ilil !>'
. l-f : ~ ^^
/■ f>
f/
A MODERN HISTORY
OF
NEW LONDON COUNTY
CONNECTICUT
EDITOK-IN-CHIEF
BENJAMIN TINKHAM MAKSHALL. A.M., D.D.
PRESIDENT OF CONNECTICUT COLLEGE, NEW LONDON
VOLUME III
1922
LEWIS HISTOKICAL PUBLISHING COMPANY,
NEW YOKK CITY
COPYRIGHT
LEWIS HISTORICAL PUBLISHING COMPANY
1022
HISTOKY OF
NEW LONDON COUNTY
2014930
BIOGRAPHICAL
179
CHARLES Q. ELDREDGE— Now seventy-six
years of age, Mr. Eldredge resides at "Riverview
Cottage," CMd Mystic, Connecticut, the place of his
birth, and on the ground where his parents, Chris-
topher and Nancy Eldredge, passed their lives and
left a record of love and helpfulness that will long
endure. Mr. Eldredge has seen all sides of life,
and had a great variety of experience during his
three-quarters of a century. He early broke away
from home environment, and in western lumber
camps and on western rivers developed a strength
of body, mind and character that well fitted him
for the place in mercantile life that he was to fill.
He started with limited education and without
financial backing, but, endowed with common sense,
clear vision, courage and willingness to work, he
rose from lowly place to the head of large business
interests and finally returned to the place of his
birth, where he has buiU a new house, and in beauti-
ful Riverview he has a home which is a model of
convenience and comfort, with private workshop,
garage, and a private "museum" where over three
thousand souvenirs are on exhibition, and where,
free of all charge, visitors are welcomed. Chris-
tened Charles Eldredge, he at first in mischief but
later legally added the middle initial "Q," which
he has now used for half a century.
Mr. Eldredge is a descendant of Samuel Eldred,
born in England in 1620, died in Kingston, Rhode
Island, in 1697. The line of descent to Charles Q.
Eldredge, of Old Mystic, is through the founder's
son, Captain Daniel Eldredge, of Kingston, Rhode
Island, and Stonington, Connecticut, captain of the
militia and deputy to the General Court. He died
at North Kingston, Rhode Island, August 18, 1726.
He added a final "ge" to the name. From him the
line continues through his son, James Eldredge,
born December 5, 1696, died 1738; his son, Chris-
topher Eldredge, born January 22, 1722, a soldier
of the Revolution, wounded during .Arnold's attack
on New London, September 6, 1781, died in Stoning-
ton, Connecticut, 1811; his son, Joshua Eldredge,
born in Stonington, August 9, 1769, died there Au-
gust 17, 1836; his son, Christopher Eldredge, born
in Stonington, November 14, 1798, died in Old
Mystic, Connecticut, July 26, 1884; his son, Charles
Q. Eldredge, born in Old Mystic, New London
county, Connecticut, July 15, 1845, and there now
residing (May i, 1921).
Charles Q. Eldredge, eighth and youngest of the
children of Christopher and Nancy (Taylor) El-
dredge, spent his early youth at the home of his
parents in Old Mystic, and obtained his education
in the district school. He was employed by various
men of his village, at farm, tannery, and quarry,
earning meagre wages in accordance with the cus-
tom of his day. At the age of seventeen he had
the unusual experience of taking a journey to Nor-
folk, Virginia, where his brother was in the hospital
from disabilities received in battles of the Civil
War. With his sister-in-law and six months baby,
the lad, Charles Q., who had never been more than
seven miles from home, started South to visit the
sick husband and brother. He made the journey
safely, and at Norfolk, after finding his brother
much better, he acted for a time as hospital steward
at the United States Army Hospital, and later
returned home. In December, 1862, he started for
Wisconsin with Elisha D. VVightman under contract
to work for the latter one year at a salary of one
hundred and twenty-five dollars, and on the way to
Werner, Wisconsin, narrowly escaped serious in-
jury in a railroad accident that killed or wounded
every passenger in the car but Mr. Wightman and
Mr. Eldredge.
There he went into a lumber camp; his first winter
in the woods was most severe, but he came through,
and although he had some trouble with frozen feet,
he never lost a day from duty. He was soon given
responsibility, he was made time-keeper and had
the handling of the payroll, and was a person of
influence. He was employed in the woods, on the
drive, and at the mills on Yellow river during the
first year with E. D. Wightman & Company.
Gurdon S. Allen and George F. Langworthy, of
Mystic, were interested with Mr. Wightman. At
the end of his first year January-Deceiwber, 1863,
he had half a year's wages of the one hundred and
twenty-five dollars on hand, and returned to Mystic,
where he visited for two weeks, then renewed his
contract with E. D. Wightman & Company at a
salary of five hundred dollars, and returned to the
lumber camp in Wisconsin. During that year he
was given still more responsibility and placed in
charge of the saw mills after the log drive was
over. The next winter he was placed in charge of
one of the logging camps, and although under
twenty he received a salary of one thousand dollars
and capably performed the duty required of him.
From logging, driving, sawing, and running a camp,
he was advanced to higher position and sent down
the river with the rafts, selling the lumber and re-
turning with the money. F"or eight years the
Mississippi river was his home, his business being
to find markets for the lumber, subsistence for the
raftsmen, and to pay off the men. It was at that
time that the old time raftsmen and Mississippi
river steamboat men were the roughest, toughest
and all around meanest combination that ever
existed. In "The Story of a Connecticut Life," Mr.
Eldredge says: "My experience would lead me to
agree with the classification but I should insist on
exceptions."
Each year in camp and mill and on the Wisconsin
river was a repetition of its predecessor until finally,
in 1869, Mr. Wightman, who had moved from
Mystic to Werner, became involved through his bad
habits and his partner, Gurdon S, Allen, sold out,
and finally the business went into the hands of a
receiver, and even under that management paid
ninety-five per cent of all claims. Werner, then a
place with a post-office, two large hotels, and the
largest saw mill on the river, is now obliterated with
nothing to mark the place.
With the collapse of E. D. Wightman & Com-
pany, in 1869, Mr. Eldredge, with B. F. Miner,
i8o
NEW LONDON COUNTY
bought a farm of one hundred and sixty acres and
began raising hops, succeeding however, in "going
broke," but paid one hundred cents on the dollar.
In the winter of 1870 Mr. Eldredge returned to
Mystic to attend his parent's Golden Wedding, and
in the spring of 1871 he began running the sloop
"Maria" as a freighter, con^tinuing through the
season. In 1872 he farmed in Mystic, and in July,
1873, sold out and with the eight thousand and five
hundred dollars that he received, he entered into
a partnership in M. F. White & Company, in Hoo-
sick Falls, New York, and in September, 1873, was
married, and until 1893 resided in Hoosick Falls.
In November, 1876, his partner died, and some time
later Mr. Eldredge bought his interest together
with all real estate formerly owned by the com-
pany.
In Hoosick Falls, Mr. Eldredge built and operated
a large wood-working factory in connection with
his lumber yard, built and conducted the only grist
mill for miles around, ran a machine shop, fur-
nished rooms and power to a shirt factory working
several hundred girls, rooms and power to a toy
factory, and employed a large force of building
mechanics, contracting and erecting over two hun-
dred buildings during the years he spent in Hoosick
Falls. He was also instrumental in erecting and
equipping a knit goods factory, employing two
hundred hands, he being superintendent of the mill
and treasurer of the corporation for two years. He
was one of the two men who secured the incor-
poration of the First National Bank, of Hoosick
Falls, an institution strong and stable and an honor
to its promoters.
In 1893 Mr. Eldredge sold his business in Hoosick
Falls, he being at that time, next to Walter A.
Wood, the largest individual taxpayer of the town.
The business, which in 1873 totaled sales of thirteen
hundred dollars monthly, had increased in 1S93 to
thirteen thousand dollars monthly, and the village
had increased from twenty-five hundred inhabitants
to seventy-five hundred, many of whom were at-
tracted to the village by the opportunity for employ-
ment in the many industries established and oper-
ated by Mr. Eldredge, and in which he had an
interest.
In 1893, he returned to Old Mystic, to the house,
"Riverview," which he had built in 1890, and in
1893 he sold his Hoosick Falls real estate, realizing
eleven thousand, three hundred dollars for what
had cost him in cash one hundred and thirteen
thousand dollars, the purchase later making the
purchaser the richest man in Hoosick Falls. To
make warrantee deeds, no mortgage had to be dis-
charged, as Mr. Eldredge, during his business life,
never signed one.
"Riverview," with its thirty-acre park, was its
owner's hobby, and during the next decade he built
a fine dam, a mile and a half of good roads, trimmed
six thousand trees, large and small, that grew wild
in the park, dug a well near a log summer house,
set out over three thousand catalpa trees, built an
observation tower one hundred and twenty-five feet
high, and made it an ideal home. In 1904 his
youngest son met a tragic death, and as "River-
view" had been planned for him to run, Mr. El-
dredge at once advertised it for sale, but not until
April, 1913, was a sale effected. In 1904, he made
a personal trip to Jamaica, West Indian Islands,
and in 1911, having acquired an interest in a citrus
fruit plantation in Porto Rico, he visited that island
and others of the West Indies, and returned to
Connecticut in 1912.
Tlie old homestead, built in 1850, at Old Mystic,
in which his parents spent practically their entire
sixty years of married life, had been burned down
in 1890 and rebuilt by Mr. Eldredge as a tenant
house. He moved into that house after the sale of
"Riverview" and gradually enlarged it until "River-
view Cottage" has been evolved, a beautiful Iiome
fronting on the Mystic river, a model of comfort.
In 1917 he built a small building, twenty by twenty
feet, the entire construction of that building, exca-
vation, rock foundation, inside finish, tin work,
decorating and lettering, all the personal work of
Mr. Eldredge. This he fitted up as a private mu-
seum, and placed there the many souvenirs he has
collected in his many journeys. The museum has
proved of interest to the public, and during its first
year five hundred visitors registered. He has issued
a complete catalogue of the museum's three thou-
sand curios.
A Republican in politics, Mr. Eldredge would
never accept office, but in Hoosick Falls, in response
to a signed petition, he did consent to serve as
village trustee for two years.
Mr. Eldredge married Jennie Waitstill Leavens,
in September, 1873, at Lansingburg, New York, and
in 1895 his wife, her sister, and mother, all died of
typhoid fever at Hoosick Falls, within a period of
thirty days. Three children were born to Mr. and
Mrs. Charles Q. Eldredge, as follows: i. Charles
Leavens, born at Hoosick Falls, New York, now a
Baptist minister at West Bridgewater, Massachu-
setts; he married May Frink, of old Mystic, and
they are the parents of three children: Reginald,
deceased; Margarette, and Amethyst. 2. Jennie
White, born at Hoosick Falls, New York; she mar-
ried Frederick Munich, of Bridgeport, Connecticut,
and they have two children: Frederick Eldredge and
Margaret. 3. Clarence Quincy, born at Hoosick
Falls, died at Old Mystic, at eighteen years of age.
Mr. Eldredge married his present wife, Estelle
Gilpatrick, at Groton, Massachusetts, January I,
1891, and in 1893 returned to Mystic and now re-
sides at "Riverview Cottage." In 1919, ^Ir. El-
dredge published "The Story of a Connecticut Life,"
a record of his long, useful career, which is moat
interesting. Of this book writes R. W. Shannon,
of Albany:
"I have read your book and shall give myself the
pleasure of reading it again; yes, several times. I
know somewhat of your life, but the details impress
me deeply, and your power to master difficult situ-
BIOGRAPHICAL
i8i
ations and successfully shoulder and carry forward
great responsibilities ought to be an incentive to
those who will read your book."
The book has had its second printing, and so
many kind letters have been received by Mr. El-
dredge from its readers, that he has published a
pamphlet of forty-nine pages in which he prints
many of them under the title, "Kind Words."
ARTHUR GALLUP WHEELER— Since attain-
ing man's estate, Arthur G. Wheeler has cultivated
the Cherry Hill farm which his father had pre-
viously bought. Later the son purchased thei farm
from his father, and there he has passed the years
which have since intervened, its owner and active
manager. Arthur Gallup Wheeler is a son of
Nelson H. Wheeler, a "Forty-Niner," and long a
New London county farmer, son of Samuel
Wheeler, son of Joseph Wheeler, son of Richard
(2) Wheeler, son of Richard (l) Wheeler, son of
Isaac Wheeler, son of Thomas Wheeler, who came
from Lynn, Massachusetts, to Stonington, Connec-
ticut, in 1667, and was made a freeman in 1669,
represented Stonington in the General Court in
1673, and in 1674 was one of the nine menibers
forming the organization of the Road Church in
Stonington. His wife Mary was one of the first
partakers of the communion service in that church.
From Thomas and Mary Wheeler, through their
only son, Isaac, spring the large and honorable New
London Wheeler family.
Samuel Wheeler, of the sixth generation, was
born September 14, 1784, and died March 24, 1S52.
He was a lifelong Democrat, selectman, assessor,
liberal supporter of the old Road Church, and all
his life a farmer. He married, in 1809, Rebecca
Prentice, who died December 9, 1842, the mother
of eight children, one of whom was a son. Nelson
H. Wheeler, father of Arthur Gallup Wheeler, of
Cherry Hill Farm.
Nelson H. Wheeler was born at the homestead
in Stonington, March 28, 1827, and there the first
eighteen years of his life v^ere passed. He at-
tended district school, and was his father's farm
assistant until 184S, when he started out for him-
self, working as farmer, carpenter and peddler for
three years, until he caught a bad case of "gold
fever." He took the only way to effect a sure cure,
and on January 26, 1849, sailed in the ship "Tres-
cott" for California, rounding the "Horn" and
arriving at the Golden Gate in six months and
thirteen days. He worked for one year at mining,
then engaged in farming and teaming near Sacra-
mento, finally coming hoime via the Isthmus, in
1853, having been gone more than four years. He
farmed the homestead until 1901, when he moved to
Mystic, town of Groton, New London county, Con-
necticut, where he died January 18, 1904.
Nelson H. Wheeler married, April 3, 1853, Me-
linda Gallup, born in the town of Ledyard, New
London county, Connecticut, November 2, 1831,
and died August, 191 1, daughter of Luke and Me-
linda (Williams) Gallup. They began their mar-
ried life at the Wheeler homestead built prior to
the Revolution by Nelson H. Wheeler's grand-
father, Joseph Wheeler, born January 23, 1747, who
occupied it with his wife. Prudence (Palmer)
Wheeler, to whom he was married September l8,
1774. Nelson H. and Melinda (Gallup) Wheeler
occupied the homestead forty-eight years, 1853 to
1901, then turned it over to their son, George A.
Wheeler, who yet owns and cultivates its acres,
and moved to Mystic. Three years later, in 1904,
Nelson H. Wheeler died, and seven years later, in
1911, Mrs. Wheeler joined her husband in the
Spiritland. They were both members of the Bap-
tist church, and were highly esteemed. Nelson H.
and Melinda (Gallup) Wheeler were the parents of
eight children: I. Samuel N., born May 20, 1854, a
graduate of Boston University, and a school teacher
until his death in 1896. 2. Lilla M., born January
4, 1857, died March 30, 1885. 3. Arthur Gallup, of
further mention. 4. Mary S., born April 20, i860,
died January 22, 1895; married Rev. O. G. Budding-
ton. 5. Herman E., born April 20, 1862, died April
6, 1885. 6. Agnes M., born May 2, 1864, married
Frank L. Lathrop, of Norwich, Connecticut. 7.
Fernando, born June i6, 1866 (q.v.). 8. George A.,
born May 15, 1874, now the owner of the home-
stead upon which he was born; he married Lucille
Billings Thompson.
Arthur Gallup Wheeler, of the eighth generation
of his family in New London county, Connecticut,
was born at the Wheeler homestead in the town of
Stonington, now owned by his brother, Oclo'jc:' J,
1858, and there spent the years of his minority. He
was educated in the public schools and in Mystic
Valley Institute. Upon arriving at legal age, his
father purchased the Joseph Davis place, otherwise
known as Cherry Hill Farm, in the town of Stoning-
ton, and after teaching school for one year, Arthur
G. Wheeler took the active management of the
farm, which later he bought. He has, with his
brother Fernando, handled a great deal of the fruit
raised in the district, and has a well cultivated, fer-
tile farm which he has greatly improved since be-
coming its owner. Mr. Wheeler is a Democrat in
his political faith, and has taken an active part in
town affairs. For eight years he was collector of
taxes, and represented his district in the Connec-
ticut House of Representatives from 1892 to 1893.
He is a member of Asylum Lodge, Free and Ac-
cepted Masons, and of the Old Mystic Baptist
Church.
Mr. Wheeler married, June 7, 1893, Mary Billings,
born in North Stonington, May 15, 1877, daughter
of Sanford and Emmeline Billings. Mr. and Mrs.
Wheeler are the parents of seven children: i. Nel-
son Farnsworth, born February 25, 1894, 2. Mary
Starr, born September 14, 1895, a graduate of Wel-
Icsley College, now in bond department, Guaranty
Trust Company, New York City. 3. Arthur Gallup
(2), born April 13, 1897. 4. Donald Billings, born
I82
NEW LONDON COUNTY
June 28, 1900. 5. Dorothy Billings, twin with Don-
ald Billings. 6. A child who died in infancy. 7.
Melinda Williams, born July 23, 1909.
These three sons of Nelson H. Wheeler, Arthur
G., Fernando and George A. Wheeler, are all lo-
cated in the town of Stonington, and near the
homestead owned by five generations of their fam-
ily. More than two and one-half centuries have
elapsed since Thomas Wheeler, the .'\merican an-
cestor, settled in Stonington, and the record ;;hows
no faHing off in the quality of the Wheeler stock.
It is one of the strong families of the town, and
its twentieth century representatives are worthy.
ERNEST AVERY LATHROP— The Lathrop
name is an honored one in New England, and
nowhere more so than in New London county,
Connecticut, where the family was founded by
Samuel Lathrop, who was brought from England
by his father, Rev. John Lathrop, in 1634. Rev.
John Lathrop come into open conflict with the
Archbishop of London, where he was pastor of an
Independent church, and with forty-three members
of his church was arrested, April 29, 1632, and
thrown into prison. While he was in prison, his
wife died and finally he was released on the condi-
tion that he would leave England. Accordingly
he sailed with his children, and in 1634 arrived in
New England. He founded a church in Scituate,
Massachusetts, and with many of his congregation
moved to Barnstable.
Samuel Lathrop was a builder of Boston, and a
farmer of Barnstable, finally settling in now New
London, Connecticut, where he became one of the
judges of the local court organized in 1649. In
1668 he moved to Norwich, Connecticut, where he
was chosen constable. He married (first), Novem-
ber 28, 1644, in Barnstable, Elizabeth Scudder.
They were the parents of nine children, their eldest,
a son, John, baptized December 7, 1645, their young-
est a daughter, Anne, born August 7, 1667. Samuel
Lathrop married (second), in 1690, Abigail Doane,
born January 29, 1632, daughter of Deacon John
Doane, of the Plymouth Colony. She survived her
husband thirty-four years, living to the great age
of one hundred and two. On the centennial anni-
versary of her birth, her friends assembled at her
home and listened to a sermon preached by her
pastor, a part of the celebration. She preserved to
a remarkable degree her mental powers until her
death in 1734, her husband having passed away in
1700. It is from Samuel and Elizabeth (Scudder)
Lathrop that Ernest Avery Lathrop, of the town
of Montville, descends.
Ernest A. Lathrop is a son of John Lathrop, who
was born in Bozrah, New London county, Connec-
ticut, in 1836, and now (1920), at the age of eighty-
four years, still farms the old Lathrop homestead
in Bozrah. He married (second) Sarah Elizabeth
Thomas, born in Colchester, Connecticut, in July,
1840, died in April, 1914. She was a widow with
two sons and a daughter when married to John
Lathrop, one of these sons, William Brown, now
living at the farm of his half-brother, Ernest Avery
Lathrop, and assisting in its cultivation.
Ernest A. Lathrop, son of John and Sarah Eliza-
beth (Thomas) Lathrop, was born in Norwich, Con-
necticut, January 16, 1873, and there educated in
the public schools. In early life he drove a stage
between Norwich and Ledyard Center, but after
two years in that position entered the employ of
Edward Johnson, a farmer of Uncasville. He was
engaged in farming and later in teaming until 1901,
when he bought the Fred Parker farm in the town
of Montville, where he has taken leading rank
among the enterprising, successful farmers of his
tow-n. His farm is very productive, and his dairy
herd contains some very fine Holsteins and all are
graded cattle. He uses all modern aids to success-
ful farming, and is very progressive.
Mr. Lathrop was married, October 17, 1894, by
Rev. John Avery, at Norwich, to Julia Estell Avery,
daughter of Belton Avery, one of the old whaling
mariners, born in 1853, died 1901, and Mary Augusta
(Reynolds) Avery, who yet survives her husband,
and is a resident of Norwich.
CHARLES GILES TURNER— For thirty-four
years Mr. Turner has been engaged in carriage and
wagon building in Upper Montville and Montville,
twenty-three of those years in partnership with his
brother-in-law and eleven under his own name. He
is one of the best-known men in his town, and
hardly a farmer in Montville but at some time has
patronized the Turner wheelwright shops. Charles
G. Turner is a son of Giles Turner, of Groton, Con-
necticut, now deceased, and his wife, Hannah (Rath-
burn) Turner, who with her husband is buried in
Comstock Cemetery in the town of Montville, Con-
necticut. They were the parents of four sons:
Irving; Willis-; Hazzard, deceased; Charles Turner,
of further mention; and a daughter Elizabeth.
Charles Giles Turner was born in Waterford,
New London county, Connecticut, November 8,
1852. He was but an infant when his parents moved
to the town of Montville in the same county, his
home situated on Lake Konomoc. He was educated
in the public schools, and until reaching legal age
made his home with his parents and helped his
father in his farming operations. He spent a few
years in the employ of Captain Fitch, then for six
years was engaged with Charles Johnson, of Uncas-
ville, Connecticut, in the dye works, in charge of
his horses. After a short experience in a general
store as clerk, Mr. Turner became associated with
his brother-in-law in the carriage building business,
and for twenty-three years they operated a plant in
Upper Montville. In 1909 Charles G. Turner
started business in the same line, under his own
name in Montville, and there has since been en-
gaged very successfully. Mr. Turner is a Repub-
lican in politics, has served as a member of the
town Board of Selectmen, and as an official of the
Probate Court. He is a member of O.xoboxo Blue
BIOGRAPHICAL
183
Lodge, Free and Accepted Masons, and h man
highly regarded by his townsmen.
Mr. Turner married lanthe Browning, of Mont-
ville, born May 8, 1856, daughter of Isaac and
Martha (Hov/c) Browning. Mrs. Turner has a
brotlier, Silas, of Montville, and a sister, Martha
Brainard. Mr. and Mrs. Turner are members of
the Montville Center Congregational cliurch.
CHARLES BURR GRAVES, M.D., was born in
the city of Chicago, Illinois, June 10, i860, a son of
Addison and Helen M. (Eaton) Graves. Since early
boyhood he has resided in New London, Connec-
ticut, receiving his schooling in the public schools
of that city. After preparing for college at Bulkeley
High School he entered Yale College and graduated
therefrom in 18S2 with the degree of Bachelor of
Arts. His medical education was obtained at the
Harvard Medical School, from which he obtained
the degree of M. D. in 18S6. His medical course
was foUovi'ed by an interneship in the Boston City
Hospital from 1885 to 1887. Soon afterwards he
settled in New London, Connecticut, where he has
ever since continued to reside and practice medi-
cine.
Besides meeting the many demands of the life
of an active general practitioner. Dr. Graves has
held several offices of importance. From 1896 to
1907 he served as coroner's physician for the town
and city of New London. He was one of the orig-
inal members of the medical and surgical staff of
the New London Memorial Hospital, and secre-
tary from its founding until 1908. He is at present
a senior member of the staff of the Lawrence and
Memorial Associated Hospitals.
Since entering upon medical practice in 1S87 he
has been a member of the New London County
Medical Association and the Connecticut Jiledical
Society, and was president of the latter in 1920.
His address on that occasion was on "Epidemic
Diseases in Early Connecticut Times." He is also
one of the charter members of the New London
(City) Medical Society.
He has held several other public trusts, having
been long a member of the board of trustees of
Bulkeley School, and having served for many years
as trustee of the Manwaring Memorial Hospital
and the Public Library of New London. He is also
an active member of several botanical and historical
societies. In connection with his interest in botan-
ical matters, may be mentioned the fact that he
was a member of the committee from the Connec-
ticut Botanical Society which prepared the account
of "The Flowering Plants of Connecticut" for the
Connecticut Geological and Natural History So-
ciety. He also wrote the very exhaustive chapter
of Medical History in this work ("History of New
London County").
Dr. Graves married, September 10, 1891, Frances
M. Miner, of New London, Connecticut. Of their
children one daughter, Elizabeth Waterman, born
1898, survives.
BENJAMIN STERRY GALLUP— The old asso-
ciations which cluster around the homesteads of
New London county hold a sacred charm for the
student of history, both that history recorded in
the printed volume and that spread forth upon the
face of nature. For grouped among the wild woods
and fields are to be found innumerable records of
loving labors performed by hands now forever
quiet. In Sprague, Connecticut, the home of the
late Benjamin Sterry Gallup still shows the con-
structive effort of the man now gone, and the care-
ful preservation of the landmarks of a generation
long passed out of human ken.
The Gallup family came to New England in the
earliest days of its history, some of its members
settling in Connecticut but a few years later.
Wherever they have settled, members of each gen-
eration have been prominent in public affairs, taking
part in the Indian wars, in the Revolution and in
the civic affairs of community, county, and State.
The immigrant ancestor of the family was John
Gallup, a native of the parish of Mosterne, Dorset-
shire, England, who sailed from Plymouth in 1630,
in the ship "Mary and John." arriving at Hull. His
wife, Christobel, and children, followed three years
later. Mr. Gallup was a son of John Gallup, and a
grandson of Thomas and Agnes (Watkins) Gallup,
of North Bowood and Strode, whose descendanis
still own and occupy the manors of Strode. John
Gallup, the emigrant, went first to Dorchester, and
soon afterward to Boston, where both he and his
wife were admitted to the First Church in 1634.
He owned Gallup's Island, and was a skillful mar-
iner, achieving distinction by piloting the ship
"Griffin," in September, 1633, through a newly found
channel when Rev. John Cotton, Rev. Thomas
Hooker, and Rev. Mr. Stone were among her 200
passengers. Fie died in Boston, January 11, 1655,
and his wife died there September 27, 1655. Their
children v/ere: John, Samuel, and Nathaniel.
Captain John Gallup, born in England, came to
this country in 1633. He became a famous Indian
fighter and is supposed to have assisted his father
in the capture of John Lodham's vessel ofl Block
Island. P"or distinguished service in the Pequot
War, the General Court of Connecticut, in 1671,
gave him a grant of 100 acres of land, and in 1650
or 1651 he came to New London. He was also
given other tracts of land, and in 1654, he, with
his family, removed to the east side of the Mystic
river, now Stonington. In 1665 and in 1667 he
represented the town in the General Court. Joining
the New London county Company, at ^he head of t[ie
Mohegans, under Captain John Mason, of Norwich,
he was engaged in the fearful Swamp fight at
Narragansett, December 19, 1675, and there, at the
head of his men, storming the fort, he, with six
other captains, fell in the fight. He married, in
1643, Hannah, daughter of John and Margaret Lake.
Their children were: Hannah, John, Esther, Ba-
nadam, William, Samuel, Christobel, Elizabeth,
Mary, and Margaret.
laj
NEW LONDON COUNTY
John Gallup, son of Captain John (2) Gallup,
born about 1646, made his home in Stonington
where he wedded Elizabeth Harris. Their children
were: John, Thomas, Margaret, Samuel, Elizabeth,
Nathaniel, William, and Benjamin. Nathaniel Gal-
lup, son of John and Elizabeth (Harris) Gallup,
was born July 4, 1682, married June 4, 1717, Mar-
garet Gallup, born May 11, 1698, daughter of
Banadam and Hester (Prentiss) Gallup, and resided
in Stonington, Connecticut, on the Grecnman farm,
near the residence of Warren Lewis. They united
with the Congregational church, Stonington, July
20, 1718. Their children were: Nathaniel, John,
Thomas, Mercy, Margaret, Martha, and Benjamin.
Benjamin (l) Gallup, son of Nathaniel and Mar-
garet (Gallup) Gallup, was born in Stonington, July
26, 1736, and on January 20, 1763, in Voluntown, he
was married to Amy Kinne, by the Rev. Levi Hart.
Their thirteen children were: Nathaniel, Zeuriah,
Thomas, Amy, Mercy, Benjamin, Lucy, Martha,
Esther, Margaret, Cynthia, Eunice, and Kcturah.
Benjamin (2) Gallup, son of Benjamin and Amy
(Kinne) Gallup, was born in Voluntown, May 25,
1774, and was a prosperous farmer and large land-
holder in his native town. He also engaged in the
lumber business for ship building, shipping the tim-
ber to Mystic. He died and was buried on the home
farm. He was a memter of the Baptist church and in
politics was a Jacksonian Democrat. On January 30,
1806, by the Elder Pclcg Randall, he was married to
Huldah Gallup, who also died on the home farm in
the faith of the Baptist church, and was buried in the
family cemetery there. Their two children were:
Amy, born June 13, 1808, married Benjamin Gallup,
and resided in Voluntown; and Benjamin, born July
10, 1811.
Benjamin (3) Gallup, son of Benjamin (2) Gal-
lup, and father of Benjamin Sterry Gallup, was
born on the old Gallup homestead. He received a
substantial education in the schools of his district,
and for several terms taught school in Voluntown
and vicinity. He early engaged in farming, how-
ever, and to his farming interests added the busi-
ness of shipping lumber for ship building to Mystic,
Connecticut, and to Westerly, Rhode Island. He
was active in public affairs, serving as selectman for
a number of terms; as a member of the board of
relief; as school visitor; as justice of the peace;
and, for two terms as representative to the state
legislature. He gained the high reputation of being
one who, in public office, set aside personal inter-
ests, devoting the powers of the office and his per-
sonal abilities to the public good. He married,
October 30, 1831, Caroline Kinne, a descendant of
an old and honored family. She died November
15, 1874, aged sixty-one years, a noble, Christian
woman, devoted to her home and family. Benjamin
(3) Gallup died on the home farm September 2,
1891, at the age of four score, and was also buried
in the family cemetery on the farm. The children
of Benjamin (3) and Caroline (Kinne) Gallup were:
Laura C, who married Avery A. Stanton, of Sterl-
ing, Connecticut; Benjamin Sterry, of whom further;
Miss Amy, who lives on the homestead; Edwin
Byron, who died in infancy; Edwin Byron, born on
the homestead, August 13, 1846, married Mary Bur-
dick, and resides in Voluntown; Origcn S., born
December 31, 1849, deceased, and buried in the
family cemetery on the farm; his widow and children
still live on the farm; and Albert, who died in Hart-
ford in 1915, and is buried in Scotland, Connecticut.
Benjamin (3) Gallup was again married, September
18, 1878, to Fidelia Chapman, who survives him and
lives on the homestead.
Benjamin Sterry Gallup, son of Benjamin (3) and
Caroline (Kinne) Gallup, was born in Voluntown,
April 18, 1840. At an early age he attended school
at Connecticut Literary Institute, at Suffield, Con-
necticut, and also attended the Academy at East
Greenwich, Rhode Island, after which he taught
in several schools in Voluntown. He was a young
man of high ideals, and with fine mental endow-
ment, and was a very successful teacher. Later,
for a time, he was a merchant in Voluntown. In
April, 1871, Mr. Gallup came to the present family
home, in the town of Spraguc, near Baltic. This
farm was at the time known as the Gordon Place,
and after purchasing it, Mr. Gallup made the neces-
sary repairs, carefully preserving the characteristics
which clearly distinguished the period of the house,
which was one of the first frame houses built in
the State of Connecticut. The kitchen of the pres-
ent home was used in the old days as slave quar-
ters. The farm is a part of a grant of land amount-
ing to one thousand acres, received from Chief
Uncas by one Perkins, who built the house.
On this farm Mr. Gallup became a resident of the
town of Sprague. During the remainder of his life
he conducted the farm and filled a prominent and
esteemed position in the daily life of the town.
His ability as a man of affairs, and the breadth of
his learning were soon recognized by the towns-
people and he was called to the public service as
second selectman, then as assessor, and was also
given important responsibilities on the school com-
mittee. His work in these various branches of the
town government was always progressive, never
self-seeking, and the man was a source of inspira-
tion to his associates. Those who now recall his
public life remember Mr. Gallup as a man of great
force and decision, yet possessed of the breadth of
view that considers every side of a question before
committing himself to definite action. Such men
are all too few in every branch of human endeavor.
The death of Mr. Gallup, on March 18, 1920, left
a gap in the ranks of the public-spirited men of
Sprague, and a sense of loss in the hearts of his
many friends. His name will be spoken long after
his contemporaries have all taken the "path" along
which he preceded them, and the work which he
laid down will still live, since no worthy effort can
die.
