres-
tige of the firm was soon yet farther increased by its survival in that fierce struggle for
financial existence, which marked the opening of the Civil War, and in which so many
business institutions went to the wall; and it was this moral influence, derived from
past successes, which made it natural that the agents of the Federal Government should
turn to David Dows & Co., for the help of which that government soon stood in need
in provisioning the large armies which it had in the field. The task to which Mr. Dows
had now to apply himself was the purchase of enormous quantities of provisions with-
out permitting the speculators, who sought to make excessive profits out of the govern-
ment's necessities, to run up the price of these provisions. This was done with signal
success and with absolute secrecy as to the nature of the transaction.
It was during the progress of these operations, involving, as they did, the disburse-
ment of many millions of dollars, that Secretary Chase took the first steps towards the
creation of the national bank system, the immediate purpose of which was to create a
market for the bonds of the government. The needs of the Treasury were press-
ing, and it was of the utmost importance to the country that the system suggested by
Mr. Chase should receive the confidence and support of the leaders in the financial
world. But when the Secretary came to New York and urged that a prominent
national bank should be at once organized, in order to secure the confidence of the
country in the new system, he was met on all sides with hesitancy and prediction of
failure. In this critical time, for it was indeed such, David Dows and a few others
came to the front and at once organized The Fourth National Bank with a capital of
$5,000,000. They agreed that the books should remain open just four days, and that
they would personally take all the stock which might remain unsubscribed for at the
end of that time. This determined support made the undertaking a success and was of
inestimable aid to the government in initiating a most admirable financial system.
The firmness with which this system has become established, makes it hardly possi-
ble for the younger generation of men to realize how much public spirit and pluck were
required to put it on its feet.
In the foregoing sketch, note has been taken of the chief features of Mr. Dows's
distinctive vocation, that of a merchant. It remains to make some mention of his
connection with the railroads and financial institutions of the country. When Mr.
Dows began his career as a merchant, the Erie Canal had just begun to make an
Eastern market for the produce of the lake bound States; and two years before he came
202
AMERICA S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
to New York there were only twenty-three miles of railway in the country. For a
time, water transportation sufficed; but it soon became clear to Mr. Dows that the
fertility of the great West could be turned to practical account only by the develop-
ment of a great system of railways. He therefore began, some years before the Civil
War, to apply his restless energies and increasing capital to the construction and
development of railways in the West and Northwest, and in time took part in the con-
struction and direction of The Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific (of which he was long
vice president and in which he took especial pride and interest as an investor), The
Chicago & Northwestern, The Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul, The Chicago, St. Paul,
Minneapolis & Omaha, and The Union Pacific Railroads. He also in time became
a director of The Delaware & Hudson, and a promoter of The Chicago & Eastern
Illinois as well as of many smaller railway corporations. But it should be clearly
noted that Mr. Dows's work as a railway man was the logical outcome of his position
as a merchant, and was undertaken primarily as a means of making a great market in
the East for the produce of the West and of correspondingly increasing his business
as a merchant. And directly in line with this underlying plan was the establishment,
from time to time, of branch houses of David Dows & Co. in Chicago, Duluth, St.
Paul and Baltimore, the building of elevators in the West along important avenues of
traffic, and the erection of the Dows Stores on the Brooklyn water front. Similar con-
siderations, too, actuated Mr. Dows in bending his forces to the solution of the rapid
transit problem in New York city, for he felt that New York could not become the
commercial center of the United States and control the business of the West, unless
some provision were made for its more rapid growth, which was hindered by the
peculiar shape of Manhattan Island. From the first, he favored the construction of an
elevated road to be operated by steam, and after some discouragements with a cable
system, took an active part in organizing The New York Elevated Railroad Co. in 1872.
For ten years he took an energetic part in the control of this road and for several
years more remained a director of the new Manhattan Railway Co.
The latest period of Mr. Dows's business career is marked by his activity in the
world of finance, the natural result, first, of large wealth seeking investment, and,
secondly, of the demand of financial institutions for men of large and varied experience.
He thus helped to organize and direct The Corn Exchange, The Fourth National and
The Merchants' Banks, The Central Trust Co. of New York and The Union National
Bank of Chicago. He was identified with the management of many large insurance
companies, including The New York Life Insurance Co. and The North British &
Mercantile Insurance Co. (American branch), and for many years was president of the
New York Corn Exchange, from which developed the present Produce Exchange.
In politics, Mr. Dows was an unswerving Republican, who never forgot the great
work done by his party in the abolition of slavery and the preservation of the Union.
Though exceedingly liberal in matters of religion, he was a firm believer in the Protest-
ant Episcopal Church, and was for many years Senior Warden of St. George's. He
was interested in several charitable works, to which he gave liberally, but without
ostentation.
Hardly anybody came into relation with Mr. Dows, even casually, without being
sensibly impressed by his striking personality. The tall and commanding figure, the
massive head with its high and slightly retreating forehead, the quick, expressive eyes
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. DU. 205
of James Gore King, he became a partner in the banking house of Prime, Ward &
King, one of the oldest in Wall street. The style of the firm was afterward changed
to James G. King & Sons, and later to James G. King's Sons. Of the latter firm, Mr.
Duer was senior member until failing health compelled his retirement in 1875. He was
a member of the Stock Exchange from 1843 until his death. Mr. Duer never entered
public life, but was a strong Republican, and one of the earliest members of the Union
club, joining in 1838. Mrs. Duer died in 1863. He left six children, Edward A.,
James Gore King, William Alexander, and Denning Duer, jr. , and two daughters, and
was buried at Jamaica, L. I. , long the home of members of the Duer and King families,
where they have owned a large area of land since the days of the Revolution.
ANTHONY DUQRO, born in Alsace, France, in 1823, died in this city, Oct. 9,
1884. He came to America early in life, engaged in contract work, and owned the
stage line on Sixth avenue, which yielded him a large return. With a foresight, which
did great credit to his judgment, Mr. Dugro invested his savings mainly in real estate
in portions of the city, destined to become crowded with stores and residences, and,
as a result, left a large property to his children. In 1852, he was elected one of the
directors of the Alms House, which then had entire charge of the prisons and charities
of the city, being re-elected in 1857. In 1876, he served on the Democratic ticket as
elector. His children were Philip H., Jacob W. , and Francis A. Dugro, and Mrs.
Dorothea Buttles —His son, PHILIP HENRY DUGRO, jurist, born in New York city,
Oct. 2, 1855, graduated from Columbia College in 1876 and from Columbia Law
School in 1878. He studied law in the office of John McKeon and Recorder Frederick
Smyth, and after being admitted to the bar, practiced his profession ably and success-
fully. He dealt largely in real estate, of which he inherited much from his father.
In 1878, he was elected to the Assembly from the XlVth District, as. a Democrat, and
declined a renomination. In 1880, after a sharp contest he defeated William Waldorf
Astor for Congress from the old VHth District. He declined a renomination and
renewed his practice, but was, in 1886, elected Judge of the Superior Court. In 1888,
he sought the Tammany nomination for Mayor, but through Mr. Croker's influence,
the office went to Hugh J. Grant. He has lately taken no active part in politics. He
is the owner of the Hotel Savoy on the Plaza at the. entrance to Central Park, which
was built 1890-92, and has been remarkably successful. Judge Dugro has joined the
Manhattan and University Athletic clubs. Married in 1876, he has two children,
Charles and Antonia.
ROBERT GRAHAF1 DUN, sole proprietor of The Mercantile Agency, at 314 Broad-
way, has gained his high financial standing by his extended system for reporting on
mercantile credits and by investments in real estate.
Mr. Dun descends from an excellent family of Scotland. For twenty years, his
grandfather, the Rev. James Dun, was a minister of the Free Church of Scotland in
Glasgow. His father, Robert Dun, received a fine education and was destined for the
ministry, but emigrated to America about 1815, settled in Virginia and engaged in
practical pursuits, afterward moving to Ohio. He married Lucy W. Angus, who was
also of Scotch parentage. Robert Graham Dun was born in Chillicothe, Ohio, in 1826.
The young man was educated at the local district schools and academy, and at the age
of sixteen, at a salary of §2 a week, began life in the employment of a business house,
in which he soon rose to be a partner. In 1850, he removed to New York city, where
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. DU. 207
he entered The Mercantile Agency then conducted by Tappan & Douglass. His zeal
in the work of the house, his fidelity to duty and intelligence, resulted, in 1854, upon
the retirement of Mr. Tappan, in Mr. Douglass admitting him to partnership under the
firm name of B. Douglass & Co. In 1859, Mr. Dun bought the interest of Mr. Doug-
lass. Realizing that there must be one controlling head in an organization so com-
plex and extended as that cf The Mercantile Agency, Mr. Dun has continued sole
proprietor of the business until the present day.
The immense expansion of the internal commerce of the United States which has
taken place since 1859, has rendered increasingly necessary the existence of The Mer-
cantile Agency. Under Mr. Dun's ownership, the business of the house has kept pace
with the times and grown with the growth of the country. As new cities sprang up in
the West and South, their enterprising merchants have felt the absolute necessity of the
services of an agency, which should devote its attention carefully to reporting upon
credits and incidentally to collections. A large number of branch offices have been
established by Mr. Dun, in almost every instance at the request of the local merchants,
until now the house is represented in all the distributing centers of the United States
and the Canadas and in the leading cities of Great Britain and continental Europe. At
many points, the local income is necessarily limited and insufficient to pay the actual
expenses of the local offices. Nevertheless, a staff is maintained at each center of trade,
thus better to report the locality and make the records for the whole country more accu-
rate and complete. An existence of over half a century has enabled The Mercantile
Agency of R. G. Dun & Co. to acquire an experience and accumulate an amount of
capital, which enable it to fulfil to the satisfaction of the mercantile community the
important duties which it is called on to discharge. The whole business world is
acquainted, to a greater or less extent, with its general purposes and system. The
Agency possesses many distinctive features of great interest, however, and it yearly
secures the support of a growing number of those whose business is such as to require
them to extend either confidence or credit.
Mr. Dun has never entered politics, or cared for political preferment. Away from
business, he enjoys the pleasures of social life. The winter season is spent by him in
New York at a comfortable home in the best residence section of Madison avenue, and
in the summer time, he is often seen at his handsome country house at Xarragansett
Pier. He is a member of both the Union League and the Manhattan clubs, which
are respectively the leading Republican and Democratic social organizations in New
York. He is a patron of some of the public institutions of the city.
DAVID DUNCAN, merchant, born in Scotland in 1819, died at his summer home
at Sea Bright, X. J., June 15, 1891. John Duncan, his father, brought the family to
America in 1830, and opened a store on Broadway, in this city, for the importation of
fancy groceries. David continued in this business all his life, and on his father's death,
became senior member of the firm, known as John Duncan's Sons, his partner being
his brother, John P. Duncan. In 1851, the retail branch was moved to i4th street.
About the year 1887, the firm discontinued the retail department, retaining only the
wholesale business. This was conducted for many years in Beaver street and in Col-
lege Place, but afterward removed to No. 43 Park Place. Mr. Duncan died unmarried.
He was a man of quiet tastes and retiring disposition, and a life long member of Rev.
Dr. John Hall's church.
208 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
ROBERT DUNLAP, hatter, born in this city, Oct. 17, 1834, is the son of William
Dunlap, leather merchant from 1835 until his death in 1858. Robert attended the
public schools, and at the age of fourteen began life as an errand boy in a hat store.
An apprentice and then a salesman, he learned every branch of the trade, and in 1857,
established a hat store on his own account at No. 557 Broadway, and in 1859, when the
Fifth Avenue Hotel opened its doors, another store in that building. This was a bold
venture for the young man. He overtaxed his resources and fell into embarrassment,
but perseverance, industry and integrity won the day, and he has for twenty years past
made steady progress. His firm of R. Dunlap & Co., of which he is sole partner, are
now the leading hatters of New York city. He has branch stores in Chicago and Phila-
delphia, and authorized agents for the sale of his hats in all the principal cities. The
factory is in Brooklyn. Having once secured the confidence of the public, he has since
retained the lead in style and fashion of gentlemen's hats, and his business is now one
of the largest in the United States and very profitable. He is the largest owner in The
Lake Hopatcong Hotel & Land Improvement Co. Mr. Dunlap is a very capable man,
public spirited, a generous contributor to the museums and public institutions of the
city, and a valued member of several New York clubs, among them the New York,
Manhattan, Colonial, Lambs', New York Athletic, Larchmont Yacht and New York
Yacht clubs. By his marriage with a daughter of Dr. T. H. Burras of New York, Oct.
17, 1860, he is the father of four daughters and one son.
FREDERICK WILLIAfl DUNTON, railroad promoter, was born in Northville,
Sullivan county, N. H., June 9, 1851, and springs from a worthy and reputable family.
He began life, like thousands of other honest boys, as a farmer, clerk in a store and
clerk in a post office, finally at the age of sixteen going to Iowa, where he entered the
employment of Austin Corbin, remaining with him as clerk and partner for about
twenty years. His association with his intrepid partner has led him into railroad
enterprises, and he is a director of The Chicago & Ohio River, The Elmira, Cortland
& Northern, The New York & Rockaway Beach and The New York, Brooklyn &
Manhattan Beach, and other railroad companies. Mr. Dunton is a man of extremely
progressive ideas and untiring energy. His name is a household word on Long Island
where he now resides, and in the development of which he has played a prominent
part. He was among the first to perceive the merits of the bicycle principle as
adapted to railroads, and enjoys the distinction of being at the head of the first and
only bicycle electric railroad yet built, a section of which has recently been completed
near Patchogue. So fully has this road met the expectations of its builders and the
public, and so clearly has Mr. Dunton shown its special advantages for Long Island,
that the dream of a few has become the hope of the many, and subscriptions for its
extension indicate that it will soon be in active commercial operation between all impor-
tant points. In 1891, he served his fellow citizens of Queens county as chairman of the
Board of Supervisors. February 13, 1876, he married Emily M. Morgan in Brooklyn,
and they have four children, Lois, Emily, William and Katheryn.
CHARLES W. DURANT, railroad president, born in Hinsdale, Mass., April 23,
1821, died in New York city, April 5, 1885. He was the son of Thomas Durant, mer-
chant. At the age of fifteen, he entered the office of his uncle, Clark Durant, of the
firm of Durant & Lathrop, shippers of grain at Albany, N. Y., and when of age, took
the place of his uncle, who then retired, the firm becoming Durant, Lathrop & Co. ,
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. DU. 209
known for many years as the largest grain firm in the East. They were among the
first owners of towing boats on the Hudson River. In 1859, Mr. Durant became inter-
ested in The Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroad, and was its president for many
years. When his sons, Charles W. and Frederick C. Durant grew to manhood, he
engaged in the sugar refining business with them, under the name of Charles W.
Durant & Sons, in which he continued until failing health compelled his retirement.
His wife, Margaret L. , died in December, 1884. Their children were Thomas F.,
Charles W., Frederick C., and Howard M. Durant, and Estelle, wife of Henry C.
Bowers.
THOflAS C. DURANT, fl. D., railroad builder, born in Lee, Berkshire county,
Mass., about 1820, died at his home in North Creek, Warren county, N. Y., Oct. 5,
1885. His father, Thomas Durant, was a merchant and manufacturer, and his grand-
father, William Durant, an officer in the American Revolution and a member of th.e
Boston Committee of Safety. Selecting medicine as a profession, Thomas entered the
Albany Medical College, and graduated at the age of twenty. After practicing three
years, he became a partner in the shipping firm of Durant, Lathrop & Co., of Albany,
who maintained branches in Boston, Chicago and New York, and agencies in different
parts of the country. Besides owning and employing a large number of vessels for
the transportation of merchandise, Dr. Durant had special charge of the New York
branch, and shipped largely to all the European ports. The business was carried on
with unexampled success until the breaking out of the French Revolution in 1848.
A knowledge of the resources of the great West induced Dr. Durant then to turn
his attention to railroad matters. He assisted materially in promoting The Michigan
Southern Railroad, and under contract helped construct The Chicago & Rock Island
and The Mississippi & Missouri Railroad. In 1862, after preliminary surveys of the
Platte valley for The Union Pacific Railroad, Dr. Durant procured the subscription of
two millions of stock, and in 1863-64, obtained from Congress important amendments
to the charter. During 1 864, he perfected the financial organization under which the
road was carried to completion. Immediately after laying the last rail, Dr. Durant
retired from The Union Pacific, and began the construction of the Adirondacks Rail-
way, of which he was president and general manager, until, his death. He left a wife
and daughter at North Creek, and a son, W. W. Durant.
GEN. HIRAM DURYEA, manufacturer, born in Manhasset, Long Island, April
12, 1834, is a lineal descendant, in the seventh generation, of Joost Durie, a French
Huguenot, who, with other refugees, settled in Manheim in the Palatinate and came
to this country with his wife, Magdalina Le Febre, in 1660. He died in Bushwick,
L. I., in 1727. Hiram's father, Hendrick Vanderbilt Duryea, born at Syosset, L. I.,
Feb. 23, 1799, died April i, 1891, while his mother, born at Glen Cove., L. I., Sept.
12, 1801, died Jan. 9, 1881. The latter was a daughter of Zebulon Wright, a lineal
descendant of Peter Wright, who settled at Oyster Bay, L. I., in 1653, having
emigrated from Norfolk, England, to Massachusetts, in 1635. Hiram received a
common and private school education and gave much time to military studies. At
the age of twenty-one, he was taken into partnership with his father, under the
name of H. V. Duryea & Son, in the manufacture of starch. His brothers started
in the same business later, and the firm then merged their interests with the latter.
Located at Glen Cove, L. I., the company was known as The Glen Cove Starch Manu-
AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
facturing Co. General Duryea was vice president of that company for many years,
and its president, when, in 1890, it sold and closed its business. He has since devoted
his time to personal affairs, except that he served for eighteen months as president of
The National Starch Co. He was commissioned by Governor Clark, Feb. 5, 1855,
ist Lieutenant of Artillery, 48th Regiment, N. Y. S. M. In consequence of a change
of residence he resigned July 22, 1857. Immediately after the firing on Fort Sumter,
he tendered his services to the State and was commissioned Captain in the 5th N. Y.
Inf., July 4, 1 86 1, and was promoted in August, at the request of superior officers, to
the rank of Major, and Sept. 7, 1861, to the Lieutenant Colonelcy. The Colonel of
the regiment was G. K. Warren, a grand man and able soldier, who afterward distin-
guished himself as a corps commander. For a short time Colonel Duryea commanded
the regiment. The sth served as engineers and artillerymen in Baltimore, building
there Fort Federal Hill and finishing Fort Marshall. In the siege of Yorktown, it
built and served batteries. In the Peninsula Campaign, by reason of its efficiency and
high record, the 5th was assigned to the division of regulars and thereafter acted
continuously with them until the end of its service. Colonel Duryea had the honor of
special mention in official reports for distinguished services in the siege of Yorktown,
and at the battle of Gaines Mills, Va., the first of the seven days' fights. He was
commissioned Colonel, Oct. 29, 1862, and May 26, 1866, brevet Brigadier General. In
consequence of permanent injuries, and serious illness, he resigned in November, 1862,
General Butterfield complimenting him highly in special orders. General Duryea is a
member of the United Service club and the Loyal Legion. His children are, H. H.,
C. B., Anna E., and Milicent S. Duryea.
SAflUEL BOWNE DURYEA, realty owner and philanthropist, born in Brook-
lyn, March 27, 1845, died there June 7, 1892. He was the son of Harmanus Barkuloo
and Elizabeth Bowne Duryea, the latter the daughter of Samuel Bowne. After an
education in the Polytechnic Institute of Brooklyn and the University of the City of
New York, he entered the Yale Theological Seminary, but did not finish there, because
property interests demanded his immediate attention. By inheritance from the Bowne
family, Mr. Duryea came into the ownership of a large amount of real estate in Brook-
lyn, which he managed with sagacity and success. He was noted for philanthropic and
progressive spirit. All the leading public institutions of Brooklyn were actively pro-
moted by him, and his action for the preservation of forests, streams and fish, made
him a valuable citizen. He wrote many thoughtful essays on personal character and
education. Sept. 23, 1869, he married in Milwaukee, Wis.~~r Kate, daughter of Walter
P. Flanders, a lawyer of position. In his will he bequeathed much property to his
wife and relatives, but left a large tract of land, in trust, for schools, churches and
societies.
WRIGHT DURYEA, starch manufacturer, born on Long Island in 1824, died at
his home at Glen Cove, Sept. 17, 1889. He was the oldest of seven sons of Hendrick
V. Duryea. He began life as a civil and mechanical engineer. In 1855, his father, his
brother Hiram and he with others, established The Glen Cove Starch Manufacturing
Co. Mr. Duryea was an inventor in various fields, and his originality was shown in
the manufacture of starch and discoveries in the science of electricity. Mr. Duryea
was twice married. His second wife, and two sons, Louis T. and Frank Duryea, sur-
vived him. Mr. Duryea's will provided that his monument should be a large, rough,
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. DU. 211
natural boulder, not less than 4,000 pounds in weight, as in some sense indicating his
life, inscribed with his name, age, date and cause of death.
JOHN BOWDISH DUTCHER, railroad manager, was born Feb. 13, 1830, in Dover,
Dutchess county, N. Y. His father, David Dutcher, died June 9, 1853, and his
mother, Amy Bowdish Dutcher, died June 5, 1875. His paternal grandfather came
to this country from Holland, while his mother's family were Massachusetts people.
Mr. Dutcher obtained his education chiefly in the common schools, was reared as a
farmer and has always been a farmer. He remained on the farm until April, 1861,
when he removed to the adjoining town of Pawling, where he has since resided. In
1857, he was made Supervisor of Dover and the ensuing year Justice of the Peace.
In politics, originally a Whig, upon the organization of the Republican party, he
attached himself to them, and is yet a stout advocate of their principles, having been,
during the war, an active and zealous partisan of the Union cause. He was a member of
the Assembly in 1861 and 1862, and of the State Senate in 1864 and 1865. Since 1864,
he has been a director of The New York & Harlem Railroad, and in 1865 took charge
of the department of live stock transportation on The New York Central & Hudson
River Railroad. He is president of The Union Stock Yard & Market Co. of New York
and prominently identified with other corporations, being a director of The Spuyten.
Duyvil Railroad, The Poughkeepsie & Eastern Railroad, The New York & Putnam
Railroad, The American Safe Deposit Co., The Fifth Avenue Bank, The Mizzen Top
Hotel Co., at Quaker Hill, and president of The National Bank of Pawling. He is also
a member of the Chamber of Commerce, the Produce Exchange, the Union League
club, and the St. Nicholas Society of New York city, and president of the village of
Pawling and The New York State Agricultural Society. Not the least of Mr.
Dutcher's labors has been a successful effort for the improvement of the village of
Pawling. He has devoted a portion of his time to the management of his farm property,
and is now the owner of 1,600 acres of fine grazing land in Dutchess county, stocked
with thoroughbred cattle and horses. In 1860, he married Miss Christina, daughter of
the late Daniel Dodge, of Pawling. To them was born one son, J. Gerow Dutcher,
who now manages the stock farms and other interests at Pawling. In April, 1894, he
married Helen Titus Willets, daughter of Edward Willets, of Roslyn, L. I.
AMOS T. DWIQHT, merchant, born in New Haven, Conn., died in New York
city, Feb. 6, 1881, in his seventy-fourth year. When a young man, he went to New
Orleans and established himself in the clothing business under the firm name of
Dwight, Trowbridge & Co. In 1848, he came to New York and started the firm
of Trowbridge, Dwight & Co. on Chambers street. About 1865, he became a mer-
chant of cotton in Hopkins, Dwight & Trowbridge, and continued in that vocation
until 1878, when he retired with a large fortune, although retaining his interest in the
firm. He was a director of The Home Fire Insurance and The Commercial Mutual
Marine Insurance Co.'s, and a trustee of The Madison Square Presbyterian Church.
He left one son, Frederick A. Dwight, and a daughter, Jeannette Atwater, wife of
George T. Bliss.
E
WILLIAM PITT EARLE, hotel proprietor, in his day a famous New York hotel
keeper, was born in Worcester, Mass., about 1812, and died in this city, Jan. 2, 1894.
Mr. Earle entered upon business life early and made his way with much energy. When
he opened Earle's Hotel on Park Row, he began those operations, which, owing to
his foresight and sagacity, were marked with almost monotonous success. In recent
years, he conducted Earle's Hotel on Canal street at the corner of Centre street, and
invested his earnings mainly in real estate in different parts of the city, which advanced
greatly in value. He was one of the originators of The National Park Bank and The
Consumers' Ice Co. His wife and five children survived him, the latter being William
H., Gen. Ferdinand P., Eugene M., and Frank T. Earle and Emma Louise, wife of
John L. Chadwick. The sons are all hotel men. Gen. Ferdinand P. Earle, formerly
of Earle's Hotel and lately proprietor of the Hotel New Netherland, now conducts the
Normandie and a summer hotel of the same name on the New Jersey coast, is a man
remarkable for public spirit, and has lately bought the famous mansion of Madame
Jumel, in which he lives on Washington heights. He was a member of the military
staff of Governor Flower.
TIMOTHY C. EASTHAN, merchant, born about 1821, died at his home, Tarry-
town, N. Y. , Oct. n, 1893. He began life poor, working along the river front, where
he became familiar with the handling of cattle in transportation, and showed so much
energy that a position was given him on The New York Central & Hudson River Rail-
road. In the course of time, he was placed in charge of all the cattle business of the
company. Having saved some means, he went into business for himself, and gained
fortune by effecting a revolution in the methods for supplying England with American
beef. He not only shipped thousands of live cattle to England and whole cargoes of
fresh beef in refrigerating chambers by steamship, but promoted retail market stores
in all parts of the United Kingdom. In 1889, he founded The Eastman's Co., with a
capital of $750,000 to carry on this trade, and was its president, his son Joseph being
treasurer. Large abbatoirs were established at the foot of West S9th street. He was
a director in The West Side Bank and a member of the Produce Exchange. He was
survived by his wife, Mrs. Lucy P. Eastman, and his children, Joseph Eastman and
Mrs. Elizabeth Bell. Mr. Eastman belonged to the Manhattan, New York and Law-
yers' clubs, and The New England Society.
THOHAS ALVA EDISON, inventor, was born Feb. n, 1847, in Alva, O. His
only schooling was given him by his mother, who had been a teacher. When twelve
years old, the lad went to work as a newsboy on The Grand Trunk Railroad, and,
during leisure moments on the train, managed to study qualitative analysis and
diversify existence in the baggage car with chemical experiments. A grateful
station master, whose child he had saved from death at the risk of his own life, taught
him telegraphy, and he soon became a skillful operator. While yet a boy, he invented
the "automatic repeater." In 1864, the possibility of sending two messages at once
over the same wire, suggested itself to his mind; and he perfected an invention for
this purpose in 1872, developing it not only to duplex but even sextuplex transmission.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. — ED.
213
In 1871, he came to New York, and was made superintendent of The Gold & Stock
Telegraph Co., inventing for it the quotation ticker. He established a large workshop
in Newark, X. J. , for the making of his machines, but, in 1876, transferred his mechanical
interests to the hamlet of Menlo Park, N. J. , where he devoted himself to inventing.
Among his new devices have been the carbon telephone transmitter, the microtasi-
meter, aerophone, megaphone, phonograph, phonometer, and the incandescent electric
lamp. The last he brought out in December, 1879, within a year after leading English
scientific men had testified that sub-division of the electric light was an impossibility.
His perfection of the small incandescent electric lamp has effected "a revolution in the
lighting of business buildings and hotels. In 1878, he received the degree of Ph. D.
from Union College, and during the same year was made an officer of the Legion of
Honor by the French Government. He is a member of The Ohio Society, Press and
Essex Count}' Country clubs, and The Theosophical Society. Since 1885, he has lived
in Lle%vellyn Park, N. J. Mr. Edison was married in 1873 to Miss Mary Stilwell,
daughter of N. Stilwell. In 1881, he was left a widower, and in 1885, he again
married, his wife being Miss Minna M., daughter of Lewis Miller, of Akron, O. Mr.
Edison is a director in a large number of companies, founded upon his patents, and
owner of works for electrical manufacture and experiment. He is one of the few
inventors who have profited by their inventions. His telegraph patents yielded at one
time a large royalty, and his electric light appliances have brought him wealth. His
latest device is the kinetoscope.
FRANKLIN EDSON, merchant, was born in Chester, Vt., April 5, 1832, and
received a common school education. When nineteen years old, he went to Albany,
N. Y., where he was associated with his brother Cyrus in a distiller}' until 1866. In
that year he removed to New York, and established himself in the grain commission
business, by which and in real estate operations, he has since amassed a fortune. Three
times president of the Produce Exchange, namely, in 1873, 1874, and 1878, he has been
distinguished for public spirit and active leadership in the movement for free canals.
His political affiliations have been with the County Democracy, and in 1882, he was
elected Mayor of the city. He is i member of the Manhattan club and The New Eng-
land Society, and has been for many years a director of The Bank of New York. In
1856, he married Fannie C., daughter of Benjamin Wood, of Bath, N. Y., and has had
seven children, Cyrus Edson, M. D., Health Commissioner of New York; David O.,
Franklin. Henry Townsend, Robert Stewart, Edith, and Ethel Townsend Edson.
JOHN EICHLER, brewer, born at Rothenburg, Bavaria, Oct. 20, 1829, died in
Goellheim, Bavaria, Aug. 4, 1892. Having, in his native place, served an apprentice-
ship in the employment of Brewer Ott, he became a journeyman, toiled in various
great German breweries, and then, in 1854, came to this country. He obtained
employment as brew-master in Franz Ruppert's old Turtle Bay Brewer}7 on 47th street,
in this city. After a time, Mr. Eichler managed to start a little brewery of his own in
partnership with a friend. Later, he purchased Kolb's Brewer}', a small establishment
which stood where the huge concern of The John Eichler Brewing Co. now does. This
company, incorporated Feb. 17, 1888, with a capital of $600,000, owns property now
worth far more than that amount and does a very large business. Mr. Eichler married
Marie Siegel of Goellheim, in New York, Nov. 2, 1856, and his only child, Minnie
Augusta, died when not six years old. He was a member of various brewers' associa-
214 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
tions, the Produce Exchange, the Arion and Liederkranz clubs, and many other social
organizations. Honest, straightforward and sensible, he was highly regarded.
LEWIS EINSTEIN, banker and manufacturer, who originated in Wurtemburg,
Germany, was born, Sept. 6, 1812, and died April 22, 1874. Coming to the United
States in July, 1835, Mr. Einstein spent nearly forty years in the successful pursuit
of banking and the manufacture of woolen goods. He was for many years a resident
of Cincinnati. Few men display more enterprise and sound judgment than did he
and The Raritan Woolen Mills became an important property under his management.
To him and his wife, Judith Lewis of Charleston, S. C., were born six sons and five
daughters. — His son, DAVID LEWIS EINSTEIN, manufacturer, was born in Cincin-
nati, O., May 20, 1839, but has been a resident of New York city since childhood, and
has followed his father's vocation all his life. His fortune has been derived partly
from the manufacture and sale of woolen goods, but mainly from successful transactions
in real estate, of which he is a large buyer. He is a shrewd and capable man, and
part proprietor of extensive woolen mills in Raritan, N. J. He has various other
corporate interests, and is a member of the Republican club and supporter of The
American Museum of Natural History and The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Mr.
Einstein, in 1870, married Miss Caroline Fatman, daughter of A. Fatman, of this city.
Their children are Lewis D. Einstein, Mrs. Theodore Seligman and Amy Einstein.—
EDWIN EINSTEIN, another son of the late Lewis Einstein, born in Cincinnati, Nov.
18, 1842, was brought by his parents to New York, when four years old. Here he
graduated from the old Free Academy, and then received a full course at Union
College. He began life as clerk in his father's woolen mill, and, when thirty years
old was a mill owner. He is yet interested in The Raritan Woolen Mills and the Ivan-
hoe, Va., iron mills, concerns which employ about 3,000 persons. It is worthy of note
that there has never been a strike among the employes of either. Mr. Einstein has
also been largely connected with banking interests. Although not so actively engaged
in business as formerly, he is president of The Swan Incandescent Electric Light .Co. ,
and a director in The Alabama Mineral Land Co., and The Brush-Swan Electric Light
Co. In 1878, he was elected to the Forty-sixth Congress, and declined a renomination,
which was tendered to him. In 1892, the Republicans of New York city placed him
in nomination for the Mayoralty, and gave him 98,000 votes. In 1895, he became a
Commissioner of Docks. He is a member of the Union League club and The Union
College Alumni, vice president of the Sigma Phi club, and a ^genial, public spirited and
agreeable man. In 1877, Mr. Einstein was married to Miss Fanny Hendricks.
DANIEL RIKER ELDER, merchant, a native of New York city, born July 7,
1838, died April 25, 1875. The youngest son of George and Hannah Eliza Elder, he
was through the paternal line of English descent, and through his mother's family, the
Rikers, of Dutch ancestry. He was educated at Yale college, and began life as a
wholesale grocer in the firm of George Elder & Sons, previously known as Elder &
Painter. The trade of the firm brought him a fortune. Always genial and popular,
he gained by travel a wide acquaintance with affairs and his conversation revealed a
well informed mind. He made one tour around the world, and spent two winters in
Italy and Austria. The survivors of his family were his sisters, Mrs. Julia Baldwin
Adams, Mrs. Mary Louisa Havemeyer, and Jane Painter Elder.
GEORGE W. ELDER, merchant, who died at his residence in this city, March 25,
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. EL. 215
1873, in his forty-fifth year, was one of the able merchants of New York, and a capable,
conscientious and clear headed man. During his active life, he devoted himself to the
care of the large wholesale grocery business, founded by his father, George Elder, to
the control of which he had succeeded. Toward the latter part of his life, when ill
health had compelled him to relinquish the engrossing duties of his trade, he devoted
his time, when able, to the affairs of The Old Dominion Steamship Co., of which he
was vice president for a number of years. He was a man of quiet and domestic
tastes and never cared for public life. His widow and several children survived him.
JOSEPH LAWRENCE ELDER, sugar refiner, born in Hester street, in this city,
Jan. 24, 1832, died in Stamford, Conn., on the isth of August, 1868. ' He belonged to
the family of that name, long prominent in this city, which came originally from Man-
chester, in England. As a boy, employed in the store of Elder & Painter, whole-
sale grocers in Dey street, he grew up in this vocation, became a partner of his father
and his brother George in a large wholesale grocery and sugar trade, and distinguished
himself by a corner in sugar, which was managed with great skill and success. About
1862, he was admitted to partnership by his father in law, Frederick C. Havemeyer,
in the sugar refining business, under the name of Havemeyer & Elder, and it was in
part through his marked energy and ability that his concern rose to eminence in the
refining of raw sugars. Jan. 18, 1858, he married Miss Mary O. Havemeyer, and
was the father of Minnie, wife of McCoskry Butt, and Frederick H. Elder. He was
thoroughly interested in whatever would promote the welfare of New York city, and
served in the Amity Hose Co. and the State militia.
HENRY ELIAS, brewer, who died in Wilhelmshohe, Germany, Feb. 26, 1888,
made his fortune in this city in the brewing trade. The influx of German population
to the United States during the last thirty years has created a remarkable demand for
malt liquors, and the presence of several hundred thousand Germans in the city of
of New York has created an important local market. Mr. Elias gradually developed a
large business, which is now incorporated as The Henry Elias Brewing Co. He was a
member of the Produce Exchange and was survived by his wife and several children.
STEPHEN BENTON ELKINS, lawyer, financier, Secretary of War in the Cabinet
of President Harrison, and now United States Senator, a man of striking appearance,
exceptional ability and unlimited capacity for work, has gained for himself by his own
talents and application, an honorably attained fortune. He was born in Perry
county, Ohio, Sept. 26, 1841, his father being a farmer. During his early boyhood,
the family moved to Missouri. Mr. Elkins received an excellent education in the
public schools and at the University of the State, and displayed ambition even in
school, where he applied himself so diligently as to attract attention. He graduated in
1860, at the head of his class. After fitting himself for practice of the law, he was ad-
mitted to the bar in 1863 During the war, he joined the Union forces, and for a while
served on the Missouri border, with the rank of captain.
The spirit of adventure and a desire to practice his profession in a field which was
not over crowded, led him in 1864 to cross the plains to New Mexico, then a rough
border country, inhabited by a population two-thirds of whom were Spanish. The
life of the territory was full of hardship and danger at that time but presented
opportunities for success to an enterprising man. Finding it necessary, at once, to
master the Spanish language, Mr. Elkins became proficient in that tongue within
-
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. EL.
2I7
one year. Stalwart and capable, he soon attracted important clients and a large prac-
tice, and gained popularity and influence. In 1866, he was elected to the Legislature.
His speeches in that body revealed great force of character and devotion to the welfare
of the territory. In 1867. he rose to the position of Attorney General of New Mexico.
In 1868, President Johnson appointed Mr. Elkins to be United States District
Attorney of the territory, and he was one of the few officials of that administration
whom President Grant did not remove. In this position, it fell to the lot of Mr. Elkins
to enforce the act of Congress, prohibiting slavery or involuntary servitude in the ter-
ritories of the United States, and he had the satisfaction of restoring, to liberty several
thousand peons, who were then held in practical slavery by the Mexican residents. He
was the first public official to enforce this law, and performed his task in the face of
serious opposition, against the prejudices of the rich and influential and under threats
of personal violence.
In 1869, Mr. Elkins was elected president of The First National Bank of Santa
Fe and held this position for thirteen years His income from law practice and other,
sources was large and, being careful in his expenditures, at an early day he was enabled
to invest large sums of money in lands and mines, soon taking rank as one of the
largest land proprietors in the country and an extensive owner in the silver mines of
Colorado.
In 1873, Mr. Elkins received an election as Delegate from New Mexico to Con-
gress, defeating his opponent, a Mexican, by 4,000 majority. In Congress he served
his constituents so well, that, in 1875, while travelling in Europe, notwithstanding a
positive refusal to accept the office again, his district re-elected him handsomely to
the XLIVth Congress. He could do no less than accept the honor thus bestowed
and serve a second term. In Congress, he quickly gained prominence by industry,
ability and effective support of important measures. During his second term, he
was especially untiring in efforts to secure the admission of New Mexico as a State.
An elaborate speech, setting forth the resources and claims of the then little known
territory, gained for him a national reputation.
While in Congress, Mr. Elkins married a daughter of ex-Senator Henry G.
Davis of West Virginia, a woman of great refinement and social ability.
Four years of experience in Washington brought Mr. Elkins well into the arena of
public affairs. From the beginning, an active, earnest and aggressive Republican, he
favored especially the policy of protection to American industry. His advocacy of con-
structive measures made him, during his first term in Congress, one of the leaders of
his party, and in 1875, a member of the Republican National Committee. Upon this
committee, he served during three Presidential campaigns. In 1884, the executive
committee elected him chairman. A warm and intimate friendship soon sprang up be-
tween James G. Elaine and Mr. Elkins, and the latter was influential in bringing about
the nomination of Mr. Elaine for the Presidency in 1884. He was equally instrumental
in the nomination of Benjamin Harrison in 1888 and 1892.
Dec. 17, 1891, he became Secretary of War under President Harrison. He was
especially well fitted to perform the duties of this office, having had a large acquaint-
ance with the affairs of the War Department in the West. His appointment brought
into the service of the army, a man of intellectual strength, an excellent organizer
and a courteous gentleman. He was invariably. cordial and obliging to persons engaged
2i8 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
in public business, and exceedingly helpful to Senators and Members. Patient in inves-
tigation, prompt in decision, and sincerely desirous of promoting the welfare of the
army, he proved a successful and useful Secretary of War.
Mr. Elkins's reputation does not rest entirely upon his public services. His pro-
gress in the field of business and finance has been marked. About' 1878, he removed
from New Mexico to West Virginia, and there devoted himself, in company with ex-
Senator Davis, to the development of the railroads of the State, and the coal and timber
lands of the Cumberland region. While practical affairs soon compelled him to aban-
don legal practice in the courts, yet he has always retained his interest in the law and
superintends all legal matters connected with his various enterprises. Success has fol-
lowed effort in these enterprises, but it should be mentioned, that while adding to some
extent to his private fortune, Mr. Elkins has conferred upon the people of his adopted
State far greater benefits than he has received. He has been vice president of The
West Virginia Central & Pittsburgh Railway Co. since its organization, and of The
Piedmont & Cumberland Railroad, and is president of The Davis Coal & Coke Co.
Through his agency large amounts of capital have been brought into the State and
employment provided for thousands of men.
In December, 1892, Mr. Elkins received the complimentary vote of the Republi-
cans of the Legislature of West Virginia for United States Senator. A forcible or-
ator, he has made many public addresses, all of which have shown originality, public
spirit, and thorough acquaintance with economic and political questions. During
the campaign of 1894, he led the Republicans of West Virginia in the struggle, which
for the first time since the period of reconstruction broke the Solid South. Congress-
man Wilson, in whose district Mr. Elkins resides, was defeated by a decisive majority ;
four Republicans were elected to Congress ; the Legislature was made Republican by
twenty-nine majority on joint ballot ; and the State carried by 13,000 majority. Asa
result of this revolution, the Legislature elected Mr. Elkins United States Senator in 1895.
His home is the beautiful country seat of " Halliehurst," at Elkins, in Randolph
county, W. Va. This large mansion stands upon a mountain site of unusual beauty,
commanding a magnificent view of the valley beneath and the forests and mountain
peaks which frame the scene The house, four stories high, with towers, seems from a
distance greatly like an old time castle. A porch surrounds the structure on three
sides, and the main hall, fifty-eight feet long by twenty-five feet wide, indicates the
size of the other apartments.
During his casual residence in New York, where his Imsiness affairs required
him to pass much of his time, he associated himself with many local interests,
thoroughly in accord with his energetic nature, and became a member of the
Union League, Republican, Ohio, United Service, Metropolitan and Manhattan Ath-
letic clubs, and the Southern Society. Like other public spirited citizens, he also con-
tributed to the support of those favorite projects of refined New Yorkers, The Metro-
politan Museum of Art, and The American Museum of Natural History, as well as
The American Geographical Society.
A man of strong and sturdy build, more than six feet in height, with fine features,
and a large head set firmly on powerful shoulders, he is yet in the prime of life and an
active force in affairs. His favorite room at home is his library, and he spends most of
his time there, in the company of a large and well selected collection of books.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. EL. 219
JOHN ELLIS, M. D., oil refiner, a native of Ashfield., Mass., born Nov. 26, 1815,
is a son of Dimick Ellis, a farmer, and a great grandson of the founder of the family in
America, who came from Dublin, Ireland, at the age of twelve. It is supposed that
the family originated in Wales After a course of study in the academies of Ashfield
and Shelburne Falls, he graduated as a physician from the Berkshire Medical College
in Pittsfield, Mass., in 1842. Dr. Ellis practiced the healing art in Chesterfield, Mass.,
a year; in Grand Rapids, Mich., two years; in Detroit, Mich., fifteen years; and in New
York city about thirteen years. After more than thirty years of practice of an honor-
able profession and at an age when most men begin to think of retiring from responsi-
bilities of an exacting nature, Dr. Ellis, who had learned through his scientific studies
many things not connected with the influence of drugs upon the human system,
resolved to embark in practical business pursuits. In 1874, therefore, with moderate
capital, in union with his son, Wilbur D. Ellis, and his wife's nephew, Theodore M.
Leonard, he established an oil refinery in South Brooklyn, under the name of John
Ellis & Co., and began refining petroleum by a process of his own invention. The
venture was successful. In 1881, the firm bought a plot of land at Edgewater, N. J.,
directly opposite Grant's tomb, and removed the works to that place and developed
them into a large plant. Their production is largely in the nature of lubricating oils.
In spite of the risks to which this business is exposed, and an occasional fire, Mr. Ellis
has made steady progress, and has gained a fortune, owing largely to the activity of
his partners in finding a market for the product of the works. Mr. Ellis has an interest
in various corporations but holds no office in them. In 1843, ne was united in marriage
in Chesterfield, Mass., to Mary E. Coit, who died in Detroit in 1850. In 1851, he
married Sarah M. Leonard, of Troy, Mich. His one child living is Wilbur Dixon
Ellis. Mr. Ellis published, in 1859, a work on "Avoidable Causes of Disease," and
has written many tracts on temperance and other reforms, in which he is deeply
interested and concerning which he discourses with ripened judgment and enter-
taining force.
JOHN WASHINGTON ELLIS, banker, born in Williamsburg, Ohio, Aug. 15,
1817, is a son of Benjamin Ellis, and a descendant of the pioneer Ellis, who came from
Sandwich, England, in the seventeenth century. Benjamin Ellis emigrated from
Sandwich, Mass., to Maine, and went, in 1809, to Ohio, traveling from New York to
Pittsburgh on horseback, and rowing a skiff thence to Cincinnati, there being then no
steamboats. John was educated in Cincinnati and Kenyon College Grammar School.
While a young man he came to New York, but in 1840 returned to Cincinnati and
entered the wholesale dry goods business, in which he continued until 1865, making
himself, during that time, most favorably known to the importers and commission-
merchants of the East. When the National Bank Act was passed in February, 1863,
Mr. Ellis organized the first National Bank of Cincinnati, with a capital of §1,000,000,
within a week's time. In the estimation of Chief Justice Chase, Mr. Ellis was one of
those who ' ' did most to give the national bank system a real start and a firm founda-
tion." In 1869, Mr. Ellis was invited to New York to take the management of the bank
of Winslow, Lanier & Co., who had been doing a large Western business. This invi-
tation he accepted, and this position he retained until 1883, when he retired from busi-
ness. The most important operation of his life was the resusicitation of The Northern
Pacific Railroad Co., in 1879-80, after the failure under Jay Cooke's management in
220 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
1873. Mr. Ellis formed a syndicate, which took $40,000,000 of Northern Pacific bonds
and finished the road to the Pacific. He retired from the directory in 1886. By his
marriage, in 1845, with Caroline, daughter of Abraham Lindley, he is the father of
Sallie, wife of Professor Postlethwaite, of West Point; Mary, wife of George Hoffman,
now deceased, of New York; Helen, wife of Hugh L. Cole, of New York; and Ralph
N. Ellis, also of this city. Mr. Ellis is a member of The Ohio and New England
Societies and the Down Town and Union League clubs, and a contributor to the
support of many charities and public institutions.
EDWARD ELSWORTH, merchant, born at No. 213 Church street, in this city,
Jan. 3, 1811, died at his home, No. 20 West 49th street, June 23, 1886. He came from
Knickerbocker stock, being a son of John W. Elsworth, a lineal descendant of Chris-
topher (or Christoffel, as the early Dutch records have it,) Elswaerts, who came from
Holland to the Island of Manhattan in 1653. Beginning life in New York city as clerk
for his brother Henry, he was taken into partnership in 1837, in H. & E. Elsworth, and
for nearly thirty years carried on a wholesale oil, drug and paint business. He
entered heartily into all the local interests of the city, was a volunteer fireman, and
played a valiant part in fighting the great fire of 1835. At one time he had a large
interest in clipper ships, being part owner of the Wisconsin and Tornado among others,
and also had an investment in the Hudson river steamboat Niagara, which ran to
Albany. Later, he was president of Enoch Morgan & Sons, manufacturers of Sapolio,
and of The Keyport Steamboat Co. , which operated a number of harbor steamboats.
He was also a director of The Commercial Insurance Co., The Niagara Insurance Co.,
The Merchants' Exchange National Bank, and The North River Bank. By his mar-
riage wish Phcebe A., daughter of D. B. Martin, he was the father of fifteen children,
of whom twelve survived him. Three of his sons served in the Union army or navy,
one being killed at the second Bull Run, another at Port Hudson.
HENRY ELSWORTH, merchant, born in New York city, Sept. 30, 1808, died
there, Jan. 18, 1873. He was in the seventh generation in descent from Christoffel (or
Stoffel) Elswaerts, who emigrated from England to Holland, and then to America, in
1653, becoming first of his line on the Island of Manhattan, and thus the founder of one
of the oldest families in the city. There is some reason to believe that the Ellsworths
of Connecticut and the Aylsworths of Rhode Island descended from the same stock as the
New York family. The name is derived from a small village near Cambridge in Eng-
land, situated upon a rivulet once famous for eels. The Saxon word "worth" signified
"place," and the village was called Eelsworth. The family name arose from the circum-
stance, it is said, that it was the custom for the first settler in a new place to call himself
after the name of the settlement. The descendants of old Christoffel Elswaerts were
men of good repute in New Amsterdam and New York, and some of them were prom-
inent in their day. Henry Elsworth's grandfather, William J. Elsworth, was a deacon
in the Reformed Dutch Church, school trustee, first chief engineer of the fire depart-
ment, and assistant Alderman, 1789-91. The parents of the subject of this memoir were
John W. and Sarah Hinton Elsworth. Beginning life in the employment of Jonathan
Southwick, a merchant of oils and paints in this city, Mr. Elsworth's industry, energy
and trustworthiness secured for him rapid promotion, and he became, while young, the
head of the business in succession to Mr. Southwick. In 1837, after his brother had
become a partner, he adopted the firm name of H. &. E. Elsworth, and for a full
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. EL. 221
business generation carried on a successful wholesale drug and paint business. An
American business man of the best type, he displayed intelligence of a high order,
firmness, rectitude and enterprise, and in spite of his marked modesty, obtained distinc-
tion without seeking it. He promoted the foundation of The Manhattan Fire Insurance
Co. , and the Society Library, served as first president of The Merchants' Telegraph
Co., and was a trustee of various charities. May 26, 1831, he married Mary, daughter
of William and Mary Morris Ryer. Besides his widow, who survived him nine years,
Mr. Elsworth left two daughters, Sarah, wife of John H. Hinton, M. D., and Mary,
wife of Edward C. Gregory.
AMBROSE KITCHELL ELY, merchant, one of the oldest and most highly
esteemed among the leather men of the "Swamp," was born in Livingston, N. J.,
Jan. 31, 1823. The family moved to New York two years later. In 1844, Mr. Ely
entered his father's firm of Ring & Ely, leather merchants, at No. 1 7 Ferry street,
afterward known as Thorne, Watson, Corse & Co., at No. 18 Ferry street. In 1857,
he withdrew, taking out as his share of the capital about $250,000, and went into busi-
ness alone, manufacturing and selling leather. At the same time, he engaged largely
in real estate transactions. In both lines of enterprise he has been in the highest
degree successful. During a number of years past, he has been virtually out of the
leather business, but retains an office in the Swamp to manage his real estate interests.
He is a bachelor and has never felt any leaning toward club life.
DAVID JAY ELY, merchant, born in Lyme, Conn., May 5, 1816, died Feb. 24, 1877.
He was one of the old class of merchants, and famous for the virtues and characteristic
traits of his New England ancestry. The family was planted in this country abou'
1650. Mr. Ely came to New York, a boy of thirteen, and began as clerk for Don
Alonzo Cushman, was then engaged in business in the South for a few years, and
finally located in Chicago during the '405, where he carried on the importation of tea,
coffee, sugar, molasses, etc. His firm were known first as Reynolds, Ely & Co., then
as D. J. Ely & Co. He was a very wide awake and capable merchant, and saw Chicago
develop into a great city. In 1866, he removed to New York and imported coffee on
a large scale as D. J. Ely & Co., until his death. He married, Jan. 27, 1848, Caroline,
daughter of James Duncan of Massillon, O. The two children now surviving are James
R. Ely, and Mary, wife of Charles A. Miller.
HENRY GILBERT ELY, merchant, born in West Springfield, Mass., March 7,
1824, died at his home in Brooklyn, N. Y. Aug. 8, 1877. Gaining an education in West-
field academy, he would have entered college, had not his health failed. He came to
Brooklyn in 1847 to enter the employment of his uncle, William Kent, in the dry
goods trade, and later and up to 1857, was senior member of Ely, Bowen & McConnell,
and Ely, Clapp & Bowen. He afterward established, in New York city, the firm of
H. G. Ely & Co., leather merchants, of which he was at the head at the time of his
death. They were prominent in the trade, and conducted a large and successful
business. By his marriage with Mary P., daughter of Samuel Putnam, Feb. 27, 1851,
he was the father of Leicester K., Samuel P., Bessie P., and Mary G. Ely. Mr. Ely
was the forty-fourth person to join Plymouth Church, and took an active interest in
its affairs from the foundation. Quiet and unassuming in manner, but a man of firm
and upright character, the foe of all wrong doing, he was highly respected in social
and business circles.
222 AMERICA S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
SfllTH ELY, ex-Mayor of New York city, was born at the residence of his maternal
grandfather, Ambrose Kitchell, in Hanover, Morris county, N. J., April 17, 1825.
His father, Epaphras C. Ely, a leather merchant and a soldier in the War of 1812, was
born in this city in 1795. Moses Ely, the grandfather of ex-Mayor Ely, served in the
army of the Revolution, and his great grandfather and great, great grandfather,
William and Richard Ely, were both captains during the old French war. By virtue
of his ancestry, Mr. Ely is a member of The Society of the War of 1812, The Sons of
the Revolution, and The Society of Colonial Wars. His maternal great grandfather,
Judge Aaron Kitchell, who was Congressman, United States Senator and Presidential
Elector at Large, was also a soldier in the Revolutionary Arm}'-.
The subject of this sketch studied law for three years in the office of Frederic de
Peyster, and afterward graduated at the University Law School, but he never practiced
the profession for a livelihood, having devoted his middle life to mercantile pursuits.
Mr. Ely has always been a Democrat. In 1856, he was elected School Trustee of
the Seventh Ward, and held the position for four years. In 1857, he was elected a State
Senator by a large majority, being the first Democrat ever elected from his district. In
the Senate, he figured as the only Democrat on the most important two committees —
the Committee on Cities and the Sub-Committee of the Whole — and he was thus enabled
to do much good and defeat much evil in legislation.
In 1860, Mr. Ely received an election as County Supervisor, one of whose functions
was to raise the money and men to carry on the war. He held this office for eight
years, and, while a member of the Board, became conspicuous by his opposition to the
extravagancies of the Board. In 1867, he was re-elected in opposition to the regular
Democratic and Republican candidates. In 1870, a union of the Democratic factions
took place, and Mr. Ely was elected to the Forty-second Congress from the Seventh
District, and did good service on the Railroad Committee, upon which he was placed
by Speaker Elaine. He received a re-election in 1874, and an appointment by Speaker
Kerr on the Committee on Foreign Relations, the Committee on Public Buildings, and
the Committee on the Expenditures of the Treasury Department, of which latter he
was chairman.
In 1876, while Mr. Ely yet held his seat in Congress, the different Democratic
elements in New York city united upon him as a candidate for Mayor. The Republi-
cans nominated the distinguished soldier and statesman, ex-Governor John A. Dix, but
Mr. Ely was elected by more than 55,000 majority.
Mayor Ely's administration was characterized by wise"-and strict economy. In
each of the years of his term the net amount of the city debt was reduced, and, not-
withstanding the increase of population, the amount of the tax levy was each year
diminished, viz. :
Net City Debt. Total Tax Levy.
January, 1877 $119,811,310 $31,109,521
January, 1878 117,700,742 29,178,940
January, 1879 113,418,403 28,008,888
This financial success was never paralleled by any other Mayor.
Before he left the Mayor's office, the Democratic party in his old Congressional
District offered Mr. Ely the nomination for Congress, but he declined the honor, pre-
ferring to return to private life.
In 1867, Mr. Ely was Commissioner of Public Instruction, and in 1880 was nom-
inated as one of the Presidential electors on the Democratic State ticket.
THE- CITY OF NEW YORK. —
bachelor. His clubs are the Century, Manhattan, Drawing Room,
•rian Union.
MN ENQLIS, one of the most famous of the steamboat builders of this port,
ov. 25, 1808, and died in the ci -ookiyn, Oct. 25, 1888. His father,
•me, an honest Scot, came to Ar n'i795, a^ made this city his
: he son, derived shrewdness, health and ability from his parents, and
them a training in character which .T more value to him than an
ne. The fortune r himself. A promising, sturdy and vigor-
e studied during youth in th* schools York city, and then, when
-tered the elements of a sou:,. - the mean* of earning his
rt. This he found on the Eav. t in the ship yard of Smith &
ho ranked among the most noted ship builders of their times. The occupa-
his active nature, and : -h axe and hammer, he toiled for several
:ing to shape the frame •. lay the planking and assemble the various
rf vessels. His progress was rapid, and he decided to adopt marine construction
Vocation for life. I: . had risen to be a journeyman, and soon
eman for Bishop & Simonso- inn of builders. While
i valuable experience in both the -nr ,:arly in life that the
the student was destined in time far to surp. s teachers.
7, when steam navigation was being introduced upon the great lakes, Mr.
already earned sufficient reputation to be invited to Lake Erie, to build two
for the northern trade. He constructed the Milwaukee and Red Jacket,
lent boats, under contract, and then returned to New York. Experience had
•>ught to him a confidence in his powers, and he opened a shipyard on his own
•e foot of East icth street on the East river.
other shipwrights occupied themselves with the construction of the clippers,
-els, and freighting ships required for the extended foreign commerce of this
-nglis devoted his own energies to the separate and, if possible, more impor-
>ranch of his art, in which be ha*1 Steamboat building, then i» ««
required the highc is of models and the yreat.
£«-nuity in construction. .,?, ,.' .
*nd to be propelled by pou
ke those of the s;.
hitect. It was to tl-
modestly, but filling <.- . . •
•sts of his clients, he s**/n
• f«*nts of New York, and gnti /r«..«t-.-v buiH«-
:his port. It is a noteworthy fact that during the nearly irfiv «-,,*~s -.* h^
. life, nearly all the great side wheel steamers for the trade And trai-si o£
•and, and the finest river steamboats in the world, were baarhNI from
did he confine himself to river boats. Many noble steamship* for the
» were produced by him, and scores of vessels for the merchants of other
•ers. In all, he constructed eighty-nine vessels, propelled by steam,
500 tons each, an aggregate of about 135,000 16ns. He was exceedingly
t selection of materials, ingenious in his models and the adaptation of
the framing of his boats, and thorough in workmanship. His
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. EN. 223
Mr. Ely is a bachelor. His clubs are the Century, Manhattan, Drawing Room,
and the Presbyterian Union.
JOHN ENQLIS, one of the most famous of the steamboat builders of this port,
was born Nov. 25, 1808, and died in the city of Brooklyn, Oct. 25, 1888. His father,
of the same name, an honest Scot, came to America in' 1795, and made this city his
home. John, the son, derived shrewdness, health and ability from his parents, and
received from them a training in character which was of far more value to him than an
inherited fortune. The fortune he made for himself. A promising, sturdy and vigor-
ous boy, he studied during youth in the schools of New York city, and then, when
he had mastered the elements of a sound education, sought the means of earning his
own support. This he found on the East river front in the ship yard of Smith &
Dimond, who ranked among the most noted ship builders of their times. The occupa-
tion suited his active nature, and here, with axe and hammer, he toiled for several
years, learning to shape the frame timbers, lay the planking and assemble the various
parts of vessels. His progress was rapid, and he decided to adopt marine construction
as his vocation for life. In a few years, he had risen to be a journeyman, and soon
became foreman for Bishop & Simonson, another conspicuous firm of builders. While
he gained a valuable experience in both these yards, it was evident early in life that the
fame of the student was destined in time far to surpass that of his teachers.
In 1837, when steam navigation was being introduced upon the great lakes, Mr.
Englis had already earned sufficient reputation to be invited to Lake Erie, to build two
steamboats for the northern trade. He constructed the Milwaukee and Red Jacket,
both excellent boats, under contract, and then returned to New York. Experience had
now brought to him a confidence in his powers, and he opened a shipyard on his own
account at the foot of East loth street on the East river.
While other shipwrights occupied themselves \vith the construction of the clippers,
packet vessels, and freighting ships required for the extended foreign commerce of this
port, Mr. Englis devoted his own energies to the separate and, if possible, more impor-
tant, branch of his art, in which he had begun. Steamboat building, then in its
infancy, required the highest talent in the designers of models and the greatest skill
and ingenuity in construction. Intended for the navigation of comparatively shoal
waters and to be propelled by powerful steam engines, these boats were in model
utterly unlike those of the sailing ships, and presented many difficult poblems to the
marine architect. It was to this branch of the art that Mr. Englis applied himself.
Beginning modestly, but filling every contract with painstaking care and with fidelity
to the interests of his clients, he soon attracted attention and commendation among
the merchants of New York, and gradually rose to be the greatest builder of steam-
boats at this port. It is a noteworthy fact that during the nearly fifty years of his
active business life, nearly all the great side wheel steamers for the trade and travel of
Long Island Sound, and the finest river steamboats in the world, were launched from
his yard. Nor did he confine himself to river boats. Many noble steamships for the
ocean trades were produced by him, and scores of vessels for the merchants of other
commercial centers. In all, he constructed eighty-nine vessels, propelled by steam,
averaging 1,500 tons each, an aggregate of about 135,000 t6ns. He was exceedingly
careful in the selection of materials, ingenious in his models and the adaptation of
means to ends in the framing of his boats, and thorough in workmanship. His
224 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
methods were studied by other progressive builders, and copied in all parts of the
country. During the Civil War, his yard was especially busy. From 250 to 450 of the
best class of shipwrights, carpenters, joiners, and other mechanics, earned their liveli-
hood in his employment.
It is scarcely necessary to present a catalogue of all the vessels set afloat from his
famous yard. A few of the more noteworthy may, however, be referred to. Old
merchants and thousands of travellers remember the Drew, St. John, Dean Richmond,
Newport, Old Colony, C. H. Northam, Tremont, Falmouth, Columbia, Saratoga, City
of Troy, and Grand Republic, which were built for river and Sound service, and the
ocean steamers, City of Mexico, City of Merida, City of Havana, City of Vera Cruz,
City of Atlanta, City of Columbia, Villa Clara, Gloria, Trinidad and others, constructed
for deep water navigation. Many of these boats are yet in existence and giving great
satisfaction.
Seven of his boats were built for service in China, and one of them, the Sumo
Nada, is credited with a run of a thousand miles from Hong Kong to Shanghai in fifty-
six hours. These boats were the despair of the builders of England, who had expended
immense sums in the construction of craft for the same trade, but had never produced
one which equalled the creations of Mr. Englis.
In 1853, he constructed for the Lakes the Plymouth Rock and Western World,
which outstripped every rival in speed as well as in beauty for many years, and
during the days before the railroads had fairly conquered the West, carried an im-
mense number of travellers to and from the West, proving exceedingly profitable to
their owners.
As an illustration of his energy, the construction of the Unadilla may be referred
to. This was the first of the gunboats and was delivered to the Federal Government
in 1861, in forty-eight days, or twelve less than the time allowed. The Secretary of
the Navy expressed great satisfaction with this vessel, and wrote, under date of Oct. 8,
1 86 1 : "It gives the Department much pleasure to add that the reports of the inspec-
tors are in the highest degree complimentary of the manner in which the wor-k has
been executed." An equally remarkable achievement was the building and launching
of the steamboat Columbia in forty-two days, or within fifty-eight days from the
date of signing the contract. This large and handsome boat was finished, complete, in
ninety days.
The St. John for The People's Line on the Hudson River, trading between New
York and Albany, was at her birth the greatest triumph of-the day, and signalized a
new era not only in marine construction but in the traffic of the river which was her
home. The enterprise which led the proprietors to project this magnificent boat was
handsomely seconded by the skill of her constructor. Of 3,400 tons burden, capable oi
carrying 1,700 passengers and 700 tons of freight, upon a draft of 6£ feet of water,
this noble boat usually breasted the swift current of this crooked river and touched her
pier in Albany within nine hours of her departure from New York. The cabins were
marvels of exquisite workmanship, and the two tiers of state rooms, lighted by gas,
icated by steam, and furnished in a costly manner, were the subject of flattering com-
ment in the travelling world. The consort of this boat, the Dean Richmond, 308 feet in
ength and 82 feet in width across the guards, took a place on the line in 1867, and
proved no less famous and successful.
F.
EBERHARD FABER, lead pencil manufacturer, born in Stein, Bavaria, Dec. 6,
1822, died in New York city, March 2, 1879. Caspar Faber, the first member of the
family engaged in this industry, began the manufacture of lead pencils in 1761, in the
little village of Stein, in Bavaria, and the industry has since been carried on by his
family. In 1784, his son, Anthony William Faber, took charge of the business, and
was succeeded by his son, George Leonard Faber. About 1 849, Lotha von Faber, head
of the German house, saw the necessity of establishing a branch of the business in
America; and accordingly, in that year, Eberhard, son of George Leonard Faber, who
preferred a practical career to the study of the law, which he had been pursuing at
several of the German Universities, was sent to New York city. In 1851, he opened a
house at No. 133 William street, as the agent of the A. W. Faber lead pencils, and in
1852 began the exportation to Germany of red cedar. In 1861, he built the first lead
pencil factory in the United States at the foot of 42d street on the East river, and when,
in 1872, this was burned, he built another at Kent and West streets in Green point. In
1877, the office of the house was removed from William street to Broadway. Mr. Faber
also introduced the manufacture of pen-holders, gold pens and rubber goods of all
varieties, connected with the stationery trade. He enjoyed a practical monopoly of the
pencil industry for many years, and by his enterprise made the A. W. Faber lead pen-
cils as well known in every home and school in America as that of the parent house in
Germany has made it in Europe. Mr. Faber's surviving children are John Eberhard,
Lothair, Bertha, Sophia, Louise and Rosie Faber. — His son, JOHN EBERHARD
FABER, born March 14, 1859, in New York city, was christened John Robert Faber
and was educated at the School of Mines, Columbia College, and in Nuernberg, Ger-
many, and Paris, France. He then entered the office of his father, where he learned
every necessary detail of the manufacture and sale of lead pencils. In 1879, ne took
charge of the business in America, and then received permission from the courts to
change his middle name to Eberhard. Several years later, he admitted his brother
Lothair to the firm. Mr. Faber is a very capable manager of his business. He
operates a factory in Brooklyn, and derives his supply of red cedar from Florida, which
State alone grows this wood in perfection. Mr. Faber operates a large cedar yard and
factor}' in Cedar Keys, Fla., at which the red cedar logs are sawed into slabs, ready for
transportation to New York or Europe. His agents are continually exploring Florida
for cedar lands, and have purchased for him large tracts of the standing timber. Mr.
Faber is a director of The First National Bank of Staten Island, The American Life
Union, and The Mutual Fire Insurance Co., and a member of the Staten Island Cricket
and Staten Island Athletic clubs. He was married in 1887 to Abby Boles Adams.
EQISTO PAULO FABBRI, banker, born Dec. 28, 1828, in Florence, Italy, died
there, June 25, 1894. His father, Giovanni Fabbri, was a merchant of silk. His mother
was Russian. Egisto received a sound education in Italy and England and planned to
be a surgeon. Upon the death of his father, however, he entered a shipping house in
Livorno and when it failed went to Paris. In 1851, he came to the new world. In 1852,
he returned to Italy, but came to America again in 1854. After a year's search for
228 AMERICA S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
employment, he became bookkeeper for John Randall & Co., shipping merchants, was
admitted as a partner seven years later and so remained until 1867. Then, he founded
the shipping house of Fabbri & Chauncey, which enjoyed a prosperous career, finally
becoming extinct in 1884. In 1875, Mr. Fabbri became a partner in Drexel, Morgan &
Co. Ill health compelled his retirement Dec. 31, 1885. During his last nine years, he
travelled extensively in Europe and purchased a beautiful estate in Florence, upon which
he dwelt thereafter. For his services in behalf of Italian independence, King Victor
Emanuel bestowed upon him the unusual right of regaining Italian citizenship at his
own pleasure. In his amiable, courtly, personal address, his famous hospitality, and his
musical accomplishment, he reflected his Italian birthright, and in his business career,
revealed financial sagacity and executive ability. He was one of the founders of the
Metropolitan Opera House in this city. He was married June 28, 1849, to Mary Kealey.
Being without issue, in 1890, he adopted the children of his deceased brofher Ernesto.
ERNESTO QUISEPPE FABBRI, merchant, born in Florence, Italy, March 17,
1830, died at Lake Mahopac, N. Y., July 3, 1883. He came to this city at the age of
twenty-three, found employment as a clerk for John Randall & Co., subsequently
became a partner, and then married a daughter of the senior partner. The firm was
dissolved in 1861. Mr. Fabbri returned to Italy and in Genoa established the firm of
Valerio & Fabbri, commission merchants. In 1865, he returned to this city and entered
the commission house of Fabbri & Chauncey on South street, of which his brother
Egisto P. Fabbri was a partner. In 1876, Ernesto succeeded his brother as the head
of the firm. He was a director of The Central & South American Telegraph Co. , The
Orient Mutual Insurance Co., and The United States Rolling Stock Co., and a member
of the Chamber of Commerce and of The Maritime Association. Active in the Com-
mittee on Italian Schools, he befriended his poorer countrymen in so many ways, that
the Italian Government conferred upon him the honor of knighthood and the orders of
the Crown of Italy and Sts. Maurice and Lazarus. His marriage with Sara, daughter
of John Randall, brought him eight children, Egisto P., Ernestine, Marie Pauline,
Ernesto G., Alice, Nathalie, Cora, now deceased, and Alessandro. He was a member
of the Protestant Episcopal Church of the Holy Communion.
JOSEPH FAHYS, manufacturer, was born May 23, 1832, in Belport, France.
Educated in France, he came to New York city and, in June, 1857, with a few hundred
dollars, started the manufacture of watch cases on a small_scale. Afterward, he estab-
lished a factory in Carlstadt, N. J. ; in 1866, one in Brooklyn ; and in 1881, one in Sag
Harbor, which is the present location of the industry. His enterprise is now incorpor-
ated as The Fahys Watch Case Co., making 1,500 cases a day. The business office is
on Maiden Lane in this city. Mr. Fahys is the owner of the building bearing his name
at No. 54 Maiden Lane; president of The Fahys Watch Case Co. ; a director of The
Brooklyn Watch Co., The Montauk Steamboat Co., and The Third National Bank of
New York; and trustee of the Lafayette Avenue Presbyterian Church and The
Homoeopathic Hospital in Brooklyn. The family live near Sag Harbor in the summer,
and find delight in cruising in their yacht Alsace. Their winter residence is in Brooklyn.
He is a member of the Down Town club of New York, and the Hamilton and Riding
and Driving, clubs of Brooklyn. Mr. Fahys was married April 19, 1856, to Maria L.
Payne of Sag Harbor, and their children are Marie Louise, Lena M., Maria D., Bertha
A., and George E. Fahys.
THE CITV OF NEW YORK. FA. 229
EDWARD GEORGE FAILE, merchant, a native of Semiston, Roxboroughshire,
Scotland, and born Feb. 9, 1799, died at his home at Hunt's Point, Westchester count}-,
April 20, 1864. His father, George Faile, was a farmer, while his mother, Joan Hall,
was a descendant of the Burrells of Northumberland, England, and of John Burrell, a
courtier of Henry V., and bore upon her family arms the sturdy motto, " I adhere."
The family came to this country in 1801, settling in Westchester county, where Edward
was educated. At the age of seventeen, the youth became a clerk for Abram Valen-
tine, wholesale grocer in New York. Remaining in that store until 1821, he then
started for himself on the corner of Peck Slip and Front street. Feb. i, 1825, he ad-
mitted his brother Thomas as a partner, under the name of E. G. Faile & Co. He was
diligent, honest, and untiring, and prospered rapidly. In 1840, the firm bought the
store at 181 Front street, moved into it, and for thirteen years carried on a large whole-
sale grocery trade, attaining celebrity by their success. In 1853, both the senior partners
retired, being succeeded by their sons and Richard Williams, in Faile, Williams & Co.
Mr. Faile was always a man of public spirit and a director of The New York & Harlem
Railroad in the early days and of The New York Central Railroad, while Erastus Corning
was president. It was he who made a suggestion to Richard M. Hoe, which resulted
in the invention of the first machine for stamping and dating tickets as issued, ever
used in this country. He helped organize The Metropolitan Bank and was a member
of the Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Faile had a home in Westchester county and was
connected with the agricultural school in Ovid, N. Y. , and the Pease Farm Industrial
School, and served as president of The New York State Agricultural Society. He was
married, Dec. 8, 1821, to An i Delia, daughter of Abram Valentine. Their children were
Ann D., Edward, Thomas H., Charles V., Henry, Samuel, Mary E., Harriet and Caroline.
THOflAS HALL FAILE, merchant, son of the late George Faile of Westchester
count}-, was born in Eastchester, Feb. 4, 1803, after the family had made their home in
the United States. He died abroad, in Nice, Jan. 13, 1873. From his family he in-
herited a fine physique, a noble countenance, a mind sagacious and bold, and a char-
acter above reproach. Beginning life as a clerk for his brother, Edward G. Faile,
wholesale grocer of New York, he became a partner, Feb. i, 1825, and during the
following twenty-eight years was active and prominent in the trade, and a leading
spirit in the life of New York city. To secure better opportunities for study to mer-
chants' clerks, of whom he had been one, in 1846, he joined The Clinton Hall Association
as a trustee, labored to stock the library with good and useful books, and fought every
proposition to open the doors on Sundays. He joined the Chamber of Commerce,
became a director of The Bank of America in 1839, and was a member of the Union
League and Racquet clubs and St. Andrew's Society, and at one time president of
The New York State Agricultural Society. During a journey to Europe, taken largely
with this object in view, he visited many asylums for the insane, made a special study
of their management, and, as a governor of The New York Hospital, and permanently
charged with the supervision of The Bloomingdale Insane Asylum, he introduced many
improvements in the system of the latter institution. This labor of love occupied the
last fifteen years of his life. His public spirit was illustrated by his co-operation in
establishing at the old Rotunda the Gallery of Fine Arts, celebrated for its exhibition
of Cole's paintings of the Course of Empire and the Voyage of Life. His life was an
unbroken record of success, generosity and philanthropy. Mr. Faile never married.
23°
AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
BENJAJIIN LEWIS FAIRCHILD, lawyer, was born Jan. 5, 1863, in Sweden,
N. Y., and is a son of Benjamin Fairchild, who served through the Civil War and then
settled in Washington, D. C., and did not see his son until the latter was two years old.
The family are of English descent and long known in Connecticut, where the pioneers
settled. Mr. Fairchild's mother was a member of the Schaeffer family and of German
ancestry. The subject of this biography was educated in the public schools of Wash-
ington, D. C., and the law department of Columbian University. At the age of thirteen,
he became a draughtsman in the Patent Office, and from fourteen until twenty-two,
held a clerkship in the Treasury Department, meanwhile pursuing his studies. Having
been admitted to the bar, he came to New York in 1885, without means, was successful
in his profession, and invested his earnings in the development of real estate properties
in Westchester county, in compliance with an injunction he had heard in boyhood to
buy land by the acre and sell it by the foot. He continues to practice law, his firm
being Southard & Fairchild, and has large realty interests at Pelham Heights and
Mount Vernon. He has always been a Republican in politics and a popular man. In
1894, the tidal wave of public sentiment swept him into a seat in Congress from a
Democratic district. He was married in New York city, Feb. 28, 1893, to Anna E.,
daughter of the late James Crumbie. He is a member The Society of Medical Juris-
prudence and the Republican and New York Athletic clubs.
CHARLES STEBBINS FAIRCHILD, lawyer, born April 30, 1842, in Cazenovia,
N. Y., is a son of the late Sidney T. Fairchild, a distinguished lawyer, for many years
counsel for The New York Central Railroad, who died Feb. 15, 1889, the possessor of
a large estate. Graduating from Harvard University in 1863 and from the Harvard
Law School in 1865, Mr. Fairchild read law iii the office of Hand, Hale & Swartz, was
admitted to the bar in Albany, and in 1873 became a member of the firm above named.
In 1874, he was called into the public service as Deputy Attorney General of the State,
and the following year was elected Attorney General as a Democrat. In 1878 he visited
Europe. Upon his return in 1880, he established a law office in New York city, and
has since become identified with large interests. He is president of The New York
Security & Trust Co. , and has been president of The State Charities Aid Association.
From March, 1885, to April, 1887, Mr. Fairchild held the important position of
Assistant Secretary, and from the latter date, to the end of President Cleveland's term,
that of Secretary of the Treasury. He is a member of the Metropolitan, Century,
University, Manhattan, Aldine, Lawyers', Reform, Bar, Democratic, Harvard Alumni,
and Alpha Delta Phi clubs. He received the degree of Doctor of Laws from Columbian
and Harvard Universities in 1888.
ARNOLD FALK, merchant, a native of Germany, and born. in March, 1843, came
to the new world in 1858, after an education in the public schools in the fatherland,
and was the constant partner of his brother, Gustav, in various enterprises connected
with the tobacco trade. First a cigar manufacturer, he gained in that industry an
intimate knowledge of the various classes of tobacco leaf, and then, in 1859, joined in
establishing the firm of G. Falk & Bro., to import Sumatra and other foreign tobacco
and export the native leaf of America. Success came to this house through their enter-
prise, industry and good character. Mr. Falk was a member of The German Society.
He married Miss Fannie Wallach of this city in 1876, and had two sons, Myron and
Kaufman Falk, and died in Heidelberg, Germany, June 18, 1891.
-EW YORK. FA.
GUSTAV FALK, importer of tobacco, born in Germany, April 19, 1841, is a son
of M. J. Fa!k. merchant, who came to A n 1858 and settled in New York city.
Gustav i an education in the sch<, I erford, Westphalia. Most of his
success in life has been due to r. "«d ability. After a valuable ex-
perience as a cigar manufacturer in ti -:ntered into partnership with his
brother, Arnold, in 1859, as G. FalV »., for wholesale handling of foreign and
domestic leaf tobacco. Th house to import Sumatra tobacco upon a
large scale, and as they had no , ir business was exceed-
ingly profitable. Their trade in Sum-ira tobacco is yet large but the house also packs
and exports American tobacco also extensively. Owing remotely to Sir Walter
Raleigh's office in making the leaf popular, but more immediately to Mr.
Talk's own industrious career of thirty-five years, he has t> :ic of the wealthiest
dealers in the trade. He maintains store houses in thi- ^ I>ancaster, Pa. In
,g?I he - ; , and has five children,
Julia. j.Falk.
JOHN TEMPLE PARISH. Virginia, born about 1820, di<
at his h Park avenue, in this - ^ nad attained his
majority, he came to New York to <en a prominent
merchant, who acted as agent for the Rothschilds ii. * ot American tobacc
Mr. Parish was admitted to partnership in Rogers 'ucted so profitable
an exp, -hacco that he was able to retire when ha. years old.
that tins-. -'d, he was occupied entirely with investments. In 1870, he mame
Martha. i ustice Grier of the Supreme Court of the United States. Mr.
Parish 1 in charities,. and expended a large part of his income in
philant . He was a regular attendant of St. Bartholomew's church. His
wife survived him. By will, he gave to St. Luke's Hospital the sum of $50,000, to
The New York Bible Society $10,000, to The Home for Incurables $50,000, to the
Missions of the Episcopal Church $20,000, to The Church Mission for Deaf Mutes
§20,000, and to other institutions, $120,000.
FRANKLIN PARREL, nal success in varied
of industrial enterprise ^ place in the ranks of s«
men. He was born , .iterbury, Conn. His youth was
mechanical atmosphere, xtd earV
evident that he had himself
. obtained -in -Water-bury. In.-.::..
the degree of Civil Engineer. Mr. Parrel's first distinct busmen
organization of The Parrel Machine Co , in Ansonia, Conn., about forty-five ]
It was a modest beginning, the outfit consisting of a single lathe and planer,
years Mr. Parrel gave this plant his closest attention, and such business ability did he
bring to its management that the results are apparent to-day ia an establishment con-
taining over two hundred and fifty machine tools, many of them among the largest in
the world, and employing in prosperous times over seven hundred men.
Mr. Parrel is essentially a leader, and, when he lends his personality and efforts to
the promotion of a project, success is practically assured. A striking illustration of this
is «hown at Bridgeport, Conn. In 1883, the western section of the city was undevel-
oped, a great part of the territory being covered by a thick growth of underbrush. He
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. FA. 231
QUSTAV FALK, importer of tobacco, born in Germany, April 19, 1841, is a son
of M. J. Falk, merchant, who came to America in 1858 and settled in New York city.
Gustav received an education in the schools of Herford, Westphalia. Most of his
success in life has been due to native shrewdness and ability. After a valuable ex-
perience as a cigar manufacturer in this city, he entered into partnership with his
brother, Arnold, in 1859, as G. Falk & Bro., for wholesale handling of foreign and
domestic leaf tobacco. They were the first house to import Sumatra tobacco upon a
large scale, and as they had no competition for several years, their business was exceed-
ingly profitable. Their trade in Sumatra tobacco is yet large but the house also packs
and exports American tobacco also extensively. Owing remotely to Sir Walter
Raleigh's office in making the leaf popular, but more' immediately to Mr.
Falk's own industrious career of thirty-five years, he has become one of the wealthiest
dealers in the trade. He maintains store houses in this city and Lancaster, Pa. In
1871, he married Miss Rebecca, daughter of Kaufman Wallach, and has five children,
Julia, wife of David M. Frank, Kaufman S. , Sophia, Jesse M., and Milton J. Falk.
JOHN TEMPLE PARISH, merchant, a native of Virginia, born about 1820, died
at his home on Park avenue, in this city, May 13, 1891. Before he had attained his
majority, he came to New York to live with his uncle, Lewis Rogers, then a prominent
merchant, who acted as agent for the Rothschilds in the purchase of American tobacco.
Mr. Parish was admitted to partnership in Rogers & Co. , and conducted so profitable
an exportation of tobacco that he was able to retire when hardly forty years old. From
that time forward, he was occupied entirely with investments. In 1870, he married
Martha, a daughter of Justice Grier of the Supreme Court of the United States. Mr.
Farish was deeply interested in charities, .and expended a large part of his income in
philanthropic work. He was a regular attendant of St. Bartholomew's church. His
wife survived him. By will, he gave to St. Luke's Hospital the sum of $50,000, to
The New York Bible Society $10,000, to The Home for Incurables $50,000, to the
Missions of the Episcopal Church $20,000, to The Church Mission for Deaf Mutes
$20,000, and to other institutions, $120,000.
FRANKLIN FARREL, manufacturer, has achieved signal success in varied lines
of industrial enterprise and is entitled to a prominent place in the ranks of successful
men. He was born Feb. 17, 1828, in Waterbury, Conn. His youth was passed in a
mechanical atmosphere, his father being a skilled mechanic, and early in life it became
evident that he had himself special aptitude in this direction. His early education was
obtained in Waterbury, being rounded out by a course at West Point, where he received
the degree of Civil Engineer. Mr. Parrel's first distinct business venture was the
organization of The Parrel Machine Co , in Ansonia, Conn., about forty-five years ago.
It was a modest beginning, the outfit consisting of a single lathe and planer. For many
years Mr. Parrel gave this plant his closest attention, and such business ability did he
bring to its management that the results are apparent to-day in an establishment con-
taining over two hundred and fifty machine tools, many of them among the largest in
the world, and employing in prosperous times over seven hundred men.
Mr. Parrel is essentially a leader, and, when he lends his personality and efforts to
the promotion of a project, success is practically assured. A striking illustration of this
is shown at Bridgeport, Conn. In 1883, the western section of the city was undevel-
oped, a great part of the territory being covered by a thick growth of underbrush. He
232 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
was able to foresee the possibilities of the section, and the unexcelled rail and water
facilities, which could be obtained by proper development. The Bridgeport Forge Co.,
a concern of which Mr. Farrel is president and principal owner, was organized and
located in this seemingly desolate region. The Bridgeport Copper Co. was organized
soon afterward through the efforts of Mr. Farrel, and its first buildings erected in the
same locality. Owing to the business energy of Mr. Farrel and his associates, these
companies have shown constant growth and must now be ranked among the most
prosperous concerns in Connecticut. Encouraged by such enterprise, other large firms
have since located in this part of the city, fine streets have been laid out and worked,
substantial dwelling houses and blocks erected, and, as if touched by a magic wand, the
section in a single decade has become one of the most prosperous and flourishing in
the city of Bridgeport.
After earning the reputation of being one of the most expert founders and machin-
ists in the country, and establishing several of the largest firms in Connecticut on a
successful basis, Mr. Farrel turned his attention in other directions. He embarked in
the sugar business in 1879, and from a small beginning has achieved notable success.
He selected capable and energetic associates, and wise co-operation and concerted effort
have brought about fine results. The sugar estates are located in Cuba and Santo
Domingo, and some idea of their proportions may be conveyed when it is said that
three of these estates require in their operation over twenty-five miles of fixed railroad
and furnish employment to over three thousand men.
Another industry to which Mr. Farrel has directed his attention, and which has
prospered under his direction, has been the manufacture of copper. He became identi-
fied with The Parrot Silver & Copper Co., of -Butte City, Mont., and the first mine was
worked in 1877. This company has grown under the competent management of Mr.
Farrel and his associates, and to-day its product is one of the standard brands of copper
of the world. Without further specific mention, it may be said that in every direction
one can point to industries, successful to a marked degree, and all the product of brains
and intelligence backed by Mr. Parrel's capital and business wisdom. Mines, smelters,
metal refineries, forges, foundries, machine shops, brass and copper rolling mills, rail-
roads, banks, hotels and sugar plantations are among the industries which claim the
care and attention of this remarkable man. In politics, Mr. Farrel has always been an
earnest and consistent Republican. Although often urged to allow his nomination for
honorable positions, he has felt that he could not justly set aside or neglect the great
business affairs entrusted to his keeping. His advice and -assistance, however, have
always been sought and given to promote the interests of Republicanism.
WILLIAH DOUGLAS FARWELL, merchant, born at Big Flats, Chemung county,
N. Y. , May 31, 1827, died in New York city, Aug. 30, 1885. His father, Benjamin
Farwell, was a man of marked integrity and strength of character and a warm hearted,
generous Christian. The young man gained his first experience as a merchant in Steu-
ben county. In 1863, he removed to Chicago, and in 1865 entered the wholesale dry
goods house of John V. Farwell & Co., as a partner. The same year, he removed to
New York to represent the business here as resident partner. As a business man, he
commanded general respect. He was a member of the Union League and Merchants'
clubs, the Chamber of Commerce, The New England Society and other social organiza-
tions. While keen and enterprising as a merchant, money making did not enlist his
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. — FE. 235
to prominence in this occupation. His house ranked among the leaders of the trade for
more than twenty years. He retired in 1861, his life thereafter being a quiet one. He
was president of The Auburn Woolen Co, for many years. In 1839, he married Mary,
daughter of Benjamin L. Swan. Their children were three sons. Charles F.. a stock
broker, William H,, an importer of wines, and Edward S. Fearing, who died in 1881.
riARTIN S. FECHHEIMER, merchant, was born of Jewish parents, June 24,
1835, in Mitwitz, Bavaria. His parents were poor and could not give him a better
education than that afforded by the village school. The boy left home in 1847, removed
to Cincinnati, and entered the employment of his uncles. He began at the bottom of
the ladder, doing the hardest and roughest work, for which he received his board and
lodging. Having acquired some experience, at the age of nineteen he started in busi-
ness for himself at Toledo, O., and subsequently moved to Madison, Wis. In 1858, he
went to California. As a clerk in Sacramento, he saved his earnings, and joined Henry
Kronethal, in 1860, in a clothing business. In 1862, Henry Goodkind became associ-
ated with them in Fechheimer, Goodkind & Co. From 1862 to 1884, the business was
carried on in San Francisco, and they ranked eventually as one of the leading clothing
houses of the coast. In 1884, Charles Fishel and Charles E. Adler, having become
members, the firm established a store in the city of New York, which soon acquired
such proportions that the firm discontinued the California branch. Oct. 31, 1891, Henry
Goodkind retired, and the business has been continued since under the name of Fech-
heimer, Fishel & Co. They are now one of the leading houses in the wholesale clothing-
business. For many years past, Mr. Fechheimer has adopted a modified form of
profit sharing, as a result of which and of his fairness to employes, he has never had
a strike since coming to this city. He is a director of The Hanover National Bank
and a member of the Harmonic social club. He assisted in organizing the first Society
for Ethical Culture in this city, under Prof. Felix Adler, and for many years was
president and trustee of the society. In 1865, he married Miss Francis Meyer. Of his
seven children five are living.
WILLIAM FELLOWES, merchant, a native of New Pitt, N. C., born April 17,
1802, died May 12, 1875, at his home in Richmond county, N. Y. The son of Jonathan
and Elizabeth Fellowes, members of old families, he began life with inherited spirit
and after an education in Henderson, Ky., made his reputation as a merchant in the
dry goods firm of William & Cornelius Fellowes in Louisville, Ky. His trade was
largely with the river States and a branch store was established in New Orleans under
the style of Fellowes, Jenkins & Co. About 1846, Mr. Fellowes removed to Newy York
city and managed another branch house, in co-operation with the other firms. He
soon became known as a very capable, upright and progressive man. He owned a
plantation in St. Mary's parish, La., a farm in Texas, and interests in The Manhattan
Silver and The American Mining Go's, and other properties. Having made a large in-
vestment in The Panama Railroad, he accepted office as a director of that company.
By his marriage with Caroline Davis in Boston, he had nine children : Mrs. Eliza B.
Ward well; Caroline, wife of David P. Morgan; William, Clara, Harriet D., Cornelius,
Nancy W., Alice and Birney Fellowes. He was a member of the Union club.
BENJAfllN HAZARD FIELD, merchant, born May 2, 1814, in Yorktown, West-
chester county, N. Y., died in this city, March 17, 1893. He was a descendant of an
old and gentle English family, one of whom, Robert Field, came to America with his
236 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
neighbor and relative by marriage, Sir Richard Saltonstall, in the company organized
in 1630, and settled in Watertown, Mass. Later, he moved to Newport, R. I. The
subject of this sketch was the son of Hazard Field. He graduated from the North
Salem academy and entered the office of Hickson W. Field, a merchant in the China
trade and wholesale dealer in drugs in this city. In March, 1832, he became a member
of the firm, and, in 1838, when the senior partner retired, assumed the management.
June 9, 1838, he married Catherine W. Van Cortlandt de Peyster, daughter of Frederic
de Peyster and noted for her beauty, prominence in society and activity in charitable
work They had two children, Cortlandt de Peyster Field and Florence Van Cortlandt,
wife of W. W. Bishop. Mrs, Field died in July, 1886. In 1861, Mr. Field was joined
in business by his son. Four years later, the firm name was changed to Cortlandt de
P. Field & Co., the elder Field remaining a silent partner. He owned a large amount
of excellent real estate in New York city, and was a director of The Atlantic Mutual
Life Insurance Co., and The Greenwood Cemetery Co., and vice president of The Bank
for Savings. Early identified with the St. Nicholas Society, of which he became vice
president and president, in 1884 he was elected a life member of the Society. To his
efforts was largely due the erection of The Farragut monument in Madison Square
and the monument to the poet Halleck in Central Park. He was exceedingly active in
philanthropic work and an officer of numerous charities, being also a member of the
Chamber of Commerce, and the Century and St. Nicholas clubs, and a life long member
of the Protestant Episcopal church.
CYRUS WEST FIELD, famous for his share in laying the first Atlantic cable,
born in Stockbridge, Mass., Nov. 30, 1819, died in Dobbs Ferry, N. Y., July 12, 1892.
He was one of eight distinguished sons of Dr. David Dudley Field, a Congregational
minister of Stockbridge, and was descended from Zachariah Field, who settled in
America about 1630. His education was obtained from his father and in the schools
of Stockbridge. At the age of fifteen, he entered the employment of A. T. Stewart in
New York, and in October, 1840, became a partner of L. Root & Co. in the paper
trade. This firm failed in 1841, and, until 1843, Mr. Field found himself occupied with
a settlement of their affairs. In 1843, he organized the firm of Cyrus W. Field & Co.,
built up a prosperous business, and paid off, in 1853, all the debts he had compromised
in 1843. Becoming, in 1854, intensely interested in the possibility of connecting the
old and new worlds by telegraph, and having partly retired from business, he devoted
himself with enthusiasm to the subject of an ocean cable. In 1858, a cable was laid
which worked imperfectly. Entire success was not attained until 1866. No one who
studies biography for the elements of character which command success, can fail to be
struck with the two fundamental factors, illustrated in this achievement, which won
for Mr. Field world wide distinction, namely, first the conception of a useful and
practical idea, and secondly the inflexible determination and undaunted pluck which
he brought to bear in carrying out his plans in spite of discouragements and obstacles.
For the laying of the Atlantic cable, Congress gave Mr. Field a gold medal and the
thanks of the nation, and the Paris Exposition of 1867 awarded him a grand medal.
In 1866, he again wrote to various creditors who had released him in 1860 and paid his
indebtedness in full, with interest, to the amount of $170,897. He helped develop
the elevated railway system of New York and was identified with other great enterprises.
For several years, the name of Cyrus W. Field was well known in Wall street. Daring
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. FI. 237
in speculation, upright and competent, he amassed a fortune of several millions, which,
however, first reduced somewhat by speculation, at the last shrank to nothing, owing
to the necessity of repairing losses for which he was not responsible. Successful in
business, he was never more successful than in the triumph over self and the love of
wealth, when he devoted the accumulations of a life time toward preserving the honor
of his family. At the time of his death, he owned only five shares in The Anglo-
American Cable and one hundred acres of land at Irvington on the Hudson, upon
which there was a mortgage. Mr. Field was married Dec. 2, 1840, to Mar}- Bryan
Stone of Guilford, Conn. Mrs. Field died Nov. 23, 1891. The children born to
them were Mary Grace, Alice Durand, Isabella, Fanny Griswold, Arthur Stone, now
deceased, Edward Moore and Cyrus William, who died June, 9, 1894. The first named,
wife of Dr. D. A. Lindley, died Jan. n, 1892.
HICKSON W. FIELD, one of the race of old New York merchants, who died in
Rome, Italy, Feb. 12, 1873, at the age of eighty-five, laid the foundation of his fortune
in the commission and drug business on Burling Slip. He inherited a moderate estate,
but the most of his means probably came, however, from investments in real estate in
the city, at a time when purchases could be made at a moderate valuation. The rapid
growth of the town greatly enhanced the value of his properties. About 1845, he built,
in company with a partner, the New York Hotel on Broadway, which, for nearly fifty
years, ranked among the most prosperous hostelries in the city, becoming a head-
quarters for Southern merchants especially. The uptown movement, it may be noted in
passing, finally left this old hotel lagging in the rear. It ceased to pay, and, in 1894, it
was levelled to the ground to give place for a modern office building. His son was
Hickson W. Field, jr., and his daughter Mrs. Eleanor K. Jay.
BENEDICKT FISCHER, tea merchant, born March 21, 1841, in Ober Schopfheim,
Baden, Germany, has been a resident of the United States since the age of fourteen.
Receiving only a limited education in the village school of his native place, he was
thrown upon his own resources for his success in life. Beginning as a wheelwright's
apprentice, he served his time, and afterward relinquished a salary of $45 a week to
become a chemist's assistant at $3 a week with a view to a future career. He then
entered a varnish factory, aided in the manufacture, and became a salesman of varnish.
Later, he found as salesman for a wholesale grocery house the vocation he has since
pursued. In 1861, he engaged in the tea and grocery trade for himself, making visits
to buyers during the day, and at night preparing the goods for delivery. Through his
own efforts, his present extensive trade is the outgrowth of a modest beginning. With
several changes of partners, and with occasional mishaps, such as the burning of his
store twice, he has gone bravely on in spite of discouragements, and has won large
means by sheer perseverance and persistent enterprise. Mr. Fischer has a thorough
knowledge of his trade, bears a good reputation, and has set an example which should
prove an encouragement to many young merchants. Mr. Fischer was the first to intro-
duce American tiles in the market, and is president of The American Encaustic Tile
Co., the largest of its class in the United States. Of The Mauser Manufacturing Co.,
silversmiths, he is vice president. The Riverside Bank was organized by him and
others. Mr. Fischer was married Sept. 21, 1864, to Kathrina Ebling. Of his nine
children, five are living, William H., Florence and Irma Fischer, Mrs. Antonia
Diefenthaler and Mrs. Leonora Koehler.
238 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
CHARLES S. FISCHER, manufacturer, was born Jan. 30, 1820, in Naples, Italy.
His grandfather and father were both military officers in the Austrian army, placed in
Naples at the time of the Austrian protectorate, and the latter was one of the founders
of the well known house of J. & C. Fischer, makers of the Fischer piano. Charles
obtained an education at Naples. The family destined him for the priesthood, but he
preferred a business career and learned a trade in Naples, under his grandfather, who
was interested in various manufactures, among them the making of pianos. Coming
to America in 1839, he started in business with his brother and William Nunns in 1840,
as Nunns & Fischer. The senior partner had previously been connected with Robert
& William Nunns and Nunns & Clark, piano makers. About twenty-five years ago
Mr. Fischer was admitted to partnerthip in J. & C. Fischer, and since 1889 has been sole
owner. He is the oldest piano manufacturer in New York city. In the past quarter
of a century, the firm have built up a business which ranks among the foremost of its
kind in the country and has brought prosperity to the very capable partners. There
is a branch house in Troy, N. Y. The office of the concern is on Fifth avenue in
this city. Mr. Fischer was married in New York to Helena W. Beilby. Of their ten
children, six are living, namely, Charles S. Fischer, jr., M. D., Henry B. , Bernardo F.,
Adolpho H., Frederic G., and T. Tasso Fischer. Mr. Fischer is an accomplished man
and a fluent speaker of four languages, Italian, French, German and American.
HAMILTON FISH, diplomat, born in New York city in 1808, died here Sept.
7, 1893. His father was Lieut. Col. Nicholas Fish, an officer in the American Revolu-
tion, the friend of Washington, afterward Adjutant General of New York, and presi-
dent of The Butchers & Drovers' Bank of this city. His mother was Elizabeth Stuy-
vesant. The family is believed to be a branch of the old Saxon family of Fysche, which,
in the tables of German nobility, dates from a remote era. The founder in America
was Jonathan Fish, who came to Massachusetts from England about 1635. Hamilton
Fish graduated from Columbia College and was admitted to the New York bar in 1830.
While he practiced law to some extent, he entered early upon a public career. Absolved
from labor by a large inheritance in real estate from his father and his uncle, Peter G.
Stuyvesant, he was able to devote his life to public affairs and to fill important positions
with fidelity and credit. A Whig in politics, he became a Republican after the forma-
tion of the Republican party. He was elected a member of Congress in 1844, Lieuten-
ant Governor in 1847, Governor in 1848-50, and in 1851-57 United States Senator.
From 1869 to 1877, he was Secretary of State under President Grant and one of the
commissioners who signed the Washington Treaty of 1871, which disposed of the ques-
tion of Alabama claims. Mr. Fish was for many years president of The Society of the
Cincinnati, succeeding his father, and of numerous social, philanthropic and intellec-
tual organizations. His wife was Julia Kean. — His oldest son, NICHOLAS FISH,
banker, born in New York city, Feb. 19, 1846, graduated from Columbia College in
1867, and from Harvard Law School in 1869, and entered upon the laborious profession
of the law in this city. He has figured to some extent in public affairs, being first
appointed as Second Secretary of Legation in Germany, 1871, and First Secretary thereof
in 1874. He was Chargd d'Affaires to the Swiss Confederation, 1877-81, and United
States Minister to Belgium, 1882-86. In 1887, Mr. Fish engaged in banking in
Harriman & Co., as a partner, and has since been identified with financial affairs down
town in that firm. Mr. Fish inherited means and a distinguished name, to which he
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. FI. 239
has done honor by a spotless business record and high personal character. Well bred,
well informed, courteous, sound in judgment and thoroughly a man of affairs, he
occupies a very high position. His clubs are the Metropolitan, Century, University,
Tuxedo, St. Anthony, Lawyers', Players', Down Town, University Athletic, and Coney
Island Jockey. He is also a member of The Society of the Cincinnati, The St.
Nicholas Society, and The New York Historical Society. He was married in Newport,
R. I., to Clemence S. Bryce, and their two children are Elizabeth S. Clare Fish and
Hamilton Fish jr. — STUYVESANT FISH, railroad president, son of Hamilton Fish,
a native of New York city, was born June 24, 1851. After a course at Columbia
College, from which he graduated in 1871, he entered the Service of The Illinois
Central Railroad in 1871, as a clerk in its New York office, and with the exception of
four years has been continuously identified with that company's interests. In 1872,
John Newell, then president of The Illinois Central Railroad, made Mr. Fish his
secretary. Later in that year, Mr. Fish left to become a clerk in the employ of Morton,
Bliss & Co. , of this city, and of their London correspondents, Morton, Rose & Co.
Stalwart and clear headed, sound in judgment and physically capable of an enormous
amount of work, Mr. Fish made his mark without delay. In January, 1875, he became
managing clerk for Morton, Bliss & Co., and held their power of attorney. This posi-
tion he retained for over two years. From Dec. 14, 1876, to March, 1879, Mr. Fish
was a member of the New York Stock Exchange. He was, in February, 1877, elected
a director of The Illinois Central Railroad, and treasurer of the Purchasing Com-
mittee of The New Orleans, Jackson & Great Northern Railroad, and has since given
his attention entirely to railroad enterprises. Nov. 8, 1877, he was elected secretary of
The Chicago, St. Louis & New Orleans Railroad, and March, 1882, vice president. In
1883, he was made second vice president of The Illinois Central, and rose rapidly,
becoming president in 1887, which position he retains to this time. He is also president
of The Yazoo & Mississippi Valley Railroad and other corporations affiliated with The
Illinois Central. Mr. Fish is a director of The National Park Bank and trustee of
The Mutual Life Insurance Co., and The New York Life Insurance & Trust Co. He
holds membership in several social clubs, among them the Metropolitan, Union, St.
Anthony, Down Town and Players'. Married in 1876 to Marian G. Anthon, a daughter
of the late William Henry Anthon, he has three children, named respectively Marian,
Stuyvesant, jr., and Sidney Webster Fish.
ROBERT COCKBURN FISHER, marble manufacturer, born on the Bowery, near
Houston street, May 20, 1837, died in New Rochelle, N. Y., Dec. 26, 1893. His
father, John Thomas Fisher, came to this country from Dublin in 1829, and his mother,
Eliza Bird, was a native of Orange county, N. Y. Robert received his education in
the Hamilton Collegiate Institute at White Plains, N. Y., and being a practical, ener-
getic young man, joined his father in the marble business in 1854, in a yard at the
corner of Houston street and the Bower}'. In 1859, he succeeded his father as senior
partner in Fisher & Bird, and continued at the head of the firm until his death, at
which time they were known as Robert C. Fisher & Co. His marble and granite works
on East Houston street were carried on with great success. He was a member of the
Reform and Church clubs and the American Geographical Society, and director of The
Oriental Bank, but lived in New Rochelle, N. Y., where he was president of the Board
of Education for twelve years. Owing to the gentle and kindly spirit of Mr. Fisher, his
240 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
possessions excited no envy, except from those who envied his ability to do good to
others. His presence was a constant benediction among his neighbors in every station,
and death came while he was engaged in the practical philanthrophy, which had charac-
terized his whole life. He devoted all his leisure time to religious objects, and was
vestryman, warden and voluntary organist of Trinity Church, New Rochelle, for thirty
years. Mr. Fisher was married May 5, 1859, to Miss Mary, daughter of Samuel Perry
Ayres and Henrietta Williamson, his wife. Of their eight children, four survive, John
T., Robert C., Thomas R. and Edward H. Fisher.
BENJAHIN FITCH, dry goods merchant, born June 13, 1805, in New Canaan,
Fairfield county, Conn., died in this city, Nov. 7, 1883 He was the son of Stephen
Fitch, a merchant, and Charlotte, his wife. The family came from English ancestry.
Benjamin left school to become a clerk in New York cit , and began business for him-
self at an early age in Rochester, N. Y. A few years later, he removed to Buffalo,
joined a dry goods house as partner, and became resident buyer in New York city.
Inspired by ambition, he opened a dry goods store on Beaver street, under the name
of Fitch & Robinson. His business record was so scrupulously honorable, that, in 1855,
when he retired, a number of merchants of New York city presented him with a service
of silver plate. Mr. Fitch enjoyed the pleasure of giving and during the course of
his career disbursed about half his large estate for public and charitable purposes. When
the Civil War broke out, being too old to go to the front, he took an active part in
enlisting recruits and made provision for the families of those who might not survive.
For this purpose he built an institution at Darien, Conn., known as Fitch's Home for
the Soldiers' Orphans. It is yet occupied by disabled soldiers and is in charge of the
State of Connecticut. In 1880, he became interested in The Charity Organization
Society of Buffalo, N. Y., to which he donated $400,000 to build and maintain what is
now known as The Fitch Institute. Somewhat eccentric, Mr. Fitch was self reliant
and energetic, and won respect by his sterling honesty and many deeds of charity. He
was never married.
HENRY M. FLAQLER, oil producer and refiner, was born in Canandaigua, N. Y.,
about 1830, the son of a country clergyman. When fotirteen years old, he went by
canal boat to Buffalo and thence by lake to Sandusky, O., arriving there almost penni-
less. Ohio promised him no advantages at that time, and he returned to his native
State and went to work as clerk in a store in Orleans county at a salary of five dollars
a week. He was soon promoted, saved money by self denial, and while yet a young
man, removed to Saginaw, Mich., and conducted some salt works there with excellent
success. Later, he became a resident of Cleveland and one of the pioneers in the petro-
leum business there. When he was finally admitted to partnership in the oil refining
firm of Rockefeller, Andrews & Flagler of that city, his future was assured. The men
of this firm were among the first to discover that, by a union of the interests of different
producers, an immense amount of expense might be saved to them all and that divi-
dends might be gained simply from the savings, while at the same time light for the
poor man might be made cheaper than he had ever known. Out of these considera-
tions, The Standard Oil Co. came into existence, succeeding the firm to which Mr.
Flagler belonged. He has been prominently identified with its management since its
organization. Mr. Flagler is now connected with numerous large enterprises and is a
director in The Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railway, The Minnesota Iron Co , The
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. FL. 241
Duluth & Iron Range Railroad, The Western Union Telegraph Co., The International
Bank Note Co. , The Jacksonville, Tampa & Key West Railway, and other companies.
In 1885, a visit to Florida revealed to him the possibilities of the State of the Ever-
glades, and at St. Augustine he built at a cost of $3,000,000 those dreams of architecture
the Ponce de Leon and Alcazar hotels. He has also built about 600 miles of railroad
in the State and otherwise added enormously to the taxable property of Florida. Mr.
Flagler has joined several of the best social organizations of New York city, including
the Union Leagne, Metropolitan, City, Larchmont Yacht, New York Yacht, American
Yacht and The New England Society.
MAXIMILIAN FLEISCH/IANN, manufacturer, born in 1846, in Jagerndorf, Aus-
tria, died on the steamship Columbia, while on his way to this city from Europe,
Sept. i, 1890. He was a son of A. N. Fleischmann, by occupation a distiller, and
received his early schooling in Budapest, Hungary. Coming to New York city in 1866,
he introduced a new process in the manufacture of whiskey, known in Europe as the
Fleischmann patent. Then, in 1868, with his brother Charles and the late James W.
Gaff, he engaged in the manufacture of compressed yeast in Cincinnati. While not at
all the inventor of the use of leaven, he did exercise ingenuity in preparing yeast in a
compact, convenient and available form, which immediately addressed itself to the favor
of the housewives of the country at large. The business grew to large proportions.
Mr. Gaff died in 1882, whereupon his widow became a silent partner in the firm until
1883. The firm then dissolved, and Charles and Maximilian Fleischmann succeeded.
One of the factories remained in Cincinnati, but Maximilian became a resident of New
York city, and took a deep interest in social and business affairs. He was a trustee for
Grammar Schools No. 27 and 82, and a member of the Produce Exchange, Merchants'
Exchange at Buffalo, and the Liederkranz and Republican Down Town clubs. He was
survived by his wife and five children.
EWALD FLEITMANN, importer, born in Schwerte, Westphalia, Dec. 5, 1846, was
educated in a college near Cologne, and in a Prussian cadet school, finishing at a
mercantile academy in Antwerp. In 1864, the young man arrived in New York city
from the fatherland, and established an importation of European silks and dry goods,
under the name of Fleitmann & Co. Their trade is now enormous, amounting nearly
to $10,000,000 a year Mr. Fleitmann is a splendid merchant and has identified him-
self closely with the interests of the city in which he dwells. He contributes to the
support of various institutions and is a member of the Colonial, Merchants', and Mer-
chants' Central clubs and the Deutsche Yerein, and a director of The Germania Life
Insurance Co. , The German Savings Bank and The Citizens' National Bank. By his
marriage with Miss Katherine Johanna Caesar of New Brighton, N. Y., in 1874, he has
two sons and four daughters.
BENJAMIN FLINT, ship owner and merchant, a native of Damariscotta, Me.,
born Dec. 13, 1813, died in Brooklyn, N. Y. , June 28, 1891. He was a son of Robert
Chapman and Lucinda Flint, the latter being a daughter of Dr. Thomas Flint, a surgeon
in the American Revolution, who, while serving on one occasion upon a privateer, was
captured by the British and taken to England. Benjamin Flint Chapman, by which
name he was first known, was adopted by his uncle, Benjamin Flint, a captain in the War
of 1812, and at the age of twenty-two, by act of the Maine Legislature, changed his
name to Benjamin Flint, in honor of his uncle. Trained to the art of a shipwright in
242 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
Thomaston, Me., he possessed a mind which speedily lifted him out of the ranks of
those who must spend their lives in manual labor. By investment of his earnings, he
was finally drawn into shipping. In 1840, with his brother, Isaac F. Chapman, he
formed the firm of Chapman & Flint, to conduct a general store in Damariscotta. In
1841, they built the bark Alabama, of 280 tons, and soon thereafter rose to prominence
as ship owners and general carriers in the ocean trade. For many years, the firm built
a vessel nearly every year, first in Thomaston, Me., but after 1868 in Bath, Me.,
increasing the size of their vessels year by year until they reached about 2,600 tons. In
i8?3, a younger brother, James F. Chapman, who had previously commanded several
of their vessels, removed to San Francisco to manage the business of the firm there, and
became part owner in many ships. Mr. Flint and Isaac F. Chapman removed to
Brooklyn, N. Y., in 1858, in order the better to manage their large fleet. The firm of
Chapman & Flint dissolved in 1880, and in 1886 Mr. Flint founded the firm of Flint &
Co., with his sons Charles R. and Wallace B. Flint, as partners, with offices at 86 Water
street. Their commission trade was mainly with South America, Mexico and the West
Indies. While in Thomaston, Mr. Flint and Mr. Chapman bought adjoining lots and
laid the foundation for houses exactly alike. In Brooklyn, they lived first in adjoining
houses on Fort Green Place, and later bought brown stone houses precisely alike in Oxford
street. During the Civil War, while Confederate cruisers were preying on American
ships at sea, the firm suspended shipbuilding for a while and constructed a row of
houses on one side of Montague Terrace in Brooklyn. Mr. Flint lived in the house at
one end of the row, Mr. Chapman, on the corner, at the other end. This property
afterward increased greatly in value. It is worthy of note that in thirty-five years, Mr.
Flint never lost a ship, nor did one of his fleet meet with a serious accident. Mr. Flint
was twice married, first to Sarah Toby, next to Frances E. Scribner. The latter sur-
vived him, with his two sons, Charles R. and Wallace B. Flint. Mr. Flint was a sound,
clear headed, and very capable man, of strong common sense, unbending integrity and
kindly nature. He was universally esteemed in the business world.
CHARLES RANLETT FLINT, merchant and financier, is one of the men of public
spirit, high character and exceptional ability, for whom this metropolis is indebted to
the State of Maine. He was born Jan. 24, 1850, in Thomaston, Me., and descends from
Thomas Flint, an immigrant from Wales in 1642, who settled in the village of Salem,
now South Danvers, Mass. Benjamin Flint, the father of Charles, was a shipowner,
who lived and built his vessels in Thomaston during the -early part of his career, and in
1858 moved to New York. Charles was educated first at the public schools of Thomaston
and Brooklyn, and at the private school of Warren Johnson in Topsham, Maine, and
graduated in 1868 from the Polytechnic of Brooklyn. An eager and popular student,
he was made president of his class and of the Polytechnic alumni.
He began his business career in New York city as a dock clerk, and later spent two
years as a clerk in a shipping and commission house, engaged in business with the West
Coast of South America. In 1871, he entered into the copartnership of Gilchrist, Flint
& Co., ship chandlers, and in February, 1872, he united with William R. Grace inform-
ing the firm of W. R. Grace & Co. In 1874, he visited the different countries of South
America, and, in 1876, he organized the firm of Grace Bro's & Co., in the City of
Callao, Peru. Mr. Flint remained on the West Coast nearly a year. Upon his return,
he was appointed Consul of Chili at New York; and during the absence of the Charg6
1
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. KL.
-.. was entrusted with the archives and" correspondence of the Chilian Legation
i States.
•
-78. Mr. Flint organized The Export Lumber Co., Limited, now one of the
il lumber concerns in the United Sutes, with yards in Michigan, Ottawa,
Portland, Boston and New York, and handling over 200,000,000 feet of
er year.
In 1880, he was elected president of Tho !.*r,it«v! State* Electric Lighting Co.
In 1884, Mr. Flint visited Brazil and establish*! u ;»?-.;,- --OO»T e.\ porting basir.ess
•ver Amazon. Two years later, in /886, he cor
ober in this country, and formed The New Vor« C»ryj..-r a Co which has -A
il of $2,500,000, and is now- • r in cn.iri - -,v « *hr wirW
>ut this time, he was ; for N M-. i rvrm-*
ry in negotiations which resulted in concessions being granted i<. AmeriracK *o
build the canal. He has also been; in recent years, the Consul «,<TK ^ .,: i ,,,:, -.•
in this country.
In 1883, Mr. Flint married M :mons, daughter of Jotepb F &».
of Troy, N. Y. Mrs. Flint is noted .ical ability. She ivi> -1-- ,^., !r!f
>ts from her musical compositions to cha ra the sale <,t the ' Racqmrt
Galop " endowed a permanent bed in St. Luke's Hospital.
In 1885, Mr. Flint retired from W. R. Grace & Co., and became a partner in the
now well known house of Flint & Co., then composed of his father, Benjamin, his
brother, Wallace B., and himself. This firm succeeded to the shipping b- ,tab-
by Benjamin Flint in 1840, and the lumber, rubber and general commission busi-
reated by Charles R. Flint. For many years, the firm have been large importers
uth American products and among the largest exporters of American products to
part of Latin America.
The financial ability of Mr. Flint has been exhibited during the last few rear* >>*
the consummation of several schemes of great importance. In i8ow he a*;
manufacturers of rubber boots and shoes in this country into one UT
•le of The United States Rubber Co., having a cafHtiJ -J *
/ration he became the treasurer
In 1892, he brought about a uai^n <,;
packing and. hose, under the title of Th< v , •
00,000, of which concern he is a directm
ring the winter of 1889-90. Mr. Flint w*s *$»0w>v^*'
i 'inference of American
aate knowledge of the resourt-es iui .
•n to render important sen-ices as a .
In a letter, the original of which is in the
ijf on the recognition of the new republic by the United oU":x >ecrtrtar> Hia
> Mr. Flint: " It is important that you return to V. . ; rf. . . ,s..>..;t.
.vs in the Conference are so valuable that we need you every h^ur, •;- -u -;i I
nuch of you to be here so constantly, for your large business dotaaads a
I of your attention. But just now it must be patriotism first and business
It was he who, as a member of the Committee on Banking, proposed the
International American Bank, with its headquarters in the United States and
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. FL. 243
d' Affaires, was entrusted with the archives and correspondence of the Chilian Legation
in the United States.
In 1878, Mr. Flint organized The Export Lumber Co., Limited, now one of the
most successful lumber concerns in the United States, with yards in Michigan, Ottawa,
Montreal, Portland, Boston and New York, and handling over 200,000,000 feet of
lumber per year.
In 1 880, he was elected president of The United States Electric Lighting Co.
In 1884, Mr. Flint visited Brazil and established a large rubber exporting business
on the river Amazon. Two years later, in 1 886, he consolidated the leading dealers in
crude rubber in this country, and formed The New York Commercial Co., which has a
capital of $2,500,000, and is now the largest dealer in crude rubber in the world.
About this time, he was appointed Consul for Nicaragua, and represented that
country in negotiations which resulted in concessions being granted to Americans to
build the canal. He has also been, in recent years, the Consul General of Costa Rica
in this country.
In 1883, Mr. Flint married Miss E. Kate Simmons, daughter of Joseph F. Sim-
mons of Troy, N. Y. Mrs. Flint is noted for her musical ability. She has devoted the
receipts from her musical compositions to charity, and from the sale of the ' ' Racquet
Galop " endowed a permanent bed in St. Luke's Hospital.
In 1885, Mr. Flint retired from W. R. Grace & Co., and became a partner in the
now well known house of Flint & Co., then composed of his father, Benjamin, his
brother, Wallace B. , and himself. This firm succeeded to the shipping business estab-
lished by Benjamin Flint in 1840, and the lumber, rubber and general commission busi-
ness, created by Charles R. Flint. For many years, the firm have been large importers
of South American products and among the largest exporters of American products to
even- part of Latin America.
The financial ability of Mr. Flint has been exhibited during the last few years by
the consummation of several schemes of great importance. In 1 89 v, he united the
manufacturers of rubber boots and shoes in this country into one large concern, under
the title of The United States Rubber Co., having a capital of $40,000,000. Of this
corporation he became the treasurer.
In 1892, he brought about a union of five companies manufacturing rubber belt-
ing, packing and. hose, under the title of The Mechanical Rubber Co., with a capital of
$15,000,000, of which concern he is a director.
During the winter of 1889-90, Mr. Flint was appointed a member of the Interna-
tional Conference of American Republics, which was held in the City of Washington.
His intimate knowledge of the resources and trade of the South American continent en-
abled him to render important services as a delegate of the United States to that Con-
ference. In a letter, the original of which is in the archives of the Republic of Brazil,
bearing on the recognition of the new republic by the United States, Secretary Blaine
wrote to Mr. Flint: "It is important that you return to Washington.as soon as possible.
Your services in the Conference are so valuable that we need you every hour, though I
am asking much of you to be here so constantly, for your large business demands a
great deal of your attention. But just now it must be patriotism first and business
afterward." It was he who, as a member of the Committee on Banking, proposed the
idea of an International American Bank, with its headquarters in the United States and
244 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
branches in all the other republics. His recommendations were ratified by the Confer-
ence, heartily endorsed by Secretary Elaine and President Harrison, and by the latter
pressed upon the attention of Congress. As a member of the Committee on Customs
Regulations, he proposed the organization of a Bureau of American Republics to carry
out the vote of the Conference in favor of a uniform system of statistics and the exten-
sion of trade between the Republics. This proposition was favorably received, and has
since been carried out by the governments represented in the Conference.
After the adjournment of the Conference, at the request of Secretary Elaine, Mr.
Flint served as the confidential agent of the United States in negotiating the reciprocity
treaty with Brazil, the first one which was effected under the Aldrich amendment to the
McKinley bill. This work was successfully accomplished. It provided for the conces-
sion of tariff duties on American products in Brazil, lower than those imposed by that
republic upon kindred products from all other countries. This treaty was the key to
the reciprocity situation. It became at once the basis of other treaties with American
Republics. It proved of especial value in the negotiations with Spain. Our Spanish
neighbor was reluctant at first to open Cuba and Porto Rico to American products, but
was, by force of the free admission of sugar from Brazil to this country, finally compelled
to agree to a treaty by which American manufactures, flour and provisions were admitted
to those islands at greatly reduced and special rates of duty, in consideration of our
admitting their sugar free.
At the time of the trouble between Chili and the United States, the large influence
of Mr. Flint led Secretary Elaine to invite him to take part in the efforts for a friendly
and peaceful adjustment of the question at issue. In response to a telegram from Mr.
Blaine, Mr. Flint visited the city of Washington. There he learned that the Chilian
complication was drifting into a position where the relations of friendship and good will
between two American republics, which had been so cordially expressed at the Inter-
national Conference, were in danger of being interrupted. Mr. Blaine said that while
the United States would be able to force Chili into submission, yet he felt that it would
be a more gracious action if the differences between the two countries could be arranged
upon the more advanced plane of arbitration. The whole matter was then in such a
delicate position, that it was not convenient for the Secretary of State to speak officially.
Mr. Flint promptly called on the Brazilian Minister, Dr. Mendonca, who said that, if
desired by the United States, he would telegraph to his government, suggesting that
Brazil offer her services as a mediator. Mr. Flint suggested that Dr. Mendonca might
render even a more friendly service, by making the suggestion to his government on
his own responsibility. The result was that Dr. Mendonca cabled at once, and advised
that Brazil offer her services to Chili and the United States, in a settlement by arbitra-
tion under American international law. Brazil graciously complied with this sugges-
tion and tendered her good offices.
During the Da G~ama rebellion in Brazil, Mr. Flint became the agent of President
Peixoto in the purchase of vessels and munitions of war. The energy with which he
discharged his duties in this crisis was remarkable. He purchased the Ericsson
Destroyer and the swift yachts Feiseen and Javelin, and caused the latter two to be
converted promptly into torpedo boats. El Cid, a steam merchant steamer of 4,600
tons displacement, came into port Oct. 26, 1893, was discharged, placed in dry dock,
and fitted out with a pneumatic dynamite gun, 22 rapid fire guns, and four torpedo
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. FO. 247
had moved, he graduated from Harvard College in 1822 and then became principal of
the High School in Biddeford, Me. Studying law while teaching, he practiced for a
while in Worcester, Mass., and moved to New York city about 1840. In 1841, he
married Margaret, daughter of Benjamin Winthrop, and had three children, Margaret
Winthrop, Helen Stuyvesant, and George Winthrop Folsom. Mr. Folsom was a very
able man. His practice was large and lucrative, and his strength of character, purity
and soundness of judgment, made him a desirable companion. A member of the State
Senate in 1846, and Minister to the Netherlands under President Taylor, he was also a
writer, and published a history of Saco, Me. , and delivered numerous addresses before
historical societies in New York, Massachusetts, Maine and Vermont. He owned a
country home at Brattleboro, Vt., his town house being on Stuyvesant Square. An
extensive traveller both in Europe and the East, and a reader of the best books, he
was a brilliant talker, and by his geniality and hospitality gained a large number of
friends both in his own country and Europe. He was president of The New York
Ethnological Society, the Athenaeum club, and The Citizens' Savings Bank.
JOHN ROSS FORD, merchant, born June 21, 1817, in New Jersey, is a son of the
late Josiah Ford, a Judge of Middlesex county courts. His lineage runs back to a
pioneer, who came from England about 1600. Mr. Ford attended the school of Mr.
Spaulding in New Brunswick, where William H. Vanderbilt, Henry Richmond,
Charles D. Deshler and other distinguished men also gained a portion of their educa-
tion. Early in life, he entered the dry goods store of C. Smith & Co. , on Maiden Lane
in this city, and, before attaining his majority, engaged in the dry goods business for
himself in New Brunswick. In 1844, he embarked in the manufacture of rubber goods in
the firm of Ford & Co., which he incorporated, April i, 1853, as The Ford Rubber Co.
Mr. Ford was the first to aid Mr. Goodyear in introducing the manufacture of rubber
goods and in establishing the Goodyear patent. Previous to 1840, India rubber had
little commercial value, but following Charles Goodyear's wonderful discovery of a pro-
cess to harden rubber, there developed a business of immense value in this country and
Europe. Goodyear's patent was obtained about 1842. Soon after its value became
known, other persons claimed to have accomplished what he did. Goodyear was unable
to defend his rights; and four out of six companies, which had been organized to
manufacture rubber, united to carry the case to the highest courts. These were L.
Candee& Co., The Ford Rubber Co., now known as The Meyer Rubber Co., The
Newark India Rubber Co., and The Hayward Rubber Co. The contest in court
lasted for years, those fighting it doing so with money made in violating the patent.
Great lawyers took part on both sides of the case, Rufus Choate and Francis B.
Cutting for the defendant, Daniel Webster and James T. Brady for the patentees.
This was Webster's last case in court, and his great argument secured a decision for
Mr. Goodyear. Of all the persons involved, Mr. Ford is believed to be the only sur-
vivor. He yet retains his investment in the rubber industry. Mr. Ford is a director
of The Home Insurance Co., The New York Mutual Gas Light Co., The Manhattan
Trust Co., and The Meyer Rubber Co., and has resigned from a number of other cor-
porations. One of the soundest merchants of the city, his character above reproach.
He shares the public spirit of his colleagues of the Union League club, of which he is
one of the original members, and has in many ways shown himself a sterling and useful
citizen, especially by large contributions to charities. Mr. Ford was married Aug. 14,
248 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
1844, to Elizabeth, daughter of James Bishop of New Brunswick, and their surviving
children are James B. Ford, treasurer of The Meyer Rubber Co.; J. Howard Ford,
president of The Meyer Rubber Co. ; and Harriet, wife of Dr. Everett Herrick of New
York. Mr. Ford's second wife is Mrs. Elizabeth M. Horner of this city, to whom he
was married in 1875.
QEORQE JAMES FORREST, railroad president, a native of New York city, born
on Pearl street, Nov. 27, 1810, died on West 22d street, May 18, 1889. Robert Forrest,
his father, a ship master, came from the Eastern Shore of Maryland in 1810, and com-
manded the privateer Three Brothers, of which he was the owner of a third, in the War
of 1812, suffering" capture and a long imprisonment, thereafter returning to New York
city. George was educated in the schools of New York, and began life in 1829 in
Alabama, near Montgomery, as a merchant. In 1837, he removed to New Orleans and
became a member of the firm of W. P. Converse & Co. While in Alabama the Legis-
lature appointed him, in 1834, a director of The State Bank of Alabama. After 1848,
he became a merchant in New York city, dealing in cotton. As he gained wealth, he
acquired an interest in corporations, partly in association with Commodore Garrison,
whose power of attorney he held after the death of W. R. Garrison, the Commodore's
son. Mr. Forrest was president of The Wheeling & Lake Erie Railroad, vice president
of The New York & Northern Railroad, director in several other traffic enterprises, and
president of The New York Loan & Improvement Co. He served as Commisoner of
Emigration and was president of the Board, a number of years. Punctual, energetic,
upright and a familiar figure in Wall street, his death removed a highly respected man.
The Union, Century and St. Nicholas clubs claimed him as a member. In 1835, Mr.
Forrest was married to Sarah A., daughter of Charles Hooks, a planter and State Sen-
ator in Alabama, and left three children, Molton H. Forrest, of Philadelphia; Charles
R. Forrest, of Hartford, Conn., and Mrs. George Z. Gray, wife of Dean Gray, of Cam-
bridge, Mass.
CHARLES BARNARD FOSDICK, merchant, was born in New York city, Aug. 31,
1824. His father, Capt. William Fosdick, was of Huguenot extraction. Charles -pre-
pared for Wesleyan University but was obliged to earn his own support early in life.
He made a start in a shipping and commission house in New York at the age of twelve,
and at fifteen was made bookkeeper. At the age of eighteen, he was called to take
charge of the business of his dying brother-in-law, assumed control, and has continued
it since. In 1853, he became a partner in the firm of W. R. Fosdick & Co., leather
merchants and tanners on Spruce street, and in 1864 succeeded to the head of the con-
cern. Mr. Fosdick has operated tanneries in Fulton and Hamilton counties, N. Y. , and
sold the leather at his store in this city, which is one of the landmarks on Spruce
street. In 1871, the firm of Charles B. Fosdick & Son, was organized by him, and
after a very successful career has now retired and is liquidating its affairs. During
three years, he was president of The Hide & Leather National Bank, and is now vice
president of The Second National Bank and director and treasurer of The Fifth Avenue
Safe Deposit Co. and The Hamilton Bank, treasurer of The Training School for Nurses,
member of the executive committee of the Union League club, member of the City
club, trustee of The Homoeopathic Hospital, and vestryman of The Church of the Incar-
nation. Although never in public office, he served his fellow citizens eight successive
years after 1884 as foreman of the grand jury. He had the honor to serve on the
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. FR. 249
famous grand jury which, in 1885, indicted the "boodle" aldermen, and on the later
grand jury which, in 1889, acted upon the case of Sheriff Flack. Mr. Fosdick married,
June 5, 1884, Mary E., daughter of David T. Baldwin. This union brought them. one
child, Charles Baldwin Fosdick, who died April 25, 1894.
FRANCIS PARKMAN FREEMAN, banker and broker, born Jan. 27, 1827, in
Boston, Mass., is descended from Edmund Freeman, a resident of Sandwich, Mass.,
who came from England in 1635 and was vice Governor of Plymouth Colony, 1640-47.
Francis was educated in New York city. After nine years' experience as clerk in a
French importing house in Maiden Lane, he started a successful trade of his own in the
same line. In 1873, at the request of Commodore Vanderbilt, Mr. Freeman opened a
brokerage office in Exchange Place, and was the principal broker of the Commodore
during the remainder of the latter's life, and represented William H. Yanderbilt in the
same capacity during the nine years in which he survived his father. Mr. Freeman
yet enjoys the confidence and business of some of the present generation of Vander-
bilts. He is a director of The New York & Harlem Railroad and one of the organizers
of The Lincoln National Bank and Lincoln Safe Deposit Co. Mr. Freeman, after a
residence in New York city from 1829 to 1890, built a home in Lakewood, and now
dwells there during eight months of the year, spending the four summer months in
Newport. He is a member of the Down Town club of New York city and of The
New England Society, and is connected with The Metropolitan Museum of Art, and
The American Museum of National History. May 2, 1860, he was married on Staten
Island to Louisa Morgan Dustan, daughter of Captain Isaac and Phebe Ann Dustan
and a great niece of Commodore Vanderbilt. Their only living child is Frank Morgan
Freeman, who married a daughter of Adrian H. Muller, jr., and is his father's sole
partner and a member of the Stock Exchange. President Cleveland is a descendant of
the fifth child of Edmund Freeman, founder of the Freeman family.
LEONARD FRIEDMAN, leaf tobacco merchant, a native of Burgkundtstadt,
Bavaria, born Oct. 26, 1845, is a son of a highly respected cloth manufacturer, whose
ancestors had lived for several centuries in Burgkundtstadt. Leonard came to
America while a youth, and finished his education in Cincinnati, O. His first business
experience was in the trade in leaf tobacco in the West. Coming then to New York,
he took the place of clerk for Robert S. Walter, who gave the latter a partnership in
1872. This was the foundation of the present firm of Leonard Friedman & Co., formed
in 1876, of which Mr. Friedman has always been senior partner. He has been exceed-
ingly prosperous and makes a specialty of Sumatra tobacco, which he imports in large
quantities. He is a director of The Columbia Bank and a member of the Harmonic
and Progress clubs and numerous Hebrew charitable societies. Mr. Friedman was
married Dec. 26, 1876, to a cousin, the daughter of Martin Friedman, and has no
children. He has travelled extensively and is a well informed man.
DUDLEY B. FULLER, manufacturer, born in Rutland, Vt., Dec. 22, 1800, died
in New York city, May 18, 1868. He was a direct descendant of Samuel Fuller, a
Pilgrim in the Mayflower. About 1825 he came to New York city and entered the
firm of Varnum, Fuller & Co., dry goods merchants, at 165 Pearl street. In 1831, he
married Mary, daughter of Luman Reed, an eminent merchant and art patron. In
1846, he engaged in iron manufacturing, and in 1852 became the principal owner of
The Boonton, N. J., Iron Works, which his firm of Dudley B. Fuller & Co., and
250 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
Fuller, Lord & Co., operated successfully up to the time of his death. Mr. Fuller was
one of the founders and original members of the Century club, having been a member
of the Sketch club, from which, in 1846, arose the Century. He was also a member of
the Union club and a director of various institutions. Elected in 1863 a trustee of The
New York Life Insurance Co., he served until his death. His uprightness of character,
genial disposition and cordial manners won for him the love and respect of all. His
wife and several children survived him.
GEORGE WASHINGTON FULLER, broker, born in this city, May 20, 1830, died
here Dec. 21, 1892. His father, Ebenezer Fuller, was a merchant. Mr. Fuller, when
sixteen years of age, entered the sugar firm of Moller & Co., in Front street, as a
clerk, and soon became a partner, remaining with the firm until 1868 when he became
a member of C. L. Cammann & Co., stock brokers. He remained a broker until 1886,
when he retired. He then opened an office on Wall street, and later on Broad street,
After 1886, he did little active business. Sept. 2, 1857, Mr. Fuller married Elizabeth,
a daughter of Peter Pinckney, formerly president of The Bowery Insurance Co. , and
leaves a daughter, Ella F., who is the wife of William D. Guthrie, and a son, William
W. Fuller. He was a member of the Union League, Racquet, Down Town, New York,
Country, and New York Athletic clubs, and the Chamber of Commerce.
CHRISTIAN FREDERICK PUNCH, merchant, born in Copenhagen, Denmark, in
1820, died at the German club in this city, Dec. 8, 1879. His father was at one time
Consul for Denmark in Algiers. Christian was well educated, and began life as
clerk in a Danish shipping house in Algiers. He was capable, rose to higher positions,
and in 1847, came to New York city, where he established the commission shipping
house of Punch, Meinecke & Wendt, which reorganized in 1869 as Punch, Edye & Co.,
and became prominent as ship brokers and commission merchants. Mr. Punch never
lost his affection for his native land and spent much time in Copenhagen. He was a
member of the Chamber of Commerce and the Produce Exchange and one of the most
prominent managers of the Maritime Association, and belonged to several Scandinavian
institutions. There were usually from fifty to one hundred and fifty ships in New York
harbor, Scandinavian, German and Italian, consigned to Punch, Edye & Co. His only
son was John Christian Punch of this city.
WILLIAM P. FURNISS, merchant, born over a century ago, in Portsmouth, N. H.,
died at his home on West looth street in this city, Oct. 29, 1871. He came from an old New
England family, and inherited the enterprise and excellent qualities of his race. At the
age of twenty-one, he began business for himself on the Island of St. Thomas as a shipping
and commission merchant, acting as naval agent for the United States Government for
many years. His enterprise was successful, and he rose to high social and financial
position, entertaining at his own house the most eminent visitors of all nations. His
correspondence extended to all parts of the globe. He finally came to New York and
invested his means in real estate with so much judgment that the increase of population
added large value to his properties. Among his possessions was the Globe Hotel.
Even before the war, he ranked among the leading property owners of the city. A
Free Mason of high degree, and very benevolent, his charities were as generous as they
were private. He married a lady from Pennsylvania, and was the father of Leon, Hart-
man K. , now deceased, William, Sophia R. C. , Clementina and Margaret E. Furniss.
G.
ERNEST QABLER, manufacturer, born in Glogau, Germany, Jan. i, 1824, died
in New York city, Feb. 27, 1883. While not so famous as several other of the piano
manufacturers of New York, he was a very successful man, and by quiet and persever-
ing industry gained an excellent fortune. He came to America in 1852, and two years
later began the making of pianofortes. The factory is now on East 22d street, and a
large establishment. When his brother Emil became a partner, he adopted the firm
name of Ernest Gabler & Bro., which is yet retained. His wife, one son, and several
daughters inherit his property.
THOMAS W. GALE, merchant, a native of Goshen, N. Y., died in New York
city, May 14, 1880, at the age of ninety. Coming to New York while a young man, he
became a partner in one of the pioneer wholesale grocery houses of this city, long
known as Wisner, Gale & Co. They lost their store in the great fire of 1835. ^r-
Gale was a bachelor, and so were his partners, Gabriel Wisner, and Mr. Gale's twin
brother, Benjamin. Mr. Wisner died about 1847, and Mr. Gale then retired with a
fortune, which he increased afterward by investments, largely in securities of various
railroads. He was a veteran of the War of 1812, and for fifteen years was a director
of The Erie Railroad, and for along time a director of The Phoenix National Bank and
The Howard Fire Insurance Co., and had large interests in railroad securities.
ALBERT ROLAZ GALLATIN, banker, son of Albert Gallatin, United States
Senator and Secretary of the Treasury under President Jefferson, born in 1800, died
in this city, Feb. 25, 1890. His mother was a daughter of James Nicholson, first
Commodore of the United States Navy. Educated at Princeton College, the young
man was admitted to the bar in Uniontown, Pa , near New Geneva, a town founded
by his father. The law did not greatly attract him, however, and he abandoned prac-
tice, removing to New York, where he entered Wall street as one of the first members
of the Board of Brokers. At one time, he transacted business with John Jacob Astor.
He had an extended acquaintance among public men, and accompanied his father to
France in 1815, and to England in 1826, when the latter was American Minister to those
countries, and became the personal friend of the Duke of Wellington and many of the
leaders of the French Revolution. Mr. Gallatin inherited means, was the proprietor of
much real estate in the city, and during his life honored the city of his home by his
sterling character, public spirit, and excellent example. The names of his three sons
are, Albert H., Frederick, and James Gallatin, the latter now deceased.
JAMES GALLATIN, banker, son of Albert Gallatin, once Secretary of the
Treasury, died in Paris, Mass., May 28, 1876, at the age of eighty. During his earlier
life he dealt in stocks in Wall street, in partnership with his brother, Albert R. Gallatin,
but in 1838 succeeded his father as president of The Gallatin Bank, and then gave up
even-thing which would interfere with the management of this family institution. He
held the position for thirty years, acquitting himself with credit, and retired in 1868,
thereafter spending his time in Europe. Although prominent he never held public
office. His wife, Josephine, and several grand children survived him.
252 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
ROBERT MACY QALLAWAY, merchant and banker, born in New York city,
Aug. 4, 1837, is of Scottish descent, the Gallaways having come to America in 1800.
His father, Daniel Ayres Gallaway, was engaged in the iron business, and educated
his son at Yale College, whence he graduated in the class of 1858. The young man
then found occupation as clerk in his father's store and has since been actively engaged
both in mercantile pursuits and as an officer of corporations. He was elected president
of The Merchants' National Bank in January, 1892, and has since conducted the affairs
of this institution with prudence and success. By reason of his active part in the
development of the elevated railroad system of the city, he served as vice president
under William R. Garrison and Jay Gould for eleven years. He is now a director of
The Manhattan Railway, The United States Rubber Co. , The Bank of New Amsterdam,
and The Bowery Savings Bank. Mr. Gallaway was married in 1868, to Miss Elizabeth
A., daughter of Dr. Merrill W. Williams, and their children are, Merrill W., John M.,
and Mary. He has long been prominent and is a member of the Union League,
Metropolitan, and Riding clubs, the New England Society and St. Andrew's Society.
THOflAS GARNER, manufacturer, who died in this city, Oct. 16, 1867, in his
seventieth year, was one of the best known and most successful business men of New
York during the first part of the present century. At an early age, in partnership
with his brother, James, he began the sale of dry goods in this city, but from insuffici-
ent capital failed in 1832, afterward paying his obligations in full and re-establishing
himself within a few years. His conduct in this matter was an indication of his char-
acter, Mr. Garner being everywhere esteemed for his business probity and his upright
life. He attained distinction through his energetic and successful efforts to establish
the cotton manufacturing industry in this country. Little by little, he extended his
enterprise in this direction until his factories had grown to enormous proportions.
He owned large mills in Cohoes, Rochester, Little Falls, Pleasant Valley and New-
burgh, N. Y., and Reading. Pa., as well as print works at Wappinger's Falls and
Haverstraw, N. Y. The product of these mills was marketed by the commission house
of Garner & Co., in New York city. Mr. Garner gained a fortune of several millions,
which descended to his wife, Harriet, and their children, Thomas and William T.
Garner, and Mrs. Josephine A. Graham, Mrs. Frances A. Lawrence and Mrs. Anna
James. He gave $100,000 in his will to public institutions. Thomas died shortly after
his father. The great business of Garner & Co. is yet conducted by trustees of the
estate, who are at present John J. Lawrance and Adrian Iselin. — His son, WILLIAfl T.
GARNER, born in 1840, lost his life July 20, 1876, in consequence of the capsizing of
his yacht, the schooner Mohawk, during a squall in New York harbor. He was care-
fully educated and then associated himself with the affairs of Garner & Co. At his
father's death, he became executor of the estate and senior partner in Garner & Co. ,
and managed the widespread and varied interests of the firm with such prudence,
energy and sagacity, that he gained a fortune twice as large as his father's. Mr.
Garner made an heroic effort to rescue his wife, Mary Marcellite, from the cabin of the
Mohawk, when the yacht capsized, and both perished together. Their daughters were,
Florence, now Lady Gordon-Cumming, Adele, who died at the age of four, and another.
CORNELIUS KINGSLAND GARRISON, railroad president, born near West Point,
N. Y., March i, 1809, died in this city, May i, 1885. He sprang from families who
were among the earliest settlers of the Island of Manhattan. Compelled to seek
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. GA. 253
employment at the age of thirteen, the family having lost their modest fortune, for
three years the lad found occupation in the boats navigating the Hudson river. Every
winter, when the river was closed by ice, he attended school. At the age of sixteen,
he came to New York for three years of study of architecture, and during the next five
years lived in Canada engaged in planning buildings and construction of lake steam-
boats. He rose to be superintendent of The Upper Canada Co., in those days an im-
portant corporation. Then he found occupation at St. Louis and in the vicinity of New
Orleans. When gold was discovered in California, Mr. Garrison established a bank in
Panama, which was successful. In 1852, he came to New York city to open a branch
bank here, but accepted an offer of the San Francisco agency of The Nicaragua Steam-
ship Co. , at a salary of $60, ooo a year. Removing to San Francisco, he established the
bank of Garrison & Fritz, represented several large insurance companies, managed the
steamship line, and became first Mayor of that city, and served practically without com-
pensation, giving his salary to the local orphan asylums. After 1859, he made his home
in Xew York city. Here he became extensively interested in steamship lines to South
America and the Isthmus, acquiring therefrom the soubriquet of Commodore, and also
in railroads on the Coast. During the War, he espoused the cause of the Union with
enthusiasm. Butler's Ship Island expedition was initiated by him. The old steamship
line to Brazil, founded by him, was an illustration of his courage and enterprise. At
one time, these ships were the only steamers afloat, carrying the Stars and Stripes
in the foreign trade of the United States. A few years before his death, he disposed of
his maritime interests. He aided in building the railroad to the Pacific, and became
controlling owner of The Missouri Pacific Railroad, when the line was sold under fore-
closure in 1876. He finally sold his interest to Jay Gould. He was also largely inter-
ested in the elevated roads of this city. The surviving children of Mr. Garrison and
Letitia W. , his wife, were William R. Garrison, now deceased, and Catharine M , wife
of Barrett Van Auken. A public spirited man, remarkable for his powerful physique,
rugged energy, and unbending integrity, he was one of those who contributed greatly
to advancing the interests of the metropolis.
EPHRAIM CHURCH GATES, lumberman, born in Hubbardston, Mas*., March 28,
1817, comes from old New England stock. His ancestors were English, and his grand-
father, Asa Church, served in the commissary department in the American Revolution.
His father, Salmon Gates, moved with his family, in 1823, from Hubbardston, Mass,
to Calais, Me., which place he had visited as early as 1807, and thereafter was one of
the active business men of Milltown, which was in his time the principal part of Calais.
Ephraim attended the grammar schools of the town and for two terms the Washington
Academy in Machias. He then found employment with his father, who was developing
the lumber industry of the St. Croix river, then a new interest, and in 1840, having
saved a little capital, began manufacturing lumber for himself, this industry being the
source of the prosperity of this frontier city. For thirty-five years, 1847-82, he was
the leading spirit of the lumber firm of Gates & Wentworth, in partnership with his
brother in law, the Hon. Giles M. Wentworth. He became, by purchase, a large owner
of timber lands in the counties of Washington and Penobscot, Me., and York, N. B.
In 1849, Mr. Gates manufactured and sold to a lumber yard in Mott Haven, New York
city, the first cargo of spruce lumber ever landed on the east side of the Harlem river.
For sixteen years, he continued to sell lumber to this )'ard, which is on i38th street,
254 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
and in 1865 bought the yard, which he placed under charge of his son, Church
Ephraim Gates, then fresh from the Union army. This proved a fortunate venture.
After the death of his son, Mr. Gates carried on the yard alone, being aided in the
management by John F. Steeves, imder the old name of Church E. Gates & Co., until
1889, when he admitted Henry H. Barnard and Bradley L. Eaton, his sons in law, and
John F. Steeves, as partners. The same year he sold his interests in Maine to H. F.
Eaton & Sons and removed to Harlem, where he now dwells. He owns a large
interest in The Old Dominion Lumber Co. , whose shipping point is Norfolk, Va. By
his marriage, Dec. i, 1839, to Vashti Randall Pickens, daughter of Leonard Pickens,
he became the father of four children, Church Ephraim Gates, now deceased; Lucy,
wife of Henry H. Barnard; Vashti, wife of Bradley L. Eaton; and one son who died
in infancy. Mr. Gates is a member of the Harlem club and the Calais club of Calais
and a man of conspicuous excellence of character.
JAMES WATSON GERARD, lawyer, born in this city in 1794, died in New York,
Feb. 7, 1874. He was a descendant of French Huguenots, who fled to Scotland after
the revocation of the Edict of Nantes. Before the American Revolution, his father,
William, came to New York city and lived to become a reputable merchant, but left
his family with moderate means. James graduated with honor from Columbia College
in 1811, studied law in the office of George Griffin, and entered upon practice while
quite young. His abilities soon gave him a leading position in the profession. He
enjoyed a long and successful practice, during which he strove with all his power to
elevate the standard of the profession. When he retired in 1868, his brethren of the
law gave him a banquet at Delmonico's, which was attended by many prominent mem-
bers of the bench and bar. His marriage with Eliza, daughter of Governor Increase
Sumner of Massachusetts, brought him three children, James W. , Elizabeth Sumner
Wiggin, and Julietta Ann. Mrs. Gerard died in 1866. The House of Refuge was
built mainly through Mr. Gerard's influence and the efficiency of the police force was
greatly improved. The adoption of uniforms for the police grew out of his advocacy
of the measure. For many years, he identified himself with the public school interests
of his city, and rendered efficient service as inspector of schools. A nomination for
Congress and another for Judge of the Superior Court were declined by him.
ELBRIDQE THOMAS GERRY, lawyer, a native of this city, was born Dec. 25,
1837. His family was planted in this country in 1730, by Thomas Gerry of Newton,
England, merchant, who settled in Marblehead, Mass., and .whose son, Elbridge Gerry,
a man of marked abilities, served his country as a member of the Continental Congress, a
Signer of the Declaration of Independence, and Vice President of the United States.
The subject of this sketch is a grandson of Elbridge and son of Thomas R. Gerry, a
naval officer. His mother, Hannah, was a sister of Peter and Robert Goelet. The
subject of this sketch lost his father by death, when the lad was seven years of age.
He gained a good education, graduating from Columbia College in 1857, and delivering
the German salutatory oration. He then studied law with William Curtis Noyes, was
admitted to the bar in 1866, and formed a partnership with Mr. Noyes, and later with
William F. Allen, Justice of the Court of Appeals, and Benjamin Vaughn Abbott, the
law book author. For many years he was actively occupied with the laborious duties
of an extensive practice, being retained in many famous cases. In 1867, he served the
State as a member of the Convention to revise the State Constitution. Dec. 3, 1867,
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. GI. 255
he was married to Louisa M., daughter of Robert J. Livingston and great grand-
daughter of Morgan Lewis, once Chief Justice and Governor of New York. A large
income from his law practice and a fortune inherited from the Goelets have left Mr.
Gerry free to promote important philanthropic enterprises, and he has been prominent
in this work for over thirty years. He has secured, in behalf of The Society for the
Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the principal part of the legislation of the State on
this subject. In 1874, he was conspicuous in founding The Society for the Prevention
of Cruelty to Children, and since 1879, has been its president. The present system of
execution by electricity is due to a report, made by a commission appointed in 1886, of
which he was a member. Mr. Gerry has long been actively identified with yachting in
its higher forms, and was Commodore of the famous New York Yacht club, 1885-93,
during several historic international yacht races. He is a prominent figure in the
social life of the city, and a member of the Metropolitan, Knickerbocker, Manhattan,
Bar, Riding, Players', Merchants', Country, Atlantic Yacht, New York Yacht, and
Larchmont Yacht clubs. He also belongs to the New England Society and is a patron
of the annual Patriarchs' ball.
JOHN GIBB, merchant, a native of Scotland, was born March 14, 1829. He was
educated at the local parish school and in Montrose academy, and then, at the age of
fourteen, set his face bravely toward the task of fitting himself for a business career.
He was so anxious to learn that, as an apprentice, he entered a small dry goods
store in Montrose, where, in return for the privilege of acquiring what knowledge he
could about textures, colors and the business generally, he performed all the drudgery
for four years, without pay. At the age of eighteen, having finished the first labori-
ous stage of his business education, Mr. Gibb travelled to London, arriving there an
utter stranger and feeling somewhat lost in the whirl and excitement of the great
metropolis. After a few days' search, however, he found employment in a large retail
dry goods establishment. Here, he toiled at the duties assigned to him from early
morning until eleven and twelve o'clock at night. Eighteen months of this sufficed
for the young man, although it aided to develop the energy with which nature had
abundantly endowed him ; and he then greatly improved his position by securing a
clerkship in the largest wholesale lace house in London. The duties here were more
congenial, and previous training made him a valued accession to the house. The firm
advanced him rapidly.
In June, 1850, under engagement with J. R. Jaffray & Co. of London, Mr. Gibb
came to America and took charge of one of the departments in their New York house.
In this establishment, he repeated his success in London. No day was too long, no
work too hard for him, and promotion followed rapidly, although this was not sufficient
to retain Mr. Gibb in a subordinate position. He was determined to become a mer-
chant on his own account; and having, by diligent industry and strict economy, made
and saved enough money for the purpose, he went into partnership with Philo L.
Mills, a fellow clerk, under the firm name of Mills & Gibb, in 1865. The two men
signed their articles of co-partnership on the day of the surrender of General Lee and
began business in a store at No. 44 White street.
The new firm made a specialty of laces and goods of like character, which they
imported from Europe, and threw so much energy and good judgment into their
operations, that they met with success from the start. The business grew to large
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. GI.
257
proportions in the space of a few years and has since extended to every part of the
United States. In 1880, the handsome seven story building on the northeast corner
of Broadway and Grand street, erected for Mills & Gibb, was occupied by them. In
the division of the labor of the house, Mr. Mills lives in Europe, while Mr. Gibb has
had the sole management of the trade in the United States.
Upon his arrival in America in 1850, Mr. Gibb established his home in Brooklyn,
and has been a resident of that city ever since. He was married in 1852. Eleven
children have been born to him, of whom all except one are living, all of his sons being
in business with him. He has always closely identified himself closely with the affairs
of Brooklyn. In this respect, his practice differs from that of many merchants, who
regard Brooklyn merely as a residence section of the metropolis and fail to interest
themselves in the great financial and industrial interests of the city. Mr. Gibb is a
director of The Brooklyn Trust Co., trustee of The Adelphi Academy and The Young
Men's Christian Association, and a member of the Hamilton, Brooklyn, Crescent,
and Riding & Driving clubs. His public spirit has greatly endeared him to his fellow
citizens. In 1887, Mr. Gibb added to his mercantile interests by acquiring a controlling
ownership in the retail dry goods firm of Frederick Loeser & Co., in Brooklyn, and this
extensive establishment has since been managed with great success by Mr. Gibb and his
son Howard. The store is now one of the largest dry goods bazaars in the United States.
Mr. Gibb is fond of home life and domestic in his tastes and habits. The family
occupy a spacious home on Gates avenue in Brooklyn, and during the summer time
dwell in a beautifully located country seat at Islip, Great South Bay, on the ocean front
of Long Island. While Mr. Gibb works hard during the hours of business, he also
rests with equal vigor during the hours of relaxation, and spends two days in every
week during the summer time fishing and sailing in his yacht, the Bonnie Doon. His
success is due to early training, the power of performing a vast amount of work, intel-
ligent and upright methods, and sound judgment.
GEORGE YATES GILBERT, lawyer and lumberman, born in Gilbertsville, Otsego
county, X. Y., March 26, 1815, died at the Victoria Hotel in New York city, April 29,
1888. He was a descendant of John Gilbert and his wife, Marv Hill (the latter a relative
of the celebrated Rowland Hill, the divine,) of Middleton, near Yarmouth, Warwickshire,
England. To John Gilbert were born four children, of whom the oldest was Abijah,
born in December, 1747, who was destined, forty years later, in 1787, to find a home for
his race in the new world and to be the first settler and founder of the village of Gilberts-
ville, X. Y. At the age of fourteen, he was the male head of his family, and at twenty-
nine, married Mary Yates and lived at Xuneaton in Warwickshire, where he owned
lands and did much to aid the poor. On arriving in America, he visited relatives of his
wife in Xew Jersey, where he met and became the staunch friend of General Morris,
who assigned to him a grant of 1,000 acres of land in Otsego county, for which Mr.
Gilbert paid him ,£571 sterling, before ever having seen the land. He very shortly
doubled his holdings by the purchase of contiguous properties. Decided in char-
acter but of courteous manners, he was known as Esquire Gilbert, and recorded in all
the deeds as "gentleman." He died in 1811, leaving a large family. The oldest son,
Joseph T. Gilbert, known as Deacon Gilbert, was a man of iron will, prominent in his
county. George Yates Gilbert, the subject of this memoir, his fifth son, was educated
at Hamilton and Yale colleges, graduating from the latter in 1837 in the same class with
258 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
William M. Evarts and Chief Justice Waite. He was one of the charter members of
the Yale chapter of the Delta Kappa Phi fraternity. Afterward, he went to New York,
where he practiced law with John D. Sherwood. In 1853, he became vice president of
The Eau Claire Lumber Co., in Eau Claire, Wis. , a position which he held for ten
years. It was a highly successful undertaking. On retiring from its active manage-
ment in 1869, Mr. Gilbert returned to Gilbertsville, where he erected the residence
called "The Hall," now owned and occupied by his only daughter, Marion. The latter
has been twice married, first to James Armstrong Murray of England, and after his
demise to Thomas Swinyard, formerly managing director of The Great Western Rail-
way of Canada, and The Detroit & Milwaukee Railway, and now president of The
Dominion Telegraph Co. Though Mr. Gilbert took a deep interest in politics, he
declined all overtures made to him to accept office. He was a staunch Republican, and
his career was especially marked by uprightness of character and a strong sense of
justice and generosity. He married Mary, daughter of Jabez Fitch, of Marshall, Mich.,
and left one son, Fitch Gilbert, a resident of Eau Claire, and one daughter, the elder
of the two, who succeeded to the estate in Gilbertsville.
PETER QILSEY, an old time merchant, born in Hobro, Province of Jutland,
Denmark, in 1811, died in New York, Aug. 8, 1873. He received a moderate
education, and landed in New York city in 1827, a friendless lad, but full of
health and inspired with an earnest and manly ambition to win success. Having
secured employment in a piano factory, and saving each week some part of his wages,
he saved enough at length to go into business for himself. His first venture was the
purchase of a retail tobacconist's stock, with which he opened a small store on the
Bowery. In this occupation he prospered, and later he moved to the corner of Broad-
way and Cortlandt street. Prospering yet more in the new locality, Mr. Gilsey soon
gained the means to make investments in real estate, which brought him the bulk of
his fortune. The property advanced rapidly in value, making him a rich man, and
included the St. George Hotel, the Gilsey House, Coleman House, the Fifth Avenue
Theatre, and an office building at the Corner of Broadway and Cortlandt street.- Mr.
Gilsey was elected an Alderman of the city in 1873. The children of Mr. Gilsey and
his wife, Mary C., were Andrew; Charles, now deceased; Peter; Henry; John, now
deceased; Mary, wife of P. Gardner, and Mrs. Pauline Starr. Mrs. Gilsey survived
her husband until Sept. 13, 1891.
HENRY QINNEL, jeweler, a native of Locle, Switzerland, was born Jan. 9, 1821.
He was educated in the local schools, and then learned thcTtrade of watchmaking, his
town being one of the seats of that industry. At the age of eighteen he came to
America, seeking the enlarged opportunities of the new world. In the employment of
Frederick Grossclaude, he spent several years at the bench, working overtime in order
the more rapidly to increase his savings. In 1847, he bought the shop of his employer,
and became a manufacturer and merchant of watches and jewelry, and by energy and
good abilities has expanded his trade, until he has one of the leading watch and jewelry
stores on Maiden Lane, under the style of Henry Ginnel & Co. He was married
Oct. 1 8, 1845, to Miss Clara Langrave. The family make their home in Brooklyn.
Mr. Ginnel's career reminds one of the important truth that, in free America, at any
rate, it makes little difference how modestly a man starts in life, provided only that his
occupation be an honest one.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. GO. 259
PETER QOELET, realty owner, born June 22, 1800, died in this city, Nov. 21,
1879. He came from a Huguenot family, which at the time of the fierce and bloody
persecution of the Protestants by the Roman Catholic church, fled from Rochelle,
France, to Amsterdam in Holland, in 1621, remaining there until 1676 Francis
Goelet, youngest son of the family, having lost his wife, came to New Amsterdam in
1676. with his only child Jacobus, a boy of about ten. Greatly pleased with the place,
he left his boy in care of Mr. Phillips, merchant, and sailed for Holland to bring hither
his effects, but was never heard from thereafter, and is supposed to have been lost at
sea Jacobus remained in New York, married Jannetje, daughter of Mr. Coessar, a
member of a Protestant refugee family from Rochelle, arid died in 1731, the father of
six children. Jan Geolet, third son of Jacobus, was married in 1718 to Jannetje,
daughter of Jan Cannon, a merchant of New York, who also traced his family line to a
Protestant refugee from Rochelle. Dying in July, 1753, he left several children.
Peter Goelet, fourth son of Jan, born in January, 1727, was the founder of the
family fortunes. He carried on a trade in hardware, cutlery, locks, music, brushes,
etc., for many years, with Peter T. Curtenius, under the name of Goelet & Curtenius,
in a store on Pearl street, Hanover Square, at the sign of the ' ' golden key. " The
firm dissolved in 1763, the junior partner engaging in business with a sign of a " golden
anvil," while Mr. Goelet went on alone in the hardware trade. He was greatly pros-
pered, gained what was then considered a fortune, and invested it almost wholly in local
real estate. He was married in April, 1755, to Elizabeth, daughter of Robert Ratse,
and at his death lived at No. 53 Broadway.
Peter P. Goelet, son of the latter, was born in August, 1764, and died in October,
1828. He inherited a large part of his father's property, and by the advice of his law-
yer, Peter De Witt, invested nearly all of his accumulations in further purchases of
real estate. He owned some securities of corporations, however, and was a member of
The Western Inland Dock Navigation Co. In May, 1799, he married Almy, daughter
of Thomas Buchanan, his brother Robert Ratse having married Margaret Buchanan,
her sister. Upon his death, he was survived by four children, Peter, the subject of
this sketch; Jean B. Goelet; Hannah G. , wife of Thomas R. Gerry, Commodore,
U. S. N.; and Robert Goelet.
Peter Goelet continued the policy of investing in land and buildings, mainly in those
parts of the growing city, where in a few years there was certain to be a dense aggre-
gation of buildings of the highest class. The land on which the Grand Central Depot
now stands, was once his.
Mr. Goelet was a lover of fine horses, of which he usually kept as many as six,
although when going about his daily business he almost invariably walked or used the
stages. He was charitable without ostentation, and during the war took a special in-
terest in one of the New York regiments, expending money freely to relieve the suffer-
ings of members who returned sick or disabled, and of the families of the killed.
His recreation consisted largely in working at a forge in the basement of his house
on Broadway and igth street, where he manufactured, after the fashion of one of the
Kings of France, various sorts of machinery, but particularly locks of curious and intri-
cate patterns. He owned many bright plumaged fowls and birds from all parts of the
world. During the summer time, some of these were to be seen stalking about the
_grounds surrounding the Goelet mansion.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. GO. 261
Mr. Goelet left his real estate equally to his brother Robert and his sisters Jean B.
Goelet and Hannah G. Gerry.
ROBERT GOELET, realty owner, a son of Peter P. Goelet, was born in October,
1809, and died at his home, No 857 Broadway, Sept. 22, 1879. He was occupied dur-
ing life with the management of properties inherited from his father. He resembled
his eccentric brother Peter in many respects and was warmly attached to him, the two
men making visits to West Point together every year, and being constantly in each
other's society. In October, 1839, he married Sarah, daughter of Jonathan Ogden,
and left two children, Robert and Ogden Goelet. The Goelet possessions are now cen-
tered mainly in the ownership of these two men. Robert' Goelet, born Sept. 29, 1841,
was married in 1879 to Harriette Louise, daughter of George Henry Warren, of New
York, and has two children, Robert Walton and Beatrice Goelet. His brother Ogden
was born June n, 1846, and married Mary R., daughter of Richard T. Wilson, the
banker. Their children are Robert and Mary Goelet.
JOHN GOOD, inventor and manufacturer of cordage, is one of those men of native
genius, who have placed their names on the roll of fame by working as complete a revo-
lution in the processes of an important industry, as took place in the homes of America
when the slow and tiresome method of hand sewing gave way to the sewing machine,
or as took place in the field of transportation when the lumbering old mail coach of the
early days was superseded by the railway car. He has lightened the labors of the work-
ing classes and reduced the cost of an article of extended consumption ; and the large
fortune which has come to him in consequence of his inventions has been worthily and
honestly won.
He was born in Ireland in 1844. At the age of seven, the lad came to the United
States with his father's family to seek the larger liberty and the better opportunities of
the new world. The family being poor, John was compelled to earn his living as soon
as he was old enough to toil. He was blessed with a stout and healthy frame and a
happy disposition, and, finding employment in a little old-fashioned rope walk in Brook-
lyn, he served an apprenticeship there, whistling as he went to his daily work. He
became thoroughly familiar with the then simple processes of rope making, which were
slowly and laboriously performed by hand. In this factor}', many young women were
employed, whose labor required them to lift and carry loads beyond their natural
strength. The good hearted boy came to sympathize with the hard lot of these fellow
workers, and at an early age, he began to study what he could do to lighten their labors.
Rope making had been practiced in this country at least 200 years. Every ship
building city in New England and along the Atlantic sea coast of any pretensions had
its "rope walk," a long, low building, several hundred feet in length, in which the
hempen fibres were straightened, combed, drawn into strands, and the strands twisted
into rope by operatives who performed the whole labor with their hands. All of the
processes were laborious and tedious. No material improvement whatever had been
introduced in the industry for a period of two centuries. Considering the enormous
amount and high cost of cordage used in the rigging of ships during the palmy days of
the American marine, it is extraordinary that in America, the very home of mechanical
genius, it should never have occurred to any inventive American to patent improved
processes for quickening, reducing the cost, and lightening the labor of rope making.
This work was reserved for the young man from Ireland.
262 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
After he had graduated from his apprenticeship, he left the rope walk and became
a machinist. During the late Civil War, having become an expert worker in this trade,
the idea occurred to him to study the possibility of inventing machines to perform the
work of the various branches of rope making. He experimented for several years,
and finally in October, 1869, took out his first patent. The pioneer machine was a
" breaker," for bunching and combing out the tangled fibres of hemp and forming them
into a long loose roll called a " sliver. " The fibres used in this industry come from
tropical plants and are from three to twelve feet in length. In the old fashioned
process, the "sliver" was cut into lengths, and thus the fibre entire was never used in
a rope until John Good brought out a machine for the purpose. The first invention
was followed by a number of others, until Mr. Good had patented a complete outfit for
every branch of the manufacture of ropes and twine. His patents cover a first breaker,
a second breaker, a first and second spreader, a first and second drawing frame, a
spinning jenny, a laying frame, and a coiling machine. The "sliver" which first
comes from the breaker is rough in texture, with the loose ends of many tangled fibres
projecting from its surface. The spreaders and drawing frames draw out the original
roll into longer and smoother slivers, which are free from the rough ends. The suc-
ceeding machines twist the slivers into yarns, and the yarns into ropes, and coil the
finished product into packages for shipment. The system is complete in all its parts
and has completely changed the manufacture of cordage. The process has many dis-
tinctive features. It has reduced the amount of ground space required, and the long
tunnel-like rope walk of the olden times has now given place to a compact modern
factory of several stories. The factory can be so arranged that the entire process can
be performed in one room. The yarn and the strand are twisted in one operation,
obviating one great difficulty of the old process, in which the yarn lost a large part of
its twist before being formed into strands. The new process utilizes the full length of
the fibres, and produces a rope fifty per cent, stronger than the old process. It has
also lightened the manual labor of the operatives immensely.
Until 1885, Mr. Good devoted his energies entirely to the perfection and manu-
facture of his beautiful machines. Orders poured upon him from all parts of the
United States, because every maker of cordage was compelled to take advantage of the
improved facilities for manufacture and supply their factories with his machines. So
largely have his patents been adopted, that it is believed that no more than about ten
tons of cordage are annually made in the United States, which do not at some stage of
the manufacture pass through one or more of his machines. Orders have also been
received from abroad. In the United States, he has sold his machines outright, abroad
upon a royalty. His factory in Brooklyn has been developed to large proportions,
and gives employment to hundreds of skilled machinists. In 1885, he gave a public
exhibition in Brooklyn of his complete process, and the occasion was deemed so
important that it was attended by the principal rope makers both of the United States
and Great Britain.
Mr. Good then resolved to engage in rope making himself, and in 1886 he built a
large factory on Vernon avenue in Ravenswood, a suburb of Brooklyn. The plant
included a large frame warehouse and wharves on the river front. Manufacture was
begun in 1887, with a large force of operatives and a capacity equal to one-third of the
total cordage production of the country.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. GO. 263
When, in 1887, the Cordage Trust was organized under the name of the National
Cordage Association, Mr. Good at first entered that combination. The Trust manu-
facturers dreaded his competition so greatly that they were willing to pay him $200,000
a year to close both of his factories, and they offered him $7,000,000 for his entire plant
and good will. They were unable to obtain the amount of the purchase money, how-
ever, and finally the whole arrangement proved unsatisfactory to Mr. Good. He had
been asked to build a binding twine plant for the penitentiary in Minnesota, and the
Trust had refused to allow him to do so. In 1892, he withdrew from the combination,
and resumed operations entirely independent of the Trust. He now manufactures, on
an extended scale, and besides the establishment at Ravenswood, operates a large
cordage factory at Millwall, near London, and another at Great Grimsby. He has in
contemplation the building of works in France, Germany and Italy.
Mr. Good is the inventor of the machinery now in general use for the making of
binding twine, and the reduction in price of that commodity in recent years is largely
the result of his improved processes.
On account of his large charities, and his services to humanity in lightening the
burdens of the working classes, Mr. Good was honored by the Pope of Rome, in 1887,
with the title of a " Count of the Holy Roman Empire." At the time of his jubilee,
the Pope resolved to honor a number of prominent men of that church in the various
countries of the world, who had contributed to human advancement. Mr. Good was
the only American selected for the distinction of being made a Count. The honor
came unsought, and was a great surprise. The formal announcement was publicly
presented to Mr. Good in Brooklyn, April 19, 1888, in the presence of an immense
assemblage.
Count Good is a man of large and fine physique, erect carriage, and courteous
address. He has the firmness and conciseness of speech of a capable business man.
He is unassuming in dress. His hair and moustache are nearly white and frame a
face rosy with the glow of perfect health.
BRENT GOOD, manufacturer, born in Rochester, N.Y., in 1837, was taken with the
family to Canada when two years old, and grew up on the stoniest farm in Canada at
the Bay of Quinte. Leaving country school to seek his fortune in the world of affairs,
he served an apprenticeship in the drug trade, in Belleville, Ont., where he gained a
thorough knowledge of the profession. In 1856, he came to New York city, with
exactly $8. 40 as his entire capital, and here found employment with Demas Barnes
& Co. , who ranked among the largest merchants of proprietary medicines in the world.
He rose rapidly, became a successful salesman, was made a partner in 1863, and
retired in 1869 when the business was sold to John F. Henry & Co. As Good, Root
& Co., he then imported wines until 1878. In 1879, Mr. Good became interested in
the manufacture of the Little Liver Pills of Dr. Carter of Erie, Pa. The author of the
formula, upon which this medicine is made, had fallen into debt and was transacting
a small business only, not over $10,000 a year. Mr. Good saw the merit of these pills,
bought the right to manufacture them, organized The Carter Medicine Co. , and threw
his entire energy into making and selling his remedy. His success has been phenomenal
and is due to the spirit and ingenuity with which Mr. Good has advertised the medi-
cine and pushed its sale. He has covered the barns, fences and rocks of the whole
country with his advertisements, and has not only created a large domestic sale, but
264 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
pushed his trade virtually to the uttermost parts of the earth by unceasing enterprise.
He is president of The Carter Medicine Co. A few years ago, Mr. Good invaded
England and made contracts with owners of unimproved property in the suburbs of
London for the exclusive privilege of erecting sign boards. The staid inhabitants
were startled one week by an eruption of signs of Carter's Little Liver Pills. Lord
Rosebery aided Mr. Good to introduce his remedy to the English public by bringing
a bill into Parliament to restrain Mr Good from "disfiguring the suburban scenery."
The incident filled the newspapers with comments, gave a great impetus to sales, and
enabled the pushing American to recover through the natural channels of trade, a part
ol the $500,000 he had spent in England in advertising. Mr. Good has shared in
numerous business enterprises in town, among them The Writing Telegraph Co., of
which he was president long enough to sell his interest to excellent advantage. In the
building occupied by The North River Bank, which failed in 1890, he established The
Franklin National Bank, a sound institution, of which he is a director. He owns and
manages The Lyceum Theatre, is president of The Sunbury Wall Decoration Co., is a
Mason and Knight Templar, a yachtsman, and a member of the New York Athletic
Lotus, Manhattan, New York Yacht, Hardware and Wa-Wa-Yonda clubs, and the St.
James club of Montreal. His wife is a daughter of Henry I. Hoyt of Norwalk, Conn.,
and his children are Henry Hoyt and Kate Hamilton Good.
GEORGE PHINEAS GORDON, manufacturer, born in Salem, N. H., April 21,
1810, died in Norfolk, Va., Jan. 27, 1878. His father, Phineas Gordon, was a mer-
chant in Boston, the family being descended from Alexander Gordon, (brother of Lord
George Gordon), who emigrated from Scotland in 1697 and settled in New Hampshire.
Educated in Boston, George learned the printing trade, and in 1850 started a printing
office of his own in Nassau street in this city. His fame arose from his invention of
the Gordon job press, a machine for the printing of circulars, letter heads, and other
small work. The Gordon Press Works, having a factory at Rahway, N. J., of which
he was proprietor, produced an immense number of these machines, which found their
way into nearly every job office in the United States. Mr. Gordon was a man of great
ability, and while numberless changes in the Gordon model have been made by rival
manufacturers, who have striven to compete with the Gordon press, it is nevertheless
true that the latter remains practically the model and standard for the ideal small
printing press of the present day. In 1846, Mr. Gordon married Sarah E. Cornish,
who died, and in 1857, he married Eleonora May. He had one son, George Byron
Gordon, and one daughter, Mary Agnes Gordon, both children of the first wife.
GUSTAV HENRY GOSSLER, merchant, born in Hamburg, Germany, March
18, 1842, is a son of Ernst Gossler, by occupation a lawyer and president of the law
court. Gustav was educated in his native city, and, after pursuing his mercantile
studies in Germany, England, France, Spain and Portugal, he moved to this country in
1863, and began life as a merchant. In 1868, he became connected as a partner with
the firm of L. E. Amsinck & Co., commission merchants and bankers, who were suc-
ceeded by G. Amsinck & Co , in 1874. This house is now widely known and highly
esteemed, and has extensive connections in South America and Europe. Mr. Gossler
is a good merchant and a successful man, and has been Vice Consul in New York for the
republic of Brazil since 1874. In 1869, he was married to Mathilda, daughter of Theo-
dore Durrien, and their children are named J. E. Mathilde, Anna S., and Olga Louise.
TH« CITY OF KBW YORK.- 265
Mr. Gossler's social interests in the city are many. H< ~r of the Union,
nd Down Town clubs, and has t! rpi 'tain the great
public museums of the city and other -us.
JAY GOULD, financier, gained ••markab -* in that
>e of the largest ever acqum * his
lions. It owed no part <r. - ttany s-pecu-
>ns, Mr. Gould was .
;>. The bulk of his wealth came u,
:ties, which he owned in late
them, after they had come und«. >
-•sting, affords encouragement t
e, coolness and acumen, his po
undoubted executive capacity and taieir
Mr. Gould was slender in b.
king one. Eyes, hair, fall moustache an
expression, while kindly and
purity in private life, his gen- fidelity
won the enthusiastic devotion of many prominent men of so.:..
probity, and his death removed from Wall st . •;• which h*.
ineffaceably upon the financial history of the United States.
It was his lot to have less said in his praise than any other successful ti
this generation. Many of the charges were absolutely unjust. His silence, a rv»
ble trait, sometimes sprang from pride, which prevented him from com bat im:
representation when he was the .only sun ;ile at other times it grew
shrewd knowledge that success would be furthered by concealing his p
Gould's answers to many accusations, given years after their utterance, wt
only upon the witness stand, coming then too lat '"age an opir
tained. -He sometimes suffered on accoir L-ssions
possessed the belief that. >oe to hi"
This confidence has been ;
achievements and cordial tril
Mr. Gould was a descendant
Nathan Gold, the pioneer, was a man
St. Edmondsbury, England, to Fairti .' !
rose from town clerk of Fairfield i • '- 1 ••.. •-
of the Supreme Court of the State in i:?4
American Revolution. The wife of C-4
father, was Elizabeth Burr, whose ancestor
1630 with Governor Winthrop, and one of i/,t
The Burrs included many soldiers, judges, and
Abraham Gold, the first of his line to spell his narr, ,-*, • <« :_•>«• he<»<t <tt
his regiment, the 5th Connecticut, at Ridgefield, On*:; -^Si':e rcj> r-i. '
on Danbury; and his sword, stainedwith British b}<*»H, >* i-> this day in '- b». ssosi-i; -4
Abraham Gould Jennings, of Brooklyn, N. Y., fme ^A his dc* ..-• n<!-inis. Capt
hau. ^culd, his son. "a grim, earnest, honest man," settled in i~$o m Roxbur;'
John Burr Gould, his son, the first male white child born in Kuxbury, w;.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. GO. 265
Mr. Gossler's social interests in the city are many. He is a member of the Union,
Vaudeville and Down Town clubs, and has the public spirit to help maintain the great
public museums of the city and other institutions.
JAY GOULD, financier, gained during his remarkable life a fortune, unique in that
it was one of the largest ever acquired by a single individual in the United States by his
own exertions. It owed no part of its origin to inheritance. Engaged in many specu-
lative operations, Mr. Gould was probably not a gainer, to any great extent, by these
labors. The bulk of his wealth came mainly from the leaps in value of many of the
securities, which he owned in later life, consequent upon the higher appreciation placed
upon them, after they had come under his management. > The story of his life, deeply
interesting, affords encouragement to every man, who possesses patience, persever-
ance, coolness and acumen, his power of persuasion, analysis and foresight, and his
undoubted executive capacity and talent for combinations.
Mr. Gould was slender in build, and not above medium height, but his face was a
striking one. Eyes, hair, full moustache and beard were dark and handsome, and his
expression, while kindly and pleasing, was firm, intellectual and penetrating. His
purity in private life, his generosity, and his fidelity to friends, were proverbial. He
won the enthusiastic devotion of many prominent men of sound judgment and great
probity, and his death removed from Wall street a figure which had impressed itself
ineffaceably upon the financial history of the United States.
It was his lot to have less said in his praise than any other successful financier of
this generation. Many of the charges were absolutely unjust. His silence, a remarka-
ble trait, sometimes sprang from pride, which prevented him from combating a mis-
representation when he was the only sufferer, while at other times it grew out of a
shrewd knowledge that success would be furthered by concealing his plans. Mr.
Gould's answers to many accusations, given years after their utterance, were drawn out
only upon the witness stand, coming then too late to change an opinion widely enter-
tained. He sometimes suffered on account of the transgressions of others, but always
possessed the belief that, in time, justice would be done to him by a fair minded public.
This confidence has been justified since his death, by a generous judgment of his
achievements and cordial tributes to his memory.
Mr. Gould was a descendant of two notable families of New England. Major
Nathan Gold, the pioneer, was a man of great force of character, who came from
St. Edmondsbury, England, to Fairfield, Conn , about 1646. His son, Nathan Gauld, jr.,
rose from town clerk of Fairfield to become Deputy Governor in 1 706 and Chief Justice
of the Supreme Court of the State in 1724. Several of the family were soldiers in the
American Revolution. The wife of Col. Abraham Gold, Jay Gould's great grand-
father, was Elizabeth Burr, whose ancestor was John Burr, an emigrant to America in
1630 with Governor Winthrop, and one of the eight founders of Springfield, Mass.
The Burrs included many soldiers, judges, and public officials of good repute. Col.
Abraham Gold, the first of his line to spell his name Gould, was killed at the head of
his regiment, the 5th Connecticut, at Ridgefield, Conn., while repelling the British raid
on Danbury; and his sword, stainedwith British blood, is to this day in the possession of
Abraham Gould Jennings, of Brooklyn, N. Y., one of his descendants. Capt. Abra-
ham Gould, his son. "a grim, earnest, honest man," settled in 1780 in Roxbury, N. Y.
John Burr Gould, his son, the first male white child born in Roxbury, was a man of
266 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
sturdy character, and showed his fibre in 1844 by resistance to the fanatics of the anti-
rent agitation. While defending his home against the anti-renters, he found an enthu-
siastic supporter in his boy, Jay. A well read man, noted for public spirit, he helped
to found schools and advance the interest of the community. He married Mary More,
the grand-daughter of John More, a sturdy Scot, who had come from Ayrshire, in
1772. From his excellent mother, Jay Gould inherited that religious instinct, which
kept alive, in his later years of battle with the world, the gentleness of manner and the
generosity of dealing which repeatedly characterized him when he bargained with other
men over millions of dollars worth of property.
Jay Gould, known in childhood as Jason Gould, was born at the homestead in Rox-
bury, May 27, 1836. He was educated at 'the district school and Beechwood and Hobart
seminaries, and at the age of seventeen learned Latin and Greek in a school in Albany.
Application, acute perception and a retentive memory characterized him as a student.
He was genial and fond of fun and open air sports but not of rude games.
Not fitted for farm work, Mr. Gould longed for a business career. To gratify this
aspiration, his father exchanged the farm for a hardware store in Roxbury, and here
the young man received his first business training. He began as a clerk, was a partner
at fifteen, and became chief manager of the business. During this time, he learned sur-
veying. Studying his books from 3 to 6 A. M , and practicing with the instruments of
Squire Burhans, a prominent resident, the young man became a competent surveyor.
His first professional work, begun in April, 1852, was the survey and mapping of
Ulster county, N. Y. He was employed at this task upon a salary first of $20, then of
$30, a month. At the outset, he was an assistant in the venture. His partner failed
before the survey was completed, and two other young surveyors being admitted to
partnership, Mr. Gould sold his interest to them for $500.
For several years, Mr. Gould hoped to realize enough from his ventures to carry
him through Yale College. This dream was never realized.
The young civil engineer then surveyed and mapped, 1853-56, the counties of
Albany, Delaware and Sullivan, and the town of Cohoes. He also had charge of the
mapping of counties in Ohio and Michigan, and the survey of a railroad from Newburg
to Syracuse and of The Albany and Niskayuna plank road. Some of the contracts were
transferred to a surveyor in Philadelphia before completion and netted Mr. Gould a
profit of more than $5,000. The building of the Niskayuna plank road by him in three
days and a half was a remarkable achievement. This road yet exists and has always
been of great service to the town, even to those who originally opposed it. The enter-
prise revealed his characteristic traits. He had prepared to make the survey with the
common level. "Imagine my surprise," he wrote to a friend, "when one of the direc-
tors came bringing up a monstrous theodolite with its complication of screws and what
not, the identical one that served an apprenticeship on the Hudson River Railroad, and,
for its valuable services there, was afterward promoted to generalship on the Northern
Railroad. I could not for a good while even unloosen the needle, much less adjust the
instrument. I was completely knocked in the head." But he kept his own counsel.
Fortunately, the snow turned to rain, when the men were ready to begin, and during
two stormy days Mr. Gould mastered the instrument. Confronted with other unexpected
problems, he met them all victoriously by study in the State library and otherwise,
without betraying how they had disconcerted him.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. GO. 269
unscrupulous in methods, fond of extravagant display, and defiant of public opinion.
He undoubtedly did more to influence the young men of his day to evil courses, than
any other human being in the field of American finance. Mr. Gould strove to restrain
Mr. Fisk. Nevertheless, they were associated in the public mind and Mr. Gould
incurred blame for acts for which Mr. Fisk alone was responsible.
In November, 1872, proceedings were brought against Mr. Gould for the recovery
of Erie property, which, it was declared, he had improperly retained. The manage-
ment having been changed by the vote of the foreign stockholders, as soon as his
successor was elected, Mr. Gould turned over to him these securities, none of which
had any market value and all of which had been held by his predecessor as president.
Documents were given him, exonerating him from all the charges previously made.
At various times, a number of combinations were made against Mr. Gould in Wall
street. To " corner " him was a favorite attempt, but always exciting and dangerous.
He was usually a match for antagonists. Nevertheless, in the panic of 1873, he is said
to have lost a larger sum than any other capitalist of that time.
In The Cleveland & Pittsburgh Railroad, Mr. Gould showed constructive abilities
of high order. Having bought about 25,000 shares of its stock at about $65 and $70
a share to oblige a friend, he reorganized the road, developed its traffic to such an ex-
tent that while he was its manager it never passed a dividend, brought the stock up to
$120 a share, and leased the road successfully to The Pennsylvania Railroad. He was
a large gainer by this proceeding.
As a railroad manager, Mr. Gould was identified most prominently with The
Union Pacific, The Texas & Pacific, The Wabash, and The Missouri Pacific Railroads-.
He took charge of The Union Pacific Railroad, when it was a discredited enterprise.
Beginning in 1873, he bought a large amount of its stock when the price ranged be-
tween $15 and $30 a share. In February, 1879, he was the owner of 190,000 shares.