Mr. Gallup married Helena Roxa, daughter of
Kinney and Harriet (Robbins) Gallup, and they
BIOGRAPHICAL
became the parents of eight children: Algernon
Sterry, born in Griswold, Connecticut, married
Lorena Bell Tyler, of Centerville, Rhode Is-
land, and lives in Centerville; Josephine Kir.ncy,
born in Griswold, now the wife of Hubert Allen,
of North Agawaiii, Massachusetts; Caroline Au-
gusta, born in Griswold, a very successful teacher;
Oscar Byron, born in Griswold; Harriet Robbins,
born in Griswold, died in Sprague, July lo, 1884;
Jennie Chapman, born in Sprague, Connecticut, a
music teacher of considerable success; Kinney Ben-
jamin, born in Sprague, July 15, 1875, died August
28, 1876; VVinfred Cleon, born in Sprague, married
Ellen G. Johnson, and is a resident of Norwood,
Rhode Island.
Mrs. BenjanTin Sterry Gallup, a woman of un-
bounded hospitality, died May 29, 1914, and the
family home is now owned by Oscar B., Caroline A.,
and Jennie C. Gallup, all of whom live in the home-
stead made dear to them by life-long association,
and by loving memories of those who have passed
on, leaving this home as a monument to their
industry, their skill and their loving care for their
family.
JAMES MITCHELL YOUNG — A successful
business man, owner and manager of a large meat
market at the corner of Main and Alarket streets,
Norwich, Mr. Young has proved in his life the
value of work as a means of developing property
in business.
Alexander Young, father of James Mitchell
Young, was born in Scotland, and died in Vermont
in 1898. He obtained his education in the district
school of his native place. When a young man he
came with his father, George Young, to the United
States, and they settled in Greensboro, Vermont,
where they bought a farm which they conducted for
a number of years. Alexander Young sold out his
interests in the farm to his father, and bought a
farm on his own account which he managed until
his death. In politics he was a Republican, and
was always active in promoting the welfare of the
community. In religion he -was a Presbyterian, and
for many j'ears' was deacon of the church there.
He married Mary White, and to them were born
four children: Jason, a resident of Nashua, New
Hampshire; James M., mentioned below; Jennie,
now deceased, was formerly the wife of David A.
Johnson, of Montvillc, Connecticut; Hattie, wife of
John Findlay, of Greensboro.
James Mitchell Young was born in Greensboro,
Vermont, in 1856, the son of Alexander and Mary
(White) Young. He received his elementary edu-
cation in the district schools of his native place,
and then entered North Cashbury Academy, from
which he was graduated in 1876, after which he
went immediately to Norwich, Connecticut, and
entered upon his business career, securing a posi-
tion as clerk in the grocery store of his uncle,
Joseph Prentiss, where he remained for three years.
In 1880 he became clerk in the transportation office
of the New Vork, New Haven & Hartford rail-
road and was so employed until 1886, when he
returned to his uncle and entered into parlncrship
with him. This partnership continued until his
uncle's death in 1894, when James Mitchell Young
bought the entire business and continued success-
ively for twenty-two years, finally selling out his
interests and travelling to South Dakota, where he
bought a half section of land and cultivated it for
two years. He then returned to Connecticut, sub-
sequently going to Willimantic, where he bought a
market which was owned by Frank Larabee, and
managed this for about two years, and then re-
moved to Norwich and bought the grocery business
of W. H. Cardwell and also the market of Louis
Frascr and moved the two concerns to his present
location where he has since this consolidation met
with unbounded success. Mr. Young, in connec-
tion with this market, owns forty acres of culti-
vated land, where he raises an enormous supply of
vegetables for his trade, also owning a large poul-
try farm from which he supplies his store with eggs.
In politics Mr. Young is a Republican, and has
always taken a keen interest in the activities of the
party. For nine years he was town clerk and treas-
urer of Preston county. In religion he is a Baptist.
Mr. Young married, in Norwich, Elizabeth C.
Storm, daughter of John and Josephine (Prentiss)
Storm, and they are the parents of three children:
Marion L., an instructor in Middlebury College,
Vermont; John B., served with the hospital unit in
the Army of Occupation during the World War,
and is now associated with his father in business;
James Mitchell, Jr., associated with his father in
business, married Ruth Hale, of Willimantic; he
also served in the World War.
CHARLES ALLEN CHAPMAN— Held in the
highest esteem by his contemporaries, and prom-
inent in every good work of the town, the death, in
1913, of Charles Allen Chapman, of Montville, Con-
necticut, was regarded as a great loss to the com-
munity.
Politically Mr. Chapman had been very active,
holding at different times every office connected
with public affairs. In the business life of Mont-
ville he had for many years been a merchant, for
the last forty years of his life conducting a success-
ful grocery establishment. His death occurred
when seventy-four years of age, and he was buried
in the local cemetery.
Charles Allen Chapman married (first) Mary
Edwards, by whom he had one child, Nellie Evelyn,,
who died in 1918, at the age of forty-eight years.
Mr. Chapman married (second) Laura Comstock,
of Montville, a daughter of Nathan and Caroline
(Whipple) Comstock, the former-named one of the
original settlers of Montville. The family of his
wife, the Whipples, had been closely identified with
the life of New London county since public records
had been kept.
The Comstock family is one of the oldest in this
i86
NEW DONDON COUNTY
part of the United States, their original ancestor
coming to this country in 1620, when the "May-
flower" brought the English refugees from Hol-
land. A sister of Mrs. Laura (Comstock) Chapman
is Carrie Comstock, a member of the exclusive
organization, "The Daughters of the Mayflower."
Their brother was the late Judge Comstock, who
during his lifetime was a very able lawyer, promi-
nently knov/n throughout the State.
By his second marriage Charles Allen Chapman
and his wife, Laura (Comstock) Chapman, had four
children: l. Charles Everett, born in Montville,
February 17, 1878; he is engaged in the grocery
business. 2. Mildred May, born May 29, l836. 3.
Florence Caroline, who during the World War
was in the service of her country as an ambulance
driver in France, in one of the units organized by
Mrs. J. Pierpont Morgan; the duty to which Miss
Chapman was assigned was the v^'Ork of following
in the v/ake of battle, assisting in the rescue of the
wounded soldiers, and in giving relief to refugees;
Florence Caroline Chr.pnian is nov/ postmistress of
Palmertown. 4. Laura Comstock, born June 13,
1900; married Mark Furber, and resides in Mont-
ville.
The widow of Charles Allen Chapman, Mrs.
Laura fComstock) Chapman, is still residing at her
home in Montville, aged sixty-four years. She is
a member of the Baptist church of Montville, Con-
necticut.
DR. ERNEST JAMES JONES has spent four-
teen years in Norwich, Connecticut, and these have
been years of arduous devotion to the advancement
of the dental profession which have placed him in
the front rank of the city's practicing dentists.
John S. Jones, father of Dr. Ernest J. Jones, was
born in Wales, in 1834, and came to America when
a young man, locating in Quebec, where he owns
a large farm, and although eighty-six years of age
he is still very active and devotes much of his time
to agriculture. He married Sarah Davidson, a na-
tive of Montreal, Canada, and they are the parents
of five children: i. Charles, born in Quebec, now
residing in Williamstown; married Emma Burgess,
and they have one child, Sarah. 2. Lillian, wife of
George Schuler, of Williamstown. 3. Fred W., a
farmer in Quebec; married Elizabeth Cross, of New
York City. 4. John, now residing on the farm in
Quebec; married Annie Curley, and they have two
children, Gordon and Margaret. 5. Ernest James,
mentioned below.
Dr. Ernest James Jones was born in Bondville,
Province of Quebec, Canada, July 9, 1877. The
childhood of Dr. Jones v/as passed in his native
place, and it was there that the preparatory portion
of his education was received. After graduating
from the high school, he worked on his father's
farm for seven years, and then having decided to
make the dental profession his career, matriculated
in the dental department of the University of Mary-
land, from which he was graduated in 1904. In
1906 he opened his office in the Shannon block,
Norwich, and since that time he has made his head-
quarters at this place and developed a large and
high-class practice, so that he is now regarded
among the leaders of his profession here. In poli-
tics he is a Republican, and quite unambitious for
political preferment. Dr. Jones holds a prominent
place in Masonic circles, being a member of Bronie
Lake Lodge, No. 35, Free and Accepted Masons;
Franklin Chapter, Royal Arch Masons; Columbia
Commander}', Knights Templar; Sphinx Temple,
Ancient Arabic Order Nobles of the Mystic Shrine,
and has attained to the thirty-second degree of the
Masonic order.
Dr. Jones was united in marriage with Agnes V.
McKee, June 27, 1908. Mrs. Jones is the daughter
of James and Virginia C. (Humes) McKee; her
father was a toolmakcr and machinist for the Hop-
kins & Allen Arms Company for many years. Dr.
and Mrs. Jones are the parents of three children:
James, born June 9, 1909; Gwendolyn, born July 14,
1910; Pauline, born February 25, 1914.
REV. V/ILLIAM THOMAS O'BRIEN was born
in Portland, Connecticut, September 4, 1882. He is
a son of Vv'illiam and Elizabeth (Vv'all) O'Brien,
both natives of County Cork, Ireland, the former
having been born there in 1842, the latter, August
II, 1847. His father came to Portland, Connecticut,
when a young man, establishing himself in business
as a merchant, in which he continued successfully
until his death, which occurred July 16, 1897. To
Mr. and Mrs. O'Brien were born six children:
Michael, Katherine, Mary; W'illiam Thomas, of
further mention; Delia, and Anna.
The early education of William Thomas O'Brien
was obtained in the parocliial schools of Poi'tland,
St. Johns and New Haven, after which he entered
St. Thomas' Seminary at Hartford, Connecticut,
v.-hcre he remained five years. After graduating
he went to Paris, France, and there continued his
theological studies, where still later he was ordained
to the priesthood, on June 29, 1907. Returning to
his native land his first assignment was at St.
Anne's Church at Waterbury, Connecticut, where
he labored eleven years and ten months. Here his
work won recognition from his superiors, and appre-
ciation and love from his parishioners. On No-
vember 13, 1918, Father O'Brien was appointed pas-
tor of the Catholic church at Baltic where he has
since continued with the hearty cooperation of his
parishioners and is supported in his work.
Life holds no more beautiful relationship than
that which a Catholic priest bears to his people
and his people bear to him. From the cradle to the
grave he is one whose patience never falters and
whose helping hand is never withdrawn. Come
v/hat will within the range of human experience,
in its midst, you will find the priest toiling, not for
himself, but for those he loves. This is the type
of priest, this is the manner of friend, this is the
kind of pastor Father O'Brien is to all who know
him; a noble man full of courage, zeal, and devotion,
and abiding religious faith.
BIOGRAPHICAL
187
CHARLES HENRY LATHAM, one of the most
influential citizens of Griswold, Connecticut, where
he has held many positions of responsibility and
trust and where he is engaged in the farming busi-
ness on a large scale, is a member of a family
which for many years has resided in New London
county, Connecticut.
Henry Brown Latham, father of Charles Henry
Latham, was born in Ledyard, Connecticut, and
obtained his education in his native place. Later
he moved with his parents to North Stonington,
Connecticut, and here most of his time was given
to aiding his father in the work about the farm,
which the latter had purchased upon his arrival in
this town. After the father's death Henry Brovi^n
Latham continued to cultivate and develop the
property until 1914, when he retired from active
business life and has since resided at Bean Hill,
Norwich, Connecticut. He married Eunice Hewett,
and to them v/ere born two children: Emily H.,
who died at the age of six years; Charles Henry,
of further mention. Mrs. Latham died March 19,
1917.
Charles Henry Latham was born July 20, 1870,
in North Stonington, Connecticut. His childliood
was spent on his father's farm, and his educational
advantages were exceedingly meagre. Mr. Latham,
however, is one of those characters which are
keenly observant and he has learned much in the
hard school of experience, especially about that all
important subject, his fellow-men. He continued to
reside with his parents until he was twenty-four
years of age, v/hen he rented a farm in Preston
and was there two years. In 1S96 he v/ent to West-
erly, Rhode Island, where he secured employment
in a stone quarry, continuing until 1903 as foreman.
He then returned to the home farm in North
Stonington, where he continued to remain until
1908, during which time he was continually gaining
a wide and extensive knowledge of the subject of
farming and becoming well skilled in agricultural
methods generally. In the year 190S he purcliascd
his present farm in the town of Griswold and has
here resided up to the present time, the place being
formerly known as the Andrew Edmond farm.
This property was naturally a fertile one and he
has developed and cultivated it to a highly pro-
ductive state, his place being regarded as one of
the well conducted properties in this region.
Charles Henry Latham is one of those who are
instinctively interested in the welfare of the com-
munities where they reside, and he has given no
little time and energy to the conduct of public
affairs. He is a Republican in politics, and has
identified himself closely with the local organiza-
tion of his party which elected him in 1917-1918 to
the office of selectman of Griswold. He is a mcin-
ber of Pachaug Grange and the New London
County Farm Bureau. He is also affiliated with
the Knights of Pythias, LTndaunted Lodge, and
attends the local Congregational church.
Charles Henry Latham married, June 26, 1S94,
Susie Champlin, daughter of John M. and Lucy
Chescbrougli, of North Stonington, Connecticut.
Mr. and Mrs. Latham are the parents of two chil-
dren: I. Charles Harold, who at the beginning of
the World War enlisted in Company F, 26th
Division of Hartford, Connecticut, but was later
discharged as pliysically unfit, and subsequently
joined the Merchant Marine service, in which he
continued as steward during the war. 2. Lewis P.,
resides at home.
CLEMENT LEROY PERKINS— In the farming
circles of Hanover, the name of Perkins is one
which is held in high esteem for ability and public
spirit. The position won in the community by
Clement Leroy Perkins, the result of his own ef-
forts and ability, is at the same time in accordance
with the family tradition.
Josiah Perkins, great-grandfather of Mr. Perkins,
was a captain in the war of the Revolution, having
come to this country in the early part of the Sev-
enteenth Century. He had a son, Charles, who
married Betsey Payne. Charles Perkins was a
farmer and served as captain in the United States
Army during the War of l8i2.
Jonathan Perkins, son of Charles and Betsey
(Payne) Perkins and father of Clement Leroy Per-
kins, was born at Hanover, Connecticut, May 15,
1S14, in what \va.s known as the Ladd place, which
was built by Josiah Perkins upon the latter's arrival
in this country. The boy Jonathan, attended the
schools of liis native place, and after completing
his education, adopted teaching as a professio;i and
also became a civil engineer. A man of most en-
gaging personality, true to his friendships, honest,
and impeccable in all the relations of life, Mr.
Perkins was highly respected and honored by all
who knew him. He married (first) Jane Willoughby
and had one child. Later he married Mary F. Heb-
bard, of which marriage tl:ere v/erc nine children
of whom two are living: William Dwight, born
July 23, 1855; Clement Leroy, of further mention.
Mr. Perkins died February 4, 1899.
Clement Leroy Perkins, son of Jonathan and
Mary F. (Hebbard) Perkins, was born at Canter-
bury, Connecticut, March 27, 1857. He was edu-
cated in the schools of his native place, and at
Plainfield Academy, after which he devoted some
time to the work upon his father's farm, later
moving to Norwich. He there established himself
in the jewelry business and for twelve years was
travelling salesman for his own enterprise, after
whicli time he sold out this business and returned
to agricultural pursuits. He purchased a farm on
Scotland road wh-ich he later sold, and bought the
Kingsley Place on Plain Hill. Here he remained
until 1917, when he came to Hanover and purchased
his present farm, upon which he has since resided,
devoting himself exclusively to the cultivating of
his property. During the World War, however,
Mr. Perkins worked in the gun shop of Hopkins
& Allen, in Norwich, for a time. Although he dis-
:88
NEW DONDON COUNTY
plays a deep interest in the welfare of the town,
wliich is his home, he remains strictly aloof from
public and political life, but is well known and emi-
nently respected throughout the community.
On August 24, 1887, Clement Leroy Perkins was
united in marriage with Mary Northup, daughter of
William and Emilinc Northrup. Mr. and Mrs. Per-
kins are the parents of one child, Emerson, born Sep-
tember 2g, 1890. They are members of the Central
Baptist Church, of Norwich.
JAMES THOMAS WILBUR— Having been iden-
tified with the American Thread Company at Glasgo,
Connecticut, since 1899, James Thomas Wilbur, as
agent of this company, prospered financially, and is
held in high regard by his business associates. Up
to the time of his resignation, he was identified with
this particular line of industry, and won his way to
the high position of agent of the above company
through untiring effort and a fixed determination
to succeed.
Thomas Wilbur, father of James Thomas Wilbur,
was born in South Kingstown, Rhode Island, the
son of William and Mary (Tift) Wilbur. He was
educated in the district schools of his native place,
and associated with the cotton industry throughout
his entire lifetime. About 1854 he moved with his
family to Grosvenor Dale, Connecticut, and there
entered the employ of the Grosvenor Dale Com-
pany. For twenty years previous to his retirement
from active business life, he was superintendent of
the company, giving faithful, efficient service, fully
appreciated by those with whom he was so long
associated and held in high esteem as a citizen.
He married Sarah Briggs, who died at North Gros-
venor Dale, in 1904, at the age of seventy-seven
years. To Mr. and Mrs. Wilbur were born three
children: i. Grace, wlio died in infancy. 2. Leander,
who married Oriana .Arnold, of Woodstock, Con-
necticut; he died at North Grosvenor Dale, in 189a.
3. James Thomas, of further mention.
James Thomas Wilbur was born in North Gros-
venor Dale, township of Thompson, Connecticut,
September 19, 1858, and there received a common
school education. .At the age of sixteen, business
life began for the boy, his first employment being
with the Grosvenor Dale Company. Here he
served an apprenticeship as a machinist and re-
mained for five years, resigning at the end of that
time to enter Bryant & Stratton's Business College
at Providence, Rhode Island. One year later he
returned to his former employers, this time as
bookkeeper, and remained there until 1883, when
he came to Glasgo and accepted the position as
office manager of the Glasgo Yarn Mill. Seven
years later, in 1890, he was promoted to the super-
intendency of the entire plant, a position he filled
until 1899, when the American Thread Company
bought this mill, and then Mr. Wilbur was again
promoted to his present position of agent. On
April I, 1921, Mr. Wilbur resigned his position as
agent for the American Thread Company and
bought the drug store knov/n as Soule's Pharmacy,
at Jewett City, Connecticut, where he now resides.
Mr. Wilbur has been a potent factor in the indus-
trial world, and is one of the strong men of his
day upon whose shoulders are laid heavy burdens
of development and management.
Mr. Wilbur was identified with several move-
ments for the welfare of Glasgo during his resi-
dence there, and was a member of its educational
board for many years. A Republican in politics,
he has always maintained a deep interest in civic
affairs, yet the concerns of his business preclude
his taking active part in politics. A Methodist in
religion, he attends the church of that denomina-
tion at Yoluntown.
On September 15, 1880, James Thomas Wilbur
was united in marriage with Ida May Robbins,
daughter of David N. and Elizabeth (Joslin) Rob-
bins, of East Thompson, Connecticut. Mr. and
Mrs. Wilbur arc the parents of four children: Edith
May, who married H. D. Pollard, assistant cashier
of the Windham, bank at Willimantic, Connecticut;
Sarah Elizabeth, who married Eli G. Lague, of
Jewett City, Connecticut; Robert Allen, a mill man
of Glasgo, married Grace E. Bicknell; Ralph Carlton,
a shipping clerk in the employ of his father.
AZARIE DAYON, one of the most progressive
and prosperous business men of Glasgo, Connec-
ticut, where he is owner of a large general store
and mercantile business, is a native of Woonsocket,
Rhode Island, his birth having occurred there
October 24, 18S1. He is a son of Edmond and
Melina (Langevin) Dayon.
Edmond Dayon was born in the Province of
Quebec, and there in the public schools of his
native place obtained his education. At the age of
eighteen he came to the United States, locating in
Woonsocket, Rhode Island, where for several years
he was employed in the nearby cotton mills, later
removing with his family to Glasgo, Connecticut,
since which time he has been an employee of the
carding department of the American Thread Com-
pany. To Mr. and Mrs. Dayon have been born
th.irteen children, Azarie, of further mention, being
the eldest living child at the present time.
Azarie Dayon was brought by his parents to
Glasgo when a young child, and here attended the
local public schools. At an early age, however, he
terminated his studies and then the business of life
began for the lad. His first employment was as
clerk in the general store of Dearnley & Clark at
Glasgo, where he remained for several years, later
resigning in order to accept a clerkship with Oscar
Dugas, for whom he worked until 1916, when he
bought out the interests of the elder man and has
since conducted the business on his own account.
Mr. Dayon has been very successful in this venture,
his ability as a business man having been fully
tested and proven, and under his capable manage-
ment the business has greatly increased. In poli-
tics Mr. Dayon has always been a Republican, and
'^^ia'^./\u^^ —
BIOGRAPHICAL
189
he has been active in public affairs, having served
as postmaster of the Glasgo office since 1917, during
which time he has proved himself an able and
efficient public-spirited citizen. He is a Uoman
Catholic in religion, and is affiliated with the For-
esters of America, Liberty Court, No. 132, of Volun-
town, Connecticut.
On January 13, 1905, Azarie Dayon was united in
marriage with Amelia La Croix, of Putnam, Con-
necticut. Mr. and Mrs. Dayon are the parents of
six children: Diana, Amelia, Armand, Yvonne,
Bella, and Adele.
and Mrs. Fields arc the parents of three children,
all born in Fitchville: Catherine, Margaret, and
Theresa.
JOHN FRANCIS FIELDS— Among the pioneer
Irish settlers of Lebanon, New London county,
Connecticut, was Thomas Fields, born in the parish
of Fahram, County Kerry, Ireland, who came to the
United States and to Lebanon, Connecticut, when a
young man. He settled down to the life of a far-
mer, and by industry and thrift prospered. He
married Catherine Lyons, born in Ireland, who
died in Fitchville, Connecticut, the mother of seven
children: Elizabeth, married Jeremiah Lynch; Mar-
garet, who since 1886 has been an employee of the
Palmer Brothers Mill at Fitchville, she one of
the very oldest employees of tliat corporation in
point of years of service; Anna, an employee of
the same mill since 1887; Thomas; John Francis, of
further mention; Timothy, an employee of Palmer
Brothers Mill; and Jeremiah.
John Francis Fields, fifth child of Thomas and
Catherine (Lyons) Fields, was born in Lebanon,
Connecticut, January 13, 1877. He attended the
public schools, and during his youth and early man-
hood was his father's farm assistant, giving his
parents the full benefit of his services until arriving
at legal age. In 1898 he entered Palmer Brothers
Mill at Fitchville, there becoming a mill overseer,
a position he resigned in October, 1918. He then
bought the general store in Fitchville, formerly
operated by Louis Brand, and there continues to
conduct very successfully a general store. He has
always taken a deep interest in local politics, and
in June, 1919, was appointed postmaster of Fitch-
ville. Mr. Fields is a Democrat in politics, and in
1908 was elected to represent the town of Bozrah
in the State Legislature, and during the session he
served on committees on woman suffrage and house
rules. In 1910 he was reelected, serving during the
session of 191 1 on the committee of education. He
was a member of the Grand Jury of New London
county, 1907-08, and since 1909 has been a member
of the school board of the town of Bozrah. He
was tax collector for the town of Bozrah, 1912 to
1919. He is a member of St. John's Roman Cath-
olic Church, and White Cross Council, No. 13,
Knights of Columbus, of Norwich.
Mr. Fields married, in Fitchville, Connecticut,
October 27, 1907, Julia Marie McManus, born in
Sprague, New London, county, Connecticut, daugh-
ter of John and Margaret (Doyle) McManus, her
father deceased, her mother living in Norwich. Mr.
CHARLES AUGUSTUS KUEBLER was born
in Wiirtemberg, Germany, September i, 1852, died
in Norwich, Connecticut, May 22, 1912. He was a
son of William Frederick Kuebler, a goldsmith, of
VYiirtemberg. The latter became involved in the
political turmoil of his times, siding with the P>evo-
lutionists, and to escape capture, came to the
United States about i860. He enlisted in the Union
army and served during the Civil War, then re-
turned to Germany, where he died about 1895. His
wife also died in Germany in 1878, leaving two
children: Charles A. and Henrietta, both of whom
came to the United States, and both are now de-
ceased, Henrietta dying in Baltimore, Maryland,
and Charles A. in Norwich, Connecticut. Other
children of William Frederick Kuebler died young.
Charles A. Kuebler was educated in Germany, in
the public and high schools, and also attended
college in Stuttgart, Germany. He remained in
Germany until 1869, then, at the age of seventeen,
came to the United States, locating in Washington,
D, C, with his sister Henrietta. He soon left thai
city and was in different localities until finally he
located in Norwich, Connecticut. That was in 1871,
and his first employer was Michael Rourke, a maker
of monuments, and a contractor. Michael Rourke
died in 1885, and Mr. Kuebler bought his business
from the heirs and conducted a very successful
monumental business until his death. In 1888 he
bought the property which he had been renting as
a business location, and there, on Franklin street,
he remained until his death.
Mr. Kuebler was at the head of a very extensive
business, which he had practically built up througli
his own efforts. He was a self-made man, every-
thing which he possessed having been earned bv
his own labor and business ability. He was highly
esteemed and had many friends. He never souglit
political preferment, but his sole interest outside
his business was his home and family. He was an
expert designer, and his monuments compare with
the best in the many New England cemeteries in
which they are found. His masterpiece was the
Masonic monument erected in Norwich to the mem-
ory of Judge Charles Carter. He was a Democrat
in politics, and a thirty-second degree Mason, affili-
ating with St. James Lodge, Free and Accepted
Masons; Franklin Chapter, Royal Arch Masons;
Franklin Council, Royal and Select Masters; Col-
umbian Commandery, Knights Templar; King Solo-
mon Lodge of Perfection; Van Rensselaer Council,
Princes of Jerusalem; Norwich Chapter of Rose
Croi.x; Connecticut Consistory, Supreme Princes of
the Royal Secret, all of Norwich; Sphinx Temple,
Ancient Arabic Order Nobles of the Mystic SHriin-,
of Hartford, Connecticut; Shetucket Lodge, Inde-
pendent Order of Odd Fellows, of Norwich, and
the Norwich Business Men's Association. During
IpO
NEW IjONDON county
his lifetime Mr. Kuebler ran his business under his
own name as a private concern, but since his death
it has been incorporated as the Charles A. Kuebler
Company.
Mr. Kuebler married, in Norwich, April 30, 1874,
Kate Elizabeth Metzger, born in Norwich, Connec-
ticut, daughter of Casper and Isabella Metzger, her
parents born in Germany. Four children were born
to Mr. and Mrs. Kuebler, all born in Norwich:
Henrietta Isabella, married Frank R. Smith and
resides in Norwich; Isabella Henrietta, married
Frank J. Stanley and resides in New Haven, Con-
necticut; Julia Burnham, married Herbert M.
Hitchom, and resides in Norwich; and Mary Eliza-
beth, who married Daniel J. McCormick, and re-
sides in Norwich.
Mrs. Kuebler and her four daughters survive
their husband and father, to whom they were de-
voted. He was very fond of his home and family
and there spent his hours of? duty. He is greatly
missed, not alone in the home circle where his
memory is forever enshrined, but in the city among
his business associates.
member of Norwich Lodge, No. 430, Benevolent
and Protective Order of Elks. He is a devout
member of the Roman Catholic church.
WILLIAM BRADFORD CASEY, M.D.— Num-
bered among the professional men of high standing
in the city of Norwich, Connecticut, is Dr. William
Bradford Casey, son of John and Ellen (Sheridan)
Casey.
John Casey, father of Dr. Casey, was born in
Cavan, Ireland, and received his education in the
National Schools of that country. He came to the
United States when a young man, twenty-two years
of age, locating in the city of Buffalo, New York.
There he worked as a general blacksmith for con-
tractors and builders during the remainder of his
life. He died in Illinois, in the 3-ear 1905. His
wife, who was born in Buffalo, New York, survives
him, and is now a resident of Norwich. They were
the parents of two children: William Bradford; and
Moran, now deceased.
Dr. Casey was born in Buffalo, New York, May 3,
1880. He received his early education in the public
schools of that city, then went to the District of
Columbia, entering the Georgetown Preparatory
College. In 1902 he entered the University of Mary-
land Medical School, Baltimore, from which insti-
tution he was graduated in the year 1906, with the
degree of Doctor of Medicine. For one and one-
half years thereafter he gained his hospital training
at the Columbus Hospital, of New York City, then
came to Norwich, Connecticut, where he established
himself in private practice. In a short time Dr.
Casey won the confidence of the people of Nor-
wich, and has steadily risen in his profession until
now he stands among the leaders. He is a member
of the Norwich Medical Society, and of the New
London County and Connecticut State Medical
societies.
Dr. Casey has few interests outside his profes-
sion, but keeps abreast of the times in all matters
of public interest. Politically he throws his influ-
ence on the side of the Democratic partj'. He is a
ARTHUR CHESTER BROWN— In 1S96. at the
age of fifteen, Arthur Chester Brown entered the
employ of The Falls Company at the Cotton Mill
plant in Norwich, and through all the twenty-three
years which have since elapsed he has been true
to that first employer, and through a series of
merited promotions he has risen to the position of
agent and manager. He is a son of Seth Leeds
Brown, also a textile mill official until his passing,
September 10, 1916.
Seth Leeds Brown was born in Ledyard, Con-
necticut, March 24, 1850. He there attended the
public schools, later being a student in a select
school in Preston. At the age of eighteen, with his.
brother, Aaron A. Brown, he built a woolen mill on
the site of the old Ayers factory, later known as
Shewville, and for several years the A. A. and S. L.
Brown Company conducted a woolen yarn manu-
facturing business. In 1879, business reverses com-
pelled them to assign, and the plant passed under
the control of A. P. Sturtevant, of Norwich, who
operated it, with Seth L. Brown as overseer of the
carding and spinning departments until 1891. In
that year, Mr. Brown transferred his services to the
lH. B. Porter & Son Company, of Norwich, and
was in the employ of that company at the time of
his passing. He married Margaret (Cantwell)
Brown. Three children were born to Mr. and Mrs.
Seth L. Brown: Arthur Chester, of further men-
tion; George Seth, born December i, 1882, married.
Henrietta Frances James, now superintendent of
the Asland Cotton Company (see sketch appearing
elsewhere in this work); Albert Seymour, died in
Norwich, June 28, 1908, aged twenty years.
Arthur Chester Brown was born in the town of
Ledyard, New London county, Connecticut, May 7,
1881. He was educated in the public schools of
Norwich. In 1896 he entered the employ of The
Falls Company in their cotton mill in Norwich,
and there he has in every department and in practi-
cally every position gained a complete knowledge of
cotton manufacturing. In 1908 he was appointed
assistant superintendent; he was overseer of the
finishing department; in 1912 was appointed super-
intendent of the mill; and in 1914 agent and man-
ager of The Falls Company.
In politics Mr. Brown is a Republican, and has
been active in party work as a member of the town
committee for several years. He is affiliated with.
Somerset Lodge, No. 34, Free and Accepted
Masons; Franklin Chapter, No. 3, Royal Arch.
Masons; Franklin Council, No. 4, Royal and Select
Masters; Columbian Commandery, Knights Tem-
plar; and Connecticut Consistory, Valley of Nor-
wich, thirty-second degree, Ancient .Accepted Scot-
tish Rite, all of Norwich; Sphinx Temple, Ancient
Arabic Order Nobles of the Mystic Shrine, of Hart-
ford, Connecticut; Loyal Order of Moose; Norwich
Lodge, No. 950, Independent Order of Odd Fel-
c:::^.^^^^^!^^^
BIOGRAPHICAL
191
lows; the Arcanum Club; Chamber of Commerce;
and Park Congregational Church.
Mr. Brown married Isabella Yeomans, daughter
of George P. and Margaret (MacNichol) Yeomans,
of Norwich.
CHARLES L BARSTOW— A native of Connec-
ticut, as were his parents, Charles I. Barstow is
interested in everything connected with liis State
and town, whether it be in business, politics, reli-
gion or organized work. His father, Charles T.
Barstow, was born in Bozrah, Connecticut, and in
his boyhood was a pupil in the district school in
that village. When of suitable age he learned a
trade, and some years later became a stationary
engineer, so continuing for the remainder of his
life, living in different places. He died in Mystic,
Connecticut, in 1908. He married Sarah J. Backus,
who is yet a resident of Mystic, and to them were
born two sons: Charles I., of further mention; and
Louis F., who married Lillian Glidhill, of Mystic,
where they now reside.
Charles I. Barstow was born in Windham, Con-
necticut, May I, 1879. After passing through the
primary and grammar schools of South Windham,
he completed his education at the Windham High
School of Willimantic. In 1901 he located in Mys-
tic, where he obtained employment in the printing
shop of A. A. Kidder, there remaining until be-
coming thoroughly conversant with the art of
printing. Later Mr. Barstow established a printing
business under his own name, conducting a sta-
tionery store in connection with the print shop.