On the 1 7th of that month, he sold 100,000 shares for §7,000,000, his profit being about
$4,000,000. He built up the road by attention to its requirements, securing proper
connections to the eastward, and by consolidation, until it paid large dividends.
The same constructive ability was shown in his management of the other great
lines named above. Intelligent, far seeing, and straight forward, he created one of the
most wonderful railroad systems of the world. The controlling interest in The Texas
& Pacific, he bought from Thomas A. Scott, for $2,400,000. The Missouri Pacific,
which he bought from Commodore Garrison, is a living testimony to his skill of com-
bination. The main line of 287 miles from St. Louis to Kansas City has been made the
principal factor in a system of about 10,000 miles of road, extending in one direction to
Omaha, El Paso, Laredo and Galveston, and to Chicago, Toledo and Detroit in the other.
Mr. Gould was, at times, the president of his various roads, but the care was too
great for one man, and while retaining control and direction, he finally placed able
managers in charge of many of them, in order to relieve himself from the details of
management. An excellent judge of character, he seldom made an unfortunate selec-
tion. In the general direction of these great systems, he repeatedly showed his good
faith, when once pledged to a definite policy or when his word had once been given.
He was in the habit of watching business closely, especially in a crisis, not only for
his own sake but for that of stockholders, in order to prevent a failure.
An interesting incident was a step, by which he averted a panic in 1882. The
270 AMERICA S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
rumor had gone forth that he was financially embarrassed. To avert a crisis, he invited
several of the strongest financiers of that day into his office, including Cyrus W. Field
and Russell Sage, and laid before them the contents of his safe, displaying to their as-
tonished gaze $53,000,000 in the best securities. This put an end to the crisis.
Mr. Gould having finally attained an impregnable financial position, withdrew
gradually from Wall street to devote his attention to a few great properties.
In the development of The Western Union Telegraph Co., he showed both organ-
izing power and tenacity of purpose. In 1875, he came into control of The Atlantic &
Pacific Telegraph Co., whose lines were in bad condition, the expenses outrunning the
revenue. Thomas T. Eckert was invited to the presidency and the two men entered
upon a carefully aggressive policy. After a laborious and anxious commercial fight,
Mr. Gould, with great financial skill, consolidated his concern with The Western Union
Telegraph Co. , making it a special condition that Gen. Eckert should become general
manager of the united companies. His disappointment was great when the fulfilment
of the promise was evaded. In a letter recently written, Gen. Eckert narrates what
followed : "It was necessary for me to decide upon other plans for myself. I accord-
ingly, after mature deliberation, determined to construct a telegraph line between Bos-
ton, Mass., and Washington, D. C. , via New York, Philadelphia and Baltimore, and to
make it the nucleus of a yet larger system of wires designed exclusively for leasing to
firms and individuals for commercial uses. When I had worked out this scheme in my
mind, I laid it before Mr. Gould. He listened to me patiently, and then, in half quizzi-
cal way, asked if I did not wish to have a partner. I was so absorbed in my ideas
that I did not notice the smile with which he put the question; and I blandly answered
him "No." He quietly disregarded me and began to write a check for one million
dollars, which he said he thought I might find very useful to my credit. Out of this
circumstance grew the incorporation of The American Union Telegraph Co. and I
became its president." With The American Union, Mr. Gould menaced the older
company, displaced its lines from The Baltimore & Ohio, The Union Pacific, and other
railroads, and reduced the value of Western Union stock from $116 to $88 a share.
This vigorous campaign brought about the consolidation of The American Union with
The Western Union Telegraph Co., in 1881, and its preponderance in the ownership of
the largest telegraphic system which has ever come into existence. Mr. Gould became
a director. His holdings of Western Union stock were then $30,000,000. He reduced
them afterwards to about $20,000,000. In 1883, he had absorbed The Mutual Union
Telegraph Co., and four years later The Baltimore & Ohio. This made him con-
troller of the telegraphic system of the United States, and he was the entire master of
of the field until John W. Mackay and James Gordon Bennett appeared with their rival
line. Mr. Gould aimed to make his company the only one in America. In this he did
not succeed entirely, but he created a great system, with ocean cables to Europe, the
West Indies and South America.
A majority interest in the elevated railroad system of New York city was a posses-
sion forced upon Mr. Gould for the rescue of his friend, Cyrus W. Field, from embar-
rassment. Mr. Gould had purchased largely of the stock of these roads. Mr. Field,
also a large stockholder, entered, in 1886, upon a speculation to advance the price of
Manhattan shares to $200 or $300, that being the value of the shares of the surface
street car lines. Through his operations, Manhattan rose to $175 a share. He bought
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. GO. . 271
largely as the price advanced, securing the money for new purchases by pledging his
holdings as collateral. Mr. Gould warned Mr. Field more than once against the risk
of overloading, but the latter continued to buy. At length, Mr. Field found himself
carrying 88,000 shares of Manhattan stock, worth at par $8,800,000, which had risen in
nominal value to $15,000,000. The price then suddenly fell. If Mr. Field had been
compelled to sell, a panic would have ensued with a complete extinction of Mr. Field's
fortune. In this emergency, he appealed to Mr. Gould for aid, through John T. Terry,
a mutual friend. Mr. Gould first loaned to Mr. Field $1,000,000, in bonds, without
security. He then bought from him 78,000 shares, at $120 a share, paying $9,360,000
therefor, and later, loaned him $300,000 in cash. Mr. Gould did this at inconvenience
to himself, while suffering severely from neuralgia, and saw his purchase drop $3,75°,-
ooo in value in a few days. Yet this act of unbounded generosity was performed to
oblige a friend. The stock fell at one time to $77.
Mr. Gould's wife was Helen Day, the daughter of Daniel S. Miller. She was the
descendant of an English family, which had settled on Long Island, at Easthampton,
in colonial days. A company of nearly fifty people were present at Mr. Gould's mar-
riage, and four hundred or more attended the reception which followed. This was a
happy union. Mr. Gould's home life was a beautiful one. His tastes were refined.
He loved books, flowers and pictures, and was surrounded with them. His castle-like
country home of Lyndhurst, at Irvington, built of stone, is now owned by Miss Helen
M. Gould, but will revert to the estate when the younger member of the family, Frank
Jay, attains his majority. It is delightfully situated, commanding an impressive view
of the Hudson river. The grounds are beautifully laid out, and a large conservatory
supplies the family with flowers and the choicest grapes all the year. At this place
Mr. Gould and his family spent many happy days. His marriage brought him six
children, George Jay, Edwin, Helen Miller and Howard Gould; Anna, wife of Count
Paul Marie Ernest Boniface de Castellane of France; and Frank Jay Gould, all of whom
are living. His family were always tenderly devoted to him.
It was not generally known that Mr. Gould was a man of great liberality toward
philanthropic objects, but such was the fact. His gifts were mainly made on condition
that no publicity shouid be given to him as a consequence. His charities were silent,
and the thousandth part of his beneficence has never become publicly known. For
many years, Mr. Gould entertained the purpose of founding a great educational insti-
tution for young men of moderate means. Illness and business cares prevented him
from elaborating the plan, and his death, Dec. 2, 1892, finally frustrated the purpose.
He left equally to his six children his great property, estimated at about $100,000,000,
which was invested mainly in The Missouri Pacific Railroad, The Western Union
Telegraph Co., The Manhattan Railway, The Wabash, and The Texas & Pacific
Companies.
JOHN PHYLE GOULD, merchant, born Dec. 12, 1817, in Philadelphia, died in
New York city, July 5, 1892. He was the descendant of early English settlers of
Pennsylvania. Early in life he went to Portsmouth, O., and spent a number of years
in a large iron and roiling-mill business with his relative, T. G. Gaylord. Later, he
engaged in the iron trade in Cincinnati, and about 1873 transferred his interests to
Xe\v York city. He was considered an authority on financial matters, and drew up a
number of legislative enactments in the interest of bankrupts and others, and had
272 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
confidential relations with Hoyt, Sprague & Co. May 29, 1845, he married Caroline,
daughter of the late Moses Brooks, of Cincinnati. The children born to them were
Ella Brooks, who married Volckert P. Douw, member of an old family of Albany,
N. Y. , both now deceased; Caroline E., who married J. W. Fiske, of New York; and
Moses Brooks Gould, now deceased.
WILLIAM RUSSELL GRACE, merchant, a man of great force of character and
intellect, has, by energy and perseverance, become one of the most prominent mer-
chants and financiers of this country, besides having attained a national reputation as a
leader in the political affairs of the city and State of New York.
The Graces were a Norman Irish family, and from the time of the invasion of
their ancestor, Richard le Gros, they possessed extensive land-holdings in Queens
county. When the English finally gained a mastery over Ireland, the Graces,
being Catholics and very probably fighters, had their lands confiscated for disloyalty
and were banished beyond the Shannon. The great grand-father of William R. Grace
returned to Queens county and fought the claim to the family lands. He was
offered a liberal compromise, but he said he would have the whole or none. All
the Irish courts gave him the whole, but the English Appellate Court gave him none
of the lands. From this time on, the Graces remained in Queens county, and so much
did they prosper, that James Grace, father of the subject of this sketch, was left quite
a fortune. This money the father lost in South America, whereas the son was destined
to make many times more money in the same country. James Grace, when a young
man, spent his money and came near losing his life in an expedition organized to free
Venezuela from the Spanish rule. He married Ellen Mary Russell, of a well-known
Protestant Irish family. They had four sons, all of whom have been successful in
life. William Russell is the oldest son. John W. , the second son, is the founder of the
San Francisco Grace house, and is one of the directors of the Grace corporation. M.
P. Grace is the founder of the London house and the man who negotiated the Peruvian
loan in London amounting to $40,000,000. Sir Morgan Grace went to New Zealand as
a young army surgeon.
William R. Grace was born in Queenstown, County Cork, Ireland, May 10, 1832.
In early life, he displayed that keen foresight and indomitable will which have since
made him famous. At the age of fourteen, realizing that the county district of Ireland
offered no future for him. he ran away from school and, working his passage on a
sailing vessel came to New York city. After remaining in New York two years,
during which time he was employed in various capacities, he returned to Ireland
upon a visit to his home. In 1850, he went to Callao, Peru, and entered the
shipping house of Bryce & Co., of which he became a partner in 1852, the firm
later taking the name of Bryce, Grace & Co., and afterward Grace Bro's & Co.
Being the only American house of consequence at Callao, and having agencies in all
the principal ports in Peru and Chile, besides excellent connections in the United States
and England, the firm soon rose to distinction. They acted as agents for Baring Bro's
& Co. for many years.
In 1865, Mr. Grace came to New York, intending to retire from active business on
account of ill health. Upon the return of his strength, however, he founded the house
of W. R. Grace & Co., shipping and commission merchants, which has since become
famous the world over, having branches in London and San Francisco and in Peru arid
274 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
Chile, besides agencies in all the principal cities on the west coast of South America.
The firm have important contracts with Peru for the importation of guano, and are the
largest importers of nitrate of soda in the United States, besides dealing exclusively in
the other products of Central and South America. They export large quantities of the
manufactures of the United States, and have been instrumental in securing closer
relations with the Central and South American republics.
The relations of Mr. Grace with Peru have been so intimate and his standing as a
merchant and financier so high, that his firm were at one time called upon to aid Peru
in the conversion of its debt. A contract was entered into with the English bondhold-
ers, which was negotiated in London by Michael P. Grace and proved beneficial to all.
In 1 88 1, Mr. Grace established the New York & Pacific Steamship Co., Ltd.,
which is the only company conducting a regular steam service between this country and
the West Coast of South America.
In April, 1877, Mr. Grace was appointed receiver of The Continental Life Insurance
Co., a position of great responsibility, which he filled with general satisfacton.
In September, 1859, he was married to Lillius Gilchrist, daughter of George W.
Gilchrist,, of St. George, Maine. Their five children living are: Mrs. W. E. Holloway,
widow of the late W. E. Holloway, of San Francisco; Joseph P. Grace, Miss Lillius J.
Grace, Miss Louise N. Grace, and William R. Grace, jr.
Mr. Grace has three brothers, J. W. Grace, M. P. Grace and Dr. M. S. Grace, the
first two being associated with him in business, while the latter is a surgeon in New
Zealand and a Member of Parliament and has been knighted by the Queen.
Mr. Grace is largely interested in a number of corporations. He is president of
The Ingersoll-Sergeant Drill Co. , and The Hamilton Bank Note Co. ; vice president of
The Fernbrook Carpet Co.; and director in The Lincoln National Bank, The Lincoln
Safe Deposit Co , The Terminal Warehouse Co., The Brooklyn Warehouse & Stor-
age Co., The New York Life Insurance Co., The New York & Pacific Steamship Co.,
The Occident Dock Co., and a number of others.
In 1880, he was the Democratic candidate for Mayor of New York city and was
bitterly opposed on account of his religion. Once elected, he gave the city a business-
like administration. It is a notable fact that at that early date he exposed the ways of
the Police Department. He took the street cleaning away from them and placed it in
efficient hands. He asked the Governor to co-operate with him in removing some of
the men, who presided over the department in its worst da^s. From the first, Mayor
Grace took his stand against the corrupt elements of the Democratic party, and no mat-
ter which way the scale turned, he was always to be found in the same place.
In 1884, by running for Mayor, he was instrumental in swinging a large independ-
ent vote to Grover Cleveland. In that election, the people showed what they thought
of'a business administration. When he was unknown, he was elected by a majority of
3)3°°. and now in a three-cornered fight he was given a majority of over 10,000.
In 1892, he was one of the men who went to Chicago to protest against the action
of the State Democratic machine, and, by his efforts in organizing the protesting con-
vention, showed plainly to the rest of the country that New York was for Cleveland.
Again in 1894, he was found in his place, lending a powerful hand to throw Tammany
out of its entrenchment of city offices.
Though a citizen of the United States, Mr. Grace yet retains an interest in his
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. GR. 275
mother country, and in 1879, when the famine was raging in Ireland, he contributed
liberally for the relief of the poor people, having shipped half the cargo of the U. S.
war ship Constellation, besides furnishing the stevedores and clerk hire necessary
for loading the cargo. Mr. Grace is a devout Catholic and contributes liberally each
year for the support of many charitable institutions. He is also a trustee of St.
Patrick's Cathedral. Among the many clubs to which he belongs are the Metro-
politan, Manhattan, Down Town, Lawyers', Reform, Catholic, Press and Country
club of Westchester.
COL. JOHN LORIMER GRAHAM, lawyer, born in London, England, March 20,
1797, died in Flushing, L. I., July 22,* 1876. He was a' son of Dr. John Andrew Gra-
ham, a native of this country and descended from ancient Scottish lawyers, who prac-
ticed criminal law in this city during the early part of the present century. The son
was brought to this city at the age of four, and received as good an education as could
be obtained at that time. Educated to the law, he was admitted to the bar in 1821, and
began practice in partnership with his cousin, James L. Graham. His military title
was bestowed by Gov. DeWitt Clinton, upon whose staff he served. He had previously
been an officer in a local military regiment here. He gained prominence in the prac-
tice of mercantile law, being successively at the head of the noted firms of Graham,
Xoyes & Martin, and Graham, Wood & Powers. By adding to a fortune inherited from
his father, he became one of the strongest men in the city. He was married in 1818, to
Miss Emily Clason, a favorite in social circles. A Democrat in politics, the Legislature
made him in 1834 a Regent of the University, a position which he held until his death.
He also became a member of the Historical, The New England, The St. George's and
Bible Societies, and a member of the Council of The University of the City of New
York, in which he founded a free scholarship. In 1840, President Van Buren appointed
him Postmaster of New York city. Colonel Graham served for nearly four years, with
ability and fidelity. Through the instrumentality of General Dix, he was called to
Washington, to hold a confidential position in the Treasury Department. He read
much, keeping himself well informed on the questions of the day. His wife died
several years before him, but his four sons, James, Clinton, Augustus, and Malcolm,
all well known in business circles, and a daughter, Emily, survived him.
ROBERT GRAVES, one of the largest wall paper manufacturers in America, born
in Dublin, Ireland, about 1820, died at his home on Lafayette avenue, Brooklyn, Jan. 2,
1886. He came to this city when twenty-five years of age, found employment, and
later began the manufacture of wall paper in Brooklyn, upon a small scale, becoming
one of the pioneers of this industry. He gradually enlarged his factory until he
occupied a block on Fulton street at Carleton avenue. There he employed 220 '•
persons, and conducted a profitable industry. Shortly before his death, The National
Wall Paper Co., in whose organization he took an active part, acquired his factory and
trade, Mr. Graves becoming a large stockholder in the new company. To gratify a
love for country life, Mr. Graves occupied a beautiful summer home with extensive
grounds atlrvington, his graperies there being the finest on the Hudson. In 1885, he
began building a spacious mansion on Clinton avenue, designed to be the finest residence
in Brooklyn. The noted dwellings of New York city having been studied, plans were
then made for a dwelling, which should be chaste, clasically simple and rich, and among
other things contain a large art gallery. Mr. Graves did not live to enjoy his new home,
276 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
and the property was purchased by Alfred J. Pouch. A handsome man, over six feet
tall, with blue eyes and flowing hair and beard, he was attracted by home life more
than by public affairs. His second wife, Cesarine, and eleven children survived him.
RUFUS ROWE GRAVES, cotton merchant, born in Sunderland, Mass., Nov. 6,
1807, died in Morristown, N. J., Aug. 17, 1876. He was a son of Erastus A. Graves,
and came of old New England and English stock. After obtaining a common school
education, he began his business career as a clerk for his father, then a resident of
Macon, Ga., in a general store, and soon attained the dignity of partnership. E. A. &
R, R. Graves became large buyers of cotton, which they shipped to the Northern
States. In 1840, the firm removed to New York city. During the Civil War, the
senior partner retired, and his son E. A. Graves, and a son of the junior partner, were
then admitted, the name being changed to Rufus R. Graves & Co. They supplied
many New England mills with raw cotton, and shipped large quantities of the staple
abroad. Mr. Graves accumulated a large fortune, and retired in 1874, thereafter mak-
ing two trips to Europe for recreation. He was a man of sterling integrity and up-
rightness, utterly devoid of display or ostentation, and his life was a long record of
charity and kindness. His gifts were known to no one except himself, but they far
exceeded what those who best knew him supposed. He was a director of The Bank of
the Republic, The Phenix Insurance Co. of Brooklyn, The Delaware, Lackawanna &
Western Railroad, and The New Jersey Zinc Co. For thirty years, he lived in Brooklyn
and was long treasurer of Plymouth church. Later, he removed to Morristown, N. J.
He was married in September, 1839, to Mary J., daughter of John Arms, in Conway,
Mass., and their children were, Arthur B. Graves; Louisa M., wife of F. W. Owen;
Carrie A., wife of F. J. Mather; Fannie R., wife of L. C. Lathrop, and Mary Ella
Graves. By his will, Mr. Graves left $100,000 for the education of the colored race in
the South, and $115,000 to other charitable objects. The bulk of the estate was given
to his wife and children, but their best legacy was his beautiful and successful life.
JOHN ALEXANDER CLINTON GRAY, merchant, was born in Gen. James Clin-
ton's house in Little Britain, Orange county, N. Y. , Nov. 2, 1815. His grandfather,
Alexander Gray, having been implicated in the unsuccessful struggle for Irish inde-
pendence, left Ireland in 1790 for this country, dying soon after his arrival in Philadel-
phia. Maria Gray, widow of Alexander, married in 1797, her cousin, Gen. James
Clinton, of the army of the American Revolution. John Gray, son of Alexander, died
in 1816, as the result of an accident, leaving a widow ^and one son, the latter, the
subject of this sketch. The lad attended the academy in Montgomery, Orange county,
and, at the age of fifteen, made his entrance into practical affairs as clerk for his uncle,
Alexander McLeod Scott, a dry goods merchant in New York city. He was a young
man of merit and Mr. Scott made him a partner in 1835. In 1837, he married Susan
M., daughter of George Zabriskie of this city, lawyer, Alderman for several years, and
Member of Assembly. Mr. Zabriskie died in 1849. After the death of Mr. Scott, the
firm of John A. C. Gray & Co. , succeeded to the wholesale dry goods trade of the former
firm and prospered therein for many years. In 1855, Mr. Gray retired, the business
passing into the management of Buckley, Sheldon & Co. Mr. Gray was a special
partner in Bailey, Southard & Co., a dry goods commission house, during 1856-60, and
then retired wholly from active business. He has since spent his time largely in travel
and the recreations of a gentleman of refinement and intelligence, but has been largely
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. GR. 377
interested in railroad enterprises, among them The Lake Shore & Michigan Southern and
The Xew York, Lake Erie & Western, aiding in the reorganization of the latter in 1878.
In 1870, he served as receiver of The Memphis, El Paso & Pacific Railroad. He has
invariably refused to allow his name to be used as a candidate for public office but per-
formed a public service, as vice president of the Central Park Commission, when formed,
devoting much time to the creation of Central Park, seeking no other reward than the
satisfaction of creating a noble park for the benefit of his fellow citizens. It is owing
to the disinterested and earnest efforts of Mr. Gray and his associates, aided by Andrew
H. Green, Controller of the Commission, Mr. Vaux andvMr. Olmsted, that the park has
become what it is to-day. He was a strong Whig prior to 1856, and thereafter a Repub-
lican. While shunning public life, he has delighted in the company of his friends, whom
he has chosen from among men of letters rather than from the leading spirits of the gay
world. Men like Horace Greeley, William C. Bryant, and others of that time in
America, and Richard M. Milne, Lord Humphrey and Charles Kingsley of England,
have enjoyed his intimate acquaintance. His children have been George Zabriskie
Gray, late Dean of the Episcopal Seminary in Cambridge, Mass. ; Albert Zabriskie
Gray, late Warden of Racine College; John Clinton Gray, Associate Judge of the Court
of Appeals in this State; Catharine, wife of H. R. Bacon, a resident of the Isle of
Wight ; and Miss Frances Gray.
flRS. HETTY HOWLAND ROBINSON GREEN, capitalist, better known as Mrs.
Hetty Green, was born in New Bedford, Mass., Nov. 21, 1835. She is a granddaughter
of the late Isaac Rowland, and daughter of Edward Mott Robinson, a prominent
shipping merchant of New Bedford, who, by a life of marked enterprise and strong
natural powers, gained a fortune of several millions. Upon his death, June 14, 1865, a
large part of this fortune descended to his daughter Hetty. The latter was married in
1867 to Edward H. Green, a merchant of New York city. Mrs. Green aided her father
in the management of his large estate, and thus, early in life, gained an acquaintance
with business methods, which subsequently proved of value. She has retained control
of his fortune, and devoted herself with ability to its management and increase.
By careful investment, she has become a large holder of stock in sound railroad
companies in the West and South, in The Chemical National Bank, and in business
blocks and other real estate in Chicago and other parts of the country. A woman of
remarkable force of character, Mrs. Green displays little taste for the recreations of
fashionable life but derives great pleasure from business pursuits. She is shrewd and
exceedingly competent, while at the same time animated with a kindly heart and a
spirit of unfailing good nature. Her purchases of new properties are made with sound
judgment and generally with excellent success. For a number of years, she operated
to some extent in Wall street. Probably no other woman in America travels so much
as she, but her trips to various parts of the country have business purposes in view.
They are not made solely for recreation. She is rather above the middle height, large
in frame, with gray eyes, a strong nose, and regular features. Her children are Edward
H. R. Green and Sylvia Green.
EDWARD HOWLAND ROBINSON GREEN, son of Mrs. Hetty Green, the capital-
ist, was born in the Langham Hotel, London, England, Aug. 22, 1868. The family came
to Ne\v York in 1872. Edward was educated in the public schools of New York city,
the High School in Bellow Falls, Vt., and Fordham College, graduating from the latter
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. GR. 279
in 1888. He then studied law, paying especial attention to the statutes pertaining to
real estate and railroads. Having been admitted to the bar and thus equipped for the
battle of life, he identified himself with his mother's properties and soon revealed
excellent business talent. A beginning was made as clerk in the office of The Connecti-
cut River Railroad, where he gained an insight into the management of this class of
corporations.
At the age of twenty-one, The Ohio & Mississippi Railroad elected him a director,
giving him a larger opportunity for the study of traffic problems. In 1893, he visited
Texas, and purchased, on excellent terms, a branch of The Houston & Texas Central
Railroad, one of the most important transportation, systems in that State, formerly
controlled by his mother. The same year, he took The Texas Midland Railroad, in
which he owns a controlling interest, out of the hands of the receiver, and by election
as the head of the corporation without his knowledge and during his absence, became
the youngest railroad president of the United States, natural ability also making him
one of the most competent. With the ardor of youth and the determination of a man
who is resolved to know all about the business in which he is engaged, Mr. Green
pervades with his activity the whole region traversed by his railroad. Frequent visits
are paid to the towns along the line, and the merchants are visited for consultation with
reference to everything which will increase the traffic and build up both the country
and the railroad. It is not unusual for him to don a suit of overalls, mingle with the
employes in the shops, and hold the throttle of an engine in a trip down the line He
is not in the least afraid of work. Genial, enthusiastic, considerate and a gentleman,
he makes friends everywhere, and is warmly respected by the officers and employes of
the road. A large fortune will eventually come under his control, and he is rapidly
qualifying himself in the most practical manner for its prudent management.
Mr. Green is already a stockholder in numerous railroad companies and owns
several blocks of houses in Chicago. He has won popularity socially by attractive
manners, and the commendation of the judicious for his energy, caution and ability.
His clubs are the Union of New York, the Union League and Chicago Athletic of
Chicago, and the Dallas of Dallas, Texas Like his father, he is fond of athletic exer-
cises, and has gained therein the iron muscles of a well developed specimen of hardy
manhood.
It makes some difference, as these pages clearly show, how a man starts in life,
but in free America, early poverty is no bar whatever to success. The essential thing
is how a man makes his way, after he has made a start, and this applies to both rich
and poor. There is every reason to believe that Mr. Green possesses the constructive
and progressive temperament, which promises for him a brilliant future.
JOHN CLEVE GREEN, merchant, born in Lawrenceville, m N. J., April 14, 1800,
died April 29, 1875, at his residence on Washington Square in this city. His father,
Caleb Smith Green, was a farmer in Lawrence township in the present county of
Mercer, N. J. While young, John entered the house of N. L. & G. Griswold, mer-
chants in the China trade on South street in this city, and as a clerk displayed so much
sagacity that he was appointed supercargo of the ship Panama, a famous tea clipper of
that day, and of other vessels, and made many voyages to China and South America.
In 1833, he was admitted to the house of Russell & Co., in Canton, China, and there
laid the foundation of his large fortune. In 1839, on his return to New York, he mar-
280 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
ried Sarah Helen, daughter of George Griswold, and carried on the China trade for
many years thereafter, acquiring a fortune of about $7,000,000. Mr. Green was prom-
nent in the social, business and public enterprises of the city. He had been for many
years a director of The Bank of Commerce, a member of the Chamber of Commerce
and a manager of several of the leading charitable and public institutions, being always
known as a man of clear views, strong convictions and great force of character. He
took an active interest in the University of the City of New York and in Princeton The-
ological Seminary and Princeton College. His town house was in Washington Square
in this city and his large country house with much land at Castleton on Staten Island.
Mr. Green was the father of three children all of whom died in childhood. His brother,
Henry W. Green, was at one time Chancellor of New Jersey, and his brother in law,
Frederick Frelinghuysen, Senator from the same State. By his will, he left $50,000 to
the Theological Seminary at Princeton and a large estate to be disposed of by his resi-
duary legatees to religious, charitable and educational institutions. Mrs. Green died in
May, 1893.
NORVIN GREEN, M.D., president of The Western Union Telegraph Co., born
where New Albany, Ind., now stands, April 17, 1818, died in this city, Feb. 13, 1893.
His father, Joseph Green, born near Louisville in 1796, was a soldier in 1812, and
took part in the battle of New Orleans, afterward becoming a farmer in Kentucky,
tavern keeper, manufacturer and merchant, trading in a coiintry store and in flat boats
on the Mississippi. Norvin grew up in the employments carried on by his father, kept
the books, and helped manage a fleet of trading flat boats. In 1833, a storm wrecked a
number of their boats on the lower Mississippi, and the rest were seized to satisfy a
debt for which the senior Green had become surety. Norvin then bought a flat boat
in Cincinnati and a stock of goods, traded down the Ohio, and located at the mouth of
the Kentucky river, leased a farm, built a store, and in three years had made enough
money to pay the family's debts and buy a farm. He then filled a contract to deliver
1,200 cords of wood at Madison, Ind. The family now being prosperous, he studied
medicine at the University of Louisville, graduating in 1840, and practiced his profes-
sion for thirteen years in Kentucky. Dr. Green sat for two terms in the Kentucky
Legislature. In 1853, Secretary Guthrie appointed him commissioner and disbursing
agent for the building of the new custom house and postoffice in Louisville. The fol-
lowing year, Dr. Green became interested in telegraph lines, and in July joined the
company which leased The New Orleans & Ohio Telegraph Co. When this company
was incorporated in 1854 as The Southwestern Telegraph COr, Dr. Green was chosen
president. Under his management, the company built new lines on the railroads from
Louisville to New Orleans, and the system was extended throughout Arkansas and
Texas. In 1857, Dr. Green visited New York city, met the presidents of the six lead-
ing telegraph companies, and with them entered into the Six-Party Contract, the first
telegraph deal in America, which lasted thirty years and was never broken. Territory
was partitioned and an interchange of business provided for. All later consolidations
of telegraph companies have followed the principles of the Six-Party Contract. The
North American Telegraph Association was formed in 1857, with Peter Cooper as
president, and every telegraph company in the country finally became a member of it.
The Southwestern Telegraph Co. , was united with The American Telegraph Co., in
January, 1866, and in July following, the latter was consolidated with The Western
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. GR. 281
Union Telegraph Co. Dr. Green refused the presidency, but accepted the vice presi-
dency of the new company. Upon the death of William Orton in 1878, he succeeded
to the presidency. In this position, he became one of the best known and most com-
petent telegraph men in the country. His capacity for labor was immense. He pos-
sessed great administrative ability, a thorough knowledge of telegraph law, and
remarkable sagacity. The stockholders resisted every effort he made to retire from the
head of the company. He was a man of fine culture and both in business and private
life his manners were genial and winning. At one time, his friends in Kentucky made
him a candidate for United States Senator, and would have elected him, had not a
single vote intended for him and cast by a friend been mistakenly given to another.
He was at one time president of The Louisville, Cincinnati & Lexington Railroad and
later a director of The Gold & Stock Telegraph Co., The International Ocean
Telegraph Co., The Southern Bell Telephone & Telegraph Co., The Dives Pelican
Mining Co., The American Speaking Telephone Co., and The Mercantile Trust Co.
He married early in life Martha; daughter of James W. English, a well to do farmer
near Carrollton, Ky. His four sons are Dr. James O. Green, who married a daughter
of ex-Mayor Hewitt; John W. Green, at one time president of the Louisville Cham-
ber of Commerce; Pinckney, and Warren Green. He also had several daughters.
JOHN QREENOUQH, banker, a native of Boston, Mass., was born March 25, 1846.
He is a son of David Stoddard Greenough, and Anna Parkman, his wife. The family
are of Puritan ancestry, Capt. William Greenough, who settled in Boston in 1642, being
the founder of the family in this country. The subject of this sketch was educated at
Harvard College, and entered business life as clerk in the famous shipping house of
Grinnell Minturn & Co., and utilized his training there, later, in establishing himself
as a merchant in the River Platte trade. His firm of Wilder & Greenough gained a
distinct and worthy success. In 1884, he was admitted to the firm of Poor, White &
Greenough, stock brokers and bankers in this city, the firm subsequently becoming
Poor & Greenough. This house is one of the most conservative and trustworthy in
Wall street It has devoted its energies mainly to the negotiation of loans and invest-
ment securities. When English capital began to seek investment in America to such a
large extent, ten years ago, Poor & Greenough became one channel through which large
sums of money found their way into the stocks of American corporations, the firm
representing several investment companies in London. They have dealt largely also
in industrial and railroad stocks, and are financial agents for The Missouri, Kansas &
Texas, The Wheeling & Lake Erie, and The Louisville, New Albany & Chicago Rail-
roads, and other corporations, for which they have negotiated more than §50,000,000 of
securities within the last few years. Both partners are directors of several railroad
companies and financial organizations, including those above named, and The Knox-
ville & Ohio, The Sherman, Shreveport & Southern, and The Kansas City & Pacific
Railroads, The Bank of the State of New York, The Lawyer's Surety Co , The Lon-
don & New York Investment Co., and others. A man of powerful mould and fine
manners, Mr. Greenough has a large number of friends, and is a popular as well as
successful man. He was married June 4, 1879, to Caroline, daughter of John M.
Storey, of New York. The following clubs claim him as a member: University,
Harvard, Tuxedo, Down Town and Lawyers', as well as The New England Society and
The Sons of the American Revolution.
2g2 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
MOSES HICKS QRINNELL, shipping merchant, born in New Bedford, Mass.,
March 23, 1803, died Nov. 24, 1877, in this city. His father, Cornelius Grinnell, a
Huguenot by descent, was a successful shipping merchant of New Bedford. The
family was planted in America in 1632 by three brothers, who settled in Rhode Island.
On the maternal side, Mr. Grinnell traced his ancestry to John Howland, one of the
company of the Mayflower. Moses was one of six brothers, who, educated in the New
Bedford academy and their father's counting-room, nearly all became widely known in
commercial circles. Henry Grinnell, an older brother, sent the Advance and Rescue
in search of Sir John Franklin in 1850, Grinnell Land being discovered by this expedi-
tion. Moses began life as a clerk for Wm. R. Rotch & Co., importers of Russian goods
at New Bedford, at a salary of $100 a year. He finally engaged in business on his own
account, and before twenty years of age sailed as supercargo of a vessel bound for
Brazil and thence for Trieste with a cargo of coffee. After a few ) ears with Fish &
Grinnell, a partnership was, in 1828, formed by Mr. Grinnell with Robert B. Minturn,
known as Grinnell, Minturn & Co., the senior partner being then only twenty-two years
old. They grew to be owners, wholly or in part, of about fifty ships, engaged in the
trade with South America and foreign countries and the packet service to England.
This firm -never failed and never endured a stain upon their name. For nearly forty
years, their sign was a landmark on South street. The firm established the Blue and
White Swallow-Tail Line of packet ships to Liverpool and the Red and White Swallow-
Tail Line to London. It is said that Mr. Grinnell built more ships in his day than any
other New York merchant. In 1838, Mr. Grinnell was elected president of The
Phoenix Bank, and in 1843 succeeded Robert Lenox as president of the Chamber of
Commerce, retaining the position five years. During 1860-65, ne was a Commissioner
of Charities and Correction. He was also president of The Sun Mutual Insurance Co.
Originally a Democrat and a member of Tammany Hall, he left that organization and
in 1838 was elected to Congress as a Whig. In 1856, he served as Presidential elector
at large on the Fremont ticket, and in 1869 was appointed Collector of the Port of New
York by President Grant. During the Civil War, he joined the Union Defence Com-
mittee and gave largely in support of the Union. His first wife was Susan, daughter
of Gilbert Russell. After her death, he married, in 1836, Miss Julia Irving, a niece of
Washington Irving. They had three children, all of whom survived him, namely,
Irving Grinnell; Julia, wife of George S. Bowdoin; and Fannie, wife of Thomas F.
Gushing; and their country residence adjoined Washington Irving's "Sunnyside. "
RANDOLPH QUQQENHEIMER, lawyer, was born July 20, 1848, in Lynchburg,
Va. As his name implies he is of German descent. A student in the University
of Virginia until he came to New York city, he finished his preliminary education
in the University of the City of New York. The modest means of the family
brought upon the youth, at an early age, the duty of entering upon active life. His
first employment was as clerk for a merchant of woolen goods. Later, he became
a clerk in the law office of Martin I. Townsend, upon the modest salary of $r a
week. He was the all round useful young man of the office for several years, and
meanwhile applied himself with diligence to investigation of the knotty problems of
the law. When admitted to the bar, he opened a law office under the name of Guggen-
heimer & Untermyer. By making himself thoroughly conversant with the law of cor-
porations, he attracted important clients, built up a large and profitable practice, and
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. GU. 283
has been more than ordinarily successful in negotiating large transactions with English
syndicates, which desired to invest their surplus means in America. He has brought
$60,000,000 of English capital into this country for investment. In 1887, Mayor Grace
appointed him a member of the Board of Education, and he was twice re-appointed.
Mr. Guggenheimer has met with a suitable reward for his legal enterprise, and is the
owner of the site of the old New York Hotel on Broadway, on which he is now con-
structing one of the most impressive buildings in New York city. He is also a director
in The Yorkville Bank. Mr. Guggenheimer has been favored by nature with rugged
health, a strong constitution and brains His succesr is due to incessant labor, tenacity
of purpose and the confidence inspired by an honest character and clear head. Various
excellent clubs have elected him to membership, including the Manhattan, Lotus, Arion,
Suburban, Press and Driving clubs, and the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick.
CHARLES GODFREY GUNTHER, fur merchant, oldest son of Christian G. Gun-
ther, born on Liberty street in this city, April 7, 1822, died at his home on East i4th
street, Jan. 22, 1885. He attended the Moravian Institute at Nazareth, Pa., and com-
pleted his studies at Columbia College Grammar School. On attaining manhood, he was
taken into the firm of C. G. Gunther & Co. , fur dealers, and for many years was occu-
pied in the old store on Maiden Lane. Later, the business was removed to Broadway,
near Prince street, and afterward to Fifth avenue, near 2jd street. Mr. Gunther allied
himself with the Democratic party in early life, was a member of the Young Men's
Democratic General Committee, its chairman for several terms, and one of the founders
of the Democratic Union club. In 1855, he received an election as one of the governors
of the Alms House, running 5,000 votes ahead of his colleagues on the ticket, the Board
of Governors choosing him president. In 1856, he was elected a sachem of the Tam-
many Society, and in 1861 he was nominated for Mayor, but was defeated by George
Opdyke, the last Republican Mayor the metropolis was destined to see for thirty-three
years. In 1863, however, Mr. Gunther became Mayor by a majority of more than
7,000. After the expiration of his term, he withdrew from politics, having no sympathy
with those who constituted the Tweed Ring and conscious that no one could succeed
in politics, who did not obey their behests. In 1878, he consented to become a candi-
date for Senator from the Vllth District, but was defeated. For many years a mem-
ber of the old Volunteer Fire Department, he was elected later president of the Veteran
Fireman's Association. Mr. Gunther saw at an early day that Coney Island possessed
natural advantages as a pleasure resort and built The Brooklyn, Bath & Coney Island
Railroad, and two hotels, one at Locust Grove on Gravesend Bay, which was afterward
destroyed by fire. The Liederkranz and other societies claimed him as a member. His
wife was Amelia B , daughter of George Arcularius, and his children were Christian
G. and George A. Gunther; Lena, wife of James Miller; and Amelia B. Gunther.
ERNEST RUDOLPH GUNTHER, retired, son of the late William Henry Gunther
and grandson of the late Christian G. Gunther, was born in 1862 in what was known as
"Gunther Row," which consisted of six large houses and one enormous house on the
northwest corner of Second avenue and i4th street. This row was built about fifty
years ago in what was then the fashionable part of New York by Mr. Gunther's grand-
father, who came to America in the year 1812 for political reasons and to avoid serving
in the German army.
The name of the pioneer was originally von Gunther and he was the son of the
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. GU. 285
celebrated von Giinther, who was Surgeon to the King of Saxony and of noble birth
and a cousin of Prince Giinther, one of the richest German princes. Christian von
Giinther brought with him to America two coats of arms and four miniatures, which
have been handed down in the family.
Ernest Rudolph Gunther is a member of many of the most select clubs in New
York and lives at No. 9 West 5 7th street.
He is a clever conversationalist and extremely popular among club men and the
people who comprise what is known as the best society in New York. An invitation
to one of the frequent musicales, given at his residence, is prized very highly by
members of the New York smart set.
H.
WILLIAM ALEXANDER MADDEN, born in Flushing, Long Island, about 1811,
died in New York city, April 2, 1880. He was a son of David Hadden, a native of
Aberdeen, Scotland, 1773, and of Ann Aspinwall, his wife. Having gained a thorough
knowledge of the linen trade in the store founded by his father, the subject of this
memoir devoted his whole life to the importation of Irish linens, and the tranquil,
capable and prosperous prosecution of their sale in this country. He was married in
1849 to Frances Sanderson, daughter of James Elnathan Smith. Of their three children,
two are living, James E. Smith Hadden and Harold Farquhar Hadden.
GEORGE HAGEMEYER, merchant and manufacturer, a native of Castle in
Germany, born in 1837, died in Cornwall on the Hudson, June 14, 1892. His parents
were farmers and proprietors of a large grist mill.
When fifteen years of age and after the death of his parents, the subject of this
memoir removed to Rotterdam, and thence crossed the ocean to the United States in
1852, by a sailing vessel, the voyage lasting forty six days. He reached New York city in
December. The possessor of only a small amount of money, he was compelled to be
saving from the start. A short time after his arrival in the metropolis of the new
world, his older brother John gave him employment in a saw mill in Downing street,
at that time considered the best mill in this city. Older brothers are sometimes incon-
siderate, and John restricted the freedom of his younger brother so much, that the latter
found he could do better elsewhere. Going to Yonkers, where he had been offered a
position in G. Copcut & Co. 's saw mill, he devoted himself diligently to his work, and
in less than a year had mastered the proper management of a saw. But, possibly a
trifle homesick, he longed to be back to New York, and finally returned to his friends
and his brother's mill in Downing street. Six months later, however, he again disagreed
with his employer, and leaving his position, this time he had the enterprise to remove
to Boston. After a short stay in Boston, and while employed in a saw mill there, he
had the misfortune to meet with a serious accident, one of his legs being completely
cut off by a circular saw. He was then seventeen years old. To many natures thi=
disaster would have proved such a discouragement as to have taken away ambition,
blighted all prospect of advancement in life, and resulted in a subsequent career of
commonplace and routine effort. But Mr. Hagemeyer was ^lot daunted. The calamity
served rather to call forth all the resources of which he was possessed.
After remaining several months in a hospital, he returned to New York city. As
he was then unfitted for laborious work in the mill or for his trade as a sawyer, he
undertook the cigar manufacturing business to support himself. After making cigars
by hand for two years, he was offered a position as buyer of timber by Cbpcut &
Co. , who admired his energy and saw in him the making of an enterprising and sue.
cessful merchant. Accepting the offer, he sailed from New York for the Honduras
coast and for two years purchased the mahogany timber required by Copcut & Co.
While this experience proved of great value to him, financially and otherwise, it was
suddenly ended by an attack of fever, and Mr. Hagemeyer returned to New York.
At the age of twenty-two, he had saved considerable money and was then taken
p
N, i ng Island, aboxr
ladden, a na:
uned a t
•> ;,k t'«rt ton- , the subject
- Hte to the i- 'inens, and the trar
• <>u$ prosecution of the>' '••. He was mar
,ders«»n, daughter of I *>. Of their three childr
g, James E. Smith Hadden AI*\ .r Hadden.
'CiE HAGEMEYER, merchant and nr rer, a native of Cast!'
, born in 1837, died in Cornwall <--n June 14, 1892. His par
c farmers and proprietors of a large jt*"i>t
When fifteen vears of ago anU afte* • parents, the subject of
noir removed to k««tie-.dani. ,;nii tr.truv o can to the United Stat>
t. by a sailing vessel, the M , He reached New York city in
r. The possessor of only •• it' ut. ;>;oney, he was Compelled to be
r from the start. A short time af u : in the metropolis of the i
older brother John gave him en in a saw mill in Downing street,
iie considered the bes« nuH in tV ' • ier brothers are sometimes incon-
.uid John restricted the frocduTi iger brother so much, that the latter
ou!d do i«.-tu-' vs, where he had been offered a
-.\ G. Copcut & C(. * <«iw rntli. r inself diligently to his work, and
.in a year ha i ! • • ••• ent <jf a saw. But, possibly a
r homesick, he longed to be back l.- Mvw i'«.irk, and finally returned to his friends
his brother's mill in Downing stre« .ths later, however, he again disagreed
i his employer, and leaving his p<.-.:>vn<. fhis time he had the enterprise to re»
iston. After a short stay in BOM-HJ. aivi while employed in a saw mill there, he
Hjlthe misfortune to meet with a -<-t • ^ ,i-jo«.lfnt, one of his legs being completely
Hit off by a circular saw. He -VW tH— . strv-riu-t-n years old. To many natures thic
have provtti < as to have taken away ambition,
Hightcd ail }iri*»pci:t of .«*• •,.- «**n-, >u in hf<- iind resulted in a subsequent career of
u.'.r.pla . >IT--' r.-r t:. K.*\ .r. H tit '! ' was nbt daunted. The calamit)'
e was possessed,
he returned to New York city.
jr his trade as a sawyc
:r.iuiui. himself. After making
.rs, he was •*-. red "< >iyer of timber by (
: his energy it »<; sa* ir. ing of an enterprising ami
Accepting iiu- •••'•'.•:.. '•• - York for the Ii
r< years purchased tn^ i. required by Copcu
jiroved of great value Hly and otherwi:
attack of fever, an i.ixemcycr returned to
uty-two, he had sav .ey and was th-
os
y
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. — HA. 289
JOHN HUDSON HALL, a native of- New York city, born Oct. 15, 1828, died in
Thomasville, Ga., March 3, 1891. He was a son of John V. Hall, whose ancestor
came to this country from England in 1700. First, clerk in a bank and then in the
store of Elliott, Burnap & Babcock, manufacturers of paper, he became a partner in
1850 in Babcock, Dubisson & Hall, and in 1854, in Campbell, Hall & Co., who on Nas-
sau street, rose to great prominence. Mr. Hall became senior partner in 1860. Having
acquired considerable wealth, he retired in 1881. Mr. Hall was one of those who, July
25, 1866, organized The West Side & Yonkers Patent Railway, which built half a mile
of elevated railroad on Greenwich street, operated with stationary power and an endless
cable. From that time forward, he gave great attention to elevated railroads, was a
director of The New York Elevated Railroad Co., which built the first successful line,
and shared in the management of The Manhattan Railroad until his death. At one
time largely interested in The Oregon & Transcontinental and The Union Pacific,
Mr. Hall also made investments in some of the largest railroad systems in the South.
He was vice-president of The Georgia Central Railroad & Banking Co., and The Rich-
mond Terminal corporation, and director of The East Tennessee Virginia & Georgia
and The Richmond & Danville Railroads. In politics a Republican, he never took an
active part in public affairs, but was a member of the Union League club. He was
more of the typical American merchant and gentleman than politician. Thoughtful,
shrewd, and unassuming, his influence was powerful in corporations. By his marriage
in 1872, to Cornelia, daughter of Augustus H. Ward, he was the father of four chil-
dren, John Hudson, Charles Ward, Cornelia Catherine and Martha Jane Hall.
WILLIAM HENRY HALL, merchant, born in Hackensack, X. J., July 21, 1826,
died in Budapest, Hungary, June 30, 1894. He was a son of Henry J. S. Hall, of
Coventry, England, a watchmaker, who came to America in his youth. William served
an apprenticeship as clerk for Bush & Hillyer, and then found employment with Olcott,
McKesson & Co. , a leading drug firm. In a short time, he felt competent to manage
a store, and, aided by a loan from his father, bought the retail drug store of Dr. Gunn
on Bleecker street, in the then fashionable quarter of the city. In 1851, with John
Ruckel, he engaged in a wholesale and importing trade in drugs, in the firm of Hall
& Ruckel, down town, and reaped great profit from the ownership of certain popular
proprietary articles and valuable trade marks. For about thirty years previous to his
death, though the old style was retained, Mr. Hall had been sole proprietor. He was
president of The L. W. Warner Co., director of The Fellows Medical Manufacturing
Co., of New York and London, The Washington Trust Co., and The Terminal Ware-
house Co. ; and the owner of choice real estate. Modest and retiring, calm, sound and
sympathetic, he was a sterling man and held in affectionate esteem. Mr. Hall was
married in 1850, to Martha M., daughter of Curtis Hitchcock, and had several children.
ADOLPH HALLQARTEN, merchant, born in Mayence, Germany, Nov. 6, 1835,
died in Wiesbaden, Feb. 13, 1885. Lazarus Hallgarten, his father, founded the house
of Hallgarten & Herzbel, now Hallgarten & Co. Educated at the higher public
schools, the subject of this memoir came to New York in 1850 and began life in the
Eagle drug store on Broad way, near Grand street. Next year, he entered a wholesale drug
house, and several years afterward the employment of D. T. Lanman & Co. , wholesale
druggists. For D. T. Lanman & Co., he undertook many long trips to the West Indies,
Mexico and South America, which yielded such good returns that he was taken into
290
AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
partnership in Lanman & Kemp, and his persevering endeavors finally brought him a
fortune. In later life he devoted himself to charitable institutions, especially to the
Hebrew Institute for deaf mutes and the Mount Sinai Hospital, serving the latter for
many years as president. A wife, son and two daughters survived him.
JULIUS HALLQARTEN, stock broker, born in Europe about 1842, died in Dabos,
Switzerland, Jan. 7, 1884. In 1851, became to New York city with his family and
learned brokerage and banking in the house of Hallgarten & Co. He joined the old
Open Board of Brokers and in 1869, the Stock Exchange. The high character, ample
capital and able business methods of the firm commanded success and, when Mr. Hall-
garten died, he left a fortune of several millions to Matilda, his wife, and his son Albert.
Mr. Hallgarten served for several years as president of The Philharmonic Society and
displayed especial interest in musical and art matters. His gifts to the Academy of
Design and for the encouragement of artists were large, and at his death, he willed
$192,000 to philanthropic objects.
JOHN HALSEY, hatter, born July 19, 1801, died Sept. 22, 1877, in Brooklyn.
His mother was a member of the Crafts family of Boston, and his father traced his
genealogy back in England to the Norman conquest. The ancient residence of the
family was at Gladdesford Park, Hertfordshire. Mr. Halsey's childhood was spent in
Boston. The family came to New York about 1811, and young Halsey a few years
later entered the store of D. L. & J. E. Haight, merchants of hats and hat furnishing
goods. He was rapidly advanced and finally became a partner, the firm then adopting
the style of Haight, Halsey & Co. About 1835, Mr. Halsey and his two brothers
bought estates in Brooklyn on Clinton avenue near Myrtle. This was then almost a
country region and Mr. Halsey's house stood far back from the street. The three
brothers married three sisters, the Misses Curtis. None of them had any children, and
they adopted three boys and a girl, all of one family. Mrs. John Halsey died in 1875.
Mr. Halsey was noted for his liberal spirit and aided many young merchants to gain
their start. He was a Christian gentleman and unswervingly devoted to principle. He
never held political office but was honored with high positions in benevolent institutions
and at the time of his death, was vice president of The Dime Savings Bank of Brook-
lyn. He had been a director in The Mechanics' and other banks.
JAMES HOOKER HAMERSLEY, lawyer, is the present head of one of the notable
families of the Island of Manhattan, whose history is worth recounting. His ancestor
William Hamersley, merchant, born in England in 1687, died in New York city,
August 3, 1752. He derived his descent from Hugo le Ktnge, who came to England
from Provence, France, about 1366, and acquired a large estate in England, known
as Hamersley, whence the family took their name. Sir Hugh Hamersley, of this
line, a notable merchant of London in the trade with East Indies, America and Europe,
rose to be Mayor of London in 1627. William Hamersley, his great grandson, served
as an officer in the British navy, his letter of appointment, dated March 10, 1700, signed
by G. Rooke, D. Mitchell, and George Churchill, all noted men, being now in the pos-
session of James Hooker Hamerslsy, together with the original letters of commenda-
tion, signed by the commanders of the vessels in which he sailed, advising his prefer-
ment. About 1716, he came to New York city, married Miss Van Brugh, of an old
Dutch family, and planted here the family of his name. He was prominent as a. mer-
chant and a vestryman of Trinity church. His tombstone is in Trinity church yard.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. HA. 29!
His son, Andrew Hamersley, for whom Hamersley street, now West Hous-
ton, was named, born in this city in 1725, died May 24, 1819. As an importer of foreign
goods, he gained considerable wealth, which, however, the American Revolution greatly
impaired, owing in part to his having accepted a British commission. His fortune was
restored by a large inheritance from Louis Carre, a merchant in the West Indies. He
married Margaret Stelle, a granddaughter of Thomas Gordon, one of the twenty-seven
original proprietors of New Jersey and Chief Justice of that State. In their home on
Hanover Square, near Wall street the family became noted for refinement and hospi-
tality. Mr. Hamersley invested his means mainly in Xew York city real estate. He
had three sons, William, Thomas, and Lewis C., and two daughters, Elizabeth and
Lucretia. Lewis Carre Hamersley, third son of Andrew, survived all his brothers and
sisters, and died Nov. 4, 1853, eighty -six years of age. His wife was Elizabeth Finney,
of Virginia, a woman of noble character and presence. They lived in Pearl street
many years, and later in Murray street, until the death of Mr. Hamersley; but, when
stores had finally grown up all around, the widow moved on to Bond street, then a
fashionable street, and later to No. 257 Fifth Avenue, where she died March 30, 1870,
at the age of eighty-eight. They had one daughter who never married, and two sons,
Andrew Gordon and John William Hamersley.
Andrew Gordon Hamersley, born in this city about the year 1806, died here Jan.
24, 1883. A lawyer by education, he never practiced, owing to inheritance of a large
share of his father's estate. He was a cultivated man, of extended knowledge and
delightful manners, and might have followed a public career, had he chosen. While
Mr. Rives was American Minister to Paris, he served as attache of the legation with
credit. Being much in Paris, he saw many stormy scenes in the politics of France,
including the Revolution. His marriage with Sarah, daughter of John Mason,
brought him one son, Louis C. Hamersley. Mr. Hamersley was a large stock-
holder and director of The Chemical Manufacturing Co., which gave rise to The
Chemical Bank, and received from his wife a considerable addition to an already large
fortune.
Louis Carre Hamersley, lawyer, only son of the last named, died in the city of
Xew York, May 3, 1883. He was educated at Christ Church College, Oxford, Eng-
land, and afterward at the Law School of the University of the City of New York.
His legal training formed merely a part of his equipment for the management of a
property of about five millions, mainly in real estate, left to him by his father and
mother. He never practiced. His wife, Lilly W , daughter of Commodore Price of
the United States Navy and one of the belles of Troy, N. Y., her native city, speedily
became a social leader in the metropolis. Mr. Hamersley joined the famous 7th Regi-
ment as a private, atterward becoming captain in the gth N. G. , S. N. Y. Having no
children, brothers or sisters, he provided that his wife should enjoy the entire income
of his estate until her death, when the entire property, real and personal, should
descend to the male heirs of James Hooker Hamersley, his cousin, and in case of lack
of such heirs to charitable institutions. In 1888, Mrs. Hamersley became the Duch-
ess of Marlborough by marriage in this city, and established her residence in England,
where she spent large sums of money in restoring the ancient magnificence of Blenheim
castle. The Duke of Marlborough died Nov. 9, 1892, and the Duchess has since
married Lord Beresford.
292 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
Col. John William Hamersley, lawyer, born on Hanover Square in this city,
May 24, 1808, died June 7, 1889, at his home on Fifth Avenue. He graduated
from Columbia College in 1826, practiced law successfully for a number of years, and
then retired to devote himself to travel and literary pursuits. In the early part of his
life, he was presented at the Court of Saint James and travelled extensively through
Europe and Asia at a time when few Americans had crossed the Atlantic. He was a
man of noble presence and fine character, rugged in physique, capable of great labor,
and noted for his religious conviction. Throughout life a devoted Christian, he gave
amply from his means to aid the causes he held at heart. He always declined to hold
public office, preferring calm retirement and study, "otium cum dignitate," rather than
the stormy arena of politics. He collected a fine library, especially rich in rare books,
wrote several works, and translated "A Chemical Change in the Eucharist," written by
Jacques Abbadie, the Frenchman. Mr. Hamersley was a founder of the Union club
and a member of the Century and St. Nicholas clubs. He joined his father in the
management of the family real estate, and by his excellent judgment, common sense,
energy, ability and foresight, greatly increased the property. His Friday night recep-
tions were famous for the number of eminent writers and artists who attended them,
and his charities liberal and unostentatious. While a young man, he accepted an
election as Colonel of a militia regiment in this city. He came prominently before the
public at one time, in consequence of a strong effort, which he made in favor of the
Mexican Republic against France. In company with James William Beekman, he gave
a famous banquet in New York to a large number of distinguished men, at which earn-
est speeches were made in favor of Mexico. The strong expression of sympathy by
many of the best minds of the country influenced Congress to recognize the Mexican
Republic. European nations followed, and this resulted in the defeat of Napoleon and
Maximilian and the establishment of the Mexican Republic. In return for this invalu-
able assistance to Mexico, in her darkest hour, Mr. Hamersley obtained a promise from
Mr. Romero, the Mexican Minister at Washington, that Maximilian's life should be
spared, but popular clamor among the Mexicans was so strong that this was impossible.
Captain Mayne Reid, the distinguished British author, was an intimate friend of Mr.
Hamersley and made him the hero of his novel "The Lone Ranche." Mr. Ham-
ersley was for many years a member of Grace Church, and after his death his.
children presented to that church a massive brass lectern in his memory. One of
his chief favorites among the charitable institutions was The Children's Aid Society.
James Hooker Hamersley has built for this charity, in memory of his father, a library
and reading room at the summer home, Bath Beach, L. I. Mr. Hamersley married
Catherine Livingston Hooker, daughter of Judge James Hooker of Poughkeepsie and
a lady of rare abilities and sterling worth. Their four children are one son, James
Hooker Hamersley, and three daughters, Virginia Hamersley, wife of Cortlandt de
Peyster Field; Catherine Livingston Hamersley, who married John Henry Livingston,
a great grandson of Chancellor Livingston; and Helen Reade Hamersley, who married
Charles D. Stickney, jr.
James Hooker Hamersley, son of Col. John W. Hamersley, born in New York
city. Jan. 26, 1844, is the descendant of several conspicuous families. He is in the
fifth generation from Judge Thomas Gordon, one of the Council for the province of East
Jersey; Deputy Secretary, 1692; Judge of Probate, 1698; Attorney General of East
294
AMERICAS SUCCESSFUL MEN.
Jersey, 1692; representative of Amboy in the Provincial Assembly, 1702-9; and Re-
ceiver General and Treasurer of the province, 1710-19.
He is also in the fourth generation from Joseph Reade, one of the Provincial Coun-
cil of New York, 1764, from whom Reade street in this city derives its name.
There runs in his veins the blood of the Livingstons, also, Mr. Hamersley being in
the sixth generation from Robert Livingston, member and Speaker of the Provincial
Assembly, 1718-25, and founder of Livingston Manor on the Hudson River.
From Filyp Pieterse Van Schuyler, captain of the New York provincial forces in
1667, he is in the seventh generation of descent.
He is eighth in descent from Brant Arentse Van Schlichtenhorst, Governor of the
colony of Rensselaerwick, 1648, and commandant of the fort and garrison of Rensse-
laerstein, whose most conspicuous military operations were in leading his forces against
Gov. Stuyvesant, of New Amsterdam, in which he was in the main successful.
He is also sixth in descent from Henry Beekman, who obtained from Queen Anne,
by letters patent, June 25, 1703, a large tract of land in Dutchess county, a portion of
which Mr. Hamersley now owns, this property having never been out of the possession
of the family since the days of Queen Anne.
Mr Hamersley began his studies as a boy in Paris, fitted himself for a higher
range of education at Poughkeepsie College Institute, and graduated from Columbia
College in 1865 with high honors. He obtained an oration at the commencement exer-
cises in the Academy of Music. Graduating from Columbia Law School in 1867, he
learned the practice of law in the office of James W. Gerard, then leader of the New
York bar. His alma mater bestowed upon him the degree of A.B. and A.M.
During the next ten years, Mr. Hamersley was successfully occupied with the law and
had charge of a series of precedent cases, connected with the opening of Church street
and involving a principle of great importance to lawyers and property owners. These
cases were carried from court to court, and, although the lower tribunal utterly
opposed Mr. Hamersley's views, the young lawyer persisted until he had obtained
from the Court of Appeals an unanimous decision in his favor. Many kindred cases
followed at once in the wake of that decision. The incident illustrates the tenacity,
energy and intelligence which Mr. Hamersley has always brought into play for the
attainment of his purposes. He finally withdrew from the law to manage his own and
the family property. A conservative man, of excellent judgment and character, and
heartily interested in affairs, he at one time contemplated a public career, and was sent
to the State convention by the Independent Republicans in 1877 as a delegate. Later,
he was nominated for the State Assembly from the Xlth District, but withdrew in favor
of his friend, William Waldorf Astor, whom he labored successfully to elect. For
many years, he served as a director of The Knickerbocker Fire Insurance Co. , one of
the oldest in America.
April 30, 1888, he married Margaret Willing Chisolm of New York, daughter
of William Eddings Chisolm and descendant of a distinguished family of South
Carolina. Her mother was a daughter of John Rogers, a large owner of real estate and an
honored citizen of New York city. The Church of the Holy Communion at the corner
of Fourth avenue and 2oth street is a memorial to the memory of Mr. Rogers, built by
his widow, who gave both the land and Ihe Church. Mrs. Hamersley is also a great-
niece of the Rev. William Augustus Muhlenberg, the founder of Saint Luke's Hospital.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. HA. 295
Mrs. Hamersley has charming manners, sweet disposition and great executive ability.
Her kind heart and gracious ways make friends for her wherever she goes. She is
much interested in charitable institutions. They have had three children, Margaret
Rogers, who died in infancy; Catharine Livingston, born May 8,1891; and Louis Gordon
Hamersley, born July 20, 1892.
James Hooker Hamersley has made about a dozen voyages to Europe, and has
travelled from the Mediterranean to the Arctic ocean. At the age of twelve, he had seen
several crowned heads and nearly a score ofvEuropean capitals, climbed Mount Vesuvius
on foot and been presented to Pope Pius IX. He is a member of the St. Nicholas
Society, The Society of Colonial Wars, the University, Metropolitan, City and Badminton
clubs, The New York Historical Socity, The New York Law Institute and The American
Geographical Society, and president of the Knickerbocker Bowling club. He is a lover
of history and the classics, and spends his leisure hours in reading favorite authors in
the original. Time is found for writing upon the live topics of the day, religion,
politics, etc., and he thus influences the age in which he lives. Many poems from his
pen have appeared in books, periodicals and newspapers, but have never yet been
collected in one volume. Among the best known are "The Countersign," "Yellow
Roses," "Fog Curtain," "The Midnight Sun," "Ronkonkoma," "Masconomo" and
"Voice of the Breakers." A staunch Republican, he believes that every American
should labor for the welfare of his country, and he takes an active interest in philan-
thropic work, being a trustee of The Society for Improving the Condition of the Poor,
member of the executive committee of The Young Men's Christian Association (23d
street branch), manager of the Babies' Hospital, an honorary manager of The Protestant
Episcopal Society for Seamen and interested in many other kindred charities.
COL. ALEXANDER HAfllLTON, lawyer, son of Alexander Hamilton, the states-
man, born in New York city, May 16, 1786, died at No. 83, Clinton Place, Aug. 2, 1875.
He was educated as a lawyer, followed his profession, and after a year in Spain in 1812,
served in the War of 1812 as captain of the 4ist Infantry. He then resumed the
practice of law. In 1817, he married Eliza P., daughter of William Knox, a leading
merchant in this citjr. In 1823, President Monroe appointed him Land Commissioner
for Eastern Florida. Both before and after this, he served as United States District
Attorney in Florida, and while there received the rank of Colonel. He subsequently
made his residence in New York, where he entered into real estate transactions, in which
he was successful, and also became one of the leading men in Wall street. In 1835, in
company with his wife, he drove in a coach and four over 4,000 miles through the
West. Colonel Hamilton was an intimate friend of Henry Clay, and had many other
political acquaintances, but never held elective office, excepting that of Member of
Assembly for one term. A political contest, however, always awakened his enthusiasm.
He left no children.
COL. JOHN CHURCH HAHILTON, lawyer, born in Philadelphia, Aug. 22, 1792,
while his father was Secretary of the Treasury, died in Long Branch, N. J., July 25,
1882. He was one of the six sons of Alexander Hamilton, soldier and statesman.
His mother was a daughter of Gen. Philip Schuyler. While the death of Alexander
Hamilton, in consequence of the historic duel with Aaron Burr, left the family in
straitened circumstances, the subject of this memoir was, nevertheless, able to
graduate in 1809 from Columbia College. He was admitted to the bar, and engaged
AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
in the practice of his profession. During the War of 1812, he served as an aid on the
staff of General Harrison, with the title of Colonel. Originally a Whig, he joined the
Republican party before the Civil War, and admired and supported General Grant, and
at one time he ran for Congress. Marriage placed ample means at his command, and
Colonel Hamilton then gave himself up to study and literary pursuits. In 1834-40, he
published the " Memoirs of Alexander Hamilton," in which he brought the life of his
father down to the tragedy which ended it, but, with a delicacy of sentiment charac-
teristic of him, made no mention of that event. His " Works of Alexander Hamilton,"
in two volumes, appeared in 1851. In 1850-58, he published a "History of the Republic,
as traced in the Writings of Alexander Hamilton," in seven volumes. He was married
Dec. 20, 1814, to Miss Maria Eliza Van den Heuvel, daughter of Baron John Cornelius
Van den Heuvel, once Governor of Dulde, Guiana, and a leading merchant of his day,
who lived at the corner of Barclay street and Broadway and owned a handsome
estate at Bloomingdale. Mrs. Hamilton died in 1872 Nine children survived their
father: Alexander Hamilton, of Tarrytown; Gen. Schuyler Hamilton, of Jamaica,
N. Y. ; Judge Charles A. Hamilton, of the Supreme Court of Wisconsin; William
Gaston Hamilton, civil engineer and vice president of The Mexican Telegraph Co. ;
Elizabeth, who first married Major General Henry W. Halleck, and after his death
Major General George W. Cullum; Mary E. wife of Judge Charles A. Peabody; and
Charlotte A., Adelaide and Alice W. Hamilton.
ANSON WALES HARD, sr., coffee importer, born in Arlington, Vt., Oct. 16,
1841, is a son of the Rev Anson B Hard, a Protestant fipiscopal clergyman. Educated
in the academy of his church in Philadelphia, Mr. Hard began life, when sixteen years
old. as a clerk in his uncle's office in Baltimore. In 1862, he came to New York as the
confidential and head clerk of Wright, Maxwell & Co., coffee merchants, and, in 1870,
became a partner in Wright & Co. , coffee merchants. Their trade was largely with
Rio de Janeiro, and Mr. Hard spent several years in Brazil, actively promoting their
interests. He returned to the North in 1874, and in 1875, formed the present house
of Hard & Rand, coffee importers, now recognized a leading concern in the business,
having branch houses in Santos, Rio de Janeiro, London and Batavia. In 1870, Mr.
Hard married Miss Sarah E., daughter of James M. Brown, the banker. Nine children
have resulted from this union, seven of whom are now living, James M. B., Sarah A.,
Julia P., Laura W., Nellie W., Anson W., and De Courcey L. Hard. Mr. Hard
is widely known as an honest, able and prudent man. -Jle is a member of the
Century. Metropolitan Riding, Rockaway Hunting, Down Town and Church clubs,
and a director of The Atlantic Mutual Insurance Co., The Bank of New York,
The Seamen s Bank for Savings, St. Luke's Hospital, The Home for Incurables, The
Society of St. Johnland, and The American Museum of Natural History and trustee of
The ^Norwich Fire Insurance Society of England.
LOUIS STANISLAS HARGOUS* banker, born in Philadelphia, Pa., Jan. 17, 1809,
died in New York city, Dec. 24, 1886. His father, Jean I. Hargous, a captain in the
Royal Navy of France and a staunch Royalist, came to this country on the Jason under
the orders of Count de Grasse> resigned, and married Mile. Marie de Brisson. Louis
graduated from Princeton College, of which his cousin was a member of the faculty.
At an early age, he was sent to Mexico, where he entered the banking house of La
Serna in Vera Cruz and the City of Mexico, afterward known as Hargous & La Serna.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. HA. 297
For seventeen years, he represented the United States as Consul at these cities, and
during the Mexican War served as Colonel on the staff of General Worth. After the
war, he resumed banking in Mexico, and continued until 1868, when he retired with a
fortune. Until 1875, he lived in Richmond, Va., and then settled in New York city.
Mr. Hargous was a man of great financial ability and prominently identified with many
of the most important financial transactions in Mexico. He spoke six languages
fluently. By his marriage to Suzanne Jeannette, daughter of William Gallagher, in
1850, he had eight children, Robert L. Hargous; Nina, wife of William Appleton of
Boston ; Anita, wife of George B. Deforest of New York ; Sallie J . , wife of Duncan Elliot
of New York, and Louis J. Hargous, who died June i, 1883. Three died in infancy.
CHARLES WILLIAH HARKNESS, lawyer, son of the late Stephen V. Harkness
of Cleveland, was born Dec. 17, 1860, in Monroeville, O., and received his education in
Yale University, class of 1883, and Columbia Law School, class of 1888. At the age of
twenty-four, he entered business life as a clerk and was occupied with the real estate
interests of his father. At the death of his father, he was made administrator of the
estate, and has been engaged since then in its management. He succeeded his father as
director in many business corporations, including The Euclid Avenue National Bank,
The Cleveland Arcade Co.. The United Salt Co.s The Ohio River Railroad, and The
Monongahela River Railroad; also in The Iron Belt Mining Co., and The Ashland
Mining Co. of the Gogebic range in the Lake Superior region and The Spanish Ameri-
can Mining Co. of Cuba. In 1890, he moved to New York city and is a member of the
University and New York Yacht clubs
JOSEPH HENRY HARPER, publisher, grandson of Fletcher Harper, one of the
founders of Harper & Bro's, was born in New York city, June 23, 1850. He was
educated in a school in Germany and Fay's School in Newport, R. I. Entering the
publishing house of Harper & Bro's, he began at the case and learned the trade of a
compositor and then successively the practical work of each department in the busi-
ness. He became a partner in Harper & Bro's in 1877, and was placed in charge of
the literary and periodical department. Liberal in taste, socially accomplished, he is
prominent in the literary and art life of the city, and a member of the Union League,
Grolier, Players, Century, Racquet, Riding and Rockaway Hunting clubs. By his
marriage with Mary, daughter of Col. Richard M. Hoe, in 1873, he has six children,
Fletcher, Mary Hoe, Richard M. H , Urling, Joseph Henry, and John Harper.
EDWARD HARRIMAN, stock broker, who died in this city March 24, 1887,
belonged to one of the oldest and best New York families, and was the inheritor of
considerable wealth, which he largely increased by his own exertions. He made his
fortune in early life, in partnership with Leonard W. Jerome, under the name of Har-
riman & Jerome, in brokerage and stock operations. About 1867, the parnership was
dissolved and Mr. Harriman retired from active business. He enjoyed thereafter a
tranquil and retired life, dividing his time between a country home in Hempstead and
this city. He was a member of the Union club.
COL. WILLIAM HAMILTON HARRIS, born in Albany, N Y., June 6, 1838, is a
son of the Hon. Ira Harris, formerly United States Senator from New York. Educated
in the Military Academy at West Point and the University of Rochester, he retired from
the United States army after thirteen years service, 1857-70, during which, while captain
of ordnance, he was brevetted Lieutenant Colonel tor ' 'gallant and meritorious service" in
298 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
the Wilderness campaign. Engaging in the manufacture of iron, in 1870, in Decatur,
111., and Rosedale, Kan., he filled with credit, later, the positions of treasurer of The St.
Louis, Keokuk & Northwestern Rail way and president of The Bucyrus Steam Shovel &
Dredge Co., of South Milwaukee, Wis. In 1864, he was married to Miss Emma Hazen,
daughter of the late Stillman Witt, of Cleveland, one of the prominent men of that
city. They have had two children, Edith, wife of Albert Symington, and Emma Witt
Harris, both now living in New York city. In 1890, Col. Harris changed his residence
to New York, and is engaged in various manufacturing1 and commercial pursuits.
FREDERICK CHRISTIAN HAVEflEYER, sugar refiner, born in New York city,
Feb. 5; 1807, died at Throgg's Neck, N. Y. , July 28, 1891. He was a son of Frederick
C. Havemeyer, junior partner in the old firm of W. & F. C. Havemeyer, sugar refiners.
Frederick left Columbia College in 1823, at the end of his sophomore year, and entered
the Havemeyer sugar refinery in Vandam street, as an apprentice. The factory was
then producing 1,000,000 pounds of sugar a year, employing less than a dozen men.
The young man speedily became a favorite with his uncle William, and under him
acquired a thorough knowledge of the industry. He worked in every department of
the factory,, from that of supplying the furnace with fuel to the final stages of refining
and packing, and later became profoundly versed in the science of this industry. The
little old sugar house, only 25 by 40 feet in ground plan, was also a store for the sale of
sugar. Ladies in their carriages often came there to purchase their family supply of
from one to twenty loaves of sugar or one to twenty gallons of molasses. In 1828,
Mr. Havemeyer formed a partnership with his cousin, William F. Havemeyer, in after
years twice Mayor of New York, under the name of W. F. & F. C. Havemeyer, jr.
They continued refining until 1842, when both partners retired in favor of their broth-
ers, Albert and Diedrick. The death of his father entailed upon Mr. Havemeyer the
management of a large property, and he was busily occupied therewith for twelve
years, his only relaxation being one tour of Europe and the Southern States. In 1855,
he returned to sugar refining, organized the firm of Havemeyer, Townsend & Co., and
built in Williamsburg the first of the collection of immense buildings, afterward known
all over the world as the refineries of Havemeyer & Elder. In 1861, the partnership
comprised Frederick C. Havemeyer, his son George, and Dwight Townsend. George
Havemeyer died before the end of the year, and Mr. Townsend soon retired. There-
upon, Mr. Havemeyer admitted as partners his son Theodore A. Havemeyer, and his
son-in-law, J. Lawrence Elder, the firm name being then changed to Havemeyers &
Elder. Two other sons, Thomas J. and Henry O. Havemeyer, and Charles H. Senff,
a nephew, were also admitted in time. The manufacturing plant of the firm now
covers five city blocks, and has a great water frontage upon the East River. It is the
largest sugar refinery in the world. Mr. Havemeyer was married March 31, 1831, to
Sarah Osborne, daughter of Christopher and May Townsend. Ten children were born
to them, including Charles, Theodore A., George W., Henry O., Thomas J. and Fred-
erick C. Havemeyer; Mary O., wife of J. Lawrence Elder; Kate B., wife of Louis J.
Belloni; Sarah Louise, wife of Frederick W. Jackson, and Warren H. Havemeyer.
-His son, THEODORE AUGUSTUS HAVEflEYER, refiner, was born in New
York city, May 17, 1839. He entered the sugar refining business of his father in 1857,
and was admitted to partnership in 1861. After a successful career as an independent
refiner, he joined The American Sugar Refining Co., and is now an active director.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. HA. 299
In 1889, he became a member of the firm of E. C. Potter & Co., bankers. Mr.
Havemeyer has taken an active part in real estate operations and owns many impor-
tant properties. The great Havemeyer building on Cortlandt street was constructed by
him. In 1863, he was married to Miss Emilie de Loosey, daughter of Sir Charles F.
de Loosey, and that union has brought him the following children : Charles F. , Natha-
lie, Emilie, Blanche, Marie, Theodore, Henry, Dora, and Frederick Havemeyer. Mr.
Havemeyer is a man of prominence in social life, owning a residence on Madison
avenue and a palatial "cottage" in Newport, and holding membership in the Union
League, Tuxedo, Coaching, Metropolitan, Meadow Brook Hunting and New York
Yacht clubs. He is Consul General of Austria-Hungary, in this city.
HENRY OSBORNE HAVEHEYER, sugar refiner, a son of Frederick C. Have-
meyer, was born in New York city, Oct. 18, 1847. He received an excellent education
in public and private schools and in 1869 was admitted to partnership in Havemeyers
& Elder. In a few years, he found himself practically the manager. Enormous as was
the business of the firm, Mr. Havemeyer foresaw possibilities muqh greater in a union
of the sugar refining firms in different parts of the country, then in rivalry. Mainly
through his efforts, the great American Sugar Refining Co. was organized Jan. 1 2, 1891.
In that corporation were merged The Havemeyer & Elder Sugar Refining Co., The De
Castro & Donner Sugar Refining Co., The Havemeyer Sugar Refining Co., The Brook-
lyn Sugar Refining Co., The Moller & Sierck Co., The Dick & Meyer Co., The F. O.
Matthiessen & Wiechers Sugar Ref g Co. , The North River Sugar Refining Co. , and
several others in Boston, New Orleans, St. Louis, and San Francisco. Purchase has
since been made by this new company of the refineries of Claus Spreckels and Har-
rison, Frazier & Co., in Philadelphia. The capital stock is now $75,000,000, making
this one of the greatest corporations in the country. Mr. Havemeyer has revealed
abilities of a high order and manages the affairs of his concern with fidelity and success.
Aug. 22, 1883, he was married to Louisine Waldron, daughter of George W. Elder, of
The Havemeyer & Elder Sugar Refining Co. They have had three children Adaline,
Horace and Electra. Mr. Havemeyer owns a house on East 66th street, corner of
Fifth avenue, but since 1883 has been legally a resident of Greenwich, Conn., where he
has erected and presented to the town, at a cost of $250,000, a magnificent public school
house. He is a member of the Grolier and Riding clubs.
WILLIAM FREDERICK HAVEMEYER, sugar refiner, and three times Mayor of
Xew York, was born in this city, Feb. 12, 1804.
The name of Hoevemeyer, in which form it appears in the early records of the city
of Bueckeburg, Germany, is traced back to Hermann Hoevemeyer, in the year 1600.
His descendant in the sixth generation, William Havemeyer, a native of Bueckeburg,
who was left an orphan in childhood, went to London, England, at the age of fifteen,
where he learned the art of sugar refining. He was a capable young man and became
superintendent of a sugar refinery upon attaining his majority. In 1799, he came to
New York city to take charge of the sugar house in Pine street, belonging to Edmund
Seaman & Co. He dwelt next to the sugar house for several years. In 1807, he built
a sugar house of his own in Vandam street, and was successfully engaged in sugar
refining, with his brother, Frederick C. Havemeyer, until his death.
William Frederick Havemeyer, eldest son of William, graduated from Columbia
College in 1823, having shown himself a proficient student, especially in mathematics.
300
.
AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
His preference for a business career led him to enter his father's office as a clerk, and
there he made a patient study both of the art of sugar refining and the management
of the mercantile department. In March, 1828, he formed a partnership with his
cousin, Frederick Christian Havemeyer, as W. F. & F. C. Havemeyer, and engaged iii
this business on his own account, and was occupied successfully for fourteen years.
In his financial relations, he exhibited sterling honesty and a high sense of honor. His
methods were so prudent, that in the widespread failure and distrust of 1837 no doubt
was ever entertained of the strength of his firm. He gained the entire esteem of his
fellow merchants by uncompromising integrity, just and honorable dealing, and the
care and sagacity displayed in every detail of his business.
Judicious investments, his high character, and his reputation as a man of sound
judgment, resulted in his election, in 1851, to the presidency of The Bank of North
America, whose affairs he directed skillfully through the crisis of 1857. In 1857, he
was elected president of The New York Savings Bank, resigning, after an able admin-
istration, from both banks in 1861. He owned a large interest in The Pennsylvania
Coal Co., and The Long Island Railroad, of both of which he was vice president. He
was also trustee or director in various fiscal institutions, in which his opinions were
always greatly valued.
After his retirement from the sugar business, public affairs attracted much of his
attention. He was a pronounced Democrat and always held it to be a reproach, that
influential citizens should take so little interest in their own government. His admira-
tion and support of General Jackson brought him into friendly relations with Martin
Van Buren, with whom he corresponded concerning his political course as President.
In 1844, he was elected one of the three delegates from the Eighth Ward to the
Democratic General Committee of the city. He was nominated for Presidential elector
at the Syracuse convention of his party, Sept. 4, 1844, and cast his vote in the Electoral
College for James K. Polk as President and George M. Dallas as Vice President of
the United States.
April 8, 1845, he was elected by the Democratic party, Mayor of New York, and
was inaugurated, May 13, 1845. He held office one year, and then declined a renomina-
tion, which had been urged upon him by the leaders of opinion in both political parties.
In May, 1847, he was one of the fourteen delegates from New York city to the Demo-
cratic State judicial convention at Syracuse and was unanimously elected its president.
In 1847, Mr. Havemeyer made a vigorous effort to remedy the abuses which were
then being practiced upon immigrants; and as a result, a law was passed May 5, 1847,
creating the Board of Emigration Commissioners, of which he became the first presi-
dent, June 15, 1847. He was succeeded by Gulian C. Ver Planck. Many of the
wrongs to which immigrants had been subjected were corrected under his energetic
management. His German origin and his intimate acquaintance with the wants and
manners of the large German element in the immigration to this country, added to his
other personal qualifications, made his selection for this position a fortunate one. After
holding the office for one year and accomplishing the purpose upon which he was bent,
he retired from the Board.
April n, 1848, Mr. Havemeyer was again elected Mayor of New York, being
inaugurated May gth. His administration during this term was again generally satis-
factory to the people of the city without regard to party. He was notable for the
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. HA. 301
scrupulous care which he gave to all details of administration, his rigid scrutiny of ex-
penditures, and his earnest effort to secure the same honest and economical manage-
ment of corporation affairs, which is enforced in private business. At the expiration
of one year, he retired from office, although again urged by leading men and journals
to accept another term of service.
The police force of New York had its foundation during Mr. Havemeyer's service
as Mayor. Night watchmen before that time had been the only guardians of the
peace. Thinking that the support of both -parties would be necessary to the success of
the system, and wishing its control to be free from partisanship, he displayed his
public spirit by appointing as Chief of Police, a Whig, Mr. Taylor. Although con-
firmed by the Assistant Alderman, the appointment was rejected by the Aldermen.
After his retirement from the Mayoralty in 1849, Mr. Havemeyer continued his
active participation in public affairs, and in 1859, he was nominated by the Democrats
for Mayor, but was defeated by Fernando Wood, the candidate of Mozart Hall.
During the Civil War, he was an earnest and influential Union man. He believed
that the rebellion could not be maintained and expressed his opinions on that point
with his usual independence. He always favored a decisive policy, was an early advo-
cate of the abolition of slavery as a war measure, and aided in measures for carrying on
the war. He presided at one of the four great public meetings held simultaneously in
Union Square, April 21, 1861, to give expression to the patriotism of New York city.
On one occasion, before the issue of the Emancipation Proclamation, in conversation
with Secretary Seward, he urged the necessity of prompt and vigorous measures and
said, " If a man has a gangrene, he does not poultice it, or trifle with it; he cuts it out.
And so this evil, slavery, ought to be cut out."
July 10, 1866, Mr. Havemeyer was selected, with Thurlow Weed, to arbitrate a
controversy between the Board of Public Charities and Correction and the Commis-
sioners of Emigration, relative to claims which had been pending more than ten years
and involved more than $100,000. After a patient and exhaustive investigation, the
arbitrators reached a decision, which was received as so satisfactory a settlement that
they were publicly thanked by both boards.
Mr. Havemeyer strenuously urged at all times upon his fellow-citizens the neces-
sity of active work to secure good government. He grew impatient at the political
apathy of many of the respectable and wealthy men of New York.
In the spring of 1870, he united with other leading citizens in organizing the Coun-
cil of Reform, having for its object the exposure of the Tweed Ring. He presided at
the meetings of April 6 and Sept. 4, 1871, at Cooper Institute, and was, on account of
his public spirit, solicited to accept the nomination for Mayor, but was inclined to
refuse, owing to the indifference of the people toward public affairs. It was at the
great meeting of Sept. 4, that a number of taxpayers known as the Committee of Sev-
enty were selected. His speech on that occasion was one of the most fearless and out-
spoken of any in the denunciation of official wrong-doing. He was elected vice
president, afterwards president, of the Committee, and was one of the most active and
influential members of that body. His long experience in politics rendered his services
especially valuable. An address to the people of the State of New York was prepared
and issued and an active and successful campaign initiated.
During the campaign of 1871, Mr. Havemeyer was, on October 2ist, nominated
302
AMERICA S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
by the Republicans for Mayor; and this action was ratified by the Committee of Sev-
enty, and later by the United Reform convention. The nomination was reluctantly
accepted. At the ensuing election he was handsomely elected, defeating Abraham R.
Lawrence and James O'Brien, and was inaugurated Jan. i, 1872. Under the new charter
of 1873, Mayor Havemeyer and the Board of Aldermen were empowered to reorganize
the city government. The Mayor's independence of mind led him to select for appoint-
ments men of high character and position. Some of his nominations were confirmed
by the Board of Aldermen, but others were opposed. It was while these matters were
under discussion that, Nov. 30, 1874, while seated at his desk in his office in the City
Hall, examining his correspondence, he was stricken with heart disease. He passed
away in a few moments.
Mr. Havemeyer was married April 15, 1828, in Craigville, N. Y., to Sarah Agnes,
a daughter of Hector Craig, Member of Congress and afterward Surveyor of the Port
of New York. His wife survived him, with six sons and two daughters. The sons
were John, Henry, Hector, James, Charles and William F. Havemeyer, jr. The
daughters were Sarah C., wife of Hector Armstrong, and Laura A., wife of Isaac W.
Maclay. About 1848, Mr. Havemeyer built the house No 215, now known as 335 West
1 4th street, where he resided up to the time of his death. He was brought up in the
Lutheran faith, but in early manhood attended St. Luke's Protestant Episcopal
church. After the building of the Seventh Avenue Methodist Episcopal church he was
a regular attendant there, although not a member of any religious body.
Mr. Havemeyer died at his post of duty. From his youth, he had been an active,
progressive, even combative man, finding work a pleasure and rest a task. Rugged
and positive in character, his forcible manner did not inspire the affection, but it always
won the respect 01 all. He possessed a gentle and charitable heart, and was exceed-
ingly helpful to the friendless. Intimate acquaintance with him revealed his genuine
kindness ol nature, as well as the undeviating rectitude of his intentions and his earn-
est devotion to the welfare of the community. Born when the city contained a popu-
lation of only 67,000 souls, he was an active influence in its affairs during the period of
its marvelous growth ; and, when its population had increased to 1,000,000, he was for
the third time its chief magistrate. His life record is that of the wise and upright
merchant, the patriotic and useful citizen, and the practical philanthropist.
HECTOR CRAIG HAVEMEYER, sugar refiner, born in New York city, July 23,
1840, died in Paris, France, Dec. 14, 1889. He was a son of the late William F. Have-
meyer, Mayor of New York, and while he gave no evidence of inheriting his father's
taste and ability for public life, demonstrated at an early age a very large share of the
family aptitude for business. He received an excellent education but left Union Col-
lege without graduation. He then studied the methods of sugar refining abroad, es-
pecially in Hamburg, and upon his return in 1865, entered the house of Harris & Day-
ton, sugar refiners, on Leonard street. Another trip to Europe followed, during which
he investigated special branches of the business. He then joined his uncle, Albert
Havemeyer, in starting on North Second street, Williamsburg, a model sugar refinery,
which was afterward merged into the Havemeyer and Elder concerns. In 1871, he pur-
chased the plant of The Greenpoint Sugar Refining Co. , reconstructed it entirely and
carried on the business successfully for a number of years. In 1873, ne started another
refinery in Jersey City under the name of Havemeyers, Eastwick & Co. These two
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. HA. 303
houses were afterward united under the name ot The Havemeyer Sugar Refining Co. of
which Mr. Havemeyer was president, and his brother, William F. Havemeyer, vice presi-
dent. These two houses were prominent members ot the Sugar Refineries combina-
tion, which can trace its orij^in from this source. Mr. Havemeyer was a member of
the Union League club. He never married. He was an excellent performer on the
violin, and owned one of the finest Stradavarius violins in existence.
CHARLES GERARD HAVENS, lawyer, born in Brookhaven, N, Ye, Sept. 27,
1808, died Jan, 7, 1888, at his home in East ipth street in this city. He was a son ot
Capt. Merodach Havens, a son or Capt. Daniel Havens, who was a well known Long
Island ship master. He came to this city while a young man, read law, and aftei ad-
mission to the bar, began practice in partnership with the late Charles B. Moore. In
or about 1838, he became junior to the distinguished counsellor, George Griffin, In
1844, he became a member ot the law firm or Cutting, Moore & Havens, of which the
great advocate, Francis B. Cutting, was the head. But six or seven years of the labor
of this overtaxed office sufficed to undermine his health. He retired from active prac-
tice and thereafter devoted himself to hi. investments in real estate, of which he was an
active buyer and seller on a large scale. He was a member oi The American Geograph-
ical Society and at one time of the Union League club and also a fellow member of
Charles O'Conor, Augustus Schell, Edgar S. Van Winklej William M. Prichard and
Senator Evarts in the "Column." He was a personal friend of Edwin Forrest and as
surety, on his appeal bonds, became involved in the divorce suit oi Forrest versus For-
rest. Mr. Havens was a man of action rather than a student, quick to decide, and
energetic in carrying out his resolutions, his integrity being ot the most sterling sort.
He was a staunch friend and an obstinate adversary. In 1871, he caused to be organ-
ized The Havens Relief Fund Society, the purpose of which was and is " relief of pov-
erty and distress and especially the offering of temporary reliei to unobtrusive suffering
endured by industrious and worthy persons." Never having married and considering
himself entirely free to dispose as he thought fit oi the fortune, no part of which was
inherited, he devoted the major part ot it to the charity thus founded by him.
WILLIAM SAMUEL HAWK, one of the proprietors of the Windsor Hotel, born
in Canton, O., Feb. u, 1859, springs from a family oi hotel men. Both of his grand-
fathers conducted taverns in Ohio in their day, becoming favorably known among
Eastern merchants and travellers. Samuel Hawk, uncle ot William S. Hawk> a com-
petent and enterprising man, grew up in this occupation, and finally left Ohio to take
charge of a hotel in Chicago, where he gained reputation as a careful and excellent
host. The family thus became well known both in the East and West, and when
Samuel Hawk came to New York to take charge of the St. Nicholas Hotel on Broad-
way, the name had something to do with his success in making that famous and now
extinct house, not only a headquarters for Western merchants, but, for a long period,
the most fashionable hotel in New York city.
While a lad, William S. lost his father> William Hawk, by death, and was educated
in New York by Samuel Hawk, who adopted him as a son and trained him for the
responsibilities of an active life. The boy went to school first in the family of an
Episcopal clergyman in Pelham, N, Y.. and studied later in Graylock Institute in South
Williamstown, Mass., and the old Anthon Grammar School and Charlier Institute in
New York. In 1875, he made a six months' tour of Europe, resumed his studies, and
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. — HA.
3°5
then, in 1877, found employment with the dry goods firm of William Knisley & Co., at
No. 360 Broadway. Beginning as a stock boy, and compelled to rely upon himself, the
young man worked his way up, until Mr. Knisley expressed a desire to interest him in
the firm.
In the meantime, however, in 1873, Hawk & Wetherbee had opened the Windsor
Hotel, at that time the most luxurious and aristocratic hostelry in New York. In 1878,
Samuel Hawk, whose health had failed, was preparing by the advice of a physician to
go abroad and greatly wished the company of his nephew. William left the store and
its opportunities, therefore, in 1878, and passed nine months in a beneficial tour of
Europe and a long visit to the Nile. When he returned to America, he followed the
traditions of his family and entered the Windsor Hotel on Fifth avenue, conducted by
his uncle, and gave himself up to a thorough training in all departments of the man-
agement. He began in the store room in the back part of the hotel, weighed the meats
and groceries, studied prices, and kept the books of the steward's department, going
with his uncle on purchasing trips to the markets, and in general permeating this
whole branch of the business with his activity. Important as the steward is to a hotel,
there are other important features to the business. It is sufficient to say, however, in
brief, that under the elder Hawk's sound and thorough training, William gained such
an intimate knowledge of every essential detail of the business, that, when finally
admitted to the firm of Hawk & Wetherbee, he proved a valuable accession to the
management. In 1882, upon his uncle's death, he succeeded him in the business. The
training he had received then proved to him of more value than the legacy of a fortune.
While other hotels, larger and more magnificent to the eye, have since been established
in Xew York, the Windsor has, under the management of the present firm, retained
the good will of the travelling public and remained one of the most profitable hotel
properties in the country.
Mr. Hawk has. like other successful men, gradually come to display his public
spirit by his interest in various independent enterprises. He is a vestryman in the
Protestant Episcopal Church of Zion and St. Timothy, president of a boys' club on the
West Side, and a member of The Hotelmen's Association, before which he delivered
his first after dinner speech at the annual banquet in Delmonico's in 1894. He has
joined the Ohio Society, of which he has been a governor, the Symphony and Oratorio
Societies, and the Union League club, in which he has been elected to the Executive
Committee, an honor rarely conferred on so young a man. O; The Carnegie Music
Hall Co., he was chairman of the Executive Committee, which recently erected the
large addition to this edifice on 56th street, containing a large number of studios and
music rooms, and was subsequently elected president of the company. He is also a.
director of the new Brooklyn Warehouse & Storage Co. In honor of his uncle's memory
he has lately fitted up a complete ward in The Aultman Memorial Hospital in his native
town, the only hospital of its kind on the railroad between Allegheny, Pa., and Fort
Wayne, Ind. He is active in promoting reform work among young men, and interested
in art and music.
By his marriage with Edith Alliene, daughter of William H. Davis, in 1882, he is
the father of two children, Annette Catherine and Edith Oliva Hawk.
Mr. Hawk believes that every American should play a part in affairs, and do
something towards making the world better. He shows by his example exactly what
306 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
he means, and he has been especially useful in aiding young men to secure positions,
and to plant their feet upon the path, by which, with fidelity, intelligence and industry,
it is possible for them to attain a success equal to his.
HENRY EUGENE HAWLEY, merchant, a native of New York city, is a son of
the late Irad Hawley, a New York merchant of high standing, who became a member of
the firm of Holmes, Hawley & Co., in 1812 and retired in 1839, thereafter identifying
himself with railroad and coal interests. He was for many years a director in various
corporations, among them The Boston & Providence Railroad, The Chicago & Rock
Island Railroad, The Tradesmen's Bank, and several insurance companies, was for a
considerable time chairman of the finance committee of The Delaware & Hudson Canal
Co., and subsequently formed The Pennsylvania Coal Co., of which he was first presi-
dent. His son, the subject of this biography, graduated from Yale University in 1860,
became a partner in the house of Carter, Hawley & Co. in 1864, and is at present
the head of that firm, which does an extensive commission business throughout the
United States and also in China and Japan, and, through their "correspondents, The
Netherlands Trading Society of Holland, with Europe, the East Indies and South
America. Mr. Hawley has been a member of the Chamber of Commerce for more
than twenty years and a director in several prominent companies. He has also been
identified with many of the New York charities, being a trustee of The Children's Aid
Society and The Five Points House of Industry. Among the social organizations to
which he belongs are the Union League, University and Riding clubs, the Century and
Down Town Associations and the Yale Alumni. He was married in 1862 to Elizabeth,
daughter of William S. Lockwood, of Norwalk, Conn., and has three children: Sadie
Hawley, Henrietta E. Hawley, and Edith, wife of Coleman G. Williams.
AARON HEALY, tanner, born Sept. 18, 1814, in Hallowell, Me., is a son of Aaron
Healy, a manufacturer of hats, and was educated in Waterville, Me. Beginning life
as a school teacher, he finally moved to New York city to accept a place as clerk with
a firm of tanners and leather merchants. In February, 1852, having saved a small sum
of money, he helped form the firm of Smull & Healy and engaged in tanning and the
sale of leather. Business prospered, and four years later he formed, with his brother
William H. Healy, a new firm under the style of A. Healy & Bro. Time brought other
changes in the partnership, and in 1873, the firm assumed the title of A. Healy & Son,
the junior partner being A. Augustus Healy. Soon afterward, Frank Healy, another
son, became a partner. The business record of the house has been one of uniform and
increasing prosperity. A. Healy & Sons until recently owned extensive tanneries at
Wellsville and Allegany, N. Y., but have now sold them to The United States
Leather Co. They continue in business as merchants of hides, etc. They now own
the Healy Building on Gold street and much other valuable property outside the
leather business. By his union with Elizabeth, daughter of Stephen Weston, of Skow-
hegan, Me., in 1844, Mr. Healy became the father of four children, Stephen Weston,
A. Augustus, Frank and Lizzie. The family live in Brooklyn, and A. Augustus is
Collector of Internal Revenue there. Mr. Healy is a member of the Hide & Leather
club, and an amateur of art, and collected a number of fine paintings from 1864 to
1886, which in 1891 he sold at auction for $130,000
JOHN VALENTINE HECKER, flour miller, born in New York city, Dec. 25, 1848,
is a son of John Hecker, a famous flour miller, whose father, John, a native of Wetzlar,
THE OTY 'OF STEW TORK.. - HH. - : "
Pnusaa, cause to America. in iSwa. John Hecker, jr., born in New York, July 35, 1812,
:.•._-..-. _:•. .,-..:-.•:.-:- ~::. ..-'.--' -. ; • - .. i 8j started a bakery at X : Rut-
geas street. To n^i^^™ floor of feae qualitr, fee traflt a. small mill cm Cherrr street in
I&J..3- Meeting; with success, he took hi» :r :.•.-, the late George Valentine Hecker
(Swm im New York, Jam. 8, 1818, died 1889), into partnership as Hecker &: Bro., and in
the mnauDnfedtJare of fa*™^ self-raising flour and other cereal products became widely
fcmown botih at home amd abroad. He was a man >of active mind, a member of the
Board. off Bdimcati'om, The New York Historical Society and several other bodies, and a
for Gramgress 5m 1*50 as a Free Sealer and in 1 864 for Mayor •on the Citizen's
IB 1*55, toe received an election as Alderman, and in 1 865 an appointment as
Im«qp«-<rthngr off Sdhools, retaining the latter -office until his 'death. Jan. 25, 1 838, he mar-
lied Caliberine J*2*e^ damgjiiter off Sam nel Gorham, of Darien, Conn,., and was the father
off Swah. Effibabedi, CUbenme Jaaae, fohn Valentine, and Louise Gorham Hecker. At
oote time be edited Tk UmtL, amd at another The Churchman^ and • : . "The Scientific
Baas off BdMcaMaBn.1" and ottiaer iroats. John Valentine Hecker, his son, graduated from
aamMa College im 186% enteted the office of Hecker & Bro. in 1870, and in 1874 be-
came senator member of the finim T3»e same year, he became the associate of his nncte
in rtfo*- miaiiBllmiig' toiasiaess, and in iS&j, president of The 'George V. Hecker Co. Snbse-
qmemitly, iae effected the organization of The Hecker-fones-lewell Mining COL, a d<sm-
tjimattaam of tfflne fflcnar mils <af New Y-ork city, into which are merged The 'G. V. Hecker
., aad Jones* Cot, of Xew York: The Jewell Milling Co.., and The Kings County
Miffln^f OIL, off BrooHym, aiud T3ae Staten Island Milling Co. Mr. Hecker is president
off 53ae cogpogattttomu He was Inspector of Schools, 1874-75, and is a member of the
C&amber of Coammaanoe and the Union League club. Jan. 16, 1872, he was married in
Trinity Chapel to Georgianna, daughter of Andrew J. Bell, oi Stamford, Coran. Their
are Joto, jd, F^redetici Charles, George Edward, Louise Bell and GeneYiere.
WILLIAM HEGEJTAN, merchant, a son of Judge Adrian Hegeman, born in New
nary, im iSiifi, died at No. <$ West gist street, OcL 3, 1875. He came from .good,
, and at the 'age 'of 15, after 3ais father's death, became a drng-
amd later one of the most enterprising and snccessful -drug merchants of the
I r. HeeataMished from time to time retail drag stores in seTeral 'different parts of
p, as we31 as branches in seTeral cither large cities, Ms name being one of the
eoitinicaoas in iffa** trade during his time. He helped establish the College of
amd was elected its president manT times, and was actiTe in the Centnry
aad Uaion Leagroe dmtos and St. Xiicholas Society. A -man of genial humor .and wide
TrT'ifii iHiafinBi^ an espertin chemistrr, an artist for his own amusement, and a member of
ooiigvegatian off ifhe Oanrdu -erf the Incarnation on Madison aTenne, he bore a
fc^a icpatotion. for amtegrity and worth. His three children were J, Niren Hegeman,
has BnasmeaB paimniifT-, Wiilliam A, <Qgden Hegeman, lawrer, no"w deceased; and Mrs,
Ommmcey M. Depew, also now deceased.
ALFRED SAMUEL HEIDELBACM. banker amd stock biroker, bcrai in New York
cady, Nov.. 117, 1*51, was, nmtil idSfiy Uew York member of Heidelbach, Seasongood
.nnati. Prom Columbia grammar school, Alfred
mrnt 4® tfflae UttiueuAyof Zurich in Switzerland, and after finishing his studies, returned
to N«w Yost. In 1870, he entered the stock brokerage firm of Frank & Garss, known
after i&yi as HeidcfflMGb, Prank Jfe Cm. !tn 1-875—7-4, toe spent a year in Berlin, Ger-
308 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
many, and after having looked after the interests of the firm in London during the
panic of 1873, returned to New York late in 1874. His father died in 1875, and in
1876, he helped found the firm of Heidelbach, Ickelheimer & Co., bankers and brokers.
This firm have made a specialty of foreign exchange and specie and have been able to
secure valuable connections abroad. Their transactions are large and their reputation
and standing excellent. Mr. Heidelbach is now senior partner. He is a director of The
United States Life Insurance Co. In 1893, the firm admitted Henry R. Ickelheimer,
who represented the interest of his father, Isaac, one of the founders of the concern.
Mr. Heidelbach was married, October, 1879, in Paris, France, to Miss Julie Picard.
He is a prominent member of the Manhattan, Reform and Lawyers' clubs.
flARCUS GOTTLIEB HEILNER, coal operator, born in Berks county, Pa., July
2, 1814, died in New York, Nov. 6, 1892. A descendant of the oldest families in New
England, Mr. Heilner was one of the pioneers in the anthracite coal industry of the
Schuylkill region. When twenty-three years of age, he became the partner of his
father, Samuel Heilner, a dealer in bituminous coal and just beginning to take an
interest in anthracite production. Together, they entered upon what were, for those
days, extensive mining operations on Wolf Creek, near Minersville, on the famed "Black
Heath vein," and, at the same time, worked another mine near Donaldson. When his
father retired in 1849, the son formed a partnership with his brother, and, under the
firm name of M. G. & P. Heilner, opened up the Miller tract and developed the famous
"red ash" viens. That partnership was dissolved in 1853. Thereafter, until 1867,
when he discontinued mining, Mr. Heilner confined his operations to his Ashland and
Silver Creek mines. Then, he came to New York and engaged in the wholesale coal
trade, establishing the firm of Heilner & Son. He was an active and powerful man, quick-
witted, prudent, courageous and self-controlled and passed unharmed through the
perilous "Molly Maguire" times in the mining districts. Again and again, he escaped
plots aimed at his life. In 1839, Mr. Heilner married Sylvina, daughter of Col.
Zebulon Butler of the American Revolution, and by her had five children, George C.
and Butler, who have succeeded to the coal business; Percy Butler, who is the general
sales agent of The Lehigh & Wilkes-Barre Coal Co. ; Walter, who is a practicing lawyer
in Philadelphia, and one daughter.— His son, GEORGE CARSON HEILNER, born
Aug. 16, 1856, in Pottsville, Pa., received his education in Elizabeth, N. J., and began
life in a Wall street banking house in this city. A clear head, great force of character
and sound judgment guaranteed his success from the start. In 1879, he entered the
office of Heilner & Son, coal merchants, and was made a partner in 1890. He is closely
devoted to business, but finds recreation in The Society of Colonial Wars and The Sons
of the Revolution, of which he is a member. For five years, he served in the 8th N.
Y., S. N. G. , holding a commission as first lieutenant, but resigned in February, 1892.
PETER HENDERSON, florist and seedsman, born in Pathhead, near Edinburgh,
Scotland, June 9, 1822, died in Jersey City, N. J., Jan. 17, 1890. His father, James
Henderson, was a land steward, and Peter passed his early years in the vicinity of the
ruins of Crichtoun Castle, which he often visited while hunting for the nests of jack-
daws. At the age of sixteen, he was apprenticed to George Sterling, head gardener of
Melville Castle. In 1843, he came to New York, and after a year in a nursery in
Astoria, L. I., and a short service in Philadelphia under Robert Buist, a leading seeds-
man and florist, he went to Pittsburgh, Pa., and became private gardener for Charles:
THE CITY OF NEW YORK.. HE. 309
F. Spang. There he remained until 1847, when, having saved $500, he removed to
Jersey City and engaged in market gardening. He gradually added to his greenhouse
department, finally relinquishing the raising of vegetables, opened an office in New
York in 1853, and in 1864 moved his greenhouses to South Bergen, in time covering fully
five acres with glass. In 1865, he engaged in the seed business as Henderson & Fleming,
and in 1871 founded the now famous firm of Peter Henderson & Co., seedsmen and
florists. He wrote much on horticulture for the newspaper press and produced several
valuable books on gardening and flowers. In 1851, he married Emily Gibbons, a native
of Bath, England. The children born to them have been Alfred; Isobel, wife of Robert
M. Floyd; and Charles Henderson. Mr. Henderson was six feet in height, broad
shouldered, erect, not over 160 Ibs. in weight, with florid complexion, keen grey eyes,
closely trimmed beard and moustache. He abstained from stimulants, was a rapid
walker, and won his way by the vigor of his nature, constant industry and uprightness.
JOSHUA HENDRICKS, merchant, who died at his home in New York city, June
3, 1893, in his sixty -first year, rose to prominence in the firm of Hendricks Bro's,
merchants of metal, one of the largest houses of its kind in the country. It was estab-
lished shortly before the American Revolution and has been in the family through
four generations. Mr. Hendricks belonged to one of the most prominent Hebrew
families in New York, and was widely known. He was a member of the Union, New
York, Vaudeville, Fulton, and New York Yacht clubs, and various other social bodies,
as well as of the Chamber of Commerce. At one time he served as president of The
German American Bank. His wife and three sons survived him.
HENRY HENTZ, coffee importer, was born in 1834. His grandfathers on both
sides were Germans, who settled about 130 years ago near Germantown, the first
German settlement in the United States. The family removed to Philadelphia, where
the lad attended school. Inspired with a love of the sea, by reading "Robinson
Crusoe," Capt. Marryat's nautical stories, and other tales of adventure, Mr. Hentz then
made two voyages before the mast, encountering the usual hardships, but gaining in
self reliance and knowledge of the world. Shortly after leaving the sea, he entered
mercantile life, and in 1856 came to New York and established the cotton and general
commission house of H. Hentz & Co. He proved an excellent merchant, wide-awake,
enterprising, honest and able, and by nearly fort}* years of untiring endeavor has risen
to prominence. He has been twice president of the Cotton Exchange and twice of the
Coffee Exchange, and is now chairman of the Executive Committee of the Chamber of
Commerce. He has been a director of The Bank of New York, The Commonwealth
Insurance Co., The Merchants' National Bank, and The Housatonic Railroad, and has
joined the Manhattan, Reform, and Down Town clubs of this city and the Hamilton
club of Brooklyn. Mr. Hentz has lived in Brooklyn since 1856. His son, Leonard S.
Hentz, is a member of the firm, and he has one other son and two daughters.
COL. SILAS CLARK HERRING, manufacturer, born in Vermont, Sept. 7, 1804,
died in Plainfield, N. J., June 23, 1881. He was a self made man, who began life a
poor lad in Albany, N. Y., as a grocery clerk and for a time conducted a grocery of his
own in that city. In 1834, Mr. Herring opened a wholesale grocer)- store in New York
with a partner. They prospered for a time, but were overwhelmed, first, by the great
fire of 1835 and two years later by the panic of 1837. In 1840, Mr. Herring met Enos
Wilder, who had invented the idea of using plaster of pans as a nonconducting material
310 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
for lining safes. The fire of 1835 had proved the necessity of safes which would
not burn. Mr. Herring became Mr. Wilder's agent for the sale of Salamander safes,
and, later, purchased the right to manufacture, made many improvements, extended
the sales largely, and built extensive works, employing at the time of his death 6oc
men. He had paid $154,000 in royalties on the Wilder patent up to 1852, when the
rights expired. Mr. Herring rose to the foremost rank in his industry. He gained his
military title as Colonel of the 5th Art., N. Y. S. M. He served one term as Assistant
Alderman in this city, in 1847, and in 1849 was Alderman. He was an incorporator of
The New York Juvenile Asylum, and director of The Broadway Bank, The Importers'
& Traders' National Bank, The Manhattan Life Insurance Co. and other corporations.
Mr. Herring's family consisted of his wife, Caroline S., who was the daughter of Elijah
T. Tarbell, and three children, Frank Otis Herring, Marie A., wife of Thomas McCaf-
fery, and Caroline S., wife of Eugene de Kay Townsend.
HENRY HERRMANN, manufacturer, born in East Prussia in 1837, began life as
apprentice to a cabinet maker, and worked as a journeyman in principal German cities,
meanwhile attending free technical schools and serving three years in the 2oth Fusil-
iers of Brandenburg. He came to this country in 1866, followed his trade in various
cities, and then, in 1867, rented a small shop on Mott street, New York, and started on
his own account a small furniture factory, with a partner, their combined capital being
$43, representing their wages the preceding week. Their first wardrobes sold readily
for cash. Six weeks later, they moved to No. 237 Delancey street, and in 1868 to No.
235-7 Bowery. Steam power was then introduced and thereafter the factory made
rapid progress. By making a specialty of low priced, beautiful furniture, Mr. Herr-
mann developed an enormous business, with a large number of branch factories and
saw mills. In 1874, he engaged in the hardwood lumber trade on a large scale, buying
from time to time tracts of walnut and other timber in the West, and building saw
mills in Indiana, Michigan, Illinois, Kentucky, Arkansas, Missouri, Indian Territory
and elsewhere. In 1872, his New York and Indianapolis factories were destroyed by
fire. He rebuilt the former at No. 193-5 Chrystie street. These works he vacated in
1880 and transferred to Delancey street, renting the block from Tompkins to Mangin
streets. In 1885. the Delancey street factory was burned. Meanwhile, his lumber
trade had grown to large proportions, so that after the fire he occupied himself mainly
with that trade, incorporating his furniture industry in 1887 in Kentucky, as The Herr-
mann Dining Room Furniture Co., The Herrmann Bureatn-Co., The Hermann Cham-
ber Suit Co., and The Herrmann Desk Co., in each of which he is president and princi-
pal owner. One factory in Evansville, Ind , and a store in London, Eng., he removed
from the consolidatior. scheme and sold, in 1891, to an English syndicate. In 1889, he
organized a concern now known as The Herrmann Glass Co. Mr. Herrmann has been
married twice, and has two sons living. One of them, George, is his partner.
SELFIAR HESS, publisher, a native of Bernburg, Germany, was born Nov. 26,
1847, the son of Maurice Hess, a manufacturer of furniture. The family had lived in
the town for generations and its men had served as soldiers with honor and been other-
wise prominent in affairs. Rosalie, mother of Selmar Hess, was the daughter of David
Fabian, a man distinguished for learning and piety. The lad received a high school
education, became at the age of fourteen a dry goods apprentice, and emigrated to New
York, six years later, arriving in November, 1867. He visited Cincinnati and then
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. HE. 31 1
went to Omaha to engage in the dry goods business, found the climate injurious to his
health, removed farther West and dealt in camp supplies along The Union Pacific Rail-
road for a year, and then, being stricken with typhoid fever in Omaha, was ill for many
months and found himself penniless. Next he joined with fifty others in preempting
land in northern Nebraska, taking 300 acres for his share, but after a few months of
hard labor, found himself without the means to stock the farm and abandoned a rural
career. Coming East, he found in Buffalo his vocation in life upon obtaining a place
in the branch house there of Virtue & Cov publishers. Having thoroughly learned
this trade, he became a partner in McMenamy, Hess & Co., of Philadelphia, in 1870,
solely upon his merits, without capital. That concern continued to exist until Aug. 8,
1873, when it was changed to Hess & McDavitt. Meanwhile, at the urging of Mr.
Hess, a branch store had been opened in New York city, under his charge, and in 1871,
the headquarters were removed hither. May 12, 1877, Mr. Hess succeeded that firm
and has continued the business with phenomenal success. He has made a specialty of
subscription books and papers and intaglio plate printing, and operates branches in
twenty of the largest cities of the country as well as his own printing house on Dey
street here. In 1873, he married Josephine, daughter of Joseph Solomon, and has three
children, Gertrude Rosalie, Alfred Fabian and Ruth Josephine Hess.
ABRAH STEVENS HEWITT, LL.D., manufacturer, born in Haverstraw, N, Y.,
July 31, 1822, is of Huguenot descent through the maternal line. His mother's family,
named Gurnee, originally Gamier, settled in Rockland county and in a log house on
the land owned by them Mr. Hewitt was born. His father came to America in 1790,
helped construct the first steam engine works in this country, and afterward carried on
business in New York city as a cabinet maker and lumber dealer, finally losing his
means. Abram, brought up on a farm, finally gained a scholarship in Columbia Col-
lege, whence he graduated in 1842 at the head of his class as "double first." For this
tuition he afterward paid. After graduating, he became acting professor of mathe-
matics in the college. In 1844, having saved about $1,000, he visited Europe with his
classmate and friend, Edward Cooper, son of Peter Cooper, and upon the return
voyage, his ship, the Mobile packet Alabamian, foundered at sea, the company escap-
ing in boats. In 1845, he was admitted to the bar. Impairment of vision interfering
with his practice, he abandoned the law, and Edward Cooper and he engaged in iron
manufacturing, Peter Cooper transferring to them his iron works, not then prosper-
ous. The new firm of Cooper & Hewitt were the first to make iron girders and sup-
ports for fireproof buildings. In 1862, Mr. Hewitt went to England to study
the process of manufacturing gun barrel iron. The result was that his firm became
able to supply this essential material to our government during the Civil War, but all
profit was declined. From 1873 to 1879, they lost money heavily but thereafter
carried on a profitable business. The great plants of The Trenton Iron Co. and of The
New Jersey Iron & Steel Co., at Trenton, N. J., owned by the firm, built in 1845, now
produce an immense amount of structural iron and wire yearly, and they have blast
furnaces at Pequest in Warren county, N. J., and Riegelsville, Pa. Mr. Hewitt has
devoted a part of his time to public affairs. In 1867, he served as Commissioner to
the Paris Exposition. Originally a member of Tammany Hall, he left that organiza-
tion and was a leader of the County Democracy in 1879. Elected to Congress in 1874,
his service was continuous, with the exception of one term, until 1886, when he was
3I2 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
elected Mayor of New York. In 1876, he accepted the chairmanship of the Demo-
cratic National Committee, and took a conspicuous part in Congress in the creation of
the Electoral Commission and settlement of the Presidential controversy. From the
time of the creation of the Cooper Union, Mr. Hewitt has been secretary of the Board
of Trustees and has practically controlled its educational and financial management.
In 1883, he was elected president of the Alumni Association of Columbia College,
which institution, in 1887, conferred upon him the degree of LL.D. He has been a
director in The Chrysolite Silver Mining Co. , The Lehigh Coal & Navigation Co. , The
Montana Smelting Co., The New York & Greenwood Lake Railway Co., The Ameri-
can Electric Elevator Co. , The United Smelting & Refining Co. , and The New York,
Lake Erie & Western Railway, and has interests in many industrial companies. Mr.
Hewitt was married in 1855 to Sarah Amelia, only daughter of Peter Cooper. His
children are Mrs. James O. Green, Sarah C., P. Cooper, Edward R., Eleanor G., and
Erskine Hewitt. Mr. Hewitt has won success by mental force, sheer resolution and
continued effort. His principal clubs are the Metropolitan, Century, City, Church,
Union, Engineers', Tuxedo, Players', Riding and South Side Sportsmen's.
ALVIN HIQQINS, manufacturer, born in Gray, Me., about 1813, died in this city,
May 3 1 , 1 890. The son of a boat builder and one of eleven children, he spent several years
in Portland in the employment of Brown & Smith, merchants in the West India trade.
He then came to this city, and with his brother, Elias S. Higgins, conducted a retai
carpet store in Pearl street, as A. & E. S. Higgins. Early in his career, he conceived
the idea of manufacturing carpets in this country, and, by carrying the plan into exe-
cution, made for himself a permanent and honorable place in the history of American
industry. About 1840, his firm started a factory with seven ingrain hand looms in
Jersey City. Their works were located at several different places in the suburbs, but
finally in New York among the rocks and shanties at 43d street and Eleventh avenue,
on the site now occupied by the great buildings of the present firm of E. S. Higgins &
Co. About 1855, Nathaniel D. Higgins, another brother, entered the partnership
under the name of A. & E. S. Higgins & Co. Alvin retired in 1855, and spent about
three years in Europe with his wife. Upon his return, he engaged in real estate opera-
tions, and owned Hunter's Island in the Sound, where he lived about twenty years. He
was married, but his two children passed away before him.
ANDREW FOSTER HIQQINS, insurance adjuster, a namesake of old Andrew
Foster of South street, was born in Macon, Ga. , Jan. 24,. 1831. His grandmother,
Miss Pamela Andrus, of Newark, N. J., was a noted belle of the American Revolution
and daughter of General Andrus of that period. The father of Mr. Higgins, a banker
in S. & M. Allen, lived for years in Savannah, Ga., and then removed to Macon, where
he dealt in bills of exchange on cotton shipped to market by way of Darien and
Savannah. The subject of this sketch came to New York in 1844, and entered college,
but did not finish owing to family reverses. Going into Wall street, he found employ-
ment with Jones & Johnson, average adjusters, and then became adjuster for The
Atlantic Mutual Insurance Co. Later, he formed a partnership with Henry W. Johnson
to carry on the adjusting and insurance brokerage business and attained celebrity in
this calling. Out of at least 10,000 adjustments, he never had twenty appealed from;
in such as went into court, Mr. Higgins was invariably sustained. Having been speci-
ally engaged to disentangle the accounts of Spofford & Tileston, he performed the
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. HI. 313
Avork with great success. He was also retained in many other interesting cases, and
as receiver liquidated the affairs of The Columbian Insurance Co., and The United
States Lloyds, and started a new concern, under the name of the latter, of which he
is the agent, which in twenty years has paid dividends amounting to 2,000 per cent. The
old firm of Johnson & Higgins are yet in existence, and a later one, Higgins & Cox,
has been succeeded by the present firm of Higgins, Cox & Barrett. Mr. Higgins has
been for many years chairman of the Committee on Harbor and Shipping of the
Chamber of Commerce and active in the proceedings of the Chamber. He represented
Greenwich, Conn., in the Legislature, 1887-89. He is a member of the Century, Down
Town, Carroll's Island, Pesque Island, Flanders, and Adirondacks League clubs; treas-
urer of The Mexican Northern Railway, and a trustee of The Consolidated Kansas
City Smelting & Refining Co., The Knickerbocker Trust Co., and The Campania
Metallurgica Mexicana. He married Sarah H., daughter of John H. Cornell, banker.
One child lived to maturity, Amelia L., who married John D. Barrett, dying in 1887.
ELIAS S. HIGGINS, manufacturer, who died Aug. 18, 1889, at Narragansett Pier,
R. I., began life with a common school education and little else. His brother Alvin
and he carried on a retail store for the sale of foreign carpets on Pearl street. About
1 840, they began the manufacture of carpets, and after the practical retirement of his
brother Alvin, Mr. Higgins became the directing head of the business. He was a man
of rugged energy and strong character, and developed the business until he made his
industry the leading one of its class in the country. The firm finally incorporated as
The E. S. Higgins Carpet Co., with a capital stock of $2,000,000. Mr. Higgins was a
large buyer of real estate, not so much for speculative purposes as for investment, and
was also a large shareholder in various traffic corporations. He had been for a number of
years a director of Tbe Delaware, Lackawanna & Western Railroad. His wife,
Emma L., with their two children, Eugene and Josephine, the latter Mrs. Brooks, sur-
vived him. Mr. Higgins came before the public during the last few years of his life as
an opponent of the tyranny of organized labor.
EDWARD HILL, merchant, born in England about 1825, died in this city, Aug. 8,
1886. He was one of those enterprising men of foreign birth, who, attracted by the
splendid markets of America, came to New York, arriving here about 1856, to engage in
trade. As the agent of a firm in England, he began the sale of merchandise in this
emporium of all America. In time, he became the agent of several other large English
firms and carried on a profitable trade during the rest of his career. He was twice
president of the St. George Society and made himself widely known in social and finan-
cial circles. Five children survive him.
THOflAS HITCHCOCK, lawyer, born in New York city, Dec. i, 1831, is seventh in
descent from Matthias Hitchcock, who came to Boston from London in the bark Susan
and Ellen, in 1635, and settled in Connecticut. He is a son of William R. Hitchcock,
a merchant, and of English and Scottish ancestry. After studying in private schools,
he graduated from the University of The City of New York and the Harvard Law
School, and began the practice of his profession in this city in 1853. Since 1864, he
has been largely occupied with journalism, being at present one of the editorial staff of
The New York Sun, for which newspaper he writes financial articles under the name of
"Matthew Marshall." Mr. Hitchcock has made excellent investments in the stocks of
gas, street railroad, and other corporations, but devotes most of his time to The Sun.
AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
He is secretary of that corporation. In 1855 he was married to Marie Louise, daughter
of Asa H. Center. Their children are Center, Francis B., and Thomas Hitchcock, jr.
Mr. Hitchcock finds his recreation mainly in literary work, music and social life, but
also spends an occasional evening at the Century club, of which he is a member.
WELCOflE GEER HITCHCOCK, merchant, born in Montrose, Pa., Oct 28, 1834,
is a son of the late Benjamin Hitchcock, a merchant. Educated in the public schools,
he began life as a boy in this city in the furnishing goods store of Joseph F. Sanxey, in
William street, in October, 1850. From that day to the present, he has made his way
steadily and has never received a dollar from his parents or any one else, except that
which he has earned himself . In 1851, he accepted a clerkship with Carleton & Co.,
dry goods merchants, at No. 202 Broadway, at $100 a year, and in October, 1854, a
salary of $600, less than the porter was getting, in the store of Noel J. Becar & Co.,
importers of handkerchiefs. In 1868, after repeated promotions, he succeeded to the
business, when the firm, whose style had undergone several changes, became W. G.
Hitchcock & Co. The firm have occupied stores at 187 Broadway, 342 Broadway, and
453-5 Broadway, but for the past twenty-four years have been located at 455-7 Broome
street. They represent several strong firms of dry goods manufacturers, as well as
domestic ribbon and other dry goods firms. Mr. Hitchcock is a good merchant, honest,
prudent and energetic, and has attained a worthy and marked success by early habits
of economy and application, sound character and good reputation. He is a director of
The Second National Bank and trustee of The Franklin Savings Bank. In January,
1892, he married the widow of John Ruszits, the furrier.
RUSSELL HOTCHKISS HOADLEY, exporter and banker, a native of New York,
born Aug. 19, 1834, died at his home on West 49th street, June 9, 1891. David Hoad-
ley, his father, an old-time merchant, here originated and was for many years president
of The Panama Railway. Mr. Hoadley received a fair education at Betts Boarding
School. In 1853, he went abroad for two years' travel, joined the Seventh Regiment
on his return, became by promotion major of the regiment, and served on Gen. Spicer's-
staff during the riots in this city. Having inherited ability, he engaged in the South
American trade in 1859, and in 1860 formed the partnership of Handy & Hoadley.
Mr. Handy retired in 1865, when Hoadley, Eno & Co. succeeded. In 1869 the firm
dissolved, after a successful career, during which they had transacted an immense busi-
ness. Hoadley & Co. then succeeded, and carried on a banking and general commis-
sion business, with branches in New Orleans and Greytown, Nicaragua. He was a
trustee of The Atlantic Mutual Insurance Co., The St. Joseph Lead Co., and The
Hanover Fire Insurance Co. He amassed a large fortune, and withal enjoyed the
reputation of being a man of integrity and generosity, as well as of great business
ability. He was prominent in St. Thomas's Episcopal Church, and a member of the
Union, Union League, Riding, and many country clubs. In May, 1863, he married
Alice, daughter of David Wesson and sister of one of Mr. Hoadley's partners. Their chil-
dren are Edith Howland, Rowland, Russell Hotchkiss, and Charles Wesson Hoadley.
CORNELIUS NEVIUS HOAGLAND, H.D., born at the family homestead in
Somerset county, N. J., Nov. 23, 1828, is a descendant of two old Dutch families. The
emigrant on his father's side, Christoffel Hooglandt, who was born in Holland in 1634,
came to New Amsterdam in early youth. He entered mercantile life, married Cath-
erine Cregier, daughter of Martin Cregier, one of the first Burgomasters of New York
316 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
city, and finally, with true Dutch instinct, bought a farm in Somerset county, N. J.,
which became the family homestead, and died there in 1684. Christopher Hoagland,
great grandfather of Dr. Hoagland, was Justice of the Peace for Somerset county in
1776, and two years later a member of the Legislature. Isaac Hoagland, the son of
Christopher, was a surgeon in the United States Army in 1796, and died in the service
in Florida. His son, Andrew, father of Dr. Hoagland, was born in New Jersey in
1795, and married in 1828 Miss Jane Hoagland, a descendant, six generations re-
moved, of Dirck Jansen Hoagland, an emigrant from Holland in 1657. This marriage
united two families of the same name, not related to each other, in America.
At the age of eight, the subject of this sketch went with his father's family to
Miami county, Ohio, where he settled on a farm of eighty acres near Piqua. Two years
later, his father sold this property a~nd purchased an old time stage house or hotel in
West Charleston. This inn, widely known for twenty years, was finally burned to the
ground in 1875.
Cornelius, the oldest son, attended village school until 1845 and took private les-
sons in Latin in preparation for college. He studied medicine with Dr. E. L. Crane,
a leading physician of Miami county, and subsequently attended lectures at The Star-
ling Medical College in Columbus and The Western Reserve University in Cleveland,
graduating from the latter in 1852. August icth, the same year, he married Miss
Eliza E., daughter of Judge David H. Morris. He then engaged in the practice of
medicine in Miami county. In 1854, he was elected Auditor of the county, and re-elected
in 1856.
Upon the outbreak of the Civil War, Dr. Hoagland enlisted at Troy, O., in the
" Lafayette Blues," which became Company H of the nth Ohio Infantry. He was
made first lieutenant and detailed as A. A. C. S. at Camp Denison, but in October,
1861, became Surgeon of the 7ist Ohio, in which capacity he served through the war.
He took part in the campaigns in Tennessee, Georgia, Alabama and Texas, being
engaged in the battles of Pittsburg Landing, Atlanta, Franklin and Nashville. Dur-
ing the engagement at Nashville, a bullet plowed his breast, the strong lappels' of his
heavy overcoat alone saving him from a fatal wound. He served on the staff of brigade
and division commanders at various times, and had charge of the field hospitals, where
he did efficient work.
At the close of the war, Dr. Hoagland returned to Ohio but in 1868 removed to
the city of Brooklyn and entered into a partnership for_the manufacture of baking
powders and kindred preparations.
In 1887, he bought the business of The Cleveland Baking Powder Co., a concern
which had been doing business in a small way in Albany, N. Y., became president and
general manager of the company, and has managed its affairs with success, down to
the present day. The factory is in Brooklyn. Dr. Hoagland is a director of The
Peoples' Trust Co., The Dime Savings Bank and The Brooklyn Heights Railroad. In
1887, he founded The Hoagland Laboratory in Brooklyn for original research in the
higher branches of medical science, with special departments in physiology and bac-
teriology, the cost, with equipments, exceeding $100,000. Dr. Hoagland has donated
another $50,000 as an endowment fund.
He is a fellow of The Royal Microscopical Society of London, a life fellow of The
American Geographical Society of New York, a life member of The New York
ROBERT HOE.
THE CITY OF Nt^
Genealogical and Biographical Society and The Lrnig Island Hisfctrieal Society, regent of
The L<>ng Island College Hospital, and a trustee <rf Syracuse University, Antioch,
^e and the Adelphi Academy. He is also a m-m5»er • the Hamilton, Union
>xford, Brooklyn and Gerraania clubs of Br- «-.k i v" . «*< tJw I ><>wn Town club,
.ety, and Military Order of the Loyal Legion Hi* three
,-o of whom are married, are Cora, wife of Goorjv iiabeth
hades O. Gates, and Ella Hoagland.
;side of his business successes, scientific attaium«,.u* a-r. ; $.•.
Ho.. s a gentleman of refinement, education Ami •
JOSEPH CHRISTOFFEL HOAGLAND, preside** (
Dutch extraction and descends from early wru'
was born in Miami county, O., June 19, 1841, aiul
Is of Troy. Before beginning a commercial ±~
-,61 and served mainly in the quartermaster it>-
i detailed by Governor Tod for special service a;
. he founded The K... !'..wucr Co.. i.-:
jern such world widepopulo -igh stupendous ad vertiMt^,
alone is now valued at $10,000,000. He has become, by purchase ot the
original partner, William Ziegler, almost sole owner. Mr. Hoagland »* i»*
The New York Tartar Co., the product of which is largely consumed by
Baking Powder Co., is the principal owner in both companies, and a very cap*
driving man. In 1880, he served as Presidential elector but politics have ;
important element in his life. He is a member of the Chamber of <
.md Society and Down Town, Lawyers', and New York Yacht clubs of N*
and the Atlantic Yacht and Hamilton clubs of Brooklyn. At one time, he ww
dore of the American Yacht club and owner of the steam yacht Stranger
land's city residence is in Brooklyn, and his country seat on the v
The latter is a beautiful structure, planned in the style of •» fl
house and surrounded by grounds laid out by Frederick L«
^e, in 1865, with Caroline C., daughter of John Matlacfc,
.dren, Raymond, John Andrew and Fanny I H
collector of paintings, his gallery being one or the r
ROBERT HOE, of the well-known firm
x and London, was born in the city of N««r
Hoe, to whom he succeeded in business, »•• I
country residence at Tarrytown in tht
ih the latter, was Richard M Hoe, they
an, who came to America in 1801. trt*as l
Lv.'x-stershire, England. The name of Hue
being the equivalent of the French "haat." there-
Saxon.
•, Hoc, the elder, established himself in New ^ turer of print-
jhinery as early as 1820, and was among the fint, d * nrst, to make iron
presses in -America. Among his earliest prvti.-,-i..«» <vas a. patented hand
Me also made the first successful single and dr.-.-- < /under presses, printing
m type on flat beds. After his death, which occrtrrwrf >n t*jj, his business was con-
!T i
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. HO. 317
Genealogical and Biographical Society and The Long Island Historical Society, regent of
The Long Island College Hospital, and a trustee of Syracuse University, Antioch,
O., College and the Adelphi Academy. He is also a member of the Hamilton, Union
League, Oxford, Brooklyn and Germania clubs of Brooklyn, and the Down Town club,
Ohio Society, and Military Order of the Loyal Legion of New York city. His three
daughters, two of whom are married, are Cora, wife of George P. Tangeman; Elizabeth
wife of Charles O. Gates, and Ella Hoagland.
Outside of his business successes, scientific attainments and gift to science, Dr.
Hoagland is a gentleman of refinement, education and pleasing social qualities.
JOSEPH CHRISTOFFEL HOAGLAND, president of The Royal Baking Powder
Co., is of Dutch extraction and descends from early settlers in New Amsterdam. He
was born in Miami county, O. , June 19, 1841, and gained an education in the high
schools of Troy. Before beginning a commercial career, he entered the Union army
in 1 86 1 and served mainly in the quartermaster and subsistence departments, having
been detailed by Governor Tod for special service at Camp Chase in Columbus, O. In
1866, he founded The Royal Baking Powder Co., and has given the product of this
concern such world wide popularity through stupendous advertising, that its trade mark
alone is now valued at $10,000,000. He has become, by purchase of the interest of his
original partner, William Ziegler, almost sole owner. Mr. Hoagland is president of
The New York Tartar Co. , the product of which is largely consumed by The Royal
Baking Powder Co., is the principal owner in both companies, and a very capable and
driving man. In 1880, he served as Presidential elector but politics have never been
an important element in his life. He is a member of the Chamber of Commerce,
Holland Society and Down Town, Lawyers', and New York Yacht clubs of New York,
and the Atlantic Yacht and Hamilton clubs of Brooklyn. At one time, he was commo-
dore of the American Yacht club and owner of the steam yacht Stranger. Mr. Hoag-
land's city residence is in Brooklyn, and his country seat on the Shrewsbury river,
N. J. The latter is a beautiful structure, planned in the style of an old English manor
house and surrounded by grounds laid out by Frederick Law Olmsted. By his mar-
riage, in 1865, with Caroline C., daughter of John Matlack, of Dayton, O., he has three
children, Raymond, John Andrew and Fanny L. Hoagland. He is a discriminating
collector of paintings, his gallery being one of the most notable in Brooklyn.
ROBERT HOE, of the well-known firm of printing press manufacturers of New
York and London, was born in the city of New York, in 1839. His father, Robert
Hoe, to whom he succeeded in business, was born in New York in 1815 and died at
his country residence at Tarrytown in the Slimmer of 1884. Associated in business
with the latter, was Richard M Hoe, they having succeeded their father, Robert Hoe,
an Englishman, who came to America in 1802, from the hamlet of Hoes, near Notting-
ham, Leicestershire, England. The name of Hoe is the Saxon for "eminence" or
"hill," being the equivalent of the French "haut." The origin of the family is, there-
fore, Anglo-Saxon.
Robert Hoe, the elder, established himself in New York as a manufacturer of print-
ing machinery as early as 1820, and was among the first, if not the very first, to make iron
printing presses in America. Among his earliest productions was a patented hand
press. He also made the first successful single and double cylinder presses, printing
from type on flat beds. After his death, which occurred in 1833, his business was con-
318 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
tinned by his sons, Richard and Robert, above referred to, who, in 1846-47, brought
out the then world- renowned printing press known as the " Lightning" or type revolv-
ing machine, for which patents were taken out by Richard M. Hoe. These presses
were used not only in America, but in Great Britain.
In 1863, Robert Hoe, the present head of the firm, entered the business as a
partner. From that time to the present, his labors in connection with it have been
unremitting. During the past ten years, at the head of a large establishment, doubled
in size and importance since the death of his father and uncle, and including in its
personnel a great variety of talent, he has produced some of the most remarkable
pieces of mechanism of the century. The number of employes in ordinarily busy
times, is about two thousand engineers and mechanics and the New York and London
works cover an aggregate of some eight or more acres of floor space, filled with
the most modern tools and mechanical devices capable of producing the extremely
accurate work required in printing machinery. Every kind of press is made in this
establishment, from the well-known Washington hand press, cylinder presses of all
kinds and power lithographic presses, to the large sextuple, quadruple and double
supplement machines, now used in all the principal printing and newspaper offices in
America, Great Britain and Australia. Any one inspecting the vast printing room
of The New York Herald on Broadway, or the pressrooms of The World, THE TRIBUNE
and other great dailies of this and other large cities, will see in the presses which are
nightly at work there, throwing off printed sheets by the million, examples of the
elaborate and superb mechanism which owe their existence to the intelligent enter-
prise and industry of the past few years.
Mr. Hoe has associated with him as partners, Theodore H. Mead and Charles W.
Carpenter. He is not only a man of ability, but of cultivation and intelligence, possess-
ing perhaps the finest library of rare and valuable books in this country, accumulated
during what might be styled an industrious leisure. He was one of the founders of
The Metropolitan Museum of Art, for which he has labored assiduously for a number
of years; one of the founders and the first president of the Grolier club, an institution
having literary and artistic aims; and a member of the Union League, Century,
Engineers', Players' and other exclusive clubs.
SAHUEL VERPLANCK HOFFMAN, a native of Red Hook, N. Y., born July 2,
1802, died in New York, Oct. 6, 1880. He was descended from Martin Hoffman, who
came from Holland about 1660, bought land here, became a_ large taxpayer, removed
to Albany, and later settled in Ulster county. Nicolaes Hoffman, his son, lived in
Kingston. Martinus, son of the latter, settled in Red Hook, N. Y. , and became Colonel
of a local regiment, a land owner and a man of wealth. By marriage and otherwise,
several of this family acquired possession of large tracts of excellent land in the valley
of the Hudson. Harmanus, son of Martinus, the father of Samuel V. Hoffman, married
Catherine, daughter of Philip Verplanck. Samuel studied law, and practiced his pro-
fession first in Red Hook, but came to New York city in 1826, and in 1828 established
the commission dry goods firm of Hoffman & Waldo, in which he was a special partner.
He retired in 1842. He was a director of The Republic Fire Insurance Co., and the
The Hoffman Fire Insurance Co. ; a member of the Union League club, a trustee of
The General Theological Seminary, vestryman of Trinity church, and warden of
Christ church in New Brunswick, N. J., where he spent his summers. His marriage
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. HO. 321
One of the great problems with which the people of the oil regions had to contend at
that time, was the transportation of their oil to market. Railroad charges were exces-
sive and relief was urgently demanded. In 1878, Mr. Hopkins was instrumental in a
daring solution of this question, and in the organization of The Tide Water Pipe Co., a
corporation having a capital of $2,000,000, the first to lay a pipe line for the transporta-
tion of crude petroleum to the Atlantic seaboard. This enterprise was entered upon as
an experiment, and the line terminated at first at Williamsport, Pa. ; but its entire suc-
cess and great value to the producers were soon demonstrated, and have since resulted
in an extension of the line to the Kill von Kull, which flows into the harbor of New
York opposite Staten Island. The pipe line now transports 3,000,000 barrels of crude
petroleum )-early from the oil regions to the markets of the Atlantic coast. From the
beginning of this company, Mr. Hopkins has been one of its managers and its very
capable and hard-working treasurer. He remained a resident of Pennsylvania until
May, 1890, but then removed his family to Tarrytown, X. Y., which has since been his
home. His business headquarters are in this city.
Feb. 17, 1886, Mr. Hopkins married Fannie W. Chambers, of Newtown, Pa.,
and has one son, Robert Emmet Hopkins, jr. He is highly esteemed by the business
community of New York city, and has been elected to membership in two or three
social organizations, including the Loyal Legion and the Union League club.
LEWIS MARX HORNTHAL, clothing manufacturer, was born in New York city,
May 15, 1845. His parents emigrated to this country in 1837 from Bavaria, Germany,
and his father was the late Marx Hornthal, merchant of clothing in this city.
Lewis attended the public schools during boyhood and after a training in a wholesale
notion house, went, in 1867, to his father's store, wrhere he was thoroughly trained as a
merchant. About 1868, he was admitted to partnership and since the retirement of his
father in 1876 has stood at the head of the house, which now displays the sign of Horn-
thai, Weissman & Co. The manufacture of clothing has long formed a feature of their
operations. They have connections with merchants in the South and West and trans-
act an excellent trade. Mr. Hornthal is a school trustee, a director of The Pacific Bank
and Mount Sinai Hospital and a member of the Harmonic club and all the Hebrew
charities. He is a gentleman of excellent reputation and good standing. June i,
1869, he was married to Carrie, daughter of Elias and Eleanor Speyer, and has four
children, Milton J., De Witt L., Helen C. and Amy L.
JAMES flADISON MORTON, manufacturer, a native of Rockville, Orange county,
X. Y., was born Aug. 3, 1835. Barnabas Horton, his father, a farmer, served his
country in the War of 1812. The family trace their lineage to an emigrant who came
from the hamlet of Mousely, Leicestershire, England, to Hampton, Mass., in 1633, in
the Swallow. Some of them settled on Long Island, N. Y., and the old Horton
homestead, now more than a century old, may yet be seen at Southhold. James M.
Horton had an academy education, spent several years in the cultivation of the farm,
and at the age of seventeen began buying farm products for shipment to Xew York,
and at times selling meat to the contractors who were building the Erie railroad. The
$11 profit on these transactions gave him much anxiety, because he fancied that
robbers might deprive him of his large wealth. In 1853, he came to Xew York city to
engage in the wholesale trade in milk with a brother and a brother in law. These raw
country lads bring into this town so much breezy freshness, independence of character
-22 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
1
and courage in facing the world, that they often rise to great distinction and certainly
no name is better known in New York than that of Mr. Morton. During 1858-69, he
served as president of The Orange County Milk Association, and in 1870, purchased a
small ice cream business, put out the sign of J. M. Horton & Co., and began to manu-
facture upon a large scale. By making ice cream of a finer texture than could be frozen
in private houses, using the purest materials, the finest flavors, and various ingeni-
ous devices for forming ice cream into curious shapes, Mr. Horton created a business,
which has grown every year until the present time. In 1873, the firm reorganized as
The J. M. Horton Ice Cream Co., with a nominal capital of $40,000, Mr. Horton being
the president and largest owner. Prosperity has rewarded effort and the plant of the
company has grown by reinvestment of profits, until the stores, houses and wagons, ice
houses, factory, etc., are alone a great property. He has six stores in this city, and
two in Brooklyn, and sells to families, confectioners, restaurants and hotels. He is now
the owner of a large area of unimproved real estate and several dwellings and pieces
of business property, and a member of the Harlem and Congregational clubs. He was
for a time a director of The Hamilton Bank, and, when elected director of The Third
Avenue Savings Bank, declined to serve.
DAVID HARRISON HOUGHTALING, tea merchant, born in Kingston, N. Y.,
May 17, 1834, comes from an old Knickerbocker family and is a lineal descendant of
Jan Williamson Hooteyling, who came from Loosdrecht, Holland, to Kingston, N. Y.,
May 9, 1661. His father was Henry Houghtaling. After leaving his books in Kings-
ton academy, the young man found a clerkship in New York city in 1850. A hard-
working, honest youth, he made excellent progress, and in 1860 began the importation
of tea on his own account. A splendid merchant, he has always been successful and
has been prosperously engaged in this trade until the present time. A man of fine
character, he has been elected a director in The Bank of North America, The United
States Life Insurance Co., and The Third National Bank, of this city, a trustee of The
Franklyn Trust Co. of Brooklyn, and director of The Richmond Railway & Electric
Co , and many other corporations. He is a Republican in political faith, an'd served
two terms as Park Commissioner under Mayor Seth Low, but steadily declined public
office afterward. He is the owner of goodly real estate in the city of Brooklyn, where
he resides. By virtue of his ancestry, he is a member of The Holland Society and
also holds membership in the Metropolitan, Union League and Down Town clubs of
this city and the Hamilton club of Brooklyn, and was_president of the Oxford club
for several years. In 1858, Mr. Houghtaling married Laura M., daughter of John
McAlister, of Waterloo, N. Y. Their children are Warren R and Martha Houghtaling.
COLGATE HOYT, banker, born in Cleveland, O., March 2, 1849, is a son of James
M. Hoyt, a lawyer and man of high position. The young man attended Phillips
Academy, Andover, but, owing to the failure of his sight, left school at the end of the
first year. He then secured a place in a hardware store in Cleveland, rose by his own
merit, and finally joined his father in real estate operations, becoming himself the
owner of desirable properties. During 1877-81, he engaged in loans of money on real
estate security. In May, 1881, he removed to New York city to become a partner in
the banking and bullion firm of J. B. Colgate & Co. He made his way here with
marked success and remained an active member until the death of Mr. Trevor, in
1890. Banking soon led him into intimate relations with large corporations. A gov-
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. — HO.
323
ernment director of The Union Pacific Railroad, 1882-84, he was thereafter a company
director but resigned several years later. In 1884, he joined Charles L. Colby and
Edwin H. Abbott in The Wisconsin Central Railroad enterprise, these three men
becoming trustees of the entire stock of the corporation, and building a road to St.
Paul and one from near Milwaukee to Chicago, thus making The Wisconsin Central a
through line from Chicago to St. Paul and Milwaukee. They also built The Chicago
& Northern Pacific Railroad as a terminal, with splendid passenger stations in Chicago.
Mr. Hoyt has also been a director and active spirit in The Oregon Railway & Navi-
gation Co., The Northern Pacific Railroad, and The Oregon & Transcontinental Co.,
and in 1890 reorganized the latter as The North America Co., with entire success, and
under trying circumstances. The American Steel Barge Co., whose shipyard and
docks are at West Superior, Wis. , is the creation of Mr. Hoyt, who bought the whale-
back patents of Capt. Alex. McUougall in 1888, organized the company with a capital
of $500,000, becoming its president and treasurer, and has since employed about 1,500
men and constructed about thirty whalebacks and other vessels of importance.
Another of his enterprises is The Spanish- American Iron Co., of which he is an organ-
izer and treasurer, which, with a capital of $5,000,000, is working the Lola group of
iron mines in Cuba. Mr. Hoyt is prominent socially, and is a member of the Metro-
politan, Union League, Lawyers', Riding, Fencers', Country, Oyster Bay Yacht, Larch-
mont Yacht and Seawanhaka Corinthian Yacht clubs, and The Ohio Society. In 1873,
he married Lida W., daughter of Judge Charles T. Sherman, and a niece of Gen.
William T. Sherman. They have four children living.
EDWIN HOYT, merchant, born in Stamford, Conn., May 15, 1804, died in New
York, May 15, 1874. He came from English ancestry and was a son of Abraham Hoyt,
a sea captain. Beginning his highly successful career as a clerk in this city in 1823, he
rose by application and ability to the head of the dry goods commission house of Hoyt,
Sprague & Co. Mr. Hoyt had the conservatism of a prudent merchant, and took part
in the direction of The Manhattan Banking Co., The Bank of Commerce, The Fourth
National Bank, The Continental Insurance Co., and The New York Life Insurance Co.
He married Susan, daughter of William Sprague, Governor of Rhode Island, and his
children were Mrs. Sarah H. Lee, Mrs. Susan S. Francklyn, William S. and Edwin Hoyt.
GEORGE ALLEN HOYT, born in Stamford, Conn., Aug. 16, 1811, died in the
same place, Dec. 3, 1887. He was a son of Darius Hoyt, a farmer, and Harriet, his
wife, gained a district school education, and after a period of training as clerk in a
clothing store in New York, carried on for a number of years a large clothing store on
his own account. In 1852, he accepted the position of treasurer of The Pennsylvania
Coal Co., investing largely in its stock and from time to time increasing his holdings,
until eventually he became president of that corporation and one of its principal share-
holders. A very active man, he became president or director of several other corpora-
tions. Real estate was also a favorite field of investment for him, and he owned a large
amount of that class of property both in New York city and Stamford. Aug. 25, 1838,
he was married to Sarah Elizabeth, daughter of Elisha and Electa Hawley, of Stamford.
To them were born four children, Francis S. Hoyt; Georgianna, who married Albert
S Swords; Ida Morton, wife of Belden B. Brown, of Stamford, and Elizabeth Hawley,
wife of Edward A. Day, of Morristown, N. J. After 1851, the familymade thairhome
in Stamford.
324
AMERICA S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
HENRY SHEAF HOYT, lawyer, born in New York city, died in Pau, Italy, March
1 8, 1891, in his seventy-second year. His father was Goold Hoyt, a merchant of the
early part of this century in this city in the East India and China trade, owner of
ships, and one of the founders of The Merchants' Exchange National Bank, besides
being one of the vestrymen of Grace Church, who advocated moving the church to its
present site on Broadway at zoth street, and interested in old St. Paul's Church, in
Norwalk, Conn. , where a monument has been erected to his memory by the parishion-
ers. His grandtather was Goold Hoyt, of Norwalk, Conn. Henry graduated from
Columbia College, studied law under Judge Goold, of Litchfield, Conn,, and practiced
with success for a number of years. About the close of the war, he retired from busi-
ness, and during his last ten years spent most of his time traveling abroad, returning
to Newport in the summer time. He was a founder of the Union and a member of the
Knickerbocker and New York Yacht clubs of this city. Mr. Hoyt was married April
7, 1836, to Frances, a daughter of William A. Duer, LL.D., president of Columbia
College, and a sister of Denning Duer, of New York. His wife survived him. There
were no children.
JESSE HOYT, merchant, born in New York city, March 12, 1815, died here Aug.
14, 1882. He-was of English and Scottish descent, and a son of James Moody Hoyt,
who, for over fifty years a prominent merchant of this city and a man of strict integrity
and Christian probity, died at Norwalk, Conn., in 1854. At the age of seventeen,
Jesse Hoyt became a clerk in the wholesale grocery house of C. & L. Denison, and in
1836, a partner. In 1838, he retired to engage in the flour and grain business with his
father, who had formerly been a member of the firm of Eli Hart & Co. Jesse Hoyt
continued in business with his father until 1854, when the firm reorganized as Jesse
Hoyt & Co., the members being Jesse, his two brothers, Samuel N. and Alfred M.
Hoyt, and Henry W. Smith, and rose to great prominence in the flour and grain trade,
having business connections throughout the West and in Europe. Samuel N. retired
in 1858 and Jesse and Alfred M. Hoyt in 1881. Jesse Hoyt was one of the most ener-
getic and enterprising merchants of this city. He promoted every interest .which
would develop the resources of the West and make New York city the commercial em-
porium of the republic, was a great friend to the Erie Canal, and early displayed an in-
terest in the extension of railroads to the West. He bought great tracts of pine timber
lands in Michigan, erected sawmills and carried on an immense business in manufactur-
ing lumber, and built and owned vessels on the lakes to transport the lumber to a
market. He also built grain elevators in Chicago, Milwaukee and Jersey City; pur-
chased real estate in promising towns, notably in Saginaw; built hotels, started banks
and made other large investments in Michigan and Minnesota. In association with D.
N. and A. H. Barney, William G. Fargo, Alfred M. Hoyt, S. N. Hoyt, B. B. Cheney
and Angus Smith, he also built and owned The Winona & St. Peter Railroad, now a
part of The Chicago & Northwestern system. In building and extending The Flint &
Pere Marquette Railroad across the State of Michigan, he was a leading spirit and for
years was president of the company. He was also president of, and interested in
building, The Milwaukee & Northern Railroad, and projected and built The Saginaw,
Tuscola & Huron Railroad. While a director in several banks and insurance com-
panies, his private affairs so engrossed his time, that he generally declined these
positions of trust. Mr. Hoyt was an era maker and left an honorable record as a
.
THE CITY OF NE\* Vi)RK. MO.
merchant and a citizen of the community in which he was born and spent his life « >u«
of his strongest traits was manifested in his earnest efforts ./ -nen to he
themselves and to become active and energetic, honorable wv^ the
dealings with their fellow men.
JOSEPH BLACKLEY HOYT. one of the prominent leather wo-vhw** » New
York, born Nov. 18, 1813, died in Stamford, Conn., Dec. 27, \*&. H,
tanner's trade as an apprentice in Connecticvt. and at the age 0/20. h
went into a partnership in the hide ci ' oss in Xew York
another partnership, and for six v;- . .., ni.-trui'.-u! •-
This partnership being dissolve^
established the firm of Hoyt Br<_. s,
belting. This house is yet in ex
was divided. Mr. Hoyt withdrew.
weather engaged in business as J. B. Ho,
tinuing until failing health >
director of The Fourth Nat
purity of character. Mr. Hoyt v
expend much for charity. Pie was the U .ember i t, -
ford and especially generous toward church v , denomin anon. At on
he occupied a seat in the Connecticut Asst-m
MARK HOYT, merchant, partner in the v. .»f Hoyt Bro's tanners
an earnest, intrepid and driving man, is one of mercial life who have
been continuously successful from their youth.
He descends from a very old family, which tr -stry through the Some-
branch in England, as far back as Thomas H vington Marye," o>.
ington, St. Mary, in Somerset, whose will is d -6. There are •
that the English family, in turn, deriv
of Westphalia, referred to in \\\
founder of the family in America
town, Mass., in 1628. The emit;
4 or '35 to Scituate, rem.
Uy. There, he became a pr<
landholder. His sixth son, Samuel.
•: the ability of his father, he >*-.
puty at eleven sessions of th\- (j~
ie town. For his services as a soldier in
of land. The larger part of his estate descender! ?
*7. 1663. The eldest son of the latter, born M
and a sergeant in the American Revolution. The -
married Sarah Weed, and their son, Joseph Bla
Hnyt.
Mark Hoyt, the youngest of a family of ten
"<i. Conn. He received a good education
:Tg -school in Darien, Conn. His father
» ibe farm, but the boy was ambitio iv.
i to business pursuits, thai *V".
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. HO. 325
merchant and a citizen of the community in which he was born and spent his life. One
of his strongest traits was manifested in his earnest efforts to help young men to help
themselves and to become active and energetic, honorable and truthful in all their
dealings with their fellow men.
JOSEPH BLACKLEY HOYT, one of the prominent leather merchants in New
York, born Nov. 18, 1813, died in Stamford, Conn., Dec. 27, 1888. He learned the
tanner's trade as an apprentice in Connecticut, and at the age of 20, having saved §1,000,
went into a partnership in the hide currying "business in New York. In 1848, he formed
another partnership, and for six years Rees & Hoyt manufactured leather belting.
This partnership being dissolved, Mr. Hoyt, with his brothers, Oliver and William,
established the firm of Hoyt Bro's, who made a specialty of fine oak sole leather and
belting. This house is yet in existence, and famous. After a few )-ears, the business
was divided. Mr. Hoyt withdrew, and with Harvey S. Ladew and Daniel B. Fayer-
weather engaged in business as J. B. Hoyt & Co., leather merchants and tanners, con-
tinuing xmtil failing health compelled him in 1884 to give up all business, except that of
director of The Fourth National Bank. He was a man of remarkable energy and
purity of character. Mr. Hoyt was extremely liberal, and his fortune enabled him to
expend much for charity. He was the leading member of the Baptist Church at Stam-
ford and especially generous toward churches of his own denomination. At one time,
he occupied a seat in the Connecticut Assembly.
MARK HOYT, merchant, partner in the well-known firm of Hoyt Bro's, tanners,
an earnest, intrepid and driving man, is one of the few in commercial life who have
been continuously successful from their youth.
He descends from a very old family, which traces its ancestry through the Somer-
set branch in England, as far back as Thomas Hoyett of "Sevington Marye," or Seav-
ington, St. Mary, in Somerset, whose will is dated Nov. 10, 1576. There are evidences
that the English family, in turn, derived its descent from a German duke, Von Hoyte,
of Westphalia, referred to in Weigel's "Book on German Arms," printed in 1696. The
founder of the family in America was Simeon Hoyt, one of the first settlers of Charles- -
town, Mass., in 1628. The emigrant changed his home to Dorchester in 1630, and in
1634 or '35 to Scituate, removing in 1636 to Windsor, Conn., where he located perma-
nently. There, he became a prominent man in the church and community and a large
landholder. His sixth son, Samuel, born in 1643, removed to Stamford, Conn. Inher-
iting the ability of his father, he became a man of high standing in Stamford, and was
a Deputy at eleven sessions of the General Assembly, and fourteen years a Selectman
of the town. For his services as a soldier in the colonial wars, he received large grants
of land. The larger part of his estate descended to his son, Samuel, who was born July
27, 1663. The eldest son of the latter, born March 17, 1709, was a large landholder,
and a sergeant in the American Revolution. The second son, Joseph, born Dec. 12,
1739, married Sarah Weed, and their son, Joseph Blackley Hoyt. was the father of Col.
Mark Hoyt.
Mark Hoyt, the youngest of a family of ten children, was born May 5, 1835, m
Stamford, Conn. He received a good education in the local district school and a
boarding-school in Darien, Conn. His father wished that Mark might be his successor
upon the farm, but the boy was ambitious, and early in life showed such a decided
adaptation to business pursuits, that when he reached the age of sixteen he became an
326 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
apprentice for five years, three of which were spent in Rees & Hoyt's tannery in Shokan,
Ulster county, N. Y., and two in New York city. As a practical workman, he learned
every branch of the industry. After three years as a clerk, he was admitted as a part-
ner in the leather house of Hoyt Bro's in New York city, which had been formed in
March, 1854, by Joseph B., William and Oliver Hoyt, to succeed to the business of Rees
& Hoyt and W. & O. Hoyt. The new firm were destined to great success. As rapidly
as their earnings would allow, they established tanneries of their own in various regions
in Pennsylvania and New York, where hemlock bark was abundant, and finally became
the owners of several large establishments and a large acreage of bark lands, and the
producers of enormous quantities of leather. They became one of the most extensive
and wealthy houses in the leather business, adding to their home trade a large exporta-
tion of their products to Europe, principally to England.
Mr. Hoyt has always been a Republican in politics, and has voted for every Re-
publican nominee for President from Fremont down to Benjamin Harrison. During
the Civil War, he espoused the side of the Union with all the ardor inherited from an
ancestry devoted to the cause of freedom. In 1862, he raised and sent to the field the
1 7 6th N. Y. Vols.
In 1868, Mr. Hoyt engaged in the brokerage business under the name of Mark
Hoyt & Co., but relinquished this in 1870 to return to the firm of Hoyt Bro's, of which
he is now the head.
Since the war, Mr. Hoyt has been especially occupied, in addition to his large busi-
ness interests, with the cause of education. He is a valued trustee and benefactor of
the Adelphi Academy in Brooklyn, the Wesleyan University in Middletown, Conn.,
and the American University in Washington, D. C. , which is about to be established
by the Methodist Episcopal church. He was elected president of the Board of Trus-
tees of the latter, and served for one year, but was obliged to decline on account of the
pressure of business duties. He is also trustee and treasurer of the Drew Theological
Seminary in Madison, N. J.
During the six months prior to May, 1893, he was chiefly occupied in promoting tne
greatest enterprise ever organized in the leather trade, which, for solidity and magni-
tude, has never been surpassed in the business world, and was the leading spirit in the
organization of The United States Leather Co. , which is a consolidation of the chief
tanning interests of the country for a continuation of the business. It was incorporated
with a capital of $120,000,000, one-half of which represents: the actual cash value of the
properties purchased. It is believed that in actual value of its properties, this company
is superior to any other in the United States. Mr. Hoyt became its first vice-president
upon incorporation in May, 1893.
A large employer of labor, Mr. Hoyt has been, both in the United States and dur-
ing extensive travels abroad, a close observer of the condition and needs of the working
classes. Deeply interested in their welfare, he has done much to promote it. He is
generous in his dealings with men and never slow to assist the deserving, although
impatient with those who would impose upon his liberality.
Mr. Hoyt is as well known by his activity in church work as by his devotion to
education and his management of extensive mercantile and manufacturing interests.
He is a member and trustee of the Summerfield M. E. Ctmrch in Brooklyn, where he
resides, and a member of the Board of Education of the Methodist Episcopal church.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. HU. 329
Augusta, Ga. : Capt. Henry W. Hubbell, U. S. Art. ; Elizabeth Bostwick Hubbell and
Charlotte B., wife of Win. L. Whittemore, of Englewood, X. J.
CHARLES I. HUDSON, one of the leading men of Wall street, was born in New
York, Aug. 20, 1852, and is one of those whose material success in life was early won
and uninterrupted. His father, Isaac X. Hudson, son of a Yorkshire clergyman, came
to this country from England in 1830, and was a well known journalist in California
and other parts of the country. In 1851, he married in Xew York Miss Cornelia A.
Bogert Haight, daughter of John Edward Haight, a prominent Maiden Lane merchant,
and their eldest son was Charles I. Hudson.
The lad was educated in Grammar School No. 13, of which the principal at that
time was Thomas Hunter, later principal of the Xormal College. At the early age of
fourteen, he left school and found employment in Wall street with the firm of S. M.
Mills & Co. His first salary was the modest stipend of $4 per week, but, by the time
he was nineteen years old, it had risen to $1,500 per annum. During the time of his
employment by Mills & Co., he was a special and trusted messenger between tnat firm
and Jay Gould. - In this capacity opportunities were presented for his transaction of
several important missions in such a satisfactory manner that Mr. Gould took a par-
ticular fancy to him. As a practical evidence of his appreciation, the great financier,
in April, 1875, gave to Mr. Mills, for "that active young man," nine hundred shares
of Union Pacific stock, which was at that time under his control. Within twenty days
thereafter, the sale of that stock netted over $19,000 profit. This sum was the founda-
tion of Mr. Hudson's fortune. It enabled him to pay for his seat, purchased in August,
1874, in the Stock Exchange, and to make an independent start in business for himself.
March i, 1876, he went into partnership, under the name of C. I. Hudson & Co.,
with Mr. H. X. Smith, the former partner of Jay Gould. In December, 1878, the
firm, retaining the same name, was reorganized, Mr. Smith retiring and Robert R.
Lear and T. H. Curtis taking his place. That partnership continued until May, 1881,
when, yet under the old title, the membership was again changed to Mr. Hudson and
A. H. De Forest, with Mr. Henry N. Smith as special partner. In October, 1885, Mr.
Smith withdrew and, in 1894, Mr. Hudson's brother, Edward J. Hudson, was admitted
to the firm. All three of the present partners are members of the Stock Exchange, a
fact seldom paralleled in Wall street offices.
In May, 1891, Mr. Hudson was elected Governor of the Exchange on an independ-
ent ticket, receiving over two thirds of the entire vote cast, a satisfactory evidence of
his popularity. The term of office is four years. Mr. Hudson has been and is a lead-
ing member of the Exchange, and was instrumental in introducing there the so-called
trust securities, such as American Cotton Oil, National Lead Co. , American Sugar Re-
fining Co. , etc. In one year, his firm handled over two and a half million shares of one
•class alone of these securities, and in one day have handled as many as 90,000 shares.
Mr. Hudson was one of the organizers of The Fourteenth Street Bank in 1888, and
recently resigned from its directorate. He is a member of the Manhattan, New York
Athletic, Colonial, Larchmont Yacht and New York Riding clubs, was an organ-
izer and is a director of the Thousand Islands club, and belongs to the St. Lawrence
River Association and American Jersey Cattle club and other associations.
On June 8, 1876, he married Miss Sara E. Kierstede, of Scranton, Pa. (a lineal de-
pendent of Anneke Jans), and has four children, Percy K., Hendrick, Kierstede and
THE CITY OF NEW Y'«RK. — HIT. 33!
Hudson owns a beautiful country home, "The Ledges." in the Thousand
HENRY CARLTON HULBIZRT, merchant, is a. son of Xew England, whose up-
.;etic and successful life in the metropolis illn strain the virtues of the Puri-
ry from which he -descends. He traces his descent fn-m several notable
His paternal ancestor, Lieut. Thomas Hurlbut, came 'Vi.jn Fn^lami -.vith
uirdiner about 1635, and afterward settled in WethersfieW, Cf»un. He served
an officer in the Pequot War. Through the marriage of John Hubert, v.»n of the
-T, Dec. 15, 1670, with Honor Treat Deming, daughter of John f>ein»nj=r he «.1e-
- from Richard Treat, the rather «>f Gov. Robert Trea:, <»f t.-
nd Treat and John Dt^iin^ were among the patentees >>* ih-- U:
. n was granted to Connecticut and afterward concealed in th-
Amos Hulbert, grandfather of the subject of this sketch, was '<
American Revolution.
The maternal ancestor- bert were e.. or* in the P
One of them, Wii came to Ply ,n 1621 in the g-^»i
tune, and the town of Bndgc\\.;: :•> hitn am; other*. By t*x
of Hannah Hall, grandda-.:_ • </. Josiah Win-'i<>v>. ;n 1746. to Xaihame;
Bassett, of Sandwich, Mr. Hulbert descends from Gov. Edward Winslow, who married
in May, 1621, Widow Susannah Fuller White, mother of Peregrine White, the first
white child born in New England. Both Edward Window and his wife, and William
and his wife Susannah, came to New England in the Mayflower, Mrs. Winslow
and Mr. White dying during the first terrible winter in Plymouth. The first marriage
ceremony in the colony, May 12, 162 1, united in wedlock Edward Winslow and Susannah
•r White. Gov. Josiah Winslow, their son, was the first native born governor
and general. He was governor from 1673 until his death in December, 1680, and, in
;. he was commander-in-chief of the vrhojc military force "f the united colonies.
The other maternal ancestor, Th"";*!. Dymoke, of ti'»hle family in England. \\ h ••
emigrated to America about i6;« w«i». in 1635. sel< r, M :-sv I*
1639, the town of Barnstabie, Ma*-- <a? ^et otf to him aiHl -nher* Sylvar.a-
grandfather of Mr. Hulbert, w*s ., in the America*. R<-v«*int«« >a
marriage of Sarah Hinckley, Oct. i. 1712. t<> Tt-fiphi'i.- j .••.-?!. i»«f. M-
ds_from Samuel Hinckley. i:ic ;-i;ner of <~-v ThomAS Hirs^kk^
Mr. Hulbert has traced out lines of direct cfc-^-cnt fr-«m •••.•*'•
~ whoarrived in tlie colony of Massac!:-j^.-:- -K-'.-rc -64=.. • ^v
of his ancestors arrived in this country after t*45 He H *orvK -
the best blood of the Puritans, beiru
line of over 250 years.
rather. Amos Geer Hulbert, was a sound, sensible, saga-.--.;-. . - » nsgc
manufacturer in Lee, Mass., and his mother, Cynthia Bassttt H :l?< f.. •-»>•» * -iv-wmi-
: the Dimmock and Bassett families.
Henn- C. Hulbert, their only son, was born in Lee, Mass ftet 19. iSji. He re-
el a good education at the Lee Academy, and, what wa* »>T equal benefit, an excel-
mg by intellectual and loving parents. At the age \A sixteen, he entered the
'iVilliam Taylor, of Lee, with whotn he bad previously spent six months when
thirteen years of age. and became a gene;
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. HU. 331
Alan. Mr. Hudson owns a beautiful country home, "The Ledges," in the Thousand
Islands.
HENRY CARLTON HULBERT, merchant, is a son of New England, whose up-
right, energetic and successful life in the metropolis illustrates the virtues of the Puri-
tan ancestry from which he descends. He traces his descent from several notable
families. His paternal ancestor, Lieut. Thomas Hurlbut, came from England with
Leon Gardiner about 1635, and afterward settled in Wethersfield, Conn. He served
as an officer in the Pequot War. Through the marriage of John Hulbert, son of the
pioneer, Dec. 15, 1670, with Honor Treat Deming, daughter of John Deming, he de-
scends from Richard Treat, the father of Gov. Robert Treat, of Connecticut. Both
Richard Treat and John Deming were among the patentees of the famous charter,
which was granted to Connecticut and afterward concealed in the Charter Oak at Hart-
ford. Amos Hulbert, grandfather of the subject of this sketch, was a soldier of the
American Revolution.
The maternal ancestors of Mr. Hulbert were early settlers in the Plymouth colony,
Mass. One of them, William Bassett, came to Plymouth in 1621 in the good ship For-
tune, and the town of Bridge water, Mass., was set off to him and others. By the mar-
riage of Hannah Hall, granddaughter of Gov. Josiah Winslow, in 1746, to Nathaniel
Bassett, of Sandwich, Mr. Hulbert descends from Gov. Edward Winslow, who married
in May, 1621, Widow Susannah Fuller White, mother of Peregrine White, the first
white child born in New England. Both Edward Winslow and his wife, and William
White and his wife Susannah, came to New England in the Mayflower, Mrs. Winslow
and Mr. White dying during the first terrible winter in Plymouth. The first marriage
ceremony in the colony, May 12, 1621, united in wedlock Edward Winslow and Susannah
Fuller White. Gov. Josiah Winslow, their son, was the first native born governor
and general. He was governor from 1673 until his death in December, 1680, and, in
1675, he was commander-in-chief of the whole military force of the united colonies.
The other maternal ancestor, Thomas Dymoke, of noble family in England, who
emigrated to America about 1631, was, in 1635, selectman at Dorchester, Mass. In
1639, the town of Barnstable, Mass., was set off to him and others. Sylvanus Dymock,
grandfather of Mr. Hulbert, was a soldier in the American Revolution. Through the
marriage of Sarah Hinckley, Oct. i, 1722, to Theophilus Dymoke, Mr. Hulbert de-
scends from Samuel Hinckley, the father of Gov. Thomas Hinckley.
Mr. Hulbert has traced out lines of direct descent from over twenty of the pio-
neers who arrived in the colony of Massachusetts before 1640, and, as far as known, none
of his ancestors arrived in this country after 1645. He is surely a direct descendant
from the best blood of the Puritans, being of New England extraction in an unbroken
line of over 250 years.
His father, Amos Geer Hulbert, was a sound, sensible, sagacious man, a carriage
manufacturer in Lee, Mass., and his mother, Cynthia Bassett Hulbert, was a descend-
ant of the Dimmock and Bassett families.
Henry C. Hulbert, their only son, was born in Lee, Mass., Dec. 19, 1831. He re-
ceived a good education at the Lee Academy, and, what was of equal benefit, an excel-
lent training by intellectual and loving parents. At the age of sixteen, he entered the
store of William Taylor, of Lee. with whom he had previously spent six months when
thirteen years of age, and became a general clerk.
332 AMERICA S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
In May, 1848, upon entering the store of Plunkett & Hulbert, who, in Pittsfield,
conducted the largest dry goods business in Berkshire county, the young man received
from his excellent and experienced father, that which was better than a legacy, and for
the lack of which other young men, who are otherwise qualified to succeed, often begin
life aimlessly and make a failure of it. His father told him: "You must now learn
to depend upon yourself. After this, I shall never give you another command. Here-
after, it will be advice. My last injunction is : ' Wherever you are placed in life, be a
man! Never shirk responsibility ! If you get into trouble, pay your way like a man,
if you have to sell the shirt off your back, and be smart enough not to get caught a
second time ! ' ' This sound New England advice was given to a young man capable of
understanding its value and of framing his conduct in accordance with it. He began
as errand boy at $150 a year. He soon rose to be a salesman and was then bookkeeper
and cashier at $225 a year. The first year his salary paid only for his board and cloth-
ing, and when he left Plunkett & Hulbert he gave them his note for $27.51, being the
balance of that account. His father offered to pay this, but the young man was
spirited, and said, " I will pay my own debts." While the business and social ideas of
the firm were of the strictest New England character, yet the main result was to make
the clerks solid, strong, honest men, and their after lives bore witness to this fact.
In 1851, at the age of nineteen, he felt a desire to enter into a larger field of activity
and resolved to go to New York. His father sought to detain him with a promise to
establish him in business as a merchant in Lee, Mass. But he was ambitious, confident,
and resolved to go. Thereupon, he obtained letters of introduction to three leading
firms in New York city, and in February, 1851, started for New York to try to obtain a
position. He first called upon Cyrus W. Field, who promptly said " I have no place
for you. I know your father. You are of good stock. If you need New York refer-
ence, refer to me." The next firm to which he applied were White & Sheffield, dealers
in paper and importers of papermakers' supplies. Atter a few moments' conversation,
they requested him to call at 12 o'clock. Prompt to the minute he entered their store.
After an interview of nearly an hour, Mr. Sheffield said: "What is your intention in
coming to New York ?" The young man promptly replied : " If I obtain a position in
your house, I shall endeavor to make myself so useful that you will give me an interest
in your concern." Doubtless amused but evidently pleased with the boy's frank
answer, they gave him a position at $400 a year. He returned to Pittsfield, gave his
notice of leaving to Plunkett & Hulbert, and, March 17, 1851, started for New York
with $15 in money and a determination to accomplish the purpose he had in view.
With sound good sense, he resolved to live within his income and he engaged lodgings
in a small attic in Willoughby street, Brooklyn, in company with another young man from
his native town. At the store, he concentrated his energies upon making his mark.
He was willing, energetic, first at the store in the morning, last to leave at night, and
alert to opportunities. Although the youngest clerk in the store, he promptly made his
usefulness felt. He did not waste his strength in social pleasure, but was always ready
for each day's work and brought to the business all the energy of a New England boy,
willing to work in any department in which he could serve ihe firm.
In December, 1851, the bookkeeper was taken sick at the moment when it was im-
perative to prepare the quarterly account of sales. Mr. Hulbert volunteered his services
and succeeded to the entire satisfaction of the firm. After that, his promotion was rapid.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. HU. 335
and related to the Conqueror. From this branch of the family sprang the Earls of
Hereford, Essex and Northampton. The American branch of the family proves its
direct descent from Michael Humphrey of Lyme Regis, Dorsetshire, England, who set-
tled at ancient Windsor Conn , about 1640, and is recorded as a prominent manufac-
turer of tar and turpentine near Windsor, in 1643. This renders the Humphreys
family among the earliest settlers in America, and from these sturdy pioneers have
sprung a race of men who have been at the head of every movement, whether of peace
or war, which could benefit and consolidate the great country of their adoption.
Dr. Humphreys was born March n, 1816, in Marcellus, Onondaga county, N. Y.
When his family removed to Auburn, N. Y., in 1823, he finished his studies at the
Auburn Academy under the tuition of Josiah Underbill, a Quaker teacher. From four-
teen to sixteen he wras a clerk in a store, and then went South with his uncle and
brother and traveled in the clock business. After three years' experience, he returned
to manage a farm which his father had purchased, and in 1837 he married Cornelia,
daughter of William and Hester E. Palmer, who died in 1840, leaving one son, George,
also now deceased. Soon after his marriage, Dr. Humphreys went to help his father-
in-law at Chillicothe, O., and there he entered the ministry of the Methodist Episcopal
Church. On his wife's death, he returned to Auburn and for five years was an itinerant
preacher earning a precarious living, which he eked out by medical practice. Being
criticised for this by his ministerial brethren, in 1844 he removed to Utica, gave up
preaching and joined his father, Dr. Erastus Humphreys, in the practice of medicine.
He studied homoeopathy with enthusiasm and soon gained a profitable practice in Utica.
In 1848, he entered the Pennsylvania Homoeopathic Medical College in Philadelphia.
He studied diligently for three years with Dr. Constantine Hering, and in 1850 took his
degree as Doctor of Homoeopathic Medicine.
In the meantime, Aug. i, 1843, Dr. Humphreys married Frances Maria, daughter
of Alvah Jefferson and Maria Polly Tuttle Sperry of Ludlowville, N. Y. With this lady,
he has enjoyed the perfection of domestic happiness, has four children, and only lately
celebrated his golden wedding, surrounded by his friends and full of devotion and love
for his helpmate of fifty years. In addition to his studies and practice, Dr. Humphreys
found time for literary and medical writings. He collaborated with his father a series
of " Tracts for the Times," elucidating the new doctrine of homoeopathy. He also wrote
"Cholera and its Homoeopathic Treatment," and a monograph on dysentery. Then a
more important work, entitled " Proving of the Apis Mellifica, or Poison of the Honey
Bee," and " Proving of the Plantago Major;" but the work of which Dr. Humphreys is
justly proud is his heraldic and genealogical " History of the Humphreys Family,"
published in 1883.
In 1853, the doctor came to New York and at once took the lead in homoeopathic
circles. He assisted in forming and was prominent in The Central New York Homoe-
opathic Medical Society, which was subsequently transformed into The New York State
Homoeopathic Medical Society. He %vas made Chairman of the " Bureau for the Aug-
mentation and Improvement of the Materia Medica " of the American Institute of
Homoeopathy, and later was called to the chair of Homoeopathic Institutes and Practice
of Medicine in his old college. He lectured for three years.
He then began to introduce his discovery of combinations of medicine for popular
use which he has termed Homoeopathic Specifics. This caused a rupture between him-
336 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
self and the college and all his professional friends and associates. But he saw his path
of duty clear before him. He fought bravely against jealousy, intrigue, rascality and
fraud, and triumphed after a weary struggle of twenty-five years. The work of his life
has been completed. The specifics manufactured by The Humphreys Homoeopathic
Medicine Co., which he founded, are now being produced upon an enormous scale and
are known all over the world. He has been energetic in the management of his busi-
ness, and his "Manual," which is printed in English, German, French, Spanish and
Portuguese, is being distributed at the rate of 3,000,000 copies a year. The specifics
have brought him both fame and fortune. He has also issued a Mentor in the languages
named above and a Veterinary Manual.
Dr. Humphreys has always been active in church work. He organized the Meth-
odist Episcopal Church in West Utica, buying the edifice and securing the pastor. He
also helped build Trinity Church at Asbury Park, and rendered efficient service in con-
solidating the Church of the Heavenly Rest on Fifth avenue, of which he has been
warden for fourteen years. He has for a long time contributed to Henry Bergh's
paper, "Our Animal Friends, "and has written many clever verses, both grave and
gay. Essentially a home loving and domestic man, Dr. Humphreys belongs to no
clubs, but he enjoys himself surrounded by his family in his home on West 39th street.
He is loved, honored and respected.
SOLON HUMPHREYS, banker, born Oct. 27, 1821, in Canton, Conn., is in the
seventh generation in descent from Michael Humphrey, who came from England and
settled in Windsor, Conn., about 1640. Finishing his education with one year in St.
John's College, Annapolis, Md., Mr. Humphreys entered the house of William G. Har-
rison, in Baltimore, in 1838, and 1839-44 was a, clerk for E. D. Morgan & Co. in New
York city. He then spent nine years in St. Louis in the firm of Humphreys &
Thatcher, which he established, and obtained wide reputation as a grocery and commis-
sion merchant. In 1853, he returned to New York, and Jan. i, 1854, became a partner
in E. D. Morgan & Co., one of the leading firms of the United States in the sugar, tea
and coffee trade. Of this concern, now engaged in banking, he is. yet a partner. -He
was one of the original promoters of The Ohio & Mississippi Railroad in 1852, and later
active in the consolidation of the Wabash system of railroads. His firm have been in
recent years largely occupied with the negotiation of railroad and investment securities.
. Mr. Humphreys was at one time vice president and for years treasurer of the Chamber
of Commerce, and has been a director of The Ohio & Mississippi, The St. Loxiis, Iron
Mountain & Southern, The St. Louis, Kansas City & Northern, The Peoria & Pekin,
The Pittsburgh & Western, and The Toledo, Wabash & Western Railroads; president
and receiver of The Wabash, St. Louis & Pacific Railway; receiver of The Illinois & St.
Louis Bridge Co. ; vice president of The Pittsburgh & Western Railroad ; and president
of The Painesville & Youngstown and The Pittsburgh, Painesville & Fairport Rail-
roads. Sound judgment and fine mind allied with enterprise have made him a suc-
cessful man. He illustrates in his own life the best traits of family character handed
down through a long ancestry. Nov. 16, 1847, he married Mary Ellen, daughter of
Edward Walsh, of St. Louis. His only child, Edward Walsh Humphreys, was born
Dec. 15, 1848. The family have made their home at Bergen Point, N. J., since 1856.
NOAH S. HUNT, merchant, a native of Rah way, N. J., died at the Grand Central
Hotel, this city, Nov. 12, 1886, at the age of eighty-four. He came to New York when
THE CITY OF NEW YOkK. HU. 337
• ars of age, served an apprenticeship as a mechanic, and for many years as
ui charge of the pattern room of Robert Hoe's printing press manufactory,
iound employment in a hat factory. Finally he had, by hard work, strict
and clear-headed sagacity, saved enough to go into the hardware business
of his younger brothers under the name of I. L. & N. S Hunt, but in two
mtinued this partnership and organized the finn of Ellis, Hunt & Ellis.
about 1856 with a comfortable fortune, he devoted himself to the care of his
and by shrewd investments largely increased his wealth. Hi,, operations were
MI' an unusual character, frequently being in the nature of discounting r ..tes,
• as collateral securities usually supp-xs^d t<* be of little valne, trat oot of wbu h M.
<>sed to have invariably realized a profit. He was a bachelor and U-<l -\ retired
avoiding society and in hw business dealings a.
he gave happiness to numerous :
WILSON G. HUNT, merchant, a na,
ry, Dec. 7, 1892. The*.-
clerk in New York. Owing : :v ana mind, be
rapidly and soon found himself a srm jn William street. The
panic of 1837 swept the firm out of ex; nt rallied, resumed business,
and at a later date gave a dinner to his credit. each found under his plate a
check for the amount of his claim with interest. ; , great prominence as
a wholesale dry-goods merchant and ranked a eneration of business
men of the city, among whom he had stanch frit <t of whom he survived.
He twice refused a nomination as Mayor of New vas active in local affairs
and a director of The United States Trust Co., T Park Bank, The Consoli-
dated Gas Co., The Eagle Fire Insurance Co., The New York Life Insurance & Trust
The New York, New Haven & Hartford Railroad, The Globe Fire Insurance Co
The Washington Life Insurance Co., The Delaware, Lackawanna & Western Rail-
el, and other corporations. Mr. Hunt was twice married, but left no familv
COLLIS POTTER HUNTINQTON. president of The Southern Pacific Co. stand*
ie very front rank among the list of our remarkable men nf action in America
Mr. Huntington was born in Harwinton, Litchneld c-mmv, 1'i.xm.. O« ?>
the fifth of nine children. Leaving school at fourteen year* of
himself at a compensation of seven dollar-, a month Tw.. v
•\v York city, using the credit. *t,ith ht: had acqamd through < «•• *-r-.
cantile friends at home, to purchase goods, which he disn.h^-t! ,. •.
that his friends knew of him, he was traveling through t.
faculty for negotiation, which was to be exercised later ui
-es familiar to the whole world.
the age of twenty-two, Mr. Huntington with his bryth«r Solw VM, :4,>t , g^.
merchandise store at Oneonta, Otsego county, New Vorl:. K
••mcnt of 1849 came, young Huntington, who had already found •. *> l^n.
1 for his talents and usefulness, sailed on the i5th of March of thai vt«r tor
- State. He was detained with many others three months •« ihi- Isthmus.
• »nlike many others, he spent that interval in adding to the $i,aoo which he had
from his business for the expenses of the trip, and by tb tirr^ h<- had
>acramento he had $5,000 in hand, in marked contrast with a great mam
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. HU. 337
thirteen years of age, served an apprenticeship as a mechanic, and for many years as
foreman had charge of the pattern room of Robert Hoe's printing press manufactory.
Later he found employment in a hat factory. Finally he had, by hard work, strict
economy and clear-headed sagacity, saved enough to go into the hardware business
with one of his younger brothers under the name of I. L. & N. S. Hunt, but in two
years discontinued this partnership and organized the firm of Ellis, Hunt & Ellis.