He has been very successful in both lines, and is
still engaged in the business. Politically, Mr. Bar-
stow is an Independent in thought and action. He
is much interested in fraternal societies, and is a
member of Stonington Lodge, No. 26, Independent
Order of Odd Fellows; Charity and Relief Lodge,
No. 72, Free and Accepted Masons; Benevolent
Chapter, Royal Arch Masons.
Mr. Barstow married Ella M. Wilcox, of Boston,
Massachusetts, and they are the parents of two
children: Leander W., and Howard L. The family
home is in Mystic, Connecticut.
EDMOND JOSEPPI JODOIN— A good example
of tlie successful business man who has risen
through his own efforts to a position of prominence
in the community is Edmond J. Jodoin, a man
honored and respected, whose word is good and
whose character is above reproach. He was born
in North Grosvenor Dale, Connecticut, February 8,
1887, son of Frederick and Laura (Chartier) Jo-
doin, the former-named a native of Ware, New
Hampshire.
Frederick Jodoin attended the district school,
securing a practical education, and in young man-
hood turned his attention to the meat-cutting busi-
ness, following this for several years in various
localities. He then changed his line of work to
something entirely different, accepting a position
as agent for the Metropolitan Insurance Company
of New York, and so continued until his death,
which occurred at his home in Jewett City, Con-
necticut, March 13, 1906. His wife, Laura (Char-
tier) Jodoin, a native of Quebec, Province of Que-
bec, Canada, survives her husband, residing in
Jewett City at the present time (1920). They were
the parents of nine children of whom Edmond
Joseph was the third in order of birth.
Edmond J. Jodoin obtained a practical education
in the public schools of Jewett City, and he began
his business career as clerk in the employ of George
Labonne, Jr., of Jewett City, and he also learned
everything connected with meat cutting, which line
of work he followed successfully up to the year
1912, when he decided to engage in business on his
own account and accordingly purchased the provi-
sion market conducted by Driscoll Brothers, located
at No. 45 Main street, Jewett City, and this business
has since engaged his entire attention, he deriving
therefrom a lucrative livelihood. The success he
has achieved has been the result of hard and per-
sistent labor, coupled with courtesy to his cus-
tomers and prompt attention to their needs and
wishes, and now ranks among the progressive and
enterprising business inen of his adopted town,
Jewett City. Mr. Jodoin is a member of St. Mary's
Catholic Church of Jewett City, that being the
religious faith of his forefathers, a member of the
Knights of Columbus, White Cross Council, No. 13,
of Norwich; Court Griswold, No. loi, Foresters of
America, and St. Jean Baptiste Society of Jewett
City. He is a Democrat in political affiliation.
Mr. Jodoin married, October 8, 1912, Elizabeth
Davan, of Brooklyn, New York, daughter of Ed-
ward J. and Catherine (Clair) Davan, and they are
the parents of one child, Catherine, born in Jewett
City, Connecticut, November 25, 1913.
EDWARD LOUIS BLANCHARD— Among the
younger generation of business men in Jewett City,
in the township of Griswold, Connecticut, is Ed-
ward Louis Blanchard, owner and manager of a
grocery store. Public-spirited in the fullest sense
of the term, he promotes every suggestion which
has for its aim the welfare and advancement of the
community which has been his home for so many
years.
Edward Louis Blanchard was born at St. Jean
Baptiste, Province of Quebec, Canada, July 13,
1896, the son of Clodomir and Olive (Noel) Blanch-
ard. Clodomir Blanchard was born in St. Jean
Baptiste, and obtained his education in the parochial
schools there, after which he entered upon his busi-
ness career, becoming a commission merchant until
1896, when he moved with his family to Jewett City,
Connecticut, subsequently removing to Taftville,
where he secured employment in the mills until
1907, when he returned to Jewett City and estab-
lished himself as a grocery merchant, where he
remained for several years. He then removed to
Providence, Rhode Island, this being his place of
192
NEW LONDON COUNTY
residence at 'the present time. To Mr and Mrs.
Blanchard have been born three children: Edna,
who married Leon Wheeler, of Jcwett City, Ed-
ward Louis, of further mention; and Lester, a resi-
dent of Jewett City, who married Maud Shippee, of
Sterling, Connecticut.
The education of Edward Louis Blanchard was
obtained in the public schools of Jewett City, but
this terminated at an early date, his business life
beginning when he was but a small lad. He made
his start in life as a newsboy, then found employ-
ment in the cotton mills of Jewett City, which,
however, was not to his liking, and he soon left to
become clerk in the clothing store of the Desrosier
Clothing Company, with whom he remained until
1913, when he resigned this position and accepted
another as clerk in the grocery store of Jovite
Dugas, the latter selling out his interests in the
business the following year to young Mr. Blanch-
ard, who at that time was the youngest business
man in the township of Griswold. The wisdom of
this venture is proven by the consistent success
which has attended his efforts, due entirely to his
untiring energy and his firm belief in his power to
succeed.
On August 26, 1918, Mr. Blanchard enlisted in
the United States army and was assigned to the
Ambulance Corps, later being transferred to Motor
Company, No. 8, and was stationed at Camp Green-
leaf, Georgia. On January 17, 1919, he was sent to
Camp Upton and here received his honorable dis-
charge. In religion he is a Catholic, being a mem-
ber of St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church at Jewett
City. He is a member of St. Jean Baptiste Society,
of Jewett City; Foresters of America, Court Gris-
wold, No. 2; and Orv'ille La Flamme Post, American
Legion, of Jewett City. Mr. Blanchard has pur-
chased several thousand dollars worth of property
in Jewett City.
Although Mr. Blanchard has never taken any part
in the affairs of the city, no man is more ci\-ic-
spirited. It is sometimes said of a man whose
career is indicative of more than usual promise, "he
will be heard from later." Edward Louis Blanchard
has already been heard from, and Jewett City thinks
that he will be heard from again and again and for
many years to come.
CHARLES A. GAGER, JR.— In the business life
of his community, in its social and fraternal circles,
and to the public generally Charles A. Gager, Jr.
is not only well known and highly esteemed, but is
regarded with a warmer feeling, for it is in a spirit
of genuine helpfulness and sympathy that he does
his work as a funeral director and he is a friend in
truth.
Mr. Gager is a member of a Connecticut family,
his father having been born on the old Gager home-
stead in the town of Bozrah, near Norwich. Charles
A. Gager, Sr. was born June 15, 1837. He grew up
in Bozrah, and attended the public schools there;
then took charge of the home farm and there spent
his entire active life. He retired in 1906 and bought
a house in Norwich Town, where he is still living
and enjoying excellent health, although an octo-
genarian. He married Harriet M. Fargo, who was
a native of Montville, Connecticut; she died in
Norwich, Connecticut, September 24, 1920. They
have had five children of whom three are living.
Charles A. Gager, Jr. was born in Bozrah, Con-
necticut, July 4, 1876. He attended the public
schools of the town, and when he had completed
the course helped his father on the farm. At the
age of twenty-one years he went to Norwich, and
entered the employ of tlie Henry Allen & Son
Company, the leading undertakers of that day.
Here he remained for a period of si.x years, and
became thoroughly e.xperienced in the undertaking
business. He passed the State Board examinations
on March i, 1905, and established himself as a
funeral director at No. 70 Franklin street. He has
remained in the same location to the present time,
and is conceded to be one of the leading men in
his line in the county. His establishment is mod-
ernly equipped, and he was the first undertaker in
the city to own a motor-driven hearse. Courteous
and considerate, he combines with his pleasing per-
sonality a thorough knowledge of his business and
he is very highly esteemed. Mr. Gager finds his
relaxation from the cares of a trying business in
his fine two-hundred-acre farm in Montville, not
far from NorNwich. There he raises thoroughbred
cattle, horses, and poultry, taking a great pride in
his farm, which is one of the best in that section.
Mr. Gager is a member of Somerset Lodge, No.
34, Free and Accepted Masons; of Franklin Chap-
ter, No. 3, Royal Arch Masons; of Franklin Council,
No. 4, Royal and Select Masters; of Columbian
Commandery, Knights Templar, of Norwich; and
is a thirty-second degree member of the Ancient
Accepted Scottish Rite, affiliated with King Solo-
mon Lodge of Perfection; Van Rensselaer Council,
Princes of Jerusalem; Norwich Chapter of Rose
Croi.x; Connecticut Consistory, Sovereign Princes of
the Royal Secret; Sphinx Temple, Ancient Arabic
Order Nobles of the Mystic Shrine, of Hartford;
Norwich Lodge, No. 430, Benevolent and Protective
Order of Elks; Independent Order of Odd Fellov.-s;
Shetucket Lodge, No. 16; and the Arcanum and
Rotary clubs, of Norwich; the Order of United
American Mechanics, of Norwich; and of the Fu-
neral Directors' Association of Connecticut. In
political affairs he will pledge his support in advance
to no party, voting for the man he believes best
qualified to serve the people.
Mr. Gager married, December 13, 1907, Mira L.
Rallion, daughter of Herman and Emma (Crocker)
Rallion, of Norwich; they attend the services of the
Universalist church.
CLEMENT ANSON FOWLER— In both pa-
ternal and maternal lines, Clement A. Fowler, the
present-day representative of these families, well
known and highly respected in the State of Connec-
BIOGRAPHICAL
'93
ticut, worthily carries on the work laid out by his
ancestors, and has also added to its prestige by his
conduct and actions, proving himself a worthy fol-
lower of the precepts of his forbears, who were
among the men to whom more honor should be
paid, the pioneers of tliis great Republic.
On the paternal side the family traces back to
William Fowler, a native of England, whence he
came to this country in the year 1637, landing at
Boston, Massachusetts, later locating in New Haven,
Connecticut, being one of the signers of the Con-
stitution of the New Haven Colony. He served as
magistrate for that colony from 1643 to 1654. Later
he removed to Milford, same State. He died in
1660. The line is traced through his son, Captain
William (2) Fowler; through his son, Mark Fowler;
Captain Dijah Fowler; through his son. Captain
Amos Fowler; through his son. Colonel Anson
Fowler, grandfather of Clement A. Fowler.
Colonel Anson Fowler took an active part in the
business and political life of the town of Lebanon,
Connecticut, his birthplace, being among the men
who raised the moral tone of the community, main-
tained a high and pure standard for the youth of
the day, and pointed out the way for honorable,
successful living, a worthy record for his time as
well as for the present day. He married (first)
Sally Robinson, (second) Hannah Peckham, (third)
Mehitable Lyon, (fourth) Roxanna Pease. Among
the children of the last-named wife was Frank Pease
Fowler, grandfather of Clement A. Fowler.
Frank Pease Fowler was born December 23, 1854,
in Lebanon Green, Connecticut, in which town he
resided during his boyhood and manhood, his active
business life being spent as a general merchant, a
member of the firm of Fowler & Stark, of Lebanon.
He began as clerk in the general store of N. C.
Barker at Lebanon, Connecticut, worked for Barker
and later formed partnership with Irving W. Stark,
and as Fowler & Stark, bought out N. C. Barker.
This partnership continued several years, when
Fowler bought out Stark and continues alone to
date. He was appointed postmaster by President
Cleveland during his first administration, was suc-
ceeded by his son, Mr. Fowler serving as assistant.
During President Cleveland's second administra-
tion he reinstated Mr. Fowler as postmaster, in
which capacity he served under successive presi-
dents, this fact testifying to his ability and integrity.
He also served as selectman and assessor, the duties
of these offices being performed to the entire satis-
faction of all concerned. He holds membership in
the Congregational church, holding the offices of
clerk and treasurer; also in Lebanon Lodge, No. 23,
Ancient Order of United Workmen, serving as
financial secretary for several years. Mr. Fowler
married, December 23, 1880, Jessie A. Peckham,
daughter of Robert C. and Sarah A. (Segar) Peck-
ham, and they are the parents of Clement Anson,
of whom further.
On the maternal side the family traces back to
John Peckham, who as early as 1638, was admitted
N.L.— 2.13.
an inhabitant of Newport, Rhode Island; three years
later he was made a freeman, and subsequently he
removed to what is now Middletown, Rhode Island,
where his death occurred in 1681. He married
(first) Mary Clarke, (second) Eleanor, and tlieir
descendants are now scattered throughout the entire
United States, the family still being numerous in
that section of Rhode Island, and in Eastern Penn-
sylvania. One of these descendants who continued
his residence in Rhode Island was the great-
grandfather of Jessie A. (Peckham) Fowler, who in
later life removed to Lebanon, Connecticut, and
there spent his remaining years, leaving behind him
a reputation, of which any man might be proud.
He married, and was the father of si.x children, five
daughters and one son. Robert Peckliam, the only
son, was born in South Kingston, Rhode Island,
removed with his parents to Lebanon, Connecticut,
and later made his home in the towns of Goshen,
Brooklyn, Pomfret, and then returned to Lebanon.
He married Anna Bliss, of Lebanon, and they were
the parents of Robert Congdon Peckham, afore-
mentioned, born in Lebanon, Connecticut, May 7,
1811, died April 13, 1898. He resided in Brooklyn,
Pomfret, and Windham, finally returning to Leba-
non, where he spent his declining years, honored
and esteemed by liis neighbors and friends. He
married, April 8, 1832, Sarah A. Segar, daughter of
Thomas and Rebecca (Ward) Segar, and they lived
to celebrate their golden wedding. Among tlieir
children was Jessie A., aforementioned as the
mother of Clement A. Fowler.
Clement A. Fowler was born in Lebanon Centre,
Connecticut, September 3, 1889. He attended a
select school at Lebanon, completing his studies
there at the age of thirteen; for the following three
years was a student at Norwich Free Academy,
then pursued a course of study at Lansdowne High
School, Lansdowne, a suburb of Philadelphia, re-
maining a student there until the age of eighteen.
His business knowledge was gained by attendance
at Miller's Business College, New York City, which
institution he attended for several years. He added
to the theoretical knowledge thus obtained by en-
tering the establishment conducted by his father in
Lebanon, and in due course of time became thor-
oughly familiar with all the details connected with
the business, thus proving himself a valuable asset
to its success. The firm carries a general line of
merchandise, and caters to the best trade in Leba-
non and adjoining towns, in which section of the
State the family has resided for so many years.
Mr. Fowler is a member of the First Congregational
Church, as is also his wife, and is a Republican in
politics, and serves as postmaster of Lebanon, thus
following in his father's footsteps.
Mr. Fowler married, January I, 1913, Bernice
Anzcline Hewitt, born June 8, 1892, in Lebanon,
Connecticut, daughter of Erwin Wheeler and Nellie
Eliza (Stiles) Hewitt, natives of Lebanon, and a
descendant of one of the early settled families of
New England, the line being traced through
194
NEW LONDON COUNTY
Thj.nas Hewitt; his son, Benjamin Hewitt; his son,
Major Israel Hewitt; his son, Charles Hewitt; his
son, Eli Hewitt; his son, George Hewitt; his son,
George Eli Hewitt; his son, Erwin W. Hewitt,
father of Mrs. Fowler. Two children have been
born to Mr. and Mrs. Fowler: Elois Louise, born
February lO, 1914; and Lawrence Clement, born
August 5, 1919.
Mr. Greene is a young man of energy and fine
business qualities, and well liked in Norwich and
New London, where his years since 1915 have been
passed. He thoroughly understands the business in
which he is engaged, and has already establislied in
Norwich a reputation for integrity that is an inval-
uable asset.
A. FRANK GREENE— In Hunter, New York, a
beautiful village of the Catskills, within sight of those
peaks named Round Top, High Peak and Pine
Orchard, Alfred Edward Greene long lived, there
spent many of the later years of his life, and here
his son, A. Frank Greene, now a merchant of Nor-
wich, Connecticut, was born. Alfred E. Greene
was perhaps the best-known man of the village, for
in addition to being a manufacturer in Hunter, he
was the village postmaster for sixteen years, hold-
ing that office from 1902 until his passing away.
Alfred Edward Greene was born in Jewett, New
York, there grew to manhood and became an under-
taker, continuing in that business until his removal
to Hunter, Greene county. New York, where he was
engaged in chair manufacturing. He was appointed
postmaster of Hunter, a position he most capably
filled for sixteen years, dying in office, in 1918. He
married Charlotte Long, born in New York City,
who survives him, a resident of New London, Con-
necticut.
A. Frank Greene, son of Alfred E. and Charlotte
(Long) Greene, was born in Hunter, a village and
summer resort of Greene county. New York, on the
LHster & Delaware railroad, forty miles south of
Albany, December 24, 1887. He spent the first
thirteen years of his life in Hunter, there attending
the public schools until going to New York City,
where for three and one-half years he was employed
in the office of a fire insurance company. He later
returned to Hunter, where he spent four years in
the office of the assistant postmaster. He then
spent the years until 1915 in the automobile busi-
ness in New York City. From 1915 until July,
1917, he was engaged in the automobile business in
Hartford, Connecticut. In July, 1917, he located in
New London in the same business, there remaining
until February, 1920, when he removed to Norwich,
Connecticut, where he established the A. F. Greene
Company, tires and automobile accessories, located
on Main street, where he is building up a good
business.
Mr. Greene is a Republican in politics; a member
of Lockwood Lodge, Independent Order of Odd
Fellows, of Hunter, New York; and is an attendant
of the Presbyterian church.
Mr. Greene married, at Jersey City, New Jersey,
June 7, 191 1, Virginia Brandow, born in Richmond,
Virginia, daughter of Justus and Rachael (Johnson)
Brandow, her parents later removing to Hunter,
New York. Mr. and Mrs. Greene are the parents
of a daughter, Virginia Brandow, born in New
York City.
HARRIET ELIZABETH HEWITT— The Hew-
itt family, of which Harriet E. Hewitt is a present-
day representative, is one of the early settled fam-
ilies of New England, the earliest ancestor of the
line herein followed, being Thomas Hewitt who,
tradition says, was in com'mand of a vessel belong-
ing to Thomas Miner, Sr., on the Mystic river in
1656, and he is supposed to have been lost at sea
in 1662. His wife, Hannah (Palmer) Hewitt, bore
him a son, Benjamin Hewitt, born in 1662, married
Marie Fanning, daughter of Edward and Ellen Fan-
ning, and they were the parents of Israel Hewitt,
'baptized July 24, 1692, who in later life attained the
rank of major. His wife, Anna (Breed) Hewitt,
daughter of John and Mercy (Palmer) Breed, bore
him a son, Charles Hewitt, born August 16, 1730.
He married Hannah Stanton, daughter of Joseph
and Anna (Wheeler) Stanton, and they were the
parents of Eli Hewitt, born July 31, 1764, a resident
of North Stonington, Connecticut, who married
Betsey Williams, daughter of Bednam and Hannah
(Lathrop) Williams, and among their children was
George Hewitt, born in North Stonington, January
26, 1797. He later removed to North Franklin,
where he engaged in farming pursuits, and his death
occurred at Groton, Connecticut, October 16, 1884.
He married Bridget Wheeler, daughter of Nathan
and Desire Wheeler, and among their children was
George Eli Hewitt, father of Harriet Elizabeth
Hewitt, of this review.
George Eli Hewitt was born in North Stoning-
ton, Connecticut, May 27, 1820, in the house erected
by his grandfather. He received a practical educa-
tion by attendance at the district school, and the
select schools presided over by Major Francis Pea-
body and Latham Hull. His leisure time was spent
in assisting his father in the work of the home farm,
and he so continued until the age of thirty-five years,
receiving then from his father, as recompense for
his labor, five shares of bank stock, a dozen steers
and some farming implements. Shortly after his
marriage he removed to the farm belonging to his
father-in-law, Henry Williams, in Lebanon, and
assumed the management of that farm, where he
resided until 1869, when he removed to what was
known as the Priest Ely Farm, which he had previ-
ously purchased. From time to time he added to
his purchase, becoming the owner of one hundred
and fifty acres of land in the town of Lebanon, also
several tenement houses, which he rented advan-
tageously. His own residence was a commodious
and comfortable structure, pleasantly located, fitted
up with everything needful for the comfort and con-
venience of its inmates. In addition to general
BIOGRAPHICAL
195
farming, he engaged in the buying and selling of
live stock, and he made frequent trips to the famous
stock market at Brighton, Massachusetts, for the
purpose of buying cattle. He was one of the prime
movers in the organization of the Lebanon Cream-
ery, was one of its largest stockholders, and served
as a director and treasurer for many years. In
political affiliation he was a Republican, and in 1873
he was a representative from Lebanon to the State
Legislature at the last meeting of that body in the
city of New Haven. During his residence in North
Stonington he held the commission of a lieutenant
in the local militia for three years. He was a con-
sistent member of the Congregational church, active
and interested in the work connected therewith.
His life was spent in the faithful discharge of his
obligations as a son, husband, father, public oi'ficial,
neighbor and friend, and his memory is revered by
all who knew him intimately. His death occurred
October s, 1904.
Mr. Hewitt married, October 12, 1854, Anzeline
Williams, born in Lebanon, Connecticut, October
28, 1825, died September 3, 1S99, daughter of Henry
and Harriet (Babcock) Williams. Children: 1. George
Henry, born August 9, 1857; married, August 13, 1881,
Louise Josephine Noyes, born February 28, 1850; chil-
dren : Ethel Beatrice and Hazel Adele. 2. Harriet Eliza-
beth, twin of George Henry, of v/hom further. 3. Er-
win Wheeler, born October 10, 1859; married, Novem-
ber 18, 1880, Nellie Eliza Stiles, born September 19,
1863, in Lebanon, daughter of Edmund A. and Sophia
(Sweet) Stiles; children: Arthur Erwin, born June 20,
1881, married Elsie Gardner ; Lawrence Alonzo, born
May 6, 1883, died April i, 1883; Charlotte Eliza, born
June S, 1884, married John E. Burgess ; Rodney Wil-
liams, born August 4, 1889; Bernice Anzeline, born
June 8, 1892, married Everett Delos ; Gladys Eva
Miriam, born December 24, 1894; George Edmund, born
February 9, 1898.
Harriet Elizabeth Hewitt, only daughter of George
Eli and Anzeline (Williams) Hewitt, was born in
Lebanon, Connecticut, August 9, 1857. Her preliminary
education was obtained in the school adjacent to her
home, and at the early age of eight she became a stu-
dent in the boarding school of Miss Knotts in New
Haven. At the age of twenty-five she went to Boston,
Massachusetts, in order to study under Dr. Emerson, a
prominent elocutionist, but during the course of study
felt it incumbent upon her to return to the old home-
stead by reason of the condition of health of her
parents, which had become greatly impaired. She
remained with them until the close of their lives, ten-
derly and lovingly mnistering to their needs and wants,
thus performing a service of love and gratitude in
recompense for th? many bestowed on her during her
entire lifetime by her devoted parents. Thus she ful-
filled a part of her mission in life. She inherited the
old homestead of her ancestors, wherein she now re-
sides, and of which she is naturally proud. She is a
woman of culture and refinement, keenly alive to the
questions of the day, and takes an interest in all that
concerns the welfare of the town of her birth.
REV. ADELARD ALFRED JALBERT— There is
no way by which the value of a life to a community
can be estimated, and especially is this true of the life
of a Catholic priest. Life holds no more beautiful
relationship than that which a Catholic priest bears to
his people, and his people bear to him, for his helping
hand is never withdrawn, and his patience is without
end. A noble man full of courage, zeal and devotion,
with deep and abiding faith. Such is the kind of pastor
Father Jalbert is to all with whom he comes in contact.
Joseph Jalbert, father of Rev. Adelard Alfred Jalbert,
was born at St. Denis on the Richelieu, Canada, Feb-
ruary 26, 1863. He came to this country when a young
man and settled in Spencer, Massachusetts, and shortly
afterwards in New Haven, Connecticut, where for many
years previous to his death, which occurred in May,
1919, he was a merchant by trade. He married Virginia
Collette, a native of Spencer, Massachusetts, her birth
having occurred there April 21, 1867. Mr. and Mrs.
Jalbert were the parents of ten children : Delia, Marie,
Adelard Alfred, Arthur, Rose, Philip, Alice, Cecilia,
Wilfred, and Beatrice.
Father Jalbert was born in New Haven, Connecticut,
December 3, 1893. His early education was obtained
in the Sacred Heart's School and in the New Haven
Hillhouse High School, and in 191 1 entered St. Thomas'
Seminary at Hartford, Connecticut. Upon completing
his studies at this institution, he matriculated at St.
Mary's Seminary, Baltimore, Maryland. In 1915 he
attended the Grand Seminary at Montreal, where after
finishing his course of Sacred Theology he was ordained
priest, December 21, 1918, at Hartford, Connecticut, by
Bishop Nilan. He was then immediately assigned to
St. Mary's Church, at Baltic, where he has since, with
hearty co-operation, been supported by his parishioners
in his work. Father Jalbert takes a deep and abiding
faith in every department of the parish work, and is
interested in all that pertains to bettering civic condi-
tions.
GEORGE SETH BROWN, superintendent of the
Ashland Cotton Company, Jewctt City, Connecticut, is
active in the affairs of the community and takes a keen
interest in the progress and welfare of the town. He
is the son of Seth Leeds and Margaret (Cantwell)
Brown, and was born in Ledyard, Connecticut, Decem-
ber I, 1882.
Seth Leeds Brown was born in Ledyard, March 24,
1850. He attended the district schools there and a select
school in Preston until he was eighteen years of age,
when, in company with his brother, Aaron A. Brown,
he built a woolen mill on the site of the old Ayers
factory, later known as Shewville. For a number of
years this firm, known as A. A. and S. L. Brown
Company, carried on a woolen yam manufacturing busi-
ness until business reverses caused an assignment in
1879. A. P. Sturtevant, of Norwich, then secured con-
trol of the plant, and Seth L. Brown was retained as
overseer of carding and spinning until 1891, when he
entered the employ of the H. B. Porter & Son Com-
pany, of that place, and remained with them until his
196
NEW LONDON COUNTY
death in Norwich, September lo, 1916. To Mr. and
Mrs. Brown were born three children: Arthur Chester,
agent of the Falls Company in Norwich, Connecticut,
married Isabella Yeomans, of Norwich ; George Seth,
of further mention ; Albert Seymour, died at Norwich,
June 28, 1908. at the age of twenty years.
George Seth Brown received his education in the
public schools of Preston and Norwich, and was a
member of the 1900 class of the Norwich Free Academy.
He entered the ofSce of the Falls Company upon leav-
ing school and remained there about four years, when
he entered the mill proper and learned the cotton card-
er's trade. After four years' service he left that com-
pany and entered the treasurer's office of the Attawaugan
and Totokett Manufacturing companies of Norwich,
manufacturers of fine cotton goods. Mr. Brown's con-
nection with the Ashland Cotton Company began in
March, 1918, when he entered the otRce department as
cost accountant, and shortly afterward was promoted
to the position of assistant superintendent. For the
period of the World War, he served as a member of the
War Industries Board at Washington, D. C, as assist-
ant section chief (cotton manufacturing expert) of the
cotton goods section. Late in 1919, Mr. Brown again
took up his duties at the Ashland Cotton Company and
soon was promoted superintendent, which position he is
now filling (1921).
George Seth Brown married, September 20, 191 5,
Henrietta Frances James, daughter of Charles D. James,
born in Voluntown, Connecticut, May 19, 1851, died in
Norwich, Connecticut, March 12, 1903. and Catherine
L. (Kelley) James, born in Yantic, Connecticut, April
29, 1857. Mr. and Mrs. Brown are the parents of two
children : Richard, born in Norwich, Connecticut, died
in infancy; and Henrietta Surviah, born in Jewett City,
Connecticut.
A man gifted in manner, enterprising and thorough
in business. Mr. Brown is personally liked most by
those who know him best. He is a man of quiet force,
the force that accomplishes large results with but little
friction, the force that counts in the upbuilding and
maintaining of large industries. A man loyal to his
employers and associates which in its own turn secures
the full confidence of those under him. He is an
enthusiastic devotee of the rod and gun, and has penned
many interesting and instructive magazine articles on
hunting and fishing.
CHARLES BREWSTER PALMER— The Palmers
of New London county, Connecticut, have been con-
nected with the business interests of the county, manu-
facturing, mercantile and agricultural, for many years.
The name was first brought to the county by Walter
Palmer, who finally located in Stonington. Connecticut,
in 1653. In this present generation Charles B. Palmer
married Fannie Ella Brown, a descendant of Joshua
Brown, a Revolutionary soldier, and they reside at the
old homestead owned by the old patriot. Deacon
Simeon Palmer, son of Peleg Palmer, was born in
the town of Stonington, Connecticut, in 1800, there spent
his life and died in February, 1895. He early learned
the carpenter's trade and followed it all his life until
old age called a halt, not very many years prior to his
death at the age of ninety-five. He was one of the
old-time carpenters who went into the woods, selected
the trees, and often framed a building right in the
woods; then hauled the different parts to the site of
the building and put it in position without altering size,
mortise or tenon. He built many houses in Stonington
and the surrounding country, both for others and him-
self, building and selling as opportunity offered. He
continued his residence in Stonington after his retire-
ment and was one of the best-known men of his town.
He married Caroline E. Tiffany, who was born and
lived in Salem, Connecticut, until her marriage. She
died in Stonington after her husband, but at the same
age of ninety-five. They were the parents of nine chil-
dren, all born in Stonington : Elizabeth, married John
Hammond: Mary, married James Lee; Henry, Ebenezer,
Susan, William Hyde, all of whom have now passed
away; Jerome S. A., a carpenter, of Stonington, mar-
ried Lucretia Sisson. of Salem, Connecticut; Sarah
Amelia, deceased, and Charles Brewster.
Charles Brewster Palmer was born near Stonington,
New London county, Connecticut. April 4, 1847, and
there spent his first fifteen years. In early life he went
to Westerly. Rhode Island, where, at the age of fifteen,
he began learning the trade of painter and paper hanger.
That was in 1862, and until 1879 he worked in Ston-
ington and several towns in Connecticut and Rhode Is-
land. In 1879 he worked in Jersey City, New Jersey,
and then moved to New London, Connecticut, finally
returning to Stonington, and there followed his trade
until his retirement in 1915. In 1899 he moved to the
Randall Brown farm which has since been his home.
He conducted the farm in connection with his painting
business until 191 5, but has since given his full atten-
tion to its management.
Mr. Palmer married (first), at Mystic, Connecticut,
July 4, 1871, Emma Jane Smith, who was born in Ston-
ington and there died in 1897, leaving two daughters:
Mabel B., wife of Edward Ripley, now residing at
Ossining. New York; Phoebe W., wife of Thomas
Cobb. Mr. Palmer married (second) at Stonington,
February 28, 1899, Fannie Ella Brown, born at the
Brown homestead in Stonington, daughter of Randall
and Mary Ann (Holmes) Brown. Mr. and Mrs. Palmer
are members of the Baptist church of Stonington. The
home is the old homestead in which Mrs. Palmer was
bom.
RANDALL BROWN— Randall Brown, father of
Mrs. Charles B. Palmer, was born at the Brown home-
stead on the Stonington road near old Mystic, Con-
necticut, March 28, 1807, and there died after a life of
honorable, upright living, December 13, 1887. The old
Brown homestead on which he lived and where his
daughter, Mrs. Fannie Ella Palmer, now lives, was first
owned in the family in 1786 by Joshua Brown, born in
Stonington. April 8, 1740. Joshua Brown, the grand-
father of Randall Brown, in 1786 bought the farm in
which his great-granddaughter, Mrs. Palmer, lives, pur-
^' \ . I l/Lc^.x.4^<^AJ^^
BIOGRAPHICAL
197
chasing it from Robert Williams, and moved his family
from the northern part of the town to his new home.
Joshua Brown was a lieutenant in the Capt. Thomas
Holmes company and served in the Revolutionary War
in 1776. He married, January 24, 1761, Johanna Rogers,
and they were the parents of a son, Randall Brown,
who was born at the Brown homestead in Stonington,
and there spent his life. He married Sally Palmer, and
their son, Randall (2) Brown, was bom at the home-
stead near Old Mystic on the Stonington road, March
28, 1807, and there died December 13, 1887. He attended
district schools, and was his father's assistant until the
latter's death, then succeeded to the ownership of the
homestead, on which his eighty years of life were spent.
He was a good farmer and an honorable, upright citizen,
scorning to take advantage of any man or to take a
cent unlawfully. On the other hand, he would not sub-
mit to be defrauded of a cent, but demanded the same
justice for himself that he tendered to others. He was
one of the most modern and progressive farmers of his
day, and as fast as machinery had proved its advantage
to the farm, he hastened to adopt it. He bought the
first horse-drawn hay rake used in his town, also the
first mowing machine. Even-tempered and kindly-
hearted, he never spoke but in kindness, and lived a
most exemplary life. He was a strong temperance man
and used his influence to have others saved from its
blight.
Mr. Brown married, January i, 1833, 5.1ary Ann
Holmes, born in Mystic, Connecticut, died at the Brown
Homestead in Stonington, February 5, 1894. Randall
(2) and Mary Ann (Holmes) Brown were the parents
of eight children, all born on home place, three of
whom are now living. The children of Randall and
Mary Ann (Holmes) Brown: I. Mary Ann, married
Capt. Franklin Hancox, a whaler, deceased. 2. Sarah
Palmer, wife of Hon. Elias Williams, of Mystic, both
deceased. 3. Helen Elizabeth, died in childhood. 4.