Retiring about 1856 with a comfortable fortune, he devoted himself to the care of his
property and by shrewd investments largely increased his wealth. Hio operations were
often of an unusual character, frequently being in the nature of discounting notes,
accepting as collateral securities usually supposed to be of little value, but out of which he
was supposed to have invariably realized a profit. He was a bachelor and led a retired
life, avoiding society and in his business dealings acting through his brokers. At his
death, he gave happiness to numerous nieces and nephews by giving them his fortune.
WILSON Q. HUNT, merchant, a native of New Jersey, born in 1805, died in New
York city, Dec. 7, 1892. The son of a farmer, he started in life while a boy as a dry goods
clerk in New York. Owing to strong natural powers of body and mind, he advanced
rapidly and soon found himself a partner in a dry goods firm in William street. The
panic of 1837 swept the firm out of existence, but Mr. Hunt rallied, resumed business,
and at a later date gave a dinner to his creditors, at which each found under his plate a
check for the amount of his claim with interest. Mr. Hunt rose to great prominence as
a wholesale dry-goods merchant and ranked as one of the older generation of business
men of the city, among whom he had stanch friends and most of whom he survived.
He twice refused a nomination as Mayor of New York but was active in local affairs,
and a director of The United States Trust Co. , The National Park Bank, The Consoli-
dated Gas Co., The Eagle Fire Insurance Co., The New York Life Insurance & Trust
Co., The New York, New Haven & Hartford Railroad, The Globe Fire Insurance Co.,
The Washington Life Insurance Co., The Delaware, Lackawanna & Western Rail-
road, and other corporations. Mr. Hunt was twice married, but left no family.
COLLIS POTTER HUNTINQTON, president of The Southern Pacific Co., stands
in the very front rank among the list of our remarkable men of action in America.
Mr. Huntington was born in Harwinton, Litchfield county, Conn., Oct. 22, 1821,
the fifth of nine children. Leaving school at fourteen years of age, he began work for
himself at a compensation of seven dollars a month Two years later, in 1837, he was
in Xew York city, using the credit, which he had acquired through the letters of mer-
cantile friends at home, to purchase goods, which he disposed of at a good profit. The
next that his friends knew of him. he was traveling through the South applying that
faculty for negotiation, which was to be exercised later in life in the gigantic enter-
prises familiar to the whole world.
At the age of twenty-two, Mr. Huntington with his brother Solon opened a gen-
eral merchandise store at Oneonta, Otsego county, New York, but when the gold
excitement of 1849 came, young Huntington, who had already found Oneonta too lim-
ited a field for his talents and usefulness, sailed on the i sth of March of that year for
the Golden State. He was detained with many others three months on the Isthmus,
but, unlike many others, he spent that interval in adding to the $1,200 which he had
drawn out from his business for the expenses of the trip, and by the time he had
reached Sacramento he had $5,000 in hand, in marked contrast with a great many who,
338 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
being less usefully occupied on the Isthmus or for other reasons arrived " dead broke."
In Sacramento, he commenced business under the name of C. P. Huntington, but
afterward established the well-known hardware house of Huntington & Hopkins,
which has continued up to the present day. Numerous anecdotes are told of the mar-
velous genius for business evinced by Mr. Huntington while trading at No. 54 K street.
He studied the market carefully and bought in large quantities when supplies were
low and sold in lesser quantities when the prices were high. He was ready to buy
almost anything, which was not perishable, at some price or another, and it used to
be said of him in those days that if a man could not sell a thing any where else, he could
always get cash from Huntington. In 1856 the firm had a fortune.
Almost from the first, Mr. Huntington had realized the tremendous advantages
which would accrue from a railroad connecting California with the East. Believing in
its feasibility, he led some of his neighbors in Sacramento to join with him, and these
seven men bound themselves to do the initial work of an instrumental survey across
the mountain. Early in 1861, The Central Pacific Railroad Co. was organized with an
original capital of $8,500,000, and Mr. Huntington started for Washington, armed with
maps and charts, to prove to Congress the practicability of the plans devised and to
secure from the Government substantial aid. The result of his labors is summed up in
the acts of Congress of 1862 and 1864, by which the Government agreed to give lands
and bonds to aid in the construction of the road. It was a great triumph for Mr.
Huntington and his associates, although the elation of the man, who had done most to
achieve it, seems to have been tempered by the thought of what was yet before him.
His telegraphic despatch to his co-directors was characteristic : "We have drawn the
elephant, now let us see if we can harness him up."
Mr. Huntington at once came on to New York to enlist the aid of capital; and in
this field his persistence, courage, financial ability and knowledge of men were put to
an exceptionally severe test. The story of his experiences in Boston in the negotiation
of bonds cannot be told in the brief outline of this sketch, but it offers an example of
financial achievement, in the face of disbelief in the practicability of the great work
and doubt of the value of the security proposed, which stamps the daring leader in the
enterprise as one of the greatest financiers of the century.
The faith of the four men, Huntington, Hopkins, Stanford and Crocker, is illus-
trated by the characteristic way in which they solved the first problem of construction,
when they agreed to pay personally for the labor of 800 men on the road for one year,
and pledged their private fortunes to meet the obligations they assumed. The con-
struction race with The Union Pacific, which was rushed westward while The Central
Pacific was pushed eastward, created unbounded excitement and enthusiasm as the
wires flashed across the continent daily the progress made. The tremendous strain, the
anxieties and difficulties of this construction can never be adequately told. Freights,
prices of material and wages rose enormously, and the necessity of paying in gold coin
in California at a time when gold was at a high premium was an aggravating feature of
these difficulties. A hundred discouraging problems arose, under the burdens of which
the builders, had they been ordinary men, must have been crushed; but with Mr.
Huntington an unlimited capacity for work, natural powers which had never been im-
paired by the use of tobacco or liquors, and the rugged physical vitality which was the
outgrowth of heredity and early training carried him safely through the ordeal.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. HU. 341
In 1043, believing his partner too conservative, Mr. Hurlbut associated himself
with the late John H. Swift, under the firm name of Swift & Hurlbut, and the new
partnership soon took the position of the leading house in this trade in the United
States. The Kossuth hat, so popular in 1851, was a novelty originating with him.
His firm engaged in its manufacture on an extended scale, receiving great benefits
therefrom, and from its adoption dates the popularity of the soft felt hat in this country.
In 1860, the firm of Swift & Hurlbut dissolved by mutual consent, Mr. Hurlbut retiring
from active business with an ample fortune.
In 1832, Mr. Hurlbut married a New Haven lady, Susan Rebecca Kennedy, of
Scottish descent, and in 1882, their golden wedding was celebrated in Paris by an en-
tertainment at which very many old friends were present. Mrs. Hurlbut died in 1888.
At an early period in his career, he evinced a decided aptitude for the management
of financial institutions. He was a progressive man and was called to many positions
of trust and responsibility, in all of which he had the good fortune to make a brilliant
record. He was one of the founders of The Second National Bank and its first president.
He was also one of the incorporators of The Equitable Life Assurance Society and is now
a member of its Finance Committee. He was one of the committee selected to super-
intend the building of the present magnificent edifice at No. 120 Broadway. He has
long been a trustee of The Mercantile Trust Co., a director in The Home Fire Insur-
ance Co. and The Mercantile Safe Deposit Co. , and long a member of the Chamber of
Commerce. His name has added strength to every institution with which it has been
connected. He has also been active in social life. One of the oldest members of The
New England Society and at one time its president, and for many years a member of
The New York Historical Society and The American Geographical Society, he was also
one of the original members of the Union League club, and has served as a vice-presi-
dent. In addition, he holds membership in various other clubs and associations.
In politics his friends point to his consistent record. He allied himself while young
with the old Whig party of the days before the war, and when its successor the Repub-
lican party was formed, he became a member of that organization. In the dark days
of the late Civil War, he was among the foremost in sustaining the Federal government
with voice and purse. As a public duty, he became a delegate to the convention in Phil-
adelphia which nominated General Grant for the presidency. At the close of the war,
when his friends sought to show their appreciation of his disinterested patriotism by
entrusting to him the responsibilities of public office, he persistently refused. From
this rule he has never departed, except in one worthy respect. When Governor Dix,
his life-long personal friend, urged upon him the position of Commissioner of Emigra-
tion, for which his study of the condition and habits of the poorer classes of the old
world, during his many trips abroad, had thoroughly fitted him, he consented to take
the office, and 1873 the Governor appointed him Commissioner for the State of New
York. The Board unanimously elected him chairman, and he held that responsible
position for twelve years, when the Federal government took the service under its con-
trol. In this field, he had abundant opportunity to exercise the liberal charity for
which his life has been distinguished. The record is full of examples of his benevolence.
Mr. Hurlbut has been prominent in religious and charitable works for many years,
and he is a member and trustee of the Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church, The Amer-
ican Seaman's Friend Society and the Demilt Dispensary.
342 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
Very often reminded of his own limited school advantages and feeling that a thorough
educational training is almost a necessity, he founded a " Hurlbut Scholarship" at
Yale University, thereby creating a fund to assist worthy but indigent students ; and in
accordance with his earnest wishes, each of his sons received a collegiate education, the
elder being graduated at Yale University in 1860, and the younger in 1863 at Columbia
College, New York city, although neither one elected thereafter a professional life.
His career reveals the secret of the illustrious position of the metropolis of America,
which possesses citizens who, while building their own private fortunes, are sufficiently
public spirited and patriotic to devote a portion of their time to public affairs and the
welfare of the city of their residence. His life has been closely identified with the in-
terests of New York city, and we must class him among the " merchant princes " whose
personal history is a vital part of that of the metropolis.
SEYflOUR LEQRAND HUSTED, street railroad president, born in Danbury,
Conn., Sept. 10, 1810, died at his home on Clinton Avenue, Brooklyn, June 13, 1887.
He was a son of Platt Husted and Mary Barnum, his wife, both of whom were born in
the same pleasant old New England town. While a mere boy, young Husted was
taken from school and employed in his father's business, which was that of the pro-
duction of hatters' furs. In 1824, the business and the family were removed to New
York. In 1828, the senior Husted died and the entire business devolved upon the
young man, who, although only eighteen years of age, proved himself entirely capable
of assuming the responsibilities thus thrust upon him. He soon acquired a knowledge
of furs, which brought him into requisition among experts in that branch of business.
In 1836, Mr. Husted removed his manufactory to Brooklyn, where he purchased a
considerable tract of land and erected extensive buildings. For a number of years, he
carried on the business under improved conditions, save during the financial distress of
1837, when, during the general paralysis of all industry, his manufactory was tempo-
rarily closed. In 1848, the demand for hatters' furs had so far diminished, owing to the
introduction of silk plush, that the manufacture of them no longer yielded a .profit.
Mr. Husted then abandoned the industry. Two years previous to this, he had estab-
lished a stage line connecting the outlying districts of Brooklyn with the ferries on the
East River front, plying to New York city. In 1853, this stage line gave place to The
Brooklyn City Railroad, operated by a company of which Mr. Husted became the first
president. Under his administration, this railroad grew into importance and the company
now controls a more extensive system of street railroads than any other in the country.
From his earliest residence in Brooklyn, Mr. Husted displayed a deep interest in
municipal affairs and bore a prominent part in the progress and development of the
city. Besides being for several years an active member of the city government, he
was one of the first members of the Prospect Park Board of Control and became a
member of the first board of Brooklyn Bridge trustees. His name is found on the list
of directors of several of the financial and industrial corporations of Brooklyn and
among those of the trustees of many of her charities.
As a member of the Episcopal Church, he was known as a liberal donor, especially
in connection with St. Mary's Church, which as a free church excited his warmest
sympathy and which he had carefully watched in its growth from a small gathering on
the outskirts of a little town to a large and influential congregation in a great city.
He was also active in the work of creating the Diocese of Long Island and at his death
344 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
was one of the trustees of the Cathedral of the Episcopal Church in Garden City.
During more than twenty-five years, Mr. Husted served as a trustee of The Mu-
tual Life Insurance Co. of New York, serving upon its Finance Committee. In that
position, his knowledge of real estate, which was quite exceptional, proved of great
value to the vast interests which he served. In fact, many millions of dollars were
placed in Brooklyn for the extension and improvement of the property of the company
through the freely given advice and assistance of Mr. Husted.
The subject of this sketch was one of the incorporators of The Dime Savings Bank
of Brooklyn, was elected its president in 1868, and retained that office until his death
in 1887. He devoted his best energies to the performance of the onerous duties of the
position, serving without salary, and saw the bank develop from an humble beginning
until it had become an institution with nearly 50,000 depositors and notably a great
benefit to the working classes. He was also a director of The Nassau and The Mon-
tauk Fire Insurance Go's.
Mr. Husted was tall and of fine physique, dignified and gentle in bearing. He
had a face which showed deep thoughtfulness and at times was lighted with a smile of
peculiar sweetness and at others beamed with mirth. He was positive in his convic-
tions, yet amicable in the careful consideration of questions. Fearless and of unyield-
ing integrity, his advice was much sought by others and always given with kindness
and tender sympathy.
In 1832 he married Mary J. Kendall, daughter of William Kendall and Margaret
Cochran, and there were born to them three sons and three daughters, William H.
Husted, who died July 24, 1890 ; Charles S. and Seymour L. Husted ; Mary Louisa,
wife of Edwin Beers ; Esther H., wife of Frederic Cromwell, and M. Katharine Hus-
ted. Mr. and Mrs. Husted celebrated their golden wedding in 1882.
WILLIAfl HENRY HUSTED, born in New York, Oct. 17, 1832, was killed
at Broadalbin, N. Y., in the Adirondacks, July 24, 1890, by the accidental discharge of
a gun. Upon his mother's side, he was descended from the Cochranes of Scotland.
Well educated by private tutors, he then engaged in transportation enterprises with his
father. For many years, he held a colonelcy on General Duryea's staff, and aided the
recruiting of Union regiments during the Civil War. For several years, he was presi-
dent of The Broadway Street Railroad, from which office he retired to become presi-
dent of The Bushwick Railroad. Mr. Husted was also a director of The Brooklyn
City Railroad, The Long Island Loan & Trust Co., The Brooklyn Gas Co , The National
City Bank and the Brooklyn Academy of Music, life member of the Long Island
Historical Society and president of the Brooklyn Art Association. Thoroughly inter-
ested in all which pertained to the welfare of Brooklyn, he promoted not only the
institutions named, but The Philharmonic Society and The Brooklyn Library, and
served on the standing committee of the Diocese of Long Island and as vestryman of
Grace Church on Brooklyn Heights, where a beautiful memorial window now occupies
a prominent place. He collected many fine paintings, and in later life studied German
in order to read various authors in the original. He traveled much and spent several
years in the capitals of Europe. A devoted Republican, he never held office, but was a
member of the Century club of New York and the Hamilton and Riding and Driving
clubs of Brooklyn. In 1871, he married Miss Lillias J., daughter of Frederick S. Little-
john of Brooklyn, and was survived by his wife and one son, Herbert Seymour Husted.
I.
ISAAC ICKELHEIMER, banker, a native of Frankfort-on-the-Main, who died in
New York city in his fifty-eighth year, April 27, 1893, while the great naval demon-
stration in the harbor in honor of the Columbian celebration was in progress, came
to America when a lad of fifteen and began, life first as a clerk, and then as a merchant
in the jewelry trade. After 1873 he spent three years in Europe. Upon his return, he
engaged in private banking with his father-in-law, A. S. Heidelbach, in the firm of
Heidelbach, Ickelheimer & Co. He was a clear headed, competent and careful man
and slowly amassed a fortune. The Chamber of Commerce admitted him to member-
ship and he was a director of The Importers' & Traders' National Bank, and one of the
founders and directors of The Fifth Avenue Bank. Henry R. Ickelheimer succeeded
him in the firm.
JOHN HAMILTON INMAN, merchant, was born Oct. 23, 1844, in Jefferson
county, Tenn. , and is the second son of Shadrack W. and Jane Martin Inman. His
father was of English lineage and his mother of Scotch-Irish descent. From this
sturdy ancestry, John H. Inman inherited robust physique and unusual brain power.
His father was a rich planter in Tennessee before the war, besides being a banker of
pronounced success. The family have been stanch Presbyterians through several
generations, and the subject of this sketch is himself a consistent member of that
denomination.
Mr. Inman's scholastic education was ended with the completion of his academic
course. He declined collegiate advantages because of impatience to begin his business
life. Employment came to him first in the position of an ordinary clerk in a bank, of
which his uncle was president, in a small Georgia town. So efficient did he prove him-
self, that at the age of sixteen he was made assistant cashier. He resigned this
position before he was eighteen years of age, to enlist in the Confederate army with
the ist Regiment of Tennessee Cavalry, and served faithfully to the close of the war.
On returning home, he found poverty where he had left wealth, and widespread
devastation in place of prosperity and plenty. His father's fortune had been turned
topsy-turvy, and the problem of life through the violence of war had become serious
indeed. The impoverished South offered no encouragement, and Mr. Inman, with
nothing in his pocket except a soldier's parole, came to New York to make a new
start in life. From that day to this, his career has been a campaign of usefulness as
well as a triumphal march.
On coming to New York in September, 1865, he secured a clerkship in a cotton
house, which position he held for three years, when he was admitted to full partnership
in the firm. Two years thereafter, he organized the now internationally well-known
house of Inman, Swann&Co., cotton commission merchants, and has been the presiding
genius over the destinies of that firm from the hour of its organization to the present
time. About ten years after the house of Inman, Swann & Co. had been established,
Mr. Inman turned his attention to the railroad interests of the South and rapidly went
to the very foremost position in the management of Southern railroads. Latterly, he
has almost completely withdrawn from that field of operations in order to enjoy more
346 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
leisure than grave official responsibilities will permit. He is a member of the Rapid
Transit Commission of this city and has been since its creation. For the material
development of the New South, he has probably done more than any other one man.
It is estimated that more than $100,000,000 have been sent to the South for invest-
ment through his indirect instrumentality. He has a large following, having won to his
support, through brave undertakings and brilliant achievements, men of brains,
character and wealth. His personal fortune is great enough not to need counting.
Suffice it to say, he is several times a millionaire.
He is identified with the management of many prominent financial institutions, as
any conspicuously successful man of affairs naturally would be. He is by no means a
great club man, but holds membership in several of the leading clubs, including the
Metropolitan and Manhattan, only because his prominent position in the metropolis
compels him to belong more or less to such organizations. His home is a far greater
delight to him than all the clubs on the Island of Manhattan. He has recently built a
grand house at No. 874 Fifth Avenue, and its impressive exterior is only a hint of the
luxurious interior. He is to-day, when viewed from all sides, the foremost Southerner
in New York.
Mr. Inman was married June 8, 1870, to Miss Margaret M. Coffin, of Monroe
county, Tenn. They have six living children, four sons and two daughters. Their
eldest son, Hugh Martin Inman, is a student at Yale University, and the other sons are
preparing for college.
ADRIAN ISELIN, banker, is a member of one of the best known Hebrew familes
of this city, which has long enjoyed standing and influence. The son of a merchant
who was favorably known to the fathers of the present generation, he began life as an
importer of dry goods. Under close, careful and energetic management, his business
prospered greatly and he finally retired from active mercantile life the possessor of a
fortune, although he retains to this day a special partnership in William Iselin & Co.
In recent years, Mr. Iselin has been occupied with banking in A. Iselin & Co. , which
house was established by him, and with the management of investments in real estate
and corporations. He is the owner of coal mines in Pennsylvania, principal proprietor
of the Manhattan Athletic club house, the Gallatin Bank Building and other notable
realty, treasurer of The Manhattan Storage Warehouse Co. , director of the Metropol-
itan Opera House and connected with various other business enterprises. Years, ex-
perience and high character have won for him the respect of this community. His
popularity, which might be illustrated in many ways, is fully indicated by the fact that
he belongs to a large number of the best clubs in the city, including the Union,
Metropolitan, Knickerbocker, Century, Country, Union League, Tuxedo, Riding,
Reform, Racquet, New York Yacht, New York Athletic, Seawanhaka Corinthian
Yacht, and Down Town. He is one of the patrons of the annual Patriarchs' ball.
GEN. BRAYTON IVES, banker, born in the town of Farmington, Conn., in
1840, comes from English ancestry, the family having been planted in New Eng-
land several generations ago. Graduating from Yale University in 1861, he entered
the Union army as Adjutant of the 5th Conn. Inf. and served throughout the war,
being promoted successively to Captain, in October, 1861 ; Assistant Adjutant Gen-
eral, with rank of Captain, on the staff of Gen. O. S. Terry, March, 1862 ; Major, ist
Conn. Cav., January, 1864 ; Lieutenant Colonel, November, 1864, and Colonel of the
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. IV. 347
regiment in January, 1865. During the last year of the War, he served under Custer
and Sheridan and was mustered out in August, 1865, a brevet Brigadier General. In
1867, Gen. Ives went into stock brokerage in Wall street and soon became prominent
at the Stock Exchange. Elected vice-president of the Exchange in 1876 and 1877, his
associates made him president in 1878 and 1879, and he was a member of the Govern-
ing Committee for thirteen years. Retiring from Wall street in 1889, he accepted the
presidency of The Western National Bank, April i, 1890, and has managed the bank
capably until the present time. By diligent study of the problems of finance, Gen.
Ives has gained the rank of an authority. He is president of The Northern Pacific
Railroad, director of The Mercantile Trust Co. , The United States Guarantee Co. , and
The New York Stock Exchange Building Co., and chairman of The Westinghouse
Electric & Manufacturing Co. Married in 1867 to Eleanor A., daughter of the Rev. S.
B. S. Bissell of Norwalk, Conn., he is father of Winifred, Sherwood Bissell, Eunice
and Frances Havens Ives. He is a valued member of the Union League, Metropoli-
tan, University, Century, Grolier, Players', New York Yacht, Tuxedo, and Riding
clubs and The New England Society and Loyal Legion. The press has published many
essays from his pen. He is a collector of books and bric-a-brac, was a Presidential
Elector on the Republican ticket in 1888 and chairman of the finance committee of the
centennial celebration in New York, 1889.
DAVID BRINKERHOFF IVISON, publisher, born in Auburn, N. Y., June 28,
1835, is a son °f Henry Ivison, a native of Paisley, Scotland, who came to America in
1820, learned the book trade in Utica, N. Y., in 1832 established a book business in
Aubxirn, and in 1846 removed to New York, where he founded the well-known firm of
Ivison, Blakeman & Taylor, publishers of school books. David graduated from farm
life to which health and taste inclined him for several years, and in 1857 was given a
place in his father's store in New York, in due time becoming a partner. The energy
of the son enabled the father to retire in 1880 and spend a few years in the quiet enjoy-
ment of life. Competition between school book publishers became so intense a few
years ago, that Mr. Ivison 's firm with several others united in 1890 to form The Ameri-
can Book Co. If this organization is a trust, it would be well to have more of this class.
They have reduced the price of school books, thus benefiting every family in the land.
Mr. Ivison is president of the company and is found at his desk daily in the new build-
ing adjoining Grace Church, busily administering the affairs of the company. He was
married in 1860 to Emeline M., daughter of Daniel Crane. Their children are Sara B. ;
Eleanor, wife of W. W. Hill; Henry, an associate of his father in business; and William
C., vice-president of The .Cady-Ivison Co. in Cleveland, O. Mr. Ivison makes his home
in Rutherford, N. J., but is a member of several clubs, including the Aldineand Union
League of this city, and the Union club of Rutherford. He is an elder in the Presby-
terian Church of Rutherford, which he helped to found in 1863.
J.
JOHN C. JACKSON, retired merchant, is a native of Staffordshire Potteries, Eng-
land, where he was born April 7, 1809. Growing up in the occupation peculiar to his
birthplace, he located in New York city in 1830 as an importer of china and earthen-
ware. A capable merchant, he retired in 1869 to enjoy the fruits of well earned suc-
cess, devoting himself thereafter to stock breeding in Queens county on Long Island,
the presidency of the county agricultural society for a number of terms and other local
interests. The turnpike built by him from Hunter's Point to Flushing was such a
splendid road that the stockholders of the company presented him with a silver dinner
service. In 1834, he married Martha M., daughter of Capt. Andrew Riker.
THEODORE FRELINGHUYSEN JACKSON, lawyer, born in Rockaway, N. J.,
Nov. 16, 1830, is a son of William Jackson, who was a manufacturer of iron, as was his
father Stephen Jackson. The forge worked by the latter before the Revolution is yet
in existence in 1895. The family contributed several soldiers to the American Revo-
lution. William Jackson, having met with business reverses, removed in 1837 to a
farm near Avon, N. Y. , but later removed to Brooklyn, N. Y., where he died in 1872.
Theodore was educated at the public schools, left home in 1847, studied law with Judge
H. G. Onderdonk on Long Island, became acting deputy in the Queens County Clerk's
office in 1851, and was admitted to the bar in 1852. The same year, he opened a law
office in Williamsburg, now a part of Brooklyn, as Assistant to Corporation Coun-
sel George Thompson, and in 1853, with Paul J. Fish, one of the oldest lawyers in
Williamsburg, established the partnership of Fish & Jackson. The firm dissolved in
1861, and Mr. Jackson continued practice alone until 1874, when he became a partner
in Jackson & Burr. This latter firm continued in existence until 1895, although Mr.
Jackson retired from active labor in 1890. Mr. Jackson's life has been passed in
Brooklyn and his practice has been mainly in the field of real estate law and the man-
agement of estates. He owns a large amount of realty, mainly in the i8th ward, upon
which he has expended a large sum in improvements, especially in the construction of
a canal and docks at the head of Newtown creek. City affairs have occupied some of his
attention and his strong social and financial standing, coupled with his known integ-
rity, led to his election in 1889 and 1890 as City Comptroller_of Brooklyn. In 1882, he
accepted the office of Registrar of Arrears in Mayor Low's cabinet and performed val-
uable public service for four years in that office. In 1861, he married Cornelia, daugh-
ter of Jonathan S. Burr, a lineal descendant of Jehu Burr, one of the first settlers of
Springfield, Mass., and afterward of Fairfield, Conn. His clubs are the Hamilton,
Brooklyn and Hanover clubs of Brooklyn, and the Bar and Racquet clubs of New
York. By virtue of lineal descent from Capt. Stephen Jackson, he is a member of The
Sons of the American Revolution. He is also a director of The First National Bank of
Brooklyn, The Long Island Loan & Trust Co., The Union Ferry Co., The New York
& East River Ferry Co. , The Brooklyn Heights Railroad, The Long Island Traction
Co., and The Lawyers' Mortgage Insurance Co.
EDWARD SOMERVILLE JAFFRAY, merchant, born in London, England, March
23, 1816, died in New York city, April 23, 1892. His father, John Richmond Jaffray is
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. JA. 349
remembered as a conspicuous merchant of laces and dry goods in London. In 1809, a
branch house was located in New York city by Robert, a brother of John R. J affray,
and in 1833 Edward S. Jaffray took a place in the New York store. About 1852, the
latter succeeded his uncle and adopted the style of J. R. Jaffray & Sons Soon after
the Civil War, the firm reorganized as E. S. Jaffray & Co. The war brought heavy
losses upon many New York merchants, but Mr. Jaffray escaped that affliction because,
owing to his loyalty, Southern merchants -had withdrawn their custom previous to the
rebellion. Mr. Jaffray was a large owner of real estate in the city and he had a farm
at Irvington. He was a member of the Chamber of Commerce and the Union League
and New York Yacht Clubs and a director in The Commercial Union Insurance Co.
He married in 1842 Anna, daughter of the Rev. William W. Phillips, pastor of the
First Presbyterian Church. The generous nature of Mr. Jaffray responded to the noble
influence of his wife, and he disbursed annually thousands of dollars for benevolent ob-
jects. His children were Mrs. F. W. J. Hurst; William Jaffray, now deceased; Howard
S. Jaffray; Edith, wife of Poultney Bigelow; Ada, wife of James McYickar and Mrs.
John R. P. Woodriff.
DANIEL JAflES, merchant, who died at Beaconsfield, near Liverpool, England,
Nov. 27, 1876, in his seventy-fifth year, began life as a clerk for Phelps & Peck, mer-
chants of tin, copper and iron in this city. Mr. James subsequently rose to a partnership
in Phelps, Dodge & Co., which succeeded the previous firm. In 1831, he made his
permanent residence in England being a member of Phelps, James & Co., the Liverpool
correspondents of the New York house. As a business man, his career was eminently
successful, and he gained general esteem for upright character and superior business
capacity. He was a constant and liberal contributor to the best charities, especially
during his liter years. Marriage brought him five children, D. Willis James, Olivia P.,
wife of Robert Hoe, Jr. ; and three sons in England.
FREDERICK PLUHflER JAMES, banker, born March 26, 1820, in Deerfield,
X. H., where his family had resided many years, died in New York city, May 29, 1884.
In school, he exhibited marked ability in mathematics. At an early age, he entered a
banking office in Wall street, soon after established his own bank, and devoted his life to
finance. His house of F. P. James & Co. ranked at his death as one of the oldest in
the street. He was a director of The Milwaukee & St. Paul Railroad and many
other corporations. He divided his attention between the details of his business and
the cultivation of his farm at Cold Spring on the Hudson, in which he was deeply in-
terested. He was a man of great uprightness and enterprise and strong natural
powers which had been cultivated by association and travel, an attentive observer and
careful thinker and a liberal contributor to many public works Shortly before his
death, he presented a munificent library to his native town and a handsome memorial
chapel at Cold Spring also testified to his generosity. An interesting coincidence is the
fact that his partner, Horace S. Taylor, died in the office of the firm, just one week
before Mr. James. Mr. James was married Dec. 23, 1841, to Julia Lorillard Safford.
Their two children passed away before him. Frederick Joseph James graduated from
West Point and died from wounds received in the service and Julian James also died
after honorable service in the Civil War.
JOSEPH ADDISON JAMESON, banker, born in Lebanon, O., Jan. 29, 1824, died
in New York city, Aug. 17, 1890. He came from Scottish stock and was a son of
350 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
Alexander Rankin Jameson, a merchant. For many years a wholesale dry goods mer-
chant in St. Louis in partnership with Amos Getting, he came to New York after the
Civil War, and, with Mr. Cotting, engaged in the banking business. The death of Mr.
Cotting in May, 1889, proved a severe blow to his old friend and partner. Mr. Jameson
grieved deeply, and for a long time was afflicted with sleepless nights, and the burden
finally became too great to bear. In 1851, he married Miss Fanny E. Story in Pough-
keepsie, N. Y., who survived him with four children, Joseph A., Alexander Rankin, and
Minor Story Jameson, and Mrs. R. G. Murphy.
JOHN JAY, lawyer, born in New York city, June 23, 1817, died in New York
city, May 5, 1894. His father was William Jay, lawyer, judge and author, and his
grandfather, John Jay, first Chief Justice of the United States. The subject of this
memoir graduated from Columbia College in 1836, and read law in the office of Daniel
Lord, jr. He was born to fortune, having inherited valuable real estate in the city of
New York, and was able to devote his fine intellect mainly to public affairs. He was a
Republican and an active advocate of the abolition of slavery. An address delivered by
him in 1856, on "America Free or America Slave" was circulated by his party as a
campaign document. During the Civil War, he aided in the formation of the National
Union League and later became one of the founders of the Union League club of this
city and its president 1866-70 and again in 1877. Appointed by President Grant as
Minister to Austria in 1869, he had the good fortune to negotiate treaties of benefit to
his country. Mr. Jay was a favorite speaker upon public occasions and contributions
from his pen were always welcomed by the magazines and newspapers. Under Gov.
Cleveland, Mr. Jay was appointed one of three commissioners to put in operation the
civil service laws of the State, and his associates Messrs. Richmond and Schoonmaker,
both Democrats, elected him chairman of the commission. It was he who, pursuant to
the request of a meeting of Americans in Paris in 1869, suggested to the Union League
club the establishment of an Art Museum in New York. This project, carried out by
the members of the club, resulted in the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Mr. Jay mar-
ried in 1837 Eleanor, daughter of Hickson W. Field, and their children are Col. William
Jay, the lawyer ; Eleanor, widow of Henry G. Chapman ; Mary, wife of William H.
Schieffelin ; and Anna, wife of Lieutenant General von Schweinitz of the Royal Prus-
sian Army. Col. William Jay is president of the Coaching and Meadow Brook Hunt
clubs, a vestryman of Trinity Church, a governor of the Knickerbocker Club and direc-
tor in The Continental Trust Co. , and lieutenant colonel By brevet in the volunteer
army of the United States.
OLIVER BURR JENNINGS, oil refiner, a native of Fairfield, Conn., died in New
York city, Feb. 12, 1893, in his sixty -eighth year. First in business in New York city,
he joined the rush to California in 1849, and in company with Benjamin Brewster
established himself in the wholesale clothing business in San Francisco and gained a
competency. In 1862, he came East, where he engaged in the petroleum business, and
with John D. and William Rockefeller and others established The Standard Oil Trust,
becoming one of its directors. Large wealth came to him through shrewdness,
persistent enterprise, and his unfaltering determination to succeed, and enabled him to
gratify the benevolence of his nature and show much kindness to the poor, while also
sharing in the management of various large corporations. His clubs were the Union
League, Metropolitan, University and New York Yacht.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. JE. 351
MORRIS KETCHUn JESUP, banker and philanthropist, born in Westport.Conn.,
June 21. 1830, springs from English ancestry and is in the seventh generation of
descent from Edward Jessup, who came from England prior to 1649, settled in Fair-
field, Conn., thence moving to Stamford and afterward to Middleborough (since called
Newtown, L. I.), finally locating in Westchester, being noted as a very enterprising
man. The parents of the subject of this sketch were Charles Jesup and Abigail
Sherwood, his wife, the latter a daughtef-of Samuel Burr Sherwood of Saugatuck, a
member of Congress, 1817-19, and eminent as a lawyer. Charles Jesup was a mer-
chant in his native place and in New York, a Christian gentleman and man of ability.
Morris K. Jesup came to New York when eight years old. and at the age of thirteen
entered the office of Rogers, Ketchum & Grosvenor, manufacturers of engines and
cotton machines at Paterson, N. J. He was advanced until he had entire charge of the
Xe\v York office and of all the buying and shipping. At the age of twenty-two, he or-
ganized the firm of Clark & Jesup at 136 Pearl btreet, this partnership lasting about five
years. He then organized the banking firm of M. K. Jesup & Co , afterward merged
into the firm of M. K. Jesup, Paton & Co., and later into Jesup, Paton & Co. He also
established the firm of Jesup, Kennedy & Co., dealers in railway supplies in Chicago,
known later as Crerar, Adams & Co. After leaving Rogers, Ketchum & Grosvenor, he
had been offered a partnership if he would give up his business and return to them, but
he declined to do this. Afterward, when the firm became The Rogers Locomotive
Works, he accepted the vice-presidency of the company in addition to his own business.
Mr. Jesup retired from business in 1884, being succeeded by John Paton & Co., in
which firm and its successors he has since remained a special partner. Mr. Jesup has
long been connected with public institutions and charitable enterprises, aiding them
substantially both with his means and with personal thought and labor, giving their
affairs, in fact, the same undivided attention as in his busiest days he gave private
business. Since retirement from active labor down town, he has had abundant occu-
pation of a nature useful to the public. He has long been a member of the Chamber of
Commerce and is one of its vice-presidents and upon its Executive Committee. The
measures taken by the New York Legislature for the preservation of State forests em-
anating from the Chamber of Commerce, were prompted by him, and these laws have
been greatly due to his urgent efforts. For many years, he has been connected with The
New York City Mission and Tract Society, and since 1881 has filled the office of presi-
dent. The Five Points House of Industry has always appealed to his sympathies, and,
as its president, he has always been ready to aid it with his means and counsel. One
of the founders of The Young Men's Christian Association and for years its president, he
gave largely to its present building and is one of its trustees. He is also vice-president
of The Society for the Suppression of Vice and The Society for the Prevention of
Cruelty to Animals, and fills the same office in the Institution for the Instruction of the
Deaf and Dumb as well as that of trustee of The New York Geographical Society. In
1881 he built in Rivington street the DeWitt Memorial Church in memory of his wife's
father, Dr. DeWitt, and gave it to The New York City Mission and Tract Society. For
many years, he has been a trustee of the Union Theological Seminary and contributed
a large sum for the erection of one of its principal buildings, now called "Jesup
Hall." The American Museum of Natural History has received his attention as its
president since 1881 and liberal gifts of money. One of his contributions has been the
352 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
magnificent collection of the woods of the United States, costing about $100,000, which
embraces over 400 species of native trees, and as a means of scientific and practical in-
formation, cannot be estimated too highly. Among other institutions with which he is
connected are The Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Metropolitan Trust Co., The
Chicago & Alton Railroad, The Savannah, Florida & Western Railroad and other cor-
porations, and the John F. Slater fund, established by the late John F. Slatei of Nor-
wich, Conn., for the industrial education of the negro, of which he has been a trustee
and treasurer since its foundation, and the Hospital Saturday and Sunday Association.
During the Civil War, he served as treasurer of the United States Christian Commis-
sion. He is also a member of the Century Association, the City and Metropolitan
clubs, the Rittenhouse club of Philadelphia and the Metropolitan club of Washington.
Mr. Jesup has made large gifts to institutions not named above, among them the
Woman's Hospital, Children's Aid Society, and Yale and Williams Colleges. Honorary
degrees have been conferred upon him by those colleges. Mr. Jesup has always been
foremost in all matters of reform in this city, whether in banking circles, public institu-
tions or philanthropic work. By virtue of lineal descent from an ancestor in the war for
independence, "he is a member of The Sons of The American Revolution.
HUGH JUDGE JEWETT, railroad president, was born July i, 1817, in an ancient
stone house standing upon the farm of Lansdowne near the present village of Glen-
ville, Md., which had been in the possession of the family for several generations.
His parents were John and Susannah Judge Jewett. Several of his brothers became
men of note. Thomas L. Jewett was for many years Judge of the Circuit Court in the
Steubenville district, Ohio, and later president of The Pittsburgh, Cincinnati & St. Louis
Railroad, while Isaac W. Jewett, who removed to Baltimore, became president of The
Potomac Fire Insurance Co. there. Joshua H. Jewett held a seat in Congress from
Kentucky during the terms of Presidents Pierce and Buchanan. The first representa-
tive of the family in this country was Joseph Jewett, who came from the West Riding
of Yorkshire, England, to Rowley, Mass., in 1639, and was a member of the Colonial
Assembly of Massachusetts from 1650 to 1660. Mr. Jewett's mother, Susannah Judge,
an eminent preacher in the Society of Friends, was the daughter of Hugh Judge of
Philadelphia.
Mr. Jewett began the study of law in the office of Col. John C. Groome in Elkton, Md.
He received his authority to practice in October, 1838, and entered upon his legal career
in St. Clairsville, O. His abilities soon made him widely known. In 1848, he removed
to Zanesville, O. , a city then coming into prominence and the seat of a busy industry.
Banking soon attracted his attention, and his large and varied practice gave him an
opportunity of studying the subject of finance in all its aspects. In 1852, the Musk-
ingum Branch of The Ohio State Bank elected him its president, and thereafter one
honor after another was bestowed upon him rapidly. In 1853, he was elected to a seat
in the Ohio Senate and was also appointed United States District Attorney by President
Pierce. His service in all these several stations added greatly to his prestige and rep-
utation. About this time, Mr. Jewett established a bank of his own in Zanesville in
partnership with Charles C. Russell, and then soon became a leading spirit in the pro-
motion of railroad enterprise in the State. Elected a director of The Central Ohio Rail-
road in 1855, he became vice president and general manager in 1856, and president in the
panic year of 1857. Although he resigned all other official positions and brought all
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. JE. 353
;t»nce, the powers of a trained mind, his comprehensive knowledge and untiring
the management of the corporation named, he could not save it from insoi-
; in 1859 he became receiver of the road. The duties of this position he dis-
the entire satisfaction of the stockholders. In i Mi. he leased the line to The
& Ohio Railroad upon advantageous terms and retained the presidency for
;trs.
Mr. Jewett's genial nature, dignity and courtesy of manner and indomitable will
made him exceedingly popular in Ohio, and >.i* proved capacity now made him the can-
of the Democratic party for political honors. He had run for Congress in 1860.
cd a nomination in 1861 for Governor of Ohio, and in 1865 was made a candidate
United States Senate. While he mad* a strong and effective canvass in t- ach
>r the sake of his party, the State was too strongly Republican to permk of an
a. He served his party, however, at various times as chairman of State conven-
and member of electoral commissions.
In 1 863, Mr. Jewett a- :'nau *
•uis and the presid. Little • **•
r a short residence ii
y launched upon a railro. 'ii* tiru . •*'.;
struction of The K .icific and other is. He als» ?«-
rganizers and General Counsel of The P-. displaying in *'•'•
capacities the highest qualities of management. - me unsuccessful c- -?su-st
^eat in Congress from Columbus, Mr. Jewett w 1872 by a flattering
ty. These positions were, however, resigned from time to time, after be bad
removed to New York city in 1874.
In the year last named, Mr. Jewett accepted the presidency of The Erie R»l*-<>ad
under a stipulation to remain ten years. The company was then in serious strait
into insolvency. May 26. 1875, when Mr. Jewett became receiver and corst,t,;=- >i
administer its affairs.
The Erie was a magnificent property, which however had bewn >
•ive competition with other trunk lines and to a manasr- •
road virtually bankrupt and its stock the football of sj*
Mr. Jewett met the English st'Hrkh.-lfvr* -n I.«T
f the property and his plans anil f
^teern. When The New York. Lake Km & \V<
, 1*78. Mr. Jewett becam>. ' "t thr r<
- connection with this road began, the c
James McHenry and other London capitalists n;
[e\v« it's direction, all questions involved in lit .iecidtd i»> ?V
•.h in England and the United States in favor of the •»•??»;*,«}% although tervns
Josses were suffered. The Erie Railroad was practically rebuilt by him, reduced frum
to the standard guageof 4 feet 8 inches, and laid with steel rails. Atves* was
the anthracite coal field by building The Erie & Wyoming Valley Railroad,
• by The Chicago & Atlantic Railroad, and to Cincinnati by The Cincinnati,
Jayton Railroad. The ten years of his connection with the Erie constitu-
>f incessant labor, of struggle against tremendous odd.s. and the pressure
:xmsibilities. Mr. Jewett was fully equal to the task* allotted to him
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. JE. 353
his influence, the powers of a trained mind, his comprehensive knowledge and untiring
energy to the management of the corporation named, he could not save it from insol-
vency, and in 1859 he became receiver of the road. The duties of this position he dis-
charged to the entire satisfaction of the stockholders. In 1861, he leased the line to The
Baltimore & Ohio Railroad upon advantageous terms and retained the presidency for
several years.
Mr. Jewett's genial nature, dignity and courtesy of manner and indomitable will
made him exceedingly popular in Ohio, and his proved capacity now made him the can-
didate of the Democratic party for political honors. He had run for Congress in 1860,
spted a nomination in 1861 for Governor of Ohio, and in 1863 was made a candidate
ar the United States Senate. While he made a strong and effective canvass in each
case for the sake of his party, the State was too strongly Republican to permit of an
election. He served his party, however, at various times as chairman of State conven-
tions and member of electoral commissions.
In 1868, Mr. Jewett accepted the vice presidency of The Pittsburgh, Cincinnati &
St. Louis and the presidency of The Little Miami and Columbus & Xenia Railroads
and after a short residence in Cincinnati, established his home in Columbus, O. Now
fairly launched upon a railroad career, he undertook about this time, with others, the
construction of The Kansas Pacific and other Western railroads. He also became one
of the organizers and General Counsel of The Pennsylvania Co., displaying in all these
varied capacities the highest qualities of management. After one unsuccessful contest
for a seat in Congress from Columbus, Mr. Jewett was elected in 1872 by a flattering
majority. These positions were, however, resigned from time to time, after he had
removed to New York city in 1874.
In the year last named, Mr. Jewett accepted the presidency of The Erie Railroad
under a stipulation to remain ten years. The company was then in serious straits and
went into insolvency, May 26, 1875, when Mr. Jewett became receiver and continued to
administer its affairs.
The Erie was a magnificent property, which however had been exposed to de-
structive competition with other trunk lines and to a management which had left the
road virtually bankrupt and its stock the football of speculation. In the summer of
1876, Mr. Jewett met the English stockholders in London, explained to them the condi-
tion of the property and his plans and received from them every mark of confidence
and esteem. When The New York, Lake Erie & Western Railroad Co. was organized,
April 27, 1878, Mr. Jewett became president of the new corporation. At the time
when his connection with this road began, the company was involved in serious litiga-
tion with James McHenry and other London capitalists and its ruin seemed inevitable.
Under Mr. Jewett's direction, all questions involved in litigation were decided by the
courts both in England and the United States in favor of the company, although serious
losses were suffered. The Erie Railroad was practically rebuilt by him, reduced from
a six-foot to the standard guage of 4 feet 8 inches, and laid with steel rails. Access was
gained to the anthracite coal field by building The Erie & Wyoming Valley Railroad,
to Chicago by The Chicago & Atlantic Railroad, and to Cincinnati by The Cincinnati,
Hamilton & Dayton Railroad. The ten years of his connection with the Erie constitu-
ted a period of incessant labor, of struggle against tremendous odds, and the pressure
of heavy responsibilities. Mr. Jewett was fully equal to the tasks allotted to him
354 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
and he displayed ability of the highest order in rescuing the affairs of his company from
chaos and placing them on a solid foundation. The story of this anxious and critical
period cannot be fully told in these pages, but those whose investments in Erie were
saved from destruction by Mr. Jewett's masterly genius, award to him an honorable
place among the great leaders of that period in the railroad world. In 1884, Mr. Jewett
resigned, owing to impairment of health from an accident from which he never fully
recovered. During his active career, he served as a director of The Western Union
Telegraph Co., The Metropolitan Trust Co., and other corporations, but in recent
years has lived mainly in tranquil retirement, the most of the time upon the old farm
near Glenville, Md., which is now in his possession and which he has greatly improved.
Mr. Jewett was married twice, first to Sarah J., daughter of Judge Ellis of St.
Clairsville, O. Of their four children, two are living, John Ellis and George Mony-
penny Jewett, Mary and Charles C. having died. April n, 1853, he married Sarah
Elizabeth, daughter of Julius Chappell Guthrie. To them were born William Kennon,
Helen Pamelia, and Sarah Guthrie Jewett.
CHARLES JOHNSTON, merchant, a native of County Fermanagh, Ireland, 1845,
died in New York city, April 30, 1880. He came to New York at the age of ten, made
a modest beginning as errand boy in a dry goods house, became an expert salesman and
an authority upon all matters pertaining to silk goods, and during the Civil War, with his
his brother John, founded the house of J. & C. Johnston, dry goods merchants. Their
store grew into a large and well-known establishment. Mr. Johnston was much beloved
by his employes for his generous disposition, and ranked among his friends as a well-
informed and interesting man. He had traveled to every part of Europe and as far
east as Smyna. For many years, he made two yearly trips to England and the con-
tinent in the interest of the foreign purchases of the firm. He gained an ample
fortune, which descended to his brother John.
JOHN JOHNSTON, merchant, born on the west bank of Lake Erin, County Fer-
managh, Ireland, about 1834, died in New York city, May 15, 1887. He came to
America in 1847, followed later by his brother Charles. They were both clerks in the
employment of Ubsdell & Pierson, dry goods merchants, and in 1864 engaged in
business on their own account as J. & C. Johnston, with the money they had saved.
In the depreciation following the close of the war, culminating in the crisis of 1867,
while many old houses succumbed, J. & C. Johnston through the able management of
the senior partner, weathered the crisis successfully, meeting-all engagements promptly
and honorably. They had a large branch store in Albany. Mr. Johnston was noted
for public spirit and for open-handed gifts to deserving persons employed in the store.
Self-educated and. well read, he delighted in history and mathematics. In general
culture, he attained a breadth which would have reflected credit on a man who had
devoted his life to scholarship.
JOHN TAYLOR JOHNSTON, lawyer, born in New York city, April 8, 1820,
died, March 24, 1893. A son of John Johnston, merchant, he came from Scottish
ancestry. Mr. Johnston graduated from the University of the City of New York in
1839, studied law in Yale College and in the office of Daniel Lord in this city, and
entered upon the practice of his profession. From an early period, he was interested
in railroads and in 1848 took the presidency of the Elizabeth town & Somerville Rail-
road, which developed into The Central Railroad of New Jersey. He remained presi-
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. JO. 357
banking institutions in the city. He was a member of St. Paul's Episcopal Churcn and
generous in his gifts to its institutions
JOSHUA JONES, lawyer, born in this city Oct. 27, 1806, died here March 23,
1888. He was a son of Isaac Jones, from whom he inherited a large amount of local
property, including the garden known as Jones's Wood, and in all, over two hundred
city lots and buildings. Some of the land lay west of Central Park. Mr. Jones never
married. His expenses were moderate, and he bent his energies steadily throughout
life, while not engaged in foreign travel, to the improvement of his realty and to
accumulation. His brother, John Q. Jones, being president of The Chemical National
Bank, the subject of this memoir became a large stockholder in that institution. His
friends knew him as a scholarly gentleman of the old school, who preferred a retired
and quiet life and careful attention to the increase of his wealth. He left $8,000,000
to about forty relatives.
HENRY T. JOURNEAY, merchant, born in Central New York, died in Brooklyn
Dec. 24, 1890, about sixty -five years of age. His forbears were Huguenots in France.
When he had saved a little money as a dry goods clerk, Lyman S. Burnham and he
established a small retail dry goods store as Journeay & Burnham, in Brooklyn, in
1845, employing one assistant. They displayed so much enterprise, that, in the large
quarters on Atlantic street, to which the store finally expanded, they carried on the
most extended retail trade in that part of the city. Mr. Journeay was noted for con-
servatism, and the old methods of selling goods seemed to him the best and to them
he always adhered. A curious fact is that owing to some trivial disagreement, friendly
relations ceased to exist between Mr. Journeay and Mr. Burnham. For nearly twenty
years, the partners were almost complete strangers to each other, and nevertheless
carried on the business without friction until Mr. Journeay's marriage, when the
partners became completely reconciled. Two children, Henry Perrine and Catherine
Journeay, survived him. He was one of the founders of the Brooklyn Library and
the Philharmonic Society.
K.
MARTIN KALBFLEISCH, chemist, a native of Flushing, Netherlands, born Feb.
8, 1804, died in Brooklyn, N. Y., Feb. 12, 1873. In 1822, the youth sailed to the island
of Sumatra, but finding that the Asiatic cholera was raging there, he promptly returned
with his ship to Antwerp Thence he went to Havre, France, and spent four years in
commercial enterprise. In 1826, he came to the United States with small means but
splendid pluck. In New York city, hard work as a clerk and chemist brought him a
little money and, in 1835, he started a manufactory of colors and chemicals in Harlem.
After several changes of location, the business, which had prospered under his energetic
management, was finally moved to Metropolitan Avenue in Brooklyn. The works now
occupy eleven acres of ground on Newtown creek. Mr. Kalbfleisch was a man of clear
head, strong common sense and ability. He served in various public offices in Brook-
lyn and was elected Mayor in 1861. In 1862, his fellow citizens sent him to Congress
and in 1867 and 1871 again made him Mayor. Later, they offered him the nomination
for Governor of the State on the same ticket with Horace Greeley. In 1854, he was
married to Elizabeth Harvey. Eleven children were born to them: Elizabeth W.,
wife of Robert Robinson; Frederick W. Kalbfleisch; Helen M. , wife of Rodney Thursby ;
Edward L. G., Charles H., Albert M., and Franklin H. Kalbfleisch; Josephine M. L.,
wife of Robert S. Fleet ; Isabella G., wife of James E. Weaver; and John and George
Kalbfleisch. He retired from business in 1868 in favor of his sons, who thereupon
organized the firm of Martin Kalbfleisch's Sons, which controlled the business until
1886. The sons extended the business and operated not only The Bushwick Chemical
Works in Brooklyn, but The Chemical Works in Bayonne, N. j., The Buffalo Chemical
Works in Buffalo, N. Y., and The Baltimore Acetate Works in Baltimore. The plant,
the largest in this industry in the country, was, a few years ago, sold to a syndicate,
composed of men in the clothing business and a few lawyers, who are now operating it.
JAMES ROBERT KEENE, a conspicuous speculator in Wall street, was born in
England in 1838, the son of a London merchant. At an early age, he was placed under
the care of a tutor and pursued his studies in Lincolnshire until he was prepared to
enter a large private school. Remaining in Lincolnshire for three years, he was then
sent to Dublin to prepare for a higher course of education in the home of an old master
of Trinity. The father of Mr. Keene met with a serious impairment of his fortune at
this juncture through injudicious ventures, and thereupon in 1852 took his family to
California and settled in Shasta county in the northern part of the State.
Although only fourteen years of age, the subject of this biography, who had ac-
quired an unusually good English education and a fair training in French and Latin,
already displayed all the energy and ambition, which have since contributed greatly to
his success. His first employment was obtained at Fort Reading in the modest capacity
of one of the guards of the animals of the post, which was then in the Indian country.
After three months' service, having earned enough money to buy a miner's outfit, he
joined the throng of bold and adventurous men who were prospecting every canyon,
gulch and stream in search of gold. For several years, he spent his time in mining,
freighting, stock raising and milling with indifferent success, and then edited a news-
360 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
paper for two years. Finding this unprofitable also, he went to Nevada a year or two
after the discovery of the famous Comstock lode. Securing some mining property
there and reselling it advantageotisly, he went to San Francisco and there plunged into
speculation in mining stocks. Within a few months, he made upwards of $125,000.
He then married Sara, daughter of Col. Leroy Daingerfield, of Virginia, residing at the
time in California with her brother, Wm. P. Daingerfield, Judge of the Ninth Judicial
District.
In the crash which followed the first excitement in shares after the discovery of
the Comstock, Mr. Keene lost all that he had made and found himself nearly penni-
less in a strange city and with few acquaintances or friends. But he had a spirit which
nothing could daunt. Through much hardship for a year or more he struggled, refus-
ing every offer of employment, confident that his only chance lay in speculation, for
which he felt he had a natural talent. As operations in mining shares were then
largely carried on in the street, he secured some business and attracted the attention of
Senator C. N. Felton, then a member of the Stock Exchange and a large operator, and
transacted Mr. Felton's business for some time. When that gentleman became As-
sistant United -States Treasurer in San Francisco, he offered his seat in the Stock Ex-
change to Mr. Keene. The latter did not have the money with which to purchase the
seat, and took it with the understanding that, if he were elected, he would, when called
on, pay the price which seats commanded at the time of the demand. Once in the
Board, he rose rapidly to great influence in that organization, made a large amount of
money and was elected president of the Stock Exchange. By purchasing the stocks of
the California and Consolidated Virginia mines, known the world over as the Bonanza
of the Comstock lode, he made in these and other stocks of which he held large quan-
tities, a fortune of about $6,000,000. When the Bank of California failed, Mr. Keene
became one of the four contributors of a million cash to the guarantee fund of
$8,000,000, necessary to secure the depositors of the Bank against loss and enable the
institution to continue in business. Largely through his influence in the Stock Ex-
change, a resolution was carried through that body contributing $500,000, and his per-
sonal exertions secured from the leading brokers a contribution of nearly as much more.
The Bank resumed operations and the State was saved by the guaranteeing syndicate
from a panic, from which the people of California would have taken years to recover.
The strain of large operations had now so undermined his health, that Mr. Keene
was advised by his physicians to go to Europe for a long rest. Arriving in New York
in the Spring of 1877, en route for the old world, he found the stock market here de-
moralized and prices as low as they had been in the panic of 1873. Having large cap-
ital at his command, he deferred his trip abroad; bought nearly all the leading stocks;
displayed all his old energy in advancing the market; and in the Autumn of 1879 sold
out with a profit of over $9,000,000. Then, feeling entitled to a rest, he visited
Europe. Since his return he has been a resident of New York city. He has since
taken part in many daring operations and has engineered large speculations. These
have not always enriched him. On the contrary, he has at times met with the expe-
rience common to those who contribute to the activity of the street and thereby tempt
the unscrupulous to organize against them. Mr. Keene is, however, usually more than
a match for all combinations, is a man of large fortune, and one of those who in these
later days impart vivacity to Wall street.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. KE. 361
His home is at Cedarhurst on Long Island and he is steward of the Jockey Club and
a member of the Rockaway Hunt Club. His children are Foxhall Parker Keene, who
married Miss Lawrence of Bay Side, L. I., and Jessie Harwar, wife of Talbot I. Taylor
of Baltimore.
HENRY KEEP, railroad president, a native of Jefferson count}7, N. Y., died in
New York city, July 30, 1869, at the age of fifty-one. A part of his remarkable
energy can be traced to the fact that his first occupation was farming, in which he
began as an apprentice. After experiencing poverty for several years, Mr. Keep found
employment in Honeoye Falls as a teamster. By careful saving, he gained a small sum
of money which he invested in depreciated currency during the panic of 1837, the
return of better times bringing him a handsome profit. He then bought Canadian
bank notes, which were at a discount on this side of the border, took them to Canada
and received payment for them at par. A bank of his own was soon opened in Water-
town, N. Y., and, later, several country banks in that part of the State. A strong
mind, practical energy and clear head fitted Mr. Keep for a larger field, and he finally
removed to New York city, invested his profits in railroads and thereafter was mainly
known as a large and successful manager of this class of properties. In 1861-63, be
was treasurer of The Michigan Southern Railroad, and for a while, in 1866, president
of The New York Central, and after 1868, president of The Chicago & North
Western Railroad. He was also president of The Cleveland & Toledo Railroad and
controlling owner of The North Indiana Railroad. Mr. Keep was famous for keen
sense of humor, fine conversational ability and whole-hearted liberality. One of his
latest endeavors was to start a National Academy for the Advancement of Art, for
which he promised §1,500,000. His wife and one daughter survived him.
CHARLES KELLOGG, merchant, originated in Newington, Conn., where he was
born July 24, 1825. He died in this city Oct. 24, 1892. A descendant of Governors
Welles, Pitkin and Saltonstall of Connecticut, and the son of Gen. Martin Kellogg,
manufacturer and farmer, and of Mary Welles, his wife, Mr. Kellogg traced his remote
ancestry to Joseph Kellogg, an Englishman, who settled in Deerfield, Mass., in 1631.
At the time of the Deerfield massacre, the Kellogg family were scattered, some of
them being captured and when reunited moved to Connecticut. At the age of twenty,
Charles Kellogg left school to enter a commission house in Philadelphia. Later, he
founded, with James L. Brumley, the dry goods commission house of Brumley &
Kellogg in New York city. Failing health compelled him to retire from active labor
in 1870. He was interested in The Bowery Savings Bank, The Metropolitan Plate
Glass Insurance Co., and several insurance companies, in which he was a director.
Married first to Anne M., daughter of Robert Davidson, D. D., after her death in Italy,
in 1870, he married Ellen, daughter of John H. Prentice of Brooklyn. His wife and
three sons survived him, the latter being Charles Prentice, John Prentice and Martin
Welles Kellogg. He was a member of the Union League club, The Genealogical
Society, The New England Society and The Sons of the American Revolution.
EDWARD HENRY KELLOGG, oil manufacturer, is a native of Ira, N. Y., and
was born Sept. i, 1828. His father, Silas Kellogg, was a farmer and his maternal
grandfather, Capt. James Simpson, a soldier of the American Revolution. Educated
in the Victory Academy and the Quaker Seminary in Venice, in his native county, the
young man found his first employment as a clerk in Auburn and later in Rochester.
362 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
Coming to New York city in 1851 to accept a clerkship in a produce commission house,
he rose by application to a partnership in 1854. In 1858, he began the manufacture of
lubricating oils from animal and vegetable substances, but when petroleum was discov-
ered, he adopted that oil as a base and his firm of E. H. Kellogg & Co., has since car-
ried on a safe, sound, and profitable business. A keen and energetic merchant, his
prosperity is of his own making. In 1876, he opened a branch house in Liverpool and
now sends his cylinder and machinery oils to all parts of the world. He has joined the
Union League and Down Town clubs of this city and the Hamilton club of Brooklyn.
In 1860, he married Charlotte, daughter of Francis Fickett, an old resident of this city,
a native of Maine, whence he came to New York and rose to eminence as a ship
builder. Mr. Fickett and his associates built the Savannah, the first steamer which ever
crossed the Atlantic Ocean, became an alderman in New York, and was until his death
in 1843 confidential agent of John G. Coster with fullest power of attorney.
EUGENE KELLY, merchant and banker, born Nov. 25, 1806, in County Tyrone,
Ireland, died in this city, Dec. 19, 1894. He sprang from an ancient and honorable family.
One of his direct ancestors sat in the Irish Parliament of 1585. The father of Mr.
Kelly was Thomas Boye O'Kelly, of Mullaghmore. A feud between two branches of
his family arose in the reign of Queen Elizabeth, who decided against the Mullaghmore
branch, much of the property of the latter being confiscated. Becoming greatly im-
poverished, the head of this line migrated from Mullaghmore during the seventeenth
century to the North of Ireland, where he purchased a small estate. There is a tomb
stone of the seventeenth centxiry in a churchyard near the property, which records the
burial of the first of this branch of the family in the North. The quaint Latin in-
scription thereon announces the fact that William Boye O'Kelly was the representative
of the Mullaghmore O'Kellys, a great majority of whom had been buried in the Abbey
of Kilconnel, founded by them in the middle of the fourteenth century, the first
abbot having been Hugh O'Kelly of Mullaghmore. In 1798, Mr. Kelly's father,
having been drawn into the political troubles of that year, decided to drop the
distinctive title of O'Kelly of Mullaghmore, which was inscribed upon his tomb,
nevertheless.
The splendid vigor of body and mind which distinguished the subject of this
memoir during his whole career, reminded one always of his healthful early life and
the intellectual prominence of his ancestors. He remained in Ireland until the age
of twenty-four, and then, believing it hopeless to make his way in "his native land,
in view of the disabilities to which Roman Catholics were exposed in those days,
resolved, like many a son of an old Irish house, upon seeking his fortune across the
seas. He expected at first to go to Peru, but, changing his mind, came to this
country. He landed in New York city with a letter of introduction to Donnelly
Bro's, and a hundred pounds sterling, the proceeds of the sale of some land near Derry,
which had been deeded to him by his mother. He secured a clerkship in the house
of Donnelly Bro's of South William street.
After being some years with the Donnellys, who were a well-known importing
firm, Mr. Kelly with their aid established a modest business of his own in Maysville,
Ky. About a year later he went to St. Louis, where he established a branch dry
goods house of the Donnellys, adopting the title of Eugene Kelly & Co. Shrewd,
energetic and capable, he prospered greatly in this field. A flood of population was
Eng^iyH-B Hall's 3on::.NewYork.
THE CITY C»T > K — KE.
pouring into the Mississippi va .ants of the di- g center*
i it easy to extend their trade ra; :he people of St. Louis had
ccounted Mr. Kelly a wealthy man.
When the country w; ~ -cd by .»" gold in California, Mr.
promptly- resolved I i-'t and open a branch
.•ne Kelly &: • • hi- i >rtune
apparent to h >.in of males
>s the plains, his gu: -h<- *• White
i of the Prairie.- - *ad IK; »•«.?< <uxi
aching San ;
ph A. Donohoe,
those early days in gold i~:
gradually into the purcha-
. again, led him :
-s, the old dry got*:
continued by the junior partn
; >hy, Grant & Co. The -town in
ected on the Pacific Coast.
In 1861, Mr. Kelly founded hi San i - } >•
Ralston & Co. and in New York the banking house of Eiu & Co. In
Mr. Ralston retired, and, associating himself with D. O. ; v became
one of the leading financiers of the West. The San Francisco bank then took the
name of Donohoe, Kelly & Co., Mr. Donohoe managing par- -H! so continued
1891, when the partners incorporated as a joint stock company under the title of
Donohoe-Kelly Banking Co. From the day of i; '.he San Francisco
concern enjoyed great prosperity.
After 1860, Mr. Kelly's visits to San Fn. eased and he c
entire time York h<
nent li^ure in Wall street, engai
^94, the house of Eugvi
ded to retire from ti:
of his private propc
ng over sixty-four ev
paper press of both coasts, commc.
ring nature.
Large means enabled Mr. Kelly to : He
ded The Southern Bank of the Si.
!d the Town Hall of Charleston, S.
ional Park Bank, The Bank of New York. Askaraftvt -
American Contracting & Dredging; Co.
Equitable Gas Light Co., The Title Gnar.-
>tte Air Line Railway, and president o* Tht- K..-.: A U "•_•-
was also a member of the Chamber of Commerce and of the Amc
•.ory, one of the original life members of the Academy of Dt_
;etropolitan Museum of Art and a member of the Geographical S was
en years a member of the Board of Education, and in 1884 was chairman of
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. — KE. 363
then pouring into the Mississippi valley, and merchants of the distributing centers
found it easy to extend their trade rapidly. In 1848, the people of St. Louis had
already accounted Mr. Kelly a wealthy man.
When the country was surprised by the discovery of gold in California, Mr.
Kelly promptly resolved to extend his trade to the Pacific coast and open a branch
store of Eugene Kelly & Co. in San Francisco, the certainty of adding to his fortune
being apparent to his acute mind. Late in 1849, Mr. Kelly took a train of mules
across the plains, his guide being the famous scout Aubrey, known as the " White
Cloud of the Prairies." After numerous dangers and hardships, Mr. Kelly succeeded
in reaching San Francisco in Jamiary, 1850, and opened his store in partnership with
Joseph A. Donohoe, Daniel T. Murphy and Adam Grant. Payments were made in
those early days in gold dust, which everybody carried in bags, and this led Mr. Kelly
gradually into the purchase of gold dust and nuggets for shipment to the East, and
this, again, led him into a regular banking business. After a successful career of ten
years, the old dry goods firm of Eugene Kelly & Co. dissolved, the business being
continued by the junior partners, Messrs. Murphy and Grant, under the title of
Murphy, Grant & Co. The house yet flourishes as one of the best known and most
respected on the Pacific Coast.
In 1 86 1, Mr. Kelly founded in San Francisco the banking house of Donohoe,
Ralston & Co. and in New York the banking house of Eugene Kelly & Co. In 1 864,
Mr. Ralston retired, and, associating himself with D. O. Mills, subsequently became
one of the leading financiers of the West. The San Francisco bank then took the
name of Donohoe, Kelly & Co., Mr. Donohoe managing partner, and so continued
until 1891, when the partners incorporated as a joint stock company under the title of
The Donohoe-Kelly Banking Co. From the day of its origin, the San Francisco
concern enjoyed great prosperity.
After 1860, Mr. Kelly's visits to San Francisco practically ceased and he devoted
his entire time to the New York house. For more than thirty years, he was a promi-
nent figure in Wall street, engaged in large operations usually with entire success. In
May, 1894, the house of Eugene Kelly & Co., was dissolved, Mr. Kelly having long
intended to retire from the banking business in order to devote himself to the manage-
ment of his private property. His retirement at the close of an honorable career ex-
tending over sixty-four eventful years, elicited from the financial world and the news-
paper press of both coasts, comments upon his character and successes, of an exceedingly
flattering nature.
Large means enabled Mr. Kelly to take part in many important enterprises. He
founded The Southern Bank of the State of Georgia in the seventies, and helped to
rebuild the Town Hall of Charleston, S. C., after the war. He was a director in The
National Park Bank, The Bank of New York, The Equitable Life Assurance Society,
The American Contracting & Dredging Co., The Emigrant Industrial Savings Bank,
The Equitable Gas Light Co., The Title Guarantee & Trust Co., and The Atlanta &
Charlotte Air Line Railway, and president of The East & West Railway. Mr. Kelly
was also a member of the Chamber of Commerce and of the American Museum of Nat-
ural History, one of the original life members of the Academy of Design, a patron of
the Metropolitan Museum of Art and a member of the Geographical Society. He was
for thirteen years a member of the Board of Education, and in 1884 was chairman of
364 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
the Electoral Committee of the State of New York. He helped found the Catholic
University of America and sat in its directorate at the time of his death, and was also
a trustee of Seton Hall College. Public spirit led him also to act upon numerous com-
mittees, such as those which built the Roman Catholic Cathedral, the Washington
Memorial Arch, and the Bartholdi Statue. A number of excellent clubs elected him
to membership, including the Manhattan, Democratic and Catholic.
Mr. Kelly married first Miss Donnelly, sister of Terence Donnelly, his former
employer. This union brought them one daughter, Eugenia, wife of the late James
A. G. Beales of New York. Mrs. Kelly died in 1848. In 1857, Mr. Kelly again visited
New York, when he married Miss Margaret Htighes, a niece of the late Archbishop
Hughes. His wife and four sons survived him, the latter being Eugene, Edward,
Thomas Hugh and Robert J. Kelly.
The subject of this memoir enjoyed an excellent reputation for business ability and
integrity. He amassed wealth by honorable means, and used it generously in pro-
moting education, in relieving distress and in endowing Roman Catholic institutions
and churches. He was broad and liberal in his charities, making no discrimina-
tion on account of either creed or race. For a long time, the cause of Ireland
enlisted his active interest and he longed for the time to come when the people of
his native land might enjoy political liberty. To the $150,000 fund, raised to aid the
cause of Home Rule in the elections to Parliament, he contributed $20,000 and was
conspicuous as president of the National Federation and treasurer of the Irish Parlia-
mentary Fund. America supplies no opportunities for men who do not deserve suc-
cess, but for those who are resolved to rise by diligent labor, wise self restraint, good
character, and the exercise of the talents with which nature has endowed them, no
country in the world presents a more favorable scope for their activities than the
United States. Of this, the career of Mr. Kelly is an excellent illustration.
GEORGE KEHP, merchant, a native of County Cavan, Ireland, born in 1826, died
in New York city, Nov. 23, 1893. He was a son of Edward Kemp, a farmer, and
traced his ancestry to the Kemps who emigrated from England to Ireland in the time
of Cromwell. Coming to the United States in 1834, he was educated in the public
schools, and while yet a young lad entered the employment of Murray & Lanman, im-
porters and exporters of drugs and merchandise. With this house he remained until
his death, with only a short interval in the '4o's when he went to Janesville, Wis , then
in the wild west, to found a drug house. With integrity, ability afid remarkable
capacity for work, he advanced step by step until he became a partner, and eventually
the sole proprietor of the firm which then became and is yet known as Lanman &
Kemp. He retired from actual participation in the business in 1867, continuing as
special partner only. He invested largely in real estate and owned several important
properties up town. With his fellow members of the Union League club, he was a
public spirited supporter of leading public institutions. Mr. Kemp married Juliet
Augusta, daughter of Francis Tryon, who survived him with four children.
ISAAC CHOATE KENDALL, merchant, only child of Ephraim and Lydia Choate
Kendall, born in Ipswich, Mass., Jan. 27, 1800, died in Newport, R. I., Aug. 18, 1878.
His ancestor, Francis Kendall, came from England and settled in Woburn, Mass.,
in 1640. At an early age, Mr. Kendall went to Boston to begin life, and when
twenty-six years old entered into partnership with Lewis Tappen, a leading and success-
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. KE. 367
HENRY AUGUSTUS KENT, merchant, born in Hudson, Ohio, Oct. 21, 1814,
died in Brooklyn, N. Y., March i, 1893. His father, Zenas Kent, of Middletown,
Conn., came from the same Puritan stock as the jurist, Chancellor Kent, and his
grandfather was a soldier of the American Revolution. In 1835, Mr. Kent came to
New York city, became a wholesale merchant, was very successful, and retired in
1863 with a fortune. Investment led him into corporations and he sat in the directorate
of The Atlantic & Great Western, The Toledo & Wabash, The Delaware, Lackawanna
& Western, The New York, Lake Erie & Western, and The Cleveland, Lorain &
Wheeling Railroads, The Brooklyn City and The New York Second Avenue Surface
Railroads, The Kent National Bank in Ohio and The Bank of North America in New
York city, being an incorporator and for years vice-president of the latter. He was also
one of the oldest trustees of The Union Trust Co. Mr. Kent served once, in 1851, as
alderman and president of the City Council of Brooklyn, and in 1860 as delegate
to the Chicago convention which nominated Abraham Lincoln for President. He
was twice married, and four children survive him.
EUGENE KETELTAS, property owner, born in New York city, Oct. 18, 1804,
died in Newport, R. I., Aug. 26, 1876. His father, Dr. Philip D. Keteltas, an old
Knickerbocker, was a son of the Rev. Abraham Keteltas, a famous preacher and
patriot in Revolution times, whose great grandfather came from Holland in 1649 and
made his fortune as a merchant. Eugene Keteltas studied law under Gen. Robert Bo-
gardus, and was admitted to practice, but shortly afterward married the daughter of John
Gardner and retired. He inherited a large property in real estate on the east side of
New York city from his father and received a large amount also through his wife,
which, constantly appreciating in value, amounted at the time of his death to a
great property. He was married to the daughter of John Gardner, and their ten
children were Henrietta, who married C. Bainbridge Smith, a prominent lawyer; Jane
and Eugene, who died young; Mary, who died in 1895; Henry, Alice, and Philip D. ;
Eugene M., who died in 1886; J. Gardner, and Edith M., who married George P. Wet-
more of Rhode Island. His friends knew Mr. Keteltas as a benevolent man, con-
stantly engaged in works of charity in an unostentatious way. Retiring in disposition
and fond of the scenes of his childhood, he always lived, while in the city, in the old
family residence on the corner of 8th street and Second avenue.
CHAUNCEY KILMER, pioneer in the manufacture of straw paper, was born in
Rock City Falls, Saratoga county, N. Y., March 23, 1816. This little hamlet he yet
calls his home, although his winters are spent at a residence in New York city.
The lad received a fair education at the public school, supplementing it in later
years by extensive reading and his own activity in the greater school of affairs. His
father was a millwright and the boy learned his art, beginning life poor. The build-
ing of saw, grist and paper mills under contract occupied him for many years. By
giving diligent attention to the details of every contract, he became widely known as a
competent and careful millwright. His thorough experience in building for others gave
him a knowledge of the operations of the paper mills themselves, which afterward
proved of the greatest service.
In 1840, he was married to a childhood playmate, Miss Mary Jane Ashman, a
daughter of the late John Ashman. This happy union brought them four sons and a
daughter. A son and the daughter are now living.
dU/Vv
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. KI. 369
Having saved enough money from his earnings for the purpose, Mr. Kilmer built
a small printing paper mill at Rock City Falls and began operations Jan. i, 1845.
This mill was burned a short time after its construction, but, possessing native pluck,
Mr. Kilmer rebuilt and went on. In 1852, anew process was brought to his notice,
which aimed at the making of printing paper from rye straw. He embarked in the
venture and built, in his lower mill, the first complete equipment for making printing
paper from straw. Costly experiments were necessary but Mr. Kilmer persevered.
In 1855, after a long struggle, a quantity of straw printing paper was produced, which
was used in one edition of The Saratoga Whig. It was not perfect in quality but, little
by little, the product was improved by Mr. Kilmer until sufficiently pliable for general
use by newspapers.
A contract was then obtained from Moses S. Beach of The New York Sun, whereby
that prosperous newspaper agreed to take the entire product of the mill. With this
powerful customer, the success of Mr. Kilmer was assured, and he has supplied The Sun
Association continuously down to the present time. More than §7,000,000 worth of
paper has now been shipped to The New York Sun and every dollar of it paid for.
From 1850 to 1857, Mr. Kilmer held an interest in five different paper mills, which
ran continuously day and night, every day of the year except Sunday. His success has
been remarkable. He has met panics bravely and has never passed a monthly pay day.
Although they knew Mr. Kilmer as an acknowledged expert, his competitors re-
garded the straw paper enterprise at first with doubt. When it became a success, these
competitors were glad to take out licenses under the patent used by him. This is only
one instance out of many, in which his sound judgment and unerring forethought have
been strongly vindicated.
In 1865, Mr. Kilmer bought a controlling interest in the Congress and Empire
Springs at Saratoga and united them under a stock company with §1,000,000 capital,
becoming president and treasurer.
In 1869, The American Wood Paper Co. of Providence, R. I., paid him the high compli-
ment of making him general manager of their whole system in the manufacture of wood
pulp and paper at their mammoth mills in Manayunk, Philadelphia, and Rover's Ford, Pa.
Mr. Kilmer has invested some of his savings not only in real estate in Saratoga
Springs, but in New York city, Chicago, New Mexico and elsewhere. In these later
years, he spends his time largely in the oversight of these investments. The manufac-
turing business is carried on at Rock City Falls and is managed at that place entirely.
A superintendent is in charge and acts under the daily advice of Mr. Kilmer, when the
latter is absent from the mill.
In 1871, he moved to New York city and built a beautiful house at No. 9 East 57th
street. This is one of the occasional broad cross-town streets in the best residence
portion of the city, and is filled with fine dwellings. An upright, honorable man, with
a spotless record of integrity and fair dealing, Mr. Kilmer has become one of the most
valued citizens of this city and State. He is a man of fine presence and courteous
manners and is universally esteemed. For many years he has been a director in The
First National Bank of Saratoga. His character is without a stain and his life is an illus-
tration of the possibilities of this free republic for young men of ambition.
ARCHIBALD GRACIE KING, banker, was born in Everton, near Liverpool,
England, July n, 1821. His father, James Gore King, was a notable banker, who,
37°
AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
born May 8, 1791, in New York city, dying in Weehawken, N. J., Oct. 3, 1853, was the
third son of Rufus King, eminent as a statesman, member of the convention which drafted
the Constitution, and United States Senator from New York, and of Mary Alsop, his
wife. Well educated, first in England and France, James Gore King graduated from
Harvard College in 1810, studied law and during the War of 1812 served as assistant
Adjutant General. In 1815, he founded the commission house of James G. King& Co.,
which was so favored by fortune and the energy of the senior partner that it sprang
speedily into prosperity. In 1818, Mr. King moved to Liverpool and established the
English house of King & Gracie, in partnership with Archibald Gracie. Returning to New
York in 1824, he declined John Jacob Astor's offer of the presidency of The American
Fur Co., and entered the bank of Prime, Ward, Sands, King& Co., which in 1826 became
Prime, Ward & King, and in 1847 James G. King& Sons. He was sound, prudent and
successful, and in 1837 his bank was quoted as one of the few strong concerns of that
terrible year. Mr. King was active in promoting the construction of the Erie Railroad,
and served as president without compensation. In 1837, he performed a public service
by visiting England and obtaining an advance of _£ 1,000,000 in gold from The Bank
of England upon the guarantee of the Barings, which being transmitted to this city in
coin, enabled the banks of New York to resume specie payments. Mr. King
married, Feb. 4, 1813, Sarah Rogers Gracie, daughter of Archibald Gracie, one of the
most eminent merchants of his time. There were born to them Caroline, who married
Denning Duer; Harriet, who married George Wilkes, M. D. ; James Gore and Archi-
bald Gracie King; Mary, who married Edgar H. Richards; Frederick Gore and
Edward King, and Fanny, wife of James -L. McLane. Mr. King dwelt during the
latter part of his life in Weehawken, and was sent thence to Congress in 1849. He
was a member of the New York Chamber of Commerce after 1817 and its president
1841-48, and president of The Institution for the Savings of Merchants' Clerks,
1848-50. Archibald Gracie King was educated in America and at the school of Herr
von Fellenberg at Hofwyl, near Berne, Switzerland, and graduated from Harvard
University in 1840 with honors. First, clerk in the banking house of Prime, Ward &
King, in 1844 he was admitted to partnership. He has since risen to the head of the
house, which has been known since 1853 as James G. King's Sons. Mr. King is a
capable, clear-headed and sound business man. He was elected a trustee of The
Institution for the Savings of Merchants' Clerks in 1861, treasurer in 1865 and presi-
dent in 1873, resigning his connection with the bank in 1881, in consequence of his
removal to New Jersey, the laws of New York requiring trustees of savings banks to
be residents of New York. He is a trustee in The Metropolitan Trust Co. In 1845,
he married Elizabeth, daughter of William A. Duer, and their children are May D.,
wife of John King van Rensselaer; Sara Gracie, wife of Frederic Bronson and Frederick
Gore King. The family live in Weehawken, in a home commanding a splendid view
of the Hudson. While having little time for club life, he is a member of the Union
and Down Town clubs.
GEORGE LOVETT KINGSLAND, merchant, born in New York, Sept. 4, 1834, who
died in Babylon, N. Y., July 14, 1892, was descended from one of the oldest of the
Knickerbocker families, his ancestors having settled in New Jersey before 1780 on a
grant of land, ten miles long and three miles wide, lying between the Hackensack and
Passaic rivers. The old manor house may yet be seen on this property. Ambrose C,
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. KI. 371
Kingsland, father of George L. Kingsland, is remembered as one of the great mer-
chants of New York of the first part of the present century and a Whig, whom the
people of this city placed in the Mayor's chair in 1850 by a majority of more than 4,000
over Fernando Wood, and who originated Central Park. George L. Kingsland grad-
uated from Columbia College in 1856 with high honors, a finished Greek and Latin
scholar, and entered the office of D. &. A. Kingsland at No. 49 Broad street, afterward
becoming a partner. Commercial business and the management of the Kingsland
estate of which he was an executor, occupied him for many years. He had large inter-
ests in Maryland and served as president of The Georges Creek & Cumberland Coal
Co., and The Georges Creek Railroad. He was also a member of the Chamber of
Commerce, commodore of the New York Yacht squadron, and member of the Metro-
politan, Union, and other clubs. In 1875, he married Helen Schermerhorn, daughter
of Benjamin S. Welles, of Boston, and left one son, George Lovett Kingsland and two
daughters. A man of sterling integrity and large knowledge of business, he won an
enviable reputation and the sound respect of the prominent men of affairs in this city.
FRANCIS SHERWOOD KINNEY, manufacturer, was born in New Brighton on
Staten Island, Oct. 16, 1839. He is a son of Franklin S. Kinney, a lawyer prominent
in New Jersey politics and commissioner to the World's Fair in 1851. The lad attended
school in New Brunswick, whence a restless disposition led him to go to sea. He
served upon several noted clipper ships and rose to become a mate. He then
abandoned a seafaring life and turned his attention to railroads. Under engagement
with William Wheelwright, he built, as foreman, the first wharves and the first ten
miles of The Cordova Central Railroad. He then took command of an expedition to
explore the upper waters of La Plata river and after two years of hardship appeared
with a raft built of cedar logs at the head of steamboat navigation, having run the
blockade of the Paraguayan war and demonstrated the possibility of rafting on the
Uraguayan river. In 1869, he engaged in the manufacture of tobacco at No. 141
West Broadway, this city, and founded the firm of Kinney Bro's, afterward known as
The Kinney Tobacco Co. In this business, he has been exceedingly successful. His
industry is now a branch of The American Tobacco Co. , of which he was one of the
incorporators and is a large shareholder and a director. Mr. Kinney has large
investments in real estate in New York city. His property on Broadway alone has
grown to be worth a million and a half. In New Jersey, his estate of Kinnelon, thirty
miles from New York city, comprises 4,000 acres. Mr. Kinney is a member of the
New York Athletic, the Seawanhaka Corinthian Yacht and the principal racing clubs
in this city, and is the inventor of the moving seat in rowing boats now so universally
used. He has also invented hydro-pneumatic pressure accumulators of value and
other mechanical appliances.
GUSTAV HERflANN KISSEL, merchant, born in Frankfort, Germany, May n,
1810, died on Staten Island, July 23, 1876. He descended from a burgher family well
known throughout the Palatinate. An uncle was one of the prominent Burgomasters
of Frankfort-on-the-Main in the days when Frankfort ranked as one of the free cities
of Germany, taking an important part in the history of Germany. Passing his early
years in his native town, he came to this country in 1837 and promptly and completely
identified himself with its interests, cherishing toward the country" of his adoption the
feelings of a native rather than of a stranger. A great merchant, his probity and
372 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
purity in business won the highest esteem of his associates. Although he devoted him-
self with assiduity to business affairs, it was not to the exclusion of higher pursuits.
He was a man of dignified and courteous manner and of rare natural intelligence, which
he had cultivated by a judicious course of reading and study. He took pleasure in the
latest productions of modern literature, and his judgment in literary matters was
highly respected by men of culture. During the Civil War, he was a prominent aboli-
tionist and in the riots of 1863 his house was a refuge for persecuted negroes, whose
cause he defended with much personal bravery. Soon after his arrival in New York
city, he married Charlotte Anne, daughter of Jeremy Stimson, a distinguished phys-
ician of the vicinity of Boston, which increased his acquaintance with a large circle of
relatives and friends, and at his death few men held a higher place in the esteem and
admiration of both social and business associates than Mr. Kissel. His children were
Eleonora, who married Dr. F. P. Kinnicutt in this city ; Gustav Edward, who married
a daughter of W. K. Thorn ; Godfrey, who married a daughter of Dexter Bradford of
Boston ; and Rudolph Herman, who married a daughter of D. P. Morgan. — His son,
QUSTAV EDWARD KISSEL, banker, born in New York city, Sept. 30, 1854, was
educated in the schools of Charlier and J. H. Morse in New York, subsequently at the
Academic of Latisanne, Switzerland, and then for three years at Heidelberg University.
Entering business in New York at the age of twenty-five, he became a partner in the
banking firm of Kessler & Co., in Wall street in 1883, and has since been occupied with
financial operations in which he has been successful. The parent house is in Manches-
ter, England, the New York office being a branch. Their business is largely in the
line of foreign exchange and bond investment. He was married in 1884 to Caroline,
daughter of William K. Thorn, and their four children are William Thorn, Dorothea,
Louise Baring and Jeannette. The family make Morristown, N. J., their home, spend-
ing their winters in town. Mr. Kissel has joined some of the best clubs in the city,
including the Union, Century, Knickerbocker, City, Reform and Racquet, and is inter-
ested in the development of The American Geographical Society and Museum of Nat-
ural History, being trustee in these institutions.
SHEPHERD KNAPP, banker, born in Worthington, Mass., Jan. 7, 1795, died in
New York city, Feb. 22, 1875. His father, Jonathan Knapp, a farmer, was descended from
Aaron Knapp, who came to America with the second Plymouth colony. The subject
of this memoir left his father's farm in 1812, came to New York, obtained a clerkship
with Gideon Lee, a prominent leather merchant, rose to a partnership in iSfg, and
with Mr. Lee, retired in 1833. In 1832, he was elected director of the branch Bank of
the United States in New York. He was best known in financial circles, however, as
president of The Mechanics' Banking Association, organized under the State law, and
afterward of The Mechanics' Bank. He held this position, 1838-73, when he resigned,
his management having been attended with great success. During the panic of 1873,
he was prominent in measures to prevent the spread of disaster. When he retired
from the presidency, to be succeeded by B. B. Sherman, he was presented with a
testimonial and many emphatic expressions of regard and good will. Mr. Knapp
was elected president of The General Society of Mechanics and Tradesmen in 1837.
He was an original director of The Erie Canal and The New York & Erie Railroad,
chamberlain of the city under Mayor Gideon Lee, a director of The United States
Trust Co., The American Fire Insurance Co., The Greenwich Savings Bank and other
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. KN. 373
institutions, one of the seventeen incorporators of the Century Society, better known
as the Century club, and a member of the New England and St. Nicholas Societies.
In 1819, he married Catherine Louisa, daughter of William Kumbel of this city, and
their children were two sons who died in infancy, and Gideon Lee, Peter K., William
K., Shepherd F. and Austin Melvin Knapp.
SMEPPARD KNAPP, merchant, born in Yorktown, Westchester county, near
Peekskill, Aug. 30, 1839, descends from, one of the older families of the country.
Moses Knapp, born in England about 1655, was one of the trustees named in the royal
charter of White Plains, dated March 13, 1721, and died in this country in 1756 at the
age of 1 01. The men of the family were farmers and their lands have been handed
down from father to son through successive generations. Jacob Frost Knapp, Shep-
pard's father, farmer and carriage builder, died when his son was three years of age.
Coming to New York in 1852, a lad, Mr. Knapp obtained a clerkship and saved enough
to gain a year's course at an academy in Bordentown, N. J. Resuming the fancy dry
goods trade in New York city, he accepted later a clerkship in a retail carpet store in
Hudson street. In 1855, a fellow clerk and he started a carpet store of their own and
carried it on successfully for nine years, then removing to a commodious store on Sixth
avenue, near his present location. Seven years later, he negotiated for the erection of
a large building, which he now occupies although it has been enlarged. When Mr.
Knapp began the sale of carpets, the American manufacture was in its infancy. Mr.
Knapp promoted the development of the home industry, and it is largely due to his
effort and example that millions of dollars, which were once annually sent to Europe
for carpets, are now retained in this country. The Smyrna American carpet almost
owes its existence to Mr. Knapp, and he was refused a patent only on a mere techni-
cality. In 1863, he married Sarah E., daughter of Hiram Miller of New York. They
have five children. Mr. Knapp is an earnest and active citizen, esteemed for his
upright and progressive character. He is a member of the New York Athletic club.
EDWIN FRANKLIN KNOWLTON, manufacturer, the calm, clear-headed, senior
member of the firm of William Knowlton & Sons, is a native of West Upton, Mass.,
where he was born, Feb. 2, 1834. The ancestor of this family came to America from
Wales, and William Knowlton, father of the subject of this sketch, is the founder of
what is now the oldest, most extensive, successful and best known straw goods manu-
facturing house in this country. The industry was begun in West LTpton by William
Knowlton about seventy years ago, and his business energy and undoubted integrity
in all his dealings brought a success, which has been continued in an increasing ratio
under the management of his -sons. The establishment and early upbuilding of the
business took place under the difficulties which always attend the starting of a new
industry. These were bravely contended with and overcome, until finally success
crowned his efforts; and, in the later years of his life, he was able largely to give up
business cares to his son Edwin, and devote a considerable portion of his time to
matters of public interest. He was a prominent member of the Massachusetts Agri-
cultural Society, a State Senator, Presidential elector in 1880, when General Garfield was
elected, and held many positions of trust and responsibility in town, county and State.
Edwin F. Knowlton spent his early life in West LTpton, where his father laid the
foundation of the present great business and where the manufacturing department
continues to-day.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. KU. 375
After receiving an academic education at Wilbraham, he returned home to apply
himself in every department of the industry where he could make himself useful, and
he thus learned all parts of the business thoroughly and fitted himself for his future
successful career. After a few years, his father seeing his aptness and good judgment
sent him to Montreal to take charge of a branch sales house there, and later to New
York, where, becoming a partner, he took the main management of the purchasing,
selling and financial conduct of the business. As years have rolled on, continued and
uninterrupted prosperity has crowned his efforts. With him in the firm are now
associated his brothers George W., Eben J. and Daniel W. Knowlton. In addition to his
other business interests, Mr. Knowlton has been able to devote much time to the study of
the financial soundness of railroad corporations and has become one of the best judges in
New York of that class of securities. He has never been a large holder of real estate,
but has been connected with some extensive railroad purchases and reorganizations.
He is a director in The Brooklyn Trust Co. and The Phenix Fire Insurance Co. ,
having withdrawn from and declined election to directorships in other institutions,
believing that a man ought not to lend his name unless his personal attention and time
can be faithfully given to the care of the interests intrusted to him. He is a member
of the Hamilton club of Brooklyn and held in high esteem by all who know him.
His kind heart is ever ready to respond to the calls of benevolence and many a young
man has received from him aid when unfortunate circumstances have overtaken him.
It is by such men that the prosperity of our country is advanced and its character
elevated. Dec. 15, 1861, Mr. Knowlton was married to Ella C., daughter of Dr.
Elijah W. Carpenter. The children born to them have been a son who died in early
childhood and Mary C., who married Count Johannes Sierstorpff and lives in Berlin,
Germany.
Associated with Mr. Knowlton in the business of his firm are his brothers George
W., born Sept. 3, 1839; Eben J., born June 23, 1844, and Daniel W.. born Sept. 6, 1847.
FREDERICK KUEHNE, banker, a native of the city of Magdeburg, Germany, was
born Feb. 4, 1824, and died in Paris, France, April 19, 1890. The son of Frederick J.
Kuehne, a man of means, his early life spent in Europe was full of the promise of a
distinguished career. After receiving a college education and acquiring a knowledge
of business methods, he entered the firm of Knauth & Esche, bankers and merchants
in Leipzig, Germany, in 1851, where his keen good judgment, sound character, and
agreeable personality soon made him a valued accession to the house. A few years
later, he was entrusted with new responsibilities, and coming, to New York city, he
established, with Theodore Knauth and Jacob Nachod, the banking firm of Knauth,
Nachod & Kuehne of Leipzig and New York, at the head of which he remained until
his death. Located near Wall street, the financial center of the metropolis, his house
rapidly rose to prominence. They dealt largely in foreign exchange and investment
securities.
Mr. Kuehne won many warm friends by the unselfish devotion he gave to every
interest entrusted to his care, by his works of benevolence and the deep interest he
always showed in the political life of his adopted country. During the late Civil War,
he was, on several occasions, the confidential adviser of Mr. Chase, Secretary of the
Treasury ; and it was largely due to his advice that the government averted great
losses, threatened by the high premium on gold at that time.
tf~1e</.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. KU. 377
Before the unification of Germany he represented for over sixteen years all the
German States excepting Prussia, as Consul General in this city. This was a marked
expression of confidence ; and upon retirement from office he received from the princes
he had represented many high decorations in recognition of his services.
In politics, he was always a stanch Republican, like so many others of the chil-
dren of the fatherland, a strong friend of the Union of the States, and a prominent
member of the Union League club, and twice served his party as Presidential Elector
in successful campaigns, first in 1872 for Gen. Grant, and in 1876 for President Hayes.
He was several times offered by his fellow citizens a nomination as Mayor of New
York city but in each case refused it, preferring to devote his energies to the private
trusts committed to his care and to the management of his banking house. A man of
Mr. Kuehne's influence, excellence of character and knowTi abilities is always sought
for to take part in the establishment and management of financial institutions ; and it
is an illustration of his standing in the metropolis, that he was one of the founders of
The German American Bank, The Lincoln National Bank, The Lincoln Savings &
Deposit Co., and The State Trust Co., and at the time of his death a director in the
last three and vice president of The Citizens' Savings Bank. He also served his fellow
citizens as a School Commissioner by appointment from Mayor Hewitt and as one of
the governors of the institution at Randall's Island.
In 1856, he married Ellen Josephine, daughter of the late George J. Miller, who
with two sons, Frederick J. and Percival Kuehne, and two daughters, Selma Kuehne
Hume and Irma Kuehne survive him.
The city of New York is indebted to Germany not only for a large and important
element in its population but for many men of superior talents who, making this city
their home, have contributed by their labors to advance the prestige and power of the
metropolis. Of these latter, Mr. Kuehne was one and his memory will long be held in
grateful remembrance.
L.
HARVEY SMITH LADEW, leather merchant and tanner, born in Ladew Corners,
now Mount Pleasant, N. Y., Jan., 16, 1826, died in New York city, March 9, 1888.
The son of Abram D. Ladew, a tanner, he left school at an early age to join his
father in this industry. They operated a tannery in Shokan in Ulster county, market-
ing the leather in New York city. Harvey was sent here in 1866, to occupy himself
with the mercantile branch of the business. He had been admitted to partnership
with Hoyt Bro's before this time, and afterward became a full partner in J. B. Hoyt
& Co. Upon the withdrawal of Mr. Hoyt in 1884, the firm of Fayerweather & Ladew
was organized. These two young men showed so much ability that they rose to a
place among the leading tanners and leather merchants of the United States, owning
factories in the hemlock and oak regions of New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland,
West Virginia and Tennessee. Mr. Ladew was a man of the highest character. By
an integrity beyond reproach, honorable methods and diligent enterprise, he gained
a large fortune. He was married in 1849 to Rebecca, daughter of Reuben Krom.
Their children are Edward R. Ladew and Joseph H. Ladew, and one daughter,
Louise Ladew Williams. — His son, EDWARD R. LADEW, tanner, was born in New
York, Feb. 18, 1855. Educated in Charlier Institute and Anthon Grammar School,
he began his career as assistant to his father and spent much of his early life at the
tanneries of the firm of J. B. Hoyt & Co. He became a member of that firm in 1877.
When the name was changed to Fayerweather & Ladew, he became more active in the
management, and since 1889 has been the head of this old and substantial house.
He is a clear-headed, competent and upright man and enjoys the entire respect of all
his business associates. The confidence entertained in his ability is illustrated by his
election as vice-president of The United States Leather Co., a corporation- with a
capital of $120,000,000, and representing more real property than any other industrial
interest in the United States. He is also a stockholder and director in The Elk Tanning
Co., composed of a union of twenty-three tanneries in Pensylvania, including several of
his own. Mr. Ladew was married on Jan. 20, 1886, to Louise B., daughter of Charles
Wall, and their children are Harvey S. Ladew and Elise Wall Ladew. Although he
would be welcome in every club in the city, Mr. Ladew has joined only a few, namely,
the Union League and Carteret, the New York, Larchmont, American, and Atlantic
and Hempstead Harbor Yacht clubs and the Fulton and Hide & Leather luncheon
clubs. He is also a member of the Liederkranz Society, and owner of the steam
yacht Orienta.— JOSEPH HARVEY LADEW, tanner, son of the late Harvey S.
Ladew, a young man of good ability, was born in New York April 10, 1864. He
received his education at Columbia College, and then found occupation as an assistant
to his father in the management and operation of the leather business and the man-
ufacture of belts. He was admitted to partnership in Fayerweather & Ladew,
Feb. i, 1889. He has already shown application and good management and promises
to rank among the prominent merchants of this generation. He is a director in The
United States Leather Co. , holds a prominent position in the direction and manage-
ment of the company, and also conducts the business of Fayerweather & Ladew with
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. LA. 379
his brother, Edward R. Ladew. His clubs are the Union League, Riding, American
Yacht, New York and Stamford Yacht, and Hide & Leather. He is owner of the
steam yacht Columbia, 380 tons, a beautiful vessel built in 1893, 205 feet in length,
and 23 feet deep, having a speed of 18 knots an hour.
GEORGE GRAHAfl LAKE, merchant, born in Brookfield, Conn., Sept. 19, 1821,
died in New York city, Dec. 21, 1884. He began life as an errand boy in this city,
later as clerk for Ubsdell & Pierson, dry goods merchants. His salary was so small that
for a time he slept on a counter in the store, his food being exceedingly frugal. The
firm soon discovered his ability, and at the age of nineteen they made him head sales-
man in the silk department under a contract to serve for four years at a salary of $18 a
week. When a large importing house offered him a salary for four years, increasing
annually from §1,000 the first year to $4,000 the fourth year, he remained loyal to
Ubsdell & Pierson and at the end of the four years his firm offered him $10,000 a year
for ten years, which he accepted. In 1853, he became a partner, and when in 1863 the
firm dissolved, Mr. Lake associated himself with James McCreery as Lake & McCreery
and succeeded to the business. In 1869 Mr. Lake retired. Thereafter, he was en-
gaged in various important enterprises. He reorganized The Harlem Gas Co. , and be-
came a director of The Williamsburg Gas Co. and was largely interested in New York
surface railroads. Mr. Lake helped found The Home for the Aged and Infirm, and
subscribed liberally to the musical education of Emma Abbott. From his first mar-
riage, there were two children, one of whom, a daughter, Mrs. Mary Louisa Thompson,
survived him. His second wife, who died in 1862, was the widow of George Steers.
Their son, George G. S. Lake, survived his father but has since died. In 1863, he mar-
ried Frances E., daughter of James R. Steers. Of their four children, three survived
him, James R. S. , Frances E., and Henry S. Lake.
CATHOLINA LAHBERT, manufacturer, was born in Keithley, Yorkshire, Eng-
land, March 28, 1834, and is a son of Samuel Lambert, a papermaker. He was educa-
ted in the village schools, a part of the time attending them at night, and at the age of
nine began life as a cotton mill boy. Coming to America on a packet ship, he
landed in Boston Oct. 29, 1851, and found employment as a generally useful boy in a
store, rising to a clerkship in a year's time, and the place of salesman, the second
year. He became a partner in Dexter, Lambert & Co., Jan i, 1855, and has devoted
himself to the manufacture of silks, in which he has been very successful. The firm
are animated with a spirit of enterprise and' have planted factories in Patersou, N. J.,
and Honesdale and Hawley, Pa. They employ 2,500 operatives in busy times and
have diffused great benefits among the people of those three cities. His business office
and salesroom are in New York city ; his home in Paterson. He has joined the Union
League, Colonial, Republican and Merchants' Central clubs here and has always been
a Republican. Sept. 9, 1857, he married Isabella E. Shattuck of Pepperell, Mass. Of
his eight children, two are living. Mr. Lambert's career illustrates the opportunities
of America for a poor boy.
CHARLES GRISWOLD LANDON, merchant, born in Guilford, Conn., Aug. n,
1818, died in New York, March 23, 1893. The family is of English descent and
was planted at Southold, Long Island, about 1640. At the age of seventeen, young
Landon going to New Haven entered the employment of Henry Sanford, merchant.
There he remained seven years. He came to New York city in 1842 and entered the
380 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
store of Simeon B. Chittenden, wholesale dry goods merchant, afterward being taken
into the firm, which then consisted of S. B. Chittenden, John J. Phelps and George
Bliss. The firm afterward became George Bliss & Co. In 1864, Mr. Landon severed
his relations and became a partner in Benkard & Hutton, one of the oldest dry goods
importing houses in the city, and about 1885, changed the firm name to Charles G.
Landon & Co. His success was notable. Mr. Landon was long a vestryman and for
a few years senior warden of Grace Church. He was a member of the Chamber of
Commerce, a director of The Equitable Life Assurance Society, The Central Trust
Co., The Bank of America, The Sixth National Bank, The Greenwich Savings
Bank, The Gold & Stock Telegraph Co., The Sixth Avenue Railroad Co., The German-
American Fire Insurance Co. , and The Hanover Fire Insurance Co. ; a trustee of St.
Luke's Hospital; and a member of the Union League, Union, Metropolitan and
Lawyers' clubs and The New England Society. In 1849, he married Miss Susan H.
Gordon, a member of an old Virginia family, and a descendant of the Hunts and Hunters.
She died in 1885. Five children survived him, Henry H., Edward H., and Francis G.
Landon, Annie L., wife of L. Townsend Howes and Mary G., wife of Dallas B. Pratt.
WOODBURY LANQDON, merchant, a native of Portsmouth, N. H., was born
Oct. 22, 1836. His father, of the same name, followed the vocation of ship master and
merchant, and his great grandfather, also of the same name, was active in the agitation
for American Independence, a member of Continental Congress and a judge of the
Supreme Court of New Hampshire. The present Woodbury Langdon fitted for college
but finally chose a business life. In 1853, he entered the dry goods store of Frothing-
ham & Co. , in Boston, where he displayed so much ability that he was placed in charge
of the New York city branch of the business. In 1870, the firm reorganized as Joy,
Langdon & Co., under which name they are yet known. They are the selling agents
for several of the leading cotton mills in New England, in which the partners have an
interest. Mr. Langdon is a member of the Chamber of Commerce, having been one
of the Executive Committee since 1888, has served as a Rapid Transit Commissioner
and is a director of The National Bank of Commerce, The Central National Bank, The
German- American Insurance Co. and The New York Life Insurance Co. Since 1888,
he has been one of the vice-presidents of the Union League club. The Merchants'
club was organized by him and others, and he belongs also to the Lawyers', City,
Racquet, Riding and New York Athletic clubs and The New England Society. He
married March 28, 1894, Edith E., daughter of the late David B. Pugh.
JAMES FRANKLIN DOUGHTY LANIER, banker, born in Washington, N. C.,
Nov. 22, 1800, died in New York city, Aug. 27, 1881. The founder of his family,
Thomas Lanier, a Huguenot, came to America with John Washington, great grand-
father of George Washington, settled in Virginia and married a daughter of John
Washington. James Lanier, grandfather of the subject of this memoir, was a planter
and a captain of cavalry in the American Revolution, while Alexander Chalmers Lan-
ier, his son, served in the War of 1812 and in the Western campaign under Gen. Harri-
son, with the rank of Major, dying from the effects of the service. James F. D. Lan-
ier, son of the latter, studied in the village school of Eaton, O., the academy of New-
port, Ky. , and in a private school and refused an appointment to West Point, to save
his mother from the distress of his leaving home. Graduating from the Transylvania
Law School in 1823, he settled in Madison, Ind., and began practice. Next year, he
THE CITY OK > LA. J»l
»d assistant clerk of the India Repres^niauti^. -crvfng
be was elected chief clerk. I! ?• 'in. *u xio;-
In 1833, he became: p>-. c 'iaak
one of the organ ::••.-*
ning distinction In 1849, " »* V >rk .is.
I H. Winslow, founded the lirni • **g - :-•-
era railroad securities anc ,t
•c of panics, wars, an-.
*tence. In 1847. Mr. La-
ate debt of $13,000, oc
* State. During
hen bought -
ever offered :n
\ took part in m
900 to the S-
',abeth Gar
on, Ind
nier Cravens ; Mar }
Msed ; Charles Lanier, the <er i an<
, the sixth. — His son, CHARLES LANIER, banker, born in •
-as educated in New Haven. In 1860, he was given an inters
tig house of Winslow, Lanier & Co., and L been identified with its*
^en to the head of the house. Thi c<I in 1849, ha«i
important railroad loans and railroa .is. As a resul-
;een called into the manag .qiorations. Hv
utral Railroad < West Shore Railroad
raph Co., The C .0 Central & Sotr
e Madi? -:id The National
capable
n clear heacl
mutk Egleston, and t:
^rleston, wife <-t
Mr. Lanier to r
terbocker, Century. TU.VM •,
lee.
=!TH LAPHAH, leather men h-
ic New York city Jan. 28, ;
her trace their lineage to Jc
m Devonshire in England
n§ of the Society of Friends,
_r house erected i n
.>iiir was born in STT;
i, moving thence t<- A- 'anby, Vt
Henry G. L«pr»wr. .s\-.\ engage^
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. LA. 381
was appointed assistant clerk of the Indiana House of Representatives, serving- until
1827, when he was elected chief clerk. His practice and his salary gave him an excel-
lent income. In 1833, he became president of the Madison branch of The State Bank
of Indiana, being one of the organizers thereof and its largest stockholder and in its
management attaining distinction. In 1 849, he removed to New York city and here,
with Richard H. Winslow, founded the firm of Winslow, Lanier & Co., for the negotia-
tion of Western railroad securities and a general banking business. This concern has
survived the shock of panics, wars, and other public calamities for nearly fifty years and
is yet in existence. In 1847, Mr. Lanier went to Europe to arrange for a settlement of
Indiana's State debt of $12,000,000, a mission which he performed to the entire satis-
faction of the State. During 1849-54, his bank negotiated a large quantity of railroad
securities, often bought railroad iron on commission, and sold the first Western rail-
road bonds ever offered in this market. After 1854, they confined their attention to
banking and took part in many large schemes. A strong Union man, Mr. Lanier
loaned $640,000 to the State of Indiana for the equipment of troops. Dec. 8, 1819, he
married Elizabeth Gardner of Kentucky. To them were born Alexander Chalmers
Lanier of Madison, Ind.; Elizabeth Lanier, widow of Gen. W. M. Dunn, U. S. A. ;
Mrs. Drusilla Lanier Cravens ; Mary Lanier, widow of J. Cameron Stone , Louisa
Lanier, deceased ; Charles Lanier, the New York banker ; and Katharine Lanier, wife
of Miles Standish, the sixth. — His son, CHARLES LANIER, banker, born in Madison,
Ind., Jan. 19, 1837, was educated in New Haven. In 1860, he was given an interest
in the banking house of Winslow, Lanier & Co., and has since been identified with its
affairs, having risen to the head of the house. This bank, established in 1849, has
negotiated many important railroad loans and railroad reorganizations. As a result
Mr. Lanier has been called into the management of various corporations. He is a
director of The Central Railroad of New Jersey, The West Shore Railroad, The
Western Union Telegraph Co., The Central Trust Co., The Central & South American
Telegraph Co., The Madison Square Garden Co., and The National Bank of Commerce.
One of the most capable bankers and business men in town, his success is mainly the
result of his own clear head and energy. In 1857, he married Sarah E. , daughter of
the late Thomas Egleston, and this union has brought them four children, James F. D.
Lanier; Sarah Egleston, wife of Francis C. Lawrence, jr.; Frances L. , wife of Francis
R. Appleton; and Elizabeth G., wife of George E. Turnure. His wife and he are hos-
pitable entertainers and welcome in the most cultivated circles. Many of the leading
clubs have elected Mr. Lanier to membership, including the Union League, Union,
Metropolitan, Knickerbocker, Century, Tuxedo, Players', Lawyers', Riding, New York,
and Mendelssohn Glee.
HENRY GRIFFITH LAPHAfl, leather merchant, a native of Danby, Vt , born
Feb. 24, 1822, died in New York city Jan. 28, 1888. The family of which he was a
distinguished member trace their lineage to John Lapham, a pioneer, who sailed to
the new world from Devonshire in England and settled in Rhode Island in 1637.
They were members of the Society of Friends, and in 1699, John Lapham and three
others built the first meeting house erected in Dartmouth, Mass. The great grandfather
of the subject of this memoir was born in Smithfield, R. I., in 1722, and his grandfather
in the same town in 1761, moving thence to Adams, Mass., and later to Danby, Vt.
Jesse Lapham, father of Henry G. Lapham, was born in Danby and engaged in
382 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
mercantile pursuits and milling both there and in South Wallingford in the same State
and in Troy, N. Y. He was a man of marked purity and natural force of character
and great influence in his community, and as president of The Danby Bank and one of
those who promoted the building of The Western Vermont Railroad, he rose to prom-
inence and reputation.
Educated in the schools of Rutland county and the Columbia Friends' School in
Chatham, N. Y., Henry G. Lapham located, and later had charge of his father's in-
terests, in South Wallingford, consisting of a general store, saw mills and grist mills
and a foundry. The varied experience which he had there proved of great use to him
in his later business life. In 1849, the young man visited the West, attracted by the
possibilities of that region, with an idea of settling there; but, after a careful exam-
ination, he returned the same year and resumed his place in charge of his father's
interests. But he was ambitious, and in 1854 removed to New York, where, as a clerk,
he entered the employment of his uncle, Anson Lapham, then a prominent leather
merchant in the " Swamp." Already trained in the discharge of responsible duties, he
rose by prudence, diligent labor and capacity, to important positions in the house and
soon displayed , every qualification of a successful merchant. After a few years, a
partnership was formed between the uncle, the nephew, and Joseph E. Bulkley, as
Lapham & Bulkley, and Mr. Lapham was principally engaged thereafter for the rest of
his life in the tanning and lumber business in New York State and Pennsylvania.
He had various partners at different times and his firm became known successively as
Bulkley & Lapham, Lapham & Bulkley, H. G. Lapham & Co., and Lapham, Costello
& Co. In 1887, the firm name of H. G. Lapham & Co. was finally adopted and has
been retained to this day.
In 1880, with F. H. Rockwell of Warren, Pa., he formed the firm of F. H.
Rockwell & Co. , and engaged in the manufacture of leather and lumber in northwestern
Pennsylvania. Later, with Mr. Rockwell, he took an active part in the production of
petroleum in Pennsylvania and Ohio. He was also interested in ranching in Mexico.
Mr. Lapham was one of the old race of solid, upright and progressive merchants
of this city. He was widely known and highly respected. In all matters affecting the
business to which he devoted his life, his judgment was held in the highest regard,
and his advice was continually sought by his associates in the trade. He retired from
active management of the firms in which he was interested several years before his
death, surrendering the labor to his sons. Most of his time thereafter was spent in {
travel, except that he incidentally gave some attention to a general supervision of his
varied interests. He gave liberally to charity. To his generous contributions, the
Schofield School for Colored Children in Aiken, S. C., largely owes its success. He was
a member of The Charity Organization Society and The New England Society. Mr.
Lapham was never active in politics and never held office, although he was a public
spirited man and always deeply concerned in whatever affected the welfare of his
fellow men and his country. The temperance cause enlisted his especial support.
Not only did he practice temperance himself, a natural outgrowth of his purity and
firmness of character, but he used his influence at all times to promote the growth of
a sentiment in favor of it, this in turn being the result of his benevolent disposition
and long observation of the intolerable evils which spring from the vice to which he
was opposed.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. LA. 385
WILLIAM EDWARD LAWRENCE, merchant, born in Concord, Mass., July 4,
1812, died in New York city Feb. 7, 1882. He was a son of William Lawrence of
Lincoln, Mass., and Abagail Flint of Concord, Mass. His father died while William
was young and left the boy to care for himself. Coming to New York city with his
mother, he attended the private school of Flint & Kidder on Amos, now West toth,
street, and then secured a situation as errand boy in a dry goods store in Pearl street
and in 1825, a place in a retail dry goods store in the upper part of Bleecker street,
• then known as Greenwich village. WHen he reached his majority, he started a dry
goods store on that street and conducted a successful business there until his death.
He was first vice-president of The Northern Dispensary and a trustee of The Irving
Savings Bank, and had served as director of several insurance companies. Although
his early education was limited, Mr. Lawrence grew to be an accurate scholar, a close
student of history and a man of sound judgment. He was for more than twenty-five
years an elder in the Reformed Dutch Church. His wife and one daughter survived
him.
JAMES DANIEL LEARY, ship builder and contractor, is one of those enterprising
and active minded men, who, coming from another part of the continent, many years
ago, and making a modest and unnoticed entrance to the world of affairs, has grad-
ually pushed his way in the metropolis, solely by his own merits, to standing, fortune
and influence. He was born near Montreal, Canada, Sept. 25, 1837. After an educa-
tion in private schools, he sallied forth at the age of sixteen to begin the battle of life,
in which few men have more bravely played a man's part. Coming to Williamsburg,
now a part of the city of Brooklyn, he entered the shipyard of his uncle, Thomas Stack,
and spent an apprenticeship of four years in learning the art of building and repairing
vessels. A strong desire for a sound education led him during this period to continue
his studies by attendance at the night schools.
While favored by his relationship to the proprietor of the yard, the young man did
not depend upon that for advancement. He knew that he must make his own way.
Ambitious to learn, willing, self denying and energetic, he applied himself with such
diligence that his employer made him foreman of the shipyard in 1855. In 1861, Mr.
Leary started in business on his own account, as proprietor of a small yard for the
building and repair of vessels at the foot of North Thirteenth street, Brooklyn. Suc-
cess comes to those who deserve it. The young constructor speedily made his reputa-
tion. In 1862, he was appointed assistant Superintendent of Construction and Repairs
for the United States Revenue Marine. He gave the closest personal attention to his
business and being endowed with perfect health, an intelligent mind, a pleasing man-
ner and determination to succeed, the consequence was exactly what might have been
expected. To secure proper facilities for his work, Mr. Leary moved, in 1866, to a
larger yard at the foot of North Fourth and North Sixth streets, extending a distance
of three blocks along the river front.
The government work, performed by Mr. Leary, produced one result which was
of lasting benefit to him. It brought him into contact with public men, who, pleased
with the qualities of the earnest young man, pointed out other government work which
he might obtain and thus led him to compete for and secure many important contracts.
Early in his career, Lloyd's Register of British and Foreign Shipping selected him
as its surveyor in the United States, retaining him in this responsible position for
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. LE. 387
nine years. It is the duty of a surveyor to give a rating to vessels, based upon their
age, condition and seaworthiness, and the service requires the constant examination
both of vessels newly built and of those which have been damaged or are growing old.
Labors of this description occupied a great deal of Mr. Leary's time. This appoint-
ment bore eloquent testimony to Mr. Leary's ability and honor. Ship masters and
owners, the most leisurely men in the world at certain times, are, when the vessel is in
port, the most hurried. They are anxious to put to sea again in the shortest possible
time and secure the best possible rating for their ships, and a surveyor has opportun-
ities thrust upon him for betraying the confidence of his principals to his own advan-
tage. Nothing more need be said than that Mr. Leary's record has always been one
of unblemished honesty.
In 1871, having gained sufficient capital to enlarge his operations, Mr. Leary bought
the plant of The Williamsburg Mill & Lumber Co. , as an auxiliary both to the ship
yard and to other work in which he had become engaged. He had now entered upon
an entirely new phase of business activity, but, it may be said here, that while im-
portant work, not connected with the mercantile or official marine, gradually claimed
more and more of his attention, he has never ceased to perform a large amount of
building and repairing of vessels. Steamboats, lighters, barges, sailing vessels, tugs,
and other craft in great variety have been launched from his yard. He also con-
structed the Hercules dredges and lighters used by The American Contracting &
Dredging Co. in the excavation of the Panama Canal. The total number of vessels
built by Mr. Leary is about 390. A large plant has come into existence for the per-
formance of this work, the ship and lumber yards combined having a water front of
1 100 feet and covering an area of four city blocks. Xor is this all. Small saw mills in
Florida and Georgia belong to him, which supply his yards with vast quantities of yel-
low pine lumber for sale and use in his various works.
Shortly after the War, Mr. Leary's practical abilities led him into another field of
operations, where there was abundant scope for a man of his energy, namely, contract
work. In 1868, he obtained a contract for transportation of all supplies for the army
purchased in New York city to the trains and boats by which the goods were forwarded
to the different army posts. This contract he held until 1880 and fulfilled with fidelity
and success. He also devoted himself to the construction of improvements and public
works. He has built water batteries, piers and dikes and dredged harbors for the
United States Government, and during the Virginius excitement in 1871-72, when it
was believed that the United States might soon be at war with Spain, he built a large
number of beds for heavy guns for all the fortifications both on the Atlantic and Pacific
coasts. This service brought him once more into contact with important public officials,
and he gained the friendship of such men as Generals Grant, Hancojk, Ingalls, Newton
and Gilmore.
On the Brooklyn water front, under his skillful direction, piers and bulkheads have
grown into existence for the Havemeyers and Dick & Meyer sugar refineries, The
Pennsylvania Railroad Co., The Philadelphia & Reading Railroad Co., Charles Pratt,
The Standard Oil Co., and other concerns, this work aggregating over §3,000,000. Mr.
Leary never fails to give entire satisfaction to his clients, and, as a rule, finishes his
work ahead of the specified time. His reputation in this respect not only testifies to
his driving energy, his power of organization and effective management of bodies of
388 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
men, biit continually brings him new contracts. In Long Island City, he has improved
the water fronts of the property owned by Union College, The Mutual Life Insurance
Co., the Hon. Roswell P. Flower, The Barber Asphalt Paving Co., The New York
Terra Cotta Co., The Warren S(?harf Paving Co., John Good (the cordage manufact-
urer) and B. T. Babbitt (the soap manufacturer), as well as performed a large amount of
construction work for many other important concerns.
During 1873-82, he engaged extensively in the coal trade, having secured contracts
for supplying all the public schools and charitable institutions of New York city and
all the army posts and navy stations of New York harbor with coal.
Since 1882, Mr. Leary has been largely occupied with contract work along the
Harlem river. The first considerable task in the improvement of the water front in
that vicinity was from issth to isSth street for H. A. Cram, and Third to Fourth
avenue for J. H. Cheever. For Morris & Adams, he improved the river front from
1 44th to 1 49th street, and then secured from John Jacob and William B. Astor, a
contract for continuing these improvements from i4gth street as far as Cromwell
creek. Although given three years in which to complete this undertaking, he ended it
in less than a year and a half at a cost of $928,000. These were all profitable opera-
tions. Mr. Leary has lately been building bulkhead walls, excavating the rocks and
dredging the river, in order to create the United States Harlem River Ship Canal.
He is now constructing the first section of the new Harlem driveway, which will be
completed at an expense of about $850,000 during 1895. The immediate supervision
of the details of the work is entrusted to his son, Daniel J. Leary, a graduate of
Columbia College and a competent civil and mining engineer. His son has been of
great assistance, and has since 1882 relieved his father of a vast burden of the details
of construction of public works.
A novel enterprise in which Mr. Leary at one time engaged, attracted public
curiosity for its originality and courage. This was the towing of large rafts of timber
from Nova Scotia to this city by way of the Atlantic Ocean. Seven huge rafts have
been brought to this port in safety.
Mr. Leary is a director of The North Side Bank of Brooklyn, The New York &
Long Island Railroad Co., The Hoffman House Co., and The Morris & Cummings
Dredging Co. ; vice-president of The John Good Cordage & Machine Co. ; and a
member of the Manhattan club.
He was married Sept. 28, 1859, to Miss Mary C. Fallen, daughter of James Fallon
of Brooklyn, long known as a builder and dealer in brown stone and marble. They
have three sons and one daughter, Daniel James, Sylvester Napoleon, George and
Marie C. Leary. The latter, at the age of six, christened the steamer City of Gloucester
built by her father. Mr. Leary is very happy in his family life, and every hour which
he can spare from his engrossing labors is spent amid this loving home circle.
In politics, Mr. Leary is an independent, never having joined either of the two
great party organizations. Deriving no part of his success from inheritance, his life
affords an excellent example of the self-made man, and illustrates the possibilities of
free America for those who begin a business career without capital.
WILLIAM FOSTER LEE, merchant, born Sept 20, 1820, in Brimfield, Mass., died
in New York city, March 8, 1888. His father was Daniel Foster Lee, a dry goods
merchant, and his ancestors on both sides were Puritans who settled in America the
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. LE. 389
early part of the seventeenth century. Educated in the University of the City of New
York, Mr. Lee began life in the dry goods business in St. Louis but -soon aftenvard
removed to New York and made a fortune in the dry goods business here. He retired
before the War and after that devoted his money and energy to charity. He was one of
the earliest members of The Young Men's Christian Association, and chairman of its
Employment Committee, and connected with many other institutions. Among them were
The Half Orphan Asylum, of which he was superintendent; Grace Chapel, of which he
was assistant superintendent ; Mr. Moody's Boy's School at Northfield, Mass. , of which he
was treasurer; and The Society for the Suppression of Vice, being a member of its
executive committee. He was also interested in The Home for the Friendless, and the
Leake and Watts Orphan House and was an officer in Rev. Dr. Howard Crosby's
church. His wife was Helen L. Althause of New York.
WILLIAM HENRY LEE, merchant, born in New Britain, Conn., May 19, 1818,
died in New York city, April 9, 1895. He was a son of Thomas Lee, and in the fifth
generation of descent from John Lee, who came from Colchester, England, to America
in 1634. His great grandfather, Isaac Lee, was a Colonel in the American Revolution,
a member of the State Assembly and chief magistrate of his town until incapacitated
by old age. The subject of this sketch began life in Troy, N. Y. , came to New York
in 1842 and spent three years in the employment of J. R. J affray & Co. His name
appeared first as a principal in 1845, when he organized the firm of Lee & Case for
importing and jobbing dry goods, the other partners being Watson E. Case, John J.
Phelps and Amos R. Eno. Later, the firm became Wm. H. Lee & Co., Lee, Bliss &
Co. and finally Lee, Tweedy & Co., in each house Mr. Lee being senior partner.
They have always carried on an enormous trade in the importation and jobbing of dry
goods, maintaining an agency in England and representing important mills in Man-
chester and elsewhere. Mr. Lee was a merchant of fine character and high position,
and won success by deserving it. He sat in the directorate of The Fifth Avenue Bank
and The Hanover and The National Fire Insurance Go's, was a charter member of the
Union League club, and a member also of the Insurance and Merchants' clubs, the Cham-
ber of Commerce, The Sons of the American Revolution and The New England Society.
ABRAHAM LEQQETT, merchant, born in Mount Pleasant, Westchester county,
X. Y., in 1805, died in Brooklyn, N. Y., Sept. i, 1878. This family are of English
descent, the emigrant ancestor having been Gabriel Leggett, who came to this city
from the Barbadoes over 200 years ago, settling in Westchester county. Abraham
Leggett found his way to New York city when twenty-one years of age, and with his
twin brother Isaac, engaged in the grocer)' business under the Fulton Market. In
1848, he bought the premises at No. 205 Front street and carried on a large wholesale
grocer}' trade under the name of A. Leggett & Son, until 1871, when he retired. His
son, William, succeeded him. Mr. Leggett was one of the founders of The Produce
Exchange. His wife was Sarah, daughter of Richard Lee and he left four sons,
Richard L., William A., Francis H. and Theodore Leggett, the latter dying in 1883. — -
His son, FRANCIS HOWARD LEQQETT, wholesale grocer, born in New York city,
March 27, 1840, was a student in the local schools until the age of sixteen and then, in
1856, entered the produce commission business of R. L. Leggett & Co., in which his
father was a partner, to acquire a training in business pursuits. He became a part-
ner in 1862. The young man having saved about §18,000 borrowed about as much
39° AMERICA 3 SUCCESSFUL MEN.
more from his father in 1870 and with Theodore Leggett established the importing and
jobbing grocery house of Francis H. Leggett & Co. This concern has by perseverance,
sound methods and fine ability, created a business extending to all parts of the United
States and now ranks as one of the strongest houses in the trade. It occupies a large
building of its own on West Broadway, as well as a warehouse on Laight street. Mr.
Leggett is a member of the Union League, Grolier, Tuxedo, Metropolitan, Riding and
Merchants' clubs, the Chamber of Commerce and the Cotton and Produce Exchanges.
EHANUEL LEHflAN, merchant, a native of the village of Rimpar, near Wurz-
burg, Germany, was born Feb. 15, 1827. His parents, who were of German-Hebrew
descent, gave their son a sound training both at home and in the high school in Wurz-
burg and the lad then entered upon the practical work of life. At that period, many
Germans had learned of the better opportunities presented by the new world and were
exchanging homes in the fatherland for a residence in the Southern States. Following
this movement, Mr. Lehman sailed for America in 1847 and joined his brother Henry,
a merchant in Montgomery, Ala., since 1844, in the management of a general store.
They were diligent and hard working men, and as they prospered drifted naturally
into a factorage and cotton business. To enable a cotton planter to cultivate his crop,
it is necessary for him to resort to some neighboring general merchant, who will
advance to him 'a large amount of supplies and carry him along to the time when the
crop can be harvested and sold. The intimate relations of the Lehman Bro's with
the cotton planters resulted in the development of an extensive trade, both in supplies
and in cotton. The staple they shipped to the north and to Europe.
In 1856, the Lehman Bro's found themselves compelled by a growing bxisiness to
establish a house in New York city, and Emanuel Lehman was placed in charge of it.
The Civil War caused a serious interruption in the operations of the New York house,
but, in 1865, it was re-established by Emanuel Lehman, the younger brother, Mayer,
remaining in Montgomery for a while in charge of the Southern business, which is yet
conducted under the name of Lehman, Durr & Co. They also established a com-
mission business in New Orleans in 1865 under the title of Lehman, Newgass & Co.,
now known as Lehman, Stern & Co. All three firms are now prominent in their
respective cities and deal in cotton, sugar, coffee, etc. Emanuel Lehman, senior
partner in the firm, has made his home in New York since 1856.
After the War, the brothers Lehman devoted themselves to a task which has en-
listed the sympathy and active interest of every progressive and public-spirited man
in the South, namely, a revival of the interests prostrated by the War and a develop-
ment of the theretofore scarcely exploited natural resources of the region. In 1865,"
the State of Alabama being impoverished, the Lehman Bro's furnished $100,000 to
defray the expenses of the first convention, held under the reconstruction act, and
afterward acted as fiscal agents for the State, retaining this relation until Alabama
came under the control of the Radicals, about 1871. By their investments, they
promoted the reorganization of railroad companies, the improvement of real estate,
the building of iron furnaces and other factories, and the opening of coal mines.
They now have large interests in these properties and have aided largely in building
several Southern railroads. They are also principal owners of two excellent and
prosperous cotton mills, one operated by The Tallassee Falls Manufacturing Co. , near
Montgomery; the other, the Lane Mills in New Orleans.
392 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
Mr. Lehman is a director of The Mercantile National Bank, The Queens County
Bank on Long Island, The Alabama Mineral Land Co., The Berry-Boice Cattle Co.,
The Metropolitan Ferry Co., and The Tenth & Twenty-third Streets Railroad Co., and
The Third Avenue Railroad. He displays the marked philanthropy so characteristic of
his race, and cordially supports the Hebrew charities of the city and serves as president
of The Hebrew Orphan Asylum.
In May, 1859, he married Pauline, daughter of Louis Sondheim of New York.
His wife died in 1871, leaving four children: Milton; Philip a partner in the firm;
Harriet and Eveline. Mr. Lehman is a member of The Southern Society and highly
respected in business circles in this city.
flAYER LEHflAN, merchant, next to the senior partner in the conspicuous firm
of Lehman Bro's, was born in Rimpar, near Wurzburg, Germany, Jan. 9, 1830. He
had the advantage of a sound education in the public schools of Wurzburg, and in 1850
followed his brothers, Emanuel and Henry, to the United States. After a year of ex-
perience in the store of Lehman Bro's in Montgomery, he resolved to engage in busi-
ness on his own account, and in January, 1851, started a store of his own in Mont-
gomery, which he carried on until 1853. He then joined his two brothers in the partner-
ship of Lehman Bro's. Henry died in 1855, and from that time to the present the house
has carried on a prosperous trade under the direction of Emanuel and Mayer Lehman.
Mr. Lehman saw much of the operations of the Civil War, and experienced the
wild excitement of that period which strongly moved every resident of the South.
Montgomery was the theater of stirring scenes. In 1864, the Governor of Alabama
appointed Mr. Lehman a Commissioner to visit and look after the interests of Alabama
soldiers, held prisoners of war in the North. Other tenders of office were made to
him frequently but declined.
In 1867, Mr. Lehman came to New York and has ever since made the metropolis
his home He was one of the organizers of the Cotton Exchange and has been actively
identified with its management, as a director and otherwise, until the present time.
His brother and he are naturally proud of a business career, which, extending 'over a
full half century, has been attended with success from the day of its first small begin-
ning Mr. Lehman has been active in the railroad, land, industrial and mining enter-
prises of his house, and was one of twenty men who established the first important iron
furnace in the South before the war. He is a progressive, clear headed and capable
man, and is a director of The Hamilton Bank, The American Cotton Oil Co., The^
Union Oil Co., of Providence, R. I., and The N. K. FairbankCo., of Chicago. Highly'
esteemed in private life, he takes an active interest in philanthropic work, is a member
of The Harmonie club, was a trustee of Temple Emanu-El and of a number of chari-
table societies, and is a generous giver, being especially active in Mount Sinai Hospi-
tal and Training School.
Married in 1858 in New Orleans to Babetta, daughter of Isaac Newgass, he is the
father of several children, of whom those living are Sigmund M., Hattie, Settie, Clara,
Arthur, Irving and Herbert.
JAflES LENOX, founder of the Lenox Library, died in this city, Feb. 17, 1880,
in his eightieth year. The Lenox family, which has been conspicuous on the Island of
Manhattan for more than a century, was planted here by Robert and James Lenox,
brothers, natives of Scotland. James engaged in business here after the American
394 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
Revolution as a cooper in company with Joshua Jones. Robert Lenox supplied the
British troops on this island with provisions, etc., during the Revolution, and after the
war became a great merchant. He lived in Pearl street, and his standing is shown by
the fact that he was president of The Mutual Insurance Co., the oldest in the city,
dating from 1787 ; a director in the old United States Branch Bank, The Marine Insur-
ance Co., and other corporations; president of the Chamber of Commerce, and at one
time president of The St. Andrews Society. He married a daughter of Nicholas
Carmer. Mr. Lenox bought real estate upon various parts of the island and gained a
fortune of several millions by the increase in value of his land. This fortune at his
death, Dec. 13, 1839, descended to his son, James Lenox, the subject of this memoir,
and his five daughters, four of whom married into the Kennedy, Donaldson, Banks and
Sheafe families, Henrietta Lenox remaining unmarried. James Lenox spent his life
largely in the administration of his fortune. Among his possessions was a farm be-
tween Fourth and Fifth avenues, near 7 ad street, which after 1864 he divided into city
lots. He was generous in gifts of charity, and he founded at a cost of $2,000,000 the
Lenox Library, fronting Central Park on Fifth avenue, between 7oth and yist streets,
which he dedicated to the service of the public. Always fond of rare books and works
of art, he devoted much of his time to collecting them. By his will, Mr. Lenox gave
$300,000 more to the Lenox Library, and, excepting $153,000 in specific legacies, left
the residue of his estate to his sister, Henrietta A. Lenox. Although a man of agree-
able manners and a fine raconteur, he shunned fashionable society and never married.
WILLIAM LIBBEY, merchant, retired, and financier, for many years the only
partner and general manager of the dry goods firm of A. T. Stewart & Co., noted for
his upright, industrious and successful business life, was born March 7, 1820, in New-
burgh, Orange county, N. Y. He is a son of William Seavey Libbey, formerly of Rye
Beach, N. H., and a lineal descendant of John Libbey, who came from the west of
England in 1630, settled in Maine, and became one of the founders of the town of
Scarborough. Mr. Libbey's great grandfather and grandfather in the paternal line
served during the Continental and Revolutionary wars. His father moved to 'New-
burgh about 1 8 10 with a colony from Salem, Mass., having married just previously
Sarah Farrington, of that place.
When a lad, Mr. Libbey attended the Newburgh academy and prepared for col-
lege in the classical school of the Rev. Joel Phinney. Vis'ting Schenectady, he had
arranged to enter Union College about 1835, when circumstances shortly afterward
obliged him to enter at once upon a commercial career. William S. Libbey's inability
to send his boy to college grew out of his failure as an architect and builder while
living in Newburgh. The impression made upon William's mind, induced the latter,
being the only son, to form a resolution that, if he were ever able, he would make up
any deficiency resulting from his father's failure. He requested the assignee, after
paying all that could be obtained from the assets, to deliver to him all books and
papers of the estate. Subsequently, after a period of thirty years, he caused to be
prepared a statement, showing each of these unsettled claims and then paid them in
full, with seven per cent, interest, to the persons or heirs of the estates represented.
These receipts of payment, bound in book form, he presented to his father, upon the
latter's seventy-ninth birthday.
In the fall of 1835 at the age of fifteen, William Libbey came to New York city,
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. LI. 395
and entered the store of W. & J. Van Buskirk. jobbers in dry goods at Xo. 9 Pine
street. The position not being satisfactory, he remained there only thirty days. He
then engaged with Clark & Myers, dry goods jobbers, at No. 66 Liberty street, and re-
mained with them about seven years.
In 1842, Mr. Libbey became connected with the old and well known firm of job-
bers, known as Hunt Bro's, at Xo. 18 Exchange Place, who were among the pioneers
in establishing the principle of selling goods for cash.
At the close of 1849, Mr. Libbey left-the firm of Hunt Bro's and, Jan. i, 1850, be-
came one of the firm of Hastings, Libbey & Forby, located at Xo. 37 Xassau street.
Three years later, he withdrew from this connection and became associated with Arnold
Graef, who represented a large number of foreign woolen and silk accounts. The two
men formed the firm of William Libbey & Graef of Xo. 56 Liberty street, Xew York,
and of Philadelphia, and Arnold Graef & Libbey, Dresden and Aix la Chapelle, Ger-
man}'. This connection was successful up to 1857, when the disasters of that year
largeh" delayed remittances to their correspondents abroad and resulted the succeeding
year in a liquidation of the business. The consignors, whom the firm represented, em-
powered Mr. Libbey to liquidate their affairs and make remittances, voluntarily agree-
ing to accept the results of such liquidation as in full of all demands for their respective
claims. It was characteristic of the scrupulous sense of honor of Mr. Libbey, that after
having paid from the assets all that could be obtained, he remitted the balance, prin-
cipal and interest of all claims against him, about nine years later. Gold being at a
premium of 32 per cent., he added one half as his equitable share.
In 1859, his abilities and character attracted the attention of A. T. Stewart, whom
he had never personally met, and he was invited in September to an interview. This
resulted in the acceptance by Mr. Libbey of the position made vacant by the death of
Mr. Stewart's partner, W. H. Burrows, involving charge of the credits of the house,
engagement of employe's and general management. The character of the business of
A. T. Stewart & Co.. commencing with 1860, changed materially, growing out of
the fact that previous to that time, it had been made up principally of the sale of
choice and expensive foreign fabrics, and had been built up by Mr. Stewart into a
large and successful retail business, including a moderate amount of wholesale trade
with the large retailers throughout the country. The firm also enjoyed to a large
extent the trade of old families located throughout the States. About the time of
and prior to the outbreak of the rebellion, Mr. Libbey, in reorganizing the department
of credits then under his immediate control, closed about 800 accounts of this class
as a matter of precaution. Conditions and circumstances existing at that time forced
a discussion of the question, frequently brought before Mr. Stewart's mind, of either
retiring from the business altogether, and, as he repeatedly said, " Putting out the red
flag and liquidating," or determining on a great change in a different direction. Mr.
Stewart was much in doubt during 1860 as to the results of the impending war. His
health was broken and the complication of doubtful conditions was further increased
by the discovery of a large defalcation by a former partner, in whom he had placed
every confidence. Mr. Libbey's long experience in the domestic jobbing trade of this
country enabled him to suggest a possible alternative, which was subsequently
accepted by Mr. Stewart, and resulted in an organization whereby the home fabrics of
the United States and a popular trade were substituted for the finer and exclusive
396 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
fabrics of foreign manufacture and a select trade. From time to time thereafter, by
engaging competent and able assistants and organizing new departments, a large and
successful business was developed.
One marked feature of the work of the house was that of the bureau of credits,
in the basis of which Mr. Libbey had been much interested, and with which he had
been familiar from its initiation in the house of Arthur Tappan & Co. about 1830, and
in The Mercantile Agency of Lewis Tappan & Co. in 1841.
In the firm's new bureau of credits, started in 1860, a system was created whose
efficacy was tested by Mr. Stewart at a time of panic, when he desired to know
whether they were not getting into deep water by making large sales on credit. He
was not personally informed about the details and did not usually desire to be, but now
sought information as to the facts. It was provided for him by Mr. Libbey, who
prepared a statement of net loss upon the last hundred million dollars of all kinds of
credit sales made by the house. The result, when obtained, showed that the losses
were within a fraction of one mill per cent.
During their business connection, and particularly during the last ten years, Mr.
Stewart placed nearly the whole management of affairs under Mr. Libbey's control.
The transactions of the house, included in purchases and sales, had increased from
about fifteen millions per annum, prior to 1860, to about one hundred and ten millions,
and, incidentally, an organization had been evolved probably unequaled in the world.
In 1873, during a severe attack of illness from which he never fully recovered,
Mr. Stewart made his will, making Mr. Libbey, his only surviving partner, one of his
executors. Subsequently to Mr. Stewart's death in 1876, the business was continued
for a few years, in partnership with Judge Henry Hilton, and then liquidated, Mr.
Libbey retiring.
Notwithstanding the impressions and opinions formed, which grew principally
out of the jealousy and envy characteristic of competitive trade, it is proper to say, as
Mr. Libbey has often stated, that after an association with Mr. Stewart during a period
of nearly seventeen years of the closest personal and business intimacy, he always
found him intensely loyal to all his surroundings, infallibly true to his word, and a
most agreeable associate and companion. One of the marked traits of his character
was that of implicit reliance on those in whom he placed confidence.
July 8, 1850, Mr. Libbey married Miss Elizabeth Marsh, of Fausse Point, La.,
daughter of Jonas Marsh and Elizabeth Morse, the latter a member of the Morse
family of New Jersey and Louisiana. This union brought them three sons, William
Libbey, jr., married, and a professor in the College of New Jersey, Princeton, N. J. ;
Jonas M. Libbey, unmarried, and from 1877 to 1884 editor and proprietor of The
Princeton Review ; and Frederick A. Libbey, married, and associated with Jonas M.
and their father in looking after various investments.
Retiring in 1883 from active labor in the dry goods business, Mr. Libbey contin-
ued to take a lively interest in financial affairs. Among other institutions and corpor-
ations, he is a director of The National Bank of Commerce, The New York, Lake
Erie & Western Railroad, and The American Pig Iron Storage Warrant Co. ; trustee of
The United States Trust Co., and The Sun Insurance Co., of London ; a member of
the Chamber of Commerce ; and life member of The New England Society, The New
York Historical Society, and The American Geographical Society. He is also a trus-
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. LI. 397
tee of the College of New Jersey and of the Princeton Theological Seminary. There
are many others in which he has borne a part but with which at the present time he is
not associated. Since 1840, he has been a member of the Fifth Avenue Presbyterian
Church and for several years was a trustee.
In connection therewith, he took a prominent part in the organization, in 1842, of a
society of which he was afterward the president and which subsequently developed in
the formation of Young Men's Christian Associations in this country and Europe.
He was for many years in active association with Sunday school and other benevolent
work and is identified with The New York Eye and Ear Infirmary, The Northern
Dispensary and many hospitals, charities and educational institutions, to which he has
been a liberal contributor.
Mr. Libbey spends his leisure time in the enjoyment of his beautiful home on
Washington Heights on the upper part of this island overlooking the Hudson.
BENJAMIN LICHTENSTEIN, merchant, was born in Hollstadt, Bavaria, Aug.
16, 1839. His father was Salome Lichtenstein, a merchant. Educated in New York
city, the young man served as errand boy and clerk in various stores, beginning with a
salary of $1.25 per week. In 1862, he ventured to engage in the wholesale jobbing of
tobacco and cigars in New Orleans and met with excellent success, but illness caused
him to abandon business in the South and he started a manufactory of cigars in New
York city under the name of Lichtenstein Bro's & Co. Energy, determination and
business skill brought him rapidly to the front. He is now president of The Consoli-
dated Cigarette Co. and a trustee of The Lichtenstein Bro's Co. His means have been
judiciously invested in real estate, which is constantly growing in value and is already
worth about a million dollars. He owns 13 and 640 Broadway, 442-6 loth street, and
135-141 Avenue D, free of incumbrances. He lives quietly, is a member of the
Freundschaft club, and is a worthy man. Nov. 29, 1863, he married Sara Katten of
New Orleans and has six children : Salome K. , Alexander, Melvin, Eleanor, Stella and
Harry Everett Lichtenstein.
EDWARD FRANCIS LINTON, realty owner, was born in Mattapoisett; Mass.,
Feb. 7, 1843. He is of English descent and his father, Edward D. Linton, was a con-
spicuous abolitionist, associate editor of The Liberator, and was on one occasion, in
1848, driven by violence from the lecture platform in New Bedford. Edward gained a
fair education, and, being poor, learned the art of pyrotechnics at Weymouth, Mass.,
in the employment of E. S. Hunt. When South Carolina seceded, he was in the city
of Charleston, whence he worked his way to New York on the last sailing vessel to
leave the port before the firing on Fort Sumter. Led by inherited sentiment and this
experience, he enlisted in the nth Mass. Inf., being the first man in Weymouth to
enlist, and served through the war. Coming to New York in 1868, he established a
small factory for making fireworks, which proved successful. The industry grew
enormously and was incorporated, with Mr. Linton as president. The warehouse is
on Park Place, a street devoted in part to this class of enterprises. Mr. Linton retired
from this business in 1884. Since then, real estate transactions in Brooklyn have
occupied his principal attention. He has been the agent for the sale of an immense
amount of property and has bought and sold on his own account large tracts of
land in the 26th Ward. In four years' time, he built over 400 houses on these prop-
erties. He is senior partner in the bank of E. F. Linton & Co. in Brooklyn, secre-
398 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
tary of The D. & M. Chauncey Real Estate Co. , president of The German-American
Improvement Co., director of The Brooklyn Real Estate Exchange and member of the
Brooklyn and Union League clubs of Brooklyn. By his marriage with Julia A. Baker
of Weymouth, Mass., in 1866, his children are Edith, Alice and Enid.
JOSEPH JAflES LITTLE, printer, was born in England, June 5, 1841. He began
life in modest circumstances, the son of James Little, a tailor who emigrated to the
United States in 1847. The family settled soon afterward in Morris, Otsego county,
N. Y. Joseph left district school at the age of fourteen to learn the trade of a printer
as an apprentice. Three years later, he came to New York and found employment in
the printing office of Rennie, Shea & Lindsey, rising to the foremanship about 1864.
Two years later, Mr. Little began business on his own account in a small way, having
for a junior partner his former employer, Mr. Rennie. A third associate joining in the
venture, the three with the combined capital of $5,000 started the printing office of
Little, Rennie & Co. on Broome street, in 1867. Being practical and hard working
men they made their way by inches. In 1873, William Jennings Demorest joined the
firm and brought them the printing of his fashion papers. The business finally grew
quite large and in 1871 was moved to an uptown location. In his present large quar-
ters on Astor place, they do an enormous business in the printing of books, magazines,
etc., employing about 500 persons. The present title of J. J. Little & Co. was adopted
in 1876 The success of Mr. Little is due to sound business methods, steady persist-
ence, and the adoption of the most modern processes in the work of his house. He is a
member of the Aldine, Manhattan, Players' and Democratic clubs, and of the Chamber
of Commerce, The General Society of Mechanics & Tradesmen, The American Geo-
graphical Society, The American Institute. Lafayette Post, G. A. R., and Kane
Lodge, F. & A. M., and Colonel of the Veteran Association of the 7ist Regiment, N.
G. , S. N. Y. He is also a director of The Astor Place Bank and trustee of The New
York Infant Asylum. He saw service in the Civil War and has been a member of
the Board of Education, resigning to take a seat in the 52d Congress, to which he was
elected by a plurality of over 8,000. He has served on several public committees. In
1866, he married Josephine Robinson. Of their eight children, six survive: Edith
Agnes, Arthur W. , Louise S. (now Mrs. Thompson), Estelle R., Raymond D., and
Elsie Little.
ANSON LIVINGSTON, lawyer, born at No. 37 Broadway in this city, May i,
1807, died on Staten Island, Aug. 4, 1873. His father was Judge Brockholst Living-
ston of the United States Supreme Court, who was the son of William Livingston,
Governor of New Jersey, the third in descent from Robert, founder of the Livingston
family in America. The mother of Anson Livingston, Ann Ludlow, the second wife of
Judge Livingston, died shortly after her son's birth, and the child was named after her,
Anson, i.e., "Ann's son." He graduated from Columbia College and after his father's
death traveled abroad. Always enterprising, he attempted the ascent of Mt. Blanc,
but was driven back by a great storm. At the age of twenty-two, he married a rela-
tive, Anne, the daughter of Henry Walter Livingston, and for a few years thereafter
lived in Columbia county, N. Y. About 1836, he removed to New York city and lived
there until 1861 when he established his home on the north shore of Staten Island at
what is now Livingston. Although a lawyer, Mr. Livingston did not practice his pro-
fession. His principal business occupation lay in taking care of the estates of his
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. LI. 399
brothers and sisters who resided abroad. He inherited a modest fortune from his
father, which he increased by judicious management and steady application. Mr.
Livingston combined in his character two opposite traits, strongly marked. He was
brave almost to rashness, and tender almost to weakness. He was ever ready to for-
give and forget. Throughout his entire life, he was a sportsman in the higher
sense of the term, and enthusiastic about fast trotters, many of which he owned and
drove. He was a yachtsman also, and owjied several of the well-known small yachts
in the New York Yacht club — the Annie. Whitecap, and Vixen. He took a great
interest in the famous America and was a friend of John L. Stevens. As to his per-
sonal appearance, a remark is recalled made by Commodore Stevens at a dinner given
to him on his return with the "Queen's Cup," at which Mr. Livingston was present.
When asked whom Prince Albert looked like, Commodore Stevens glancing round the
table answered: "He looks like Anson." As the Prince Consort was exceedingly
handsome and Mr. Livingston exceedingly modest, the latter blushed like a girl at the
compliment, and a laugh went round at his expense. In intellectual endowments and
in beauty of character, he also much resembled Prince Albert. Mr. Livingston was
greatly gifted in birth, opportunity, intellect, personal prowess, and deep and earnest
purpose. He used these gifts well. His example was a good one to all the young
men who knew him, and they honored him. He left a son Ludlow, who died a few
months after his father, and two daughters who are yet living, Mrs. Mary L. Harrison
and Ann L. Livingston.
ROBERT EDWARD LIVINGSTON, born in Clermont, Columbia county, N. Y.,
died in New York city, Jan. 20, 1889. The descendant of an eminent family, on his
mother's side, he was a grandson of Robert R. Livingston, one of the drafters of the
Declaration of Independence, and on his father's, a grandson of Philip R. Livingston,
one of the Signers of the Declaration and a member of the first Continental Congress.
He was a son of Edward P. Livingston, at one time Lieutenant Governor of New York.
Educated at Clermont by private tutors, he managed the estate which came to him by
inheritance with the ability of a business man and the graciousness of a gentleman.
He promoted the welfare of his tenants, constantly building churches and school houses
for them and otherwise displaying his interest in their affairs. In 1854, he married
Susan, daughter of James F. De Peyster, and lived a part of every year in New York,
where he became a vestryman in Grace Church, president of The New York Dispensary,
and vice president of the St. Nicholas club. Mr. Livingston was connected with many
old families of the city, among others the Beekmans, Schuylers, De Peysters, Van Cort-
landts, Reades and Stuyvesants. His wife, three sons and a daughter survived him.
FREDERICK LOESER, merchant, a native of Mergentheim, Germany, and of
Hebrew descent, was born Dec. 23, 1833. His father, a silversmith, was a worthy
man but of moderate means. Frederick left the Latin school at the age of fourteen
to become an apprentice for three years to a maker of dress trimmings and buttons in
Wurzburg. He learned the art, became a journeyman, and, in accordance with cus-
tom, spent three years practicing his trade in Vienna, Munich, Zurich and Berne. In
November, 1853, in order to escape military duty, which at that time meant six years'
service, he emigrated to New York city. His trade had not been developed in the
United States and Mr. Loeser made his way to distant relatives in Morganfield, Ky.,
where he traded in furs and learned the American language. In 1855, he accepted a
4oo AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
position as traveling salesman in the employment of a wholesale clothing house in
Louisville, Ky. In 1857, the panic caused his house to liquidate and he came to New
York, where he found employment with S. M. Peyser, importer and retailer of dress
trimmings and worsted embroideries. Three years later, with Moritz Dinkelspiel, his
brother-in-law, as a partner, and with a capital of about $1,200, he opened a small
store at No. 277 Fulton street, Brooklyn, for the sale of worsteds, embroideries and
trimmings, under the name of Frederick Loeser & Co. Thorough knowledge of the
business brought to him many customers, who had formerly made their purchases in
New York city. The Civil War brought trying times to the firm, but by dint of energy
and by dispensing with salaried clerks, they met every liability without failure. In
1863, they established a branch store at No. 737 Broadway in New York, but Jan. i,
1866, the partners separated, Mr. Loeser retaining the Brooklyn store, and Mr. Dinkel-
spiel the one in New York. For six years, Mr. Loeser traded under his own name,
but in 1872, admitted Louis and Hermann Liebmann, and in 1876, his brother, Gustav
Loeser, to partnership under the old name of Frederick Loeser & Co. In 1887, the
store was sold to the Liebmanns at a competitive sale, and the Loesers, associating
with themselves John and Howard Gibb, opened a new general dry goods store on
Fulton street, opposite the junction with DeKalb avenue, under the time-honored
name of the old firm. In this new location, the business has assumed dimensions
which have surprised the partners themselves. Mr. Loeser is a member of the
Brooklyn and Liederkranz clubs. He was married, Sept. 30, 1860, to Matilde Dinkel-
spiel, by whom he had two children, Charles Alexander and Robert M. Loeser. His
second wife is Emilie Viet, his cousin.
EDWARD VICTOR LOEW, lawyer, builder and insurance president, born in this
city, March 18, 1839, is a son of Frederick and Salome S. Loew, who came to this
country from Strasbourg in the province of Alsace, France (now included in German
territory) where the family name had, for many years, been prominent in the manu-
facture of woolen goods. The young man attended the old public school, No. 14, in
this city, of which Leonard Hazeltine was principal, but, on account of the death of his
father, was compelled to leave his books when only twelve years of age and begin to
earn his own support.
Having obtained employment in a real estate office, he applied himself to acquiring
a full knowledge of every detail of the business, and rose by application and merit to
be chief clerk, and only left that position at an early age to make a start for himself in
the same vocation in partnership with his brother, Charles E. Loew, now deceased.
During his leisure time, he mastered the rudiments of law and after completing his
studies under Samuel P. Bell, a well known real estate attorney, he was admitted to
the bar in 1868. By making a specialty of real estate conveyancing and other office
business, he soon created a large and lucrative practice. He then engaged in impor-
tant land and building operations, which soon required his undivided attention and
which he conducted with such excellent judgment and ability as to win distinct success.
He has been interested in the construction of over 300 buildings for residence purposes
in this city.
Mr. Loew has also won the reputation of a shrewd and careful financier. He be-
came an incorporator in 1867 of The Eleventh Ward Bank, which has been highly suc-
cessful and of which he is yet a director, and in 1869, of The Eleventh Ward Savings
402 AMERICA S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
Bank, of which he was the first president, filling the position with so much efficiency
and success, that upon his retirement very complimentary resolutions of respect and
appreciation were adopted by the trustees.
Mr. Loew in 1870 aided in the incorporation of The Manufacturers' & Builders'
Fire Insurance Co., becoming its president and serving for twenty-three years. He
made the company one of the best and most prosperous in the city. In 1873, Mr.
Loew became an incorporator of The New York Real Estate Guaranty Co. , of which
he is now president. He is a director in The Seaboard National Bank, The Knicker-
bocker Trust Co., The Standard Gas Light Co., and The New York Mutual Savings
& Loan Association, and first vice president of The American Savings Bank, The Iron
Steamboat Co. , and the Batopilas Mining Co. It is seldom that one meets with such
marked and continuous progress as that which has attended the persistent enterprise of
Mr. Loew.
Although ever ready to do his full duty as a citizen, Mr. Loew has declined many
offers of public office. In 1884, however, he accepted from a combination of reform
organizations a nomination for Comptroller of the City of New York and was elected by
a flattering majority. During his three years in office, man}' opportunities arose for an
upright, independent and intelligent official to serve the public interest against the
best laid schemes of public plunder, and it is sufficient to say that the reputation which
secured Mr. Loew's nomination was confirmed and strengthened by his acts as Comp-
troller. In 1887, he was urgently pressed by a large number of the most prominent
men in the city to accept a renomination, but was obliged to decline.
Mr. Loew was married in 1872, to Julia, daughter of Thomas Goadby, a retired
manufacturer of this city, and has a family of three sons, Edward Victor Loew, jr.,
Wm. Goadby Loew and Frederick W. Loew, and two daughters, Edna Goadby Loew
and Marguerite Salome Loew. His tastes are thoroughly domestic and he belongs to
only three clubs, the Manhattan, Riding and City. He finds his greatest pleasure in-
promoting the happiness of his family and dispensing a refined hospitality to a host of
friends.
Mr. Loew has acquired wealth and position by ability, perseverance and upright
methods and has given employment to thousands of men and improved the city in which
he lives. The path of many a struggling friend has been smoothed by his acts of
kindness, and he has shown by his success that "where there is a will there is a way."
He gives with discrimination, and is a good citizen, whose life record is an heritage for_
his children and should be full of inspiration to every honest youth who is determined
to succeed.
ALFRED LEBBEUS LOOfllS, M. D., born in Bennington, Vt., in 1831, died at
No. 19 West 34th street, in this city, Jan. 23, 1895. Graduating from Union College in
1851 and fitting himself for the practice of medicine at the College of Physicians
and Surgeons in this city, Dr. Loomis established himself as a general practitioner in
1855, after having spent two years as assistant physician on Ward's and Blackwell's
islands. Diseases of the respiratory organs were adopted as his specialty from the
beginning and in his later years his associates in medicine conceded to him the rank of
one of the leading authorities in the United States in that branch of medical science.
His consulting rooms were thronged with patients, who paid him large fees for his
advice, and Dr. Loomis was one of the few who accumulated a large fortune in his
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. LO. 403
profession. Bellevue, Mount Sinai, the Charity and other hospitals gave him a place
on their staffs, and he belonged to all the principal medical societies of America and
Europe and the faculty of the University of the City of New York. No other man
did more than he to promote the prominence of the Adirondacks as a health resort.
He was a large contributor to the medical literature of the day, some of his larger
works being " Lessons in Physical Diagnosis," "Diseases of the Respirator}* Organs,
Heart and Kidneys," "Lectures on Fevers," "Diseases of Old Age," and "A Text
Book of Practical Medicine." Dr. Loomis married twice, and his second wife and
two children by his first wife survived him.
DANIEL LORD, lawyer, a native of Stonington, Conn., born Sept. 2, 1795, died
in New York city, March 4, 1868. He was a brother of Rufus L., Thomas, and David
X. Lord, the latter a notable merchant of this city and prominent promoter of The
New York & Erie Railroad and also of Eleazer Lord, president of that road.
Graduating from Yale College and being admitted to the bar in 1817, this countrv lad
rose in time to be the greatest mercantile lawyer of New York city. Few great cases
in either the New York or United States courts came to trial without his appearance
on one side or the other, and his practice brought him a fortune. He was a
distinguished orator and his indignant speech at a public meeting held in the Broad-
way Tabernacle over the brutal assault upon Charles Sumner in the United States
Senate so stung the Slidell family, that one of its members challenged him. Mr. Lord
disposed of the challenge with contempt.
SAflUEL LORD, dry goods merchant, born in Yorkshire, England, died at his
home, Ashton-on-Mersey, Cheshire, England. May 23, 1889, in his eighty-sixth year.
The youngest of five children, he was left an orphan while young. He served an
apprenticeship in the trade of iron-moulder, rising to be master of the craft. In
1824, he came to New York and engaged in the dry goods business, and in 1826, was
joined by his young wife and child, whom he had left in England. His wife's cousin,
George W. Taylor, entered the business with him in 1834, under the firm name of
Lord & Taylor, but withdrew in 1845, and was succeeded by James S. Taylor, Mrs.
Lord's brother. The}" continued in business in Catherine street until 1854, when they
moved to the corner of Grand and Chrystie streets, and in 1860, established a second
store on Broadway at the corner of Grand street, later removing the latter to the
corner of Broadway and 2oth street, the present location of the up-town store.
Mr. Lord retired in 1862, making his home thereafter at Ashton, Cheshire, England.
He was a special partner in several firms. He never forgot those who helped him in
his early struggles. His two sons, G. W. Taylor Lord and Samuel Lord, jr., succeeded
him in the firm.
THOflAS LORD, merchant, born in Norwich, Conn., about 1795, died in New
York city, Feb. 8, 1879. He was one of a notable family, the men of which were
all prominent in this city, the early part of the present century. In 1822, he became
a partner of the old firm of Lord & Lees, great importers of dry goods in this city,
famous in every part of the country. He married a daughter of Elbert Anderson and
had several children. He was president at one time of The Columbia Marine In-
surance Co. Receiving a large inheritance from his brother Rufus, he added thereto
until his wealth was conspicuous. Real-estate, which he bought at what would now
be regarded a low price in the heart of the business portion of the city, afterward
404 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
rose to a high value. In 1841, he was Naval Officer of the port. His first wife died
in 1872. Dec. 31, 1877, he was married to Mrs. Annette Wilhelmina Hicks, a leader
in the social life of the city.
PETER LORILLARD, tobacconist, who died at Saratoga, N. Y., Oct. 6, 1867, in
the seventy-second year of his age, succeeded his father in a well-established tobacco
business in this city about the middle oi the century, ana after many years of strict
frugality and untiring industry in the manufacture and sale of tobacco, became the
richest person in the trade in the United States. Long before the many dealers whose
names are now familiar as leaders in the business had become known in commercial
circles, Mr. Lorillard accumulated a fortune which enabled him to rule the market.
The business and house, which his children inherit, are one hundred years old. The
most conspicuous representative of the family at the present time is Pierre Lorillard,
who is a large stockholder in The P. Lorillard Co., incorporated, which, with a capital
of $5,000,000, employs about 3,000 persons in large factories in Jersey City. He is the
founder of Tuxedo Park and a very public-spirited man.
PHINEAS CHAPflAN LOUNSBURY, statesman, financier, and for many years
president of The Merchants' Exchange National Bank of New York, was born Jan.
10, 1841, in Ridgefield, Conn., of good old colonial stock. His grandfather was a
farmer but fought bravely throughout the War of the Revolution, while his father,
who yet enjoys a hearty old age, devotes himself to agricultural pursuits.
The young man received his early education in the schools of his native State
and showed a marked fondness for and proficiency in the classics, elocution and debates,
his favorite study being mathematics. When the Civil War began, he enlisted as a
private in the i7th Conn. Vol's, but was stricken down by sickness, which compelled
his retirement. He was recommended for a pension but refused it. In spite of the
fact that bad health debarred him from participation in the battles in which his regi-
ment distinguished itself, he has never lost interest in his former comrades in arms
and is an active member of Edwin D. Pickett Post No. 64, G. A. R. of Ridgefield
When his old regiment dedicated a monument on the battlefield of Gettysburg, in
July, 1884, the former private was orator of the day and delivered a touching and elo-
quent eulogy over the graves of the comrades, who gave up their lives in that hotly
contested fight. His peroration was worthy of the occasion. It was couched in these
words :
"If in the years to come, the North and South shall vie with each other in the
bloodless battle of industry and patriotism, of social justice and political freedom, of
intelligence and virtue, as gallantly and truly as on this field they fought in fratricidal
strife, to gather the harvest the battle's red rain has made to flow, who shall regret
the price paid ?"
Governor Lounsbury's political career has been an enviable and brilliant one, char-
acterized as it has been by perfect purity and fervent patriotism. His first vote was
cast in 1862 for Abraham Lincoln and from that day he has always been a devoted
Republican. In 1874, he served in the Connecticut Legislature, representing his native
place, and his services in that body, both on committee work and as Speaker, won such
unanimous commendation that he soon became a leader in his party. It was largely
through his efforts that the local option laws, which were passed in the State, were en
acted, and however they may have antagonized certain classes, it is certain that they
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. LO. 405
elevated him in the esteem of all whose esteem is worth having. It was by his speeches
in favor of temperance that he first won the reputation of being one of the orators of
the State, and in the Elaine campaign of 1884, he added largely to this reputation.
At these State conventions, he was brought forward as candidate for Governor. In
1882, he requested that his name be withdrawn in favor of the Hon. Wm. H. Buckley,
but four years later he was unanimously nominated on the first ballot.
His administration of the high office -during 1887 and 1888, was characterized by
wisdom and patriotism and firmness, such as entitle him to rank high compared with his
predecessors. A notable instance ot how his influence was felt was shown in the " In-
corrigible Criminals Act." This provides that a person who has been twice convicted
of an offense, involving a term of not less than two years in prison, shall on the third con-
viction be sentenced to imprisonment for twenty-five years. Governor Lounsbury be-
lieved that a life sentence should be imposed in such cases, and said so in a message in
which he brought the subject to the attention of the Legislature, his strongest argu-
ment being that the State prison is primarily for the protection of society, an idea which
has resulted recently, in one State at least, in the imposition of a life penalty, although
it was thought best not to impose the life sentence, the twenty-five year term in most
cases amounting to practically the same thing.
Politics ran high during Governor Lounsbury's time, yet when his term came to an
end, even his most bitter political foes could find no peg upon which to hang a just
criticism, and on nearly all sides it was admitted that he was one ot the best executives
the State had ever had. His integrity was beyond question, his courtesy to all never
failing, and his splendid business tact and his evident inclination to administer State
affairs on purely business principles gained him the admiration of friends and antag-
onists alike throughout the commonwealth. It is seldom that a man retiring from a
public office is enabled to cany with him such universal esteem and commendation.
Even The Hartford Daily Times, the leading Democratic newspaper of Connecti-
cut, was impelled to say of him editorially :
" While our political preferences did not favor his election to the Chief Magistracy
of the State, and while we had at the outset some doubts as to the probable methods of
his official course, we very frankly say that he has been one of the best Governors
Connecticut has ever had. Governor Lounsbury unquestionably retires from office with
the respect and hearty good feeling of every one, irrespective of party, with whom he
has been brought into official personal relations."
Governor Lounsbury married Miss Jennie Wright, daughter of Neziah Wright,
one of the founders of The American Bank Note Company, in 1867, and his domestic
relations are of the happiest. In religion, he is a member of the Methodist Episcopal
Church, having been a lay delegate to the General Conference in 1886. He has been
for many years a trustee of the Wesleyan University at Middletown, Connecticut, which
conferred the degree of Doctor of Laws upon him in 1887.
Among the organizations to which he belongs are the Colonial and Republican
clubs of New York, and the Mystic Tie and Jerusalem Lodge, F. and A. M., Ridge-
field, Conn. He is a Royal Arch Master of Eureka Chapter, Danbury, Conn. , a Knight
Templar of Crusader Commanderv of the same place, and a noble of the Mystic Shrine,
attached to Pyramid Temple, Bridgeport, Conn.
Governor Lounsbury is a trustee in The American Bank Note Co. and chairman
406 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
of the executive committee of The Washington Trust Co. and holds official positions
in several other financial institutions.
ABIEL ABBOT LOW, merchant, a native of the old seaport town of Salem, Mass.,
born Feb. 7, 1811, died in Brooklyn, Jan. 7, 1893. The oldest son among the twelve
children of Seth and Mary P. Low, he went from the grammar schools directly into the
office of Joseph Howard & Co., merchants in the South American trade, and grew
naturally into a commercial career. In 1829, the family moved to Brooklyn, N. Y.
Abiel assisted his father, a drug merchant, for three years and then sailed to China to
become a clerk for Russell & Co., of Canton, in which his uncle, William H. Low, was
a partner. Admitted to partnership in 1833, he returned to New York in 1840, opened
a store in Fletcher street and became an importer of tea. Josiah O. Low, his brother,
joined him in 1845, and in 1852, his brother-in-law, Edward H. R. Lyman. The firm
name of A. A. Low & Bro's, then adopted, yet adorns the building in Burling Slip,
in which a general business is carried on. With the expansion of his trade, Mr.
Low found it necessary to possess his own ships. He had a large fleet and employed
them in the trade with China. Mr. Low not only possessed the money-making faculty
and a resolute spirit in emergencies, but a strong and broad mind, a generous heart,
a desire to promote the interests of his brother merchants, and a character which com-
manded public confidence. He entered the Chamber of Commerce in 1846 and was its
president, 1863-67, resigning then in order to enjoy a voyage around the world. He
was president of the trustees of the Packer Institute in Brooklyn for many years,
and a patron of nearly all the philanthropic institutions on that side of the East river.
During the War, he proved a stanch and active supporter of the Union. Investment
and the habit of giving personal attention to every important interest led him into the
directorate of The American Fire Insurance Co., The Central Trust Co., The Delaware
& Hudson Canal, The Greenwich Insurance Co., The Low Moor Iron Co., The Nassau
Fire Insurance Co., The National Bank of Commerce, The Old Dominion Land Co.,
The Greenwood Cemetery Co., The Home Life Insurance Co., The Union Trust Co.,
and The Washington Life Insurance Co. He was a large owner of The Brooklyn
City Railroad and The Franklin Trust Co. Although amassing great wealth, he bore
himself with quiet modesty and was universally loved. In March, 1841, he married
Ellen Almira, daughter of Josiah Dow. Their four children were Harriette Low,
Abbot Augustus Low, Seth Low and Mrs. Henry E. Pierrepont. Mrs. Low died
Jan. 25, 1850. Feb. 25, 1851, Mr. Low was married again to Ann D. B., widow of his
brother, William H. Low. She died in 1891. His son, Seth Low, president of Colum-
bia College, has recently made the munificent gift of $1,000,000 to the college.
JOSEPH TOflPKINS LOW, merchant, was born in Louisville, Ky., in August,
1846, and is a son of James Low, a native of Massachusetts, and Emeline Van Buskirk,
of Louisville. He was educated in the schools of New York city and began life as a
clerk in the dry-goods jobbing house of Wicks, Smith & Co. In January, 1867, he had
gained sufficient experience and confidence to go into the firm of Low, Harriman &
Co. , dry goods commission merchants. They have always represented various factories,
especially the New York Mills of Utica, N. Y. , and by diligent enterprise have in-
creased their transactions to several million dollars a year. In 1888, the style of the
firm was changed to Joseph T. Low & Co., Mr. Harriman having retired. The senior
partner is not simply a competent merchant. He is a gentleman of fine cultivation and
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. LO. 407
high character and is highly esteemed both in business circles and up town and enjoys
the acquaintance of a large number of pleasant friends. He married Mary, grand-
daughter of Dr. Valentine Mott, in February, 1870, and his children are Joseph T.,
Oliver H., May and Laura Low He has joined many of the best clubs, including the
Union League, Manhattan, Country, Merchants', and Lawyers', and The New England
Society, and is a director of The Equitable Life Assurance Society, The Hanover Fire
Insurance Co., The Safe Deposit Co. of New York, and other institutions.
JOSEPH S. LOWREY, merchant, born in Newark, N. J , died at his home in this
city, July 27, 1885, at the age of sixty-four. He came to New York when seventeen
years old, and for several years was employed by the dry goods firm of Edmund J.
Kingsland, one of the largest in the city. In 1855, he organized the firm of J. S.
Lowrey & Co. , importers of furnishing goods and rose therein to fortune. Mr. Lowrey
was one of the organizers of The Fifth Avenue Bank, of which he was president, and was
a director in The Importers' & Traders' Bank, The Hanover Fire Insurance Co. , The
Missouri Pacific Railway and The St. Louis, Iron Mountain & Southern Railway.
He was a member of the Chamber of Commerce, and was for some time chairman of
the executive committee of the Union League club. For thirty years, he had been one
of the most active business men of New York. His wife and one son survived him.
WILLIAfl LUnniS, banker and stock broker, born in New York city, May 2,
1841, is a son of William Maxwell Lummis, a dry goods merchant, and Ann O'Brien,
his wife, the latter the sister of William and John O'Brien, the famous bankers. In the
veins of Mr. Lummis flows the blood of a mingled ancestry, both patrician and demo-
cratic. His paternal line is traced back to a Puritan pioneer, who emigrated to the new
world from England in 1636. The Maxwell family originated in the north of Ireland
and was planted in this country about the year 1700. The maternal line descends from
French Huguenot and Irish stock and the grandfather of Mr. Lurnmis was Lord
O'Brien, Earl of Inchiquin. In his own character and career, Mr. Lummis has exem-
plified the elevated spirit, the enterprise and the sterling qualities of his forbears.
He had the advantage of beginning life with an excellent education and is one of those
to whom his associates point with satisfaction as typical of the success of the "college
man in business " From private schools in this city, Mr. Lummis went to Columbia
College, whence he graduated in 1859, with the degree of A. B., receiving three years
later, from his alma mater, the degree of A. M.
Destined at first for the law, he studied the text books of that profession for two
years in the offices of Augustus Schell, Waldo Hutchins and Judge Henry E. Davies.
But an active spirit and opportunity combined led him to decide, finally, upon a differ-
ent career, and he then entered the banking office of William & John O'Brien in Wall
street. The vocation proved congenial and he made himself useful at once. He pur-
chased a seat in the Stock Exchange in 1864, and in 1865, was admitted to partnership
by his uncles. Mr. Lummis has spent his whole life in the world whose interests
center in Wall street He retired from William & John O'Brien in 1878, and formed a
partnership with Henry Day, previously of Gwynne & Day, and conducted a banking and
brokerage business on Wall street, under the title of Lummis & Day until 1885, when
he retired from active business, his brother succeeding to his interest in the firm.
At the Stock Exchange, Mr. Lummis b2came prominent in a very few years in
consequence of his soundness of judgment, personal popularity and courteous address.
AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL HEX.
He served as a governor of the Stock Exchange ,874-S6, and was elected vice president
in ,884. For a time after the resignation of A. S. Hatch, he was the acting president
of the Exchange and thereafter declined farther office.
He has since been occupied with investments. He is an excellent judge of cor
porate properties, is cool, keen and successful in their management, and n or has been
a director of The Rome, Watertown & Ogdensburg, The Uticaft Black Hirer The
Xew York & New England, The Xewburgh, Dutchess & Connecticut and The South
Carolina & Georgia Railroads, The Washington Trust Co., The Emigrant Industrial
Savings Bank and The Bond & Mortgage Guarantee Co. AH of these are important
msbtntions and derive much strength from Mr. Lummis's connection with them.
To some extent, he has served his fellow citizens of the metropolis in public
affairs, although too busy a man to make politics much of a feature in his Hfe He
served as a member of the Board of Education for seven years and was chairman of
the Finance Committee of the Board for several vears, succeeding Jacob D. Vermilve.
e resigned m 1893. Mayor Grace paid him the compliment of appointment as Com-
Mssoner of Taxes but Mr. Lummis found himself reluctantlj compelled to decline.
is as deeply interested in the welfare of the city, however, as anv other old Xew
\ orker and has promoted its prosperity in many ways.
He was married in 1886 and is the father of William Maxwell, CharksP Rnthand
t Lummis, and while greatly preferring home life to that which is found beneath
f a club house is nevertheless a member of the Manhattan club up town and
for the sake of its facilities of the Lawyers' club down town. He is also, bv virtue of
the services of Capt. John Maxwell of Xew Jersey, in die War for Independence, a Son
of the Revolution.
EDWARD HUTCHINSON BOBBINS LYflAN, born in Northampton, Ma*. Feb
!2j!!!Lf JL!^J1 JOSep!l Lyman* hwyer' J™^^ P™****, andamemberof the
celebrated Hartford Convention. His father's family were English, his mother's. Scot-
Fhe paternal ancestor, Richard Lyman, left England for this country about i6«
and from his three sons, Richard, Robert and John, originated all of the name of
Lyman in this country. The subject of this sketch attended die schools of Xorthamp-
r1"1^:^* '^ HC ^ f0tmd «1**»« in Boston in the store of
Z^t??6 ' ** g00dS ^P0"6*5- Fo*r rears later, when the firm dissolved,
two houses were formed. Mr. Lyman continued with one of them, that of George B.
Jlake& Co., and m , 838, went to England as their representative. Hebecameapan-
nerin,84i, and ertahHshed a branch in Xew York city under the name of NermT&
Co. Remaining abroad as the representative of the two howes until fte fall of 1847
he returned to occupy himself in Xevins& Co. In ,85*, Mr. Lyman became a partner
he firm of A. A. Low & Bro's, merchants in the China trade, and thereafter devoted
^totheof.erationsof flrisfirin. He was an excellent merchant, spirited, up-
^^!t^fgtM^SLaad l**rfweil "* P« *"** over forty yean, of active
^^^J^^^ * ** Lyman"S Dame *« been ««*• bV several cor-
ponitaoo^and he has been second vice president of The Seamen's Bank for Savings, a
director in The Atlantic Trust Co., The New York Mntnal In»«anee Co.. Tn^w
100 ^*'^ °rieDt Matnal **«»« Co., The Xassau National Bank of
toook^n^TheBrooldyn Trust Co. He is not attracted by club We and has joined
only the Brooklyn and the Down Town clubs, die latter a favorite resort of thesab-
THE CITY OF >* <. — Ly.
<f the lower part of New York city for luncheon. His home is in Brook-
married in August, 1846, to Sarah Elizabeth, a sister of A. A. Low.
rought them four children, Edward Robbins, who lived four months;
died in September, 1883; Anna Jean, who married Alfred T. White, and
His wife died in April, 1863 In August, 1865, he married Catharine
,-hter of Dr. Alfred Tredway. of Hart's* Village. Dutches* countv N Y
HEATH LYON, a most successful wholesale merchant, b.»rn in the town
\t Hampden count) , Mass , Oct. 187 1819, traces his descent fn»m Will^m !.y«»n,
arly English settlers of Massachusetts, who located at Roxhurv in 16*5"
Mr. Lyon spent his early life in work upon a farm, attending thf i! <•»?»>.: -
winter. When fourteen years of age, he was sect to a •*'••, ....; -r
^nd after graduation went to Wayne county, K. Y. where for fcv-
;n teaching, the last two years as principal of the C'\o
principal of this school, the enterprise of Prof Morse, wh x*i •>.• a »«. -.
graph line into operation between Washington and F attracted h^ .
Mr. Lyon was deeply interested in the subject of - - ;'-u- course ot >
criments of his own, COT
.d, by means of a model which he had made, that type and isk could be used in
ying messages by telegraph wire. This no doubt was the basis for the o .nstruc-
•>f a machine, which has since been utilized throughout the world. The Clyde
'-, a paper published at Clyde, in its issue of July n, 1844, Volume i. No 9,
printed a tv.-o column editorial article in full explanation of Mr. Lyon's telegraphic
experiments, which was copied and commented upon by The Neu< York Evening Post,
The Commercial Advertiser, The Boston Traveller and other journals. Mr. Lyon was
f the earliest electricians in the United States, and had he chosen to pursue the
tigations. upon which he entered fifty years ago, he would undoubtedly have risen
"ie to the front rank in this science. But commercial pursuits appeared to be
agreeable to him and to offer a wider field for advancement than electrical or
.stigations. He therefore decided to engage in the former.
In 1845, he came to New York city and for two years found occupation as salesman
.jolesale dry goods business. He then changed from dry goods t«> what *•*«*
" Yankee notions and fancy goods." After nr^ur-i^n^- tn« r,r-v •:
>., his brother, Warren W. Lyon, being the "Co.," he '•».- ,:; b
vith a very limited capital on the second fli»or -»f thv Lnifiotn. . >
Mr. Lyon proved a splendid merchant, energciu:. u^' •„':,•
the satisfaction Qt" witnessing a gradual but •.
rs were soon needed. In 1851. they moved to N"«..
- Cortlandt street; in 1864, to No. 371 1;
XoV 483 and 485 Broadway, fifty feet i-'
o Mercer street. A business •'. -*-ith
n accumulating speed and in the new iocMx/Q tfce trade -«f M- :
Hy. The firm remained there for twenty v,,tn». when M- !.»«>;•. ncl
^e of three score and ten, deculw.1 lu c '."».- th«_ h-,i-.n<-s< >f iir,.-1.
.::tiie pursuits. During the forty-three ye«r> .-* c-^i-«tt-rH:t .-r
.'.uyes were admitted to partnership, but the n*mt of tfce konse was
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. — LY. 409
stantial men of the lower part of New York city for luncheon. His home is in Brook-
lyn. He was married in August, 1846, to Sarah Elizabeth, a sister of A. A. Low.
This union brought them four children, Edward Robbins, who lived four months;
Joseph, who died in September, 1883; Anna Jean, who married Alfred T. White, and
Frank Lyman. His wife died in April, 1863 In August, 1865, he married Catharine
Amelia, daughter of Dr. Alfred Tredway, of Hart's Village, Dutchess county, N Y.
WILLIAfl HEATH LYON, a most successful wholesale merchant, born in the town
of Holland, Hampden count) , Mass. , Oct. i8,"i8i9, traces his descent from William Lyon,
one of the early English settlers of Massachusetts, who located at Roxbury in 1635.
Mr. Lyon spent his early life in work upon a farm, attending the district school
during every winter. When fourteen years of age, he was sent to a school in Hart-
ford, Conn., and after graduation went to Wayne county, N. Y. where for five years
he engaged in teaching, the last two years as principal of the Clyde High School.
While principal of this school, the enterprise of Prof. Morse, who had put a tele-
graph line into operation between Washington and BaUimore, attracted his attention.
Mr. Lyon was deeply interested in the subject of telegraph}', and, in the course of some
experiments of his own, constructed a printing telegraph machine, or rather demon-
strated, by means of a model which he had made, that type and ink could be used in
conveying messages by telegraph wire. This no doubt was the basis for the construc-
tion of a machine, wrhich has since been utilized throughout the world. The Clyde
Eagle, a paper published at Clyde, in its issue of July n, 1844, Volume i, No 9,
printed a two column editorial article in full explanation of Mr. Lyon's telegraphic
experiments, which was copied and commented upon by The New York Evening Post,
Tlie Commercial Advertiser, The Boston Traveller and other journals. Mr. Lyon was
one of the earliest electricians in the United States, and had he chosen to pursue the
investigations, upon which he entered fifty years ago, he would undoubtedly have risen
in time to the front rank in this science. But commercial pursuits appeared to be
more agreeable to him and to offer a wider field for advancement than electrical or
scientific investigations. He therefore decided to engage in the former.
In 1845, he came to New York city and for two years found occupation as salesman
in the wholesale dry goods business. He then changed from dry goods to what was
then termed ' • Yankee notions and fancy goods. " After organizing the firm of Wm.
H. Lyon & Co., his brother, Warren W. Lyon, being the "Co.," he began business at
his own risk with a very limited capital on the second floor of the building at No. 169
Pearl street. Mr. Lyon proved a splendid merchant, energetic, upright and sound,
and he had the satisfaction of witnessing a gradual but constant growth of his trade.
Larger quarters were soon needed. In 1851, they moved to No. 4 Dey street, in 1860,
to No's 15-17 Cortlandt street; in 1864, to No. 371 Broadway and in 1870, to the large
double store No's 483 and 485 Broadway, fifty feet in width, running through the
entire block to Mercer street. A business conducted with intelligence and energy
advances with accumulating speed and in the new location the trade of Mr. Lyon
increased rapidly. The firm remained there for twenty years, when Mr. Lyon having
reached the age of three score and ten, decided to close the business of the firm and
retire from mercantile pursuits. During the forty-three years of existence of the firm,
several valued employe's were admitted to partnership, but the name of the house was
never changed.
410 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
The firm of Wm. H. Lyon & Co. were ever in the van of progress. Mr. Lyon had
the spirit and sagacity to be the first New York merchant in his line of business to visit
Europe for the purpose of procuring a better assortment of fancy goods, small wares,
etc., than could be obtained at the time from New York importers. The first trip
took place in 1848. He had intended, after completing his purchases in England, to go
directly to France, but was prevented for the moment by the revolution in progress
there. He visited Belgium instead. While there he heard of the flight of Louis
Phillipe to England and the establishment of the provisional government of the
French Republic under Lamartine. Leaving Belgium immediately for France, he was
the first American merchant to enter Paris after the insurrection. Confusion reigned
throughout the city and the trade of the commission houses and manufacturers was
prostrated. Goods then ruling at low prices, Mr. Lyon purchased liberally and made
arrangements for future shipments. These ventures earned their own reward in large
profits. The house afterward imported large quantities of goods from all the leading
commercial cities in Europe, and from India, China and Japan. Few firms in New
York became better known throughout the commercial world than Wm. H. Lyon &
Co. Their sales extended to every State in the Union, and to Canada, Mexico, the
West Indies and South America.