Jeremiah Holmes, never married, was in First Rhode
Island Cavalry three years during Civil War, lived on
home place all his life, died at the age of seventy-four.
5. Susan Almyra, widow of Joseph Smith, of Stoning-
ton. 6. Randall, of Mystic, Connecticut. 7. Fannie
Ella (Mrs. Charles Palmer). 8. Frederick Henry, was
a merchant of Daniclson, Connecticut, now deceased.
FRANK GROUSE MOUSLEY— At Warren Paper
Mills, in Hunterdon county. New Jersey, Frank Crouse
Mousley was born, son of Louis Henry and Jennie
(Crouse) Mousley. Louis Henry Mousley was born
at a point on historic Brandywine creek, near Wilming-
ton, Delaware, and there spent his boyhood. He was
first employed in the Jessup & Moore Paper Mills near
Wilmington, going thence to Warren Paper Mills in
New Jersey, where he married and remained a paper
mill worker for eighteen years. He was next employed
with the Piermont Paper Mills in Piermont, New York,
and continued in paper manufacturing mills until his
retirement, when he moved to New York City, where
he yet resides (1921). He was a son of Curtis Mousley,
who lived near Wilmington, and his wife, Jennie
(Crouse) Mousley, who was born in that same section.
Frank Crouse Mousley was born February 17, 1880,
and spent his youth in his native village, Warren Paper
Mills, three miles from Bloomsbury post office in Penn-
sylvania, the village and paper mill, however, in Hunter-
don county. New Jersey. As a boy he entered the War-
ren Paper Mills, first as a cutter boy, and after gaining
experience took the next step upward to the job of
"back tender." His second job was in the employ of
the Bogota Paper Mills, where he remained for two
years. He was then promoted to the rank of machine
tender in the same mills, but soon afterward the mills
were destroyed by fire and he was out of a position.
He journeyed to Covington, Virginia, and obtained
employment as a machine tender in the West Virginia
Pulp and Paper Company, and while there married.
In 1903 he returned North and located in Piermont,
New York, obtaining a position as machine tender with
the Piermont Paper Company, that company having an
association with the Thames River Specialty Company.
Mr. Mousley was soon promoted to the rank of boss
niachine tender, and in all was with the company twelvr:
years. In July, 1914, he was appointed superintendent
of the Thames River Specialty Company Mills in Un-
casville, town of Montville, New London county, Con-
necticut, and he is now serving his seventh year in that
position. The product of the company is principally
folding box boards. The business under his manage-
ment has shown an increase ; there has been an ex-
pansion in plant area and buildings, while the general
trend in every department has been toward improvement.
At the close of his seven years' service with the
Thames River Specialty Company (which had pre-
viously passed to the Robert Gair Company) Mr. Mous-
ley became general superintendent of the Federal Paper
Board Company, a company with mills located in Ver-
sailles, Connecticut, in Massachusetts, in New Jersey,
and in Pennsylvania. Mr. Mousley makes his home in
Norwich, and divides his time between the four mills
under his supervision.
From boyhood, Mr. Mousley has been employed in
paper mills, and he thoroughly understands the details
of paper manufacture. He is an ideal superintendent,
deeply interested in the men and their families, all his
concern being toward having a contented, cheerful and
prosperous force of employees. He holds the respect
and confidence of both the officials of the company and
the mill hands, the result being plants run at a high per
cent of efficiency with a capable, satisfied working force.
In religion Mr. Mousley is a Presbyterian, and in
politics a Republican. He is affiliated with Wawagande
Lodge, No. 315, Free and Accepted Masons, of Pier-
mont, New York; Rockland Chapter. Royal Arch Ma-
sons, of Nyack, New York; Franklin Council, Royal
and Select Masters, of Norwich, Connecticut; Colum-
bia Commandery, Knights Templar, of Norwich ; and is
a thirty-second degree member of the Ancient Accepted
Scottish Rite. He is also a noble of Sphinx Temple,
Nobles of the Mystic Shrine, Hartford, Connecticut. _
Mr. Mousley married (first) in Covington, Virginia,
April 14, 1903, Daisy Brooks, bom in Lexington, Vir-
ginia, daughter of George and Henrietta Brooks, both
of Virginian birth. Mr. and Mrs. Mousley had three
igS
NEW DONDON COUNTY
children, all students of Norwich Free Academy,
namely: Louis Brooks, born March 31, 1904; Harvey
Kenneth, born in igo6; Frank Crouse, Jr., born in igo8.
Mrs. Mousley died January 29, 1909. Mr. Mousley mar-
ried (second), August 23, 1910, Hattie Elizabeth Brooks,
sister of his first wife.
HERBERT WARREN SV^^EET— Among the very
old families of New England which have become fa-
mous for some distinguishing trait, characteristic, or
skill, is the Sweet family, widely known as expert
bone-setters. As far back as their authentic his-
tory can be traced, and from tradition, leading still
further, one finds them credited with remarkable
skill in this art, and from time to time taking over
and successfully performing work which has baffled
trained surgeons. James Sweet, of Wales, the rec-
ognized ancestor of the family, came to New
England in 1630, was a resident of Salem, Massa-
chusetts, in 1631, of Warwick, Rhode Island, in 1638,
and later of Kingston, finally settling near North
Hill, in North Kingston, Rhode Island, where he
married Mary Greene, daughter of John and Joan
(Tattersall) Greene, and died in 1695. His children,
James, Mary, Benoni, Valentine, Samuel, Jeremiah,
Renewed, and Sylvester, were all born in North
Kingston between the years 1655 and 1674. From
this James Sweet the Lebanon, Connecticut, Sweets
are descended through Benoni (2) Sweet, he being
a descendant in the fifth generation from James,
through Benoni, James (2), and Job Sweet. Three
of the above, Benoni, Job, and Benoni (2) Sweet,
are on record as having gained wide celebrity as
natural bone-setters. Job Sweet having attained
such eminence in that line that during the Revolu-
tion he was called to Newport to set dislocated
bones of the French officers, and after the war, at
the urgent request of Colonel Burr, afterward vice-
president, went to New York to set a dislocated hip
of his daughter's.
Benoni (2) Sweet, who was born October 7, 1760,
died August 26, 1840, practiced the family art in
South Kingston and vicinity, but, in 1/93, when he
removed to Lebanon, Connecticut, he resolved to do
no more setting of bones, but to give his whole
attention to farming. A dislocated shoulder in his
neighborhood, however, baffling the surgeons, called
him back to the practice of his art, which he never
again abandoned. He married Sarah Champlin, and
they became the progenitors of the Sweet family
in Connecticu-t, their tenth child being Charles, men-
tioned below.
Dr. Charles Sweet was born December 3, 1810,
and died in Lebanon, December 22, 1896. According
to the "History of New London County," published
in 1882, "he commenced bone-setting at the early
age of sixteen years and for nearly forty years main-
tained oflrices in Hartford and New London, Connec-
ticut, and at Springfield, Massaachusetts, each of
which he visited one day of each month, success-
fully treating all kinds of bone dislocation, frac-
tures, and diseases. The greater part of his time
was devoted to these things, in which he manifested
an intuitive perception truly surprising. In the in-
tervals he carried on farming to some extent, more
for a pastime than for pecuniary profit." He mar-
ried (first) Eliza W. Throop, daughter of Joseph
and Polly (Clark) Throop, of Lebanon, and they
became the parents of six children, among whom
was Charles, Jr., father of Herbert Warren, men-
tioned below. Dr. Charles Sweet married (second)
Sarah Elizabeth Williams, of Mystic, Connecticut,
and by this marriage had three children. He mar-
ried (third) Laura A. Anderson, who died on
Thanksgiving Day, 1897.
Charles Sweet, Jr., son of Dr. Charles and Eliza
W. (Throop) Sweet, was born at Lebanon, Con-
necticut, January i, 1845, and died October iS, 1893.
Associated with his father in Lebanon, he also
became famous as a bone-setter, and for a time
practiced in Hartford, returning later to Lebanon,
where most of his life was spent, and where he died.
He also did farm work on his father's place. He
married (first) Nellie Payne, who died, leaving one
child, Arthur P., who married Eudora Spencer and
resides in South Windham, Connecticut. Charles
Sweet, Jr., married (second) Mary Eva Manning,
and they became the parents of nine children:
Edith S., now the wife of Dr. Norman Drake, of
Little Falls, New York; Herbert Warren, of further
mention; Edward P., who died when nine years
old; Leon M., of Washington, D. C; Henry R., of
Norfolk, Connecticut; Harold, who died at the age
of sixteen; Ruby E., who died aged seven; Wallace
Nathaniel, a physician, of Wallingford, Connecticut;
and Clifton Worsley, of New Britain, Connecticut.
Mrs. Charles Sweet, tiie mother of Herbert Warren
Sweet, survives her husband and resides in Lebanon.
Herbert Warren Sweet, son of Charles, Jr., and
Mary Eva (Manning) Sweet, was born January 14,
1876, in Lebanon, Connecticut, where he was reared
and where he received his early education. From
the schools of Lebanon he entered the State Agri-
cultural College, at Storrs, Connecticut, and then
farmed the old Sweet homestead, in Lebanon.
Later, he became interested in another line of vv'ork,
and became a clerk in the general store of F. P.
Fowler. After gaining considerable experience in
this position he associated himself with the general
merchandise business of I. W. Stark, also of Leb-
anon. Here he was very successful, and in 1916,
bought the business of his employer, which he is
still (1921) carrying on.
Politically, Mr. Sweet is a Republican, and both
he and his family attend the Congregational church.
He is a member of Wooster Lodge, No. 10, Free
and Accepted Masons, of Colchester; and of the
George S. Hull Lodge, Knights of Pythias, Leba-
non. Both Mr. and Mrs. Sweet are members of
Lebanon Grange, No. 21.
On March 30, 1897, at Tolland, Connecticut, Her-
bert Warren Sweet married Katherine Hanson,
daughter of Lauritz and Emily (Jewell) Hanson,
and they are the parents of two children: Ruby,
BIOGRAPHICAL
199
born February 28, 1898, and Charles Herbert, born
October 9, 1900. Mrs. Sweet was a very successful
teacher before her marriage, and is active in many
lines of welfare and community work. One of her
most valuable services to her town is her worlc on
the School Board of Lebanon, of which sh^j b.as
been a member since 1915, being reelected each
year.
AREA BROV/NING— "Agriculture is the noblest
of all alchemy," says Chatfield, "for it turns earth
and even refuse into gold, conferring upon its culti-
vator the additional reward of health." This oldest
of human vocations and noblest of them all has
been honored by the successful career of Arba
Browning, a lineal descendant of an ancestry that
traces back in this country for three centuries, this
representative of the family inheriting in large de-
gree the excellent traits and characteristics of his
forbears.
Nathaniel Browning, the first of the line herein
traced, is of record in Rhode Island as early as
164s, a resident of Warwick and Portsmouth, and
was made a freeman in 1655. The descent is traced
through his son, William Browning, a resident of
Portsmouth and South Kingston. His son, John
Browning, a resident of South Kingston. His son,
John Browning, Jr., a resident of Exeter. His son,
Avery Browning, a native of Exeter, Rhode Island,
born February 8, 1786, died in Norwich, Connecticut,
May 9, 1865. He removed from his native State to
Connecticut in 1834, purchasing a farm in Griswold,
from whence he removed to Preston and later to
Norwich. He married Mary Arnold, and their tliird
son was Beriah Hopkins Browning, born September
13, 1819, in Exeter, Rhode Island, died in Grisv/old,
Connecticut, May 24, 1890. He accompanied his
parents upon their removal to Griswold, Connec-
ticut, and there attended the district schools, also
accompanied them upon their removal to Preston,
same State, where they resided for several ."ears,
removing in 1866 to the Plain Hill District, town of
Norwich, Connecticut, and Beriah H. Browning
purchased the Morgan place in the town of Gris-
wold, where he engaged in general farming until his
death. On November 21, 1843, he married Sarah
Elizabeth Campbell, daughter of Bonaparte Camp-
bell, and they were the parents of nine children,
the seventh of whom was Arba, of whom further.
Beriah H. Browning represented Griswold in the
State Legislature in 1873, also served as justice of
the peace for over thirty years.
Arba Browning was born in the Plain Hill Dis-
trict, town of Norwich, Connecticut, October 31,
1862. He received a practical education in the dis-
trict schools of Griswold, and his leisure time was
spent in assisting his father in the cultivation of the
home place, which became his property by purchase
after the death of his father, and whereon he has
resided up to the present time (1921). He is en-
gaged in general farming and dairying, to which
pursuits he devotes his entire time, and the result
of his energy, progressive methods, and tireless
application to all details is that he is the pos-
sessor of one of the finest farms in that section of
the State. Although deeply interested in his chosen
line of work, Mr. Browning finds time to devote to
public affairs, and has been chosen by his fellow-
townsmen to act in public capacity, his tenure of
office being noted for efTicicncy and capability. For
three years he served on the Board of Selectmen,
for eight years acted as justice of the peace, served
as a member of the Committee for the Sale of
Land, as a representative for .the tov/n of Griswold
in the State Legislature in 1905-06, and for the years
1918-19 was a member of tlie School Board. He is
a Democrat in politics, attends the First Congre-
gational Church of Pachaug, and is affiliated with
Mount Vernon Lodge, No. 75, Free and Accepted
Masons, of Jewett City, and of the Ancient Order
of United Workmen, of Jewett City.
Mr. Browning married, September 4, 1890, Har-
riet Lee Bromley, born in Lisbon, Connecticut,
daughter of Charles and Sarah (Thompson) Brom-
ley, of Lisbon. Children: Frank Duane, a sketch
of whom follows; Sybil, born August 30, 1898, a
teacher in the public schools of Jewett City, Con-
necticut.
FRANK DUANE BROWNING, D.M.D. — The
professional men of New London county form a
group of which any locality might be proud. In
Jewett City, Dr. Frank D. Browning, the young
dentist, is attracting attention as one of the most
promising professional men of the day in this sec-
tion.
Dr. Browning, son of Arba and Harriet L. (Brom-
ley) Browning (q.v.), was born in the town of Gris-
v.'old, Connecticut, on December 14, 1892. Receiv-
'ng his early education in the district schools near
his home, he continued his studies at Mount Her-
mon School, Mount Hermon, ^Massachusetts. There
le prepared for Tufts College, and in 1915 entered
:hat institution, in the Dental School, from which
he was graduated in 1918, with the degree of
D.M.D.
It was just at the time of his graduation that the
need of skilled hands in this field in the United
States army was most keenly felt, and Dr. Brown-
ing enlisted and was called on July 24th of that
year. He was commissioned first lieutenant in De-
cember, 1918, and stationed at Camp Greenleaf,
Georgia, then later was transferred to Camp Seneca,
South Carolina. In January, 1919, he was dis-
charged from the service at Camp Jackson, South
Carolina. In that same year. Dr. Browning returned
to his native town, and began the practice of den-
tistry in Jewett City. He has already achieved a
splendid start in his chosen profession, and is looked
upon as one of the coming men of the county.
Dr. Browning is well known and popular in
various activities throughout this vicinity. He is a
member of Mount Vernon Lodge, No. 75, Free and
Accepted Masons, of Jewett City, and of Franklin
Chapter, No. 3, Royal Arch Masons, of Norwich.
His college fraternity is the Delta Sigma Delta. He
NEW LONDON COUNTY
attends the Congregational church of Griswold, and
supports its social and benevolent organizations.
Politically, he reserves the right to personal de-
cision, and votes independently, giving unqualified
support to no party.
Dr. Browning married Mildred Louise Akcrley, of
Reading, Massachusetts, November 15, 1920, she a
daughter of Oliver L. and Susan J. Miller. She is
a graduate of Abbot Academy at Andover, Massa-
chusetts, class of 1915, and also graduated, in 1916,
from the Forsyth Infirmary, at Boston, an infirmary
for children.
JOHN CONDON QUINLAN— In the manufac-
ture of marble and granite monuments and memo-
rials of various kinds, John Condon Quinlan is a
leader in New London county, Connecticut, and his
establishment in Norwich is the largest in the city
covering this field.
Mr. Quinlan is a son of Patrick L. Quinlan, who
was born in County Limerick, Ireland. He came to
this country as soon as he left school, when only
fourteen years of age. In. 1854 he located in Green-
ville, Connecticut, one of the suburbs of Norwich,
where he was employed in the bleachery, now the
LTnited States Finishing Company. After the death
of his wife, which occurred in 1864, the young man
went to Omaha, Nebraska, and settled there per-
manently. In 1867 he entered the employ of W. F.
Murphy, a very prominent politician of Omaha.
Mr. Quinlan was thereafter, for the rest of his life,
more or less closely associated with Mr. Murphy,
and for twenty-four years held the position of en-
gineer of the Post Office Customs House in that
city. He died in Omaha, December 26, 1913. Mr.
Quinlan's first wife, Catherine (Condon) Quinlan,
was born in Ireland, and died in Norv.-ich, in 1864.
Of her three children, John Condon Quinlan, whose
name heads this review, is the only one now living.
Patrick L. Quinlan married (second) in Omaha,
and six children were born of this marriage.
John Condon Quinlan was born in Norwich, Con-
necticut, on August 18, 1862, and is the third child
of Patrick L. and Catherine (Condon) Quinlan. He
received his formal education in the public schools
of Norwich, and in the Norwich Free Academv. He
was a young man of artistic tastes, yet with a
natural inclination to the definitely practical, and
at the age of seventeen he entered the office of A. G.
Cutler, then a prominent architect. He studied the
business with Mr. Cutler, and became an expert
mechanical draughtsman, remaining there until 1880.
In that year he became associated with his uncle,
P. R. Condon, who was in the marble and granite
business, and the leading monument maker of the
day in this section. The young man became very
efficient along this line, and v/orked for his uncle
in the capacity of foreman for several years. P. R.
Condon died in 1909, and upon his death the busi-
ness passed into the hands of Mr. Quinlan. The
business has continued uninterruptedly ever since,
and has grown in volume and importance, until now
it is the largest of its kind in the city. Mr. Quin-
lan's excellent taste, and his talent for fine effects,
have placed his work in a class by itself, and many
very beautiful memorials have been produced under
his eye. He is a member of the National Associa-
tion of Retail Monument Dealers.
Mr. Quinlan always keeps in touch with public
affairs, and is a staunch Democrat, although he has
never sought nor accepted public office. He is a
member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of
Elks, Lodge No. 430, of Norwich, and a member of
the Woodmen of the World, Camp No. 90.
Mr. Quinlan married, in Norwich, on June 11,
1905, Nellie M. Corcoran, of that city. She is the
daughter of Morris and Ellen (O'Brien) Corcoran,
both natives of Cork, Ireland. The family have
always been devout members of St. Patrick's Roman
Catholic Church.
JOHN PATRICK GORMAN— A prominent fig-
ure in the business life of Jewett City is John
Patrick Gorman, owner and manager of the Gor-
man Drug Store, which is located at No. 60 Main
street. From the time of his coming to this com-
munity he has given his earnest support to all
movements calculated to advance the welfare of the
place which he has chosen for his residence and
field of business activities.
John Patrick Gorman was born in Greenville,
town of Norwich, Connecticut, September 14, 1855,
the son of Patrick and Beezy (Battle) Gorman.
Patrick Gorman was born in Sligo, Ireland, and
came to this country in 1848, locating in Norwich,
where he secured a position as overseer of one of
the departments of the Chelsea Paper Mills, and
continued here until his death, which occurred in
Norwich. To Mr. and Mrs. Gorman were born
three children: Catherine, wife of Anthony J. Mur-
phy, of Norwich, Connecticut; George D., deceased;
and John Patrick, of further mention.
After completing his studies in the public schools
of Greenville, John Patrick Gorman worked in
various places, but in 1884 he entered the employ
of Dr. William Soule for the purpose of learning
the drug business, and passed the e.xaminations of
the Connecticut State Board of Pharmacy in 1904.
He then returned to Dr. Soule's drug store as a
registered pharmacist and remained there until 1914,
when he established himself in the drug business
at his present location on Main street. He has been
highly successful in his business venture, which is
due to his own indefatigable effort and his unfailing
belief in his ability to succeed.
In politics he is a Republican, and for ten years
has been justice of the peace. He aft'iliates with
Mt. Vernon Lodge, No. 75, Free and Accepted
Masons; Franklin Chapter, No. 3, Royal Arch Ma-
sons; Franklin Council, No. 4, Royal and Select
Masters; Columbian Commandery, Knights Temp-
lar; Sphinx Temple, Ancient Arabic Order Nobles
of the Mystic Shrine; and Connecticut Consistory,
A.ncient Accepted Scottish Rite, thirty-second de-
gree. He is also a member of Reliance Lodge, No.
29, Independent Order of Odd F'ellows, the Norwich
BIOGRAPHICAL
201
Nest of Owls, and Undaunted Lodge, No. 34,
Knights of Pythias, of Jewctt City. He is a mem-
ber of the Methodist Episcopal Church of Jevvett
City.
ALFRED HENRY LA BARRE — Born and
reared in New London county, and with an honor-
able record in the great World War, Alfred Henry
La Barre, of Taftville, Connecticut, is now his
father's assistant in the Rock Water Soda Company
plant in Taftville. Mr. La Barre is of French de-
scent, his parents being the first of the family to
coma to this country.
Albert La Barre was born in the Province of
Quebec. Canada, on April 17, i866, and received his
education there in the parochial schools. He came
to the United States when sixteen years of age,
coming directly to New London county and locating
in Jevvett City. There he entered the employ of
R. R. Church, the leading coal dealer of the Jcwett
City of that day. The young man soon became
manager of the business, and remained with Mr.
Church for several years. He then turned his atten-
tion to farming, at Griswold, near the village of
Pachaug, for eight years, then, in the early nineties,
he conducted a bakery in Jewett City, following
along this line for a period of two years. Remov-
ing at the end of that time to the adjoining town
of Plainfield, Mr. La Barre engaged in farming for
about one year. After that he lived in several dif-
ferent places until 1910, during all of that time
actively engaged in useful endeavor. He then lo-
cated permanently in Taftville, and established him-
self in the manufacture of bottled soda. He has
been very successful, the product being a popular
one throughout an extensive territory. The busi-
ness was recently incorporated, with Mr. La Barre
as president, and is in a most flourishing condition.
Mr. La Barre married Mary Le Roux, and they are
the parents of thirteen children, all living except
one, as follows: Albert, Jr.; Alfred Henry, whose
nam.e heads this review; Napoleon, Rose, Albina;
George, deceased; Alvia, Diana, Wilfred, Agnes,
Theodore, Delina, and Mary. All of these children
are still at home (1921).
Alfred Henry La Barre, son of Albert and Mary
(Le Roux) La Barre, was born in Jewett City, Con-
necticut, on December 22, 1890. He received his
education in the excellent public schools of that
place, and grew up to be a representative American
young man. When the call for men overseas came
to American manhood, he responded, enlisting on
May 19, 1918. He served in Company K, 313th
Regiment, 79th Division, American Expeditionary
Forces. He was gassed at Montfaucon, France,
and suffered severely from the effects of this in-
sidious poison. Discharged at Camp Upton, New
York, on May 19, 1919, he returned at once to his
home, and is now associated with his father in the
prosperous business in Taftville. His business abil-
ity and native industry bid fair to make his posi-
tion in the management one of power and progres-
sive achievement.
Mr. La Barre is well and favorably known in
this vicinity, interested in all public activity and
community progress. Politically an Independent,
he thinks for himself on all subjects of general
interest. He is a member of Ponemah Council,
Knights of Columbus, of Taftville, Connecticut;
Court Wequonnock, No. 88, Foresters of America,
of Taftville; Aerie No. 367, Fraternal Order of
Eagles, of Norwich; Robert O. Fletcher Post of
the American Legion, of Norwich; and Union St.
John the Baptistc Society of Taftville. The La
Barre family have always been members of the
Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church.
LEWIS ROBERT CHURCH, cashier of the Nor-
wich Water Company, was born in Montville, Con-
necticut, September 23, i860, the son of Periz and
Jane (Parker) Church. Periz Church was born in
Montville, Connecticut, in 1839, and died in 1872.
For many years he was a pilot on the steamer
"City of Lawrence," which ran from Norwich to
New York City. To Mr. and Mrs. Church were
born nine children, and four of the number are still
living: Louise P., widow of Henry E. Silcox, of
Norwich; Frank P., a cigar manufacturer of Nor-
wich, Connecticut, who married Annie E. Pettigrew;
John H., a resident of Middletown, Connecticut; and
Lev/is Robert, mentioned belov/.
The education of Lewis Robert Church was ob-
tained in the public schools of his native place,
after which he worked on his father's farm until
18S0, when, together with his brother, Frank P.
Church, he engaged in the manufacture of cigars
in Norwich, continuing in this line of industry until
1899, when the two brothers bought out the coal
business on Thames street from the A. W. Gibbs
estate. In 1912 Lewis Robert Church bought out
his brother's interest in this business and con-
tinued it himself until 1917, when he became manager
of the real estate business of A. M. Avery. In
1920 he accepted his present position as cashier and
clerk of the water department of the city of Nor-
wich. He is prominent in Masonic circles, being
affiliated with St. James Lodge, No. 23, Free and
Accepted Masons; Franklin Chapter, No. 3, Royal
Arch Masons; Franklin Council, No. 4, Royal and
Select Masters; and Columbian Commandery,
Knights Templar. In religion he is a Baptist, and
attends the Central Baptist Church of Norwich.
Mr. Church married, in Norwich, November 16,
18S8, Elizabeth Maynard, daughter of Jedediah and
Julia (Rockwell) Maynard. Mr. and Mrs. Church
are the parents of two children, both born in Nor-
wich, Connecticut: Lloyd Maynard, sales agent for
the Automatic Refrigerating Company of Hartford,
Connecticut, married Pauline Huff, of Rochester,
New York; Robert Huntington, who served with
the United States navy during the World \\'ar and
was stationed at the submarine base at New Lon-
don, Connecticut.
ROBERT BOISSON — Although having been
identified with Norwich, or in fact the United
NEW LONDON COUNTY
States, but a very short time, having come here in
1917, Mr. Boisson has not only identified himself
with the business interests of the community which
he has chosen for his home, but also as a citizen
he is always ready to do all in his power to pro-
mote her best welfare and truest progress.
Robert Boisson was born in Lyons, France,
October 19, 1890, the son of Felix and Eugenia
(Fronbat) Boisson. For a number of years Robert
Boisson has been engaged in his present business,
that of novelty manufacturer. To Mr. and Mrs.
Boisson have been born twelve children, and among
the number were Marcel and Rene, who were
killed in action during the World War, French
army; Felix, an importer in China; Robert, men-
tioned below.
Robert Boisson, when a young lad, entered the
public schools of his native place, and passed
through the consecutive grades to his graduation
from the Lyons High School, after which he secured
a position as clerk in a bank near his native city,
remaining there for five years. He then enlisted
in the French army, and in 1910 he was called for
military duty, for two years served in the Thirtieth
Battalion, Chasseurs Alpins, was relieved, and in
August, 1914, called back to same regiment and
served until July, 1916. He was wounded, July 19,
1916, at the battle of the Somme, was three months
in hospital, discharged in March, 1917 — lost his left
arm. He saw service in the Vosges Mountains,
and during this time was in many battles. The
Thirtieth Battalion were the Blue Devils. He
served as first lieutenant. After his discharge from
the war he came to .America, landing in New York,
accompanied by his wife, Gabrielle (Bietrix) Boisson,
whom he had married just previous to sailing; he
immediately came to Norwich, Connecticut, sub-
sequenth' entering into his present position as as-
sistant manager with the J. B. Martin Company,
velvet manufacturers.
To Mr. and Mrs. Boisson, who were married in
Lyons, France, February 2, 1917, have been born
two children: Jeanne, in France, November 16, 1918;
Henri, January s, 1920. The family attend the Sacred
Heart Church of Norwich.
HENRY A. MULLER— The ancestry of Mr.
Miiller is German on both the maternal and paternal
sides of his family, though Mr. Miiller is an Amer-
ican citizen by birth. He is the son of August and
Barbara fScheinlein) Miiller, the former a native of
Torgua Krais, Dalctzsch, Kingdom of Prussia, Ger-
many, where he was born April 19, 1820. .■\ugust
Miiller attended the public school in his province
until he was seventeen years of age, when he left
to become an apprentice in the shop of a cabinet
maker at Torgua. After serving his time at this
trade he went to Leipzig, Germany, obtaining work
in that line and remaining there for si.x years.
Emigrating to the United States on September
28, 1852, August Muller located in New York City,
November 10, 1852, becoming employed at his trade.
After remaining there for three years he moved
Stonington, Connecticut, where he went into busi-
ness as a furniture dealer and also conducted an
undertaking establishment in connection with it.
He was very successful in both these lines and
carried them on until his death, v.-hich occurred in
Stonington, July 12, 1903. August Miiller was quite
prominent as a Freemason, being a Master Mason
for thirty-five years in Stonington. He was married,
in New York City, October 26, 1853, to Barbara
Scheinlein, and their son, Henry A., was born there.
Mrs. Barbara (Scheinlein) Miiller was born in Ba-
varia, Germany.
While still an infant, Henry A. Miiller's parents
moved to Stonington and there the lad grew up,
attending the public school, and when old enough
assisting his father in the furniture store. In 1879
the younger Mr. Miiller went out West and, lo-
cating in Missouri, became engaged in the furniture
and undertaking business, staying there for ten
years. Returning to Stonington in 1889, he again
joined his father, remaining with him until the death
of the elder Mr. Miiller, when Henry A. Miiller took
over the business and has continued it up to the present
time (1921).
In politics Mr. Miiller is a Democrat, and for the last
five years has served on the Board of Burgesses. He is
a member of Union No. 50, Ancient Order of United
Workmen, of Stonington, and a member of Pequot
Council, Royal Arcanum, of the same place.
Mr. Miiller married. May 16, 1888, Elizabeth Owens,
who was bom in Springfield, Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Miil-
ler are the parents of four children: i. August O., now
in business with his father. 2. Grace, who married
Albert G. Randell, and resides at New Rochelle, New
Vork. 3. Frank, who resides at Bridgeport, Connec-
ticut ; he served in the World War, in the Medical
Corps, and was stationed at Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia.
4 Elizabeth, who is a teacher in Westerly, Rhode Island,
and resides at home: she graduated from the State
Normal School at Willimantic, Connecticut. Mr. and
Mrs. Henry A. Miiller and their family are members of
the Second Congregational Church of Stonington.
BURDETT SILAS DOUBLEDAY— Since igi2,
Mr. Doubleday ha? been a resident of Colchester, Con-
necticut, and during these few years has already become
recognized as a citizen who takes a keen and active
interest in all things pertaining to the welfare of the
community.
Dwight Doubleday, father of Burdett Silas Double-
day, was born in Columbia, Connecticut, in 1846, and
has followed agricultural pursuits throughout his entire
lifetime. He married Martha Wheeler, who was also
a native of Columbia, and to them were bom the
following children: Roy, Ida, Amos, Hubert, Hyde,
Walter Richard, Martha, and Burdett Silas, of further
mention.
Burdett Silas Doubleday was born at Lebanon, Con-
necticut. May 8, 1880. His childhood was spent on his
father's farm, where most of his spare time from school
was spent in aiding the elder man with his work about
to the farm. At the age of eighteen years he terminated
^'(yK:x^ ^ao-^
BIOGRAPHICAL
203
his studies and returned to the farm to give his entire
time toward gaining a wide knowledge of agricultural
methods. In IQ12 he came to Colchester, Coimccticut,
where he purchased his present place, which has been
his residence continuously up to the present time. This
farm land was naturally fertile, and he continued to
cultivate it until he has brought it to its present highly
productive state.
Mr. Doubleday has never taken any active part in
public affairs, but has always shown particular interest
in the welfare of the community, and there is no good
work done in the name of charity or religion but finds
in him an earnest supporter.
Mr. Doubleday married, September 10, igo6, Emma
Baumberger, daughter of Arnold and Emma Baum-
herger, natives of Hebron, Connecticut. Mr. and Mrs.
Doubleday are the parents of seven children : Clara
Emma, Alma, Mary, Theodore, John, Helen, and Ernest
Silas, deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Doubleday are members
of the Congregational church.
WALLACE H. PAYNE— The Paynes of Jewett
City, Connecticut, father and son, are well known, the
father as a soldier of peace, as taught by the church
of which he was long a devoted minister, the son as a
militant soldier who fought the "Hun" on his chosen
battlefields, inhaled his deadly gasses, and returned to
his native United States the victor over his savage foe
and his barbarous weapons. Father and son have now
joined forces again, and are the editors and publishers
of the Jewett City "Press," the elder Mr. Payne having
bought that paper in 1907.
Rev. John W. Payne, father of Wallace H. Payne,
was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, and there completed a
course in public school study. He then was a student
at Granville Academy and College, Granville, Ohio,
whence he was graduated A. B., becoming later an A. M.
He studied divinity at Rochester (New York) The-
ological Seminary, and was duly ordained a minister of
the Baptist church. He accepted calls from various
churches of that faith, which he ably administered until
1889, when he was called to the pastorate of the Jewett
City Baptist Church. He accepted the call, and for
fourteen years was the loved and honored pastor of
that congregation. From 1883 until 1889 Rev. John W.
Payne was associated with Dr. W. R. Harper, former
president of the Chicago University, Chicago, Illinois,
as proof reader and specialist in Semitic publications.
From 1904 to rgo/ he had a small printing business in
Jewett City, and in 1907 he purchased the Jewett City
"Press," which he has since most ably edited. He mar-
ried Anna B. Tunison, and they are the parents of three
children: Ivah M., wife of Benjamin R. Gardner, of
Jewett City ; Herbert E., deceased ; and Wallace H.,
of further mention.
Wallace H. Payne was born in New Haven, Con-
necticut, February 4, 1889. He passed through the
public schools of Jewett City, and after finishing his
studies, became associated with his father in the pub-
lishing of the Jewett City "Press." His newspaper work
was interrupted by his service in the United States
army, which he entered February 27, 1918, for service
in the war against Gcrmanj'. He was assigned to
Company B, 308th Regiment, 77th Division, was sent
overseas, and ?aw hard service in France ; was severely
burned by mustard gas, but survived every peril of that
infernal period in the world's history; returned to the
United States, and was honorably discharged and mus-
tered out at Camp Upton, Long Island, April i, 1919.
Since his return, Mr. Payne has resumed newspaper
work in Jewett City with his father.
Under its scholarly editor, Rev. John W. Payne, and
his son, Wallace H., the Jewett City "Press" has re-
flected in its pages and in its prosperity the ability of
the men who since 1907 have guided its destinies.
They have made it a force for good in New London
county, and a credit to journalism.
Mr. Payne is a past master of Mount Vernon Lodge,
No. 75, Free and Accepted Masons, of Jewett City, and
is a member of Jewett City Post of the American
Legion, and of the Jewett City Baptist Church.
MICHAEL JACOB— .\ prosperous farmer and
business man, Michael Jacob was one of Taftville's
highly respected citizens, and one whose public spirit
and co-operation could always be relied upon. He was
born in Bavaria, Germany, December 26, 1865, and died
at his farm near Taftvillc, town of Norwich, New Lon-
don county, Connecticut, February 4, 1918.
He was educated in the schools of his native district,
and grew to adult years there. From January 29, 1895,
to 1899, he served in the German army, attaining the
rank of lieutenant. From 1899 until 1903 he was en-
gaged as a lumber salesman, then came to the United
States, joining his father, who had preceded him and
was engaged in business in Taftville, Connecticut.
Michael Jacob, soon after coming to New London
county, bought a farm near Taftville and conducted
very profitable farming operations. He also established
a meat market in the village, and until his death con-
tinued both lines of business. He prospered abundantly,
and when death removed him his farm and business
affairs were in such good condition that his widow has
since conducted both along the same lines. He was a
man of industry, and by good judgment and energy won
success as a business man, while his virtues as a man
insured the respect and esteem of all who knew him.
He was a member of Norwich Lodge, No. 430, Benevo-
lent and Protective Order of Elks, and while he met
all the demands of citizenship took no active part in
political affairs.
Mr. Jacob married. June 14, 1912, Mrs. Lena Krodel,
born in Bavaria, Germany, widow of Andrew Krodel,
who died in Taftville, September 28, 191 1, leaving a
daughter Rose, who died November 27, 1913, aged three
years. Mrs. Jacob is a good business woman and ably
manages the estate committed to her care. She is
interested in church and charitable work, and has many
friends.
ERASTUS WILLINGTON CARTER— It was
not until 1907 that Mr. Carter came to Norwich, Con-
necticut, but during the fourteen years which have since
elapsed he has established and built up a strong general
204
NEW LONDON COUNTY
insurance agency. He is of Rhode Island birth and
parentage, his parents, Gideon W. and Ehzabcth (Free-
man) Carter, being residents of North Providence at
the time of the birth of their son. Gideon W. Carter
was born in Wcstport, Rhode Island, but when a young
man moved to North Providence, where he became a
cotton mill worker and finally overseer of the weaving
room at the Dyerville mill. When war broke out be-
tween the states, he enlisted in Company I, Seventh
Regiment, Rhode Island Volunteer Infantry, and served
with honor. He returned to Rhode Island after his
military service, and being an expert weaver, he con-
tinued in the textile mills as overseer until his death,
which occurred in February, igi8. His wife died in
Danielson, Connecticut, in June, 1005. They were the
parents of three children : Erastus W., of further men-
tion ; Ida, wife of Benjamin Russell, of Danielson, Con-
necticut; and George LeMar, who married Elizabeth
Whipple, and resides in Providence, Rhode Island.
Erastus W. Carter was born in Providence, Rhode
Island, September 2, 1852, and there educated in the
public schools. After school years were over he became
a cotton mill worker and an expert weaver. He did
not confine himself to any particular mill, but, being
an expert, could always be sure of a good position
wherever he went. He served as overseer of weaving
in several New England cotton mills, continuing in the
textile business until 1900. He then located in Willi-
mantic, Connecticut, and there established a fire insur-
ance agency, which he successfully conducted until 1907,
when he sold his business and located in Norwich,
where he yet resides. In Norwich he has conducted a
general insurance business, also dealing to a limited
extent in real estate. During his earlier years he was
always a member of some musical organization, his own
specialty being the snare drum. In the various towns in
which he lived he belonged to several orchestras and
bands, some of them well-known and famous.
In Norwich he is a member of the Fire Underwriters'
Association; is a Republican in politics; member of
Norwich Lodge, No. 430, Benevolent and Protective
Order of Elks; and an attendant of the Episcopal
church.
Mr. Carter married, October 4, 1874, Mary A. Gough,
daughter of Hugh and Tresia (Newton) Gough, of
Plainfield, Connecticut. Mr. and Mrs. Carter are the
parents of six children: 1. Geneva, born in Norwich,
died at the age of four years. 2. Gertrude L., wife of
Arthur A. Thomsette, a civil engineer, of Providence,
Rhode Island. 3. Willington H., who married Mary E.
Mulholland, a contractor and builder in Miami, Florida.
4. Theresa M., who died at the age of eighteen years.
5. Joseph F., who married (first) Jennie Keon, (second)
Lovcnia White; an automobile dealer in Pavvtucket,
Rhode Island. 6. Inez Mae, who lives at home.
death in 1888. His wife, Sarah (Carey) Leahy, died
four years earlier (1884). They were the parents of
twelve children, their son, Joseph Francis, being the
eleventh child in this large family.
Joseph Francis Leahy was born in Mystic, New Lon-
don county, Connecticut, May 22, 1864. He attended
the public school in the village and when older went
to Stonington, Connecticut, where he became an em-
ployee of the Atwood Machine Company. Some time
later he was promoted to the position of foreman of
the moulding department, holding this position for sev-
enteen years. On March 22, 1915, Joseph Francis Leahy-
received the appointment of postmaster in the post
office at Stonington, where he is located at present.
Always a Democrat in politics, Mr. Leahy has taken
a great interest in the village welfare. He has served
on the Board of School Commissioners for five years,.
having been secretary of the board for three years.
Joseph Francis Leahy is a prominent member of the
Knights of Columbus and is coimected with Nina Coun-
cil, No. 43, in which he is a past grand knight.
In Stonington, on July 3, 1887, Joseph Francis Leahy
was married to Ellen Louise Conners, a resident of that
town. She is the daughter of Mathew and Bridget
(Harvey) Conners, both natives of Ireland. Mr. and
Mrs. Leahy have seven children: i. Sarah L., the wife
of Dr. James M. Crowley. 2. Josephine E., living at
home. 3. Mathew T., whose wife was Clara Vargas,
of Stonington; he is assistant postmaster at Stonington;
during the World War he served in the American
Expeditionary Forces, in Company B, 177th Regiment,
77th Division, and was in active service in France. 4.
James L., a printer in Boston, Massachusetts; during
the war he enlisted and was stationed at Camp Devens,
Ayer, Massachusetts, in charge of the printing depart-
ment. 5. Helen, who died in infancy. 6. William J.,
living at home. 7. Daniel C, also at home. Mr. and
Mrs. Leahy and their family are members of St. Marys-
Roman Catholic Church of Stonington.
JOSEPH FRANCIS LEAHY— In or about 1851
a young emigrant from Ireland landed in the United
States, locating in Mystic, Connecticut. He was James
Leahy, and he found employment as a stationary en-
gineer in one of the industrial plants in Mystic. He
continued there, occupied in various places, until his
LOUIS IRENCE PRATTE, M.D.— Over a quar-
ter of a century has elapsed since Dr. Pratte began
private practice in Taftville, Connecticut, these
years, 1887-1920, having returned him richly the
honors of his, the oldest of professions. Dr. Pratte
is a native of Louisville, Province of Quebec, his^
parents, Louis and Philomena (Woisard) Pratte, both
born in the Province of Quebec. Louis Pratte, his
father, lived his entire life in Louisville, and until his
death, which occurred in 1900, he owned a large meat
market there. His wife died in 190S.
Louis I. Pratte was born in Louisville, Province of
Quebec, December 10, 1854. There he attended the
parochial schools and then entered Three Rivers Sem-
inary, from which latter institution he was graduated
in 1875. Having already decided upon the profession
of medicine for his life work, he matriculated in the
Medical Department of Victoria College, from which
lie received his degree of Doctor of Medicine in 1879.
Immediately after graduation he went to Baltic, Con-
necticut, and there entered private practice. Eight years
later, in 1887, he came to Taftville, and here he has
BIOGRAPHICAL
203
since been engaged in the practice of his profession. He
is a member of the American Medical Association, Con-
necticut Medical Society, and the New London Medical
Society, and holds the high esteem of his professional
brethren. In politics he is a Democrat, and served one
year as a selectman. In religion he is a Roman Cath-
olic, a member of Sacred Heart Church, and is a mem-
ber of the Knights of Columbus, Ponemah Council, No.
34. of Taftville, Connecticut.
Dr. Pratte married Mary N. Brophy, a native of
Bolton, Connecticut, August i, 1887, and they are the
parents of tvifo children : Louis Edouard, and Marie B.
Mrs. Pratte died February 27, 1921, at Taftville, Con-
necticut.
The success of Louis I. Pratte is a distinct personal
triumph, for without the advantage of wealth or influ-
ence he has won his way to high position in a profession
not lacking in able men, and with that position has come
the material reward which accompanies professional
success.
LOUIS HALE MAPLES, founder of the Nor-
wich Buick Company, agents for the Buick auto-
mobile, is widely known in Norwich, and in addition
to his prominence in business is identified with
various other features of municipal life.
Louis H. Maples is a son of Judson A. Maples,
who was born in Norwich, Connecticut, and there
died, in 1895. He was engaged in farming through-
out his lifetime, was a Republican in politics, and
a prominent member of the Westside Baptist
Church, of which he had been deacon for many
years. He married Mary E. Birchard, daughter of
Asa Hyde Birchard, a butcher, well known through-
out his commimity. To Mr. and Mrs. Maples were
born two children: Louis Hale, mentioned below;
and Frederick Judson, born in Norwich, Connec-
ticut, July 6, 1884, now a resident of Albany, New
York, where he is engaged in the coal and gravel
business. He married Mary Rubeck, of Hagaman,
New York.
Louis Hale Maples was born in Bozrah, Con-
necticut, July 31, 1881, and obtained his education
in the primary and grammar schools of Norwich.
After a year and a half spent on his father's farm,
he entered the meat market of A. G. B. Hunt, as
clerk, and was there about one year when he de-
cided to learn the silk business. He secured em-
ployment at a local mill, but owing to ill health
he gave up his position and secured employment
on the farm of John M. Moore, of Norwich. At
the age of twenty he was appointed janitor of the
Backus Hospital, but six months later resigned and
for the next few years was engaged in the meat
and grocery business. In 1910 he became inter-
ested in the automobile business, and for seven
years was located in a building at the rear of the
Davis Theatre, on Broadway. There he did an
excellent business until 1918, when the Buick Com-
pany began business in the Majestic building. In
1919 Mr. Maples organized the Norwich Buick
Company, for the handling of the Buick car, with
salesrooms located at No. 319 Main street, and
there is continuing his former success.
In politics he is a Republican, but takes no active
part in political affairs. He is affiliated with Som-
erset Lodge, No. 34, Free and Accepted Masons;
Franklin Chapter, No. 4, Royal Arch Masons;
Franklin Council, No. 3, Royal and Select Masters;
Columbian Commandcry, No. 4, Knights Templar;
and all bodies of the Connecticut Consistory, An-
cient Accepted Scottish Rite, in which he holds
the Thirty-second degree. He is also a member of
Sphinx Temple, Ancient Arabic Order Nobles of
the Mystic Shrine of Hartford, and the Independent
Order of Odd Fellows. He attends the Westside
Baptist Church of Norwich, the Arcanum Club, and
Norwich Grange, Patrons of Husbandry.
On April 30, 1904, Mr. Maples married Josie L.
Bailey, daughter of Marvin L. and Lydia (Wilcox)
Bailey. Mr. and Mrs. Maples are the parents of
one child, Frederick, born December 31, 1907.
WILLIAM EDWARD PECK— During the last
two decades of his life William Edward Peck was
connected with tlie Baltic Mills Company, of Baltic,
Connecticut, coming to that company in the second
year of its existence and continuing in official posi-
tion until his passing away, filling the position of
office manager, director, agent and general man-
ager. There were advantages in the association
which contributed to make the connection a mutually
profitable one. The Baltic Mills Company was a
comparatively new corporation, their plant, erected
in 1900, one of the most modern in arrangement
and equipment. Their product was a fine grade
of cotton cloth, and they needed a modern textile
manufacturer to set its equipment in motion and
market its product. Mr. Peck was a man in the
prime of life, trained in the New England school
of experience, who had risen from the ranks of the
army of office workers, and was thoroughly capable
of filling any position in textile mill management.
Thus, the man and his opportunity were brought
face to face, and the enterprise which lacked its
leader was supplied, and success followed. The
relations which existed between the board of di-
rectors of the Baltic Mills Company and Mr. Peck
were most cordial and helpful, the hearty coopera-
tion of the board giving their agent practically full
authority to carry forward the plans and policies he
felt were wise and necessary. In this unity there
was strength, and the Baltic Mills Company
assu7Tied a position among the prosperous textile
mills of New England and returned an income most
satisfactory.
Mr. Peck, whose memory is herein honored, was
the second to bear the name of William Edward
Peck, his father bearing it with honor before him.
William E. Peck, Sr., was born in East Greenwich,
Rhode Island, and died at Napoleonville, Louisiana,
August 3, 1865, being stricken with a chill which
caused his death two liours later. After completing
his education in public schools and East Greenw-ich
NEW LONDON COUNTY
Academy he began the study of law in the office
of Richard W. Green, of Providence, Rhode Island,
his preceptor later becoming a justice of the Rhode
Island Supreme Court. When war broke out be-
tween the states of the North and South, Mr. Peck
enlisted in a Rhode Island regiment of cavalry as
a private, but later attained the rank of first lieu-
tenant. He was on duty in the State of Louisiana
Viihen he was appointed judge advocate and trans-
ferred to Napolconvillc, Louisiana, where he was
stricken with a fatal illness. He married Harriet
E. Newell, who survived him and later died in
Hyde Park, Massachusetts. They were the parents
of a daughter, Harriet A., now deceased, and a son,
William Edward, Jr., of whom further.
William Edward Peck, Jr., was born in East
Greenwich, Rhode Island, March I, 1857, died in
Baltic, Connecticut, April 7, 1921. He was educated
in the public schools and East Greenwich Academy,
finishing his studies at the last-named institution
in 1876. During that same year he became a book-
keeper in New York City, and later returned to
East Greenwich, where he was employed for a time
in the office of the Unior> Cotton Mills. He filled
office positions in Providence, Rhode Island, and
was for several years with the Ladd Watch Case
Company, entering that employ as bookkeeper and
later becoming general manager. The positions
were all preparatory to the great work of his life,
his connection with the Baltic Mills Company.
In 1901, Mr. Peck resigned his position with the Ladd
Watch Case Company to accept the office management
of the Baltic Mills Company. This association, formed
in 1901. continued unbroken until 1921, when it was
severed by the death of Mr. Peck, who had become
agent and general manager of the mills and was also
a member of the board of directors. His management
had been attended with the greatest success, and so
harmonious had been his relations with the directors
that his passing was felt not more as a corporation
than as a personal loss.
Mr. Peck was appointed a trustee and general man-
ager of the Quidnick-VVindham Manufacturing Com
pany, of Willimantic, Connecticut, and Quidnick, Rhode
Island, after that company went into the hands of a
receiver, and also was a director of the Chelsea Savings
Bank of Norwich, Connecticut. He was a member of
the National Association of Cotton Manufacturers. In
his political views he was an influential Republican; his
religious conviction was with the Episcopal faith.
On April 19, 1882, Mr. Peck married, at East Green-
wich, Rhode Island, Mary E. Tibbetts, who died without
children, in Baltic, April 18, 1914, daughter of Henry A.
and Clarinda (Enos) Tibbetts. Such was the life story
of William Edward Peck, a story so intimately inter-
woven with the history of the Baltic Mills Company as
to be inseparable. With that company he made his
greatest success in life, and under his management the
company took place with the prosperous industries of
the State. The man has gone, but the corporation lives
as a testimonial to his broad vision and wise man-
agement
ARTHUR PETER COT£— Providing for the daily
needs of the people is the line of business endeavor in
which Arthur Peter Cote, of Baltic, Connecticut, is win-
ning substantial success.
Peter S. Cote, Mr. Cote's father, was born in Weedon,
Province of Quebec, and educated in the parochial
schools of that city. He came to the United States
when fourteen years of age, locating in Southbridge,
Massachusetts, where he was employed in the machine
shops. He came to Baltic, Connecticut, in i860, and
here went into business with his uncle, TrefFle Cote,
and was associated with him in the general store from
that year until 1900, when he died in Baltic. He mar-
ried Eliza E. Trcmpe, who was born in Sorel, Province
of Quebec, Canada, and who still survives him, being
a resident of Baltic at this time. They were the
parents of five children, of whom Arthur Peter is the
eldest. The other children are: Alby G., one of the
leading ice dealers of Baltic, who married Mary Bouch-
ard ; Emile L., who married Julia Bouchard, and resides
in New York City; Blanche, now the wife of Edward
Case, of Norwich; and Melville P., who bore a gallant
part in the great struggle of the World War, and now
resides in Baltic, and is a traveling salesman, handling
a standard line of drugs.
Arthur Peter Cote was born in Baltic, Connecticut,
in the town of Sprague, on September 2, 1877. He
received his early education in the parochial schools of
the town, then completed his studies at the Holy Cross
College, in the city of West Farnham, Canada, where
he remained for three years. In 1897 he returned to
Baltic, and for a short period was associated with his
father in the general store. Following this he went
to Willimantic, and was employed as clerk in one of
the prominent retail stores of that day, conducted by
the firm of Mullen & St. Onge. Later on he gained
valuable experience in the employ of other merchants,
ard in 1914 bought the retail meat business theretofore
conducted by T. Douville & Company. He found the
business congenial, and has thus far made it increas-
ingly profitable. He is considered one of the prominent
men of the town, and the outlook for the future is
bright.
Mr. Cote takes a deep and constructive interest in the
public affairs of his native town. Politically, he is a
member of the Republican party, but he is held in such
high esteem by the people of the town that his name
has repeatedly been placed on both tickets. He is now
town clerk and town treasurer of the town of Sprague,
having held the former office for sixteen and the latter
office for twenty-one years.
Fraternally, Mr. Cote is widely known. He is a mem-
ber of Lodge No. 430, Benevolent and Protective Order
of Elks, of Norwich ; of Court Sprague, No. 90, For-
esters of America; of the Union St. Jean de Baptiste;
and Ponemah Council, No. 34, Knights of Columbus.
He is in close touch with the business world of Nor-
wich, being a member of the Norwich Chamber of
Commerce. He is a member of the Immaculate Con-
ception Roman Catholic Church.
On January 21, 1909, Mr. Cote married Alma Bibeau,
BIOGRAPHICAL
207
of Baltic, daughter of Louis and Milina (Luciun)
Bibcau, of this town. Mr. and Mrs. Cote are the
parents of five children, three of whom are living:
Joseph A., deceased; Wilfred; Henry-; Rena, deceased;
and Estclla, the young people still residing at home.
JAMES HORATIO HYDE— A well-known farmer
and cattle dealer of Franklin, New London county,
Connecticut, Mr. Hyde tills his acres of the farm upon
which he was born, and has won ' high reputation in
his community for energy, integrity and public spirit.
He traces lineal descent from William Hyde, one of
the original proprietors of Norwich, Connecticut, in
1660, although he is recorded in Hartford, Connecticut,
in 1636, his name appearing on the monument erected
to the founders of that city. He was a member of the
Board of Selectmen of Norwich, and there died, Jan-
uary 6, 1681. He married, and descent in this line is
through his son. Samuel.
(II) Samuel Hyde, son of William Hyde, was born
in Hartford, Connecticut, about 1637, died at his home,
Norwich West Farms, in 1677. He was one of the
original proprietors of Norwich in 1660. with his father
and others, and had lands assigned to him in that sec-
tion known as Norwich West Farms. He continued
there, a tiller of his own acres until his death. He
married, in June, 1659. Jane Lee, of East Saybrook
(now Lyme), daughter of Thomas and Phoebe
(Brown) Lee, her father sailing from England for
New England in 1641, but dying on the passage. Eliza-
beth Hyde, daughter of Samuel and Jane (Lee) Hyde,
born in August. 1660, is said to have been the first
v;hite child born in Saybrook.
(III) Jabez Hyde, youngest of the eight children of
Samuel and Jane (Lee) Hyde, was born in Norwich,
Connecticut, May, 1677, died at Norwich West Farms.
September 5, 1762. The part of Norwich West Farms
in which he settled, lived and died, is now known as
Franklin. He owned a large tract of land and became
a wealthy farmer; was a justice of the peace, and rep-
resentative to the General Court. For many years he
was clerk of the Franklin church. He married, De-
cember 21, 170Q, Elizabeth Bushnell, born January 31,
1686, died August 21, 1768, daughter of Richard and
Elizabeth (Adgate) Bushnell. of Norwich. They were
the parents of three sons and two daughters.
(IV) Jabez (2) Hyde, eldest son of Jabez (i) and
Elizabeth (Bushnell) Hyde, was born in Norwich West
Farms, September 16, 1713, died in Franklin, Con-
necticut, March 6, 1805. He was a large landowner, a
magistrate, and a man of considerable importance. He
married, December 8, 1736, Lydia Abel, born July 28,
1719, in Norwich, died June 25, 1805, daughter of Ben-
jamin and Lydia (Hazen) Abel. They were the parents
of eleven children, born between 1738 and 1762.
(V) Joseph Hyde, eighth child of Jabez (2) and
Lydia (Abel) Hyde, was born about 1755, at Norwich
West Farms, Connecticut, settled in that part of Nor-
wich now known as Franklin, where he died, March
29, 1809. He married, September 6, 1780, Susannah
Waterman, bom January 19, 1762, died November 6,
1810, daughter of Nehemiah and Susannah (Isham)
Waieiiiian, of Norwich. They were the parents of ten
children.
(VI) Horatio Hyde, youngest child of Joseph and
Susannah (Waterman) Hyde, was born in Franklin,
Connecticut, September 6, 1804, died there February 26,
1889, and is there buried. He learned the stone-mason's
trade, but his health would not permit him to follow it,
and he turned his attention to farming. He bought a
farm in Franklin, which he cultivated with excellent
results until his passing away. He was a Republican
in politics, and a member of Franklin Congregational
Church. He married, January 10, 1847, Laura A. Gager,
born in Franklin, May 19, 1822, died April 8, 1895,
daughter of Levi and Sybil (Hyde) Gager. Children:
I. Eunice, born January 15, 1848, formerly a school
teacher, who died December i, 1920. 2. Phoebe, born
November 10, 1849, a teacher for several years, then
resided with her brother at the homestead. 3. Laura
Sybil, born February 20, 1852, died March 21, 1893, a
teacher. 4. Otis B., born February 25, 1854, died at
Norwich, February 9, 1902, a teacher; he married
Catherine Kahn, and left a son, Leslie G., now a resi-
dent of Jewctt City. 5. Arthur G., born February 11,
1856, resides in Franklin. 6. John T., born February
7, 1858, removed to Providence, Rhode Island. 7. Jen-
nie, born January i. i860, and always resided at the
home farm. 8. James Horatio, of further mention.
(VII) James Horatio Hyde, youngest of the children
of Horatio and Laura A. (Gager) Hyde, was born in
Franklin, New London county, Connecticut, September
26, 1864, his present home the house in which he was
born. He Vv-as educated in the public school and early
became his father's assistant. He managed the home
farm for several years prior to his father's death, and
then became its owner through the purchase of the
interests of the other heirs. He has continued the
operation of his farm until the present time, the area
of which has been considerably increased by purchase
until it now covers 290 acres, conducting it as a dairy
and stock-raising farm. He has followed that line of
activity all his life with profitable results, and has also
for many years carried on auction sales all over the
county, being a remarkably good auctioneer.
In political sentiment, IMr. Hyde is a Republican, and
in 191 1 represented his district in the Connecticut State
Legislature. He was chairman of the Town Committee
for twenty years, and has creditably filled a number of
town offices. He is a member of Oliver Woodhouse
Lodge, Knights of Pythias, of Colchester, Connecticut,
and of Bozrah Grange. He has never married, his
sisters residing at the homestead with him and making
it a most pleasant place to live. Mr. Hyde is well-
known, highly esteemed, and a good citizen and neigh-
bor.
DAVID SUSSLER, M.D.— Among the younger pro-
fessional men of Norwich, Connecticut, who bore a
noble share in the recent World War. is Dr. David
Sussler, M.D., whose office is in Taftville, a suburb of
Norwich.
Dr. Sussler is a son of Frank and Viola (Smernoff)
Sussler, both parents having been born in German Po-
208
NEW LONDON COUNTY
land. Frank Sussler came to the United States about
1885, and located in New York City, where he became a
cigar manufacturer. He was very successful in the land
of his adoption, and remained in New York City in the
same line of business until his death, which occurred
in 1899. His wife now resides in Boston, Massachu-
setts. Of the three children born to Mr. and Mrs
Sussler, Dr. Sussler is the second.
David Sussler was born in New York City on No-
vember 2, 1892. He received his early education in
the public and high schools of New Haven, Connecticut,
and was graduated from the latter institution in 1910.
Choosing the profession of medicine, he entered the
Fordham University Medical School, from which he
was graduated in 1916, with the degree of Doctor of
Medicine. He went into hospital practice in the Ford-
ham Hospital in 1916, then later to the South Side Hos-
pital, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. This was in 1917.
and Dr. Sussler had not yet completed his studies in
surgery when the United States entered the war with
Germany. He enlisted at once, and was called on
October 3, 1917. As a member of the United States
Medical Corps he was assigned to the Officers' Training
Camp, at Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia, where he remained
until December of that year. He was then trans-
ferred to Camp Sevier, in South Carolina. He was then
assigned to the 30th Division, Ambulance Corps, No.
119, and was sent to France in June, 1918. On arriving
there this division was assigned to the British Fourth
Army, and was in active service from July to October,
1918, when he was gassed. He was then sent to Lon-
don, to the Army Base Hospital, where he convalesced,
remaining until November 15, of that year. Returning
as soon as possible to France, he went back to his same
division and company. He arrived home the following
JIarch, landing in Charleston, South Carolina. He was
mustered out of service at Camp Devens, Massachu-
setts, on April 3, 1919, with the rank of first lieutenant,
and was recommended for the Distinguished Service
Cross, for devotion to duty under the most trying con-
ditions at St. Quentin and Ypres.
Dr. Sussler is now established in Taftville, a suburb
of Norwich, in the private practice of medicine and
surgery, and his friends feel the utmost confidence in
his success. He is a member of the Norwich Medical
Societj-; of the New London County Medical Society;
of the Connecticut State Medical Society; and of the
American Medical Association. The doctor is a Re-
publican by political affiliation, and sincerely loyal to
the principles of the party. He is a member of Quine-
baug Lodge, Independent Order of Odd Fellows.
CHESTER SANDS MAINE— From early days in
Stonington, Connecticut, the name Maine has been a
familiar and honored one. Ezekiel Maine, the first per-
manent settler of that name in Stonington, came in
1670, and in 1672 received a grant of land from the
town, and ten years later was again granted lands
lying south of Shunnock river. In 1674 he joined the
Stonington church, and on June 19, 1714. died. By
v/ife Mary he had children: Ezekiel, Mary, Jeremiah,
Thomas, Phoebe, and Hannah. Ezekiel and Mary
Maine, through their sons, founded numerous families,
and they are the ancestors of those of the name in
Eastern Connecticut who trace to early Colonial days.
In Stonington and North Stonington the name has
always been prominent, the prevailing occupation in this
branch having always been agriculture, although many
Maines have been successful merchants.
Chester S. Maine of this review, a descendant of the
pioneer, Ezekiel Maine, is a son of John S. and
Frances Abby (Wheeler) Maine, both father and son
born in North Stonington. John S. Maine was a
farmer, dealing extensively in cattle, and from his
birth. May 9, 1833, until his death, March 25, 1881, he
lived in the town of North Stonington. He was buried
in the cemetery on the old John Maine homestead, but
at the death of his wife the body was removed to the
River Bend Cemetery, at Westerly, Rhode Island, where
they were buried side by side. His wife, Frances Abby
(Wheeler) Maine, was a daughter of Captain Allen
Wheeler, and born in the same house as was her son,
Chester S., the Maine home being the old Captain
Allen Wheeler farm and homestead. Mrs. Frances
Abby (Wheeler) Maine died in May, 1915.
Chester Sands Maine was born at the homestead, on
the Captain Allen Wheeler farm in North Stonington,
New London county, Connecticut, December 16, i860.
He attended the district school, and later was a student
at Ashaway Academy in Rhode Island. While yet
attending school he opened a little store at Clarks Falls,
Connecticut, near his home, serving his customers in
the morning and evenings, closing during school hours,
Saturdays keeping open all day. After leaving school
he engaged in farmmg and had a milk route, also
bought, sold and traded horses and cattle, and was a
breeder of light harness horses for the trotting track.
In 1880 his father bought the farm upon which Chester
S. Maine now lives, and when, ten months later, John S.
Maine died, his son, Chester S., assumed the manage-
ment. In December, 1881, he came of legal age and
became the owner of the property and has ever since
devoted himself to the cultivation and care of its three
hundred acres. All the improvements on the farm,
dwelling, barns and other buildings, have been built by
Chester S. Maine and are all modern in design and
equipment. The farm is conducted as a dairy and stock
farm, the grade of cattle and the dairy products rank-
ing very high. The stock and dairy business is con-
ducted under the firm name, Chester S. Maine & Son,
Mr. Maine's partner his son, Carroll Chester Maine.
In politics, a Democrat, Mr. Maine, while never seek-
ing office, has frequently been chosen for public duty.
In 1909 he represented North Stonington in the State
Legislature, was elected member of the Board of Select-
men when twenty-one, and was assessor of taxes many
years. He is a member of the New London County
Farm Bureau, and of the New England Milk Pro-
ducers' Association. He is one of New London's best
and most progressive farmers, and the foregoing record
is but an outline of his activities since boyhood days
when he kept a store after school hours. In the
younger years he was the personification of energy, and
at one time ran a saw-mill and manufactured lumber.
BIOGRAPHICAL
209
His cattle dealings were extensive, and his connection
with the trotting horse market as a breeder and dealer
was much more extensive than has herein been indi-
cated. While he has naturally surrendered some of
the heavier burdens to his capable son and partner,
he is the managing head of one of the largest farms
in North Stonington, and that farm, one of the best
improved and equipped in the county, reflects the
spirit and ambition of its owner. He is a real farmer,
practical yet progressive, proud of his estate and full
of plans for its still further improvement and de-
velopment.
Mr. Maine married, in Xorth Stonington, Connecticut,
July 7, 1886, Abbie Mary Newton, born in Hartford,
Connecticut, daughter of William Augustine and Mary
(Manion) Newton, her father born in Hartford, and
later a hotel and restaurant proprietor. Mr. Newton
is remembered in Hartford as the restaurant keeper who
inaugurated the twenty-five cent dinner and proved that
it could be made profitable even in a hotel. After retir-
ing from business he bought a farm in Bloomfield,
Connecticut, and there died several years later. His
wife, Mary (Manion) Newton, born in Providence,
Rhode Island, died on Long Island, New York, prior
to her husband's death. Mr. Maine has one son, Carroll
Chester Maine, born at the home farm in North Ston-
ington, March 23, 1888. There he has always lived, and
after his education was finished he was admitted to a
partnership with his father, the firm being Chester S.