Although Mr. Lyon always gave to all his business affairs the strict and pains-
taking attention characteristic of a thorough business man, he found time nevertheless
for social enjoyment, public duties and the management of corporate enterprises. He
is an old member of the Chamber of Commerce of New York, and a member of The
Brooklyn Institute of Arts and Sciences, The Long Island Historical Society, and the
Oxford and Union League clubs of Brooklyn. He is also a director of The New Eng-
land Society, The Brooklyn Life Insurance Co., and The Bedford Bank and vice
president of The Hamilton Trust Co. , of Brooklyn.
An important public service has been performed by Mr. Lyon with respect to
those scattered tribes of the original possessors of this continent yet surviving in the
West. During General Grant's administration, Congress authorized the President of
the United States in his discretion to organize a Board of Indian Commissioners, select-
ing men noted for intelligence and philanthropy, to serve without compensation. Mr.
Lyon was appointed by General Grant one of the members of this Board. He was im-
mediately assigned to the Purchasing Committee and served as its chairman under six
Presidential administrations. The purchases of Indian annuity goods and supplies had
previously been conducted in a way which did not give general satisfaction. Mr. Lyon
organized a system of bids and awards under which an animated competition in bidding
took place between the largest merchants and manufacturers in the country, and there-
after the goods and supplies required for the Indians were obtained at very low prices.
During several summer vacations, Mr. Lyon, as a member of this board, visited and
held councils with the following Indian tribes : The Chippewas and Pembinas in Northern
Minnesota; the Sioux, Mandans, Arickarees and Gros Ventres in Dakota; the Poncas
in Nebraska; the Utes in Colorado; the Northern Arapahoes and Cheyennes, Bannocks
and Shoshones in Wyoming; the Pi Utes in Nevada; and the Mountain and Yellow-
stone River Crows in Montana. He also visited Chicago, St. Paul, St. Louis, Denver
and San Francisco in the interest of the government for the purchase of Indian goods
and supplies. It may be mentioned that at the various councils with savage tribes,
414 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
rare opportunities it offered for investment, he purchased a country seat, which is now
his home for several months every year. He has been constantly adding to this estate
for nearly thirty years, until he now owns 1,500 acres of land around the city in addition
to his well-appointed country home as well as a large block of property in the business
center of Morristown, upon which he has recently erected several new buildings. He
takes an active interest in the welfare and prosperity of Morristown, and is noted for
his public spirit and demotion to the progress and prosperity of the place.
Despite the fact that his boyhood from his tenth year was spent in hard labor, Mr.
McAlpin is a gentleman of intelligence and culture and the possessor of a splendid
library, among whose treasures are a large number of rare books on Scottish gene-
alogy, including many volumes devoted to the family name. Like all other members
of the Irish branch of the family, he spells his name without the final "e," while most
of those who descend from ancestors who came to this country in the seventeenth cen-
tury and settled in the South, call themselves McAlpine. They all descend from the
clan Alpine, which is frequently mentioned in Sir Walter Scott's works, and the
subject of this sketch is proud of his derivation.
Busy as he always is, he finds time to attend to other duties and is a director of The
Home Insurance Co., The Manhattan Life Insurance Co., The National Bank of the
Republic, The Union Trust Co., The Rutgers Fire Insurance Co., The Standard Gas
Light Co., The Eleventh Ward Bank, and The First National Bank of Morristown.
He is also a member of The American Museum of Natural History and The American
Geographical Society, and a patron of The Metropolitan Museum of Art and a director
of The Union Theological Seminary.
Mr. McAlpin was married to Miss Adelaide Rose, daughter of Joseph Rose, on
the i6th of April, 1845, at the old Market street church, now the Church of Sea and
Land. Ten children were born to him, of whom two died in infancy, while eight at-
tained their majority. These were Edwin A., formerly Colonel of the yist Reg't,
N. G. , N. S. Y., of this city, who was recently appointed Adjutant General of the State
by Governor Levi P. Morton, and who assists his father in the management of his
business; Joseph Rose, who died in 1888; George Lodowick, who graduated from
Yale in 1879; William Willet; Frances Adelaide, who married James Tolman Pyle;
Dr. David Hunter, who graduated from Princeton in 1885 and is now a professor in
Bellevue Hospital Medical College; Charles W. , who graduated from Princeton in
1888, and John Randolph McAlpin, of Princeton, 1893, who died the same year.
From his earliest days, Mr. McAlpin has been an indefatigable worker, but despite
his labors, he has found time to form a collection of masterpieces of American and
European art, to which he is making constant and judicious additions. He has traveled
extensively both at home and abroad and during his frequent trips to Europe and for-
eign lands has acquired a vast amount of practical knowledge and experience, which
furnishes a fund of entertainment, both interesting and instructive. He has always
been an active and generous supporter of all charitable and reform movements, and
has recently erected the Olivet Chapel, a handsome edifice situated on zd street, oppo-
site the Marble Cemetery, in memory of his lamented son, Joseph R McAlpin.
Mi. McAlpin is the possessor of a robust constitution, and a cheery and happy
disposition, and he personally attends to the details of his great business. He ranks
among the eminently successful self-made men of the metropolis.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. H A
415
GEN. EDWIN AUGUSTUS McALPIN, manufacturer, puolic man, and now Adju-
tant General of the State of New York, was born June 9, 1848, in New York city, the
son of David H. McAlpin, founder of the tobacco house in which both men have risen
to prominence. In early life, the subject of this biography attended the public schools
of New York city, and later, during the first year of the Civil War, graduated from
Phillips academy in Andover, Mass. Like others of the youth of his time, General
McAlpin felt strongly moved by the patriotic impulses which then stirred the people of
the North, and he strove to go to the front "and take part in the great war for the pres-
ervation of the Union. His longing to take part in that national drama could not,
however, be gratified; and, although he twice actually enlisted as a drummer boy,
parental authority came into play, wisely, to restrain the enthusiastic boy from that for
which the immaturity of his strength unfitted him. When he had become old enough
to go, the War was over, but this did not quench his military ardor, and, although upon
his return from school to New York, he had found occupation in a clerkship in the great
tobacco manufactory of his father on Avenue D, he was determined in time to ally him-
self with some military corps. The yth regiment is one of the commands toward which
the sons of good families in this town turn instinctively when they desire a military
experience, and in this corps the future general enlisted as a private at an early age.
After a term of service there, he was elected Lieutenant of Co. E, 7 ist N. Y. Promoted
soon afterward to be Captain of the company, he rose in two years to the rank of Major
and not long thereafter to that of Colonel of the regiment. His energy resulted in a
great improvement of the discipline of this command ; but increasing business respon-
sibilities made such demands upon his time and strength as to compel him to resign,
June 30, 1887, after eighteen years of service in the National Guard.
In 1870, he was admitted to partnership in D. H. McAlpin & Co., and has ever
since been an efficient factor in the prosperity of the concern, aiding materially to make
his house the largest fine cut tobacco industry in the country. He is at present prac-
tically the manager of the business. A good disciplinarian, he is, nevertheless, a kind
and considerate employer, and his numerous acts of friendliness have greatly endeared
him to the working people in the factor)7. Further than that, he has become popular
with working men at large and their regard has been invariably shown whenever Gen-
eral McAlpin has been nominated for an elective office.
General McAlpin established his home in Sing Sing on the Hudson in 1878. He
has always been an ardent Republican in political faith and of too active a nature to
refrain from participation in movements which awaken his interest. In 1884, the Re-
publicans of the 1 4th District nominated him, a week before election and in his absence,,
as the most meritorious man they could select, to lead the local fight for a seat in Con-
gress. The district being strongly Democratic, the odds were appalling, but Mr.
McAlpin sprang into the fight with vigor, and although defeated by 1,200 votes ran
2,000 votes ahead of his colleagues on the Republican ticket.
At one time postmaster of Sing Sing, he was during 1 886-88 a trustee of the vil-
lage and in 1889, its president. Thrice his name has been placed on the Republican
ticket of New York State as Presidential elector and, in 1888, he received the largest
vote of any one on the ticket in the entire State. For many years, he has been espec-
ially identified with the movement for the organization of Leagues of Republican clubs,
and during 1889-92 was for four years president of the League in New York State.
a.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. — M'C. 417
Through his energy, that organization became an effective force in the party, arousing
new activity on the part of the older members and increasing the enthusiasm of the
younger. When the national meeting of Republican clubs was held in Denver in 1894,
at least 1,000 of the 1,500 votes in that convention rallied to his support for election as
president of the National League. With characteristic modesty and a coolness of judg-
ment, which enabled him to act with deliberation in spite of the exceedingly compli-
mentary character of the support tendered him, he declined in favor of Mr. Tracy of
Illinois, who had more time to give to the practical work of the League and was accord-
ingly elected. Gen. McAlpin became president of the League, however, in 1895.
In 1895, he accepted from Governor Levi P. Morton an appointment as Adjutant
General of the State of New York, and has since given a large amount of time to
the duties of this office. A long service in the National Guard has fitted him for the
position, and while the appointment was a compliment to General McAlpin's untir-
ing work for the Republican party, it has given the State an Adjutant General, who
knows what is required from him and is fully competent to perform his duty. During
the railroad riots in Brooklyn in 1895, he was constantly at his post and made several
personal visits to the scene of action, his arrangements for the preservation of order
being made with calmness and prudence.
His business interests are now quite diversified. He is not only active in D. H.
McAlpin & Co., but is president of The McAlpin Tobacco Co., of Toronto, The
Manhattan Hotel Co., and The Ossining Electrical Railroad, and director of The Sixth
National Bank, The Eleventh Ward Bank and The State Trust Co. of this city, of the
latter of which he was an incorporator.
By his marriage in October, 1870, with Annie, daughter of Dr. Benjamin Brand -
reth, he is the father of Benjamin B., Edwin A., David H., 3d, Kenneth R., and J.
Roderick McAlpin. The family make their home in Sing Sing on the Hudson. Gen.
McAlpin has been elected to membership in the Union League, Lotus, Republican,
New York Athletic, Seventh Regiment Veteran, United Service, new Manhattan
Athletic, Hardware, and the New Rochelle and Sing Sing Yacht clubs, and several
trade and charitable associations. He is fond of open air amusements, has pluck,
energy, enthusiasm and a clear head and gives his services and means loyally and gen-
erously to every cause which he espouses.
JOHN McCONVILLE, merchant, born in Ireland in 1813, died in this country, July
24, 1875. He was a son of William McConville, weaver of linens. After the usual
education of a young man who must follow a practical career, he began business life in
1848 as a jobber and merchant of dry goods in a small store in Catharine street, New-
York, removing some time afterward to Cedar street. All the energies of his mind
were devoted to an expansion of his trade, and his career was an excellent illustration
of the rewards which attend honest}7, perseverance, ability and continual reflection upon
the opportunities of the commercial world. At the time of his death, he occupied a
large store at 12-14 Walker street, and his firm of John McConville & Co. were known
from Maine to California. He sold only for cash and acquired large means He was a
generous and kind hearted man, who gave freely to the unfortunate while living and
remembered them in his will at his death.
ROBERT HcCOSKRY, banker, a native of Scotland, who died in 1867, in this city,
was a successful merchant in the wholesale hosiery trade, located for many years in
418 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
Maiden Lane, and one of the founders of The Chemical Bank. One of the wittiest men
of his day, his excellent humor, sound sense, sterling integrity and kindliness of feeling
made him everywhere a welcome guest and most entertaining companion. His wife
was Catherine M., daughter of Arba Read of Troy, N. Y. She survived him and
died April 22, 1886, leaving $50,000 to Williams College and large sums to charity.
NATHANIEL L'HOfiriEDlEU McCREADY, born in this city, Oct. 4, 1820, died at sea
upon the steamer Etruria, Oct. 3, 1887. Thomas McCready, his father, died while
Nathaniel was a child, and the lad went to Mobile, Ala., at the age of eighteen, to fill a
clerkship in a shipping house. Returning to New York city when twenty-one, he estab-
lished the shipping firm of N. L. McCready & Co., engaged in the coasting trade, and
remained at the head of his house a quarter of a century. An earnest, practical man,
he prospered in business and became widely known, In 1865, he retired to associate
himself with Livingston, Fox & Co. and two years later, organized The Old Dominion
Steamship Co., which he managed as its president until his death. He was a director
of The Farmers' Loan & Trust Co., The Empire City Fire Insurance Co., and The
Washington Life Insurance Co. ; for a time president of The Missouri, Kansas &
Texas Railroad Co. ; and a prominent member of the Union and St. Nicholas clubs.
He was a good merchant, exemplary in habits and noted for his firmness in support of
what he deemed to be right. His wife was Caroline Amanda Waldron, a descendant
of Resolved Waldron, who came to America with Peter Stuyvesant. Of his five
children, Nathaniel L. McCready, jr., and Mrs. William Ward Robbins survived him.
ROBERT H. flcCURDY, merchant, born in Lyme, Conn., April 14, 1800, died in
New York, April 5, 1880. He sprang from an excellent family and by his own life
conferred honor upon the name. Coming to New York, a youth, he entered a dry
goods store as a clerk and it was there that he met Herman D. Aldrich, with whom a
friendship was contracted, which continued throughout life. In 1820, he opened a
branch store in Petersburg, Va. , for his employer and remained there several years.
About 1828, with Mr. Aldrich, he established in this city the commission dry goods
firm of McCurdy & Aldrich, which enjoyed a prosperous existence. After 1840, the
house was known as McCurdy, Aldrich & Spencer. The senior partner retired about
1857. Mr. McCurdy married Miss Gertrude Mercer Lee, niece of the late Theodore
Frelinghuysen of New Jersey, and was survived by five children, Richard A. and
Theodore F. McCurdy and Mrs. Gardner G. Hubbard, Mrs. Elias J. Marsh and Mrs.
Charles M. Marsh. ,He was one of the founders and a trustee of The Mutual Life
Insurance Co., trustee of The Continental Insurance Co., director of The Merchants'
Exchange Bank and The American Exchange National Bank and member of the
Chamber of Commerce. He aided in founding the Union League club, and always
took pride in having organized the Union Defense Committee at the outbreak of the
War. The life-long association between himself and Mr. Aldrich, honorable to both
and romantic in its nature, is referred to more fully in the sketch of Mr. Aldrich.
CHARLES HcCLUNG McGHEE, railroad president, was born Jan. 23, 1828, in
Monroe County, Tenn., at the junction of the Little Tennessee and Tellico rivers, near
old Fort London, the point first settled by the whites beyond the Alleghanies. He is
the son of John and Betsy Jones McGhee, the latter born McClung and a niece of
Hugh Lawson White, United States Senator from Tennessee, 1825-40, and a candidate
for the Presidency in 1836. He is of Scotch-Irish descent on both sides, his great
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. Sl'G. 419
grandparents having emigrated from Ireland about 1746-47, to Lancaster county, Pa.,
whence his grandfather, Barclay McGhee, moved to Blount county, Tenn., to become
one of the leading citizens of the State. John McGhee, the father of Charles M., born
Oct. 15, 1788, ranked as one of the most successful businessmen in Tennessee. He
was throughout life a planter, owning about 15,000 acres in the valley of the Little
Tennessee. Charles M. McGhee, the youngest of three children, graduated from the
University of East Tennessee in 1846 -On the death of his father, he came into a
large inheritance of land and negroes. After conducting for about ten years a large
plantation in Monroe county, he married Miss Cornelia White, great grandaughter of
General James White, founder of Knoxville, and grand niece of Hugh Lawson White,
mentioned above. When the Civil War rendered secluded estates insecure, he moved
into Knoxville and cast his lot in with the Confederacy, being commissioned in the
staff department, owing to ill-health. At the close of the war, without previous train-
ing, he embarked in banking and became president of The People's Bank of Knoxville.
Success attended him. Later, he conceived the design of controlling the disjointed
system of railways traversing Tennessee, and having secured the co-operation of men
of financial ability, became actively engaged in developing the mineral, coal and rail-
road interests of East Tennessee. Surmounting all obstacles by his capacity for labor
and organization, in the course of a few years he had built a railroad to give the city of
Knoxville a direct connection with Cincinnati, and had with R. T. Wilson and others,
consolidated the disjointed roads, running out from Knoxville, into The East Tennessee,
Virginia & Georgia Railroad. About ten years ago, he retired from active business,
having accumulated a large fortune, by enterprise, foresight, and never failing faith in
the resources of his section. In 1875, he was elected to the State Legislature as a
Democrat and served for two years, but has since resolutely refused public office. He
was for many years president of The Knoxville & Ohio and The Memphis & Charleston
Railroads, and was constantly a director in The East Tennessee, Virginia & Georgia
Railroad. He is now a director in The Texas & Pacific and The Cincinnati, Jackson
& Mackinaw Railroads, and has been connected with the development of most of the
principal railway properties of the South. Compelled to spend a large part of his
time in New York city, he moved his residence here in 1886. He is to-day one of
the most influential of the colony of enterprising Southerners, whose financial interests
have compelled them to gravitate to the metropolis as their natural abode. In June,
1892, General McGhee accepted the senior receivership of the great system of lines,
which had been consolidated in The East Tennessee, Virginia & Georgia Railroad.
During the last ten years, he has made large donations to public objects. To the city
of Knoxville, he has given the Lawson McGhee Library building as a memorial to a de-
ceased daughter, and he has been the constant friend and benefactor of the St. John's
Orphanage of that city. He has also bestowed large sums in the way of charity.
Wherever he is known, his name is a synomym for inflexible honesty.
GEORGE WARRINGTON McGILL, inventor, born in Lancaster, O., March 9,
1844, is a son of Peter McGill, civil engineer and author. Beginning life himself as a
civil engineer, Mr. McGill had turned his attention to invention and become the patentee
of useful devices before he had attained his majority. Since then, he has made a dis-
tinct reputation as an inventor and for devices originating with him has received over
200 letters patent from the United States government Some of these inventions are
4.20 AMERICA S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
exceedingly ingenious and his brass fasteners for documents and law papers have met
with an especially large sale all over the world. His patents cover spikes, spike
machines, railroad gates, pins and pin machines, button machines, electric wires and
wire machines, stapling machinery, chains and chain machinery, the well-known McGill
fasteners and a great variety of other articles. Mr. McGill is a large stockholder in The
Holmes, Booth & Haydens Brass Co., of Waterbury, Conn., director or stockholder in
several industrial companies, and president of The McGill Fastener Co. His inventions
have given employment to thousands of people at home and abroad during the last thirty
years. By his marriage with Mary Peebles Harry, he is the father of W. Harry
McGill, his only child. Mr. McGill is a firm believer in protection to American indus-
try, a man of genial presence and fine character and a member of the New York Yacht,
Racquet, Lawyers' and American Yacht clubs, and The Ohio Society, as well as of the
Waterbury club of Waterbury, Conn.
HENRY KING McHARQ, stock broker, originated in Albany, N. Y., and was born
Feb. 6, 1851. His father, John McHarg, a Scot by descent, and a wholesale dry goods
merchant by occupation, gave the young man a good education at Albany academy and
the Walnut Hill school in Geneva, N. Y. At the age of fifteen, Mr. McHarg secured a
clerkship with Lockwood & Co. , bankers in New York city and at twenty-one a seat in
the Stock Exchange. He has since been active at the Exchange and a member of the
governing committee for eight years, is now associated with railroad and mining enter-
prises in the West, and has been, since 1882, a director and since 1893, vice president
of The Manhattan Company Bank His clubs are the Union League and New York
Yacht.
THOFIAS ALEXANDER McINTYRE, merchant, born in New York city, Oct. 19,
1855, is a son of Ewen Mclntyre, a druggist. The family are of Scottish ancestry.
First a clerk in the employment of David Bingham and later with David Dows, both
prominent grain merchants, young Mr. Mclntyre made his first venture on his own
account in 1878, in the firm of Mclntyre & Bingham. May i, 1879, Henry L. Wardwell
who had been a fellow clerk under David Dows and thoroughly understood the grain
and flour trade, joined forces with Mr. Mclntyre. They were able to muster
about $40,000 between them. With this capital, Mclntyre & Wardwell began a com-
mission grain business at the Produce Exchange, which they have carried on with
great success down to the present time. The firm have long purchased all the grain
for The Hecker-Jones-Jewell Milling Co , the largest flour millers in New York, and
Mr. Mclntyre formed and is treasurer of that company. Some younger men have
latterly been taken into the firm and upon them is now placed much of the burden of
the work. Mr. Mclntyre is a director of The Corn Exchange National Bank and vice
president of The Hudson River Bank. He is also a member of the Colonial, Reform,
Manhattan, New York Yacht and Down Town clubs and the Chamber of Commerce.
THOMAS ricKlE, merchant, born in New York city, Feb. 28, 1800, died at No. 6
West 37th street, March 27, 1875. The son of John McKie, a native of Scotland, and
a classmate of Mayor Havemeyer, he began life as clerk for his worthy father in
the lumber trade, succeeded to the business, and carried it on with success. In 1840,
he retired and thenceforward was fully occupied with the management of a considera-
ble property in real estate and with investments. He never held public office, unless
his position as lieutenant in the 5ist regiment of militia, given him by Gov. Joseph C.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. M L. 421
Yates could be called such. Dec. 30, 1823, he married Eliza Brown, had seven sons
and four daughters, and found his greatest happiness in the home circle.
JOHN flcLOUGHLIN, publisher, a native of New York city, was born Nov. 29,
i&2-. He comes from Irish stock. With an education gained in the public schools,
he chose the profession of a wood engraver and toiled at this calling for years. In 185 2,
lie began the publication of illustrated books. In 1857, Edmund McLoughlin joined
him, under the name of McLoughlin Bra's, and the two men devoted themselves to the
manufacture of illustrated and toy books for young people. In the sale of their goods,
they have met with excellent success, and have risen to the head of this trade in the
United States. Edmund retired in 1886, but John has continued, under the old name,
down to the present time. The factory is in Brooklyn and the office on Broadway in
this city. Mr. McLoughlin is a member of the Harlem and Liederkranz clubs.
JOHN WILLIATl flACKAY, president of The Commercial Cable Co., was born in
Dublin, Ireland, Nov. 28, 1831. He came to America with the family in .1840 and
settled in New York city. Upon leaving school, he was apprenticed to the trade of
ship building, but when the term of his apprenticeship had expired and he was his own
master, in 1851, he went to California, and, with his miner's outfit, hurried to the gold-
fields, where he became an expert in mining.
About 1 860, Mr. Mackay went with the tide which swelled toward the new State of
Nevada, He took as prominent a part in the founding of the commonwealth of Nevada
as did the Livingstons in the establishment of New York or the Penns in the creation
of Pennsylvania. It was the time of war. The Pacific States were swept by the fierce
rivalry of sentiment, which echoed the strife and battle of the East. The Union and
Secession were striving for mastery on the Sierra Nevadas as well as on the Blue
Mountains. Mr. Mackay had a passionate love for the Union, and in all that movement
for the preservation of the Pacific States to the nation, he was a leading spirit.
While doing his part toward building Nevada and the salvation of the Pacific
States from disunion, Mr. Mackay continued to extend his mining operations. His for-
tunes advanced and he became a member of what was to have historical memory as
the '• Bonanza firm." This was composed of William S. O'Brien, James G. Fair, James
C. Flood and John W. Mackay, the latter owning a two-fifths share.
In 1872, the financial and commercial world was startled with the discovery of what
was called the "Bonanza Mines." They were found on a ledge of rock in the Sierra
Ntvadas at Yirginia City. The burden of the precious quartz, containing silver and
gold in almost equal parts, was lodged in what was called a " pocket," about as large in
area as the City Hall Park of New York, which was Mr. Mackay 's playground in boy-,
foood, and perhaps 300 feet in height. From the principal mine, there was taken out
$150,000,000 in gold and silver.
This discover}- was followed by the establishment of The Nevada Bank, owned by
Mr. Mackay, Mr. Flood and Mr. Fair. It remains one of the leading financial institu-
tions of the Pacific coast to this day.
His mining done, Mr. Mackay looked out for new fields. During a summer on the
- ra, his attention was drawn to the cable relations between the United States and
oe. He was impressed by the fact that the cable lines were in foreign ownership
and that the transmission of business and social intelligence was in the hands of a mo-
•opaly . While reflecting upon the situation, he made the acquaintance of James Gordon
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. MA. 423
4
Bennett. That gentleman held strong views as to telegraph monopolies, and the result
of many conferences between the two gentlemen was a resolution to build an independ-
dent American cable, landing on American soil and under American control.
The Commercial Cable Co. was formed, being virtually composed of Mr. Mackay
and Mr. Bennett. Mr. Mackay gave the enterprise personal attention and went into it
with his accustomed caution, intrepidity and enthusiasm. It was a grave undertaking,
and he made his way slowly. The cables should be of the best materials ; there should
be no imperfect wires or doubtful machinery. Above all, there should be no watering
of stock, no issue of fancy bonds, no financial quagmires to ensnare and ruin innocent
investors. By reason of this vigilance, when the cable was finally laid, it was the best
of the kind in existence, and the company's finances had been so prudently guarded
that it began operations without a dollar of unnecessary debt.
The laying of the cable involved Mr. Mackay in a war with the existing com-
panies. When The Commercial Cable Co. began operations, the late Mr. Gould, as
representing the older companies, proposed that fifty cents should be the common rate.
Mr. Mackay, however, had given an assurance to the public of cheaper rates as well as
better service. He therefore proposed forty cents per word. Mr. Gould declined and
at once reduced to twelve cents. He would lose a few millions, for no cable could pay
under such conditions, but he would destroy his rival and name his own rate in time.
Mr. Mackay reduced to twenty-five cents, and at the same time published a calm state-
ment of the situation. Mr. Gould conducted his war with all the energy, skill and
fertility of resource, characteristic of that extraordinary man. It was long and earnest
and cost him a large sum of money. Mr. Mackay held his lines with no hint of truce
or surrender. He watched every phase of the business with the earnestness and
tenacity applied to his former enterprises. There was no conquering such a man and
in time Mr. Gould proposed a truce. He would accept the original proposal of Mr.
Mackay and make the rate forty cents per word. Mr. Mackay, however, had won the
victory. It was now his place to dictate terms. He replied that, having tested the
twenty-five cent rate, he was satisfied with the results and had no wish to advance to
forty. The war ended by Mr. Gould accepting the twenty-five cent rate. The public
now save twenty-five cents on every word they send by cable and The Commercial
Cable Co. has become a good paying investment.
To ensure the success of the cable and make it independent of rivals, and, further,
to secure to the American public fair rates and good service over the land lines, Mr.
Mackay resolved to construct an extensive and well equipped system of modern lines
and operate them in competition with The Western Union Telegraph Co. The Postal
Telegraph -Cable Co., with its 200,000 miles of wire, is the outcome, thus far, of Mr.
Mackay's resolution. It reaches all the important points in the United States and
Canada, and it yields a good revenue, which, however, is used in the work of extension,
which yet goes on.
In May, 1894, Mr. Mackay opened to the public a new building on the corner of
Broadway and Murray street, New York, which he had erected for the accommodation of
his telegraph business. This building, in the neighborhood of Mr. Mackay's early home,
is one of the finest in the country. Mr. Mackay celebrated its opening by a banquet
to the officers and chiefs of departments of both of his telegraph systems, on
May 24, the fiftieth anniversary of the sending of the first telegraph message between
424 AMERICA S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
Baltimore and Washington. The spread of the telegraph during those fifty years is
scarcely more marvelous than the luck that attended Mr. Mackay in his "Bonanza"
venture, enabling him, almost at once, to become possessed of that enormous wealth
and power which he is using so wisely.
But Mr. Mackay's sudden rise to vast wealth, by which the thoughtless are apt to
measure worth and true greatness, has not, as it apparently has in many similar cases,
resulted in a corresponding elevation of himself and lowering of others in his own
opinion. Mr. Mackay is not only a gentleman of refinement but of cultivated tastes
and he has an intimate knowledge of art. He owns specimens from some of the best
masters, American and foreign. He is an earnest Republican, and on terms of inti-
macy with Republican leaders. His relations with General Grant were close and
affectionate and his admiration for Grant tinged his political career. While active in
politics, he has never held office. When the Senatorship of Nevada was offered him in
1888, by both parties, he declined, although earnestly urged to accept by Senator
Conkling and others with whom he was in close relations. Mr. Conkling was especially
strenuous, advising his acceptance upon the ground of public duty. It was the belief
of those who tendered this honor to Mr. Mackay, that his varied experience, his char-
acter, insight and courage would add weight to the deliberations of the Senate. Mr.
Mackay while appreciating the high and delicate compliment paid him by both parties
of his State, believed he could serve her better by following the bent of his life, in
rounding out those purposes, whose development has given him world-wide reputa-
tion and in whose consummation he will find his surest title to fame.
Mr. Mackay is somewhat slender, compactly built, above the medium height, with
a fine, strong head, keen, earnest eyes, and a gentle, cordial manner. His splendid
physique, added to a temperate and well-regulated life, enabled him to recover from
the wound of an assassin in California, who, in a moment of insane frenzy, shot him in
the back in 1893.
ROBERT flACLAY, merchant, a native of New York city, born June n, 1836, is
a son of Robert Haldane Maclay, M.D., and grandson of the Rev. Archibald Maclay,
D.D. , the latter of Glasgow, Scotland. After graduation from Judson College in Illi-
nois, Mr. Maclay spent six years on a farm in that State and then came to New York to
engage in the real estate business. Having, in 1865, married a daughter of Alfred
Barmore, ice merchant, he became associated with his father-in-law in the business of
supplying New York city with pure ice, rose to the actual management, and June i,
1875, was elected president of The Knickerbocker Ice Co., into which the business had
be'en merged. He is yet at the head of the company. For many years, a supply of ice
was obtained from the Hudson river and vicinity but in recent years Mr. Maclay has
extended his operations to the State of Maine and now has several ice houses on prin-
cipal rivers, thus ensuring the company against any failure of supply. Mr. Maclay has
latterly been conspicuous in matters not connected with the ice business. He has been
a Commissioner of Education, and a Rapid Transit Commissioner, and is president of The
Knickerbocker Trust Co., vice-president of The Bowery Savings Bank, director of
The People's Bank, treasurer of the Manhattan club, and member of the Grolier,
Metropolitan, Down Town and New York Athletic clubs, and connected with various
charities and societies. July \, 1895, he was elected president of the Board of Educa-
tion with a view to entering upon a campaign of reform.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. MA. 425
JOSIAH flACY, merchant, born in Xantucket, Mass., Feb. 25, 1785, died in Rye,
near Xe\v York city, May 20, 1872. Thomas Macy, founder of the family, emigrated
about 1635 from Chilmark, near Salisbury, England, and settled at Salisbury, Mass.
While prominent in the early life of the town, he was a Baptist. When religious per-
secution compelled him to remove to another locality, he bought the Island of Nan-
tucket, which formed the home of the family for many generations. Josiah Macy left
school at fifteen for a voyage on one of his father's ships. He followed the sea for
many years, at first on his father's ships, later in vessels owned partly or entirely by
himself, including various splendid Liverpool packets, and encountered the troubled
times of the war of 1812—15 with courage and prudence. After leaving the sea, he set-
tled in New York city in 1828, and embarked in a shipping and commission business
with his son, William H. Macy, as Josiah Macy & Son. In 1829, Josiah Macy, jr., was
taken into the firm, the name thereupon changing to Josiah Macy & Sons. The other
sons were admitted to the house as they came of age. In 1853, Mr. Macy retired from
business to Rye, N. Y., where his house occupied a pleasant site overlooking the waters
of Long Island Sound. He was one of the organizers and from 1833 a director of The
City Fire Insurance Co. , and a director of The Tradesmen's Bank for many years. In
religious faith, a Quaker, he was admired by his generation as a conscientious and up-
right man. Feb. 6, 1805, he married Lydia Hussey of Nantucket, who died Sept.
25, 1861. He left four sons, William H., Charles A., Josiah G., and Francis H. Macy,
and two daughters, Lydia H. and Ann Eliza.— His son, WILLIAfl HENRY flACY,
banker, born on the island of Nantucket, Nov. 4, 1805, died in this city, May
19, 1887. Educated on the island, he entered a shipping office in New York city
in 1823 and, in 1826, had the courage to begin business on his own account. Shipping
men from the eastward brought their commissions to the Nantucket boy and he
made his way rapidly. In 1828, his father joined him and they placed over their
doors the sign of Josiah Macy & Son. Mr. Mac}' gained a very high reputation, a
fortune, and the respect of his fellow merchants. In 1834, he joined the Chamber
of Commerce and was afterward its vice president. In 1845, he became a director
of The Leather Manufacturers' Bank, and on March 5, 1855, president. Of The
Seamen's Bank for Savings, he became a trustee Jan. 12, 1848, vice president in 1851,
and on Ji.ne 3, 1863, president, and so remained until his death. He was also vice
president of The United States Trust Co., and director of The Bank of Commerce, The
City Fire Insurance Co., The National Fire Insurance Co., and The Atlantic Mutual
Insurance Co. , and owing to his conspicuous integrity and qualifications as a manager,
the executor of several estates and trustee of many charities. His wife was Eliza L.,
daughter of Sylvanus F. Jenkins. Mrs. Macy and four children survived him, the lat-
ter being Mary J , wife of William M. Kingsland, Cornelia M., wife of Isaac H.
Walker, Sylvanus J. Macy of Rochester and William H. Macy, jr.
GEORGE CALVIN HAGOUN, banker, born in Cambridge, Mass., Aug. 23, 1841,
died in New York city, Dec. 20, 1893. He prepared for Harvard at the Cambridge
High School, but abandoned a college course in favor of a business career, and began
life at the age of eighteen, as clerk for Lawson Valentine & Co., varnish manufacturers.
In 1865, he secured a better place in the office of Kidder, Peabody & Co , bankers, of
Boston, and when, in 1886, Kidder, Peabody & Co. established a New York house, Mr.
Magoun became a member resident here. The firms in New York and Boston were
426 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
agents of Baring Bro's, of London, probably the largest banking house for merchants
in the world. May i, 1891, the New York members of Kidder, Peabody & Co., with-
drew from that firm in order to enlarge their operations and organized the new firm of
Baring, Magoun & Co. Mr. Magoun had long been prominent in the affairs of The
Atchison, Topeka & Santa F<§ Railroad, and at his death was chairman of the board of
directors, having especial charge of the company's financial affairs, He was a direc-
tor of The Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railroad, The Equitable Life Assurance
Society, The Union Trust Co., The Colorado Midland Railway, The American Sugar
Refining Co., and The Don Enrique Mining Co. In 1862, Mr. Magoun married Miss
Adelaide Louisa Tisdale of Taunton, Mass. To them were born three sons. He was
a member of the Union League, City, Tuxedo, Lawyers', Down Town, Riding, New
York Yacht and South Side Sportsmen's clubs and The New England Society.
JOHN DOWS MAIRS, merchant, who died in Irvington-on-the-Hudson, Oct. 3,
1881, in his 54th year, was a native of Utica, N. Y. , and a nephew of David Dows.
He began life as a clerk for Mr. Dows, who entertained a sincere respect for his
competent young nephew. He was drawn away to California for a time but returned to
New York and ,by invitation of the senior partner entered the firm of David Dows &
Co. in 1854. In the affairs of this house, he spent the rest of his life, gaining a fortune
and the esteem of the whole mercantile community. He was a member of the Prod-
uce Exchange from its organization.
WILLIAM H. HAIRS, manufacturer, a native of Utica, N. Y., was born June 29,
1834. The family was planted in America by his grandfather, a Scottish Presbyterian
clergyman, who came from the North of Ireland about 1790 and settled in Gahvay,
Saratoga county. The maternal branch of his family is an older one, dating back to
Jan Franse Van Hussam, a Hollander, a resident of Fort Orange, now Albany, N. Y.,
as early as 1645 and a large landholder. The Claverack lands, on which the city of
Hudson now stands, were bought by honest Jan from the Indians for 500 guilders in
beavers. The family of Mr. Mairs came to New York city in 1845. William was
taught at the Mechanics' Institute and then spent seven years with his father in the
fancy goods trade. In 1857, he began the manufacture of wall paper on a small scale
and promoted his business so well that he is now the proprietor of a large factory at
Sackett and Van Brunt streets in Brooklyn and of a trade which extends to every part
of the United States. The business was finally merged in that of The National Wall
Paper Co., but not until it had brought him a fortune, which is now largely invested
in real estate. Mr. Mairs was married, June 13, 1866, to Ellen A., daughter of Dan-
forth K. Olney of Catskill, N. Y., and they have several children.
THOMAS nAITLAND, merchant, born in England in 1848, is a son of Stuart and
Margaret Lynch Maitland. Educated in Europe and removing to New York city in
1865, Mr. Maitland entered business life and rose to considerable prominence therein
and in the social world. About 1879, he became connected with his father's firm of
Maitland, Phelps & Co., an old mercantile house, founded in 1795 by William Maitland.
He retired in 1892 to Wimbledon, England. He was a director of several corporations
and a member of the Century. Manhattan, Knickerbocker, Tuxedo and other clubs.
CHARLES H. HALLORY, shipping merchant, lived until his ?2d year and died in
Brooklyn, N. Y., March 21, 1890. In early life, active in the shipyard of his father,
Charles Mallory of Mystic, Conn., he purchased an interest in various vessels as he
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. MA. 427
gained the means to do so, and slowly acquired large interests in this class of property.
During the Civil War, the family sold several of their steamers to the Government, and
Charles H. Mallory served his State in the Legislature. At the close of the War, Mr.
Mallory removed to New York city and established a line of steamers to ply between
New York and Galveston. The New York & Texas Steamship Co., which he organ-
ized, had at the time of his death ten fully equipped steamers in the trade. His firm
took the name of C. H. Mallory & Co. Mr. Mallory was always a man of overflowing
patriotism, pluck, energy and activity. Broad in his views, an intense American and
a loyal Republican, his life proved useful to his countrymen and an honor to his native
State. He was charitable without ostentation, a member of Plymouth church in
Brooklyn and a Free Mason. His fortune descended to his wife Eunice C. and five
children, Charles, Henry R., Kate and Robert Mallory and Mrs. Frances W. Williams.
FREDERICK MARQUAND, merchant, born in Fairfield, Conn., April 6, 1799, died
at his home in Southport, Conn., July 14, 1882. When a young man he came to New
York city, where he learned the trade of a jeweler and in time engaged in business on
his own account. His firm of Marquand & Co. ranked for a long period among the
most noted jewelers and silversmiths in New York city. In 1852, Mr. Marquand
retired from business, being succeeded by Ball, Black & Co., whose members had been
his employes. The most of his means sought investment in real estate in New York
city. After his retirement, he traveled a great deal, spending his winters usually in
the South and for a few years before his death making his home in Southport, Conn.
He was a man of exceedingly fine character and cultivated tastes. Philanthropic move-
ments alwa3Ts awoke his interest and he made many generous gifts. Chapels were
built by him for Union Theological Seminary in this city and Yale University, while
he bequeathed a large sum to philanthropic objects.
CHARLES HENRY MARSHALL, shipping merchant, born in Easton, Washington
county, N. Y., April 8, 1792, died in this city, Sept. 23, 1865. His ancestors were sea
faring people in Nantucket, and his father, Charles Marshall, a well known sea captain
in his day, retired to a farm, as old salts are fond of doing, on the Saratoga patent
in 1785. Charles was born in a log cabin, spent his youth on the farm, and then be-
came a sailor as his forbears had been before him and as his four brothers were also. A
man of stern common sense and strong mind, he rose to become the master of a ship,
made many famous passages, and finally became one of the most trusted captains of
the Black Ball Line of packets to Liverpool. He left that line in 1834 to assume the
management of the Old Line of packets and later became its proprietor. He managed
this fleet with success for thirty years, superintended the building of new vessels, and
aided materially to make American packet ships the swiftest, most powerful and most
successful vessels in the world and the despair of their English rivals. He was a member
of the Chamber of Commerce, one of the organizers and third president of the Union
League club; president of the Marine Society for twenty years; trustee of the Sailors'
Snug Harbor; in 1851-55, a Commissioner of Emigration; and from 1845 until his
death a Pilot Commissioner. He lived to see the Union, which he loved so well, tri-
umphant in the Civil War. He was married in 1822, to Fidelia, daughter of Dr. Lem-
uel Wellman, and left a large fortune to his children, Charles Henry Marshall, Elizabeth
Robertson, wife of Charles Lawson, Mrs. Mar}- Russell Butler, and Malvina W. and
Helen Wyckoff MarshalL
428 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
JOHN THOriAS flARTIN, capitalist, born in Baltimore, Md., Oct. 2, 1816, is a
distinguished representative of an old family. Educated in St. Mary's School, he
entered the store of Birckett & Pearcc, merchants of Baltimore, while yet a lad, and
there gained the training to which his subsequent life did so much honor. At the
age of seventeen, he removed to St Louis and engaged in the clothing trade, a venture
beyond the powers of most men of that age, but Mr. Martin was a man of unirsual
abilities, and when he retired fifteen years later, he came to Brooklyn with large means.
During the Civil War, large contracts for army clothing were awarded to him by the
Federal Government, which he filled to the satisfaction of the authorities. He then be-
came a stockholder in financial corporations and joined a few large syndicates in im-
portant reorganizations of railroad companies. He has latterly done much for the
improvement of the water front of Brooklyn and has been a director in The Home Life
Insurance Co., The Brooklyn Trust Co., The Long Island Loan & Trust Co. and The
Nassau National Bank and other corporations. A man of noble features, large nose,
large mouth, his side whiskers now silvered with advancing years, and with shrewd,
keen, t at kindly eyes lighting an expressive face, Mr. Martin's nature is fully in keep-
ing with his distinguished personal appearance. He is fond of art and has made a
notable collection of paintings. Of the Polytechnic Institute, he was a founder and
first treasurer.
JOHN W. MASURY, born in the old town of Salem, Mass., Jan. i, 1820, died in
this city, May 15, 1895. He was the second of four children, the progeny of John
Masury and Priscilla Carroll. The father was of French descent, a Huguenot of the
Le Mesuriers, who are of world-wide celebrity as engineers and in the development of
the useful industries. They were, moreover, sturdy advocates of civil and religious
liberty and that trait to-day is prominent in the character of every surviving member of
the family in America. The father of the subject of this sketch was more than ordin-
arily impressed with the necessity of a good secular education and placed his three boys
under the tuition of James S. Gerrish, who was acknowledged to be the best instructor
of boys in the Old Bay State, which was then the center of learning in the new world.
Under the tuition of this excellent teacher, the second son, " Masury Secundus," as his
master always called him, developed an aptness in the acquisition of book knowledge
which was almost phenomenal. Mr. Gerrish was a severe man, exacting, rigorous and
a great disciplinarian, never given to exaggeration or hyperbole in writing or speech,
and he ruled by fcc.r rather than love.
On the severance of this relationship, which came about because of the removal of
the family to a distant city, the master proffered the departing pupil a letter, addressed
"to whom it may concern," which read as follows:
"This may certify that the bearer, John W. Masury, has been under my tuition for
more than three years. He is a lad of a high order of talents, strict honesty, integrity
and uniformity. He carries with him the best wishes of his friend and instructor,
JAS. S. GERRISH."
After this parting, the grateful and loving pupil never met his friend and instructor.
The certificate mentioned above bore date of 1831.
After a short sojourn in their new abode, the family returned to Salem and reoc-
cupied the old homestead, where the good mother lived to the ripe age of eighty-four
years. Mr. Masury remained at home until he was twenty-two, when he, like many or
430 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
most of the Salem boys, sought abroad the honor which did not seem to be within easy
reach at home. The metropolis was his objective point, and Brooklyn, then a city of
about 45,000 people, received him as an adopted son. The residence in his adopted
city continued without interruption for more than forty years. Early in his Brooklyn
life, he accepted a clerkship in the then only paint house in the growing city. In his
position as clerk, he enjoyed the esteem and confidence of his worthy, good, generous
benevolent, cheerful and happy employer, the late John D. Prince. After some years
of this most delightful relationship, Mr. Prince listened favorably to a proposition of
his clerk to establish a factory for the making of ground colors, which business was
then in its infancy. This project soon became a real fact and the business has been
continued under several names and changes up to date with ever-increasing prosperity
and profitable results. The business was started under the firm name of John D. Prince
& Co. Later, a Mr. Weeks, a very clever and popular salesman, was admitted as a
partner and the business continued under the name of Prince, Masury & Weeks. Later
yet, the junior partners bought the interest of the senior and the firm continued as
Masury & Weeks up to the time of the decease of Mr. Weeks, which occurred about
1857. To pay for the interest of the deceased partner's estate, Mr. Masury found it
necessary to seek another partner who appeared in the person of Frederick L. Whiton.
With the money thus acqiiired, the Weeks interest was settled and the business was,
under the name of Masury & Whiton, continued until 1871, when Mr. Whiton died of
consumption at Aiken, S. C.
Up to this time, the business had been carried on in connection with the sale of dry
colors, brushes and painters' materials of every name and description. The dissolution
of the firm consequent upon the decease of the junior partner left Mr. Masury sole pos-
sessor, and with prescient wisdom he made up his mind to divorce the shop-keeping
branch from the manufacturing department and devote all his energies and talents to
the development of the latter. For twenty-five years, Mr. Masury had given his almost
undivided time and attention to the success of the concern. His working days, almost
without cessation or intermission, were given to the work. Nor did his labor's cease
with the close of the day, as midnight often found him at his library table deeply en-
gaged in study. He early developed a taste for letters, was a great reader, and his
wonderfully retentive memory enabled him to retain not only the sense but the words
of all his extensive readings. His perfect familiarity with English and French classical
literature was the marvel of all who had the pleasure of his society. The late
Edward Van Winkle, a prominent member of the New York bar and a writer on
Shakespeare, paid him the high compliment of saying, that Mr. Masury was the best
Shakespearean n on -professional scholar he had ever met.
Unlike most men deeply devoted to business pursuits, Mr. Masury never gave up
his reading, but continually kept it fresh to the end of his life. In or about
1870, his book on house painting was issued from the press of Messrs. Appleton & Co.,
and was a decided success from the time of its appearance. It has passed through four-
teen or fifteen editions and is in constant demand at this date. Other works of similar
nature followed this and were received with favor by all interested in such matters.
Mr. Masury's inventions, most of which were patented, were all in the interest of
his business. The first and most important and valuable was a new mode of putting
up paints ground in oil. No one better than he appreciated the difficulty of arriving at
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. MA. 431
the contents of a sealed can of color in the then universally adopted mode of packing or
putting up. After years of thought given to this very important question, he conceived
the idea of making a can, one end of which should be composed of thinner metal than
the rest of the vessel, so thin that it could be easily severed with an ordinary pocket
knife blade. This idea at once took tangible shape and was a complete success from
the start. The house enjoyed a monopoly, with lawsuits for infringements, of this in-
vention for twenty-one years.
The next invention of importance was" a mill for grinding colors in quick drying
varnish to an impalpable fineness. To accomplish this, the mill-stones must be forced
into clos2St contact and this in the nature of things would produce an amount of heat
sufficient to spoil the thinning material. This was overcome or obviated in the inven-
tion in question, by the introduction of a stream of cold water, which was made to pass
over the outer surfaces of both upper and lower stones thus preventing the heating of
the paint in the process of grinding. This invention was also an entire success from
the moment of being started. Paints and colors used in carriage and car painting
had up to this time been wholly prepared in the several shops by the use of a slab and
muller or by the common iron hand-mill and, as a rule, at the moment of consumption.
The invention made an entire revolution in the trade and the demand for paints pro-
duced by the new mode was immense and unprecedented. Two years after the goods
were fairly in the market, the demand for Ivory Black ground in Japan varnish called
for more than 300 tons, and this article alone realized a profit of more than §100,000 in a
single year, and at this the consumer got twice as much for his money as he could have
received in any other way. Other inventions followed, less important yet of vast benefit
to the painters and conducive to economy, cleanliness and saving of costly material.
A few years after the dissolution of the firm, caused by the decease of Mr. Whiton,
Mr. Masury's son-in-law, Lieut. F. L. Miller of the United States Navy, became a
partner in the business under the firm name of John W. Masury & Son, which name is
continued at the present, although Mr. Miller died several years ago.
JOHN HATTHEWS, patentee of soda water apparatus, born in England in 1808
and educated in London, died in New York city in 1870. He was christened John
Henry Matthews but never used the middle name in business affairs and it finally
became obsolete. An inventor and mechanical genius of rare ability, he emigrated to
America in 1832 and established at the corner of Fulton and Gold streets, New York
city, a machine shop of modest proportions for practical and experimental work.
While thus occupied with mechanical pursuits, he discovered a special field for his use-
fulness in repairing and manufacturing machinery for making soda water. Many
inventions and patents resulted and the business developed to a wonderful extent.
Both among the manufacturers and the retail purveyors of soda and mineral waters
throughout the United States, his inventions came into general use, and he can unques-
tionably be regarded as the originator and introducer of the soda water trade on a large
scale in this country. Previous to his removal to America, he was married to Eliza
beth Chester of Bristol, England. To them were born John Matthews, 2d; Mary,
wife of Karl Muller, the sculptor; George Matthews, ist; Thomas, Emma, and
Chester Matthews. Mrs. Matthews died in 1889. The sons carried on the business
established by their father with energy, ability and success. John Matthews, 2d, died
March 13, 1883, leaving his one-third interest to his cousin and adopted son Frederick
432 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
and two nephews, George Matthews, 2d, and John H. Matthews, sons of George, ist,.
the business being conducted under the name of The Firm of John Matthews. Fred-
erick died in July, 1883, and George, ist, died Feb. 15, 1885. His sons George, ad,
and John H. Matthews, who are the only living descendants of the line are now sole
proprietors of the business. The men of this house have always borne a high repu-
tation both for ability and character, and by their energy and success have added much
to the happiness and health of the people of the country. The apparatus branch of
their industry was, in 1891, transferred to The American Soda Fountain Co., in which
the firm are stockholders.
EUGENE LASCELLES MAXWELL, manufacturer, a native of Brooklyn, 1854,
died in that city, Feb. 9, 1895. He was one of the three sons of John Maxwell, the
banker. Eugene was educated as an engineer at the Polytechnic Institute in Brooklyn,
became associated with Henry S. Manning & Co., dealers in railroad supplies, and,
being taken into partnership in Manning, Maxwell & Moore, carried on for fourteen
years a large and profitable wholesale trade in railroad and machinists' supplies. He
was known as an energetic, upright and successful merchant, and by investment
became president of The Pond Machine Tool Co., of Plainfield, N. J., and The Ash-
croft Manufacturing Co., of Bridgeport, Conn., vice president of The Shaw Electric
Co. of Muskegon, Mich., and an officer in other manufacturing concerns. He made
his home in Brooklyn, and was a member of the Engineers', Rembrandt and Lawyers'
clubs of this city and the Atlantic Yacht, Riding and Driving, Montauk, and Hamilton
clubs of Brooklyn. His wife and two daughters survived him.
HENRY W. flAXWELL, banker, a native of Brooklyn, and born Dec. 7, 1850, is
a son of the late John Maxwell, a banker. Well educated and fortunate in beginning
life in a family of means, he has been active in the field of finance which centers around
Wall street and wields considerable influence therein. A member of the Stock Ex-
change, he is also junior partner in the banking firm of Maxwell & Graves, who have
gained an excellent reputation for solidity of character and conservative and upright
methods, and is largely identified with the railroad enterprises of Austin Corbin. The
Brooklyn Trust Co. has elected him to its directorate. Mr. Maxwell is a member of
the Lawyers', Atlantic Yacht, Excelsior and Hamilton clubs and lives in Brooklyn,
with the public institutions of which city he is associated. The Memorial Industrial
School has been built by him in honor of the memory of his mother and his wife.
EDWIN HIRAM MEAD, coal miner, born on Broadway in this city, died Feb. 3,
1895, in South Orange, N. J., in his seventy-third year. An outbreak of yellow fever
drove his family to Berkshire county, Mass., while he was an infant, and there he was
educated and brought up. In early life, he served as a clerk in Harnden's express
office in Albany, N. Y., and in a coal office there, leaving a year or two afterward to
enter the employment of The Pennsylvania Coal Co. in New York city. With this cor-
poration, he remained for the rest of his life. In 1852, he was elected secretary of the
company and served as such and as treasurer until the death of President Hoyt, when
he became president of the company, thereafter rising to prominence as one of the best
known men in the trade in the United States. He was also the managing director of
The Erie & Wyoming Valley Railway, a director of The Washington Life Insurance
Co., and a member of the New York Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Mead was always a
public spirited man, and greatly promoted the interests of South Orange after 1868,
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. ME. 433
when he made that locality his home. A well-read, genial, kindly man, he made friends
everywhere and was highly esteemed. His wife and three children survive him.
FREDERICK HEAD, merchant, was born Sept. 12, 1817, in Greenwich, Conn., in
the old Mead homestead, which is yet in possession of the family, on the brink of Put-
nam Hill, celebrated as the scene of General Israel Putnam's "break-neck ride.". He is
a descendant from ancient and gentle English stock, one of his ancestors having been
the official physician of Queen Elizabeth. Of this family two brothers, Puritans, emi-
grated from England to the continent of America in 1642, one of them, John Mead, set-
tling in Greenwich, Conn., the other in Virginia.
Darius Mead, M.D., father of the subject of this biography, was born in Greenwich,
July 9, 1787, and died there Jan. 28, 1864. He graduated from Yale College in 1807
and then studied medicine in Philadelphia under the celebrated Dr. Rush. In 1809, he
married Lydia K., daughter of Elisha Belcher, M.D., of Round Hill, Conn., a promi-
nent physician and surgeon in the army of the American Revolution. Six of Mrs. Mead's
brothers and brothers in law were physicians, all Christian men and of high standing in
their profession. Mrs. Mead died Jan. 15,1848. She had been the center of an affec-
tionate circle at home, and by a singularly beautiful and useful life had become univer-
sally respected and beloved. Dr. Mead settled in Greenwich in 1810, and there spent
the rest of his active and useful professional life. He was blessed with remarkable
health and was never absent from his post of duty until his death. Owing to his strong
intellect, clear and accurate judgment, and power of endurance, his practice became
extensive and he attained a high reputation, while, through strong Christian principle,
he became a leader in church and society and greatly useful in promoting every good
object. He was ever considerate of the poor, giving them faithful and laborious attend-
ance without expectation of reward. Among the people of Connecticut, Dr. Mead was
widely kno'.vn and greatly revered. In 1845 and 1846, he represented his district in the
State Senate, having been nominated for this honorable place without seeking it and
even without any knowledge of the intention of his fellow citizens.
Frederick Mead, son of Dr. Mead, enjoyed the almost inestimable advantage of
growing to young manhood under the careful training of parents of noble character and
strong minds. The training and principles he received from them have proved a price-
less heritage. He received a sound education at the Greenwich academy and then, at
the age of seventeen, began the battle of life for himself. At that time, two of his
brothers, Zalmon S. and Robert W. Mead, were established in New York as wholesale
grocery merchants at No. 27 Water street, under the firm name of Z. and R. Mead, and
it was thought advisable that Frederick should become a dry goods merchant. He
obtained a clerkship therefore in the wholesale dry goods house of Crosby, Mead &
Candee. By earnest and faithful attention to every duty, he acquired a good, practical
knowledge of the business and soon occupied a responsible position with the firm. The
health of his eldest brother, Zalmon, senior member of Z. & R. Mead, having become
impaired, Frederick was induced to join his brother in the grocery business. In 1842,
Zalmon died and in the same year Frederick entered into partnership with his brother
Robert under the firm name of Mead & Co. The great panic of 1837 and the continu-
ance of very depressed times had seriously affected the business of the firm and the
new partner found himself in a position, which involved heavy burdens and great diffi-
culties. He grappled with them, however, with grit and determination. When, owing
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. ME. 435
to failing health, his brother Robert retired, the whole responsibility and management
of the business fell upon the young grocer and in very adverse times. He proved equal
to the emergency and through his sound judgment, untiring energy and perseverance,
the trade gradually increased and became large and lucrative.
In 1862, Mr. Mead associated with him in partnership, under the firm name of
Mead, Lacey & Co., Frederick Lacey, for many years a leading and much respected
grocer. Their business continued to expand and their operations in tea, coffee and sugar
grew to large proportions, often widely influencing the markets. Mr. Lacey died in
1869. Subsequently, James Voorhis, a valued employe, and Frederick Mead, jr., son of
Mr. Mead and a graduate of Yale College, were taken into the firm under the name of
Frederick Mead & Co., and this title has remained unchanged to the present time. The
business is now confined to tea importing and commission and their sign on Water and
Pearl streets is one of the landmarks of the older part of New York.
A strong Republican in political faith, Mr. Mead has nevertheless always refused
to enter practical politics or accept political honors. As was his father, so is he, a man
of stern integrity and unbending uprightness, despising equivocation, insincerity, osten-
tation and cunning policy. Possessing strong will and earnest convictions, he is at the
same time modest and self denying. Through spotless purity of character, vigorous
enterprise, and an honorable and successful career, he is an excellent type of the old
merchants of New York and has won the confidence and esteem of this community.
He has been a director in The Fourth National Bank for more than twenty years and is
now senior member of the Board and was a director in The Old Dominion Steamship
Co., The Corn Exchange and International Insurance Go's and other institutions.
His home is at No. i West 56th street, and his country residence in Greenwich.
Mr. Mead was married in 1841 to Mary E., daughter of Samuel Scribner of Balti-
more, Md. They have three children living, Frederick and Herman R. Mead, and
Mary Gertrude, wife of Edwin A. Abbey, the well-known artist, now residing in
England.
RALPH MEAD, merchant, born in Greenwich, Conn., April 24, 1789, died in New
York, July 23, 1866. He was a man of sterling integrity, high religious principle, and
a genial social nature and is remembered with honor and a respect akin to love by all
who kno\v him. His ancestors were prominent among the early English settlers of
Connecticut, and Mr. Mead was the sixth in direct descent from John Mead, one of the
twenty-seven original proprietors of the town of Greenwich. During the American
Revolution his father, Edmund Mead, was a member of the Greenwich Committee of
Safety. Edmund Mead married Theodosia, daughter of Benjamin Mead, 2d, Feb. 15,
1776. Of the eleven children, Ralph was the seventh. Until his fifteenth, year, he
remained at home. When he decided to start in life for himself, he spent his spare
time in the winter in trapping game, then abundant in the woods, and by spring had
secured the means for his new venture. Embarking at Saw Pits, now Portchester, on
a vessel bound for New York, he reached this city after a week's voyage. He was
fortunate in securing employment with Samuel Tooker, a grocer, to whom he appren-
ticed himself. The employer and clerk became life-long friends. While a mere lad,
Mr. Mead was sent as a supercargo to Passamaquoddy, Maine. Here, he not only
disposed of his own cargo but that of another vessel to the great satisfaction of his
employer. In 1810, Mr. Mead began business for himself, with capital consisting of
436 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
thorough business ability and small savings. The gratifying fact was soon evident,
that the leading importing houses of that day were ready to trust him to any amount
he would ask, because of his good judgment, integrity and uprightness. Of this, there
were several notable instances.
In 1813, he married Sarah Holmes, of Cranetown, now Montclair, N. J., who
illustrated in her life the virtues of the wise woman of the book of Proverbs and whose
sympathv and co-operation in her husband's plans helped to ensure their success.
During the War of 1812, Mr. Mead served for two years in the ad N. Y. Art, the
7th Regiment of that day. He was stationed at Castle Garden, then called Battery
Fort, and was permitted to make daily visits to his home and store. Late in life, he
received from the Government land warrants for 240 acres as compensation for his
clothing and musket. After the troublous times which succeeded the War, his business
career was a wonderful success. It was a matter of grateful pride to him that during a
long life he was able to meet every business obligation, notwithstanding financial
revulsions, and to help others less fortunate than himself. Just before the panic of
1837, Mr. Mead had contracted for the erection of a row of fine houses on Second
avenue, near 7th street. During the anxious months which followed, the contractor
came to him in fear, expecting that his contract would be canceled as others had been.
"Go on," said Mr. Mead, "I will do my part and pay, if you will do your part and
give me good work." The result was more than satisfactory to all concerned. In 1846,
he made a long journey West to secure a debt, which except for his energy and tact
would have been lost to the firm. He found the debtor to be owner of a large flouring
mill, which, owing to pecuniary difficulties, could not be worked to advantage. Mr.
Mead bought a half interest for the amount of indebtedness, gave credit for the pur-
chase of grain, and the flour was consigned to Ralph Mead & Co. for sale in New York.
The profits for the year were equally divided between the /irm and the miller. They
were so large that the original owner was enabled to buy back the half interest in the
mill that he had sold, with a fair margin of profit on the transaction.
Mr. Mead's firm were first known as Mead & Holmes, but for many years he did
business under the name, which was so long honored in nearly every State of the Union,
of Ralph Mead & Co. He first rented and afterward purchased the building at 13
Coenties Slip, and finally erected the large stores at 13 and 15 Coenties Slip which for
more than sixty years were the headquarters of the house. In 1859, he retired from
active mercantile life, and the firm, composed of his nephews whom he had trained, his
son and his son-in-law, became known as E. & R. Mead, jr., & Co.
Mr. Mead was early interested in promoting railroad connections with the interior
and was an active director in both The Erie Railroad and Long Dock Companies until
his death. Over the Erie Tunnel through Bergen Hill, his name is inscribed with
those of his associates in the great work carried to completion through their energy.
He was among the first to recognize the necessity of securing direct and cheap
transportation of coal from the Pennsylvania mines to New York and the Eastern
States. With characteristic sagacity, he aided in the organization of The Delaware,
Lackawanna & Western and The Warren Railroads.
Unlike many of his fellow merchants, Mr. Mead passed through the great fire of
1835 without the loss of buildings. The fire was checked on the opposite side of
Coenties Slip. So widespread was the conflagration that nearly every insurance com-
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. ME. 437
pany of the city was swept away. The City Fire Insurance Co. , of which he was a
director, voted immediately after the fire to make the capital stock $70 per share instead
of $100, but within a day or two more than the lost 30 per cent, was made up in new
premiums. Mr. Mead was also connected with The Howard, Hanover, Phoenix of
Brooklyn, The Merchants', The Corn Exchange and American Exchange Fire Insur-
ance Co's, in nearly all of them as director. Among the banks he helped to support by
his efforts and influence were The North River, The Metropolitan, The Union, and
The Mechanics' Banking Association. He would never accept office however urgently
desired, unless he felt he could give the time for efficient, faithful service to its best
interests. A Whig in politics in early life, his last Presidential vote was cast for
Abraham Lincoln. In the early days, the Washingtonian movement secured his
sympathy. At the risk and with the apparent certainty of loss, he and his partner,
Edwin Mead, agreed to give up the sale of spirituous liquors. From that time in all
the history of the house, its business was conducted on temperance principles.
Mr. Mead loved New York and made its interests his own, liberally supporting its
libraries and institutions with influence and money. Only a small part of his charities
and benefactions were known to the world. He was, however, one of the managers of
The American Bible Society, The Methodist Episcopal Missionary Society and other
organizations for Christian work. Although brought up a Congregationalist, he became
one of the most prominent laymen in the Methodist Episcopal Church and was one of
the founders and trustees of the Mulberry Street Church. After the financial troubles
of 1837, he was its treasurer and for nearly twenty years made good enormous deficits
in its running expenses from his own income. He bought and held for the acceptance
of the other members of the Board of Trustees, refusing tempting offers to sell at large
advance price, the lots at the corner of zad street and Fourth avenue, whereon St.
Paul's M. E. Church was afterward built. He was a pillar of strength to the
church until his death. For more than fifty-three years, he filled the office of class
leader and many of New York's prominent merchants, bankers, lawyers and clergy-
men were enrolled upon his record. He was one of the original syndicate who, about
1829, bought the buildings and grounds of the Partridge Military Academy, at Middle-
town, Conn., and founded the Wesleyan University.
The Greenwood Cemetery enlisted his interest. He was one of the original plot
owners, and in 1842 laid to rest there the remains of his beautiful and always beloved
wife. In 1846, he married Ann E. Van Wyck, daughter of Gen. Abram Van Wyck
o£ Fishkill, N. Y. Mr. Mead left five children and a goodly number of grand-
children. His children were Samuel Holmes Mead, of Florida, now deceased;
Melville Emory Mead, of Norwalk, Conn.; Elizabeth A., wife of Edwin Hyde but
now deceased ; Lydia A., who married Nathan J. Bailey; Harriet A., wife of Philip
J. A. Harper, Hempstead, N. Y. , a son of James Harper; and H. Caroline, wife of
the Rev. Archibald C. Foss, of Baltimore. Two other children died in infancy.
ISRAEL JOHN HERRITT, wrecker, was born in New York city, Aug. 23, 1829,
of ancient stock, his grandfather having served with honor in the War for Inde-
pendence. With a limited education, young Merritt began life as driver on a canal,
but tried various other vocations as opportunity occurred until he had reached the
age of fifteen, when he secured employment with a wrecking captain. At the age of
twenty, he had command of a fine coasting schooner. In 1853, he was appointed
438 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
agent for the Board of Marine Underwriters and later agent for The Coast
Wrecking Co. In 1865, he invented a pontoon or dry dock for raising
sunken vessels. By his perseverance, pluck and peculiar energy, Captain Mer-
ritt eventually established the largest organization in the world engaged in the
wrecking business. In the process of time, a son, Israel J. Merritt, jr., grew to man-
hood and became a co-worker in the business and a partner of his father. The firm
is known as Merritt' s Wrecking Organization, not incorporated. Besides the main
office in New York and large storehouses and wharves on Staten Island, they have
storehouses and wharves in Norfolk, Va., and own a fleet of steamers, sailing vessels
and pontoons, specially built, rigged and fitted for their work. They do all the heavy
wrecking on the Atlantic coast, employing from 150 to 200 men, including skilled
divers for submarine work and the best of sailors and mechanics. Captain Merritt has
saved hundreds of lives and millions of dollars' worth of property. One of his prin-
cipal achievements was the rescue of the French steamer L'Amerique, which had
been driven high and dry on the beach near Sea Bright, N. J., in January, 1877. In
1853, he married Miss Sarah L. Nicholson, of New York, who died June n, 1879. To
them were born two sons and four daughters.
CHRISTOPHER MEYER, manufacturer, born in Hanover, Germany, Oct. 15, 1818,
died July 31, 1888, at 617 Fifth avenue in this city. He was a self-made man. When
a lad of fourteen, he came to this country alone, remaining in New York two years,
working at first merely for board and shelter. All his spare time was devoted to study-
ing the language. In 1836, he secured employment in a Newark machine shop and in
two years had charge of the erection of the Ramapo Mills. His next engagement was
to put up some machinery for Horace Day, then the leading rubber manufacturer of the
country, in New Brunswick, N. J. Mr. Day liked the young man, took him into his
employment, and in a short time made him superintendent of the factory. Mr. Meyer
invented several processes, which added largely to the capacity of the mills. One day,
he came to the conclusion that if he could make money for others, he could for himself.
He designed his own machinery, borrowed $300 from James Bishop, and set up'a mill,
which later he sold, starting then another mill and selling that. By this time, he had
accumulated a little capital. Securing a good site with water power at Milltown, three
miles from New Brunswick, he erected a factory there. It was successful and soon gave
employment to a thousand persons. Mr. Meyer possessed talent of a high order. At the
time of his death, he was president of The Meyer Rubber Co. ; general manager and prin-
cipal owner of The New Jersey Rubber Shoe Co., which employed about i,ooomen; owner
in a rubber factory in Edinburgh, Scotland; president of The, Nashawanick Rubber
Manufacturing Co., and of The Glendale Elastic Fabric Co., of East Hampton, Mass.;
director of The Old State Bank of New Brunswick ; owner in The Painesville & Youngs-
town Railway, and director of The New York & Boston, New York & Northern, and
The Cincinnati, Hamilton & Dayton Railroads, The German-American Fire Insurance
Co., The Municipal Gas Light Co. and The American Bank Note Engraving Co. Mr.
Meyer was a Methodist. He was first married in 1840, to Miss Margaret Evans, of
Belleville, N. J., who died in 1877. He then married, in 1886, Erne, daughter of
George K. Chase of New York city. His first marriage brought him seven children, of
whom six survived him, Martha, widow of William A. Gray of New York; John C.
Meyer, who was connected with The New Jersey Rubber Shoe Co. and died Nov. 12,
THE CITY «'J :<. — Ml.
1888; Catherine Louise, wife of Georgy LJ^» v • .t A «i*r «rf '."hade*
Greer of New York city; Margaretta. wr ->•<; ^ V . «rvd How*
ard Meyer, his father's confidential sevrctin ^^:
are now merged in The United Slates K
5ETH nELLEN niLLIKF.N. coma*
the Pine Tree State, who have risen to '• •?•<
Poland. Me., Jan. 7, 1836. H? is a *r.
grated to America from SCOI'MUU in
grandson of the pioneer, born Dec. 27. 16.
for a number of years "at the i-orne;
Sarah Burnett, of Boston, Jan i. 17 1*
the town of Scarborough, Me .
died upon his farm, Sept. S, 1 770.
From him; the line of the subject <>t -.
Milliken. farmer (born Feb 17, 1723, n.
his wife, the latter being the widow of B<
the latter, farmer and tanner (born in Scarbor.
Elizabeth Babbridge, his wife ; to his ton. Josiah Milliken (born
land. Me., 1866) and Elizabeth Freeman, his wife, the latter u
1890, at the age of eighty-seven. Josiah <1 in Mina, Me., for a
his marriage, and later in Poland, where he carried on a farm, a tannery and a 1.
business.
Seth M. Milliken is the fourth of the five sons of Josiah Milliken. being fifth of h
seven children, and is in the seventh generation of descent from the pioneer of tht
ily in the new world. The sons of Josiah Miilikcn have all made their mark \B *£";
and set to their fellow men the exam and successful lives. Wc%
been a member of the Main her merchant, a bar1
dent of a line of coasting e in pronv>-
the State of Maine. Charle-
land Paper Co. The career of Set h M
He attended the public schools of Poi.irv.i :
years' course at the academy in Hebron. f.n'K-*od h\
mouth. Me. Since leaving his 1..
lined to a practical career, he obtained bi» nrsi. f
Mo... beginning at the age of seventeen, ...mi, after .-;
of the mill. In the fall of 1855, he accepted tht ch
taught until the spring of 1856. when he disp'
and fairly began life as a merchant on his own •
e in Minot. Me. These general stores are •
••x-rchant and Mr. Milliken derived from his five
; tie surplus capital but a valuable training. _ In i£*:
i^'cd in a wholesale trade in groceries ir
y with his brother hi law, Daniel \V. True.
E vpnr Thich Mr. Milliken ever saw New Yorl,
: U'.ci the metropolis to sell a cargo of potat'^es
In July, 1865, he entered the firm of De- r><-{
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. HI. 439
1 888 ; Catherine Louise, wife of George Lowther, of this city ; Clara A. , wife of Charles
Greer of New York city; Margaretta, wife of Fulton Paul of Hudson, N. Y. , and How-
ard Meyer, his father's confidential secretary and now deceased. The Meyer factories
are now merged in The United States Rubber Co.
SETH FIELLEN fllLLIKEN, commission merchant, one of the numerous sons of
the Pine Tree State, who have risen to prominence in the metropolis, was born in
Poland, Me., Jan. 7, 1836. He is a lineal descendant of Hugh Milliken, who immi-
grated to America from Scotland in 1650 and settled in Massachusetts. John Milliken,
grandson of the pioneer, born Dec. 27, 1691, carried on business in Boston as a saddler
for a number of years "at the corner going down Wentworth's Wharf," and married
Sarah Burnett, of Boston, Jan. i, 1718. It was he, who, having purchased a farm in
the town of Scarborough, Me., planted his branch of the family in that province. He
died upon his farm, Sept. 8, 1779, during the stormy period of the American Revolution.
From him, the line of the subject of this biography comes down through his son, John
Milliken, farmer (born Feb. 17, 1723, in Boston, died 1766), and Eleanor Libby Sallis,
his wife, the latter being the widow of Benjamin Sallis; Benjamin Milliken, son of
the latter, farmer and tanner (born in Scarborough, 1764, died Sept. 20, 1818), and
Elizabeth Babbridge, his wife; to his son, Josiah Milliken (born Jan. i, 1803, died in
Portland, Me., 1866) and Elizabeth Freeman, his wife, the latter dying in Portland,
1890, at the age of eighty-seven. Josiah Milliken lived in Mina, Me., for a time after
his marriage, and later in Poland, where he carried on a farm, a tannery and a lumber
business.
Seth M. Milliken is the fourth of the five sons of Josiah Milliken, being fifth of his
seven children, and is in the seventh generation of descent from the pioneer of the fam-
ily in the new world. The sons of Josiah Milliken have all made their mark in affairs
and set to their fellow men the example of useful and successful lives. Weston F. has
been a member of the Maine Legislature, a lumber merchant, a banker and the presi-
dent of a line of coasting steamers, besides being active in promoting other interests of
the State of Maine. Charles R. is president of The Portland Rolling Mill and The Po-
land Paper Co. The career of Seth M. Milliken, will be related in fuller detail.
He attended the public schools of Poland during boyhood and then enjoyed a three
years' course at the academy in Hebron, followed by two years in the academy in Yar-
mouth, Me. Since leaving his books, his life has been eventful and prosperous. Des-
tined to a practical career, he obtained his first experience as a flour miller in Minot,
Me., beginning at the age of seventeen, and, after a few months' service, took charge
of the mill. In the fall of 1855, he accepted the charge of a winter school in Poland
and taught until the spring of 1856, when he displayed his versatility and enterprise
and fairly began life as a merchant on his own account, by starting a general country-
store in Minot, Me. These general stores are capital schools for the education of a
merchant and Mr. Milliken derived from his five years' experience there not only a lit-
tle surplus capital but a valuable training. In 1861, he moved to the city of Portland
and engaged in a wholesale trade in groceries in the firm of True & Milliken, in com-
pany with his brother in law, Daniel W. True. It is recollected that the first occasion
upon which Mr. Milliken ever saw Xew York city was during this period, when he vis-
ited the metropolis to sell a cargo of potatoes from his native State.
In July, 1865, he entered the firm of Deering, Milliken & Co., wholesale jobbers of
44° AMERICA S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
dry goods in Portland, becoming interested later in various factories of cotton and woolen
goods in Maine. The prosecution of the trade of this firm required frequent visits to New
York city, and in 1867, Mr. Milliken established here the commission dry goods house of
Deering, Milliken & Co. After 1874, he became a permanent resident of New York city,
thereafter giving little attention to the business in Maine. Exhibiting his active and in-
dependent nature at the very threshhold of life by starting in business alone, and making
his way steadily by perseverance, intelligence and thrift, he had now after nearly twenty
years of courageous endeavor made a place for himself among the wholesale commission
merchants of New York city. His progress here has been unchecked, in spite of the trials
which beset all business men, and he now conducts on Leonard street one of the leading
houses in the wholesale dry goods district of the city and is a man of wealth. Largely in-
terested in manufactures, he owns The Farnsworth Co. , makers of flannels in Lisbon,
Me., and is president of The Pondicherry Co., woolen manufacturers in Bndgton, Me.,
The Cowan Woolen Manufacturing Co., of Lewiston, Me., and The Dallas Cotton Man-
ufacturing Co., of Huntsville, Ala., and a director of The Forest Mills Co. (woolens), of
Bridgton, Me., The Lockwood Co. (cotton goods), of Waterville, Me., and The Spartan
Mills (cottons), of Spartanburg, S. C. Some of these are great corporations.
Mr. Milliken has entered heartily into the affairs of the metropolis since coming
here and is widely known among the progressive elements of the city as a public spirited,
honest and competent man. He is a director and large stockholder of The Mercantile
National Bank, director of The Mutual Fire Insurance Co., a supporter of the Metro-
politan Museum of Art, and in politics every one knows which side he is on. He is a
strong Republican and was honored by his. party in 1892 with a place upon the Elec-
toral ticket in New York State. Various leading clubs have elected him to member-
ship, including the Union League, Republican, Driving, Riding, Suburban and Mer-
chants', of this city, the Algonquin of Boston, and the Cumberland of Portland, Me.
He also belongs to The New England Society of this city.
Oct. 14, 1874, Mr. Milliken was united in marriage in Dover, N. H., to Margaret
L., daughter of Dr. L. G. Hill. Mrs. Milliken died Jan. 14, 1880. Their three children
are Seth M., Gerrish H., and Margaret L. Milliken. The family live at 990 Madison
avenue.
DARIUS OQDEN MILLS, banker, born in North Salem, Westchester county, N.Y.,
Sept. 25, 1825, descends from an old family founded in America by a pioneer, who
came from the North of England near the Scottish border, some time before the Amer-
ican Revolution, settling first on Long Island and then in Connecticut. James Mills,
father of D. O. Mills, was a Supervisor from North Salem and a Justice of the Peace
and held various other local offices. He was a man of influence, owned considerable
land and was successfully engaged in various forms of business, but by unfortunate
investments finally lost the most of his property. He died in Sing Sing on the Hudson
in 1841. The sons of James Mills were thus compelled at any early age to rely upon
their own energies for their positions in the world. D. O. Mills inherited rugged
health and from boyhood showed himself to be cool, clear headed, capable, self-
reliant and spotless in character, and from the day in which he first entered practical
affairs, he made his way with marked success.
He received his education at the North Salem academy and at the Mount Pleasant
academy in Sing Sing, leaving the last named instillation at the age of seventeen to
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. MI. 443
\vas handed in at once, and before the directors had adjourned Mr. Ralston's body was
found floating in the Bay. Mr. Mills again became president, serving without compen-
sation. At the time of suspension, the Bank's liabilities were $19,585,000, including
§5,000,000 capital stock and $1,000,000 reserve, while it had on hand $100,000 in cash
in addition to its general assets Mr. Ralston's personal indebtedness was fixed at
$4,500,000. Mr. Mills and other directors raised by subscription a fund of $7,895,000,
of which Mr. Mills subscribed $1,000,000. The Oriental Bank Corporation of London
consented to protect the outstanding drafts and credits of the Bank if D. O. Mills,
William Sharon and Thomas Bell would guarantee the payment of the same. This
they did, and on Sept. 30, one month and five days after the suspension, the Bank
resumed business. By Mr. Mills's timely and skillful management, a general financial
crash on the Pacific coast was averted. After having re-established the institution on a
firm and prosperous basis, Mr. Mills retired in 1878.
During his residence in California, Mr. Mills identified himself quite extensively
with the business affairs of the coast, and is yet a large owner in gold, silver and quick-
silver mines, land ventures and industrial enterprises. But practical engagements
never so absorbed his time as to render him indifferent to the higher interests of the
population of the coast. It gave him great pleasure to accept the positions of regent
and treasurer of the University of California, and he endowed a professorship in that
institution. He also became one of the first trustees of the Lick estate and the Lick
Observatory and in other ways promoted the growth of popular taste and intelligence.
A good idea of Mr. Mills's character is given in a letter which he wrote to the
board of regents of the University of California at the time of the endowment of his
professorship. This letter was in part as follows :
"My interest in the institution over which you preside, and a desire to contribute
to the benefit and support of good learning, prompt me to propose to you the establish-
ing of a permanent foundation in the nature of a trust fund, of which the income shall
be applied to the maintenance, in the University of California, of a professorship of
Intellectual and Moral Philosophy and Civil Polity. While I propose to commit the
trust to the keeping of the regents of the university and would limit it by no narrow
boundaries of transient opinion, I desire to record my views as to the nature of this
professorship and the character of the man who shoiild be called upon to discharge its
duties. The studies included under the general title pertain especially to man, his in-
tellectual, moral and social being, and can never cease to hold a high place in human
learning, nor to have a great influence on human welfare. In the widest and most
liberal meaning, they underlie laws, manners and religion, and, in effect, form the
public opinion of the world ; and their teacher should not be one who resorts to them,
takes them up or incidentally adopts them, but one of philosophic spirit, who shall
devote his life to this appropriate field of influence and noble labor."
Mr. Mills gave $75,000 to establish the professorship and recently the regents of
the university announced that the fund had increased to $100,000.
In 1880, he transferred his home and part of his capital to New York city and has
ever since been a resident of the metropolis. One of his first investments was in the
construction of the superb building in Broad street, known by his name, which is now
the headquarters of the greatest aggregation of important corporations in New York
city. A similar building has since been erected by him in San Francisco.
444 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
Mr. Mills was married Sept. 5, 1854, to Jane T., daughter of James Cunningham
and their children are Ogden Mills and Elizabeth, wife of Whitelaw Reid. He has
joined a number of the best clubs in the city, including the Metropolitan, Century,
Union, Union League and Knickerbocker.
His benefactions are discriminating and unostentatious. The Training. School for
Male Nurses near Bellevue Hospital was founded by him, and his other actions for the
relief of the poor are as generous as they are gracious and creditable. He is a trustee
of The Metropolitan Museum of Art and The Museum of Natural History and an active
and public spirited worker in many other important institutions.
GEORGE MILMINE, grain merchant, a native of Grimsby, Canada, and born Sept.
13, 1828, is a son of Alexander Milmine, a farmer, and of mingled Scotch-Irish and New
England ancestry. He was educated in the public schools and left the farm in 1856 to
go to Wisconsin. In 1859, he engaged in Illinois in the grain business, for which ex-
perience in agriculture and a natural aptitude for trade had fitted him. In 1861, he
joined with Edward C. Bodman in establishing the firm of Milmine & Bodman, grain
commission merchants at Bement, 111. He moved to Toledo, O., in 1865, and to New
York in 1885, establishing here the house of Milmine, Bodman & Co., commission-
merchants in the grain trade. He has been very successful and the house is one of the
safest and most important at the Exchange. Mr. Milmine is a director of The Seaboard
National Bank and a member of the Union League club and Ohio Society. In 1858,
he married Emma Goble in Canada.
ROBERT BOWNE MINTURN, merchant, born in New York city, Nov. 16, 1805,
died here Jan. 9, 1866. His grandfather William, a prominent and prosperous mer-
chant of Newport and New York, died in the latter city in 1799, leaving a large fortune,
which was lost by William Minturn, the younger, in the disasters to American shipping
during the War of 1812, and the latter died in 1818, leaving the family in straitened cir-
cumstances. Robert, then only fourteen years of age, thereupon left school and gained
a business training as clerk for Charles Green, meanwhile spending his evening hours in
stvidy. Mr Green made him a partner in 1825. In 1830, Mr. Minturn joined the old firm
of Fish & Grinnell, shipping merchants, which, founded in 1815, had brought fortunes to
the original proprietors, who now retired, leaving the business to younger men. The
old sign, then changed to Grinnell, Minturn & Co., displays the latter name on Broad
street to this day.
Mr. Minturn possessed all the qualities which make a successful merchant.
Upright, enterprising and capable, he extended the operations and increased the pres-
tige of his firm, whose ships ploughed the sea in the trade to Europe and China and
carried the American flag on every ocean in the world. Scores of clerks graduated
from this house to become eminent merchants, and the name of Grinnell, Minturn
& Co. was favorably known in every port upon the globe, to which a deep sea ship
traded. Mr. Minturn was proud of his country and always felt gratified that it fell to
his lot to do much to increase its reputation abroad. The esteem in which Mr.
Minturn was held and his public spirit are illustrated by his appointment as the first
Commissioner of Emigration in this city, his large share in founding St. Luke's
Hospital, the Church of the Holy Communion, The Association for Improving the
Condition of the Poor and other institutions, and his election as first president of the
Union League club.
THE CITY or "NEW YORK. — MO. 445
In 1835, he married Anna Mary, daughter of Judge John Lansing Wendell of
Albany, and the children born to them were Robert B. Minturn, jr. ; Susan Carter, wife
of Thomas Charles Baring of London ; John Wendell Minturn ; Edith, wife of Mahlon
Sands; Anna Mary, wife of the Rev. Charles Penrose Quicke of Somerset, England;
Sarah, Eliza Theodora and William Minturn. Of the countless loving testimonials
to his character brought out by his death, a few words from the editorial of George
William Curtis in Harper's ll'eekly \\i\\ serve as a type: "Gentle, just and generous;
modest, humane and sagacious; honored by- the most successful and prosperous, beloved
by the poorest and most forgotten ; his sense of responsibility growing with increasing
fortune, until his devoted life was that of an humble almoner of the Divine bounty —
this was the New York merchant, the American gentleman, the serene Christian, whose
life was a public blessing and whose death is a universal sorrow."
JOHN GODFREY flOORE, senior member of the New York Stock Exchange firm
of Moore & Schley, who gained national prominence as the plaintiff in a suit contesting
the constitutionality of the Income Tax law, was born in Steuben, Washington county,
Maine, July 7, 1847. His father was Capt. Henry D. Moore, a shipmaster, who spent
most of his time at sea, and retired from active service, owing to severe injuries received
during a storm.
Mr. Moore's preparatory education was that of the majority of youths born in the
Pine Tree State, the district schools, but a few years later he enjoyed a winter
at the Cherryfield Academy and another at the East Maine Conference Seminary at
Bucksport Thus equipped, he came to New York when eighteen years of age.
His first employment in the city was as a clerk in the office of Thomas Mahew and
Wilson Godfrey, lumber merchants, at No. 117 Wall street. There, he gathered his
first experience of trade in New York, although presumably like most natives of
Maine he had previously acquired some knowledge of the business. Within a year,
he bettered himself by accepting a position with Bell Bro's, lumber dealers, at the foot
of \Vest 23d street, and with this firm he remained until the summer of 1868. In that
year, during which he attained his majority, he started in business on his own account,
at Xo. 96 Wall street, in the occupation in which he had served an apprenticeship. He
rapidly extended his connections, and finally, in company with John O. Evans, executed
several important contracts with the War Department. His constructions consisted in
part of piers and breakwaters at Buffalo and Cleveland and improvements along the
Delaware river from Philadelphia, Pa., to Wilmington, Del. To carry out these
projects, he and his associates organized The National Dredging Co. of the city of
Wilmington, Del.
In 1880, when The Western Union Telegraph Co. had apparently absorbed all its
rivals, Messrs. Evans and Moore entertained the idea of constructing lines connecting
the principal cities and of leasing wires to bankers and merchants during business hours
and to newspapers at night. Abundant capital was forthcoming for the purpose
and the projectors had soon stretched wires, connecting the cities of New York,
Boston and Washington. Later, Cincinnati, Chicago, St. Paul, Kansas City and
other important points in the West and Northwest were connected and the competition
thus established materially reduced rates. Finally, The Western Union Telegraph
Co. purchased the lines of The American Union Telegraph Co., and then Mr. Moore
organized The Mutual Union Telegraph Co., the prospectus of which announced that
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. MO. 447
it would stretch wires all over the United States. From the inception of this enter-
prise, the work was pushed with energy and perseverance. Its construction was of the
most perfect character and its lines were rapidly extended through all parts of the
country. Mr. Evans as president of the company attended to its finances, while Mr.
Moore had charge of the work of construction and equipment.
Before all the lines had been completed, Mr. Evans died and Mr. Moore succeeded
him as president. Under his administration, the lines of The Mutual Union Co. were
leased to The Western Union Telegraph Co. for ninety-nine years. Soon after
the making of this compact, Mr. Moore became one of the directors of The Western
Union Telegraph Co. His management of The Mutual Union brought him into
prominence as a financier, and when he returned to New York on February i, 1885,
after a vacation taken to recruit his health, he became a member of the stock brokerage
firm of Moore & Schley, which at once became one of the most prominent on the Stock
Exchange.
In recent years, Mr. Moore has taken an active interest in railroad affairs, especi-
ally in the South. In 1886, he acquired a large interest in The Chase National Bank
on Nassau street and takes an active part in its management. He is also a director
in The Manhattan Trust Co.
He is a director in The Western Union Telegraph Co., and The Missouri Pacific.
The Texas & Pacific, The Lake Erie & Western, The Louisville, New Albany &
Chicago. The New York & New England, and The Norfolk & Southern Railroads,
and The Tennessee Coal, Iron & Railroad Co. , and is interested in many other industrial
and manufacturing concerns and companies.
Mr. Moore owns a fine private library, is a supporter of the great public museums
of the city, and extends discriminating aid to charity. Among his clubs are the Union
League, Manhattan, Lotus, New York and Riding.
The courageous and determined opposition of Mr. Moore to what he considered an
unconstitutional and unjust law attracted wide attention. Actuated by the prin-
ciples which have guided his business career, he announced soon after the Income Tax
clause had been added to the tariff bill his antagonism to the measure, and declared he
would exhaust every legal means to defeat the act. His success is well known to every
citizen of the United States.
JOHN PHENIX nOORE, merchant, born Dec. 28, 1799, in New York city, died
Aug. 27, 1881. He was a lineal descendant of Jonathan Dayton, Speaker of the House
of Representatives, 1793-97, and after that United States Senator. At the age of four-
teen, the subject of this memoir was apprenticed to Benjamin Cooper, the leading gun
merchant of New York city and learned the trade thoroughly. When able personally
to make a good gun, he became Mr. Cooper's partner, then being twenty-three years of
age. and began a prosperous career. After a few years, he separated from Mr. Cooper
and conducted business alone, rising through his practical knowledge, sterling integrity
and close attention to business, and leaving as successors two sons and a son-in-law, who
continued under the name of John P. Moore's Sons and maintained the reputation
established by the founder of the house. Mr. Moore was eminently a self-made man,
and the soundness of his judgment and the fact that under no circumstances could he be
influenced to depart from the strict line of integrity and impartiality caused his advice
to be sought for freely. He was a firm Republican but would never take political
448 AMKRICA'S SUCCKSSFUL MEN.
office. Although a man of public spirit and quite willing to undergo labor for the public
good, he disliked any great notoriety. Married to Eliza Jane Vanderpoel in 1820, he
was survived by his wife and three children, Hannah M. Bowron, Elizabeth M. West
and George G. Moore. President for many years of The General Society of Mechanics
and Tradesmen, he also served upon the School Board and as director in leading
insurance companies and banks.
CHARLES MORGAN, founder of Morgan's steamship and railroad lines, a native
of Killingworth, now Clinton, Conn., born April 21, 1795, died in New York city, May
8, 1878. He came from an old shipping family and illustrated by his career what may
• be accomplished in America with no other aid than a man's own perseverance and en-
terprise. His ancestor was James Morgan, a native of Wales, who settled in Massachu-
setts in 1636.
The subject of this memoir came in 1809 to the city of New York, where he found
employment as clerk to a retail grocer. In a few years, having saved a little money by
strict economy, he opened a ship chandlery and grocery store in Peck Slip. He was
practical, determined and diligent, and his rise was rapid, one enterprise growing
naturally out of that which had preceded it and all being successful. While a ship
chandler, he ^began importing fruit from the West Indies and South America and
became part owner in a brig in this trade and later sole owner of a line of swift sailing
craft, plying between New York and the West Indies. This led him into shipping
enterprises and he sent to Charleston harbor the first steamer, which ever entered that
port from New York. Under his energetic management, this ship was succeeded by
others, forming a regular line in the Charleston trade. In 1836, he sent the first
steamer from New Orleans to Texas. His interests were then centered in steamships
and he added to his fleet almost yearly, establishing a service from New Orleans to
several Gulf ports. As an adjunct to his shipping interests, he founded and later
became principal owner of the large machine shops, known as The Morgan Iron Works
on the East River front at pth street, for casting and making the machinery of steam
vessels. During the Civil War, most of Mr. Morgan's steamers were chartered by the
United States Government.
After the War, he established a line of steamers from New York to New Orleans and
other ports on the Gulf and enjoyed almost a monopoly of that trade. Later, he became
sole owner of The Opelousas Railroad, which he renamed as Morgan's Louisiana &
Texas Railroad, and of a road from Indianola to Cuero, Texas. He dredged a ship
channel in Atchafalaya Bay; built a wharf 2,500 feet long at Indianola; traded with
steamers to Panama and Nicaragua ; and engaged in many other enterprises subor-
dinate to these schemes. Morgan City, La., was named in his honor. Mr. Morgan
managed all these enterprises himself and gained a fortune of $13, 000,000 by brave and
honest enterprise. A few weeks before his death, all his interests were merged into a
corporation, named The Morgan Louisiana & Texas Steamship Co., part of the stock
being distributed among his family.
While taking great enjoyment in business pursuits, his noble nature made him
generous in his charities, and he gave liberally to worthy objects. He was twice
married, first Dec. 20, 1817, to Emily Reeves, who died April 9, 1850, and then, June
24, 1852, to Mary Jane Sexton. His children were Charles W. and Henry Morgan,
both now deceased; Mrs. Charles A. Whitney and Mrs. George W. Quintard.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. MO. 449
DAVID PIERCE HORGAN, stockbroker, born in Tecumseh, Mich., Aug. 4, 1831,
died in Washington, D. C. , Jan. 24, 1886. The son of Amos and Betsey Morgan, he
•was descended from James Morgan, the pioneer, who came from Wales in the early
days of New England. His first occupation in life was school teaching. At length,
finding his way to the metropolis, he entered the employment of James Hewitt & Co.,
merchants, in the provisions and tobacco commission trade, and, at the end of the
Crimean War, made a successful trip abroad to purchase from the allied armies a large
stock of supplies which had been left upon their hands. It was in Wall street, how-
ever, that Mr. Morgan made his fortune and reputation. About 1857, he joined the
firm of William Fellowes & Co., prospered in this relation, retired in 1869, and about
1873, resumed business with his wife's brother as a partner, and established the stock
brokerage house of D. P. Morgan & Co. In 1878, failing health forced him to abandon
the excitements of Wall street. He was noted for generosity, especially to brokers,
always being ready to give them orders in the market, the result being that his deal-
ings were enormous and always promoted active trading. A large operator, it was
he who, with C. J. Woerishofer and Charles J. Osborn, managed the famous corner in
Chicago Northwestern, in which they caught Jay Gould short and forced him to settle.
To prolong his life, he went, in 1879, to Paris. The spirit of enterprise gave him no
rest, however, and he became a prominent operator on the Paris Bourse, where, it is
said, he was extremely successful. Mr. Morgan was adroit, active, cool and courageous,
and generally labored for an advance in prices. Returning to this country in 1883, he
passed his summers thereafter in Newport and his winters in Washington. He was at
•one time a director of The Chicago & Northwestern Railroad and long a member of
the Union club. In 1858, upon Staten Island, he married Caroline, daughter of William
Fellowes. Of their seven children, six are living, William Fellowes and David Percy
Morgan; Mrs. Ina Morgan Kissel, Mrs. Alice Morgan Carter, and Lewis Henry and
James Hewitt Morgan.
EDWIN DENISON HORQAN, War Governor of the State and a distinguished
merchant, originated among the Berkshire hills in Washington township and was born
on a farm, Feb. 8, 1811. He died in New York city, Feb. 14, 1883. In the eighth gen-
eration of descent from James Morgan, a native of Wales, who emigrated to Boston in
1636 and finally settled in Connecticut, Governor Morgan was a son of Jasper Morgan,
a farmer. A bright and capable boy, he began life with a limited education. The lack
of formal schooling never hampered Governor Morgan, however, in making his way.
His strong mind craved knowledge and he gained it by observation and reading, while
a tenacious memory and marked intellectual readiness placed his resources instantly -at
command in all situations in life. Apprenticed at the age of seventeen to his uncle,
Nathan Morgan, a merchant in Hartford, Conn., as errand boy and clerk at a salary of
$50 a year, he showed energy, boldness and ability from the start. His salary was
raised more than once and in 1831 he was admitted to partnership. In 1836, he came
to New York city, served a short time as a clerk, and then with Morris Earle, en-
gaged in a wholesale trade in groceries on Front street on his own account. For
the first six years, he lived in Brooklyn. His firm dealt mainly with houses in Connec-
ticut. Mr. Earle retiring a year later, Mr. Morgan went on alone. In 1843, with his
cousin, George D. Morgan, and another partner, he founded the firm of E. D. Morgan
& Co. While continuing the importation of general groceries for many years, he extended
450 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
his operations beyond the routine of trade, made tea, coffee and sugar a specialty, and
speculated boldly but prudently in those products. Much of his time was passed in
the tropics, especially in Louisiana, where he often bought the whole of the crop of a
large plantation. He was successful in all his operations and made money rapidly.
Cool, deliberate, patient, and energetic, of stern integrity and a man of courtly
presence, he took his place among the great merchants of the city. In the latter part
of his life, E. D. Morgan & Co. confined their operations mainly to banking. Mr.
Morgan's fidelity to every trust led his fellow citizens to select him for various public
offices. At the age of twenty-one, he became a member of the City Council of
Hartford. In New York city, he was in 1849 elected Assistant Alderman, and
in the same year State Senator, serving two terms, a part of the time as
president pro tern. The bill establishing Central Park was carried through by him.
Identifying himself with the Republican party upon its formation, he attended the
Pittsburgh convention in 1856 as a delegate and was president of the Philadelphia
convention the same year and chairman of the Republican National Committee. He
was Commissioner of Emigration, 1855-58; Governor of the State of New York,
1859-62; and, United States Senator, 1863-69. During the Civil War, he organized the
forces of New York State and was appointed a Major General of Volunteers, Sept. 30,
1 86 1, serving without compensation. Twice he refused a place in the cabinet of Presi-
dent Lincoln as Secretary of the Treasury, and although upon President Arthur's
nomination he was confirmed unanimously by the Senate for the same position,
he felt obliged again to decline. Governor Morgan always prided himself upon not
having made money out of the War. He sat in the directorate of The United States
Trust Co., The New York & Erie Railroad, The Western Union Telegraph Co., The
National Bank of Commerce, and numerous other institutions. In the Union League
club, of which he was a prominent member, he exerted an important influence. A
Presbyterian in religious faith and exceedingly philanthropic, his time and means were
employed to promote the leading institutions of his church. He served for eight years
as vice president of The American Tract Society and as an incorporator, governor and,
after 1877, president of The Woman's Hospital. Among the institutions which grate-
fully acknowledged the receipt of large gifts from him were the two named, The Ameri-
can Tract Society, The Union Theological Seminary, Williams College, The New York
City Mission, The Presbyterian Hospital, of which he was president, and The Manhat-
tan Eye & Ear Hospital, but there were many others to which he contributed from time
to time. For Williams College, he built a dormitory and in his will gave about $750,000
to public objects and charities. Governor Morgan married, Aug. 19, 1833, Eliza
Matilda, daughter of Capt. Henry Waterman of Hartford, and was the father of Dr.
Edwin D. Morgan, born Sept. 8, 1834, who died in October, 1881, leaving an only son,
Edwin D. Morgan, jr.; Frederick Avery, who died at the age of three; and Gilbert
Henry, Caroline Matilda, and Alfred Waterman Morgan, all of whom died in infancy.
GEORGE DENISON MORGAN, merchant, born in Hartford, Conn., March 3, 1818,
died in Irvington-on-the-Hudson, June 13, 1891. He was a son of Denison Morgan,
brother of Jasper and Nathan Morgan elsewhere mentioned in these pages. George
joined his cousin in business in New York city and gained prominence as a partner in
E. D. Morgan & Co. After accumulating a fortune, he gave his attention to charita-
ble and missionary work. In the Civil War, he represented Gideon Welles, Secretary
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. MO. 451
of the Navy, in the purchase of vessels for the government, and by his sound judgment
and abilities saved millions of dollars to the National Treasury. On Sept. 3, 1838, he
married Caroline A. Hale. The children born to them were George Hale and the Rev.
John Brainard Morgan; and Mary Caroline, wife of Gen. J. S. Fullerton of St. Louis.
He was at one time a director of The Equitable Life Assurance Society, besides hold-
ing a similar place in several banks, life insurance companies and public institutions.
A Christian, a princely merchant, philanthropic and just, he spent the last years of his
life, happy in the respect of a large circle of friends.
HENRY TITUS MORGAN, stock broker, born in Lee, Mass., Oct. 18, 1816, died
in New York city, Jan. 27, 1883. Coming to this city in 1836 while a young man, he
engaged in business as a stock broker in Wall street, purchasing a seat in the Stock
Exchange, of which he became one of the most prominent members. He dealt largely
in in vestment securities and retired from active business in 1881 with a fortune. He
expired suddenly from heart disease while in the carriage on his way home from Del-
monico's. His wife passed away before him. Homer Morgan was his brother and his
nearest surviving relative. A part of his fortune was left to charity.
HOF1ER nORQAN, real estate broker, born in West Springfield, Mass., Nov. 14,
1807, the third son of Archippus Morgan, died in New York city, April 16, 1887. His
ancestor Miles Morgan was one of the pioneer settlers of Springfield under Gov.
Pynchon. He began life as a clerk in the wholesale dry goods house of John Olmstead
in Hartford, and in 1830 came to New York city, continuing in the dry goods business
until 1834, when he engaged in banking with his brother E. M. Morgan and Morris
Ketchum, the firm being known as Morgan, Ketchum & Co. After a hard struggle,
the firm finally failed in 1837. In 1842, Mr Morgan engaged in real estate operations
and became one of the most prominent agents and brokers in the city. He was a
Christian gentleman, whose practical philanthropy brought happiness to a great many
people. Several families of superannuated clergymen received their support from him.
He was twice married, first in 1836 to Frances, daughter of Thomas C. Morton, by
whom he had three children, none of whom survived him. Mrs. Morgan died in 1841.
In 1850, he married Caroline Louise, daughter of Benjamin Ferris. Their two daugh-
ters are Alma Louise, wife of James W. Fellows and Annie Taylor Morgan.
JUNIUS SPENCER HORGAN, banker, a native of West Springfield, Mass., born
April 14, 1813, died in Monte Carlo, April 8, 1890. He was a son of Joseph Morgan,
farmer and early settler of Springfield and a descendant of Miles Morgan, a native of
Wales, who removed to Massachusetts in 1636 and was a brother of James Morgan,
from whom were descended Edwin D. , Edwin B. and Charles Morgan, all conspicuous
men. Educated in Hartford, Conn., Junius S. Morgan learned banking with Alfred
Welles in Boston. In July, 1834, he removed to New York and joined the banking
house of Morgan, Ketchum & Co. Returning to Hartford, eighteen months later, he
spent seventeen prosperous years, first as a dry goods merchant in Hartford, Conn., in
Howe, Mather & Co., and Mather, Morgan & Co., and next in Boston as a partner of
J. M. Beebe, in Beebe, Morgan & Co., which became one ot the largest houses in the
Lnited States. While in England, in 1853, Mr. Morgan accepted an invitation to join
George Peabody in banking and became his partner in October, 1854. Ten years later,
he succeeded Mr. Peabody in business, as J. S. Morgan & Co., and created one of the
largest banking houses in the world. He married May 2, 1836, Juliet, a woman of
452 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
unusual force of character and daughter of the Rev. John Pierpont of Boston. His
children were John Pierpont Morgan; Sarah Spencer, wife of George H. Morgan;
Mary Lyman, wife of Walter H. Burns; Junius Spencer, who died at the age of twelve,
and Juliet Pierpont. He was a generous donor to Trinity College and numerous other
public institutions. Mr. Morgan was a man of distinguished appearance and broad
mind, who loved the country of his birth and rendered it substantial service during the
Civil War.— His son, JOHN PIERPONT MORGAN, born in Hartford, Conn., April 17,
1837, inherited from his parents both their purity of character and exceptional abilities
and from early boyhood showed great promise. After graduating from the English High
School in Boston, he took a complete course in the University of Goettingen. Return-
ing to America at the age of twenty, he entered the bank of Duncan, Sherman & Co.,
in New York city, in order to obtain a thorough knowledge of banking. This house
was at the time one of the most prominent in New York. In 1860, he was appointed
American agent and attorney of George Peabody & Co., of London, a relation which he
has since maintained with J. S. Morgan & Co. In 1864, Mr. Morgan engaged in bank-
ing on his own account in the firm of Dabney, Morgan & Co., who, confining their
attention to legitimate investment securities, soon became known for conservatism,
ability and success. In 1871, Mr. Morgan became junior partner in Drexel, Morgan &
Co. By the death of the older members, he has now risen to the head of the greatest
private bank in America. Located upon Wall street within sight of the Stock Exchange,
this bank has been regarded for over twenty years as one of the most powerful influences
for good in the street. Important reorganizations of railroad properties and negotiations
of loans have been entrusted to the house. Mr. Morgan received a large property from
his father, but his fortune had been safely established long before that time by his
own exertions. He is a large investor in important enterprises and a valued director
in many, inchiding The Manhattan Railway, The Mexican Telegraph Co., The New
York Central & Hudson River Railroad, The New York, Providence & Boston Railroad,
The West Shore Railroad, The Western Union Telegraph Co. , The Central & South
American Telegraph Co. , The Madison Square Garden Co. and The Manufacturing
Investment Co. He has been twice married, is a man of fine presence, courteous and
refined, and occupies a high position in the social world. Grand opera and every
movement which will promote popular education and the fine arts are cordially sup-
ported by him and he is a valued member of the Metropolitan, Union League, Century,
Union, Knickerbocker, Tuxedo, Riding, Racquet, Lawyers', Whist, Players', Sea-
wanhaka Corinthian Yacht and the New York Yacht clubs.
GIOVANNI P. HOROSINI, stock broker and operator, is a native of the beautiful
city of Venice, Italy, where he was born June 24. 1834. His father, Paul P. Morosini,
came from old Venetian stock, while his mother was born in Cadore in the Carnic Alps
on the extreme northeastern boundary of Italy. The young man received an education
in the best civil and military training schools of the queen city of the Adriatic, gradu-
ating as a military cadet. He then became a soldier of the Italian army in Venice.
Aug. 28, 1849, after the capitulation of Venice to the Austrians, he sailed from his
native city to seek his fortune in the world at large. After traveling to Greece and
Turkey, he shipped at Smyrna before the mast on an American vessel, homeward
bound across the Atlantic ocean, and landed in the city of Boston in 1850. The navi-
gation of the sea engaged his time for several years, but Mr. Morosini was fitted to
454 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
play a more important part in affairs than he found scope for in the merchant marine.
In the spring of 1855, while his ship lay in the harbor of New York, Mr. Morosini
dwelt during the stay in port in a sailor's boarding house. He was a youth of splendid
build, great muscular strength, and a courage corresponding with both. One day,
while walking along a road on Staten Island his attention was drawn to a group of boys
near the curbstone, in which there were signs of an exciting struggle. He hastened
to the scene and there saw a dozen or more boys beating one smaller than any of them,
although the latter was making a gallant struggle against the crowd. Mr. Morosini
forced his way into the melee and took the part of the victim of the assault, who was
then lying on the ground. Immediately, the entire pack attacked the sailor, but the
latter drew his sailor's knife, shook it menacingly, and using it as a bayonet, made a
charge, which scattered the hoodlums like chaff. Mr. Morosini then helped the injured
boy to his feet and accompanied him to his home. It happened that the lad was the
son of Nathaniel Marsh, then secretary of The Erie Railroad. Mr. Marsh promptly
sought the rescuer of his boy and offered him a sum of money in gratitude. This Mr.
Morosini refused. Mr. Marsh then asked if he could be of service in any way, and Mr.
Morosini replied that he was tired of the sea and would like employment in New York.
As a result, May 29, 1855, he entered the employ of The Erie railroad, Mr. Marsh
having recommended him for a position as office boy. Eager to make himself useful,
the handsome, dark featured young man soon endeared himself to everybody by his
industry and winning manners. He was placed in the auditor's office and by strict
attention to work made his way by his own efforts through the various grades, until
he became chief clerk to the auditor. In 1869, the directors elected him General Au-
ditor of the company.
While an official of the railroad company, Mr. Morosini came under the observa-
tion of Jay Gould. The keen eye of the financier noted the diligence, application and
activity of Mr. Morosini, and inquiries were made concerning him ; and in the end
Mr. Gould gained a strong liking for him. Sept. 30, 1872, Mr. Morosini became the
private secretary of Mr. Gould. Here he began to gain an insight into the gigantic
operations, in which Mr. Gould was then engaged. In 1879, he was admitted to part-
nership by Mr. Gould and remained in that relation until they both retired from active
operations, Jan. i, 1886. In the tremendous stock transactions of that period, Mr. Moro-
sini was in some respects more intimately identified with Mr. Gould than any other man.
It was after the big deal in Erie, the Black Friday panic and the corner in Chicago
& Northwestern stock, that Mr. Morosini began to develop the remarkable business
qualities which fitted him for the part Mr. Gould wished him to play in his trans-
actions. It is a notable fact that, prior to this time, Mr. Gould had largely gained his
strong position by aiding to depreciate securities he wished to buy. He now began to
develop values. Mr. Morosini was actively connected with the transaction, which put
Mr. Gould into control of The Western Union Telegraph Co., in 1879, when, with the
assistance of The American Telegraph Co., of which Mr. Morosini was treasurer, The
Western Union saw itself forced to consolidate with The American Union and The At-
lantic & Pacific companies. In the combination between Mr. Gould and Cyrus Field
in 1879, when the Kansas City and Wabash roads were consolidated, Mr. Morosini
played an active part, as well as in the campaign which placed Mr Gould in control of
The Missouri Pacific Railroad.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. MO. 455
The records of the Stock Exchange tell how Mr. Gould came into control of the
Manhattan Elevated Railroad Company, but they do not mention the fact thas Mr.
Morosini was the man who carried on Mr. Gould's speculations and brought them to a
successful close. To-day, Mr. Morosini is a director in The Manhattan Elevated Rail-
road, and he never tires of talking of the advantages of that system over all others for
solving the rapid transit problem.
After Dec. 31, 1885, Mr. Morosini devoted himself to private affairs and invest-
ments, having his office at No. 71 Broadway with Washington E. Connor.
To-day, Mr. Morosini, while his locks are whitened with advancing years, shows
the same sparkle in his eyes and the same flush of health on his cheek, which were there
in his early days and the same aptitude for business and keen knowledge of the future
of opportunities, which have been factors in his successful life. He is not tired of the
busy work-day life of the metropolis, although he no longer engages in outside enter-
prises. He is at his desk early in the morning and gives his affairs the careful consider-
ation, which characterized his work when he was poring over figures in the auditor's
office of the Erie.
The possessor of large means, he has used them with liberality and judgment in
works of philanthropy. In the fall of 1893, he endowed a free bed in the Seton Hos-
pital at Spuyten Duyvil at a cost of $5,000, in memory of his wife; and his daughter
Julia Morosini has presented an altar at a cost of $2,000 to the Seton Hospital chapel in
memory of her mother. Although a member of the Roman Catholic faith and an
attendant at the chapel in Spuyten Duyvil, he is liberal in his views and gives gener-
ously to the charities of both the Catholic and Protestant churches. His idea of happi-
ness is to be congenially and actively employed and to be temperate in habits and enjoy-
ments. He is a member of the American Yacht and Manhattan Athletic clubs. June
6, 1857, he was married at the Jesuit church in i6th street, to Julia Chaussee. Mrs.
Morosini passed away Dec. 3, 1893. Four children have been born to them, two boys
and two girls.
JOHN A. flORRIS, capitalist, a native of Jersey City, N. J., born July 29,
1836, died at his ranche, near Kerrville, Texas, May 26, 1895. He was a son
of Francis Morris, treasurer of The American Telegraph Co. and the largest owner
of the patent of The House Printing Telegraph Co., through which corporation
he made a large fortune, spending a great part of it afterward in an effort to
develop the Nicaragua canal. Graduating from Harvard College, John A. Morris
began life as a chemist and in 1857 went to Texas with a fellow worker with the
expectation of delivering fresh beef to the markets of the world. At one time, a
resident of New Orleans, during the last thirty years or more he had been a resident
of Westchester county. He spent a portion of nearly every winter in New Orleans and
was one of the largest owners of the Louisiana State Lottery, during the existence of
the charter. He was at one time interested in The Caffrey Central Refinery at Frank-
lin, La., costing more than $500,000, and in The Ashton Plantation & Manufacturing
Co. Mr. Morris was a lover of fine horses and the great racetrack at Morris Park, just
north of New York city, costing about $2,000,000, was originally his enterprise. Ai
one time he had other investments in the interest of the American turf. He joined
various important clubs in New York city, including the Manhattan, Vaudeville,
Country, American Yacht and Seawanhaka Corinthian Yacht and The Southern Society.
456 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
Sept. 9, 1857, he was married in London, England, to Cora Hennen of New Orleans.
His children are Alfred Hennen, Frances Isabel and David Hennen Morris.
RICHARD nORTIflER, owner of realty, born in Cleckheaton, Yorkshire, England,
in 1791, died in New York, May 30, 1882. His father was William Mortimer, a
prominent citizen of Cleckheaton and a man of independent means. Richard Mortimer
came to the United States in 1816 as the agent of his brother-in-law, William Yates,
who was a manufacturer of woolen cloths, the firm being one hundred years old. In
1821, he married Miss Harriette, daughter of William A. Thompson of New Haven,
Conn. Retiring from business in 1834 on account of ill-health, he went to Europe, and
on his return did not re-enter business life but made a fortune by judicious investments
in real estate. Among the many structures owned by him are the Mortimer Building,
No 1 1 Wall street, which is the third house on this lot since it was bought by Mr. Mor-
timer; No. 935 Broadway, corner of 22d street and Fifth avenue; and No. 825 Broad-
way, a large granite building which for many years was his residence. He was a
director of The Standard Fire Insurance Co. and The Sixth Avenue Railroad. One
son, William Yates Mortimer, two grandsons, Richard and Stanley Mortimer, and
one granddaughter, Marie, who married Count von Oriola of Berlin, Germany, sur-
vived him. William Yates Mortimer, who was educated in Europe, married Elisabeth
Thorpe, daughter of Aaron Thorpe of Albany. He inherited the bulk of his father's
estate and by clever management greatly increased his property. He died in 1891,
leaving a large sum to charity, and survived by his widow and two sons, Richard
Mortimer, who married Miss Eleanor Jay Chapman, grand-daughter of the late Hon.
John Jay, and Stanley Mortimer, who married Miss Tissie Hall, daughter of the late
Valentine Hall.
LEVI PARSONS MORTON, LL. D., banker and statesman, Vice President of the
United States, 1889-93, and since Jan. i, 1895, Governor of New York, a representa-
tive of the flower of New England manhood, was born in Shoreham, Vt. , May 16, 1824,
and springs from old Puritan and Green Mountain stock. The Rev. Daniel O. Morton,
his worthy father, a Congregational clergyman, traced his ancestral line to 'George
Morton, who came to this country in the good ship Ann, of famous memory, in 1623.
The mother of Levi P. Morton was Lucretia Parsons, whose brother, the Rev. Lev{
Parsons, was well known as the first American missionary to Palestine.
The subject of this sketch grew to man's estate in a family of loving, high-
minded, and intellectual people and received from his parents the careful training,
which constitutes the best equipment for life a human being can receive. The lad left
school early to learn an occupation, the modest income of his father making it incum-
bent upon the boy to lessen the burden of the family's expenses. At the age of
fourteen, when other lads are usually thinking of college, the lad began life in the
village store, the preparatory school in which many of the greatest merchants not only
of New York but the country at large have received their primary training. His
employments led him to Enfield, Mass., and for a time to Hanover, N. H., in which is
located Dartmouth College, and finally having gained an experience, which his active
mind had promptly utilized, he took the first stride forward in his successful career,
by securing a place in a dry goods store in Concord, N. H. Here, by concentration of
his attention, he soon gained a thorough knowledge of every essential detail of the dry
goods trade. At twenty-one, he became a merchant on his own account in the same
458 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
city. It was a proud moment for the young man when the sign placed over the door
announced to his fellow citizens that Levi P. Morton had taken his place among the
merchants of Concord. The progress of an honest, hard-working, prudent and
ambitious man resembles that of a victorious army. There is no stopping anywhere
along the route, except for time sufficient to gain all the advantages of a lately acquired
outpost. Mr. Morton's purchases led him to Boston, and in 1849, there grew out of
this an opportunity to enter the employment of James M. Beebe & Co., one of the
leading dry goods houses of the metropolis of New England. Mr. Morton accepted
and became so valuable at once, .that, to secure his permanence with the firm, he was
admitted to partnership in 1852, together with Junius S. Morgan, who subsequently
joined the banking house of George Peabody & Co. , London, and succeeded that firm.
From the day he started for himself, something within himself constantly impelled
Mr. Morton onwards ; and, in 1854, he moved to New York city and founded the
wholesale dry goods commission house of Morton & Grinnell on lower Broadway. He
soon managed to make his establishment well known. It was thronged with buyers
from all parts of the country and for nearly ten years transacted a large business.
In 1863, Mr. Morton established an office in the financial center of the city, as
L. P. Morton & Co., and engaged in banking and negotiation of investment securities.
His partner was W. H. Burns and his honorable conduct soon brought around him
many of the substantial men of the town, and his business gradually grew to large
proportions. In 1868, George Bliss, a successful merchant in the dry goods district,
entered the firm, which then assumed the name of Morton, Bliss & Co. The same
year, a branch bank was opened in London, under the style of Morton, Rose & Co.,
the junior partner being Sir John Rose' previously Finance Minister of Canada.
From 1873 to 1884, the London house was the fiscal agent of the United States and
took part in some of the largest negotiations in the history of American finance. It
headed the syndicate, formed in 1871, to float a five per cent, loan of the Federal Gov-
ernment and aid in the resumption of specie payments, and, with Drexel, Morgan &
Co., J. S. Morgan & Co., N. M. Rothschild & Sons and Jay Cooke, McCulloch & Co.,
successfully placed the loan, saved the Government $70,000,000 in interest and pro-
moted the resumption of specie payments. One transaction in which Morton, Rose &
Co. joined, was the payment of the Geneva award of $15,500,000. With another check,
Morton, Rose & Co. paid $5,500,000 for the Fishery award.
While in Wall street, Mr. Morton has never been of it, in the sense of engaging in
general speculation in stocks and placing the savings of one day at the mercy of the
fluctuations of the market on the next. A calm, far seeing, conservative banker, he has
confined his attention to legitimate banking, the negotiation of investment securities,
and those other operations in finance, which are useful to the public and tend to pro-
mote stability in affairs and the progress of the country. His success is due to a thor-
ough knowledge of the principles of finance, an intrepid and spotless character, and a
clear and sagacious mind.
In political faith, Mr. Morton has always been a Republican. His entrance to prac-
tical politics was involuntary. Late in 1876, the Republicans of the nth District, a
noted Democratic stronghold, nominated him without consultation for a seat in Con-
gress. The time was then too short for a proper canvass of the district, and Mr. Morton
was defeated, although he had the satisfaction of reducing the Democratic majority by
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. MO. 459
400 votes. In 1878, his fellow citizens of the district paid him the compliment of a
renomination. This time, his popularity and an energetic canvass led to his election by
a majority, which was virtually equal to the whole vote of his opponent. While Mr.
Willis received 7,060 votes, 14,078 were cast for Mr. Morton; plurality, 7,018. Sent to
Congress by an overwhelming vote, his record there fully justified the compliment paid
him. Familiar with financial questions, sound in judgment, and terse in the expression
of his views, he made an excellent record. His opinions were always listened to with
respect, even by those who were arrayed against him politically. In the contest over the
unlimited free coinage of silver in 1879, he made two speeches so sound, straightforward
and clear, that, backed as they were by an unblemished personal character and sturdy
patriotism, they established his position as a commanding authority on finance. His
whole course in Congress was characterized with so much independence of judgment,
moderation and tact, that he won the confidence and attachment of both sides of the
House. In the social life of the capital, Mr. Morton was no less successful than in the
House. He purchased the house of Samuel Hooper of Massachusetts and there spent
two seasons, surrounded by the most brilliant men in public life and bestowing even
greater pleasure by his cordiality and hospitality than he received.
In 1880, when the Republican national convention had nominated General Garfield
for President of the United States, the Ohio delegation urged Mr. Morton to accept a
nomination for the Vice Presidency. This offer, although equivalent to an election,
was, however, declined. In 1881, President Garfield cordially tendered him a seat in
the Cabinet as Secretary of the Navy. This offer he also declined. He did accept an
appointment as Minister to France, however, and in this position certainly conferred
especial honor upon his country. He removed the offices of the Legation of the
greatest republic on earth from their old place and located them in a mansion, which
he rented at his own expense for the purpose. Situated in a good neighborhood and
presided over by a man deeply in sympathy with the French people, the Legation
soon became the one place in Paris where the leaders of French politics and social life
could meet upon friendly terms.
A devoted friend of the French republic, his cordial counsel to Ferry, Gambetta,
De Freycinet, and others, secured their earnest attachment, while his hospitality, tact
and purity of life secured the good will of the royalists. Mr. Morton desired that his
official term might not only add to the prestige of his country but be productive of prac-
tical good. His efforts to secure a repeal of the prohibitory edict against the American
hog were unceasing. He succeeded, but the House of Deputies subsequently insisted
on a renewal of the old law. The Minister of the United States in France, if popular
with the people, is in demand for a conspicuous place in patriotic and social functions.
Mr. Morton was continually sought for, for services of this class. He hammered home
the first nail driven in the construction of the Statue of Liberty Enlightening the World,
which was the gift of the people of France to the United States; and, June 15, 1884, he
publicly accepted the statue in behalf of the United States. Until the advent of Mr.
Morton in Paris, the tomb of Lafayette had never been honored with a statue of that
gallant friend of American Independence. Mr. Morton took a public part in the cere-
monies at the unveiling of a statue at Le Puy, the birthplace of the French soldier.
He was a commissioner to the Paris Electrical Exposition as well as a representative
of the United States at the Submarine Cable Convention. As a Minister, Mr. Morton
460 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
certainly won golden opinions. He was extremely obliging both to Frenchmen and
Americans, was graceful, dignified and cordial in social intercourse, and by his truly
American faculty of adapting himself quickly to his new environment, was able to retire
at the end of his term with the hearty good will of every important element in French
society and politics. Such was the prestige which Mr. Morton attained and so grate-
ful were the French for his sympathy with the struggling republic, that the municipality
of Paris formally named the square upon which he had established the hotel of Lega-
tion, "Place des Etats Unis."
During this period, the degree of Doctor of Laws was conferred upon Mr. Morton
by Dartmouth College in 1881, and by Middlebury College in 1882.
Upon his return to the United States in 1884, Mr. Morton resumed his desk in his
banking house ; but his friends continually insisted upon his return to public life and
twice they made him a candidate for a seat in the United States Senate. In January,
1885, he was strongly supported in the Republican caucus in the State Legislative, the
vote being William M Evarts 51, Levi P. Morton 28, Chauncey M. Depew 3. In 1887,
the vote on the first ballot was Warner Miller 43, Levi P. Morton 33, Frank Hiscock
ii. In 1888, on June 25th, Mr. Morton was nominated for Vice President of
the United States on the ticket with General Harrison. Upon the first ballot, he
received 591 of the 825 votes cast, or 178 more than a majority. He was a quiet
source of strength to the campaign; and New York, which had been carried by Presi-
dent Cleveland four years before, now gave a Republican majority of about 15,000.
Other States were redeemed by the Republican candidates; and Harrison and Morton
were triumphantly elected. As Vice President of the United States, Mr. Morton
scored an unmistakable success. His rulings in the Senate, his absolute fairness
toward the Democratic side of the Chamber, his calmness, poise, and moderation, not
only left absolutely no ground for complaint but gained the cordial and outspoken
praise of his political opponents. His retirement elicited a non-partisan expres-
sion of friendship. Feb. 16, 1893, a complimentary letter was addressed to him by the
eighty-eight members of the Senate and the Sergeant-at-Arms, tendering to him a
banquet at the Arlington Hotel, on the evening of Monday, Feb. 27. Mr. Morton
accepted and was made the subject of much cordial and deserved eulogy at the banquet.
The book, entitled "Testimonials of the United States Senators to Vice President
Morton," is no doubt one .of the most highly prized in his library. As if resolved to-
show that a politician may be a gentleman and an American above all, Mr. Morton gave
a reception in honor of Vice President Stevenson upon the latter's arrival in Washington.
Mr. Morton's greatest political success, however, was his election as Governor of
New York State, in 1894. While he was in Europe, the suggestion was made that Mr.
Morton should be selected to lead his party in the coming campaign, which was
regarded as of the utmost importance not only to the State but the country. This
magnificent commonwealth had been, since 1882, under the control of an unscrupulous
body of political adventurers, who had debauched its politics, mismanaged its finances,
and robbed the Republican party and the people of a Legislature by political crimes
meriting the righteous judgment of the State. So firmly were the Democratic authori-
ties entrenched, however, that it was the unanimous sentiment of the Republicans in
New York, that success in 1894 would depend to some extent upon the nomination
for Governor. The suggestion that Mr. Morton should lead the party in 1894 met
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. MO. 461
with acquiescence. The ex-Vice President arrived from Europe Aug. 26th, and
upon Aug. 3ist gave to the United Press a letter, in which he announced that
while not seeking the nomination he was ' ' a soldier in the Republican army, ready
to receive the commands of his fellow-citizens of like persuasion in public policy,
whether those commands involve leadership or services in the ranks," and while
desiring to spend the remainder of his days in retirement, yet should he be called
to fill the office of chief executive of the State, he would strive "earnestly to serve the
people with steadfastness of purpose and to faithfully administer a public trust." He
pledged to the successful candidate in case some one else should be nominated his
"hearty and unwavering support." This letter made his nomination a foregone
conclusion, although other most brilliant and conspicuous Republicans of the State had
been to some extent considered for the office. The convention was held and Mr. Mor-
ton nominated on the first ballot. His letter of acceptance, dated Oct. 9, 1894,
revealed thorough acquaintance with the affairs of both the Nation and the State. He
discussed the spoliation of cities, the imperative need of honest elections, the im-
portance of preservation of the canal system, the condition of the highways and farming
interests, freedom of worship and other cardinal Republican principles. The campaign
was conducted with energy. Mr. Morton spoke on a few public occasions, did not make
a single mistake, and on Nov. 6th was elected by the phenomenal plurality of 156,000,
reversing a Democratic plurality of 45,518 in 1892. Mr. Morton began his service as
Governor under the happiest auspices.
In 1856, Mr. Morton was married to Miss Lucy Kimball, daughter of Elijah H.
Kimball and a member of an old Long Island family. Her death in 1871 was a severe
blow and Mr. Morton was for a time disposed to abandon social life altogether and seek
distraction in the cares of business. In 1873, he was married to Miss Annie, daughter
of William I. Street, a member of one of the old families of the Island of Manhattan.
This union has brought them five daughters — Edith, Laura, Helen, Alice and Mary.
The estate of Fairlawn, at Newport, which had been bought in 1870, was sold, and
when the William Kelly place at Rhinebeck came into the market, Mr. Morton bought
" Ellerslie," and established there his home This is a beautiful spot. The farm com-
mands a fine view of the river and the valley and the blue summits of the mountains
beyond. In the neighborhood, are located a number of the ancient manors, famous in
the history of the State. Claremont, from which Chancellor Livingston first saw the
pioneer steamboat of the Hudson River, slowly making its way up the stream, lies a
few miles away, and other noted homes occupy eligible sites in the vicinity. The old
house was removed and replaced with a modern country house built in the English
renaissance style. A part of the estate is devoted to a park, surrounding the mansion,
the rest is cultivated as a farm. Mr. Morton is fond of fine cattle and his Guernseys
are noted throughout the country. They pasture in the meadows in the summer time
and in winter are housed in a huge barn, three hundred feet in length. Their pedigrees
are carefully kept and hang over their stalls in the barn. There is a flock, also, of about
four thousand of feathered inhabitants of buildings devoted to their protection.
Mr. Morton has always made a worthy use of the means which have been placed
at his disposal. His charities are manifold. Some of them have been conspicuous.
In 1880, Congress, moved by the suffering in Ireland, placed the ship Constellation at
the disposal of any one willing to send relief to that afflicted land. A few weeks after-
462 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
ward, Mr. Morton learned that no offer had been made to load the vessel. Thereupon,
he addressed a letter to The New York Herald, in which he said: " You are authorized
to announce that a gentleman known to you, who declines to have his name made
public, offers to pay for one quarter of the cargo of the Constellation if other parties
will make up the balance. " At the same time, he had determined to furnish the entire
cargo if there were any delay in securing other aid. The proprietor of The Herald and
W. R. Grace contributed each one quarter and others furnished the remainder.
The people of this city will probably recall the Rockaway Beach Improvement
troubles in the summer of 1880, when 500 workmen were unable to obtain their wages
because of the financial ruin in which the gigantic hotel enterprise had been involved.
Certificates of indebtedness were issued to the workmen, but they were useless to the
men, who needed food for their wives and children. At this juncture Morton, Bliss &
Co. joined the house of Drexel, Morgan & Co. and each contributed $50,000 for the
relief of the workingmen. They paid the full amount of the certificates and declined
to accept any discount.
In 1885 Mr. Morton gave to Dartmouth College a house and lot near Rollins
Chapel to enable the college to erect an art gallery and museum.
How thoroughly American he is in sentiment may be ascertained by a visit to Mr.
Morton's home in this city. Portraits of Washington, Lafayette, Count de Rocham-
beau, President Arthur, and others prominently identified with American affairs hang
from his walls, and his books, among which he spends much of his time, are very strong
in American history. His clubs include the Union League, Union, Metropolitan,
Century, Lawyers', Republican and Press. He is a member of The New England
Society and by virtue of lineal descent from a soldier of Independence, of The Sons of
the American Revolution.
HOPPER STRIKER flOTT, realty owner, born in New York city, April 19, 1854,
and a son of the late M. Hopper Mott, an owner of realty, springs from one of the oldest
families in America and is, by the inter-marriage of his ancestors with old Knickerbocker
stock, allied to the Hoppers, Strikers, Schuylers, Von Slingerlandts, Van Rensselaers
and Van Dorns. The pioneer of his paternal line, Adam Mott, arrived in Boston har-
bor in 1630, settled later in Rhode Island and in 1640 was a resident of Long Island,
N. Y. , where he became a Dutch citizen through taking the oath of allegiance and ac-
quiring real property. He founded an important family, which has been conspicuous
in the history of New York city for many generations. The late Dr. Valentine Mott
was one of his direct descendants.
Hopper S. Mott was carefully educated, first in General Lockwood's private school
in Tarrytown, the military academy in Peekskill, and Charlier's French school in New
York and finally in Columbia College and the Law School, which he left on the advice
of Professor Dwight, prior to graduation, on account of the death of the last previous
male heir of the Mott estate and the amount of business suddenly thrown on his hands.
In 1873, therefore, he entered practical affairs as manager of the family estates, having
succeeded in that year, together with his brother, Alexander Hosack Mott (named for
Dr. Hosack, after whom Hosack Hall is calledjn the New York Academy of Medicine)
as tenants in common, through their uncle, Jordan Mott, to the ownership of a large
part of the old Hopper farm on the northwestern part of the Island of Manhattan.
The original owner of this famous tract, John Hopper, the elder, was a Hollander, who
~?::f-:-
464 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
spelled his name Hoppe and was the great-great-grandfather of the subject of this
biography. The Hopper farm extended from near Fifth avenue across the island to
the Hudson River and beyond to the uplands on the New Jersey side. The property
was acquired by grant from the Dutch in 1642, and confirmed by the English in 1667.
Portions of the farm, dotted here and there from Sixth avenue to the river, are yet in
possession of the family. This tract is famous in the annals of the city and has been in
litigation so continuously that almost every lawyer is familiar with its title. The extreme
western confines comprised Slaugh's Meadows on the New Jersey side of the river, so
called from the authenticated circumstance of the hanging of a man of that name
thereon in early times. Part of these lands were sold to The New York, Ontario &
Western Railroad in 1884.
The burial plot of the Hopper family occupied a part of this farm near soth street
and Ninth avenue and, as late as 1883, a heavy stone wall surrounded a small portion
of the lot at the southwestern corner of these streets, about six feet above the level of
the highway. The lower side of the lot was reserved for the burial of the negro slaves
of the family. Slaves nursed all the children of the last generation, and the remaining
ones were given their freedom by Mr. Mott's grandfather, Jordan Mott, in his will.
Lately, the family remains have been removed to Trinity cemetery and the plot is now
the site of an apartment house. The vaults of the Reformed Dutch Church at Bloom-
ingdale, which the family attended, were used later. This church, built in 1816, stood
on the corner of 68th street and Bloomingdale road and was demolished in 1868 to make
room for the widening of Broadway into a boulevard. James Striker, one of the
founders of this church, was Mr. Mott's great-grandfather, the father of Gen. Garrit
H. Striker and Winifred Mott and his homestead was at Striker's Bay, a portion of the
mansion yet standing at g6th street and Riverside Drive.
The Mott homestead, built in 1796, on the site of private fishing and bathing
houses, stands on a spot which has always been known as Mott's Point, a rocky
promontory jutting out into the Hudson River, the upland covered with old forest trees.
The mansion is large, rambling and low studded. A beam runs in the old-fashioned
way below the ceiling across the drawing-rooms from the main hallway, almost low
enough to touch one's head. The west wall of the cellar is hewn from the solid rock
.and forms the foundation for that portion of the house above. The mansion is reached
from Eleventh avenue by means of Mott's lane, once a shaded and graveled way, lead-
ing through a wide gate to the grounds. The season of 1895 is expected to witness the
destruction of this old landmark, the city authorities having ordered that West 54th
street, in the centre of which it is located, shall be opened, assessments having
already been levied therefor. Mr. Mott's ancestors occupied the homestead continu-
ously till 1884, when the growth and character of the neighborhood suggested the
desirability of a change. The possessors of this old mansion and grounds kept them in
the finest condition known to the art of the times down to within fifteen years of the
present date. Scores of antique pieces of porcelain, furniture and silver, and a multi-
tude of family portraits, books, and parchments, adorned this old mansion, and the
hospitable Dutch customs of the olden time were observed as late as the last generation.
The family always kept open house for the tenantry on New Year's Day. In later
years, and until the homestead was abandoned, Christmas was substituted for the
.annual celebiation and a tree provided for the entertainment of the tenants' chil-
mm,
'HiltonStN.Y.
THE CITY Qf »*!*
family treasured, among +,& :<<
guests and was a gift of g
S. Mott, from British s<-Ioi- ---
• eturn for food and care
in the habit of calling upon ti
itably inclined. In the gr
Mott at Ward's Island ,
\
rties, ssth street was o;>
Dock, was built to the n«>rr
•.ich thereto, a bulkht. r./
Mott, an uncle, in r
D of riparian rights •
rears, begun by the May*"1, At.
•rought an actron in i8&x ;*,,
This proved one of the harde
effo: juire the water front of the island an
Mr. Mott gives his attention to the manaL
property, which he directs from an office on Eleventh avenue, »r
the original farm. His time has been fully occupied to the exd
», and he has never felt like assu: lv-r responsibilities, a.
importuned to do so. He is a competent leaded and progressive bus
and cultivated gentleman, and his personal qualities and social nature have gain
him admission to the Union League, Metropolitan, St. Nicholas, Country, La
and :lon clubs and The Holland Society. In 1875, *»« wa» married to Ma
.- child of Ur. Edwin S. Lenox, of th Dr Lenox died Jan. 7, 1895.
one son living, Hopper Lenox Mott, who was born April 28. 1876, and
the e Deration of the name iti
JORDAN LAWRENCE MOTT. rtnw of th« natm <*utn*U,;«.Krr
ng Island, Oct. ia, j;^*, died in thr ctrv •-* N-w \ .» .
:ch he was a distingmshcc; ir:-..!v .•„ - -.. •
? «.' many men, who h«v«- v:'-1-'^-: -.h-i:- u.«-"
Adam Mott, a native "f
g in Boston in 1636, : j^ ^ •
:< .'. vd to Xewtown \'. »'.. ,
-eat of the family. At tin: tnne i-l i
•04, he had attained con.-..
for the transfer of the !
;> 'ic-ath in 1686, .he left a wife. St
:i, Nathaniel and Mary, who i
•n of the foregoing, was born in K,.
•. r He was twice married, tirst to F"
; abeth Richbell. He was blessed «
., Joseph, Gershom; Elizabeth, w?v
, William, Man', and Hannah. v.-\t? -<
led the Rockland county family • ! v
ic Mott, famous in after vears ,i- :i *»i»
' by H B FiiU *C": 65 Million StNY.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. MO. 465
dren. The family treasured, among other things, a tablecloth, which was reserved
for honored guests and was a gift of gratitude to Mrs. Anne Mott, great-grandmother
of Hopper S. Mott, from British soldiers confined in the old sugarhouse, lately de-
stroyed, in return for food and care bestowed upon them during imprisonment. Mrs.
Mott was in the habit of calling upon the prisoners with Mrs. Brevoort and other
women charitably inclined. In the grounds, stood hundreds of fruit trees selected by
Mrs. Winifred Mott at Ward's Island and planted under her supervision.
In the thirties, 55th street was opened through the Hopper farm and in 1848, a dock,
called Mott's Dock, was built to the northeast of the homestead. On account of the
rocky approach thereto, a bulkhead with some two hundred feet front was constructed
by Garrit S. Mott, an uncle, in 1852, and the land filled in up to high water mark. The
ownership of riparian rights in front of the mansion formed the subject of a controversy
for four years, begun by the Mayor, Aldermen and Commonalty of the city of New
York, who brought an action in 1888 against Mr. Mott and others to eject them there-
from. This proved one of the hardest fought cases in the experience of the city in its
efforts to acquire the water front of the island and was eventually compromised.
Mr. Mott gives his attention to the management and improvement of a large
property, which he directs from an office on Eleventh avenue, situated on a portion of
the original farm. His time has been fully occupied to the exclusion of outside busi-
ness matters, and he has never felt like assuming other responsibilities, although often
importuned to do so. He is a competent, clear-headed and progressive business man
and cultivated gentleman, and his personal qualities and social nature have gained for
him admission to the Union League, Metropolitan, St. Nicholas, Country, Lawyers'
and Psi Upsilon clubs and The Holland Society. In 1875, he was married to May, the
only child of Dr. Edwin S. Lenox, of this city. Dr. Lenox died Jan. 7, 1895. They
have one son living, Hopper Lenox Mott, who was born April 28, 1876, and represents
the eighth generation of the name in this country.
JORDAN LAWRENCE MOTT, first of the name, manufacturer, born in Man-
hasset on Long Island, Oct. 12, 1798, died in the city of New York, May 8, 1866. The
family of which he was a distinguished member is now a large one in America and has
given birth to many men, who have played their part with ability in affairs. The
founder was Adam Mott, a native of England, who, born in 1580, emigrated to the new
world, settling in Boston in 1636. He qualified as a freeman in Hingham in 1637,
and thence moved to Newtown on Long Island, N. Y., and later to Hempstead, which
became the seat of the family. At the time of the conquest of New Amsterdam by the
English in 1664, he had attained consequence and served as a member of the commis-
sion which arranged for the transfer of the Dutch possessions to the English govern-
ment. At his death in 1686, he left a wife, Sarah, and six children, John, Adam,
Joseph, Elizabeth, Nathaniel and Mary, who established several branches of the family.
Adam, son of the foregoing, was born in England in 1629, and came to America
with his father. He was twice married, first to Phebe, whose maiden name is unknown,
and then to Elizabeth Richbell. He was blessed with fourteen children : Adam, James,
Charles, John, Joseph, Gershom; Elizabeth, wife of Henry Coder; Henry, Grace,
Richbell, Ann, William, Mary, and Hannah, wife of John Seaman. The third son,
Charles, founded the Rockland county family of Motts, while William was the ancestor
of Dr. Valentine Mott, famous in after years as a surgeon in New York city. James
466 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
has many descendants in Westchester county. Joseph was probably the father of
Joseph Mott of Dutchess county, who owned a farm on the patent of Nine Partners, a
village famous as the site of a school conducted by the Society of Friends and for in-
habitants who ardently sustained the cause of Independence in the Revolution.
Jacob Mott, son of Joseph, son of the second Adam, named above, was born Aug.
9, 1714, and died Oct. 6, 1805. He remained upon Long Island, married Abigail Jack-
son, and was the parent of eleven children, Joseph, Samuel, Jackson, Isaac, Miriam,
who died in childhood; Ruth, wife of Jordan Lawrence and after his death of Stephen
Coles; Samuel I., Jacob, Miriam, wife of Benjamin Birdsall; Richard and Joseph.
The eighth child of the family last named was Jacob Mott, born June 30, 1756,
who died Aug. 16, 1823. A resident of Long Island during his early life, he married
Deborah, daughter of Dr. William Lawrence, whose ancestor, John Lawrence, was one
of the commissioners to arrange the boundaries of New Amsterdam in 1664. By this
union, Mr. Mott became connected with a family, who have always been conspicuous as
land proprietors on Long Island and have given to New York city many successful
merchants and members of the legal profession. Removing from his native village of
Hempstead to New York city in early life, Mr. Mott engaged in the grocery trade here
and for a long period was prominent and highly respected as a merchant and citizen.
An interest in municipal politics led to his election as Alderman of the 7th Ward, 1804-
1810. He served as president of the Board when De Witt Clinton was Mayor and at
one time was Deputy Mayor of New York. The city authorities paid him the honor of
giving his name to Mott street. He rose to affluence by his own honest efforts but
toward the end of his life met with heavy .losses. Five children were born to him :
William L. Mott, born Jan. 16, 1777, who married Dorothy Scudder; Richard L. Mott,
born June 6, 1782, who married Elizabeth Deal; Jacob L. Mott, born Sept. 13, 1784,
who married Hannah Riker and settled in Tarrytown, rising to prominence as a
preacher of the Society of Friends; Jordan L. Mott; and Mary, wife of Ezekiel G. Smith.
Jordan L. Mott, the subject of this sketch, was born during a temporary residence
of the family at Manhasset on Long Island, whither they had repaired in consequence
of a prevalence of yellow fever in the city of New York. During his youth, the pros-
perity of the family enabled him to receive an excellent education and to indulge in a
gratification of the constructive temperament with which nature had endowed him. He
made many experiments with mechanical apparatus, and at the age of fifteen he had
already invented a machine for weaving tape, which was successfully introduced into
operation. His father's affairs having been thrown into confusion by business losses,
Jordan was confronted at the age of twenty-two with the necessity of contributing
not only to his own support but that of the family. He began his business career in
New York city, in 1820, as a grocer, but after 1829, for the remainder of his life, he de-
voted his attention to iron founding and invention. At that period, the old-fashioned
baking ovens attached to open fire places were being supplanted by iron cooking and
heating stoves, in which wood was used for fuel. Upon the discovery of anthracite
coal in Pennsylvania, Mr. Mott foresaw the adaptability of the new fuel to household
purposes and invented the first cooking stove ever known, in which coal could be
burned for cooking purposes, and thereupon began to manufacture them in this city.
While this invention was followed by important financial advantages to the enterprising
inventor, yet the blessings bestowed by it upon the community at large in promoting
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. MO. 469
The North River Bridge Co., the latter organized to bridge the Hudson river, and
vice president of The New River Mining Co., in Virginia. He is also director of The
Central Gas Co , and The Forty-second Street & Grand Street Railroad.
In politics a Democrat, he was honored with an election as Presidential Elector
on the Democratic ticket in 1876, and cast a direct vote for Samuel J. Tilden as Presi-
dent of the United States. He served as Elector also for his party in 1888. While too
much occupied with the management of the works to spare much time for municipal
affairs, he nevertheless accepted an election- as Alderman for the 23d and 24th Wards
in 1879, and served as president of the Board, acting Mayor during the illness of
Mayor Cooper, and a member of the Board of Apportionment. He retired from the
Board of Aldermen amid the regrets of his associates and bearing a nattering testimo-
nial signed by even' member of the Board. He also served as one of the trustees of
the village of Morrisania before annexation to the city and as president of the Board of
Survey, appointed by the State Legislature to survey and map the territory now em-
braced in what is called the annexed district in the northern part of the municipality.
Having been appointed a member of the Rapid Transit Commission by Mayor
Wickham, he took an active part in the proceedings under which the present rapid
transit roads were chartered and built.
An upright, sterling and vigorous man, he is greatly respected in this city and is
prominent in social life and a member of the New York, New York Yacht, Ameri-
can Yacht, Engineers' and Fulton clubs. Of the latter, composed mainly of men in
the metal and kindred trades in New York, he has been president.
In 1853, he married Marianna, daughter of James V. Seaman of Westchester.
Their children are Marie M., wife of Charles F. MacLean; Jordan L. Mott, jr., who
married Katharine Jerome, daughter of Fay Purdy of Sodus Point, N. Y., whose son
Jordan L., is fourth of the name; and Augustus W. Mott. The family dwell on upper
Fifth avenue, near the Harlem river.
VALENTINE MOTT, M. D., surgeon, bora at Glen Cove, L. L, Aug. 20, 1785, died
at his home in New York city, April 26, 1865. His father, Dr. Henry Mott, was for
many years a practicing physician in New York city. The son graduated from Colum-
bia College in 1806, and then spent some time in Europe increasing his knowledge. In
1809, when twenty-four years of age, he was called to the chair of surgery at Columbia
College and remained there until 1813. In 1826, with several others, he established
Rutgers Medical College and about 1830 began to give most of his time to lectures and
instruction. His position as a surgeon was second to none of his day and earned from
the renowned Sir Astley Cooper this eulogium: '' He has performed more of the great
operations than any man living or that ever did live." Dr. Mott was the author of
several works of great value to science and his profession, and his investments in real
estate brought him a fortune.
WILLIAM HENRY MUNN, lawyer, born in New York city, June 2, 1802, died
here June 25, 1878. He came from Connecticut stock and his father, Stephen Bull
Munn, who removed to this city early in life, rose to prominence as a merchant and
real estate speculator and left to his family a fortune large for the times. Part of the
Loubat property, south of the St. Nicholas Hotel, was one of the Munn farms. William
H. Munn studied law with John Jay, engaged in practice, and cared for his father's
large estate at the office, 503 Broadway, for many years. After the death of his father,
47° AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
he retired from practice to manage his own property. He was a stockholder in The
Chemical Bank and lived at 24 West 26th street. By his marriage with Mary Wells in
this city, he became the father of William and Russell Munn, both deceased, William
H. Munn, M. D., James Tredwell, Mary, Effie, Emily, Alice and Cora Munn. — His
son, WILLIAM HENRY MUNN, M. D., a well-known physician of this city, was born
Feb. 22, 1843. While attending school and college, he spent the hours not devoted to
study in his father's real estate office. Having graduated in 1868 with a diploma, he
entered upon the practice of medicine and has followed his profession to the present
time. He is a diligent student and investigator and by his experiments and success in
practice has made for himself an excellent position. Dr. Munn has never taken any
part in politics and is not a club man, but is absorbed in his profession and is only seen
in public in the County Medical Society. He has one child, Rebecca.
JOSE MARIA MUNOZ, merchant, born in Panama, Nov. i, 1833, died in New
York city, Oct. 4, 1893. His father was a Spanish general, serving in South and Cen-
tral America, and his mother a woman prominent in the Roman Catholic Church in
Panama. Educated in Kingston, Jamaica, Mr. Munoz began life as clerk in a dry
goods house in Panama. When the gold fever broke out in 1849, ne repaired to the
California mines and prospected with success. In 1860, he removed to New York city,
and with Jose J. Ribon established at 157 Water street, the South American cammission
firm of Ribon & Munoz. Later, they occupied premises on Pine street. When the
senior partner retired in 1875, Mr. Munoz admitted his confidential clerk, Mr. delaEspri-
ella to partnership, and the house has borne the name of Munoz & Espriella since that
date. They handled large quantities of coffee, hides, rubber, cochineal, and cocoa nuts,
and exported hardware, provisions, machinery and flour. Both partners ranked as excel-
lent merchants and courteous gentlemen, and were highly esteemed. Since 1878, the
office has been at 59-61 Liberty street. Mr. Munoz was Consul General of Costa Rica and
Bolivia for a time, and a member of the Union, Down Town and Coney Island Jockey
clubs. Oct 15, 1 86 1, he married Leontine Celeste, daughter of Ferdinand Thieriot,
importer of watches in Maiden Lane. He had no children. Since the death-of both
partners, the house has been continued by their respective wives under the old name.
NORMAN LESLIE MUNRO, publisher, a native of Millbrook, Pictou county,
N. S. , born in April, 1842, died in New York city, Feb. 24, 1894. The son of a farmer,
he aspired to a more ambitious life than agriculture afforded, and came to New York
city in 1864, a strong, rugged, clear headed young man, with a few hundred dollars in
money, to fight the battle of life alone. Employed by a publishing house in this city in
a small capacity, he learned the business with wonderful rapidity, mastered every
essential detail, and in 1873, had the courage to embark at his own risk, on William
street, in the publication of The New York Family Story Paper, inspired by the success
of Robert Bonner and Street & Smith. The paper was bright and attractive and, be-
ing placed upon the newstands, gained buyers from the start, and in less than two
years was a financial success. Mr. Munro then moved to a building on Beekman
street, and started other story papers, lost his plant by fire in 1876, resumed business
with characteristic energy, and in a new location on Vandewater street soon had new
presses busily at work striking off hundreds of thousands of copies of his various papers.
The Family Story Paper was undoubtedly his greatest success, gaining a sale of 325,000
copies a week. He had other publications, however, including Boys of New York, Our
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. ML". 47 1
Bovs, Golden Hours, and Munro's Library. He was an immense advertiser, spending often
about §350,000 a year. Prosperity enabled him to construct a large building, devoted
mainly to a great publishing business. He also owned the Boston flats on West 59th
street, the Xorma apartment houses at 8zd street and Park avenue, and, in Brooklyn,
the Berkeley and Grosvenor flats, 109-117 Montague street, the Clermont avenue rink
and a large livery and boarding stable. Mr. Munro loved the salt sea, and grew dur-
ing his later years enthusiastic on the subject of yachting. It was his ambition to own
the swiftest boat in the world. The Xorma, a 150 foot steam yacht, notable in her day,
was his first. Then followed successively those famous productions of the Herreshoffs,
the Now Then, the Henrietta, the Say When, the Norwood, the Vamoose, and the
launch So So. Mr. Munro was married in July, 1879, to Henrietta E., daughter of
Henry Hume. Their children are Henry and Xorma L. Munro.
COL. KENNETH MACKENZIE flURCHISON, merchant, born Feb. 18, 1831, was
educated at the University of Xorth Carolina in the class of 1853. The early part of his
life was spent near Fayetteville and business pursuits did not claim his attention until
just before the Civil War. After the secession of the South, Mr. Murchison joined the
8th X. C. Inf. as second lieutenant. He happened to be absent when his regiment was
captured by the Federal forces during the early part of the War, and he then raised a
company in Cumberland county for the 54th X. C. With this regiment, he saw a great
deal of active duty in the Virginia campaign and took part in many hard fought battles,
rising to the rank of Colonel and the command of the regiment. After the War, he
came to Xew York city and here engaged in business, founding, in 1866, the present
firm of Murchison & Co., merchants of cotton and naval stores, and carrying on at the
same time a large business in Wilmington, X. C. , under the name of Williams & Mur-
chison. Although a resident of Xew York, Colonel Murchison has many interests in
Wilmington, among other things having recently erected a large hotel, the Orton, a
model of beauty and convenience. He also owns the Orton rice plantation, of 9,000
acres, near Wilmington, an historic spot, the plantation having been the site of St_
Phillip's church, built in 1735 and the first ever erected by the English in Xorth Caro-
lina. The place has been improved to such an extent that to-day it is one of the most
beautiful spots in the State and is a typical Southern homestead. Colonel Murchison 's
hunting preserve of 20,000 acres near Asheville, X. C. , embraces Mt. Mitchell, the
highest point east of the Rocky Mountains and is celebrated for the excellence
and abundance of its deer and trout. The Colonel is a member of The Southern
Society.
THEODORE WALTER FIVERS, for six years Comptroller of the city and county
of Xew York, has spent his whole business life in the field of finance. A banker and
broker in Wall street, keen, shrewd, the possessor of business talent of a high order,
he has had the good fortune to win the respect of the community as much by probity
of character and the value of his public services as by his success in business.
He was born in this city Jan. n, 1844, the son of Lawrence Myers, a successful
merchant, who previous to his death in 1874, had long been recognized as a leading
spirit in commercial circles. Theodore prepared for college in private schools in this
city and in France and Germany, but was prevented by ill health from taking a college
course. At the outbreak of the War, although a Democrat, he espoused the cause of
the Union. He became a captain in the 3d Regiment of the Sickles brigade and was
472 -AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
connected with the City Guard for many years. Later, he oecame a captain in the 9th
Regiment, one of the crack military organizations of the city.
In 1864, Mr. Myers secured a position in the house of Polhemus & Jackson,
bankers and brokers. He made himself acquainted with all the details of business
in Wall street, and then engaged in business on his own account in Camblos & Myers.
The firm were quite successful, but several years later, Mr. Myers carried on the
business in his own name. He was also for several years a special partner in the
firm of M. E. De Rivas & Co.
To secure needed recreation, Mr. Myers traveled in Europe, for a year or two,
and then, in 1884, organized the bank of Theodore W. Myers & Co., of which he
has ever since been the head. This firm has met with a remarkable success. It
has always transacted a large commission business, with branches in Philadelphia
and Chicago. It became known early in its career as a conservative, trustworthy
and honorable house.
Mr. Myers first took an active part in politics in 1884. In that year, he organ-
ized a Cleveland campaign club among the Democrats of the Stock Exchange and
was the leader in arranging for a great open-air rally in Wall street at the steps of
the Sub-Treasury. He aided to secure the interest of the business men of New
York city in Mr. Cleveland's candidacy for President and the great parade of busi-
ness men and political clubs of that year which, in part, grew out of his work, was
the master stroke of an exciting and hotly contested campaign.
In May, 1887, Mr. Myers was appointed a Park Commissioner of this city and
was elected by his associates treasurer of the board. In the fall of the same year,
he was elected Comptroller of the city by 45,000 plurality, receiving the largest vote
of any man on the ticket of the United Democracy. He was re-elected in 1890,
having been nominated by all the leading parties on account of his honest record
and personal popularity, and he received 207,011 votes out of a total of 213,199 cast.
The services of Mr. Myers to the city in this important position were great. He
faithfully guarded the interests of the taxpayers and his excellent judgment and
scrupulous honor won the general commendation. It may be said to his credit, that
his political opponents have been as frank in recognizing his entire fidelity to the
interests of the city as have his own party associates. A notable incident was his
negotiation of a loan of $14,000,000 for the city at 2 1-2 per cent, interest. This was
the first loan ever made by any municipal government at that low rate.
He was married in 1870, to Miss Hart, a grand-daughter of Bernard Hart, a promi-
nent merchant of fifty years ago, one of the founders of the Stock Exchange and an
original member of The Tontine Society. They have one son, George Lawrence
Myers, a graduate of Columbia College.
Mr. Myers is a man of refinement, a lover of the fine arts, social in nature and
exceedingly well liked. He is a member of the Manhattan, Reform, Democratic, New
York, Rockaway Hunting, New York Athletic and New York Yacht clubs and of many
musical societies, as well as a member of the Geographical and Historical societies.
N.
BENJAMIN NATHAN, stock broker, who died by the hands of an unknown assas-
sin, July 29, 1870, at the age of fifty-seven, was of Hebrew descent and well known in
business circles. Entering Wall street early in life and transacting business for many
clients, he began later to operate on his o_wn account, and, although seldom, if ever, a
leader in the market, managed gradually to accumulate a fortune. One of the founders
of the Stock Exchange, a large, fine looking man, keen in judgment, honest and
shrewd, he was the center of a large circle of very warm friends. Through investment
and executive ability, he became a director of The Chicago & Northwestern Railroad
and several insurance companies and was also the holder of many shares in The Ninth
Avenue Railroad Co. About 1860, he practically retired from active business, although
retaining an office in Wall street. Mr. Nathan was connected with several of the lead-
ing Jewish families of the city and noted for his generosity toward the institutions of
his race. He made a large contribution toward the erection of the new Mount Sinai
Hospital and presided over its board of directors. The death of Mr. Nathan remains
one of the imsolved mysteries of the metropolis. The tragedy occurred at night at his
house in West 23d street, where he was living alone temporarily, his family being at
their summer home in Morristown, N. J.
ELKAN NAUMBURQ, banker and broker, born in Treuchtlinger, Germany, Jan.
i, 1835, is a son of Wolf Naumburg, a well known Hebrew clergyman of that place.
Educated in the common schools at home, Elkan began active business life as a
clerk in Baltimore, Md , in 1850, having come to this country at the age of fifteen.
In 1856, on his twenty- first birthday, he was admitted to partnership in the highly
respectable firm of his employers, Simon Frank & Co. In 1863, he removed to New
York to become resident buyer for the firm and in 1868 aided to organize the firm of
Stadler & Co., clothing merchants. Here he soon made his mark as a cool, keen and
successful business man. In 1876, the firm of Naumburg, Kraus, Lauer & Co. suc-
ceeded to the business, Mr. Naumburg remaining the senior partner and an active
member until 1893, when Mr. Lauer and he retired from the firm, forming a new part-
nership, Jan. i, 1893, for a banking and brokerage business, making commercial paper
a specialty. He is part owner of the old store at 657-659 Broadway and of other
realty, senior director in The National Citizens' Bank and a member of the Chamber of
Commerce. In 1866, he married Bertha, daughter of Gottlieb WTehle, and their chil-
dren are Walter W. and George Washington Naumburg, the latter having been born
July 4, 1876. He is a member of the Reform, Harmonic and Insurance clubs and of
various charities and originated, in 1890, by a handsome subscription, the pension fund
for retired musicians of the Philharmonic Society, of which he is honorary member.
DAVID LEOPOLD NEWBORQ, clothing manufacturer, born Feb. 19, 1834, in
Oberndorf, Wurtemburg, is of Hebrew descent. First a clerk for his father at home, he
came to America in 1851, made his pioneer venture as a merchant in the West, and
in 1862, sold his Western trade and removed to New York to engage in the manufac-
ture of clothing. In 1874, he admitted his brother Joseph to partnership under the
name of D. L. Newborg & Bro. Their management being characterized by prudence
474 AMERICA S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
and sagacity, the firm prospered to a remarkable degree. In 1882, Joseph L. New-
borg, a son of the senior partner, became a partner, the firm then adopting the title
of David L. Newborg & Son. A close, shrewd, careful merchant, Mr. Newborg has
continued to increase his property both from current profits and wise investment. He
is identified with Temple Emanu- El and various charities. In 1861, he married Caro-
line, daughter of Samuel Cole. The children born to them have been Bertha, wife
of Ansell B. Falk; Matilda, wife of Henry Leerburger; Addie, wife of Samuel G.
Hess; Joseph L. Newborg; Rosalie, wife of Charles Schwartz; Hilda, Leo and Sidney
Newborg.
HORATIO VICTOR NEWCOMB, railroad president and banker, is one of the
group of vigorous spirits who have come to the metropolis from the Southern States
during the last fifteen years and identified themselves prominently with financial
affairs. Born in Louisville, Ky., July 26, 1844, he springs from New England ances-
try, being, through the line of his father, Horatio D. Newcomb, a descendant of Hez-
ekiah Newcomb and Jerusha Bradford, who were married Nov. 4, 1716, the latter
being a daughter of Thomas Bradford and great-granddaughter of Major William
Bradford, who came to America in the good ship Mayflower in 1620 and for many
years ruled the Plymouth colony as its governor. Through the line of his mother,
Cornelia Washington Read, Mr. Newcomb is collaterally descended from George Wash-
ington, the father of his country. The Newcomb family traces its line back through
the history of America and England as far as 1189. In Kentucky, it has always
belonged to the ruling class in the South, being conspicuous both in public affairs
and business enterprises.
Victor received an excellent education, beginning in schools at home and con-
tinued in England and France. From his books, he brought an active mind and
earnest nature into the counting room of the firm of H. D. Newcomb & Bro., commis-
sion merchants in Louisville, Ky. , and, when fitted for the responsibilities of a career,
became a partner in Warren, Newcomb & Co. in New York city. He proved a
bright, competent and active business man, and his firm, which subsequently took the
name of Newcomb, Buchanan & Co., at Louisville, enjoyed a large trade and a pros-
perous career while he was at the head of it.
Horatio D. Newcomb, father of the subject of this sketch, is remembered as
one of the most enterprising of the residents of Louisville, being largely engaged in
Southern trade, the operation of steamboats on the rivers, the management of a large
possession in land and, as president of the corporation, in the direction of The Louis-
villj & Nashville Railroad. Upon the death of the senior Newcomb, Aug. 24, 1874,
Victor entered upon a short but extremely successful career as a railroad man. Hav-
ing been elected a director of the railroad company, a little later he became vice presi-
dent and then president. To the development of The Louisville & Nashville Railroad
as a property, the new officer devoted a vast amount of labor and untiring energy and
contributed largely to make the system the great property it is to-day.
Upon his resignation in 1880, a series of extremely complimentary resolutions were
adopted by the directors of the corporation, some of whom were older railroad men than
he, who attributed to his foresight, energy and progressive spirit, the great growth and
prosperity of the Louisville & Nashville system. Mr. Newcomb was the youngest ex-
ecutive officer of a railroad during his time and bore the title of the "boy president.'1
476 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
The best evidence of the estimation in which he was held and the great services which
he rendered to The Louisville & Nashville Railroad, may be found in a series of reso-
lutions passed by the board of directors upon his retirement in 1880, of which the fol-
lowing are extracts :
" Mr. H. Victor Newcomb having, for reasons relating to his personal health, ten-
dered his resignation as president of this Board, the Directors cannot permit the occasion
to pass without an expression of regret at the loss of his valuable services as the head
of this company. The name of Mr. Newcomb is intimately associated with the origin,
the subsequent growth and the rapid development of The Louisville & Nashville Rail-
road. His father, H. D. Newcomb, was one of its founders. From the organization
of the company to the day of his death in 1874, he was continuously in its services in the
capacities, successively, of director, vice-president and president.
" In'i874, upon the death of his father, H. Victor Newcomb was elected a director
to succeed his father, later vice-president of the company and then president. When
Dr. Standiford became president, he was an active member of the board of directors
and an efficient adviser and coadjutor of the president. During the incumbency of Dr.
Standiford, the services and exertions of Mr. Newcomb were invaluable to the company
toward the acquisition of the additional lines of road, which have supplemented and com-
pleted the great Louisville & Nashville Railroad system. The continuation of the line
by the way of Montgomery and Mobile to New Orleans and the establishment of the
Southern terminal stations of the road upon the Gulf of Mexico at Mobile and upon
the Mississippi levee in New Orleans, was his special project, and its successful accom-
plishment was substantially the result of his sagacity and energy.
" The accomplishment upon a solid and substantial basis of close and friendly rela-
tion with The Nashville & Chattanooga Railroad company, was also specially the
result of his intelligent exertions, resulting in great mutual advantage to both com-
panies. His short career as president has been a triumph probably without precedent
in the railroad's history. Whereupon,
'•'•Resolved, That we accept with regret the resignation of H. Victor Newc'omb as
president of this Board ; and upon his termination of our official relations with him,
made necessary by causes beyond his or our control, we most cheerfully bear testimony
to his ability and fidelity in the discharge of his laborious duties and responsibilities as
chief officer of this company. To his acknowledged wisdom and foresight and to the
courage of his convictions, the stockholders of the company are substantially indebted
for the late valuable additions to the property of the company, resulting in the perfec-
tion of the present great railway system of The Louisville & Nashville Railroad Com-
pany ; and he is entitled to and receives the hearty thanks of the stockholders and of
this Board for his kindness and manly bearing toward us, his associates, officially and
personally. We render to him our kindest wishes for all the future."
In 1880, Mr. Newcomb removed to New York city and organized The United
States National Bank, of which the stockholders elected him president. In this insti-
tution, he was associated with Gen. Ulysses S. Grant, Morris K. Jesup, William R.
Travers, Col. John J. McCook, and other well-known men. Within fourteen months
from the time this bank had opened its doors, the deposits had grown to $7,000,000, an
achievement the like of which had never been heard of before. He was, it is believed,
the youngest bank president in the United States; and whatever may be said of the
THE CITY OF XEW YORK. XO. 477
subsequent history of the institution, it is a fact that while Mr. Xewcomb held the posi-
tion of president, the bank never sustained a single loss.
Mr. Xewcomb has been at times a large and active operator in Wall street. He
began dealing in stocks before he left Louisville and became conspicuous for the brill-
iancy of his manoeuvres. He thought quickly, acted without hesitation, and generally
succeeded in his ventures. The manner in which he developed the value of the stock
of The Louisville & Nashville Railroad was the subject of much flattering comment.
As a director in The New York & "West Shore Railroad at its organization, Mr.
Xewcomb was an active factor in the construction of that line.
Dec. 26, 1866, he was married in Louisville to Florence Ward Danforth. Two
children have been born to them, Herman Danforth Newcomb, and Edith, wife of
Reginald Henshaw Ward, formerly of Boston. The family dwell in a handsome house
at 683 Fifth avenue and have figured prominently in the social life of the city. The
introduction of their daughter Edith to society was the occasion of a brilliant function.
Mr. Newcomb is a member of the Union, Tuxedo, New York Athletic. Suburban,
Driving, .Riding and other clubs, and an active supporter of every public spirited
and philanthropic enterprise which commends itself to his judgment.
ADAH NORRIE, merchant, one of the oldest, best known and most thoroughly
esteemed of New York's citizens, born in Aberdeen, Scotland, died in this city, June
6. 1882, in his eighty-seventh year. Beginning life in the manufacture of iron in
Sweden, he came to New York in 1820 to investigate the iron trade of this country.
The visit decided him to remain and he entered the firm of Boorman, Johnson & Co.,
large merchants of Swedish iron. The firm carried on the business with great success.
Mr. Xorrie retired in 1875. After the year named, corporations and lands occupied his
principal attention. He was one of the original stockholders in the canal between
Lakes Michigan and Superior and a promoter and large stockholder of The Milwaukee,
Lake Shore & Western Railroad. He was also vice president of The Bank for Savings
in Bleecker street, a director of The Bank of Commerce from its organization, a director
of The Royal Insurance Co. , one of the founders of St. Luke's Hospital and for ten
years president of St. Andrew's Society. In 1872, he succeeded John David Wolfe as
senior warden of Grace Church, having previously succeeded George Barclay as junior
warden. Mr. Norrie presented one of the most conspicuous examples of commercial
integrity of his day. An even-tempered, pleasant and considerate man, liberal but not
ostentatious in his charities, in every wray a Christian gentleman, he left a host of
friends and no enemies. His wife died about 1872. Four children survived him,
Gordon. Ann Margaret Van Home, Mary Van Home and Julia Clarkson Norrie.
ECKSTEIN NORTON, banker, born in Russellville, Ky., Dec. 16, 1831, died in
New Brighton, S. I., Jan. 12, 1893. When twenty years of age, Mr. Norton had
charge of a store in his native place. Four years later, he went to Cairo, Ills. , and
engaged in the forwarding of freight for The Illinois Central Railroad along the
Mississippi and Ohio Rivers, under contract, and in 1857, formed, with his brother,
W. F. Norton, the banking firm of Xorton & Bro's in Paducah, Ky. He arrived in
Xe\v York in 1864 and established the bank of Norton, Slaughter & Co., making a
specialty of attention to railroad enterprises. He reorganized The New Orleans & Ohio
Railroad in 1870, and consolidated it with The Mississippi Railroad under the name of
The Paducah & Memphis Railroad, his connection with the line continuing until 1881.
478 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
In 1884, he interested himself in The Louisville & Nashville Railroad and infused so
much energy into its affairs that he was elected president. When he resigned in 1891,
he formed the firm of Eckstein Norton & Co. , for the benefit of his oldest son, who
took the active management. He always signed his name " Ex. Norton." In his later
years, his time was divided between his New York house, 8 1 1 Fifth avenue and his
country home on Staten Island. Mr. Norton felt a great interest in the prosperity of
Staten Island and was one of the group of prominent New Yorkers, who maintained
handsome residences there before Lenox and Newport had risen to their present
popularity. He was a member of The Southern Society and the Chamber of Com-
merce ; and a director of The Mexican National Railroad, The Louisville & Nashville
Railroad, The Chesapeake & Ohio Railroad, The Kentucky Central Railroad, The
Bank of the State of New York, The Mechanics' National Bank, The Manhattan
Trust Co. and The First National Bank of New Brighton, S. I. While a young man,
Mr. Norton attended the Baptist Church but later in life joined the Brighton Heights
Reformed Presbyterian Church on Staten Island. He succeeded George William
Curtis as president of the Smith Infirmary on Staten Island and gave larg-ely to its
support. In ^864, he married Miss Lucy Peyten Moore at Hopkinsville, Ky. , who
survived him with six children, William P., Eckstein and George F. Norton, Elizabeth,
wife of A. J. Outerbridge, Lucy M. and Mary H. Norton.
JOHN NORTON, shipping merchant, born in Eastport, Me., died in Brooklyn,
Oct. 30, 1890, at the age of seventy-three. Eastport is an ancient shipping town and
Mr. Norton grew up in the field of maritime enterprise. He came to New York about
1840, and after thirty-years with Russell & Norton, merchants in the West India trade,
took his sons into partnership under the name of John Norton & Sons. During the next
twenty years, they ranked as one of the largest and best known houses in the shipping
trade to southern and tropical ports. Mr. Norton was twice married, and left a son
and four daughters.
JULIUS MILO NOYES, banker, born in Morrisville, Vt., March 25, 1827,. died in
this city, May 22, 1889. He was a direct descendant of the Rev. James Noyes, who
emigrated from Wiltshire, England, to New England, in 1634. Receiving a good
education and graduating from the University of Vermont, Mr. Noyes began business
life as a clerk in a country store in Burlington. He next obtained a situation in Platts-
burgh, New York, and rose to be cashier and president of The Mercantile Bank of that
city. In 1866, he came to New York and entered the banking firm of Harriot, Parker
& Co., at No. 19 New street, who in 1870, were succeeded by Harriot & Noyes. In
1872, Mr. Noyes joined the Stock Exchange. In 1884, the house was reorganized as
J. M. Noyes & Co., and retains the name to the present time. May 23, 1849, Mr. Noyes
was married in Burlington, Vt., to Cornelia, daughter of Nathan B. Haswell. Of his
five children, the two now living are Charles P. Noyes, at present sole partner in J. M.
Noyes & Co., and Mrs. Harriet N. Andrews. Mr. Noyes was fond of business life,
abstained entirely from the strife of politics, and joined few if any clubs, and in his
chosen occupation was a successful man.
o.
THOMAS FLETCHER OAKES, railroad president, born in Boston, July 16,
1843, came from old New England stock, his father, Francis Garaux Oakes, being a
shipmaster, and his grandfather, Daniel Oakes, a soldier of the American Revolution.
Educated in Boston, and well trained for an active career, he secured a position as
clerk to the contractors engaged in the construction of The Kansas Pacific Railroad,
and in June, 1863, entered the service of this corporation as purchasing agent in St.
Louis. Having won the confidence of the officers of the road by conspicuous energy
and ability, they advanced him through the positions of assistant treasurer, general
freight agent and vice president to that of general superintendent. During this period,
his home was in St. Louis and Kansas City. In April, 1879, ne became general
superintendent of The Kansas City, Fort Scott & Gulf and The Kansas City, Lawrence
& Southern Railroads, but was called in May, 1880, to the responsible post of vice-presi-
dent and general manager of The Oregon Railway & Navigation Co., with head-
quarters in Portland, Ore. A year later, he identified himself with The Northern Paci-
fic Railroad, was elected vice-president, and in November, 1883, general manager in
addition. In 1888, Mr. Oakes became president of The Northern Pacific Railroad, and
continued as such until October, 1893, when having been made one of the receivers of
the corporation, he retired from the presidency. His executive ability has been
of great service to this important system. Mr. Oakes is a hard worker and a thoroughly
trained and competent railroad man. He is a trustee of The Manhattan Life Insur-
ance Co. of this city. In 1864, he married Abby R., daughter of Henry Haskell, and
their children are Grace, Zillah, Georgiana and Prescott Oakes. Mr. Oakes resides at
Mamaroneck, but is a member of the Metropolitan, Union League, New York Yacht
and Riding clubs, and a life member of The American Geographical Society.
JOHN O'BRIEN, banker, now, in 1895. seventy-nine years old, is a native of New
York city and a son of William O'Brien, insurance adjuster, who, born in Dublin, was
a direct descendant of the Earl of Inchiquin, known in history as a lieutenant in the
Irish Rebellion, his estate being confiscated in consequence of his services and ^Tioo
offered for his head. John O'Brien being placed at the outset of his career in The
Manhattan Go's Bank, as a clerk, rose through intermediate grades to be assistant
cashier. In 1844, he purchased a seat in the Stock Exchange and after that, with his
brother, William O'Brien, was exceedingly successful in a brokerage and investment
business. The brothers conducted their business affairs with the same affectionate
unity which always characterized their other relations, and were long known in
Wall street as " The Twins." After the death of William in 1885, John continued the
business under the old name of W. & J. O'Brien. For many years, the inseparable
brothers lived together on the north side of Madison Square in New York, their house
being their only club, but after the death of William, John O'Brien married and now
spends most of his time in Newport at his villa, Inchiquin, named after the family
estate. He has been treasurer of The Second Avenue Railroad and has always taken
an active interest in charitable undertakings. He was one of the founders of the New
\ ork Catholic Protector}- in Westchester and is treasurer of the Foundling and St.
Vincent Hospitals.
480
WILLIAH O'BRIEN, banker, born in New York city, died at his home in town
Jan. 2, 1885, in his seventy-fourth year. Trained to the field of finance in The
Mechanics' Bank, which he entered about 1835, as clerk, then as teller and assistant
cashier, he then, in 1842, with his brothers, John, Robert, Charles and Joseph, started
in banking on his own account. After the death of Charles in 1855, the other brothers
continued together until 1864, when Robert and Joseph withdrew to start a separate
banking house. The old firm then took the name of William & John O'Brien and is so
known to-day. The firm transacted a large business, particularly among Roman
Catholics. William O'Brien was esteemed as a man of good judgment, strict honesty
and undoubted ability. He was a chosen friend of Cardinal McCloskey and a member
of St. Ann's Roman Catholic Church, besides being interested in a number of other
churches. For many years, his office was a favorite headquarters for financial news
and many writers for the daily press looked to this firm for information. Mr. O'Brien
never married and left the bulk of his possessions to his brother John.
DANIEL O'DAY, manufacturer, born Feb. 6, 1844, is a native of Ireland and came
to this country when an infant. His father, Michael O'Day, came to this country in
1845. Daniel-secured an education at the public schools of Buffalo, N. Y., and, when
twenty years of age, went to the oil regions in Pennsylvania and obtained a position in
the oil transportation business. In 1873-74, Mr. O'Day began constructing pipe lines
in the producing regions. The first one was from Emlenton, Venango county, Pa., to
the producing fields of Clarion county and was known as the American Transfer line.
After that, he built other lines. By consolidation with other interests, the American
Transfer lines became merged into the United Pipe lines system, and the latter is in
operation to-day as the gathering system of The National Transit Co. The latter cor-
poration was organized about 1883 and now owns a network of trunk and local lines,
extending over a large part of the country. Of this company, Mr. O'Day has been
vice-president since 1888. As the projector and senior partner in The Oil City Boiler
Works, an exceedingly successful enterprise in Oil City, Mr. O'Day has added largely
to his property. In 1888, he organized and became president of The Northwestern
Ohio National Gas Co , having a capital of $6,000,000, and owning oil wells, gas lands
and gas lines. He is also president of The People's Bank of Buffalo and director of a
number of other banks, including The Seaboard National of this city and several in
Buffalo and Oil City. Mr. O'Day is respected for his ability as an executive officer
and as a safe and sagacious business man. He lives at No. 128 West 72d street in this
city and is a member of the Engineers', Manhattan and Lotus clubs here, the Buffalo
club of Buffalo, the Duquesne club of Pittsburgh and other social organizations.
JOSEPH JOHN O'DONOHUE, merchant, and Chamberlain of the city of New York,
was born at No. 40 Peck Slip in this city, Jan. 8, 1834. He is the son of John O'Don-
ohue, an Irish gentleman, who, well educated and a man of strong mind, resolved
during his young manhood to leave his native land and seek his fortune in the free
republic across the sea, whither so large a number of his countrymen had gone before
him and where many of them were doing well. John O'Donohue located in New York
city, established a grocery and ship chandlery store on Peck Slip, and, after the fashion
of the old-time merchants, lived over the store. Enterprise and native force of charac-
ter made him successful. He finally gave up the retail branch of his business, con-
fined himself to the wholesale trade, and rose to prominence and the general good-will
"•:•"'
482 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
as a merchant. In 1858, with his son Joseph and other associates he organized The
Long Island Ferry Co., whose boats plied between Williamsburgh and New York city
and became so effective in their rivalry with The Brooklyn Ferry Co., owned by the
late George Law, that in 1864, the two companies consolidated as The New York &
Brooklyn Ferry Co , Mr. O'Donohue retaining a large interest in the new corpora-
tion. By his marriage, he gained the companionship cf a gracious woman of superior
mind. Her kindness to the poor in the Eastern District of Brooklyn is yet remem-
bered affectionately. To this worthy couple were born several children.
Joseph J. O'Donohue, the third son, entered upon an active career at the
unusually early age of ten, as boy and clerk in his father's store. He did not, how-
ever, suspend his studies entirely, an arrangement being made whereby his brother
James and he should attend the store on alternate days and go to school in the inter-
vals. The senior O'Donohue gave his boys a thorough training in business and made
them understand the paramount value of time both in work and study. As a result,
they all became competent merchants. Joseph and James were admitted to partner-
ship before they were twenty-one years of age, their father then adopting the firm name
of John O'Dojiohue & Sons. Another son, Peter, became a partner in 1861 and John
and Thomas were admitted in 1868. After their father's death in 1868, a reverent
respect for their father's memory impelled the survivors to adopt the firm name of
John O'Donohue's Sons. The store, originally on Peck Slip, had meanwhile been
transferred to No. 239 Front street. Nov. i, 1889, Joseph J. O'Donohue withdrew
and, with Atherton Foster as a partner, resumed the importation of coffee and tea at
No. 101 Front street. After 1882, his firm was known as Joseph J. O'Donohue & Son.
They conducted numerous branch houses in different parts of the country and a large
trade. In 1889, Mr. O'Donohue retired, leaving the practical management in the
hands of his sons, Joseph J. O'Donohue, jr., and Thomas J. O'Donohue. His
commercial record, extending now over a full half century of incessant activity, has
never been marred by failure or dishonor. On the contrary, his story is that of a
progressive, judicious, upright and successful merchant.
Reared in Williamsburgh, across the East river, Mr. O'Donohue identified himself
closely at an early day with the affairs of that part of the present city of Brooklyn, and
although he has made his home in New York city since 1869, he has retained his inter-
est in Brooklyn down to the present time. When he became president of The New
York & Brooklyn Ferry Co., he conferred great benefits on the public of the two cities
by the energy and intelligence of his management. He has built eleven new and
handsome boats, enlarged the ferry houses and other facilities, reduced the fares and
taken many other steps of an equally progressive character. The 23d street line is
Mr. O'Donohue's especial pride. His labors have given a great impulse to the growth
of Williamsburgh. He was a member of the old fire department of that community
and interested in every movement for the welfare of the city.
When a successful merchant enters politics, he is always warmly welcomed, his
character and abilities giving to his neighbors the assurance that, so far as he can affect
the administration of affairs, it will be in the direction of good government. Mr.
O'Donohue has always been a Democrat, and while yet a resident of Brooklyn displayed
considerable activity in the politics of the city and State. He was honored for eleven
years in succession with election as delegate to the Democratic State convention from
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. O?D. 483
Kings county. At one time, he served as vice president of the Democratic General Com-
mittee of that county. During the War, he espoused the cause of the Union. Although
fitted by character and abilities for public place, he has refused various tenders of office.
Upon his removal to New York city in 1869, the Democrats of the city gained a
valued accession to their ranks and they promptly made him a member of the Tammany
General Committee and in 1871 tendered him the Mayorality of the city, which, how-
ever, he declined. The iniquities of the Tweed ring offended Mr. O'Donohue seriously,
and he not only resigned from the General Committee but joined the Committee of
Seventy, appointed at a mass meeting in Cooper Union, and took an active part in the
overthrow of the corrupt ring, which had plundered the metropolis and dominated the
Democratic party for several years to its great injury. After Tweed and his associates
had been swept out of Tammany Hall, Mr. O'Donohue again became, in 1874, a mem-
ber of the General Committee from his district, the i gth. He is a liberal contributor
to the legitimate campaign expenses of his party and his influence has always been
thrown in favor of clean government. In 1874, Mayor Wickham appointed him one of
the Park Commissioners of the city, and he served with credit for two years but
resigned in 1876, to become a Presidential elector. He was an especially earnest sup-
porter of President Cleveland in the campaigns of 1884 and 1888, and, during the famous
parade of merchants of the Democratic faith in 1884, which revealed that New York
city would probably go heavily Democratic in the following election, as it did, Mr.
O'Donohue displayed his loyalty by marching at the head of the column for several
hours in a pouring rain without even the protection of an umbrella. Even his sturdy
constitution was not proof against the exposures of that famous day, and he was
obliged to spend some time in foreign travel for the sake of his health. President
Cleveland felt under obligations to Mr. O'Donohue for his services in these campaigns
and, after reinauguration in 1893, tendered to him the position of Assistant Treasurer
of the United States in New York city, but the offer was courteously declined.
It was through Mr. O'Donohue's instrumentality, that the hospitals and orphan
asylums of New York city were exempted from water taxation by legislative enactment.
For this measure, he contended for six years. At his request, the exemption was first
provided for by the Aldermen of the city, who passed a resolution to that effect, but
Mayor Cooper vetoed the measure. Mr. O'Donohue then appealed to the Legislat-
ure, and after prolonged effort secured the law which was signed by Governor Hill.
In April, 1893, he was appointed Chamberlain of the city by Mayor Gilroy.
Mr. O'Donohue has numerous interests not connected with the import trade. In
1883, he joined a syndicate which bought the stock of Daniel Drew in The People's
Line of steamboats to Albany, and has since been a large stockholder and director in
that concern. He is one of the founders and ex-vice president of the new Coffee Ex-
change, a member of the Chamber of Commerce and Board of Trade & Transportation,
a director of The Twenty-third Street Ferry, The New Jersey Steamboat Co. , The
W illiamsburgh City Fire Insurance Co. and the Evergreen and Calvary cemeteries, and
president of The Monmouth County, N. J., Horse Association.