Maine & Son. Mrs. Chester S. Maine was a fine type
of the New England woman, much interested in school
work and the cause of education, and for three terms
of three years each served as a member of the North
Stonington School Committee, being one of the first
women to serve on a school board in the United States.
.JAMES PURTILL DONOVAN, son of Daniel
and Kate (Purtill) Donovan, was born in Ashaway,
Rhode Island, February 20, 1894. He is numbered
among the younger generation of successful business
men of Norwich, and takes a keen and active interest
in everything pertaining to the welfare and advance-
ment of the community.
Daniel Donovan, father of the subject of this review,
v.'as born in Carolina, Rhode Island, and for the greater
part of his lifetime has worked as a weaver in worsted
and woolen mills. In 1910 he removed his family to
Mystic, Connecticut, and here he has since been em-
ployed in the weaving department of the Mystic Manu-
facturing Company. His wife, Kate (Purtill) Donovan,
was born in Mystic, Connecticut.
The education of James P. Donovan was obtained in
the public schools at Westerly, Rhode Island. After
terminating his schooling, he conducted a parcel delivery
business at Mystic, Connecticut, being thus engaged
until 1917, when he enlisted in the United States army
for the period of the World War. He was assigned to
Company C, of the 328th Infantry, at Camp Gordon.
Atlanta, Georgia. This regiment, part of the 82nd
Division, sailed from Boston, Massachusetts, May i,
1918, and landed in Liverpool, England, May i6th,
then proceeded to La Havre, France. Mr. Donovan
N.L.— -.'.14.
saw active service in France for thirteen months, par-
ticipating in the St. Mihiel drive, Meuse-Argonne of-
fensive, and all fighting incident thereto, at the end of
which time he returned to this country and received his
honorable discharge at Camp Upton, Long Island, May
28, 1919. That same year he became associated with
Orrin F. Lamb, engaging in the motorcycle business,
which partnership still continues, and is steadily gain-
ing a large degree of success.
In politics, Mr. Donovan is a Democrat, and in reli-
gion he is a Roman Catholic. He is also a member of
the Richard William Morgan Post of the American
Legion, of Mystic, Connecticut.
Mr. Donovan married, at Mystic, June 4, 1917, Louise
Payne, of that town, daughter of Captain Emerson W.
and Ella (Mitchell) Payne.
DAVID WOODWORTH PITCHER— Among the
substantial citizens of New London county is David
Woodworth Pitcher, successful farmer, public-spirited
citizen, and highly-esteemed friend among a large circle
of associates in Lebanon and vicinity. Mr. Pitcher
ccmes of a family long known in Lebanon and prom-
inent in New England for many generations.
David Pitcher, great-grandfather of David Wood-
worth Pitcher, was born in Norwich, Connecticut, but
removed to Lebanon, where he farmed during the
remainder of his life.
Lyman Pitcher, son of David Pitcher, was reared and
educated in Norwich, Connecticut, but went to New
York City as a young man, learning the grocery busi-
ness and then engaging in business as a merchant.
After many years in New York City, fire brought mis-
fortune, and he removed to Sag Harbor, Long Island,
where he engaged in the grocery business until the
occurrence of another fire, when he went to Galveston,
Texas. After getting his business established, he sent
for his wife and family, but died of yellow fever while
they were on the way. The widow and children went
back to Sag Harbor, she later removing to Bridgeport,
Connecticut, where she died. Lyman Pitcher married
Betsy Ann Hand, of Sag Harbor, Long Island, and one
of their children was Charles Lyman Pitcher, father
of David Woodv.'orth Pitcher.
Charles Lyman Pitcher, son of Lyman and Betsy
Ann (Hand) Pitcher, was born in New York City,
September 26, 1839. When his father died in Galveston,
in 1847, he came to Lebanon to live with his grand-
father, David Pitcher, and there he remained through-
out his life. In 1857 he engaged himself as a farm-
hand to David S. Woodworth, owner of the old place,
the house upon which was built in 1712 by Rev. Samuel
Welles, and in which William Williams, one of the
signers of the Declaration of Independence, was bom.
Here Charles Lyman Pitcher remained, and upon the
death of David Woodworth, came into possession of
the farm, where, although now retired, he still lives,
his sons managing the farm. Charles Lyman Pitcher
served during the entire period of the Civil War, en-
listing, in 1861, for three months' service in Company
D, 3rd Regiment, Connecticut Volunteer Infantry, and
upon receiving his discharge re-enlisted in Battery D,
210
NEW LONDON COUNTY
1st Heavy Artillery, Connecticut. After serving three
years in tliis regiment, he was discharged, March I,
1865. On May 18, 1871, he married Augusta Caroline
Holbrook, daughter of Charles and Eunice (Bailey)
Holbrook, of Lebanon, Connecticut, and they became
the parents of two children, both born at Lebanon:
Charles Lyman, Jr., born February 14, 1874, who, with
his brother, runs the home farm; and David Wood-
worth, of further mention.
David Woodworth Pitcher, son of Charles Lyman
and Augusta C. (Holbrook) Pitcher, was born in
Lebanon, Connecticut, December 16, 1877, on the home
farm, known as the Welles place. He received his early
education in the local school of his district, and then
assisted his father on the farm, learning every branch
of his chosen occupation and preparing himself to be
the successful farmer that he has become. As a man
who performs his public duties with unswerving integ-
rity, as a citizen who never forgets local interests, as a
friend and intelligent Christian gentleman who recog-
nizes his duties to his fellow-citizens in general, Mr.
Pitcher is honored in his native place by all who know
him. Politically, he supports the Republican party,
and is prominent in the local affairs of his organization.
He has served on the board of assessors, and is gen-
erally active in promoting the interests of his party.
On March 4, 1904, Mr. Pitcher married Edna Pitcher,
daughter of David A. and Lillian (Leisgang) Pitcher,
and they are the parents of two children : David Wood-
worth, Jr., born November 24, 1905 ; and Stuart Lyman,
born February 24, 1907.
EDMUND LATHAM DOUGLASS, M.D.— A
graduate M. D., Long Island College Hospital, class
of 1916, Dr. Douglass began the practice of medicine
in Groton, Connecticut, a community to which he
needed no introduction, for he was born there, and
his honored father, Dr. Edmund P. Douglass, for
over thirty years has been a physician of the bor-
ough. Prior, however, to his settling in Groton, he
served a year as interne in Harlem Hospital, New
York City. During the World War he served in
the Medical Corps of the United States army, then
followed his location in Groton, as a physician,
W'hcre he is well established in practice.
Dr. Edmund Latham Douglass, son of Dr. Ed-
mund P. and Mary Hudson (Latham) Douglass,
was born in Groton, Connecticut, ^^ay 9, 1S91. He
was educated in Groton and New London public
schools, Norwich Free Academy (class of iQOg),
and Cornell University, receiving his A. B. from the
last-named institution with the gr.iduating class of
1913. He studied medicine for three years, 1913-
14-15. He then studied one year in the Long Island
Hospital Medical College, whence he was graduated
M. D., class of 1916. He spent the following year
as an interne in Harlem Hospital, New York City,
then responded to the government's call for physi-
cians and served in the Medical Corps of the United
States army, in New York City, passing his exam-
ination in New York Academy of Medicine, and in
December, 1917, was commissioned first lieutenant.
He was called into service, January 24, 1918, and
was sent to Camp McArthur, Waco, Texas, thence
to Camp Upton, Long Island, August I, 191S, and
on August 31, 1918, sailed for France on the United
States steamsliip, "Great Northern." He landed
with his command in Brest, France, September 6,
1918, and from there was sent to Base Hospital
No. 62, Mars-Sur-Allies. He remained there until
February 19, 1919, when he was transferred to Base
Hospital No. 91, Commercy, France, there being on
duty until June 24, 1919, when he left for Brest,
there taking passage for New York as a casual on
the United States steamship "Leviathan," formerly
the German liner "Vaterland." He arrived in New
York City and was sent to Camp Dix, New Jersey,
where he was honorably discharged and mustered
out, July II, 191 9.
With this experience in medicine and surgery.
Dr. Douglass returned to Groton and there began
practice, and there he is becoming well established
as a settled physician and surgeon. He is a mem-
ber of the staff of the Home Memorial Hospital of
New London, member of the American Medical
.Association, Connecticut State Medical Society,
New London County Medical Society, New London
City Medical Societ>-, Nu Sigma Nu fraternity, and
Warren Coleman Post, American Legion ; he is a Re-
publican in politics, and a member of the Congre-
gational Church of Groton.
Dr. Douglass married, in New York City, Jan-
uary IS, 1918, Gladys A. Jolley, daughter of Mr.
and Mrs. Charles J. Jolley, of Hamilton, Ontario,
Canada, and they are the parents of a son, Ed.mund
J., born .'\pril 8, 1919, in Hamilton, Ontario.
APvTHUR NATHAN NASH— A prosperous busi-
ness man of Westerly, Rhode Island, the State in
which he was born, Mr. Nash has long been iden-
tified with the State of Connecticut through his
residence in Pawcatuck, and his wide connection
with the local and grand bodies of the Masonic
order of the State, he being a member of both the
Grand Lodge, Free and .•\ccepted Masons, and the
Grand Chapter, Royal Arch Masons. He is an
able, energetic business man, and an intensely public-
spirited citizen, interested in the National Guard, spend-
ing twentj'-five years in active work and retiring as lieu-
tenant-colonel ; also interested in fraternal and social
organizations, aiding all good causes and holding the
sincere regard of a multitude of friends. He is a son
of Nathan E. and Ruth R. (Saunders) Nash.
Nathan E. Nash was born at Watch Hill, Rhode
Island, and there completed public school courses.
He finished his studies at Ashaway .'\cademy, and
soon after the outbreak of the war between the
North and South he entered the Union army, and
throughout the war served in Company B, Ninth
Regiment, Rhode Island Volunteer Infantry. After
the war he devoted himself to mechanical work,
largely inventive, and patented some inventions of
great value, one of these being the four-cylinder
gas engine, an invention worthy of being classed
BIOGRAPHICAL
211
among the "big" things produced by American in-
ventors. He was a member of Hancock Post, No.
8i, Grand Army of the Republic, of Westerly, Rhode
Island, and of other organizations, patriotic and
professional. He died in Toronto, Canada. Nathan
E. Nash married Ruth R. Saunders, born in Brad-
ford, Rhode Island, who survives him, a resident of
Pavvcatuck, Connecticut, her home with her son,
Arthur N. Nash. Mr. and Mrs. Nash were parents
of three sons: Irving, deceased; Arthur N., of fur-
ther mention; and William, deceased.
Arthur N. Nash was born in Bradford, Washing-
ton county, Rhode Island, September 27, 1872. He
was educated in the public schools of Pawcatuck,
Connecticut, finishing with high school. His first
employment was as a clerk, but in 1889, at the age
of seventeen years, he entered the employ of the
C. B. Cottrell Company, of Pawcatuck, as a ma-
chinist's apprentice, there remaining twelve years.
In 1902 he left the machine shop and bought out
the news and tobacco business of George W. Foster
in Westerly, Rhode Island, a business founded in
1864. There Mr. Nash still continues under the
firm name, Arthur N. Nash, news dealer, one of the
substantial, leading business men of Westerly.
In fraternal circles Mr. Nash is affiliated with the
Masonic order in both rites, York and Scottish.
He is a Master Mason and past master of Paw-
catuck Lodge, No. 90, Free and Accepted Masons;
a companion and past high priest of Palmer Chap-
ter, No. 28, Royal Arch Masons; a Cryptic Mason
of Mystic Council, No. 29, Royal and Select Masters;
a Sir Knight and past eminent commander of
Narragansett Commandery (Westerly); a thirty-
second degree member of Norwich Valley Con-
sistory, Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite ; a noble
of Palestine Temple, Ancient Arabic Order Nobles
of the Mystic Shrine (Providence). He is a
member and past president of the Past Masters'
Association of the Eighth Masonic District of Con-
necticut, president in 1916; member of the Order
of High Priesthood of Hartford, Connecticut; mem-
ber of the Massachusetts and Rhode Island .Asso-
ciation of Knights Templar Commanders, of Bos-
ton, Massachusetts. In the Grand Lodge, Free and
Accepted Masons, of the State of Connecticut, he
holds the office of grand marshal; and in the
Grand Chapter, Royal Arch Masons, of Connecticut,
he holds the office of district deputy high priest,
and is the grand representative of the Grand Chap-
ter of Delaware near the Grand Chapter of Con-
necticut. His clubs are the Masonic of Westerly,
Rhode Island, of which he is first vice-president;
the Westerly Cycle, of which he is a charter life
member; and the Colonial of Westerly.
During the Spanish-American W^ar, Mr. Nash
served in Company K, First Regiment, Rhode Is-
land Volunteers, as first sergeant, later being pro-
moted sergeant-major. During the War of 1917 he
was in command of different forts of the Coast
Defenses of Narragansett Bay; he organized the
Fifty-eighth Ammunition Train, United States
Coast Artillery, of which he was major and com-
mander until mustered out after the signing^ of the
armistice. He is a member of Robert Brucker
Camp, No. 6, Spanish War Veterans, of Westerly;
member of Harold E. Merrill Post, American Legion,
of Westerly; member of Connecticut Commandery of
the Military Order of Foreign Wars of Hartford, Con-
necticut ; and in all these bodies takes active part and
interest. In church relation he is a member of the
Seventh Day Baptist church of Westerly. In poli-
tics he is a Republican.
Mr. Nash married, in June, 1901, Nettie Hortense
Wilson, daughter of Edgar L. and Anna M. (Far-
num) Wilson, of Willimantic, Connecticut. The
family home is in Pawcatuck, Mr. Nash doing busi-
ness just across the river in Westerly, Rhode
Island.
Such is the record of a very active, successful,
business man, whose versatility is one of his prom-
inent characteristics. He takes a broad view of
life, and finds in each department something that
interests him and makes him a better citizen.
GEORGE R. McKENNA— Although not a "na-
tive son" and barely a citizen, Patrick McKenna,
father of George R. McKenna, of Pawcatuck, Con-
necticut, left his wife and children and enlisted in
the Union army, serving his adopted country until
wounded in the battle of Fredericksburg, Virginia.
But he recovered from his injuries and returned to
Pawcatuck, Connecticut, and there spent the re-
mainder of his life. He was born in County Ar-
magh, Ireland, and in 1851 came to the United
States, locating in Pawcatuck, where he died in
1876, his wife, Mary (Ward) McKenna, dymg in
1894. Patrick McKenna was a granite worker dur-
ing his years in Pawcatuck. Two of his six children
are living: Margaret, residing at the old home in
Pawcatuck; and George R., of further mention.
George R. McKenna was born in Pawcatuck,
town of Stonington, New London county, Connec-
ticut, August 18, 1865, and there obtained a common
school education, finishing at Westerly High School
with the graduating class of 1888. From 1888 to
1890 he taught school in Pawtucket. In the year
1890 he entered Yale Law School, whence he was
graduated LL. B., class of 1892. He was admitted
to the Rhode Island bar in 1892, and established
offices in Westerly. His right to practice in Con-
necticut was already secured through his diploma
from Yale Law School, and his practice has been in
both states, Connecticut and Rhode Island, although
his offices are in Rhode Island, the two states bemg
separated at Westerly by only the Pawcatuck river,
which is there spanned by a bridge, many people,
the same as in Mr. McKenna's case, living and
doing business on opposite sides and in two states.
Mr. McKenna's practice is general in character,
and he has served his town in legal capacity, being
prosecuting attorney for the town of Stonington
1893-1905-1911-1913; also attorney for the town ot
Stonington two terms. He is a member of the
American Bar Association, and the American Law
NEW LONDON COUNTY
League. In politics he is a Democrat, and repre-
sented the town of Stonington in the Connecticut
Legislature for the terms of 1893-1905.
Mr. McKenna married, November 30, 1902, Julia
Day, of Pawcatuck, daughter of James and Ellen
(Long) Day.
CAPTAIN DAVID CONNER— A veteran of two
wars waged by the United States in freedom's cause,
and both forced by her enemies. Captain David
Conner displayed his valor upon Philippine battle-
fields and then in a later war, to which only young
men were invited overseas. He was commissioned
captain, and his experience utilized in the training
ot the men and in various assignments in which his
e.N-perience was of inestimable value. To this na-
tional service he has added many years of service
in the Connecticut National Guard.
Thomas Conner, father of Captain David Conner,
was born of Irish parentage and ancestry in New-
ark, New Jersey, in 1821. He was employed as
artist and gilder in New York City. He married
Mary Sorce, born in New York City, in 1829, and
died in Brooklyn, New York, in her forty-fifth year.
Thomas Conner died in New York City in 1886.
They were the parents of six children: Mary,
Charles, Frank. Roland, Edward; and David, of
whom further.
David Conner was born in Brooklyn, New York,
in 1862. He was deprived of the care of his parents
when in his eighth year, and at that time became an
inmate in the home of a friend in Waterford, Con-
necticut. He remained there several years, and
during the summer months assisted in the farm
work, attending school in the winter time. In early
manhood he left the farm and found employment in
New London, Connecticut, with William H. Bent-
ley, truckman and transfer agent. He remained
with Mr. Bentley one year, when he injured his
hand while loading the saluting battery which was
being removed from its accustomed place in the
center of the city. That injury was so serious that
it kept him idle for a year, then he v/as able to
perform the duties of a caretaker at the State
armory. He held that position until the outbreak
of war between the United States and Spain. He
was commissioned captain of Company D, Third
Regiment, Connecticut National Guard, June 27,
1898. This was a local company of the National
Guard, and volunteered in a body for service m the
Spanish-American War. He was mustered in the
United States army as captain of the same Company
D on July 3, 1898, after the regiment had entered
the United States army as the Third Regiment,
Connecticut Volunteer Infantry. He was mustered
out with the company at the end of the war with
Spain, March 20, 1899.
Captain Conner remained in command of Corn-
pany D after the muster out, the conipany again
becoming Company D, Third Regiment, Connecticut
National Guard. On August 17, i899, he was com-
missioned a captain of the Forty-sixth Regiment,
United States Volunteer Infantry, and served with
his command in the Philippines, taking part in
many engagements and skirmishes v/ith the Fili-
pinos in their native jungles and forests. He es-
caped all injury, was honorably discharged. May 31,
1901, and returned to the United States.
After his return, Captain Conner was again ap-
pointed captain in the National Guard of Connec-
ticut, serving until July 25, 1917, when he v/as again
sworn into the service of his country and commis-
sioned captain of the Tenth Company, Coast
.-Artillery Corps, later changed to the Thirtieth
Co-mpany, Coast Defense, Long Island Sound. He
was on active duty at various camps established
throughout the country for the training of troops
for overseas service against Germany, and at the
close of the war, returned to New London. He was
largely instrumental in the reorganization of the
Connecticut National Guard, and is known as the
father of the One Hundred and Ninety-second
Artillery (155 mm. guns) and now the adjutant of
the Regiment. He has been connected with military
affairs, with the exception of a few short periods,
ever since eighteen years of age. He is now em-
ployed by the New London Water and Sewer De-
partment.
Captain Conner is a Republican in politics; is a
Thirty-second degree Mason, a member of Pequot
Lodge, No. 85, Free and .\ccepted Masons; he also
is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fel-
lows, and other local organizations.
Captain Conner married Ruth I. Severn, born in
Mystic, Connecticut, in May, 1868, daughter of
William Isaac and Mary Severn. Mrs. Conner is a
lady of literary culture, and a successful writer of
poetry. She traces her ancestry to the Mayflower
Pilgrims and is eligible to the patriotic societies.
Her grandmother, Sylvia Hopkins, was a lineal
descendant of Stephen Hopkins, the signer. Cap-
tain and Mrs. Conner are the parents of two chil-
dren: I. William Bidwell, who was born in Nev/
London, Connecticut, July 30, 1891; married Edith
Muldoon, of New York City, daughter of William
Muldoon, a former assistant editor of the New York
"Times." They are the parents of three children:
Creighton, Mary, and Clara Conner. 2. Ida Hopkins,
v«ho was born in New London, Connecticut; mar-
ried Captain Horace Griswold, of New London, no»,v
special agent for the United States Shipping Board
at Rotterdam, Holland. They are the parents of a
daughter, Mary Elizabeth, born April 15, 1920, at
New London, Connecticut.
JAMES HENRY HARVEY— Making the motor
vehicle the means of his own individual success,
James H. Harvey, of Westerly, Rhode Island, is
filling a very practical and necessary part in the
activities of the town of Stonington, Connecticut.
Mr. Harvey is a son of Isaac and Phebe A. (Hall)
Harvey, both of whom are still residents of West-
erly. Isaac Harvey has been an iron moulder all
his life, and is still actively engaged along this line
of endeavor. Mr. and Mrs. Harvey are the parents
BIOGRAPHICAL
213
of seven children, of v/hom James H. Harvey is the
third.
James H. Harvey was born in Westerly, Rhode
Island, on February 12, 1893, and received a prac-
tical education in the public schools of that city.
Being of a mechanical turn of mind, he early took
up the machinist's trade, which he followed for a
period of eight years, working in various places as
opportunity made a change advantageous. In 1919
Mr. Harvey became associated with Elwyn L. Case,
of Westerly, and together these young men estab-
lished a garage in Fort Mill, South Carolina. They
were successful in this venture, but they did not,
however, remain in the South for a great length of
time. Returning North in 1920, they purchased the
service department of the C. H. Holdredge garage,
on West Broad street, in Pawcatuck. Under the
name of Harvey & Case the young men are now
conducting this business, which is constantly grow-
ing and developing, and undoubtedly faces a bril-
liant future. The life of Mr. Case is also reviewed
in the following sketch.
Mr. Harvey is deeply interested in the public life
of the city, and as a public-spirited citizen, makes
his own decision in political matters, voting inde-
pendently.
Mr. Harvey married, at Stonington, Connecticut,
August 27, 1920, Alice Elizabeth Harris, of Fort
Mill, South Carolina, daughter of Robert Pearson
and Daisy Elizabeth (Thomason) Harris, natives of
South Carolina. Mr. and Mrs. Harvey are the
parents of one child, James H., Jr., torn in Westerly,
Rhode Island, April 24, 1921. They are members of
the First Baptist Church of Westerly, Rhode Island.
Mr. Case married, at Fort Mill, South Carolina,
December 19, 1919, Cordelia Harris, daughter of Robert
Pearson and Daisy Elizabeth (Th(imason) Harris, of
Fort Mill, South Carolina. Mr. and Mrs. Case are the
parents of a son, Lloyd Harris. They are members of
the First Christian Church, of Westerly, Rhode Island.
ELWYN LLOYD CASE— In the very practical
field of automobile service, Elwyn L. Case, of West-
erly. Rhode Island, and the town of Stonington, Con-
necticut, is working out his business success.
Mr. Case is a son of Edmond L. and Lillian B. (Hor-
ton) Case, of Patchogue, Long Island, New York. Ed-
mond L. Case has been a lifelong resident of Patchogue,
and there received his education in the public schools.
He became a carpenter and cabinet-maker, along which
hues he is still actively engaged. Edmond L. and
Lillian B. (Horton) Case are the parents of four chil-
dren, of whom Elwyn L. is the third.
Elwyn L. Case was born in Patchogue, Long Island,
on December 7, 1893. He received a thorough grounding
in the essentials of education in the public schools of
Patchogue, after which he became a machinist, and
followed this line of activity for some years, going
to various different places in pursuit of this trade.
In 1919 Mr. Case became associated with James
Henry Harvey, of Westerly, Rhode Island, a sketch of
whose life precedes this, in which is reviewed the busi-
ness life of Mr. Harvey and Mr. Case.
Mr. Case is interested in the various civic and political
questions of the day, but votes independently, giving
his support wherever he believes it will be for the wel-
fare of the people. He is a member of the Cycle Club,
of Westerly.
TRYON SMITH— In the field of electrical con-
tracting and supplies in New London, Connecticut, the
name of Tryon Smith is a leading one, and stands for
the latest developments in the way of practical appli-
cation of electrical science.
Mr. Smith is a son of Willard F. and Janet A. (Chad-
wick) Smith. Willard F. Smith was bom in Mansfield,
Connecticut, and received his education in the public
schools of that town. In early life, his health impera-
tively demanding an out-door life, he followed the
sea for three years, engaged on whaling vessels sailing
from New London. This rugged life restored him to
normal vigor, and he served an apprenticeship as car-
penter in New London. Going to Hartford, Connecticut,
he entered the contracting and building business, which
he followed the rest of his life, his work extending
out as far as Andover, Connecticut, his native town.
His wife, who still survives him, was born in East
Windsor, Connecticut, and now resides at Andover.
They were the parents of seven children, of whom
Tryon was the sixth. Willard F. Smith died in 1917,
at Andover.
Tryon Smith was born in Andover, Tolland county,
Connecticut, on May 13, 1S85, and received his early
education in the public schools of that town. He com-
pleted his formal studies at the Windham High School.
Thereafter, he went to New Britam, Connecticut, and
there entered the business world as a dry goods clerk.
The work, however, was distasteful to him, and prom-
ised little for the future. Continuing for only one
year along this line, he entered the employ of the Con-
necticut Light and Power Company, at New Britain,
serving an apprenticeship as electrician. He then went
to New York City and worked for the Bronx Gas and
Electric Company, where he had charge of their meter
department. Returning to New Britain he was em-
ployed by the New England Engineering Company until
1914, when he went into business for himself at Nauga-
tuck, Connecticut, and conducted this business until 1917.
In that year he came to New London, as manager of
the New London branch of the New England Engineer-
ing Company. In October, 1917, he bought out this
branch, and entered upon the business as an indepen-
dent interest, reorganizing and incorporating the con-
cern under the name of the Electric Contracting and
Supply Company. The company was capitalized at
$10,200, and Mr. Smith was made president of the
company. The large, modern central store is located at
No. 247 State street, in New London, and the company
has a branch store in Mystic. The commercialization of
the business, including the selling as well as the installa-
tion of all kinds of electrical equipment, was the idea
of Mr. Smith himself in mapping out the future of the
concern, and the success which is attending the company
214
NEW LONDON COUNTY
amply justifies their venture into the mercantile field.
Their very advantageous location is, of course, a factor
in their success, but the ability which Mr. Smith has
displayed in all the branches of the business is a living
force for progress and development, and although the
beginning was of comparatively recent date, this busi-
ness is one of the leaders in its line in the city.
In political matters, Mr. Smith takes only the interest
of the progressive citizen. He is a member of the New
London Chamber of Commerce. Socially, he is widely
popular, and is a member of the Harbour Club, the
Rotary Club, the Benevolent and Protective Order of
Elks, and the Young Men's Christian Association.
Mr. Smith married Marcella Agnes, daughter of John
J. and Mary (Grace) Crean, of New Britain. They
are the parents of three children : Donald, Janet and
Marcella. Mr. and Mrs. Smith reside on Stuart street,
at Ocean Beach.
and Mary (O'Meara) Dray. Mr. and Mrs. James are
the parents of one child, Elizabeth Ellen, born October
I, 1917, at New London.
JOHN H. JAMES, JR.— A prominent figure in
business life in New London, Connecticut, is John H.
James, owner and manager of the James Pharmacy,
which is located at No. 318 Bank street. Since estab-
lishing himself in business here, Mr. James has always
given his earnest support to all movements calculated
to advance business development, the welfare and ad-
vancement of the community being always uppermost
in his mind.
John H. James, Sr., was born in Waterford, Con-
necticut, and there obtained his education. For many
years previous to his retiring from active business life,
he followed the sea, but now resides in New London.
He married Ellen Sheehan, who died at New London,
in 1914. To Mr. and Mrs. James were born three
children : Ida M., who married Alfred W. Stoll, of
New London; Anna N., who married Harry H. Adams,
of New London ; and John H., of further mention.
John H. James, Jr., was born at Franklin, Massa-
chusetts, September 29, 1888. Having been brought by
his parents to New London when he was a small child,
he obtained his education in the local public schools,
and after graduating from the Bulkeley High School,
in the class of 1905, he entered the Massachusetts Col-
lege of Pharmacy. Finishing the prescribed course, he
became registered in Connecticut, in 1906. and the fol-
lowing year registered as a pharmacist in Massachu-
setts and subsequently worked in various places until
1914, when he purchased the William Sales Drug Store,
clianging its name to the James Drug Store. He has
been highly successful in this venture and has risen
to a place of prominence in busmess circles in the
community. His success is in every sense of the word
self-made, and has been won through sheer pluck and
that indomitable energy which in its last analysis is the
fundamental characteristics of the prosperous business
man. In politics, Mr. James is a Democrat, and takes
a keen interest in the affairs of the local organization.
He affiliates with the Seaside Council, No. 17, Knights
of Columbus ; in religion he is a Roman Catholic, at-
tending St. Joseph's Church of this denomination.
On October 7, 1916, John H. James, Jr., was united
in marriage with Helena M. Dray, daughter of Edward
WILLIAM MICHAEL REDDEN — After a
somewhat varied business career, Mr. Redden, since
1915, has been the head of the Redden Company, Inc.,
a concern of New London, Connecticut, engaged in con-
struction work, with headquarters at No. 361 Bank
street.
William Michael Redden is the son of Michael M.
and Hannah (Cokeley) Redden, both natives of Ireland,
the former born in County Clare, in 1838. He came to
the United States when nineteen years of age, and com-
ing directly to New London, found employment here,
but shortly after went to Elizabeth, New Jersey, where
he remained for a period of some years, then returned
to New London and located on Howard street. At
this time Michael M. Redden was in the employ of the
New York, New Haven & Hartford Railroad Company,
continuing with the company for ten years, leaving it
to take up a farmer's life, buying the property known
as the Prentice place. This is one of the oldest farms
in the county, located in the Jefferson avenue district of
New London, a landmark of more than a hundred years'
standing. Here Mr. Redden remained for the rest of
his life, meeting with great success. Michael M. Redden
died at his home January I, 1910, and was buried in
St. Mary's Cemetery, New London. He came to this
countrj' with nothing but a determination to succeed,
and by perseverance and far-seeing cleverness built up
a substantial fortune. His wife, Hannah Copeley, came
to the United States from Ireland when sixteen years
old, and their marriage took place in New London.
They were the parents of nine children, all bom in New ^
London : I. Anna, the wife of William O'Connors.
2. Helen, who married Michael O'Connell, of New Lon-
don. 3. Katherine, who married James Sullivan. 4.
Mary, who died in childhood. 5. Michael, died in in-
fancy. 6. James, died in infancy. 7. Daniel, died in
infancy. 8. William Michael, of whom further. 9.
Frank Henry, now deceased, who married Mary Doyle,
bj' whom he had two sons, Daniel and Frank.
Spending his early childhood in Elizabeth, New Jer-
sey, William Michael Redden came to New London
when his father moved his family to this city and set-
tled in the Howard street house. They lived there
eighteen years, then went to their newly-acquired home,
the Prentice farm. William M. Redden attended the
public schools of New London until old enough to take
up some kind of work, then entering the employ of
C. D. Bess & Sons, cracker manufacturers, remained
with them for three years, leaving to learn the mould-
er's trade at Brown's cotton gin. Three years later Mr.
Redden returned to Elizabeth, New Jersey, working
first at the Moore Brothers' Foundry and afterward at
the Hydraulic Pump Works, then going into the gro-
cery business with a Mr. Welsch, they carried it on for
sixteen years, the firm name being Welsch & Redden.
In 1905 Mr. Redden came back to New London, and
becoming interested in commercial life, built the busi-
ness block known as the Redden building, and engaged
BIOGRAPHICAL
215
in the grocery business again in 1908 after the comple-
tion of it. Six years afterward his brother, Frank
Henry Redden, dying, William M. Redden bought up
his contracting and construction business and has been
engaged in it since 1915 under the name of the Redden
Company, Inc. Mr. Redden has become very successful
as a contractor, building up a large and important busi-
ness. Mr. Redden had the first contract given out for
the construction of the yard of the Groton Iron Works,
beginning the work in August, 1917, and completing it
in May, 1918.
Not having allied himself with any particular party
in politics, Mr. Redden is an independent voter. He is
popular among the Knights of Columbus, being a mem-
ber of Seaside Council, of New London. He attends
the Roman Catholic church.
William M. Redden married, at Westerly, Rhode Is-
land, October 12, 1898, Mary C. Coleman. Three chil-
dren have been born of this union: i. Coleman, born
July 31, 1900. He graduated from St. Mary's School in
New London, and later attended the Bulkeley High
School for two years, afterward going to the pre-
paratory school of Niagara University for two years,
going then to the Catholic University of Washington,
D. C, for one year. When this country entered the
World War, this boy, though younger than the required
age, volunteered and was sent to the Army Training
Corps. He died during the epidemic of "flu," and is
buried in St. Mary's Cemetery. The young man had
gained quite a reputation as an all-round athlete, having
won special honors on the football field. 2. Charles,
born in May, 191 1, now attending a local school. 3.
Frank Henry, born June 8, 1913, also at school.
FREDERICK SAMUEL LANGDON— Nov/ a
young man, but with a record of energy and profes-
sional ability a much older man might envy, Mr. Lang-
don is pursuing in New London, Connecticut, the pro-
fession of architecture as a member of the corporation,
Bilderbeck & Langdon. He has followed that profes-
sion from boyhood, and before coming to New London
county he was for fifteen years in the employ of a
firm of architects in New Britain, Connecticut.