The cause of charity has always enlisted his interest and his contributions to
worthy objects and individuals are creditable. For many, years he has been a trustee
of the Roman Catholic Orphan Asylum, St. Patrick's Cathedral, The Little Sisters of
the Poor, The Foundling Asylum and other institutions.
484 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
Sept 7, 1858, he married Teresa M. J. Riley, daughter of Peter Riley. Of their
seven children, the survivors are Joseph J. O'Donohue, jr., and Thomas J. O'Donohue,
who now carry on their father's business.
Mr. O'Donohue has been a member of over sixty clubs, including the Manhattan,
Reform, Down Town, New York Yacht, Democratic, Travelers', Catholic, New York
Athletic, Hardware, New York Jockey and Brooklyn Jockey.
HERMANN OELRICHS, shipping merchant, born in Baltimore, Md., June 8, 1850,
is a son of Henry Oelrichs, a merchant of German descent, long prominent in Balti-
more, who removed with his family to New York while Hermann was a boy. The
elder Oelrichs was a shipping merchant and agent for the North German Lloyd steam-
ships. Under his careful guidance, his son received a thorough education, which he
completed in Germany. In 1871, the son took his place in Oelrichs & Go's office, being
admitted as a partner in 1875. The young man was conspicuous for athletic strength
and superb physique, which in his case were accompanied by a mind of equally virile
power. Since 1887, when Gustav Schwab retired, Mr. Oelrichs has been the head of
the house, the firm remaining American agents of the North German Lloyd line. Mr.
Oelrichs is a stockholder in The Madison Square Garden Co. and a man of untiring en-
ergy and resource. He retains a fondness for athletic exercises and is conspicuous as a
boxer, fencer, polo player and swimmer, in which latter pastime he probably has few
rivals in America among either amateurs or professionals. In 1890, he married
Theresa Alice, a daughter of the late Senator James G. Fair, of Nevada, one of the
"bonanza kings " of the Pacific coast. They have had one child, Hermann. Mr.
Oelrichs was for a time prominent in politics, being a member of the Democratic Na-
tional Committee for New York but resigning for personal and independent reasons.
He has been pressed repeatedly to accept a nomination for the Mayoralty of the city
and was obliged in 1888 to publish a card enforcing his refusal. Much of his time is
spent at Newport or on the Pacific coast, but his name appears as an active member on
the rolls of about twenty New York clubs, including the Metropolitan, Manhattan, New
York, Players', Lawyers', Seawanhaka Corinthian Yacht, Racquet, Union, and
Liederkranz.
WILLIAM BUTLER OQDEN, railroad president, born in Walton, Delaware
county, N. Y., June 15, 1805, died at the Villa Boscobel, near High Bridge, New York
city, Aug. 3, 1877. He was a descendant of the Ogdens of New Jersey, conspicuous in
the early history of the State. Intended for the law, his father's sudden death, when
William was sixteen years of age, threw upon him the management of his father's estate
and he became a business man. At the age of twenty-one, he entered a mercan-
tile firm, became prominent in Delaware county, and iA 1834 was elected to the State
Legislature, where he helped pass a bill for the construction of The New York & Eric
Railroad. Shortly after this, he removed to Chicago and in 1835 established a land and
trust agency there. In that city, his energetic influence was so widely felt that, in
1837, he was elected its first Mayor. Although, in 1860, elected to a seat in the Illinois
State Senate, he never took much pleasure in politics and frequently declined sugges-
tions of office. Mr. Ogden permeated the West with his activity. He owned at
Peshtigo, Wis., the largest lumber mills in the world at that time. His real estate
transactions were also extensive. He aided to bring mowing and reaping machinery
into general use and it was at his suggestion that the first reaper was sent to the
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. OL. 485
London exhibition in 1851. He was president of the national railroad convention held
in Philadelphia in 1850, with reference to a transcontinental line and and served as first
president of The Union Pacific Railroad and' president of The Galena & Chicago
Union, The Chicago & Fond du Lac, The Chicago & Northwestern, The Illinois &
Wisconsin and The Buffalo & Mississippi Railroads, besides being connected with
numerous other enterprises and taking part in the organization of The Northern
Pacific Railroad Co. He was first president of the trustees of Rush Medical College
and a member or trustee of the Theological Seminary of the Northwest, The Histor-
ical Society of Chicago, the Academy of Sciences, the Astronomical Society, the Uni-
versity of Chicago and the Chicago Women's Home. In 1854-55, he visited Europe
and his observation of the canals of Holland led him to become an advocate of the
Sturgeon Bay and Lake Michigan Ship Canal. He had large interests in real estate in
Chicago, and in the great fire of 1871, his capacious house, in which many great public
works had been planned, with much other property, was destroyed. At this same
time, his lumber mills at Peshtigo were destroyed by fire, involving a loss of $1,500,000.
He immediately rebuilt the mills. Mr. Ogden was a Democrat of the Madisonian
school, but never a partisan. During the wrar, his sympathies were on the side of the
Union. For many years, he traveled between New York and Chicago, making the
former city his home in 1866. He was a personal friend of Governors Dix and Tilden
and associated in business enterprises with ex-Comptroller Andrew H. Green, who is an
executor of his estate, and was one of the first to advocate and at a large expenditure
promote an underground system of rapid transit for this city. In 1875, he married
Marianna, daughter of John Arnot, of Elmira, N. Y. They had no children. Mr.
Ogden 's great fortune was left to his wife, the members of his family, and charitable
organizations.
FREDERIC P. OLCOTT, banker and broker, born in Albany, N. Y., in 1841, is a
son of Thomas H. Olcott, a prominent citizen and president of The Mechanics' &
Fanners' Bank of Albany for many years. His mother was Caroline Pepoon. Fred-
eric's early education was secured at the Albany Academy. At the age of sixteen, he
entered his father's bank as a clerk, later carried on a lumber business in Albany, and
then became connected with the house of Blake Bro's & Co. in New York city, and
Phelps, Stokes & Co. , at one time serving the State of New York as Comptroller at
Albany. In 1884, he became president of The Central Trust Co., of this city.
In this position, he has displayed excellent ability. Mr. Olcott is highly esteemed and
is a man of many interests, being a director of The New York, Chicago & St. Louis
Railroad, The Bank of America, The Sixth Avenue Street Railroad, and The Union
Bank. He was married in 1862 and has two children. Among his clubs are the
Union League, Riding, New York Yacht, Down Town and Metropolitan.
HUGH O'NEILL, merchant, proprietor of a large and successful dry goods and
millinery emporium, was born near Belfast, Ireland, in Newtownards, County Down,
July 15, 1844. His family moved to America when he was fourteen years of age.
Here he attended the old Grove street school at night and spent his days in the em-
ployment of his brother Henry, who had founded a dry goods business in 1837. Faith-
ful to every duty and attentive to details, he was admitted to partnership by his
brother in H. O'Neill & Co. in 1867. The senior partner retired in 1879 and Mr.
O'Neill went on under the old name as head of the house. Every buyer who entered
486 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
his doors was treated with courtesy and attention, and in a short time, Mr. O'Neill
found himself in the enjoyment of a growing trade, which in three years' time was too
large for the original store at 905 Broadway. In 1870, he selected an eligible site at
No. 325 Sixth avenue and removed to the new location. Originally limited to the
sale of millinery, his trade was soon extended by the addition of lace and other depart-
ments, one after another, until, after repeated enlargements, the original store had
grown to an enormous mercantile establishment, occupying several buildings and em-
ploying a force of 2,500 people. Mr. O'Neill is at the store early every day and is one
of the last to leave at night. The system of collecting for goods on delivery originated
with Mr. O'Neill. His trade is no longer confined to the metropolis alone but now
extends to all the suburbs and beyond. He is the father of three children, Hugh
O'Neill, jr., now at school, and two daughters, and is a man of handsome presence,
with a strong physique, heavy iron gray hair and beard, blue eyes, and cordial manner.
QEORQE OPDYKE, banker, a native of Kingwood, Hunterdon county, N. J., born
Dec. 7, 1805, died in New York city, June 12, 1880. He was descended from one of
the old Dutch families of New York, his ancestor, Louris Jansen op Dyke, having
owned residences in Albany, Flatbush and New York under the Dutch Government of
New Netherlands. The family settled in New Jersey later. George began life on a
farm and taught district school for a while. At the age of twenty, he went to Cleve-
land, O., then a frontier trading post, to open a general store and thence removed to
New Orleans to engage in the wholesale clothing business. In 1832, he transferred
his enterprise to New York and, in 1850, began the importation of dry goods, in which
he continued until 1867, when he withdrew. In company with his sons and others, he
then started the banking house of George Opdyke & Co. The business prospered rap-
idly and was in the full tide of success when the panic of 1873 came on. At this time,
they were fiscal agents of The New York & Oswego Midland and St. Louis & South-
eastern Railroads, and had placed most of the bonds of these and other railroad lines,
aggregating more than 1,000 miles in length. Owing to depreciation of values, later,
Mr. Opdyke voluntarily sacrificed, for the sake of the bondholders, $2,000,000 in addi-
tional advances to these companies. Yet such was his ability that he weathered the
storm as he had the panics of 1837 and 1857. His later business was very successful.
Mr. Opdyke retired a few months before his death with a large fortune. For nearly
twenty years, he took an active part in politics. In his younger days, he was a Democrat
but opposed to slavery and became a candidate of the Free Soil party for Congress and
later for United States Senator, but was defeated. In 1858, he was elected to the As-
sembly from New York city. In 1859, he ran for Mayor on the Republican ticket but
was defeated by Fernando Wood. As a delegate to the national Republican conven-
tion at Chicago in 1860, he became instrumental in securing the nomination of Abraham
Lincoln and was active in the ensuing campaign. After election, President Lincoln
offered him the Collectorship of the Port of New York, which, however, he declined.
He was elected Mayor of New York the following year and did much to aid the re-
cruiting of troops. While he was Mayor, the city became alarmed at a report that the
Confederate ram Merrimac was about to raid the harbor of New York. Mayor Opdyke
promptly called a meeting of prominent men at his house, where it was resolved to load
a large vessel with stone and, on the appearance of the ram, to sink it in the narrowest
part of the ship channel. The vessel was prepared and towed to the spot chosen, while
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. — OR. 487
a steamer cruised off Sandy Hook to give notice of the approach of the Merrimac.
Fortunately, the emergency never came. Mr. Opdyke was Mayor at the time of the
draft riots in 1863, and was in danger of violence or assassination. He was urged to
leave the city but firmly refused to do so and remained to preserve order. In 1 868,
he served as delegate at large to the Constitutional Convention and was a Constitutional
Commissioner, 1872-73. A great student of national finance and political economy,
Mr. Opdyke wrote numerous excellent essays and articles on these subjects. In 1829,
he married Elizabeth H. Stryker, a descendant of the old Knickerbockers. Six chil-
dren were born to them, Emeline O. , wife of Edward C. Strobell ; Mary Elizabeth,
wife of George W. Farlee ; William S. , Charles W. , George F. and Henry B. Opdyke.
ALEXANDER ECTOR ORR, merchant, is a native of Strabane, County Tyrone,
Ireland, and a descendant of the clan McGregor. Born March 2, 1831, and at first
intended for the service of The East India Co., an injury to his foot disabled him
for several years and changed his plans. A visit to the United States by way of Wil-
mington, N. C., in 1850, so captivated him, that in 1851, he removed to this country,
settled in Xew York city and obtained a clerkship with William Ralph Post, shipping
and commission merchant. Later, he served in the office of Wallace & Wicks, and in
1858, entered that of David Dows & Co. His success then became merely a question
of time. In 1861, the firm made him a partner and in the enormous commision trade
of David Dows & Co. , in cereals and other products, he soon rose to fortune. He has
always been active in the affairs of the Produce Exchange, several times both director
and president, and one of those whose zealous labors resulted in building the present
magnificent home of the Exchange. It was he, who, with H. O. Armour, Franklin
Edson and others, perfected the Produce Exchange Gratuity system and he has been
for years chairman of the Arbitration Committee. He is a director of numerous banks,
insurance companies, railroads, etc. , a member of the Chamber of Commerce, the Down
Town, City, Hamilton, Atlantic Yacht and other clubs, and the promoter of almost every
important public institution in Brooklyn, where he lives. In 1856, he married Juliet
Buckingham, daughter of Ammi Dows, and in 1872, after her death, Margaret Shippen,
daughter of Nicholas Luquer. His three children are Jane Dows, Mary Moore and
Juliet Ector Orr.
CHARLES J. OSBORN, stock broker, originated in Quogue, L. I., and died in
Xc-w York city, Nov. n, 1885, less than fifty years of age. His first experience was
in the leather trade as clerk and later as partner of Israel Corse in the " Swamp." He
entered Wall street about 1865, and, as member of the Gold Board, made his fortune
in the great speculations of that time. In 1869, he formed a partnership with Addison
Cammack, as Osborn & Cammack, and operated on an enormous scale in gold for Jay
Gould. The firm were Mr. Gould's most trusted brokers, their transactions amounting
to hundreds of millions. This partnership terminated in 1872. Mr. Osborn then
formed the firm of C. J. Osborn & Co., of which John W. George and Edwin S. Chapin
were general and Jay Gould special partners. They passed through the panic of 1873
successfully. In 1 883 Mr. Osborn retired, and was at the time of his death a special
partner in the firm of E. S. Chapin & Co. Thereafter, he devoted some time to the
settlement of the affairs of the broken Wall Street Bank, as receiver, saving enough
from the wreck to pay the depositors in full and giving his services without recompense.
He was a member of the Stock Exchange 1869-83, serving on the governing committee
488 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
at one time, and was also a member of the New York, American Yacht and Coney
Island Jockey clubs. He owned the famous yacht Dreadnaught and the steam yacht
Corsair. He married Miss Miriam A. Trowbridge, who with his son, Howell Osborn,
survived him. The latter died Feb. 5, 1895.
GEORGE ARCHER OSQOOD, stock broker, born in Baltimore, Md., died in New
York city, Nov. 13, 1882, at the age of 62. His father, Robert H. Osgood, a native of
Salem, Mass., was descended from the original English colonists of New England.
George graduated from Harvard College in 1811, came to New York, and established a
coal yard on Staten Island, near the quarantine station, and carried on a profitable
business in supplying steamboat and steamship lines. Through intimate relations with
Commodore Vanderbilt, he furnished coal to the steamboat lines which the Commodore
controlled. About the beginning of the Civil War, he entered Wall street and was at
different times a partner in several important firms. Fowler, Osgood & Co. were well
known, as were Osgood & Co., in which one of his brothers and he were engaged.
During the panic of 1873, Mr. Osgood became seriously involved, but, later, paid all
his debts in full. He was never a member of the Stock Exchange but was a bold oper-
ator although prudent in his speculations. In the last years of his life, he was one of
the largest stockholders of The Delaware, Lackawanna & Western Railroad and a
trustee of The New York Life Insurance Co. Extremely fond of yachting and one of
the oldest members of the New York Yacht club, he built the Fleetwing, a famous
vessel, and later the steam yacht Stranger. He married Eliza, daughter of Commo-
dore Vanderbilt, but left no children.
NORTON PRENTISS OTIS, manufacturer, a native of Halifax, Vt., and born
March 18, 1840, comes from New England stock and is a son of Elisha Graves Otis
and a descendant of John Otis, who came from Hingham, England, to Massachusetts
in 1635. Owing to various removals of the family, his education was gained in the
schools of his native town, and in Albany, N. Y., Hudson City, N. J., and Yonkers,
N. Y. Then, a promising, earnest youth of eighteen, he found work in a small
elevator factory established by his father, learned the trade, and, with his brother
Charles, assumed the responsibility of management after his father's death in 1861.
Their capital was small, not exceeding $2,000, which they had saved by dint of hard
labor. The Civil War discouraged them at first, but they had conceived the principle
of applying to passenger elevators certain devices for insuring safety and, with the aid
of various patents, they finally began to make some progress. In 1862, they transacted
a business of only $15,000 but thereafter they made rapid progress and have since made
the name of Otis known throughout the world. For ten years, Mr. Otis spent his time
mainly in visiting the large cities of the United States, introducing his safety elevators
to the notice of proprietors of large buildings. In 1864, Otis Bro's & Co. incorporated
their business, with a capital of $225,000, the subject of this sketch becoming treasurer
of the concern. In 1882, the capital was increased to $500,000. Since 1890, when
Charles R. Otis retired, Norton P. Otis has been president. The factory is in
Yonkers and covers several acres of ground, employing about 600 men. The beauty
and convenience of the elevators now produced by the Otis concern are remarkable.
Artistic taste has been employed in shaping the iron work of the cages and safety de-
vices are employed which render them almost proof against accident. Some of the
largest elevators in the world are the product of these works, including the one in the
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. OT. 489
Washington monument; the one in Weehawken, used by The North Hudson County
Railroad, which lifts 135 persons at a time; the one employed by The Otis Elevating
Railroad in the Catskill mountains, which draws a train up an incline of 7,000 feet in
ten minutes; and the famous elevator in the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Mr. Otis was
elected Mayor of Yonkers in 1880 and State Assemblyman in 1883. By Iris marriage
in 1877, to Lizzie A. Fahs of York, Pa., he has six children, Charles Edwin, Sidney,
Arthur Houghton, Norton P., Katherine Lois, Ruth Adelaide and James Russell
Lowell Otis. He is a member of the Engineers' and Fulton clubs, The Metropolitan
Museum of Art and The Westchester County Historical Society, and lives in Yonkers.
OSWALD OTTENDORFER, journalist, public leader and philanthropist, is one of
those progressive and high minded sons of old German}', who have attained in the life
of this metropolis during a long professional career not only the affection of large
masses of their own countrymen now resident here but the respect of the native born
population. He is a native of Zwittau in Austria, a village on the border of Bohemia,
where he was born, Feb. 26, 1826. His father, Vinzenz Ottendorfer, was a manufac-
turer of woolen goods in excellent circumstances.
Having received a sound preliminary training, Mr. Ottendorfer became a student
in the University of Vienna for a year, during which time, being destined for a public
career, he paid especial attention to jurisprudence. After a short stay in Prague,
where he learned the Czech language and studied law, he returned in 1 848 to Vienna
and at once espoused with all the energy of an ardent nature the movement among
the patriotic youth of Austria to secure by agitation, and force if necessary, the lib-
erties of the people. An uprising in March, 1848, in which Mr. Ottendorfer was prom-
inent, led to the downfall of the Metternich government. Thus launched upon a pub-
lic career and baptized in the struggle against despotic power, and now desiring
military experience, he soon became a volunteer in the Von der Tann corps and took
part in the Schleswig-Holstein war against the army of Denmark. Oct. 5, 1848, the stu-
dents of Vienna rose in arms against the detachments of the Austrian army then in the
city, the local force having been weakened by the departure of several regiments to
Pesth to take the field against Kossuth. Upon that occasion, Mr. Ottendorfer served as
first lieutenant in the battalion of the late Robert Blum. The students drove out the
troops, to be in turn, a few weeks later, themselves overpowered by the Austrian
forces, who, after a severe battle, regained the city. Of the few students who escaped
in safety from the Austrian capital, Mr. Ottendorfer was one. After three days and nights
of hiding in the chimney of an old book store, the young man made his way to Saxony,
only to return, under an assumed name, with others, to the capital of Bohemia to concert
another uprising The movement was discovered, however, and the students fled to
Dresden, where, in May, 1849, they took part in another revolution and held possession
of the city for nearly a week. This was' a serious affair and ended in the recapture of
the city by Prussian troops, hastily summoned by the King of Saxony. The students
sought to escape to Thuringia, but those who left the city were all taken. Like their com-
patriots in Vienna, many were put to death and others sentenced to long imprisonment.
Mr. Ottendorfer escaped by an accident. He had spent several days and nights with-
out rest and, owing to physical exhaustion, did not awaken until noon, when he found
Dresden full of Prussian soldiers. After a few days of concealment, he managed to
reach Frankfort unobserved. But agitation continued and Mr. Ottendorfer would have
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. OT. 491
taken part in the battle of Waghaeusel had he not been stricken down with typhoid
fever in Heidelberg. His last exploit, undertaken after three months of hiding, was
the rescue of Steck, who had been sentenced for life and incarcerated in the castle of
Bruchsal. With his comrades and Steck, he escaped safely to Switzerland.
At twenty -four, Mr. Ottendorfer had passed through scenes of tragic adventure,
such as fall to the lot of few men of his age. His hopes had been frustrated and he
then resolved to begin life anew in Vienna. From this he was dissuaded by friends,
who predicted certain death should he return to the scene of his revolutionary labors.
In this emergency, he finally decided to emigrate to the United States. With the aid of
friends, he passed through Poland and in 1850, landed in New York city. His means
were small but he found a large, liberty-loving, German element in the city, who wel-
comed the young agitator with great cordiality. Promptly securing employment in the
business office of the Stoats Zeitung, Mr. Ottendorfer now found a field for the exercise
of his undoubted abilities, which promised success; and he applied himself to second-
ing the efforts of the proprietor, Jacob Uhl, in the management of the newspaper.
Founded Dec. 24, 1834, as a weekly on Nassau street, and printed in the German language,
the Staats Zeitung had been bought in 1844 by Mr. Uhl, who, with the aid of his wife, a
woman of superior mind, had made it a daily and already given it the position of the lead-
ing German journal of the city. Mr. Uhl died in 1851 and Mrs. Uhl then assumed the
management. She was a woman not only of unusual sweetness and beauty of character
but intellectual, energetic and sagacious. She foresaw a great future for the Staats Zei-
tung, refused various offers to sell, and, aided by Mr. Ottendorfer, conducted the paper
for eight years with constantly increasing success. In 1859, Mr. Ottendorfer was hap-
pily married to Mrs. Uhl and thereafter became the leading spirit in the management,
although for many years he enjoyed the co-operation of his competent and distin-
guished wife. Failing health finally, in 1881, compelled Mrs. Ottendorfer to relinquish
her share of the duties of management. She died April i, 1884, making many public
gifts and leaving $30,000 to be distributed among the employes of the Staats Zeitung.
During the nearly half a century of his connection with the Staats Zeitung, Mr.
Ottendorfer has contributed materially toward making his paper a successful property,
a strong influence for pure government and the leader of the German element in the
population of the city against inefficient and demoralizing local rule. A Democrat in
political faith, although now independent in local affairs, he has been a supporter of
Samuel J. Tilden and Grover Cleveland and an advocate of sound currency, civil ser-
vice reform, a moderate tariff and the improvement of the public schools. As a mem-
ber of the Committee of Seventy, he joined in the successful effort to crush the Tweed
ring. During one year, he served as an Alderman of the city, but refused the salary of
$4,000 a year, considering it out of proportion to the services expected, and has since
refused a nomination for Mayor more than once. The large stone office building at the
corner of Park Row and Centre street, which is the home of the Staats Zeitung, at one
time included among its tenants the Tax Department of the city government. The
hostility of Tammany, which Mr. Ottendorfer had the honor to incur, in consequence
of his attacks upon corrupt municipal rule, finally led that organization to remove the
department to another location. This puerile effort to injure a public spirited and
courageous man has met with the public ridicule which it deserves and proved abso-
lutely powerless as a punishment.
492 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
Mrs. Ottendorfer during her lifetime, and Mr. Ottendorfer since, both became con-
spicuous for their generous use of the wealth brought them by their very successful
newspaper. Among their gifts have been more than $500,000 to the Isabella Home for
aged men and women and chronic invalids at Fort George in this city, founded in
memory of a daughter of Mrs. Ottendorfer; $500,000 from Mr. Ottendorfer to build and
endow a school, orphan asylum and other institutions in his native town ; $50,000 for the
Ottendorfer Free Library on Second avenue; $100,000 to the German Dispensary;
$75,000 to a pavilion in the German Hospital and a large sum for other institutions.
For her generosity, the Empress of Germany conferred upon Mrs. Ottendorfer a gold
medal in 1883.
Few if any other of the adopted citizens of the United States have made such a
remarkable record for success and good citizenship as the subject of this biography.
Mr. Ottendorfer is a member of the Manhattan, Reform, Century, City and Common-
wealth clubs, and now spends several weeks every summer in visiting Europe.
THOMAS OWEN, merchant, born in New London, Conn., in 1800, died Aug. 13,
1881, in New York city. When eleven years old, this enterprising youth went to
Cuba, gained a, valuable experience in business and upon his return to New York
engaged in the sugar trade when twenty-three years old and soon formed the partner-
ship of Holt & Owen. This house rose to great prosperity and soon acquired good
standing and the respect of the community, doing a very large business up to the
beginning of the Cuban rebellion. Meantime, the firm had been changed to Thomas
Owen & Son. In 1866, Mr. Owen retired, whereupon the name was changed to
Thomas J. Owen & Son. Both his son and his grandson, however, died before Mr.
Owen. The subject of this memoir was thrice married. His first wife, Elizabeth
King, dying at the age of twenty-three, he married Maria Power Dyas and after her
death, Elizabeth Magee, who survived him. Mr. Owen was an attendant at the
Broadway Tabernacle, and was also connected with The Society for the Prevention of
Cruelty to Children, The Society for Ameliorating the Condition of the Poor and The
Metropolitan Museum of Art. He made many gifts in a quiet way to the charitable
societies of the city. His children were Thomas J. Owen, Mrs. Adelaide Thompson,
Angelina T., wife of O. B. Smith, and Charles B. Owen.— THOHAS JEFFERSON
OWEN, merchant, son of Thomas and Elizabeth King Owen, born in New York
city, Dec. 31, 1825, died at his home, No. 37 West 34th street, May 15, 1881.
Beginning as clerk for his father, doing business at No. 65 South street, under
the name of Holt & Owen, he revealed so much energy and capacity that at
the age of twenty-three the entire charge of the business was entrusted to him.
He became a splendid merchant and made a fortune in the importation of sugar
from Cuba. The senior Owen often said that he owed his own good fortune to
the ability of his son "Tom." One of the founders of the Union League club and a
member of The New England Society, Mr. Owen was also a director of The Market
National Bank, The Mechanics' & Traders' Fire Insurance Co. and The Pacific Mail
Steamship Co. March i, 1849, he married Emilie Ketchum Platt and his children
were Allen Miner, Thomas J., Francis Thompson, Anita, Thomas J., 3d, and Emilie
Owen. The serenity of his life was disturbed by the feverish atmosphere of Wall
street and he lost his health, dying at fifty-six. His character was beyond reproach.
p.
COURTLANDT PALHER, merchant, born in Stonington, Conn., Nov. n, 1800.
died at his home in New York' city, May 10, 1874. A son of Amos Palmer, a promi-
nent citizen and at his death Mayor of Stonington, he was a descendant of Walter
Palmer, one of the two founders of the town. Courtlandt gave to his sisters his share
of their father's moderate property, and with $100 of capital came to New York at the
age of eighteen to seek his fortune. Securing employment in a hardware store
belonging to an older brother on Maiden Lane and Pearl street, he continued there until
he was about twenty-one years of age when, determined to start for himself, he
obtained a small credit from each of three auctioneers with whom he had become
acquainted, bought a stock of hardware, and established a store for himself. His
energy and capacity won speedy success. Several flattering offers of partnership were
made to him, and he finally allied himself with Stark & Whiting and established a
branch house in New Orleans. This firm soon became one of the leading houses in
the United States. The panic of 1837 proved disastrous to them, however, and they
met with heavy losses, but Mr. Palmer emerged with a small amount of capital, which
he invested in real estate. By judicious purchases thereafter, he became a wealthy
man, holding much valuable city real estate as well as Western land. His property
included the Manhattan Market on the West side, between 34th and 35th streets.
Many positions of trust were bestowed on Mr. Palmer, including the first presidency
of The Stonington & Providence Railroad, which he held 1844-1848. He was a director
and one of the founders of The Safe Deposit Co. and a director of a prominent savings
bank and The Mutual Benefit Trust Co. About 1872, he was appointed commissioner
to appraise the real estate owned by the city, and all disputes were referred to him for
settlement by his associates. In 1824, Mr. Palmer married Eliza, daughter of Gov-
ernor Thurston of Connecticut. She died in 1828 without issue. In 1832, he married
a daughter of .Richard Suydam. Mrs. Palmer died in 1867. Four children were born
to them, Courtlandt and Charles Phelps Palmer, Mary Ann, wife of Henry Draper,
and Richard S. Palmer, the latter dying before his father. — His son, COURTLANDT
PALMER, lawyer and author, born in New York city, March 25, 1843, died at Lake Dun-
more, Vt., July 23, 1888. Mr. Palmer attended Mount Washington Institute for a time,
entered Columbia College, and left in his junior year to enter Williams College.
He studied law at the Columbia College Law School, and graduated, May 19, 1869, a
LL.B. While the law interested him greatly, he found abundant occupation in the
management of his father's estate. Mr Palmer's tastes were strongly literary. He
was an advocate of technical education and liberal ideas, an earnest student and
thinker, becoming advanced and radical in his beliefs and a positivist of the school of
Auguste Comte. He established the Nineteenth Century club in 1880, and as the
president of that organization delivered many addresses and contributed largely to the
literature of free thought. In 1865, he married Catharine Amory Bennett, daughter
of Joseph Bennett, and their children were Robert Amory, Mary Ann Suydam, Court-
landt and Evelina Palmer.
494 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
HENRY PARISH, banker, born at No. 12 Beekman street, New York city, March
3, 1830, is a son of the late Daniel Parish, a conspicuous dry goods merchant during
the first part of the present century, who carried on a large trade with the South in the
firm of H. & D. Parish, with branch houses under other names in Charleston, Mobile,
New Orleans and Columbus. From his excellent stock, Mr. Parish inherited health,
honesty and good judgment. After completing his education at Columbia College and
the Ecole Centrale des Arts et Manufactures in Paris, France, he took charge of The
New Jersey Zinc Works in Newark, N. J., as superintendent of the concern. In March,
1871, he became president of The New York Life Insurance & Trust Co., and has
managed the affairs of this well-known and prominent institution until the present
time. Mr. Parish is a man of public spirit and especially fitted for social life and is
a valued member of several well-known organizations, among them the Metropolitan
club, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, The National Academy of Design, The
American Geographical Society and The American Museum of Natural History.
JOSEPH PARK, merchant, born in Rye, N. Y., May 24, 1823, has long been
known in New York as an active spirit in the old firm of Park & Tilford, who con-
duct the leading stores for the supply of high class groceries in this city. Beginning
his career modestly, Mr. Park, aided by his original partner and those who have been
in more recent years admitted to the firm, gradually made his store the headquarters
of a large and exceedingly desirable business. Branch stores were established at 38th
street and Sixth avenue in 1873 and sgth street and Fifth aVenue in 1885. In 1890, the
firm incorporated with a nominal capital of $500,000, and Mr. Park has been president
until the present time.
TRENOR WILLIAfl PARK, lawyer and railroad president, born in Woodford, Vt.,
Dec. 8, 1823, died at sea, Dec. 13, 1882. He sprang from substantial New England
stock, the family deriving descent from Richard Park, who emigated from Hadleigh,
Suffolk county, England, about 1630. Taken to Bennington, Vt. , in early childhood,
given a meagre schooling, and compelled to earn a part of his own support from his
earliest years, the lad grew up to a capable manhood. After five years in a law office,
he was admitted to the bar in 1844. Having married Laura V., a daughter of ex-Gov.
Hiland Hall of Vermont, who became chairman of the United States Land Com-
mission in California, Mr. Park removed to the Pacific coast in 1852, became a partner
of General Halleck in the law firm of Halleck, Peachy, Billings & Park, and rose to
eminence in his profession. Through making a specialty of land titles, the firm were
drawn into investments in lands and mines, which yielded fortunes to them all.
With John C. Fremont, Mr. Park was especially interested in the Mariposa estate
and s:old mines. At one time, his name was presented to the California Legislature
as candidate for the United States Senate, but he was not elected. In 1863, he retired
and returned to Bennington, Vt., but after a short period of inactivity, engaged in
banking and railroad undertakings. With Russell Sage, he obtained control of The
Western Vermont Railroad about 1860, by buying its first mortgage bonds, and after-
ward bought Mr. Sage's interest and reorganized the company as The Bennington
& Rutland Railroad. He was one of the projectors of the famous Emma silver mine
and foremost in effecting its sale to an English syndicate, winning, in 1872, the legal
proceedings, which had grown out of his management. For several years, Mr. Park
was a director in The Pacific Mail Steamship Co. He bought a controlling interest in
THE CITY OF NEW YORK.. PA. 495
The Panama Railroad, was president from 1874 until his death, and sold the road for a
large sum, in 1889, to The Panama Canal Co., obtaining $4.000,000 for 15,000 shares.
Mrs. Park died in 1875, and in 1882, Mr. Park married Ella, daughter of A. C. Nichols
of San Francisco. Three children were born to him, Trenor L. Park, Eliza, wife of
Gen. John G. McCullough and Laura Hall, wife of F. B. Jennings of Jersey City. Mr.
Park was a public spirited citizen. He founded an art gallery at the University of
Vermont and presented Bennington with a free library and a home for destitute children.
JAflES HENRY PARKER, H. D., born in Johnston count}*, N. C , Jan. 4, 1843, is
a son of Matthew Parker, a planter. He enlisted in the Confederate army at the age of
nineteen and resigned a commission as lieutenant, in 1864, to become a county clerk.
After a short experience in business in Beulah and Fremont, he studied medicine and
practiced for two years, but the profession did not satisfy him and, in 1870, he removed
to Charleston, S. C., where he soon took a prominent place as cotton factor and mer-
chant of naval stores. In 1882, he came to New York and carried on a cotton and
commission business with success, serving for two years as president of the Cotton
Exchange. In 1890, Dr. Parker was elected vice-president of The National Park Bank
and brought the institution a large Southern business. In 1891, The United States
National Bank called him to its presidency and he is yet at its head. Dr. Parker is a
gentleman of high standing and integrity, popular and public-spirited. He is a mem-
ber of the Manhattan, Tuxedo, New York, and New York Athletic clubs and The
Southern Society, and has been president of the latter as well as president of the Con-
federate Veterans' Camp for one year.
ELEAZAR PARMLY, dentist, often called "the father of American dentistry,"
born in Braintree, Vt., March 13, 1797, died in New York, Dec. 13, 1874. He was the
son of Eleazar Parmly, a farmer of more than ordinary ability and of considerable
mechanical skill, who presented each of his daughters at their marriage with a set of
furniture made by his own hands. Like his neighbors in the quiet town of his birth,
Dr. Parmly was of English Puritan descent. Educated in the district schools, an apt
student and mature for his years, he was himself at the age of sixteen a candidate for
the position of district school teacher and passed the examination so successfully that
the School Board voted him extra compensation, in spite of his youth. After one year
of teaching, an experience which he always regarded as the crisis of his career because
it convinced him that w-hatever he did must be done thoroughly, he went to Montreal
and served in a newspaper office as a compositor and general assistant.
Soon afterward, he joined his brother, Levi S. Parmly, a young dentist living in
Boston, and acquired a thorough knowledge of the profession. Later, the two brothers
practiced successfully in the South, traveling from city to city, from Louisville to New
Orleans. During this tour, Dr. Parmly met with many interesting experiences, one of
which indicated his character and determination. After attending a ball, one evening,
he was escorting a lady to her home, when he was jostled on the staircase by a young
man prominent in local society. Dr. Parmly did not submit tamely to this insult. He
was tall, athletic, and finely proportioned, and the aggressor received a severe blow in
punishment. The following day, Dr. Parmly received a challenge. Turning to the
gentlemen who had brought the challenge, he said: "You are as well aware as I am
that your friend's conduct was unwarranted and unjustifiable. B}- bringing me this
note, you have made yourself a participator in his insolence. I propose to thrash you
496 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
with your own cane, and if your friend will call I'll thrash him also, after which I am
entirely willing to fight a duel with him." Whereupon, the young Vermonter seized
his visitor's cane, administered a sound drubbing and put him out of the house, after
which he sought the nearest magistrate to report what he had done Instead of placing
him under arrest, the judge looked admiringly at him, patted him on the shoulder and
said: " Young man, you did right. You are perfectly safe in this city from this time."
In 1821, the two brothers went to Europe, studying in Paris and London under
the most famous dental surgeons. After a year or .two in London, where he quickly
attained prominence, continued poor health led Mr. Parmly back to America. He
settled permanently in New York city, and for half a century stood at the head of his
profession in the metropolis. During his later years, Dr. Parmly gratified his literary
tastes by addresses and essays on professional and other subjects. He possessed from
his earliest years a maturity of thought and an earnestness of purpose which contributed
in large measure to his success, and he never regarded work as complete unless
perfectly done. His large income was shrewdly invested in real estate in New York
during the period of greatest municipal growth and his property became very valuable.
He married Ann Maria V. Smith of Charleston, S. C., Aug. 22, 1827. The children
living to maturity were : Anna Ehrick, wife of Theodore P. Rossiter and now deceased ;
Ehrick Parmly; Mary Montagu, wife of Charles H. Ward; Julia, wife of Frederick
Billings, and Louisa C., who died in 1845.
WILLIAfl HENRY PARSONS, manufacturer, was born July 7, 1831, on Staten
Island, N. Y. His father, Edward Lamb Parsons, member of an old family of War-
wickshire, England, came to America, when about twenty-one years of age. His
mother was of New England descent on the paternal side and Dutch through the
maternal line. Educated in Rye, N. Y., and prevented by ill health from taking a
collegiate course, Mr. Parsons began life at the age of twenty -four in the office of the
agents of an English shipping house. About two years later, he secured a clerkship in
a paper warehouse and became a partner a year afterward, establishing his own inde-
pendent business two years after that. During his first few years in business, he was
compelled to work very hard, often from twelve to fifteen hours per day, and was not
especially successful. Feeling that the paper business was one of the staple industries
of the country, however, he determined, if it were possible, to secure success. During
1857, with other merchants, he experienced great difficulty in meeting his obligations,
but was able to do so as they matured and has done so up to the present time. Up to
about 1880, Mr. Parsons sold paper on commission, and then became satisfied that
business tended in the direction of bringing the consumer into closest alliance with the
producer, whereupon he became interested in the manufacture of paper. In 1891, the
firm of W. H. Parsons & Co. was changed into a corporation of the same name, the
stockholders being mainly members of Mr. Parsons's family. He is now president of
The Lisbon Falls Fibre Co. , Lisbon Falls, Me.; The Bowdoin Paper Manufacturing
Co., Brunswick, Me., and of W. H. Parsons & Co., Maine and New York; director of
The Pejepscot Paper Co. , Pejepscot, Me., and trustee of The Bowery Savings Bank
of New York city. A man of enterprising and active spirit, he is also associated with
other institutions, and is president of The National League for the Protection of Ameri-
can Institutions, vice president of the Board of Trade and Transportation, member of
the Chamber of Commerce, and one of the managers of the Presbyterian Board of
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. PE. 497
Publication and Sabbath School Work of Philadelphia, president of The Westchester
County Bible Society and the Apawamis club of Rye ; trustee of the American Yacht
club, and member of the Atlantic Yacht, Metropolitan and City clubs of New York.
In October, 1857, Mr. Parsons married Laura C., daughter of John Palmer, who was
the son of Judge Palmer of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania. His wife was a
lineal descendant of Gov. Bradford, first Governor of Connecticut, and of Miles Stand-
ish She died in April, 1893. He has had five children: W. H. Parsons, jr., Matilda,
wife of Davis S. Cowles, Marselis Clark, John Palmer and Margaret Rainsford Parsons.
DENTON PEARSALL, banker, born at Hempstead, L. I., about 1810, died in
Westchester, N. Y., April 6, 1879. He was a son of Benjamin Pearsall, a carpenter of
Rockaway, L. I. The young man came to New York in 1812 and engaged himself as
apprentice to Henry Astor, brother of John Jacob Astor, in a butcher's stall in the old
Fly Market at the foot of Maiden Lane. Mr. Astor moved to more commodious
quarters in Fulton Market when it was first opened. Mr. Pearsall remained with him
until 1833, when, having attained his majority, he started in the same business for
himself. He soon created an excellent trade and supplied large quantities of meat and
provisions to the best families in the city and the packet and steamship lines, sailing
from the port. One of his principal patrons was the famous Collins line of steamships,
the American rival of the Cunard line. His trade finally extended to the wholesale
business. About 1855, Mr. Pearsall retired from mercantile life to devote himself to
other affairs. In 1847, with Jesse Marshall and others he had started The Bowery
Bank, and in 1857, he became one of the founders of The Manhattan Life Insurance
Co. In 1852, he helped organize The Second Avenue Railroad Co., serving as its
president 1852-56, and securing the charter for the first bridge over the Harlem at
Second avenue. He also bore a part in the foundation of The Stuyvesant Fire Insur-
ance Co., of which he was a director until his death. About 1852, he took a prominent
part in organizing The Manhattan Savings Institution, becoming a director, and he also
sat in the directorate of The Bowery Fire Insurance Co. He was best known as presi-
dent of The Butchers' & Drovers' Bank on the Bowery, of which, becoming a director
in 1864, he succeeded Mr. Perrin in the presidency in 1876, holding the office until his
death. He was a large owner of stock in his different organizations and of valuable
real estate in this city. He also owned a tract of land in Westchester county, adjacent
to what is now Morris Park, which has attained high value in consequence of the
growth of New York city. In 1834, he married Elizabeth Underbill of Westchester,
and lived first on 2d street, fronting toward the Marble Cemetery. About 1850, he
bought a large property in Westchester and removed thereto. His children now living
are Denton, Charles Benjamin, D'Anjou and George H. Pearsall, Mrs. Mary Louise
Baisley, Mrs. Esther E. Sparks, Mrs. Margaret A. Humphreys, Sarah A., wife of
Patrick H. Fay, and Nora E. Pearsall. Mrs. Pearsall died Nov. 28, 1889.
GEORGE L. PEASE, manufacturer, born in June, 1835, in Painesville, O., died
Feb 25, 1895, in Brooklyn, N. Y. When he was about nine years old, the family
moved to Detroit, Mich. First a teacher in New York State, and then a civil engineer,
he saved about $500, and inherited $300 more, and lost it all in a speculation, thereby
gaining a lesson which he never forgot. Returning to Detroit, he entered the station-
ery business as clerk for his father, became a partner, bought his father's interest, and
organizing the business as The Detroit Paper Co., carried it on with success for a num-
498 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
ber of years. In 1868, he came to New York and entered into partnership with Wil-
liam B. Boorum, for the manufacture of blank books and stationery, disposing of his
interests in Detroit about two years later. The New York venture was successful and
for years the house has been prosperous and widely known. In January, 1892, the
business was incorporated as The Boorum & Pease Co., with a capital of $750,000,
although so far as ownership is concerned it remained practically a partnership. Mr.
Pease was president of the company. The large factory is in Brooklyn. Mr. Pease
was a director of The Washington Trust Co. , The Shoe & Leather National Bank,
The People's Trust Co., The Wallabout Bank and The Keith Paper Co., and a member
of The Ohio Society, and of several charities, as well as president of The Stationers'
Board of Trade. His wife and one daughter, Mrs. Allan McNaughtan survived him.
WILLIAfl A. PEHBROOK, merchant, was a man of large build and fine personal
appearance. Composed in manner, shrewd, kindly and judicious in speech, he pos-
sessed great energy of mind, and was the soul of honor in business transactions and
distinguished through life by a loyalty to principle, which won the unqualified regard
of every associate and friend.
He was born in the township of Shrewsbury, N. J., Dec. 9, 1833. After receiving
a fair education in the local schools in the neighboring villages of Keyport and Shrews-
bury, he found himself compelled to begin the battle of life, and having a small capital,
he started in business for himself at the age of twenty, with a dry goods store in Key-
port. There, early in life, he not only acquired an excellent acquaintance with the
retail branch of the dry goods business, but developed a character in which shrewdness,
tact, absolute integrity and untiring energy were the leading traits. Five years later,
he accepted the position of salesman in the dry goods house of Turbell, Jennings &
Co. , of New York city. His duties to this firm compelled him for a while to live in
the city. He soon became a trusted employe" of the firm and was selected by them for
the work of disposing of the stock of a retail dry goods store in Raritan, N. J., in which
the firm had an interest. To Raritan, therefore, he repaired to discharge this duty.
It was while in Raritan that Mr. Pembrook met Miss Sarah Crane Kenyon. Their
acquaintance led to a deep attachment, and the couple were married at the residence
of David P. Kenyon, father of the bride, in Raritan, Dec. i, 1858. This union brought
to his side a most excellent woman, who proved a strong inspiration to him to do his
best in life. They have had two children, both sons. One, William Augustus, was
born April 14, 1860, and died in the fourth year of his age. The other, Theodore K.
Pembrook, born in 1863, now succeeds his father in business.
In the spring of 1860, Mr. Pembrook established his residence in the city of Eliza-
beth. He was fond of his native State, and while he often spent a winter in New York
city at some one of the better hotels, yet even in the days of his subsequent great pros-
perity, he was never tempted to establish his permanent home among the fascinations
of the metropolis.
In 1863, he entered the dry goods house of George A. Weeks & Co., as one of their
leading salesmen. Understanding the principles of success, and moved by natural im-
pulse to be thorough in his work, he showed himself remarkably attentive to the busi-
ness and familiarized himself as speedily as possible with the methods of the wholesale
trade, becoming a successful salesman. His high qualities both as a merchant and a
man finally attracted the attention of John H. and George D. Sweetser, and they invited
500 AMERICA S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
him into a partnership with them in the same business. This offer he accepted, and,
in 1868, Sweetser, Pembrook & Co. began their career. Now established in business
on his own account, Mr. Pembrook threw his whole energy into the development of
the trade of his firm. He was thoroughly practical and an excellent judge of the needs
of the times, proved a most valuable partner, and his active life of twenty-five years
resulted in his firm becoming one of the most prominent and successful in the city.
The beginning was small, but progress was rapid, sales increased, a larger store became
an imperative necessity, and finally, moving to 374-8 Broadway, the firm took possession
of the large building, which has ever since been their home. Each one of the partners
has since then amassed a fortune.
A man of active nature must always be interested in public affairs, and this was
true of Mr. Pembrook, although he cared nothing for office. His advice was constantly
sought in the local affairs of Elizabeth, and he consented once, much against his own
wish, to serve as Alderman in the Common Council of the city and was handsomely
elected. At the end of his term, he firmly declined any further political honors, and
although strongly urged at different times to accept the nominations of Mayor and
State Senator, he was unable to oblige his constituents in the matter. He was never-
theless greatly interested in the municipal affairs of Elizabeth and did much to pro-
mote the prosperity of the city. Local charities and philanthropic institutions received
marked benefits from his liberality, and he became one of the especial supporters of
The Elizabeth Hospital and The Elizabeth Orphan Asplum. He joined the First
Presbyterian Church of Elizabeth as a member at an early period in his residence
and served as a Bible teacher in its Sabbath School.
Much of his leisure time was devoted to the order of Free Masons, of which he was
an enthusiastic member. He was admitted to Solomon's Lodge, of Somerville, N. J.,
Feb. i, 1859. Dec. 17, 1862, he transferred his membership by demission to Washing-
ton Lodge, of Elizabeth. In this body, he was elected successively to Junior Warden,
Senior Warden, and in 1867 and 1868 Master of the Lodge. His reputation as a
worker and his impressive manner as a speaker and officer led to his selection as
Grand Master of New Jersey in 1874 and 1875. He first entered the Grand Lodge
in 1867, and is remembered as one of the most energetic and devoted workers in
that field. He served his order in many ways. In 1874, the Grand Lodge of Vir-
ginia appointed him its representative near the Grand Lodge of New Jersey, and in
1876 he received a similar appointment from Dakota. In 1877, the trustees of the
Grand Lodge elected him their chairman and he served in that capacity for five
years. From 1883 until his death, he was a member of the important Committee on
Jurisprudence and Charity of the Grand Lodge and chairman of the committee from
1885 In 1887, he reported a manual for ceremonies in both the local and Grand
Lodges, which had been, by appointment, laboriously prepared by him, and which
has been considered for its beauty, simplicity and force second to none in the country.
Mr. Pembrook joined the Merchants' club in New York city but was not attracted
by club life, and joined no other organizations of this class. He was a supporter of
The Metropolitan Museum of Art in this city.
He died Sept. 5, 1893, widely regretted.
FOSTER PETTIT, -capitalist, born in Hempstead, Long Island, April n, 1812,
died in Brooklyn, Jan. 8, 1894. He was a modest but meritorious citizen of Brooklyn
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. PH 501
and owed his marked prosperity to his own honest and judicious endeavors. His formal
education, obtained at the village school, was widened later by two years of teaching in
the school in which he had been a student. At the age of twenty-two, he became a
night watchman at Fulton Market in New York city. Prompt, energetic and honest,
he won the regard and confidence of the market men, and his ambition was clearly
shown by the admirable use of his time between the hours of wTork. Study of the best
books and determined labor qualified him soon to rise to a higher plane. By denying
himself luxuries, he saved a few hundred dollars, and, in 1845, engaged in business for
himself in a modest restaurant at the corner of Wall and Water streets. The market
men came to him and by 1854, he was enabled to erect a building of his own at No. 136
Water street, and here for thirty-seven years he conducted a successful business, from
which he retired in 1890. He invested his means mainly in securities and real estate in
Brooklyn. In 1834, Mr. Pettit married Clarissa, daughter of Stephen C. Bedell, of
Hempstead, Long Island, a farmer, and their children are Stephen B. , Carolina A., and
Winfield Pettit, all of whom are living. He was vice president of The Fulton Bank; a
director in several insurance companies ; at one time supervisor from the Fifth Ward of
Brooklyn, being defeated for re-election because the local ring could not use him ; a life
member of The Young Men's Christian Association, a member of The Long Island His-
torical Society and The Brooklyn Institute of Arts and Sciences, a stockholder in The
Academy of Music, and a member of the Washington Avenue Methodist Episcopal
Church. The Pettit Memorial Mission on Park avenue was improved and entirely
freed from debt by him. Mr. Pettit was in many ways a remarkable character, earnest,
ceaseless in activity, an early riser, persevering, and an excellent judge of men.
ISAAC NEWTON PHELPS, a distinguished merchant and banker, born in Wind-
sor. Conn., Feb. 22, 1802, died in Saratoga Springs, N. Y., Aug. i, 1888. He was a
son of Joseph Phelps, a farmer. The young man attended Dr. McClure's school in
early boyhood and entered a general country store in Suffield, Conn. , as a clerk. Dili-
gence, application and good character commended him from the start to his employer,
who, however, in accordance with the practice of the times, paid him no salary at first,
upon the ground that a thorough education in business principles was sufficient com-
pensation. This experience taught Mr. Phelps the habit of careful economy and de-
veloped his manliness and self reliance. At the end of eight years, he received $120 for
his services and the offer of partnership, which he accepted.
Nov. 10, 1828, Mr. Phelps was united in marriage to Sarah Maria, daughter of
Sylvester Lusk, of Enfield, Conn. , and then, removing to New York city, he entered
upon a career of phenomenal success, which soon lifted him into the front rank among
the business men of the city. Having established himself in the hardware business, he
prosecuted this occupation with great energy for a number of years, first with Mr.
Pickering as a partner, later with William Sheldon, and finally alone. For a time, he
lived in the city of Brooklyn, but finally transferred his home to New York city.
Retiring from mercantile pursuits in 1853, he then established a banking and
brokerage office at No. 45 Wall street in partnership with John J. Phelps, a merchant
of reputation. Well known among the substantial business men of the city, they trans-
acted a large and profitable business. In 1858, his partner withdrew but Mr. Phelps
continued alone until 1879, when the famous banking firm of Phelps, Stokes & Co. was
formed by him. At that time, James Stokes and Anson Phelps Stokes, the latter Mr.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. PH. 503
Phelps' son-in-law, were his associates. Six years later, James Stokes died and this led
to a dissolution of the firm. Thereafter, Mr. Phelps gave his attention to private in-
terests. One of his favorite investments was real estate, of which he was a large owner.
The reputation of Mr. Phelps as a business man came from his spotless character,
persistent application, tireless energy, and excellent judgment. He was noted as one
of the best judges of financial standing and the soundness of a business enterprise in
Wall street. Strong in his convictions, quiet, firm and decisive in negotiation, pos-
sessing a clear mind and excellent memory, regular in his habits and liberal in his
charities, he was an excellent type of the men who have made New York the metropolis
of the nation. A man of this stamp is always greatly sought after for positionsof trust
and it fell to his lot to be an active spirit and the largest stockholder in The United
States Trust Co.; a founder of The Mercantile and The Second National Banks; and
a director of The Central, The United States, and The Metropolitan Trust Co's, The
United States Life Insurance Co. , The Mercantile Fire Insurance Co. , and The Second
National and Mercantile National Banks. He had in addition large interests in rail-
roads and manufactures, and at one time sat in the directorate of The New York &
Erie Railroad. In politics, he espoused the Republican faith and joined the Union
League club early in the history of that historic organization. An affable man and
fond of the society of a small circle of chosen friends, he took delight in his later years
in discussing reminiscences of the early days of the city. With his family, he attended
the Brick Presbyterian Church.
By his first wife, Mr. Phelps was the father of Helen Louisa, the wife of Anson Phelps
Stokes, who survived him, and of Sarah, now deceased, who married the late Henry L.
Ring, of Albany. His second wife, whom he married in 1874, was Mrs. Anna Frances
Maullin, of Troy, N. Y.
ROYAL PHELPS, merchant, born in Sempronious, Cayuga county, N. Y., March
30, 1809, died in this city, July 30, 1884. He was descended from English ancestors,
who settled at Westfield, Mass , about 1670. His mother was a daughter of Col. John
Spofford of Tinmouth, Vt., and his father a Presbyterian clergyman of Lowville, N. Y.,
and greatly respected there. Misfortune befell the parents when the lad was fourteen,
and he was sent to the house of his grandfather at Lowville. Shortly afterward, he
was placed under the care of General Northrup with the intention of making him a
tanner, but he did not like the business and ran away, when fifteen, coming to New
York. Aided by an old friend of his father, he attended commercial school for a few
months and then went to Santa Cruz in the West Indies, where he remained for a year
or two, going thence to the republic of Colombia. At Puerto Cabello, after a long
apprenticeship as clerk, he finally engaged in business on his own account. By 1840, a
large trade had been created with connections in the United States and Europe, and
Mr. Phelps finally became a partner in an old house in La Guayra. His correspondents
in New York, the merchants Maitland, established about 1796, invited him in 1847 to
come to this city and undertake the management of their business. He accepted,
whereupon the name of the firm was changed to Maitland, Phelps & Co. The rest of
his life was spent in New York city in the management of this house. A capable
merchant, he rose to a very high position. Mr. Phelps held many positions of trust,
but always under protest because he wished to give his entire time to his own business.
In 1849, he was elected to the Chamber of Commerce and in 1855 he became first vice
504 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
president for seven years, refusing re-election. He was also a trustee of The Royal
Insurance Co. from 1857, and of The Atlantic Mutual Insurance Co. from 1858; presi-
dent of The New York Eye & Ear Infirmary, 1866-84; president of The New York
Association for the Protection of Game, 1867-77; trustee of The Roosevelt Hospital
after 1866 and vice president from 1875; member of the executive committee of The
Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, from 1872, and a trustee of Greenwood
Cemetery from 1878. A Union Democrat, he accepted a seat in the Legislature by
election in 1862 but refused renomination to any other political office. To his
energy, this city owes the erection of the statue of Washington on the steps of the Sub-
Treasury in Wall street. In 1835, he married a lady of Spanish descent in Puerto
Cabello by whom he had one daughter, who, in 1856, married John Lee Carroll of
Maryland, Governor of that State, 1876-80. In 1872, Mrs. Phelps died in New York.
WILLIAM PICKHARDT, a merchant in this city for nearly thirty years, originated
in Burghausen, Germany, Oct. 22, 1834, and died in the city of Cologne, June 23,
1895. He studied architecture in youth and might have followed a profession, had not
the death of his father led him to change his mind. When of age, he made a visit to
New York city and remained here in association with Frederick Brett & Co. , importers
of dye stuffs, colors and chemicals. In 1867, he returned to Germany for a time, but
soon returned to New York and in 1871, formed a partnership with Adolph Kuttroff,
under the name of Wm. Pickhardt & Kuttroff, to import foreign colors and dyes.
Although neither of the associates had much capital at the beginning of their career,
they were men of sterling character and good ability and experienced little difficulty
in creating a profitable trade, About 1878, a highly advantageous arrangement was
made, whereby the firm became the American agents of the Badische Aniline & Soda
Fabrik, a German corporation and the largest producer of aniline dyes in Europe.
This relation is yet maintained. Mr. Pickhardt had the faculty of making friends and
was greatly respected. He belonged to the Chamber of Commerce, the Manhattan
club, the Liederkranz and other societies, and was married to Miss Beresford Strong of
County Wicklow, Ireland, by whom he had several children. He was fond of 'a good
horse and bred fine animals at a farm at Schroon Lake, N. Y. Several of the horses
of his stud, which he called the Walbrook, have excellent records. Mr. Pickhardt's
experience in building a house on Fifth avenue at 74th street attracted attention for
twenty years. Resolved to surpass the marble mansion of the late A. T. Stewart, he
selected a plan after an international competition among architects, caused a foundation
to be excavated forty feet deep and a well to be dug designed to operate a $50,000
organ, which he imported, and brought brownstone and other materials for the house
from Germany, the cornerstone coming from his native town of Burghausen. Many
changes were made in the plans and at one time two stories were torn down to be re-
placed in accordance with a different design. The great mansion was finally com-
pleted, but Mr. Pickhardt did not like it and never lived in it. although it had cost him
over $1,000,000, and, by his orders, it was sold in February, 1895, for $472,500.
HENRY EVELYN PIERREPONT, realty owner and a public spirited citizen, was
born Aug. 8, 1808, in Brooklyn, in a house famous as the headquarters of Washington
and from which the order of retreat from Long Island was given. It was then known
as the Cornell mansion but was bought by Mr. Pierrepont's father in 1803. He was the
second son and one of the large family of Hezekiah Beers and Anna M. Constable
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. PI. 505
Pierrepont and was educated in New York at the school of Louis Bancel, a French
emigre. While traveling abroad in 1837, knowing that Brooklyn was soon to be
mapped as a city, he visited several places to study the best arrangement and, on his
return, acted as one of the committee to lay out the streets and squares of the city.
His plan included a park on the heights near the river and a cemetery on Gowanus
Hills. Being unable to carry out his plans for the cemetery at that time, he continued
them as a private enterprise and succeeded at last with the help of his friends in found-
ing Greenwood, of which at the time of his death he was the president. Devoting his
time to the settlement of his father's estate and to the improvement of his native city,
he built a home on nearly the site of the old mansion, in which he lived until his death,
March 28, 1888. He filled in and opened Furman street and then built the warehouses
known as the Pierrepont Stores. In order that Brooklyn might have proper ferry facil-
ities, he labored long and brought about the incorporation of The Union Ferry Co. , of
which he became vice president. It is an interesting fact that he was a direct descend-
ant of Cornelis Dircksen of Peck Slip, who in 1638, established with row boats the first
regular ferry between New York and Brooklyn. Mr. Pierrepont inherited means from
his father, who was a successful merchant in the foreign trade and the owner of a large
amount of realty in Brooklyn and of wild lands in the northern part of this State. This
patrimony was greatly increased by his own judicious endeavors. As director and
stockholder, he was interested in all the important local corporations of Brooklyn, in-
cluding The Brooklyn Savings Bank, The Brooklyn Trust Co , The Long Island His-
torical Society, The Brooklyn Library, The Brooklyn Hospital, The Church Charity
Foundation, The Academy of Music, the Brooklyn club, The Art Association, etc. He
was a member and senior warden of Grace Church (Episcopal) in Brooklyn and treas-
urer for over twenty years of the General Theological Seminar}- in New York city.
He married in 1841, Anna M., daughter of Peter A. Jay of New York, son of Chief
Justice John Jay, and had a family of three sons and three daughters, including Henry
E. and John Jay Pierrepont.
JAiiES ROBERTSON PITCHER, insurance manager, the son of Dorlon H.
Pitcher, tanner of sole leather, and Philira Robertson, his wife, was born in Windham,
X. Y.. near the Catskill Mountains, March 5, 1845. His paternal ancestors came from
England, the maternal line originating in Glasgow, Scotland. Educated in Whitestone
Seminary and deprived of his father by death in 1857, the young man at the age of
eighteen entered the office of the firm in which his father had been interested and
became a clerk, bookkeeper and manager. In 1866, he sold his interest and came to
Xt-\v York city. He found occupation for two years as salesman for H. B. Claflin &
Co., and later junior partner for thirteen years in a wholesale clothing house. In
. he originated and founded The United States Mutual Accident Association.
During the early stages of this enterprise, Mr. Pitcher performed all the clerical work
himself. He promoted with energy' the novel idea upon which the form of accident
insurance was based, which, by the way, originated with himself, and the company
finally took its place as a prosperous and important concern. Large quarters are now
occupied and a large force of clerks employed. He finally sold his interest for
upward of $1,000,000 cash. He was one of the first incorporators and directors of The
Lawyers' Surety Co. and The Merchants' Credit & Guarantee Co., and has made his
way from a modest beginning with energy. He is now president of The Cachiri Co.
506 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
and a large investor in real estate also. At Short Hills, N. J., where he lives, he owns
about seven hundred acres of land, a nursery and fifty greenhouses. The latter grew
out of~Mr. Pitcher's love of orchids and other flowers but are now conducted as a
commercial enterprise by Pitcher & Manda. In 1870, Mr. Pitcher married Helen K. .
Sweet, and their five children are Bessie K., Julia K., Georgiana, Philira Robertson
and James Robertson Pitcher. Though residing out of town, Mr. Pitcher is a loyal
citizen of New York in all essentials and is a popular member of the Players', Man-
hattan, Merchants', and Tuxedo clubs, as well as of the Essex County Country club.
HENRY BRADLEY PLANT, president of the Plant System of railway and steam-
ship lines and of The Southern and The Texas Express Go's, was born in the pleasant
village of Branford, Conn., Oct. 27, 1819. His ancestors, who were among the early
settlers of Connecticut, came from England about 1636. The subject of this sketch
is a direct descendant of John Plant, the pioneer, and that branch of the family has,
lived continuously in the town of Branford, Conn., the Plants being intelligent, indus-
trious farmers, orthodox in faith, upright in character, and useful citizens in their
respective days and generations. Mr. Plant's great grandfather on his father's side was.
attached to Washington's army as a private when that general was stationed at New-
burgh, and was one of the guard of the unfortunate Major Andre at the time of his.
execution. His great grandfather on his grandmother's side was a major in Washing-
ton's army at the same time.
Mr. Plant's education was a limited one, confined largely to the common schools,
and to private instructions from the late Rev. Timothy P. Gillette, Congregational
clergyman, and was finished at the Lancasterian school of New Haven under the-
tuition of the late John E. Lovell. In 1837, he entered the service of The New
Haven Steamboat Co., and was shortly afterward placed in charge of the express,
business upon the steamboats between New York and New Haven and upon The New
York & New Haven Railroad after its completion between these two places. Mr.
Plant liked the freedom of this life and imbibed therefrom the spirit of adventure
which has since tinged all his life. He remained in charge of the business until the
formation of The Adams Express Co., when he went South. In the autumn of 1854, he
was appointed superintendent of the Southern division of The Adams Express Co., with
headquarters at Augusta, Ga. , and was also made superintendent of Harnden's Express.
In 1842, Mr. Plant married Ellen Elizabeth Blackstone, daughter of the Hon.
James Blackstone, and has only one child living, Morton F. Plant, -who is associated
with his father as his assistant, vice president of The Southern Express Co. and vice
president and manager of The Canada Atlantic & Plant Steamship Co. Mr. Plant's
first wife died in 1861, and he was remarried in 1873 to Margaret Josephine Loughman,
only daughter of Martin Loughman of New York city.
Until 1 86 1, Mr. Plant had charge of the Southern division of The Adams Express.
Co., and in that year organized The Southern Express Co., of which he has since been
president continuously. In the autumn of 1863, in consequence of failing health, he
received from the President of the Confederate States a passport and permission to
leave the South by whatever route he might select. Sailing from Wilmington, N. C.,
the same year, in the ship Hansa, he went to the Bermudas, thence to Europe, where
he passed a year, and in the autumn of 1864, with health restored, he returned and re-
sumed charge of the express business in the South.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. — PL. 507
In 1867, he became president of The Texas Express Co. and has held the position
up to the present time. When in 1854 Mr Plant first visited Florida for the sake of
his invalid wife, access to Jacksonville could be had only by steamboat up St. John's
river. The mild climate of that city prolonged Mrs. Plant's life for years and Mr.
Plant made many yearly visits thereafter to the place. He saw the need of railroads
in the State, but, although buying stock in various Florida and Georgia companies from
time to time, he could not engage in railroad enterprise actively until 1879.
In 1879, with others, Mr. Plant purchased The Atlantic & Gulf Railroad of Georgia,
and subsequently reorganized the company as The Savannah, Florida & Western Rail-
way, of which he has since been president. After this reorganization, he shortened the
line to Florida by constructing the road from Waycross to Jacksonville, which was fol-
lowed by an extension of the line by way of Live Oak to Gainesville, and from Bain-
bridge to Chattahoochee in Florida, connecting with The Pensacola & Atlantic Railroad.
Later on, the road between Thomasville and Monticello was constructed.
In 1880, Mr. Plant purchased with associates and rebuilt The Savannah & Charles-
ton Railroad, which had been in the courts for many years and as a property had dete-
riorated. He improved the rolling stock and made it a solvent concern. It is now
known as The Charleston & Savannah Railway.
In these enterprises, it was the purpose of Mr. Plant and his associates to extend
and add to the various properties, and they believed this could best be accomplished
under a single organization with ample powers. With this object in view, several of his
associates being residents of Connecticut, the birth place of Mr. Plant, a charter was
obtained in 1882 from the Legislature of that State and The Plant Investment Co. or-
ganized. Mr. Plant became president and remains such to the present time. Among
his associates were W. T. Walters and B. F. Newcomer of Baltimore, E. B. Haskell of
Boston, Henry M. Flagler and Morris K. Jesup of New York, and Lorenzo Blackstone,
Henry Sanford, Lynde Harrison, H. P. Hoadley and G. H. Tilley of Connecticut.
Since the formation of The Plant Investment Co., several properties have been acquired
by purchase. In 1885, they bought The South Florida Railroad, at the time running
only between Tampa and Kissimmee, which was changed from narrow to broad gauge
with an extension of the line to Port Tampa, Fla. , which is the port of entry for the
West India fast mail steamers (Plant Steamship line) between Port Tampa and Havana,
Cuba. Subsequently, the line was extended north from Lakeland to a connection with
the Gainesville division of The Savannah, Florida & Western Raihvay at High Springs,
thus completing the line from Charleston, S. C., to Port Tampa, Fla. Thereafter, the
company acquired, in 1887, The Brunswick & Western Railroad between Brunswick
and Albany, Ga.,via Waycross, which road was rebuilt; in 1889, The Alabama Midland
Railway from Montgomery, Ala., to Bainbridge, Ga. ; and in 1892, The Silver Springs,
Ocala & Gulf Railroad, extending from Ocala to Homosassa and Inverness, Fla. In
1893, The Tampa & Thonotosassa Railroad was constructed from Tampa to Thonoto-
sassa, and The Winston & Bone Valley Railroad purchased to accommodate the people
of the phosphate mining districts. In 1894, The Abbeville Southern Railway from
Abbeville, Ala., to a junction of the line of the Alabama Midland Railway was built.
The system has been extended in 1895 by purchase of The Florida Southern Railway
and The Sanford & St. Petersburg Railroad, both narrow gauge roads. Preparations
are being made to change them to standard gauge.
508 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
In addition to the railway properties enumerated, Mr. Plant established t\vo lines
of steamboats, one in 1880 to run between Jacksonville and Sanford, which was discon-
tinued upon the completion of the railway between these two points; the other on the
Chattahoochee river, known as the People's line, plying between Columbus and Bain-
bridge, Ga. , and Apalachicola, Fla. In 1886, he established The Plant Steamship Line
for regular service between Port Tampa and Key West, Fla., and Havana, Cuba, under
contract with the United States Post Office Department for carriage of the Key West
and Havana mails and for occasional service between Port Tampa and the Island of
Jamaica, with regular service between Port Tampa and Mobile, and Port Tampa and
points on Manatee river.
Subsequently, the line of The Canada Atlantic Steamship Co., Ltd.. running
between Boston and Halifax, was acquired by purchase and chartered under the Dominion
Government as The Canada Atlantic & Plant Steamship Co., Ltd. In 1893, the North
Atlantic line of steamers was added to the line through purchase, and the route be-
tween Boston, Cape Breton and Prince Edward Island is now operated by the company
referred to.
Finding it to be desirable to furnish good accommodations to tourists and travelers
in Florida and en route to points beyond, the Inn was constructed at Port Tampa and
is kept open all the year, while the Tampa Bay palace at Tampa, known far and wide
as a modern wonder, and the Seminole at Winter Park, Fla. , are open for guests during
the winter season.
Mr. Plant's career is a remarkable example of what can be accomplished by untir-
ing industry and indomitable will. His enterprises have contributed largely to the
growth of the South and are a monument to his genius, energy and perseverance. The
people of Florida cheerfully acknowledge the great obligations under which they have
been placed by the labors of this energetic and capable man. In recent years, he has
made his home in New York city, spending each summer in Branford, Conn. He is a
member of the Union League club and The New England Society here, a man of
commanding appearance, genial nature, dignified and courteous manner, and as modest
as he is competent.
JOHN RUTHVEN PLATT, merchant, born in New York city, Oct. 18, 1820, is a
son of Isaac L. Platt, one of two brothers, twins, the other being Jacob S., born in
Freehold, Greene county, N. Y. , April 5, 1793, who came to New York city about
1806-7, rose to success as business men, and, among their other ventures, opened
Platt street and built the stores there. Isaac L. Platt was one of the founders of
The Chemical Bank and The Pennsylvania Coal Co. The family is an old one,
the name of Isaac L. Platt appearing in the original charter granted by Governor
Nichol to the town of Huntington, L. I. The line descends to the present generation
through Epenetus; Major Epenetus; Dr. Zophar (Jan. 30, 1705-Sept. 1792); Ebenezer;
Israel, a captain in the American Revolution; Stephen, a lieutenant in the Revolution,
and Isaac L. Platt. The latter married Marion E. Ruthven, and had three sons, John
R , Samuel R. and Isaac S. Platt. John R. Platt spent two or three years in Prime's
school in Sing Sing and finished his education under the tuition of Forrest & Wyckoff
in Warren street in this city. At the age of fourteen, he took his place in the store of
Stephen Conover, 327 Broadway, as a clerk, and toiled from 7 A. M. to 9 p. M. for $100
a year. About 1836, he found a better position with Latourette, the fur merchant,
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. PL. . 509
corner of Pine and Pearl streets, but when, in the crash of 1837, every one in Pearl
street failed, Mr. Latourette went with the rest and Mr. Platt lost his employment.
Joining his father then in the importation of plate and looking glass and bolting
cloths for flour mills, Mr. Platt stayed with him, succeeded to the business, and
carried it on until 1873, when he retired. After his father's death, Oct. 22, 1875, he
succeeded that exceedingly competent man as a director of The Pennsylvania Coal Co. ,
and is no\v senior in term of service in the board. He is also a director of several
insurance companies. June 15, 1850, Mr. Platt married Mary E., daughter of Lemuel
Pomeroy, owner of the Copake Iron Works in Columbia county. Their two children
are Aurelia P., wife of William J. Cassard, and Mary A., wife of E. V. S. Pomeroy,
no\v resident in Nebraska. Early in life, 1838-39, Mr. Platt joined the 5th company of
the 27th N. Y. Art., now the 7th Inf., signing the roll in the office of Carpenter &
Vermilye, opposite the present Custom House. This regiment had seven companies of
foot, a troop of horse and park of artillery. Mr. Platt carried a flintlock musket in this
organization for seven years and was discharged in 1846. He was also active in the old
fire department, being a volunteer in No. 5 Engine Co., before he came of age, and,
in January, 1847, No. 36 Hose Co., composed of merchantsand merchants' clerks. He
was one of the originators of No. 28 Engine Co., and its foreman for several years, and
afterward foreman of Hose Co. No. 29, first at Fifth avenue and 2ist street and later
on 1 8th street. When the old companies were legislated out of existence in 1865, he
was president of the organization, which was continued as a beneficiary institution
and yet exists. He is a member of the New York Yacht club, and for twenty years
was treasurer of the Olympic club, the oldest in existence as a country club.
SAMUEL REYNOLDS PLATT, manufacturer, born in New York city, July 4.
1828, died here Dec. 2, 1884. He was a son of Isaac L. Platt. With a fair education,
he entered the employment of Walsh & Mallory, dealers in hardware in Pearl street,
while yet a young man, and later with his brother-in-law, John P. Adriance, formed
the firm of Adriance & Platt, for the importation of hardware. Having become inter-
ested in the patent for the Buckeye mo\ving machine, this branch of their business
proved so important that they devoted themselves entirely to the manufacture of
the machine, building large works at Poughkeepsie, N. Y., for the purpose. Follow-
ing his father's death, about 1875, Mr. Platt became largely interested in The Penn-
sylvania Coal Co. and was also a director in The Chemical National Bank. He was
an enthusiastic yachtsman, served at one time as rear commodore of the New York
Yacht club, owned the famous schooner Montauk, which was built for him, and made
several extended cruises with this boat. Mr. Platt never forgot the obligations of wealth
and was liberal and discriminating in his charities. He and his brother, John, joined the
Union League club when first organized, and were liberal in contributions to equip
troops raised in the city. He was also a member of the New York club. June 23,
1852, he married Susan A., daughter of Peter Neefus, an old merchant, and was
survived by one son, Furman Neefus Platt.
HENRY D. POLHEMUS, banker, who died at No. 88 Remsen street, Brooklyn,
Feb. 14, 1895, in his sixty-fifth year, enjoyed the honor of descent from the Rev.
Johannes Theodoras Polhemus, minister of the Dutch Reformed Church of Flatbush,
L. I., in 1654. For generations, the family lived at Flatbush upon a farm which is
now thickly covered with homes. Mr Polhemus was born in the old homestead in
510 AMERICAS SUCCESSFUL MEN.
Gowanus Lane, the son of Theodoras and Rebecca B. Polhemus, and was the last of
his line, his brothers, Theodore and Ditmas, having died before him. He grew up a
handsome, athletic young man and an enthusiastic lover of base ball and woodland
sports. He was at one time a volunteer fireman. At the usual age, Mr. Polhemus
entered business life in New York city in the employment of Fox & Polhemus, manu-
facturers of cotton duck. When he became a partner, and, later succeeded to the
business, he infused great spirit into the trade and carried it on with marked success.
As his means increased, he became by investment a director of The Long Island
Bank, The Brooklyn Gas Light Co., The Brooklyn Heights Railroad, The Delaware,
Lackawanna & Western Railroad, and other corporations. A sound, sensible, busy
man, loyal to the city of Brooklyn in which he dwelt, and active in promoting the
public welfare, he won the cordial regard of every one who knew him. He was a
director of the Brooklyn club twenty-seven years, vice president for three years and at
his death its president, as well as president of The St. Nicholas Society of Brooklyn,
the Cuttyhunk Fish club, vice president of the Robbins Island club, a member of
the Montauk, Hamilton, Germania, Riding and Driving, New York, New York Yacht
and Larchmont Yacht clubs, and honorary member of the Excelsior club, organized by
members of the Excelsior ball team, to which he once belonged, and trustee of the
Long Island College Hospital, The Brooklyn Academy of Music, the Eye and Ear
Hospital and The Long Island Historical Society. His wife, Caroline D. , daughter of
William S. Herriman, alone survived him.
EDWARD ERIE POOR, merchant and banker, is an excellent type of that class of
sound, prudent and progressive men, who have come to the metropolis from New Eng-
land, and filled so large a place in the affairs of this city. He is a native of Boston,
Mass., and was born Feb. 5, 1837. His father's family derives its origin in this country
from John Poor of Wiltshire, England, who in 1635 settled in Newbury, Mass. An
excellent genealogy of this family has been published by Alfred Poor of Salem, Mass.
The subject of this sketch is in the seventh generation of descent in the direct line from
John Poor. His maternal ancestor, Lieut. Francis Peabody, also an Englishman,
moved to the new world from Hertfordshire in 1635, settling in Ipswich, Mass., and
founding another important family. From him descended George Peabody, banker and
philanthropist, whose cousin, Jeremiah Peabody, was the grandfather of Mr. Poor. The
history of the Peabody family was published by David Clapp & Son of Boston, in 1867.
Graduating from the public schools of Boston, Mr. Poor entered in 1851 the dry
goods commission house of Read, Chadwick & Dexter on Milk street in Boston. In
1864, he removed to New York city and at No. 32 Barclay street opened a commission
dry goods house, having made such connections as insured him a trade from the start.
The sign over his store bore his own name only until 1865, when it was changed to
Denny, Jones & Poor, later to Denny, Poor & Co. Time has wrought the usual
changes in the personnel of the firm, but the name of Denny, Poor & Co is yet re-
tained at their location 114-116 Worth street, in the heart of the present wholesale dry
goods district, but Mr. Poor is the senior partner. A large business is transacted, re-
quiring the maintenance of branch stores in Boston and Chicago. The firm are agents
for various important manufactories in New England and The Passaic Print Works of
Passaic, N. J., of which latter corporation Mr. Poor is a director.
An unwritten law, based on personal character, makes the merchant who is sue-
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. PO. 51!
cessful in the best sense a desirable accession to the governing boards of banking
institutions, and Mr. Poor has been drawn into finance, as have been so many of his
colleagues in the wholesale dry goods trade. He was one of the incorporators of The
Dry Goods Bank, and a director until its voluntary liquidation. In 1888, the stockhold-
ers of The National Park Bank elected him a director of that famous institution. Experi-
ence proved him a valuable coadjutor in the board, and in 1893, he was chosen one of the
vice presidents of the bank. The duties of this position are by no means nominal.
They exact from Mr. Poor constant attention, and his best thought and his time are
equally divided between his financial and commercial interests.
Always a Republican in politics, Mr. Poor votes for the candidates of the party
when they meet with his approval, but has refused every suggestion looking to a nom-
ination for public office. He is pre-eminently a man of practical affairs and finds
enjoyment and ample scope for his ambition in their management. He has been a
member of the Chamber of Commerce since 1872, and of the Union League club since
1870. He is also a member of the Manhattan and Merchants' clubs and a life member
of The New England Society.
In 1859, he was married to Mary Wellington, daughter of Washington J. Lane of
West Cambridge, Mass. This union has brought them seven children : Edward E.
Poor, jr., and James Harper Poor, who are partners in their father's firm; Dr. Charles
Lane Poor, who, after taking the degree of Ph. D. in Johns Hopkins University, has
been appointed associate professor in astronomy in that institution, and has won
distinction by lectures and papers upon this science; Frank Ballou Poor, a banker;
Horace F. Poor; Helen, wife of William C. Thomas of South Carolina, and Emily
Clark Poor. The family make their home in town in the winter but spend the sum-
mers in the country or in travel.
HENRY WILLIAH POOR, banker, stock broker and author, a man thoroughly
American in sentiment, an authority of world wide reputation in railway matters
and statistics, and for character and accomplishments highly regarded, was born in
Bangor, Me., June 16, 1844. All of his ancestors on both sides of the family originated
in England and established themselves in Massachusetts in the earliest colonial times,
where they shared in all the activities of their day for subduing the wilderness and the
Indian tribes, planting a commonwealth, and creating in the new world a representative
form of government Ezekiel Merrill, great-grandfather of Mr. Poor on his father's
side, held a commission as an officer and wielded a sword bravely in the American Rev-
olution. He served in Colonel Gerrish's regiment, April 19, 1775, when the Minute
Men in New England were summoned, at the time of the Lexington alarm, to with-
stand the aggressions of the British troops, and had the honor to be present in the Ameri-
can army at the time of Burgoyne's surrender at Saratoga, Oct. 17, 1777. In 1785, this
old Revolutioner moved to Andover, Me., situated among the mountains of Oxford
county near the Rangeley Lakes and there, in 1791, built the Merrill House, an old
homestead of the colonial style, wrhich is now owned by the subject of this biography
and occupied by him as one of his country seats.
Benjamin Franklin, great great uncle of Mr. Poor on his mother's side, performed
sen-ices in the period of the struggle for independence, which are historic and require
no further mention. On his mother's side, also, Mr. Poor is a grandson of the Rev.
John Pierce, who presided over the first parish church in Brookline, Mass., for over
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. PO. 513
fifty years and was a. prominent figure in the annals of Harvard University, his picture
occupying a conspicuous position in Memorial Hall at Cambridge, Mass.
His father, Henry V. Poor, a graduate, in 1835, of Bowdoin College, Maine, was a
lawyer in Bangor, Me., until 1849, when he moved with his family to New York and
was well known in this city in railway affairs and as editor of The American Railroad
Journal, which he conducted until 1863. In 1865, he retired from active life and moved
to Brookline, Mass. Since then, he has become the author of various financial and sta-
tistical works of great value and is yet living in a hale, hearty old age, greatly respected
by all who know him.
Mr. Poor received a preliminary education in New York city, to which place he was
brought when five years old, and graduated from Harvard College in the class of 1865.
He entered upon the serious work of his career immediately on graduating, returning
to Xew York city in August of 1865, and has ever since made the metropolis his home.
Finding occupation at once as clerk in the then stock brokerage firm of Henry Fitch &
Co., he learned in that house all the technicalities of the brokerage business and soon
gained sufficient confidence to engage in business on his own account. Any man of
receptive and tenacious mind, who is inspired with the least particle of determina-
tion not to remain in a rut but to make his own way in the world, will in due time leave
a subordinate position and display to the world the sign, which announces that he is in
business for himself. Mr. Poor's period of probation was an unusually short one, and
in 1868, he established himself in business under the firm name H. V. & H. W. Poor
in this city as a dealer in railroad securities. He then associated with himself the Hon.
C. E. Habicht, Consul General of Norway and Sweden, in the importation of railroad
iron as correspondent of the firm of Tiden, Nordenfelt & Co., of London. Mr. Norden-
felt became the maker of the heavy ordnance known as the " Nordenfelt gun " for
the British Government. Mr. Poor's connection with this branch of the business,
through the necessity of keeping a record of all railway companies and new construc-
tion undertaken by them so that he might be the first in the field in negotiation for the
rails needed by them, led to the establishment by him, in 1868, of the now famous
annual publication known as "Poor's Railroad Manual," which has ever since filled an
important place in the railroad world. Embodying as it does, exhaustive financial in-
formation concerning every railway company on the continent, it is an absolute neces-
sity to every manager of an American railroad, every operator in railroad shares and
even- statistician and writer on economic questions and is as well known in Europe as
in this country. Mr. Poor gave extremely close study to the subject to which the Manual
was devoted, and soon rose to the position of an authority upon railroad statistics. The
firm of H. V. & H. W. Poor is yet in existence at No. 44 Broad street, as publishers of
the "Railroad Manual" and other statistical works, Henry W. Poor having been the
sole partner, however, since 1883. The period in which Mr. Poor made his entrance
into affairs was one of great activity in financial circles. The Civil War had come to
an end, railroad building was the order of the day, the country was animated with a
spirit of restless enterprise and Wall street became the centre of exciting operations.
The firm of H. V. & H. W. Poor prospered from year to year and undertook the
construction of several lines of railway, and the junior partner gradually gained the
capital to engage in a regular banking business.
The now well known banking firm, of which Mr. Poor is the senior partner, was
514 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
organized in 1880, under the name of Anthony, Poor & Oliphant. They located their
office at No. 19 Broad street and attracted important clients from the start. Various
transmutations have since occurred in the personnel of the firm. In 1881, they organ-
ized as Poor, Oliphant & Co., changed to Poor & Oliphant in 1882, and taking the name
of Poor, White & Co., in 1883, upon the addition to it of B. Ogden White, who had been
for twenty years the secretary of the New York Stock Exchange. In 1884, the name
was again changed to Poor, White & Greenough by accession of John Greenough, a
classmate of Mr. Poor in Harvard College, and who formerly had been a leading
merchant in the South American business, in which he had accumulated a fortune.
In 1886, the name was changed to Poor & Greenough, the title of the present firm.
The house has always managed its affairs with prudence, energy and ability and is now
prominent in Wall street, both partners being rated as millionaires. It represents a
number of important foreign interests and corporations, has extensive English and con-
tinental connections, deals largely in railway and other securities, having issued upward
of $100,000,000 of railway loans, has borne a part in important railroad reorganizations,
and has acted as financial agents of The Louisville, New Albany & Chicago Railway,
The New York, Ontario & Western Railway, The Missouri, Kansas & Texas Railway
and many other corporations.
Mr. Poor purchased a seat in the Stock Exchange, Oct. 2, 1890, and individually
has made investments in and been active in the management of a large number of
corporations, in which his counsel has been desired. He is at the present time presi-
dent of The Kansas City & Pacific Railway; an active director of The Missouri, Kansa
& Texas Railway; a director of The Bank of the State of New York, and chairman of
The Sherman, Shreveport & Southern Railway; and a director of The United States
Casualty Co., and the Consolidated Ice Co. He has also been connected at various
times with many other corporations in an official capacity.
Mr. Poor is a man of refined and scholarly tastes and prominent in the social life of
the city. He is an ardent student and a great lover of books and has, by careful and
gradual accumulation, collected one of the finest private libraries in the city of New-
York ; and he maintains his vigor for business pursuits by recreation in the open air,
having been distinguished in youth for prominence in athletic sports and great physical
strength. Among the clubs of which he is, or has been, a member are the Union
League, Harvard, University, Players', Tuxedo, Country, Lawyers', Down Town, Rid-
ing, Racquet & Tennis, Seawanhaka Corinthian Yacht, American Yacht, Rockaway
Hunting, Oval, Aldine, Grolier, Barnard, Lotos, City, Vaudeville, Arkwright, Law-
rence, New York Athletic and Mendelssohn Glee of this city, and the Algonquin of Bos-
ton. He was the first president (1894) of Good Government Club F, and is treasurer
of the Parmachenee club, a sporting club in Maine. By virtue of lineal descent from
Ezekial Merrill above referred to, he is also a member of The Sons of the American
Revolution in this State, and from public spirit and interest in their objects he became
a member of The New York Historical Society, life member of The New England So-
ciety and The American Institute of Fine Arts, a member of The New York Geograph-
ical & Statistical Society, The Metropolitan Museum of Art and The American Museum
of Natural History and The Hakluyt Society of London. He is also a director of The
Symphony and Oratorio Societies and a member of The Musical Art Society. He
was married Feb. 4, 1880, to Constance Brandon, and is the father of four children,
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. PO. 515
Henry V., born 1880; Edith, born 1882; Roger, born 1883, and Sylvia, born 1892.
GEN. HORACE PORTER, orator and man of affairs, was born in Huntingdon, Pa.,
April 15, 1837. His ancestors were long identified with the early history of Pennsyl-
vania. His grandfather, Andrew Porter, born in Worcester, Pa., Sept. 24, 1743, and
the proprietor of a scientific school in Philadelphia, left the arts of peace in 1775 to Jom
the forces of the American Revolution, as captain of marines and then of artillery,
served entirely through the War, and was promoted from rank to rank until he became
Colonel of the 4th Continental Art., and later Brigadier General. After the War, he
was commissioned Major General of militia and, after service as Commissioner for sur-
veying the boundary lines between Pennsylvania and Virginia, declined the positions
of Brigadier General in the regular army and Secretary of War, tendered by President
Madison. David R. Porter, son of the latter, an iron master, located in Huntingdon,
served for a number of years in the Senate of Pennsylvania and was twice Governor of
the State. Horace, youngest son of David R Porter, was educated at the scientific
school of Harvard University and graduated from the West Point Military Academy
in 1860 He served in the field during the Civil War and during the four years of that
struggle rose through every grade of the regular army up to that of brevet Brigadier
General. Promotion by brevet was accorded to him on six different occasions for
"gallant and meritorious services." He served during the latter part of the War upon
General Grant's staff and as private secretary to General Grant when the latter was
President. Since the War, he has become conspicuous in civil life by his management
of important and successful business enterprises and by the display of ability in the field
of oratory and literature. He has been president of several railroad companies, vice-
president of The Pullman Car Co., and a director in a number of prominent financial
institutions. He is president of the Union League club, The Grant Monument Associ-
ation The Society of the Army of the Potomac, and The National Society of the Sons of
the American Revolution, commander of the New York Commandery of the Loyal Le-
gion and of the Washington Post, G. A. R., vice president of the Chamber of Com-
merce, and a member of the Metropolitan, University, Lotos, Grolier, Century, Play-
ers', Lawyers', and Authors' clubs of New York city, and many other organizations,
including geographical and historical societies. In 1894, he received the degree of
LL. D. from Union College. In 1864, he married Miss McHarg of Albany, and to them
have been born Horace M., Clarence, William and Elsie Porter. General Porter has
in recent years become one of the favorite after dinner and public orators of New York
city. He is greatly in demand and has delivered orations on many occasions of public
moment as well as innumerable speeches and lectures upon other occasions, social, lit-
erary, patriotic and commercial. He speaks several of the modern languages, and
among his literary works are a number of books and magazine articles, which have
commanded public attention.
CLARKSON NOTT POTTER, LL.D., lawyer, born in Schenectady, N. Y., April
25, 1824, died in New York city, Jan. 23, 1882. He was the oldest son of Alonzo
Potter, Bishop of Pennsylvania, and a descendant of colonists who settled at Warwick
Neck, R. I., in 1640. His grandfather, Joseph Potter, removed from Warwick to
Dutchess county, N. Y., soon after the American Revolution and represented that
county in the Colonial Legislative Mr. Potter graduated in 1842 from Union College,
. and in 1843, from the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. For some time, he followed
516 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
surveying in Wisconsin. He studied law in that State and after his admission to the
bar came to New York in 1848 to practice. He soon rose to great prominence and
during his last ten years practiced exclusively before the Court of Appeals and the
United States Supreme Court. In 1848, Mr. Potter entered politics as a Free Soil
Democrat, and although he held extreme State's rights views, was active in raising
troops during the War and aiding the soldiers. He was elected to Congress from the
Westchester district in 1868, 1870, 1872 and 1876. Qualities both brilliant and sound
made him easily a leader and he promoted with success all reform measures and
opposed legislation which had for its object the favoring of private or personal inter-
ests, including Southern war claims. Although re-nominated for Congress in 1878, he
declined. In 1879, he declined to be a candidate for Governor, but was nominated for
Lieutenant Governor and defeated by only 230 votes. At his death, he was president
of the National Bar Association, a member of various societies and director or trustee
in a number of public institutions. In appearance, he was tall, erect and well built,
with dignified manners. In 1873, Columbia College made him a Doctor of Laws.
ORLANDO BRONSON POTTER, LL. D., lawyer, manufacturer and financier, was
the author of the national banking system of the United States and a man, who,
beginning life without capital, rose from the farm by useful and legitimate enterprise
and the exercise of an indomitable determination to great prosperity and influence.
The founders of the family were Puritan pioneers of New England. John Potter,
the emigrant ancestor, was born in England in 1607 and came to the New Haven
Colony in 1638, signing the "Plantation Covenant" of June 4, 1639. Samuel Potter,
Orlando's father, was born in Hamden, grew to young manhood in Northford, New
Haven county, Conn., and removed to Charlemont, Mass., in 1819, transporting his
effects thither with the aid of two ox teams. Settling upon a farm, he was married
soon afterward to Miss Sophia Rice, a descendant of Edmund Rice, who came from
Barkhamstead, England, in 1638, and became a resident of Sudbury, Mass. Moses
Rice, her great grandfather, the first settler and principal proprietor of the town of
Charlemont, was killed by Indians in 1755, while defending a fort he had built to protect
the settlement.
Orlando B. Potter, the third of ten children, was born in Charlemont, Suffolk
county, Mass., March 10, 1823. During his early life, he found occupation in the work
of the farm and for six years was virtually manager of the farm, his father being absent
a large part of the time on public business. The lad acquired his powerful physique
and unfailing good health during those early years of cultivation of the soil. Every
fall and winter, he attended the country school and in 1841 entered Williams College.
For two years, he was one of the foremost students in his class, but ill health and lack
of funds compelled him to withdraw in his sophomore year. Mr. Potter experienced
more than ordinary hardship in gaining his start in life. A commonplace man would
have been turned back by the difficulties which confronted him, but he was resolved
to succeed and persevered in spite of all obstacles. After a short mackerel fishing
trip for the benefit of his health, he taught school for a while in the academies of East
and West Dennis on Cape Cod. Choosing the law as his profession, to obtain the
money with which to begin his studies, he arranged, in the spring of 1845, to teach a
class of young ladies every afternoon, and he then rented several acres of ground,
fertilized the land with sea weed cut from the rocks with his own hands at low tide,
518 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
and cultivated this tract as a garden every forenoon. In August, 1845, he closed the
school, harvested his garden produce, sold all that he could at home, and then trans-
ported the residue by a fishing schooner to Providence, where he sold his produce from
house to house with a horse and wagon. With the money thus laboriously earned, he
entered Harvard Law School in the same class with Rutherford B. Hayes and also
studied in the office of Charles G. Thomas in Boston. When his scanty supply of money
was exhausted, he taught school for two terms and a part of the time lived in bachelor's
apartments in an attic, buying and cooking his own provisions. He was admitted to
the bar in 1848. Mr. Thomas had formed a great liking for the young man and offered
to admit him to partnership but this he declined and he opened an office on Court
Square in Boston. He attended this every day and another in South Reading, ten
miles away, which he visited every evening. He displayed considerable energy and
skill in the collection of bad debts, and in two years' time had created a profitable prac-
tice. From this time forward, fortune sped him on his way. Having been retained
to defend William O. Grover and William E. Baker, two young men engaged in the
manufacture of sewing machines, against an unjust claim, he soon entered into partner-
ship with them in the firm of Grover, Baker & Co. , and took charge of the legal and
financial branches of their business. In partnership with these men, Mr. Potter rose
in due time to wealth.
He was married, in 1850, to Martha G. Wiley, daughter of Benjamin B. Wiley, of
South Reading, Mass. This union brought them seven children, of whom four are
living, Frederick, his son, and three daughters, Mary, the wife of Walter Geer, Blanche
and Martha. Mrs. Potter died in 1879. Mr. Potter was again married to Mary Kate
Linsly, a daughter of Dr. Jared Linsly.
In May, 1853, Mr. Potter moved to New York to establish an office for his firm
and the following year incorporated the business as The 'Grover & Baker Sewing
Machine Co. Mr. Potter became its first and only president. He was the general
manager and selling agent of the Grover & Baker machines and directed the policy
of the company in all its details. When, in 1876, the active life of the company ended,
Mr. Potter retired permanently from commercial pursuits the possessor of an ample
fortune. From that time, he was occupied with public affairs and investments.
Mr. Potter was always the financial manager of The Grover & Baker Sewing
Machine Co., and the extended business of his concern which penetrated to every part
of the Union, brought him face to face with the unsatisfactory nature of the money of
the old State Banks, then in circulation. Bills issued in one State were at a discount
in another, and Mr. Potter was compelled to pay a heavy premium for drafts upon New
York. While other merchants were confronted with the same situation, Mr. Potter
was the first man to propose a solution of the trouble. Atig. 14, 1861, shortly after the
first battle of Bull Run, he wrote to Salmon P. Chase, then Secretary of the Treasury,
a letter, too long for insertion here, which may be found in the files of the Treasury
Department, in which he suggested for the consideration of the government a plan
for the creation of national banks, whose circulation should be based on the deposit of
government bonds. He outlined the whole system, answered various objections, and
placed before Mr. Chase a complete system of banking, which should obviate all the
loss and confusion inherent in the old State banks plan. A few extracts from his
letter will show how accurate was his comprehension of the subject:
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. PO. 519
"First. — It is obvious that the bills thus secured will have in whatever State
issued, a national circulation, and be worth the same in all parts of the country; nay,
these bills will be worth their face wherever commerce is known. A ready medium of
exchange would be always at hand throughout the country and between all parts of it,
and all fluctuations and trouble in this respect would be forever ended.
"Second. — The fact that in this way banks and bankers could obtain a national
circulation for their bills would make United States stocks eagerly sought after by
them, and their price would be always maintained at or ab&i>e far, though they bore only
a low rate of interest. Four per cent's could never fall below par after the system is
fairly understood and at work.
"Third. — This will enable capitalists in the older States, by investing in United
States stocks, to engage in banking and furnish a currency to the younger States,
which will be equally serviceable to them as if issued in their own States. A bill thus
secured, issued in Boston, will circulate as well in Oregon as if issued in Oregon, and
probably better. * * * *
"If it is thought more prudent, but ninety per cent, of the stocks deposited may
be issued in bills, and thus all fluctuations in the stocks be provided against. * * * *
"The adoption of this plan could not fail to put an end to all financial troubles
during the war, and be an increasing benefit and blessing ever after; while it would
supply all the means required for the war, it would instantly enable the older and
newer portions of the country to increase their trade with each other, by supplying to
such newer portions an abundant and perfectly safe currency. "
This letter was addressed to one of the most eminent and patriotic of the financiers
of the day, and was carefully considered both by Mr. Chase and by President Lincoln.
The subject being presented to Congress, Mr. Potter's plan was adopted with slight
modifications, and was enacted Feb. 25, 1863, in the National Banking Act. This
important public sen-ice has forever identified the name of Mr. Potter with the
history of his country.
In politics, Mr. Potter was in his early life a Whig and he voted for Mr. Lincoln in
1860. But, always independent in mind, he became a Democrat after 1861, in order
to oppose centralization of power in the Federal Government. He was nominated for
Congress from New York city in 1878, but was defeated. Renominated in 1882, he
was then elected and performed efficient service for the next two years. He served on
the Committee on Banking and Currency and the Committee on Expenditures in the
Treasury Department. He voted against even' proposition which aimed at centraliza-
tion of power and was conspicuous in various important debates. The extension of
free carrier delivery in towns and cities not then supplied with that service found him
a successful champion. May 1 4, 1 884, he opposed a reduction of salaries of American
Ministers and Consuls, in order that the doors of the foreign sen-ice should not be
closed to men of moderate means. He was almost the only member of the Democratic
side who urged that power should be given to the President to acquire control of the
route for the Nicaragua canal. In opposition to the Democratic party in Congress,
he favored successfully the Senate amendment to pay American ships for carrying
the ocean mails a price equivalent to that paid foreign ships for the same service.
Mr. Potter was offered a nomination to Congress in 1884, but declined. In 1886,
he was nominated unanimously for the Mayoralty of New York by the committee of
520 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
one hundred citizens, engaged in an independent movement. He declined the honor
and cordially co-operated in electing Abram S. Hewitt, who was then placed in the field.
From the beginning of his residence in New York, Mr. Potter displayed a degree
of public spirit which was remarkable. He had an abiding faith in the future of N.e\v
York as the commercial emporium and the financial and social center of the continent.
He labored steadily for the good government of the city and was prominent in all re-
form movements. He was a member of the Council of Political Reform after the
exposure of Tweed, and originated and secured the enactment of the laws, under which
the debt of New York city is being refunded at a low rate of interest. When the Leg-
islature passed a law for the destruction of the Croton reservoir at 426. street, he con-
tested the proceeding stubbornly, proved the unconstitutionality of the law, and
received a vote of thanks from the Common Council for his valued services. He was a
member of the first Rapid Transit Commission.
By degrees, Mr. Potter became a large owner of real estate. His confidence in the
destiny of New York city was illustrated after the panic of 1873. At a time when in-
dustry and business were paralyzed, he was bold enough to buy the large property on
the southwest corner of Astor Place and Lafayette Place, upon which he erected a large
building. He was the owner of the building formerly occupied by The New York
World at the corner of Beekman street and Park Row, extending through to Nassau
street, which burned down in 1882, and, at a period when scarcely another large build-
ing was being constructed in New York city, he erected on this site the eleven story
Potter Building for office purposes, then the tallest of the kind in the city and ever
since a profitable investment. There were few years in which his workmen did not
make some substantial addition to the city's taxable property, either in the form of
stores, warehouses or office buildings.
In 1870, Mr. Potter bought a farm of several hundred acres on the Hudson river,
a mile and a half above Sing Sing, where he established his summer home. He spared
no expense in improving this property, and a large part of the flowers, milk and other
products were given to the poor of New York city. He was fond of bringing poor
children from the city to enjoy a little of the life of the farm. He was president of The
New York State Agricultural Society in 1891-92.
In May, 1892, Mr. Potter bought at auction, at a price above their real value, the
open lots on Convent avenue between i42d and i43d streets, on which stand the thir-
teen gum trees planted in 1802 by Alexander Hamilton, in commemoration of the
union of the thirteen original States. The shoots for these trees were cut by Mr.
Hamilton from trees at Mount Vernon on the Potomac. Mr. Potter's only purpose was
the preservation of this historic memorial, and it was his intention to present the land
on which the trees stand to the city for a park.
He received the degree of Doctor of Laws from Williams College in 1889.
A member of the New York Chamber of Commerce and Board of Trade and
Transportation, Mr. Potter was also a trustee of The Bleecker Street Savings Bank and
vice president of The Hospital for the Ruptured & Crippled. He did not care for clubs,
except in so far as they might be useful in public undertakings, and he joined only the
Democratic, Reform, Patria and Commonwealth clubs, and the Civil Service Reform,
Bar, and Williams Alumni Associations. He was a member of the American Institute
of Civics, The Sons of the Revolution, and The New England Society. With charac-
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. PO. 521
teristic public spirit, he was a supporter of those useful institutions, The Metropolitan
Museum of Art and The American Museum of Natural History.
Mr. Potter died suddenly Jan. 2, 1894. His death removed from this city a man of
fine natural endowments, spotless probity of character, and useful influence, but he left
behind him a record which should prove an inspiration to every American boy who can
emulate his perseverence, self denial, honesty and genius.
ADRIEN ALEXIS POTTIER, manufacturer, born March 9, 1845, in Paris, France,
died in New Rochelle, X. Y., Aug. 14, 1891. He was a son of Alexis Pettier, a
cabinet maker, and of Adeline, his wife, both natives of France. Brought to this coun-
try an infant and educated in the public schools, he was apprenticed to Dubois & Co.
to learn the carving trade. In 1870, he began to manufacture chairs and sofas for the
trade, and in 1873 entered the corporation of The Pottier & Stymus Manufacturing Co.
as a salesman. This house, organized in 1855, had been made a stock company in
1869. From 1855 until 1884, the business was carried on at the large factory on Lex-
ington avenue between 4ist and 42d streets, but warehouses were opened at Fifth
avenue and 4zd street in the year last named. In 1886, August Pottier, uncle of the
subject of this memoir, withdrew from the presidency and Adrien A. Pottier succeeded
him, holding the place until his death. The great Lexington avenue fire of March,
1888, destroyed their immense factory, causing a loss of a million dollars. The cor-
poration then erected a new fire-proof factory upon the old site. In 1869, Mr. Pottier
married Laurena, daughter of John Magendie. No children were born to them.
FREDERIC A. POTTS, merchant, born in Pottsville, Pa., April 4, 1836, died in
New York city, Nov. 9, 1888. A member of an old New Jersey family, belonging to
the Society of Friends, he was a son of George H. Potts, president of The National
Park Bank and one of the first shippers of Pennsylvania coal by canal to the seaboard.
At the age of nineteen, the subject of this memoir became a salesman for Louis Auden-
reid & Co., coal merchants, of which firm his father was a partner. In 1865, he was
admitted to partnership and on the death of Mr. Audenreid, in 1874, continued the
business under his own name for five or six years, when he adopted the title of F. A.
Potts & Co. The firm were selling agents for The Lehigh Coal & Navigation Co., The
New York, Susquehanna & Western Coal Co. and the Lehigh & Wilkesbarre Coal Co. ,
and Mr. Potts also had coal mining interests of his own. He was a man of strong
mind, clear judgment and fine abilities and gained the affectionate esteem of a wide
circle of friends. At various times, he was a director of The Central Railroad of New
Jersey, a stockholder of The Jersey Midland Railroad, president of The New York,
Susquehanna & Western and The New York & Sea Beach Railroads; vice president of
The National Park Bank and a director of The Mutual Benefit Life Insurance Co.
of Newark and other associations, as well as a member of the Union League, Union
and Century clubs. Defeated for Congress in 1872 and 1878 in a strong Demo-
cratic district, he was, in 1874, elected State senator from Hunterdon County, N. J.,
and served the Republican State Committee of New Jersey as chairman for many
years. In 1880, he was defeated for Governor by a small vote.
ALFRED J. POUCH, merchant, born in Brooklyn in 1844, began his prosperous
career as clerk for Wallace & Wickes, wholesale merchants of provisions in New
York city. In 1866, he associated himself with the late Jabez A. Bostwick in the
petroleum trade and largely through his own energy and untiring labors, finally rose
522 AMERICA S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
to a prominent position in the financial world. Mr. Bostwick having opened a branch
house in Cleveland, in which city oil refining was then mainly carried on, placed his
young assistant in charge of it, and during Mr. Pouch's stay of five years in Cleveland,
he made the business the largest of its class there. In 1871, he returned to Brook-
lyn and identified himself with The Standard Oil Co. , as a shareholder and active man-
ager, and has since been at the head of the crude oil export department. He is now
president of The American Dock & Trust Co., which with a capital of $1,000,000 was
organized to build warehouses for the storage of cotton and to loan money on cotton.
It has been exceedingly successful and handles about one third of the cotton stored in
this port. He was one of the chief promoters of The Brooklyn Elevated Railroad and
treasurer of the construction company, and followed that enterprise by purchasing
large parcels of real estate in the i8th and 25th Wards and other parts of Brooklyn.
He has since sold much of this property to advantage. He has been a director of The
Hamilton Trust Co., and is a member of the Union League club of Brooklyn and
notable for his purchase of the Graves mansion and its conversion into an art gallery.
CHARLES PRATT, merchant, born in Wilbraham, Mass., Oct. 2, 1830, died at his
office, No. 26 -Broadway, New York, May 4, 1891. He was one of the ten children of
a hard working cabinet maker. At the age of ten, the lad found work on a farm near
Boston and spent three years in this employment, attending school in winter. After a
year in Boston as clerk to a grocer, he learned the trade of a machinist and earned
money enough to secure a year of schooling at the Wilbraham Academy. At the age
of nineteen, he entered the office of a firm dealing in paints and oils in Boston and then
began a remarkably successful career. In 1850, he came to New York and secured
employment with Schenck & Downing, merchants of oil, paint and glass. He worked
hard, saved his money, and in three years joined C. T. Raynolds and Frederick W.
Devoe in buying his employer's business. For ten years, the firm of Raynolds, Devoe
& Pratt were active and growing merchants. In 1864 Mr. Devoe withdrew, and in 1867
the business was divided, Mr. Raynolds going on with paints and Mr. Pratt taking the
oil business under the name of Charles Pratt & Co., and becoming a refiner of petro-
leum. He built a large factory at Greenpoint on Long Island and the name of Pratt's
Astral Oil soon became well known as a trade mark. When a general consolidation of
oil refining and producing led to the creation of The Standard Oil Co., Mr. Pratt was
admitted to the trust on favorable terms. From that time forward, he was a leading
spirit in The Standard Oil Co., and was its vice president at his death. Mr. Pratt in-
vested his surplus income in real estate, street railroads, Western lands, banks and
other successful enterprises. The name of Mr. Pratt has been permanently enrolled in
the annals of Brooklyn by his gifts to education. For the sake of his own children,
he fostered an existing school, caused its incorporation as the Adelphi Academy, and
after 1879, was president of the board. Through his generosity, the school building at
Lafayette avenue and St. James Place was doubled in size in 1880, and in 1886, he
donated the means for putting up a handsome new building at Clifton and St. James
Places, connected with the older part of the school. His gifts to the institution amounted
to over §250,000. In 1889, he founded the Pratt Industrial Institute on Ryerson street,
near Adelphi Academy, to provide both manual training and a high school education
and afford instruction in trades and useful arts to apprentices, clerks and others, who
are employed during the day. Mr. Pratt expended over $3,000,000 upon this enter-
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. PR.
prise. The income of the great Astral apartment house, at Franklin and India street ;,
built on the plan of the Peabody buildings in London, is devoted to the support of th^
Institute. He also honored the memory of his father by establishing the Asa Pratt
free reading room in his native town. He was a thoroughly domestic man, a Baptist
in religion and one of the founders of Emanuel Church in Lafayette avenue, to which
he gave $1,000,000. He was al^o a liberal contributor toward other charities. -Mr.
Pratt was married first to Lydia A., and then to Mary H., daughters of Thomas
Richardson, and his children are Charles M., Frederick B., George D., Herbert Lee,
John T., Harold I., Lillie R , wife of Frank L. Babbott and Helen Pratt —CHARLES
MILLARD PRATT, son of Charles and Lydia A. Pratt, oil refiner, born in Brooklyn,
Nov. 2 1855, graduated from the Adelphi Academy in 1875 and Amherst College in
1879. He then engaged in business with his father in The Pratt Manufacturing Co.,
128 Pearl street, relieving the latter of much of the care of his vast business trans-
actions. He quickly became a trusted assistant, developing the shrewdness and energy
which had brought such large measure of success to the head of the family. In 1891,
upon the death of his father, the management of the complicated interests of his
father fell to his lot, and he has since demonstrated his own ability. He conducts the
Pratt Astral Oil business, is a director of The Standard Oil Co., here, and first vice
president of The Standard Oil Co. of Kentucky, vice president of The Long Island
Railroad, president of the trustees of Pratt Institute, and director in The Mechanics'
National Bank and The Brooklyn Trust Co. He is deeply interested in the welfare of
Amherst College, and has presented the institution with a spacious and perfectly
equipped gymnasium known as the Pratt Gymnasium, costing nearly $50,000. May
8, 1884, Mr. Pratt married Mary Seymour, daughter of ex-Gov. Luzon B. Morris of
New Haven, Conn., and his children are Morris, Theodore, Margaret R., Kather-
ine E. and Richardson Pratt. He is a member of the Alpha Delta Phi, Montauk,
Hamilton and Seawanhaka Corinthian Yacht clubs and The Amherst Alumni
Association.
DALLAS BACHE PRATT, banker, born Feb. 4, 1849, in New York city, is the
son of the Rev. Horace L. Edgar Pratt, an Episcopal clergyman, and of Kate Martin,
his wife. The family are of English descent. Mr. Pratt 's education was obtained in
Trinity School and, at the age of sixteen, he secured employment in the banking
house of Brown Bro's & Co. After sixteen years of service there, he became cashier
of The Bank of America, resigning the position ten years later to enter the firm of
Maitland, Phelps & Co., bankers and merchants. He is second vice president of The
Ohio Falls Car Manufacturing Co. of Jeffersonville, Ind., a large concern with a capital of
$1,800,000. In May, 1881, he married Minnie G. , daughter of Charles G. Landon, and
four children have been born to them, Katherine Griswold, Alexander Dallas, Con-
stance and Beatrice Pratt. Mr. Pratt is an earnest, able and judicious man, and very
popular in the metropolis, and a member of three of the most exclusive clubs in the
city, the Metropolitan, Country and Union League.
JULIUS HOWARD PRATT, manufacturer and railroad builder, was born in
Meriden, Conn., Aug. i, 1821. Graduating from Yale College, Mr. Pratt engaged in
business in Meriden with his father, Julius Pratt, a manufacturer of ivory goods, and
was employed in the selling department in New York, where he remained for eighteen
years. The business grew to enormous proportions. Of ivory combs alone, the firm
524 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
manufactured $500,000 worth annually, their sales extending to all parts of North and
South America. Among their other products, were ivory handled cutlery and piano
keys. In 1857, Mr. Pratt made his home in West Bloomfield, N. J., now known as
Montclair, at that time merely a hamlet amid extensive farms. Mr. Pratt was fore-
most in promoting immediate local improvements and aided in building The New York
& Greenwood Lake Railroad to provide competition and reduce the transportation
rates. This road cost about $5,000,000, but saved Montclair and the neighboring towns
$200,000 a year. Mr. Pratt impaired his fortune by unfortunate ventures, but in
1888, he proposed a new water system for Newark, to be operated on the principle of
gravity and to draw a supply from the Pequannock river, a distance of twenty-five
miles. To accomplish this, he formed The East Jersey Water Co., secured a contract
and regained his fortune. He married a sister of A. S. Barnes, the publisher.
FRERERIC PRENTICE, president of The Prentice and Excelsior Brown Stone Go's,
can look retrospectively over a career diversified by fluctuations of fortune such as fall
to the lot of few men. Several times he has, by his own efforts, amassed independent
wealth and seen everything he possessed swept away by circumstances beyond human
foresight. The magnitude of his transactions may be realized from the fact that
although he started as a poor boy, with nothing except a merely rudimentary educa-
tion, he has earned and lost by business reverses over twelve millions of dollars, has
paid in full with interest all his indebtedness, and yet now finds himself possessed of
large properties, with certainties in his grasp greater than ever before.
Mr. Prentice's forefathers were among the earliest English settlers in Connecticut.
His father, Joseph Prentice, mother and two brothers moved to Brooklyn, N. Y.
During the War of 1812, Joseph Prentice was largely engaged in Government contract-
ing, amassing from seventy-five to one hundred thousand dollars, which was in those
days considered a fortune. After the war, he, with Major Oliver M. T. Williams and
others, formed an association for purchasing lands at the mouth of Swan Creek, Ohio,
where Toledo now is, and appointed Mr. Prentice manager. There they laid out a
town, to which they gave the name of Port Lawrence. In its first house, on December 6,
1822, Frederic Prentice first saw the light of day and was the first white child born on
the town plot. Six years later, the senior Prentice, deeming the project for building
a city premature, withdrew from the company, receiving as his share in its enterprise a
tract, partly cleared by the Indians, in the southwestern part of the common territory.
There he began maintaining his family by farming and working at the carpenter's trade,
but a few years later he received a fall, which permanently disabled him and threw the
burden of family care upon the mother and boy Frederic, then only thirteen, the father
having expended and lost his money in trying to build a city before the growth of
the country warranted.
The responsibility thus thrust upon the lad would, under any circumstances, have
been serious, but was exceptionally so under the conditions prevailing in that portion
of the West. Everything was high in price, except labor. Pork cost $60, and flour
$25 to $30 a barrel, calico cost 60 to 75 cents per yard, and all other necessities of life
were in proportion, while wages were only 75 cents to $i per day. The boy had, how-
ever, a stout heart, indomitable energy and Yankee resourcefulness. With the help of
his mother, of whom he speaks with fervent affection as " one of the best mothers and
housekeepers who ever blessed a son," he managed to get along. Having been from
526 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
•
infancy associated with Indians and speaking1 their language as well as Lis own, he
often acted as interpreter between them and traders or government agents. He was,
indeed, the only interpreter the Indians would trust in serious matters. It was through
him, acting in this capacity, that the Indians ceded the territory in the vicinity of To-
ledo, upon part of which Toledo now stands. The Indians set aside a tract of 320
acres of land, which is now included in the City of Toledo, for his services on that occa-
sion, but his father would not allow him to accept the gift, saying that he did not want
it said he or any of his family had been enriched by the poor Indians ; he believed that
a man should not be awarded more than a fair compensation for doing his duty. When
not employed as an interpreter, Frederic spent his time hunting, fishing and trapping
wolves. The wolves were so troublesome that it was impossible for the few farmers
to raise sheep successfully, and to rid the country of the beasts the county and State
gave a bounty of $7.50 for each scalp. This was a great help to young Mr. Prentice,
as he would sometimes in a single day during the winter capture a large number. His
education was gained in four winters' attendance at a district school, two miles from
home, and during the same time he cared for a small herd of cattle, provided firewood
for his family, and did the many outdoor "chores" of the farm.
At the age of eighteen, Frederic Prentice engaged in the lumber business in a
small way, supplying wood for steamboats, etc. , and was married when only nineteen.
His business prospered, and he soon began getting out ship and black walnut timber on
a large scale, making extensive purchases of timbered land. After clearing off the
timber, he resold the land in small tracts to actual settlers, thus aiding largely the de-
velopment of that section. Before long, he was widely known as a large and prosperous
dealer in timber and deservedly reputed a rich man.
In 1849, he was largely interested in the third train that crossed the plains to
California after the discovery of gold, but his large investment was entirely wiped out
by the great fire in Sacramento in 1850. His lumber business, however, increased
largely. The close personal attention which its magnitude demanded made serious in-
roads upon his health, and he found it necessary to divide his business into two large
companies to prosecute the trade, and he sold one half of his interest and tempo-
rarily retired from business. He went to Lake Superior to regain his health, and while
there, in 1854, engaged in new enterprises, which seemed to be inviting. He interested
himself in copper mining, banking and the purchase of lands, which he deemed
valuable for timber and brownstone and suitable for the location of large cities in the
future. One of the tracts he acquired was one mile square and located where Duluth
now stands, but owing to an error in drawing the deed, it has brought him nothing
except litigation with persons seeking to deprive him of his rights and a great outlay of
money. Another purchase comprised a portion of the lands, whereon the city of
Ashland, Wis. , is now built, and the great brownstone quarries of Houghton, Wis., and
Wilson or Prentice Island, Wis., now being operated by him.
In 1856, Mr. Prentice believed himself worth several millions of dollars. But the
panic of 1857 left him in debt to the extent of over half a million dollars, mostly incurred
by indorsements for friends and with no assets except unsalable land. By Herculean
exertions he struggled along until 1859, when he borrowed a sufficient sum to start in
the oil business, and soon achieved such success as to enable him to make a compromise
with his creditors, paying fifty cents on the dollar. Within three years thereafter, he
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. PR. 527
was able to call his creditors together again and pay them not only the remaining fifty
per cent, but interest thereon.
Mr. Prentice may justly be considered the oldest successful oil operator. He
drilled the third well for petroleum in Pennsylvania and thereafter drilled over fifteen
hundred wells in the State, forming The Producers Consolidated Petroleum Co.,
which paid in dividends over three million dollars; also, with others, founded The
Producers' Land & Petroleum Co. on lands they bought on Oil Creek, with a paid up
capital of $2,350,000, for which the great refineries at Bayonne, N. J., were built in
1873 by himself, Oliver Ames and others of Boston, associated with him.
In 1888, Mr. Prentice started The Prentice Brown Stone Quarries at Hough-
ton, Wis , on lands bought by him in 1854. The success of this company was so great
that he decided to secure all the good brownstone land around, which he did not then
control. He effected this, and in 1891 organized The Excelsior Brown Stone Co. The
two companies now largely control the supply of this excellent building material, and
Mr. Prentice expects to make up his former great losses. He yet owns large tracts of
lumber, coal and oil lands, which must in time be of great value.
Mr. Prentice was a warm friend of President Lincoln during his life time and
personally contributed over $300,000 to the national cause during the Civil War. He
is a member of the Union League club and The National Academy of Design.
EDWARD PRIHE, banker, born in 1801 at No. 54 Wall street, in this city, died
at Riverdale, N. Y., Aug. 22, 1883. He was a son of Nathaniel Prime, founder of
the banking house of Prime, Ward, Sands, King & Co , and received part of his early
education at a boarding school in Morristown, N. J., where his father and others of
the family had been educated. When a young man, he entered his father's banking
house as a clerk and, in 1 846, became a member of Prime, Ward & Co. , consisting of
Nathaniel Prime, John Ward and Edward Prime. When his father died in 1848, he
established the firm of Prime & Co., consisting of himself and his four sons. Mr. Prime
retired in 1867. He was one of the founders of The New York Eye & Ear Dispensary.
In his younger days, Mr. Prime was an active sportsman and is said to have been the
first to bring to this country a pack of fox hounds, which he employed on Long Island.
He left three sons, Nathaniel, Edward and Henry, and three daughters.
RUFUS PRIHE, banker, born in New York city, died in Huntington, L. I. , Oct.
15, 1885, in his eightieth year. He was a brother of Edward Prime. Graduating from
Yale College, Mr. Prime afterward engaged in business as a stock broker and banker
in Wall street. After his father's death, he devoted himself to the care of the latter 's
large estate. Long experience made him an expert in all questions relating to trusts,
although he had no legal training, and excellent qualities as a business man brought
him a fortune. He was a member of the Union club and a man of fine literary tastes.
JOSEPH PULITZER, journalist, born in Hungary in 1847, was educated by a tutor
and came to America at the age of seventeen. Entering a cavalry regiment in the
Union army, he served with credit until the end of the Civil War. He then settled in
Missouri, where for a few years he met with much hardship. He was a man of spirit,
however, and during a period of service in various employments steadily made his
way, finally studying law. The law did not suit his enterprising mind, however, and
in 1868, he became a reporter for the Wcstlicke Post in St. Louis, a German newspaper
conducted by Carl Schurz. In this field of work, Mr. Pulitzer found his vocation for
528 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
life and soon made his mark. He rose successively to the positions of city editor,
managing editor and part owner of the paper. In 1878, he founded The St. Louis Post
Dispatch, by buying The Dispatch and uniting it with The Evening Post. The snap,
spirit and incessant enterprise of this paper soon made it a profitable property. Mr.
Pulitzer retains the ownership to the present day. Although he had made his journal
one of the leading organs of public opinion in St. Louis, Mr. Pulitzer aspired to a yet
larger field, and in 1883, he bought The New York World, a newspaper of high standing
but then much reduced in quality and circulation, and has since made The World the
passion of his life. The same methods which he had employed in St. Louis soon made
The World one of the best talked about papers in New York city. Its circulation
increased with rapid strides and Mr. Pulitzer brought it to a condition of extra-
ordinary prosperity. Within the last few years, he has been enabled to construct the
Pulitzer office building, adjoining the New York terminus of Brooklyn Bridge, a
structure eighteen stories high, and has removed to the basement, street floor and
upper stories thereof the various departments of his newspaper. The intermediate
stories are rented for office purposes. The enterprise of The World is ceaseless. Its
attacks upon Richard Croker and the Tammany ring have been fearless and one of
the most creditable features of Mr. Pulitzer's management. He has always been
interested in politics, although not an active politician. In 1869, he was elected to the
Missouri Legislature, and in 1884 was sent to Congress from a New York city district.
The latter seat he resigned in order not to be diverted from the work of his two
newspapers. Among the clubs to which he belongs are the Manhattan, Reform,
Press and American Yacht.
PERCY RIVINGTON PYNE, merchant and banker, born in England about 1821,
died in Rome, Italy, Feb. 14, 1895. Well educated, he arrived in New York city, in
1835, and entered the office of Moses Taylor & Co., as a clerk. In 1842, Mr. Taylor
made him a partner and he was thereafter an energetic factor in the operations of this
famous house until his retirement in 1887. He married Albertina, the oldest daughter
of Mr. Taylor, in 1855, and leaves three children, Moses Taylor and Percy R. Pyne
and Mrs. Archibald D. Russell. Although to some extent less well known than his
partner and father in law, Mr. Pyne was a man of strong character and very decided
abilities and rose to wealth in consequence of his own qualities. He succeeded Mr.
Taylor as president of The National City Bank and was vice president of The Delaware,
Lackawanna & Western Railroad; a director of The Farmers' Loan & Trust Co., The
Consolidated Gas Co., The Central Trust Co., The Lackawanna Iron & Steel Co., The
New Jersey Zinc & Iron Co., The Chicago & Northwestern Railroad, The Western
Union Telegraph Co., The Harvey Steel Co., The Mexican Telegraph Co., and a
member of the Metropolitan, Century, Grolier, Down Town and Country clubs.
Q.
ABRAH QUEREAU, merchant, born in Brooklyn, Oct 22, 1822, died at his home
on South Portland avenue in that city, Oct. 24, 1889. He belonged to an old Huguenot
family. In youth, he entered the employment of a shipping and commission house, and
through application and talent, rose to responsible positions and was sent by the firm
in 1850. to California. After a sojourn of five years there, he returned and was admit-
ted to partnership, the firm taking the name of Mailler, Lord & Quereau. He con-
tinued a member until his death, the house then being known as Mailler & Quereau.
For forty-five years, they were located on Stone street and then moved to Wall street.
The firm aided in founding The Old Dominion Steamship Line. Mr. Quereau was a
thorough, competent, shrewd and excellent man. He belonged to the Church of the
Mc"iah in Brooklyn, the Chamber of Commerce, the Produce and Maritime Exchanges,
The Society of Old Brooklynites and The Long Island Historical Society^ was a life
member of The Brooklyn Young Men's Christian Association, and in every relation
enjoyed the sincere respect of his associates. Several children survived him.
JOHN WILLIAMS QUINCY, merchant, born in Boston, Mass., died in this city,
Jan. 21, 1883, in his sixty-ninth year. In the public schools of Boston, he fared so well
as to obtain the Franklin medal. Beginning life at the age of fifteen as clerk in a
hardware store, he devoted the remainder of his life to this trade and made therein
a special and creditable reputation. At the age of twenty-two, he engaged in the
hardware business in New York city, and in 1837 entered the partnership of Daven-
port & Quincy. This house devoted itself wholly to American hardware, then little
dealt in, and by means of branch stores extended its trade to all the principal cities of
the North and South. A change of partners took place in 1847, and after 1852, the
firm were known as John W. Quincy & Co Energy, shrewdness and honorable
methods brought their natural rewards. Mr. Quincy married first a daughter of the
late Stephen Allen, and to them was born one daughter, who married E. Hayes Trow-
bridge, jr., of New Haven, Conn. His second wife was a daughter of Charles Perkins,
and she survived her husband with a son and a daughter.
GEORGE WILLIAH QUINTARD, manufacturer, and president and director of
corporations, is one of the vigorous sons of Connecticut, who, beginning life in this
metropolis at an early age, have risen to fortune and position by their own native
abilities. He was born in Stamford, April 22, 1822, and came from a family of French
descent, which had been resident in the town for several generations and played well
its part both in private life and public affairs, being distinguished for excellent ability
and character. Isaac Quintard, father of George W., was a merchant of Stamford.
Having studied the text-books of the day at the public schools until the age of
fifteen, the subject of this biography then followed the example of other ambitious
youths in Connecticut, who at that time were looking to the rising city of New York as
the field in which they were most likely to find their fortunes. Coming to the city, the
young man found employment as a clerk in a grocery house, then prominent in the
trade, and from this firm learned the first principles of business management. Unlike
many other lads of his age, but in strict conformity with the rules by which alone a
•;:&•
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. QU. 531
young man, beginning life without fortune, can make his way, young Mr. Quintard
saved his earnings, allowed no temptations of pleasure to distract him from honest and
diligent prosecution of business, and after five or six years of labor in a subordinate
position was able to embark in business on his own account. For four years, he carried
on a successful trade of his own.
Meanwhile, Feb. 15, 1844, he had married Frances, a daughter of the late Charles
Morgan, and this circumstance finally -gave another direction to his life. He had
already shown himself to be a sound, upright, progressive and capable man, and, in
1847, he gave up mercantile pursuits to enter one branch of that field of enterprise, in
which his energetic father in law had already made a reputation. In the year named,
the no less energetic son in law identified himself with T. F. Secor & Co. , owners of
The Morgan Iron Works on the East River. This establishment was engaged in the
manufacture and repair of engines for steamboats and ocean shipping and the produc-
tion of heavy castings and machinery. In its operations, Mr. Quintard found a con-
genial field of labor. In 1850, he became one of the proprietors of the works in
partnership with Charles Morgan, and remained in the active management until 1867,
with the exception of a period of two years.
At these works, Mr. Quintard built a large number of ponderous engines for
coasting, lake and river steamers, mainly of the walking beam type, and others for
ships of war both for the American and foreign governments. During the Civil War,
these shops were of great service to the Federal authorities, who employed them to
construct the engines of the following Navy vessels:
Onondaga, Chenango, Ascntney,
Wachusett, Ticonderoga, Idaho,
Seminole, Ammonoosuc, Tioga,
Muscoota, Katahdin, Kineo.
For the merchant service, up to 1867, Mr. Quintard also built the engines of many
famous steamers, including those of the
Golden Rule George Law, Golden Age,
Herman Livingston, Orizaba, Nautilus,
Manhattan, W. G. Hawes, Villa Clara,
Raleigh, Flushing, Peruano,
Albemarle, Rapidan, Ocean Queen,
Cambridge. De Soto, Peiko (China).
City of Hartford, Hatteras, Yang See (China),
Everglade. Island Home, Fah Hee (China).
Mississippi, Alabama, Bienville,
Charles Morgan, Eastern Queen, Southern Michigan (Lakes).
Granite State, Continental, Western Metropolis (Lakes),
San Francisco, Villa Clara, Northern Indiana (Lakes),
Fulton, Cosmopolitan, Crescent City (Lakes),
New Brunswick, Commonwealth.
Mr. Quintard was essentially a manager. He had received no mechanical train-
ing and was far from able to execute personally some of the simplest mechanical oper-
ations. But he knew how things should be done. His mind grasped broadly the
general principles of construction, and he was able to direct the energies of others in
order to accomplish what he had in view. He never attempted to do that which he
could employ a draftsman or a mechanic to do better than he, but devoted himself
entirely to the general direction of the operation of the works, with marked success.
532 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
In 1867, Mr. Quintard sold The Morgan Iron Works to John Roach, the ship
builder, in order to devote his own attention to The New York & Charleston Steamship
Co., of which he had become president and part proprietor. He managed the company
well, but did not find in its operations sufficient scope for his overflowing energy. In
1869, accordingly, he established The Quintard Iron Works, occupying a site at No.
742 East i2th street, extending through to East nth street, on the East River, a few
blocks above The Morgan Iron Works. Here he resumed the construction of marine
engines and machinery, and in a short time developed the plant into an extensive
establishment, making it in time one of the most prominent in the United States.
Mr. Quintard finally retired from the active management of the works, retaining,
however, an interest in the firm of Nicholas F. Palmer & Co. , the present proprietors.
He is at present occupied with the management of banks and corporations, in which he
has investments and into the direction of which he has been invited, owing to his
financial strength, ability and uprightness of character. He is a director of The
Manhattan Life Insurance Co., The Butchers' & Drovers' Bank, The New England &
Nova Scotia Steamship Co., The Eleventh Ward Bank, and The New York, Lake
Erie & Western Railroad, and holds that relation with The Pennsylvania Coal Co. , The
Atlantic Mutual Insurance Co., The State Trust Co. and The Union Ferry Co.
It fell to the lot of Mr. Quintard to become one of the assignees of his old friend,
John Roach, the great ship builder, whose fortunes had been impaired by the hostile
action, since repented of, of the Navy Department under William C. Whitney. Mr.
Quintard was, with his colleagues, able to extricate the affairs of Mr. Roach from diffi-
culties, to reopen The Morgan Iron Works and the iron ship building establishment
both of which had been closed, and place them once more upon a prosperous basis.
Mr. Quintard has served his fellow citizens in the positions of Emigration Com-
missioner and Park Commissioner, but has declined all other tenders of public office.
A few years ago, he resigned from all his clubs except the Lawyers', New York and
American Yacht, but has retained membership in the former for the sake of luncheon
privileges down town, and in the latter two on account of his fondness for the sea. He
is a man of dignified bearing and spotless personal character, and at the age of seventy-
three, preserves unimpaired the vigor of his earlier years, owing to his judicious mode
of living and an abundance of occupation in the open air. Mr. Quintard is the father
of three children, Frances Louise, who died July 28, 1863, in her eighteenth year;
James W., born Sept. 3, 1848, and Laura Adele, born June 7, 1852. Mrs. Quintard
died Nov. 14, 1894.
R.
JOHN SY/1ONDS RADWAY, H. D., manufacturer, born Feb. 17, 1858, in New
York city, is a son of the late Dr. John Radway and Anna E. Lewis, his wife. The
senior Radway came to New York in 1832 from Chedworth, England, where he was
born in a manor house, which had been in possession of the family for generations.
The family name is derived from a parish in Warwickshire. In 1848, Dr. Radwa)-, in
conjunction with Dr. Pierre C. Van Wyck, a druggist friend, began in a small way,
under the name of Radway & Co., the manufacture of Rad way's Ready Relief, a medi-
cine which is now known throughout the two Americas and beyond. His brother,
Richard G. Radway, was also a member of the firm. Dr. Radway died in 1870, his
brother in 1884, and Dr. Van Wyck in 1883. After the death of the last of the three
founders, the business was incorporated under the presidency of John S. Radway. The
latter began life with an excellent education, having graduated from the University of
the City of New York and the College of Physicians & Surgeons, receiving from the
latter the degree of M. D. He has continued the business founded by his father with
marked success. One of the largest advertisers in America, he has left no newspaper
reader in any part of the various countries, in which his remedy is sold, unaware of its
merits : and his prosperity is based largely upon his liberal expenditures in this direc-
tion. Dr. Radway is a member of the Delta Phi and Manhattan Athletic clubs. He
was married in Xewburgh, N. Y., Oct. 18, 1884, to Man,' A. Mailler, and their children
are John Oakley, Gladys C., and Edward Mailler Radway.
JAflES IRVING RAYilOND, merchant, head of the importing house of A. A.
Vantine & Co., was born in Bedford, Westchester county, N. Y., Aug. 23, 1843. His
father was Edward Raymond, a prosperous farmer. The boy attended the public
schools and academy of his native town and spent his time, not needed for study, in
the work of the farm. In 1864, he came to New York city to enter commercial life,
i equipped with a good education and a determination to merit success. His first and
only engagement was with the house of A. A. Vantine & Co. Here, he applied himself
earnestly, studying the details of the extended business of the firm and evincing a
rectitude and capability, which soon brought promotion. In 1875, he became a partner.
After the death of Mr. Vantine, founder of the business, Mr. Raymond purchased
1 the entire interest. He is now sole owner of an unequaled establishment. The house
has been and is to-day the greatest of the kind in the United States, making a specialty
of the finest rugs and other goods of China, Japan, Turkey, India and other Oriental
countries. A retail and wholesale business is done, extending to every section of the
country and requiring representatives in nearly all the markets of Europe and Asia.
While Mr. Raymond is personally of modest and retiring temperament, the fame of
his business is world wide and the reputation of the house for solidity and exact busi-
ness methods is enviable. In 1875, Mr. Raymond married Grace, daughter of Col.
John Quincy Adams of Brooklyn, the union resulting in one son, Irving Edward Ray-
mond, now eighteen years of age and preparing for a collegiate course. Mr. Raymond
is a member of the Presbyterian church and lives in Stamford, Conn., in a home which
exemplifies all which is artistic and tasteful. He is a member of the Union League
club and the Stock Exchange, and a director of The New York Real Estate Trust Co.
534 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
WILLIAfl GARDNER READ, merchant, was born Oct. n, 1823, in Newport, R. I.
The family was planted in America by two brothers, William and John Read, who ar-
rived from England in 1636 at the request of Governor Winthrop, one settling finally
in Vermont, the other in Connecticut. From the former, William G. Read descends.
After an education at Newport and Kingston, R. I., the boy engaged as clerk in a retail
store in Georgetown, S. C., with his father. Coming to New York in September,
1839, he entered the employment of D. A. Cushman & Co., dry goods merchants, and
later had the courage to embark in the dry goods business at his own risk. Later
yet, he entered into partnership with Jasper T. Van Vleck in the banking business on
Wall street and in this field met with great success. The house was successively
known as Van Vleck & Read, Van Vleck, Read & Drexel, and Read, Drexel & Co.
During the war, Mr. Read bid most successfully for government bonds and in his
prime was well known to all the prominent bank officers in the city. He retired in
1863 and has since led a quiet life with his family, refusing many positions of trust.
He was, however, a director of The National City Bank for twelve years and of The
Fireman's Insurance Co. for thirty years. In politics, he has always been a Republi-
can. His father and grandfather were Whigs. In 1855, Mr. Read married Emeline
G., daughter of James Taylor and member of an old and highly esteemed family.
Their children are Kate Wilson, wife of Valentine A. Blacque ; William G. Read, jr. ;
and Helen S., wife of William Oothout, jr. The family live in Mamaroneck but Mr.
Read is a member of the Union League and Lotos clubs of this city.
JOSEPH RECKENDORFER, manufacturer, who originated in Furth, Bavaria,
Sept. 18, 1836, dying in Long Branch, N- J., July 7, 1883, made his reputation and for-
tune by coming to the United States at the age of eighteen and embarking in the lead
pencil industry. While the beginning was exceedingly modest, he succeeded so well
that in a few years' time he was able to compete with foreign manufacturers strongly
and forced a reduction of the prices of lead pencils. For many years, he manufactured
only the well known cheaper grades of his goods, but in 1878, added patented automatic
action and aniline pencils to his productions, the latter proving especially popular. The
industry grew rapidly and to large proportions. For many years, the business occupied
a factory on East i4th street, covering nearly an entire block. Mr. Reckendorfer lived
in a handsome residence at No. 20 East 74th street. The year before his death, he
took great interest in Russian emigration and acted as treasurer of a society which has
the matter in charge. He was a devoted student, spending his evenings over his books,
and was one of the directors of The Home for Aged and Infirm Hebrews and of the
Harmonic club. In 1860, he married Babette, daughter of Samuel Frank, and was the
father of Mrs. Daisy R. Strauss and Louis J. and Samuel J. Reckendorfer.
JOSEPH W. REINHART, railroad president, born Sept. 17, 1851, in Pittsburgh,
Pa. , is the son of Aaron Grantley Reinhart, by occupation a merchant, and Katharine
McHenry, his wife, both descended from old families in Pennsylvania, Kentucky and
Maryland.
Tutored in the Western University of Pennsylvania, at the age of eighteen Mr.
Reinhart became a clerk for the division superintendent of The Allegheny Valley Rail-
road at Pittsburgh, and by his ability, integrity and strict attention to business, soon
rose to great prominence in the field of railroad transportation. By hard labor and in-
telligence of mind, he gained promotion, and, in 1875-80, was advanced to the position
THE CITV -ir >
of rolling stock of that road
:y and soon became known M .
^Hku1 he ser\Ted as Auditor for The
-.., which position he lillcr. \\ ith -
: cor of The New York. West Sh
;e following yt&T for the r?
^enger and Tick'et Agent ••? T':
..go. His service in this }>•.--
.-stablished his headquarters
many different <:• «rporations.
>8, under contract witu im;«
t became associated \vith th
h offices in Boston, a> expt
Cation that th* then scattered
• together ui
;>arent or controlling cor.
operfc jenses alone. V :»••<.• a
:-!.einhart p>ersonally cai ^frc:u v
^General Auditor and V. dent of I .ted in 1889 the
cial re-organization of The n, Top>e' nta F^ Railroad, and
d it out with such success that tin company, recognizing his sagacity and fore-
Ivanced him through dir . i-Sg^.
Mr. Reinhart is now president o: '.a Fc, The St. Louis,
The Atlanti* T,V?O Midland, The Wichita
-n, The Southern Califor: s Ananna, and The Sonora
ds.
organization ar.' I vi»n"mical result*,
• >rces and large bod:- '-y tht- !"-
•vernment, as Chief Expen
in Washington. He \v:>
•f the work of his -
ates of over $600,000 pe-
iment.
married October » i . !*•• it.
Iren are Caroline A
nd Reinhart. He is j :%. "..";>, • t tht K:--?:sii;.
>' and WestchettT »'-.i;ntr>- *.-iul*i. ar-.o
the Algonquin and Myopia Hani .:••:- ' •
Plain'tield, V. !. '
: his home, 26 Waverley Hot-* M:*-
'y, known in old Ttni»-~ ,;i
• x-k, & title wnuh >;
•ssa granted to Mr. i
•\e waving lines which •> :l;t
7
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. RE. 535
of superintendent of rolling stock of that road. He grasped the requirements of rail-
roading intuitively and soon became known as a thoroughly competent railroad man.
During 1880-83, he served as Auditor for The Richmond & Allegheny Railroad at
Richmond Va., which position he filled with such ability that, in 1883-86, he was made
General Auditor of The New York, West Shore & Buffalo Railway, with offices in Xew
York city, and the following year for the receivers of the road. During 1886-87, he
was General Passenger and Ticket Agent of The Lake Shore & Michigan Southern
Railway at Chicago. His service in this position reflected increased credit upon him,
and in 1887, he established his headquarters in New York city as a railroad expert in
the service of many different corporations.
Nov. i, 1888, under contract with important foreign and American financial inter-
ests, Mr. Reinhart became associated with the The Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Rail-
road system, with offices in Boston, as expert and as General Auditor. It was upon
his recommendation that the then scattered properties of that great aggregation of capi-
tal were brought together under practically one central management, thereby saving to
the parent or controlling company many hundreds of thousands of dollars per annum in
operating expenses alone. Under authority and direction of the board of directors,
Mr. Reinhart personally carried out the whole and complete detail of this great work.
As General Auditor and Vice President of the Company, he formulated in 1 889 the
plan lor financial re-organization of The Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railroad, and
carried it out with such success that the company, recognizing his sagacity and fore-
sight, advanced him through different stages to the presidency in 1893.
Mr. Reinhart is now president of The Gulf, Colorado & Santa Fe, The St. Louis,
Kansas City & Colorado, The Atlantic & Pacific, The Colorado Midland, The Wichita
& Western, The Southern California, The New Mexico & Arizona, and The Sonora
Railroads.
His abilities in organization and concentration, for effective and economical results,
of great forces and large bodies of men, led to his selection in 1893, by the United
States Government, as Chief Expert of the Commission to revise the methods of the
Departments in Washington. He was given full power of selection of his assistants,
and the results of the work of his small corps of experts is an annual saving to the
United States of over $600,000 per annum in the expense of carrying on the vast work
of the Government.
He was married October 21, 1875, at Sewickley, Pa , to Miss Lizzie Taylor Allison,
and his children are Caroline Allison, Katharine McHenry, Mary Anderson, and Fran-
cis Ormond Reinhart. He is a member of the Riding, Manhattan, New York, Vaude-
ville, Lawyers' and Westchester Country clubs, and of Mecca Temple, Mystic Shrine,
in Xew York, the Algonquin and Myopia Hunt clubs, of Boston, the Union County
Country club of Plainfield, N. J., the Commonwealth club of Richmond, Va., the Chi-
cago club of Chicago, and the St. Louis club in St. Louis.
WILLIAM RE/ISEM, realty owner and trustee, born Jan. 13, 1815, in New York
city, died at his home, 26 Waverley Place, March 3, 1895. He belonged to an old
Knickerbocker family, known in old times in Germany and the Netherlands by the
cognomen of Vanderbeeck, a title which signified Vander's Brook. In 1162, the Em-
peror Frederick Barbarossa granted to Mr. Remsen's ancestor, a knight, a coat of arms
displaying the waving lines which suggested the waters of the brook. The pioneer of
536 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
the family in the new world, Rem Jansen Vanderbeeck, from whom, it is said, all the
Remsens in this country descend, emigrated, probably from Westphalia, in the early
days of settlement and after living some time in Albany, N. Y., married, in 1652,
Jannette, daughter of Joris Jansen de Rapalie. Removing afterward to Wallabout on
Long Island, he settled upon a farm which has descended in the family and is now
owned by Jeremiah Johnson, his great great grandson. The pioneer was a magistrate
during the second occupancy by the Dutch. He died in 1681, survived by his wife and
fifteen children. In accordance with a custom of. the times, which is in fact yet prev-
alent in the Scandinavian countries of Europe, the sons of the pioneer adopted their
father's Christian name as a surname, adding the suffix which indicated that they were
his sons, and thus became known by the name of Remsen. Several of the family were
prominent in early days in New York city. From the pioneer, the line descended to
Henry Remsen in the sixth generation. Henry Remsen, born in. New York, Nov. 7,
1762, dying in February, 1843, was in early life private secretary to John Jay, Secretary
of Foreign Affairs, and later to Thomas Jefferson, while Secretary of State. In 1790,
he became a partner in the firm of Henry Remsen & Son, and in 1793, the teller
of The United States Bank. June 3, 1799, he entered the bank of The Manhattan
Company as cashier, with which institution he remained for twenty-seven years. In
1808, he married Eliza, daughter of Capt. Abraham R. De Peyster, and the same year
became president of The Manhattan Bank, retaining this position until 1826. To
Henry Remsen were born nine children, of whom Willliam, the subject of this memoir,
was one. William Remsen received his preliminary tuition in New York city and gradu-
ated from Princeton College in 1835. In 1838, after study with Johnson & Kent, he
was admitted to the bar. Five years of active practice followed, and he was then com-
pelled to abandon his profession to devote himself to the management of his father's
large estate. This property, a portion of which became his by inheritance, consisted
largely of real estate, improved and unimproved, scattered throughout the city, some of
it in the region of Cherry Hill. Mr. Remsen was an excellent manager and materially
increased his possessions by the sound and cool judgment and careful foresight
which always characterized him. He was a director of The Third Avenue Railroad,
The Farmers' Loan & Trust Co., The Harney Peak Tin Mining & Smelting Co.,
and The Holland Trust Co., president of The Cannelton, W. Va., Coal Co., first
vice president of The Greenwich Savings Bank, and interested in other institutions.
Jan. 13, 1841, he married Jane, daughter of John Suydam, and to them were born
eight children, of whom five are living, Robert George Remsen; Charles Remsen
M.D. ; Jane, wife of Joseph Todhunter Thompson; Elizabeth, and Sarah, wife of
William Manice. Mr. Remsen was one of the founders of the St. Nicholas Society,
and chairman of The American Geographical Society. He shunned the strife of
politics and had little taste for clubs, but was warden and vestryman of St. Mark's
Church and found his greatest enjoyment in travel and the company of friends.
JAHES RENWICK, architect, born in this city, Nov. i, 1818, died at his home, 28
University place, June 23, 1895. Graduating in 1836 from Columbia College, in which
his father, James Ren wick, LL.D. , was professor of chemistry and mechanics, Mr.
Renwick devoted himself to the profession of engineering and architecture, beginning
work while yet under age upon the Erie Railroad and later serving as assistant engi-
neer on the Croton Aqueduct. The reservoir on Fifth avenue and 42d street was
JOSEPH RICHARDSON.
540
AMERICA S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
the cost. He also invested liberally with Cyrus W. Field to aid the laying of the first
Atlantic cable. The first elevated railroad in New York, the "one-legged " structure
on Greenwich street from the Battery to Cortlandt street, the small and then much
ridiculed beginning from which our present magnificent elevated railroad system has
developed, was partly due to Mr. Richardson's prescient faith in its future and his gen-
erous backing of the enterprise.
Thirty years ago, he established a line of steamboats between New York and
Bridgeport, Conn., which he yet controls, and which, notwithstanding the sharp rail-
road rivalry it encounters, he has made profitable through keeping it fully up to all the
requirements of modern traffic.
Mr. Richardson was a liberal investor in the Credit Mobilier, which supplied the
means for building the Union Pacific Railroad, and not only aided that gigantic
national enterprise in this manner, but also gave for its furtherance the not less impor-
tant service of building at Laramie City, on the summit of the Rocky Mountains, the
mill in which a portion of the rails for the road were rolled. It was the first rolling
mill west of the Missouri river. The water works at Laramie City are another monu-
ment to his enterprise, he having been their originator and builder. He also built the
water works at Houston, Texas.
Vigorous in mind and body, at an age specified by the Psalmist as the limit of
active human life, Mr. Richardson is an excellent demonstration of the preservative
effect of a well regulated and well occupied life. He has been twice married and is
deservedly cited by those who know him best as a model of conjugal fidelity. In various
good ways, Mr. Richardson may be deemed an exceptional man, but in none more so,
perhaps, than in his ability to affirm, as he does, that if he had his life to live over again,
with all his experience consciously retained, he would not wish to live otherwise than
he has lived.
EDWARD RIDLEY, merchant, born in Leicestershire, England, who died in New
York city, July 31, 1883, in his sixty-seventh year, was the son of James Moseley Ridley,
gentleman. While educated for the law, the young man preferred a mercantile career
and, obtaining his father's reluctant consent, began life as apprentice to a merchant.
When he finally opened a dry goods store in his native town, he learned a sharp lesson
by endorsing the paper of other business houses, which resulted in an obligation to pay
various debts for which he was not responsible. Having settled honorably with
creditors, he removed to America, located in Albany, N. Y. , opened a dry goods store,
made excellent progress and soon established a branch store in Saratoga. He closed
both houses in 1849 to bring his capital to New York city, where he established a little
retail millinery and dry goods store at the corner of Grand and Allen streets. At the
end of the first decade, he was worth not over $50,000. In 1869 and 1875 respectively,
he took his two sons, Edward Albert and Arthur John Ridley, into partnership, with
the happiest results. The business prospered exceedingly and soon became one of the
most prominent in the trade. When Mr. Ridley died, his store covered four and a half
acres of ground, employed 1,700 clerks and salesmen, and ranked as one of the most
conspicuous retail houses on the east side of the city. He was twice married — first to
Miss Elizabeth Smith of Leicestershire, England, Oct. 23. 1837. The children born to
them were James Moseley Ridley, deceased ; Edward Albert and Arthur John Ridley,
now the proprietors of the store; Fannie Louise Hughes and Emma Elizabeth Ridley.
&£w,w i
THE CITY OF SEW YORK. Rl.
the death of his wife, Mr. Ridley married Caroline Wilhelmina Yevanc* fli
Their daughter is Clara W. Ridley. Mr. Ridley was an uprigh'.
public spirited and enterprising man. He lived in Gravesend on Long Island
DANIEL S. RIKER, merchant, born at the old Riker homestead on Bowery Bay,
died at his home, Bowery Bay, L. I., June 10, 1890. in his fifty-fifth year. After com-
mcation, he entered the drug commission house of Beniamin H. Field
.16 remained a long time. He was next placed in charge of the St. Louis
Hall, Bradley & Co. of this city, dealers in paints. In 1861, he returned to
formed apartn his brother. John L. Riker, in the commission
.ical business and •*** occupied in extending and managing their very
.de until his death. The firm were known as J. L. & D. S. Riker. Their
,-d to about $5,000,000 a year and the house has long held a leading
field. Mr. Riker was married about 186 -Id of Poughkecpsie.
This union bfnight them five children, three sons and ^hter», w'-:. wi;
him. He cmttd a winter home at -dison avenue, wh;ch he
FRANCIS ROBERT P r, bora in Albemarle county, Va., Feb. 16,
died at his country Hamburg, Dutchess county, N. Y., July 16,
William c studied law under President Jefferson, was twice
appointed r to France, and ihree thnes elected United States Senator, twice for
-ms, and served as an Aid de camp during the War of i8i«. Graduating
: Virgin; . Rives served as secretary of lega-
1 under Mr. Everett ur: came to New York city to prac-
ears, he wa^- . A Iexu;;der Hamilton, especially in
and met with so • ccess as to be enabled to retire thirty years
His home was at No. 8 Washington Place. He was a
r pf The So1 iety and once its president, a member of the
Caching and s' clubs, and actively interested in the annual
^quare Garden. His wife, Matilda, was the only
m:::ent old merchant. She died several years before
-•n were ' , Rives, a well known lawyer and Assistant Secre-
izider Thomas I ; Francis R. Rives, who died in January. 1*1,0.
_-s; Ella R , wife of David King, of Newport ; Constance, wife of j-'hr,
Hamburg, N. Y. , and Maud, wife of Walker B. Smith, of Tux
«K-< I, shipbuilder, was an historic figure and has left the impress <>f an
and extraordinary powers of mind upon the thought anJ history .of
1 le was born in Mitchellstown in County Cork, Ireland, Dec. 15, 1813, and
u.m-<->try to gentle blood. His father, once a prosperous merchant, had
. :-.•• 1 b\ endorsing for friends; and so great was the adversity, which
. the family, that John Roach, the son, was denied the advan-
< fairly good education. With a meagre equipment of book knowledge,
aae to the United States at the age of fifteen, in the steerage of a sailing ship,
,• York to find himself unknown, without friends, without capital, in
d rush of a great city. The sturdy Irish lad, who thus made his modest
trie ii:t:t ••'.•!>! >':is, was destined, however, to become an eminent, patriotic.
citizen of the new world, and, by his genius and inde'
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. RI. 541
After the death of his wife, Mr. Ridley married Caroline Wilhelmina Yevance of
Philadelphia. Their daughter is Clara W. Ridley. Mr. Ridley was an upright,
chivalric, public spirited and enterprising man. He lived in Gravesend on Long Island.
DANIEL 5. RIKER, merchant, born at the old Riker homestead on Bowery Bay,
died at his home, Bowery Bay, L. I., June 10, 1890, in his fifty-fifth year. After com-
pleting his education, he entered the drug commission house of Benjamin H. Field
& Co., where he remained a long time. He was next placed in charge of the St. Louis
branch of Hall, Bradley & Co. of this city, dealers in paints. In 1861, he returned to
New York and formed a partnership with his brother, John L. Riker, in the commission
drug and chemical business and was occupied in extending and managing their very
prosperous trade until his death. The firm were known as J. L. & D. S. Riker. Their
sales amounted to about $5,000,000 a year and the house has long held a leading
position in its field. Mr. Riker was married about 1866 to Miss Field of Poughkeepsie.
This union brought them five children, three sons and two daughters, who with his
wife survived him. He owned a winter home at No. 303 Madison avenue, which he
occupied for twenty-four years.
FRANCIS ROBERT RIVES, lawyer, born in Albemarle county, Va., Feb. 16,
1821, died at his country house, New Hamburg, Dutchess county, N. Y., July 16,
1891. His father, William C. Rives, studied law under President Jefferson, was twice
appointed Minister to France, and three times elected United States Senator, twice for
incomplete terms, and served as an aid de camp during the War of 1812. Graduating
from the University of Virginia in 1841, Francis R. Rives served as secretary of lega-
tion in London under Mr. Everett until 1845, anc^ then came to New York city to prac-
tice law. For many years, he was associated with Alexander Hamilton, especially in
real estate cases, and met with so much success as to be enabled to retire thirty years
before his death. His home in the city was at No. 8 Washington Place. He was a
prominent member of The Southern Society and once its president, a member of the
Knickerbocker, Coaching and Farmers' clubs, and actively interested in the annual
Horse Show in this city in Madison Square Garden. His wife, Matilda, was the only
daughter of George Barclay, a prominent old merchant. She died several years before
him. His children were George L. Rives, a well known lawyer and Assistant Secre-
tary of State under Thomas F. Bayard; Francis R. Rives, who died in January, 1890;
Reginald W. Rives; Ella R. , wife of David King, of Newport; Constance, wife of John
Borland, of New Hamburg, N. Y., and Maud, wife of Walker B. Smith, of Tuxedo.
JOHN ROACH, shipbuilder, was an historic figure and has left the impress of an
elevated character and extraordinary powers of mind upon the thought and history of
the nation. He was born in Mitchellstown in County Cork, Ireland, Dec. 25, 1813, and
traced his early ancestry to gentle blood. His father, once a prosperous merchant, had
bsen financially ruined by endorsing for friends ; and so great was the adversity, which
this disaster brought upon the family, that John Roach, the son, was denied the advan-
tage of even a fairly good education. With a meagre equipment of book knowledge,
the lad came to the United States at the age of fifteen, in the steerage of a sailing ship,
landing in New York to find himself unknown, without friends, without capital, in
the crowds and rush of a great city. The sturdy Irish lad, who thus made his modest
entrance into the metropolis, was destined, however, to become an eminent, patriotic,
and remarkable citizen of the new world, and, by his genius and indefatigable
542 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
exertions, to bestow a prestige upon the flag of his adopted country at sea, conferred
during the prime of his life by few, if any, of the descendants of the oldest families of
the country.
His first employment was in The Howell Iron Works in the woods of Monmouth
county, New Jersey, then owned by James P. Allaire. He dwelt in the quaint little
village, which had grown up around that furnace and foundry, accepted such work as
he could do, learned the iron worker's trade and spent his nights in diligent study. He
was noted then, as always in after life, for his overflowing energy, his honesty, good
nature and strictly temperate, almost abstemious, habits. He was saving and placed
all that he could spare of his wages in the keeping of Mr. Allaire, with whom he
remained for ten years. Then, affected by the Western excitement, he made his way
to Illinois to explore the possibilities of that region. Drawing a few hundred dollars of
his money from Mr. Allaire, he purchased a farm where the city of Peoria now stands
and made a payment upon it. Sending East for the balance of his money, he then
learned that Mr. Allaire had failed. Mr. Roach thus lost every dollar he had in the
world, including what he had paid on the farm, and was obliged to work his way back
to New York, having no money to pay his fare. It may be said here that while he
failed in his first attempt to become a farmer, he succeeded in later life and became the
owner of ten or more farms in Westchester county and along the Hudson river.
Upon his return from the West, too sturdy to be discouraged, Mr. Roach then, in
association with other mechanics, started what was practically a co-operative foundry
pn Goerck street in this city. It was a business which involved competition with well
established rivals but was pushed with energy and was successful. Machine work and
boiler making were in due time added to the foundry; and, through Mr. Roach's in-
cessant activity, his ingenious management, honesty and excellence of his workman-
ship, The ^Etna Works began to make an enviable reputation. At this juncture, their
boiler exploded. Overwhelmed with the disaster, most of his partners withdrew. Mr.
Roach was left alone. His ability and integrity enabling him to borrow capital, he
resumed the business and soon created a large, profitable and increasing industry.
It was he, who, in 1860, obtained the contract for and then constructed the bridge over
the Harlem river at Third avenue, only recently removed. A massive iron drawbridge,
it was- one of the most important works of its class at the time, and its strength and
perfect working during its thirty-three years of existence afforded conclusive evidence
of painstaking and thorough workmanship.
At the end of the Civil War, Mr. Roach was in possession of a flourishing busi-
ness. His mind, ever busy with the opportunities of his industry, strongly inclined to
large and important affairs, was then considering the condition of the American mer-
cantile marine. He was especially struck with the predominance of the British flag
among the shipping of this great American port, and came ardently to desire the res-
toration of the American merchant marine to its once proud position in the trade to
Europe. Inspired by the thought of playing a part in securing for American ships a
share of the enormous foreign commerce of the United States, he began the realization
of his plans in 1868 by buying The Morgan Iron Works and thereafter The Neptune
Works, The Allaire Works, and The Franklin Forge, all in New York city, some of
them devoted to marine engine building. They were all consolidated under the name
of The Morgan Iron Works.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. RO. 545
paid the debts of the Church of Our Father, in Brooklyn, gave large sums for philan-
thropic work, and by her will left $150,000 to finish a public library, at Arlington,
Mass., which she had already begun.
HARSHALL OWEN ROBERTS, merchant, born on Oliver street, New York city,
March 22, 1814, died in the United States Hotel, Saratoga Springs, Sept. n, 1880. His
father, Owen Roberts, a Welsh physician, came to New York in 1798, with his wife,
Miss Newell, of Birmingham, England. Marshall, the fourth and youngest son, began
life as boy and clerk in a grocery house at Coenties Slip. Later, he served as clerk
first to a saddler and then to a ship chandler. In 1830, before coming of age, his prox-
imity to the wharves, a love of ships and his native enterprise, led him to open a ship
chandlery store on his own account, in partnership with another youth. Through a
contract with the Government to supply oil to Navy vessels and his own foresight in
anticipating a fall in the price of oil, he made what was at the time considered a large
sum of money. In 1841, he became Naval Agent at New York under appointment by
President Harrison. Successful as a merchant from the start, he soon accumulated
sufficient funds to engage in independent operations. He bought lands on the flats of
the Xe\v Jersey shore, across the river, at a nominal price, which he held for many
years and 'finally sold to a corporation for $1,500,000. Engaging in the steamboat
traffic of the Hudson, he met with success and built for service in the line the Hendrick
Hudson, the largest steamer then employed upon that river. Later, he became an ad-
vocate, a large owner of the stock and influential director of The New York & Erie
Railroad, and in The Long Dock Co., which provided that company with terminal
facilities in New Jersey. The Scranton coal mines were in part developed by him and
Mr. Roberts always considered himself the projector of The Delaware, Lackawanna &
Western Railroad. Moses Taylor and he were associated in many different enterprises.
One product of his energy was The Aspinwall Steamship Co., known later as the United
States Mail Steamship Co., and finally as The Pacific Mail Steamship Co., which took
part in the early struggles for the control of the California service. He lost consider-
able money in these rivalries, but at last obtained from Congress a grant of $1.000,000
in payment of his claims. He was at one time president of The North River Bank and
also joined Peter Cooper, Cyrus W. Field and others in building a telegraph line to
Newfoundland to obtain the first news of maritime arrivals and was also interested in
the Atlantic cable. When the Civil War broke out, he bought all the rosin in the mar-
ket and disposed of it at a large profit. He was a strong Union man, and the
Star of the West, sent in January, 1861, to provision Fort Sumter, was his steamer.
Mr. Roberts took great pride' in displaying the flag of the Star of the West thereafter
from his private residence. Later, the steamship America was sent with 1,500 men to
Fortress Monroe at his own expense. All of his vessels were placed at the service of
the Government during the War. He invested $2,000,000 in The Texas Pacific Rail-
road, had large interests in other transportation lines, and was the leading spirit of the
Tehuantepec Canal enterprise. A great admirer of Abraham Lincoln, he sent $10,000
to Mrs. Lincoln at her husband's death. Politics always awakened his interest, and in
recognition of the material aid he had given the party, the Republicans nominated him
in 1865, for Mayor of New York. He was, however, defeated. Mr. Roberts was vehem-
ent, driving and energetic as a business man. His ventures often cost him large sums
of money, but he saw the way to recoup his losses and steadily amassed wealth. A dis-
546 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
position affectionate and benevolent and an unusual knowledge of human character
made him indulgent in judging others. His charities were innumerable, especially
toward the institutions of the Episcopal church. Although a member of the Union club,
he preferred home life and surrounded himself there with a splendid collection of paint-
ings and a fine library. He was three times married, first to Miss C. D. Amerman of
New York; next to Miss C. D. Smith of Hartford, Conn., and then to Susan Lawrence
Endicott. His children were Mary M., Isaac K., Caroline M., wife of Ames Van Wart,
the sculptor, and Marshall, the first two of whom survived him. Isaac K. Roberts died
in February, 1888.
MAJOR JOSEPH L. ROBERTSON, banker, broker and dealer in investment
securities at No 7, Nassau street, is a representative Southern man, to whose compre-
hensive knowledge of a special field of enterprise, energy and personal influence, is to
be credited a great share of the material progress in development of the resources of
the South and Southwest through the aid of Eastern capital, in recent years. He may
be regarded one of the important links uniting the large financial interests of the me-
tropolis with the most conspicuous enterprises, which distinguish the "new South" at
the present time.
On the maternal side, Mr. Robertson is a descendant from the old Huguenot
nobility of France, one of his ancestors having been the gallant Marquis de Calmeis, a
pioneer of the ' 'dark and bloody ground. " A granddaughter of the Marquis was Miss
Emily Richardson, who was Mr. Robertson's mother. The Robertsons were promi-
nent among the early settlers of Kentucky and Tennessee. From that family, sprang,
the subject of this sketch.
Mr. Robertson was born Oct, 4, 1838, on the family estate in Montgomery county,
Ky. His schooling was confined to the local educational institutions but was sufficiently
thorough to qualify him for admission to the Military Academy at West Point, to which
he was appointed by the Hon. John C. Mason. His career as a cadet was, however,
destined to be abbreviated by the breaking out of the Civil War. He was one of those
to whom the theory of State's rights appealed strongly, and his convictions impelled
him to renounce the advantages he enjoyed that he might give himself to the cause
with which his sympathies were enlisted. Returning to his native State, full of youth-
ful enthusiasm, he aided in enlisting for the Confederate service a company which was
mustered in as Co. H, 4th Ky. Vols. He became its First Lieutenant. Technical mil-
itary knowledge was not abundant in the early days of the War on either side of the line
and Lieutenant Robertson's training was so far above the average that, added to his
natural capacity for the service, it speedily won distinction for him. Very soon, he was
made Adjutant of the regiment, the first step in his rapid promotion. In a short time,
he was appointed Assistant Adjutant General of the brigade, commanded by Gen. John
C. Breckinridge. All his service was active in the field but in its hazards uniform
good fortune attended him. In 1863, he was ordered to the Trans- Mississippi Depart-
ment, where he served on the staff of General Hawes of Kentucky, afterward on that
of General Waul of Texas and finally with General Magruder, to whose command he
was attached until the close of the war.
Upon the restoration of peace, Major Robertson realized that the condition in which
the South had been left by the War was such as to offer little immediate choice for con-
genial and profitable employment; but, fortunately, in view of his later career, he
548 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
elected to identify himself with Southern railroad interests. His first connection was
with The Sehna, Rome & Dalton Railroad Later, he joined The Virginia & Tennes-
see Air Line Railroads. During his association with the management of those import-
ant lines of traffic, he enjoyed ample opportunities for becoming thoroughly conversant
with the natural resources of the most favored parts of the Southern and Southwestern
country and of attaining a perfect comprehension of their requirements for develop-
ment. This knowledge was not merely general but specific, and included information
upon promising enterprises already in being but languishing for lack of energetic
direction. Armed with knowledge and confident of his ability, he came to New York
in 1877 and established himself as a broker and dealer in investment securities, princi-
pally those based upon enterprises in sections, concerning which he was well informed
and upon which his representations were speedily recognized as authoritative. He
influenced the investment of millions of dollars in development of the iron and coal re-
sources of Alabama and Tennessee. It is not too much to say, that the present great
importance of those industries as factors in the prosperity of the " new South " is due
in a great measure to Major J. L. Robertson. His aid has also been valuable in build-
ing up the railway systems of the South, notably in connection with The Chattanooga
Southern Railway, for which, as financial agent, he procured the means for construc-
tion and equipment. He was also president of the construction company by which the
road was built. Incidentally, Major Robertson has amassed a fortune for himself in
these large enterprises by legitimate interest in substantial enterprises. All the mani-
fold directions in which his energies have been applied have tended to enhance the
prosperity of the country by bringing forth its hidden wealth, providing new fields of
profitable employment for labor, increasing its facilities for traffic and encouraging the
development of the productiveness and consequently the larger settlement of formerly
sparsely populated districts. To such service, he has not only brought the aid of
others' capital but has applied his own.
Major Robertson is not only one of the most successful Southern business men
resident in New Ycrk, but enjoys high social standing. His personal worth, geniality
and culture command for him the esteem of an exceptionally wide circle of acquain-
tances among the best people of the metropolis. Of course, he has been prominent
in The Southern Society of this city, as one of the highly respected members; and
not a few gentlemen from the South, coming here to repair fortunes damaged by war,
have found in him their most considerate, influential and efficient friend. He is also a
member of the New York club. Naturally, as a Kentuckian, Major Robertson has a
decided penchant for fine horses, and his ample means have enabled him to gratify his
tastes in the raising of thoroughbreds on his splendid "Meadowland" stock farm, in
Monmouth County, N. J., as satisfactorily as he might in the famous "blue grass"
region of his native State.
Major Robertson was married on Jan. 5, 1869, to Miss Mary Webb Pollard, of
Montgomery, Alabama, daughter of William H. Pollard, and niece of Charles T. Pol-
lard, two of the most prominent citizens of that State. By this union he has four chil-
dren, William Pollard Robertson, Benjamin J. Robertson, jr., Miss Mary Elizabeth
Robertson, and Miss Clara Pollard Robertson.
JEREMIAH POTTER ROBINSON, merchant, born Aug. 18, 1819, in South Kings-
ton, R. I., died in Brooklyn, Aug. 26, 1886. His family had been residents of Rhode
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. RO. 549
Island for many generations and one of his ancestors Governor of the State. His
father was captain of a ship in the trade with China. Brought up as a child on his
grandfather's farm, the boy left at the age of twelve to become a clerk and bookkeeper
for his uncle, Stephen A. Robinson, a grocer in Newport. In less than three years, he
returned to the farm. In 1836, he came to New York with $50 in money and, after a
long search, found employment with E'. P. & A. Woodruff, merchants of fish, provi-
sions, groceries and salt. Hard work resulted at the end of four years in his admission
to partnership, the firm finally taking the name of A. Woodruff & Robinson. Having
become interested in the warehouse business, the firm gradually abandoned all their
former trade, except the importation of salt. Later, he engaged in the storage busi-
ness for himself under the name of J. P. & G. C. Robinson. The firm are known at
present as J. P. Robinson & Co. About 1843, Mr. Robinson entered upon the develop-
ment of the South Brooklyn water front, where he bought large blocks of unimproved
land and built warehouses and piers. The Robinson stores were built by him. A few
years later, with William Beard, he began to develop the region now known as the Erie
Basin but sold his interest therein later to Mr. Beard. Mr. Robinson was a director
and first president of the Brooklyn Bridge and a friend of every other enterprise having
in view the welfare of Brooklyn. He belonged to the Chamber of Commerce, the
Produce and Maritime Exchanges, and the Brooklyn and Hamilton clubs. By his mar-
riage with Elizabeth De Witt, of Cranberry, N. J., he was the father of four children,
Isaac R., Jeremiah P., Elizabeth De Witt, and Harriet W.
JOHN DAVISON ROCKEFELLER, one of the founders of The Standard Oil
Co., was born in Richford, N. Y., July 8, 1839, tne oldest son of William Avery and
Eliza Davison Rockefeller. The family removed to Cleveland, O., in 1853, where John
completed his studies at the age of sixteen at the high school. As clerk in the forward-
ing and commission house of Hewitt & Tuttle, he then entered modestly upon a career,
possible only in a country like ours, which gives free scope to the talents of every
young man and binds no one to a life of obscurity, who has the ability to rise above
it. After fifteen months, he became cashier and bookkeeper in charge of the office of
the firm. When not yet nineteen years old, he engaged in a commission business on his
own account in partnership with Morris B. Clark, as Clark & Rockefeller, continuing
with various partners until the spring of 1865.
Meanwhile, Mr. Rockefeller had entered upon the enterprise, which the com-
mercial genius of himself and his associates was to develop to worldwide proportions.
As early as 1860, the firm of Clark & Rockefeller, with others, had established the oil
refining business of Andrews, Clark & Co. Selling his interest in the commission house
in 1865, Mr. Rockefeller, with Mr. Andrews, bought the interest of their- associates in
oil refining, establishing the firm of Rockefeller & Andrews. This business developed
with great rapidity. With William Rockefeller as an added partner, the firm of
William Rockefeller & Co. was established in Cleveland and shortly thereafter all the
partners united in founding the firm of Rockefeller & Co. in New York, for the sale of
the products of their refineries. Two years later, these companies were consolidated
under the name of Rockefeller, Andrews & Flagler, in association with Henry M
Flagler. with whom the Rockefellers had had several years of pleasant intercourse.
In 1870, The Standard Oil Co. of Ohio was organized with a capital of §1,000,000,
with John D. Rockefeller as president, William Rockefeller vice president and Henry
55° AMERICA S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
M. Flagler secretary and treasurer. Many other refineries in Ohio, Pennsylvania and
New York associated themselves with The Standard Oil Co. from time to time, and in
1882, The Standard Oil Trust was formed with a capital of $70,000,000, afterward in-
creased to $95,000,000, which, within seven or eight years, came into possession of the
stocks of the companies controlling the greater part of the petroleum refining business
of the United States, and, in addition, of large oil producing interests. In 1892, the
Supreme Court of Ohio decided the Trust to be illegal, and it was dissolved, the business
being now conducted by the separate companies, in each of which Mr. Rockefeller is a
shareholder. The Standard Oil companies have been able to reduce the cost of oil to
consumers, and they now own thousands of acres of oil lands, an extensive system of
wells, refineries, pipe lines, oil steamships, and business houses in all the principal
cities of the United States and the representative cities of nearly every civilized
country on the face of the globe. They control the greater part of the petroleum
business of this country and export much of the oil used in other countries. They give
employment to a vast army of men, among whom strikes are unknown.
Mr. Rockefeller has invested largely in various other industrial enterprises, thus
contributing in many directions to the prosperity of the country. He is moreover a
man of public spirit. From the time he began life as a boy, he has in each year en-
larged his contributions to philanthropic and religious work throughout this and other
countries. His benefactions are as a rule not made public, and their consideration has
for many years required more time and attention than his business affairs. His largest
gift to any one institution has been over $4,000,000. He is actively engaged in church
work, enjoys home life and belongs to few clubs or other social organizations.
WILLIAM ROCKEFELLER, president of The Standard Oil Co. of New York,
born in Tioga county, N. Y., May 31, 1841, is the second son of William A. and Eliza
Davidson Rockefeller. He received his education at the academy in Owego and the
public schools in Cleveland, O. The family moved to Cleveland early in the '503. Be-
ginning his business career in 1858, modestly, as a bookkeeper for A. Quinn, a promi-
nent miller of Cleveland, with whom he remained for two years, Mr. Rockefeller then
served in the same capacity the forwarding and commisson house of Hughes & Lester.
At the end of the second year, upon the retirement of Mr. Lester, Mr. Rockefeller
became his successor in the firm under the name of Hughes & Rockefeller. For
several years, he carried on a successful produce commission business and gained
therefrom the means to engage in the famous operations, with which he then became
identified. This firm dissolved in 1864, and he formed a co-partnership with his
brother, John D. Rockefeller and Samuel Andrews, as Wm. 'Rockefeller & Co., to
engage in oil refining, and built the Standard Oil Works in Cleveland. His brother
and Mr. Andrews were already in the same business under the name of Rockefeller &
Andrews, conducting the Excelsior refinery. In 1865, Mr. Rockefeller came to New
York and established the firm of Rockefeller & Co. to sell and handle in this market
the oils of the two concerns in Cleveland. The success of his operations bore elo-
quent testimony to his ability as a merchant. In 1867, all three firms were dissolved
to be succeeded by Rockefeller, Andrews & Flagler of Cleveland and New York city,
William Rockefeller taking charge of the business in New York. In 1870, the firm of
Rockefeller, Andrews & Flagler dissolved and organized The Standard Oil Co of Ohio,
with John D. Rockefeller as its president and William Rockefeller, vice president, the
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. RO. 551
latter in charge of the mercantile and financial business in New York. In 1881, The
Standard Oil Trust was formed and with it The Standard Oil Co. of New York.
William Rockefeller was elected vice president of the Trust and president of The
Standard Oil Co. of New York, and has continued to be president of the latter until
the present time. In the creation of the enormous business of this company, Mr.
Rockefeller has played an important part. He is famous for exact knowledge of all the
details of the operations of the >company, close discrimination and clear and correct
judgment, and his opinions have always had great weight in the affairs of his corpora-
tion. He was married in 1864, in Fairfield, Conn., to Miss Almira Geraldine Goodsell,
and has four children living, Emma, Wi'liam G., Percy A very and Ethel Geraldine.
In 1875, he built the house on the northeast corner of Fifth avenue and 54th street,
which has ever since been the family residence. His splendid country seat is on the
North river between Tarrytown and Scarborough, upon the old Aspinwall estate, of
which he is now owner. Large wealth has enabled him to extend his interests and he
is a director of The Consolidated Gas Co. of New York, The United States Trust Co.,
The National City Bank, The Hanover National Bank, The Leather Manufacturers'
National Bank and The New York, New Haven & Hartford, The Delaware, Lack-
wanna & Western and The Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railroads. He is a man of
retiring disposition, an enthusiastic horseman, and a member of the Union League,
Metropolitan, and Gentlemen's Riding clubs.
CORNELIUS VAN SCHAICK ROOSEVELT, merchant, born Jan. 30, 1794, died
July 17, 1871. He was a conspicuous member of an old Dutch family, which has pro-
duced many men distinguished both in private life and public affairs. The first repre-
sentative of the name, Claes Martinsen Van Roosevelt, came from Holland to New
Amsterdam in 1649. From Martinsen, the line came down by direct descent through
Nicholas, Johannes, Jacobus, and Jacobus I., (known as James), to Cornelius V. S.
Roosevelt. Jacobus I. Roosevelt, father of Cornelius, was a Commissary during the
entire War for Independence, giving his services without reward, and Nicholas, an
uncle of the subject of this memoir, brought out the steamboat simultaneously with (the
family claim before) Fulton and ran vessels of this class on the Mississippi river while
Fulton was operating them on the Hudson. Cornelius V. S. Roosevelt was one of the
most eminent of this family and in his day was one of the four or five richest men in
New York city. He was for many years engaged in the importation of hardware and
plate glass, and also the inheritor of large means from the Roosevelt family. In the
judgment of his contemporaries, he ranked as a man of the soundest opinions and most
accurate discrimination. He was one of those who founded The Chemical Bank on the
single principle of honesty, a trait not so common as it should have been in banks in
those days, and the institution has never failed to pay its obligations in gold. During
the War. it redeemed its notes at one time at 280 in greenbacks. He introduced in
business a principle even more rare, by giving out no notes. The United States Bank
he fought from start to finish. While a very rich man, Mr. Roosevelt never valued
money for its own sake. He made money through the power of his own mind and then
gave it away to his family and in unknown charities. By his marriage with Margaret
Barnhill, he was the father of Silas Weir Roosevelt, an excellent lawyer and famous
wit, who died about twenty years ago ; James A. Roosevelt ; Cornelius V. S. Roose-
velt, who died Sept. 30, 1887, in his sixtieth year, without issue; Robert B. Roosevelt;
552 AMERICAS SUCCESSFUL MEN.
Theodore Roosevelt, Allotment Commissioner, now deceased; and William W. Roose-
velt, the latter dying while young.
JAflES ALFRED ROOSEVELT, banker, son of Cornelius V. S. Roosevelt, was
born in New York city, June 13, 1825. Educated at home by private tutors, he began
business for himself at the age of 21 as a member of Roosevelt & Son, importers of
hardware and plate glass, but soon abandoned the hardware branch of the business as
unprofitable. For a number of years, the firm continued the importation of plate
glass, being the leading house in that business. Mr. Roosevelt and his brother Theo-
dore both acquired a fortune. After his brother's death, he established in 1878, with
his two sons, Alfred and William Emlen Roosevelt, the bank of Roosevelt & Sons,
under the old firm name, at No. 33 Wall street. Alfred died July 3, 1891, in conse-
quence of a railroad accident, but the remaining partners yet conduct the bank at the
location above named. Mr. Roosevelt is one of the best known citizens of New
York, and is vice president of The Chemical National Bank and director in The New
York Life Insurance & Trust Co. , The New York, Chicago & St. Louis Railroad, The
Buffalo, Rochester & Pittsburgh Railroad, The Delaware & Hudson Canal Co., and
The Eagle Fire Insurance Co , president of The Roosevelt Hospital, and trustee of The
Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children. He has extensive holdings in real
estate, and was once president of The Wabash, St. Louis & Pacific Railway. He
possesses shrewd judgment and fine executive ability, which have made his services
valuable in all the corporations with which he is identified. He is sound, conservative
and much admired "in the street." During the Civil War, the Government received
his cordial support, and he served on the Committee of Seventy at the time of Tweed's
overthrow. By appointment to the Park Board under Mayor Strong, Mr. Roosevelt
has recently entered the public service. He rides much on horseback in the Park and
promises to make as good a public official as a business man can. Several of the best
clubs in town bear his name upon their rolls, including the Metropolitan, City, Century,
Seawanhaka Corinthian Yacht, Riding and Down Town clubs. Mr. Roosevelt .married
in 1847, Elizabeth N., daughter of Wm. F. Emlen, of Philadelphia, and there have
been born to them, May, Leila, Alfred, and William Emlen Roasevelt. The summer
home of the family is at Oyster Bay, on Long Island.
JAflES I. ROOSEVELT, lawyer, born in this city, Dec. 14, 1795, died at his home.
No. 836 Broadway, April 5, 1875. He was a son of James I. Roosevelt, plate glass
and hardware merchant, and brother of Cornelius V. S. Roosevelt. In 1815, he
graduated from Columbia College, and was admitted to the bar in 1818. He took
part in much notable litigation, and was remarkable as a cross-examiner. Inherited
means then enabled him to devote his time almost wholly to public affairs. He identi-
fied himself early in life with the Democratic party in the days when Tammany Hall
was good, and was fora time treasurer of the Tammany General Committee. In 1828,
he was elected to the Common Council and re-elected in 1830, and served for several
years upon the Public School Board. In 1835 and 1840, he was elected to the Legisla-
ture, serving both times upon the Judiciary Committee. Going to Congress in 1841,
he entertained splendidly while there and declined renomination. In 1851, he became
a Justice of the Supreme Court by a large majority and filled this responsible position
on the bench for eight years, during one year being ex-officio a member of the Court of
Appeals. At the close of his judicial career, President Buchanan appointed him to the
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. RO.
office of United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, which he re-
tained until the close of that administration, when he retired to private life. Judge
Roosevelt possessed a purity of character which was stainless and an integrity which
was unimpeachable. His wife was a leader in society. A large farm in Westchester
county formed his favorite retreat from the cares of business.
ROBERT BARNWELL ROOSEVELT, lawyer and banker, born at No. 31 Cort-
landt street in this city, Aug. 7, 1829, is a son of the late Cornelius V. S. Roosevelt and
springs from pure Holland Dutch stock.
As a boy, Mr. Roosevelt gave early indications of marked ability and at sixteen
years of age had written a play, which was accepted by John Brougham and would
have been produced, had it not been destroyed in the fatal fire in Winter Garden
Theatre. He wrote several contributions for the press, among them an account of the
Mammoth Cave of Kentucky, then hardly known, which appeared in the old Knicker-
bocker Magazine. The first article for which he ever received pay was written for THE
TRIBUNE. At the age of twenty-one, Mr. Roosevelt was admitted to the bar and prac-
ticed law with success for about twenty years, thereafter relinquishing his practice to
his son. Inherited wealth then enabled him to devote his time largely to literature and
public affairs. His property has consisted largely of real estate, an investment greatly
in favor in his family since the days of the Roosevelt farm on this island in the neigh-
borhood of Roosevelt street. He is a large owner and director in improvements at
Brigantine Beach, N. J., and has been an officer of various companies, including The
Jefferson Insurance Co., and for several years president of The Holland Trust Co.,
and of The Shenango & Allegheny Railroad, The Brigantine Beach Railroad, The
Mercer Mining & Manufacturing Co., and The Broadway Improvement Co.
Always fond of field sports, Mr. Roosevelt was among the first to visit some of the
then more remote portions of the United States in pursuit of wild game. He wrote,
"Superior Fishing," "A Trip to the Laval," and a number of kindred works, and took
an active part in the organization of societies for the protection of game. For many years,
The Xew York Association for the Protection of Game made him its president and in
1868. he became, with Horatio Seymour and Seth Green, a member of the first Com-
mission of State Fisheries. Mr. Roosevelt served on that Commission for twenty
years, writing all the reports and supervising the work, a part of the time being its
president. His repeated successes in winning first prize in the annual fly casting tourna-
ments were the despair of his competitors. In recent years, he has served as one of the
Commissioners of New York State to codify the game laws. While a member of Con-
gress, to which he was elected in 1872, he proposed the creation of the United States
Fishery Commission and secured the passage of the law. In 1888, Mr. Roosevelt re-
signed from the State Fish Commission to become American Minister to the Nether-
lands and filled this position for nearly two years. He has been an Alderman and one
of the Commissioners of the Brooklyn Bridge. Various public positions have been
declined by him, including those of Mayor of New York, Judge and Assistant Treasurer
of the United States.
Among his published works are "Game Fish of North America," "Game Birds,"
"Fish Hatching and Fish Catching." -'Florida and the Game Water Birds," "Five
Acres Too Much," a satire on scientific farming; "Progressive Petticoats," a satire
on female strongmindedness; and " Love and Luck," an idyl of the Great South Bay.
554 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
In politics always a Democrat, he has been a leader in every reform movement since
1862. Loyal to the Union during the War, he became one of the founders of the Union
League club and joined the thirty days men who went to the support of Washington.
He served on the Committee of Seventy, which brought about the downfall of the
Tweed ring, and was one of the two Democrats who spoke at the meeting when the
committee was organized. Of his speech in that famous movement, half a million
copies were printed by the committee for distribution. He has been the founder and
godfather of half a dozen clubs, first vice president, later president, and always one of
the most enthusiastic members of The Holland Society, president of the Arcadian club,
manager of the Manhattan and Lotos clubs, first vice president of the Reform club,
and member of the Century, Press, New York Yacht and Seawanhaka Corinthian Yacht
clubs. He is also vice president of The Sons of the American Revolution in New York.
In 1850, he married Elizabeth Ellis, daughter of John S. Ellis. To them have been
born Margaret, John Ellis, Helen L., who died while young, and Robert B. Roosevelt,
jr. After the death of his wife, he married, in London, Marion T. Fortescue, widow
of R. Francis Fortescue and daughter of John O'Shea of Nenagh, Ireland.
THEODORE ROOSEVELT, merchant and philanthropist, born in New York city,
Sept. 22, 1831, died at his residence, No. 6 West 57th street, Feb. 9, 1878. He was a
son of Cornelius V. S. and Margaret Barnhill Roosevelt, from whom he inherited a
fortune which, added to his own, acquired by diligent enterprise, made him a man ot
large wealth. For many years and until 1876, he was engaged in the importation of
glass with his brother, and was, perhaps, the first to start the idea of a trust. He made
a combination in the glass trade, which he kept up to taw by a dinner every Saturday at
Delmonico's and which brought to book any member of the combination chargeable
with underhand work. One or two such experiences was enough for the most recalci-
trant. Although a millionaire, when the Civil War broke out and it was discovered that
families of many volunteers were destitute, he organized the Allotment Commission
and visited personally every regiment of every corps from the East and saved millions
to the destitute women and children. He served without compensation in an almost
desperate cause and the tremendous labor which he performed was never recognized by
the public, although for that matter he never sought to have it recognized. He did it
because it was the right thing to do. In January, 1876, he devoted himself to banking
as head of the firm of Theodore Roosevelt & Son. For many years, he was promi-
nently identified with public charities. He was especially interested in The Newsboys'
Lodging House which he founded and for a time he supported the uptown branch
entirely. He was also interested in The Young Men's Christian Association and a liberal
giver to many charities, always interested in increasing their efficiency. He was one of
the founders of the Union League club, the Patriarchs, and The Orthopedic Hospital
and The Children's Aid Society, one of the organizers of The Bureau of United Charities,
and a member of the State Board of Charities. Although not a professional politician,
Mr. Roosevelt was always active in political life as an anti-machine Republican. When
nominated by President Hayes as Collector of the Port of New York, he was rejected by
the Senate because he was a Civil Service reformer. In 1853, he married Miss Martha
Bulloch, who with four children survive him, the latter being Anna L. ; Theodore, long
United States Civil Service Commissioner and now head of the Police Commission
of this city; Elliott, now deceased; and Corinne, wife of Douglas Robinson.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. RO. 555
ELEAZER WMEELOCK RIPLEY ROPES, merchant, usually known as Ripley
Ropes, born in Salem, Mass., Sept. 30, 1820, died in Brooklyn, May 18, 1890. He
was a son of Benjamin and Frances Wilkins Ropes and the youngest of five brothers,
and began to earn his living at the age of ten, as a newspaper carrier for The Salem
Register, the delivery route being owned by his four brothers. At the age of 12, he
was apprenticed to Taylor & Fox, the leading tailors of Salem, and spent three years in
their employment, thereafter traveling in the South upon mercantile business. At
the age of 20, he settled down in Salem and with his brother Reuben engaged in the
South American trade. At one time, he was an alderman of the city. The growth of
their interests compelled the brothers, in 1863, to remove their business to New York
and their homes to Brooklyn. Ripley was a good merchant, energetic, clear-headed
and upright, and prosperity attended his enterprise. The firm dealt in hides, grain,
wool and leather, and owned large interests in vessels. Although a Republican in
political faith, he believed in non-partisan government locally and, as a reformer,
was elected an Alderman of Brooklyn, being re-elected in 1874. In 1877, he was
appointed to a vacancy in the Board of Supervisors. In 1871 and 1881, he
became a member of the State Board of Charities and served thereon until, a few
weeks before his death, he declined reappointment. In this office, he cut off useless
expenses, exposed the abuses practiced by the local bureau of charities, and saved the
county nearly $2,000,000. In 1881, he was nominated for Mayor of the city but with-
drew in favor of Seth Low, whom he placed in nomination himself and helped to elect.
He accepted the position ot Commissioner of City Works under Mayor Low.
Conscientious in the performance of every duty, he never wearied in trying to bring
good out of evil. In 1873, he became president of The Brooklyn Trust Co., and held
this position iintil his death, and was a member of the Brooklyn club and The New
England Society. By his marriage, Oct. 22, 1846, to Elizabeth Graves, he was the
father of Grace Frances, Elizabeth Graves, Frederick, Albert Gardiner, Alice, Charles
Arthur, Walter Pierce, Lincoln and Louis Wheelock, twins, and Anna Caroline Ropes.
REUBEN WILKINS ROPES, merchant, born in Salem, Mass., July 16, 1813, who
died in Brooklyn, N. Y. , July 30, 1890, came from an old English family, his ancestors
having settled in Salem in 1632. The family originated in America with two of the
Pilgrim Fathers. Captain Benjamin Ropes, 1772-1845, a shipping merchant of Salem
and father of Reuben, fought at Lundy's Lane in Canada against the British in the War
of 1812, as Captain of the 2ist Inf., while the grandfathers of the subject of this
memoir, on both sides of the family, Benjamin Ropes and Reuben Wilkins, were offi-
cers in the American Revolution. Reuben W. Ropes began life in the pursuits in
which his father was engaged, and, later formed the shipping firm of R. W. Ropes
& Co., in Salem, in which his brothers were interested. The firm operated a packet
line between Salem, Boston, New York, Baltimore and Philadelphia. Finally, the
firm removed to New York city, where they carried on a constantly increasing business
in the building known as the old colonial stage house at 73 Pearl street. Mr. Ropes
retired from business about fifteen years before his death, and devoted his life there-
after to charitable work. He was of a modest and retiring disposition, and his many
acts of charity were done without ostentation. He supported many poor families
through periods of distress, often going among them and searching out cases where his
sympathy and money would bring relief It was his favorite idea to aid the poor with-
556 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
out degrading them. He was one of the founders of The Brooklyn Eye & Ear Hos-
pital, vice president of The Long Island College Hospital, president of The Seaman's
Friend Society, and for over a quarter of a century president of The Association for
Improving the Condition of the Poor. In all these offices, as in less responsible ones
in many other societies, he proved himself a careful man of business, a wise counselor
and a valuable executive. For many years, he was a member of the Chamber of Com-
merce and The New England Society. When Mr. Beecher began preaching in Brook-
lyn in 1847, Mr. Ropes was greatly impressed with him and joined Plymouth Church,
with which he remained connected until his death. He was a trustee and a deacon,
and one of the most constant attendants upon church services. Mr. Beecher said that
he had not in his congregation a more saintly man. Mr. Ropes sent his Bible class at
Warren street mission to the front during the Civil War. All returned in safety, and
he gave each one a bank account and established them in business. In 1849, he mar-
ried Maria L., daughter of Judge Jacob Thompson, a prominent resident of Monson,
Mass. Two sons and one daughter survived him, their names being William, Edward
Wilkins, and Fanny, wife of George R. Hallett Thorn, of New York.
ALBERT S. ROSENBAUM, merchant, a native of Cassel, Germany, who died in
this city, Feb. 17, 1894, in his sixty-fourth year, came to this country while young and
settled in California. Engaging in business there, he accumulated means by dint of
business tact, shrewdness and industry, and invested a part of his capital advantage-
ously in San Francisco real estate. After he had made this city his permanent home,
he engaged in the importation and manufacture of tobacco, taking a leading position in
the trade and becoming one of the richest Germans in America. He was a director in
The Manhattan Trust Co., The Fulton Market National Bank, The Third Avenue
Railroad, The Twenty-third Street Railroad, and other corporations, and owned the
Hotels Albert and St. Stephens and other important realty. A man of energy and
ability, well informed on all economic and public questions and personally attractive.
he enjoyed the acquaintance of a large circle of friends.
JACOB ROTHSCHILD, merchant, a native of Rothenkirchen, Hessen, Germany,
was born May 26, 1843. He came from a family of trades people of moderate means
"but of excellent character and reputation. Two of his maternal uncles were men of
great learning. In 1856, at the age of thirteen, he came to the .new world and was ap-
prenticed to a jeweler. This trade was too confining and he found more congenial em-
ployment in mercantile business, and finally established a store at 333 Sixth avenue and
entered upon the importation and sale of millinery. His success has been marked. He
now has branch stores in New York, Boston, Brooklyn and Philadelphia, each one
under the direction of a member of his family. The period from 1874-79 is well re-
membered in this city on account of a reaction in the values of real estate. Many
men wanted to sell and few had the courage to buy. Mr. Rothschild foresaw that
the growth of New York city would revive values and invested largely in lots and build-
ings on the best business streets, acquiring some property also near Central Park. His
judgment was proved by the subsequent great appreciation in value of his proper-
ties. His most notable venture has been the construction of the building on the corner
of 72d street and Central Park West, known as the Hotel Majestic, twelve stories in
height, at a cost of about $3,500,000. Mr. Rothschild married his cousin, Regina,
daughter of H. Rothschild, and is the father of Joseph Jacquin, Helene Rosalind,
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. RO. 557
Florence Sylvia, and Elsa Beatrice Rothschild. His contributions to charity have been
generous, and his name is a tower of strength to the Montefiore Home, Mount Sinai
Hospital, Hebrew Benevolent Orphan Asylum, United Hebrew Charities, St. John's
Guild and other institutions. He belongs to the Progress and Freundschaft clubs.
VICTOR HENRY ROTHSCHILD, manufacturer and merchant, has attained a
deservedly high rank among the self-made men of America. Born at Nordstetten, in
the depths of the Black Forest, Wurtemberg, Germany, April 6, 1835, he was the
oldest of a family of seven children. He received at that place a public school educa-
tion and then entered the employment of his father, a retail dry goods merchant. He
remained with him four years, working hard and devoting his spare hours to study and
self-cultivation. Like hundreds of other young Germans, however, he longed for a
more extended sphere in which to display the business ability, which he felt he pos-
sessed, and, preparatory to his starting for this country, devoted himself industriously
to the study of English. Thus, when he emigrated, in 1852, he had a fair command of
the language, and this he continued to improve by study and practice at his new home
in Fort Wayne, Ind.
By dint of unwearying energy and the knowledge of American business methods
he had managed to acquire, aided by the strictest economy (his purse contained only-
eight silver dollars on his arrival in Fort Wayne), he was enabled in a comparatively
short time to start in business on his own account. His first independent essay as a
merchant was in the sale of optical goods, with which he traveled from town to town in
Ohio and Indiana, his modest wagon being his store and warehouse. Gradually, he
added fancy goods and notions to his stock in trade and before long was in a condition
to sell with advantage to consumers and small country stores. In 1854, he was induced
by his brother-in-law to go to Mount Carroll, 111 , where the latter established a dry
goods store in Mr. Rothschild's name. Meantime, the young merchant, determined
not to abandon his old business because of his change of location, continued his sales of
optical and fancy goods in the then new West, and prospered so well that he sent for
his younger brother, Marx, to join him in the new world. But, while he prospered,
his brother-in-law met with disaster, and in the panic of 1857 went into bankruptcy,
causing Mr. Rothschild the loss of about $18,000 which he had advanced from
time to time, as well as $38,000 of debts contracted in his name. Undaunted by
disaster, Mr. Rothschild and his brother Marx started South as soon as they could
get clear of the wreck, and finally settled in Georgia, trying Macon first, and then
Hawkinsville. In the latter place, they opened a general store, stocking it with dry
goods, groceries and miscellaneous merchandise, and were soon once more on the road
to prosperity.
This was just before the outbreak of the War of the Rebellion. At about this time,
news was received from Germany of the illness of their father; and Marx instantly
started for his old home, although his presence here was greatly needed.
Then came the War with all its horrors, and Mr. Rothschild was compelled to
abandon his prosperous business and go to New York. Here, finding that the indebt-
edness of $38,000, accumulated in his name by his brother-in-law, had not been met,
he settled it at great personal sacrifice, dollar for dollar, out of his Southern savings.
For a year or more, his business activity was suspended, but in 1863, and through a
mere coincidence, he began the manufacture of neglige1 shirts, then an entirely new
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. RO. 559
industry, at No. 122 Chambers street. This enterprise was markedly successful from
the very start and has gradually attained large dimensions.
About this time, his brother returned from Germany and for the next four years
their trade increased with wonderful rapidity. In 1868, they found it necessary to
enlarge their plant greatly and accordingly rented additional quarters at No. 48 Leon-
ard street, which were further supplemented in 1870 by another addition at No. 46
Leonard street. This gave their establishment a frontage of seventy-five feet and
added largely to their manufacturing facilities. Up to 1869, the firm did business
under the name of Rothschild Bro's, but. in that year, Simeon Gutman was admitted
to partnership and the name changed to Rothschild Bro's & Gutman. In 1877, the
partnership dissolved by mutual consent, V. Henry Rothschild liquidating its affairs
and continuing alone until 1880, when Isaac Dreyfus was admitted as a partner, and the
firm became V. Henry Rothschild & Co.
During this year, 1880, The Central Real Estate Association erected the building
at the corner of Leonard street and West Broadway, especially designed for the manu-
fa^ture of shirts, and this building was leased by the firm for a term of years. In
1892, Mr. Rothschild bought the building, and realizing that yet more room was needed,
the firm rented a large modern factory building, Nos 5 to 15 Sullivan street, to be
used for manufacturing, warehousing and shipping. The premises at West Broadway
and Leonard street were then changed into a well equipped office building, the
firm retaining the second floor for their sale and counting rooms. It is now known as
the "Rothschild Building," and ranks high among the spacious, costly and convenient
office buildings, with which New York is equipped. Mr. Rothschild is also a large
holder of other valuable real estate in the city of New York. The firm in recent years
have added largely to the variety of goods they manufacture, and now make shirts of
every kind, trousers, ladies' waists, etc. , etc. Some idea of the vastness of this business
may be gathered from these figures: The salesrooms at Leonard street and West
Broadway and the factories on Sullivan street employ directly and indirectly over 1,500
people, while an additional factory at Freehold, N. J., gives employment to over 1,500
more. In addition to this, the Board of Trade of Trenton, N. J., contemplate the con-
struction of another factory, which, when completed, will employ as many hands as the
Freehold factor}-. It may safely be said then that the firm gives work directly and
indirectly to about 7,000 persons. Mr. Rothschild has always taken a deep and kindly
interest in the welfare of the people who work for him, and many of the Freehold
operatives live in modern houses, built expressly for them, each accommodating a family
of six or eight persons. These are let to employes at a nominal rental of $6 or $7 a
month, according to size.
While Mr. Rothschild has been too busy a man all his life to take any active inter-
est in politics, no man is more keenly alive to the affairs of the city, of which he is
one of the highly respected citizens, wielding a commanding influence in the
business world. In the recent fight for reform in New York, he was not backward in
lending aid to the good cause. During 1889, he served as a director of The Seventh
National Bank, but resigned as soon as the year expired, explaining that the demands
of his enormous business were so pressing that he had no spare time at his disposal.
He has often been solicited to take part in the management of prominent financial
institutions, but for the same reason has been compelled to decline. But he does find
5&o AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
time for charity, and in a quiet way has done a large amount of good among the poor,
during the last quarter of a century. Since 1872, he has been a director of Mt. vSinai
Hospital and the Montefiore Home for Incurables and is interested in many other lead-
ing institutions.
He married Miss Josephine Wolfe, daughter of Jacob Wolfe, a retired merchant of
New York, in 1866, and lives at No. 4 East 57th street, and his handsomely appointed
home, his fine library, and collection of paintings bear witness to his artistic tastes.
His eldest son, V. Sydney Rothschild, is a graduate of Harvard and will later be-
come a member of the firm. A daughter was married April 3, 1895, to Mr. S. R. Gug-
genheim, president of The Great National Smelting Co. , of Monterey, Mexico. The
other members of the family are the Misses Gertrude and Constance Lily, two excep-
tionally attractive girls, the latter at present a student at Wellesley College, and Clar-
ence G., a younger son.
Mr. Rothschild is essentially a home man and has never been what is generally
called a club man. He has, however, long been a member of the Harmonic and Play-
ers' clubs and the Board of Trade & Transportation. He is a man of strong presence,
with a determined will and a kindly manner, which carries everything before it. His
imtiring energy and his enthusiastic manner of forging ahead, always into new and un-
explored fields, are the envy of the younger men about him. Stern and severe at times,
asserting his opinions whether right or wrong, by a kindly smile he at once dispels any
ill feeling and adds his recent opponent to his large retinue of steadfast friends.
JOHN RUSZITS, merchant, a native of Baja, Hungary, died at St. James, Long
Island, Oct. 18, 1890, at the age of eighty-one. His parents being poor, the boy, at
the age of twelve, went to London, England, found employment in the furrier's trade
with difficulty, and after a period of poverty and hard work found himself finally, at
the age of thirty-five, the owner of about $2,000 saved from his earnings and a master
of his craft. Partly to gain a renewal of his health and partly to improve his position
he came to New York city in 1851. Here, after looking about, he engaged a loft at
No. 99 Maiden lane at a small annual rental, and in this modest place became the
pioneer manufacturer of seal skin garments in America and founder of The John
Ruszits Fur Co. He met with great success in his industry and became a prominent
merchant, the owner of a warehouse and other realty in this city and a rich man.
Having made his home in Brooklyn, he took a strong interest in the public affairs of
the city, but declined many offers of public office. He was a director of The Pruden-
tial Fire Insurance Co., a member of The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to
Animals, and otherwise active. Clara Frederica, his wife, survived him. The family
had a country residence at St. James, Suffolk county, Long Island. Mr. Ruszits was
always liberal in his gifts to charities and by his will left about $125,000 to public in-
stitutions. Mrs. Ruszits is now the wife of Welcome G. Hitchcock, president of The
John Ruszits Fur Co.
THOMAS RUTTER, a native of Holywell, Wales, died in this city, May 3, 1895, in
the seventy-first year of his age. Oldest son of Thomas Rutter, he came to America
while a boy, and after leaving Mount Pleasant Academy, in Sing Sing, began life as a
civil engineer. This occupation he followed for years and until ample means
led him into the management of corporations. Through the execution of contracts for
the excavation of the Allegheny and other railroad tunnels, and the building of
£'!<>••/.• .
THE ciry OF SEW •»«>
railroad works in various parts of the country, be waa aole finally to retire
s of this class At the time of his death, he was a director "of The
* Nashville Railroad, The Farmers' Loan & Trusi Co., The American Pig
ge Warrant Co.. The Bank of the State of New York. The Housatonic
. and other corporations. Some of the best clubs in u/*-,i Emitted him to
->. including the- Metropolitan, Union League, Down Town and Church
he, belonged ; Chamber of Commerce and
(ieorgina Renaud. .
t AS F. RYAN, is one <>
• Civil War tu make f;->
. Va. , on the east' r- >
r.v^ther's side wen the
is Valley of Virginia,
3.1 ancestors cam. "•-
•lony, and settir-J in
his mother at the *i*
er on the old family
n. he assumed,
tie disastrous consequence •-
ed manfully to raise tht_ ,>u
section had been ph
weed to realize that the attem
tead and, although v
• make his o
:;e found scores of other Soui
.ind. Day a
-ntil his last dollar was reached, fV.
• to despair, he was fortur*tt ,.i
k» dr>- g^oods store of John S. Barry jowj
'••.g. Experience had already taj-'t'-!- t
off his hat and coat, he cain • -
ars, he subsisted on a smi
xl by his fidelity and pe-
>ut to establish in New V-
•d the first principles of fi
.-> .i> an executive financi
attaining his
m.
unger Southern men, who came North
fortune and succeeded. He was born n
McAlexanders, of Scot
hich comprises the counties of Ri*
«« the North of Ireland, whtk- .
;i h is now Nelson coun
ar permitted. For two years, the young man
ut of the slough of despond into which the
at War. but, at the end of that time, was
In 186*, therefore, he left the ances-
,ud from family friends, he
Reaching l^Hinv.rc- at the age of seven-
in like condition seeking employment of
e streets, applying at store after store in
ly, when prospective starvation was fast
gh to find a vacancy in the large commis-
& t<rfd to report for work on the following
salary but at the end of that time, hi> c
nce, which formed the
si
iy, Mr. Ryan secured a partn
and did so well that, two years later, he was able to buy a seat for
he Exchange and materially br<vaden his sphere <>t activity. His capacity
recognition and he soon nnnshertd among his business and personal friends,
. Travers, Samuel J. Tilden, John R. Garland. John B. Trevor, Robert L.
i many other large Wall street operators of those days. During the next
operating through his firm, he carried through many of the largest t'
that time.
dthough retaining his membership in the Stock Exchange, be reti-
the purpose of taking a much needed rest, but before a year ) >ed
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. RY. 561
important railroad works in various parts of the country, he was aole finally to retire
from labors of this class. At the time of his death, he was a director 'of The
Louisville & Nashville Railroad, The Farmers' Loan & Trust Co. , The American Pig
Iron Storage Warrant Co., The Bank of the State of New York, The Housatonic
Railroad Co. , and other corporations. Some of the best clubs in town admitted him to
membership, including the Metropolitan, Union League, Down Town and Church
clubs, and he belonged also to the Chamber of Commerce and St. George Society.
His wife, Georgina Renaud, and four children survived him.
THOflAS F. RYAN, is one of the younger Southern men, who came North at the
close of the Civil War to make fame and fortune and succeeded. He was born in Nel-
son county, Va., on the eastern slope of the Blue Ridge, Oct. 17, 1851. His ancestors
on his mother's side were the McAlexanders, of Scotch-Irish descent, who settled in
the famous Valley of Virginia, which comprises the counties of Rockland and Augusta.
His paternal ancestors came from the North of Ireland, while America was yet an
English colony, and settled in the section which is now Nelson county.
Losing his mother at the age of five, young Ryan went to live with his maternal
grandmother on the old family estate, where he remained during his boyhood. At the
age of fifteen, he assumed charge of his grandmother's estate and managed it as well as
the disastrous consequences of the Civil War permitted. For two years, the young man
struggled manfully to raise the property out of the slough of despond into which the
entire section had been plunged by the great War, but, at the end of that time, was
forced to realize that the attempt was hopeless. In 1868, therefore, he left the ances-
tral homestead and, although penniless, too proud to seek aid from family friends, he
set forth to make his own way in the world. Reaching Baltimore at the age of seven-
teen, he found scores of other Southern boys in like condition seeking employment of
whatever kind. Day after day, he walked the streets, applying at store after store in
vain, until his last dollar was reached. Finally, when prospective starvation was fast
giving way to despair, he was fortunate enough to find a vacancy in the large commis-
sion dry goods store of John S. Barry and was told to report for work on the following
morning. Experience had already taught the danger of an opportunity neglected, and,
taking off his hat and coat, he calmly announced his attention to begin work at once.
For two years, he subsisted on a small salary but at the end of that time, his employer,
attracted by his fidelity and persistence, offered him a place in a banking house, which
he was about to establish in New York. He accepted gladly and in the two following
years learned the first principles of finance, which formed the foundation of his subse-
quent success as an executive financier.
Upon attaining his majority, Mr. Ryan secured a partnership with a member of
the Stock Exchange and did so well that, two years later, he was able to buy a seat for
himself on the Exchange and materially broaden his sphere of activity. His capacity
won quick recognition and he soon numbered among his business and personal friends,
William R. Travers, Samuel J. Tilden, John R. Garland, John B. Trevor, Robert L.
Cutting and many other large Wall street operators of those days. During the next
ten years, operating through his firm, he carried through many of the largest trans-
actions of that time.
In 1885, although retaining his membership in the Stock Exchange, he retired from
business for the purpose of taking a much needed rest, but before a year had elapsed
562 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
he joined hands with William C. Whitney in securing and consolidating the various
street surface railroads in New York, which now comprise the large system owned by
The Metropolitan Traction Co. His attention having been turned in this direction,
he also acquired and held control of the Milwaukee street railroads long enough to
make a large amount of money. Subsequently, he became associated with A. J. Cassatt,
Frank Thomson, John D. Crimmins and others in building tip the vast Consolidated
Traction Co. of New Jersey.
After the downfall of The Richmond Terminal Co. , which controlled The Rich-
mond & Danville, The East Tennesse, Virginia & Georgia, The Georgia Pacific and
other Southern railroads, he became a director in these companies and ultimately took
an active part in the successful reorganization of the roads into the great Southern
Railway system of to-day. He also acquired control of The Columbus, Hocking Valley
& Toledo Railroad, and is at present effecting a reorganization of The Central
Railroad & Banking Co. of Georgia.
He is a director in The Southern Railway, The Hocking Valley, The Flint & Pere
Marquette and The Georgia Central Railroads, The Metropolitan Traction Co., The
Consolidated Traction Co., The Bank of New Amsterdam, and many other corporations
of like nature.
The success of his business career, culminating in a fortune estimated at several
millions, is obviously due to indomitable will power, unrelenting perseverance and
breadth of mental vision. Not only has his strict integrity won the esteem of all with
whom he has been associated, but it is universally conceded that, as an executive rail-
road and corporation financier, he is probably without a superior to-day in the United
States. Mr. Ryan married, Nov. 25, 1873, Miss Ida M. Barry, daughter of his first em-
ployer in Baltimore, and his family consists of five sons. He has always been a stanch
Democrat and has taken an active interest in National and State politics since 1876,
and is a member of the Union, Manhattan, Riding, Lawyers', Catholic and other clubs,
and The Southern Society, chairman of the Finance Committee of the Roman Catholic
Orphan Asylum and an active supporter of many charitable organizations.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. SA. 565
and to some extent in the packing of meats in the West. Mr. Sage was successful
from the start but not without a struggle with rivals in trade, the temptation to expend
one's savings, and the influences which lure a man to a commonplace existence.
Mr Sage rapidly became one of the best known merchants in Troy, and his genial
and spirited manner, lively interest in affairs, clear head, and sturdy character produced
the result of making him a leader in local politics. As a Whig, his fellow citizens made
him, in 1845. in a Ward which had long been Democratic, an alderman of the city and
later treasurer of Rensselaer county. He held both offices for seven years He also
became one of the founders and directors of The Commercial Bank of Troy.
Every public spirited man in the State was at that time interested in the project of
uniting the cities of the Mohawk valley and those beyond, as far as Lake Erie, with a
series of short railroads. The Erie canal had been of immense benefit to the State, but
the new transportation projects promised to be of greater value. When The Albany &
Schenectady Railroad was finally opened for travel, Mr. Sage accompanied the official
party in a tour of inspection on the first regular train. Captivated with what he saw,
he arranged affairs for a long absence and then made an extended trip through Central
New York, during which he inspected road beds and the work of construction and
studied the probable advantages of the new railroads. From that time forward, the
subject of transportation filled his mind. About 1852, The Troy & Schenectady Rail-
road, then the property of the city of Troy, was sold to E. D. Morgan of New York city
for a low figure, only to be sold later to the company into which the chain of connect-
ing railroads, extending to Lake Erie, was consolidated, known as The New York Cen-
tral. Mr. Sage, at that time a member of the Common Council of Troy, bore a
prominent part in this transaction. In order to induce Senator Morgan to purchase
this road, which had never earned a dollar (and has not to the present time, 1895), Mr.
Sage agreed to purchase a portion of the stock with Mr. Morgan and relieve the tax
payers of the city of a heavy burden. His original interest in railroads grew out of a
desire to obtain the best facilities for promoting his mercantile interests, and his success
in the sale of a small railroad property, and various loans which he made at a later date
to a Western corporation, finally resulted in Mr. Sage devoting, for a time, his almost
exclusive attention to this class of properties.
During his stay in Troy, Mr. Sage continued to be active in politics. In the
summer of 1847, he was appointed with Recorder Olin of Troy to go to New York to
meet Gen. John A. Wool upon the latter's return from the Mexican War. At the
dinner table upon the Hudson river steamboat, North America, a toast was offered,
accompanied with a short and brilliant speech, proclaiming General Wool as the "real
hero of Buena Vista," to which the General modestly responded, without objecting to
the compliment named. Alderman Sage was then called upon to speak and said he
would not permit anyone to surpass him in cordial feelings towards their distinguished
guest and fellow townsman, General Wool, but the fact was that another general in
command of the American army in Mexico was entitled to the reputation which had
been given to General Wool. In justice to his superior officer, Gen. Zachary Taylor,
the real and acknowledged hero of Buena Vista, Mr. Sage proposed three cheers for
the latter, which were given with enthusiasm by the company. In 1848, Mr. Sage
attended the national convention of the Whig party. Of the 32 delegates from New
York State, 28 were for Mr. Clay. Mr. Sage held strongly for Mr. Clay until General
566 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
Taylor attained a majority of the votes, when the full strength of the delegation was
brought to General Taylor, who was then nominated and afterward elected.
The night before the day of the decisive struggle, Mr. Sage went with Thurlow
Weed to see General Taylor's brother, who answered fully for the General. Mr. Sage
and Mr. Weed were assured that the General, if nominated and elected, would faith-
fully carry out the wishes of the Whig party. The anti-slavery feeling had grown to
a marked degree, especially among the delegates from Massachusetts and Western New
York and Ohio, and the claim had been made that General Taylor would not support
the Whig platform. Mr. Sage was positively assured by the General's brother that this
was not true; and next day, when he saw that Mr. Clay would be outstripped by Taylor,
Mr. Sage made the motion to nominate Taylor unanimously. While the vote was not
entirely unanimous, it was carried.
These incidents gave Mr. Sage great influence with President Taylor, which he
employed later for the benefit of Senator Seward. The "Silver Grays" of the Whig
party were jealous of anti-slavery leaders, such as Seward, Weed, Sumner, and Chase,
and, seeking to prevent the nomination of Senator Seward's men for important offices
in Albany, Troy, Rochester, Buffalo, and other cities, had managed to influence Presi-
dent Taylor to such a degree that he was ready to appoint men opposed to Mr. Seward.
Alexander H. Stevens and Robert Toombs, members of Congress from the South, had
been especially active in prejudicing the President by assertions of Mr. Seward's insin-
cerity in avowed support of the administration. Mr. Sage, then a young man, age
thirty-one, had never visited Washington, but was chosen as the best representative of
the Seward element to change the attitude of the members of the Cabinet and the
President. He accepted the responsibility, repaired to Washington, and pointed out
the dangers of the course so successfully that his full mission was accomplished Mr.
Sage never did anything by halves. It was not in his nature to be faint hearted in
anything he ever undertook. The directness of his labors on this occasion, his intre-
pidity, the shrewdness and convincing nature of his arguments, and his success, were
thoroughly characteristic. Reverdy Johnson, Thomas Ewing and Jacob Collamore,
members of the Cabinet, favored Mr. Seward's appointments, but the rest of the Cabi-
net were against them. President Taylor recognized the zeal and ability of the young
politician and frequently spoke of him afterward. The full list of Mr. Seward's selec-
tions was finally approved.
In 1850, the Whigs of Troy nominated Mr. Sage for Congress, but, owing to the
defection of the Silver Grays, could not elect him. They gave him a small majority in
1852 and in 1854 a majority of 7,000, the most emphatic ever known in the district.
During his four years in Congress, Mr. Sage served upon the Ways and Means and
other important committees, and labored diligently for all the famous measures of
Whig policy then under discussion. He advocated the homestead law, the effort to
organize Kansas and Nebraska as free territories, and the election of Mr. Banks as
Speaker; opposed the repeal of the Missouri Compromise, making a speech of some
ability on the subject in August, 1856; and was active in all the exciting struggles of
the four historic years, which led to the final disruption of the Whig party and the
organization of its greater successor, the Republican party. While, as a soldier in the
ranks, Mr. Sage did excellent service for his party, the incident of his Congressional
career which actually brought him the most fame was the appointment of a committee
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. SA. 567
by Congress, due entirely to his efforts, which reported upon the condition of Washing-
ton's old estate of Mount Vernon in Virginia. Out of this action, The Mount Vernon
Association came into being, followed by the purchase of Mount Vernon and its dedica-
tion as a permanent memorial of the father of his country.
Meanwhile, Mr. Sage was too prudent to neglect his practical interests at home.
He made many flying trips to Troy, and it was during one of these that, in the railroad
station in Troy, he first met Jay Gould, then on a visit to Troy in the interest of The
Rutland & Washington Railroad. The two men made an impression upon each
other, which afterward deepened into a friendship, famous in financial history.
The interests of Mr. Sage had become widely extended and now demanded his
entire attention. Shrewd, cool, untiring and persistent labor, coupled with keen good
judgment, enabled him to pass through the disasters of that period almost unscathed;
and when the Civil War broke out, he was already worth more than three quarters of a
million dollars. The panic of 1857 led him, however, to relinquish public life and
mercantile business, and devote his attention to finance. This change came about
through advances which he had made to The La Crosse Railroad. To protect his loans,
he found himself obliged to advance yet larger sums, and, through legal proceedings
in which he engaged to save his investments, he became an owner of the stock of the
road, now forming The Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul system, and then a director
and vice president of the company.
About 1 86 1, Mr. Sage began to operate in Wall street, and in 1863 he removed to
New York, and thereafter gave himself wholly to operations in stocks and the con-
struction and promotion of his own and other railroads. Establishing a business
office on William street, he gave his first attention to Milwaukee & St. Paul securities,
but later to those of other railroads and finally to nearly the whole range of stocks at
the Exchange. He purchased a seat in the Stock Exchange in 1874. While it should
be noted that Mr. Sage has himself seldom been seen on the floor of that wild whirlpool
of speculation, the fact remains that for more than thirty years he has been one of the
most notable figures "in the street." A large operator at different times and an asso-
ciate of Jay Gould and other giants in finance in several historic and successful cam-
paigns, his methods have been as a rule mainly his own. He has seldom incurred the
tremendous risks to which others have exposed themselves, but has preferred a rapid
succession of moderate risks and quick returns. About 1872, Mr. Sage originated the
sale of privileges, and he has dealt upon a large scale in what are known, in the vocabu-
lary of the street, as "puts," "calls," and "straddles." Cool in the period of most
frantic excitement, cautious, never losing his head, serene as a rock on shore lashed by
the waves, he has made his way with dogged persistence and almost unvarying success
from the day of his debut in Wall street. Scarcely a day has passed upon which he has
not been able to record some accession to his capital. It is believed that only upon one
occasion, that memorable day in 1884, upon which the failure of Grant & Ward was
announced, did Mr. Sage ever meet with a considerable loss in Wall street. It is
reported that the crash cost him $6,000,000. The excitement of that day and his per-
sonal anxiety were very great, but he promptly met all demands with cash as they
came, and endured his losses like a man. His operations require the possession of a
large amount of ready capital, but he has always kept his resources well in hand, and
in an emergency commands almost unlimited means. He has been exceedingly help-
568 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
ful to his brother brokers in the way of loans, has never repudiated a contract, and is
one of the few men in Wall street who have been willing to give a valuable "point" to
a friend. Several men of position unhesitatingly ascribe to the friendship of Mr. Sage
the origin of their fortunes. It would be impossible to relate in the brief space here set
aside all the striking incidents, which could be told of Mr. Sage's long Wall street
career. Suffice it to say, that beginning life a poor boy and winning his first success
in mercantile pursuits, he has now spent more than thirty years in the fierce life of
Wall street, and accumulated a large fortune, estimated at various sums, by straightfor-
ward business methods.
Mr. Sage early became an intimate friend of the late Jay Gould and, after 1866,
these two men maintained offices adjoining each other, first at No's 78-80 Broadway,
now the site of The Union Trust Co., afterward at No. 71 Broadway, Mr. Sage's
present .office, the most famous corner in the financial center of the city. They co-
operated in the development of lines of transportation in the West and elsewhere, and
Mr. Sage has, in fact, taken an active part in the construction of over 5,000 miles of
American railroads. He was called the father of the railroad construction companies
in Wisconsin and Minnesota, being president of more than 25 corporations for the
construction and extension of railroad lines. His fortune, like that of Mr. Gould, has
risen mainly from the advance in value of the securities of corporations, after they had
come under their joint management. The friendship between those two men was
remarkable. Each had implicit confidence in the other. Each aided the other in
gigantic schemes, and the fortune of each was at the instant command of the other in
times of need. If the facts could be fully known, it would probably be found that Mr.
Gould was saved in critical moments by the help of Mr. Sage. The two men were
associates in telegraphic enterprises, also. Mr. Sage was especially active in the pro-
motion of The Atlantic & Pacific Telegraph Co., and its consolidation with The
Western Union. He is now connected with 27 corporations, embracing over 40
railroads, is a large shareholder in all, and president of The Iowa Central Railway;
director of The Missouri Pacific, The Union Pacific, The Wabash, The St. Louis, Iron
Mountain & Southern, The Texas & Pacific, The Manhattan, The Troy & Boston, The
Troy & Bennington, and other railroads; The Pacific Mail Steamship Co.; The Im-
porters' & Traders' National Bank, The Mercantile Trust Co. ; The Western Union
Telegraph, The Gold & Stock Telegraph, The International Ocean Telegraph,
The American Telegraph & Cable and The New York Mutual Telegraph CD'S; The
New York Bank Note Co., and The Standard Gas Light Co Of The Fifth Avenue
Bank, he is a director and the only surviving founder, and has been for four years the
only living original director of The New York Central Railroad. He has also been a
director of The Delaware, Lackawanna & Western, The New York, Lackawanna &
Western, and The Chicago, Milwaukee & St Paul railroads.
An incident which startled the United States, occurred in Mr. Sage's office Dec. 4,
1891. Upon that day, he was visited at No. 71 Broadway by Henry F. Norcross of
Boston, a man of unbalanced mind, who demanded an immediate gift of $1,200,000
for himself. When the offer was refused, Mr. Norcross dropped a dynamite bomb
upon the floor, the explosion of which blew Mr. Norcross to atoms, killed one of the
clerks, and wrecked the whole office. Mr. Sage was severely injured by the explosion.
His recovery was a marvel but was due to a vigorous constitution, strengthened by
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. SA. 569
his early life and maintained by judicious living and the entire abstention from stimu-
lants.
Mr. Sage is tall and spare, with heavy eyebrows and keen blue-gray eyes, which
are often lighted with a sense of humor. He wears no beard. He is genial in manner,
prompt and decided in action, clear headed, sagacious, and in speech reticent. One of
his peculiarities, the plainness of his attire, has prompted harmless merriment at his
expense among the wits of Wall1 street. Wall street brokers are proverbially the best
dressed men in the city, but Mr. Sage looks more like a quiet farmer ; and this entire
lack of display has led several times to attempts by bunco men to beguile him. The
surprise of these gentlemen upon discovering the identity of their illustrious victim
has afforded Mr. Sage much entertainment, and has been frequently paralleled by
the sensations of rivals in Wall street, after an attempt to engineer a speculation to Mr.
Sage's disadvantage and upon being confronted by the results of their attempt.
Mr. and Mrs. Sage have long attended the West Presbyterian Church. Mr. Sage
has been married twice, first in 1841 to Miss Maria Winne, daughter of Moses I. Winne
of Troy. His wife died in New York city in 1867; and in 1869, he married Margaret
Olivia, daughter of the Hon. Joseph Slocum of Syracuse, N. Y., a merchant of high
character and man of marked spirit. They have no children. On her father's side,
Mrs. Sage is in the eighth generation of descent from Capt. Miles Standish of colonial
fame and was inspired by her lineage to become one of the founders of The Society of
Mayflower Descendants of New York city. Through the maternal line, she is in the
eighth generation from Col. Henry Pierson of Sag Harbor, N. Y., conspicuous in found-
ing the public school system of America about 1787. Mrs. Sage is a woman of fine
education, intellectual force and gracious manners, notable for her tact and sweetness,
and prominent in advocacy of suffrage for women. She is a member of The Women's
Suffrage League and active in the agitation to secure the ballot for her sex.
Among the thousands of people, scattered throughout the United States, who
revere the memory of Mrs. Emma Hart Willard, founder of Troy Female Seminary,
no one has been more sincere than Mrs. Sage. She is a graduate from that institution
and during her stay in school enjoyed personal instruction under Mrs. Willard. In
honor of his wife, Mr. Sage has recently presented a handsome dormitory to this
seminary at a cost of $120,000. This structure was dedicated to the service of educa-
tion, May 16, 1895, with public ceremonies, and in the presence of thousands of people.
Dr. Taylor, president of Yassar College, made an exhaustive and able address in the
morning at the unveiling of the Emma Willard statue. President Stryker of Hamilton
College made the address presenting the Sage dormitory on behalf of Mr. Sage, and
Chauncey M. Depew delivered an eloquent oration. The enthusiastic and prolonged
applause with which Mr. and Mrs. Sage were greeted convinced them of the public
appreciation of their generous gift. Russell Sage Hall, as it is called, is four stories
in height, the lower story being made of New Jersey sandstone, the upper three of
buff colored pressed brick. The construction is fire proof and in beauty of design,
within and without, the building exceeds the finest ever before erected in Troy. The
two parlors are finished in ivory white woodwork, and the hallways, library, dining
room, dormitories, kitchens and other apartments are models of their class and designed
with reference both to architectural effect and the uses to which thev are assigned.
The citizens of Troy planned an evening reception, complimentary to Mr. and Mrs.
570 AMERICAS SUCCESSFUL MEN.
Sage, endorsed by the Common Council of the city, and committees of prominent
people were appointed to make all necessary arrangements. The reception was
attended by a large concourse of people, who were presented in regular order for over
two and one half hours. An interesting incident occurred about 9:30 p.m., when the
venerable Father Haverman of Troy, accompanied by two assistants, was pre-
sented to his old time friend. While Mr. Sage shook his hand, the company present
cheered and waved their handkerchiefs. Father Haverman in his ninety-first year
yet has a parish in Troy. He has originated and built more hospitals and churches
than any other man in that city.
JAflES HENRY SALISBURY, H.D., born in Cortland county, N. Y., Oct. 13-14,
1823, descends from mingled Bavarian, English and Welsh ancestry. His grandfather,
Nathan Salisbury, engaged in the attack on the Gaspee just before the American Revo-
lution as a lieutenant in Captain Burgess's company. A student in Homer Academy
and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (1846), Dr. Salisbury graduated from Albany Med-
ical College in 1850 and received the degree of A. M: from Union College in 1852. His
scientific studies were begun before that time, however, in the State Geological Survey
as an assistant to Prof. Ebenezer Emmons, whom he succeeded in 1849. Having en-
tered upon the practice of medicine, Dr. Salisbury made a study of diseases of the diges-
tive organs and carefully evolved a system of treatment based upon the relation of
alimentation to disease, which demanded skillful management of the diet and included
the drinking of hot water. This as set forth in his work, now finally perfected, has
gained for him a reputation and an extensive practice. He is prominent as one of
the earliest American students of microscopy and was elected president of the Ameri-
can Institute in 1878. He laid bare the germ theory of disease in 1849, anci in '865
Hallier of Jena confirmed his deductions, thus antedating Pasteur, Huxley, Tomasi
and the later experiments. He owns a farm and park in Cleveland, O., where most
of his experiments are conducted. Several prizes have been awarded to him by medi-
cal bodies for essays on "Malaria," "Morphology," "Investigations in Diphtheria and
Scarlet Fever," etc., and he is a member of The Philosophical Society of Great Britain
and The Antiquarian Society, and numbers among his correspondents and personal
friends Mivart, Beale, the Duke of Argyle, Huxley and Pasteur. In 1860, Dr. Salisbury
was married to Clara, daughter of John T. Brasee of Lancaster, O. They have two
children, Minnie B. and Trafford B., the latter a medical student in New York city.
HENRY BERTON SANDS, M.D., eminent as a surgeon, born Sept. 27, 1830, died
Nov. 18, 1888, in this city. His preparatory education was obtained in a high school
in New York city, and, in 1854, he graduated from the College of Physicians and
Surgeons. After a medical and surgical course in Bellevue Hospital, he went abroad for
eight months, returning in 1857 to assume the demonstratorship of anatomy in the
College of Physicians and Surgeons. He was subsequently professor of anatomy and
then of surgery. For about ten years, he was associated with the late Dr. Willard
Parker, and although he had a large general practice in the early part of his pro-
fessional life,, his interest was always in the achievements of surgery — a work which he
was able to enjoy to its fullest extent the last twelve years of his life. He was success-
fully attached as attending surgeon to The New York Eye Infirmary, St. Luke's,
Bellevue, and The New York and Roosevelt hospitals, and in the latter he had for five
years previous to his death the largest surgical service in this city. Dr. Sands was
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. SA. 57!
among the first in this country to recognize the significance and value of antisepsis in
its application to surgery. In the revolution which it produced in the surgical art, he
was among the foremost and most zealous spirits, doing more perhaps than any of his
contemporaries to perfect the technique and demonstrate the success of antiseptic
operations. His career as a teacher began with his entrance into professional life, his
interest being so keen in this work that he was able to lay, by his precept and
example, the foundation of the success of many of the most distinguished surgeons in
this city. None of his predecessors or contemporaries, excepting the late Dr. Willard
Parker, numbered so many private pupils, and it was always gratifying to him that
among them were the ablest students of the college. Although his whole life was
devoted to his profession, it was always a pleasure to come in social relation with him,
as he was possessed of a most responsive mind and an unusual magnetic power. In
his leisure moments, he derived the keenest enjoyment from music, and in his early
life was an excellent pianist. Dr. Sands was a member of The New York Academy
of Medicine, The County Medical Society, The Pathological Society, The Physicians'
Mutual Aid Association, The Society for the Relief of Widows & Orphans of Medical
Men and of The Medical & Surgical Society. He was also connected with The New
York Philharmonic Society. Although his contributions to surgical literature were not
voluminous, they were of great value as detailing the results of a remarkably extensive
practice. Dr. Sands was twice married, his first wife being a Miss Sarah M. Curtis of
Brooklyn, by whom he had four children, two surviving him — Robert Alfred and
Josephine S. His second marriage was to Mrs. Alice Reamey (born Hayden), by
whom he had one son, Henry Hayden, who alone survives him. Dr. Sands outlived
both his wives.
SAMUEL 5TEVENS SANDS, banker, born in 1826, died in New Hamburg,
X. Y., July 24, 1892. His family was one of the earliest and best known in New York
city, several of the name being conspicuous at the time of the American Revolution and
later as merchants and men of affairs. Mr. Sands entered business life at an early age
and having married a daughter of Benjamin Aymar, the shipping merchant, formed a
partnership afterward with Benjamin R. Aymar, his brother-in-law, as S. S. Sands &
Co., and engaged in banking and stock brokerage. For more than forty years he was
the controlling spirit of the house, after 1854 a member of the Stock Exchange, and for
thirty years the principal banker of John Jacob Astor. He shared in the management
of The Colorado Midland, The Milwaukee, Lake Shore & Southern, The Boston & New
York Air Line, and The Indianapolis, Decatur & Springfield Railroads, and The
Lehigh Valley Coal Co., and in all relations displayed perfect integrity, rare judgment
and fine ability, enjoying in a high degree the confidence of those whose affairs were
entrusted to him. He was the father of ten children, of whom eight survived him.
EDWARDS SEWALL SANFORD, born in Medway, Mass., died at the country
home of his son-in-law, N. W. T. Hatch, at Glenholden, near Philadelphia, Sept. 9,
1882, in his sixty-sixth year. His father, a clergyman, belonged to an old New Eng-
land family. In 1842, Mr. Sanford became an agent in New York for Alvin Adams,
of Boston, founder of the express business, and displayed such energy and ability that
Adams & Co. selected him to superintend the extension of their business to Washing-
ton. After this task had been completed, he was sent as general agent to Philadelphia
and soon afterward made general superintendent there. Thereafter, he became one of
572 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
the recognized powers in the express business, and when, July i, 1854, The Adams
Express Co. was organized, with Alvin Adams as president and William B. Dinsmore
as vice president, Mr. Sanford was given a seat in the small board of directors. In
1867, when Mr. Adams died and Mr. Dinsmore succeeded to the presidency, Mr. San-
ford became vice-president, which position he held until his death. At the outbreak
of the Civil War, Mr. Sanford, then at the head of The American Telegraph Co., was
appointed supervisor of military telegraph lines and in this position exercised absolute
censorship over all dispatches. After the absorption of his company by The Western
Union, he became a director of the latter. , He was also a director of The International
Ocean Telegraph Co. and had coal mining interests in Nova Scotia. Mr. Sanford was
a man of remarkable executive ability, circumspect and correct in all his business
relations, and greatly admired for his uprightness of character and kindly disposition.
He was liberal, fond of society and a lover of books.
GEORGE HENRY SARGENT, manufacturer, is a native of Massachusetts but has
long been a resident of New York city. Among the hardware manufacturers and hard-
ware merchants of the country, the name of Sargent has now been prominent and pop-
ular for forty years and reasonably so, because earnest and zealous endeavor, promo-
tion of the welfare of one's country, continuity of purpose and persistent application in
any given line of honest effort, always win attention and are entitled to approval.
Mr. Sargent descends from Puritan stock and traces his line to William Sargent,
lay preacher, who emigrated to Maiden, Mass., in 1638, and to the Denny, Jones and
Baldwin families. He is the son of Col. Joseph Denny Sargent and Mindwell Jones,
his wife, and was born Oct. 29, 1828, in the county of Worcester, Mass., in the town of
Leicester, in the organization of which hamlet early in the last century his ancestors
were prominent and helpful. The descendants of the Puritan pioneers of the family in
the next generation equaled their fathers in brain and brawn and were active and stead-
fast in the affairs which led up to the War of the Revolution, doing duty as soldiers
when the ' ' war was on " and sharing in the honors and glory which came to the ' ' heroes
of '76." Of such ancestors one may reasonably be proud and from such blood should
come, and in the case of Mr. Sargent did come, the sterling qualities of industry, in-
tegrity, frugality and temperance combined with ambition, nervous energy and sagacity.
Mr. Sargent was educated at Leicester Academy and Harvard College, being a
member at Harvard of the somewhat famous class of 1853, having for classmates men
who have become noted in their professional, literary and business callings. Inherit-
ing a strong constitution and remarkable physique and observing ' ' temperance in all
things," he began life under promising auspices and has since accomplished such re-
sults as come to one possessed of an industrious and patient disposition, an active and
well stored mind, persistent application, a genial manner and pleasing address. Re-
moving to New York city in 1853, he joined his brother, Joseph Bradford Sargent, in
the manufacture of hardware. Comparatively little hardware was then produced in
this country, but now the reverse is true, and this assertion can have no illustration
more marked and convincing than the fact that the original shop of the Sargents
in New Britain, Conn., in the fifties, was but a "wart on Olympus" compared with
their present extensive works in New Haven. These latter factories were established
in 1863, and being enlarged from time to time now represent an investment of millions
of dollars and stand as a monumental instance of the progress and growth of American
574
AMERICAS SUCCESSFUL MEN
manufactures during the past forty years. They manufacture a great variety of hard-
ware and disburse large sums of money annually for raw materials and wages.
The business of Sargent & Co. in New York city is now chiefly confined to the sale
of the ever increasing variety of goods made at their New Haven factories, although
they are large distributors at their stores of such articles, produced* by other manufac-
turers, as are requisite for a complete assortment in any line of their own production.
For many years, Mr. Sargent, in partnership with his brothers, Joseph B. and
Edward, was engaged in the manufacture of cards used for carding cotton and wool by
hand, at their factory in Leicester, Mass. , a town noted for more than a century as the
place of origin and continuance of the card making industry. This business was in-
herited from their father, whose name as a careful and painstaking manufacturer, was
well known and highly honored by all dealers in these articles of domestic economy.
Mr. Sargent is a Republican and Unitarian. Close attention to business has kept
him out of any effort for public office. He is a member of the Union League, Harvard
and Hardware clubs and The New England Society, and a director in The Mercantile
National Bank. He was married in 1855 to Sara Shaw, daughter of the Hon. John
H. Shaw, of Nan tucket, Mass.
EDWARD CHARLES SCHAEFER, brewer and banker, born Dec. 16, 1850, is
a son of Frederick Schaefer, especially successful as a brewer. The senior Schaefer,
a native of Wetzlar, Prussia, came to New York in 1838. Edward obtained a public
and private school education and graduated at Bryant & Stratton's Business College in
1868. He then entered a Broadway commercial house, and later, in 1874, the employ-
ment of Messrs. F. & M. Schaefer. Upon the opening of The Germania Bank, he entered
that institution as a clerk, leaving in 1873 and going into business for himself for one
year, since which period he has been continually in the brewing business although yet
connected with The Germania Bank. Of the latter he was elected president, twenty-
three years to the day after his entry in this institution as a clerk. In 1878, The F. &
M. Schaefer Brewing Co. incorporated with a capital of $650,000 and in 1884, Edward
C. Schaefer became its president. Associated with him in the management are Emil,
Rudolph J., George G. (who is treasurer), Frederick and Max Schaefer. This con-
cern was one of the pioneers in introducing lager beer to America. It was established
in 1842 and now carries on a large business. Their brewery at Park avenue, 5ist and
52d streets, attracts the attention of every traveler entering New York from the north-
ward. Mr. Schaefer is president of The Germania Bank and a member of the Lieder-
kranz, Arion, Manhattan, Democratic, and Terrace Bowling clubs.
AUGUSTUS SCHELL, lawyer and financier, a native of Rhinebeck, N. Y., born
Aug. i, 1812, died in New York city, March 27, 1884. Christian Schell, his father, a
merchant of German descent, was during the War of 1812 an officer in a New York
regiment. Augustus Schell's brothers, Richard, dry goods merchant and Wall street
operator, who died in November, 1879, Edward and Robert all rose to prominence.
Graduating from Union College in 1830, Mr. Schell studied law and being admitted to
the bar attained prominence in his profession. Early in life he went into politics, being
chairman of the Tammany General Committee in 1852, and in a race with Horatio
Seymour for a nomination for Governor, losing the prize by two votes only. In 1852,
he became chairman of the Democratic State Committee and was twice re-elected. In
1854, his Tammany associates tendered him the Mayoralty of New York but he de-
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. SC. 575
clined. He rendered active service in the campaign of 1856 and received the appoint-
ment as Collector of the Port of New York, which office he held until the election of
Abraham Lincoln. He was one of those who went upon the bail bond of Jefferson
Davis. After the war, Mr. Schell gave his attention to railroads, becoming a director
of The Harlem Railroad in 1872 and of The Hudson River Railroad in 1874 and an in-
timate friend of Commodore Vanderbilt. The consolidation of The New York Central
& Hudson River system brought him large means and he became a director
successively of The Lake Shore & Michigan Southern, The New York, New Haven &
Hartford, The Chicago & Northwestern, The Union Pacific, and The Canada Southern
Railroads, as well as of The Union Trust Co., The Western Union Telegraph Co., and
The Manhattan Life Insurance Co. He was also a trustee of many philanthropic in-
stitutions. Politics continued to exert a strong fascination upon Mr. Schell. A mem-
ber of the State Constitutional Convention in 1867, he helped reorganize the Tammany
Society in 1871—72, accepting the office of Grand Sachem in 1872 and holding it until
his death. He was chairman of the Democratic National Committee in 1872 and 1876
and a member of the new Constitutional Convention in 1872 In 1877, he was defeated
for the State Senate by Mr. Morrissey and in 1878 for Mayor by Edward Cooper. Mr.
Schell helped organize the Manhattan club in 1865, and was manager 1865-71, presi-
dent 1871-77, and vice president 1878-84. He was also a governor of the St. Nicholas
club. His wife, Anna M., survived him They were married in 1873 and had no
children. Mr. Schell was a man of kindly disposition, easy of approach, calm in
temperament, with many friends. Several public bequests appeared in his will.
WILLIAM HENRY' SCHIEFFELIN, merchant, born Aug. 20, 1836, in New York
city, died in town June 21, 1895. His family traces its ancestry for seven centuries
back to Norlingen, Germany. One branch of the family became conspicuous in
Switzerland as owners of land and Syndics of Geneva. The pioneer in America, Jacob
Schieffelin, sailed from Germany to Philadelphia in 1740 and returned to the father-
land, but his son, Jacob, came to Philadelphia in 1745 and remained in the new world.
Jacob, son of the latter, served on the staff of Gen. Henry Hamilton and won the affec-
tion of a beautiful American girl, whom he married. He settled in New York city in
1780 and here established on Pearl street, after a time, what subsequently became the
famous wholesale drug business of the Schieffelins. His wife was Hannah, daughter
of John Lawrence, land holder of Queens county, and Mr. Schieffelin took John B.
Lawrence, his wife's nephew, into partnership in the drug business. Mr. Schieffelin
wished to own ships as well as sell drugs and a disagreement on this point resulted in a
separation of the partners. After the retirement of Mr. Lawrence, Mr. Schieffelin
carried on business on his own account. In 1813, his son Henry Hamilton Schieffelin
succeeded to the management under the name of H. H. Schieffelin & Co., to be in turn
succeeded, in the '505, by the four sons of the latter, Samuel Bradhurst, Sidney Augustus,
James Lawrence and Bradhurst Schieffelin, as Schieffelin Bro's & Co. In 1849, the
stock and business of Hoadley, Phelps & Co., were acquired by purchase. William H.
Schieffelin was the only son of Samuel B. and Lucretia Hazard Schieffelin. He grew
up in his father's firm and was early admitted to partnership, but enlivened his career
with early exploration and adventure. In 1860, he crossed the Rocky Mountains in
Montana with a party of men, who, being captured by the Indians, came near losing
their lives. In 1862, Mr. Schieffelin went to the front with the 7th N. Y. militia, re-
576 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
ceived a commission while in Baltimore as Major of the ist N. Y. Mounted Rifles, and
served until July, 1863, under General Wool, near Suffolk, Va. , being- often in action.
He then returned to New York in time to aid in suppressing the draft riots and there-
after applied himself to the wholesale drug business of his firm. Since 1854, the house
has occupied a site at the corner of William and Beekman streets. A large laboratory-
has been developed there and the firm make a specialty of synthetic drugs, in which
they have an extended trade. Mr. Schieffelin had been senior partner since 1865.
Originally a Republican and a member of the Union League club, Mr. Schieffelin be-
came a supporter of President Cleveland in 1892. He belonged to the Century and
City clubs and the Loyal Legion. Oct. 15, 1863, he married Mary, daughter of the
Hon. John and Eleanor Jay.
CHARLES A. SCHIEREN, merchant, a native of Rhenish Prussia, was born in
1842 and came to this country with his parents in 1856. The future Mayor of Brook-
lyn took his place behind the counter of his father's cigar and tobacco store on Atlantic
avenue in that city, when old enough, and, in 1864, became clerk for Philip S. Pasquay,
manufacturer of leather belting in New York. In 1868, with a capital of only $2,000,
he started a leather belting and tanning business of his own and has been active in that
trade ever since. He has invented many improvements upon the old style of leather
belts. In 1882, Jacob R. Stine and Fred A. M. Burrell, two faithful employe's, became
his partners, the former retiring in 1887. The firm are known as Charles A. Schieren
& Co., and under skillful management have extended their operations widely and now
have branch houses in Philadelphia, Boston and Chicago, with large tanneries both in
Brooklyn and in Adamsburg, Pa., and Bristol, Tenn. Mr. Schieren is an authority
upon belting and has written a number of excellent essays on the subject for publica-
tion. He is vice-president of The Hide & Leather National Bank and a member of
the Commonwealth and Hide & Leather clubs of this city and the Union League and
Hamilton clubs of Brooklyn and the Chamber of Commerce. Always active in
affairs in Brooklyn, especially in the leading charities and politics, the Young Men's
Republican Club, the erection of the Beecher and Stranahan statues, etc., he was elected
in 1893 Mayor of Brooklyn by a combination of the Republicans and reformers.
JACOB HENRY SCHIFF, banker, was born of German Hebrew ancestry in Frank-
fort on the Main, in 1847. His father was a successful merchant. Jacob went to
school in Frankfort and at the age of eighteen came to the United States, where, at an
early age, he associated himself with the brokerage firm of Budge, Schiff & Co. Few
of his countrymen have made their mark more rapidly than he in this bustling city.
In 1875, ne became a member of the private banking house of Kuhn, Loeb & Co.,
which gave wide scope for the exercise of his abilities. This house has good connec-
tions abroad and has placed large issues of government bonds and investment securities
among European and home investors. Since 1885, Mr. Schiff has been the head of the
house. He has been prominent in The New York, Lake Erie & Western and The
Louisville & Nashville Railroads, and is at present a director of The Great Northern
Railroad, The Equitable Life Assurance Society, The Bond & Mortgage Guarantee
Co., and a large holder of real estate in New York city. He is also president of the
Montefiore Home for Chronic Invalids, treasurer of The New York Free Circulating
Library, a trustee of Barnard College and numerous philanthropic institutions and a
member of the Chamber of Commerce and the Committee of Seventy (1894-95) as well
THE CITY OK NEW YORK. SC. 577
as of the City, Reform, Lawyers' and Liederkranz clubs. With praiseworthy public
spirit, he contributes to the support of various museums and public undertakings
and has served for a number of years on the Board of Education. In 1875, he married
Theresa, daughter of Solomon Loeb, his senior partner, and has two children, a son and
a daughter.
GRANT BARNEY SCHLEY, banker, born in Chapinsville, N. Y., Feb. 25, 1845,
conies from Dutch ancestry and te a son of Evander Schley. a retired merchant of dry
goods and wool of Canandaigua, N. Y. From the academy of Canandaigua, the future
banker went to Syracuse, N. Y., in 1861, and secured a place at $30 a month in the
express office of Wells, Butterfield & Co. A year and a half later, the firm sent him
to its office in Suspension Bridge. Unusually bright, intelligent and quick in compre-
hension for a young man and faithful in performance of his duty, he was soon promoted
to a salary of §30 a week.
In 1866, The American Express Co. was formed by the consolidation of a number
of companies, among them Wells, Butterfield & Co., and four years later, Mr. Schley
was transferred to the consolidated company's money department in its head office in
Xe\v York. In 1874, he retired from the service of the express company to accept a
position with The First National Bank of New York, where he remained six years.
When he left the bank, he was in charge of its foreign exchange department. That
department was abolished soon after his retirement.
In 1880, Mr. Schley was elected a member of the New York Stock Exchange, and
with Ernest Groesbeck, another member, formed the firm of Groesbeck & Schley for
the transaction of a general stock brokerage and banking business. The new firm
soon became prominent on the Stock Exchange. In 1885, Moore & Schley succeeded
to the business, the senior partner being John G. Moore. The house has enjoyed an
exceedingly successful career, and is now one of the wealthiest and most active of those
represented on the Stock Exchange. The firm's customers are men of large means,
and the house has many business connections of the first importance and has more than
once been entrusted with the conduct of enormous transactions and delicate negotia-
tions, involving the control and financing of corporations. In all these matters, as
well as in the management of the large business of the firm, with its connections in
Washington, Boston, Philadelphia, Chicago and other commercial centers, Mr. Schley's
quick, yet invariably sound judgment and his forcefulness, combined with great patience
and unfailing good humor, to say nothing of his marvellous capacity for work, have
been of inestimable value to his principals and have contributed largely to the fortunes
accumulated by himself and his associates.
Mr. Schley is a member of several of the principal clubs of New York, including
the Manhattan, Union League, New York, Riding, Lotos, New York Athletic, New
York Yacht and Vaudeville.
In 1879, Mr. Schley married Miss Elizabeth Baker, daughter of George E. Baker,
who at one time was private secretary to William H. Seward. Mrs. Schley is a sister of
George F. Baker, president of The First National Bank of New York. The home of
the family is a handsome country seat at Far Hills, N. J. Mr. Schley also has a town
house in Madison avenue.
FRANCIS P. SCHOALS, banker, born in Lancaster, Pa., died in New York city,
Oct. ii, 1881, in his eighty-first year. Having learned the bookbinder's trade, he came
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. SC. 579
to New York in 1882 and engaged in the business here with success. The American
Bible Society was one of his profitable patrons. About 1850, he retired with a comfort-
able fortune, and then devoted himself to real estate investments and to The Broad-
way Savings Institution, with which he had been connected since organization, serving
as president without compensation. He was a director and large stockholder of The
National Broadway Bank and of several insurance companies and a trustee of several
charitable and educational institutions. A man of unimpeachable integrity, keen in
judgment and careful in investment, he was conspicuous also for benevolence and gained
the general regard of the community. His wife, Ellen B., survived him, but they had
no children. Under the will of Mr. Schoals, the public institutions and charities of the
Presbyterian Church were enriched by$285,ooo. He gave $25,000 each to The Ameri-
can Tract Society, The American Home Missionary Society, and The American Bible
Society, and $5 0,000 each for home and foreign missions.
ABRAHAM SCHOLLE, merchant, a native of Bavaria, born in 1817, died in New
York city, March 15, 1880. Having learned the trade of a weaver, he emigrated to
America in 1839. Finding no occupation in his trade and being a born merchant, he
invested the little money he had in small wares, which he peddled among families in
the suburbs of the city. When, in 1847, he had accumulated sufficient money, he
opened a small dry goods store on Division street, taking his brother William into part-
nership shortly afterward under the name of Scholle Bro's. The keen, shrewd, push-
ing ways of the brothers gained for them a good trade, and in 1850, in need of better
accommodations, they moved to a store on the Bowery. In 1857, they went into the
clothing trade in John street. A younger brother, Jacob, came into the firm the same
year, and a branch house was opened in California. The firm prospered rapidly, and
Mr. Scholle's business and investments brought him a fortune. In 1863, he retired. He
was a man of strict probity and a leading member of the Temple Emanu-El, and bore
a high reputation among business men. His wife, Babette, and four children, Matilda,
Samuel, Charles and Flora Scholle survived him.
FREDERICK A. SCHROEDER, merchant, born in Trier, Prussia, March 19, 1833,
is the son of Michael and Salome Abel Schroeder, the former a civil engineer and sur-
veyor of taxes. The family came to this country in 1848 in consequence of political
troubles in Germany and settled in Brooklyn. Frederick began life as a cigar maker,,
worked early and late to better his condition, and fared so well that, at the age of nine-
, teen years, he started a cigar factory on Norfolk street in this city, and carried it on
subsequently in Cortlandt street, corner of Greenwich, and for twenty-nine years at No.
178 Water street. The panic of 1857 interrupted his prosperity, but he struggled
through and by hard work and strict economy met his liabilities and established a large
business. In 1863, he entered into partnership with Isidore M. Bon, late president of
;The Wallabout Bank, and engaged in the importation of leaf tobacco, transacting a
-thriving and lucrative business for many years. Mr. Bon withdrew in 1893, since which
time the partners of Mr. Schroeder have been his son, Edwin A. Schroeder, and his
;son-in-law, Frank M. Arguimbau, the firm being Schroeder & Bon. In 1867, when The
Germania Savings Bank of Brooklyn was founded, Mr. Schroeder took the presidency
nd yet retains that position. In 1870, he was elected Comptroller of Brooklyn by the
Republicans and in that office introduced simpler and improved methods of book-
teeping, greatly to the public welfare. His high character, experience and public
S8°
AMERICA S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
spirit led to his election as Mayor of Brooklyn in 1875. In 1878, he was
elected to the State Senate In 1854, Mr. Schroeder married Mary Jane,
daughter of John Rusher, and has seven children living — Edwin A. ; Harriet Louise,
who married Frank M. Arguimbau; Leonore, married to W. A. H. Stafford of
New York; Mary Jane, married to William T. Anderson of Brooklyn; Adelaide,
married to Knowlton Ames of Chicago, and two unmarried daughters, Alice and
Frances. Mr. Schroeder has traveled much with his family and is an unusually well-;
informed man. He belongs to the Riding & Driving club, The Institute of Arts and
Sciences, and The Long Island Historical Society.
JACKSON 5. SCHULTZ, merchant, born in Hyde Park, Dutchess county^
Nov. 9, 1815, the son of a farmer, died at No. 303 East i?th street in this city, March
i, 1891. In 1824, his father, Abraham I. Schultz, went out into the woods at Middle-
town, Delaware county, and built the Lafayette tannery and there the son toiled fo:
three years to learn the trade. In 1827, the lad went to New York to enter the sto
of Smith & Schultz, his father's firm. No leather came to New York in the winter
months, and this enabled the youth to attend Gould Brown's Academy for six seasons|
He then spent two years in Waterville College in Maine, returned to Smith, Schults
& Co. in 1836, and when, in 1837, the firm failed, he became the assignee. He settled
all debts at about 98 cents on the dollar. In 1838, with $5.000 which he had saved,
he joined Edmund M. Young, formerly bookkeeper for Smith & Schultz, who had
borrowed $3,000 for the purpose, and established the leather and tanning firm of
Young & Schultz. Union sole leather originated with Mr. Schultz. His combination
of hemlock and oak bark, enough of the latter being used to give the leather a beau-
tiful color, proved a happy conception and laid the foundation of the fortunes of
the house, of which for forty-seven years Mr. Schultz was the master spirit. In
1861, John C. South wick was admitted to Young, Schultz & Co, and warehouses were
opened at No. in Cliff street. After Mr. Young's death in 1864, Theodore Schultz
joined the firm, which became known as Schultz, South wick & Co. Through all
changes, the house kept extending its btisiness to all parts of the world under the
guiding genius of Mr. Schultz. In May, 1882, Mr. Schultz established the business of
extracting tannin from hemlock bark at Daguscahonda, Pa. Oct. 17, 1883, he retired
from business. His son, Louis H., succeeded him, and the firm took the name of
Schultz, Innes & Co. Mr. Schultz was a man of massive build, tall and well formed. He
wore no beard. He was unselfish, public spirited and always highly respected. During
the Civil War, he performed valuable work in promoting the cause of the Union, giving
liberally from his means and being active in organizing two negro regiments, the
2oth and 26th. In March, 1866, he was appointed by the Governor a Sanitary Com-
missioner for the Metropolitan Police District, was president of the Board, and later
became a member of the Committee of Seventy which overthrew the Tweed Ring.
Originally a Democrat, he became a Republican later and was for many years a
member of the Union League club, at one time its president, and was also a member
of the Reform club. While a Commissioner to the Vienna International Exposition in
1873, Mr- Schultz upheld the dignity of his country with sincere earnestness and
refused to dine with the Emperor on one occasion, 'because the Emperor would not
receive Mr. Schultz's official associate, a Hebrew. He was married twice, and his
second wife, Mary F., and three children survived him, the latter being- Louis H.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. SC. 581
Schultz, Kate C., wife of E. W. Richardson, and Gertrude, wife of William K. Baxter.
QUSTAV SCHWAB, merchant, born in Stuttgart, Germany, Nov. 23, 1822, who
died at his home near Morris Heights, Aug. 21, 1888, came from a family, well known
both in America and Germany for their attainments in science and literature. His
grandfather, John Christopher Schwab, was called by Frederick the Great to be
a member of the Royal Academy of Sciences and professor in the Military School at
Berlin, but declined, preferring to remain professor of philosophy and mathematics in
Stuttgart. The father of Mr. Schwab was well known to Germans as a writer of prose
and verse and the center of a circle of literary men. At the age of seventeen, young
Mr. Schwab entered the counting house of H. H. Meier & Co., merchants of Bremen.
In 1844, became to New York to enter the employment of Oelrichs & Kruger, who
were closely connected with the German firm, and about five years later, established
himself in business in the firm of Wichelhausen, Recknagel& Schwab. In 1859, he en-
tered as a partner in Oelrichs & Co., successors of Oelrichs & Kruger, who soon after-
ward became agents of the North German Lloyd Steamship line. The original suc-
cess of that company in this country was largely due to Mr. Schwab, who was an able,
active and competent man. While business engaged the most of his attention, he
found time, nevertheless, to interest himself in The German Hospital and other phil-
anthropic works. He was a member of the Chamber of Commerce, at one time Com-
missioner of Education, one of the managers of the Produce Exchange and a trustee
of its gratuity fund, and a director of The Central Trust Co., The Washington Life In-
surance Co., and The Orient Mutual Insurance Co , and the oldest director and vice
president of The Merchants' National Bank, and warden of St. James' Protestant Epis-
copal Church in Fordham. In 1850, he married Catherine Elizabeth, daughter of the
late L. H. von Post, of New York, who with a large family survived him.
ALFRED BOWNE SCOTT, merchant, born Feb. i, 1846, in Orange county, N. Y.,
is a son of Thomas B. Scott, a farmer, and descends from English ancestry. Begin-
ning 1ife as a farmer's boy and gaining his education in country schools near his home,
he came to New York in 1867 at the age of twenty-one to seek his fortune. In 1873,
he established the firm of Scott & Bowne, druggists and chemists. Their means were
small, not exceeding $1,000, but after several years of experiment and labor, they
made a commercial success of an agreeable preparation of cod liver oil, known as
Scott's Emulsion, and thereafter rose rapidly to prominence. They have since added
, to their catalogue several other medicinal preparations and have copyrighted a number
of valuable trade marks. The sale of their preparations now extends virtually to
every part of the civilized world. The London business finally became so large, that,
in 1892, their branch house there was incorporated with a capital of $500,000. They
have factories in London, Paris. Barcelona, Oporto, and Milan. Scott & Bowne now
consume about one-half of all the medicinal cod liver oil, imported from Norway.
The success of their preparations is due to their excellence and to persistent, ingenious
and lavish advertising. It is said that they have spent over half a million a year, for
this purpose alone. The firm have recently completed a building at the corner of Rose
and Pearl streets, at an expense of about $600,000, and now occupy the premises with
their laboratory and sales rooms. Mr. Scott is a member of the Colonial club and a
supporter of The Metropolitan Museum of Art. In 1873, he married Ella, daughter
of A. D. Puffer, of Boston, and they have two children, Alice and Alfred. Mr. Scott
I
I
582 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
has recently retired from the active management of the firm and taken up his residence
abroad, leaving its affairs entirely under the control of his partner, Samuel W. Bowne.
CHARLES SCRIBNER, publisher and bookseller, born in New York city in 1821,
died at Luzerne, Switzerland, Aug. 26, 1871. His grandfather was a Congregational
minister and a graduate of Yale College, and his father, Uriah R. Scribner, a prosper-
ous merchant of this city. After graduating from Princeton College in 1840, Mr. Scrib-
ner spent three years in the sttidy of law. Owing to delicate health, he reluctantly gave
up the profession and, in 1846, formed a partnership with Isaac D. Baker for the publi-
cation of books. The firm of Baker & Scribner occupied a store on the site of the old
Brick Church property, where The Times office now stands. Mr. Baker died in 1850,
and Mr. Scribner carried on the business alone until 1857. when he purchased the Eng-
lish importing trade of Banks, Merwin & Co. , taking in Charles Wclford as a partner.
His sales steadily increased until the business became one of the largest in the country.
Under the name of Charles Scribner & Co. , the firm engaged largely in the publication
of American books, while as Scribner, Welford & Co. , they ranked as the chief house
importing the productions of the English press. In 1865, Mr. Scribner began the pub-
lication of a monthly magazine entitled Hours at Home, which in 1870 was merged into
the well-known Scribner 's Monthly, the latter being founded by Scribner & Co. , a stock
company in which Dr. J. G. Holland and Roswell Smith were also interested. The
death of Mr. Scribner in 1871 came as a shock to hundreds of literary and business
men, who had learned to honor him for his intelligence, uprightness and sympathetic
temperament. In 1848, he married Emma C., daughter of the Hon. John I. Blair, of
New Jersey. To them were born John Blair Scribner; Emma L., who married Walter
C. Lamed; Charles and Arthur H. Scribner, and Isabella, now Mrs. Carter H. Fitz-
Hugh.
GEORGE J. SEABURY, manufacturing chemist and pharmacist, born Nov. 10,
1844, was reared and educated in New York city. His ancestors were of the revolu-
tionary class, which has contributed its share to human progress and modern
civilization.
After graduating from the public schools, the young man studied medicine,
chemistry and pharmacy. When the Civil War threatened the life of the nation, he
enlisted in 1861, served in the New York Volunteers in several positions a^id was twice
wounded in the Peninsular campaign at the battles of Games' Mills and Malvern Hill.
After the war, he continued his studies at home and abroad, and became in the course
of a few years the pioneer of an original American industry, founding the firm of
Seabury & Johnson, of which he is president, and which is known to-day throughout
the world as manufacturers of medical, surgical and antiseptic materials of exception-
ally excellent quality.
Mr. Seabury will be known in history as the father and organizer of his branch of
pharmaceutical chemistry, chiefly for his original work, inventions and improvements
on old methods. The great success achieved by him has made his name familiar to
every physician, surgeon and druggist throughout the world. His firm have invariably
received the highest awards over all American and European competitors, notably in
Paris, London, Vienna, Philadelphia, New York, Chicago, Liverpool, Melbourne,
Montreal and at many other world's exhibitions, forty-nine gold medals and special
diplomas having thus far been awarded. The Seabury pharmacal laboratories are
TH! •'H, SE. 583
and better equipped n their class. In 1885, Mr. Seabury
e the sole owner of the v 1 trade marks of the firm. He also introduced
country the lithographing 'or commercial purposes and organized the
arm of The Mersereau Manufacturing Co. in that specialty, of which he is
an aggressive Republican, and a member of the Republican City and State
lubs, and was one of the (."'i:i»h;iitt-e of Thirty which re-organized the k .: ,an
'•••Q city of New Y irk into .^ s-.-Iii- He h»5 been
.rate to National, State and County conventions and is a member of a score of
ic, educational and benevolent societies, having held every position within '
>m committeemaa to president. He was president of The Drug, Chemical a: ,-i
Organization during the centennial celebration and a vui • -.-.-
ican Business Men's Association, which has parade-:! :n :- ••*• vc<
3.000 strong.
The demoralized r«?i^:;,>ns betwen the phar r-u !>,':. «u»?
.trmacist led Mr in the creau.ra »«:' ,-h ^r:
i nearly eve- in the T it to-day no person can p -aft ice \\-
graduated ir r passed an examination before a U-
:ed board of dr.. been made an honorary member
f many State /e of Pharmacy and
resident of The !\ >r.. He is a voluminous and
^e writer on economic, t :ions and problems and
•n reputation as an a ind product:' • '.::".• rests.
il forcible and coi '.-n by him, notably: ''The
Bugbear," " Pr< Tariff is Not a Tax," "How a
live Tariff Prot r and V rner, and Cheapens the Cost of
lome Products to and "L i)estroysour Manufactures and
c<js Fraud anc . -.ti-.'ns by Importers," as well as many articles on
'os.
Reabury is a sharpAooMr and enthusiastic rifleman, and was honorary secre-
irr and a director of The- National Rinc Association when Generals Grant and Han-
ock were its presidents. He was i: in bringing rifle practice in nal
taard to its present state of perfection, and took great interest in the Creedi.
He is a member of t'.i- New York Athletic club and of the famoi;>
rtiard " of New York city.
th all of his devotion to practical affairs, he is nevertheless gifted with the attri-
•T" the poet and has worshipped the in use in an "Ode to Black Bass," in two
. to the delight of every true disciple of Tsaak Walton. His affection for pisca-
•leasures has called forth many meritorious articles on the protection, behavior
•d h./'nt> ..f game fish.
^ life thus far has been an unusually busy one. overflowing with energy and
He is popular, liberal in every direction, enthusiastic in art and r.
riaracter, one of the successful men of affairs, whose "word is as good
. a^.^ressive in a good cause, and an oraU*r. Summed up, he represents
• Yorker, and one of the charavteri-tx products of self-made metro-
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. SE. 583
larger and better equipped than any others known in their class. In 1885, Mr. Seabury
became the sole owner of the works and trade marks of the firm. He also introduced
in this country the lithographing on tin for commercial purposes and organized the
successful firm of The Mersereau Manufacturing Co. in that specialty, of which he is
president.
He is an aggressive Republican, and a member of the Republican City and State
clubs, and was one of the Committee of Thirty which re-organized the Republican
party in the city of New York into a solid phalanx by election districts. He has been
a delegate to National, State and County conventions and is a member of a score of
scientific, educational and benevolent societies, having held every position within their
gift from committeeman to president. He was president of The Drug, Chemical and
Paint Organization during the centennial celebration and a vice president of the
Republican Business Men's Association, which has paraded in Presidential years over
60,000 strong.
The demoralized relations betwen the pharmacist and the public and the public and
the pharmacist led Mr. Seabury into labors, which resulted in the creation of pharmacy
laws in nearly every State in the Union, so that to-day no person can practice unless
he has graduated from a college of pharmacy or passed an examination before a legally
appointed board of druggists For this service, he has been made an honorary member
of many State societies. He is a member of the New York College of Pharmacy and
president of The New York State Pharmaceutical Association. He is a voluminous and
versatile writer on economic, trade, political and public questions and problems and
has won reputation as an author on the protection of industrial and productive interests.
Several forcible and convincing pamphlets have been written by him, notably: "The
Tariff Bugbear," "Prosperity versus Poverty," "The Tariff is Not a Tax," "How a
Protective Tariff Protects the Farmer and Wage Earner, and Cheapens the Cost of
Home Products to the Consumer," and "Low Tariff Destroys our Manufactures and
Introduces Fraud and Undervaluations by Importers," as well as many articles on
allied topics.
Mr. Seabury is a sharpshooter and enthusiastic rifleman, and was honorary secre-
tary and a director of The National Rifle Association when Generals Grant and Han-
cock were its presidents. He was instrumental in bringing rifle practice in the National
Guard to its present state of perfection, and took great interest in the Creedmoor
range. He is a member of the New York Athletic club and of the famous "Old
Guard " of New York city.
With all of his devotion to practical affairs, he is nevertheless gifted with the attri-
butes of the poet and has worshipped the muse in an "Ode to Black Bass," in two
cantos, to the delight of every true disciple of Isaak Walton. His affection for pisca-
torial pleasures has called forth many meritorious articles on the protection, behavior
and habits of game fish.
His life thus far has been an unusually busy one, overflowing with energy and
vivacity. He is popular, liberal in every direction, enthusiastic in art and music, of
sterling character, one of the successful men of affairs, whose "word is as good
as his bond," aggressive in a good cause, and an orator. Summed up, he represents
a typical New Yorker, and one of the characteristic products of self-made metro-
politan life.
584 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
CLARENCE WALKER SEAMANS, manufacturer, the son of Abner Clark Sea-
mans, also a manufacturer, was born in Ilion, N. Y., June 5, 1854. He attended school
in his native town until the age of fifteen, and then secured employment with The
Remington Arms Co. , the principal industry of the village and then the main source
of its prosperity. He has since attained celebrity in the firm of Wyckoff, Seamans &
Benedict, formed in 1882 to manage the sale of the Remington typewriter. When, in
1886, his associates and he incorporated under the old title, Mr. Seamans became
treasurer and later general manager of the concern. Since the recent death of Mr.
Wyckoff, senior partner in the old firm and president of the incorporated company,
Mr. Seamans and Mr. Benedict have been the principal managers of the business
The story of the house is told more fully elsewhere in these pages.
JOSEPH SEIDENBERQ, one of the leading manufacturers of cigars in the United
States and pioneer of the industry in Key West, Fla. , originated in the northern part
of the Grand Duchy of Baden, Germany, in the little town of Schwetzingen, where he
was born, Nov 2, 1832. His early youth was .spent quietly in the fatherland, but in
the early forties he crossed the Atlantic ocean, located in New York city, and soon found
occupation here in the cigar business. To this industry, he has applied himself ever
since and with marked success, and he now occupies a strong position in the front rank
of those energetic sons of old Germany, who have made New York city their home.
Mr. Seidenberg began life with a good store of physical health, mental energy,
and common sense. Feeling a very strong desire to make a good place for himself in
the business world, he soon created by diligent enterprise an excellent trade in cigars,
imported them in considerable quantity from Germany, soon became able to extend his
enterprise to other channels, and finally became extensively interested in the industry
in Florida.
Through his relations with the sponge fishing industry on the Florida coast and
the shipment of groceries to the then small island city of Key West, his attention was
at length attracted to the quality of the cigars, which were being made upon, a small
scale from Cuban tobacco in Key West.
Mr. Seidenberg was an excellent judge of a good cigar, and when, after a
careful study of the subject, he realized the fact that Key West possessed special
advantages for the manufacture of Cuban tobacco, he established upon the island, in
1867, its first regular cigar factory. It may be said here that this bold venture was
regarded with curiosity and interest by the whole tobacco trade of the country, and the
example of Mr. Seidenberg, being promptly followed by other manufacturers, led in
a few years to the development of a great cigar making industry in Key West. Before
that time, the population of Thompson's Island, upon which the city is located, had
derived their subsistence chiefly from the sponge and coral industries and the gathering
of other products of the sea. A new and valuable industry was now established among
them, which came in time to give employment to more than 6,000 operatives and
sustain perhaps half of the residents of the city of Key West.
At first, Mr. Seidenberg spent a great deal of his time in Key West in personal
supervision of the factory and organization and management of its operations. The
sale of his productions was carried on wholly by the firm of Seidenberg & Co.,
in New York city. The energy, skill and good judgment of the head of the
firm made the new enterprise prosper exceedingly, and Seidenberg & Co. rapidly rose
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. SE. 587
liberally to the charities maintained by the people of his faith. Well known and liked
in social, club, charitable and business circles, he left many friends. His family con-
sisted of his wife, Henrietta, daughter of A. Hellman, and six children, David Theodore,
Max Henry, Joseph Albert, Frances Alice, Emma and Madeline.
JOSEPH SELIQMAN, founder of the Seligman banking house, born in Baiersdorf,
Bavaria, Nov. 19, 1819, died in New Orleans, La., April 25, 1880. A graduate of the
University at Erlangen, he came to this country in 1838, the pioneer of his family.
Finding first a place as private secretary with Asa Packer, who was then entering upon
his career as a contractor at Neshquehoning, Pa. , he became later cashier of a small
bank owned by Mr. Packer. When of age, he embarked in mercantile business
in Greensborough, Ala. As soon as he had the means, he generously sent home for
three of his brothers, whom he urged to come to America. Others came later. Jesse
and Henry settled in Watertown, N. Y., Joseph remaining in the South. In 1848. the
brothers all gave up their business in small cities, and opened an importing clothing
house in New York city, and after the Civil War established the banking house of J. &W.
Seligman & Co., which soon became famous. Joseph was the head and inspiring genius
of this enterprise. In 1872, he went to San Francisco, and for a time conducted a
branch office, which subsequently united with The Anglo-Californian Bank. As the
counsellor and leader of the brothers and the founder of their great banking house, Mr.
Seligman illustrated many phases of personal character which excited admiration. He
was a director of The St. Louis & San Francisco Railroad, The Equitable Life Assur-
ance Society, The Real Estate Trust Co., The German American Bank, The Shoe &
Leather Bank, and The Home Fire Insurance Co. Generous in charity, he founded
the Hebrew Orphan Asylum, gave §70,000 to The Society of Ethical Culture, and pro-
moted industrial schools and kindergartens, and was a genial, refined and courteous man.
At one time, vice president of the Union League club, he also joined the Harmonie
club as a member. He was married in 1848, and to him were born David J., George
W., Isaac N., Edwin R. , and Alfred L. Seligman; Frances, wife of Theodore Hell-
man, of New Orleans; Helen, wife of E. Spiegelberg, of New York; Sophia, wife of
M. Walter, of New York; and Isabella, wife of Ph. Lilienthal, of San Francisco.
ISRAEL SHELDON, merchant, born March 22,^ 1797, originated in Pawtucket,
R. I., and died in Orange, N. J., Sept. 23, 1884. The descendant of an old and patriotic
family, he graduated from the academy in Woodstock, Conn., and entered mercantile
life first in Providence and then in Wilmington, N. C , as clerk for S. & A. B. Arnold,
shipping merchants. Energy, good sense and honesty secured for him speedy recogni-
tion, and caused him to be sent while young to the West Indies as supercargo of a pro-
vision ship. Trading expeditions to South American countries led to exciting adven-
tures, owing to local revolutions He was once taken prisoner. Returning to North
Carolina, he made his name there a synonym for honesty, sagacity and energy. Dur-
ing eight years, he was clerk of the court in Hyde county, N. C., and in 1834, emi-
grated to Alabama, and engaged in business, with success. The outbreak of the Civil
War sent him North and he lost much of his property in consequence. In New York,
he resumed business with characteristic energy and his knowledge of the cotton market
and the value of corporate shares enabled him to gain a second fortune. He was a large
operator in Western lands and gas stocks. Mr. Sheldon was married several times.
He had no son. Four daughters were born to him, Mrs. Robert W. Aborn, who died
588 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
in 1860; Mrs. Woolsey R. Hopkins, Mrs. William M. Franklin, and Georgianna E.,
wife of John S. Tilney.
JAMES OWEN SHELDON, merchant, banker and farmer, retired, descends from
an old and excellent family of the State of Connecticut, planted in the beautiful village
of Windsor in the early days by a lineal descendant of Archbishop Sheldon, founder of
the Sheldonian Theatre at Oxford, England. He was born in Windsor, June 25, 1823.
During early youth, he studied the text books of the period first in the schools of Wind-
sor and Suffield, Conn., and later in New York city, to which place his father, James
Sheldon, a merchant, had removed to enter business life. The senior Sheldon was
active in affairs here and well known to all the older generation of merchants.
The best opportunities of that time were afforded by mercantile life in New York
city, and Mr. Sheldon entered upon a practical career and received his first instruction
in business principles as clerk in a wholesale dry goods house, with which he remained
until the age of twenty-one.
Connecticut has been frequently called the " land of steady habits," but this pithy
phrase does not entirely indicate why it was that, during the period in which the
subject of this sketch made his entrance into affairs, there came forth from the
ranks of the Connecticut men, who came to New York city in such large numbers, so
many merchants, who, during their active and useful lives, became conspicuous for
success and the qualities which ennoble human nature. Steady habits are good, but
that which promoted them was the character of the old American element in Connecti-
cut, its intelligence and religious earnestness, the sound home training the people gave
their sons and the spirit which led them to fasten the minds of the young upon mental,
moral and physical excellence, as of far more importance than wealth. During the
first half of the present century, a throng of young and capable men came to New York
from Connecticut, among them Edwin D. Morgan, the Meads, the Hoyts, Junius S.
Morgan, and others, who became conspicuous for their character, energy and position.
Mr. Sheldon began in the same modest way as did the other sons of his native State,
and, in the same short time, displayed the soundness of his training, the vigor of his
mind and body, and the perfect probity of his character.
At the age of twenty-one, Mr. Sheldon entered mercantile life on his own account
as member of a wholesale grocery firm, and succeeded so well that, five years later, he
became a banker and commission merchant. In this field, also, he conducted his
business with energy, skill and profit, and was rapidly rising into prominence, when,
in 1855, illness in his family compelled him to give up his residence in New York
city and retire to a rural home in the central part of the State.
In the year named, he purchased the celebrated White Spring farm near Geneva,
N. Y., upon which he dwelt for sixteen years. Here, he devoted himself to the improve-
ment of his property and the breeding of Short Horn cattle from his own importations
and from purchases from other American herds. About 1856, he bought the bull, Grand
Duke of Oxford, from Lord Ducie of England, who owned the finest herd of Short
Horns then existing, and in 1867 Mr. Sheldon acquired for $42,300 about forty animals
from Samuel Thorne of Thornedale, N. Y., whose herd also was derived from that of
Lord Ducie. Mr. Sheldon purchased other Short Horn cattle from Lewis G. Morris.
He was very successful in the business part of this enterprise and accomplished a great
deal for the improvement of the breed of cattle in this country. His splendid herd of
59° AMERICA S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
Short Horns gained a world wide reputation. The sales made therefrom are historic
and should be referred to.
Mr. Sheldon sold nine sound and excellent young heifers and bulls from the herd
of Mr. Thome to go to England for from $2,000 to $3,000 each, and, in 1867, to English
buyers the young bull, 3d Duke of Geneva, for $2,750, the white heifer, 7th Duchess
of Geneva, for $3,500, and six Oxford heifers at an average of $2,290 each. Owing
to the heavy mortality among English Short Horns during this period, the stock upon
Mr. Sheldon's farm suddenly attained great value. Breeders in the British Isles looked
to his farm as the source upon which they could recruit their own stocks. In 1870,
he sold the roan bull calf, 8th Duke of Geneva, for $4,000, and two heifers, Duchesses
of Geneva, for $2,500 each in gold coin, gold being then at a premium of 40 per cent.
These large prices were for the cattle delivered on board the ship in New York harbor.
Two other animals of Mr. Sheldon's breeding were sold at auction to go to England,
one for $40,600 and the other for $35,000, while several brought from $20.000 to
$30,000 each. Late in 1870, the entire herd was bought by a firm at New York
Mills, Oneida county, at an average of about $1,000 each for eighty head.
While opportunities so profitable as that which made Mr. Sheldon's farm historic
do not often come to American farmers, yet the story here narrated should remind them
that he who works his farm with brains is likely to attain the best results.
While a resident at Geneva, Mr. Sheldon took an active part in the management
of the State Agricultural College and was for several years one of its trustees. He
also devoted considerable time to the management of the State Agricultural Society,
being a vice president and a member of the executive committee for some time and in
1864 accepting election as president of the society. The farming interests of the State
were fortunate in enlisting the interest of a man so capable and of such extended
experience in affairs.
In 1870, having parted with his herd of Short Horns, Mr. Sheldon sold the White
Spring farm, constrained so to do by the health of his family, and spent several years
thereafter in Europe.
In 1878, he returned and made his home in New York city, where he has since
resided. While not now engaged in active business, he is sufficiently occupied with
corporate enterprises and is a trustee of The Manhattan Trust Co. and The Kings
County Elevated Railroad, in which he has investments. He is too vigorous a man
to remain idle and devotes much time to public spirited work and is a governor of The
New York Hospital and The Bloomingdale Asylum, trustee of the Institution for the
Instruction of the Deaf and Dumb and The Protestant Half Orphan Asylum and the
promoter of other philanthropic enterprises. Strong and sturdy in frame, a gentleman
of courtly demeanor and spotless character, his mind stored with entertaining informa-
tion, and a member of the Union League and Down Town clubs and New England So-
ciety, he enjoys the friendship and respect of a large circle of cultivated acquaintances.
ELLIOTT FITCH SHEPARD, lawyer and publisher, born in Jamestown. N. Y.,
July 25, 1833, died in New York city, March 24, 1893. He came from old American
stock, and was a grandson of Theodore May, a surgeon in the American Revolution,
and son of Fitch Shepard, who rose to be cashier of The Jamestown National Bank and
president of The National Bank Note Co. of New York city. Mr. Shepard graduated
from the University of the City of New York in 1855, studied law, and being admitted to
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. SH. 591
practice in 1858, devoted himself to his profession. During the Civil War, he was
appointed an aid upon the staff of Gov. Edwin D. Morgan and given charge of the
recruiting station in Elmira, N. Y. While Colonel Shepard held this position, 40,000
men were enrolled and sent to the front. He presented a flag to the 5ist New York
Vols., which took the name of the Shepard Rifles. Declining a commission as Brigadier
General tendered by President Lincoln, he spent much time in recruiting for the gth '
Army Corps, and aided in securing laws permitting soldiers to vote in the field and the
allotment of their pay to their families. He also promoted the great Fair in New York
city, which earned $1,300,000 for the Sanitary Commission. After the War, he prac-
ticed mercantile and municipal law, and with E. B Shafer codified the city ordinances,
their version going into effect Jan. i, 1881. In his latter years, Colonel Shepard was
known as an editor. He bought The Mail and Express, March 26, 1888, from Cyrus
W. Field." The management of this Republican journal excited his enthusiastic inter-
est, and he was its real as well as nominal head. It was he who introduced the idea
of printing a text from Scripture every day upon the editorial page. He was
liberal in charity, a Presbyterian, and a strong advocate of Sunday observance. Active
in the formation of The Bar Association, he became its president in 1884, and helped
secure the legislation to create the Court of Arbitration of the Chamber of Commeice,
of which he was a member. Colonel Shepard made several visits to Europe, explored
his native land thoroughly, and frequently related the story of his travels in public
lectures. He wrote several pamphlets, one of which, entitled ' ' Labor and Capital are
One," was translated into various languages and had a circulation of 250,000 copies.
Among his clubs were the Union League, Republican, Lawyers', Twilight, Riding,
Congregational, Pi'ess, New York Athletic, New York Yacht and Adirondack League,
and he also joined the Bar Association, The Sons of the American Revolution, Presby-
terian Union and The New England Society of this city and the Union League club of
Brooklyn. He married Feb. 18, 1868, Margaret Louisa, daughter of William H. Van-
derbilt, who survived him with five children, Maria Louisa, wife of William Jay Schieffe-
lin; Edith; Alice Vanderbilt, wife of David Hennon Morris; Margaret and Elliott F.
Shepard, jr. By his will, he left $100,000 each to the Presbytery of New York city and
St. Paul's Institute at Tarsus, Asia, and $50,000 to the Seventh Presbyterian Church.
FREDERICK MICHAEL SHEPARD, manufacturer, a native of Norfolk, Conn.,
born Sept. 24, 1827, is a son of the late John A. Shepard, farmer, hotel keeper and
postmaster, and of Margaret J. Mills, his wife. Edward Shepard came from old England
with his family in 1638 and settled in Cambridge, Mass., and one of his sons, removing
to Hartford, Conn., there established the branch of the family from which Frederick
M. Shepard springs. The subject of this sketch spent his ear'ylife in Norfolk, attend-
ing school, aiding his father and serving as clerk in a country store. Finally, how-
ever, Norfolk became too small for a young man of his motive power and he found em-
ployment in Hartford and later in New York city. In 1853, he was elected treasurer
and secretary of The Union India Rubber Co., and from that time to the present has
been active in the manufacture of rubber goods. He is president of the company now
and of The Rubber Clothing Co., The Goodyear Rubber Co., of New York, and The
Goodyear Rubber Co., of Middletown, Conn., all of which are owned and controlled
by him, and a director of The United States and The National Rubber Go's. He is
also a director of The Mutual Benefit Life Insurance Co., The Orange Water Co., The
592 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
East Orange Safe Deposit & Trust Co. , The East Orange National Bank, and The
Norfolk, Conn., Water Co. and has been Commissioner of Juries and of Parks in Essex
county, N. J. Mr. Shepard has proved a very able manager of the large interests con-
centrated in his hands. He has read THE NEW YORK TRIBUNE from the day of its first
publication. Sept. 28, 1854, he married Annie C. Rockwell and is the father of six
children, Annie Rockwell, Frederick M., Clara Margaret, Joseph Minott, John Andrus,
and Edith Mills.
SIDNEY SHEPARD, capitalist, long prominent in the commercial life of Buffalo
but in later years closely identified with financial affairs in New York city, was born in
the village of Cobleskill, Schoharie county, N. Y. , Sept. 28, 1814. He died in New
Haven, N. Y., Dec. 26, 1893. He was descended from a line of hale and upright
ancestors, which reached back to the earliest days of the settlement of the new world.
Ralph Shepard, the first of his father's family to remove from England to this country,
came in 1635. William Hamilton, his mother's ancestor, a Scot, came later, and
emigrated from Glasgow in 1668. His grandfather, Hosea Hamilton, in this line, was
a surgeon in the American Revolution and a personal friend of George Washington.
Jesse Shepard, Sidney's father, was a physician, who practiced the healing art for many
years in Cobleskill and the farming towns surrounding. A worthy representative of
these two families, the young man thus had the good fortune to begin life with a
vigorous nature, an upright character, and a strong intellectuality, inherited from a
sound ancestry. During boyhood, he gained only the education which falls to the
usual lot of the youth of a country town, but he was compensated in subsequent years
for lack of a college education, by his receptive mind, constant reading, extended
travel, alert observation and retentive memory.
The lad found his first employment at the age of fourteen, as clerk in a hardware
store in Dansville, N. Y. He entered upon his duties there with youthful enthusiasm,
was quick to learn and faithful to duty, and the liking which he gained then and there
for the hardware trade decided his vocation. After additional experience in a store in
Rochester, N. Y., he went to Bath, in 1831, and associated himself for three years with
his brother.
He made his first mercantile venture on his own account in 1835, when not yet
twenty-one years old, assuming the responsibilities of a merchant, by purchasing a
hardware store in the same town. From the very beginning, he showed his quality,
by energetically devoting to his business all the time which was necessary to ensure
success. He was resolute in a determination to make his way, honest in all transac-
tions, and able to deny himself the luxuries, upon which many other young men, less
wise than he, expended their savings. Five years of mercantile life in Bath brought
him a little capital.
Aspiring to a larger field, he then, in 1836, removed to Buffalo. He first bought
an interest in a hardware store on Main street, the oldest business house in that city,
which was changed to Crane & Shepard. In the following year, he became sole pro-
prietor under his own name. This enterprise soon developed into the firm of Sidney
Shepard & Co., which rose from local to much wider distinction. A manufactory of
sheet metal ware was established at the corner of Clinton and Union streets. The young
merchant soon won the good opinion of other men in the hardware trade and pushed
the sale of his productions with such persistency and energy, that before ten years had
YORK.. SH.
i his business had become ti. :shed. Not only did the thriving city
• and the counties tributary thereto supply him with a ready market, but the
ad out before htm, inviting him to extend bis enterprise in that direction
During his early years, he made several prolonged trips through this region and
ished business connections in the then comparatively uninhabited but rapidly
States of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois and Michigan, opening business houses in
•t and Milwaukee. Alwn*, 1840, he made one tour by way of Chicago and St.
Louis to New Orleans^ returning through Mobile, Savannah and Charleston. In 1849,
he became the propriettw of The Shepard Iron Works, on Ohio street, and thereafter
gradually added to his undertakings, until he finally became one of the largest im-
rs of tin plate, manufacturers of stamped metal ware, and dealers in hardware and
tinners' supplies in the United States.
. Shepard's activity was not confined to his industry in Jijtiai...
the means, he embarked in other important enterprises. He was one of ••-• ••»
realize the advantages of the electric telegraph to the me; e couiurv, ;,
not only promoted 90 .e pioneer lines in the West, but, by gradual in
became one of the largest owners of the stock or estern Union T
under which the earlier lines were consolidated. Until within a few weeks of his <.'
as a director it; >n, resigning on account of his illness. He was
prominent also in rai, many years a large stockholder and director
in The Alabama Central, . and The New Jersey Central Railroads,
g declined a similar position in ; .ers of equal prominence. He accepted
:v few of the proffered places of Banking and other institutions.
He was married June 12, i .-th De An^rlis Wells, daughter
.ester R. Wells. Th children. Elizabeth Wells Sbep-
died at the <•. - : j ; ^nd ,miH«.-n Shepard,
ived his farther a few months only.
In 1865, Mr. Shepard relinquished the active supervision of the details of his
•o his partners and spent several years with his family in foreign travel and
He visited nearly every capital in Europe, besides Egypt, the Holy Land
Minor. Upon the family's return, they settled in the homestead of his wife in
of New Haven, Oswego county, N. Y., and made that his country residence
r of his days. In 1885, he transferred to C. Sidney Shepard, his son, his
<i in the old firm. Though urged to be a candidate for important officer, he
avoided such publicity.
r. Shepard's success should be an inspiration to ever}- young man cf ability and
. It was due to the good name which he established early in life, a clear head,
^^•1 judgment and untiring energy. Keen powers of observation guided him in his
.md investments and his habit of mastering every new question thoroughly
r'n>m errors. His capacity for organization amounted almost to genius. His
jent of men was remarkable and he was seldom deceived in his estimates. In integ-
tfu* rigid and unswerving. Capable of continued exertion, his courage also
• > i-vx-ry emergency. In private life, he was a sincere Christian gentleman
in divine things was strong and for about twenty-five years he was an elder
-t i'-x-sbyterian Church of Buffalo. Wealth brought him the ability to bestow
^^Hbns on others less fortunate and he did so freely but quietly and with the same
THE CITY OF NEW YORK.. SH.
593
passed his business had become thoroughly established. Not only did the thriving city
of Buffalo and the counties tributary thereto supply him with a ready market, but the
West spread out before him, inviting him to extend his enterprise in that direction
also. During his early years, he made several prolonged trips through this region and
established business connections in the then comparatively uninhabited but rapidly
growing States of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois and Michigan, opening business houses in
Detroit and Milwaukee. About, 1840, he made one tour by way of Chicago and St.
Louis to New Orleans, returning through Mobile, Savannah and Charleston. In 1849,
he became the proprietor of The Shepard Iron Works, on Ohio street, and thereafter
gradually added to his undertakings, until he finally became one of the largest im-
porters of tin plate, manufacturers of stamped metal ware, and dealers in hardware and
tinners' supplies in the United States.
Mr. Shepard's activity was not confined to his industry in Buffalo. As he gained
the means, he embarked in other important enterprises. He was one of the earliest to
realize the advantages of the electric telegraph to the merchants of the country, and he
not only promoted some of the pioneer lines in the West, but, by gradual investment,
became one of the largest owners of the stock of The Western Union Telegraph Co.,
tinder which the earlier lines were consolidated. Until within a few weeks of his death,
he was a director in that corporation, resigning on account of his illness. He was
prominent also in railroad affairs and for many years a large stockholder and director
in The Alabama Central, The Mobile & Ohio, and The New Jersey Central Railroads,
having declined a similar position in many others of equal prominence. He accepted
only a few of the proffered places of trust in religious, banking and other institutions.
He was married June 12, 1851, in Buffalo, to Elizabeth De Angelis Wells, daughter
of Chester R. Wells. This union brought them three children, Elizabeth Wells Shep-
ard, who died at the age of ten; Charles Sidney Shepard; and Ralph Hamilton Shepard,
who survived his farther a few months only.
In 1865, Mr. Shepard relinquished the active supervision of the details of his
business to his partners and spent several years with his family in foreign travel and
recreation. He visited nearly every capital in Europe, besides Egypt, the Holy Land
and Asia Minor. Upon the family's return, the}r settled in the homestead of his wife in
the village of New Haven, Oswego county, N. Y., and made that his country residence
the remainder of his days. In 1885, he transferred to C. Sidney Shepard, his son, his
interest in the old firm. Though urged to be a candidate for important offices, he
studiously avoided such publicity.
Mr. Shepard's success should be an inspiration to every young man cf ability and
character. It was due to the good name which he established early in life, a clear head,
sound judgment and untiring energy. Keen powers of observation guided him in his
enterprise and investments and his habit of mastering every new question thoroughly
saved him from errors. His capacity for organization amounted almost to genius. His
judgment of men was remarkable and he was seldom deceived in his estimates. In integ-
rity, he was rigid and unswerving. Capable of continued exertion, his courage also
was equal to even- emergency. In private life, he was a sincere Christian gentleman
His faith in divine things was strong and for about twenty -five years he was an elder
in the First Presbyterian Church of Buffalo. Wealth brought him the ability to bestow
happiness on others less fortunate and he did so freely but quietly and with the same
594 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
discretion which had regulated his whole life, often in such a way that even the recipi-
ents did not know the source. He aided liberally several institutions in Buffalo, but his
principal benefactions were distributed over this and other countries, while his private
charities were large. His name is greatly honored.
ISAAC SHERMAN, manufacturer and banker, born in North Adams, Mass., died
in this city, Jan. 21, 1881, in his sixty-third year. After studying law in Albion. N. Y.,
for a year, Mr. Sherman abandoned the prospect of a legal career and went into busi-
ness. He became interested at an early age in the making of staves in Buffalo for ex-
port, and was in the habit of going to Michigan and making contracts for the purchase
of staves, while the timber stood in the forests. If there were sufficient snow to haul
the staves from the woods, they were drawn out in the winter time. If not, they some-
times remained standing for a year or two. This practice led to a discussion on taxa-
tion with the Attorney General of Michigan. The statutes of the State exempted prop-
erty in transit and Mr. Sherman claimed that his staves were legally in that condition,
until they were taken out of the woods and started for Port Huron, his usual point of
shipment to the East. He finally induced the Attorney General to accept his view of
the matter and frequently referred to this case as one of his earliest triumphs. He re-
tired from business in Buffalo, at the age of thirty, with large means. Coming to New
York about 1856, he then established a private bank, remaining in its management until
1865, after which time he devoted himself to investments. The only railroad securities
he ever bought were first mortgage bonds. His knowledge of railroad law was inti-
mate and extensive. In politics originally a Democrat and prominent in the Barn-
burner movement, Mr. Sherman took a prominent part in the founding of the Repub-
lican party. During Mr. Lincoln's administration, he was one of the President's con-
fidential advisers, and it is generally understood that he declined the offer of Secretary
of the Treasury. He was a genial and courteous man, generous in charities and very
modest. His wife and one daughter, the latter, Mrs. Bradley Martin, survived him.
WATTS SHERHAN, banker, born in Utica, N. Y., Feb. 22, 1809, died on the
Island of Madeira, Feb. 20, 1865. A descendant of one of the oldest families in the
State, his first important position was that of cashier of a bank in Geneseo. Removing
to Herkimer, he conducted a banking institution there. Later, he removed to Albany
and became cashier and general manager of The Albany City Bank, which became one
of the soundest institutions in the country xmder his management. In 1851, he came
to New York and in partnership with Alexander Duncan founded the well known bank-
ing house of Duncan, Sherman & Co., in the active management of which he continued
until about eighteen months before his death. Cultivated and refined in mind and
liberal in disposition, he had a large circle of devoted friends. In politics, he sided
with the Democrats. His wife, Sarah M., a daughter of Henry B. Gibson of Canan-
daigua, N. Y., with four sons survived him, the latter being William Watts, Duncan,
Harry Gibson and Frederic Sherman. Mrs. Sherman died in March, 1878.
JOHN HINF1AN SHERWOOD, merchant and realty owner, a native of Guilford,
Chenango county, N. Y., Feb. 3, 1816, died in New York city, March 17, 1887.
Energetic from youth, he began life at home as a shoemaker. At the age of twenty,
he established a hide and leather business in Monroe, Mich. Three years later, he
returned to Greene in Chenango county, and carried on a dry goods store, but removed
in 1852, to New York, to enter the firm of Wesson, Vanderhoff & Co., in the boot and
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. — SH. 597
the Newkirk colliery, one of the largest in the locality. Mr. Shoemaker continued to
reside in Philadelphia in charge of the shipping and sales branch of the business, while
his partners devoted themselves to operating the mines. The Philadelphia & Reading
Railroad Co. having entered upon a policy of acquiring control of the mining of anthra-
cite coal along its lines by an ownership in the collieries, Mr. Shoemaker disposed of
his coal interests to the railroad company in 1875.
Early in 1877, he entered the world of transportation as secretary and treasurer of
The Central Railroad of Minnesota, and late in that year removed to New York city.
In 1878, he became interested in the construction of The Rochester & State Line Rail-
road, now known as The Buffalo, Rochester & Pittsburgh, and was largely instrumental
in its extension to the coal fields of Pennsylvania. In 1881, he embarked in Wall street
and established the banking house of Shoemaker, Dillon & Co. The firm made a
specialty of large issues of railroad bonds and met with great success in several exten-
sive negotiations. In 1886, Mr. Shoemaker entered a syndicate which assumed control
of The Wheeling & Lake Erie Railroad, and thereafter he pushed on and became an
active spirit in a number of important roads. In 1887, he was elected president of The
Mineral Range Railroad, and in 1888, he bought a large interest in the Cincinnati,
Hamilton & Dayton Railroad, and later, with others, became one of the dominant
spirits in the company and was made chairman of its executive committee. In 1893,
for himself and associates, he purchased a majority of the shares of The Cleveland,
Lorain& Wheeling Railroad, which under the new management has become one of the
most prosperous coal roads in Ohio. Several lines in which he is interested are coal
carrying roads, and Mr. Shoemaker is largely interested in the mines adjacent thereto.
He has been successful in his undertakings and is now president of the The Day-
ton & Union and The Cincinnati, Dayton & Ironton Railroads; chairman of the
executive committee of The Cincinnati, Hamilton & Dayton Railroad, and a director
in The Cincinnati, Hamilton & Indianapolis, The Cincinnati, New Orleans & Texas
Pacific, and The Cleveland, Lorain & Wheeling Railroads, and The Alabama Great
Southern Railroad, Limited, of London, England. He was also at one time engaged in
the mining of bituminous coal in the Kanawha valley, W. Va. He was a large owner
and director in The New Jersey Rubber Shoe Co., whose factories are located at New
Brunswick, N. J., with a capacity of 10,000 pairs of boots and shoes per day which
has now become a part of The United States Rubber Co. , one of the largest mercantile
and manufacturing corporations in the country.
Mr. Shoemaker was married April 22, 1874, to Miss Blanche, daughter of the late
Hon. James W. Quiggle of Philadelphia, at one time Consul at Antwerp and later
Minister to Belgium. As a result of this union, there are three children, two sons and
one daughter. He resides in New York city, and by reason not only of his financial
standing, but his refinement of character, courteous manners and spotless record, has
gained the confidence and esteem of the business world.
He is a member of the Union League, Lotos, Riverside Yacht and American
Yacht clubs of New York city, The Sons of the Revolution, and Lafayette Post, No.
140, of the Grand Army of the Republic.
JOHN H. SHOENBERQER, manufacturer, a native of Huntington county, Pa.,
died in New York city, Nov. 12, 1889, in his eightieth year. He was a son of Dr.
Peter Shoenberger, who began the manufacture of iron in Pittsburgh in 1824. The
AMERICA S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
son succeeded to the business, owned The Huntington furnace and was for many years
the head of John H. Shoenberger & Co., and a driving, able and successful man.
For several years, he managed The Exchange National Bank of Pittsburgh as its presi-
dent, and became largely interested in The Pittsburgh, Fort Wayne & Chicago and
The Allegheny Valley Railroads. He was a leading member of the Episcopal Church
in Pittsburgh, and the wealth due to his incessant enterprise enable him to make large
gifts in its interest and help build St. Peter's and Trinity churches. About 1880, he
removed to New York city. By his will he left $35,000 each to The Church Home in
Pittsburgh and The Bishop Seabury Mission in Minnesota; $30,000 for Episcopal mis-
sionary work in Pittsburgh; and $50,000 for The Domestic and Foreign Missionary
Society of the Protestant Episcopal church, as well as $900, ooo and a large tract of ground
in Pittsburgh for St. Margaret Memorial Hospital, in memory of his deceased wife.
GEORGE GARRETT SICKLES, merchant, born in William street, New York
city, Sept. 10, 1800, died in New Rochelle, March 18, 1887. After an experience in
this city as a printer and dry goods clerk, he went to Philadelphia at the age of twenty
to enter the employment of The A urora, one of the best known papers of that period.
Subsequently, he started a newspaper of his own in Belvidere, N. J., called The Bclvi-
dere Apollo. Later, he made a little money in New York in the publishing business at
Broadway and Liberty street, but lost it all in a mercantile venture in Glens Falls,
N. Y. When he returned to New York, he had only ten cents in his pocket. Making
a new start, he entered the real estate business and followed it for a quarter of a cen-
tury, realizing a fortune. He gradually came to own about thirty houses in New York
and Brooklyn and various other properties, including a farm at New Rochelle. For-
tunate operations in Wall street added to his means. When about forty years of age, he
studied law and practiced it for twenty-five years, becoming an expert in patent cases.
The Democratic party won his earnest allegiance and he was one of the oldest Free
Masons in the city, being a charter member of Kane Lodge. By his first marriage
with Miss Susan, daughter of Edgar Marsh, he became the father of Gen. Daniel E.
Sickles. In 1881, he married Mrs. Henry Sheridan Sawyer, and their children are
Roma Meade, Perie A. and Alta H. Sickles.
BENJAHIN DOUGLAS SILLIMAN, LL.D., lawyer, was born in Newport, R. I.,
Sept. 24, 1805. His family removed to New York when he was a child, and since that
time he has been a resident mainly of the city of Brooklyn. He descends from Pil-
grim stock, and on the side of his father's mother, traces his lineage to John Alden and
Priscilla Mullins. Gen. Gold Selleck Silliman of Connecticut was his grandfather.
Gold S. Silliman, his father, died in Brooklyn, N. Y. , in 1868, at the age of ninety-one.
Benjamin D. Silliman was sent in 1820 to Yale College, received his diploma in 1824,
and is now sole surviving member of that notable class. Having studied law in the
office of Chancellor Kent and his son, Judge William Kent, Mr. Silliman was admitted
to the bar in 1829, and began practice in New York city. Among the clients who
placed their legal business in his hands were large corporations, and in the course of his
sixty years of active professional life, Mr. Silliman ranked among the leaders of the
bar and practiced both in the highest courts of the State and the United States. His
industry was remarkable, his success almost unbroken. It is said that he never lost his
temper in court and he won his cases by none except dignified and honorable methods.
The esteem of his professional associates was exhibited at the time of his retirement by
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. SI. 599
the voluntary tender of a public banquet at Delmonico's, May 24, 1889. In early life a
Whig, Mr. Silliman represented his party in the Legislature from Brooklyn in 1838
and was often a delegate to local, State and National conventions. In 1854, as a
Republican, he accepted the office of United States District Attorney for the Eastern
District of New York, but resigned in 1866, because the duties of the office interfered
with his practice. In 1872, he became a member of the commission for revision of
the State Constitution, and in 1873 was defeated as candidate for Attorney General.
In 1873, Columbia College, and in 1874, Yale College, conferred upon Mr. Silliman the
degree of LL.D. He is a director of numerous literary and benevolent associations,
and was for nearly twenty years a manager of The House of Refuge for Juvenile
Delinquents- in New York city, as well as one of the founders and vice president of the
Bar Association. He was for twenty years president of the Brooklyn club and long
president of the Yale Alumni Association. He is unmarried.
J. EDWARD SIMMONS, one of the most prominent and highly respected bankers
of New York city, began life with the intention of devoting himself to the law.
There is every reason to believe that he would have reached a high position in that
profession, but his tastes led him into the field of practical business and he has made
therein a record of which he may be proud.
He was born in the city of Troy, N. Y., in 1841. The remote paternal ancestor
of the family came from Holland and settled in the new world about 150 years ago.
On his mother's side, his descent is from an old New Hampshire family, his great
grandsire having been one of the sturdy supporters of Independence in that State and
a soldier of the American Revolution.
Mr. Simmons was educated first in the public schools and the academy in Troy.
He spent three years at a well known boarding school ?.t Sand Lake, and then enjoyed
the advantage of a four years' course at Williams College, graduating in 1862. Thus
fitted for the battle of life, he studied law at the Albany Law School. The Bachelor
of Arts of Williams College then became a Bachelor of Laws ; and it may be said that,
later, in compliment to his services in the cause of education, he became a Doctor of
Laws by act of a New England university.
Until 1867, Mr. Simmons lived in the growing city of Troy. He practiced law for
two years, and then engaged with his father in the more profitable business of a whole-
sale grocer. Ambitious to rise, he finally determined to settle in New York and try
his metal in the field of banking and brokerage Locating in Wall street, he succeeded
from the start but in 1872 a too devoted application to business compelled him to seek
rest from overwork in Florida. In that pleasant clime, he gained renewed vigor.
In 1874, he returned to Wall street thoroughly restored in health and devoted him-
self anew with all the ardor of a vigorous mind to his old business of banking and
brokerage. His transactions in the exciting field of finance were remarkable for sturdy
integrity, ability and honor. A sound, successful man, with large resources which he
had accumulated by his own efforts, he soon became one of the most respected and
popular members of the Stock Exchange. June 2, 1884, he was elected president of
the Exchange. He was chosen for this place at a time when the country was trembling
upon the verge of a crisis, owing to a panic wrhich had taken place in the street and
the suspension of the firm, of which the previous president of the Exchange was a
member. So great was the confidence felt in Mr. Simmons, that he was elected by
600 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
a vote remarkably large. His services restored confidence and won the most cordial
approbation. He occupied the position of president for two terms, and was asked to
accept it for a third, but declined. His intense application to business then compelled
him to rest and he spent some time in foreign travel to recruit his health.
In 1888, Mr. Simmons was called to the presidency of The Fourth National Bank,
one of the most important financial institutions in the country, having a capital of over
$3,000,000 and deposits averaging the enormous sum of $30,000,000. His services as
president of this bank have been brilliant and successful.
Partly because of his legal training and partly from natural predilection, Mr. Simmons
has always been greatly interested in public affairs. He is an ardent Democrat of the
old school of Jefferson and the fathers of the Republic. In 1881, he consented to serve the
city as a Commissioner of common schools of New York city, and in 1886, he was made
president of the Board of Education, in which capacity he served for five successive terms.
He has always taken an active part in the larger politics of the day, especially in
national contests, but has persistently refused to hold office.
In his chosen profession of banking, Mr. Simmons has made an unusual record. He
has never failed to keep a contract, never suspended, and never been sued. In the
exciting field of Wall street finance nothing is said except to his credit. In the panic
of 1890, he was one of the valued members of the Executive Committee of the Clearing
House, and in the panic of 1893 a member of its Loan Committee. His high standing
led to his selection as receiver of The American Loan & Trust Co., when that organ-
ization was forced to suspend.
Mr. Simmons is president of The New York Infant Asylum, one of the largest and
most beautiful charities of the city. He is also a governor of the New York Hospital,
vice president of the Chamber of Commerce, president of The Panama Railroad, and
of the Columbian Line of steamships, and a director in some of the largest and most
successful corporations of the country.
Mr. Simmons is a Free Mason of high rank. In 1883, he was chosen unanimously
Grand Master for the State of New York, and in 1885 was advanced to the Thirty-third
Degree, the highest degree known to the Masonic order.
In this city, his social position is indicated by membership in some of the most
exclusive of its first-class clubs, including the Manhattan, Riding, Metropolitan,
Players', University, Lawyers', and New York Athletic. He is also a member of the St.
Nicholas Society, The New England Society and of the Williams Alumni Association.
He was married in 1866 to Julia, daughter of George Greer, of New York city.
Of the seven children born to them two survive : a son, Joseph Ferris Simmons, and
a daughter, Mabel Simmons.
A man of serious aims, shrewd in business, broad in views, cherishing generous
ideals, entertaining in society, conscious of the dignity of life- — these are traits which
shine in his character and make him an object of universal esteem.
WILLIAH SIHPSON, pawnbroker, born May 2, 1837, at No. 21 Chatham street
(now Park Row), New York city, upon the site of the present entrance to Brooklyn
Bridge, is a son of the late William Simpson, a native of Cumberland, England, and of
Ximena Hains, his wife. William Simpson, sr., came to America about 1827 with his
brother, John B., and, after a short experience as a dry goods merchant on Chatham
street, bought from a cousin, about 1836, a small money loaning business, which had
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. SI. 6oi
been established as early as 1822 by Walter S. Simpson, his uncle. The new proprietor,
with his brother John B., who soon joined him, developed the business greatly. Both
men became famous and from their loan offices on Chatham street and the Bowery
realized fortunes which they invested largely in real estate. William died at West
Farms in Westchester county, April 8, 1879. William Simpson, jr., received a private
school education, and at first engaged in the furniture business and later in the manage-
ment of a general store in New Hudson, N. Y., and in importing and breeding Jersey
cattle. During the Civil War, he saw service in the Union army. In 1865, he embarked
in the loan business in New York city, at No. 27 Chatham street and No. 181 Bowery,
and has ever since followed this occupation. "Simpson's," seen on more than one sign
board, is now certainly one of the best known names in the city. Mr. Simpson retains
his breeding business on a farm of 1,200 acres at New Hudson, with training stables at
Cuba, both in Allegany county, N. Y., but now devotes the establishment in part to
trotting horses, under the name of the Empire City stud. He also owns a farm of one
hundred acres at Hunt's Point, N. Y. He is a veteran of the 7th Regiment and
a member of Lafayette Post, G. A. R., a Republican and in religion an Episco-
palian. In 1864, he married at Dryden, N. Y., Sarah Jane McGraw, who died in 1876,
leaving two sons, William J. and Frederick B. In 1887, he married Teresa L. Allen
of this city.
JOHN SINCLAIR, merchant, originated in Belfast, Ireland, where he was born
Jan. 4, 1841. He is a son of the late Thomas Sinclair, merchant of meats and pro-
visions. The family are of Scottish and Irish ancestry. Thomas Sinclair gave his son
a careful education in Belfast and Liverpool and then an apprenticeship in the pro-
visions business in Belfast, which, while it had not yet attained the magnitude of these
later years, was already well established. A ready, earnest, capable young man, Mr.
Sinclair learned every requirement rapidly and, after a few years, took a place in the
office of a large firm in Liverpool in order to increase his range of experience. It was
during this period that Great Britain began to depend upon the United States of
America for supplies of food. Ireland had produced immense quantities of meats and
grain for generations, but the low-priced lands of America developed new sources of
supply, which England could not overlook, and her merchants found it to their ad-
vantage to establish connections in the United States. Accordingly, in 1862. the
parent house of the Sinclairs in Belfast sent Thomas Sinclair, jr., and Thomas M.
Sinclair to New York city, where they established the firm of Sinclair & Co. , for the
exportation of produce to England. In 1864, John Sinclair came to New York and
associated himself with the business. Here he quickly made his mark. In 1866, the
present firm of John Sinclair & Co., composed of John and Thomas M. Sinclair, suc-
ceeded to the one first established. They are now extensively engaged in packing
meats in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, the house there having been started in 1871, by the
junior partner of the firm. Mr. Sinclair is an upright, driving, straightforward and
capable merchant. He has entered heartily into the spirit of the life of the metropolis,
has gained the respect of a large circle of friends, and while a member of those excel-
ent social organizations, the Century, Reform, City, Riding, Presbyterian and Down
Town clubs, has shown his public spirit by joining Good Government Club A.
WILLIAM LL'DLAM SKIDflORE, at present the oldest coal merchant of the city,
was born on a farm in Foster's Meadows, beyond Jamaica, Long Island, Sept. 25, 1822.
602 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
Jeremiah Skidmore. his father, a native of Valley Stream, then known as Rockaway,
born March 23, 1797, had moved into New York city the early part of the century and
become a coal merchant. The youth of William L. Skidmore was spent partly on the
farm, partly at the family home in this city on Orchard street. Educated in the public
schools, he began life at the age of thirteen in the employment of his father's coal firm
of Lang & Randolph. He ran on errands, swept the office, and performed a variety
of other modest duties. When the senior Skidmore succeeded to the business, he took his
boys Joseph and William into partnership, as Jeremiah Skidmore & Sons. In 1877, the
young men became the proprietors and thereafter adopted the title of Jeremiah Skid-
more's Sons, which is yet preserved. Joseph died Dec. 30, 1882, and William L. Skidmore
then became head of the house. He retired a few years ago but retains a special interest,
and is the only one of the thirteen partners of the three coal firms above named who
is living, as well as the only member of his branch of the Skidmore family. He is a
Republican in politics and in personal appearance closely resembles the late James G.
Elaine. Until about 1890, Mr. Skidmore held many directorships in the city and had
declined similar positions in many others. He resigned from all about five years ago.
He has also been a member of many prominent public institutions and charities. He
married, June "15, 1847, and became the father of two sons, Alfred Tremont Skidmore,
who died at the age of nineteen, and Jeremiah, who died at the age of twenty-three.
Mr. Skidmore became early in life a member of the old Rutgers Street Presbyterian
Church, but in later years he has been a member of Dr. John Hall's church on Fifth
avenue. He is liberal in his gifts, and has done much to promote the happiness of
his fellow men.
HENRY BARTHOLOMEW SLAVEN, capitalist, who has won fame and fortune
by his wonderful enterprise and work in connection with the great Panama Canal, was
born near Pictou, Ontario, Oct. 19, 1853. He is a son of Patrick Slaven, a farmer
and stock raiser, and his early education was gained in the common schools.
Leaving the farm when he was thirteen years of age, he secured a posjtion as
druggist's assistant, and after his day's work, spent the evenings in study at the local
school. He was a graduate of the Ontario College of Pharmacy at the age of seven-
teen, and in order to take a further course in medicine, he went to Philadelphia and
attended a university there for nearly two years, but was too young to graduate.
He then accepted a position in a large wholesale and retail drug house in the
Quaker City, which gave him his first experience in mercantile life. Returning to
Canada in 1873, he took the management of a large wholesale drug concern there,
remaining with it for a period of three years. Early in 1876, the young man joined a
party of engineers, who were making a trip to the British Northwest. The journey was
made by way of the great lakes to what is now Port Arthur, and thence to Winnipeg,
Manitoba. As this was an entirely unexplored country, inhabited only by Indians, the
dangers and hardships of the undertaking were great, but Mr. Slaven and his party of
twenty-five men arrived safely at their destination. Making a short stay in Winnipeg,
he traveled further west through Manitoba and the British Northwest, returning again
to Winnipeg and journeying thence to St. Paul. From the last named place he went
to San Francisco, where he arrived in the fall of 1876.
In San Francisco, he established a large drug and manufacturing business,
which proved to be a successful venture. The business grew with amazing rapidity
604 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
and in time became the most widely known concern of its kind on the Pacific coast.
In 1878, Mr. Slaven became interested in public works, with his brother, M. A.
Slaven, who was a successful contractor in California and the far West. It was about
this period that Ferdinand De Lesseps paid a visit to San Francisco in the interests of
the Panama Canal. The fame of the Slaven Brothers, as successful contractors, having
reached his notice, he determined to seek their aid in carrying out the vast and diffi-
cult work he had in hand. The acceptance of this proposition practically shaped Mr.
Slaven's future life. The brothers assumed entire control of the American Pacific
coast business, besides contracting for the buildings and other preliminary work on the
Isthmus, which involved millions of dollars.
Mr. Slaven went to Panama in 1880, to initiate the work, taking a large force of
men and sent supplies and materials sufficient to fill two steamers. Work was at once
begun on the line of the canal. The undertaking was attended with great hardships
and suffering on the part of the men, who were afflicted with malaria, of which many
died, while others sickened and returned to their homes in the States. Their places
being filled with native labor, the great work prospered.
In the year 1882, the firm of Slaven Brothers closed a contract for the actual con-
struction of the Atlantic division of the Panama Canal from Colon or Aspinwall to
Bohio Soldado, a distance of sixteen miles, as well as for the difficult and seemingly
impossible task of changing the course of the great Chagres River for a similar dis-
tance. The magnitude and importance of this contract rendered it necessary for the
contractors to remove their headquarters to New York city.
In September of the same year, they organized The American Contracting &
Dredging Co., and associated with them the late Eugene Kelly. The officers of the
company were H. B. Slaven, president; Eugene Kelly, treasurer; M. A. Slaven,
general manager, and Jas. J. Phelan, secretary. They began work on the construction
of the plant, which was necessary to the successful carrying out of the contract, the
principal piece of machinery being what is known as the Slaven dredge, the largest,
most effective and most expensive dredge ever built. Eight of these mammoth ma-
chines were constructed at an average cost of $150,000 each. The plant was completed
and placed on the Isthmus in a few months and the actual digging of the Panama
Canal was begun by an American company. During the period of seven years, from
1882 to 1889, most of Mr. Slaven's time was spent on the isthmus, where he personally
superintended the enormous enterprise.
The result of his operations constituted one of the greatest industrial and financial
successes of modern times. The stock of The American Contracting & Dredging Co.
became worth more than four times its face value, and shares which were at one time
offered and sold for $30 were in great demand at $400 and over.
When a crisis came in the affairs of The Panama Canal Co. , and it failed in
1889, Mr. Slaven had successfully completed his contract and his company had been
paid about $25,000,000 and was about to be awarded a contract for finishing the entire
canal. After the failure, all work having come to an end in Panama, Mr. Slaven
removed his great plant to Nicaragua and became treasurer of the company there.
The Panama Canal scheme takes rank among the greatest engineering and con-
tracting enterprises in the history of the world, and the progress of the work was
watched with absorbing interest by every civilized nation. Had the other interests in
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. SL. 605
connection with the project been handled as skillfull}- and judiciously as the part
operated by Mr. Slaven and his company, the canal would have been, in the judgment
of Mr. Slaven, carried to a successful completion and have resulted in revolutionizing
the shipping and commercial interests of many countries.
Mr. Slaven has been heavily interested in American railroads and a director in
several banking and financial institutions, but of recent years has largely withdrawn
from active connection with these concerns. He is president of The Chase Granite Co.
Bluehill, Maine, and is the principal owner and a director in The American Union Life
Insurance Co.
Mr. Slaven, who is in the prime of life, is a man of quiet and domestic tastes. He
has been an extensive traveler, both at home and abroad, and there are few parts of
the world which he has not visited. He speaks several languages. His career has
certain!}- been full of unusual interest, and the great success that has attended his
labors has been the result of his untiring enterprise and remarkable ability.
WILLIAfl SLOANE, merchant, born in Kilmarnock, Ayrshire, Scotland, who died
in this city, May 23, 1879, in his sixty-ninth year, came to America in 1834 and founded
here an important mercantile house and a conspicuous and influential family. He
began life modestly in the employment of a carpet firm in this city. Nine years of dili-
gent attention to business made him a proficient merchant and enabled him to accumu-
late sufficient means to start a carpet house of his own in 1843 on Broadway. A few
years later, he admitted his brother John to partnership, and the firm name of W. & J.
Sloane, then adopted, has never since been changed. Ability, good character, great
natural shrewdness and persistent enterprise brought the brothers a growing and prosper-
ous trade. The uptown movement led them finally to No. 501 and then to No. 597 Broad-
way, and in 1867, they erected an excellent building at 649-655 Broadway, which they
occupied. Mr. Sloane retired about 1 864, but his brother carried on the business until
within a few years of his death. At the time of his death, Mr. Sloane was a director
and shareholder in The Bigelow Carpet Co. and in The Alexander Smith & Sons Carpet
Co., t\vo of the leading establishments in the country. He was a member of the Fifth
Avenue Presbyterian Church after 1845, and during his last four years was its treasurer.
He steadfastly refused to accept positions in the management of corporations, on the
ground that he could not allow his name to appear, unless he were in a position to vouch
for the entire management. A just man, of spotless character, he was highly esteemed.
His wife survived him with five children, John, William D., Henry T. and Thomas C.
Slone, and Euphemia, wife of Edmund Coffin, jr. Mr. Sloane left $140,000 to philan-
thropic objects. The old firm has in recent years become incorporated with a capital of
$3,000,000. John Sloane is president, William D. Sloane, treasurer, and Henry T.
Sloane a director. Thomas C. Sloane was a member of the firm, but died June 17,
1890, leaving $200,000 to Yale College and other institutions.
GEN. HENRY WARNER SLOCUfl, lawyer, a native of Delphi, N. Y., born
Sept. 24, 1826, died April 14, 1894, in Brooklyn. He was the son of Matthew B. and
Mary O. Slocum and the family had originally for three generations lived in Newport,
R. I. A school teacher and clerk in a post office in early life, he graduated from West
Point in 1852, entered the army, and while on duty at Fort Moultrie, S. C., read law.
He resigned in 1857 to practice law in Syracuse, N. Y., where he soon attained a reputa-
tion. From the manufacture of salt in that city, he gained some capital and Syracuse
606 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
gave him a seat in the Legislature in 1858. The Civil War called him to the front in
1861 as colonel of the 27th N. Y. Vols. He proved to be a gallant, fearless and able
officer. Severely wounded at Bull Run, he was then promoted to be a Brigadier General
and commanded a brigade under General McClellan. After the seven days' fight
before Richmond, he received a commission as Major General and took part in the
historic actions of South Mountain, Antietam and Gettysburgh. Later, in consequence
of consolidation of the i2th Corps with another as the 2oth, he was placed in command of
the Department of the Mississippi at Vicksburgh. He marched into Atlanta at the head
of the 2oth Corps, led Sherman's left wing in the march to the sea, and commanded the
army of Georgia until the end of the war. In 1865, he resigned and in 1866, after declin-
ing a colonelcy in the regular army, made his home in Brooklyn, N. Y., where he re-
siimed the practice of his profession. He was thrice sent to Congress from Brooklyn,
namely in 1868, 1870 and 1883, the last time as Congressman at large. In 1876, Mayor
Schroeder appointed him president of the Department of City Works of Brooklyn.
He was one of the stockholders in the Brooklyn Bridge and in 1875 entered the board
of trustees of the bridge, being reappointed several times. In local corporations, he
was especially active and served as president of The Cross Town Railroad of Brooklyn
for several years, besides being director of The Chatham National Bank, The Wil-
liamsburgh City Fire Insurance' Co. , The Brooklyn City Railroad, The Hecker-Jones-
Jewell Milling Co. , The Coney Island & Brooklyn Railroad and The Phenix Insurance
Co. By his marriage with Clara R. , daughter of Israel Rice, he was the father of
Henry W., Clarence R., and Florence E. Slocum. General Slocum was popular
and a member of the Hamilton and Brooklyn clubs and The New England Society.
ADON SMITH, merchant, born in Troy, N. Y., June 4, 1804, died in New York
city, March 23, 1874. The son of Samuel Smith and a descendant of a pioneer who
came to America from Scotland in 1662 and settled near Boston, Mass., Mr. Smith
was educated at the public schools and began life as a farmer. Later, he came to
New York city and engaged in business ar: a produce merchant. Energetic, t:ntiring
and shrewd, he made his way with great success and retired a few years before his
death, a man of fortune. A love of liberty, inherited from his ancestors, made him
prominent and active as an abolitionist from the beginning of that movement. For
many years, he was a member of the Tabernacle Congregational Church. He was also
president of The Hamilton Bank of Hamilton, N. Y., from its organization until his
death. He married Louisa Fuller of Troy, and left five children, Jonah D. F. Smith
of Hamilton, Mrs. Dr. McMurtrie, and Adon, Harlan P. and J. Hunt Smith.
CHARLES STEWART SMITH, merchant, long senior partner in the dry goods
commission firm of Smith, Hogg & Gardner, is a progressive and highly respected resi-
dent. He began life a poor boy, and by talent, industry, and honorable methods has
bravely won his way to fortune, position and the highest honor in the gift of the mer-
chants of New York, the presidency of the Chamber of Commerce.
His family, founded by English emigrants, settled in the valley of the Connecticut
in early times. His mother was a daughter of the Hon. Aaron Dickinson Woodruff, of
Trenton, N. J., a distinguished lawyer, for many years Attorney General of that State,
and his father was a minister of the Congregational church in Exeter, N. H. In the city
last named, Charles was born, March 2, 1832. He had the advantage of early training
in a cultivated family of superior minds and character, and from his father learned
"; "• "
608 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
Latin and Greek. After a course at the public school and the academy, the youth at
fifteen years of age taught a district school in Connecticut. Coming then to New York,
he secured a place as clerk in a dry goods jobbing house. He proved industrious,
learned the business thoroughly and rose rapidly. At the age of twenty-one, he was
admitted to partnership in the well known house of S. B. Chittenden & Co. For sev-
eral years, he lived abroad as their European buyer. His experience in Europe has
proved of great value to him in later life as a man of affairs.
Returning to America, he formed the firm of Smith, Hogg & Gardner, which came
by succession into the dry goods commission business of A. & A. Lawrence of Boston,
and for a quarter of a century was actively and successfully identified with the whole-
sale dry goods trade in New York and Boston. In 1887, he retired from active
labor, although retaining his interest in the firm.
Interested in public policies, though never desirous of office, Mr. Smith has
labored always for the welfare of the metropolis. His ability was recognized in 1884
by his election as vice president of the Chamber of Commerce. In 1887, he became
the twenty-sixth president of that influential body and was unanimously elected to the
office seven times. At one time tendered a nomination to the Mayoralty of New York,
he declined the honor.
An excellent financier, Mr. Smith has been prominently connected with a number
of prominent corporations. He was one of the founders of The Fifth Avenue Bank
and of The German American Insurance Co. He is a director in The United States
Trust Co., The Fourth National Bank, The Merchants' National Bank, The Fifth
Avenue Bank, The Greenwich Savings Bank, and The Equitable Life Assurance
Society. He is also trustee of The Presbyterian Hospital and of the Broadway
Tabernacle Church.
Mr. Smith belongs to many of the most exclusive clubs, being vice president of
the Union League club and a member of the Merchants', Metropolitan, City, Law,
Players', and the Century, and of The New England Society. He is highly esteemed
in them all, possesses the savoir faire in a marked degree, and has repeatedly been
called to preside at public dinners at that famous old resort, Deimonico's.
Mr. Smith owns a small but choice and well known collection of paintings,
including fine examples of the old masters. He is a life member of The National
Academy of Design and a trustee of The Metropolitan Museum of Art. On a recent
visit to Japan, he purchased the remarkable collection of Japanese porcelains and other
objects, made by Captain Brinkley during a residence of twenty-five years in Tokio, and
presented them to the Metropolitan Museum.
Mr. Smith is one of the regular writers for The North American Review. His
topics are those which would naturally be looked for from a man of affairs. They
relate to emigration and public policies, and indicate close observation, sound judg-
ment, and an ardent patriotism. He has two sons.
FRANCIS S. SfllTH, publisher, born on Division street in New York city, Dec.
29, 1819, died in town, Feb. i, 1887. Capt. Moses Rogers Smith, his father, a native
of Huntington, L. I., followed the sea from the age of nineteen, became a large ship
owner, married Mary Reed Wall and during the War of 1812 served as a paymaster in
the Navy. Anxious to earn his own living, Francis S. Smith learned the trade of a
printer, beginning in 1833 m the office of The Albion, a literary and political weekly,
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. SP. 609
and practiced it in the composing rooms of The Spirit of the Times, THE NEW YORK
TRIBUNE, The Globe, and The Sunday Dispatch. Of the latter newspaper, he became a
reporter and his vivid narrative style soon gained many compliments from his employer,
Amor J. Williamson, and opened his own eyes to the possibility of a literary career.
Promoted to an editorial chair, he wrote many poems and stories in addition to his
editorials Later, Mr. Smith became the editor of The New York Weekly, a paper
devoted to fiction of a high order, founded in 1843 by Amor J. Williamson, as The
Weekly Universe, and later known as The Weekly Dispatch. With the bookkeeper of
the establishment, Francis S. Street, Mr. Smith bought the paper in 1859 for $40,000,
without payment of cash. The two men could muster scarcely $100 in cash between
them, but Mr. Williamson agreed to wait for his money until the new proprietors had
earned it. Street & Smith devoted themselves with the greatest energy to their paper,
Mr. Smith being the editor, and paid their debt before five years had elapsed. After
1859, especially, they met with great success, having in that year bought from Mrs.
Mary J. Holmes, for their paper, the story of "Marian Grey," at an expense of $50,000.
This story increased their circulation in two months time from n,ooo to 47,000 copies
a week. They were printing about 100,000 copies when the Civil War broke out.
Their sales fell off during the War, but on the return of peace, a rapid expansion fol-
lowed and they printed 200,000 copies a week. Circulation was promoted by securing
famous writers and paying them enormous prices. The firm also printed a weekly,
Good News, and various serial issues of books. In 1853, Mr. Smith married Mary
Jellette Duff, daughter of George C. Duff, and was the father of Francis S., George C.,
Ormond G. and Cora A. Smith. Mr. Smith was a devoted Christian, and his poems and
stories bore the stamp of a fertile fancy and manly, charitable and sympathetic nature.
His poems will be long remembered. Artless and ingenuous as a child, with many
merits and few faults, a staunch friend, detesting shams and meanness, fearless for the
right and an affectionate husband and father, he played well his part, and is borne in
affectionate memory by a multitude of friends.
HENRY FOSTER SPAULDING, merchant, born in Brandon, Vt, April 24, 1817,
died July 17, 1893, universally regretted in business and social circles in this city. He
was a son of Samnel G. and Anne Grey Spaulding. Arriving in New York city at the
age of fifteen, with less than $20 of capital, he sought employment from store to store
and found it in the house of Clark, Weyman & Co., importers of woolen goods. Hav-
ing thus secured a foothold, he rose by unsparing labor from one position to another.
About 1850, his name appeared in the title of the firm, which then became Weyman,
Spaulding & Co. When the firm reorganized as Spaulding, Vail & Fuller, the clerk
had at last risen to the head of a house into whose employment he had entered a poor
lad. Owing to changes in the partnership, the house was known later as Spaulding,
Hunt & Co., and Spaulding, Swift & Co. Mr. Spaulding was the first president of
The Central Trust Co., and held the office for eight years. His salary went entirely to
charity. He remained a director the rest of his life and was also a director of The Con-
tinental Insurance Co. and The Mechanics' National Bank and a member of the Cham-
ber of Commerce and of the Committee of Seventy. The stone upon which the bronze
statue of Washington stands at the Sub-Treasury building is the identical one, upon
which Washington stood at his first inauguration. It was traced and rescued by Mr.
Spaulding from a place in the walls of Bellevue Hospital. He was exceedingly phil-
6io AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
anthropic and served as treasurer of the fund for the pedestal of Bartholdi's statue of
Liberty, president of The Home for Incurables and Commissioner for Appraisal of
Lands for the new Croton Aqueduct, and belonged to the Century, Manhattan, Reform,
Country and Down Town clubs and New England Society, and aided in the support of
the public museums of the city. In 1850, he married Rose Thompson, of Penn's
Manor, Pa., who died four years afterward. Of her three children, two are living,
Thomas Hunt Spaulding and Margaret Thompson, wife of Dr. J. M. Schley. In 1857,
he married Miss Kate Devereux Beckwith, of Petersburgh, Va.
ELIHU SPICER, shipping merchant, born in Mystic, Conn., April 13, 1826, died
Feb. 15, 1893, in Brooklyn, N. Y. He was a son of Elihu Spicer, shipmaster, and
Jemima Fish, his wife, both members of old Connecticut families of English descent.
At the age of sixteen, the young man sailed as a cabin boy from the same pier in the
East River, at which he subsequently located to engage in business, on the ship John
Minturn, and at the age of twenty-four, was given command of the bark Fanny, owned
by Charles Mallory and others, which sailed in the Mobile line of packets. In 1850,
this bark was chartered by A. A. Low & Co., and Captain Spicer sailed in the Califor-
nia and China trades until 1862. Having bought an interest meanwhile in several
vessels, he then left the sea to engage in the management of ships in partnership with
Charles H. Mallory. During the War, he was a captain of government transports. In
1865, Mr. Mallory and he established the Galveston line of steamers as The New York
& Texas Steamship Co. Of this company, Mr. Spicer was president at his death. The
line was well managed and brought the owners good returns. By his marriage with
Mary M., daughter of Lyman Dudley of Mystic, Conn., Captain Spicer was the father
of three children, none of whom survived him. He was noted for his shrewd, keen,
kindly, sensible character, his charities and public spirit. He belonged to the Oxford,
Brooklyn and Hamilton clubs and New England Society of Brooklyn and the Chamber
of Commerce and Produce and Maritime Exchanges of New York. He was at one
time a Pilot Commissioner and a trustee of Sailors' Snug Harbor. He gave away a
great deal of money, including $30,000 to the Polytechnic Institute in Brooklyn, a $25,000
library to Mystic, Conn., and a farm with buildings at Groton, Conn., for the Indigent
Poor. Various other sums were granted to public objects by his will.
PAUL SPOFFORD,, merchant, son of Joseph and Mary Chaplin Spofford, farmers,
born in Georgetown, Mass., Feb. 18, 1792, died at Elmwood, his country home, Oct.
28, 1869. John Spofford, his first American ancestor, a descendant in the twenty- first
generation from Gamelbar de Spofford, whose estates in England were confiscated by
William the Conqueror, occupied a farm in Massachusetts, a part of which has been
owned by the family for 250 years. Paul Spofford began life as a clerk in Haverhill,
Mass., and in 1818, with his friend, Thomas Tileston, an editor of the same place,
came to New York and established the commission house of Spofford & Tileston. The
export of domestic manufactures to Cuba brought them almost immediately an import
trade in coffee, sugar, etc. , and resulted, first, in their employment of the vessels of
other merchants and next in the possession of several of their own. The firm sold
large quantities of cotton from the Southern States and in 1846 launched the steamship
Southerner, which they employed in the trade with Charleston, adding the Northerner
and two other steamers to the line soon afterward. This was the first successful ven-
ture with an American line of ocean steamers. In 1848, they bought the Liverpool
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. SP. 6ll
packets Roscius, Garrick, Siddons and Sheridan and increased the fleet by the addition
of the Webster, Henry Clay, Calhoun, Orient and other large and handsome clippers.
The firm had now become one of the most influential shipping houses of this port.
When gold was discovered in California, they were among the first to send their ships
and an agent to San Francisco, and during the Civil War they established a steamship
line to New Orleans. During the War, their steamship Nashville was captured by the
Confederates. Mr. Spofford was an energetic man, keen in judgment, quick in move-
ment, slow of speech, but telling in repartee. Closely devoted to his business and
always opposed to taking part in public life, he was a member of the Chamber of
Commerce and director of several financial corporations. His wife, a daughter and
five sons survived him.
COL. NATHAN TURNER SPRAQUE, banker, born in Mount Holly, Yt, June 22,
1828, is the son of a father of the same name, a merchant, bank president, and long a
member of the Vermont Legislature. The family descends from William Sprague,
who came from Dorsetshire, England, to Salem, Mass., in 1629. At the age of
eighteen, young Mr. Sprague took charge of a general country store in Brandon, Yt ,
but abandoned mercantile business in 1851, and for five years from 1852 devoted him-
self to farming. Then he returned to Brandon to aid his father in the management of
the latter's property, but continued to farm and maintained his interest in agriculture,
being president of the Brandon Farmers' & Mechanics' club for nine years and of The
Vermont Merino Sheep Breeders' Association five years. In 1864, he helped organize
The First National Bank of Brandon In 1867, he succeeded his father as its president
and holds the office down to the present time. In 1870, he took part with H. H.
Baxter and others in organizing The Baxter National Bank in Rutland, and held a seat
in the directorate for twelve years. For ten years after 1867, he was the successful
president of The Brandon Manufacturing Co., now known as The Howe Scale Co., and
was for a time president of The Northwest & Florida Railroad, whose shares doubled
in value under his management. Colonel Sprague's financial undertakings having
brought him constantly to the metropolis, he finally became a resident, and in 1883
established The Sprague National Bank of Brooklyn, of which he is president, and in
1886 The City Savings Bank of Brooklyn. He now divides his time about equally be-
tween Brooklyn and Brandon, Vt., having a home in each city. He owns real estate in
Brooklyn, is a member of the Chamber of Commerce in New York, president of The
East Greenwich, R. I., Water Supply Co , and interested in the water company
which supplies Patchogue, Sayville, Islip, Bay Shore and Bayport with water, and in
several other companies of this class. He has been a member of the Vermont Legis-
lature for several terms, was elected a State Senator in 1872, and has been a colonel
on the Vermont military staff. Colonel Sprague has been thrice married, first on Nov.
i, 1849, to Minerva M. Hull of Wallingford, Yt., who died in 1856 leaving one daugh-
ter; then to Melinda J. Evans of Springfield, O., in October, 1857, who died Jan. 28,
1885, leaving one son. Colonel Sprague's present wife is Miss Elizabeth Harrison.
JOHN HENRY STARIN, proprietor of Starin's City, River & Harbor Transporta-
tion Co., was born in Sammonsville, N. Y , Aug. 27, 1825. Nicholas Starin (or Stern,
as he spelled his name), who founded the family in America, an emigrant from Ger-
many in 1720, settled in the Mohawk valley upon the German Flats. Ten of his
lineal descendants fought in the American Revolution under Washington. Myndert
Oi2 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
Starin, father of John H. Starin, born in Glen, Montgomery county, in 1786, an enter-
prising man, built the factories which formed the nucleus of the village of Sammonsville,
and, later, laid out and established Fultonville, now one of the most charming places
of residence in the State. His wife Rachel, whom he married in 1810, was a daughter
of Maj. Thomas Sammons of Johnstown, N. Y. The Sammons family supplied many
soldiers for the War for Independence. The subject of this biography left the Esper-
ance Academy in Schoharie county to study medicine under Dr. C. C. Yates of Albany,
but his tastes tended in a different direction and he finally accepted a clerkship in the
drug store of his brother Delancy at Fultonville. He was postmaster of the village
1848-52. In 1856, he came to New York city and began the manufacture of medicines
and toilet articles, and next conceived a general agency in New York to solicit freight
for the trunk lines. This innovation was welcomed by the railroad managers, and Mr.
Starin succeeded so well therein, that he soon sold his drug business and devoted himself
to freighting and harbor transportation By re-investment of his earnings, Mr. Starin
gradually came into the possession of a fleet of harbor and river vessels, now second in
extent probably to no other in the world. It includes steam tugs, passenger steam-
boats, propellers, lighters, barges, floats, grain boats and other vessels. His fleet
of excursion boats is operated in conjunction with several parks and picnic grounds on
the Hudson river and Long Island Sound, which are under his control. To maintain
his fleet, Mr. Starin has established a ship yard, dry dock and iron works on Staten
Island. He has retained a home at Fultonville, N. Y., with an observatory, a farm of
about 800 acres, and a stock raising establishment. The district in which Fultonville
is situated sent him to Congress as a Republican in 1876 and 1878. In New York city,
he has long served on the Rapid Transit Commission, and is conspicuous by reason of
opposition to schemes in the interest of the elevated railroad monopoly. Mr. Starin's
liberality is well known. Every summer, he gives free excursions to veterans of the late
War, to newsboys and bootblacks, and to other classes of the population, and his private
acts of generosity are numerous. He is a member of the Lawyers', Down Town, New
York Athletic and New York Yacht clubs, New England and Holland Societies, and The
Sons of the American Revolution, and helps support the public museums of the city.
WILLIAM STEINWAY, a man of marked ability and purity of character, and
president of the old house of Steinway & Son, is one of the best known, most useful and
most highly respected citizens of New York. He was born in Seesen, near the city of
Brunswick, Germany, March 5, 1836, and came from a family of good reputation, some
of whose members had served their country with distinction as soldiers and magistrates.
His father, Henry Engelhard Steinway, was a prosperous piano manufacturer of Seesen.
William was educated at the excellent and thorough schools of his native town, finish-
ing at the celebrated Jacobsohn High School. At the age of fourteen, he was proficient
in English and French as well as in German and had already begun to display remark-
able aptitude for music, a trait which, in practical America, is often a token of weakness
in a busy man, but with him was an indication of genius. At fourteen, he could play
the most difficult compositions upon the piano, and his unerring ear enabled him to
tune the instrument perfectly.
His father, Henry E. Steinway, a successful artisan and manufacturer of pianos in
Seesen, a man of active mind and extended reading, was awake to opportunities, and
he conceived the idea of transferring his business to the new world. In 1849, nc
614 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
his second son, Charles, to the United States to investigate. Charles returned with a
favorable report. After full consideration, Mr. Steinway removed his business and his
family to New York city, leaving his oldest son, C. F. Theodore Steinway, to succeed
him in the business in Seesen. They reached New York, June 9, 1850, and became
residents of a city in which they were destined to win fortune and a world wide renown.
William Steinway, then fourteen years of age, was offered the choice of a trade or an edu-
cation as a musician. He preferred the former and was apprenticed to William Nunns
& Co., of 88 Walker street. March 5, 1853, his seventeenth birthday, he joined his
father and his brothers, Charles and Henry, in founding the house of Steinway & Sons.
Father and sons had sufficient capital to manufacture on an extended scale, but
they wisely began in a small way in a rear building on Varick street, rented for the
purpose. Many cultivated people then thought no piano good which was not imported
from Europe. With four or five workmen, the Steinways built one square piano a
week, father and sons taking part, as artisans, in their production. William made the
sounding boards. Their pianos soon attracted the attention of musicians and the pub-
lic, and the beauty, power and fine workmanship shown in the instruments were recog-
nized at once. The Steinway pianos conquered their way by their own indisputable
merits, and the demand for them rapidly increased. More extensive quarters soon
became necessary and were engaged in 1854 at No. 88 Walker street. Mr. Nunns had
failed and the Steinways rented the quarters he had occupied. It may be said here
that William Steinway lost $300 by Mr. Nunns' failure. He forgave the debt, how-
ever, and through affection and respect even assisted Mr. Nunns with monthly
contributions until the latter's death about 1864, at the age of eighty, thus early
in life displaying the largeness of heart and generosity of character, which have
always been conspicuous traits.
The growing magnitude of the business now compelled father and sons to resign
the fascinating work at the bench and to devote their whole attention to the general
management of the affairs of the rising house. It fell to the lot of William Steinway
to conduct the mercantile and financial affairs of the firm ; and he brought to his
department an ability and force which insured the continual triumphant growth of the
business. In 1859, the Steinways built their present factory on Fourth avenue from
52d to 53d street, taking possession in April, 1860. In March, 1865, Charles and Henry,
jr., died; and Theodore, giving up the flourishing business in Brunswick, Germany,
came to New York and became a partner in the New York house. In 1866, the firm
began the construction of the large marble building, known as Steinway Hall, on
i4th street, to be used as headquarters offices for the firm and containing a large Music
Hall, which, until 1890, when the space was rebuilt for their growing business, was
famous in musical annals.
The Steinway pianos soon began to challenge the attention of the world. After
being awarded thirty-five American medals, they won a first prize medal at the World's
Fair in London in 1862. In 1867, at the Paris Exposition, they won the first of the
grand gold medals of honor for their square, upright and perfect grand pianos, after a
close and exciting contest with the best makers of Europe. This was a remarkable
success; and the Steinway system of construction thereupon became the standard with
the piano makers of the world. Not only did large orders for Steinway pianos but
distinguished honors now pour in upon the firm from all quarters. The Steinways
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. ST.
became successively the court piano manufacturers to the Queen of England, the Queen
of Spain, the Emperor of Germany, the Prince and Princess of Wales and the Queen of
Italy. Illustrious composers and artists bought and used their instruments, inchiding
Liszt, Wagner, Helmholtz, Rubinstein, Paderewski, Theodore Thomas, Patti, Gerster,
Joseffy and others. The public of America were conquered, and the firm prospered
in fortune and in reputation with each succeeding year.
The completion of piano N,o. 25,000, made for the Czarowitz of Russia, was cele-
brated by the firm and its one thousand workmen, May 4, 1872. Piano No. 50,000,
believed to be the finest grand ever produced by the house up to that time, was bought
by Baron Nathaniel de Rothschild of Vienna, and dispatched by the Hamburg steamer
Bohemia, Sept. 15, 1883.
Henry E. Steinway died in 1871, at the age of seventy-four, and Albert Steinway,
the youngest son, died in 1877. The firm have, however, admitted the grandsons of
the founders to membership, one after the other, and have always retained the time-
honored name of Steinway & Sons. C. F. Theodore died in 1889, and William now
remains alone at the head of the house.
In 1872, the firm were compelled to establish additional works in Steinway, Astoria,
for the constant open air and kiln drying of 7,000,000 feet of the finest lumber for the
cases of their pianos, and for making each grand piano case of bent wood of one con-
tinuous length, as also the vibrating parts of each. Model houses have since been,
erected with good ventilation, pure water, perfect drainage and gas. Always high
minded and public spirited in the treatment of their men, the firm built a public school
for one thousand children in Long Island City in 1877 and have maintained, at their
own expense, in addition to the English course of instruction, which is furnished by
the city, a teacher for free tuition in the German language and music. There are also
a free circulating library and a model free kindergarten. In 1881, a public bath was
built at the expense of the firm at Steinway, Long Island City, with fifty dressing
rooms, and, surrounding the same, a fine park was opened, with a fountain of drinking
water, the whole lighted by gas. The Protestant LTnion Church there has also been
endowed by the firm and presented with the cathedral organ from Steinway Hall.
Besides his educational benefactions at Steinway, Long Island City, William Stein-
way has, by his influence and pecuniary assistance, made it possible for many young
people of both sexes to enjoy a thorough musical training. In his native town of
Seesen, he has founded six annual prizes for the best three male and three female
students, and pays the annual school money for the children of no less than seventy-five
parents. He has also presented that city with a lovely park, which the grateful in-
habitants, by official vote, call "Steinway Park," besides making William Steinway an
honorary citizen.
William Steinway has also, in 1894, founded two annual prizes, gold watches of $75
value each, one to be awarded to the most proficient student in German, and the other
to the student showing the greatest progress in the same language. He has also
founded two annual prizes of $30 and $20 at St. Paul's School, in Garden City, Long
Island. Besides a number of charitable societies, he is also assisting schools and
libraries with annual contributions in money and has presented many educational
institutes with piano fortes.
The relations between Mr. Steinway and his great army of employes are pleasant
616 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
and harmonious. The mechanics are all highly skilled and intelligent, and they appre-
ciate the fatherly care which he bestows upon them and their families.
It is an important and striking fact that the success of the Steinways has put an
end completely to the importation of pianos to America. It is also a remarkable fact
that seventy per cent, of the pianos now exported to Europe are made by the Steinways.
The house has created a large foreign trade, and is compelled to maintain warehouses
in London, Hamburg and other European cities.
It would fill a goodly sized book to mention and describe the many honors and
distinctions, which have been showered upon William Steinway in person. Want of
space prevents the mention of more than a few of them.
In 1867, after the close of the Paris Exposition, William Steinway and his brother,
C. F. Theodore Steinway, were unanimously elected members of the Royal Prussian
Academy of Fine Arts at Berlin, Germany.
In the same year, the Grand Gold Medal was bestowed upon William by His Majesty,
King Charles of Sweden, accompanied by an autograph letter of Prince Oscar of
Sweden, now King.
June 12, 1892, Emperor William II. of Germany, appointed William Steinway
piano forte manufacturer for the imperial court of Germany. During a pleasure trip
abroad, an audience was granted to him by the Emperor and Empress of Germany, in
the marble palace in Potsdam, Sept. n, 1892. The Emperor presented Mr. Steinway
with his portrait and the imperial autograph, "Wilhelm, German Emperor and King
of Prussia, Marble Palais, n-ix, 1892," written in the presence of his guest. The
Empress also wrote him an autograph letter, thanking him for his gift to the Emperor
William I. Memorial Church building at Berlin. This honor was followed, June 12,
1893, by the bestowal upon him by the Emperor of the Order of the Red Eagle, third
class, the highest distinction ever conferred upon a manufacturer.
In April, 1894, William Steinway was elected Member of the Royal Italian
Academy of St. Cecilia of Rome, the oldest and most renowned academy in the Old
World, having been founded by Palestrina, the celebrated composer, in 1584.' The
diploma of membership is in itself a work of art.
Mr. Steinway has prospered in his individvial fortune with the growth of the great
house, which he has done so much to establish. But he has never been so closely
identified with practical business affairs as to be oblivious to the public interests of the
city and country in which he became a resident June 9, 1850. Always a lover and a
patron of the fine arts, he has also taken an active and successful part in public affairs.
In 1871, he was an active member of the Committee of Seventy, appointed by the
citizens of New York, to bring to justice the Tammany ring, which had robbed the
city of millions of money. The magnificent success of the prosecutions of William M.
Tweed and his associates is now a part of the permanent history of New York city.
Oct. 29, 1886, Mr. Steinway presided at an immense meeting of citizens at Cooper
Institute, which endorsed the nomination of Abram S. Hewitt for Mayor. He made a
fine address and conducted the meeting with great tact and success. The triumphant
election of Mr. Hewitt crowned its efforts.
In 1888, he was the member of the Democratic National Committee of the United
States, representing the State of New York, and a delegate to the convention which
nominated Mr. Cleveland for a second term.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. ST. 617
In February, 1889, under his guidance as president, a large fair was held at the
American Institute for the benefit of the German Hospital. This enterprise was a
most unprecedented success. The receipts were $i 18,000, and the net profits $i 12,000.
In February, 1890, he was one of the committee of the citizens of Xew York
appointed to secure the World's Fair of 1893 for New York city. At a meeting at the
City Hall, he opened the subscription list for a fund to secure the Fair with a subscrip-
tion for $50,000. When Congress finally decided that the Fair should be held in
Chicago, his patriotism and liberality were exhibited by a subscription of $25,000,
which he subsequently paid, toward the success of the great exhibition there.
Oct. 27, 1892, Mr. Steinway presided at the immense mass meeting of German
Americans at Cooper Institute, Grover Cleveland, Carl Schurz, Oswald Ottendorfer
and Dr. Joseph Senner being the other speakers. Upwards of 20,000 people were
assembled. Mr. Steinway 's speech was reported in full all over the United States
and in synopsis cabled to Europe.
In the Presidential election of 1892, Mr. Steinway was one of the Democratic
electors for the State of New York ; and he was unanimously elected president of the
Electoral College at the capitol at Albany, when it met Jan. 9, 1893, to cast the vote of
the State of New York for President of the United States. His activity, influence and
ability were recognized by President Cleveland by the offer of a number of important
Federal offices, which, however, he preferred not to accept.
Of the grand Music Festival in New York, at Madison Square Garden, June 24-28,
1894, he was the honorary president, and on June 23 made a splendid opening address,
and introduced Gov. Flower and Mayor Gilroy to the audience.
As Rapid Transit Commissioner of the city of New York, the name of Mr. Stein-
way has been on every tongue in this population of nearly 2,000,000 souls for several
years. The problem the Commissioners have been called upon to solve is one of the
utmost public importance. It is a difficult problem. A number of rival interests
have presented conflicting propositions. Patient, far seeing and patriotic, Mr. Stein-
way has given to them all a profound and willing study. The labors of the Commis-
sion are far from being ended ; but it is, meanwhile, the verdict of the public, that the
Commission has been the gainer by the uprightness, ability and discretion which Mr.
Steinway has shown in its counsels.
In the new Rapid Transit act, which became a law Ma}' 22, 1894, among other
things abolishing the old Commission. Mr. Steinway was unanimously reappointed by
the Legislature as a member of the new Commission.
Mr. Steinway has been twice married. He lost his first wife by death in 1876. His
second wife, Elizabeth C. Ranft, died March 4, 1893, while he was himself confined to
his bed by a severe illness. His married life has been a happy one. His children are
George A. Steinway; Paula, wife of Louis von Bernuth; William R., Theodore E. and
Maud S. Steinway.
A man of strong financial standing and of varied talents, his activities in the busi-
ness world have not been confined to the labors of Steinway & Sons. He was
one of the founders of The Bank of the Metropolis, and is is now a director. He is also
vice president of The German Savings Bank, New York, and The Queens County Bank
of Long Island City, a director in The Steinway Railroad Co. of Long Island City and
The New York & College Point Fern- Co. He is also president of The New York
618 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
Pianoforte Manufacturers' Society. His social standing is illustrated by his member-
ship in the Manhattan club; the Liederkranz Society, of which he has been twelve
times president; the Arion, of which he is an honorary member; The American Geo-
graphical Society, and the Royal Academy of Fine Arts of Berlin. More than a dozen
musical societies have elected him an honorary member.
A sound, enterprising, clear-headed, benevolent and versatile man, and a ready
speaker in both English and German, the metropolis is constantly the gainer by his
remarkable abilities.
PARAN STEVENS, hotel man, born in Claremont, N. H., in 1803, died in New
York city, April 25, 1872. Modest circumstances compelled Mr. Stevens to rely upon
himself from early youth, and discipline and natural gifts made him shrewd, sensible,
practical and energetic. Having learned the hotel business in Boston, he acquired con-
trol of the Revere House there and conducted it successfully, and then extended his
enterprise to the management of the Tremont House in Boston, the Continental Hotel
in Philadelphia and the Battle House in Mobile, Ala. In 1858, with associates, he
leased the Fifth Avenue Hotel in New York city and from this fashionable and success-
ful house derived a large income for many years. New York became his permanent
home after 1862", and he purchased the residence at No. 244 Fifth avenue, which after-
ward became one of the centres of the fashionable life of the city. As Tie accumulated
means, he invested them mainly in real estate. One of the first to adopt the fire proof
plan of construction, he built shortly before his death the Fifth Avenue apartments on
2 ad street, from Fifth avenue to Broadway, which were notable for beauty and solidity.
This building took the name afterward of the Stevens Apartment House and later of
the Victoria Hotel. He also owned a large amount of other city real estate as well as
property in Lowell, Mass., and a house in Newport. He was a liberal man, refined in
tastes, a patron of art and a kind and genial gentleman. At his death, he gave $40,000 to
Claremont, N. H., for a Stevens High School. Mr. Stevens was twice married. His
first wife died while he was yet a young man and left one daughter, Ellen, wife of John
Lowell Melcher. A few years later, he married Miss Marietta Reed of Lowell, who
survived him for many years, dying in New York, April 3, 1895, after a long and event-
ful life. She made her home the scene of many fashionable entertainments and had
become a leader in social life. Her two children were a son, Henry Leiden Stevens,
and a daughter, Mary Fiske, who married Col. Arthur H. F. Paget of England.
DAVID STEVENSON, brewer, born in New York city, Aug. 2, 1846, died at No.
7 East 26th street, Oct. 6, 1892. He grew up in the Ninth Ward and at an early age
went to work in his father's brewery at 39th and 4oth streets and Tenth avenue. On
the death of his father, he became sole heir of the property and managed the brewery
with great success the rest of his life. He owned a malt house in Oswego, and pro-
duced about 175,000 barrels of beer annually. He was one of the founders of The
Mutual Bank and its president from its organization in June, 1890, until his death.
He was also a trustee of The Excelsior Savings Bank and a member of the Man-
hattan, Phoenix and Lotos clubs. Mr. Stevenson invested his savings largely in real
estate, especially on and near West sgth street. He left a widow, Sewannee M., and
several young children.
ALEXANDER TURNEY STEWART, merchant, in his day one of the richest men
in New York city, born Oct. 12, 1803, in Lisburn, near Belfast, Ireland, died in New
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. ST. 619
York city, April 10, 1876. While of Irish birth, he descended from Scottish ancestry.
Left an orphan before the age of eight by the death of both his parents, he lost his
other near relatives also before he left Trinity College in Belfast at the age of twenty.
The lonely young man then emigrated to America, arriving in New York in 1823.
Being entirely without experience in business, he began life as teacher in a private
school in Roosevelt street. At the end of the year, he spent his vacation in Ireland,
obtained a small inheritance, and returned to New York in 1825 with a carefully
selected stock of Belfast laces, opening a store at 283 Broadway at a rental of $250 a
year, Sept. 2, 1825. Success came to Mr. Stewart from the first as a consequence of
his indefatigable labor and his keenness as a merchant. In 1826, he moved to a larger
store at No. 262 Broadway and shortly afterward to No. 257 Broadway. From
the start, he established the rule of fair but invariable prices and made a great hit
therewith.
In 1848, having gained a fortune, he built the handsome marble store at the corner
of Broadway and Chambers and Reade streets. This was the most notable building in
the city at the time and proved a tremendous advertisement for him. Mr. Stewart
was a large importer of the finest qualities of foreign goods and gradually added an
extensive wholesale business to his operations. In 1862, the center of retail trade
having moved up town, Mr. Stewart completed a retail store on the site bounded by
Broadway, Fourth avenue, gth and loth streets, at a cost of nearly $2,750,000 and this
magnificent building for many years ranked as one of the finest retail stores in the
world. After this time, Mr. Stewart was perhaps the wealthiest and most influential
merchant in the country. He established branch stores, warehouses or mills in all of
the principal trade centers of the world and for many years until his death carried on
an enormous and profitable business. In his later years, he invested large sums in
business and residence property in the city and owned the Grand Union Hotel in Sara-
toga Springs. His marble mansion on Fifth avenue at 34th street, considered a
wonder in its day, was adorned with one of the finest art collections in the country.
During the Civil War, he was a supporter of the Union and an admirer of Gen-
eral Grant. In 1867, he went to the Paris Exposition as chairman of the United States
Commission. This was the only public office he ever held. He was nominated in
1869 by President Grant for Secretary of the Treasury, but declined the office, because
of the law prohibiting an importer in active business from holding that position In
his public charities he was always liberal. At the time of the Irish famine in 1846, he
chartered a ship and sent it to Ireland loaded with provisions, bringing back a cargo
of selected emigrants, for most of whom he had provided situations before they
reached New York. After the Franco-German war, he sent a cargo of 3,800 barrels of
flour to the sufferers in the manufacturing districts of France. He gave $50,000 for the
relief of the sufferers in Chicago, after the great fire, and in many other ways displayed
the philanthropy of his nature. Shortly before his death, he built the iron building on
Fourth avenue, now known as the Park Avenue Hotel, which he designed originally as
a home for working women, and he expended large sums of money in purchasing the
land and developing the village of Garden City on Long Island, which he designed for
the benefit of the working classes. Here he built schools and other structures. The
village has since become a place of residence for the prosperous. In early life he
married Cornelia, daughter of Jacob Clinch. His wife survived him, without children.
620 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
JOHN AIRMAN STEWART, banker, was born in Fulton street, New York city,
Aug. 22, 1822. John Stewart, his father, a native of Lewis Island, in the Hebrides,
and descendant of the famous Highland clan of Stewart, emigrated from Stornaway to
the new world, in 1815, worked for a while as a ship carpenter and then established
himself in business. He died in 1849, at the age of fifty-eight. John A. Stewart
graduated from Columbia College in 1840 in the literary and scientific course and
found occupation in an engineering corps, engaged in building The New York & Lake
Erie Railroad. In 1842, he was appointed clerk of the Board of Education and
remained in this position until 1850. After three years' service as actuary of The
United States Life Insurance Co., Mr. Stewart resigned in 1853 and devoted himself to
organizing The United States Trust Co., which he has since made a sound, conserva-
tive and influential corporation. A charter was secured from the Legislature largely
through Mr. Stewart's labors and he became secretary of the company. Well fitted
for this position, he devoted himself with fidelity and great energy to the opera-
tions of his company and became known as a careful and successful financier during
his eleven years in this position. Thrice urged to accept appointment as Assistant
Treasurer of the United States, Mr. Stewart complied in June, 1864, at the sacrifice of
personal interests, solely as a patriotic duty, and had the satisfaction of being able to
perform public services of value. After the War, Mr. Stewart felt anxious to return
to his former occupation. At this time, Joseph Lawrence, president of The United States
Trust Co., having resigned his office on account of age arid impaired health, Mr.
Stewart was in 1865 unanimously elected to the place and thereupon withdrew from
public life. He has remained at the head of the institution down to the present time.
He is a director of The Equitable Life Assurance Society, The Merchants' National
Bank, The Greenwich Savings Bank, The London & Liverpool & Globe Insurance Co.,
The Bank of New Amsterdam and The Delaware & Hudson Canal Co., and a vice
president of the Chamber of Commerce. His interest in religion and education, a
marked trait, has led him into the directorate of The New York E) e & Ear Infirmary
and he is a trustee of The John F. Slater Fund, The Brick Presbyterian Church, and
Princeton College. His clubs are the Metropolitan, Union League, Lawyers' and
Riding. In May, 1845, Mr. Stewart was married to Sarah Youle Johnson of New
York. To them were born William A. W. and John A. Stewart ; Mary, wife of George
S. Sheffield; Emily S., wife of Robert Waller, and a child who died in infancy. Mr.
Stewart was married again in 1894 to Mary Olivia Capron of Baltimore.
JAFIES STILLMAN, merchant, a native of Brownsville, Texas, was born June 9,
1850, during a temporary stay of his parents in that city. He traces his line to George
Stillman, who, born in London in 1654, came to Hadley, Mass., removing later
to Wethersfield, Conn. His maternal ancestor, John Goodrich of Bury St. Edmonds,
Suffolk county, England, emigrated to Wethersfield, Conn., in 1640. All four of his
great grandfathers fought for Independence in the War of the American Revolution,
two as officers, and his father, George G. Stillman, made a fortune as a merchant and
operator in Southern railroads. Mr. Stillman's youth was spent in Hartford, Conn.,
and at a private school in Sing Sing, N. Y. In 1871, he joined the firm of Smith,
Woodward & Stillman, commission cotton merchants in this city, and in 1873, their
successors, Woodward & Stillman. Mr. Stillman is now the senior partner. He has been
successful as a merchant, and now has various additional interests, being president of
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. ST. 621
The National City Bank and director of The United States Trust Co., The Farmers' Loan
& Trust Co., The New York Security & Trust Co., The Hanover National Bank, The
Delaware, Lackawanna & Western Railroad, The Consolidated Gas Co., and The
Queen Insurance Co. He is also a member of the Chamber of Commerce and Cotton
Exchange, and the Union, Metropolitan, Century, Union League, Manhattan, Reform,
New York Yacht, Seawanhaka Corinthian Yacht, Eastern Yacht, St. Augustine
Yacht, Jekyl Island and Storm King clubs, The New York Historical Society, and
the Metropolitan club of Washington.
GEORGE WASHINGTON STOCKLY, retired manufacturer, born in Cleveland,
O., Dec. 20, 1843, is a son of the late John Gait Stockly and a descendant of John
Stockly, who came from England and settled in Virginia in 1609 at the first occupation
by John Smith. Ayres Stockly of this family settled in Philadelphia about 1783, where
John G. Stockly was born in 1799, the latter going to Cleveland in 1838 and dying there
in 1863. The subject of this sketch left the public schools of Cleveland to spend five
years in the law office of Willey & Cary and in the transportation business in Cleveland.
For seven years, he served as teller of The Commercial National Bank. In 1873, he gave
up banking to undertake the management of The Telegraph Supply & Manufacturing
Co., of which afterward he became president. In 1876, Mr. Stockly called the atten-
tion of Charles F. Brush to the subject of illumination and subsequently arranged with
him to undertake the production of a system of electric arc lighting. The first Brush
plant was made and tested in the factory and at the expense of The Telegraph Supply
Co., and an arrangement was made whereby the company took active control of the
business under the Brush patents, paying Mr. Brush a royalty. During the next four-
teen j'ears, The Brush Electric Co. , which succeeded The Telegraph Supply Co. , with
Mr. Stockiy as president and manager, achieved immense success as pioneers of public
electric lighting. During 1880-90, the profits exceeded $2,000,000 in cash. In 1890,
the proprietors sold the entire stock of the concern to The Thomson-Houston Electric
Co., of Massachusetts, for about $3,000,000 in cash. The business has since been
merged in The General Electric Co., of New York. Mr. Stockly was probably the first
man of business to appreciate the importance of the telephone. Long before the first
practicable instrument was publicly exhibited, he applied to Gardiner G. Hubbard for
and obtained control of the business in Ohio and Indiana. He introduced the telephone
in Ohio and built and operated the first telephone exchange in the country. The Brush
Electric Co. was also a pioneer in electric railways, and built the first experimental line
in Cleveland. There are now over a thousand such railways in the country, represent-
ing an investment of about $600,000,000. In 1890, Mr. Stockly retired from business
and removed to Lakewood, N. J. Of too active a nature to remain idle, he has latterly
resumed business in New York city. He is a member of the Lotos club here, The
Society of Mechanical Engineers and The Society of Electrical Engineers.
JAHES STOKES, merchant, born at No. 45 Wall street, New York city, Jan. 31,
1804, died at his home on Orange Mountain, N. J., Aug. i, 1881. His father, Thomas
Stokes, a wealthy merchant in England and founder of The London Missionary Soci-
ety, emigrated to America in 1803, coming in his own ship. He settled in New York
city, led a quiet life for many years, and lost the greater part of his fortune by lend-
ing money on bad security. Later, he opened a clothing store on Broadway and took
his son James into partnership. About 1837, James Stokes married Caroline Phelps, a
622 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
daughter of Anson G. Phelps, senior partner in Phelps, Dodge & Co., metal import-
ers, and about a year later became a member of the firm. In 1879, he withdrew to
form the banking house of Phelps, Stokes & Co., the firm consisting of Isaac N.
Phelps, James Stokes, Anson Phelps Stokes, and Frederic P. Olcott. He was a man of
marked ability and energy and prospered in all his business transactions. Public life
never tempted him from the field of practical pursuits and in 1857 he declined the
nomination for Mayor on the Democratic ticket. He was at first a strong Whig and
afterward a Democrat. With Peter Cooper and other citizens, he did much to promote
the old Public School Society. In religion at first a Baptist, he afterward became
a Presbyterian. The charities of the city and of the religious body to which he
belonged, received from Mr. Stokes liberal gifts. He was at one time president of The
Ansonia Brass & Copper Co., and The Ansonia Clock Co. , and had an interest in several
other firms, being also director of The Liberty Insurance Co., and The Mercantile
Trust Co. He had a house in Ansonia, several stores in the lower part of the city and
lands in Michigan and Pennsylvania. His wife survived him with seven children,
Anson G. Phelps Stokes, James Stokes, jr., Col. Thomas Stokes and William E. Dodge
Stokes; Dora, now deceased, wife of Henry Dale, and Caroline Phelps and Olivia Stokes.
There were numerous bequests to charity in his will. — His son, WILLIAH EARL
DODGE STOKES, realty owner, born Jan. 5, 1884, descends through the maternal line
from Lieut. Thomas Phelps of the Continental army in the American Revolution.
Graduating from Yale College in 1874, Mr. Stokes received his first training as a clerk
in the New York branch of The Canadian Bank. He was then admitted to the count-
ing room of Phelps, Stokes & Co., and later to partnership, remaining a member until
the house retired from Wall street and went into liquidation. Mr. Stokes was born to
fortune and prepared himself carefully for the responsibilities which were to fall upon
him. A large property came into his possession in due time by devise from his father
and mother. He has shown ability in its management and made a fortune for himself
by aiding to develop that now attractive part of the city lying west of Central Park.