Frederick S. Langdon is a son of Wilbur Burton
Langdon, who was born in 1847, in Kensington, Connec-
ticut, his birthplace the old Langdon homestead, and
■died in 1914. Wilbur Burton Langdon married Nellie
Wallace, who was born in Bridgeport, Connecticut, and
died in February, 1920, aged sixty-two. They were the
parents of five sons and one daughter: Frederick S., of
further mention ; Albert, Leon, Lottie, Harry, and Wal-
ter.
Frederick S, Langdon was born in New Britain, Con-
necticut, September 28, 1886, and there completed public
school courses of study. He entered as a student in the
architectural course of a leading correspondence school
and received therefrom a graduation diploma showing
excellence in standing. He supplemented this with
practical experience with the firm, Unckleback & Perry,
architects, of New Britain, Connecticut, then came to the
Groton Iron Works, New London, as chief draftsman.
During the year he remained with the company he
designed several of the buildings comprising the pres-
ent plant. In 1918 the firm, Bilderbeck & Langdon,
architects, of New London, was incorporated, Mr.
Langdon, secretary-treasurer. Since the organization of
the finn they designed and supervised the Lawrence
Hall building on Bank street, a large service station for
J. D. Avery, Inc., a four-roomed school building for the
Eighth District, borough of Groton, Connecticut, also
a large weave shed and power plant for the New Eng-
land Silk Company at Westerly, Rhode Island, a large
amount of engineering work, consisting of 15,000 feet of
pipe line for the borough of Groton, and a complete
survey of Mason's Island, comprising about 540 acres.
He is independent in politics, and a member of the
Harbour Club of New London, also affiliated with
Brainard Lodge, No. 102, Free and Accepted Masons.
Mr. Langdon married, in March, 1910, Ruth Gladys
Rogers, born in Willimantic, Connecticut, daughter of
Raymond and Elizabeth (Collins) Rogers, her father a
veteran of the Civil War, who died in 191 7. Mr. and
Mrs. Langdon are the parents of five children : Roger
Frederick, Ruth Elizabeth, Wilbur Spencer, Raymond
Edward and Richard Collins.
CHARLES HENRY HOLDREDGS— A long and
checkered life, including the fortunes of war, and later
the satisfaction of substantial and permanent business
prosperity, is the story of Charles Henry Holdredge,
one of the most prominent citizens of Pawcatuck, New
London county, Connecticut, whose storage garage is
one of the big business interests of Westerly, Rhode
Island.
Mr. Holdredge is a son of Hibbard Henry and Sarah
(Rogers") Holdredge. and comes of one of the old
families of New London county. Hibbard H. Hold-
redge was born in the town of Groton, Connecticut, and
v;as educated in the schools of that town. When he
was a young man he worked as a salesman for the
Bill Publishing Company, then one of the most prom-
inent firms in its line in this part of the State. He also
farmed on a small scale. He died in Waterford in
1S53, and is buried there. Of the nine children of this
union two are now living: Amanda, now Mrs. Greene,
who since her husband's death has made her home
with her two children in Springfield, Massachusetts ;
and Charles Henry. Mrs. Holdredge, late in life, mar-
ried (second) Capt. Benjamin Burrows, both deceased.
Charles Henry Holdredge was born in Waterford,
Connecticut, June 27, 1844. He received a limited edu-
cation in the public schools of his native town, and
when only nine years of age was bound out, as was the
frequent custom in those days, to Hubbil Loomis, of
Salem, Connecticut, a farmer. He remained there for
three years, but was treated very cruelly, and when
twelve years of age was taken away from the Loomis
farm by his parents. Later he went to North Stoning-
ton, Connecticut, where he worked on a farm. He
returned to Westerly, Rhode Island, and worked as
apprentice carriage maker for one year.
At the age of eighteen years, in August, 1862, the
young man enlisted in Company A, Seventh Regiment,
Rhode Island Volunteer Infantry, for service during
2l6
NEW LONDON COUNTY
the Civil War. He was wounded at Fredericksburg,
and Captain Edward Allen, of his own company, took
care of him at Captain Allen's headquarters, thus be-
ginning a warm friendship which has continued between
the two men through all the years, and is still as cor-
dial as in the time of war.
After the close of the Civil War, Mr. Holdredge
returned to Ashaway, Rhode Island, where he was in the
employ of Colonel Wells, in the woolen mills, for some
time, then later was associated with A. L. Wells, in
the wagon shop which the latter conducted there, work-
ing also for a short time in various places.
In 1868 Mr. Holdredge made a start in business for
himself, buying out the business of Sanders York, of
Westerly, theretofore a prominent wagon builder and
blacksmith of that tou-n. He developed the business
extensively, and became a large carriage manufacturer
in Westerly. In 1887 he removed to Mystic, Connec-
ticut, continuing in the same business, but in the fol-
lowing year his plant was destroyed by fire. This set-
back turned his thoughts to the possibility of a more
advantageous permanent location. He decided on a
return to his former vicinity, and purchased land on
the Connecticut side of the river from W'esterly, in the
village of Pavvcatuck. There he built a shop, and has
since continued the manufacture of carriages. When the
automobile superseded the horse-drawn vehicles, Mr.
Holdredge adapted his energies to the new develop-
ment, and in 1912 took over the agency of the Munroe
automobile, and while he still manufactures carriages,
the newer interest has become of greater importance
than the old. He also now conducts a very large mod-
ern storage garage, the best in the community.
Mr. Holdredge has long been prominent in the public
affairs of the town of Stonington, in which the village
of Pawcatuck is located. A staunch Republican, he was
first selectman of the town of Stonington for tv,-o years,
and though holding no other offices, has been a leader
in the Republican party. For two years he was chief
of the Fire Department of Pawcatuck. He has been a
member of Hancock Post, Grand Army of the Republic,
for many years, and for seven years was commander
of the post.
In 186.), Mr. Holdredge married Louise Burdick, of
Ashaway, Rhode Island, daughter of William H. and
Lucy O. (Gates) Burdick, who died in 1918. They were
the parents of six children, of whom four are living:
Frederick W., who resides with his father and is asso-
ciated with him in business; Martha J., who married
Frank Howe, and since his death resides at home ;
Frank L., whose life is also reviewed in following
sketch ; and Grace B., who resides at home. The family
have long been members of the Baptist church.
county, Connecticut, long ago prominent in the county,
and a son of Charles Henry and Louise (Burdick)
Holdredge (q. v.).
Frank L. Holdredge was born in Pawcatuck, Con-
necticut, in the town of Stonington, January 21, 1872.
He received his education in the public and high schools
of Westerly, Rhode Island, just across the Pawcatuck
river. Caring little for a higher education or a pro-
fessional career, he entered at once into the mercantile
world as salesman for Edward Smith & Company, of
New York City, selling paints, varnishes, etc. Later
ho became associated with his father, whose carriage
factory was one of the leading industrial interests in
the town, as foreman of the painting department. Mr.
Holdredge still continues in this business, which of
recent years has broadened its scope to include the
handling and storage, on a large scale, of automobiles.
Mr. Holdredge is prominent in various circles outside
his business. Politically, he supports the principles and
policies of the Republican party. He is a member of
Narragansett Lodge, No. 77, Independent Order of
Odd Fellows, of Westerly, Rhode Island, and is a mem-
ber of the Cycle Club, of Westerly.
In 1906 Mr. Holdredge married Gertrude May Eccle-
stone, daughter of Albert and Ella (Chapman) Ec-
clestone, of Westerly, and they have had two children :
Iris L., who died at the age of seven years ; and Charles
H., who was born March 4, 1915. The family attend
and support the Baptist church.
FRANK L. HOLDREDGE— A member of an old
New London county family, and himself holding a
prominent position in the business world of this sec-
tion, Frank L. Holdredge, of Pawcatuck, Connecticut,
is broadly representative of the successful man of the
day.
Mr. Holdredge is a grandson of Hibbard Henry and
Sarah (Rogers) Holdredge, of Groton, New London
WILLARD DICKINSON HARRIS— Descended
from old New London families, and long active in the
mercantile world of New London, Mr. Harris has for
the past fourteen years been manager of the local dis-
tributing branch of Morris & Company, wholesale deal-
ers in meat.
Christopher Harris, Mr. Harris' father, was born in
New London, and after receiving a practical education
in the public schools of the city, followed the sea all
his life, sailing out of New London. He was one of
the early whaling fishermen out of this port, and made
one trip that covered a period of thirty-nine months.
This is regarded as the longest fishing trip ever made
from this port. Christopher Harris died in New Lon-
don, in 1896. He married Margaret Lyon, also a native
of New London, who died here in 1886. They were
the parents of five children ; Christopher C, who mar-
ried Annie Chickering. and died in 1912; Ethram, who
married Effie Still, and resides in Columbus, Ohio;
Henry, who married Beckie Turner, and died in 1904;
Willard D., whose name appears at the head of this
review ; and George C, who married Annie Avery,
and resides in New London.
Willard Dickinson Harris was born in New Loudon,
June 29, 1862, and received his early education in the
public schools of the city, then took the regular course
at Bulkeley High School. About 1882 he entered the
business world in New York City, where he was era-
ployed as assistant bookkeeper by J. Harris & Com-
pany, wholesale fish dealers, for a short time. Return-
ing to New London, he became bookkeeper for the
Clark S. Stewart Company, wholesale meat dealers.
BIOGRAPHICAL
217
Later, Mr. Harris became a member of this firm, the
name of the concern being changed to Stewart &
Harris. Upon the death of Mr. Stewart, which oc-
curred in 1889, Mr. Harris sold out to the National
Packing Company, at the same time becoming man
ager of the business for that concern, and filling this
position until 1900, when this company was dissolved
per order of the United States Court. In 1907 Morris
& Company established a branch in New London, and
placed Mr. Harris in charge as manager, which posi-
tion he still holds.
In the varied interests of the city Mr. Harris has
long been interested, and though never a leader in
public affairs, has borne a part in the progress of the
community. Politically he supports the Republican
party, and in the year 1905 served in the City Council.
He is a life member of the Niagara Engine Company,
of New London, and fraternally, holds membership in
Mohican Lodge, No. 55, Independent Order of Odd
Fellows, of New London. He attends the Second Con-
gregational Church of New London.
Mr. Harris married, September i, 1908, Edna Good-
win, daughter of Walter \V. and Frances (Benham)
Goodwin, of New London. Mr. and Mrs. Harris reside
at No. 35 Bellevue place, in this city.
ROBERT MURRAY SMITH— At the age of
twenty-one, in 189S, Robert M. Smith entered the service
of the railroad, beginning with the New York, New
Haven & Hartford Railroad Company as a brakeman,
and has remained with this company, having risen
through many promotions to his present position, that
of assistant superintendent. He is a son of the late
John B. and Eliza A. (Sutor) Smith, of Baltimore and
Havre de Grace, Maryland.
Robert M. Smith was born in Montgomery, Alabama,
January 22, 1877, and when a small child his parents
moved to Northumberland, Pennsylvania, where he was
educated in the public schools. As a young man he
came to New England, and in 1898 entered the service
of the New York, New Haven & Hartford Railroad
Company, at Norwich, Connecticut, as a yard brakeman,
and six months later was promoted to a yard conduc-
tor, his next promotion being to that of a freight con-
ductor, in April, 1901, in which position he remained
until June, 1914, when he was promoted to a passenger
conductor, and until May, 191 7, held that position, when
he was promoted to assistant trainmaster, with offices
at Putnam, Connecticut. In September, 1918, he was
promoted to trainmaster, and in November of the same
year won the promotion of assistant superintendent,
with offices at New London.
Mr. Smith has wide fraternal relations, being affiliated
with New London Lodge, No. 360, Benevolent and Pro-
tective Order of Elks ; Webster Lodge, Free and Ac-
cepted Masons, of Webster, Massachusetts ; Union Chap-
ter, No. 7, Royal Arch Masons ; Gushing Council, Royal
and Select Masters ; Palestine Commandery, Knights
Templar, all of New London ; Connecticut Consistory,
Valley of Norwich; Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite
(thirty-second degree), of Norwich; Pyramid Temple,
Ancient Arabic Order Nobles of the Mystic Shrine ;
Gardner Lodge, No. 46, of Bridgeport ; Knights of
Pythias of Norwich ; and Webster Lodge, Loyal Order
of Moose.
Mr. Smith is a member of the Veteran Railroad Men's
Association of Boston, Massachusetts ; honorary mem-
ber of Railway Station Agents; member of the Railway
Superintendents' Association of St. Louis ; Order of
Railway Conductors, No. 237, of Worcester, Massa-
chusetts; Cable Club, Round Table Club, of Boston;
Boston Athletic Club; New England Railroad Club, of
Boston, Massachusetts; and the New Haven Railroad
Club, of New Haven, Connecticut. He is ex-vice-
president of the Massachusetts Fish and Game Asso-
ciation ; an attendant of the Protestant Episcopal church,
and in politics is a Republican.
Mr. Smith married, July 2, 1919, Lillian M. Dupre,
of Webster, Massachusetts, daughter of John B. and
Mary Jane (Veo) Dupre, the father born in St. Jules,
Province of Quebec, and the mother born in Enfield,
Vermont. The family home is at No. 95 Squire street.
New London.
RICHARD C. DAVIDSON— One of the most
enterprising citizens of New London, Connecticut,
Richard C. Davidson has attained his success within the
confines of his native city. He was born in New Lon-
don, December 27, 1872, son of James and Ellen F.
(Somers) Davidson, and grandson of George David-
son, who was the first of the family in New London.
George Davidson was born in Scotland, in 1795, and
in 181 7 removed to Nova Scotia, where he remained
until 1853, the year he became a resident of New Lon-
don. He was a landscape gardener, shipbuilder, and
married Ellen McDuffie, who came to America with him.
James Davidson, son of George and Ellen (McDuffie)
Davidson, was born in Pictou, Nova Scotia, in April,
1827, and died in New London, April 20, 1S96. He
attended the public schools and followed the trade of
shipbuilder. In his later years he had a marine rail-
way business and employed at times as many as fifty
men. Among the ships built by Mr. Davidson are : the
"Crescent," "Howard B. Peck," "Charles D. Hall," and
the "Elwood H. Smith." These were merchant ships
and coastwise vessels. Mr. Davidson married (third),
in 1861, Ellen F. Somers, daughter of Daniel Somers,
and she died in New London, November 8, 1904. The
children of this marriage were: James, Grace, Louisa;
Richard C, of further mention ; Ellen, Emma, and
John.
Richard C. Davidson was educated in the public
schools of New London, and as a young man worked
with his father in the shipyards for six years. He then
became a diver for the Thames Tow Boat Company
of New London, following this occupation for three
years. In 1908, Mr. Davidson established a Salvaging
and Pile Driving Business in New London, under the
name of the R. C. Davidson Company, and is now in
his thirteenth successful year of business.
Mr. Davidson is a Republican in politics, and actively
interested in all public matters. Fraternally, he is a
member of Mohican Lodge, No. 54, Independent Order
of Odd Fellows.
2l8
NEW LONDON COUNTY
Mr. Davidson married, in 1899, Mary E. Griffin, of
New London, daughter of Patrick H. and Ellen (Gil-
more) Griffin, the latter two natives of Ireland. Mr.
and Mrs. Davidson are the parents of the following
children: Robert F., who served in the World War, 58th
Regiment, Second Division, Artillery; Richard, Ellen B.,
Emma, Charles G., and Louisa.
a graduate of the Williams Memorial and of Pratt
Institute. With his family Mr. Newman attends St.
Mary's Roman Catholic Church and aids in the support
of its good works.
JOHN H. NEWMAN— Among the men who
occupy a leading place in the business life of New
London, Connecticut, is John H. Newman. Mr. New-
man was born there May 31, 1867, son of Daniel and
Margaret (Rhoe) Newman. His parents were of that
grand contribution of citizenship which Ireland has
often made to this country. The father of Mr. Newman
came to America when he was a child, and settled in
New London. There he attended the public schools and
subsequently served his apprenticeship as plumber and
steam-fitter. This was the beginning of the business
which has steadily increased to its present size and
which is now carried on by Mr. Newman. About 1868,
Daniel Newman, in association with T. D. Cronin, estab-
lished a plumbing and steam-fitting business, under the
firm name of Newman & Cronin, and were the largest
firm of their kind in New London. Mr. Newman fol-
lowed this occupation all his life, and died in New
London, in igoi. His wife was also a native of Ire-
land, and married Mr. Newman in New London, where
she died. Their children numbered ten, five of whom
are now living: I. Daniel, married Ann Healy, and
resides in New London. 2. James P., of New London.
3. John H., of further mention. 4. Ann, deceased. 5.
Elizabeth, married Joseph S. Harrigan, and lives in New
London. 6. William, deceased. 7. George, deceased.
S^ Thomas F.. deceased. 9. Mary, deceased. 10. Mar-
garet, married Julian D. Moran, and lives in New
London.
John H. Newman attended the public schools of hi'j
native city, and in 18S4 began to serve his apprentice-
ship to the plumber's trade with his father. After
completing his time he went to work for his father's
company, and in 1898 acquired an interest in it by
purchase. In 1908 he. v<ith his brothers, purchased the
Newman interest in the business and the firm name
became Newman Brothers. This arrangement was suc-
cessfully continued until 1913, when Mr. Newman
purchased his brothers' interest and has since con-
tinued alone. The business is now the largest of its
kind in New London county and under the able man-
agement of Mr. Newman is always increasing.
Mr. Newman is an interested citizen in the welfare of
New London, and is always willing to aid in any move-
ment which has the general welfare at heart. He is a
Republican in politics, and though not a seeker for office
is an ardent worker for his party. He is a member of
the Chamber of Commerce; the Rotary Club; and the
Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, Lodge No.
360.
Mr. Newman married. August 30, 1893, Margaret A.
Carroll, of New London, daughter of John and To-
hanna (Shea) Carroll, and they are the parents of one
•daughter, Marian Carroll Newman. Miss Newman is
ELMER C. HALL— One of the leading grocers
of Mystic, Connecticut, Elmer C. Hall, contributes to
the general prosperity and well-being of the town in the
most practical way — the purveying of food of high
quality.
Mr. Hall is a son of Charles and Eugenie A. (Kin-
ney) Hall, the former born in Voluntown, Connecticut,
and educated in the district schools there. After com-
pleting his studies he became a farmer, following this
occupation all his life. He died in Voluntown, his
wife surviving him, and residing in Mystic. Mr. Hall
was their only child.
Elmer C. Hall was born in Voluntown, Connecticut,
en February 7, 1882. Receiving a practical education
in the public schools of the town, he thereafter entered
the employ of the American Thread Company, at
Glasgo, in the town of Grisv/old. Here he remained
for a period of fifteen years, working in the different
departments, and for several years holding the posi-
tion of shipping and receiving clerk.
But Mr. Hall was all this time looking forward to
independence, and when opportunity offered, in 1915,
he branched out for himself. On February 10, of that
year, he purchased the grocery store of Alfred McDon-
ald, in Mystic, Connecticut, and since that time has
carried on the business with ever increasing success.
Mr. Hall commands an excellent class of trade, and is
counted among the leaders in his line of business.
Although his time is largely absorbed by the exacting
nature of his business, Mr. Hall is a man of broad
interests, and keeps in touch with the progress of
events, local, state and national, and is a staunch sup-
porter of the Republican party. Fraternally he is a
member of Mount Vernon Lodge, No. 75, Free and
Accepted Masons, of Jewett City.
On April 17, 1912, Mr. ?Iall married Ethel M. ^\^lit-
man, of Willimantic. She is the daughter of James M.
and Elizabeth E. (Loomis) Whitman, of that cit)'. Mr.
and Mrs. Hall are members of the Baptist church.
THOMAS TRASK WETMORE. JR., was born in
New London, Connecticut, May 5, 1896, and there was
educated in the public schools, leaving Bulkeley High
School in his junior year. He was in the employ of
the Ship and Engine Company until October 30, 1917.
when he enlisted in the United States na\'y for the
period of the war between the United States and
Germany. He served until honorably discharged, then
returned to New London, where he was engaged with
the local telephone company until October I, 1919, when,
under the firm name, Wetmore & Beran, he established
a real estate and insurance business, now the most
important of its kind in the city. This partnership was
dissolved in February, 1921, and Mr. Wetmore continues
the business alone. Mr. Wetmore is a young man of
energy and ability and is succeeding in his business.
BIOGRAPHICAL
J!l<i
Mr. Wetmore is a son of Thomas Trask Wetmore, Sn,
t)orn in New London county, now a retired business man,
but deeply interested in tlie subject of antique furni-
ture. His wife, Margaret Ellen (Kaneen) Wetmore,
bom in New London, died May lo, 1900, leaving a son,
Thomas Trask, Jr., of previous mention, and a daughter,
Portia Louise, who married Captain Wales A. Benham.
WILLIAM M. JONES— From the time of his
entering into the business world, Mr. Jones has been
identified with jewelry enterprises, and since 1913 has
been established in this particular line in New London,
Connecticut.
William M. Jones was born in Springfield, Massa-
chusetts, August 17, 1861, the son of Edwin and Jane
(Treverton) Jones. Edwin Jones was a native of
Birmingham, England. After obtaining his education
he learned the jeweler's trade, and subsequently came
to the United States, locating in New York City, where
he establi.shed himself in the jeweler's business. He
died there in 1886. The boy, William M., was edu-
cated in the public schools of Jeresy City, New Jersey,
after which he went to New York City and served an
apprenticeship to the jeweler's business, having, in the
meantime, decided to follow in the footsteps of his
father. After learning the trade he returned to Jersey
City and there established himself in business, remaining
here until 1913, when he moved to New London, Con-
necticut, to his present location, No. 235 State street.
Mr. Jones has risen to a place of prominence in busi-
ness circles and is held in the highest esteem by all
who know him.
In politics Mr. Jones is an independent voter, pre-
ferring to exercise his own judgment en all public
questions and issues rather than identify himself with
any formal political party. He affiliates with Bergen
Lodge, No. 47, Free and Accepted Masons, of Jersey
City, and is a member of the Afasonic Club of New
London. In religion he is a Methodist.
Mr. Jones married (first), in 1883, Ida Gorry, of
Jersey City; she died in 1903. Mr. Jones married (sec-
ond), in 1906, Mary Matthews, of Monmouth county.
New Jersey.
J. V/ARREN GAY— The electrical contracting
firm, the J. Warren Gay Company, was founded in New
London, Connecticut, in 1901, by J. Warren Gay, who
came to that city from Lynn, Massachusetts, although
born in the State of Maine, son of Thomas J. Gay, son
of Peter (3) Gay, son of David Gay, who was born
January 24, 1743. Thomas J. Gay was a custom shoe-
maker, but for a number of years previous to his death
was station master of Lynn, Massachusetts. He mar-
ried Harriet E. Hussey, who died in New London,
Connecticut. They were the parents of seven children,
of whom J. Warren Gay, the principal character in this
review, was the second.
J. Warren Gay was born in Augusta, Maine, May 10,
1858, but in his youth Lyim, Massachusetts, became the
family home and there he completed public school
study. In 1878, Mr. Gay began his work along elec-
trical lines, and for six years was employed in Lynn,
becoming well-informed and skilled in the application
of electricity to house and mechanical purposes. In
1884 he located in New London, Connecticut, where for
seventeen years he was in the employ of W. R. Perry,
hardware and electrical supplies. In 1901 he organized
the J. Warren Gay Company of New London, elec-
trical contractors, first as a partnership, but later as a
corporation, with F. A. Starr, president; J. L. Rush,
secretary, and J. Warren Gay, treasurer. The com-
pany contracts for all forms of electric installation
for home, mill, factory, store or vessel, and deals in
all forms of electrical equipment or supplies. The
business has developed into one of large proportions,
one of the largest of its kind in New London county.
Mr. Gay is a member of Brainard Lodge, Free and
Accepted Masons; Union Chapter, Royal Arch Masons;
Courtney Council, Royal and Select Masters ; Palestine
Commandery, Knights Templar, all of New London,
and holds the thirty-second degree of the Ancient Ac-
cepted Scottish Rite ; affiliates with King Solomon
Lodge of Perfection ; Van Rensselaer Council, Princes
of Jerusalem; Norwich Chapter of Rose Croix; and
Connecticut Consistory, Sublime Princes of the Royal
Secret, all of Norwich, Connecticut. He is also a
noble of Pyramid Temple, Ancient Arabic Order
Nobles of the Mystic Shrine, of Bridgeport, Connec-
ticut. He belongs to the New London Chamber of
Commerce, attends the Methodist Episcopal church, and
in politics is a Republican.
On January I, 18S5, Mr. Gay married Elizabeth A.
Smith, of Lynn, Massachusetts.
WILLIAM STARK STARR, one of the leading
druggists of the city of New London. Connecticut, has
for the past thirty-five years been identified with this
branch of mercantile endeavor. Mr. Starr is a son of
George Edgar and Sarah (Mallory) Starr. George E.
Starr was born in Middletown, Connecticut, and there
educated in the public schools. Coming to New Lon-
don as a young man, he became interested in the print-
ing business, which he followed actively in this city for
more than fifty years. He became a man of prominence
in this city, and a leader in the Democratic party. He
was elected mayor of New London and served ably for
one term. Later, he was representative to the Con-
necticut State Legislature. He died in New London.
His wife, who was born in New London, also died
here. They were the parents of six children, of whom
two are now living : William S.. whose name heads this
review; and Carrie Mallory. the wife of Col. Charles
D. Parkhurst, formerly of Providence, Rhode Island,
now of New London, Connecticut.
William Stark Starr was born in New London, Con-
necticut, September 16, 1861. Receiving his early edu-
cation in the public schools of the city, he attended
Bulkeley High School, then later entered the New
York College of Pharmacy, from which he was gradu-
ated in 1886. Shortly after his graduation, in associa-
tion with his brother, Charles S. Starr, Mr. Starr pur-
chased the retail drug business theretofore conducted
220
NEW LONDON COUNTY
by Henrj' H. Stoddard, and has continued the business
since. Some years ago it was incorporated, Mr. Starr
being made treasurer. His brother, Charles S. Starr,
died October 27, 1916. This store handles the celebrated
Rexall goods, and in all its various departments is doing
an extensive and prosperous business.
Mr. Starr is a member of the New London Chamber
of Commerce, and has long been prominent in civic
matters. Politically, he is an Independent, and has
served as councilman for many years. He is a member
of Brainard Lodge, No. 102, Free and Accepted Ma-
sons ; and is a member of the First Congregational
Church.
On September 27, 1893, Mr. Starr married Marion
Griswold Vail, daughter of Charles and Ann E. (Gris-
wold) Vail, of Long Island. Their two sons are Rich-
ard Mallory and Roland Griswold.
WALDO EMERSON CLARKE— Prominent in
the public works about New London, Connecticut, and
now permanently located in charge of one of the most
important engineering achievements of recent years in
this county, Waldo Emerson Clarke is a figure of in-
terest to everyone to whom the local records are
interesting.
Mr. Clarke is a son of Daniel Wright and Catherine
(De Ballard) Clarke. Daniel \V. Clarke was born in
Westerly, Rhode Island, and there received a practical
education. He was a traveling salesman during all his
active career, and has resided in many interesting places.
He now lives in West Haven, Connecticut.
Waldo Emerson Clarke was born in Ashaway, Rhode
Island, on April 17, 1882. Receiving his early education
in the public schools of different towns to which his
father's business brought the family, he received his
high school education in Newark, New Jersey, being
graduated in the class of 1902. Having had the ad-
vantage of broad opportunities of observation, the young
man had by this time a settled purpose in life. Big
construction work appealed to him with the greatest)
force, and his parents seconded his desire to enter this
field of endeavor. Accordingly, he entered the New
York University, from which he was graduated in
1906, with the two degrees of Civil Engineer and
Bachelor of Science. He entered the employ of the
New York State Department as civil engineer for the
New York water supply. Later, in 1908, he came to
New London as city engineer in the highway depart-
ment, but eventually remained for only a short period.
An attractive offer from the United Fruit Company,
promising a wealth of valuable experience, was ac-
cepted, and carried him to the Panama Canal Zone.
Four years later, on November 6, 1912, Mr. Clarke
became chief engineer at the State pier, then under
construction, and had full charge of the work in
progress until its completion, on April 15, 1917. On
this date Mr. Clarke was appointed superintendent of
the State pier, and still ably fills that responsible posi-
tion.
In various avenues of interest Mr. Clarke takes an
active part. Politically, he supports the Republican
party. He is a member of the New London Chamber
of Commerce, and influential in the deliberations of
that body. Fraternally, he is widely connected. He is
a member of Brainard Lodge, No. 102, Free and Ac-
cepted Masons ; Union Chapter, No. 7, Royal Arch Ma-
sons; Cushing Council, Royal and Select Masters; and
Palestine Commandery, Knights Templar, all of New
London. He is a member of Pequot Lodge, Indepen-
dent Order of Odd Fellows, and is also a member of
the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, Lodge
No. 360, of New London. He is popular in club circles,
and is a member of the Harbour Club, the Thames Club,
the Rotary Club, and the Masonic Club, all of New
London.
On December 25, 191 1, Mr. Clarke married Daisy L.
Klinck, daughter of Charles H. Klinck, of New London,
and they have two children : Alma D. and Waldo K.
The family are members of St. James' Episcopal
Church.
EDWARD T. CORCORAN— Holding a respon-
sible position in the public service, Edward T. Cor-
coran, of Xcv/ London, is well known in this city as
a progressive man. Mr. Corcoran is a son of
Edmond and Ellen (Flaherty) Corcoran, natives of
Ireland. The elder Mr. Corcoran was educated in
the national schools of Ireland, and while still a
young man, came to the United States, locating in
New London. Here he worked as a mason, fol-
lowing that trade all his life. He died in New
London, in 191S, and his wife died July 28, 1921.
They were the parents of eight children, of whom
four are now living: Hanna, wife of Peter Echen-
lelder, of New London; Nellie, wife of Lav/rence A.
Cook, of New London; Edward T., whose name
heads this review; and Joseph, also a resident ofl
New London, who married Catherine Fleming.
Edward T. Corcoran was born in New London,
Connecticut, April 25, 1883. Receiving his early
education in the public schools of this city, he
entered Bulkeley High School, and was graduated
from that institution in the class of 1901. He then
entered the New London post office, in the capacity
of clerk, and later became assistant postmaster.
This position he has since held continuously, and
still ably fulfills its duties.
By political affiliation Mr. Corcoran is a Demo-
crat. He is a member of New London Lodge, No.
360, Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks; is
a member of St. John's Literary Association,
Rotary Club and of the Namcaug Boat Club, all of this
city. His religious faith is that of the Roman
Catholic, and he is a member of St. Mary's Church.
A. GRAHAM CREIGHTON — With excellent
preparation for his profession, and broad experience
in it, -V. Graham Creighton, of New London, Con-
necticut, is placing the stamp of his individuality
on the construction work of this vicinity as suc-
cessor to James Sweeney, the long prominent archi-
tect, now deceased.
BIOGRAPHICAL
221
Mr. Creighton is a son of T. Grassie and Avis
Creighton, of Halifax, Nova Scotia, and is the
youngest of their five children. He was born in
Halifax, on February i8, i8S6, and received his
early education in the public schols of that city.
Following his graduation from the Halifax Acad-
emy, in 1503, Mr. Creighton entered the University
of Toronto. Canada, in the Department of Archi-
tecture, and was graduated from this institution in
1906. Going to Saskatcliewan, Mr. Creighton there
opened an office, and was identified with much of
the development of that region during the ne.xt
twelve years, his headquarters being at Prince Al-
bert. Dispcsing of his interests there in iQiS, he
returned to Halifax, where he practiced his pro-
fession for a period of two years. Then, in 1920,
he came to New London, and purchased the busi-
ness of James Sweeney, then recently deceased.
Mr. Sweeney established his office here in 1888, and
was long a leader in the profession. In taking up
his work Mr. Creighton has proved hiinself able
and efficient, the possessor at once of high ideals
in his art and practical ideas of its application. He
has already won his way to a secure footing.
On December 20, 191 1, Mr. Creighton married
Jean Mackinnon, of Ottawa, Canada, and they have
three children: Allan G., Margaret, and Jane.
JAMES R. COLEMAN— A skilled mechanic, Mr.
Coleman found in Groton, Connecticut, a field for
his energy and ability when his term of service
■with the American Army in the World War was
completed. He is a contractor of mason work,
and his capable wife has conducted a meat market
in the village of Groton since 1917, a business she
bought prior to her marriage.
James R. Coleman, son of George M. and Laura
(Smart) Coleman, was born in Westmoreland
county, Pennsylvania, June 9, 1889. His father was
also of Westmoreland county birth, a contractor all
his adult life. Mr. and Mrs. George M. Coleman
■were the parents of four children: James R. ; Gene
E., who was in France for nineteen months with
the American Expeditionary Forces, sergeant of the
Twentieth Regiment of Engineers, First Division
of the First Army; Catherine L.; Mary M.