When city lots in that region ranged in value from $4,000 to $5,000 each, he "bought
largely and has since built many residences for rental to substantial residents. Prop-
erty in that part of the city has more than tripled in value since he began operations.
Mr. Stokes was among those who labored for the location of the World's Fair in 1893
in New York city and was secretary of the local Committee on Organization and Site.
He helps sustain the great public museums of the city, and is the father of the plan of
introducing asphalt pavements to this metropolis. Jan. 3, 1895, Mr. Stokes was married
to Miss Rita Hernandez De Alba De Acosta, daughter of Ricardo De Acosta. He is a
man of cultivated tastes and courteous manners and a number of the best clubs have
been glad to admit him to membership, including the Union League, Manhattan,
Colonial, Country, St. Nicholas, New York Yacht, Meadow Brook, Seawanhaka
Corinthian Yacht, Down Town and Lawyers'. He is also a member of The Sons of
the Revolution and The New England Society.
AUGUSTUS STORRS, merchant, born in Mansfield, Conn., June 4, 1819, died at
Oak Grove Farm, Mansfield, March 3, 1892. Early in life, he became a merchant and
carried on business in Mansfield, Willimantic and Hartford, Conn., until 1851, when
he removed to Brooklyn, N. Y. Shortly afterward, in 1854, he united with his
brothers, Charles and Royal O. Storrs, under the firm name of Storrs Bro's, to carry
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. ST. 623
on a commission business in staple American goods in New York city. This business
was conducted by him and his brother Charles, under the same firm name for twenty-
five years, with excellent and enlarging success. Agriculture awoke in Mr. Storrs an
enthusiastic interest and led him to purchase and cultivate the old homestead at Mans-
field, Conn., comprising over 500 acres. The Storrs Agricultural School at that place,
which owes its foundation to him and to his brother Charles, lies just north of this
farm, its lands adjoining; and his well managed country home showed its students what
care and tillage would do for Connecticut fields. Soon after coming to Brooklyn,
Mr. Storrs united with Plymouth Church, of which for many years he was treasurer
and a trustee, being an intimate and trusted friend of Henry Ward Beecher. He also
contributed liberally to the church at Mansfield. He left one daughter, Mrs. Marie A.
Storrs Valentine, wife of Benjamin Eyre Valentine. Their home is in Brooklyn.
CHARLES STORRS, merchant, born in Mansfield, Conn., Jan. 24, 1822, died in
Brooklyn, Sept. i, 1884. He was the son of Royal Storrs, a hard working farmer, and
gained what little schooling he could in the intervals of farm work. For one or two
winters, he taught school himself. In 1842, six months before he was of age, he
obtained a substitute to take his place on the farm, and, without a dollar of capital,
engaged in the sale of American made sewing silk on commission, his native town of
Mansfield being then one of the chief places of its manufacture. He was so engaged
for three years, and his success in this venture laid the foundation of a subsequent large
fortune. Removing to Hartford, Conn. , he became agent for a large manufacturing
and commission house, and in 1850, transferred his residence to Brooklyn, retaining
the agency. The firm made him a partner in 1853, but the panic of 1854 overwhelmed
the house, whereupon Mr. Storrs assumed its liabilities of over $300,000, and paid
them in full. In December, 1854, he began business for himself as a commission mer-
chant, forming a partnership with his brothers, Augustus and Royal O., under the
firm name of Storrs Bro's. The latter remained in the firm only a short time, but the
others continued a large and profitable business, with Charles Storrs as the active head,
until 1879. Then, his health having become impaired by the many years of active
work, Mr. Storrs retired from business. A warm friendship existed between Horace
Greeley and the subject of this memoir, and when the former died, Mr. Storrs was one
of his executors and helped settle the complicated estate. He was a man of cultivation
and charity and great nobility of character. His home in Brooklyn was a storehouse
of rare works of art and literature, and his library, one of the finest in the city, became
a favorite resort for literary men. He gave to the State of Connecticut an endowment
fund, which his brother Augustus supplemented with lands and buildings, to establish
and maintain the Storrs Agricultural School in Mansfield, his native town. July 4,
1844, he married Miss Maryett M. Cook of Coventry, Conn., who, with one daughter,
Sarah Maria, wife of David Choate Proctor of Henniker, N. H , survived him.
RUFUS STORY, merchant, born in Milan, Dutchess county, N. Y., Feb , 6, 1813,
died at his home at Bergen Point, N J., Oct. 6, 1887. When a boy of thirteen, Mr.
Story came to New York city and entered a grocery house as a clerk and in a very
short time engaged in the grocery business for himself, later giving his attention
mainly to the trade in pepper and spices. His energy made him one of the leading
merchants of the city. Judicious purchases of real estate which he made proved
for him a profitable investment. He was a director of The Broadway National Bank,
624 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
and conspicuous in a test lawsuit against The Manhattan Elevated Railway, brought in
consequence of the elevated roadway shutting out the light from his buildings. The
case was carried through several courts and finally won by Mr Story. Although never
in politics, Mr. Story was always ready to uphold the cause of good government. He
was twice married, first to Eliza Rue and later to Ursula Ayres. Four daughters sur-
vive him, Mary Elizabeth, wife of the late Walter B. Palmer, and Emily Louise, wife
of John Paret, daughters of his first wife, and Alice, wife of David Hall Rowland, and
Abbie, wife of Charles Marshall.
ANDREW VARICK STOUT, merchant and banker, a native of this city, died in
Bernardsville, N. J., Sept. 5, 1883, in his seventy-first year. At the age of eighteen,
Mr. Stout was appointed an assistant teacher in old Public School No. 2, and of
Public School No. 13, in Madison street. After several years of pedagogy, he accepted
the management of the New York Orphan Asylum for a few years. He then entered
business life and engaged in the wholesale shoe trade in Stout & Ward, later known as
A. V. Stout & Co. , and in this vocation met with excellent success. While yet a merchant,
he accepted the vice presidency of The Shoe & Leather Bank, and on April 3, 1855,
the presidency. Retiring from mercantile life, he held the position of bank president
for twenty- eight years, failing health then compelling his resignation. Among his
other trusts were seats in the directorates of The New York Mutual Gas Light Co.,
The Phenix Fire Insurance Co., The American Bank Note Co., The New York and
Brooklyn Ferry Co., The Broadway Fire Insurance Co., and The Loan & Improvement
Co. He was at one time a member of the Board of Education, and while Fernando
Wood was Mayor, City Chamberlain. During the disturbances over the police
force at that time, he had the spirit to pay the salaries of the policemen from his
private funds, being afterward reimbursed by the city. Originally a Democrat, during
the War he became a Republican and was ever afterward a staunch supporter of that
party. A few years before his death, he gave $40,000 each to Wesleyan University
and Drew Theological Seminary, of which institutions he was a trustee. He was also
a member and trustee of St. Paul's Methodist Episcopal Church at Fourth avenue arid
22d street. The survivors of his family were his wife, Almira H.; a son, Joseph S.
Stout, head of the firm of Stout & Co., brokers, and two daughters, Jane K. , who
married John N. Ewell, a banker of New York, and Almira H., who married A.
Francis Southerland. Mrs. Stout died July 26, 1890. — His son, JOSEPH SUYDAH
STOUT, banker and stockbroker, born at the home of the family on Ridge street, New
York city, Dec. 27, 1846, attended the local schools during boyhood and, for two years,
the College of the City of New York. Before the age of seventeen, he was given a
clerkship in The Shoe & Leather Bank and at the age of nineteen was made assistant
cashier. At the age of twenty-one, he began business for himself in Wall street and has ever
since followed the vocation of banking. Successively a member of the firms of Wiley
& Co., Stout & Dickinson, and Ewell, Stout & Co., he has been since 1876 the capable head
of Stout & Co. His reputation has never been tarnished by wrong doing, and he has
on the contrary won the confidence and regard of the whole financial world by excellent
abilities and elevated character. He is vice president of The New York Mutual Gas Light
Co. , and a director of The National Shoe & Leather Bank, The American Bank Note Co. ,
The Broadway Insurance Co., The Holland Trust Co., The Toledo, and The St. Louis
& Kansas City Railroads. He is also a member of the Union League and Metropolitan
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. ST.
The New England Society, the Stock and Produce Excoaogea and the Cru
.imerce, and The Methodist . iul of Brook Vn. While d.
>..•« pursuits, Mr. Stout has given important aid to education and the Chn
• m. He is a trustee of W>. <;• i-;m ! • : .-erv.ty and I'M ••••: Theoloek^ -
>urer of the Board of Education of the Methodic T-.d Of 'he
-m Avenue Methodist Episcopal Church, and by no iu.a:is pa«js-v in tb* vntrk uf
'institutions. April 21. i$fe, he married Jnlin »ar, -., I^ul. • :fl!- , :i> ;kfK« -;s
«ther of Newton E., Andrew V., Joseph S. arc! X;-*jt
JAflES SAJ1UEL THOMAS STRANAHAN. r,:,.^. : :.
;:.e creation of Puispect Park and Brook'. >-;i hn ix u> «
- : resident of the city of his home, that the
<nized title in the leading newspapers as *eU a*
Pre-eminent inf
Without di-ira'-ting from
iv-ed in founding a n^
-trious Scotch-Ir
in con>:u>_;
settled in the N
;ght to the strugglin.
which have made th-. s
, unflagging industr- .->,,«;
sturdy stock have sprung mar -,-, wh»>\f n in-e* t-o
mently identified with Amer > T. Stranahan.
Ancestor, James Stranahan, bom I. m ,:,5 and
ved later to Plainfield, Conn., wh " need
t ninety-three. Samuel, the r^ removed
boro in Madison county, X. ., -,,.-5e
undings of a pioneer's life, his s»»i:
1805. Samuel Stranahan fi
Early in life, the subject of this s. ies .rf his
His boyhood was spent in s<
icademies. The first money he evr
->r the profession of a civil en^a.t.
-ome a frontier trader, and h-j !u;*d- •. ••.
-s. After several interview- *J«S .1 .r- ! ,-v .
•r> of Michigan, and after s_-vr rs
• inch he found no desir.;!* -;e u->
la 1*32, there was presented • . /r^ir .kn
:> v;a! talent for organiza;»->r '.._••:". ;vv. ;S, Mu
:ionist, invitevi \. ,-, n • !•;".•;• i^
•:• .1 town owned by the r. •• < • • -..: s. •. •..:.•• . :
.•- l<»-day attests Mr. Sir.tn.*naa'3 success. Frmn t
i* roung founder was s^nt u> the Assembly, ba\mj; r^-fi
;r<>m a Democrat!'.- ct»u' '• '• • ,.
iic«ptional ability, who Afterward became emia'.- 't : •, •
fa «$4o, Mr. Stranahan removed to Newark, N j . in ; •
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. ST. 625
clubs, The New England Society, the Stock and Produce Excnanges and the Chamber
Commerce, and The Methodist Episcopal Hospital of Brooklyn. While devoted to
Dusiness pursuits, Mr. Stout has given important aid to education and the Christian
religion. He is a trustee of Wesleyan University and Drew Theological Seminary,
reasurer of the Board of Education of the Methodist Episcopal Church and of the
Madison Avenue Methodist Episcopal Church, and by no means passive in the work of
those institutions. April 21, 1868, he married Julia Francis Purdy of this city, and is
the father of Newton E., Andrew V., Joseph S. and Arthur P. Stout.
JAflES SAFIUEL THOHAS STRANAHAN, financier, whose name is identified
rith the creation of Prospect Park and Brooklyn Bridge, is in so many respects the
foremost resident of the city of his home, that the " First Citizen of Brooklyn" is his
recognized title in the leading newspapers as well as in ordinary allusion.
Pre-eminent influence in the history of the United States is due not to the Puritan
ilone. Without detracting from the qualities which the austere followers of Cromwell
lisplayed in founding a new nation, due credit must also be given to the hardy and
idustrious Scotch-Irish, who, at the close of the seventeenth century, fled to the new
rorld in considerable numbers from the increasing oppression of the British crown.
?hey settled in the New England colonies and what are now the Middle States. They
brought to the struggling communities of the new world those three secrets of success
which have made the Scotch-Irish famous the world over : skilled labor in its truest
sense, unflagging industry, and deep and intelligent religious conviction. From this
sturdy stock have sprung many large minded and large hearted men, whose names are
prominently identified with American progress, among them, James S. T. Stranahan.
His ancestor, James Stranahan, born in 1699, settled in Scituate, R. I., in 1725, and
removed later to Plainfield, Conn. , where, a prosperous farmer, he died at the advanced
age of ninety-three. Samuel, the fifth son of James of the second generation, removed
to Peterboro in Madison county, N. Y., then a wilderness, and there amid the rude
surroundings of a pioneer's life, his son James Samuel Thomas Stranahan was born,
April 25, 1805. Samuel Stranahan died in 1816.
Early in life, the subject of this sketch was awakened to the stern necessities of his
career. His boyhood was spent in school and upon the farm. Later, he attended the
local academies. The first money he ever earned came from teaching. He fitted him-
self for the profession of a civil engineer, but this pursuit he abandoned, in 1827-28,
to become a frontier trader, and he made a trip to the great lakes, then the far western
wilderness. After several interviews with Hon. Lewis Cass, then Governor of the
Territory of Michigan, and after several adventurous explorations of the forest regions,
during which he found no desirable field for his enterprise, he resolved to return east.
In 1832, there was presented to the young man an opportunity for the display of
his especial talent for organization. Gerrit Smith, the well known land owner and
famous abolitionist, invited young Stranahan to aid him in founding a manufacturing
village in a town owned by the former in Oneida county. The flourishing village of
Florence to-day attests Mr. Stranahan's success. From this village, in 1838, the
tireless young founder was sent to the Assembly, having been elected on the Whig
ticket from a Democratic county. In the Legislature, he was associated with many
men of exceptional ability, who afterward became eminent in public affairs.
In 1840, Mr. Stranahan removed to Newark, N. J., and engaged extensively in rail-
626 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
road construction, in which he was exceedingly successful. By shrewdly accepting a
portion of his compensation in the stock of his various roads, he laid the foundation of
a subsequent large fortune. In 1844, he removed to Brooklyn, where he has since re-
sided and with whose interests he has become intimately identified Here he engaged
largely in real estate improvements. A man of striking ability and exceptional popu-
larity, he was elected to the Board of Aldermen in 1848; nominated but defeated for
Mayor in 1850, and elected to Congress in 1854. In 1857, when the first Metropolitan
Police Commission was organized, covering New York city, Brooklyn and Staten
Island, Mr. Stranahan became a member of the board and was a participant in the
famous struggle, which took place between the new regime and the old municipal
police, the latter led by Fernando Wood, then Mayor of the city. He was a member
of the Republican National Convention of 1860 and urged the nomination of Abraham
Lincoln. He was also a member of the Convention of 1864, again voting for Mr. Lin-
coln, and later a Lincoln and Johnson Presidential Elector. The cause of the Union
received his ardent support during the War and he was chosen to the position of presi-
dent of the War Fund Committee of his city. His wife was at the same time president
of the Woman's Relief Association. These organizations were of enormous service to
the country. They not only raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for the Union
cause, but they performed a much more notable service in rallying public opinion, en-
couraging enlistments, rendering practical aid to the volunteers, and sustaining the
government in its efforts to carry on the War. The War Fund Committee was com-
posed of one hundred of the most prominent and loyal men of Brooklyn. From its
councils, originating in the determination that there should be at least one loyal news-
paper in the city of Brooklyn, was called into existence The Brooklyn Union newspaper.
Since 1865, Mr. Stranahan has been identified with almost every important im-
provement in his adopted city. He was at the head of the Brooklyn Park Commission
for twenty-two years, becoming its president by act of the Legislature in 1860. He
remained at the head of the Commission until 1882. To him, Brooklyn is indebted
more than to any other man for Prospect Park, the Ocean Parkway, Eastern Parkway
and the city's beautiful system of boulevards. The plans were matured entirely tinder
his direction and carried out by him. As president of the Commission, which laid out
and developed the Park, he displayed a foresight and a capacity of patient waiting for
results, which revealed a remarkable nature — a "longanimity" it has been aptly termed.
His management of the Park employes for twenty-one years was a practical exhibition
of civil service reform. Many who began service in its opening work were found yet
employed at the end. No man ever won an unsolicited tribute to his public services
by labor more disinterested than Mr. Stranahan; and it was no more than a proper
recognition of hard endeavor in many lines of benefit for his city, that on June 6, 1891,
a bronze statue of Mr. Stranahan of heroic size was unveiled at the entrance of Pros-
pect Park. Designed by Frederick McMonnaies, a pupil of St. Gaudens, and erected
by the gratified citizens of Brooklyn, it stands for all time a permanent memorial of
useful service wisely performed. The founder of the Park and his wife were both
present at the unveiling.
Mr. Stranahan also foresaw the future of Coney Island as a seaside resort ; and it
was due to his energy and arguments, that in spite of much opposition, Brooklyn
claimed the Atlantic Ocean as her southern boundary. Coney Island Boulevard and
N
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. ST. 629
on the skill of their own citizens and upon native materials for supplies. One of the
most striking of the new industries is that of the manufacture of silks During the
past few years, American products have attained such excellence as to dispute the palm
with those of the most celebrated establishments of Lyons and other manufacturing
centers in the old world. These industrial transplantations have not been the result of
chance or the accidental outcome of the labors of adventurous tyros in the realm of
mercantile endeavor. They are the fruit of the deliberate and patriotic enterprise of
men of great experience, who have seen an opportunity of saving, for American
account, the profits which had been made by foreign manufacturers in the American
market. In the silk industry, Mr. Strange and his father ranked amorg the pioneers
and the subject of this sketch is now one of the leading men in the trade.
Mr. Strange devotes his time mainly to the industry, founded by his house, but is
also part proprietor of The Read & Lovatt Co , and a director of The Paterson National
Bank and The Paterson Safe Deposit & Trust Co. He is a man of cultivated mind
and agreeable manners and in social life exceedingly popular, a fact which is illustrated
in part by his membership in the Union League, Republican, German Liederkranz,
United Service, Princess Anne, Orange County Country, Merchants' Central, Hamilton
and Amebelish Fishing clubs, and The Blooming Grove Park Association, Joppa Lodge,
Xo. 29, F. & A. M. and Cataract City Chapter, No. 10, R. A. M. In consequence of
his interest in their objects, he is also connected with The American Protective Tariff
League, The Paterson Board of Trade, The Paterson Ribbon Manufacturers' Associa-
tion, The Silk Association of America, and The Washington Association of New Jersey.
He is president of the Park Commission of Paterson and Lieutenant Colonel of the
Division staff of the National Guard of New Jersey. Mr. Strange married Mary
Elizabeth Read and is the father of Albert Breslin and Blanche Louise Strange
ISIDOR STRAUS, merchant, oldest son of Lazarus and Sara Straus, was born in
Rhenish Bavaria, Feb. 6, 1845, and came to this country with the family in 1854. At
the age of sixteen, in Georgia, he enlisted in the volunteers and was chosen lieutenant,
but the Confederacy refused to accept him on account of his age. A clerk, first in a
paper mill in Columbus, Ga., and later in his father's store, he finally went to Europe
as secretary for Hon. John E. Ward, of Savannah, whom the Confederacy had dis-
patched to purchase supplies for the army. In 1864, Mr. Straus took a clerkship in the
office of a ship owner in Liverpool, but in 1865 joined his father in New York city to
engage in the china and crockery business of L. Straus & Son. In 1874, this firm en-
larged their operations by taking charge of a glassware and china department in the
store of R. H. Macy & Co. on i4th street. This venture met with much success and
in 1888 Mr. Straus and his brother Nathan became partners in R. H. Macy & Co.,
with Charles B. Webster as head of the house. Mr. Straus retains his interest in the
old china and crockery firm, but devotes considerable attention to R. H. Macy & Co.,
and has helped develop the i4th street establishment into a large department store.
He was a member of the committee of fifty New York importers, who went to
Washington in June, 1890, to protest against the McKinley bill. Mr. Carlisle, then a
Senator but now Secretary of the Treasury, declared that the speech of Mr. Straus
was the best made by an opponent of the McKinley bill. During the silver agitation,
Mr. Straus addressed the Coinage Committee of the House ably in favor of a sound
currency. A member of the original World's Fair Commission in New York and
t>3° AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
of the committee in charge of the local Columbian celebration of 1893, he has also been
a Hudson River Bridge Commissioner from the beginning. For his active part in the
campaign of 1892 in favor of Mr. Cleveland, he was prominently named for the place
of Postmaster General, a position, however, for which he had no aspirations. He
was led finally, in 1893, owing to the fight over the Wilson tariff bill, then at its hot-
test, to accept a nomination at a special election for member of Congress, and after a
hotly contested campaign was elected. In 1892, Mr. Straus became a partner in the
dry goods house of Abraham & Straus in Brooklyn. He is a memher of the Chamber
of Commerce, president of The Pottery & Glassware Board of Trade, a director in The
Hanover National Bank and The New York County National Bank, vice president of
The Birkbeck Investment, Savings & Loan Co., and a member of the Manhattan,
Reform, Commonwealth, Nineteenth Century and Free Trade clubs. He married in
1871, and has six children, Jesse Isidor, Percy S., Sara, Minnie, HerbertN. and Vivian.
LAZARUS STRAUS, merchant and a prominent Hebrew, comes from a learned
family, his father having been one of the Sanhedrim selected by Napoleon Bonaparte
as advisers, when that emperor was considering the emancipation of the Hebrew race
in his dominions. Born in Otterberg, Rhenish Bavaria, in 1809, Mr. Straus began life
as a farmer and prospered in this occupation until the revolution of 1848. That
struggle awakened his sympathy and absorbed most of his property. He gained many
recruits for the revolution, and was one of a committee to assist Carl Schurz and Pro-
fessor Kinkel, when they came to Otterberg in the interest of a famous uprising. Mr.
Straus made a patient effort to regain his prosperity, but in vain, and in 1854, he landed
in America, accompanied by his wife and four children. Settling in the little village
of Talbotton, Ga., he began business there as a dry goods merchant, made money, and
in 1862 removed to Columbus, Ga. In 1865, he came to New York, the most of his
modest fortune having been swept away by the Civil War. He brought with him about
$25,000, however, paid his debts, and for the third time, began the world anew. In
1865, almost without capital, he started a china and crockery store at No. 165 Chambers
street. Close attention to his business, untiring labor and the good will won by
honest payment of debts, soon brought him a large reward. To his stock of staple
goods, he soon added costly foreign china, clocks, vases and bronzes. The firm of
L. Straus & Sons now control three large factories in Europe, which produce fine ware,
namely at Rudolstadt, Carlsbad and Limoges. They have also entered upon the do-
mestic manufacture of cut glass. The business has expanded to large proportions
and the warehouses on Warren street occupy several buildings. Although advanced
in years, Mr. Straus yet takes an active interest in his business and visits the store
daily. His sons, Isidor, Nathan and Oscar S. Straus are members of the firm and
relieve him from much of the labor of actual management.
NATHAN STRAUS, merchant and philanthropist, was born in Otterberg, Rhen-
ish Bavaria, in 1848. He came to America with his father, Lazarus, and his brothers,
Isidor and Oscar, in 1854. His education was obtained at Collinsworth Institute, at
Talbotton, Ga., and Packard's Business College in New York. He then entered the
china business with his father and brother, Isidor, and the name of L. Straus & Son then
became L. Straus & Sons. His early work in the interest of the firm was as a travel-
ling agent. He became a member of the firm of R. H. Macy & Co., in 1888, and of
Abraham & Straus in Brooklyn in 1893. He is a member of the Manhattan club, was
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. ST. 631
made one of the Park Commissioners of New York city by Mayor Grant, and had pre-
viously been offered a seat in the Board of Education, which he declined. Among the
well known charities which Mr. Straus has originated and maintained at his own ex-
pense is the providing of stations in various parts of the city, where the poor can obtain
at less than cost sterilized milk and modified milk sterilized for infants. This work has
reduced the mortality among infants in the tenement house district, and Mr. Straus
intends that it shall be permanent. In the winter season, Mr. Straus maintains stations
where the poor can obtain coal at cost price. He has also opened cheap grocery houses
and supported numerous other charitable enterprises. At one time he owned a number
of fast horses, including the well known Majolica. His horses were frequent winners,
and all the profit he made from them he devoted to charity. He has built a cottage at
the Trudeau Sanitarium, at Saranac Lake, X. Y., which is devoted to invalids. The
hotel at Lakewood, N. J., owned by The Lakewood Hotel Co., of which he is the
president, was built because the other hotels at. that winter resort excluded a
certain class of guests, thus depriving many invalids who were compelled to go to
Lakewood for their health of suitable accommodation. Mr. Straus's indignation was
so thoroughly aroused that he invested a large sum in the Lakewood. which is open to
all respectable persons, irrespective of race or religion. He is an energetic man, and
his brain is constantly devising new schemes, which he puts into shape for practical
purposes. In 1894, he was made the Democratic candidate for Mayor of New York
city, but declined to run because David B. Hill insisted that his name should remain
at the head of the Independent Democratic ticket. On this ticket wras a name, similar
to Straus at a hasty glance, and Mr. Straus concluded that this deal would defeat the
Democratic municipal ticket if he remained upon it.
WlLLIAfl A. STREET, merchant, a native of Poughkeepsie, N. Y. , born in 1843,
descends from the Rev. Nicholas Street, a dissenting clergyman of England, who came
to the new world in 1630. The Rev. Samuel Street, son of the latter, was a graduate
of Harvard College, receiving his degree in 1661. Caleb Street, great grandfather of
the subject of this sketch, was a merchant in New York city. Through the maternal
line, Mr. Street derives descent from Joseph Reade, his great grandfather, who was a
warden in Trinity Church from 1721 to 1770. His father was a well known lawyer
and brother of Albert B. Street, the poet, while on his mother's side he is related to
the Stuyvesant, Watts, Livingston and Kearny families. Major Gen. Phil. Kearny
was his second cousin. The sister of Mr. Street married Levi P. Morton. After a
proper education, and at the age of fifteen, Mr. Street entered the office of R. W.
Cameron, shipping merchant in this city, as a clerk. The modest salary of $50 a year
was paid at the start, but young Street displayed so much interest in the labors of the
house and was so honest and capable, that the firm were repeatedly obliged to write a
larger sum against his name in recognition of his merits. In 1862, he visited Australia
to fulfill certain missions, and spent three years in travelling to China, the Straits
Settlements, Singapore, Java, the Malayan Islands, New Zealand and South America.
This excursion resulted in greater knowledge of the world, which has since proved of
service. In 1870, his employer and he established the shipping and commission firm
of R. W. Cameron & Co., and have since been actively engaged in trade, mainly with
Australia and New Zealand. Mr. Street is a member of the Chamber of Commerce
and the Union club, and a supporter of several important public institutions.
632 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
WILLIAH L. STRONG, merchant, born on a farm in Richland county, O., March
22, 1827, began life as a dry goods clerk in the employ of Lake & Jones in Wooster,
O., at the age of sixteen. After two years in the trade in Wooster and eight more in
Mansfield, O. , he came to New York, arriving in December, 1853. Here, he made a
start as a salesman for L. G. Wilson & Co., dry goods commission merchants, to whose
affairs he gave the closest attention, mastering every detail of the business. In 1857,
his employers were swept down by the panic. Next year, Mr. Strong entered the
commission dry goods store of Farnham, Dale & Co., a highly successful firm, and re-
mained with them until the close of 1869. Jan. i, 1870, he engaged in the dry goods
commission business upon his own responsibility, founding the firm of W. L. Strong &
Co., which succeeded to the trade of Farnham, Dale & Co. He has met with excellent
success and the house has branches in Boston and Philadelphia. Mr. Strong is a
Republican and has always taken a lively interest in public affairs, but until recently
has refused public office. Preferring to work in the ranks, he has been especially
active in the organization of campaign clubs. In 1894, a combination of the Repub-
licans and reform Democrats of the city elected him Mayor of New York. Mr. Strong
is president of The Central National Bank, The Homer Lee Bank Note Co. and The
Griswold Worsted Co., vice president of The New York Security & Trust Co , and a
director in The New York Life Insurance Co. , The New York, Lake Erie & Western
Railroad, The Adirondacks Railroad, The Hanover Fire Insurance Co., The Plaza
Bank, The Mercantile Trust Co., The Nassau Fire Insurance Co. and other corpora-
tions, and a member of the Union League, Metropolitan, Merchants', Republican, Ohio,
Colonial, Law, Riding, Racquet and Players' clubs. His sympathy with men who
must earn their living by labor has been repeatedly shown in arbitrations of disputes
between labor and capital. The fairness of his decisions have never been questioned.
JOSEPH STUART, banker, born in County Armagh, Ireland, Nov. 25, 1803, died
in New York city, Nov. 18. 1874. Emigrating to this country in 1827, Mr. Stuart
settled in Philadelphia and established the dry goods firm of Stuart Bro's in 1828. In
1833, he removed to New York and took charge of the house of J. & J. Stuart & Co.,
which had been started here in 1831, showed himself to be an excellent merchant and
prospered through diligence, force and sagacity. In 1851, the firm changed their occu-
pation to banking. Mr. Stuart was trustee of The Emigrant Savings Institution until
the passage of the law prohibiting the holding of official positions in more than one
institution. He was a director of The National Mercantile Bank and connected with
The Hanover National Bank, and was vice president of The Fourth National Bank and
various insurance companies. A large circle of friends esteemed him highly. By his
marriage with Anna, daughter of Robert Watson, he was the father of Anna Whiteside
and Margaret Stuart Eakin and Joseph and Robert Watson Stuart.
ROBERT L. STUART, sugar refiner, born at No. 40 Barclay street, in this city,
July 21, 1806, died in town Dec. 12, 1882. Kinloch Stuart, hisfather, was a Scot, anda
manufacturer of candy, who, failing in business in Edinburgh, came to America in
September, 1805, and resuming business here with a capital of $7,000, had the satis-
faction of finally paying his debts, and, at his death in 1826, of leaving about $100,000
and a profitable business to his two sons. Robert was the older one, Alexander Stuart
being the younger. The latter was born about 1810, and died at his home, No. 167
Chambers street, Dec. 23, 1879.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. ST. 633
Robert had not yet attained his majority when his father died, but he took charge
of the business as administrator of the estate, and, when legally free to do so, organized
with his brother the firm of R. L. & A. Stuart, which became in time one of the most
prosperous in the city. To candy making, they added, in 1832, the refining of sugar
by steam, and, after 1855, the latter industry engaged their entire attention. The use
of steam in refining was an innovation and called forth predictions of disaster from
friends. They made the process work, however, and carried it on successfully for
forty years. Their office at 169 Chambers street occupied a building erected by them
in 1831, the first dwelling in the city into which gas was introduced. The business in-
creased so rapidly, however, that they were compelled to build extensive quarters,
first at the corner of Greenwich and Chambers streets, and in 1849, at Greenwich and
Reade streets. They were aided in their enterprise by the fact that their product ranged
in price from twenty-two to twenty-four cents per pound only, while imported sugar,
no better in quality, cost forty-four cents a pound. Three stores on the north side of
Reade street, and a large warehouse on the south side of Chambers street, were finally
aided to their plant. Their force of 300 men manufactured about 40,000,000 pounds of
refined sugar annually. When the store houses at the Atlantic Docks were unroofed
by a storm, they had §1,000,000 worth of sugar there. Alexander had charge of the
actual work of manufacture ; Robert, of the finances of the firm. In 1872-73, both
brothers retired with large fortunes. They were always kind and considerate to em-
ployes, and at the time of the draft riots in 1863, their men stood by them and pre-
pared the sugar houses against a threatened assault, which, however, was not made,
owing to the precautions taken. During the War, the Stuarts were staunch supporters
of the Government and large subscribers to the first million of the War loan.
After 1852, the brothers set aside a certain sum each year for charitable purposes.
Up to 1879, they had given §1,390,000 in benefactions, and, after that year, Robert
L Stuart gave over §500,000 more, devoting himself almost entirely to philanthropy.
He was a Presbyterian, a member of the Union League club from its organization
and of the Century and Union clubs, an officer of various public institutions and a
liberal patron of art. Alexander Stuart never married, and lived during his whole
life in the old fashioned three story brick dwelling at No. 167 Chambers street. His
fortune descended to his brother Robert. The wife of the latter was Mary, daughter
of Robert Macrae, an old merchant of New York, who had a different partner in
several different cities of the United States. Mrs. Stuart died Dec. 31, 1891. She
had made large gifts to public institutions during her life time, amounting to about
$1,500,000, and nearly the whole of her fortune of about §8,000,000 was, at her death,
distributed among schools, colleges, religious bodies and charities.
JOHN JAY STUDWELL, merchant and banker, born in North Salem, West-
Chester county, N. Y., Dec. 2, 1813, died in Brooklyn, Dec. 12, 1884. Baird's History
of Rye, N. Y., records the fact that his earliest American ancestor, Studwell, was one
of the eighteen original proprietors of Rye. His father, Joseph Studwell, was a car-
penter, and his mother, Rebecca Mead, who came from the Mead family of Greenwich,
a type of New England character, full of faith and good works. Trained to his father's
trade, he went from the plain old homestead with a Puritan mother's blessing and in-
junctions, and by his own labors, coupled with a good constitution and equally sound
principles, rose to position and fortune. Occupied with his trade above the Harlem
•634 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
River, he finally received an offer of capital and influence from a resident of Harlem,
and availed himself thereof to the pecuniary advantage of both. Early in the '405, he
became a lumber merchant on Third avenue, near 12 8th street, selling his business
later to William Colwell, who continued it for about fifty years. In 1842, Mr. Studwell
moved to Brooklyn and resumed there the lumber business, which he managed with
profitable results. About 1857, he became president of The Montauk Insurance Co.,
and later bought a controlling interest in The National City Bank of Brooklyn, of which
he was president until his death. He was also one of the original directors and
vice president of The Mechanics' Bank of Brooklyn and a director of The Brooklyn
Gas Light Co., The Atlantic Avenue Railroad, and The Citizens' Gas Light Co. He
joined no clubs and was for more than forty years a member of Sands Street Methodist
Episcopal Church and steward and trustee at his death as well as trustee of The Brook-
lyn Hospital. During the Civil War, he served on the local Committee of Relief. For
twelve years he sat in the Board of Supervisors of Kings county, being most of the
time Chairman of the Committee on Accounts. In 1836, Mr. Studwell married
Elizabeth La Farge Moore, daughter of Peter Moore, of Woodbridge, N. J. Their
only child, Sarah Frances, is the wife of George W. Mead, the lawyer.
JONATHAN STURQES, merchant, born in Southport, Conn., March 24, 1802,
died in New York, Nov. 28, 1874. His family was founded in this country by a
pioneer from England prior to 1640. After a period of probation in the employment
of R. & L. Reed, grocers in Front street in this city, beginning in 1821, Mr. Sturges
became a partner in 1828, the house taking the name of Reed & Sturges. In 1843, the
firm name was changed to Sturges, Bennett & Co., and in 1865 to Sturges, Arnold &
Co. Mr. Sturges was an excellent merchant, reached the position of leader in the tea
and coffee trade, and retired in 1868 with large means. He promoted several enter-
prises with his capital and was a founder and director of The Bank of Commerce, The
Illinois Central Railroad, and The New York, New Haven & Hartford Railroad. A
strong Union man during the Civil War, he was active in organizing the Union League
club, served as its president in 1863, and, like other prominent business men, labored
actively to break up the Tweed Ring. He was twice elected vice president of the
Chamber of Commerce and, loving fine art, became one of the founders of the Century
club. During his whole life, he gave liberally to Christian work and charities. In
1829, he married Mary, daughter of John Cady, and was the father of Virginia R..
wife of William H. Osborn; Frederick Sturges; Amelia, first wife of J. Pierpont Mor-
gan ; Edward, Arthur P. and Henry C. Sturges.— His son, FREDERICK STURGES,
merchant and financier, born June i, 1833, was educated in the local schools. In
1849, he entered the office of his father and followed mercantile life prosperously until
1868, when he retired simultaneously with his father. He has, however, since been
active in financial affairs and is a director of The National Bank of Commerce, The
Atlantic Trust Co., and The Seamen's Bank for Savings, and was for many years direc-
tor of The Illinois Central Railroad. 'This family has always been noted for its good
works, and Mr. Sturges devotes much time to the Presbyterian Hospital, The Hospital
for the Ruptured and Crippled, The American Bible Society, The Seamen's Fund
Society and other institutions. He is a member of the Century, Down Town, and
Grolier clubs. In 1863, he married Mary Reed, daughter of Dudley B. Fuller, and is
the father of Jonathan, Emily M., Arthur P., Mary Fuller and Frederick Sturges.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. SU. 635
ALFRED SULLY, capitalist, a gentleman of education, refinement and marked
ability, has risen by his own exertions to an enviable position in the financial world.
The majority of men who climb to the top are those who begin at the foot of the hill.
Early disadvantages serve merely to inspire an ambitious spirit and forceful character
with heroic energy and unconquerable resolution to overcome all obstacles. In such
cases, the man is trained from his youth to the subjugation of adverse circumstances,
and he usually becomes a capable, progressive, and successful figure in his field of
action. There are few more conspicuous examples of this among prominent men of
affairs in Wall street, than is furnished by Alfred Sully. He was not born rich, nor
was his path in life smoothed by good luck and favorable circumstances. He blazed
his own way from the first step he took, and can look back over a life of endeavor,
which courage, energy, and ambition have made triumphant.
Mr. Sully was born in Ottawa, Canada, May 2, 1841. His first salary was six
dollars a week, when, although a mere boy, he served as night watchman in a railroad
yard. He studied law in the office of Bellamy Storer in Cincinnati, afterward gradu-
ated from the Cincinnati Law School, and was admitted to the Ohio bar in 1863. He
began the practice of his profession in Davenport, Iowa, succeeding Austin Corbin in
the old law firm of Corbin, Dow & Brown, Mr. Corbin retiring from the firm and from
the practice of law at that time to enter the banking business Mr. Sully remained
active in the law in Davenport until 1872, enjoying a large and lucrative practice. He
came to New York in 1872 as cashier and general manager of The Corbin Banking Co.
His first connection with railroads was as counsel to The Davenport & St. Paul,
now part of the St. Paul system. In 1878, he became connected with The Indiana,
Bloomington & Western Railroad as secretary, and soon afterward became one of its
principal owners and chief managers.
In 1876 and for several years thereafter, he was largely interested in building and
operating The Manhattan Beach Railroad, and in connection therewith organized The
Eastern Railroad of Long Island, for the purpose of extending the Manhattan Beach
road the entire length of the Island. In this enterprise, Austin Corbin was associated
with him. After two years of continual warfare with The Long Island Railroad
people, Mr. Corbin and Mr. Sully united in buying a control of the entire Long Island
Railroad system from Drexel, Morgan & Co. The stock of the road was then selling
at from 1 8 to 20 cents a share. The property was in the hands of a receiver and utterly
bankrupt. Nearly all the different issues of its bonds were in default. The equipment
was almost worthless and the track in dangerous condition, and it was thought impos-
sible to resuscitate the road without a complete reorganization. But as soon as Mr.
Sully and his associates obtained control, a new §5,000,000 mortgage was placed upon
the property and the proceeds therefrom used in putting the road into first-class condi-
tion. The stock was at the same time increased from $3,200,000 to $10,000,000 and
has paid regular dividends ever since, despite the increased capitalization. These
operations brought Mr. Sully large profits.
In 1 88 1, he purchased a coal road in Ohio, about 130 miles in length, reorganized
it as The Ohio Southern, put the property into first class physical condition, and estab-
lished it on a paying'basis. He was elected president in 1883 and held that position
until his retirement in April, 1892. What he accomplished by a wise and vigorous
administration of the affairs of this company is best illustrated by the statement that,
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. — SU. 637
without any addition to the mileage, the net earnings of The Ohio Southern were
increased from a surplus at the close of the first fiscal year of $599 in excess of first
mortgage interest, to a surplus of nearly $200,000 in excess of such interest in the final
year, the annual net earnings being nearly trebled in the space of eight years. Upon
the retirement of Mr. Sully and his associates from the management of this property,
the stockholders, in annual meeting assembled, embodied in resolutions an unqualified
expression of their appreciation, of the high standard of credit and efficiency resulting
from the ability, zeal and fidelity of the retiring management.
In 1885, Mr. Sully went into the Reading property and was at one time the
largest individual owner of its stocks and bonds. At that time, Franklin B. Gowen
was president and Mr. Sully his principal supporter. Mr. Gowen's remarkable fight
with the Drexel-Morgan syndicate, which proposed to reorganize that property on a
plan, which he thought was without due regard to the rights and interests he repre-
sented, attracted much attention among railroad men all over the United States. The
property involved was second of its kind in the world, its actual cash value being esti-
mated at nearly $200,000,000. More than §160,000,000 have been expended in the
Reading Railroad and its coal and iron properties. After a year of bitter warfare, the
Drexel-Morgan syndicate were brought to terms by Mr. Sully and Mr. Lauterbach,
who represented Mr. Gowen, and the security owners of the Reading property, elated
by this victory, initiated a boom in Wall street which lasted for months.
In 1886, The West Point Terminal Co., then capitalized at §15,000,000, was in
debt over §3,000,000, and the president, William P. Clyde, had given notice to the
stockholders that unless they supplied him with means, the property would have to be
sold for its debts. Mr. Clyde and all the directors of the Terminal were members of
The Richmond & Danville syndicate and also members of The Richmond & Danville
board of directors, and it seemed to them that the Terminal Company had become a
useless appendage. A committee of Terminal stockholders worked for over a year to
re-establish their property, but made no progress. Seeing the stock in imminent dan-
ger of being annihilated by a trustees' sale of its assets, these stockholders induced
Mr. Sully, through mutual friends, to join their committee as chairman, and, within
ninety days thereafter, The Terminal Company was renewed in its strength and credit.
Soon afterward, The Richmond & Danville and The East Tennessee, Virginia &
Georgia Railroads were merged into the company, which thus became the greatest
railroad power in the South, absolutely owning, controlling and operating over four
thousand seven hundred miles of railroad. In acknowledgment of his valuable ser-
vices and consummate ability, Mr. Sully was elected president of the entire Terminal
System, from which position he retired early in 1888, finding himself opposed on ques-
tions of policy to a majority of the board of directors. Subsequent events demon-
strated fully the wisdom of Mr. Stilly's views.
In recent years, Mr. Sully has devoted himself quietly to the development of sev-
eral properties in which he is a large owner with his associates, notably The Cincinnati,
Hamilton & Dayton Railroad, The Cleveland, Lorain & Wheeling Railway, and The
New York, Susquehanna & Western Railroad.
To give anything like a comprehensive account of Alfred Sully is not to the
present purpose. Who and what he is have been hinted at only. The breadth of his
usefulness, the scope of his influence, the brilliancy of his success and the strength of
AMERICA S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
his character cannot be dwelt upon within the limits of the present work. He is a
man of ample fortune and possesses the talent for accumulating more. He is generous
but not prodigal. He has no extravagant tastes but on the contrary delights in habits
and mode of life extremely modest. In manner, he is reserved and thoughtful. In
talk, he is impressive but never wasteful of words. He is patient and untiring in work-
ing out a plan. He has no special aptitude for unimportant and minute details, but his
genius asserts itself in solving the perplexing problems of conflicting interests and ad-
justing wisely the controlling forces for gigantic organizations. These combined qual-
ities fit him for large undertakings and positions of high trust and grave responsibility.
WILLIAH J. SYriS, a native of New York city, who died in town April 2, 1889,
in his seventy-first year, was a son of John Syms and, when a youth, became a member
of the firm of Blunt & Syms, for many years well known gunmakers. After thirty
years of successful prosecution of this industry, the partnership dissolved and Mr. Syma
retired. While actively engaged in business, Mr. Syms helped found The Metropolitan
Gas Co., and The 42d Street & Grand Street Railroad. In later years, he was presi*
dent of The Franklin Telegraph Co., vice president of The Atlantic & Pacific Railroad
Co. and a director of The Western Union Telegraph Co., being at the time of his death
a large stookholder in each of these concerns. His profits were invested largely in.
real estate, of which he owned a large quantity. He was liberal to charities and re.
spected for his judgment in art matters. During his later years, he traveled exten.
sively in Europe. He was twice married, and his second wife, Catherine E., survive?
him. He left no children and Roosevelt Hospital received a legacy of $350,000.
T.
EDWARD NEUFVILLE TAILER, merchant, born in the city of New York, July
20, 1830, is a grandson of Sir William Tailer, for seventeen years lieutenant governor
of the colony of Massachusetts before the War of the Revolution. He is a son of
Edward N. Tailer, born at the 'family home on lower Broadway in 1796, and of Ann
Amelia Bogert, his wife. The ancestors of the latter came from Harlem in Holland,
settled in Harlem on the upper part of the Island of Manhattan, and had large poses-
sions in land in that vicinity in the i8th century. Mr. Tailer's father, a member of
the firm of Tailer & White, brokers in WTall street, retired with a fortune in 1837.
The subject of this biography was educated at Penquest's famous French school in
Bank street in this city, which was resorted to not only by the children of New Yorkers
but by the sons of prominent families from Cuba and South America.
He began his mercantile career, Dec. 8, 1848, as a clerk with the well known firm
of Little, Alden & Co. at No. 29 Broad street. This region was then the center of
the wholesale dry goods trade of New York and was occupied by the stores of many
merchants, famous in their day and active factors in establishing the commercial
supremacy of this metropolis. During his early business career, Mr. Tailer was con-
nected as buyer and salesman with the firms of W. & S. Phipps & Co., of Boston and
New York, Fanshaw, Milliken & Townsend, Reimer & Meche, and Sturges, Shaw &
Co. , and the experience gained in those concerns enabled him in due time to found the
successful importing and commission house of Winzer & Tailer, now known as E. N. &
W. H. Tailer & Co. During his business career of thirty-six years, he has witnessed great
changes upon the lower part of this island, not the least notable of them being the
removal of the wholesale dry goods trade from Broad, Pine, Cedar and Pearl streets,
Exchange place and lower Broadway, to its present location, extending from Duane to
Spring streets.
After a business life of great activity, Mr. Tailer retired from practical affairs,
Jan. i, 1892, not, however, worn out in the service, but to give the benefit of his busi-
ness experience to the management of some important trusts and large estates, of
which he is the executor.
His first business voyage to Europe was made in the steamer Arago of the Fox
& Livingston Line in 1857; his last one with Captain McMicken in the Umbria. He
has crossed the Atlantic Ocean more than forty times.
In December, 1855, Mr. Tailer married Miss Agnes Suffern, daughter of Thomas
Suffern, who lived for over fifty years at No. 1 1 Washington Square. Mr. Tailer is
the father of Mrs. Henry L. Burnett, Mrs. Robert R. Livingston, Miss Fannie B.
Tailer and Mr. T. Suffern Tailer. He has never held political office, but is a director
in The German-American Bank and The Northern Dispensary and a member of the
vestry of Ascension Church. His social standing is shown by his membership in the
Union, Union League, Tuxedo, Country, Westchester Polo, and Merchants' clubs and
The New England and St. Nicholas Societies. In 1874, he joined the Patriarchs,
succeeding the late James A. Hamilton, who was one of the founders of that
organization.
<
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. TA. 641
FREDERICK LYflAN TALCOTT. born Feb. 22, 1813, who died in New York city,
Nov. i, 1884, was a member of the Connecticnt family which gave birth to Noah
Talcott, Governer of Connecticut, 17 24-41. Graduating from Columbia College in
1832, he was in 1834 with a brother, Daniel W., taken into partnership by his father,
Noah Talcott, an old merchant of cotton, sugar, coffee, hides, etc. The sign of Noah
Talcott & Sons indicated a store in which gentle manners, keen business ability and
great enterprise characterized the proprietors. Noah Talcott died in 1839, and the sons
continued the business until 1858, when Frederick retired. He acquired the title of
"cotton king "from the fact that, before 1850, he was the only man who had ever "cor-
nered " the cotton market. About 1859, with two of his sons, Frederick L. and August
Belmont Talcott, he established the stock brokerage and banking house of Talcott & Sons,
which continued in business until 1880, when Frank Staley and Edward B. Talcott be-
came partners. A. B. and E. B. Talcott are members of the Stock Exchange. Mr.
Talcott was at one time a director of The Pacific Mail Steamship Co., and president of
the organization of cotton merchants, which finally developed into the Cotton Ex-
change. In 1842, he married Mrs. Harriet Newell Burnham and his family consisted
of four sons and three daughters, Frederick L., August Belmont, Edward Baker and
James Carleton Talcott, and Mary Alice, wife of Charles F. Palmeter, Harriet Elliott
and Florence Louise. They are all now married.
JAMES TALCOTT, merchant, a native of West Hartford, Conn., born in 1835, is
the son of a manufacturer and farmer. The family traces its line to John Talcott, of
Colchester, England, 1558. John Talcott, third of the name, came from Braintree to
Massachusetts in the ship Lion in 1632 and was one of the founders of Hartford, Conn.
At the age of nineteen, James Talcott left the farm and established himself in New York
city, without previous apprenticeship, as agent for a knitting mill in New Britain,
Conn., managed by his older brother. The present dry goods commission house of
James Talcott, which originated in this modest manner, forty-one years ago, having then
only a single account, now includes nine distinct departments, devoted to underwear,
domestic hosiery, woolens, cotton goods, satinets, broad silks, ribbons, dress goods, etc.,
represents a number of the leading mills of the United States, and maintains stores at
1 08 Franklin and 66 Greene streets and several warehouses. Mr. Talcott is a member
of the Chamber of Commerce, a director of The Manhattan, The Broadway National,
and The Broadway Savings Banks, and a member of the Republican, Riding and Patria
clubs and The New England Society. In 1860, he married Henrietta E., daughter of
the Rev. Amzi Francis, of Bridgehampton, L. I., and has five children living, the Rev.
J. Frederick, Francis Edgar, Grace, Edith Charlotte and Arthur W. Talcott.
J. HONROE TAYLOR, manufacturer, born in Pompey, N. Y., Dec. 13, 1818,
died in New York city, May 22, 1892. He was a son of Richard and Phoebe Clark
Taylor, farmers, and came from Norman stock, which emigrated from Count}- Kent
in England to London and thence to New Jersey in 1692, where the family owned a
large possession in land including Sandy Hook. Judge John Taylor, grandfather of
the subject of this memoir, was a prominent jurist and politician of Saratoga county,
N. Y. At a very early age, Mr. Taylor began to earn his own support, engaging while
a minor in business for himself as a dry goods merchant, finally establishing and carry-
ing on at the same time several stores in Onondaga county and the first wholesale gro-
cery store in Syracuse, as well as the first saleratus factory in this country. Beginning
642 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
life at a time when energy, self dependence, and personal activity were of more impor-
tance than capital, he successfully overcame all difficulties and when necessary prac-
ticed the most rigid economy with an energy which overcame temporary reverses. He
was a natural born trader, shrewd and quick in judgment. Indomitable will made him a
leader in all his enterprises. The saleratus industry proved so successful that Mr.
Taylor finally removed it to New York city. While in Syracuse, he served as Alder-
man for four years for some local personal object. In New York, he founded The J.
Monroe Taylor Chemical Co., and his large soda factory in Brooklyn, erected in 1878,
grew into a valuable industry. While interested in various enterprises, he devoted
himself during the latter part of his life to real estate in this city, owning at the time of
his death the handsome twelve story Taylor office building on the site of the old Mer-
chants' Hotel at 39-41 Cortlandt street, constructed in 1892, and several apartment
houses, including the Gramercy Park Hotel, where he lived. He was also one of the
largest owners in the Gramercy apartment house. Mr. Taylor was a lover of fine
horses, and, being conspicuous on account of his striking resemblance to the late Henry
Ward Beecher and the old fashioned blue coat with brass buttons and ruffled shirt,
which he always wore, became a familiar figure on the drives in this city. He was
married Jan. 15, 1840, in Delphi, N. Y., to Charlotte E., daughter of William Davis,
and was survived by one child, Laura Maria, wife of Charles C. Pope. Charlotte E.,
wife of George Doheny, of Syracuse, N. Y. , is now deceased.
flOSES TAYLOR, merchant and banker, born in New York city, at the corner of
Broadway and Morris street, Jan. n, 1806, died here May 23, 1882. He was in the
third generation of descent from an Englishman of the same name, who came to
America from London in 1736. Mr. Taylor, his father, and his grandfather, carried on
business all their lives practically within a stone's throw of one spot in this city. Mr.
Taylor's father started in business as a cabinet maker, and in later years became known
as the confidential agent of John Jacob Astor, in whose service he died. Moses Taylor
began life at fifteen as a clerk and was soon transferred to the firm of G. G. & S.. How-
land, a conspicuous mercantile house. Always active, zealous and self-reliant, he
started for himself about 1832, as a broker of Cuban sugar. The cholera epidemic
retarded his success the first year and in 1835 the great fire swept away his store.
While saving nothing except his books, he opened an office, nevertheless, the next day
and was ready for business among the first. In the profitable years which followed, he
prospered so rapidly that he was finally able to turn aside to other fields of enterprise.
During this period, he became a large owner of vessels. In 1855, he was elected pres-
ident of The City Bank, a position he retained until his death. During the war, Mr.
Taylor was a warm supporter of the Government and chairman of the loan committee
of the Clearing House Association in 1861. It is said that he was offered the posi-
tion of Secretary of the Treasury, after the resignation of Mr. Chase, but refused it.
A prominent trait of his character was reluctance to enter into any enterprise until
after exhaustive investigation. If the venture commended itself to his judgment, he
stood ready to back it to the full extent of his ability. Such matters he regarded as
permanent investments, not as speculations, and the results proved the wisdom of his
course. His interest in The Delaware, Lackawanna & Western Railroad, amounting
to virtual ownership, was gained by the purchase of large amounts of the stock at a
low price, some of it at $5 per share. Within seven years, the shares were worth $240
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. TE. 643
each. He operated also in The Lackawanna Coal & Iron Co., and The Manhattan Gas
Light Co., with similar success. Mr. Taylor had many business transactions with
Commodore Vanderbilt but was never associated with him in any large operations.
He had investments in banks and many other companies and was one of the five men
who formed the company to lay the Atlantic cable. Throughout life, Mr. Taylor was
noted for the close attention he gave to the affairs in which he was interested. He
was remarkable for activity and' promptness, being always at the bank by 9 A.M., unless
prevented by sickness. Although known to be a man of large wealth, it was not until
after his death that the public learned that he had amassed a fortune of $36,000,000.
In 1832, he married Catherine A Wilson, who, with five children, survived him, the
latter being Albertina S., wife of Percy S. Pyne; Mary Lewis, Catherine Winthrop,
George C. and Henry A. C. Taylor. Mrs. Taylor died Dec. 31, 1892.
CHARLES HENRY TENNEY, merchant, a native of Salem, N. H., bora July 9,
1842, descends from an old and excellent family, founded upon this continent in 1638
by Thomas Tenney and his wife Anne, who sailed from the port of Hull, England, in
the company of the Rev. Ezekiel Rogers and, landing at Salem, made a settlement in
Rowley, Mass. , so named after their former home in Yorkshire. The descendants of
the hardy pioneer assisted in subduing the wilderness and the red man and in creating
amid the primeval forests the commonwealths of Connecticut, New Hampshire and Ver-
mont. They took a prominent part both in civil and military affairs. Gen. Daniel J.
Tenney, a soldier of the American Revolution, who left Connecticut to make his home
in Xew Hampshire, was a lineal ancestor of the subject of this sketch. The father of
the latter was John F. Tenney, merchant and farmer.
A sturdy, wide awake and wholesome lad, young Mr. Tenney gained his prelimi-
nary education in the Xew Hampshire Conference seminary in the then village of Til-
ton, and, until the age of sixteen, was employed in his father's pursuits Then, for a
business training, he entered the thorough primary school, from which have graduated
hundreds of the best business men of the United States, namely, a general country
store. After five years therein, Mr. Tenney determined to learn the art of manufactur-
ing hats of wool. This industry engaged his attention until the age of twenty-five,
when, in 1868, having become intimately acquainted with the trade, he established him-
self in the city of Xew York as a commission merchant of woolen hats. His success in
this city has been almost unexampled. Thoroughly versed in methods of production, a
close observer of the markets, clear headed, enterprising, sagacious, and prompt, he has
added to these qualifications an attractive presence and genial nature and his progress
has been rapid from the start. While owning an interest in the hat industry, he is pre-
eminently a commission merchant ; and in this capacity, he now represents upward of
forty hat manufacturing concerns, among them the largest not only in the United States
but in the world. He occupies a large store at No. 8 Washington Place and is among
the most enterprising and highly respected merchants of the metropolis. Mr. Tenney
displays excellent public spirit as a citizen and supports every movement which com-
mends itself to his judgment, without regard to partisan considerations. He is an
active member of the Union League, Manhattan, Reform, and New York Athletic
clubs, the Chamber of Commerce, New England Society , and many scientific and
benevolent associations and contributes to sustain The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
The town of Methuen, his summer home, has been largely benefited by his gener-
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. TE. 645
osity and public spirit. This lovely town, a few miles from Lawrence, already orna-
mented by the library building erected by the Nevins family, has been greatly beautified
by Mr. Tenney. His magnificent estate, laid out by the best masters of modern land-
scape, is a beautiful park, which extends over a large area and is always open to the
public. The mansion, modeled after the chateau Yquem, the ancestral seat of the
learned Montaigne, crowns the crest of a hill and is approached by a terraced drive-
way, half a mile in length, winding by easy grades up the slope. Southwest of the
mansion is an unenclosed quadrangle in the Italian style, two sides of which form an
open corridor, its roof supported upon pillars of richly colored marble, from which a
wide expanse of beautiful country is seen, the view stretching over and beyond Law-
rence and the historic Andovers. Prominent in the town is a shaft in granite and bronze,
erected by Mr. Tenney, at a cost of $20,000, to commemorate the memory of the men
of Methuen who fell on Southern battlefields. The town supplied a company of the
6th Mass. Inf., the first regiment to pass through Baltimore for the defense of Wash-
ington upon the outbreak of the war.
Nov. 23, 1866, Mr. Tenney was married to Fannie H. Gleason, daughter of Daniel
Gleason, and has one child, Daniel G. Tenney.
JOHN TAYLOR TERRY, banker, a native of Hartford, Conn., born Sept. 9, 1822,
comes from the best Puritan stock, being descended through both parents directly from
Gov. William Bradford, of Mayflower fame. He also traces his line to John Haynes,
Governor of Massachusetts in 1635 an^ Governor of Connecticut in 1639, and to Samuel
Wyllys, Governor of Connecticut in 1642. Various others of his lineal ancestors were
conspicuous in official life in Connecticut and Massachusetts as Senators and Represen-
tatives and as officers and soldiers of the War of the Revolution from the two States
named. His father, Roderick Terry, was a merchant of Hartford, Conn., and Presi-
dent of The Exchange Bank.
The young man gained an excellent education in the schools of Hartford, West-
field, Mass. , and Ellington, Conn. , and then with the thrift and resolution, which char-
acterize the best type of the people of New England, applied himself to work, as clerk
for his father, in Hartford. After a trip to Europe, he came to New York city in
December, 1841, to enter the employment of E. D. Morgan, who was then engaged in
extensive commercial enterprises, and made such rapid progress that he was admitted
to partnership in 1844, and has now rounded out a full half century as an active spirit
in this great house, having been a partner since the date above. In time, the opera-
tions of this house were extended to banking, the negotiation of railroad securities, and
the reorganization and promotion of important lines of transportation, in addition to
the importation of merchandise from every part of the wrorld.
Mr. Tern- has taken a conspicuous and successful part in many large transactions.
It was he who aided Cyrus W. Field, during the latter's famous speculation in Manhat-
tan Elevated Railway stock, in obtaining the friendly support of Jay Gould, which
saved Mr. Field's fortune at the time from annihilation. He is vice-president of The
Mercantile Trust Co., and director of The Western Union Telegraph Co., The Ameri-
can Exchange National Bank, The Metropolitan Trust Co., The Bank of New Amster-
dam, The American Fire Insurance Co., The Texas & Pacific Railroad, The Wabash,
St. Louis & Pacific Railroad, The International Ocean Telegraph Co. , The American
Telegraph & Cable Co., The St. Louis, Iron Mountain & Southern Railroad, The
tHE CITY OF NEW YORK. TE. 647
Commercial Insurance Co., of London, The American Fire Insurance Co., of New
York, and other corporations.
While Mr. Terry was not burdened in his earlier life with the serious struggles
which retard the progress of many young men, his success is not due to that fact, but
to the purity of character, the self reliance, clearness of mind, sound judgment and
energy, which were the noteworthy features of his subsequent career. He has
made his own way, borne many responsibilities and passed many critical periods with
entire prudence, calmness and1 success. Few among the bankers of the city now enjoy
so completely the respect and confidence of the financial world. He is a strong sup-
porter of philanthropic work in town, and a trustee of The Presbyterian Hospital and
The New York Institute for the Deaf and Dumb, as well as a member of the Union
League club, The New England Society, and, by virtue of lineal descent from several
ancestors, of The Sons of the Revolution. In 1846, he was married to Elizabeth Roe
Peet, of Brooklyn, and has two sons living, the Rev. Roderick Terry, D. D., of Brook-
lyn, and John T. Terry, jr.
LEWIS GREENE TEWKSBURY, banker, a native of Manchester, N. H., was born
March 31, 1862, the son of Elliott Greene Tewksbury, a bookseller, and Submit Roberts,
his wife. Graduating from the local High School, Mr. Tewksbury secured a place as clerk
in Perry's drug store in his native city, at the age of fifteen, at $100 a year salary, and
entered upon labors, which kept him busy about sixteen hours a day. Three years
later, by means of a loan of $9,000 from his family physician, he bought the store,
\\orked harder than ever, paid off the loan, and built up the second largest prescription
trade in New England and probably the largest drug business in New Hampshire.
Then, selling on favorable terms, he made a tour through the West, investing most of
his money in real estate in Kansas and Nebraska. Later, he settled in New York city,
where he opened a stock brokerage office on New street. Beginning with no assistants
except an office boy, he advertised his business with so much energy that in a few years
increasing business compelled him to move to the Tower building on Broadway, of
which he was the first tenant, and he now occupies a whole floor and employs a force
of about seventy-five clerks. He now conducts an extensive and lucrative business
and is a man of fortune. His success is due to adherence to the old maxim that if a
man does not attend to his own business no one else will perform that favor for him.
He has established excellent connections abroad. Mr. Tewksbury is not married and
is a. member of several prominent clubs here and elsewhere.
EDWARD VINCENT THEBAUD, merchant, born at the corner of Greenwich and
Albany streets, New York city, Jan. 29, 1824, descends from an old family of shipping
and commission merchants, established by Joseph Thebaud, a native of France, who
carne to America about 1793, as agent for The East India Co. of France and of various
other French merchants. He settled first in Boston, later in New Haven, where he
married a daughter of Philip Le Breton, a Martinique merchant, and finally removed
tj New York city. Here he engaged in foreign trade, rose to high rank as a merchant,
an.l, in his home on Beekman street, became noted for his hospitality and passionate
love of flowers. He owned extensive greenhouses on Orchard street. Of his two sons,
John J. and Edward Thebaud, the latter, after a training in the house of Gardner G.
Howland, engaged in foreign trade with Joseph Bouchaud, his step father, in the firm
of Bouchaud & Thebaud. The firm imported native goods from France, shipped
648 AMERICAS SUCCESSFUL MEN.
abroad large quantities of American products, and also owned many vessels in the
trade with France and Mexico. Edward Thebaud married in 1823 Emma, daughter
of Vincent Classe van Schalkwyck de Boisaubin, a noble exile from France, member
of the body guard of Louis XVI., who settled in Madison, N. J., in 1793, coming from
the Island of Guadaloupe. His son, Edward V. Thebaud was educated in St. Mary's
College in Baltimore and then entered the counting room of Bouchaud & Thebaud in
1841. In 1850, he was admitted to partnership, the firm then being Bouchaud, Thebaud
& Co. The senior partner retired shortly afterward, when the house took the name of
Edward Thebaud & Son and in 1858 became, through the retirement of the then senior
partner and the admission of Paul L. and Delphin E. Thebaub, Edward Thebaud's
Sons. In 1859, the business was united with that of Moller & Rieva as Rieva & The-
baud. The connections of the house were originally with France, but as time went on
their operations extended gradually, and for many years they transacted an excellent
trade with Mexico, South America, etc. Various changes took place in the personnel
and title of the firm, and in 1874, the three brothers again united under the new name
of Thebaud Bro's. These gentlemen have commended themselves by their fine char-
acter and excellent abilities. The senior partner retired Dec. 31, 1892, and now spends
his time in well earned leisure at a country seat in Madison, N. J., near which place
his father dwelt before him. First married to Julia Moller, he had three children,
Louisa, Edward and Emilia. In 1889, Mr. Thebaud was married to Elizabeth Hewlett,
daughter of Townsend Scudder, of the law firm of Scudder & Carter, and they have
one son, Leo Hewlett Thebaud.
GEN. SAflUEL THOnAS, financier, manufacturer and soldier, is a native of Ohio.
His parents were from Eastern Virginia and. of Scotch-Irish descent. Capt. James
Thomas, his father, a man of marked ability and great force of character, settled in
Lawrence county, Ohio, in 1807, and married a daughter of Capt. John Callihan,
whose family emigrated from the banks of the Potomac to Ohio soon after the War
of 1812, in which he was engaged.
After his school life in Marietta, the subject of this biography, at the age of seven-
teen, accepted a position as junior clerk with The Keystone Iron Co. During the four
years of his service with the company, he won the commendation and confidence of
his employers and was promoted to the highest position except one in the service.
The exciting political questions of this period, from Fremont's campaign in 1856
to that of Lincoln in 1860, made politicians of the young men of the State. General
Thomas became an ardent Republican when that party was formed and has been a
zealous opponent of the Democratic party and its principles to the present time. Since
his removal to New York, he has been prominently connected with Republican politics,
as a member of State and National conventions, treasurer of the State Committee and
member of the County Committee.
In August, 1 86 1, he enlisted with one hundred of his associates, most of whom
had occupied positions in the iron works under his control, and was elected First
Lieutenant of the company. This became subsequently a part of the 27th Ohio Vol's,
forming afterward a part of the famous Ohio brigade, commanded by Gen. John W.
Fuller. General Thomas served with distinction in this regiment until the spring of
1863, when he left the command, having in the meantime become a Captain by pro-
motion, to engage in the organization of colored troops, previously authorized by the
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. TH. 649
War Department. In Sherman's famous "march to the Sea," he was with the reserve
forces, which probably did more hard fighting than those who formed the victorious
advance. He organized the 6jd and 64th United States Colored Infantry, and was
promoted to the Lieutenant-Colonelcy of the former and afterward to the position of
Colonel of the latter regiment. So successful was General Thomas as Provost Marshal
and commanding officer, that he was warmly recommended by Gen. George H.
Thomas, and this resulted in his promotion to brevet Brigadier General. When, after
the War, the United States Government appointed a Commission for the care and pro-
tection of the freedmen in the Southern States, General Thomas was made Assistant
Commissioner for Mississippi and acted in that capacity during the first year of the
reconstruction period. In May, 1866, he became Assistant Adjutant to General O. O.
Howard, who was then in charge of the Freedmen 's Bureau in Washington, which
position he held until January, 1867, when he resigned and returned to civil life.
He began business again with Gen. M. Churchill, who was extensively engaged in
the iron industry in Zanesville, Ohio.
In 1872, the coal and iron interests of the Hocking Valley having assumed im-
portant proportions, he was selected by the late Governor WTilliam Dennison to go to
Columbus and take control of the construction and operation of rolling mills and blast
furnaces at that point.
He soon became prominent in Columbus as a member of the city government,
banker and manufacturer, and was active in all efforts to promote the welfare of the
city and State. Through the management of large iron interests, he became engaged
in mining and was the leading spirit in developing the coal and iron properties of the
Hocking Valley. This work brought him into contact with prominent railroad men,
and, in 1878, he joined a syndicate of Columbus capitalists and engaged in railroad
building in the South and West. He was one of the originators and constructors of
the "Nickel Plate " road, The Ohio Central from Toledo to Charleston, the roads from
Columbus to Toledo, from Columbus to Gallipolis, Springfield and Pomeroy, and The
Lake Erie & Western, as well as many other lines in Kentucky, Virginia and Georgia.
Owing to his large interest in railroad properties in the South, he accepted -the presi-
dency of The East Tennessee, Virginia & Georgia, The Knoxville & Ohio and The
Memphis & Charleston Railroads, and saw these roads grow from insignificant prop-
erties to one of the most important and extensive railroad systems in the country,
reaching almost every point of the South and operating over 3,000 miles of line. He
became president of The Cincinnati Southern and The Alabama Great Southern, and a
director in The Richmond & Danville, The Georgia Central and The Richmond &
West Point Terminal systems. He took an active part in the reorganization of these
properties as The Southern Railway Co.
During this period, also, he became a leading contractor in building the Croton
Aqueduct for New York city, and in connection with The Canadian Pacific Railway, of
which he is a director, he built The Duluth, South Shore & Atlantic Railroad and
became its president. He is also president of The Louisville, New Albany & Chicago
Railway -and The American Straw Board Co. . and a director in The Texas & Pacific,
The Knoxville & Ohio, The New York & New England, and The Southern Railway
companies, The Pacific Mail Steamship Co. and The National Linseed Oil Co
Business interests induced General Thomas, in 1881, to remove to New York city,
650 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
where he is largely engaged in banking. He is a director in The Chase National Bank,
and The Manhattan and The Metropolitan Trust Go's, and a member of the Stock
Exchange. He belongs to many of the best clubs in town, including the Union League,
Republican, Riding, Lawyers', New York Yacht, and Adirondack League, and The Ohio
and Southern Societies, as well as the Loyal Legion and Grand Army of the Republic.
COL. WILLIAM P. THOHPSON, manufacturer and financier, a scion of one of
the excellent old families of Virginia, and born in Wheeling, then in Virginia, Jan. 7,
1837, is of Irish extraction. His father, the Hon. George W. Thompson, member of
Congress, and from 1852 to 1861 Judge of the Circuit Court, was a man of brilliant
abilities, being not only a jurist but a student of philosophy, an extensive reader and
the author of refined and graceful verse. Although a supporter of the Union of the
States, Judge Thompson came into conflict with the Federal authorities in 1861 on
questions growing out of the Civil War and was in consequence deprived of his judicial
office. The mother of Colonel Thompson, a daughter of the Hon. Daniel Steenrod,
long a member of Congress from the Wheeling district, was a social leader in her city
and noted for her beautiful character and superior talents.
Colonel Thompson's delicate health during boyhood gave no promise of the robust
physical vigor,- into which he grew in time. He possessed an active mind and was fond
of books and, in the Wheeling public schools and at Jefferson College in Pennsylvania,
where he spent one term, showed a marked aptitude for study. Failing health com-
pelled him to leave college before graduation ; and he then spent a year profitably in
recruiting his vitality in the backwoods life of Marshall county, Va., where he engaged
in lumber operations. The woods suited his adventurous nature and gave him
agreeable employment until larger affairs pressed upon his attention.
In every Southern family, politics has been from time immemorial a theme of con-
stant discussion, but Colonel Thompson was especially born to politics, owing to the
fact that his father and uncle had been Congressmen, active leaders of their party, and
keenly interested in public affairs. He grew up in an atmosphere in which politics
was constantly talked and was honored with his father's entire confidence in these mat-
ters at an early age. While in Marshall county, the young man's kindness to the rough
farmers and country people of the woodland region and the many homely services he
performed for them in writing their letters, drawing up their legal documents, and aid-
ing them with sagacious advice, so endeared him to the people, that his friends volun-
tarily brought his name forward in 1856, for a nomination to Congress. The young
man was in reality ineligible to the office, not having yet attained his majority; but his
friends made his candidacy a serious one. As a result, a strong combination was
formed in opposition to him, and the usual slanders upon a rising man's reputation
came into circulation. When he heard that his opponents had set afloat various mis-
representations, the young man traded a work horse for a spirited mare and galloped
to the district school house in which a caucus was being held, determined to meet his
opponents in open battle and have it out with them. He met the people just leaving
the school house, where, in response to hostile oratory, they had agreed to oppose
Colonel Thompson's nomination. At his request, the meeting reconvened to hear his
defense. He declared that he had neither sought nor desired a nomination, but that
he did demand a vindication of his character from those who knew him. The meeting
reversed its action. Later, after a spirited contest, the Democratic convention of the
652 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
district finally placed him in nomination for Congress. Colonel Thompson then came
before the convention, thanked the delegates for the honor conferred upon him, but
declined to accept, and commended to the suffrages of his friends another nominee.
His stiggestion was promptly ratified, much to the chagrin of his opponents.
The life of Marshall county having restored his health, Colonel Thompson fitted
himself in Wheeling for practice of the law and in 1857 was admitted to the bar.
Resolving to establish his office in a part of the State over which his father had no
jurisdiction, in order to relieve both father and son from embarrassments during the
trial of cases in court, Colonel Thompson removed to Fairmont in Marion county and
formed a law partnership with Alpheus F. Raymond, and here he spent the next four
years in the tranquil pursuit of his profession.
The agitation which preceded the Civil War found both Judge Thompson and his
son strongly opposed to secession. They favored an appeal to reason and a fair com-
promise of the questions at issue between the North and South. When, however, Vir-
ginia had taken the decisive step and declared her withdrawal from the Union, both
father and son cast in their fortunes with their native State and Colonel Thompson
enlisted in the Confederate service. His first service took place upon the staff of Gen.
Thomas S. Haymond of the West Virginia militia, as aide de camp; and in that and
other positions he served until the end of the war. It was he who bore to the author-
ities at Richmond the suggestion, made by a private conference of leading citizens of
West Virginia, that a demonstration should be made to save their part of the State,
which ended in Stonewall Jackson's famous descent upon Harper's Ferry. Returning
from Richmond to West Virginia, Mr. Thompson organized the Marion Guards, became
their captain and developed a boldness and energy, which foreshadowed the brilliant
career which fate had in store for him after the War. He took possession of Fetter-
man with three companies, and later led the Marion Guards in the battle of Phillippi,
and took part in the engagements at Laurel Hill, Cheat Mountain, Greenbrier River,
and Alleghany Mountain. In this last battle, his brother, Lewis S. Thompson, was
killed while gallantly leading a charge. He served in the memorable campaigns of
Stonewall Jackson, Breckinridge and Early; and, as colonel of the igth Va. Cav.,
established a reputation as a daring and brilliant commander, figuring in the hottest
engagements in Virginia and around Richmond until the return of peace.
After the War, he resumed the practice of the law but was diverted therefrom by
an unexpected difficulty. West Virginia was yet moved with the passions of the civil
conflict, and Colonel Thompson's sympathy with the Confederacy aroused so much antag-
onism that Judge Stewart of Doddridge county was the only judge in the State who
would allow him to practice; and when the residents threatened this courageous official
with impeachment, Colonel Thompson withdrew, unwilling to bring persecution upon
his friend. But this unforeseen occurrence did not daunt the Colonel or compel him to
retire from active participation in affairs. A good lawyer is always more than half a
capable business man, and Colonel Thompson now threw himself with energy into com-
mercial pursuits.
In July, 1866, he removed to Parkersburgh and engaged in the petroleum business
in company with his brother-in-law, the Hon. J. N. Camden, United States Senator, and
with W. N. Chancellor, under the style of J. N. Camden & Co. Owing to the preoc-
cupation of Senator Camden and his necessary absence from the State on public busi-
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. TH. 653
ness, the practical management of the works soon devolved almost entirely upon
Colonel Thompson. Through his enterprise and excellent management, the petroleum
interests of the firm were greatly promoted. When a vein of lubricating oil was dis-
covered near Parkersburgh, J. N. Camden & Co. bought the land and soon became the
largest dealers in oil suitable for lubricating purposes in the world. They established
refineries of their own, and rose to such importance in the industry as to attract the
attention of The Standard Oil Co. In 1875. the firm allied their interests with the great
corporation named, and re-organized their own business under the name of The Cam-
den Consolidated Oil Co. , Senator Camden taking the place of president and Colonel
Thompson that of vice president. The latter now found ample scope for the energy,
organizing ability and power of management, the possession of which in a marked
degree had been disclosed by experience. He bought practically all the refineries in
Parkersburgh and Marietta, aided in securing desirable connections throughout the
West, and otherwise greatly extended the operations of his company.
In 1882, Colonel Thompson became secretary, and in 1884, succeeded Oliver H.
Payne as vice president of The Standard Oil Co., having general charge of the affairs
of the company throughout the States west of Buffalo. The growing business of the
corporation compelled his removal to New York city in 1887, and \vhen The Standard
Oil Trust was formed by a union of a number of separate companies, he became chair-
man of the Domestic Committee, having charge of its internal affairs. He identified
himself heartily with the financial and social life of the metropolis, and although a very
busy man soon gained a large circle of friends here. In 1889, he sought to retire from
business, but this intention, long cherished, circumstances forbade him to carry out.
A few years before, arrangements had been made for a consolidation of all the
leading factories of white lead, red lead and litharge, sheet lead and lead pipe, and
several smelting plants and linseed oil factories, scattered throughout the United States,
into The National Lead Trust. But the affairs of the combination were not in satis-
factory condition, and the leading spirits of the trust united in inviting Colonel Thomp-
son to undertake the task of re-organizing the new corporation. Having with some
reluctance accepted the presidency of the corporation, with its enormous responsibilities,
he engaged in the very delicate and important task entrusted to him. The trust had
been capitalized with $90,000,000 of stock, a sum four times as great as the actual value
of the properties, which were assessed at about $23,000,000, and the combination had
been effected under an agreement, which the managers feared would not stand in law.
The duty of reorganization involved protracted labor, great tact and a talent for organi-
zation, but Colonel Thompson was equal to the occasion. He succeeded in reducing
the capital stock to $30,000,000, and Jan. i, 1892, organized The National Lead Co.
to take over the assets of The National Lead Trust and carry on its business.
By energetic labors, every dollar of indebtedness was soon liquidated, and the
company placed on a solvent basis; and dividends have since been paid to the amount
of several millions of dollars. The net earnings in 1892 were over $1,900,000. The corn-
pan}' now controls over ninety-five per cent, of the white lead production of the United
States, and a number of allied industries. Unprofitable plants have been closed, and
matters have been managed with so much prudence, that an active competition, which
was at one time threatened, has vanished.
Colonel Thompson has accepted a share in the management of various other cor-
654 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
porations and is a director of The United States National Bank, The Southern National
Bank, The Ohio River Railroad, The Monargough Railroad, The Monauga Coal Co.,
and The Huntington & Big Sandy Railroad, and is a charter member of The American
Pig Iron Warrant Co.
In the spring of 1893, he bought the beautiful estate of Brookdale, in Monmouth
county, N. J., including 840 acres of land, 140 head of fine horses, and a1 large number
of cattle, belonging to the late David D. Withers, who had created there the most per-
fect breeding establishment in the country. The present proprietor lays aside the
cares of business and finds recreation in the agreeable task of managing this property.
In 1864, Colonel Thompson was married to Evelyn, daughter of Col. Henry Moffat
of Virginia, a member of one of the oldest families in the State. Three children have
been born to them, two sons and a daughter. The family spend their summers at
Brookdale, their winters at their home on Fifth Avenue in this city. The Colonel is
greatly liked in social life. A tall, dignified, affable man, eloquent in speech, a good
deal of a philosopher, and one who while never hesitating a moment to encounter and
defeat opposition, nevertheless prefers to moderate the friction of life as far as possible,
he has won the cordial respect and affection of a very large circle of friends. He is a
member of the Manhattan, Lawyers', Players', Tuxedo and Racquet clubs and The
Southern Society.
JONATHAN THORN E, merchant, a native of Washington, Dutchess county,
N. Y., born April 20, 1801, died in New York city, Oct. 9, 1884. His father, Samuel
Thome, was originally a merchant, later a farmer, living at Thornedale in Dutchess
county. The family were members of the Society of Friends. Jonathan, the only son,
was destined for a mercantile career and left his school books and the farm to learn
the dry goods business in the city of New York. A few years later, the leather trade
presenting greater opportunities, in consequence of his marriage with a daughter of
Israel Corse, he learned the art of tanning leather and devoted the larger part of his
active life to the management of large tanneries in the States of New York and Penn-
sylvania, and the sale of leather in this city in that part of the municipality known as
"the swamp," first in Jacob street, where the firm were known as Israel Corse & Son,
and finally in Ferry street, under the name of Thorne, Watson & Co. He was long at
the head of the latter firm. By his sound judgment, spotless character and great
ability, Mr. Thorne commended himself to the entire respect of the business community
and he was elected to the direction of a number of business corporations. Of The
Leather Manufacturers' National Bank he was forty years a director. The Sixth Avenue
Railroad, The Central Trust Co. , The Pennsylvania Coal Co. he was also associated
with for many years, as well as The Mutual Gas Co. From his father he inherited a
large farm in Dutchess county which was at one time stocked with a valuable herd of
imported cattle, he being one of the pioneers of their introduction into this country.
Mr. Thorne was survived by his second wife, Eliza Fox, and five children by his first
marriage, Edwin, Samuel, Jonathan, William and Phebe Anna Thorne. — His son,
JONATHAN THORNE, jr., merchant, was born in the city of New York, April 5,
1843. After graduating from Haverford College in Pennsylvania, he went into the
leather business in this city with James McFarlan. This copartnership lasted a num-
ber of years. Then, having gained a thorough knowledge of the leather industry,
Mr. Thorne, with his brother William, established the firm of J. & W. Thorne. Highly
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. TI. 655
respected for his character and abilities, he remained an active and successful member
of the firm until he retired from business two years ago. The firm sold their tannery
properties at that time, as did the majority of others in the trade, to The Union Tanning
Co., a union of twenty-seven concerns of Pennsylvania. Mr. Thorne is a gentleman well
known among substantial residents of the city and is a member of the Metropolitan,
Union League and Down Town clubs. His summer home is in Black Rock, Conn. —
SAflUEL THORNE, retired merchant, son of the late Jonathan Thorne, sr. , was born
in Dutchess county, N. Y., Sept. 6, 1835. He was educated in the schools of New York
city and began business life as a leather merchant. After the death of his father, Mr.
Thorne succeeded to a number of the latter's trusts and has since managed them with
the well known ability of this conspicuous family. He is a director of The Sixth
Avenue Railroad, The Pennsylvania Coal Co., The Bank of America, The New York
Mutual Gas Light Co., and The Central Trust Co. In 1860, he was married to Phebe,
daughter of William Van Schoonhoven of Troy, N. Y., and their children are Edwin,
Margaret B. , William V. S., Joel W., and Samuel Thorne, jr. An agreeable com-
panion, Mr. Thorne has been elected to membership in several of the leading clubs of
the city, including the Metropolitan, Union League, Down Town, Riding, Tuxedo, and
Westminster Kennel.
DANIEL FAWCETT TIEMANN, manufacturer, was born on Nassau street, near
Beekman, in this city, Jan. 9, 1805, and is a son of Anthony Tiemann, a native of Hesse-
Cassel, Germany, and manufacturer of paints in this city. His mother came from Cam-
bridgeport, Mass As a lad, he first attended the school of the old Lutheran Church at
Frankfort and William streets, and later, when his father had moved up to a small farm on
23d street, the school of Ebenezer Whiting. Jan. 31, 1818, his father brought him to the
city and found him a place as clerk in the wholesale drug house of the Schieffelins at
No. 193 Pearl street. There he remained six years, boarding in the meantime with the
other clerks in Mr. Schieffelin's house. In 1824, a customer of the Schieffelins from
Georgia offered him a clerkship and §250 a year with his board, but his father made
him a similar offer and he therefore entered the employment of A. Tiemann & Co.
After a year of carting goods, he was assigned to duty in the factory and devoted him-
self earnestly to the labor of learning every essential detail of the manufacture of paints
and colors. He increased the production of the works materially, was given charge of
the factory, discharged every man addicted to drinking, and in 1827, when his uncle
went to Germany, became a partner in the firm. In 1848, his father retired, and Mr.
Tiemann then organized the firm of D. F. Tiemann & Co. to succeed to the business.
Their factory in the old village of Manhattanville, now almost indistinguishable as a
locality from the rest of the city, has grown into a large establishment, which gives em-
ployment to a large force of workmen and is an important local industry. The office
is on West Broadway. Mr. Tiemann was for forty years or more greatly interested and
active m local politics as a Democrat. Elected from the i6th Ward as Assistant Alder-
man, he became an Alderman in 1839. One of his acts was to stop the sale of liquor
in the City Hall. In 1840, he moved up town to Manhattanville, from which place,
after refusing office for some time, he was elected Assistant Alderman in 1849 and
Alderman in 1850, holding the office until 1855. A Governor of the Alms House,
1854-57, he accepted reluctantly in the latter year a nomination for Mayor by the
Citizens' Committee and defeated Fernando Wood in the election. As Mayor, he was
656 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
noteworthy for non-partisan appointments and with him originated placing the names
of streets upon street lamps. In 1871, he became a State Senator. Mr. Tiemann is a
member of the Chamber of Commerce, The New York Historical Society and The St.
Nicholas Society, and a trustee of The Eye, Ear & Throat Infirmary and since its or-
ganization of Cooper Union. Aug. 30, 1826, he married Martha W. Clowes, a niece
of Peter Cooper. The names of their children are Peter Cooper, Mary Newell, Julia
Antoinette; Mary Clowes and John Anthony, both deceased; Sarah Cooper; Robert
Pettigrew, deceased; Martha Clowes, Daniel and Benjamin Field Tiemann.
CHARLES LEWIS TIFFANY, founder of the house of Tiffany & Co., a man of
great force of character and of remarkably quick and accurate judgment, is a prominent
representative of the sixth generation of descent from Squire Humphrey Tiffany of
England. The family lived for several generations in Massachusetts. Comfort Tiffany,
the father of Charles L. Tiffany, married Chloe Draper and moved to Danielsonville,
Conn., to engage in the manufactiire of cotton goods, and here Charles L., his oldest
son, was born, Feb. 15, 1812. He received his primary education at Danielsonville in
a typical New England school, followed by a course at the Plainfield Academy and the
Brooklyn, Conn., school. His first business training young Tiffany received in his
father's cotton mill and country store. In 1837, at the age of twenty-five, he conceived
the idea of going to New York, then a city of 200,000 inhabitants, to join his school-
mate and friend, John B. Young, who had six months before obtained employment in
a stationery and fancy goods store in that city. Mr. Tiffany's father agreed to loan the
young men $1,000, and they formed a partnership. Sept. 18, 1837, under the firm name
of Tiffany & Young, in the face of perhaps the greatest commercial crisis in the history
of the metropolis, they opened a little fancy goods and stationery store at No. 259 Broad-
way, in the lower half of an old-fashioned double dwelling house, with a front of about
fifteen feet. From this small beginning has sprung the present house of Tiffany & Co.
Mr. Tiffany was quick to see the artistic and popular value of the Chinese and
Japanese goods, which at that time began to be imported into this country at Boston,
and he was the first to introduce them prominently before the New York public. In
addition, the store was stocked with many other novel and unique goods, umbrellas,
walking sticks, cabinets, fans, pottery and curiosities of every description. His idea
proved a success from the start. Although the first three days' sales amounted only to
$4.98, the following year saw a steady growth of the business, and early in 1841 it was
necessary to rent an adjoining store on the corner of Warren street. Bohemian glass-
ware, French and Dresden porcelain, cutlery, clocks and fancy Parisian jewelry, in the
order named, were added to the display.
In 1841, J. L. Ellis was admitted to the firm, which then took the name of Tiffany,
Young & Ellis. The business had now assumed such proportions that the disadvantage
of importing, without thorough personal knowledge of the European markets, made it
expedient to send one of the members of the firm abroad annually, to secure the choicest
novelties for their exclusive trade. In 1847, continued growth led to a removal to
No. 271 Broadway. The firm undertook the manufacture of their own jewelry and
silverware in 1848, and soon made this an important branch of their business. Their
productions were, from the beginning, unique, fashioned with the highest skill, and
designed to appeal to the best taste.
Diamond jewelry, watches, clocks, silverware and bronzes soon became the lead-
Ki
THE CITV OF XFW YOKK.. TI. 657
f elements in the sales. The year 1848 was a notable one with this firm. Political
tturbances in Paris caused diamonds (•> tirpreciate about fifty per cent, in value. All
e available funds of the house were mrested in diamonds. Large and valuable pur-
ases were made abroad, and Tiffany, Young & Ellis at once took fir^t rank as dia-
cmd merchants in the United States. This first large purchase of precious stones was
[lowed by many others. In 1887, at the sale of the crown jewels of France, they
ught for $500,000 one-third of the entire quantity offered.
In 1850, Gideon F. T. Reed, formerly of Lincoln, Reed & Co.. the le*4,-^ J"wcl
of Boston, was admitted into partnership, »•»<• : : h* Sral
anch house was established at 79 Rue Richt-Vievs, Pans Mr Reed bew»tti!ag tht- r»:*i
:nt partner and conducting the branch house under the rinn name <>f Ttlfasy, R**»i
Co. This branch house proved an invaluable ;- -i i-^ th-.- firm. M*
sidence abroad enabling him to take prompt advantage of flv.-vta»ti»>n» ;;:
rkets, and it devfc!-i|xxl a large a table local trade in Pan*. Tiu
nch now occ-Uj "usqua.. bis. 8oK* the mire-
: -. Reed, it has been con: iany & Co.
One of the first of Tiffany & <." the highest practicable
rade of silver in all their prod he English standard "t
ling siver, 925-1000 fine, and itely followed by-all the
ler leading silversmiths of that period. the direction of the late Edward
. Moore, the originality and artistic beauty of the Tiffany silverware soon became
> marked that prizes and extract >mmendation were won at every successive
World's Fair. At the recen :ie house received fifty -six
wards. Mr. Moore was a then ^nrf ar. artist of the highest
rder. His work created N whose- products were
tarked by an individuality nt from that of any
ther manufacturer. The hoi the making of special
resentation pieces. The moc was begun has
rown to almost an entire block Li Prince street, giving ei. at to about nve
undred men.
In 1853, Mr. Young and Mr Ellis retired. New partners were then admitted,
ad from that day the firm has been known as Tiffany & Co. In 1X54, they moved
> 550 Broadway, and then, in >86i, leased the adjoining building at No. 552 During
ir, Mr. Tiffany was a staunch Union man and his store became a large depot
itary supplies. In 1868, the firm were incorporated, v ..-les L. Tiffany.
:Ht and treasurer ; ( rideon F. T. Reed, vice president ; Charles T. Cook, general
•HBiftitndcnt and assistant treasurer; and George McClure. secretary. Upon Mr.
: v ireiuent in 1875, Mr. Cook succeeded as vice president. Charles T. Cook's
with the house, of which he is now vice president, dates back to 1847, and,
•>even years' service to his credit, he heads the list as the oldest en.
ny. He entered the employ .of Tiffany, Young & Ellis at the age of twelve,
ss capital consisting of an extraordinary capacity for work, a marv<.
and uniformly good health. Since the incorporation of the busin t-ss, lj.
,:'h Mr. Tiffany the responsibility of its general management To hi* e>.
> and judgment, Mr. Tiffany attributes much of the success which has cotue
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. TI. 657
ing elements in the sales. The year 1848 was a notable one with this firm. Political
disturbances in Paris caused diamonds to depreciate about fifty per cent, in value. All
the available funds of the house were invested in diamonds. Large and valuable pur-
chases were made abroad, and Tiffany, Young & Ellis at once took 'first rank as dia-
mond merchants in the United States. This first large purchase of precious stones was
followed by many others. In 1887, at the sale of the crown jewels of France, they
bought for §500,000 one-third of th'e entire quantity offered.
In 1850, Gideon F. T. Reed, formerly of Lincoln, Reed & Co., the leading jewel-
ers of Boston, was admitted into partnership, and immediately afterward the first
branch house was established at 79 Rue Richelieu, Paris, Mr. Reed becoming the resi-
dent partner and conducting the branch house under the firm name of Tiffany, Reed
& Co. This branch house proved an invaluable acquisition to the firm, Mr. Reed's
residence abroad enabling him to take prompt advantage of fluctuations in foreign
markets, and it developed a large and profitable local trade in Paris. The Parisian
branch now occupies spacious quarters at Avenue de 1'Opera 36 bis. Since the retire-
ment of Mr. Reed, it has been continued under the name of Tiffany & Co.
One of the first of Tiffany & Go's innovations was to use the highest practicable
grade of silver in all their productions. They introduced the English standard of
sterling siver, 925-1000 fine, and their example was immediately followed by all the
other leading silversmiths of that period. Under the direction of the late Edward
C. Moore, the originality and artistic beauty of the Tiffany silverware soon became
so marked that prizes and extraordinary commendation were won at every successive
World's Fair. At the recent Columbian Exposition, the house received fifty-six
awards. Mr. Moore was a thoroughly practical silversmith and an artist of the highest
order. His work created a new school of art metal workers, whose products were
marked by an individuality and strength of character wholly different from that of any
other manufacturer. The house developed a large business in the making of special
presentation pieces. The modest little shop in which manufacturing was begun has
grown to almost an entire block in Prince street, giving employment to about five
hundred men.
In 1853, Mr. Young and Mr. Ellis retired. New partners were then admitted,
and from that day the firm has been known as Tiffany & Co. In 1854, they moved
to 550 Broadway, and then, in 1861, leased the adjoining building at No. 552. During
the War, Mr. Tiffany was a staunch Union man and his store became a large depot
for military supplies. In 1868, the firm were incorporated, with Charles L. Tiffany,
president and treasurer; Gideon F. T. Reed, vice president; Charles T. Cook, general
superintendent and assistant treasurer; and George McClure, secretary. Upon Mr.
Reed's retirement in 1875, Mr. Cook succeeded as vice president. Charles T. Cook's
connection with the house, of which he is now vice president, dates back to 1847, and,
with forty-seven years' service to his credit, he heads the list as the oldest employ^ of
the company. He entered the employ of Tiffany, Young & Ellis at the age of twelve,
his business capital consisting of an extraordinary capacity for work, a marvelous
memory, and uniformly good health. Since the incorporation of the business, he has
shared with Mr. Tiffany the responsibility of its general management. To his execu-
tive abilities and judgment, Mr. Tiffany attributes much of the success which has come
to the house.
658 AMERICAS SUCCESSFUL MEN.
Tiffany & Co. established a branch house in London in 1868. In 1870, they
erected their present building at Fifteenth street and Union Square. Other new de-
partments were added to the business, and the manufacture of electro-plated silverware
was undertaken at works in Newark, N. J. There seems to be no limit to the expan-
sion of the business of this great firm. Its operations are a marvel of the day. They
are all, however, -simply the outgrowth of the discriminating sagacity, the originality,
and the energy exercised in the management of the business.
Mr. Tiffany is universally esteemed. He has never aspired to public office but has
risen to a high position in the financial and social life of the city. A founder of The
New York Society of Fine Arts and of the Union League club, he has also been a
patron of The Metropolitan Museum of Art and a trustee of The American Museum of
Natural History. His strong financial standing has caused his name to be sought by
financial institutions, and he is a director in The Bank of the Metropolis, The Pacific
Bank, The American Surety Co., and The State Trust Co. He is also a member of
The National Academy of Design, American Geographical Society, New York His-
torical Society, the Chamber of Commerce and other organizations. In 1878, whea
the house was awarded the Grand Prix at the Paris Exposition, he was created
Chevalier of the National Legion of Honor, and from the Emperor of Russia, Mr.
Tiffany received the Gold Medal Praemia Digno, an exceptional tribute. The list of
royal appointments is a long one, and practically includes all the royal courts of
Europe.
SAMUEL JONES T1LDEN, lawyer, born in New London, N. Y.. March 15, 1814,
died Aug. 4, 1886, at Greystone on the Hudson river. He came from Saxon stock and
Nathaniel Tilden, his ancestor, was one of nine Puritans, who sailed from Kent for
America in the ship Ann in 1634, and as commissioner aided in locating the town of
Scituate, Mass. Joseph, his younger brother, was one of the consignors of the May-
flower. Mr. Tilden entered Yale College in 1832 but overtaxed by study returned
to the old homestead. An open air life restored his health and he made several speeches
upon President Jackson's contest with The Bank of the United States. In 1834, he
entered the University of New York. He was admitted to the bar in 1841, began prac-
tice on Pine street, and, owing to his interest in politics, soon made his office the resort
of the leaders of the Democratic party of this city. In 1844, with John L. O'Siillivan,
he started a Democratic newspaper called The Morning News and paid personal atten-
tion to that journal for several months. After election, he gave his interest to Mr.
O'Sullivan, declined the New York naval office, and resumed the practice of law. Mr.
Tilden was one of the ablest and most respected leaders of the Democratic party of this
State, and, although defeated for Attorney General in 1855, was elected Governor by
the Democrats in 1874, in recognition of his services to the party. In 1876, he nar-
rowly failed of election as President of the United States. No extended account of the
excited controversy over that famous election is necessary here. But mention may be
made of the fact, that Mr. Tilden and his friends declared indignantly that they were
beaten in 1876 by fraud and maintained the claim so strenuously for years, that the
public mind was in doubt as to the right of the matter until THE NEW YORK TRIDUNE
obtained possession of several hundred cipher dispatches, which had passed between th<
Democratic leaders North and South during the campaign. These were translated b)
THE TRIBUNE and revealed an actual attempt to buy the electoral votes of severa
"V
THE CITY Of NE.W YORK. — Tl. 66 1
Mr. Tilford ;e*ds a busy life, but his work is congenial to his tastes, and he is so
adapted both mentally and physically for his labors, that be finds nothing except
ment in his activity. Besides his grocery, banking, and real estate business, he
is a director in a railroad and gas company, trea< Memorial Asso-
•ient of Thi: New Arasterda trustee, and,
1887, an acr nber of the Chaml mber of the
utive Committee oi The Gn. 'ment A :jch able
and successful work • for the n> F»r
the past fifteen yeaVs, R;-v R,
r Newton's - of two
As a business man, Mr ••,•,..• .':-..-r, ,,
Ftive force, quickness of business .»:,n , and that ran
cessful management at the same time of complex and v.
himself a worthy suc< .er. While his tim
the engrossing -mess, he tr<
fhumblest claimant upon his time ;. i. A man -
mpathies are ea ;ever appea'
rHe finds time even amid business become inK -ns and
^cheerfully contributes both hi-- id means to advanc *. -pinion is
interest of the public good. He nas, howv ^ for
ng political life, preferring t career.
- of a social and happy d - .i;:ii avoids everything
; which partakes of the least appearanc
He was married Nov. 16, -'laughter of the late James A.
Greer, and granddaughter of the Ia1 -vho was for many years a sugar
•refiner in this city. The lUjfnters. Domestic in his nd devotedly
:ed to his family, Mr. T :gh a member of many clubs, can always be
: at his home after busin - i. referring the enjoyment of the home circle to
r place on earth. I \vurk, close application and genuine merit, he
1 for himself, early in life, a well recognized position in the mercantile v
nas he proved \v name he bears, but judged by his pa^t h«- will
, the power and sue ^reat business house which hi>
.d did so much t
is a member of the Un:<«« T-eague, Colonial, Republican, \a
ing, and other club* and of The Sons of the Revolution.
H3LEY HUNT TILFORD, director in The Standard Oil Co., a reprcsentativ
old families of Kentucky, was born in Lexington, Ky., July 14, 1850.
'••hn B. Tilford, was a banker there and in New York city for over twent)
Wesley came to the metropolis at the age of fifteen and attended the school of
ic QuacL-jnb-1-.s, welJ known on account of his numerous school
1 afterward became a student at Columbia College. He engaged in business
city at the age of nineteen, first entering th«. ment of his
jKirtrK-r ir, the firm of Bo~f Tilford. m merchants. In ;
• > and a new one succeeded under the title of J. B. Tilford, ji
•sed of the two brothers Tilford. They :ed a large business, and in
•veome of so much importance that they were invited to identify th
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. TI. 66 1
Mr. Tilford leads a busy life, but his work is congenial to his tastes, and he is so
well adapted both mentally and physically for his labors, that he finds nothing except
enjoyment in his activity. Besides his grocery, banking, and real estate business, he
is a director in a railroad and gas company, treasurer of The Hancock Memorial Asso-
ciation, president of The New Amsterdam Eye & Ear Hospital, a school trustee, and,
since 1887, an active member of the Chamber of Commerce. As a member of the
Executive Committee of The Grant Monument Association, Mr. Tilford did much able
and successful work in raising the money for the completion of the monument. For
the past fifteen years, he has been a regular attendant and vestryman of the Rev. R.
Heber Newton's church. He is also a trustee of two summer homes for children.
As a business man, Mr. Tilford posesses ability of a high order. In energy, execu-
tive force, quickness of business conception, and that rare power necessary to the suc-
cessful management at the same time of complex and varied interests, he has shown
himself a worthy successor of his father. While his time is so thoroughly taken up
with the engrossing demands of his business, he treats with unfailing courtesy the
humblest claimant upon his time and attention. A man of natural kindliness of heart,
his sympathies are easily excited and are never appealed to without generous response.
He finds time even amid business cares to become interested in public questions, and
cheerfully contributes both his time and means to advance whatever in his opinion is
in the interest of the public good. He has, however, disregarded all suggestions for
entering political life, preferring the more congenial field of a strictly business career.
He is of a social and happy disposition but plain in his tastes and avoids everything
which partakes of the least appearance of ostentation.
He was married Nov. 16, 1881, to Miss Julia Greer, daughter of the late James A.
Greer, and granddaughter of the late George Greer, who was for many years a sugar
refiner in this city. They have two daughters. Domestic in his tastes and devotedly
attached to his family, Mr. Tilford, although a member of many clubs, can always be
found at his home after business hours, preferring the enjoyment of the home circle to
any other place on earth. By hard work, close application and genuine merit, he
gained for himself, early in life, a well recognized position in the mercantile world.
Not only has he proved worthy of the name he bears, but judged by his past he will
add to the power and success of the great business house which his father aided to
found and did so much to establish.
He is a member of the Union League, Colonial, Republican, Vaudeville, Rocka-
way Hunting, and other clubs and of The Sons of the Revolution.
WESLEY HUNT TILFORD, director in The Standard Oil Co., a representative of
one of the old families of Kentucky, was born in Lexington, Ky., July 14, 1850. His
father, John B. Tilford, was a banker there and in New York city for over twenty-five
years. Wesley came to the metropolis at the age of fifteen and attended the school of
George Payne Quackenboss, well known on account of his numerous school text
books, and afterward became a student at Columbia College. He engaged in business
in New York city at the age of nineteen, first entering the employment of his brother,
who was a partner in the firm of Bostwick & Tilford, petroleum merchants. In 1872,
the firm was dissolved and a new one succeeded under the title of J. B. Tilford, jr. &
Co., composed of the two brothers Tilford. They transacted a large business, and in
1875, had become of so much importance that they were invited to identify themselves
662 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
with The Standard Oil Co. Mr. Tilford is now an officer and director in a number
of corporations, which act in harmony with The Standard Oil Co. Of The Standard
Oil Co., of Indiana, which controls petroleum production and refining in Indiana
and Illinois, he is the president. Mr. Tilford is popular among his associates, a
Democrat in politics, and a member of the Metropolitan and Manhattan clubs and
The Southern Society.
WILLIAM JAY TINGUE, manufacturer, born in Fort Plain, N. Y., on March 21,
1837, entered the arena of life with an excellent constitution and a good education
received at Canandaigua Academy. The school of experience through which he passed
in young manhood aided him to attain the success which has attended his later years.
His father, Simon Tingue, one of the early settlers of Fort Plain, N. Y., and a
leading merchant of the place, was one of the foremost in all enterprises which built up
that village and gave it^the standing, which it now enjoys as the most successful town
of the Mohawk Valley.
Behind the counter of his father's store, the son took his first lessons in business,
and there displayed an interest in the welfare of the store which was soon appreciated.
After two years' trial, his father gave him a share in the firm and, at the age of nine-
teen, the sign of S. Tingue & Son appeared.
Business grew each year under the new management. Three years later, the
lather retired and the firm became Tingue Bro's, composed of the subject of this sketch
and his younger brother, John H. Tingue. The retail trade having become the largest
in the Mohawk Valley, a jobbing trade was finally added. Jobbing of goods then
became the ambition of the firm and New York city was to be the point. A customer
was soon found to take the stock with the good will of the well established business at
a fair price, and this accomplished the brothers brought their capital to New York and
the firm of Tingue, Harbison & Shiner, jobbers of cloths, was established in 1866.
Five years of success led the subject of this sketch to the manufacturing of woolen
goods. The mills at Glenville, Conn., were bought from Hoyt, Sprague & Co., the
firm taking the name of Tingue, House & Co., in 1874.
The purchase of the mills at Glenville caused Mr. Tingue to take up his residence
at Portchester, N. Y. , in order to be near his works. The mills had been standing
idle for two years and the resumption of operations was felt in the extra trade it gave
to Portchester, while the development of property by Mr. Tingue in and around
Portchester opened up some of the most beautiful locations for country residences
which are to be found about New York. His foresight in discovering the availability
of the crags and rocks, which skirt Long Island Sound near Portchester, has resulted
in the construction of beautiful suburban residences, which grace the shore and which
through his efforts have been established there. Among the prettiest of these is the
summer residence of Mr. Tingue. " Glen Airlie " on the Sound is known far and wide
for its beauty and the hospitality of its occupants.
Mr. Tingue is senior member of the firm of Tingue, House & Co. ; president of The
Hawthorne Mills Co., having woolen mills at Glenville, Conn., and The Tingue Manu-
facturing Co. , having plush mills at Seymour, Conn. ; president of the board of
trustees of the Clinton Liberal Institute at Fort Plain, N. Y , and the Church of the
Divine Paternity (formerly Dr. Chapin's), New York; and member of the Union League
club. New York.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. TR. 665
keeping step with progressive real estate advancement. He was never engaged in
purely mercantile pursuits, but, governed by faith in the national resources, took an
active interest in railroad and other important enterprises and was the holder of a large
amount of securities. He was a life member of The Long Island Historical Society.
April 20, 1852, he married Antoinette Augusta Olmsted, of Hartford, Conn., and was
the father of Mar}- E. F. , wife of W. G. Frazee, and Nora A. and Sherman B. Town-
send. A gentleman of much leisure, he partook rationally and freely of the pleasures
of travel and hospitality.
WILLIAfl R. TRAVERS, stock broker, born in Baltimore, Md., in July, 1819,
died at Hamilton, in Bermuda, March 19, 1887. Educated in part at West Point and
a graduate from Columbia College in 1838, Mr. Travers then spent some time upon
a farm to recruit his health. Fully recovered, he returned to New York, and both
here and in Baltimore carried on a trade with the West Indies and South America as a
commission merchant, with much success. In 1853, reverses came and he was forced
to discontinue. He then came to New York and connected himself with a stock
brokerage firm, becoming a member of the Exchange in 1856 At first, success did
not crown his efforts, but later, in partnership with Leonard W. Jerome, he gamed a
fortune. He continued in Wall street until his last sickness. Mr. Travers met with
as much success in the social world as in Wall street, and he left an indelible mark on
his generation. He was a born club man, and to him the Racquet and the New York
Athletic clubs owed much of their prosperity. He was a member of about twenty
other clubs and sporting organizations and the life of all. Famous as a raconteur, re-
markably quick at repartee, his slight impediment in speech brightened the wit of the
numberless anecdotes told by him, which are yet current. In early life, he married
Maria Louisa, the fourth daughter of Reverdy Johnson, who, with a family of nine
children, survived him: Man' Mackall Travers, wife of John G. Hecksher; Maria
Louisa, wife of James W. Wadsworth; Harriet, wife of George R. Fearing; John
Travers; Ellen T.. wife of William A. Duer; Matilda E., Susan B., William R., and
Reverdy J. Travers.
JOHN BOND TREVOR, banker, born March 27, 1822, in Philadelphia, Pa., died
Dec. 22, 1890, in New York city. His father was John B. Trevor, a life long resident
of Philadelphia, a member of the Legislature for several terms and a man of high
character. The son attended private schools and gained a knowledge of business
methods during five years as clerk in a wholesale dry goods house in Philadelphia.
He came to New York in 1849, and, Jan. 15, 1850, obtained a seat in the Stock Ex-
change, where he soon gained prominence for his brilliant abilities. In 1852, James
B. Colgate and he associated themselves as Trevor & Colgate, stock brokers and bank-
ers. Five years later, the house engaged in bullion dealings also and carried on bnsi-
ness for nearly thirty years at No. 47 Wall street, upon the site now occupied by The
United States Trust Co. Mr. Trevor was an adviser of many prominent capitalists,
and, while adverse to acting in boards of directors, his influence was felt in the mould-
ing of policies and the promotion of financial schemes. He was charitable in disposition
and several institutions enjoyed his especial benevolence, the principal ones being the
University and the Theological Seminary of Rochester. The Madison University also
received gifts from him, and in conjunction with his partner, Mr. Colgate, he contrib-
uted the funds for building the Warburton Avenue Baptist Church in Yonkers, of
666 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
which he was a member, one of the most handsome places of worship in the country,
His benefactions amounted to several hundred thousand dollars. In early life, he was
a member of the Sansom Street Baptist Church of Philadelphia. He was fond of liter-
ature and of travel, modest, sagacious, a charming companion and a Christian gentle-
man. Mr. Trevor married twice, his first wife being a daughter of Lispenard Stewart.
His second was Emily, daughter of A. G. Norwood of the firm of Norwood & Lock-
wood. His wife and their four children survived him, the latter being Henry G.
Trevor; Mary T., now Mrs. Grenville L. Winthrop; Emily H. and John B. Trevor.
The family home was " Glenview," Yonkers on the Hudson, which he built in 1878.
THOflAS EDWARD TWEEDY, manufacturer, born Nov. 4, 1832, in Danbury,
Conn., died in New York city, Nov. 4, 1887. He started in business with his father,
who was an extensive manufacturer of hats in Danbury. After his father's death, the
business was carried on by a corporation called The Tweedy Manufacturing Co. , and
Mr. Tweedy was treasurer of the concern until his death. For twenty-five years, he
represented the business in New York city as head of the sales department. For the
last twenty years of his life, he was an invalid and unable to walk but was well known
and highly esteemed in the hat trade. In 1862, he married Anna M., daughter of
T. P. Richards, of New York. Their daughter, Edith, married James W. Pryor.
u.
EDMOND URQUHART, manufacturer, one of the pioneers in the creation of the
valuable cotton seed oil industry in the United States, is a native of the old city of
Kingston, in the province of Ontario, Canada. He was born outside, but under the
guns, of Fort Henry, April 5. 1834. His father, Edward Urquhart, was a conspicuous
officer in the British army and held the rank of Quartermaster General. Both the
father and Elizabeth, the mother of the subject of this biography, as indeed all of his
ancestors, were natives of Scotland and Wales, and from them he inherited the spirit of
restless enterprise, the purity of character, and keenness of mind, for which he has
always been distinguished.
The lad applied himself to his books in the district schools of Kingston until he
had reached the age of twelve. Destined to a practical career, his father having died
when the boy was quite young, he was apprenticed to a forwarding and shipping firm
in Hamilton, Ont. This early start in practical affairs proved of very great advantage
to the ambitious youth, because, at the age of eighteen, when his apprenticeship was
over, and when such lads as are favored with wealthy parents are yet attending school,
young Mr. Urquhart had already become well grounded in the requirements of busi-
ness pursuits. He then entered upon the career which was to lead him on to fortune.
At the end of his five years, released from his indenture, he secured a position as con-
tractor's paymaster during the construction of The Great Western Railroad from Sus-
pension bridge at Niagara Falls to Detroit, Mich., a very responsible position for so
young a man. The Great Western Railroad is now the Southern division of The Grand
Trunk Railroad. During the three years of this service, Mr. Urquhart gained a valua-
ble experience and acquired the habit of accuracy and the strength to endure respon-
sibility. After leaving The Great Western Railroad, he established the shipping house
of Urquhart & Bowen in St. Catherine's, Canada, where be built several vessels to
engage in the grain trade between the upper lakes and Montreal.
Mr. Urquhart then removed to St. Louis, Mo., and engaged in the rectifying of
liquors until 1861, when he went to Memphis, Tenn., in which city he remained during
the great four years' war. After the surrender of the Southern armies in 1865, he was
one of the first to apply himself toward a revival of the prostrated interests of the South
and promptly undertook the hardware business and the manufacture of cotton seed oil
in Memphis. He met with excellent success from the start. For the latter industry,
he utilized an old government building in the Navy Yard, which was fitted up with
special machinery for crushing and extracting oil from the cotton seed. He paid the
closest attention to his business, developed it step by step, spared himself no labor of
any kind, and had the satisfaction of witnessing the constant growth of his trade.
Finally, finding it necessary to increase his operations, he removed to Little Rock,
Ark., in 1876, and there established The Little Rock Oil Works, becoming president
of the company and among the pioneers of the cotton seed oil industry in Arkansas.
His energy produced an effect almost electrical in this old State. Cotton fields
covered a large part of the territory of Arkansas and cotton seed could be obtained
in ample supply. His mill in Little Rock provided a local market for the seed, gave
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. UR. 669
employment to a number of workmen, and by its expenditures for materials and labor
quickened every other form of business. The results were so satisfactory, that the
establishment of mills in other parts of the State speedily became a foregone conclusion.
In 1878, Mr. Urquhart built a third mill, the second in Arkansas, under the name
of The Argenta Oil Works at Argenta, and became president of this company also.
Even this did not suffice, and Mr. Urquhart then rapidly added to his plant a fourth
cotton seed oil mill, which he built in Arkansas City on the Mississippi river, in 1879;
another, under the ownership of The Fort Smith Oil and Compress Co. , in 1 880 ; the
mill of The Texarkana Oil & Manufacturing Co., in 1881 ; and, in 1882, the mill of The
Newport Oil & Manufacturing Co. In all these companies, he was the motive power
and inspiring spirit. Refining was begun at the Little Rock plant in 1880. At several
of the points where mills were located, Mr. Urquhart established cotton compresses
and ginneries.
Since 1882. he has extended his manufacturing interests yet further, and was
elected president of The Anchor Oil Co., of Helena, Ark., in 1885; of The Brinkley
Oil Co., of Brinkley, Ark., and The Emma and The Xeel Oil Co's, of Pine Bluff, Ark.,
in 1886. Mr. Urquhart is now president of no less than twelve excellent companies in
this industry, having an aggregate capital of $2.088,400. All of them have been, with
numerous others in the United States, merged into The American Cotton Oil Trust,
which came into being Oct. i, 1885. The consolidation of the cotton oil industry into
the hands of this trust took place in Mr. Urquhart 's office in Little Rock, and he has
been the vice president and a trustee of the trust from its organization down to the
present time. He is also at present vice president of several large associations, having
a combined capital of many millions. At the time of the consolidation, his Arkansas
properties were utilizing 500 tons of cotton seed daily and producing 20,000 gallons of
oil per day, 250 tons of oil cake and 10,000 pounds of lint cotton.
This industry has proved of immense value to the South and its pioneers and pro-
moters are entitled to be known as benefactors of their race. While other enterprising
and energetic men have devoted themselves to utilizing the immense unexploited mineral
resources of the South, the reconstruction of its railroads, the operation of cotton mills
and tobacco factories, and the revival of trade, those who established the manufacture
of cotton seed oil have performed a service of direct importance to those engaged in the
especial branch of production which at present overshadows all others in that region.
Previous to the building of oil mills, cotton seed was thrown away by all the planters.
It is now scrupulously saved, finds a ready market, and it is so valuable that it repays
planters for hauling it long distances by wagon to shipping points and for transporta-
tion by rail and water to the mills. The American Cotton Oil Trust now grinds about
sixty per cent, of all the seed ground in the South, which amounts to millions of tons.
The additional employment given to workmen in the South and the new forms of food,
which have been added to those previously known, are not the least valuable of the
benefits conferred by the cotton seed oil industry.
While the industry, which he has done so much to promote, occupies his principal
attention, he has taken an active part in organizing other important enterprises.
In Memphis, where he lived for fifteen years, Mr. Urquhart became known as a pro-
gressive, public spirited and valuable man. He aided in organizing and for a number
of years held a seat in the directorates of The Fourth National Bank and The Home
670 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
Insurance Co. After his removal to Little Rock, the impulse of his energy was felt in
various ways. He organized and served as president for several years of The Ladies'
Building & Loan Association, one of the most successful ever known in Arkansas. He
also organized a company with a capital of $125,000, became its president, and built
the Quapaw Cotton Mills, and served for some time as a director of The First National
Bank. He was also drawn into extensive cotton planting interests and yet owns the
beautiful Cummins and Maple Grove plantations in Lincoln county, Arkansas, having
an area of 10,000 acres and nine miles of frontage upon the Arkansas River. Here
300 to 400 negroes are employed. Some extensive sawmills are now operated upon
this property. The Varner branch railroad, of which he is the owner, connects the
saw mills and plantations with The Missouri Pacific system Mr. Urquhart is also
president of The Wilcox Lard & Refining Co., having offices in the Produce Exchange
building, New York city, but the cotton oil industry, in which he has a large pecuniary
interest, engages his principal attention.
Since 1887, Mr. Urquhart has found it necessary to live in New York city, owing-
to the magnitude of his interests in the Cotton Oil Trust, of which he is one of the active
managers. It is scarcely necessary to say, in view of his distinguished success, that he
is a man of more than ordinary business ability, shrewd, intelligent and systematic, a
born organizer, and possessing an almost boundless capacity for work. Although he
has the faculty of selecting valuable assistants and managers for his own properties, the
large responsibilities now imposed upon him exact his constant attention. He wastes
no time on politics or clubs, but is a qualified voter of New York City and casts
his ballot in every election, intelligently, for men of clean records irrespective of party.
Oct. 12, 1864, he was united in marriage in Memphis, Tenn., to Miss Henrietta
Blood, who, while born in Hamilton, Ont. , is the daughter of a native of Worcester,
Mass. They have two children, Lizzie Haywood and Maggie Mackenzie Urquhart.
A third daughter, Minnie Simmons Urquhart, died in infancy.
V.
HENRY HOBART VAIL, a descendant of Jeremiah Vail, who was one of the
early settlers of Southold, Long Island, N. Y., was born in Poinfret, Vt., May 27.
1839. His father, Joshua Vail, was a farmer. Henry was educated at Middlebury
College, taught school for several years, and served one summer as a Union soldier in
the Civil War. In 1867, he entered the service of a publishing house in Cincinnati,
O., and later became a partner in the firm of Wilson, Hinkle & Co., publishers of
school books, and one of the partners in their successors, Van Antwerp, Bragg &
Co. This house rose to great prominence in the West. When the leading school
book publishers of the country united under the name of The American Book Co., the
Cincinnati firm joined in the enterprise. Mr. Vail is now a director and chairman of
the board in that organization, and has made his home in New York city since 1890.
He is president of the Aldine club, and a member of the Grolier, Colonial and Twilight
clubs, and The New England, Ohio, and New York Geneological and Biographical
Societies and The Society of Colonial Wars.
THEODORE NEWTON VAIL, born July 16, 1845, in Carrolton county, Ohio,
belongs to the Morris county family of Vails in New Jersey, descendants of John Vail,
a Quaker preacher, who settled in New Jersey in 1710. The family has always been
one of position and influence. Lewis Vail, civil engineer, grandfather of Theodore N.
Vail, early went to Ohio and was a pioneer in the building of canals and highways.
Stephen Vail, an uncle, founded The Speedwell Iron Works, near Morristown, N. J.,
at which was built most of the machinery for the first steamship which crossed the
Atlantic Ocean, sailing from Savannah, Ga. Here, also, Morse perfected and first
successfully operated the magnetic telegraph, Stephen Vail and his sons, George and
Alfred, supplying Morse with the money, and Alfred the mechanical ingenuity.
Alfred Vail invented the dot and dash alphabet, which has always been used in tele-
graphing. William P. Vail of this family was a leading physician and church worker
in Northern New Jersey at Blairstown, and George Vail represented his section in
Congress and was one of the lay Judges of the New Jersey Court of Pardons.
Davis Vail, son of Lewis Vail, and father of the subject of this biography, born in
Ohio, came East at an early age, was connected with The Speedwell Iron Works, and
married Phoebe Quinby, daughter of Judge Isaac Quinby of Morris county. By this,
marriage, he became related to three notable brothers in law, General Quinby, a grad-
uate of West Point, a leading mathematician, Professor of Mathematics at the Roch-
ester University, and general in the Civil War; Dr. William Quinby; and Dr.
Augustus Quinby, all sons of Judge Isaac Quinby. After marriage, Davis Vail went
to Ohio, remaining there several years. His son, Theodore, was born during the stay
of the family in that part of the country. When the lad was about four years old.
Davis Vail returned to the East and was again connected with The Speedwell Iron
Works. In 1866. he removed to Iowa, where he operated a large farm.
Theodore N. Vail was educated in the old academy in Morristown, and then
studied medicine with his uncle, Dr. William Quinby, but, having learned telegraphy
at the telegraph office in Headly's drug store in Morristown, he left medicine and went
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. VA. 673
to New York, where he became manager of a local office, being afterward attached to
the staff of J. C. Hinchman, then general superintendent of the metropolitan and east-
ern divisions of The United States Telegraph Co. He went West with his father in
1866. and engaged in farming, but in the fall of 1868, went yet farther west and was
made operator and afterward agent at Pine Bluffs, Wyoming, on The Union Pacific
Railroad. Pine Bluffs was at that time the principal supply point for wood for The
Union Pacific, which had not then been completed.
In the Spring of 1869, Mr. Vail received an appointment as clerk in the railway
mail service between Omaha and Ogden, and in August, 1869, he married Miss Emma
Righter, of Newark, N. J. He devoted himself with great diligence to the improve-
ment of the railway mail service, then in its infancy, and his good work in the perfec-
tion of schemes for the distribution of the mails, and especially his services in forward-
ing the mails during the long snow blockade of 1870, called the attention of the Depart-
ment to him, with the result that he was assigned to duty between Chicago and Iowa
City in the railway post office. On this line, the entire distribution of overland mails
was made prior to the establishment of railway post office cars on The Union Pacific
Railroad. When the railway post office was established on The Union Pacific, Mr.
Vail was assigned to duty as head clerk.
In March, 1873, the Department called Mr. Vail to Washington and assigned him
to duty in the office of the General Superintendent of Railway Mail Service, where he
was charged with special oversight of distribution of the mails and arrangement of
"schemes" or charts of distribution. During this period, the questions of the compen-
sation of railroads and carriage of merchandise in the mails were being agitated in
Congress, and the Department placed upon Mr. Vail the responsibility of preparing
the post office statements, statistics and answers to Congressional inquiries. His
intimate knowledge of the service, energy and capacity were recognized in June, 1874,
by his appointment as Assistant Superintendent of Railway Mail Service. In 1875, ne
was assigned to duty as Assistant General Superintendent, and when, in February,
1876, Mr. Bangs resigned to go into other business, Mr. Vail was appointed General
Superintendent. He had thus reached the highest grade in this branch of the Federal
employment. Mr. Vail was the youngest of the officers of the Railway Mail Service,
both in years and terms of service, and when the final appointment was handed to him
by Marshall Jewell, Postmaster General, the latter said that his only objection to Mr.
Vail was his youth.
As General Superintendent, Mr. Vail established upon a firm basis the civil service
policy, which had been initiated by Mr. Bangs. The superiority of the results attained
under the rules adopted for the railway mail service were recognized by all the civil
service commissions in Washington, to the extent that until very recently the employe's
of the railway post offices were not included in the general civil service laws and regu-
lations. Mr. Vail established the system of six months' probationary appointments,
which have since been so generally adopted. It was during the incumbency of Mr.
Vail that a reduction took place in the pay of the railroads for mail transportation. In
the controversy which followed, some of the railroads threw the postal cars out of their
trains. Within six months, however, relations were re-established with all the leading
lines and increased car and train service obtained. Thereafter, more cordial relations
existed between the Post Office Department and the railroad managers.
674 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
An incident of this time may be referred to. Senator Beck of Kentucky was
much interested in having the southwestern mails go over Kentucky routes, and made
many efforts to induce the Postmaster General to order them so sent. Being referred
by the head of the Department to Mr. Vail, Mr. Beck accused Mr. Vail of being under
the influence of certain railroads. In an interview with Mr. Beck, Mr. Vail explained
the situation and gave the reasons which governed him. Mr. Beck left apparently not
satisfied. Soon after, however, when a proposition to reduce Mr. Vail's pay was pend-
ing in the Senate, Senator Beck took occasion to compliment Mr. Vail very highly, and,
in a five minutes speech, said that if there were an honest and efficient officer in the
employment of the Government, Mr. Vail was the man.
After the invention of the telephone and its reduction to practice, The American
Bell Telephone Co. was organized by Gardiner G. Hubbard, father in law of Prof.
Alexander G. Bell. Mr. Hubbard had been engaged against the Post -Office Depart-
ment before Congress on the question of merchandise in the mails and was chairman
of the commission appointed by Congress to investigate methods of payment to rail-
roads for mail transportation. Believing Mr. Vail to be the right man for the place,
he tendered him the position of general manager of The American Bell Telephone Co.
Believing in "the futiire of the "toy," as it was then termed, and against the protest
of all his friends, he accepted the position in 1878 and devoted himself to the work
with his accustomed zeal and ability. The task was at times discouraging. The public
were slow to recognize the great value of the instrument, and strong opposition was
manifested by The Western Union Telegraph Co., which denied that Professor Bell
was the inventor and set up opposition exchanges at every point. Mr. Vail introduced
the methods which have proved so successful and have resulted in The American Bell
Telephone Go's phenomenal growth. A settlement was finally effected with The
Western Union Telegraph Co. after years of fighing and negotiating, in which The
Western Union conceded every point of importance.
Mr. Vail established the long distance telephone service, against the opposition of
all his associates in the company. The first line which was built to New York was
called the "Vail's side show." He also introduced the use of copper wire in telephone
and telegraph lines, since so generally adopted, having in this matter the assistance of
Mr. Mason of Bridgeport, whom he induced to experiment with drawing copper wire in
such a way as to give it the tensile strength necessary to withstand the stretching from
pole to pole.
In 1888, Mr. Vail retired from the telephone business after having occupied the
managing position for ten years. He has since traveled most of the time abroad and
has introduced the telephone in many countries. Farming in Vermont now occupies a
part of his time and upon his estate of 1,500 acres, called the "Speedwell Farms," he
raises French coach horses, including some of the finest in the United States, Jersey
cattle, Shropshire and Dorsett horned sheep, and Welsh ponies. He is a member of
the Union League club of New York and the Algonquin club of Boston. He has one
son, Davis R. Vail, a student in Harvard Law School in Cambridge.
COL. JOHN DASH VAN BUREN, lawyer and merchant, born in New York
city, March 18, 1811, died suddenly at his home in Newburg, N. Y., Dec. 2, 1885. His
father, Michael Van Buren, was a merchant on Dey street, and a relative of President
Van Buren, the family being of old Dutch pedigree. John graduated from Columbia
sa
TH* ewrt oir
College, studied law ant': re a-, e;ir!y a- 1*^5 on Pine street. The
rear, he married Elvira 1 ier of Benjamin Aymar, and iii
was taken into the firm of I< ;iar & Co. , and !< • w*h
ping interests and West India tradt of that house-. " In 1841-4.1, fa tw-iunv >e
the Chamber of Commerce. Mr Van Buren prospered to such an extent th.»t he
retired before forty years of age. He was well known among politicians of lau-r t
and during the Civil WaracceptAi th«- uflk-e »f Pa
under Governor Seymour, holding that office from May 16. 1*64, to fat *, 1865.
The New York Evening Post and Tin Albany Argus printed n
his pen. He was private secretary to Governor Hoffman from lar, i, •.***,. to |*n •.
1873, and served under Governor Hoffman as a member of the « • *\ -:• tj . •' • ".fjr • v."
tion of 1872. John D. Van Buren, jr., wa» State engineer trcte X-.-. ». i*rt. i™ Jfov.
5, 1877, and also one of the Commission to investigate the ra*»>»v-.-ir -.•••: < »a»]s in
1875. Another son, Robert, was chief en^;m_tT of the Departnscst «• « - *-V ..ri - v-t
Brooklyn, 1877-95. His other chtliirvn v, vr. \yniar, who betaii>- .; ' .- ; ^-, ar
of ill health; Frank K ..•: and Elizabeth A, wV-
Thomas H. White, o:
CORNELIUS VANDERBil.' :>ro«.icnt, known for mufv that ^ yr«»
'.nmodore Vanderbilt, was born on Statt-r: i,:,tnd, May 27, 1794. J'o-'. K- :r>mr.i1
lapleton both claim the honor of having l>een his birth j>l ;»«.-*• . :/..i th-in- is no
that Port Richmond t. He dic-o in New York city, Jan. 4. 1877.
The first of the name in America, Jan Aertsen Van der Bill, a worthy Protestant
;rom Holland, settled upon a farmxm Long Island near the present city of Brooklyn
bout 1650, and planted there the race of fanners, from which the Vanderbiltf, derived
their descent. In 1715, a grandson of Jan, great grandfather of < Vander-
ilt, removed to a farm on Staten Island near the little h.i:i; t' •< V.-v iv.-ji and is
id to have owned considerable land. In religion, he : the
emetery at New Dorp now occupies afield on the Vai
During the early boyhood of Cornelius Vanderbih . •. v.- -.:•. ri»» -
hildren, his father changed his residence t«.- S . at *•*•<
ip. The senior \*anderbilt was a farmer, \vi; . t»wne-; .: •.:-%*-«. •
ound it to his advantage to devote his fields u> tbt- g: -*•..•-,. -. MI th«
ity of New York, then a rising town of 80,000 inha!>it*r>u. - ijiir-
;eners on Staten Island, he was his own '.- ; ;{K- t
o earn" to New York not only his own \>\ >. >-, *-•* gi •••'-•
nd, between the island and the city, ati 'jccasiiMia': tr»^v:v>"- ^-'t-i ihe '••
f the Staten Island Ferry. Cornt-iius made F: father's butt.
Tie young man was one of the most h;md*on;i. *;•« ;.- -•, He wa* '
thletic and brave, not over fund of books. .if iiie and
n. swimmer and a good oarsoMtt attd hof*err> »" A -•'• MX, •
riven a race horse at full speed, a fact whi*,h !»« ••' i" ux Ltter yt-
be quiet life of the farm, the saiitng of bom*, '•>-.<• --^ A.V .iuer amus«-;
»ilroad president gained the pbysical a.m' :i;o-,'*.^! >'»g"'-'. whi«.b. •
|ppenrance and a stendy an<l resn'in-1 > ': ira (• r. mMte hi 'i i jj-'iiicv.'
The constraints of has early life wert y Mr. Van.
lew to gain greater independence, ht 6i:al:\- •. itr'cre<i to ]>l>-v.-. h:irr«*v.- -•
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. VA.
675
College, studied law and began practice as early as 1835 on Pine street. The same
year, he married Elvira Lynch, the oldest daughter of Benjamin Aymar, and in 1836
was taken into the firm of Benj. Aymar & Co., and identified himself with the ship-
ping interests and West India trade of that house. In 1841-43, he became secretary of
the Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Van Buren prospered to such an extent that he
retired before forty years of age. He was well known among politicians of later times,
and during the Civil War accepted the office of Paymaster General of the State troops
under Governor Seymour, holding that office from May 26, 1863, to Jan. 2, 1865.
The New York Evening Post and The Albany Argus printed many contributions from
his pen. He was private secretary to Governor Hoffman from Jan. i, 1869, to Jan. i,
1873, and served under Governor Hoffman as a member of the Constitutional Conven-
tion of 1872. John D. Van Buren, jr., was State engineer from Nov. 2, 1875, to Nov.
5, 1877, and also one of the Commission to investigate the management of canals in
1875. Another son, Robert, was chief engineer of the Department of City Works of
Brooklyn, 1877-95. His other children were Aymar, who became a farmer on account
of ill health; Frank Roe, a lawyer, now deceased; and Elizabeth A., who married Dr.
Thomas H. White, of New Haven, Conn
CORNELIUS VANDERBILT, railroad president, known for more than forty years
as Commodore Vanderbilt, was born on Staten Island, May 27, 1794. Port Richmond
and Stapleton both claim the honor 6f having been his birth place, but there is no
doubt that Port Richmond was the spot. He died in New York city, Jan. 4, 1877.
The first of the name in America, Jan Aertsen Van der Bilt, a worthy Protestant
from Holland, settled upon a farm on Long Island near the present city of Brooklyn
about 1650, and planted there the race of farmers, from which the Vanderbilts derived
their descent. In 1715, a grandson of Jan, great grandfather of Commodore Vander-
bilt, removed to a farm on Staten Island near the little hamlet of New Dorp and is
said to have owned considerable land. In religion, he became a Moravian and the
cemetery at New Dorp now occupies a field on the Vanderbilt farm.
During the early boyhood of Cornelius Vanderbilt, who was the oldest of nine
children, his father changed his residence to Stapleton, at which place the family grew
up. The senior Vanderbilt was a farmer, who owned a tract of land near by and who
found it to his advantage to devote his fields to the growing of vegetables for sale in the
city of New York, then a rising town of 80, ooo inhabitants. Like other market gar-
deners on Staten Island, he was his own boatman; but, unlike others, he had the thrift
to carry to New York not only his own produce but that of several of his neighbors,
and, between the island and the city, an occasional traveller; and this was the origin
of the Staten Island Ferry. Cornelius made many trips in charge of his father's boat.
The young man was one of the most handsome lads upon the island. He was tall,
athletic and brave, not over fond of books, but devoted to open air life and sports, a
fine swimmer and a good oarsman and horseman. At the age of six, he had already
driven a race horse at full speed, a fact which he often referred to in later years. In
the quiet life of the farm, the sailing of boats, fishing and other amusements, the future
railroad president gained the physical and mental vigor, which, added to his striking
appearance and a steady and resolute character, made him a prince among men.
The constraints of his early life were keenly felt by Mr. Vanderbilt, and, with a
view to gain greater independence, he finally offered to plow, harrow and plant an
676 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
eight acre lot for his mother, if she would lend him $100, with which to buy a boat of
his own. His mother, the financier of the family, had, upon one occasion, saved her
husband's farm from sale for debt, by making use of $3,000 from her own savings.
Mrs. Vanderbilt agreed to the proposition of Cornelius, provided that he should com-
plete his contract before his seventeenth birthday, then only twenty-seven days away.
The time was short, the undertaking a physical impossibility for one youth ; but
Cornelius, with a spirit all his own, quickly secured the aid of a number of playmates
and earned in 1810 the $100, which led him on to splendid fortune. His new boat, a
better one than his father's, began its career inauspiciously by running against a rock
on its first trip ; but it was repaired, and by sailing it back and forth between New York
and Staten Island, its owner earned in three years over $3, ooo. Most of this money he gave
to his mother, but a small part being retained was invested in two other boats; and Mr.
Vanderbilt thus became the master of three handy vessels, one of them a periagua, one
capable of carrying twenty people and the best of her class in the harbor. This
' 'musquito' ' fleet he continued to operate for several years. The fare for a passenger at that
time was eighteen cents. When the War of 1812 occurred, a large increase of travel to
Staten Island followed, owing to the placing of garrisons at the Narrows. In 1814, Mr.
Vanderbilt secured a contract to carry men and supplies to the harbor forts, after a
lively competition with others. He was not the lowest bidder but his reputation for
energy brought him the contract; and trips between Ward's Island, Hell Gate, Harlem
and the Narrows occupied him constantly for many months.
At the age of nineteen, he married Sophia Johnson, a second cousin, and, inducing
his mother to relinquish her claim to the principal part of his earnings, he saved $500
and moved to New York city. He continued to employ his sailing boats on the Staten
Island ferry route ; but the originality and vigor of his mind soon displayed itself in
plans, which he made and carried out, for employing vessels in the trade to various
cities on the Hudson river and Long Island Sound. His first schooner, the Charlotte,
built in 1815, in partnership with a brother in law, went into this coasting trade and in
winter he sailed the vessel himself. He owned several boats, sloops and schooners,
sailed them to every point in the harbor and the waters contiguous thereto and learned
to know every inch of the geography of this coast.
It was during this period that Fulton on the Hudson and Roosevelt on the Ohio
were developing the steamboat as a carrier of freight and passengers. Nothing which
occurred in the harbor ever escaped the eye or failed to awaken the interest of Mr.
Vanderbilt. When the steamboat had passed the experimental stage, he saw that the
time had come to adapt himself to a new order of things. In 1818, therefore, he ac-
cepted the place of captain of the steamboat Bellona, operated by a company of which
Thomas Gibbons of New Jersey was the head. The salary of $1,000 a year was less
than he was then earning, but diminishing receipts from his Hudson river sloops
warned him of the coming triumph of steam. He remained with Mr. Gibbons for
twelve years. The Bellona was employed in conveying passengers from New York to
New Brunswick on their journey to Philadelphia, the rest of the trip being made in
stage coaches to Trenton and thence by boat to Philadelphia. For the first six years,
Mr. Vanderbilt had many exciting experiences The State of New York had granted
to Fulton and Livingston the exclusive right to navigate the waters of this State with
steamboats and trespassers were liable to arrest and their boats to confiscation The
tHE CITY OF NEW YORK. — VA. 679
mous short sales. The Commodore's brokers bought steadily until they had purchased
the entire stock of the road. Opponents were compelled to settle at "two prices."
The next year, he managed another corner, this time in the stock of The Hudson River
Road. Having bought a controlling interest, he proposed to unite the line with the
Harlem under one charter, and sent a bill to that effect to the State Legislature.
Once more, a combination was made against him. The stock, then held at $150 a share,
was depressed by the bears to a low figure. Again, Commodore Vanderbilt bought
every share offered until his 'purchases covered 27,000 more shares than the road had
ever issued. He had cornered the market and could have dictated any terms but to
avert a panic settled at $285 a share. Both operations brought him enormous profits.
Once in possession of The Hudson River Railroad, he united it with the Harlem
and instituted vigorous reforms in the management.
A campaign planned by Commodore Vanderbilt in the winter of 1865. enabled him
to buy at a reduced price a controlling interest in The New York Central Railroad.
In 1867, he became president of the road, and in 1869 of the consolidated New York
Central & Hudson River Railroad, placing 1,000 miles of track and over $100,000,000
of capital under his control. In 1868, an 80 per cent, scrip dividend was declared on
the stock of both roads, in spite of which shares rose to $200 each. The control of the
entire line between New York and Chicago was secured when, at the annual meeting
of the Lake Shore Railroad, it was shown that the Vanderbilt party had possession of a
majority of the stock.
Commodore Vanderbilt possessed the constructive temperament in a marked
degree, and his great wealth came mainly from creating corporations, which, under his
management, were made to yield large dividends, the capital then being increased in
harmony with the earnings. To accomplish these remarkable results, he brought into
play all of the hard sense and Dutch thrift inherited in his blood. Useless expenses
were stopped, ornaments and decorations were stripped from locomotives and cars, and
idlers were discharged. New trains were established, new depots built, and tracks
were doubled ; and he made the railroads under his control one of the great trunk line
systems of the country. The erection of the Hudson street freight depot was his first
great work on this system and the adoption of the four track plan his last.
His fight for the control of The Erie Railroad is historic and supplied one of the
most stirring chapters in the history of Wall street. The Erie was the one line necessary
to enable him to gain complete control of the railroad system of the State, and he went
into the market with a resolution to obtain it at any cost, backed by the prestige of pre-
vious triumphs. At the outset, his success seemed a foregone conclusion. Daniel
Drew, his most powerful adversary, seemed to have been won over to his side on
promise of restoration to the board and even,- indication pointed toward success. Mr.
Drew did not keep his promises, however, and then Commodore Vanderbilt resolved to
"corner" the Drew interest, an undertaking the more difficult because Mr. Drew and
his friends had control of the company and could issue stock in any amount to meet
emergencies. A war ensued both in Wall street and the courts, in the midst of which
50,000 shares of Erie stock were issued and placed on the market. Mr. Vanderbilt
bought all the new stock, before the trick was discovered. The result was that Erie
dropped from $83 to $7 1 a share. The Erie directors fled to Jersey City with their prof-
its, taking §7,000,000 of the Commodore's money, and extraordinary legal complica-
680 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
tions ensued. Mr. Vanderbilt had 100,000 shares of Erie, and one court would appoint
a receiver of those shares only to have his hands tied by another court. Injunctions
and counter injunctions were issued and the Erie litigation fell into a hopeless maze.
In the end, Mr. Vanderbilt and Mr. Drew were compelled to adjust their differences
between themselves, and the control of the Erie road passed into the hands of Jay
Gould and James Fisk, jr. In this campaign, Commodore Vanderbilt lost $7,000,000
but recovered nearly $5,000,000 by legal proceedings.
In later years, his operations in Wall street were not conspicuous, although he re-
mained constantly on the alert to protect his interests.
His faith in The New York Central & Hudson River Railroad was strong to the
last, and he advised his friends always to buy and hold that stock. In 1872, he became
a large buyer of the securities of The Western Union Telegraph Co., also. When he
rested from his labors he had accumulated an enormous fortune, estimated variously at
from $60,000,000 to $100,000,000.
As he felt his end approaching, Commodore Vanderbilt made thorough prepara-
tions and left his great properties carefully disposed of. He was a man of great
physical vigor and striking personality, six feet tall, handsome and with clear com-
plexion. He dressed plainly but was fond of white cravats and was abstemious in
his tastes. For the last twenty-five years, he lived in a plain brick house in Washington
Place. He was a man of few words. Bunyan's Pilgrim's Progress was one of his
favorite books, and " There is rest for the weary " his favorite song. Politics did not
interest him. He was fond of driving fine horses and was frequently to be seen driving
in the Park or on Harlem lane and on trotting days at Fleetwood Park. His
stables contained some of the best roadsters in the country, among them his favorite,
Mountain Boy, Post Boy, Plow Boy, Mountaineer, Mountain Girl, Doctor, Princess, and
the Flying Dutchman. He derived great enjoyment from a social game of cards both at
Saratoga, whither he repaired every summer, and in town as member of several whist
clubs. Among large gifts which he made may be mentioned $1,000,000 to Vanderbilt
University in Nashville, Tenn., and the edifice of the Mercer Street Church in ,honor
of the Rev. Charles F. Deems, its pastor. He was the father of thirteen children by
his first wife: Phebe Jane, wife of James M. Cross; Ethelinda, wife of Daniel B.
Allen; Elizabeth, wife of George A. Osgood; William H. Vanderbilt; Emily, wife of
William K. Thorn; Sophia J., wife of Daniel Torrance; Maria Louise, wife of Horace
F. Clark; Frances, and Cornelius Johnson Vanderbilt; Mary Alicia, wife of Nicholas La
Bau; George W. Vanderbilt; Mrs. Katharine Johnson, wife of Smith Barker, jr.; and
George W. Vanderbilt, zd. The latter died in 1866 from disease contracted in the
Corinth campaign. Mrs. Vanderbilt died in 1867, and the Commodore in 1868 married
Miss Frank A. Crawford, a Southern lady, who survived him.
WILLIAH HENRY VANDERBILT, railroad president, oldest son of Commodore
Vanderbilt, born in New Brunswick, N. J., May 8, 1821, died at his New York house,
Dec. 8, 1885. For nine years after his birth, the family lived in New Brunswick, then
a small town. William attended country school for a while, but, after the removal of
the family to New York, was sent to Columbia Grammar School until he had acquired
a sound elementary education. He then found employment in a ship chandlery store,
kept by a relative, and at the age of eighteen, became a clerk in the banking house of
Drew, Robinson & Co., at a salary of $150 for the first year, which was increased to
680 -. S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
tions ensued. W ..i-l 100,000 shares of Erie, and one court would appoint
a receiver of '•. > ;y to have his hands tied by another court. Injunc:;
and COUJM«- *vre issued and the Erie litigation fell into a hopeless in
In tfj*. • -Milt and Mr. Drew were compelled to adjust their differen
. and the control of the Erie road passed into the hands of
J'vsk, jr. In this campaign, Commodore Vanderbiir. l<*st $7,000,000
< *rly $5,000,000 by legal proceedings.
f.-urs. his operations in Wall street were not conspicuous, although he re-
xuuitly on the alert to protect his interests.
vjth in The New York Central & Hudson River Railroad was strong to the
-.art he advised his friends always to buy and hold that stock. In 1872, he became
ia-s^f buyer of the securities of The Western Union Telegraph Co., also. When he
tested from his labors he had accumulated an enormous fortune, estimated vari^u.
trom $60,000,000 to $100,000,000.
As he felt his end approaching, Commodore Vanderbilt made thorough prepara-
tions and left his great properties carefully disposed of. He was a man
physical vigor and striking personality, six feet tall, handsome and with d>
plexion. He drrssed plainly but was fond of white cravats and was abstemio,
his ta«tc? 1-Y
- ,v v;-c.r :!«,. Human'* Pilgrim's Progress was one of his
• .ii HirtftlB .lane and on trotting day* at Fleetwood Park.
•unong them 1: ite,
;i Girl, Doctor, Prin
A: which he made may be mentioned $1,000,000 to Vanderbilt
University 41: Nashville, Tenn., and the edifice of the Mercer Street Church in honor
ot the Ri • Charles F. Deems, its pastor. He was the father of thirteen children
his first wife: Phebe Jane, wife of James M. Cross; Ethelinda, wife of Dani<
Allen: Elizabeth, wife of George A. Osgood; William H. Vanderbilt; Emilv, wife of
William K. Thorn; Sophia J., wife of Daniel Torrance; Maria Louis.
F. Clark; Frances, and Cornelius Johnson Vanderbilt; Mary Alici ;s La
Bau; George W. Vanderbilt; Mrs. Katharine Johnson, wife of Smith Barker, jr.
George W. Vanderbilt, ad. The latter died in 1866 from disease contracted in the
Corinth campaign. Mrs. Vanderbilt died in 1867, and the Commodore in 1868 ma-
Miss Frank A. Crawford, a Southern lady, who survived him.
WILLIAfl HENRY VANDERBILT, railroad president, oldest son of C [ore
Vanderbilt, born in New Brunswick, N. J., May 8, 1821, died at his New York h
Dec. 8, 1885. For nine years after his birth, the family lived in New Brunswick, then
vrjjall towu. William attended country school for a while, but, after the removal of
• ••;>• f-unily to New York, was sent to Columbia Grammar School until he had acquired
d elementary education. He then found employment in a ship chandlery store,
r * relative, and at the age of eighteen, became a clerk in the banking house 6f
n & Co., at a salary of $150 for the first year, which was increased to
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. VA. 683
an end to competition, and this was accomplished only a day or two before his death.
Mr. Vanderbilt was a man of large physique, nearly six feet in height, erect,
sturdy, well proportioned, and active in movement Sometimes abrupt in speech, he
was as a rule genial in business affairs and easy almost to graciousness in social conver-
sation. He was a hard worker, an excellent judge of character, quick in intuition,
generally correct in his judgments, fearless of the dangers which surround a man of his
prominence, and exceedingly regular in his daily routine. He had that quality,
inherited from his father, of being able to select the right man for any position and to
leave its work to him with confidence that it would be well done. He was a domestic
man, fond of the society of his wife and children, and enjoyed family gatherings at his
house. His family life was always of the most pleasant character; and his wife, upon
whom devolved the duty of bringing up their large family of nine children, only one of
whom died in youth, was the same loving spouse and mother amid the magnificence
which surrounded their latter days as in earlier times on the Staten Island farm. He
never attended any large social gatherings or many big dinners.
One of his later undertakings was the building of his Fifth Avenue mansion, which
was the most handsome private dwelling in America, and contained, besides numerous
works of art, a magnificent collection of paintings, most of which had been selected by
himself or painted to his order. His taste ran mostly toward brilliant historical pictures,
although many other subjects were represented, and upon many occasions he permitted
the public to view his collection. Like his father, he was a great lover of fine horses
and was spoken of by the older set of horsemen as one of the best drivers who ever
lived. His stable at 5zd street and Madison Avenue was a model of elegance, and
sheltered at different times some of the best trotting stock that could be procured.
Every clear afternoon, he could be seen on the driveways of upper New York behind
his favorite team. One of his first feats was to drive Small Hopes and Lady Mac, a
mile to a top road wagon in 2. 23^ on Fleetwood Park track. This time had never
been deemed possible and created a sensation in the trotting world. Later, he bought
the celebrated Maud S. , and one time drove her with Aldine to a top road wagon over
the same course in 2.15^, the fastest time ever made by a trotting team under any cir-
cumstances. Mr. Vanderbilt kept Maud S. for several years and then sold her to
Robert Bonner.
While a liberal donor to philanthropic work (some of his gifts being too great to
remain unknown), Mr. Vanderbilt avoided publicity wherever possible. Many of his
benefactions have never been made public. On the presentation of the obelisk to this
city by the Khedive of Egypt, Mr. Vanderbilt defrayed the entire cost of its transpor-
tation and erection in Central Park. He also gave $100,000 to the Vanderbilt Univer-
sity at Nashville, Tenn., for the erection of a Theological Hall. His other gifts to this
institution at various times amounted to as much more, and he left it $200,000 in his
will. He was also a large contributor to the Deems fund for the education of indigent
students at the University of North Carolina, and made several generous gifts to the
University of Virginia In 1884, he gave $500,000 to The College of Physicians &
Surgeons of New York for a site and the erection of a new building. His generosity
towards General Grant at the time of the disastrous failure of Grant & Ward, is well
known. By his will, he gave $100,000 to the Metropolitan Museum of Art; $300,000
for Episcopal missions; $100,000 each to St. Luke's Hospital, The Young Men's
684 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
Christian Association, and The United Brethren's church on Staten Island; and
$500,000 more to other institutions, a total of a million dollars. His religious feelings
were strong and well founded. He was a life long communicant of St. Bartholomew's
church, having become a member of that body when he first came to the city. For
many years he served as a vestryman. When that church removed up town, he was a
member of the building committee for the new structure and gave liberally of both
his time and money to this work. His children were Cornelius, William K., Frederick
W. . and George W. Vanderbilt ; Margaret Louisa, wife of Elliott F. Shepard ; Emily
Thorn, wife of William D. Sloane; Florence Adele, wife of Hamilton McK. Twombly;
and Eliza O , wife of William Seward Webb.
CORNELIUS VANDERBILT, railroad president, oldest son of William H. Vander-
bilt, was born Nov. 27, 1843, on his father's farm on Staten Island. After an academic
education, he left his books to enter The Shoe & Leather Bank as a clerk, and, after
a time, became clerk for the Wall street firm of Kissam & Co. Even at this early
stage of his career, it was evident that he possessed the remarkable business ability of
his family and would make his mark in any calling.
In 1865, his father called him to a clerkship in tne office of The New York & Har-
lem Railroad, in order that his training in railroad management should begin at the
beginning and be thorough and comprehensive. Making himself perfectly familiar
with the system of accounts, he became, in 1867, treasurer of the company, a position
he held for ten years. In 1877, he was elected vice president of The New York &
Harlem Railroad and first vice president of The New York Central & Hudson River
Railroad. In these important stations, Mr. Vanderbilt displayed excellent capacity for
dealing with important subjects, sound and keen judgment, and the ability to decide
safely and without hesitation. During the following years, before his father's practical
retirement had placed upon him the weight of enormous trusts, he served in an official
capacity in the direction of others of the Vanderbilt railroads. He was treasurer of
The Michigan Central Railroad, 1878-83; vice president, 1880-83; and treasurer and
vice president of The Canada Southern Railway, 1878-83. Delighting in the study
of railroad problems, systematic, industrious and rapid in the execution of work, he
discharged every trust committed to him with fidelity and success; and when, in 1883,
he became the especial represetative of the Vanderbilt interests, he was universally
recognized as a trained and competent railroad man.
In 1883, he was elected president of The Canada Southern Railway and chairman
of the board of directors of The New York Central & Hudson River and The Michigan
Central Railroads, and in 1886, president of The New York & Harlem Railroad and vice
president of The Beech Creek Railroad. He is now connected in an official capacity
with every one of the magnificent system of railroads, founded by his grandfather and
developed by his father and himself. Of all the persons in the service of these corpor-
ations, no one labors with closer application or more conscientious spirit than the man
upon whom, in reality, rests the principal responsibility of directing the policy of 16,000
miles of railway line and the labor of nearly one hundred and twenty thousand men.
He pervades the whole system with his activity, deals with a great variety of prob-
lems, is thorough in his investigation of each one, and, while aided by men of distin-
guished ability who have charge of various branches of the service, is himself the in-
spiration of most that is done. He is now president of The Canada Southern &
684 AMU
Christian Association, and The United Brethren's church on Staten Island; and
$500,000 more to other it, •*, a, total of a million dollars. His religious feeling*
were strong and well founded. He was a life long communicant of St. Bartholoi,
church, having become a number of that body when he first came to the city,
many years he served a* a vestryman. When that church removed np town, he :
member of the buiki nittee for the new structure and gave liberally of
his time and monev t , work. His children were Cornelius, William K., Frederick
W. .and George W. Vanderbilt; Margaret Louisa, wife of Elliott F. Shepard; Emily
Thorn, wife of ;;.-i<«m D. Sloane; Florence Adele, wife of Hamilton McK. Twombly;
and Eliza O , wife of William Seward Webb.
CORNELIUS VANDERBILT, railroad president, oldest son of William H. Vandt-r-
bilt, was bom Nov. 27, 1843, on his father's farm on Staten Island. After an aca>i
education, he left his books to enter The Shoe & Leather Bank as a clerk, and, after
a time, became clerk for the Wall street firm of Kissam & Co. Even at this' early
stage of his career, it was evident that he possessed the remarkable business ability of
his family and would make his mark in any calling.
In 1865, his father called him to a clerkship in tne office of The New York & Har-
lem Railroad, in_order that his training in railroad management should begin at the
beginning and I* thorough MM! comprehensive. Making himself perfectly familiar
tern of account*, he i*oH:;u . -wr of the company, a position
he held for ten years, in isr. ;••,, ,,.nt of The New Y-
i'ork Central & Hudson River
1Mc' .iiderbilt -d excellent capacit*
.-id the ability to decide
llon- D;' -ore his father's practical
rettrcm«m fa*d placed upon him th<- •. .,;,. .-. v.-n<>nu<.us trusts, he served in an official
capacity in the direction of <Khers o: the Vanderbilt railroads. He was treasu:
The Michigan Central t 1878-83; vice president, 1880-83; and treasurer and
vice president of The Canada Southern Railway, 1878-83. Delighting in the study
of railroad problems, systematic, industrious and rapid in the execution of work, lie
discharged every trust committed to him with fidelity and success; and when, in
he became the especial represetative of the Vanderbilt interests, he was unive:
recognized as a trained and competent railroad man.
In 1883, he was elected president of The Canada Southern Railway and chairman
of the board of directors of The New York Central & Hudson River and The Michigan
Central Railroads, and in 1886, president of The New York & Harlem Railroad and vice
president of The Beech Creek Railroad. He is now connected in an official capacity
with every one of the magnificent system of railroads, founded by his grandfather and
developed by his father and himself. Of all the persons in the service of these corpor-
ations, no one labors with closer application or more conscientious spirit than the man
upon whom, in reality, rests the principal responsibility of directing the policy of 16,000
miles of railway line and the labor of nearly one hundred and twenty thousand men.
He pervades the whole system with his activity, deals with a great variety of prob-
lems, is thorough in his investigation of each one, and, while aided by men o
gnished ability who have charge of various branches of the service, is himself th
6pira.tiot» of most that is done. He is now president of The Canada Son:
686 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MKN.
the mansion i* »•» st private residence in America. It is <
high, its v ,.cles, sills and trimmings made of light coi ,
.lecture of the Chateau du Blois in France, ami,
beauty, avoids ostentation and possesses an air oi ^<i*s
r«ry pleasing. Within, Mr. Vanderbilt has spared no pair,
i-<ry attra'-tion within the range of the powers of the au - --
and thu decorator. Carpets have been woven and funi;.
v tpr each of the principal rooms by a celebrated firm of Pan*.
r..K:ribed upon one of the walls and pervades the conduct of tin
I strip of lawn borders the Fifth avenue side of the mansion, and
.-*sive carriage porch adorns the s8th street front. The building i* *
.;u->n to the architecture of the city.
ABKAHAn R. VAN NEST, merchant, a native of Somerset county, N.
died in New York city, June 25, 1888, in his seventy-ninth year, was Dutch U
agree. In early life, he came to the city and engaged in business with hi-
Abraham Van Nest, son of William Van Nest, and a well known dealer in sadii-1' r*<
later a n. <nufacturer. To this trade the young man succeeded and his firm of .
^."An Nes» ,v Co. became one of the strongest in the city. The old house is yet in b'i»n*£
A> la* time of his death, he was a director of The Farmers' I.-
, Th* I ma ware & Hnds York, New Haven
Avenue Railroa.;
th, *ati The Greenwich
lie had also served at va
rai, The Delaware, Lackawanna & Western
Th« tfc
tier, Mary, Anna and Jane.
WAttNER VAN NORDEN, president of The National Bank of North Amen. -
.iviiint of two of the oldest families on the Island of Manhattan. 'Theiv at.
rcsulents of the United States more thoroughly American than he, his family having
livt.-ii in his native city continually since the year 1633 or more than 261 years. On his
iavac-r's side, Mr. Van Norden is a representative of one of the ancient Holland Dutch
families, so many of which have been conspicuous in the history of tht Stutc. the Van
.-^rdens having come to America from Amsterdam about the year 1640. On his
si. -.fiber's side, he is descended from the famous Rev. Dr. Everardus Bogardus, who
•v-iTAn preaching the gospel in the old church within the fort on what is now the Battery.
was the first regular Presbyterian pastor in the United States. Dominic Bogardus
''earless preacher of the gospel and a determined champion of the people in their
' against the arbitrary rule of the Governor, William Kieft. In 1638, he married
widow Anneke Jans, who owned what is known as the "Trinity Church pro-
Two of Mr. Van Norden's mother's ancestors were Abraham de la Noy and
^j>i«rr de La Montagnie, French Huguenots, who had fled from religious per-
'"lland and who with other colonists came to New Amsterdam in the
Montagnie belonged to the ancienne noblesse of France and was a
m '':ng, unusual accomplishments and elegant manners. His -
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. VA. 689
ment. In 1891, he married Miss Horace, daughter of William Macaulay, a Scot and a
writer of distinction and a descendant in her mother's line from Capt. John Underbill.
He is a member of the Metropolitan, Country, University, St. Nicholas and Sigma
Phi clubs, The Society of Colonial Wars, The Colonial Order, The Sons of the Revo-
lution and the Huguenot Society.
ASHLEY ABRAHAM VAN TINE, one of the most notable of the up-town mer-
chants of this city, was born Oct. 12, 1821, in Chazy, N. Y., and died at his home, No.
153 West 57th street in this city, Jan. 25, 1890. He traced his family line back to old
Holland stock, and his father, David Van Tine, followed the occupation of a farmer.
It was upon the farm that Ashley A. Van Tine began life. He grew up rugged in
health, practical and energetic, and, with a country school education, took the first step
in the way of bettering his condition by becoming captain of a canal boat, while yet
under age, graduating from this latter service to engage in teaching a school in Platts-
burgh. This latter experience was useful to Mr. Van Tine, and by constant study he
became a well informed man.
Early in life, the subject of this memoir joined the throng of residents of the
Eastern States, who were pouring into California, drawn by the glowing tales of dis-
coveries of gold. Being detained on the Isthmus of Panama, a hundred days, he
followed a custom usual with him and not often followed, of making the most of every
minute of time, and at once began to study the Spanish language, becoming so pro-
ficient that the Alcalde offered him great inducements to remain. But the glitter of
California gold proved too tempting to the New Yorker, and he pressed onward to San
Francisco. For a number of years he carried on a profitable trade in general mer-
chandise in the cities of Marysville and San Francisco, during which period he experi-
enced some of the hardships of life in a region in which the comforts of civilization
had not yet been introduced, but steadily gained ground and made his way without
serious interruption.
It was during his mercantile experience upon the Pacific coast, that Mr. Van Tine
became acquainted with the beauty of the ceramic and textile productions of the two
great nations beyond the western ocean. About 1866, he came to New York city and
with small capital began to import Chinese and Japanese goods, and to introduce the
beautiful productions of Asiatic art to the attention of local buyers. He may thus be
said to have become for the second time a pioneer, and, as before, in an almost unex-
plored field. Little was then known by the public at large concerning the variety and
beauty of Chinese and Japanese goods, because scarcely anything of this nature had
ever been received in New York up to that time beyond a few invoices of silk, por-
celains and lacquered ware. Mr. Van Tine entered upon his new enterprise with his
accustomed good judgment and after prudent study of the markets. A love of beauti-
ful objects, formerly cherished by a few, had finally taken possession of the people of
New York city and the American public at large, and the adornment of the home was
leading to the purchase of every article, which would gratify a refined taste, including
hangings, pictures, decorated pottery and elegant trifles of all kinds.
Mr. Van Tine opened his store just at the right time and throngs of buyers
rewarded his enterprise. His first day's sale amounted to $50 only. Although insig-
nificant in itself, this result was a surety of success to his mind and he prosecuted his
business with vigor and confidence. When he finally began to order hundreds and
&—'
CITY OF SEW YORK. VA. O91
of the various articles which composed his stocks, the Japanese merchants
hin: with amazement, while buyers in New York were captivated by the
id extent of the goods he spread before them. In time, he finally added the
importation of Turkish rugs to his business and rose to be the leading merchant in this
in New York city. His operations compelled him to maintain branches and
^eniatives in every part of the United States and in many countries abroad. At
one time, he had customers in every State of the Union.
In 1870, he admitted to partnership, under the name of A. A. Van Tine & Co.,
s F. Sutton, who remained with him for twelve years and then retired James
I. Raymond was made a partner in 1875. Various other changes took place in the
firm, and finally, in 1887. Mr. Van Tine retired, after an honorable career of nearly
fifty years in practical business He was able to enjoy a few years of well earned rest
before his death. His wife and two daughters survived him.
PHILIP VAN VOLKENBURGH, merchant, a native of Ghent. Columbia county,
N. Y., born May 14, 1813, died in New York city. Feb. 18. 1889. He received a
common school education and, at the age of twenty-one, took charge of the business of
J. & B. Marshall at Stockport, N. Y. At the end of two years, he had saved enough to
purchase ±e business outright. Having carried on the store with succeas until 1844,
he then came to New York and entered the employment of Rufus R. Skeel & Co. , and
after two years became a member of the wholesale dry goods firm of Skeel, Hurburt &
Sweetser, continuing as a partner through various changes until Jan. i, 1885, when a
new sign announ. :rm name as P Van Volkenburgh & Co. Marked probity of
character, courteous demeanor and persistent enterprise made his firm conspicuous in
the dry goods trade. Edward and Thomas, sons, became members of the firm in course
of time. Mr. Van Volkenburgh was one of the founders and first president of The
Fifth Avenue Bank, a director of The Importers' and Traders' Bank, a trustee of The
Green wit nited States Life Insurance Co., and one of the
norsof . -Lieu s Hospital He possessed to a marked degree the confidence
and respect of the bu- y. To him and his wife, Ann S., were bom four
children, Edward, Thomas S. and Philip Van Voikenburgh, and Emma, wife of
.ird S. Rapallo.
JOHN DAVIS VERriEULE, merchant, banker and manufacturer. wa> pt.
21, 1822, in Plainfield, N. J., to which place his great grandfather, for:
had removed in 1736. His father and grandfather both bore the name of Fret;
Vermeule, and the latter for many years served as Presiding Judge of the Court of .
mon Pleas of Somerset county judge Vermeule's father was Cornelius Vermev
large landowner .tor of an estate comprising over one thousand two bur
acres. He was a member of the Provincial Congress of New J.
in the Revolution. His four sons, including Judge Venm
soldiers or officers. Cornelius was a son of Adrian Vermeule, Voorleser and T- •
at Bergen, N. J., and a grandson of Jan Cornelissen Vermeule, town office
elder and a prominent citizen of Vlissengen in Zeeland. Adrian came to A
inally on a visit, but was persuaded by his friends to remain and acct
Voorleser at Harlem. He was afterward called to Bergen and there
r/idmus, whose paternal grandfather, Thomas Fredericksen Ca
grandfather, Andries Hopper, were both residents of New Amsterdam and owners of
THE CITY OF NEW YORK.. VA. 69!
thousands of the various articles which composed his stocks, the Japanese merchants
looked at him with amazement, while buyers in New York were captivated by the
variety and extent of the goods he spread before them. In time, he finally added the
importation of Turkish rugs to his business and rose to be the leading merchant in this
field in New York city. His operations compelled him to maintain branches and
representatives in every part of the United States and in many countries abroad. At
one time, he had customers in every State of the Union.
In 1870, he admitted to partnership, under the name of A. A. Van Tine & Co.,
James F. Sutton, who remained with him for twelve years and then retired. James
I. Raymond was made a partner in 1875. Various other changes took place in the
firm, and finally, in 1887, Mr. Van Tine retired, after an honorable career of nearly
fifty years in practical business He was able to enjoy a few years of well earned rest
before his death. His wife and two daughters survived him.
PHILIP VAN VOLKENBURGH, merchant, a native of Ghent, Columbia county,
N. Y., born May 14, 1813, died in New York city, Feb. 18, 1889. He received a
common school education and, at the age of twenty-one, took charge of the business of
J. & B. Marshall at Stockport, N. Y. At the end of two years, he had saved enough to
purchase the business outright. Having carried on the store with success until 1844,
he then came to New York and entered the employment of Rufus R. Skeel & Co., and
after two years became a member of the wholesale dry goods firm of Skeel, Hurburt &
Sweetser, continuing as a partner through various changes until Jan. i, 1885, when a
new sign announced the firm name as P. Van Volkenburgh & Co. Marked probity of
character, courteous demeanor and persistent enterprise made his firm conspicuous in
the dry goods trade. Edward and Thomas, sons, became members of the firm in course
of time. Mr. Van Volkenburgh was one of the founders and first president of The
Fifth Avenue Bank, a director of The Importers' and Traders' Bank, a trustee of The
Greenwich Savings Bank and The United States Life Insurance Co. , and one of the
governors of The Women's Hospital He possessed to a marked degree the confidence
and respect of the business community. To him and his wife, Ann S., were born four
children, Edward, Thomas S. and Philip Van Volkenburgh, and Emma, wife of
Edward S. Rapallo.
JOHN DAVIS VERflEULE, merchant, banker and manufacturer, was born Sept.
21, 1822, in Plainfield, N. J., to which place his great grandfather, formerly of Bergen,
had removed in 1736. His father and grandfather both bore the name of Frederick
Vermeule, and the latter for many years served as Presiding Judge of the Court of Com-
mon Pleas of Somerset county Judge Vermeule's father was Cornelius Vermeule, a
large land owner, proprietor of an estate comprising over one thousand two hundred
acres. He was a member of the Provincial Congress of New Jersey and an active patriot
in the Revolution. His four sons, including Judge Vermeule, were all in the service as
soldiers or officers. Cornelius was a son of Adrian Vermeule, Voorleser and Town Clerk
at Bergen, N. J., and a grandson of Jan Cornelissen Vermeule, town officer, church
elder and a prominent citizen of Vlissengen in Zeeland. Adrian came to America orig-
inally on a visit, but was persuaded by his friends to remain and accept the position of
Voorleser at Harlem. He was afterward called to Bergen and there married Christina
Cadmus, whose paternal grandfather, Thomas Fredericksen Cadmus, and maternal
grandfather, Anclries Hopper, were both residents of New Amsterdam and owners of
692 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
real estate, prior to 1650. Including- Jan Cornelissen, representatives of six successive
generations in the Vermeule family and of the name have served as elders in the Church
or ministers of the gospel.
Until eighteen years of age, John D. Vermeule was a student of Morton's School
in Middlebrook, N. J. He then decided to become a merchant and entered a dry
goods store in New Brunswick. Since acquiring his business training there, most of
his time has been spent as a manufacturer and banker. In 1844, The Goodyear 's India
Rubber Glove Manufacturing Co. was formed to carry on the manufacture of rubber
boots, shoes and clothing. For the past thirty-five years, Mr. Vermeule has success-
fully managed the affairs of this corporation, and is the principal stockholder and presi-
dent and treasurer of the company. As a merchant, he is capable ; as a manufacturer,
he is enterprising, vigorous and practical ; as an executive officer, efficient and thorough.
Under his direction and supervision, The Goodyear's India Rubber Glove Manufactur-
ing Co. has developed its operations and extended its trade until the business is conti-
nental. To meet its requirements, large factories have been built in Naugatuck,
Conn., employing 2,000 operatives in what is now the largest industry of its class in
the United States, manufacturing 18,000 pairs of boots and shoes per day and in addi-
tion a large amount of rubber clothing and other articles. The capital of the company
is $500,000, and its surplus largely in excess of this amount. In devising new and
valuable applications of rubber to the production of clothing and the manufacturing of
boots and shoes, Mr. Vermeule has led the trade. His success has resulted from the
exceptional combination of a clear mind with tenacious perseverance, a high character
and unceasing enterprise.
Notwithstanding the great scope and responsibility of his principal occupation,
Mr. Vermeule has also been associated with other important institutions in New York.
He is president of The Holland Trust Co., vice president of The American Savings
& Loan Association, and a director in other money institutions. He is also president
of The York Cliffs Improvement Co., The York Water Co., and of other industrial
corporations.
As a busy man of affairs, he has found in public life few attractions. He has not
cared to neglect the great business interests under his management, because he finds
greater happiness in the field of legitimate enterprise than can come to a man of his
temperament in public office. While he once consented to serve as Supervisor of the
town of Castleton in Richmond county, he has refused other suggestions looking to his
selection for the public service
Mr. Vermeule was married, April 15, 1846, to Mary C., daughter of John W. Kelly,
a merchant of Philadelphia, from which union there are no children now living. He
has joined a few of the best clubs in town, including the Manhattan, Reform, Riding,
Commonwealth and Merchants' Central. He is also an interested member of The
Holland Society, being associated there with numerous other descendants of the early
Dutch inhabitants.
JACOB DYCKMAN VERMILYE, banker, born July 15, 1817, on John street in this
city, died at his home on 5ist street, Jan. i, 1892. He was descended from Huguenot
stock, and began life, at the foot of the ladder, as clerk in an office on Wall street,
where, and in a clerkship in The Merchants' Exchange Bank and later in The Hide &
Leather Bank, he gained a knowledge of the elements of finance. Although repeatedly
696 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
Every man of European birth, who is upright, practical and of good repute, and
who identifies himself cordially with the affairs of the country, finds opportunities in
America for making his mark, fully equal to those enjoyed by the native born. In
New York city especially little else is asked concerning a business man. except this.
Is he competent, honest and judicious? Mr. Wallach's career is one more proof of this:
He became a director in The Importers' & Traders' National Bank in 1875, and in
The United States Life Insurance Co. in 1876, in both of which institutions he is yet
associated with many of the most prominent business men in New York city, who
recognize his business ability and sound judgment.
During a period of over a quarter of a century, Mr. Wallach has been also identified
with various benevolent and charitable organizations and has been especially active in
aiding his compatriots, who have sought an asylum under the free government of the
United States. He gave employment in his works to a large number of them, among
them being the secretary and personal friend of the distinguished Kossuth.
Mr. Wallach visited his native country in 1866, where he married Emma Sessler,
a highly educated and accomplished lady, whose brother is yet a prominent officer in
the Austrian army. Mr. Wallach has contributed liberally from his own means to
various benevolent enterprises, and during the great inundation at Szegedin, in Hun-
gary, raised the largest amount of money for relief of any individual.
He retired from business in 1883, and has since devoted his time and energies to
aiding his fellow men. He has been for many years connected with the Masonic fra-
ternity, in which his moral and social qualities are highly appreciated.
JAMES EDWARD WARD, shipping merchant, a native of New York city, was
born Feb. 25, 1836, and died at his country home at Great Neck, L. I., July 23, 1894,
in the prime of a creditable and successful life. His father was James Otis Ward, a
shipping merchant. The founder of his family in America was William Ward, born in
Derbyshire, England, in 1603, who came to America before 1639, represented Sudbury,
Mass., in the General Court of the colony in 1644, and died in Marlboro, Mass., Aug.
10, 1687,
Suitably educated in the schools of New York city, Mr. Ward began his active
career at an early age as a clerk in his father's office. The young man displayed
marked force of character from the outset and started, in 1856, at the age of twenty,
on his own account, a line of sailing packets from this port to Havana, operating them
under the name of James E. Ward & Co. This name is retained to the present day.
Mr. Ward was an excellent manager, soon gained almost a monopoly of the carriage of
freight and passengers between New York and Cuba, and by 1875 had afloat about
forty sail of vessels, including a few steamers, employed mainly in the trade of the
West Indies His ships were always model carriers. After the war, Mr. Ward resolved
to employ steam in the Havana trade and became indeed the pioneer therein. In
1866, he launched the steamship Cuba and with her established the first regular steam
communication between New York and Havana. The use of steam justified the enter-
prise so promptly, that Mr. Ward then chartered the Liberty and later yet a number
of freight steamers. About 1875, he began disposing of his sailing tonnage, and, after
1877, confined his operations almost wholly to steam.
In 1877, John Roach built for him under contract the two iron steamers, Saratoga
and Niagara, of 2,300 tons each, both in all respects greatly in advance of any then
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. WA. 697
afloat under the American flag. The Saratoga, bought shortly afterward by the Russian
government, is yet in service, an object lesson of the value of the merchant marine as a
naval reserve. Her place in the line was taken in 1878 by a new iron steamer of the
same name. The Santiago was added to the fleet in 1879 and employed in trips to the
South coast of Cuba. The Newport of 2,800 tons was built in 1880, and in 1883, the
Cienfuegos, the latter for the trade to the south side of Cuba. In 1888, he bought the
excellent steamers of the Alexandre line and gradually extended the service of his fleet
to Mexico, Honduras and Yucatan, until to-day the line comprises ten iron and steel
steamships aggregating about 30,000 tons, all flying the flag of James E. Ward & Co.,
and the banner of the United States. Mr. Ward made his office at No. 113 Wall street
and was for forty years a familiar figure in that part of the city.
In 1857, he married Harriet A. Morrell, daughter of William Morrell, and was sur-
vived by one daughter, Florence A., wife of Alphonse H. Alker of this city. He spent
every winter in New York city and the summer season either in travel or at his country
home on Great Neck, L. I. The New York, Manhattan and Down Town clubs elected
him to membership.
Always a strong advocate of the American flag over the American built ship, Mr.
Ward took a most active and patriotic interest in every effort to promote the extension
of the American merchant marine in the foreign trade, and was an active promoter and
supporter of the American Shipping and Industrial League, an intimate friend of John
Roach, the veteran ship builder, and a stirring, intelligent and successful man, loyal to
his country, a staunch friend and an upright citizen.
WILLIAM T. WARDWELL, oil refiner, originated in Bristol, R. I., where he
was born Feb. i, 1827. He is descended from William Wardwell, an English immi-
grant, who settled in Boston in 1633 and planted here a family, which has given birth
to many influential men. When he was nine years of age, the family of the subject of
this sketch moved to a farm near Niles, Mich., and the lad began life as a farmer
and mechanic. At the age of thirteen, he went to Buffalo, N. Y., to become a clerk
for his uncle, Samuel W. Hawes, then engaged in the oil business. When of age, Mr.
Wardwell embarked in the same business on his own account. The discovery of petro-
leum effected an entire revolution in the oil trade of the country. Mr. Wardwell
adapted himself to the situation, started a refinery in Buffalo, and by his energy and
commercial ability made the enterprise successful. To enlarge his operations, he came
to New York shortly afterward, bought an old building and established the pioneer oil
refinery at Hunter's Point on Long Island. The works soon became the largest on
Newtown Creek and in 1875 were purchased by The Standard Oil Co. Mr. Ward-
well then became a controlling owner and treasurer of The Devoe Manufacturing Co.
This is one of the largest oil refining concerns in the country and exports hundreds of
shiploads of oil to foreign countries every year. He is treasurer of The Standard Oil
Co. and a very active and energetic man. Mr. Wardwell joined the Prohibition party
in 1884 and has since become prominent by his advocacy of abolition of the sale of
liquors. He has been nominated several times for office, and was in 1886 candidate of
his party for Mayor of New York city. By his marriage in 1852 with Miss Eliza W.
Lanterman, of Binghamton, N. Y., who died in 1887, he had eight children, of whom
only two survive, a son and a daughter. In 1889, he married Martha Wallace, daugh-
ter of Dr. Samuel Wallace Ruff, U.S.N.
698 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
DR. LUCIEN CALVIN WARNER, manufacturer and philanthropist, is one of
those energetic descendants of old families in New England, who have forced their
way to the front in commercial pursuits in New York city, and, by their talents and
character, won not only a commanding position in finance but the good will of busi-
ness associates and the cordial respect of the public at large. On his father's side, he
traces his lineage to Abel Warner, who was born about 1760 and lived in Harwich,
Mass. Through Abel Warner's wife, he descends from Francis Cook, a Pilgrim of the
Mayflower and a relative of Capt. John Cook, the celebrated navigator. His family
has produced many men of distinction, among whom may be named Charles Dudley
Warner, the author.
Dr. Warner was born in Cuyler, N. Y., Oct. 26, 1841. His father died when the
boy was three years old, leaving the mother with less than $500 of worldly goods and
with two sons to rear and educate. As in the case of many another of America's suc-
cessful men, Dr. Warner's early life was one of struggle. He obtained an excellent
education, although with difficulty. Preparing for a classical course in the district
school and local academy, he graduated from Oberlin college in 1865, defraying the
entire expense of his education with the proceeds of his own labor. Resolved to
become a physician, he spent two years in the medical department of New York
University, and graduated in 1867, practicing medicine thereafter for six years with
marked success.
In 1873, he decided to follow the natural bent of his mind and go into business.
Removing to New York he began his career here with his brother, Dr. I. De Ver
Warner, of Bridgeport, Conn., as a partner, in the manufacture of corsets, and founded
the now eminent firm of Warner Bro's, and has always had the financial management
of its business. When they began, the entire capital of the two brothers did not ex-
ceed $5,000. Their operations were at first conducted upon a modest scale, but met
with great success, and, in five years, they had taken the place of leading manufac-
turers of corsets in the United States. Their business has been managed with sagacity
and business address, and has expanded steadily until, at the present time, the firm of
Warner Bro's employ about 2,000 operatives in their large factory in Bridgeport and
enjoy an enormous sale of their productions The two brothers have both amassed
large fortunes by legitimate enterprise in their chosen field and by that diligent, un-
tiring and intelligent industry, which is the corner stone of worthy success. Their
principal factory is in Bridgeport, but they are also interested in another in McGraw-
ville, N. Y., and have a depot in Chicago for the sale of their products in the West.
Dr. Warner is the master of his business. He has never let his business be the
master of him. He has pushed his enterprise into many lines of outside effort. In
addition to the active management of the business of Warner Bro's, he is president of
The McGraw Corset Co. and The International Phosphate Co., vice-president of The
Twelfth Ward Savings Bank, and director in The Hamilton Bank, The Mount Morris
Bank, and The Home Fire Insurance Co. He is an interested member of the Chamber
of Commerce of New York.
He is widely known for public spirit, although never desirous of political office,
his preference being for philanthropic work. For ten years, president of the Harlem
branch of The Young Men's Christian Association, he has also been chairman of the
State Committee of the order, and a member of the International Committee. He is a
700 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
trustee of his old college at Oberlin, and of local, State, and international Young
Women's Christian Associations, besides being a member of the executive committee of
The American Missionary Association and one of the trustees of Congregational Church
Building Society.
His gifts to public objects have been generous. He gave a $100,000 building to
his alma mater at Oberlin for a Conservatory of Music ; was active and liberal in the
erection of a $150,000 building for the Harlem branch of The Young Men's Christian
Association ; and in partnership with his brother, has built an admirable club house in
Bridgeport, Conn., at a cost of $100,000, for the use of the girls in the employment of
the firm.
Dr. Warner was married in 1878 to Keren S. Warner, a daughter of the late Judge
Noah Humphrey Osborne and a descendant of Michael Humphrey, an Englishman who
settled in Windsor, Conn., as early as 1643. This union has been a happy one, and has
brought them four children, Agnes Eliza, Franklin Humphrey, Lucien Thompson and
Elizabeth Converse Warner. His home is too attractive and his life too full of con-
genial occupation to permit him to become an extreme club man, yet he has found it
convenient to accept membership in those excellent organizations, the Merchants',
Harlem, Congregational and Patria clubs. He spends his winters in the city of New
York at his residence at 2,042 Fifth Avenue, and his summers at a fine country house
at Irvington on the Hudson.
JAMES MONTAUDEVERT WATERBURY, manufacturer, born Sept. 5, 1851, in
New York city, and member of an old family, descends through both the maternal
and paternal lines from early Puritans of England, who emigrated to the new world in
1631 and settled in Massachusetts and Connecticut. He is in the seventh generation
of descent. His father, Lawrence Waterbury, was a manufacturer and capitalist.
The subject of this biography graduated from Columbia College in 1873, receiving
his diploma of Master of Arts three years later. He enjoyed the advantage of beginning
life in an established business, and, in 1874, joined his father in the industry, then car-
ried on under the name of L. Waterbury & Co., which is now changed into a corpora-
tion, called The Waterbury & Marshall Co. Having served his probation in a subordi-
nate capacity, he became in due time a member of the firm and has for years been
senior partner in the house. The office of the concern is on Front street, while the
factories managed by them are in Brooklyn.
During the early history of this house, the industry was carried on prosperously,
exposed to no trials more severe than those to which all others were subject. But,
about the time that Mr. Waterbury made his entrance into affairs, new conditions
arose, which called for the exercise of greater sagacity and energy than the founders
of the house had ever been called on to display. The success of a few well established
old concerns, the adoption of binding twine for use in harvesting grain, the invention
of labor saving machinery and the general growth of the country, had brought into
the field after the Civil War an increased number of firms, engaged in the manufacture
of cordage. Originating in the seaport towns of the Atlantic coast, this industry has
spread to the grain growing states of the West; and in 1880, no less than about thirty-
five concerns were competing for the business of the American market. The growth
of the industry, fostered by a protective tariff, had resulted in practically excluding
from the American market all cables and cordage made abroad. It had given employ-
.THE CITY OF NEW YORK. WA. 701
ment to a large force of American operatives, kept at home large sums of American
money, and gradually reduced the price of cordage to every consumer. But, while
thus conferring positive benefits upon the public, the manufacturers themselves had
been forced into so keen a competition, that the industry had ceased to be as profitable
as formerly. This state of affairs was finally solved by an arrangement whereby
various leading manufacturers united under the name of The United States Cordage
Manufacturers' Association. Mr. Waterbury took an active part in bringing about
this arrangement. There remained in business, however, about thirty-five independent
concerns : thirteen in New England, seven in New York, four in New Jersey, four in
Pennsylvania, four in Ohio, one in Illinois, one in Kentucky, and one in New Orleans.
To absorb these companies, The National Cordage Co., was formed is 1887 to succeed
the previous association and promptly took in fifteen of the independent concerns. In
1891, it absorbed fourteen more, only five remaining outside in the whole country.
Again, Mr. Waterbury was active in these proceedings and was made president of the
company. The corporation fulfilled its mission for a time, but the-growth of new con-
cerns and the panic of 1893 caused the company to go into receiver's hands and be
re-organized. Mr. Waterbury's concern now continues the distribution of cordage for
the company.
An excellent man of business, clear headed, enterprising and alert, Mr. Waterbury
has not confined his activities to cordage, but is president or director of many corpora-
tions both here and in Canada.
In the social world, he has long been conspicuous. He was president of the Coun-
try club of Westchester for ten years and is yet a member of the governing committee,
and is a governor of the Metropolitan club and life member of the Knickerbocker and
New York Yacht clubs, his uncle having been one of the nine founders of the latter, July
30, 1844. He is also a member of the Union, Calumet, Players', Riding, Racquet, Down
Town, Rockaway Hunting, Meadow Brook, Seawanhaka Corinthian Yacht, the Patri-
archs and other clubs. He was married in 1874 to Kate Anthony Furman, daughterof
John M. Furman, and their children are Catherine Livingston, James Montaudevert,
Lawrence, John Cunningham, Elsie, Cleveland Livingston, Grenville and Reginald Fur-
man Waterbury. The family have a country home at Baychester, N. Y., having
recently sold their house in Fifth avenue.
COL. JOHN WATSON, merchant, born in Rensselaerville, Albany county, N. Y.,
in 1807, died at his home in Montrose, South Orange, N. J., June 13, 1891. He came
from old Colonial ancestry and was the son of Wheeler Watson. After a common
school education, he was taken into his father's tannery, and remained there until of
age, when he removed to Prattsville, to enter into partnership with Col. Zadoc Pratt,
the tanner, his brother in law. This firm built up a large business, so that when the
partnership was dissolved in 1846, Colonel Watson possessed what was then a large
fortune. He then removed to New York, and at once organized the business in which
he attained his later success. The firm displayed the sign of Thorne, Watson, Corse
& Co., and was established at No. 18 Ferry street, where they remained for over a
generation, becoming one of the most successful leather houses in this city. The
personnel of the firm changed several times, but there was always a Thorne or a
Watson in the membership until the final dissolution in 1879, when Colonel Watson
retired. Colonel Watson was a member of Grace Church until 1875, when he removed
702 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
to a country seat at Montrose, which he laid out in the finest style, living there until
his death. Retiring and modest, averse to clubs and fashionable life, he was fond
of flowers and devoted much time and pains to their cultivation. Many fine horses
found a home in his stables. He received his military title while a resident of Pratts-
ville, in the command of a Greene county regiment. He was a life long Democrat and
served one term in the Assembly while residing in Prattsville. Married early in life to
Miss Mary Watson, who died about 1873, he was survived by two children, Miss Emily
A. Watson and Mary J., wife of Evan T. Walker.
WILLIAH WATSON, merchant, who died at his country home in Westchester,
N. Y., Sept. 28, 1877, at the age of sixty-six, was, in his day, one of the most conspic-
uous men in the wholesale dry goods district of this city. He rose by perseverance, the
power of organization, and scrupulously honest methods into great prominence. Fol-
lowing the example of other judicious merchants, he invested his savings mainly in real
estate ; and the growth of the city, which he did so much to promote, gave his holdings
large value in the course of a few years. Also the possessor of some excellent land
north of the city, he occupied a farm of about 240 acres in Westchester county, and it
was his desire that all of his children should establish their own homes upon this
beautiful estate. To him and his wife Maria were born nine children, Lydia, wife of Dr.
Henry G. Houghton, of England; Anna, wife of W. H. Caswell; Mrs. Maria C. Foster;
Mrs. Emily Williams; Eliza G., Robert C., Francis A., Henry R. C. and William Watson.
HENRY WALTER WEBB, railroad official, was born May 6, 1852, in Tarrytown
on the Hudson, N. Y., and is a son of the late James Watson Webb. He was educated
in Mr. Churchill's school in Sing Sing and the School of Mines and the Law School
of Columbia College, and began life as an ambitious young lawyer in the firm of
Webb & Sprague. In 1882, he joined the banking and brokerage firm of W. S. Webb
& Co. in Wall street. In 1886, he entered the service of The Wagner Palace Car Co.
as vice president and in this responsible position displayed such unusual executive
ability that three years later, in 1889, Mr. Depew, president of The New York Central
& Hudson River Railroad, made Mr. Webb his assistant. Having in this capacity
rapidly gained a thorough acquaintance with the details of administrative management
and revealed anew his sound judgment, coolness and power of work, he was in 1890
elected third vice president of The New York Central and Hudson River Railroad and
continues to occupy this position until the present time. The burden of a vast amount
of labor and responsibility has been placed upon Mr. Webb during the past five years,
but he has discharged every duty and met every emergency with firmness, ability and
success. He has recently became identified with a number of financial corporations
and is a director of The Terminal Warehouse Co., The Mutual Life Insurance Co.,
The Lincoln National Bank, The City National Bank, The Hudson River Bank,
The New York Security & Trust Co., The Lincoln Safe Deposit Co., The Common-
wealth Insurance Co. and a number of railroads. Quiet, genial and well informed,
he is a pleasant companion in private life and a valued member of the Union, Metro-
politan, Calumet, Century, Engineers', City, Commonwealth, Riding, Country, Univer-
sity, Racquet, Westminster Kennel and Lawyers' clubs, and by virtue of lineal descent
from Col. Samuel Blatchley Webb of Connecticut, a member of The Sons of the Ameri-
can Revolution. In 1884, he married Leila Howard Griswold, daughter of John A.
Griswold of Troy, and their children are Henry Walter and John Griswold Webb.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. WE. 703
WILLIAM H. WEBB, veteran ship builder and successful man of affairs, is one of
those Americans of original genius and unusual force, whose stainless character, broad
mind, public spirit, and splendid services in the practical arts, his countrymen are glad
to recognize as typical of the best of their race.
He was born in the city of Xe\v York, June 19, 1816, the year in which Robert
Fulton died. A descendant of old American families, he was reared in a city which
has gradually become cosmopolitan in its population and foreign in its tastes, but his
nature has always been too sturdy and his patriotism too intense to yield to any influ-
ence not American; and he has, from the very beginning of his remarkable career,
been distinguished for his affection for his native land and his ardent efforts to promote
its fame and prosperity. The emigrant ancestor on his father's side, Richard Webb,
was made a freeman in Cambridge, Mass., in 1632. The family moved to Connecticut
in early days, and its branches settled in the vicinity of Norwalk and Stamford. Col.
Charles Webb, ancestor of William H. Webb, was a prominent officer in the American
Revolution. His mother's family were Huguenots and settled in New York in the
very early days of the country.
Mr. Webb inherited his love of shipbuilding from his father, and his life, in fact,
connects the race of builders, who produced the famous ships of the War of 1812, with
their able successors of the period before the Civil War, when American ship building
was in its prime. His father, Isaac Webb, was first an apprentice and afterward a
partner of Henry Eckford, a famous ship builder of the first part of this century.
The boy was educated at Columbia College Grammar School and displayed a
marked talent for mechanics, construction and mathematics. He was fend of playing
around his father's ship yard on the East River, and built his own skiff, when twelve
years old. During his vacations in the next two years, he built other boats, one of
them propelled by paddles. His father would have been glad to see his son choose
some other vocation in life than his own, but the boy was resolved to become a ship
builder ; and he studied the scientific and practical features of the art for six years, not
only by day in the ship yard but by night over his books and drawing table. Isaac
Webb saw that William had talent, and finally entrusted him with the direction of
various branches of the work of the yard. While yet a young man of twenty, he entered
into a sub-contract with his father to build for the latter the Liverpool packet Oxford.
This work was successfully accomplished to the satisfaction of all concerned. He then
became sub-contractor for the construction of other vessels, including the Havre packet
Duchesse d'Orleans, the Liverpool packet New York, and two smaller vessels. At the
age of twenty-three, his health had become impared by intense application, and he went
abroad to seek relief from overwork in travel. He was suddenly recalled by the death
of his father.
Soon after his return, he formed a new partnership with Mr. Allen, his father's
associate, under the title of Webb & Allen, in order to retain for a while the name of
Mr. Allen. Three years later, the firm was dissolved, and Mr. Webb then entered alone
upon a successful and remarkable career. His ability was recognized from the start.
Afraid of no problems in construction, untiring labor and faithful performance of con-
tracts soon won the confidence of the best merchants of the city. Orders poured in upon
him for every species of vessel afloat, from fishing smacks to barks, brigs to packet ships,
and ferry boats to steamers. There were at all times several vessels building at once
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. WE. 705
in his large yards on the East River, and one ship was launched from the ways into the
stream merely to witness the stretching of a keel for a new one. On one occasion, two
ships ard one large steamer were launched from his yard on the same tide, all within
twenty minutes, a spectacle never seen before or since. The first vessel was the brig
Malek Adhel, which was built in 1840 for Peter Harmony, of New York, and the next
was the ship James Edwards, for James O. Ward. These two merchants, as well as
Charles fl. Marshall, Fox & Livingston, N. L. & George Griswold, Rowland & Aspin-
wall, and other houses famous in the annals of the city, were his constant clients.
Mr. Webb employed hundreds of skilled workmen, and during the twenty-eight
years ^>f his active management disbursed millions of dollars in the city of New York
for labor and supplies. His packet ships were among the most handsome and popular
of their day.
The era of the clipper sailing ships brought to America world- wide renown. These
wonderful vessels scoured every sea in the world, distanced every foreign competitor,
won the yearly tea races from China, and finally attained such absolute preeminence,
that every European maritime nation stood aghast at the ruin which threatened their
commercial prestige, and every warlike nation looked to America as the producer of
the fleetest and most powerful vessels of war. Mr. Webb built man}- famous clippers
for the California and other trades during this period, among them the Young America,
Challenge, Comet, Sword Fish, Flying Dutchman, Black Hawk and Invincible. Every
one of these was a good, swift and beautiful ship. The Young America, the most
famous of them, was 235 feet long on deck, 44 feet beam, and 25^ feet in depth of hold,
and was a popular ship, the idol of her owners, the delight of the underwriters, and the
reliance of the owners of her cargoes. The Young America ran repeatedly from three
hundred and forty-five to three hundred and seventy knots in twenty-four hours. She
made the passage, loaded, from San Francisco to New York in ninety-two, ninety-eight
and ninety-nine days; from New York to Liverpool in eighteen days; from San Fran-
cisco to Liverpool in one hundred and nine days; and from Liverpool to Melbourne in
eighty-one days. This ship made more very rapid passages than any other ship ever
built. The Comet made the trip from San Francisco to New York in seventy-six days
and many other very rapid trips, and was a most beautiful ship, appearing like a yacht.
In May, 1847, Mr. Webb built the steamship United States of 3,000 tons, the first
one for the trade between New York and New Orleans, which was subsequently sold
to the German Confederation and converted by Mr. Webb into a powerful man of war.
In 1848, he built the Cherokee, the first steam packet which ran from New York
to Savannah, which presented new problems in construction, owing to the shoal water
in the Savannah river. He also launched in 1848 the large ship Guy Mannering, the
first full three decked ship ever built in the United States.
The discover}' of gold in California and the rush of population thither brought a
great deal of work to Mr. Webb's yard. He built the first and several subsequent
steamers for The Pacific Mail Steamship Co. The California, the first steamer to enter
the Golden Gate, was his; and he also built the Panama, San Francisco, Golden City,
Sacramento and Constitution, and finally the China to run across the Pacific Ocean to
the Celestial Empire.
His versatility was remarkable. No problem connected with nautical science
ever daunted him, and he produced vessels for the deep sea and shoal water trades,
yo6 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
and both the argosies of peace and ships of war, with equal ease and success. Among
his productions were the two famous Long Island Sound steamers, Bristol and Provi-
dence, which embodied novel points in construction, and upon which experts withheld
their judgment until the boats had been put under steam and compelled their praise.
They each ran twenty miles an hour continuously, carried 1,000 tons of freight on
deck, and were fitted with sumptuous accommodations for 1,200 passengers, and
proved to be two of the most popular, profitable and successful boats on the Sound,
and are not excelled, except in size, up to this date.
One of his sailing vessels was the ship Ocean Monarch, 2,145 tons, the largest
wooden carrier ever built up to that time. It was 255 feet long with 46 feet beam,
and 30.25 feet depth of hold. This ship was an enormous carrier, having taken on
board over 7,000 bales of cotton with 18 1-2 feet draft of water.
The contract to build the steam revenue cutter, Harriet Lane, was awarded to Mr.
Webb after a severe competition. There were eighteen models offered by various
builders, but the government narrowed the choice down to three, and finally gave the
order to Mr. Webb. During the Rebellion, this famous boat was captured by the Con-
federates and converted into a blockade runner.
About 1850, Mr. Webb conceived the idea of building a war ship, on new and im-
portant plans of his own. The government took great interest in his proposals but
Insisted on having the ship built in a government yard. Mr. Webb refused to build the
ship anywhere except in his own yard and under his own direction. Application was
then made to the Emperor of the French, but precisely the same difficulty presented
itself. The Emperor entertained Mr. Webb's proposition favorably, but finally said
the opposition was too great for him to surmount. Determined to carry out his idea
and build the ship himself, Mr. Webb sent an agent to St. Petersburg in 1851, to
confer with the government of the Czar, and in 1853, he visited Russia in person.
Nicholas, then Czar, was at first influenced against Mr. Webb by Mr. Bodisco, Russian
Minister at Washington, who had previously had trouble with Americans with reference
to certain other contracts. The American Minister at St. Petersburg was absent and
the American Consul advised Mr. Webb to abandon the scheme as hopeless. A long
delay followed, but it was written that that ship should be built. Mr. Webb was not
the man to abandon his lines upon the first fire of the enemy. He made new pro-
posals, now with the concurrence of Mr. Bodisco. The Grand Duke Constantine
finally promised to bring the subject to the attention of the Czar, if Mr. Webb would
build his ship and agree to deliver it at Cronstadt, an arrangement which involved
enormous risk and responsibility for an individual. But it was made to a dauntless
man. He agreed to the terms. Six weeks later, he left St. Petersburg with several
orders, one of them for a large steam line-of-battle ship, to be built upon his model
and after his design. Preparations were begun at once, but the Crimean war then
broke out in Europe, and it was a question whether neutrality laws would permit the
building of the vessel. Mr. Webb received the consent of President Pierce and
Secretary Marcy to continue the work; but he pursued the plan of arranging with
Russia for a suspension of the work until peace was restored rather than proceed with
the construction of a vessel of war and involve his own Government in questions of
neutrality with England and France, then at war with Russia. After the peace, he changed
his model and proposed to construct the ship upon new and improved designs, with larger
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. WE. 707
guns and fewer decks. Russian officers who had been detailed to watch the construction
of the ship, alarmed at the bold and audacious changes, withheld their approval, and
Mr. Webb completed the ship at his own risk. When she was launched, the Russian
officers were delighted at her draft, and her subsequent behavior at sea won their
unqualified approval. She was completed as a steam frigate, rigged as a ship, and
named the General Admiral, in honor of the Grand Duke Constantine. She was of
7,000 tons burden, the largest then built, and 72 guns, and proved the fastest ship
afloat. Mr. Webb delivered^his powerful craft at the port of Cronstadt in person in
1859, after a remarkably rapid and successful voyage, and received valuable testi-
monials from the Russian authorities for his success.
The General Admiral attracted the attention of all the foreign powers, and resulted
in Mr. Webb bringing more millions of money to New York city for the construction
of ships of war for foreign powers than can be placed to the credit of all other builders.
The General Admiral completely revolutionized the construction of vessels of war,
other governments adopting the design immediately. Spain made a large contract with
Mr. Webb soon afterward, but revoked it at the outbreak of our Civil War, influenced
by Mr. Preston of Kentucky, then Minister to Madrid.
Italy then ordered two ironclad screw frigates, each of 36 guns of large calibre
and 6,000 tons burdens, the Re d'ltalia and Re don Luigi di Portugallo, each 282
feet long, 54 feet beam, and 22 1-4 feet draft. Many difficulties attended the progress
of these vessels during the Rebellion in the United States, but they were surmounted,
and the ships were finished and delivered in time. The Re d'ltalia was the first iron-
clad steamer which ever crossed the Atlantic Ocean. Her sea going qualities and
speed were remarkable for that day, and she ran from New York to Naples, a distance
of 5,000 miles, in the winter time, in 18 days and 20 hours. Victor Emanuel was
greatly pleased with the two powerful ships which American genius had placed in his
possession, and he bestowed on Mr. Webb the Order of Saints Maurice and Lazarus,,
one of the oldest in Europe.
Mr. Webb now planned his masterpiece of naval architecture, the ironclad ram
Dunderberg. His models and plans, carefully matured, were laid before the Navy
Department at Washington ; and the naval constructors, intensely jealous of a civilian
who could build better than they, condemned his plans heartily and promptly. This,
did not disconcert him, however. He had conquered opinion before. He persevered,,
until Secretary Welles gave him a contract. The ship was then begun. She was a
monster, 378 feet long, 68 feet beam, and 32 feet hold, with a displacement of 7,200.
tons, and the largest ironclad ever yet built, having more room inside and floating on a,
lighter draft of water than any of her class. The Rebellion in the United States having
ceased before the completion of the vessel, and the Government not being in special
need of her, questions between the Government and Mr. Webb arose ; and finding the
jealousy and hostility of the officials of the Bureau of Construction great, Mr. Webb
finally became disgusted, and he applied for an act of Congress which would release
him from his contract on return of the $1,025,000 which had been advanced on ac-
count. General Grant, Secretary Stanton and others opposed this, believing that so
powerful a vessel of war should never be allowed to become the property of any foreign
power. But Mr. Webb secured his release ; and he sold the ship to the Government of
France for nearly double the sum that the United States had agreed to pay. He de-
7°8 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
livered the ship in person at Cherbourg after a rough voyage of fourteen days, and she
took her place in the French navy, under the new name of Rochambeau, and afforded
to all Europe an impressive lesson of the originality and ability of the ship builders of
America. This steamer was shown in all the dock yards, that she might be examined
and copied by the builders of the navy of France.
In 1869, he launched his i35th ship, the Charles H. Marshall, and this was his last.
He had earned fame and fortune, and he now retired permanently from the art in
which he had won a distinguished position.
About this time, Mr. Webb was extensively engaged, as a large owner of ocean
tonnage, in the importation of guano from several islands in the Pacific Ocean, dispos-
ing of the cargoes in the Southern States and in Europe. The opposition to the sale
of this guano (purely phosphatic) in Europe by the Peruvian guano interests was so
great, that Mr. Webb was obliged to build his own warehouses in Bordeaux, Havre
and Hamburg, in which to store his cargoes. Mr. Webb triumphed over all opposition
and his guano was sold freely in Europe, chiefly on the Continent. The breaking out
of the Civil War in the United States entailed extraordinary risks for American ships
and increased insurance and other unusual expenses. This, with the loss of a market
in the Southern States, finally caused Mr. Webb to abandon this business, which has
not since been resumed by anyone.
For several years after 1869, Mr. Webb operated steamships in the ocean trades,
becoming one of the largest owners of ocean tonnage in the United States. He ran a
line of steamers from New York via both Nicaragua and the Isthmus of Panama to
San Francisco, in opposition to The Pacific Mail for several years, finally merging his
interests with that company. He next operated the then only American line of
steamers in the European trade, and sent the first American passenger steamer which
ever traded to the Baltic.
He afterward owned a line of steamers which plied from San Francisco to Australia
by way of the Sandwich and Samoan Islands, a route of 6,500 miles, the longest of
continuous steaming in the world. The success of this venture required government
aid, however, which Congress refused, although urged by President Grant. In this
enterprise he persevered at a loss for two years and then withdrew.
In 1872, Mr. Webb retired from active business. Although pre-eminently a ship-
builder, he was also a man of affairs, and had had many investments in other lines of
enterprise. He was one of the original directors of The Pacific Mail Steamship Co.,
and is now the only survivor of the original board. He subscribed as much money as
any other individual toward the building of The Panama Railroad. Like all his invest-
ments, except the line to Australia, this one yielded him a large return. He sold his
interest in 1872 for $316 a share.
Mr. Webb has always been deeply interested in public affairs, but has steadfastly
refused public office. Three times the Mayoralty of New York was offered to him, twice
by the Republicans, once by the Democratic party, but declined. For fourteen years, he
was president of the Council of Political Reform in this city, which succeeded the famous
Committee of Seventy. He attacked many abuses and secured better laws on taxation.
One of his greatest achievements was the defeat of a scheme which had been
planned by Tammany officials, for building a great dam at the mouth of the Croton
river to increase the water supply of New York city. His argument was that the vast
3 THE CITY - <
body of water which would be c&llecu*
ties of the Croton watershed and endazi
the dam -.vould be enormous. He fouy
reservoirs shouki be created at the heat
fight and with it the gratitude of the p
Mr. Webb's philanthropy has recc
acres of land or 7 Heights .
Academy and Home (<.r Shi{> Builders,
of ship building and marine tmgineerir
old and decrepit sh;;> :,..:\!crs can sper
surroundings, in i.":-.\:> •:•: -
city, including the largr '
lives in the winter at a «-• U >• .
beautiful country house n«v»
This charming place he
He is a director in Ti; t
road Co., and other imports!.:
Republican clubs and the >'<.---. *
for the Ruptured and Crippk- .
Cruelty to Children, and a
in The Hospital for the I
WILLIAM SEWARD
born in New York city, '
hjs wife. Lanra Virginia, tl
Wat*x> Webb, <*
Revolution by that splendi'i
Blatchley Webb of Connecticut,
In his early youth, Dr. '
at Colonel Churchill's Military
at Columbia College, •<•.!<. :ny th-
and Berlin. Returning to New
sicians and Surgeons, jjraduatiDg in i
remained for two years in charge of tl
city, but finding that professional life
entered Wall street as a stock broker i
with one of his brothers. He was doi
the request of William H. Vanderbilt,
accept the presidency <-•: The Wagner
ergetic head, and Dr. Webb took hold
rolling stock, extended its territory, «
president and maintains the ^ i:
engaged :;• railroad construction in iht
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. WE. 709
body of water which would be collected behind this dam would receive all the impuri-
ties of the Croton watershed and endanger the health of the city, while the expense of
the dam would be enormous. He fought the scheme for five years, insisting that small
reservoirs should be created at the headquarters of the source of supply. He won the
fight and with it the gratitude of the people of the city.
Mr. Webb's philanthropy has recently been exhibited by the purchase of fourteen
acres of land on Fordham Heights and the building and endowment of "Webb's
Academy and Home for Ship Builders," where young mechanics can learn every branch
of ship building and marine engineering, free of cost for tuition and board, and in which
old and decrepit ship builders can spend their remaining days in comfort, amid noble
surroundings, in company with their wives. He is a large owner of real estate in the
city, including the large Hotel Bristol, at the corner of Fifth avenue and 4zd street. He
lives in the winter at a comfortable home on Fifth avenue, and in the summer at a
beautiful country house near Tarrytown, surrounded by ninety-seven acres of grounds.
This charming place he calls "Waldheim."
He is a director in The Central Trust Co., The Pennsylvania Coal Co., The Atlan-
tic Mutual Insurance Co., The New York Balance Dock Co., The Third Avenue Rail-
road Co. , and other important corporations, and a member of the Union League and
Republican clubs and the New England Society. He is also a trustee in The Hospital
for the Ruptured and Crippled, an original trustee in The Society for the Prevention of
Cruelty to Children, and also (until lately) a trustee, for nearly a quarter of a century,
in The Hospital for the Diseases of Women for the State of New York.
WILLIAM SEWARD WEBB, M.D., president of The Wagner Palace Car Co.,
born in New York city, Jan. 31, 1851, is a son of the late James Watson Webb, and
his wife, Laura Virginia, the latter a daughter of Jacob L. Cram. General James
Watson Webb, editor of Tlie Courier and Enquirer, was a very able and distinguished
man, who, after refusing appointment as Minister to Austria and to Turkey, accepted
the mission to Brazil and performed valuable service for his government during his
official term abroad. The family is an old one. It was represented in the American
Revolution by that splendid soldier and favorite of Washington, General Samuel
Blatchley Webb of Connecticut, and has given birth to many other men of reputation.
In his early youth, Dr. Webb was educated by private tutors, followed by five years
at Colonel Churchill's Military School at Sing Sing, N. Y. He then spent two years
at Columbia College, leaving there to go abroad and study medicine in Vienna, Paris
and Berlin. Returning to New York, he took a regular course at the College of Phy-
sicians and Surgeons, graduating in 1875, when he entered St. Luke's Hospital and
remained for two years in charge of that institution. He then began practice in this
city, but finding that professional life offered no attractions for his active spirit, he
entered Wall street as a stock broker in the firm of W. S. Webb & Co., in company
with one of his brothers. He was doing well at the Stock Exchange, when, in 1883, at
the request of William H. Vanderbilt, his father in law, he retired from Wall street to
accept the presidency of The Wagner Palace Car Co. This corporation needed an en-
ergetic head, and Dr. Webb took hold of its affairs with great earnestness, improved its
rolling stock, extended its territory, and largely increased its earnings. He is yet its
president and maintains the company in a highly prosperous condition. He has also
engaged in railroad construction in the Adirondack region, and, as president of The
710 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
Adirondack & St. Lawrence Railway Co., built 233 miles of track in the northern part
of this State. His interests are now quite extended, and he is a director of The Lin-
coln Safe Deposit Co., The Continental Trust Co., The National Life Insurance Co.,
The Fitchburg Railroad, The Bennington & Rutland Railroad, The Central Vermont
Railroad, The Findlay, Ft. Wayne & Western Railroad and other corporations. He
owns a large amount of land in the Adirondack region, and a. beautiful farm at Shel-
burne, Vt., finely cultivated and carefully laid out.
In 1881, Dr. Webb married Eliza Osgood, daughter of William H. Vanderbilt, and
his children are Frederica Vanderbilt, James Watson, William Seward, jr., and Van-
derbilt. He is a member of most of the best clubs in town, including the Metropoli-
tan, Union League, Republican, University, Manhattan, Knickerbocker, Calumet,
Players', Church, Country, Jockey, Racquet, New York Yacht, Coaching, Riding,
Tuxedo, Westminister Kennel, and Down Town. By virtue of lineal descent, he is a
member of The Sons of the American Revolution and was President General of the
order for three terms, thereafter declining re-election. He is also a member of The
Society of Colonial Wars, and has been secretary and treasurer of The American
Hackney Horse Society since its organization. He is an aide-de-camp on the staff of
the Governor of Vermont, with the rank of Colonel. A sanitarium for persons suffer-
ing from pulmonary diseases is about to be built in the vicinity of Saranac Lake, N. Y.,
upon 100 acres of land contributed for the purpose by Dr. Webb, whose gift has finally
made the project practicable.
THURLOW WEED, editor, born in Cairo, N. Y., Nov. 15, 1797, died in New York
city, Nov. 22, 1882. He sprang from an obscure but respectable family and began life
at the age of nine as cabin boy on a Hudson river sloop. This life occupied him for
three years and he then became a printer in the office of The Catskill Record. The family
moved soon afterward to a farm in Cincinnatus, N. Y., and went to farming. The
vocation did not suit him. Soon, he found his way to another printing office, served
as a volunteer at Sackett's Harbor in the War of 1812, then found work as a printer
in New York city, and, at the age of nineteen, having already seen a great deal of
life, started a weekly newspaper in Norwich, N. Y. In 1821, he moved to Manlius,
N. Y., started another weekly, sold it in 1824, went to Rochester and established there
The Daily Telegraph. All of these ventures were prosperous.
The Rochester enterprise made him famous. Taking an active part in politics, he
joined the Anti-Masonic party and was especially outspoken concerning the disappear-
ance of William Morgan, who was supposed to have been assassinated by the Masons.
Shortly thereafter, the body of a drowned man was found on the shore of Lake Ontario.
It was recognized as that of William Morgan, but at an official inquest, various wit-
nessed came forward, who swore that it was not. When asked by the lawyer of the
Free Masons, what he would do for a Morgan now, Mr. Weed replied, "This man is a
good enough Morgan, until you produce the man who was drowned." Henry O'Reilly
declared in The Rochester Advertiser that Mr. Weed had said, "He is a good enough
Morgan until after election. " The saying, repeated in this incorrect form all over the
State, created tremendous excitement and originated the proverb yet in common use
in political literature. Mr. Weed was magnanimous enough to forgive the slanderer
and even to aid him with loans of money and influence.
In 1831, Mr. Weed established The Albany Evening Journal, and during the
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. WE. 713
ment Mr. Wendell continued for several years, leaving it, finally, to take advantage of a
better position which had been offered to him by another firm in the same line of
business. He was an earnest and faithful clerk, and a hard, conscientious worker, and
rapidly acquired a full knowledge of the dry goods trade.
He left this concern, at the expiration of about two years, and accepted an offer
which had been made to him by the domestic commission house of J C. Howe & Co.,
which was widely known at that time in mercantile and financial circles. The firm
was composed of Jabez C. Howe, George O. Hovey, Samuel R. Payson and John B.
Hutchinson. Mr. Wendell remained with them in the capacity of salesman for several
years, and on the ist of January, 1854, he was admitted to partnership.
In the autumn of 1857, at the request of his partners, Mr. Wendell came to New
York, and had general oversight of the business here during the panic of that year.
In the course of the next few years, the sales of the New York branch increased so
largely that, again at his partner's request, he" removed with his family to this city in
the autumn of 1863 and became a permanent resident.
Mr. Wendell and Mr. Hutchinson continued to manage the business in New York
until the close of the year 1873, when, upon the death of Mr. Howe and the retirement
of Messrs. Hovey and Payson, the firm of J. C. Howe & Co., was dissolved. It had
been in existence about forty years, during which time it had always maintained the
highest mercantile credit, the partners being conspicuous for their ability and integrity.
The firm of Wendell, Hutchinson & Co. was then formed, and had a successful
career until Mr. Hutchinson's retirement in 1880, when the firm name was changed to
Jacob Wendell & Co., under which style it yet exists, retaining the high and honorable
commercial standing which ever characterized its predecessors.
Mr. Wendell was married on Oct. 24, 1854, to Mary Bertodi Barrett, daughter of
N. A. Barrett, of Boston, and they have four sons, one of whom, Gordon Wendell, is
a member of his father's firm, and another, Barrett Wendell, is a professor in Harvard
University. The others are, Evert Jansen Wendell and Jacob Wendell, jr.
Mr. Wendell is a director in The Merchants' National Bank, The Continental Fire
Insurance Co., The North British & Mercantile Insurance Co., The New York Real
Estate Association, and The Manhattan Real Estate Association. He is president of
The. Merchants' Real Estate Co., and has various commercial interests in other sections
of the country, notably, in New England. He is a member of the Union League,
Century and Metropolitan clubs, and of The New England Society, The New York
Historical Society and The Holland Society of New York, and is a supporter of various
public institutions of the city.
JAMES MONROE WENTZ, capitalist, is one of the class of the older merchants,
who, by their integrity and energy, have done so much to establish the commercial
prosperity of New York city. His paternal ancestors emigrated to this country from
Germany soon after the close of the American Revolution and settled in eastern Penn-
sylvania. His father, William Wentz, born in 1788, resided there until about the age
of thirty years, when he removed to New York State and located at the then village of
Binghamton, in Broome county. Here, upon the death of his wife, he married Abigail,
a daughter of Joseph Manning, who was descended from an old and highly respected
New England family, this union resulting in the birth of James M. Wentz, the subject
(if this sketch, Dec. 15, 1824. The boy's education was limited to the common schools.
714 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
His preference for an early business life and the ambition to embark on a mercan-
tile career induced him to accept a clerkship in a village store, which he continued to
fill until his eighteenth year, when, with the best of credentials, he left home and went
to New York city, where he was destined to meet with success.
His first employment in the metropolis was with a wholesale dry goods jobbing-
house in Hanover Square, at that time the heart of the wholesale district. He remained
with this concern for six years, gaining a practical experience in the dry goods busi-
ness, which was to be of benefit to him in later years. He then accepted a position
with the new house of E. T. Tefft & Co., and continued there for a period of eighteen
years, during the last nine of which he was a partner in the firm.
In 1866, he formed the firm of Wentz, Hartley & Co., which style was maintained
for four years and then became J. M. Wentz & Co. This business was successfully
conducted until 1879, when Mr. Wentz retired from active mercantile life, after a
business career which had been characterized by energy, able and skillful management
and the strictest integrity. By close application and provident management of his
business, he had accumulated a competency. During all these years of business, in
which he saw many and vast changes in the commerce of this city, his firm stood
invariably high in credit and justly earned an enviable reputation among the best
houses in the trade. For many years now, he has resided on his estate at Balmville,
near Newburgh, N. Y., overlooking the Hudson River, and his time is chiefly occupied
in the conduct of his private affairs.
While Mr. Wentz is a staunch Republican and an ardent believer in the policy and
principles of that party, he has never sought or held public office. He is a director in
The Mercantile National Bank of New York and- has been for many years one of the
trustees of The Newburgh Savings Bank, and is first vice president of that institution
and gives much time to its business interests.
Mr. Wentz was married, March 15, 1848, to Miss Amelia L., daughter of James
De Le Ree, of Brooklyn, N. Y., and has two sons and a daughter, James G., The-
odore and Mrs. Thomas F. Balfe. Mr. Wentz is quiet and domestic in his tastes and
is essentially a lover of home. During his whole business life, he has been steadily
successful and enjoys wide acquaintance in the commercial and financial world. In
addition to wealth, he has won the higher regard of the business community by a
reputation for honorable dealing, prompt fulfillment of all his engagements and a ready
and honest discharge of liabilities. These qualities, combined with keen judgment
and caution, carried him safely through all financial troubles and kept him in the tide
of success throughout his whole career.
GEORGE WEST, manufacturer, Member of Congress and a man of affairs, although
of English birth, has spent nearly his whole active life in the United States and is
now even more warmly attached to his adopted country than some of those who are to
"the manner born." He was born in Bradnitch in Devonshire, Feb. 17, 1823. At eleven
years of age, he was apprenticed in a paper mill in his native land, and began life a
sturdy, hearty lad, with a large head and striking personality, giving promise from the
start of a future career of great interest. No labor was too hard for the lad, and he
soon learned all the different processes for making paper of all grades and kinds, includ-
ing writing and colored papers. He had a progressive spirit and determined early in
life to become the master of his own business. Great energy and will power, close
716 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
application, correct habits, and marked proficiency, won for him advancement; and,
at the age of eighteen, he was placed in charge of the most important department of
the mill. His genial temperament and athletic strength made him a favorite with all
classes, and an acknowledged leader in the sports and fun of the day.
Had Mr. West remained in England, he might have risen to an important position
in spite of the trammels and social conventions of the old world. But he finally decided
to remove to America. His employer strove to detain him, first, by offers of salary,
and next by painting the terrors of life in America, where, he said, people were shoot-
ing each other every day. Not in the least shaken in his decision, Mr. West reached
the United States as a steerage passenger in February, 1849. He found employment
at once in a New Jersey paper mill, remaining about a year, and then removed to
Tyringham, near Lee, Mass., where he entered a writing paper mill. It was in this
establishment that he attended the machine which, in February, 1850, made the first
water-mark writing paper in the United States. With an early development of talent,
Mr, West became the inventor of the machinery for cutting the water mark. In the
Summer of 1852, he left Tyringham on account of ill health, and in the Fall, with his
vigor fully restored, took charge of a mill in Russell, Mass., owned and operated by
J. R. Smith & Co., remaining there until March, 1858. Meanwhile, he had become
widely known for superior qualifications as a paper maker, and, by carefully saving his
earnings, had finally gained the means to operate with on his own account. It is thus
that the workman becomes a proprietor. In March, 1858, Mr. West heard of a paper
mill in Cummington, Mass., whose owners wanted to arrange with a practical man to
buy a share and run the mill. Mr. West visited the property and after examination
bought a quarter interest, took entire charge of the mill, did the buying and selling
and conducted affairs with excellent results until October, 1860, when he sold his inter-
est to his partners.
When, in May, 1861, an interest in the old Empire mill at Rock City Falls, in
Saratoga county, was offered to him, he declined at first to buy; and, although he had
been the proprietor of his own mill, he resolved to work in Rock City Falls on wages-,
until he could judge of the excellence of the bargain. Within a year, he had made up
his mind to buy, and in June, 1862, as proprietor of the Empire mill, he entered upon
a most prosperous and successful career.
Untiring labor and skillful management having brought some surplus means, Mr.
West was enabled to extend his enterprise, and with excellent judgment ho invested
his savings in the business which he thoroughly understood. In fact, he did not go
outside of the paper industry for investment for many years. In 1866, he built the
Excelsior paper mill in Rock City, and in the fall of the same year joined the Messrs.
Taggart in the ownership of a paper mill in Watertown, N. Y. In the latter enter-
prise, while associated with men of the highest character, who enjoy the deserved
respect of every inhabitant of their part of the State, Mr. West was anxious to control
his own business, and he accordingly sold his interest in Watertown in 1870. In the
summer of the same year, he bought the ruins of the old Pioneer mill at West Milton
in Saratoga county, rebuilt and enlarged the structure, fitted it up, and set a large
force to work therein making paper. The same year, he also formed a partnership with
Robert Gair, as Gair & West, to carry on a commission paper trade in New York city.
Having secured the object he had in view, he sold his interest to Mr. Gair in 1876.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. WE. 717
During the financial depression of 1874, Mr. West bought what is now known as
the Eagle paper mill in Factory Village, Saratoga county. It will be noted that his
manufacturing enterprise has been largely confined to this beautiful county, its near-
ness to the Adirondack forests ensuring him an abundant supply of low priced fibre
for his operations. In August, 1875, ne bought all the cotton and woolen factories of
all kinds in Ballston Spa, including the Glen, Union and Island mills. From that
time forward, Ballston Spa became his summer home. Mr. West now owns eight
paper mills in Saratoga count}-, including the seven above named and one at Hadley
Falls, on the North river above Palmer's Falls. At Luzerne, on the Hudson river,
he also owns and conducts the largest factory of manila paper in the world.
When he bought the little Empire mill, in 1862, he had ten employes and a
monthly pay roll of about $300, and produced about half a ton of paper a day. The
capacity of the nine mills of which he is now the owner is forty tons a day, and the
paper bag factory is capable of producing 2,500,000 bags a da}*. He employs 400
men, women and children, the pay roll amounting to more than §14,000 a month, has
no partner and is sole owner of the business. Through his incessant activity, his
liberality and public spirit, Ballston Spa and other communities in Saratoga county
have in thirty years materially increased in prosperity. Their people are busy and
happy and regard Mr. West as a public benefactor. He himself shares with all about
him the rewards of his energy and enterprise. His uprightness of character is pro-
verbial. He has been an active member of the Methodist Church for many years but
a generous giver to all churches and deserving organizations. Few appreciate all that
he has done, because, though his gifts are free, they are never given with ostentation.
Among other gifts which are known, was the contribution of half the cost of a new
Methodist church structure in Ballston Spa, which, dedicated in December, 1893, by
Bishop Newman, is the largest and finest edifice of its class in the city. As treasurer
of The Round Lake Association, he devotes much time to the interests of Round Lake,
and at one time saved the camp meeting grounds from the auctioneer's hammer.
Time and again, he has aided other denominations.
In later years, Mr. West's interests have become more extended. He is a stock-
holder and director of The Utica Herald, owns The Schenectady Union, and is a stock-
holder, one of the original incorporators, and, with D. S. Walton, one of the two
proprietors of the firm of D. S. Walton & Co., wholesale merchants of paper, paper
bags, etc., at the corner of Varick and Franklin streets in New York city. One of
those who helped establish The First National Bank of Ballston Spa, he became its
vice president in 1876 and in 1880 its president, which position he yet holds. Mr.
West makes a very good banker as well as a successful business man and is known to
be sound and conservative in his management. He is also a director of The National
Folding Box & Paper Co. , of New York, and owns a creosote factory, mines in the
West and excellent real estate, and has various other interests of consequence. He
spends much time in New York city, and is a member of the Republican club, Board
of Trade & Transportation and American Geographical Society.
But there is another side of his career, which must be mentioned. In political
faith a Republican and a believer in the protective tariff, not only for his own sake but
for that of his employes, Mr. West is qualified for public office both by his sentiments
and his clear head ; and he has been five times elected to the State Assembly from Sara-
718 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
toga county, namely, in 1871-75, and by steadily increasing majorities. In 1876,
the Speaker of the House appointed him chairman of the Railway Committee. He has
also sat in Congress three times, having been elected in 1880, 1884, and 1886 respec-
tively, as Representative from the XXth district of this State. In Congress, he served
on the Committees on Agriculture, Manufactures, and Enrolled Bills. The business
man in politics seldom makes a strong display as an orator but is always capable of
a large amount of work. Mr. West left to the political giants of the House all active
part in the debates, but was always present, shared in the labor of his committees,
voted to the entire satisfaction of his constituents, and increased his reputation as a
wise Representative steadily during his three terms. Congress needs a quota of just
such alert and far seeing business men. His district sent him in 1880, 1884, and 1888,
as a delegate to the national convention of the party. In his campaigns in Saratoga
county, Mr. West has showed himself to be a ready and well informed speaker, and,
while making no claims to classic excellence in oratory, has repeatedly surprised his
friends by his force and ease on the platform.
April 7, 1844, he was married in Devonshire, England. Of his six children, two
are yet living, the oldest and the youngest, George West, jr., born in England, Feb.
16, 1845, who is associated with his father in the general management, and Florence
Louisa, born in Russell, Mass. , and now the wife of D. W. Mabee, the right hand man
of Mr. West in the actual oversight of the paper mills. A few years ago, Mr. West
visited the place of his birth in England, spending many pleasant hours in recalling
and recounting the scenes of his boyhood. The homes of several of his fellow workmen,
who had met with little success, were brightened by substantial aid, which will not be
forgotten, while the city of his birth now contains many a monument of his generosity
and regard. In 1883, during a visit to Brandnitch, the city tendered him a public recep-
tion and banquet, surpassing anything of the kind previously given to a private indi-
vidual there. Upon his return home, he received a public welcome from the citizens of
Saratoga county without regard to party, not less flattering than that given him abroad.
For a few years past, he has combined pleasure with business, travelling much, and
proving an interesting companion to those who have shared his company. His busi-
ness has been so systematized that he can direct it without being present in the places
where it is conducted.
A man of sound and liberal views and wide range of knowledge, he commands
respect among all who know 'him. In personal appearance, he is short and stout, with
full beard, broad shoulders, large mouth and large head, and is remarkable for genial
humor and exuberant spirits. He is fond of telling that many consider him the home-
liest man in the Empire State, although he is not that in the least. He is, however,
one of those men, in delineating whom the caricaturists have loved to employ their pen-
cils. At one time, an effort was made to defeat him for office by circulating a grotesque
portrait, representing him asleep in a chair with his feet on a desk. Nearly ten thou-
sand of these caricatures were distributed in his district, inscribed, "Hon. George
West, as he appears daily, legislating for his constituents." Upon this occasion, his
opponents overreached themselves by their own cunning policy. Thousands of voters
who had never seen Mr. West thronged to his meetings to see him, tempted by the por-
traits. They stayed to hear him speak, were captivated by his witty and apposite re-
marks and sound sense, and went home only to increase his next majority.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK.- — WE. "19
GARDNER WETHERBEE, one of the proprietors of the Windsor Hotel, born
Nov. 8, 1838, in Harvard, Mass., is of English ancestry and descends from a family of
hotel men. His father, Zophar Wetherbee, his grandfather and several uncles all con-
ducted hotels in the States of Massachusetts and Ohio during their life times, covering
a total period of seventy-five years.
After graduating from Lawrence academy in Groton, Mass., Mr. Wetherbee entered
mercantile life for a while, acquiring there an acquaintance with business methods and
habits of economy and thrift. This experience lasted a short time only and he then
accepted a position in the Gibson House in Cincinnati, of which an uncle was one of
the first proprietors. He continued his apprenticeship in the American Hotel in Phila-
delphia and from close application gained a thorough knowledge of the elementary
requirements of hotel keeping.
The opportunity which gave him his first distinct promotion came with the con-
struction of the Fifth Avenue Hotel in New York city in 1859. Messrs. Hitchcock &
Darling had taken a lease of this magnificent building, aided by the experience and
capital of Paran Stevens, and they opened the hotel in August of the year named. Mr.
Wetherbee was offered a position in the hotel where he remained in charge of the office
until 1867, performing the duties allotted to him with great success and winning an
excellent reputation by untiring attention to the desires of guests and his unaffected
cordiality of manner. It was not an uncommon thing for visitors to say that they
would rather take "No" from Mr. Wetherbee than "Yes" from other men.
In 1867, he crossed the continent with a fellow clerk, and entered upon a two
years' experience as manager of the Occidental Hotel in San Francisco, then as now
one of the best known houses on the Pacific coast and enjoying a virtual monopoly of
the patronage of Australian and New Zealand travellers.
Mr. Wetherbee had now obtained a thorough, all round experience in hotel keeping,
and felt himself qualified to engage in business on his own account. For four 3'ears,
1869-73, he conducted the Revere and Tremont Houses in Boston, receiving a suitable
reward for his enterprise. The poor boy, relying entirely upon his own efforts, and
pressing constantly forward, with a vigor of ambitious youth, had now reached a
position of influence in the hotel world and was recognized as a rising man.
In 1873, he returned to New York to lease from John T. Daly the Windsor Hotel
on Fifth avenue at 47th street, in partnership with Samuel Hawk, under the firm name
Hawk & Wetherbee. This was a new and exceedingly handsome hotel, situated in
the heart of the fashionable residence section of the city, requiring skillful management,
but promising good returns to a firm, competent to conduct one of the finest public
houses in the metropolis in a proper manner. The entire success of the Windsor
Hotel is a sufficient commentary upon the excellence of its management.
Mr. Wetherbee has never taken any part in politics, but is active in less conspicuous
fields, a director of The Fifth Avenue Bank, a trustee of the Kensico Cemetery and
The New York Infant Asylum, and a member of the Union League club, New England
Society and Metropolitan Museum of Art.
He was married in Sandwich, Mass., in 1868, to Hannah G., daughter of Thomas
Nye, and to them have been born Grace D. and Alice N. Wetherbee.
Mr. Wetherbee is of medium height and sturdy build. He is one of the most
courteous and affable of men, his warm heart and cheerful disposition making many
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. WE. 72!
friends and greatly promoting the success of his hotel. He is a public spirited man,
also, as may be attested by examining the rolls of the supporters of the great public
museums of the city, and many other important institutions.
APOLLOS RUSSELL WETMORE, merchant and philanthropist, born in Dan-
bury, Conn., Nov. n, 1796, died in this city, Jan. 21, 1881. The family was founded
in this country in 1635 by Thomas Wetmore, an Englishman, who settled in Hartford,
Conn. The Rev. Noah Wetmore, grandfather of Apollos R. Wetmore, married Submit
Russell, became an ardent patriot and chaplain in the American Revolution, was pastor
of the Presbyterian church in Bethel, Conn., and later wascalled to Brook Haven, L.I.,
where he died in March, 1796. Noah Wetmore, son of the latter, married Winifred
Smith, Feb. 14, 1792, and was long superintendent of The New York Hospital. Com-
ing to New York in 1808 with his family, the subject of this memoir spent two vears
in Columbia College, but ill health forced him to abandon his studies, and he entered
the hardware store of Kip & Ingraham in 1815. In 1818, he engaged in the hardware
trade at his own risk, forming a partnership with his brother, D. W. Wetmore. Wil-
liam Green, jr., was admitted six years later, the firm adopting: the name of Green &
Wetmore. They carried on business at the corner of Washington and Vesey streets,
until Mr. Green retired in 1835. Mr. Wetmore continued the firm of Wetmore &
Co., removing in 1869 to 363-7 Greenwich street, with his son, George C., and his
nephew, David Wetmore, as his partners. He retired in 1875. In 1830, he became a
member of the Laight Street Presbyterian Church, changing in later life to the Madison
Square Presbyterian Church, of which he was a member and trustee. He was perhaps
most widely known from his interest in benevolent institutions. He helped found The
City Mission & Tract Society, and acted as its president for seven years, and was also a
governor of The Women's Hospital, The Presbyterian Hospital and The Hospital for
the Ruptured and Crippled. He was president of that institution, a founder of The
Association for Improving the Condition of the Poor, and chairman of the Board of
Managers of The Home for Fallen and Friendless Girls, but his greatest work was the
founding and, by his large collection of funds from those who had confidence in him,
establishing The New York Juvenile Asylum, whose extensive buildings at i?5th street
usually contain over 1,000 children. Mr. Wetmore was president for over thirty years.
He married Miss Mary Carmer, of New York, April 30, 1822, and celebrated his golden
wedding in 1872. Mrs. Wetmore died in 1876. They had six children: Henry, who
died before him; George Carmer, Theodore Russell, William, Elizabeth Carmer, widow
of Henry Mesier, who died in 1881 at Wappinger's Falls, and Mary Russell, wife of
Charles E. Carryl.
ROBERT CHARLES WETflORE, merchant, native of Pequannock, Conn., died in
South Orange, N. J., May 9, 1890, at the age of ninety-one. His family was an old
one in Connecticut and his ancestors were clergymen for five generations. Educated in
a private school, he lived in Bridgeport until 1819, when he came to New York and
entered the employment of his brother in law, Tredwell, a dealer in crockery. In
1830, he formed a partnership with his brother, Gen. Prosper Montgomery Wetmore,
and carried on the crockery business under the name of R. C. Wetmore & Co. until
1849, when, having amassed a fortune, he retired. During the Harrison and Tyler
campaign, Mr. Wetmore was a recognized leader of the Whig party and served as chair-
man of the general committee of Whig Young Men. President Tyler appointed him
722
AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
Naval Agent at New York. Mr. Wetmore was a warm personal friend of Henry Clay,
Daniel Webster and other well known men of that generation, and his literary attain-
ments caused his house to be the resort of Bancroft, N. P. Willis and many other
writers of reputation. To him and his wife, Adeline, daughter of Seth Geer, were
born three children, two daughters and one son, who survived him.
JEROME BYRON WHEELER, merchant, smelter and financier, was born in the
city of Troy, N. Y., Sept. 3, 1841. Both his parents were born in New England and
of English descent. His mother, whose maiden name was Emerson, is of the family
which produced Ralph Waldo Emerson, of Concord. They were both excellent people
of strong minds and good character, and their boy grew to young manhood under ex-
cellent influences. During his early youth, the family moved to Waterford, a small
town four miles north of Troy. Jerome was educated at the public schools, and at
fifteen became a clerk in one of the village stores. Later, he found employment in one
of the factories of Waterford. Thus early trained in the practical work of life, he be-
came ambitious, self reliant, energetic and capable. His business career was inter-
rupted by the War for the Union.
When Sumter was fired upon, the young man, in common with generous and
patriotic youth all through the North, was anxious to go to the front with the first
volunteers and impatient because he could not. Sept 3, 1861, the day he came of age,
he joined Co. D, 6th N. Y. Cav., and proudly marched to the front with his regiment.
The service of this regiment was a brilliant one, lasting until the end of the war. Mr.
Wheeler was with the command in all the great campaigns of the Army of the Potomac
and with Sheridan in the Shenandoah valley, at Gettysburgh and Appomattox. En-
listing as a private, his business ability was too valuable not to be utilized, and he was
promoted successively to sergeant in the quartermaster's department, second lieutenant
on the staff of Colonel Devin, acting quartermaster of his regiment, first lieutenant,
brigade quartermaster, and then, before the end of the war, to captain and brevet
major. The young quartermaster won an enviable reputation by his services in the
field. He displayed dash, ability, and determination in all his work, repeatedly at-
tracted the attention of general officers who did not know him, and was complimented
many times in official reports, especially by Colonel Devin, who was greatly attached
to him. It is said that after an engagement or forced march, Quartermaster Wheeler
was usually the first man to bring up his trains of supplies for the relief of the half
famished men. His service as a staff officer was without a flaw, and when, in Septem-
ber, 1865, the 6th N. Y. Cav. received its muster out, the young officer returned to
Troy, without a dollar indeed in the world but with an honorable discharge and a
reputation which had preceded him, and promptly gained him a position.
Accepting what was offered, he became a bookkeeper in Troy. He had not been
long in this place, however, before the man of action and adventure found that his
nature had been broadened and his mind awakened by the war, and he aspired to a
larger field. He came to New York seeking occupation and was fortunate enough to
find it with a comrade of his regiment, John F. Barkley, then engaged in a small grain
business. The place was not remunerative but it gave him an opportunity to learn the
business, and finally, in response to the friendly suggestion of General Devin to Robert
S. Holt, of Holt & Co., flour and commission merchants, that firm offered him a desir-
able clerkship. He accepted the appointment, threw his whole energy into the work
^ ,/
723 -I'CCKSSKUI. MEN.
k Mr. Wetmore was a warm personal friend of He:
well known men of that generation, and his litera-
- house to be the resort of Bancroft, N. P. Willis and ni;.
. To him and his wife, Adeline, daughter of
n-rs and one son, who survived him.
WHEELER, merchant, smelter and financier, was bom
V.. S.-pt. 3, 1841. Both his parents were born in New En^
His mother, whose maiden name was Emerson, is of th
i Waldo Emerson^ of Concord. They were both excellent p
ot si1 U and good character, and their boy grew to young manhood undi
ceUent ip.H.i»en;x*. During his early youth, tHe family moved to Waterford, a <
town four ijifles north of Troy. Jerome was educated at the public schools, and at
fifteen beiMtme a clerk in one of the village stores. Later, he found employment r
of the f.iitorifs of Waterford. Thus early trained in the practical work of life, he be-
came ambitious, self reliant, energetic and capable. His business career was
rupted by the War for the Union.
When Sumter was fired upon, the young man, in common with generous and
• !i all through the North, was anxious to go to the front with the
Army of the Potomac
\ ppomattox. En-
be utilized, and he
rmaster's department, second lieuter
, acting quartermaster of his regiment, first lieutc
r, and then, before the end of the war, to captain and b
major. P!;C young quartermaster won an enviable reputation by his services i'
field. lie displayed dash, ability, and determination in all his work, repeated I
trarte.i the attention of general officers who did not know him, and was complin;
many times in official reports, especially by Colonel Devin, who was great! y at;t.
to Uim. It is said that after an engagement or forced march, Quartermaster ,
was usually the first man to bring up his trains of supplies for the relief of th-
tarnished men. His service as a staff officer was without a flaw, and when, in So
her, 1865, the 6th N. Y. Cav. received its muster out, the young officer retun.
Troy, without a dollar indeed in the world but with an honorable discharge
reputation which had preceded him, and promptly gained him a position.
Accepting what was offered, he became a bookkeeper in Troy. He had •
iong in this place, however, before the man of action and adventure foumi
nature had been broadened and his mind awakened by the war, and he as;
l.irj^er field. He. came to New York seeking occupation and was fortunate -..
fiud it with a comrade of his regiment, John F. Barkley, then engaged in a sr
iwsiness. The place was not remunerative but it gave him an opporttmit
'ess, and finally, in response to the friendly suggestion of General
lolt & Co., flour and commission merchants, that firm of'iV
able !>. He accepted the appointment, threw his whole c
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. — WH. 725
His mother came from an English family and was born in Groton, Mass. , April 9,
1788. Her maiden name was Amelia Ames. The family moved to New York city
when William was a boy of twelve. The boy was educated at the University of the
City of New York, graduating in 1843 m the same "class with William Allen Butler,
Aaron J. Vanderpoel and other young men who afterward rose to prominence. He did
not find the road to learning an easy one, however, and was indebted to his own exer-
tions for the advantage of a college course. He was obliged to support himself during
the larger part of his four years in college by teaching. In the last year of his course,
he was the assistant classical teacher in the University Grammar School.
At the age of nineteen, the young man took a clerkship in the dry goods importing
and jobbing house of Merritt, Ely & Co , sen-ing for two years without compensation,
in order to learn the business. This was a period of hard labor and self sacrifice for
Mr. Wheelock. His expenses were met with borrowed money. But his hard appren-
ticeship not only taught him the elements of the business in which he was destined to
make his fortune, but made him energetic and self reliant. In three years more, he
became a partner in the firm, the title of which was then changed to Merritt, Bliss
& Co. His character, energy and shrewdness led to his being commissioned to make
the foreign purchases of this firm, and he resided from 1850 to 1855 in Manchester,
England, where both of his children were born. As the resident partner abroad, his
record was one of great success.
During this period, in February, 1850, he was happily married to Miss Harriet
Efner, daughter of Elijah D. Efner, then one of the oldest residents of Buffalo, N. Y.
In 1858, his firm was re-organized as Bliss & Wheelock, and in 1863, Mr. Wheelock
retired with ample means to enjoy a period of rest.
Too active and efficient to be contented with a life of pleasure, Mr. Wheelock
accepted, in 1865, the position of a director in The Central National Bank, and in June,
1866, became president of the institution. The bank was a new one, and required the
services of a driving and judicious head. Mr. Wheelock proved to be an admirable and
sagacious president; and he developed its business and conducted its affairs with great
success for a period of fifteen years. To secure needed recreation, after a long and
laborious service, and to obtain the time required by the management of his own pro-
perty and of several estates which had been entrusted to him, he then, June i, 1881,
resigned his position. A vigorous effort was made to secure a reconsideration, but
Mr. Wheelock's decision was unalterable, and he retired, followed by testimonials from
the bank of the most complimentary nature.
If possible, Mr. Wheelock has been more actively employed since that period than
he was before. Philanthropic work has occupied much of his time but he has con-
tinued to perform effective service in the direction of great corporations.
He was for two years president of The American Surety Co. , one of the largest and
most progressive enterprises of recent years. He accepted the office reluctantly and
only until a suitable successor could be found, but yet remains the chairman of its
Executive Committee. He has for many years been a director of The Equitable Life
Assurance Society and chairman of its Committee on Investments. He is chainnan
of the finance committees of many large institutions, has been a director in The New
York, Lake Erie & Western Railway for the last ten years, and is a director in The
Gold & Stock Telegraph Co., The Central National Bank, and other corporations.
726 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
A man of refinement, high character, and social disposition, Mr. Wheelock would
at any time be regarded as an acceptable member of any first class social organization,
but he has no taste for club life, pure and simple, and he has allied himself only with
the Union League and Lawyers' clubs. He is an interested member and ex-director
of The New England Society, and is fond of the annual reunions at which the descend-
ants of New England in this city meet to regale themselves with choice oratory and a
banquet. He has been a member of the council of the University of the City of New
York for twenty-five years and was treasurer for about fifteen years. At present, he is
chairman of the finance committee. He is honorary vice president of The American
Tract Society now, and has been an elder in the Presbyterian Church on Washington
Heights for thirty-two years. He has also been an active member of the Church Exten-
sion Committee of the Presbytery of New York, being vice chairman and chairman of
the finance committee. For many years, he served in the directorate of The Deaf and
Dumb Institute.
He lives in a beautiful residence on the Heights, with ample grounds covering the
space of two city blocks, and commanding a noble view of the Hudson river. His
country residence is at East Hampton on Long Island.
Mr: Wheelock has two children, Dr. William E. Wheelock, who married the only
daughter of the Rev. John Hall., D. D., pastor of the Fifth Avenue Presbyterian
Church, and Harriet E., wife of George A. Strong, a partner in the law firm of Martin
& Smith, lawyers, at 54 Wall street.
ALBERT TREDWAY WHITE, merchant, born in Brooklyn, May 28, 1846, is a
son of Alexander M. White, a merchant of furs of long standing, who in the firm of
W. A. & A. M. White, and in operations in real estate and railroads, has gained alarge
reward for his enterprise. The subject of this sketch received his education in the
Brooklyn Polytechnic and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institutes, graduating from the
former in 1862 and the latter in 1865, with the degree of civil engineer. He has not
followed engineering as a profession, however, but began business life as a clerk in his
father's firm in 1866, and became the partner of his father and of his brother, the
present William A. White, in 1868. This old house, founded over sixty years ago, by
William Augustus White, uncle of Alfred T. , imports its own goods, manufactures in
a shop in Danbury, Conn., and has two stores in this city at 130 Water street and 24
Washington Place respectively. Mr. White is an efficient factor in the operations of the
house. He is conspicuous for his interest in philanthropic work and has been for many
years president of The Brooklyn Bureau of Charities and other societies. The attention
of Mr. White having been drawn by his work in this field to the need of better homes for
the working classes, he built in 1876 dwellings for forty-four families upon an improved
plan. These proved successful, whereupon Mr. White enlisted other aid and the asso-
ciation thus formed built the Tower, Home and Riverside buildings, with apartments
for 550 of the families of workmen. These structures have attracted attention as the
largest and most successful experiment of the sort in the United States, and, for his
part in creating them, Harvard University has bestowed upon Mr. White the honorary
degree of M. A. His acceptance of the Commissionership of City Works in Boooklyn
tinder Mayor Schieren has now temporarily withdrawn him from active participation
in the interests of previous years. Mr. White belongs to the Hamilton, Montauk and
Riding & Driving clubs and the Century and Down Town clubs of New York.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. WH. 727
STEPHEN VAN CULEN WHITE, stock broker, is a native of Chatham count}-,
N. C., where he was born, Aug. i, 1831. His mother, Julia Brewer, was a direct
descendant of Oliver Cromwell and a member of an old North Carolina family, while
his father, Hiram White, was a farmer and on his mother's side descended from mem-
bers of the Society of Friends in Pennsylvania, who moved South after the American
Revolution. In 1831, the family being hostile to slavery, moved to Jersey county, 111.,
and Stephen spent his boyhood in what was then a wilderness. His first earnings came
from the sale of furs, the product of his own traps. Graduating from Knox college in
1854, he went to St. Louis, served as a bookkeeper in a wholesale store, studied law,
and was admitted to the bar, Oct. 4, 1856. He practiced his profession with success in
Des Moines, Iowa, until 1856, and then removed to New York and helped Charles B.
Marvin establish the stock brokerage and banking, firm of Marvin & White. Two years
later, the firm retired from business. Mr. White joined the Stock Exchange in 1869
and went on alone until 1882, when the house of S. V. White & Co. was organized
with several partners. Meanwhile, there had been in 1872 a serious setback and a
recovery of lost ground, with full payment of debts. Mr. White's operations in stocks
were for a long period among the most daring and successful in the street. One specu-
lation in Lackawanna stock made him a rich man. In 1891, he failed for a million dol-
lars. He resumed business with §50,000 capital, being released from obligations upon
a verbal promise to pay, made about a million dollars in 1892 at the Stock Exchange,
paid every debt in full, and found himself again a man of fortune. This was one of
the most extraordinary incidents in Wall street. In politics a Republican, Mr. White
has figured since 1856 in public affairs. He has been a Park Commissioner of Brook-
Ivn and became a member of the Lth Congress. He has been receiver of The Grocers'
Bank and The Sugar Trust, and long treasurer of Plymouth church in Brooklyn, and
is a member of the Stock Exchange, the Union League, Lincoln, Hamilton and Brook-
lyn clubs in that city and the Lawyers' club of New York. Feb. 24, 1857, he was
married to Eliza M., daughter of Hiram Chandler, and their children are Jennie
Chandler, who married Franklin W. Hopkins, and Arthur White.
WILLIAM WHITLOCK, born in New York city, Jan. 23, 1791, died at his resi-
dence here, July 10, 1875. He was a son of William Whitlock, prominent as a ship
owner and ship master, and was descended from Thomas Whitlock, who came from
England in 1640, and after a few years of residence in Massachusetts, became one of
the first settlers of Gravesend, Long Island, in 1646. William Whitlock, jr., received
a fair education, and, in 1812, entered the shipping business and soon created a large
trade. At one time, he ranked among the largest individual owners of ocean tonnage
in the United States. He did not have the control of as large a number of vessels as
some others but owned most of his ships entirely. In 1825, he established a line of
packet ships between New York and Havre, which flourished until the beginning of
the Civil War, when the competition of steamships drove it from the sea. Mr. Whit-
lock exported cotton extensively and imported East India goods, particularly Manila
hemp. He was a director of The Bank of America and had high credit in the chief
commercial cities of the world. He retired in 1872. In 1818, he married Miss Eliza
H. Scott of Catskill. N. Y., and had one son and four daughters. Religious and chari-
table work occupied much of his time. For many years, he served as treasurer of St.
George's Church and an officer of The American Bible Society.
728 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
SAMUEL WILLETS, merchant, born in Westbury, L. I., June 15, 1795, died in
New York, Feb. 6, 1883. The son of Robert and Mary Willets, respectable farmers,
he came to this city early in life. A clerk with Robbins & Hicks, flour dealers, for
three years, he engaged in the hardware business, at the age of twenty, with his elder
brother, Amos, under the firm name of A. & S. Willets. These two, by economy,
prudence and good management, gradually built up a concern, well known and re-
spected, and the house at No. 303 Pearl street, was regarded as an example of deserved
mercantile success. In 1850, the elder brother withdrew, and Samuel, with his
brother, Robert R. , and others of the family, organized the firm of Willets & Co.
Samuel remained senior partner until the close of 1867, when he retired, having
spanned fifty-two years with an uninterrupted and honorable career. For a few years
more, his name appeared as a special partner. Starting with general hardware, the
firm had gradually added interests of a different nature and became prominent as
owners and agents in the whale fishery. California connections came later, with exten-
sive consignments of the staples of that State, while a Mexican trade, embracing ship-
ments of cotton, was also developed. A line of business with Texas was a subsequent
acquisition, and, in 1862, the hardware department was relinquished, and exclusive
attention given to the commission business, which, with the addition of a large leather
interest, continues the calling of the house to this day. At the age of twenty-one, Mr.
Willets married Sarah, daughter of Benjamin Hicks, a neighbor of his father. Mrs.
Willets died in January, 1881. Their children were Jacob H., Robert, Amelia and
Edward, all now deceased.
In early manhood, Mr. Willets was an active and courageous member of the
" Society for Promoting the Manumission of Slaves and Protecting such of them as
have been or may be Liberated," was exceedingly active in its affairs, freed many
slaves, and united with his friend, Isaac T. Hopper, in an effort before the Legislature
to secure a law, granting to persons claimed as slaves a trial by jury. Early called
into many corporations, he was for over thirty-five years a director in The American
Exchange Bank and at one time its president. He was one of the trustees of The
Union Trust Co. , a director of The Second Avenue and Third Avenue Railroads, vice
president of The Stuyvesant Insurance Co., and president of The Williamsburgh Gas
Light Co., governor of The New York Hospital, president of The New York Infant
Asylum, The Working Women's Protective Union, and The New York Infirmary for
Women and Children, and one of the advisory committee of The Association for the
Relief of Colored Orphans. To the support of all of these he generously contributed.
He also aided The Woman's Medical College and was especially generous to Swarth-
more College. Industry, energy and punctuality were conspicuous in his administra-
tion of business, and an indomitable will nerved him with uncommon spirit. He was
upright and conscientious, prompt and decisive, and a good friend and neighbor, and
his familiar garb and figure will long be missed from the walks of life. By his will, he
left $25, ooo each to The Association for the Benefit of Negro Orphans, The Society for
Improving the Condition of the Poor, The New York Juvenile Asylum, The Children's
Aid Society, and The Working Woman's Protective Union; $50,000 each to The Society
for the Relief of the Ruptured and Crippled, The New York Infirmary for Women and
Children, and The New York Hospital; $100,000 to Swarthmore College, and $85,000
to other charities; total, $460,000.
CITY OF NEW YORK. WI. 729
GEORGE GILBERT WILLIAflS, banker, one of the soundest, most conservative
and best known financiers in New York, is the worthy president of the famous old
Chemical Bank. This great institution was founded in 1824 as The Chemical Manu-
facturing Co., with banking privileges, by a number of leading members of the drug
trade in this city. In 1844, its original charter expired and it was then at once reorgan-
ized as The Chemical Bank. During the war, the institution became a national bank.
Of the original company, John Mason was one of the most prominent presidents. John
Quentin Jones was made first president of the bank in 1844, and Mr. Williams succeeded
him in 1878, and during his long, wise and successful management, the institution has
become the soundest, as it is the most famous, in the city.
Mr. Williams was born in the town of East Haddam, Conn., in 1826. He descends
from Welsh ancestry. His family is the one which gave birth to Roger Williams of
colonial fame. His own ancestor was Robert Williams, who came to America about
the time of the Pilgrims. The family has always been distinguished by its high social
position and the public spirit of its members. More than thirty of its men held com-
missions in the armies of the American Revolution. The father of Mr. Williams was
Dr. Datus Williams, a practicing physician of East Haddam for more than forty years.
George first aspired to the career of a lawyer, and during his early years of careful
education at home, in the district school, and the village academy, he kept this object
in view. But a different career was opened to him by circumstances. Among the
patients of his father was a brother of the cashier in The Chemical Bank in New
York city. The lad attracted the attention of Mr. Jones, who offered to secure for him
a position in the bank. The arrangement was made, and young Mr. Williams came to
New York in December, 1841, and entered the employment of The Chemical Manufac-
turing Co., then established on the site of the present National Park Bank. He began
as assistant to the paying teller. Honest, ambitious, and clear headed, he applied
himself to his work with so much intelligence and success, that, at the age of twenty,
he was made paying teller, and was the youngest man in the city occupying such a
responsible position. Among the directors and depositors of The Chemical Bank were
many of the foremost men in New York, including A. T. Stewart, Robert and Peter
Goelet, John D. Wolfe, Cornelius S. V. Roosevelt, Robert McCoskrey and Japhet
Bishop, a fact which renders apparent the nature of the compliment, when, in 1855,
Mr. Williams was elected cashier of the bank, and when on Jan. i, 1878, after the
death of John Quentin Jones, he was elected to the presidency of the institution.
Mr. Williams has always made finance the subject of diligent study and has proved
a capable and valuable manager of his great institution. Its deposits have now reached
the sum of §30,000,000. His judgment and conservatism have won the implicit confi-
dence of leading merchants and capitalists and he has been called to many positions of
trust outside of his bank. He is now director in The Union Trust Co. , The Fidelity &
Casualty Co., The United States Life Insurance Co., The Eagle Fire Insurance Co.,
The Title Guarantee & Trust Co., The Institution for Savings of Merchants' Clerks,
and The Pennsylvania Coal Co.
Modest, reserved and quiet in demeanor, Mr. Williams is a cultivated gentleman
and an agreeable companion in social life. He has little taste for club life, but has
joined the Metropolitan and Riding clubs for certain advantages they afford, and is an
enthusiastic member of The New England Society. His public spirit has been shown
73° AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
by his support of The Metropolitan Museum of Art, and The American Museum of
Natural History, and in many other ways.
Nov. 14, 1867, he was married to Miss Virginia King, daughter of Aaron King of
New York city. His wife is a woman of great cultivation and refinement. Their
union has brought them five children, one of whom is living.
Mr. Williams is a prominent member of St. Bartholomew's P. E. church on
Madison avenue and one of the governors of The Lying-in Hospital.
JAnES WINSLOW, banker, born in Hartford, Conn., Feb. 17, 1815, died at his
residence, 44 West 2oth street, New York city, July 18, 1874. This energetic and
capable man was of New England ancestry, and a lineal descendant of a brother of
Gov. Edward Winslow of the Plymouth colony. He started in life as clerk in the
hardware store of Erastus Corning, in Albany. Removing to New York shortly after-
ward, he engaged in the hardware business, which he carried on for several years with
excellent success. He then entered the banking firm of Winslow, Lanier & Co., which
had been established by his brother and father-in-law, and rendered important service in
the promotion of Western railroad enterprises, and the negotiation of war loans for the
government during the administration of President Lincoln. He was subsequently con-
nected with national banks, and at the time of his death was vice president of The Third
National. By his marriage in 1847, with Margaret, daughter of James F. D. Lanier, he
became the father of Margaret Lanier, Edward, James Norton, and Annie Gardner
Winslow. — His son, EDWARD WINSLOW, banker, was born in New York city, Jan.
14, 1850. His mother traced her line to Huguenot ancestry, and thus, in the veins of
Edward Winslow flows the best blood of the Puritans of New England and the Hugue-
nots of France. Receiving a thorough education in his native land, Mr. Winslow en-
tered the banking house of Winslow, Lanier & Co., in Wall street in 1873 and has ever
since remained identified with the firm. They are now one of the largest houses in the
street and active" in the re-organization of corporations. Founded, in part, to promote
railroad enterprise in Indiana, this house has continued to transact a large and conserva-
tive business in investment securities to the present day. Mr. Winslow is a cultivated
gentleman, exceedingly well liked in social life, and is a member of the Metropolitan,
Reform, Country, City, Tuxedo, and the Larchmont, Atlantic, New York, and Corin-
thian Yacht clubs. He is public spirited and philanthropic, and a trustee of The New
York Skin & Cancer Hospital. By his marriage with Emma Corning Sweetser,
daughter of J. A. Sweetser, in 1873, he has one child, Marguerite Lanier Winslow.
FREDERICK SEYflOUR WINSTON, insurance president, a native of Ballston Spa,
N. Y., born Oct. 14, 1806, died in Fernandina, Fla., March 27, 1885. He was a son
of Frederick Winston, a Virginian, and of Susan 'Seymour, of Connecticut, who settled
early in life in Saratoga county, N. Y. The Winstons came originally from Wales and
settled in Virginia. Patrick Henry's mother was a member of this family. Educated in
the academy in Utica, Mr. Winston began life at fifteen as clerk for Halsted, Haines &
Co., wholesale dry goods merchants of New York. A breezy vigor and purity of charac-
ter greatly enhanced his success, and led the firm to take him into partnership. In a few
years' time, he opened a store of his own on Pine street, opposite the present building
of The Mutual Life Insurance Co. While at one time among the most prominent
wholesale dry goods merchants of the city, he finally failed. In 1846, he was elected
a director of The Mutual Life Insurance Co., organized four years before, settled the
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. WI. 731
affairs of his firm, and thereafter gave his undivided attention to the insurance com-
pany. In 1853, he succeeded John B. Collins as president, and held this position till
his death, a period of over thirty years. In 1864, he transferred the offices from the
Trinity Building on Broadway to a home at the corner of Liberty street and saw the
assets increase under his administration from $2,000,000 in 1853 to $100,000,000 in
1885. Mr. Winston was a staunch Union man during the Civil War. In 1866, he
became a Commissioner of Emigration for five years, discharging this duty from con-
scientious motives. A member of the Protestant Episcopal chuich, he was also vice
president of The American Bible Society and of The Protestant Episcopal City Mission
Society, and otherwise an active influence in philanthropic work. A thick set, genial,
man, with ruddy face, heavy iron gray hair and side whiskers, he was a notable figure.
In 1833, he married Lucy Cotton, of New York, who died March 14, 1886. Of their
children, four survived him, Gustavus S. Winston, M.D., Frederick M., James Sands,
Mary Hoadley and Sarah Cotton.
BENJAMIN ROBERT WINTHROP, realty owner, born in New York in January,
1804, died in London, England, July 26, 1879. He traced his descent from John Win-
throp, the first English Governor of Massachusetts, and, on his mother's side, from
Peter Stuyvesant, the last Dxitch Governor of New York. Occupied in early life as
clerk in the' banking office of Jacob Barker, he there met the poet Halleck as a fellow
employe. Mr. Winthrop inherited a large estate from both his father and mother,
which he increased by his own labors, investing his means almost wholly in real estate.
He was president at one time of a marine insurance company, a trustee of the old
Public School Society, and up to the time of going abroad a vice president of The New
York Historical Society. He had an interest in The Bank for Savings of Merchant
Clerks and at the time of his death was its first vice president. He also served as one
of the governors of The Lying-in Hospital and had been for many years its treasurer.
In the performance of official duty, Mr. Winthrop was extremely punctilious, often
making long journeys to attend a board meeting, and once coming from Europe for
that purpose. Twelve years of his life were spent abroad. By his marriage with
Elizabeth A. C., daughter of William Neilson, merchant, he became the father of five
children, Egerton Leigh and Neilson WTinthrop ; Eliza S. , wife of William Kernochan ;
Benjamin R. Winthrop; and Mrs. Anne Neilson Curtis, of Boston.
SILAS HEMINWAY WITHERBEE, manufacturer, born in Bridport, Vt, not far
from the shore of Lake Champlain, Jan. 27, 1815, died at his home in New York
city, June 8, 1889. Of the large family of his father, Jonathan, a farmer, the subject
of this memoir was next to the youngest child. The Witherbees are of English
descent, and their ancestors were rewarded by the crown for valiant services during
the Cromwellian period, receiving recognition by the gift of a title. Some of the
family removed to New England in the earliest days of settlement.
Mr. Witherbee received a common school education, such as most farmers' sous
began life with at that time, and as soon as he was old enough to work engaged as
apprentice to a blacksmith. While his first experience was not without influence in
determining his' subsequent career, he did not like blacksmith's work. After a year or
two, he accepted a position as clerk in the store of his brother in law at Port Henry,
N. Y., just across the lake from his former home. Here he remained for ssveral years,
until he took a position as clerk with The Bay State Iron Co , whose furnaces were
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. WI. 733
located in Port Henry. About this time, June 23, 1842, he married Sophia C. Goff of
Orange county, N. Y. , and began housekeeping on a salary of $600 a year. After a
few years with The Bay State Iron Co., he was removed because of the jealousy of the
superintendent. Mr. Witherbee had been making himself too valuable to the com-
pany and people had come to prefer dealing with him, rather than with the man
actually in charge. He then went to Westport, N. Y., remaining for a while at the
blast furnace located there, but The Bay State Iron Co. soon sent for him and gave him
the place of the superintendent who had dismissed him.
After a few years, he formed an alliance with his nephew, J. G. Witherbee, to
engage in a small way in the transportation business on Lake Champlain, and a little
later the}' bought an interest in the iron ore mines near Port Henry, which, largely
through their exertions, became famous as iron properties. Successively, the firms
organized were, S. H. & J. G. Witherbee, Lee, Sherman & Witherbee, and Witherbees
& Fletcher; and finally George Sherman and he, having bought all other interests, they
organized the firm of Witherbee, Sherman & Co., which has always had the highest
standing for integrity and financial soundness, not only in the iron trade, but through-
out Northern New York. At his death, Mr. Witherbee was yet at the head of this
copartnership. He was vice president of The First National Bank of Port Henry;
director of The Port Henry Iron Ore Co., and president of The Lake Champlain &
Moriah Railroad, besides being interested in other business ventures, local and other-
wise. He became, in 1887, president of The Port Henry Furnace Co., successors of
the original company, from which he had in his early life been dismissed by the super-
intendent.
In 1868, Mr. Witherbee removed to New York, and in the following year bought
the house in which he lived until his death. He early joined the Union League club,
and was one of its regular although unostentatious supporters, and a member and
trustee of the Brick Presbyterian Church. In the '705, he became interested in prop-
erty in Westchester county, near New Rochelle. Largely through his instrumentality,
the attractive suburb of Pelham Manor came into being. Part of his property was
taken by the city for the Pelham Bay Park. He never held public office, being of an
unobtrusive nature, but was always a staunch supporter of the Republican party. Of
a most generous disposition, man}' men were helped by him in a quiet way. It was a
boast of his early life, that, if he ever had more than $20,000, all sums above that
should go towards educating young men; and while this was not literally fulfilled,
many young men and boys had reason to thank him for their start in life and his
continued encouragement. Mr. Witherbee had three children, Elizabeth V., wife of
the Rev. Lewis Francis; Mary G. W., wife of Robert C. Black, and Walter C.
Witherbee.
DAVID DUNHAM WITHERS, born Jan. 22, 1822, on Greenwich street in this
city, died at the Brevoort House, February 18, 1892. He was a son of Reuben
Withers, a Virginian, who came to New York a boy and made a fortune in the trade
with China and was at one time president of The Bank of the State of New York.
The family lived at one time in a little white cottage on the site of the present statue
of Washington in Union Square, then away out in the country. Graduating from
Dr. Muhlenberg's school, the young man went South as a representative of the
shipping house of Rowland & Aspinwall, making his home in New Orleans and man-
734 AMERICAS SUCCESSFUL MEN.
aging their whole Southern business admirably. Alive to the opportunities of the
South, he acquired an interest in a cotton plantation near Natchez, borrowing $20,000
for this purpose on notes endorsed by his father. Later, he bought more land and in
all finally owned about 2,000 acres in Louisiana and Mississippi. Several speculations
in cotton resulted favorably and gave an impetus to his fortune. Investing his surplus
means in corporations, gas works, railroads, etc., he finally retired from active business
to enjoy the fruits of his labors. During the Civil War, he lived in Paris and elsewhere
abroad, and after the return of peace established his home in New York city. Mr.
Withers began in 1866 to take a lively interest in the amusements of the turf, and in
1870, in the breeding of fine horses. From the latter date, he discontinued betting on
races. The Brookdale stable in Monmouth county, N. J., which he created, soon
became famous as one of the most complete and excellent establishments of its class in
the East. Mr. Withers invested probably $1,000,000 in turf interests. The racing
track at Monmouth Park in New Jersey came into existence largely through his efforts
and expenditures. He was a member of the Knickerbocker, Metropolitan, Union and
Whist clubs. No family survived him, other than his brothers and sisters.
CHARLES FREDERICK WOERISHOFFER, banker, originated in Glenhausen,
province of Hesse, Germany, where he was born, Aug. 5, 1844. He died in Manhat-
tanville, May 10, 1886: His family were worthy and reputable people but very poor
and did not possess the means to give their boy a start in business life. Confronted
with the stern struggle for existence at an early age, he was compelled to depend upon
himself from boyhood; and this circumstance no dotibt did much to develop the self
reliance, the habit of thinking for himself, and the enterprise, which distinguished his
subsequent career.
Trained to the requirements of business in Frankfort and Paris, he sailed for the
new world in 1865 to seek his fortune. Settling in New York city, he entered the
office of August Rutten as a clerk. His native capacity brought him rapidly forward,
and Mr. Rutten soon made him the cashier. Not long after that, he pushed out for
himself and in 1868 associated himself with M. C. Klingenfeldt, and a year or so later -
with others, finally becoming a member of the Stock Exchange. He then transacted
very important business for L. von Hoffman & Co., who found their trust in him amply
repaid by his energetic, prudent and successful ways. With them, he began to lay the
foundation of a fortune. Emboldened at last to engage in business under his own
name, he established in the summer of 1870 the firm of Woerishoffer & Co., stock
brokers and bankers. The house was prosperous from the start, and two of the origi-
nal partners soon retired rich.
The firm have always been noted for their enterprise and influence. One of the
operations which won reputation for Mr. Woerishoffer was a fight he waged in 1879
with Jay Gould, Russell Sage and others for the control of The Kansas Pacific Railroad.
Woerishoffer, representing a ntimber of Frankfort investors, contracted to sell certain
Denver bonds to the Gould-Sage syndicate at §80 on the hundred, but the latter repu-
diated the contract and named $70 as their price. Mr. Woerishoffer made prompt and
effective use of the telegraph cable to Europe, and before the syndicate had fully pre-
pared for his campaign, he had safely gathered within the hands of The United States
Trust Co., more than a majority of the bonds, which the syndicate were after. He then
had the satisfaction of telling his rivals, calmly, that as their foreclosure scheme de-
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. WO. 735
pended on securing control of the bonds, they would have to pay full price for their
coquettishness. The syndicate failed to shake his determination and were obliged to
pay par value for the bonds. This operation made Mr. Woerishoffer famous in Ger-
many and London as well as in New York. From that time forward, he enjoyed the
implicit trust of every German investor in American securities; and as a result of that
successful deal, Frankfort came largely into the New York stock market. About
$6,000,000 were involved in the case.
Mr. Woerishoffer was also identified with a famous campaign in Wall street, over
Northern Pacific Railroad securities. While the stock of that road ranged at a high
price, he declared that the earnings of the company did not warrant the fancy quota-
tions at which the stocks were held. With the courage of his convictions, he openly
sold the wrhole line short, standing in this operation single handed against many influ-
ential men and heavy bankers. Seeing that arguments were of no avail, his opponents
decided to whip Mr. Woerishoffer into line; and a syndicate was formed to buy 100,000
shares of the stock and squeeze him out of the market. That speculation proved a
merry dance for the street, but Mr. Woerishoffer led the way. Nothing seemed to
daunt him. No rise or fall in quotations provoked more than a look of indifference.
Countless friends assured him that he stood iipon a volcano, which might wreck his
fortunes and those of his friends. With a rush, the 100,000 shares were bid up to a
high quotation. The whole order was filled by his own brokers, and he had cleared
millions by his allegiance to the fact that stock cannot be sustained for any length of
time with net earnings out of the question.
Mr. Woerishoffer led to success a dozen noted campaigns which followed in Wall
street. He was conspicuous in The West Shore Railroad settlement, and his transac-
tions in special speculations ranged at tremendous figures. Where others bought or
sold thousands of shares, he handled tens and hundreds of thousands. Cool, reticent,
and observing, he possessed a judgment of values intrinsic and speculative, which sel-
dom erred and was usually exact. He knew all the resources of speculation and em-
ployed them with success both in bulling and bearing stocks. Operating through many
different offices, his brokers were often ignorant of the fact that other members of the
Stock Exchange, with whom they were at cross purposes, had the same client.
Fortune came to him in large operations and his generosity was proverbial. His
clerks were the envy of every office in Wall street. Thousands went even- month to
help other men ; and Mr. Woerishoffer is credited with the unexampled liberality of
giving over twenty Stock Exchange seats, without reserve, to men whom he had found
faithful to his interests. It was not exceptional for him to give $1,000 checks as
Christmas presents to his clerks. The charities of the city also received from him
frequent and large contributions. To The German Hospital he was a large donor.
At the time of his death, he had been a power in Wall street for over twenty
years. His speculations were noted for their dash, fearlessness and success. No great
operator in Wall street was ever more popular among those with whom he came in
contact. His life was full of dramatic incidents and his career in Wall street paralleled
by few. Starting as a poor clerk, without friends or influence in America, at the age
of twenty-one, at forty-three he had risen to be a power in money centres, a ruler of
corporations, a maker of markets and possessed of a fortune of millions. Every iota of
his far reaching influence he made for himself.
736 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
He retired from active partnership in the firm of Woerishoffer & Co., Jan. i, 1886,
but retained a special partnership and gave the succeeding firm the benefit of his
frequent advice. He was also a special partner in the firm of Walsh & Hackman, at
27 William street. In 1873, he was married to Anne, the daughter of the late Mrs.
Anne Ottendorfer. He had two daughters.
JOHN WOLFE, son of the late Christopher Wolfe, wholesale hardware merchant,
was born on Fulton street in this city, opposite St. Paul's Church, in December, 1821.
Educated in leading private schools of this city and in France, he succeeded his father
in 1842 in the wholesale hardware importing and jobbing business. The trade of the
house was mainly with merchants of the Southern States and the late Civil War made
it necessary in 1864 to liquidate the business, then carried on under the name of Wolfe,
Dash & Fisher. Mr. Wolfe then travelled extensively in Europe, visiting Egypt, the
Holy Land, Constantinople, etc. He lived for several years in Dresden, Germany.
He gratified a taste for the fine arts while in Europe, by the purchase of many original
oil paintings, principally by leading artists of the modern French schools, a number of
which are now in The Metropolitan Museum of Art. He is a member of the Century
and Tuxedo clubs and a strong supporter of the public museums of the city. He was
married in 1866, to Miss Angonetta B. Dash, daughter of the late Daniel B. Dash of
this city. Their children were three sons and three daughters, only two of whom at
present survive, Christopher Wolfe, his oldest son, and Margaret, married to Grenville,
son of the late Pierre Kane of this city.
JOHN DAVID WOLFE, merchant, a native of this city, born July 24, 1792, died
in New York, May 17, 1872. He bore the name of the founder of the family, who
emigrated from Saxony to this city during the sixteenth century and died in 1759.
David Wolfe, son of the pioneer, was an assistant quartermaster in the American army
during the War for Independence and thereafter carried on a hardware trade in this
city on Maiden Lane. John David Wolfe, his son, succeeded to his father's business
and carried it on with success. At the age of fifty, he retired. By investment of his
means in real estate, he gained a large accession to his fortune. Mr. Wolfe was a -
strong Episcopalian, a vestryman of Trinity church and later senior warden of Grace
church, and one of the most liberal donors of his time to the institutions of his church
and the new 'dioceses beyond the Mississippi river. With Mrs. Peter Cooper, he
founded the Sheltering Arms in New York City. Wolfe Hall, a school for girls in
Denver, Col., was also founded by him, and he built the theological seminary of Ken-
yon College, gave the fund for the College of the Sisters of Mercy in Topeka, Kan. ,
and built homes for crippled children and destitute Christians in Suffolk county, N. Y.
He aided many other charities and was first president and an organizer of St. John-
land, president of The Working Women's Protective Union, and vice president of The
.New York Hospital. His wife was Dorothea Ann, daughter of the second Peter Lor-
illard, and two daughters survived him. One of them, Catharine Lorillard Wolfe,
inherited a large fortune from her father and grandfather. Born in New York, March
28, 1828, she died April 4, 1887. Cultivated, serene, and a Christian woman, her life
was one of the strong influences for good in this city and a long record of gracious
kindness. During her last fifteen years, she gave away more than $4,000,000 to col-
leges, churches, charities and schools, not only in New York City, but in various other
parts of the country.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. WO. 737
BENJAMIN WOOD, journalist, or, as he is almost universally known, the Hon.
Ben. Wood, whose life affords one of the most interesting examples of successful
journalism in the metropolis, originated in Shelbyville, Ky., where he was born, Oct.
13, 1820. Henry Wood, the first American ancestor, a Quaker, immigrated to this
country in 1616 and after enjoying persecution by the Puritans in Massachusetts,
settled in New Jersey, where he purchased from the Indians a large tract of land, a
part of which is now occupied by the city of Camden, opposite Philadelphia, Having
preceded William Penn, it' was Henry Wood who smoothed the way for that eminent
man and assisted in the negotiations with the Indians which followed. It may be
mentioned that the name of Benjamin appears to have been a favorite in the family, in-
asmuch as it is found in every generation in Colonial and Revolution times.
The subject of this sketch entered active business life when a youth and as super-
cargo of a trading vessel made several voyages to the West Indies and Central America.
Subsequent!}-, he had occasion to visit every State in the Union, and it was during this
period of travel that he acquired a knowledge of human nature and habits of inde-
pendence, which served to qualify him at the threshold of his career for the successes
of his maturer years. He was engaged in various business enterprises for a number
of years, with much success, and finally, in 1860, bought The New York Daily News,
with which he has ever since been identified. This newspaper has always been governed
by intensely Democratic convictions, and its proprietor and editor, Mr. Wood, has
never hesitated, at whatever cost to himself, to champion extreme Democratic doctrines.
At the time of its purchase, a national election was pending, and as events subsequently
proved, the editor of the newspaper was destined to play no inconspicuous part in the
struggle. Mr. Wood was quick to recognize the situation. He had already become an
active factor in the field of politics, being a member of the Democratic State Central
Committee, chairman of the committee appointed to unite the divergent interests of
Stephen A. Douglas and John C. Breckinridge in their candidacy, and likewise chair-
man of the convention of Democratic editors, which met in the Astor House in this
city to determine upon the policy of their party. Through these various circumstances,
the eyes of public men came to be concentrated upon him as one of the important
leaders in the struggle which was about to ensue.
In the autumn of 1860, Mr. Wood was elected Representative in Congress from
what is now the Vth District of New York. No man in that body pleaded more
strongly with voice and pen than he in behalf of the unity of the nation and against
armed coercion of the South. His bold language and aggressive attitude attracted
general attention throughout the Union, and it is not a matter of surprise, that,
under the conditions of the time, Tlu Daily News was denied admission to the United
States mails and for eighteen months remained under the ban of the Federal author-
ities. That the people of his district were with him, however, is shown by the fact
that in 1862, Mr. Wood was re-elected to Congress by an overwhelming majority, and
had he not positively refused to accept the honor, he would have been again nominated
in 1864. In 1880, his constituents would not accept a declination, and, for the third
time, he was triumphantly elected a Representative of his district. He was never
defeated when running for office, but has repeatedly refused political honors.
That the influence of The Daily News must have been powerful during the War
is indicated by the ability and character of its editorial staff, which comprised such men
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. WO. 739
as John Mitchell, the Irish patriot, ex-Governor Wall of New Jersey, Wiliam Mann
and Isaac G. Pray. Among the contributors whose names did not appear were James
A. Bayard, Charles O'Conor, Samuel J. Tilden, Robert Garrett, sr., Jeremiah Black
and Josiah Randall.
After the War, Mr. Wood was instrumental in establishing on their feet several
of the journalists of the South, who had been ruined, and it was due to his liberal ad-
vances of funds that they were enabled to resume publication. The Cliarleston News of
South Carolina, now The 'News and Courier, was one of the offspring of this generosity.
Mr. Wood now believed that opportunity was ripe for a new departure in American
journalism. Accordingly, April 29, 1867, The New York Daily News made its first
appearance as a one cent evening newspaper, and in the form now familiar to more
than half a million daily readers. The cost of printing paper was then ten cents a
pound. Notwithstanding the heavy expenses, Mr. Wood made the venture a success,
and it is believed, from that time until the present, Tlie News in point of circulation
has distanced every other morning or afternoon journal in the United States. In
fact, it may be safely said that with the exception of the Petit Journal of Paris and
The London Telegraph, it probably leads the press of the world in point of circulation.
About five months prior to the change of price, Mr. Wood decided to publish a
Sunday News at a price which would bring it easily within the reach of the masses.
The other great Sunday newspapers had more or less of a circulation in the country
towns and villages, but in not one were the columns wholly devoted to subjects of
special local and personal interest. The field was comparatively unoccupied and invit-
ing. Advertisers who aimed to reach the largest possible number of metropolitan
readers, appreciated the value of the new medium and flocked to its standard, while
an enormous circulation attested the welcome with which the paper was received by
the public.
Yet farther enlarging his system of low priced newspapers, Mr. Wood began the
publication of the New Yorker Tagcs Nachrichten in March, 1870, and when the Franco-
Prussian war broke out, the German population of this city, who had no evening jour-
nal, were for the first time able to read dispatches from the fatherland in their own
language in a one cent paper. Two years later, in 1872, the New Yorker Sonntags-
Naclirichten, an eight page German weekly, was issued. All these publications have
since moved smoothly in their several channels of prosperity and have afforded an ex-
ample, which has been followed in many parts of the country.
One of the reasons why The New York Daily News has proved so successful is to
be found in the fact that it has always been in close touch with the common people.
It aided reforms and the election of public men with large, broad and wholesome
ideas; and those who find it important to discern public opinion accurately cannot now
neglect Tlie Daily News. During a quarter of a century, every candidate it has sup-
ported for Mayor of New York, save one, has been elected. Over and over again, its
influence in public affairs has been acknowledged, and more than once men of Demo-
cratic faith in the metropolis have had occasion to be grateful for its decisive strokes in
periods of grave concern.
With lightning presses capable of printing 150,000 copies an hour, and in pos-
session of every other detail of mechanism necessary for the rapid production of a
newspaper, no occasion has yet arisen when Mr. Wood's facilities have been overtaxed.
74° AMERICA S SUCCESSFUL TVIEN.
Mr. Wood's first wife died in 1849, leaving him two sons. In 1867, he married
Miss Ida E. Mayfield, daughter of Henry T. Mayfield. The early records spell the
name Maifield. On her mother's side, she is of distinguished Scotch ancestry, a
descendant of a branch of the Earls of Crawford. By this second wife, Mr. Wood had
one daughter, a beautiful, distinguished looking girl, who inherits to a remarkable
degree her father's traits of character. Although Mr. Wood's wife is many years his
junior, the marriage proved a happy union; he is a most devoted husband and indul-
gent father, and is very proud of his accomplished wife and daughter. In person, Mr.
Wood is of robust and sinewy frame, a trifle above medium height. In his early years
he must have been a man of powerful muscular development. Strength of character
is conveyed in the firm lines around the mouth. During the draft riots in this city,
Mr. Wood performed signal service on several occasions in facing and turning back the
angry and unreasoning crowd. On one occasion, Mr. Wood drew his revolver, and
in tones whose meaning was unmistakable shouted to the crowd: " Men, you know
that The Daily News has always been with you for the maintenance of your rights,
but it is not your right to destroy the property of your fellow citizens, and you shall
not pass here while I am alive to prevent it." Recognizing the old editor and knowing
his determination, the leaders fell back, and in the pause which ensued the police found
an opportunity to secure control. It would require many pages to chronicle the inter-
esting incidents which form a part of the story of the venerable editor of The Daily
News, but enough has been told to indicate the character of the oldest active proprietor
of a New York newspaper, who from the start has been continuously and unchangeably
true to the journal which has been the passion of his life.
SAflUEL WOOD, merchant, born in East Rockaway, Long Island, died in this
city, March 20, 1878, eighty-three years of age. He was one of four brothers, the others
being David, Abraham, and Epenetus, all of them bachelors and sons of a farmer.
The boys came to this city about 1816 and began business 'as grocers on Fulton street
on the site of what is now Fulton market. When their store burned down, they moved
across to No. 6 Fulton street. Later, they imported liquors on a large scale. The
brothers were plain men but they made a great deal of money. Epenetus died first,
leaving his accumulations to his brothers. David invested his means in bonds and
mortgages largely, and when he died, leaving his property to Samuel and Abraham,
Samuel called in the mortgages and engaged in real estate investments, becoming a
large owner in this class of property. Abraham died next, leaving a life interest in
his estate to Samuel. Thus by his own efforts and inheritance from his brothers,
Samuel Wood became possessed of a large fortune. He founded the village of Woods-
burg on Long Island, about a mile west of his birthplace. A large portion of his estate
was devoted by his will to the establishment of The Samuel Wood Benevolent Insti-
tute in this city. He had contemplated the endowment of a Free College of Music but
changed this intention by a codicil. The will was declared void by the courts. Abra-
ham Hewlett, a nephew, was his only heir at law.
WILLIAfl WOOD, one of the oldest and best known residents of this city, born in
Glasgow, Scotland, Oct. 21, 1808, died in New York city, Oct. i, 1894. His father
was John Wood, a banker, of the firm of Buchanan, Wood & Co., in Charleston, S. C.,
with headquarters in Glasgow, Scotland. William was expected to enter the law and
received an excellent education at the Universities of Glasgow and St. Andrew; but
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. WO. 741
he preferred a practical career and came to New York city in 1828 to start a branch
of the Glasgow house. The firm name then was Dennistoun, McGregor & Co., but
Mr. McGregor soon withdrew, Mr. Wood taking his place. He had been in New York
two years, when he married Harriet A. Kane, daughter of John Kane, of New York.
He then returned to Glasgow and thence to Liverpool, where he remained for several
years before becoming a New Yorker for life. His banking business prospered and
before the War there was hardly a house better known in this city than Mr. Wood's.
At one time, he took an active part in important public movements and was interested
in politics, although not an office seeker. In 1869, he retired from business. He was
appointed hi that year, a Commissioner of Education by Mayor Hall, and, on the
passage of the new city charter the same year, the Mayor appointed him a Commis-
sioner of the Dock Department. He always labored for the cause of education and
was the founder of the Normal College. Before and during the late Civil War, Mr.
Wood was an Abolitionist, in so far as he was always in favor of free trade, free
speech, free religion, and of course of free labor. In 1860, the Collegiate Reformed
Church of this city made him an elder. From his mother, who had inherited the
place from her father, William Wood, the subject of this memoir inherited the
ancestral home at Elie, Fifeshire, Scotland. The place was built about 700 years ago
and has been in possession of the Wood family over 100 years. It faces the Firth of
Forth, a tributary of the North Sea, and now passes to J. Walter Wood, jr. , a grandson of
William Wood. Mr. Wood was a member of the St. Andrew's Society and at the time
of his death its oldest member. His death was due to old age. He was thrice married,
his second and third wives being Miss Margaret Lawrence and Miss Helen Mason.
The names of his surviving children are, J. Walter Wood, Charlotte M. Bell, Elizabeth
D. Kane, Harriet M. Wood, Helen W. Watts, Dennistoun Wood, H. Duncan Wood,
Chalmers Wood and V. H. L. Wood.
LORENZO GUERNSEY WOODHOUSE, merchant, retired, and capitalist, was
born at Westmoreland, N. H., July 16, 1839. His father was the late Rev. Charles
Woodhouse, a well known Universalist minister. His parents moved with their family
in 1844 to Clarendon, Vt. , and in 1849, to Fitchburg, Mass. It was here in the common
schools that Lorenzo, the youngest son, received the greater part of his education.
His preference for an early business life induced him at the age of thirteen and a half
years to leave home and take a position in the store of his uncle, L. G. Guernsey, of
the firm of Guernsey & Terry, at Hudson, N. Y.
He remained there a little over three years, when he sought a larger field of oppor-
tunities and came to New York city in January, 1856. where he entered the employment
of George Bliss & Co., one of the leading dry goods jobbing houses of the metropolis.
The experience gained here proved to be of great benefit to him afterward, and helped
to lay the foundation of his future success. He remained for seven years with this
firm, where his services were highly appreciated.
When Sumter was fired on in April, 1861, with the patriotic enthusiasm of youth
he enlisted in the 7th Regiment, New York National Guard, and followed the fortunes
of this regiment in its campaigns of 1861 and 1862, and saw subsequent service in riot
duty. He served his full term and resigned his commission in 1868, since which time
he has been one of the most active members and officers in the 7th Regiment Veteran
Association.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. WO. 743
In the summer of 1863, he associated himself with the dry goods firm of Cooley,
Farwell & Co., of Chicago, as their New York representative. He continued with
their successors, Farwell, Field & Co. , Field, Palmer & Leiter, Field, Leiter & Co. , and
Marshall Field & Co. , covering a period of twenty-seven years, retiring from the latter
firm in 1890. During all this time, he was their representative and for many years the
manager and resident New York partner. This firm developed from a modest begin-
ning into a mammoth concern, conducting an enormous business which is equaled by
very few mercantile houses in the world. Their trade reaches every section of this
country and their fame and reputation extend over several continents. The New
York end of the business was under the management of Mr. Woodhouse and an
important factor of this vast industry. Since his retirement from active business, he
has spent much time in travel both at home and abroad.
Mr. Woodhouse was married in 1866 to Miss Emma D. Arrowsmith, daughter of
Dr. J. E. Arrowsmith, of Keyport, N. J. He has always lent discriminating aid to
charity, and a recent gift, worthy of special mention, is the sum of $3,000 for an organ
which he had built and placed as a memorial in the church in Fitchburg, Mass., of
which his father was formerly the pastor, and which is known as the Woodhouse
Memorial Organ.
Mr. Woodhouse enjoys a wide acquaintance in financial circles and possesses
shrewd judgment and fine executive ability, which have rendered his services valuable
to all the corporations with which he has been connected. He is now thoroughly iden-
tified with the commercial and social life of the metropolis, and a member of the Union
League, Players', Lotos and Seventh Regiment Veteran clubs and The New England
Society. Genial, courteous and clear in his judgments, he is a most agreeable associate
in private life and ranks with the eminently successful, self-made men of the time.
FRANK WORK, stockbroker, born in Chillicothe, O., Feb. 10, 1819, is a brother
of the late John C. Work. At the age of ten, he became a clerk in a general store.
This was the period of State canal building in Ohio, and the lad secured a place in
1835 as a civil engineer in the construction department, remaining in that employment
until, the funds of the State being exhausted, all the engineers were discharged. In
1838, Mr. Work came to New York city and entered the dry goods jobbing house of
Clark, Smith & Co. , as a clerk. In two years' time he was made a partner, under the
name of Clark, Work & Co. In 1851, Mr. Work retired from the dry goods district
and entered Wall street as an operator in stocks, establishing a stock brokerage office
of his own in 1859. In 1870, the name was changed to Work & Co., bankers and stock
brokers, and in 1875 to Work, Strong & Co. This well known house was for forty
years active in the operations which center in Wall street and always bore a very high
reputation. Mr. Work retired in 1891. He has been conspicuous on the American
turf and the owner of many thoroughbreds. His stables, finished in oak and brass,
illustrate the taste of a man of refinement, who loves the noble animals which are
sheltered in that enclosure. Mr. Work is a member of the Manhattan, New York
Yacht, and South Side Sportsmen's clubs and The Ohio Society.
JOHN CLINTON WORK, merchant, bora in Baltimore, Md., died in this city,
Nov. 29, 1887, in the seventy-ninth year of his age. Beginning life at the age of
fifteen, as clerk in the dry goods store of Robert W. McCoy, in Columbus, O., he
made every effort to fit himself for promotion, received it, and became a partner of
744 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
Mr. McCoy at twenty-one. By close economy and faithful application, he gained a
little means, and coming to New York city in 1843, he formed the dry goods firm of
Baldwin, Dibblee & Work, the store being then on Chambers Street. He was success-
ful as a merchant and transacted a prosperous business until 1867, when the partners
all retired. A member of the Union League club and fond of social life., he was con-
spicuous for his fine manner and vigorous health.
EBENEZER KELLOGG WRIGHT, bank president, rose by the possession of an
unblemished character and business ability of a high order to become the honored
head of one of the strongest financial institutions in the United States. He was born
July 28, 1837 in Wright Settlement, a suburb of Rome, N. Y. and died in New York
city, August 4, 1895. His father, Ebenezer William Wright, was a farmer, whose
ancestors were among the earliest settlers of Wethersficld, Conn. In 1789, they
removed to New York State and settled in Oneida county. Sophia Denio, mother of
the subject of this sketch, is a sister of the distinguished Judge Denio of the Court
of Appeals of New York State. One of Mr. Wright's ancestors was a signer of the
original charter of Connecticut, while Benjamin Wright, a cousin of his father, was
associated with Gov. Clinton in promoting and constructing of the Erie Canal.
From capable, upright and worthy parents, Mr. Wright inherited a sound constitu-
tion and an honest nature, while, from his early life upon the farm, he gained a phys-
ical vitality, which enabled him in later years to perform an amount of labor appalling
to a man of lesser strength. He attended the local district schools in this State and
Connecticut during boyhood, enjoyed one year at the academy in Rome, and then, in
1855, exhibited his ambition by making his entrance into business life for a few months
as clerk in a store. He then became clerk in The Utica City Bank in Utica, N. Y. , of
which his uncle, Judge Denio, was president. The salary was small, only $100 a year,
but the new clerk proved himself a willing, ambitious and faithful youth. He gained
a strong liking for the banking business, soon winning the entire respect of the officers
of the bank. In 1859, Mr. Wright came to New York and secured the position of
assistant teller in The Park Bank, then located at No. 5 Beekman street. He paid the
strictest attention to every detail of his work and discharged every duty in his usual
painstaking manner. In 1865, the institution was reorganized as The National
Park Bank of New York. By 1863, the income of Mr. Wright had become sufficient to
warrant his marriage, and he was united to Josephine L. Hamilton of New York, a lady
of distinguished parentage, whose family were prominent in colonial times and the
American Revolution and bore their part bravely in the early wars. This union
brought them four children, of whom three are living: Blanche Denio, wife of Edward
Bright; Beatrice Orne, and Lawrence Worth Wright.
In 1866, the bank promoted Mr. Wright successively to the positions of receiving
and paying teller, and two years later, moved to its present location on Broadway.
Mr. Wright's abilities having attracted attention, he was promoted in 1876 to the im-
portant post of cashier. In this responsible position, he acquitted himself with great
credit. To his untiring labor and watchfulness, his genial manners, cool judgment, and
thorough understanding of finance, the subsequent success of the bank was largely
due. In 1878, the stockholders elected him a director; in 1888, second vice president;
in 1889, vice president; and on June 20, 1890, president. After the recent death of
Eugene Kelly, Mr. Wright became the senior director of the bank. This great insti-
^
746 AMERICA'S SUCCESSFUL MEN.
tution has now risen to an important position. Its capital is $2,000,000 and its surplus
$3,000,000, while its deposits, which are upwards of $37,000,000, are not excelled in
magnitude by any other bank in the United States. It has often been said that The
National Park Bank is emphatically an institution of the people. Its accounts are
largely those of merchants, manufacturers and firms in practical business, and on this
account its periodical statements are watched by the public as a faithful indication of
the condition of general business. Mr. Wright's connection with the bank brought
him opportunities for legitimate investment. He was a member of the Chamber of
Commerce and trustee of The State Trust Co., of which he was an incorporator, and
of other important organizations. Although not a graduate, he was honored by Ham-
ilton College, at Clinton, N. Y., in 1894, with the degree of M.A., owing to his general
culture and qualifications. In politics a Republican, he was in religion an Episcopalian,
and a vestryman of Trinity Church of this city, a member of the Church club, The
Empire State Society of Sons of the American Revolution, and The Society of Colonial
Wars. Mr. Wright's whole career was passed in the field of finance. He never allowed
social organizations or the attractions of public life to interfere with his devotion to
the bank. His success was due to concentration of effort, high character, and com-
plete mastery of his chosen occupation.
JAMES HOOD WRIGHT, banker, born in Philadelphia, died suddenly in this city,
Nov. 12, 1894, at the Rector street station of the elevated railroad, in the fifty-ninth
year of his age. While a youth, he learned the methods of business as a dry goods
clerk, and remained in the dry goods business for several years, leaving it to become
a clerk in the Philadelphia banking house of Drexel & Co. He showed ability as a
financier and the managers of the firm evinced their appreciation of his capacity by
frequent promotions. About 1864, he was taken into the firm as a partner. When
the house of Drexel, Morgan & Co. was established in this city in 1871, he became
one of the partners and soon removed to New York. Mr. Wright was interested in
many business corporations and accepted the place of director of The Chicago, Mil-
waukee & St. Paul Railroad, The New York & West Shore Railroad, The Southern
Railroad, The Edison Illuminating Co. and The New York Guaranty & Indemnity
Co. He was also president of The Manhattan Hospital, in which he took a great
interest, and a member of the Union League, Metropolitan, City, Riding and New
York Yacht clubs. He married Mrs. Mary P. Robinson, widow of John Robinson,
a former partner in Drexel, Morgan & Co., who survived him. Always public spirited
in life, he left generous bequests for public objects, including $100,000 for the public
library on Washington Heights, and a yet larger sum to The Manhattan Dispensary.
WILLIAfl OZHUN WYCKOFF, manufacturer, born on a farm in the town of
Lansing, Tompkins county, N. Y., Feb. 16, 1835, died at the Thousand Islands, N. Y.,
July n, 1895. He was a son of Ira Wyckoff, a prominent citizen and farmer. His
mother was Julia A., daughter of William Ozmun, a farmer of the same town, while
his early ancesters were Holland farmers, who came to this country about 1675, settling
on Long Island. Mr. Wyckoff spent his early life in farming, receiving a common
school education, and attending the Ithaca academy a few terms. In 1856, he settled
upon a quarter section of land in Blue Earth county, Minn., with a view of securing
means to attend college; but the reaction of 1857 put this out of the question, and he
returned to Ithaca and took up the study of law. During the Civil War, he served two
•v THE CITY OF NEW YORK. WY. 747
years in the 320! N. Y. Inf., going in as a private and rising to the rank of captain.
He was admitted to the bar, Nov. 16, 1863, and in the meantime had attended and
received a diploma from Ames Business College in Syracuse. In 1866, he became
official court stenographer of the Supreme Court for the 6th Judicial District of the
State and held the position for sixteen consecutive years. The purchase of a Rem-
ington type writing machine, in 1875, for use in transcribing court reports, drew his
attention to the machine itself, and, obtaining an agency for their sale, he found that
he could dispose of them so successfully that he resolved to turn from professional
pursuits to a practical career. First, a salesman for The Remington Standard Type-
writer Co., of Ilion, he finally, about 1882, established the firm of Wyckoff, Seamans
& Benedict, with about $20,000 of capital, and made a contract with E. Remington &
Sons, whereby the firm became sole agents for the sale of the machines. They were
successful from the start. In 1886, they bought the whole plant and patent rights of
the Ilion concern. Their business continuing to expand, Wyckoff, Seamans & Benedict
were incorporated May 19, 1892, with a capital stock of $3,000,000. Mr. Wyckoff was
president of the company, which manufactures the Remington type writing machine.
He was for years a resident of the metropolis and after that made his home in Brooklyn.
He was a member of the Republican club and the Loyal Legion of this city and the
Union League club of Brooklyn, and for several years a member of the executive com-
mittee of the latter; and a trustee of The Union Type Writer Co., and a member of the
executive committee. He was married Oct. 20, 1863, to Frances V., daughter of
Almon C. Ives, of South Lansing, N. Y., and their children are Edward G., now a
prominent merchant of Syracuse, N. Y., and Clarence F. Wyckoff, of the class of '98,
Cornell University.
Ubr»iy
Y.
JOHN SHERLOCK YOUNG, merchant and financier, born in Baltimore, Md.,
Aug. 24, 1814, died in New York, June 24, 1880. A son of William Loney Young,
shipping merchant, in partnership with Robert Gilmore, a prominent citizen of those
days in Baltimore, John S. Young came to New York when fourteen years of age,
and as a boy entered a wholesale grocery house. When eighteen years old, he estab-
lished a shipping house as Palmer & Young, and for the forty or more years during
which he remained in business was distinguished for unceasing activity and honorable
dealing. He retired from mercantile life soon after the close of the Civil War, and
later became a special partner in the banking house of J. B. Summerfield & Co., in
which he continued until his death. Investing his fortune largely in real estate, he
gave his attention to the care of this property during the closing years of his life. Mr.
Young was one of the founders and original directors of The Marine Bank, and a mem-
ber of Adelphic Chapter, F. & A. M. He married Ann Smith Post, daughter of Peter
R. Post, an importing merchant of this city, and was survived by his wife and four
children, the latter being John Day and William Henry Young; Annie P., wife of
Charles E. Bogert, and Caroline Amelia, wife of M. T. Brundage.
ANTONIO YZNAQA DEL VALLE, merchant and planter, born in Cuba, Sept. 8,
1823, died in this city, May 6, 1892. He came to this country while a boy, and obtained
his education near New York, his early training making him thoroughly American in
feelings and sympathies. Although he returned to Cuba and remained there for sev-
eral years, he finally came back to the United States in 1847 or 1848. He then estab-
lished a commission business, trading exclusively with Cuba, and for twenty-six years
had his office on Broad Street. He was also a large sugar refiner. Though he owned
a great deal of real estate in Cuba, including large sugar plantations on the south side
of the island, he took no part in the political affairs there. When the first signs of the
civil strife appeared in this country, he at once became an enthusiastic supporter of
the Union. He had large interests in the South, but cast his whole influence in favor
of the North. He was one of the first merchants who subscribed to raise $60,000,000
when Mr. Chase, then Secretary of the Treasury, came to New York to obtain this
amount.
z.
ANDREW CHRISTIAN ZABRISKIE, realty owner, born in New York city, May
30, 1853, is a son of Christian A. Zabriskie and Sarah Jane Titus, his wife.
The founder of this family in America was Albert Zborowski, a nobleman, who emi-
grated from Holland in 1650, having previously fled from Poland, his native land, to
escape political tyranny. He settled on the banks of the Hackensack river in New Jer-
sey and married a daughter of one of the Dutch settlers. His five sons founded the
numerous branches of the Zabriskie family in this country. The evolution of the sur-
name was effected through a long series of years, until the present spelling was finally
adopted. The paternal grandfather of Andrew C. Zabriskie, after whom he was named,
was a well known New York merchant in the early part of this century and Adjutant
of a squadron of horse in the county of Bergen, N. J., in 1798. The maternal grand-
father, William M. Titus, also for many years a well known merchant in New York,
served during the war of 1812 in the nth Artillery of New York, and was on duty
in the forts which guarded the mouth of New York harbor. Subsequently, he became
a Captain in the same regiment. The State authorities renamed this regiment in after
years as the 27th N. Y. Inf. and it is now known as the 7th Regiment, N. G., N. Y.
Christian A. Zabriskie never engaged in active business but preferred the quiet
enjoyments of country life, spending much time at Paramus, N. J., upon a farm which
comprises part of the estate which has now been owned by the family for more than
two hundred years. His death, which took place in July, 1879, was particularly sad
as he was instantly killed by the cars at Central Morrisania. One of the New York
papers in its notice of the event called attention to the fact that sudden death was a
mysterious heirloom in the Zabriskie family, both uncles of Andrew C. Zabriskie —
Martin and John Jacob — having died suddenly. It also remarked that their family had
always exerted a potent influence for good both in its native State and New York City
in Church and Sunday School work. The wife of Christian A. Zabriskie was well
known for large hearted charity and liberality. Possessed of an ample fortune in her own
right, which she inherited from her mother, who was a daughter of Thomas Gardner,
she took delight in assisting all good works, both within and without the Episcopal
Church. Her devotion to her children was also one of her marked characteristics.
Andrew C. Zabriskie received an excellent education in private schools and Co-
lumbia College and early in life assumed charge of the large real estate interests of his
family, a portion of which he inherited. He is a capable and enterprising man, the
soul of honor, and highly regarded for ability and character by all who are admitted to
his acquaintance. Possessing the military tastes of his family, he now has a long record
of military service to his credit. He enlisted in 1873 in Company B., 7th Regiment,
N. G., N. Y., and served over seven years in that historic and favorite organization.
Subsequently, he was elected Captain of Company C, 7ist Regiment, N. G., N. Y.,
which position he resigned only to accept, a few years later, the position of Inspector of
Rifle Practice on the staff of the same organization. Captain Zabriskie is the donor
of a handsome bronze trophy, which is annually shot for by the various companies
of the 7ist Regiment and is known as the Zabriskie Trophy.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. ZA. 7$I
Although a Republican, he has held aloof from active participation in practical
politics, his only appearance in that arena having been in 1879, when he served as
treasurer of the Independent Republicans in the revolt against Governor Cornell's re-
election. He has joined a few good clubs and is a member of the Metropolitan, City
and United Service clubs, The Holland, New York Historical, and American Geo-
graphical Societies, and The Seventh Regiment Veteran Association, and is vice presi-
dent of The American Numismatic & Archaeological Society, in whose work he takes a
very great interest. In c6mmon with other cultivated New Yorkers, he has been zeal-
ous in the promotion of the higher interests of the metropolis, and is a supporter of
many public institutions, including the great museums in Central Park and The
National Academy of Design, both of which bear an important relation to the growth
of taste in the metropolis. His collection of coins and medals, is, in certain departments,
unrivalled in this country. The early history of New York city, as illustrated by its
medals and tokens, has received his particular attention, as well as the Presidential and
political medals of the United States. Another department in which his collection
stands pre-eminent is that of Polish coins and medals. The rise and fall of the unhappy
country of Poland can be traced in a most interesting manner by an examination of
this collection.
In religion, Mr. Zabriskie is an Episcopalian and a delegate to the Diocesan Con-
vention from the Church of the Incarnation, with which he has been connected since
early childhood. He is treasurer of The American Church Missionary Society,
treasurer of the Church German Society, and is a trustee of St. Luke's Hospital, The
Sheltering Arms and other charities. Of The Bergen Turnpike Co., an ancient and
powerful New Jersey corporation, he is president, and is much interested in developing
his property interests there, which are very extensive.
His contributions to literature have been mostly of an historical character, and
embrace a " Descriptive Catalogue of the Medals Struck in Honor of Abraham Lincoln"
and various articles contributed to the magazines. A valued relic in his possession is a
page taken from the sum book of Lincoln when a boy, which is properly authenticated
by his law partner, William H. Herndon.
Captain Zabriskie owns a large island embracing over one hundred acres, in Lake
Memphremagog, called Province Island, from the fact that the international boundary
line passes across it. Here it is his custom to pass part of the summer, enjoying the
sailing and fishing, as well as the pure invigorating air of that region.
He was married to Miss Frances Hunter, youngest daughter of the late Charles F.
Hunter, president of The People's Bank of New York, on the sixth of June, 1895, at
the Madison Square Presbyterian Church.
CORNELIUS ZABRISKIE, banker, born in that part of Bergen county, N. J.,
known as Cherry Hill, Feb. 24, 1839, is a son °f the late David A. Zabriskie, a promi-
nent and influential citizen and great grandson of a paymaster in the Continental army;
noted both for his bravery and careful supervision of the finances. The family is an
old one and its members have always borne a high reputation and shown marked public
spirit in their respective generations.
Leaving home at the age of fifteen, Mr. Zabriskie moved to Jersey City, where,
after completing his studies at the public schools, he gained a thorough knowledge of
chemistry and was for nine )'ears connected with the oldest drug house in Jersey City.
752 AMERICAS SUCCESSFUL MEN.
In 1863, he decided upon a change of vocation and entered the large mercantile estab-
lishment of Terhune Bro's, of Jersey City, as a clerk, and rose by excellent abilities to
the head of one of the important departments of the concern. In 1871, the firm lost
their place of business by fire.
With limited resources, Mr. Zabriskie then engaged in banking in Jersey City and
found in finance an excellent and congenial field for his abilities. His business has
grown, through persevering and intelligent labor, until now his transactions aggregate
millions of dollars a year, constituting, in fact, probably the largest banking business
in New Jersey. Among the noteworthy incidents of his financial career was his suc-
cessful effort for the formation of a syndicate, composed of himself and other men of
pecuniary strength, for the rescue of Jersey City from impending bankruptcy. Bonds
to the amount of several hundred thousand dollars were about to mature and there was
no money in the treasury of the city with which to pay them. Mr. Zabriskie came
promptly to the aid of the authorities and supplied a sufficient sum of money to relieve
the city treasury from embarrassment. He is a recognized authority upon the subject
of city and coimty securities and one of the soundest and most respected bankers of the
State, with whose history for so long a period the Zabriskie family have been identified.
Mr. Zabriskie has interested himself in a large number of local enterprises of
Jersey City and vicinity, and is a director of The Hudson County National Bank of
Jersey City, The First National Bank of Hoboken, The Jersey City Gas Light Co., and
The Hackensack Gas Light Co., and an element of strength in them all. He is a
member of the Chamber of Commerce of New York and The Washington Association
of New Jersey, which was organized at a meeting of incorporators in Morristown,
N. J., May 5, 1874. He is also a member of the Union League club of New York
city and the Hamilton club of Brooklyn.
Always a public spirited man, he has illustrated his interest in the welfare of his
fellow citizens in many ways. After the destruction of the village of Cherry Hill,
N. J., by a tornado in the summer of 1895, Mr. Zabriskie contributed $500 for the
relief of the sufferers.
Since 1882, he has been a resident of the city of Brooklyn. In that year, he married
O. Addie Emerson, daughter of Edward Emerson, a native of Boston. He has three
children, Madeline, Orlena A. and Elvia.
AUGUSTUS ZEREQA, merchant, born in Martinique, Dec. 4, 1803, died in this city,
Dec. 23, 1888. His family emigrated from Genoa about the middle of the last century
and his father was a shipowner and man of large wealth and scholastic tastes. Edu-
cated first in London, he went afterward to a college in France, wheie he had for a
school mate the late Francis S. Skiddy. Returning to his home at the age of fifteen, he
made several voyages in his father's ships and learned the art of practical navigation.
When seventeen years old he determined to begin life for himself, and, going to St.
Thomas, purchased a small schooner, which he sailed between the islands, carrying on
a lucrative trade. When twenty-one years old, he married the daughter of a Danish
nobleman. Shortly afterward he took command of a Baltimore clipper ship, and sailed
it under Government convoy between St. Thomas and La Guayra. In 1835, ^e reached
Philadelphia, and that city "not stirring enough," as he expressed it, for a man of his
energy, he came on to New York. In a short time, he had established himself as a
shipping merchant on South street, and there laid the foundations of the "Z" line of
THE CITY OF NEW YORK. ZI. 753
clipper sailing vessels. His only partner died a few years ago in this city. Among
the vessels of this line were the Queen of Clippers and the Antarctic. The latter, com-
manded by Captain Stauffer, won celebrity by rescuing over 300 United States soldiers
from the steamer San Francisco, when the latter foundered at sea. In 1855, Mr. Zerega
retired from business with a fortune. He was a man of remarkable memory, especially
for dates and figures, and retained this faculty almost to the day he died. His charities
were liberal and always unostentatious. His wife survived him with nine children.
WILLIAfl Z1EGLER,' manufacturer, a son of Francis Ziegler, manufacturer, was
born in Beaver county, Pa., Sept. i, 1843. While William was yet a child, the family
moved to the West and settled on a farm near Muscatine, Iowa. His mother, Ernestina,
being left a widow when William was three years old, afterward married Conrad Brandt,
an influential resident of Sweetland township in Muscatine county. In 1858, William
learned the printer's trade in the office of The Muscatine Journal and followed varied
employments for a few years, being after 1861 a druggist's clerk. In 1862-3, he gradu-
ated from Eastman's Business College in Poughkeepsie, and then came to New York,
where after a struggle he secured a place in a wholesale drug store, with which he
remained five years, in the meanwhile graduating from the New York School of Phar-
macy. By economy, he managed to save a little capital, and in 1868, engaged on his
own account in supplying bakers and confectioners with extracts, drugs, etc. , not hav-
ing at the time sufficient means to start a store. From this trade, sprang the enormous
business in baking powder, which he subsequently developed. In 1870, he organized
The Royal Chemical Co., and began the manufacture of baking powder, and in 1873,
incorporated The Royal Baking Powder Co. These interests he managed with remark-
able success, finally selling them in 1886. He has since invested largely in corporations.
He owns a large interest in The W. B. Hislop Co., of Syracuse and Auburn, N. Y.
In 1890, he bought The Price Baking Powder Co., of Chicago, now very profitable,
and, in March, 1891, The Tartar Chemical Co., of Jersey City. He is also interested
in The Lake Street Elevated Railroad of Chicago and The Brooklyn Daily Eagle, but
has not been actively engaged in business since 1886. Prior to and upon withdrawing
a large amount of capital from the baking powder industry, Mr. Ziegler engaged in
large real estate operations and improvements in Brooklyn, especially in the 23d and
25th Wards, amounting to millions of dollars. He has also bought 2,000 lots at Morris
Park, 1,500 lots in Flatbush and New Utrecht, known as the Martense Farm, 2,500 lots
in Flushing and Corona, 2,000 lots on Staten Island, 6,000 lots at Linden, N. J., and
much other property, including improved realty on Liberty and Cedar Streets, and
Fifth and Madison Avenues in New York city. July 22, 1886, he married Mrs. E. M.
Gamble, sister of Mrs. W. Jennings Demorest, of New York. He is a member of the
Union League club of Brooklyn and Chicago, Atlantic, Larchmont and New York
Yacht clubs, Down Town, Brooklyn and Robins Island clubs, and is a famous hunter, his
house being decorated with splendid moose, caribou and deer and other trophies from
the woods Mr. Ziegler came into great prominence in Brooklyn a few years ago by
his long and successful fight to prevent the extravagant purchase of The Long Island
Water Supply Co., by the city. He saved the city $1,500,000. He has been twice
offered the Mayoralty of Brooklyn by the Republicans, but refused to make the can-
vass, the last time being governed by the failure of the Democrats to renominate
Mayor Chapin, with whom he wished to contest the campaign.
INDEX.
PACK
ABBEY, HENRY E 5
ABRAHAM, ABRAHAM 5
ACKER, DAVID D 6
ACKER, CHARLES L 7
ACKER, FRANKLIN k . 7
ACKERMAN, WARREN 7
ADAMS, EDWARD D 8
ADEE, GEORGE T 10
ADRIAN, MICHAEL} n
AGATE, FREDERIC K 12
AITKEN, JOHN W 12
ALDRICH, HERMAN D 13
ALEXANDER, JUNIUS B.... 13
ALEXANDER, WILLIAM C 14
ALEXANDRE, FRANCIS 14
ALLAIRE, JAMES P 15
ALLEN, GEORGE H 15
ALLEN, HENRY 15
ALMIRALL, JOSEPH J 15
ALSTYNE, JOHN 15
ALTMAN, BENJAMIN 16
AMSINCK, GUSTAV 17
ANDERSON, ELBERT J 17
ANDERSON, JOHN 18
ANDERSON, LORING 18
ANDREWS, CONSTANT A 19
ANDREWS, WALLACE C ig
ANSBACHER, ADOLPH B 21
ANTHONY, EDWARD 21
ANTHONY, RICHARD A 22
ANTHONY, RICHARD K 22
APARICIO, JUAN 23
APPLEBY, REMSEN 23
APPLETON, DANIEL. 23
APPLETON, COL. DANIEL 23
APPLETON, WILLIAM H 24
APPLETON, WILLIAM W . . . . 24
ARBUCKLE, CHARLES 25
ARBUCKLE, JOHN 25
ARCHBOLD, JOHN D 25
ARCHER, OLIVER H. P 26
ARGUIMBAU, DANIEL V 26
ARKENBURGH, ROBERT H. . . 26
ARMOUR, HERMAN 0 27
ARMOUR, PHILIP D 28
ARMOUR, SIMEON B 29
ARMSTRONG, PHILANDER B., 29
ARNOLD, AARON 30
ARNOLD, HICKS 31
ARNOLD, RICHARD 30
ASPINWALL, WILLIAM H. . . . 31
ASPINWALL, GEN. LLOYD... 31
ASTOR, JOHN JACOB, ist 32
ASTOR, WILLIAM B 34
ASTOR, JOHN JACOB, 3d 35
ASTOR, WILLIAM WALDORF., 35
ASTOR, WILLIAM 37
ASTOR, JOHN JACOB, 4th .... 39
PAGE
AUCHINCLOSS, HUGH. . . 42
AUCHINCLOSS, JOHN 42
AUSTIN, ROBERT F 42
AVER, FREDERICK F 43
AYRES, MARSHALL 45
B.
BABBITT, BENJAMIN T 46
BABCOCK, GEORGE H 46
BABCOCK, PAUL, JR 52
BACHK, SEMON 52
BAILEY, JAMES A 52
BAILEY, JAMES S 53
BAIRD, COL. ANDREW D. . . 53
BALLIN, OSCAR E 54
BAMBERGER, JACOB F 54
BANCKER, WILLIAM D 54
BANKER, JAMES H 55
BANKS, CHARLES 55
BANKS, JAMES LENOX 55
BARBER, AMZI L 56
BARBOUR, THOMAS 58
BARCLAY, HENRY 59
BARLOW, CHARLES 59
BARLOW. PETER T 60
BARLOW, SAMUEL L. M 59
BARMORE, ALFRED to
BARNES, ALFRED S 60
BARNES, DEMAS 61
BARNES, JOHN S 61
BARNEY, CHARLES T 61
BARNEY, WILLIAM J 62
BARRON, DR. JOHN C 62
BARTRAM, JOSEPH B 64
BATES, EDWIN 65
BATTERMAN, HENRY 65
BAUDOUINE, CHARLES A 65
BAXTER, HORACE H 65
BEACH, ALFRED E 67
BEACH, MOSES Y 66
BEARD, OLIVER T 67
BEARD, WILLIAM H 68
BECHTEL, GEORGE. 68
BECK, CHARLES B 70
BECKWITH, NELSON M 70
BEDLOW, HENRY 70
BEEKM AN, HENRY R -71
BEEKMAN, JAMES W 72
BEER, JULIUS 74
BEERS, EDWIN 74
BELDEN, JOSIAH 74
BELDING, MILO M 75
BELKNAP, ROBERT L 77
BELL, GEORGE 79
BELL, ISAAC, JR 79
BELMONT, AUGUST 79
BELMONT, AUGUST, JR 80
BELMONT, PERRY 80
PAGE
BENEDICT, ELI AS C 81
BENEDICT, HENRY H 81
BENNETT, JAMES GORDON, . . 83
BENNETT, JOSIAH S 83
BERNHEIMER, ADOLPH 84
BERNHEIMER. ISAAC 84
BERNHEIMER, SIMON 84
BERNHEIMER, SIMON E 84
BERNSTEIN, NATHAN 85
BETTMAN, DAVID 85
BETTMAN, MARCUS A 85
BEUTHNER, SOLOMON 86
BIERMAN, ISAAC 86
BININGER, ABRAHAM 86
BISCHOFF, HENRY 86
BISSELL, GEORGE H 87
BISSELL, PELHAM ST. G 87
BIXBY, JOHN M 88
BIXBY, ROBERT F 88
BLACKFORD, EUGENE G . . . . 88
BLAKEMAN, BIRDSEYE • 89
BLEECKER, ANTHONY J 89
BLISS, CORNELIUS N 91
BLISS, ELIPHALET W 92
BLISS, GEORGE. 93
BLISS, WILLIAM 94
BLISS, WILLIAM M 95
BLOOMINGDALE, JOSEPH B. . 95
BLOOMINGDALE, LYMAN G. . 96
BODMAN, EDWARD C 96
BONNER, ROBERT 97
BONNETT, PETER R 97
BOODY, DAVID A 98
BOORAEM, HENRY A 98
BOOTH, EDWIN 99
BOOTH, HE.NRY P 99
BORDEN, GAIL 101
BORDEN, MATTHEW C. D. . . 101
BOSHER, CHARLES H . , 103
BOSKOWITZ, IGNATZ 103
BOSTWICK, JABEZ A 103
BOULTON, WILLIAM G 104
BOWDOIN, GEORGE S 104
BOWEN, HENRY C 105
BRAGG, CALEB S 106
BRAND, JOHN 106
BRANDRETH, BENJAMIN 106
BREVOORT, JAMES C 107
BREWSTER, HENRY 107
BRJCE, CALVIN S 108
BRINCKERHOFF, ELBERT A., in
BROKAW, ISAAC V in
BROOKMAN, HENRY D 112
BROOKMAN, JOHN U 112
BROOKS, CLARENCE 113
BROOKS, ELISHA 113
BROWER, JOHN H 113
BROWN, JAMES 114
BROWN, JAMES M 114
BROWN, JOHN L 115
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PAGE
KINGSLAND, GEORGE L 370
KINNEY, FRANCIS S 371
KISSEL, GUSTAV E 372
KISSEL, GUSTAV H 371
KNAPP, SHEPHERD 372
KNAPP, SHEPPARD 373
KNOWLTON, EDWIN F 373
KUEHNE, FREDERICK 375
L.
LADEW, EDWARD R 378
LADEW, HARVEY S 378
LADEW, JOSEPH H 378
LAKE, GEORGE G 379
LAMBERT, CATHOLINA 379
LANDON, CHARLES G 379
LANGDON, WOODBURY 380
LANIER, CHARLES 381
LANIER, JAMES F. D 380
LAPHAM, HENRY G 381
LASAK, FRANCIS W 383
LAW, GEORGE 383
LAWRENCE, JOHN W 384
LAWRENCE, WILLIAM B 384
LAWRENCE, WILLIAM E . . . . 385
LEARY, JAMES D 385
LEE, WILLIAM F 388
LEE, WILLIAM H 389
LEGGETT, ABRAHAM 389
LEGGETT, FRANCIS H 389
LEHMAN, EMANUEL 390
LEHMAN, MAYER 392
LENOX, JAMES 392
LIBBEY, WILLIAM 394
LlCHTENSTEIN, BENJAMIN. . . 397
LINTON, EDWARD F 397
LITTLE, JOSEPH J 398
LIVINGSTON, ANSON 398
LIVINGSTON, ROBERT E.... 399
LOESER, FREDERICK 399
LOEW, EDWARD V 400
LOOMIS, ALFRED L., M.D.. 402
LORD, DANIEL 403
LORD, SAMUEI 403
LORD, THOMAS 403
LORILLARD, PETER 404
LOUNSBURY, PHINEAS C. . . . 404
Low, ABIEL A 406
Low, JOSEPH T 406
LOWREY, JOSEPH S 407
LUMMIS, WILLIAM ........ 407
LYMAN, EDWARD H. R.. . . 408
LYON, WILLIAM H 409
M.
MCALPIN, DAVID H 412
MCALPIN, GEN. EDWIN A.. 415
MCCONVILLE, JOHN 417
McCosKRY, ROBERT 417
MCCREADY, NATHANIEL L'H 418
McCuRDY, ROBERT H 418
PAGE
McGHEE, CHARLES McC. . .. 418
McGiLL, GEORGE W 419
McHARG, HENRY K 420
MclNTYRE. THOMAS A.. .. 420
McKiE, THOMAS 420
McLouGHLiN, JOHN 421
MACKAY, JOHN W 421
MACLAY, ROBERT 424
MACY, JOSIAH 42 5
MACY, WILLIAM H 425
MAGOUN, GEORGE C 425
MAIRS, JOHN D 426
MAIRS, WILLIAM H 426
MAITLAND, THOMAS 426
MALLORY, CHARLES H 426
MARQUAND, FREDERICK 427
MARSHALL, CHARLES H... 427
MARTIN, JOHN T 428
MASURY, JOHN W 428
MATTHEWS, JOHN 431
MAXWELL, EUGENE L 432
MAXWELL, HENRY W 432
MEAD, EDWIN H 432
MEAD, FREDERICK 433
MEAD, RALPH 435
MERRITT, ISRAEL J 437
MEYER, CHRISTOPHKR 438
MILLIKEN, SETH M 439
MILLS, DARIUS 0 440
MILMINE, GEORGE 444
MINTURN, ROBERT B 444
MOORE, JOHN G 445
MOORE, JOHN P 447
MORGAN, CHARLES 448
MORGAN, DAVID P 449
MORGAN, EDWIN D 449
MORGAN, GEORGE D 450
MORGAN, HENRY T 451
MORGAN, HOMER 451
MORGAN, TUNIUS S 451
MORGAN, J. PIERPONT 452
MOROSINI, GIOVANNI P..... 452
MORRIS, JOHN A 455
MORTIMER, RICHARD 456
MORTON, LEVI P 456
MOTT, HOPPER S 462
MOTT, JORDAN L 465
MOTT, JORDAN L. , JR 468
MOTT, VALENTINE. M. D... 469
MUNN, WILLIAM H 469
MUNN, WILLIAM H., M.D. 470
MUNOZ, JOSE M 470
MUNRO, NORMAN L 470
MURCHISON, KENNETH M.. 471
MYERS, THEODORE W 471
N.
NATHAN, BENJAMIN 473
NAUMBURG. ELKAN 473
NEWBORG, DAVID L 473
NEWCOMB, H. VICTOR 474
NORRIE, ADAM 477
NORTON, ECKSTEIN . . . . 477
NORTON, JOHN 478
NOYES, JULIUS M 478
O
PACK
OAKES, THOMAS F 479
O'BRIEN, JOHN 479
O'BRIEN, WILLIAM 480
O'DAY, DANIEL 480
O'DoNOHUE, JOSEPH J 480
OELRICHS, HERMANN 484
OGDEN, WILLIAM B 484
OLCOTT, FREDERIC P 485
O'NEILL, HUGH 485
OPDYKE, GEORGE 486
ORR, ALEXANDER E 487
OSBORN, CHARLES J 487
OSGOOD, GEORGE A 488
OTIS, NORTON P 488
OTTENDOKFER, OSWALD. ... 489
OWEN, THOMAS 492
OWEN, THOMAS J 492
1'.
PALMER, COURTLANDT 493
PALMER, COURTLANDT, JR.. 493
PARISH, HENRY 494
PARK, JOSEPH 494
PARK, TRENOR W 494
PARKER, JAMES H., M.D. .. 495
PARMLY, ELEAZER 495
PARSONS, WILLIAM H 496
PEARSALL, DENTON 497
PEASE, GEORGE L 497
PEMBROOK, WILLIAM A 498
PETTIT, FOSTER 500
PHELPS, ISAAC N 501
PHELPS, ROYAL 503
PICKHARDT, WILLIAM 504
PIERREPONT, HENRY E 504
PITCHER, JAMES R 505
PLANT, H ENRY B 506
PLATT, JOHN R 508
PLATT, SAMUEL R 509
POLHEMUS, HENRY D 509
POOR, EDWARD E 510
POOR, HENRY W 511
PORTER, HORACE 515
POTTER, CLARKSON N 515
POTTER, ORLANDO B 516
POTTIER, ADRIEN A 521
POTTS, FREDERIC A 521
POUCH, ALFRED J 521
PRATT, CHARLES 522
PRATT, CHARLES M 523
PRATT, DALLAS B 523
PRATT, JULIUS H 523
PRENTICE. FREDERIC 524
PRIME, EDWARD 527
PRIME. RUFUS 527
PULITZER, JOSEPH 527
PYNE, PERCY R 528
Q.
QUEREAU, ABRAM 529
QUINCY. JOHN W 529
QUINTARD, GEORGE W 529
PAGE
R.
RADWAY, JOHN S., M.D... 533
RAYMOND, JAMES 1 533
READ, WILLIAM G 534
RECKESDORFER, JOSEPH. .. 534
REINHART, JOSEPH W 534
REMSEN, WILLIAM 535
RENWICK, JAMES 536
RENWICK, WILLIAM R 537
RHINELANDER, WILLIAM... 537
RICHARDSON, ENOS 538
RICHARDSON, JOSEPH 538
RIDLEY, EDWARD 540
RIKER, DANIEL S 541
RIVES, FRANCIS R 541
ROACH, JOHN 541
ROBBINS, ELI 544
ROBERTS, MARSHALL O... 545
ROBERTSON, JOSEPH L 546
ROBINSON, JEREMIAH P 548
ROCKEFELLER, JOHN D 549
ROCKEFELLER, WILLIAM. .. 550
ROOSEVELT, CORNELIUS V. S 551
ROOSEVELT, JAMES A 552
ROOSEVELT, JAMES 1 552
ROOSEVELT, ROBERT B 553
ROOSEVELT, THEODORE 554
ROPES, REUBEN W 555
ROPES, RIPLEY 555
ROSENBAUM, ALBERTS... . 556
ROTHSCHILD, JACOB 556
ROTHSCHILD, VICTOR H 557
RUSZITS, JOHN 560
RUTTER, THOMAS 560
RYAN, THOMAS F 561
S.
SAGE, RUSSELL 563
SALISBURY, JAMES H., M.D. 570
SANDS, HENRY B., M.D 570
SANDS, SAMUEL S 571
SANFORD, EDWARDS S 571
SARGENT, GEORGE H 572
SCHAEFER. EDWARD C 574
SCHELL, AUGUSTUS 574
SCHIEFKELIN, WILLIAM H. . . 575
SCHIEREN, CHARLES A 576
SCHIFF, JACOB H 576
SCHLEY, GRANT B 577
SCHOALS, FRANCIS P 577
SCHOLLE, ABRAHAM 579
SCHROEDER, FREDERICK A. . 579
SCHULTZ, JACKSON S 580
SCHWAB, GUSTAV 581
SCOTT, ALFRED B 581
SCRIBNER, CHARLES 582
SEABURY, GEORGE J 582
SEAMANS. CLARENCE W 584
SEIDENBERG, JOSEPH 584
SELIGMAN, JAMES 586
SELIGMAN, JESSE. 586
SELIGMAN, JOSEPH 587
SHELDON, ISRAEL 587
SHELDON, JAMES 0 588
SHEPARD, ELLIOTT F 590
PAGE
SHEPARD, FREDERICK M — 591
SHEPARD, SIDNEY 592
SHERMAN, ISAAC 594
SHERMAN, WATTS 594
SHERWOOD, JOHN H 594
SHOEMAKER, HENRY F 595
SHOENBERGER, JOHN H 597
SICKLES. GEORGE G 598
SILLIMAN, BENJAMIN D 598
SIMMONS, J. EDWARD 599
SIMPSON, WILLIAM 600
SINCLAIR, JOHN 601
SKIDMORE, WILLIAM L 601
SLAVEN, HENRY B 602
SLOANE, WILLIAM 605
SLOCUM, HENRY W 605
SMITH, ADON 606
SMITH, CHARLES STEWART.. 606
SMITH, FRANCIS S 608
SPAULDING, HENRY F 609
SPICER, ELIHU 610
SPOFFORD, PAUL 610
SPRAGUE, COL. NATHAN T.. 611
STARIN, JOHN H 611
STEINWAY, WILLIAM 612
STEVENS, PARAN 61 8
STEVENSON, DAVID 618
STEWART, ALEXANDER T — 618
STEWART, JOHN A 620
STILLMAN, JAMES 620
STOCKLY, GEORGE W 621
STOKES, JAMES 621
STOKES, WILLIAM E. D 622
STORRS, AUGUSTUS 622
STORRS, CHARLES 623
STORY, RUFUS 623
STOUT, ANDREW V 624
STOUT, JOSEPH S 624
STRANAHAN, JAMES S. T 625
STRANGE, WILLIAM 628
STRAUS, ISIDOR 629
STRAUS, LAZARUS 630
STRAUS, NATHAN 630
STREET, WILLIAM A 631
STRONG. WILLIAM L 632
STUART, JOSEPH 632
STUART, ROBERT L 632
STUDWELL, JOHN J 633
STURGES, FREDERICK 634
STURGES, JONATHAN 634
SULLY, ALFRED 635
SYMS, WILLIAM J 638
T.
TAILER, EDWARD N 639
TALCOTT, FREDERICK L — 641
TALCOTT, JAMES 641
TAYLOR, J. MONROE 641
TAYLOR, MOSES 642
TENNEY, CHARLES H 643
TERRY, JOHN T 645
TEWKSBURY, LEWIS G 647
THEBAUD, EDWARD V 647
THOMAS, SAMUEL 648
THOMPSON, WILLIAM P... 650
THORNB, JONATHAN 654
PAGE
THORNE, JONATHAN, JR 654
THORNE, SAMUEL 655
TIEMANN, DANIEL F 655
TIFFANY, CHARLES L 656
TILDEN, SAMUEL J 658
TILDEN, WILLIAM.. 659
TILESTON, THOMAS 659
TILFORD, FRANK 660
TILFORD, WESLEY H 661
TINGUE, WILLIAM J 662
TINKER, CHARLES A 663
TORRANCE, DANIEL 663
TOUSEY, SINCLAIR 663
TOWNE, HENRY R 664
TOWNSEND, SAMUEL T . . . . 664
TRAVERS, WILLIAM R 665
TREVOR. JOHN B 665
TWEEDY, THOMAS E 666
U.
URQUHART, EDMOND 667
V.
VAIL, HENRY H '671
VAIL, THEODORE N 671
VAN BUREN, JOHN D 674
VANDERBILT, CORNELIUS 675
VANDERBILT, CORNELIUS... 684
VANDERBILT, WILLIAM H... 680
VAN NEST, ABRAHAM R. . . . 686
VAN NORDEN, WARNER. . . . 686
VAN RENSSELAER, C. S 688
VAN TINE, ASHLEY A 689
VAN VOLKENBURG, PHILIP. . 69!
VERMEULE, JOHN D 691
VERMILYE, JACOB D 692
VERMILYE, WASHINGTON R. 693
W.
WALKER, JOHN BRISBEN 694
WALLACH, ANTHONY 694
WARD, JAMES E 696
WARDWELL. WILLIAM T. . . 697
WARNER, DR. LUCIEN C. . . . 698
WATERBURY, JAMES M 700
WATSON, JOHN 701
WATSON. WILLIAM 702
WEBB. H. WALTER 702
WEBB, WILLIAM H 703
WEBB, WILLIAM SEWARD. . 709
WEED, THURLOW 710
WENDELL. JACOB 711
WENTZ, JAMES M 713
WEST, GEORGE 714
WETHERBEE, GARDNER 719
WETMORE, APOLLOS R 721
WETMORE, ROBERT C 721
WHEELER, JEROME B 722
WHEELOCK, WILLIAM A 724
WHITE, ALBERT T 726
WHITE, STEPHEN VAN C... 727
WHITLOCK, WILLIAM 727
PAGE
BROWN, WALSTON H 115
BROWNING, JOHN H 117
BROWNING, WILLIAM C 118
BRUCE, GEORGE 1 19
BUCHANAN, WILLIAM 119
BULKLEY, EDWIN 121
BULL, WILLIAM L 122
BURDEN, JAMES A 122
BURKE, JOHN 123
BURNHAM, THOMAS B . . . 123
BURR, CALVIN 125
BURR, HENRY A 125
BURT, COL. JAMES 126
BUTLER, THERON R 126
BUTLER, WILLIAM A 126
BUTTERFIELD, DANIEL 127
C.
CAMP, HUGH N 128
CAMPBELL, FELIX 128
CAMPBELL, GEORGE W. ... 129
CAMPBELL, RICHARD L 129
CAMERON, SIR RODERICK W 129
CAREY, JOHN 130
CARHART, THOMAS F 130
CARMAN, RICHARD F 130
CARNEGIE, ANDREW 131
CARTER, OLIVER S 132
CASPARY, WALDEMAR 133
CASWELL, JOHN 133
CATLIN, JULIUS 133
CHAPIN, CHESTER W 134
CHAPMAN, ISAAC F 136
CHASE, NELSON 136
CHESEBROUGH, ROBERT A. . 137
CHITTENDEN, SIMEON B... 140
CHOATE, JOSEPH H 140
CHURCH, AUSTIN 141
CLAFLIN, HORACE B 141
CLAPP, GEORGE P 142
CLARK, GEORGE A 142
CLARK, HORACE F 143
CLARK, WILLIAM 143
CLARKE, BENJAMIN G 143
CLAUSEN, HENRY 144
CLEWS, HENRY 144
CLYDE, WILLIAM P . ... 144
COE, GEORGE S 145
COLBY, CHARLES L 145
COLGATE, JAMES B 146
COLGATE, ROBERT 147
COLGATE, SAMUEL 147
COLGATE, SAMUEL J 147
COLLAMORE, DAVIS 147
CONNOR, WASHINGTON E. . . 149
CONSTABLE, JAMES M 151
CONTOIT, JOHN H 151
COOK, HENRY H 152
COOPER, EDWARD 153
COOPER, PETER 152
CORBIN, AUSTIN 153
CORNELL, JOHN B 154
CORNELL, JOHN M 154
CORNELL, PETER C 155
CORNING, HANSON K 155
COSSITT, FREDERICK H 155
PACK
COSTELLO, PATRICK C 155
COSTER, CHARLES H 156
COTTING, AMOS 156
COVAS, STAMATY 156
COWDIN, ELLIOT C 156
COWLES, ALFRED A 157
CRABTREE, LOTTA M 157
CRAM, JACOB 158
CRAWFORD, WILLIAM 158
CREADO, RAMON F 158
CRIMMINS, JOHN D 159
CROMWELL, FREDERICK 161
CROSBY, JOHN P 163
CROSBY, WILLIAM B 162
CURTIS, JEREMIAH 163
CUSHMAN, DON A 163
CUSHMAN, JAMES S 164
CUTTING, FRANCIS B 164
CUTTING, ROBERT L., sr. . . . 165
CUTTING, ROBERT L 165
D.
DAMBMANN, CHARLES F.... 166
DANA, CHARLES A 166
DARLING, ALFRED B 168
DARRAGH, JAMES 169
DASH, BOWIE 170
DASH, JOHN B 170
DAVIDSON, JOHN 171
DAVIS, JAMES M 171
DAY, HENRY 171
DE BARY, FREDERICK 172
DE CORDOVA, ALFRED 172
DE FOREST, CORNELIUS V. . 172
DE GRAFF, HENRY P 173
DELAFIELD, HENRY 174
DE LA MAR, JOSEPH R 175
DE LAMATER, CORNELIUS H. 178
DE LAMATER. JOHN 1 79
DELAPLAINE, JOHN F 180
DE LIMA, DAV.ID A 180
DELMAR, JOHN 180
DELMONICO, CHARLES C. ... 181
DELMONICO, LORENZO 181
DEMUTH, WILLIAM 182
DEPEW, CHAUNCEY M 182
DE PEYSTER, FREDERIC J. 185
DE PEYSTER, JOHN WATTS. 185
DE PEYSTER, NICHOLAS 186
DETMOLD, CHRISTIAN E. . . . 187
DETTMER, JACOB G 187
DEVLIN, CHARLES 187
DEVOE, FREDERICK W. ... 188
DEXTER, HENRY 191
DICKERMAN, WATSON B. . . . 192
DICKIE, PATRICK 192
DICKINSON, JOHN B 192
DILLON, SIDNEY. ... 193
DINSMORE, WILLIAM B 193
DITSON, CHARLES H 194
Dix, ALFRED P 194
DODGE, WILLIAM E 195
DODGE, WILLIAM E., jr 195
DOLGE, ALFRED 197
DOLLARD, JOHN 199
DOUGLAS, WILLIAM P 199
PAGE
Dows, DAVID 200
DREXEL, JOSEPH W 203
DRIGGS, EDMUND 204
DUER, DENNING 204
DUGRO, ANIHONY 205
DUGRO, PHILIP H 205
DUN, ROBERT G 205
DUNCAN, DAVID 207
DUNLAP, ROBERT. : 208
DUNTON, FREDERICK W... . 208
DURANT, CHARLES W 208
DURANT, THOMAS C 209
DURYEA, HIRAM 209
DURYEA, SAMUEL B 210
DURYEA, WRIGHT 210
DUTCHER, JOHN B 211
DWIGHT, AMOS T 211
E.
EARI.E, WILLIAM P 212
EASTMAN, TIMOTHY C 212
EDISON, THOMAS A 212
EDSON, FRANKLIN 213
EICHLER, JOHN 213
EINSTEIN, DAVID L 214
EINSTEIN, EDWIN 2-14
EINSTEIN, LEWIS 214
ELDER, DANIEL R . 214
ELDER, GEORGE W 214
ELDER, JOSEPH L 215
ELIAS, HENRY 215
ELKINS, STEPHEN B 215
ELLIS, JOHN, M.D 219
ELLIS, JOHN W 219
ELSWORTH, EDWARD 220
ELSWORTH, HENRY 220
ELY, AMBROSE K 221
ELY, DAVID J 221
ELY, HENRY G. .. 221
ELY, SMITH 222
ENGLIS, JOHN 223
ENO, AMOS R. 225
ESTEVEZ, RAMON M 225
EVERARD, JAMES 226
F.
FABER, EBERHARD 227
FABER, JOHN EBERHARD. . . . 227
FABBRI, EGISTO P 227
FABBRI, ERNESTO G 228
FAHYS, JOSEPH 228
FAILE, EDWARD G 229
FAILE, THOMAS H 229
FAIRCHILD, BENJAMIN L . . . 230
FAIRCHILD, CHARLES S 230
FALK, ARNOLD 230
FALK, GUSTAV 231
PARISH, JOHN T 231
FARREL, FRANKLIN 231
FARWELL, WILLIAM D 232
FAY, SIGOURNEY W 233
FAYE, THOMAS 233
FAYERWEATHER, DANIEL B 234
FEARING, CHARLES N 234
ii.
PACE
FECHEIMER, MARTIN S 235
FELLOWES, WILLIAM 235
FIELD, BENJAMIN H 235
FIELD, CYRUS W 236
FIELD, HICKSON W 237
FISCHER. BENEDICKT 237
FISCHER CHARLES S 238
FISH, HAMILTON 238
FISH, NICHOLAS 238
FISH, STUYVESANT 239
FISHER, ROBERT C 239
FITCH, BENJAMIN 240
FLAGLER, HENRY M 240
FLEISCHMANN, MAXIMILIAN. 241
FLEITMANN, EWALD 241
FLINT, BENJAMIN 241
FLINT, CHARLES R 242
FLINT, WALLACE B 245
FLOWER, ROSWELL P 245
FOGG, WILLIAM H , . . . 246
FOLSDM, GEORGE 246
FORD. JOHN R 247
FORREST, GEORGE J 248
FOSDICK, CHARLES B 248
FREEMAN, FRANCIS P 249
FRIEDMAN, LEONARD 249
FULLER, DUDLEY B 249
FULLER, GEORGE W 250
PUNCH, CHRISTIAN F 250
FURNISS, WILLIAM P 250
G.
GABLER, ERNEST 251
GALE, THOMAS W 251
GALLATIN, ALBERT R 251
GALLATIN, JAMES 251
GALLAWAY, ROBERT M 252
GARNER, THOMAS 252
GARNER, WILLIAM T 252
GARRISON, CORNELIUS K... . 252
GATES, EPHRAIM C 253
GERARD, JAMES W 254
GERRY, ELBRIDGE T 254
GIBB. JOHN 255
GILBERT, GEORGE Y 257
GILSEY, PETER 258
GINNELL, HENRY 258
GOBLET, PETER 259
GOELET, ROBERT 261
GOOD, JOHN 261
GOOD, BRENT 263
GORDON, GEORGE? 264
GOSSLER, GUSTAV H 264
GOULD, JAY 265
GOULD, JOHN P 271
GRACE, WILLIAM R 272
GRAHAM, JOHN L 275
GRAVES. ROBERT 275
GRAVES, RUFUS R 276
GRAY. JOHN A. C 276
GREEN, EDWARD H. R 277
GREEN, MRS. HETTY H. R. 277
GREEN, JOHN C 279
GREEN, NORVIN 280
GREENOUGH, JOHN 281
GRIXNELL, MOSES H 282
PACE
GUGGENHEIMER, RANDOLPH 262
GUNTHER, CHARLES G 283
GUNTHER, ERNEST R 283
H.
HADDEN, WILLIAM A 286
HAGEMEYER, GEORGE 286
HAGGIN, JAMES B ... 288
HAIGHT, DAVID H 288
HAIGHT. EDWARD ,. 288
HALL, JOHN H '. 289
HALL, WILLIAM H 289
HALLGARTEN. ADOLPH 289
HALLGARTEN. JULIUS 290
HALSEY, JOHN 290
HAMERSLEY FAMILY 290
HAMERSLEY, JAMES HOOKER 290
HAMILTON, ALEXANDER 295
HAMILTON, JOHN C 295
HARD, ANSON W. SR 269
HARGOUS, Louis S 296
HARKNESS, CHARLES W 297
HARPER, JOSEPH H 297
HARRIMAN, EDWARD 297
HARRIS, WILLIAM H 297
HAVEMEYER, FREDERICK C. 298
HAVEMEYER, HECTOR C.... 302
HAVEMEYER, HENRY 0 299
HAVEMEYER, THEODORE A.. 298
HAVEMEYER, WILLIAM F... 299
HAVENS, CHARLES G 303
HAWK, WILLIAM S 303
HAWLEY, HENRY E 306
HEALY, AARON 306
HECKER. JOHN V 306
HEGEMAN, WILLIAM 307
HEIDELBACH, ALFREDS 307
HEILNER, GEORGE C 308
HEILNER, MARCUS G 308
HENDERSON, PETER 308
HENDRICKS, JOSHUA 309
HENTZ, HENRY...". 309
HERRING, SILAS C 309
HERRMANN, HENRY 310
HESS, SELMAR 310
HEWITT, ABRAM S 311
HIGGINS, ALVIN 312
HIGGINS, ANDREW F 312
HIGGINS, ELI AS S 313
HILL, EDWARD 313
HITCHCOCK, THOMAS 313
HITCHCOCK, WELCOME G. .. 314
HOADLEY, RUSSELL H 314
HOAGLAND, CORNELIUS N.. 314
HOAGLAND, JOSEPH C 317
HOE, ROBERT 317
HOFFMAN, SAMUEL V 318
HOGAN, TIMOTHY 319
HOLMES, DANIEL H 319
HOPKINS, ROBERT E 320
HORNTHAL, LEWIS M 321
HORTON, JAMES M 321
HOUGHTALING, DAVID H. . . 322
HOYT, COLGATE 322
HOYT, EDWIN 323
HOYT, GEORGE A 323
PAGE
HOYT, HENRY S 324
HOYT, JESSE 324
HOYT, JOSEPH B 325
HOYT, MARK . 325
HOYT, OLIVER 327
HUBBELL, HENRY W 327
HUDSON, CHARLES 1 329
HULBERT. HENRY C 331
HUMPHREYS, FREDERICK... 334
HUMPHREYS, SOLON 336
HUNT, NOAH S 336
HUNT, WILSON G 337
HUNTINGTON, COLLIS P.... 337
HURLBUT, HENRY A 339
HUSTED, SEYMOUR L 342
HUSTED, WILLIAM H 344
I.
ICKELHEIMER, ISAAC 34$
INMAN, JOHN H 345
ISELIN, ADRIAN 346
IVES, BRAYTON 346
IVISON, DAVID B 347
J-
JACKSON, JOHN C 348
JACKSON, THEODORE F 348
JAFFRAY, EDWARD S 348
JAMES, DANIEL 349
JAMES, FREDERICK P 349
JAMESON, JOSEPH A 349
JAY, JOHN 350
JENNINGS, OLIVER B 350
JESUP, MORRIS K 351
JEWETT, HUGH J 352
JOHNSTON, CHARLES 354
JOHNSTON, JOHN 354
JOHNSTON, JOHN TAYLOR. .. 354
JOHNSTON, WILLIAM McE.. 355
JONES, DAVID 355
JONES, EUGENE 355
JONES, GEORGE 356
JONES, JOHN Q 356
JONES, JOSHUA 357
JOURNEAY, HENRY T 357
K.
KALBFLEISCH, MARTIN 358
KEENE, JAMES R 358
KEEP, HENRY 361
KELLOGG, CHARLES. 361
KELLOGG, EDWARD H 361
KELLY, EUGENE 362
KEMP, GEORGE 364
KENDALL, ISAAC C 364
KENDALL, WILLIAM B 365
KENNEDY, HARVEY 365
KENNEDY, JOHN P 366
KENT, HENRY A 367
KETELTAS, EUGENE 367
KILMER, CHAUNCEY 367
KING, ARCHIBALD G 369
iii.
PAGE
KINGSLAND, GEORGE L . . . . 370
KINNEY, FRANCIS S 371
KISSEL, GUSTAV E 372
KISSEL, GUSTAV H 371
KNAPP, SHEPHERD 372
KNAPP, SHEPPARD 373
KNOWLTON. EDWIN F 373
KUEHNE, FREDERICK 375
L.
LADEW, EDWARD R 378
LADEW, HARVEY S 378
LADEW, JOSEPH H 378
LAKE, GEORGE G 379
LAMBERT, CATHOLINA 379
LANDON, CHARLES G 379
LANGDON, WOODBURY 380
LANIER, CHARLES 381
LANIER, JAMES F. D 380
LAPHAM, HENRY G 381
LASAK, FRANCIS W 383
LAW, GEORGE 383
LAWRENCE, JOHN W 384
LAWRENCE, WILLIAM B 384
LAWRENCE, WILLIAM E . . . . 385
LEARY, JAMES D 385
LEE, WILLIAM F 388
LEE, WILLIAM H 389
LEGGETT, ABRAHAM 389
LEGGETT, FRANCIS H 389
LEHMAN, EMANUEL 390
LEHMAN, MAYER 392
LENOX, JAMES 392
LIBBEY, WILLIAM 394
LlCHTENSTEIN, BENJAMIN. . . 397
LINTON, EDWARD F 397
LITTLE, JOSEPH J 398
LIVINGSTON, ANSON 398
LIVINGSTON, ROBERT E.... 399
LOESER, FREDERICK 399
LOEW, EDWARD V 400
LOOMIS, ALFRED L., M.D.. 402
LORD, DANIEL 403
LORD, SAMUEI 403
LORD, THOMAS 403
LORILLARD, PETER 404
LOUNSBURY, PHINEAS C.... 404
Low, ABIEL A 406
Low, JOSEPH T 406
LOWREY, JOSEPH S 407
LUMMIS, WILLIAM ........ 407
LYMAN, EDWARD H. R. . . . 408
LYON, WILLIAM H 409
M.
MCALPIN, DAVID H 412
MCALPIN, GEN. EDWIN A.. 415
MCCONVILLE, JOHN 417
McCosKRY, ROBERT 417
MCCREADY, NATHANIEL L'H 418
McCuRDY, ROBERT II 418
PAGE
McGHEE, CHARLES McC 418
McGiLL, GEORGE W 419
MCHARG, HENRY K 420
MclNTYRE, THOMAS A. . .. 420
McKiE, THOMAS. 420
McLoucHLiN, JOHN 421
MACKAY, JOHN W 421
MACLAY, ROBERT 424
MACY, JOSIAH 425
MACY, WILLIAM H 425
MAGOUN, GEORGE C 425
MAIRS, JOHN D 426
MAIRS, WILLIAM H 426
MAITLAND, THOMAS 426
MALLORY, CHARLES H 426
MARQUAND, FREDERICK 427
MARSHALL, CHARLES H... 427
MARTIN, JOHN T 428
MASURY, JOHN W 428
MATTHEWS, JOHN 431
MAXWELL, EUGENE L 432
MAXWELL, HENRY W 432
MEAD, EDWIN H 432
MEAD, FREDERICK 433
MEAD, RALPH 435
MERRITT, ISRAEL J 437
MEYER, CHRISTOPHER 438
M ILLIKEN, SETH M 439
MILLS, DARIUS 0 440
MILMINE, GEORGE 444
MINTURN, ROBERT B 444
MOORE, JOHN G 445
MOORE, JOHN P 447
MORGAN, CHARLES 448
MORGAN, DAVID P 449
MORGAN, EDWIN D 449
MORGAN, GEORGE D 450
MORGAN, HENRY T 451
MORGAN, HOMER 451
MORGAN, TUNIUS S 451
MORGAN, J. PIERPONT 452
MOROSINI, GIOVANNI P 452
MORRIS, JOHN A 455
MORTIMER, RICHARD 456
MORTON, LEVI P 456
MOTT, HOPPER S 462
MOTT. JORDAN L 465
MOTT, JORDAN L., JR 468
MOTT, VALENTINE. M. D... 469
MUNN, WILLIAM H 469
MUNN, WILLIAM H., M.D. 470
MUNOZ, JOSE M 470
MUNRO, NORMAN L 470
MURCHISON, KENNETH M.. 471
MYERS, THEODORE W 471
N.
NATHAN, BENJAMIN 473
NAUMBURG. ELKAN 473
NEWBORG, DAVID L 473
NEWCOMB, H. VICTOR 474
NORRIE, ADAM 477
NORTON, ECKSTEIN . . . . 477
NORTON, JOHN 478
NOYES, JULIUS M 478
O
PAGE
OAKES, THOMAS F 479
O'BRIEN, JOHN 479
O'BRIEN, WILLIAM 480
O'DAY, DANIEL 480
O'DoNOHUE, JOSEPH J 480
OELRICHS, HERMANN 484
OGDEN, WILLIAM B 484
OLCOTT, FREDERIC P 485
O'NEILL, HUGH 485
OPDYKE, GEORGE 486
ORR, ALEXANDER E 487
OSBORN. CHARLES J 487
OSGOOD, GEORGE A.... 488
OTIS, NORTON P 488
OTTENDORFER, OSWALD 489
OWEN, THOMAS 492
OWEN, THOMAS J . 493
PALMER, COURTLANDT 493
PALMER, COURTLANDT, JR.. 493
PARISH, HENRY 494
PARK, JOSEPH 494
PARK, TRENOR W 494
PARKER, JAMES H., M.D... 495
PARMLY, ELEAZER 495
PARSONS, WILLIAM H 496
PEARSALL, DENTON 497
PEASE, GEORGE L 497
PEMBROOK, WILLIAM A.... 498
PETTIT, FOSTER 500
PHELPS, ISAAC N 501
PHELPS, ROYAL 503
PICKHARDT, WILLIAM 504
PIERREPONT, HENRY E 504
PITCHER, JAMES R 505
PLANT, HENRY B 506
PLATT, JOHN R 508
PLATT, SAMUEL R 509
POLHEMUS, HENRY D 509
POOR, EDWARD E 510
POOR, HENRY W 511
PORTER, HORACE 515
POTTER, CLARKSON N 515
POTTER, ORLANDO B 516
POTTIER, AORIEN A $21
POTTS, FREDERIC A 521
POUCH, ALFRED J 521
PRATT, CHARLES 522
PRATT, CHARLES M 523
PRATT, DALLAS B 523
PRATT, JULIUS H 523
PRENTICE. FREDERIC 524
PRIME, EDWARD 527
PRIME. RUFUS 527
PULITZER, JOSEPH 527
PYNE, PERCY R 528
Q-
QUEREAU, ABRAM 529
QUINCY. JOHN W 529
QUINTARD, GEORGE W 529
PAGE
R.
RADWAY, JOHN S., M.D... 533
RAYMOND, JAMES 1 533
READ, WILLIAM G 534
RECKENDORFER, JOSEPH. .. 534
REINHART, JOSEPH W 534
REMSEN, WILLIAM 535
REXWICK, JAMES 536
RENWICK, WILLIAM R 537
RHISELANDER, WILLIAM... 537
RICHARDSON, ENOS 538
RICHARDSON, JOSEPH 538
RIDLEV, EDWARD j . 540
RIKER. DANIEL S 541
RIVES, FRANCIS R 541
ROACH, JOHN 541
ROBBINS, ELI 544
ROBERTS, MARSHALL O... 545
ROBERTSON, JOSEPH L 546
ROBINSON, JEREMIAH P 548
ROCKEFELLER, JOHN D 549
ROCKEFELLER, WILLIAM. .. 550
ROOSEVELT, CORNELIUS V. S 551
ROOSEVELT, JAMES A 552
ROOSEVELT, JAMES 1 552
ROOSEVELT, ROBERT B 553
ROOSEVELT, THEODORE 554
ROPES, REUBEN W 555
ROPES, RIPLEY 555
ROSENBAUM, ALBERTS... . 556
ROTHSCHILD, JACOB 556
ROTHSCHILD, VICTOR H 557
RUSZITS, JOHN 560
RUTTER, THOMAS 560
RYAN, THOMAS F 561
S.
SAGE, RUSSELL 563
SALISBURY, JAMES H., M.D. 570
SANDS, HENRY B., M.D 570
SANDS. SAMUEL S 571
SANFORD, EDWARDS S 571
SARGENT, GEORGE H 572
SCHAEFER. EDWARD C 574
SCHELL, AUGUSTUS 574
SCHIEFKELIN, WILLIAM H. . . 575
SCHIEREN, CHARLES A 576
SCHIFF, JACOB H 576
SCHLEY, GRANT B 577
SCHOALS, FRANCIS P 577
SCHOLLE, ABRAHAM 579
SCHROEDER, FREDERICK A. . 579
SCHULTZ, JACKSON S 580
SCHWAB, GUSTAV 581
SCOTT, ALFRED B 581
SCRIBNER, CHARLES 582
SEABURY, GEORGE J 582
SEAMANS. CLARENCE W 584
SEIDENBERG, JOSEPH 584
SELIGMAN, JAMES ,. 586
SELIGMAN, JESSE. 586
SELIGMAN, JOSEPH 587
SHELDON, ISRAEL 587
SHELDON, JAMES 0 588
SHEPARD, ELLIOTT F 590
PAGE
SHEPARD, FREDERICK M — 591
SHEPARD. SIDNEY 592
SHERMAN, ISAAC 594
SHERMAN, WATTS 594
SHERWOOD, JOHN H 594
SHOEMAKER, HENRY F 595
SHOENBERGER, JOHN H 597
SICKLES. GEORGE G 598
SILLIMAN, BENJAMIN D 598
SIMMONS, J. EDWARD 599
SIMPSON, WILLIAM 600
SINCLAIR, JOHN 601
SKIDMORE, WILLIAM I 601
SLAVEN, HENRY B 602
SLOANE, WILLIAM 605
SLOCUM, HENRY W 605
SMITH, ADON 606
SMITH, CHARLES STEWART.. 606
SMITH, FRANCIS S 608
SPAULDING, HENRY F 609
SPICER, ELIHU 610
SPOFFORD, PAUL 610
SPRAGUE, COL. NATHAN T. . 611
STARIN, JOHN H 611
STEINWAY, WILLIAM 612
STEVENS, PARAN 618
STEVENSON. DAVID 618
STEWART, ALEXANDER T — 618
STEWART, JOHN A 620
STILLMAN, JAMES 620
STOCKLY, GEORGE W 621
STOKES, JAMES 621
STOKES, WILLIAM E. D 622
STORRS, AUGUSTUS 622
STORRS, CHARLES 623
STORY, RUFUS 623
STOUT, ANDREW V 624
STOUT, JOSEPH S 624
STRANAHAN, JAMES S. T. . . . 625
STRANGE, WILLIAM 628
STRAUS, I si DOR 629
STRAUS, LAZARUS 630
STRAUS, NATHAN 630
STREET, WILLIAM A 631
STRONG. WILLIAM L 632
STUART, JOSEPH 632
STUART, ROBERT L 632
STUDWELL. JOHN J 633
STURGES, FREDERICK 634
STURGES, JONATHAN 634
SULLY, ALFRED 635
SYMS, WILLIAM J 638
T.
TAILER, EDWARD N 639
TALCOTT, FREDERICK L.... 641
TALCOTT, JAMES 641
TAYLOR, J. MONROE 641
TAYLOR, MOSES 642
TENNEY, CHARLES H 643
TERRY, JOHN T 645
TEWKSBURY, LEWIS G 647
THEBAUD, EDWARD V 647
THOMAS, SAMUEL 648
THOMPSON, WILLIAM P... 650
THORNK, JONATHAN 654
PAGE
THORNE, JONATHAN, JR 654
THORNE, SAMUEL 655
TIEMANN, DANIEL F 655
TIFFANY, CHARLES L 656
TILDEN, SAMUEL J 658
TILDEN, WILLIAM 659
TILESTON, THOMAS 659
TILFORD, FRANK 660
TILFORD, WESLEY H 661
TINGUE, WILLIAM J 662
TINKER, CHARLES A 663
TORRANCE, DANIEL 663
TOUSEY, SINCLAIR 663
TOWNE, HENRY R 664
TOWNSEXD, SAMUEL T... . 664
TRAVERS, WILLIAM R 665
TREVOR. JOHN B 665
TWEEDY, THOMAS E 666
U.
URQUHART, EDMOND 667
V.
VAIL, HENRY H 671
VAIL, THEODORE N 671
VAN BUREN, JOHN D 674
VANDERBILT, CORNELIUS 675
VANDERBILT, CORNELIUS... 684
VANDERBILT, WILLIAM H.. . 680
VAN NEST, ABRAHAM R 686
VAN NORDEN, WARNER. .. . 686
VAN RENSSELAER, C. S 688
VAN TINE, ASHLEY A 689
VAN VOLKENBURG. PHILIP. . 69!
VERMEULE, JOHN D 691
VERMILYE, JACOB D 692
VERMILYE, WASHINGTON R. 693
W.
WALKER, JOHN BRISBEN 694
WALLACH, ANTHONY 694
WARD, JAMES E 696
WARDWELL. WILLIAM T.. . 697
WARNER, DR. LUCIEN C 698
WATERBURY, JAMES M 700
WATSON, JOHN 701
WATSON, WILLIAM 702
WEBB. H. WALTER 702
WEBB, WILLIAM H 703
WEBB, WILLIAM SEWARD.. 709
WEED, THURLOW 710
WENDELL. JACOB 711
WENTZ, JAMES M 713
WEST, GEORGE 714
WETHERBEE, GARDNER 719
WETMORE, APOLLOS R 721
WETMORE, ROBERT C 721
WHEELER, JEROME B -722
WHEELOCK, WILLIAM A 724
WHITE, ALBERT T 726
WHITE, STEPHEN VAN C. .. 727
WHITLOCK, WILLIAM 727
WILLETS, SAMUEL
WILLIAMS, GEORGE G
WINSLOW, EDWARD
WINSLOW, JAMES
WINSTON, FREDERICKS....
WINTHROP, BENJAMIN R. . .
WlTHERBEE, SlLAS H
WITHERS, DAVID D
WOERISHOFFER, CHARLES F.
WOLFE, JOHN
PAGE PAGE
728 WOLFE, JOHN D 736
729 WOOD, BENJAMIN 737
730 WOOD, SAMUEL 740
730 WOOD, WILLIAM 740
730 WOODHOUSE, LORENZO G.. 741
731 WORK, FRANK 743
731 WORK, JOHN C 743
733 WRIGHT, EBENEZER K 744
734 WRIGHT, J. HOOD 746
736 WYCKOFF, WILLIAM 0 746
Y.
PAGE
YOUNG, JOHN S 748
YZNAGA, ANTONIO D. V 748
Z.
ZABRISKIE, ANDREW C 749
ZABRISKIE, CORNELIUS 751
ZEREGA, AUGUSTUS 752
ZIEGLER, WILLIAM 753
vi.
INDEX TO PORTRAITS.
PAGE
ANDREWS, WALLACE C 20
ASTOR, JOHN JACOB, 4th 40
ASTOR, WILLIAM 38
AVER, FREDERICK F 43
BABCOCK, GEORGK H 47
BARBER, AMZI L ' 57
BARRON, DR. JOHN C 63
BECHTEL, GEORGE 69
BEKKMAN, HENRY R 73
BELDING, MILO M 76
BELKNAP, ROBERT L 78
BENEDICT, HENRY H 81
BLISS, CORNELIUS N 90
BORDEN, M. C. D too
BRICE, CALVIN S 109
BROKAW, ISAAC V no
BROWNING, JOHN H 116
BUCHANAN, WILLIAM 120
BURNHAM, THOMAS B 124
CHFSEBOROUGH, ROBERT A. 138
CONNOR, WASHINGTON E. .. 148
CRIMMINS, JOHN D 159
DARLING, ALFRED B 169
DE LA MAR, JOSEPH R 176
DEPEW, CHACNCEY M 183
DEPEYSTER, ABRAHAM 185
DEPEYSTER, FREDERIC 185
DEPEYSTER, GEN. J. WATTS. 185
DEVOE, FREDERICK W 189
DOLGE, ALFRED 196
Dows, DAVID 201
DUN, ROBERT G 206
ELKINS, STEPHEN B 216
ENGLIS, JOHN -. ... 223
FARREL, FRANKLIN 231
FLINT, CHARLES R 243
GIBB, JOHN 256
GOOD, JOHN 260
GOULD. JAY 265
GRACE WILLIAM R 273
GREEN. EDWARD H. R 278
GUNTHER, ERNEST R 284
HAGEMEYER, GEORGE 287
HAMERSLEY, JAMES HOOKER 2^3
PAGE
HAWK, WILLIAM S 304
HOAGLAND, CORNELIUS N.. 315
HOE, ROBERT 317
HOY r, COL. MARK 325
HUDSON, CHARLES 1 330
HULBERT, HENRY C 331
HUNTIXGTON, COLLIS P 337
HURLBUT, HENRY A 340
HUSTED, SEYMOUR L. 343
JEWETT, HUGH J 353
KEENE, JAMES R 359
KF.LLY, EUGENE 363
KILMER, CHAUNCEY 368
KNOWLTON. EDWIN F 374
KUEHNE, FREDERICK 376
LAPHAM, HENRY G 381
LEARY, JAMES D 386
LEHMAN, EMANUEL 391
LEHMAN, MAYER 393
LOEW, EDWARD V 401
LYON, WILLIAM H 409
MCALPIN, DAVID H 413
MCALPIN, GEN. EDWIN A. . 416
MACKAY, JOHN W 422
MASURY, JOHN W 429
MEAD, FREDERICK 434
MILIKEN, SETH M 439
MILLS, DARIUS 0 441
MOORE, JOHN G 446
MOKOSIM, GIOVANNI P 453
MORTON, LEVI P 457
MOTT, HOPPER S 463
MOTT, JORDAN L 465
NEWCOMB, H. VICTOR 475
O'DONOHUE. JOSEPH J 481
OTTENDORFER, OSWALD. . . . 490
PEMBROOK, WILLIAM A. 499
PHELPS, ISAAC N 502
POOR, HENRY W 512
POTTER, ORLANDO B 517
PRENTICE, FREDERIC 525
QUINTARD, GEORGE W. . . . 530
REINHART, J. W 535
RICHARDSON JOSEPH 539
PACE
ROACH, JOHN 541
ROBERTSON, JOSEPH L 547
ROTHSCHILD, VICTOR H.... 558
RYAN, THOMAS F 561
SAGE, RUSSELL 564
SARGENT, GEORGE H 573
SCHLEY, GRANT B 578
SEABURY, GEORGE J 583
SHELDON, JAMES 0 589
SHEPARD, SIDNEY 593
SHOEMAKER, HENRY F 596
SLAVEN, HENRY B. . 603
SMITH, CHARLES STEWART. . 607
STEINWAY, WILLIAM 613
STRANAHAN, J. S. T 625
SULLY, ALFRED 636
TAILER, EDWARD N 640
TENNEY, CHARLES H 644
TERRY, JOHN T 646
THOMPSON, COL. WM. P 651
TIFFANY, CHARLES L 657
TILFORD, FRANK 661
URQUHART, EDMOND 668
VAIL. THEODORE N 672
VANDERBILT, CORNELIUS.... 675
VANDERBILT, WILLIAM H... 681
VANDERBILT, CORNELIUS — 685
VAN NORDEN, WARNER 687
VAN TINE, ASHLEY A 690
VERMEULE, JOHN D 692
WALLACH, ANTHONY 695
WARNER, LUCIEN C 6g3
WATTS, JOHN 185
WEBB, WILLIAM H 704
WEBB, WILLIAM SEWARD. . . 709
WENDELL, JACOB 712
WEST, GEORGE 715
WETHERBEE, GARDNE* 721
WHEFLER, JEROME B 723
WlTHERBEE, SlLAS H 732
WOOD, BENJAMIN 738
WOODHOUSE, LORENZO G.. 742
WRIGHT, EBENEZER K 745
ZABRISKIE ANDREW C 750
Tii.
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