After completing public school study, James R.
Coleman was taught the mason's trade in all its
branches, his apprenticeship being served under the
direction of his capable father. He worked as a
journeyman mason in various places until the United
States declared war upon Germany, in 1917, and
then he enlisted in Toledo, Ohio, in the United
States Marine Corps, Third Ohio Replacement Bat-
talion. He continued in the service until the war
was ended, and he was honorably discharged at the
Submarine Base in New London, April 15, 1919,
ranking as sergeant. After leaving the service he
settled in Groton, New London county, Connec-
ticut, where he has ever since been engaged as a
contractor of mason work.
Mr. Coleman is a Democrat in politics, member
of Wilkinsburg Lodge, No. 315, Benevolent and
Protective Order of Elks, of Wilkinsburg, Pennsyl-
vania, and of Latrobe Camp, No. 8688, Modern
Woodmen of America, of Latrobe, Pennsylvania.
Mr. Coleman married, January 15, 1919, Sarah
Alice Donahue, daughter of John A. and Elizabeth
(Keating) Donaliue, of New London, Connecticut.
Mr. and Mrs. Coleman are the parents of a son,
James J., born November 20, 1919.
Mrs. Coleman has three brothers residing in New
London, all of whom served in the World War,
and has an elder sister who resides with her parents.
Her brothers are: George W., was a commissioned
officer of the United States Aviation Corps, rank-
ing as second lieutenant; Richard, was a sergeant
of the Sixty-eighth Regiment, United States Army;
Robert, a sergeant-major of the Fifty-sixth Regi-
ment, United States Army. Sarah Alice (Donahue)
Coleman was educated in the public schools of New
London, finishing with graduation from Williams
Memorial High School, class of 191 1. Immediately
after graduation she became bookkeeper for the
Holton Company, Groton, Connecticut, proprietors
of a general market there, remaining until 1917.
In that year she bought the business and has oper-
ated it very successfully. She is a member of the
Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church of Groton.
GEORGE HAROLD HEMPSTEAD— The hard-
ware business, of which George Harold Hempstead
is the virtual executive head, was founded by his
father, who early admitted his son to a close rela-
tionship therein. Mr. Hempstead, Sr., has seen his
business grow from a small beginning to its present
large proportions, the growth since 1914 being
attributed entirely to the business integrity of his
son.
George Robert Warren Hempstead, father of
George Harold Hempstead, was born in the town
of Preston, but when a small child removed to
Groton with his parents. Here he obtained his
education, after which he operated a well rig for
drilling hydraulic wells and thus continued until
1893, when he established himself in a small way
in the hardware business in Groton. The venture
proved successful, and Vvfhen he turned the entire
management of the business over to his son, upon
his retirement from active business life in 1914, the
latter became the executive head of an already well
established and steadily increasing business. George
R. W. Hempstead married Mary Hazier, who died
in 1911. To them were born two children: Dora,
deceased; George Harold, of further mention.
George Harold Hempstead was born in Groton,
Connecticut, June 24, 1892, and here obtained the
preliminary portion of his education. He then en-
tered Norwich Free Academy, and upon graduating
from this institution he took a commercial course
in New London Business College, after which he
became associated with his father in the hardware
business. This association continued until 1914
when, as previously stated, the younger man took
over the management of the business, and has thus
continued up to the present time, 1921.
NEW LONDON COUNTY
A Republican in politics, he is an important fig-
ure in public affairs, and takes a deep interest in
all that pertains to the welfare of the community.
Mr. Hempstead is active in Masonic circles, and is
a member of Charity and Relief Lodge, No. 72,
Free and Accepted Masons; Benevolent Chapter,
Royal Arch Masons; Mystic Council, No. 29, Royal
and Select Masters; Palestine Commandery, No. 6,
Knights Templar, and the Norwich Valley Con-
sistory, and has taken his thirty-second degree in
Free Masonry. He is also affiliated with the Inde-
pendent Order of Odd Fellows, Fairview Lodge, No.
107, of Groton; the Groton Grange, Patrons of Hus-
bandry; and attends the Episcopal church there.
On October 3, 1917, George Harold Hempstead
was united in marriage with Beatrice May Coffin,
daughter of William H. and Elizabeth (Cooper)
Coffin.
WILLIAM CHARLES GREENHALGH — Al-
though not having entered into the business life of
Mystic, Connecticut, until 1919, Mr. Greenhalgh has
already identified himself with the public affairs of
the community, and takes a keen interest in every-
thing pertaining to the development of Mystic.
William Greenhalgh, father of William Charles
Greenhalgh, was born in Manchester, England, and
there obtained his public school education, after
which he served eight years in the British Navy,
subsequently coming to the L^nited States with his
brother Alfred. Upon arriving in this country both
young men entered the United States Army, Will-
iam enlisting in the Coast Artillery and Alfred
enlisting as a musician. Both men served for thirty
years. William Greenhalgh died in 1913, and Alfred
Greenhalgh passed away in Washington, D. C, in
1920. William Greenhalgh married Barbara Ko-
tovsky, and to them were born four children: Will-
iam Charles, of further mention; Margaret, who
married Captain Charles H. Palmer, a member of
the ordnance department of the United States
Army; Mary, who married Michael Muller, of
Springfield, Massachusetts; John, who married
Winifred Richards.
William Charles Greenhalgh was born in New-
port, Rhode Island, March 3, 1886. After graduating
from the Laredo High School, Texas, in 1904, he
went to New London, Connecticut, and there served
an apprenticeship to the plumber's trade. This
accomplished, he worked as a journeyman plumber
until 1919, when he came to Mystic and established
himself in this particular line, attaining the success
which is due him whose life is one of honesty
coupled with intolerance of shams and makeshifts.
His innate love of justice and fair-dealing having
already won the confidence and esteem of his
associates and of all with whom he has business
dealings. Mr. Greenhalgh is a Republican in poli-
tics, and takes the keen interest in the affairs of
the organization which is demanded of every good
citizen. He affiliates with the Independent Order
of Odd Fellows, Stonington Lodge, No. 26, of
Mystic, and in religion is a Roman Catholic, attend-
ing St. Patrick's Church.
Mr. Greenhalgh married (first), June 5, 1908,
Grace Hawkins, and they were the parents of one
child, Harry, who lives with his father. He married
(second), Elctha M. Callahan, of St. Peter's Port,
Channel Island, England, and to them has been bora
one child, Eletha, born in Mystic, Connecticut.
CAPTAIN FRANK H. ANDERSON— Since the
inception of his business career. Captain Anderson
has been interested in boat building. In 1920 he
was offered his present position of superintendent
of the boat yard at West Mystic of the Boston
Sea Sled Company, which he accepted.
Louis Anderson, father of Captain Anderson, was
born in Norway, but came to this country when a
young man and settled in New London, Connec-
ticut, which has been his home continuously since
that time. Boat building and marine railway busi-
ness has always been his occupation. He married
Annah Hogauson, a native of Norway, who bore
him two children: Frank H., of further mention;
Ailie L., who married William Ritch, a resident of
Bridgeport, Connecticut.
Frank H. Anderson was born in New London,
Connecticut, December 6, 1884. Upon finishing his
studies at the New London grammar school, he
entered the Bulkcley High School, from which he
was graduated in 1902. He then became interested
in boat designing. From 1914 until 1918 he was
captain of various yachts, and from 1918 until 1920
was stationed at the Charlestown Navy Yard. In
1920 he was given the position of superintendent
of the Boston Sea Sled Company, West Mystic, in
which he still continues. The company builds very *
fast sea sleds, whose speed is fifty miles or more
per hour. Captain Anderson's thorough training"
has fitted him for this position, whose obligations
he fulfils to the letter, which is due in no small
measure to his unbounded energy, unimpeachable
integrity, and perservering industry. He is a Re-
publican party sympathizer, confining his political
activity to his vote and influence in favor of just
causes and desirable officials. In religion he is a
Methodist Episcopal.
On October 29, 1903, Captain .A.nderson was-
united in marriage with Margaret D. Osborne, a
native of Somerville, Massachusetts. Captain and
Mrs. Anderson are the parents of two children:
Edger W., born in New London, Connecticut; Rob-
ert O., born in Acton, Massachusetts.
ROBERT DWIGHT BRADLEY, station agent
of the New York, New Haven & Hartford railroad
at West Mystic, holds the distinction of being one
of the oldest men in the service. Mr. Bradley
has also been postmaster of West Mystic since
1891, the office being located in the station.
Francis H. Bradley, father of Robert Dwight
Bradley, was born in Russell, Massachusetts, and
obtained his education there in the district schools.
Z^Z^00^.
BIOGRAPHICAL
223
From the time he was a young man until his death
he was connected with the railroad, and helped to
build the New Haven road from Stonington to
Groton. The railroad which was then known as
tlie New York, Providence & Boston railroad is
now known as the New York, New Haven & Hart-
ford railroad. Mr. Bradley held the position of
chief road master for many years previous to his
death. He married Emiline Parks, and to them
were born six children.
Robert Dwight Bradley, fourth child of Francis
H. and Emiline (Parks) Bradley, was born in West
Mystic, Connecticut, November 16, 1863. After fin-
ishing his early education in the schools of West
Mystic, he entered East Greenwich Academy, East
Greenwich, Rhode Island. In 1879 he returned to
his native place, where he accepted his present posi-
tion as station agent. A Republican in politics, Mr.
Bradley has long been an important figure in public
affairs, although caring nothing for public office.
He is a member of the Veteran l^ailroad Men's
Association of Boston, and of the Order of l^ail-
road Telegraphers, No. 261, of New London. In
religion he is a Baptist and attends the Union Bap-
tist Church in West Mystic.
On September 18, 1884, Robert Dwight Bradley
was united in marriage with Arlene R. Rathburn,
daughter of J. Allen and Hannah (Ashby) Rath-
burn. Mr. and Mrs. Bradley are the parents of five
children: Edith F., who married Wilfred S. Lamb,
who is mentioned elsewhere in this work; Bertha
R., who married W. C. Collins, and resides in
Westfield, New Jersey; Marion, who married Ray-
mond Leonard, both deceased; Carl, who is a resi-
dent of Westfield, New Jersey, was an inspector in
the United States Army Aviation Corps during the
World War with the rank of first lieutenant; F. Har-
mon, serving in the Merchant Marine.
EDWARD ROWELL GORMAN came to the
Groton Water Company as superintendent in iQi-t.
a thoroughly experienced and capable electrical
engineer, whose former connections had been with
important improvements in the railroad motive
power, notably the electrification of the New York,
New Haven & Hartford railroad between Stam-
ford, Connecticut, and the Grand Central Station
in New York City. He is of a Pennsylvania family,
son of Theodore Penn and Annie (Hobbs) Gorman,
his father born in Monroe county, Pennsylvania, a
wholesale grocer of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, until
his removal to Lancaster, Pennsylvania, where he
died in 1902. His wife survives him (1920), residing
in Dunlap, Iowa. They had three children: Mar-
vin, now residing in Lincoln, Nebraska; Vera, resid-
ing with her mother in Dunlap, Iowa; and Edward
Rowell, of whom further.
Edward Rowell Gorman was born in Harrisburg,
Pennsylvania, July 18, 1876. He completed the
courses of the grade and high schools of Harris-
burg, then under the direction of J. G. White &
Company devoted three years to the study of elec-
trical engineering. In 1898 he studied under Pro-
fessor Harris Boardman, of Lancaster, Pennsyl-
vania, remaining with him two years. His study
was interrupted by his service in Company K, Sixth
Regiment, Pennsylvania Infantry, during the
Spanish-American War, 1898, but he finally finished
educational preparation and secured his first im-
portant position as manager of the electric station
of the Baltimore & Ohio railroad in Philadelphia,
Pennsylvania. From Philadelphia he went to the
Wayne Iron & Steel Company in Pittsburgh, Penn-
sylvania, coming thence to the New York, New
Haven & Hartford railroad as superintendent of
their overhead system of wiring between Stamford
and New York City. He remained with that com-
pany until 1914, then came to Groton, Connecticut,
as superintendent of the Groton Water Company in
full charge of the water and electric departments of
the company. His connection with that company
has been mutually pleasant and satisfactory and still
continues (1920). Mr. Gorman is a member of the
American Institute of Electrical Engineers of New
York; Union Lodge, No. 31, Free and Accepted
Masons; Union Chapter, No. 7, Royal Arch Masons,
all of New London; is an Independent in politics,
and an attendant of Groton Baptist Church.
Mr. Gorman married, in June 1902, Hattie B.
Russell, of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, daughter of
William and Annie (Hull) Russell. Mr. and Mrs.
Gorman are the parents of three children: Vera,
Helen, and Florence. The family home is in
Groton, Connecticut,
JAMES COOPER— Holding a leading position
in one of the principal manufacturing plants at
Mystic, Connecticut, and also active in the public
life of the town, James Cooper is representative
of that group of men who have transplanted Old
World beginnings to American soil, and are now
a vital part of industrial progress in this country.
Mr. Cooper is a son of Thomas and Esther
(Styan) Cooper. Thomas Cooper was born in
Pontifract, England, this town now being known
as Pomfret. He received a thorough education in
the National schools of that country, and was a
farmer all his life in England. He died in 1880,
and his wife died in 1908, both in England. They
were the parents of twelve children, of whom
four are now living: Elizabeth, who resides in
England; Jane, who became the wife of William
Crowe, also living in England; John S., who mar-
ried Martha Hopkinton, and resides in Hartford,
Connecticut; and James, of whom further.
James Cooper was born in Huddersfield, Eng-
land, August 29, 1859. He received his education
in the National schools of his native land, there-
after making a thorough study of the manufacture
of woolen fabrics. He worked in various famous
mills in England, becoming highly efficient in his
chosen line, then came to the United States about
1801. Here he located in Rockville, Connecticut,
and entered the employ of the Hockanum Mills,
Incorporated, having charge of the yarn depart-
ment. But Mr. Cooper was not to remain long
224
NEW LONDON COUNTY
in any subordinate position. He was trained for
large interests, and in 1898 the opportunity
offered. He became associated with the Mystic
Manufacturing Company, Incorporated, as secre-
tary-treasurer and director, and also as superin-
tendent of the production branch of this company's
plant. In his work here he has displayed the ability
which makes for progress in any line of endeavor,
and the business has gone forward constantly. He
has been president of the Mystic Real Estate and
Building Company, from the time it was incor-
porated to the present time (1921).
Mr. Cooper was long since sought for public
service, and although his time is largely absorbed
by his business interests, he has done construc-
tive work on the school committee. He was for
eight years a member of the committee, and for
four years chairman of the school committee for
the town of Stonington, Connecticut. He is serv-
ing as chairman of the local Red Cross, and for
the past three years has been a member of the
board of directors of the Village Nursery Asso-
ciation, also a member of the board of directors of
Mystic Community House. Fraternally Mr. Cooper
is prominent. He is a member of Charity and
Relief Lodge, Free and Accepted Masons, of Mystic,
and is a member of Stonington Lodge, No. 26, of
Mystic, in which order he holds the office of past
noble grand. He has been on the Grand Officers'
Staff for four years, now grand marshal.
Mr. Cooper married (first), in England, Lillian
Mclntagart, of England, and they were the par-
ents of three children: Ethel, who became the
wife of Edgar Blinm, and now resides in Middle-
bury, Vermont; Frank S., who married Mary Kul-
berg, and resides in Pearl River, New York; and
Lillian, now the wife of Hollie Price, of Mystic.
The first Mrs. Cooper died in England. On May
I, 1899, Mr. Cooper married (second), in Rock-
ville, Connecticut, Lillian Norris, of that city.
They have five children: Marion, Mildred, Norris,
Esther, deceased ; and Esther ; the four living now
residing at home. The family are members of the
Congregational church.
JOHN V/ILLIAM McDONALD— The McDon-
ald^ of Mystic, Connecticut, descend from William
McDonald, a prosperous farmer of Prince Edward
Island, a maritime province of Canada, and there
Donald McDonald was born and spent his boyhood
days. He was a pump maker and a ship carpenter,
and spent his youth and early manhood engaged at
his trade in his native land. In 1852 he came to the
United States, locating in Hoboken, New Jersey,
and later lived in Newport, Rhode Island, working
at his trade in both cities. Later he moved to
Mystic, Connecticut, and was employed in the
Greenman Shipyard. After a time he formed a part-
nership with Samuel Colborn; they worked in the
Mallory Yard and took contracts for certain por-
tions of a vessel. In Mystic he married Alice Sut-
ton, of Liverpool, England, who died April 17, 1903.
Donald McDonald died in Mystic in 1872. They
were the parents of six children: Barbara, married
Joseph W. Noble, of Mystic, Connecticut; she is
now deceased and left a daughter Jennie; John
William, of further mention; Charles Richard, died
aged twenty years; Sarah, Alice, and Lizzie, who
died young.
John William McDonald, eldest son of Donald
and Alice (Sutton) McDonald, was born in Mystic,
Connecticut, October 20, 1857. After finishing his
public school studies, he worked four years learn-
ing the carriage trimmer's trade, and from that time
he has been engaged in some form of commercial
enterprise. For five years he was in the grocery
business with Samuel S. Brown, then for ten j'ears
was a partner with J. W. Noble in the meat busi-
ness, trading as Noble & McDonald. At the end of
that period he sold out to his partner, but a year
later bought control of the same business and con-
ducted it alone for five years. In all these business
enterprises he was successful and prosperous, but
it was not until 1903 that he settled down to a per-
manent business. On April i, 1903, he bought the
Morgan Ice Company from its then owner, Elijah
A. Morgan, and conducted the same for three years.
Mr. McDonald married, June 25, 1885, Adelaide
A. Hopkins, daughter of George O. Hopkins, who
was principal of Mystic public schools for fifteen
years. Mr. and Mrs. McDonald are members of
the Congregational church, he being church treas-
urer, and a member of the Knights of Pythias.
They are the parents of four children, all born in
Mystic, Connecticut: i. Sarah E., a distinguished
nurse of the American Expeditionary Force, who
for bravery was awarded the Distinguished Service
Cross. In 1916 she was graduated from the Presby-
terian Hospital of New York City, a trained nurse.
She enlisted. May 14, 1917, with the unit which
went out from the Presbyterian Hospital, headed
by Dr. Brewer, and went to France as part of the
American Expeditionary Force. That unit was sta-
tioned at Base Hospital No. 2, and when it was
later destroyed by German shell fire. Miss McDon-
ald displaj-ed such heroism under fire that she was
personally decorated with the Distinguished Service
Cross by General John J. Pershing. The unit to
which she belonged was a part of the 42nd Divi-
sion, and Miss McDonald with the unit was mus-
tered out of the United States service at the Presby-
terian Hospital, New York, February 19, 1919. She
is a member of William Morgan Post, American
Legion, of Mystic. She married, April 21, 1919,
Captain Raymond M. Holmes, who during the war
period, 1917-1918, was supervisor of gas mask manu-
facture in Astoria, Long Island. 2. Alice A., re-
sides with her parents in Mystic. 3. Barbara, a
teacher in Dr. Taylor's School for the Deaf and
Dumb in New York City. 4. Ruth W., a musician,
graduate of Connecticut College of Music, New
London, now a special student under Professor
Frederick Weld, of New York, he professor in the
Connecticut College of Music.
BIOGRAPHICAL
225
WILLIAM SAMUEL WALBRIDGE, a promi-
nent figure in business life in Mystic, where he has
resided since 1914, is active also in political and
public affairs in the various towns in which he has
lived since reaching manhood, and he has always
had uppermost in his mind the welfare and ad-
vancement of the communities, and since coming
to old Mystic has continued to give his earnest
support to all measures calculated to advance busi-
ness development.
William Samuel Walbridge was born April 8,
1868, in Ashford, Connecticut, the son of the late
Leander and Emily (Baker) Walbridge, both na-
tives of Ashford. Leander Walbridge attended the
district school of Ashford, and upon reaching young
manhood turned his attention to agricultural pur-
suits and followed this vocation throughout his
entire lifetime in his native town of Ashford. He
eventually retired and moved to Stafford, Tolland
county, where he died in 1904. His wife died in
Old Mystic in 1915. Mr. and Mrs. Walbridge were
the parents of eight children, William Samuel, of
further mention, being the sixth child.
William Samuel Walbridge went to school in
Ashford, and then entered upon his business career,
his first employment being in a grocery store in
Staffordville, Connecticut, where he remained for
twelve years, subsequently going to Stafford, where
he owned and managed a grocery store for eighteen
years. In 1914 he came to Old Mystic, Connec-
ticut, and again established himself in the same line
of business, in which he has since continued. He
was highly successful in this venture, and within
a short time rose to a place of prominence in busi-
ness circles here.
When but a young man, Mr. Walbridge entered
the political arena and for sixteen years was regis-
trar of voters in the town of Stafford, Tolland
county, where he was also selectman for many
years. He has also been registrar of voters, justice
of the peace and notary public of the town of
Stonington, New London county, Connecticut. In
1912-1913 he represented the town of Stafford in
the State Legislature, and since 1917 has been post-
master of Old Mystic. He has always had a genius
for politics and for public service, and is a Demo-
crat in National and local issues. Mr. Walbridge
fraternizes with the Free and Accepted Masons,
being a member of Walcott Lodge, No. 60, of Staf-
ford, and in religion is a Methodist, being an at-
tendant and ardent supporter of the church of this
denomination in Mystic.
In Stafford, Connecticut, William Samuel Wal-
bridge married, July 25, 1887, Lenora May Whitney,
daughter of James and Mary (Chadwick) Whitney.
Mr. and J.Irs. Walbridge are the parents of four
children: i. William Earl, who was the first man
from the town of Groton, Connecticut, to offer his
services to the Government for service in the
World War, and served for eighteen months in
France with the 20th United States Engineers. 2.
Richard Edmund, who served in the World War as
a member of the Ordnance Department; married
N.l,.— 2.15.
Maud Lacomb; resides in Old Mystic, Connecticut.
3. Florence May. 4. Esther Amy.
HOWARD A. EDGCOMB, senior member of the
firm of Edgcomb & Poppe, dealers in men's furnishings
in Groton, Connecticut, is a native of this community,
his birth having occurred August 14, 1869. His father,
Roswell S. Edgcomb, is also a native of Groton, and
now lives retired here in his eighty-sixth year, after
having served the community well both as a public and
private citizen. Mr. Edgcomb, Sr., married Frances
Ashby, who died in 1874, and to them were born five
children, only two of whom are still living: Howard
A., of further mention; Roswell, who married Nellie
Richards.
The education of Howard A. Edgcomb was obtained
in the public schools of Groton. After completing his
education he worked in various stores in the capacity
of clerk, but being of an ambitious nature, this was not
to his liking, as he had a keen desire to establish him-
self in business, so with a small capital in 1893 he
opened a store of men's furnishings in Groton and
thus continued successfully until 191 1, when he sold
this business and became a partner with Irving H.
Poppe under the firm name of Edgcomb & Poppe, which
has become highly successful. Mr. Edgcomb is well
known in the business world of Groton, highly re-
spected for the fairness of his dealings, and universally
recognized as a man whose judgment in matters of busi-
ness might be readily followed.
In politics Mr. Edgcomb is a Republican, and has
always taken an active part in the affairs of the local
organization, having been auditor of the town's accounts
for several years, and in the year 1920 was elected to
the House of Representatives. His Masonic member-
ship is found in Union Lodge, No. 31, Free and Ac-
cepted Masons; Union Chapter, No. 7, Royal Arch Ma-
sons, of New London ; Gushing Council, No. 4, Royal
and Select Masters; Palestine Commandery, No. 6,
Knights Templar, of which he is a past commander;
Pyramid Temple, Nobles of the Mystic Shrine, of
Bridgeport, Connecticut; and Norwich Valley Consis-
tory, Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite. He is also affili-
ated with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Fair-
view Lodge, of Groton, of which he is past noble grand,
and in religion is a Baptist.
Mr. Edgcomb married (first), in i8g8, Nellie Whiting,
a native of Mystic, Connecticut; she died in Groton, in
1903. To them was born one child, Viola, who mar-
ried Ellas Chapman. Mr. Edgcomb married (second),
Helen J. Allen, of Groton; she died in 1909, and to them
was born one child, Allen A., who was a student at
Brown University, and who died June 19, 1921. He
married (third) Mathilda Denison, of Groton, in 1912.
There is no issue.
FRANCIS ARCHIE LAMBERT, owner and
manager of The Sanitary Laundry, Old Mystic. Con-
necticut, is reckoned among the younger generation of
successful business men of this community, for although
having been established in business but a comparatively
short time he has already attained success which might
226
NEW LONDON COUNTY
well he the envy of a much older man.
Augustus Lambert, father of Francis Archie Lam-
bert, was born in Marcelle, Province of Quebec, Can-
ada. At the age of nine years he came to this country
with his parents, and located in Slatersville, Rhode
Island, where he completed his education. He then
secured employment in a woolen mill in Slatersville,
where he learned the trade of spinning, and subsquently
became overseer of spinning in the woolen mill. In IQ03
he retired from active business life, and now lives
retired at Old Mystic, Connecticut. Mr. Lambert married
Rose Marcelle, a native of Stafford, Connecticut, and
to them have been born two children : Francis Archie,
of further mention; Raymond H., who was born July
l6, 1902.
Francis Archie Lambert was born in Stafford, Con-
necticut, July 19, 1892. He obtained his education in
the public schools of Mystic, Connecticut, where his
parents removed when he was very young. After com-
pleting his studies he served an apprenticeship to the
machinist's trade with J. W. Lathrop Company, of
Mystic, Connecticut. In 1917 his ambition having di-
rected him to private enterprise, he organized The Sani-
tary Laundry in Old Mystic, and still continues in this
with consistently increasing success. He attributes his
progress in his occupation to the strict attention which
he has always given his business and all its numerous
details. In the civic affairs of his community and State
he holds an intense interest, and is accounted a stead-
fast member of the Democratic party. In his religious
views he is a Roman Catholic, member of St. Patrick's
Church, of Mystic.
CAPTAIN CHARLES HERBERT WOLFE—
Inheriting from his father a love of the sea, and being
brought up from his boyhood to follow it for a liveli-
hood, Charles Herbert Wolfe has sailed all over the
world, rounding Cape Horn eight different times, sail-
ing on every ocean known to navigators, and visiting
all the leading ports of entry in every country open to
commerce.
The father of Charles Herbert Wolfe, Captain
Thomas E. Wolfe, was born in Mystic, Connecticut, and
after attending the district school there for a time,
began to sail the high seas, continuing it until the out-
break of the Civil War. At that time his ship was put
into the transport service by the Federal Government,
carrying supplies from New York City to New Orleans,
Louisiana, he being captain of the vessel. On one of
these trips his ship was captured by the Confederate
navy, when only a few miles out from New Orleans,
and was burned. Captain Wolfe being taken prisoner
and later was sent to Libby Prison. After remaining
for nearly two years in that dreadful prison, he and
five companions made their escape from it; they were
Albert D. Richardson, a correspondent of the New York
"Tribune"; Junis H. Brown, who was a New York
"Herald" newspaper man, and three others. After the
war was brought to a close, Captain Wolfe went to
Galveston, Texas, and became a State pilot, stationed
in Galveston. In 1876, while acting in that capacity on
a Mallory Line Steamship, of New York, in Galveston
harbor, the ship caught fire and all on board lost their
lives. Thomas E. Wolfe married Frances J. Sawyer,
who was born in Mason Island, Mystic. Captain and
Mrs. Wolfe had six children, as follows: George, who
died in infancy; Eugene, who also died in infancy;
Charles Herbert, of whom further ; Thomas W., who
married Mary Fish, and his death occurred in Mystic;
T. Emma, the wife of Morris Wells, a resident of
Groton, Connecticut; Henry M., who died in infancj*.
Charles Herbert Wolfe was born in Mystic, Connec-
ticut, March 19, 1857. He attended the village school
for a few years, but when twelve years of age left
school to become one of the crew on a fishing smack,
"The Gold Hunter," remaining as such for two years.
When fourteen years old he became ship's boy on the
ship "Bridgewater," of which Charles Sisson was cap-
tain. Young Wolfe then made his first trip around
Cape Horn on a voyage to California, it requiring in
those days six months to make the journey. After this
trip, Mr. Wolfe became third mate on the vessel "Jere-
miah Thompson," and while on this ship in 1877 had
the unpleasant experience of being struck by a tidal
wave caused by an earthquake, while at anchor off the
coast of Peru, South America. In 1878 Charles Herbert
Wolfe became first mate on the "George Moon," the
last of the square-rigged ships to be built at Mystic.
For ten years he continued on this vessel, the last three
years being captain of it. From 1888 until 1893, Cap-
tain W'olfe filled the office of first mate on one of the
Mallory Steamship Line vessels of New York. Captain
Wolfe has never taken an active part in politics, though
he is in political faith a Republican. He is a member
of Charity and Relief Lodge, No. 72, of Mystic, Ancient
Free and Accepted Masons. He is also an attendant of
the Baptist church and one of its supporters.
Charles Herbert Wolfe married in Mystic, April 30,
1883, Bessie Heath, daughter of Reuben and Sarah
(Benjamin') Heath, of Mystic. Mrs. Wolfe is an active
worker and member in the Baptist church, having been
superintendent of the Primary Sunday school for the
past twenty-five years.
STEPHEN ARTHUR BOYLEN, a native of the
Bay State, as were his parents before him, is both by
birth and inheritance a son of rugged New England.
Born in Boston. Massachusetts, April 3, 1882, he is the
son of Alfred F. Boylen, born in Boston, where he was
educated in the public schools, and where he learned
the trade of a tailor, a business which he followed all
his life until a short time ago when he retired from
active participation in work and is living quietly in
Melrose, Massachusetts. His wife was, before her mar-
riage, Sarah Wigglesworth, born in Newburyport, Mass-
achusetts. Of this union seven children were bom, of
whom the second is Stephen Arthur Boylen.
Becoming a pupil in the grammar school in Maiden,
Massachusetts, Stephen A. Boylen acquired a good edu-
cation there and in the high school of Maiden. After
leaving school, he became an apprentice in the jewelry
shop of W. A. Smith, of Melrose, with whom he re-
mained for four years, from 1900 to 1904, and he then
found employment in various jewelry plants in the fol-
BIOGRAPHICAL
227
lowing seven years, a part of the time being engaged
in the extensive works of the Waltham Watch Company,
Waltham, Massachusetts. There he gained an unusually
thorough training in the manufacture and repair of a
watch, becoming an expert in that line. In 1911 Mr.
Boylen decided to go into business for himself. He
removed to Mystic, Connecticut, and bought out the
establishment of Mitchell & Son, where he carried on
a very successful business in that line, still continuing
it up to date. While Mr. Boylen is a member of the
Republican party, he is not greatly interested in political
work and has never held any public office. In religion
he is a member of the Protestant Episcopal church.
At Waltham, Massachusetts, September 22, 1908, Ste-
phen Arthur Boylen was united in marriage with Flo-
rence Stark, a native of that city. She is the daughter
of Frank and Frances (Figg) Stark, residents of Wal-
tham. Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Arthur Boylen make their
home in Groton township, Connecticut.
JAMES FOLEY— One of the active forces in the
growth and development of the town of Mystic, Con-
necticut, is found in the real estate field. Here James
Foley, of this town, is a significant factor, and for the
past few years has been identified with many of the real
estate transactions which have meant progress in the
right direction. Mr. Foley is a son of James and Annie
(McMahon) Foley.
James Foley was born at Rosscommon, Ireland, and
received his education in the National schools of that
country. About 1855, or when the young man was
eighteen years of age, he came to the United States,
locating in Mystic, Connecticut. He quickly found em-
plojTiient in the woolen mills, and throughout his life-
time followed this line of work. He died in Mystic in
1888, his wife surviving him for twenty-two years there-
after. They were the parents of eight children, of
whom five are now living: Charles H., well-known in-
surance agent of Mystic, married Mary E. Smith :
James, whose name heads this review; Margaret, resid-
ing at home; George Henry, a sketch of whose life
follows; and Mary, who also resides at home.
James Foley was born in Mystic, Connecticut, March
8, 1872. Receiving a thoroughly practical education in
the public schools of the town, he entered the business
world in 1890, in the employ of Captain J. H. Hoxie,
then a prominent real estate dealer of Mystic. This
association continued until igi6, the young man gaining
a wide and useful experience, and also becoming a
power in this field. In that year he severed his
connection with the Hoxie office, and went into the real
estate business for himself. He also branched out into
the insurance field, and has developed an important busi-
ness along that line. He now stands among the leading
business men of Mystic, and is held in the highest
esteem by his contemporaries. Politically Mr. Foley
affiliates with the Democratic party. He resides at the
family home in Mystic, and is a member of St. Patrick's
Roman Catholic Church.
GEORGE HENRY FOLEY— Of all the public
responsibilities incident to community life and progress,
that of postmaster is, perhaps, the most exacting, and
in Mystic, New London county, Connecticut, George
Henry Foley is filling this office with marked ability.
He is a son of James and Annie (McMahon) Foley
(q. v.).
George Henry Foley was born in Mystic, Connecticut,
February 29, 1876. Receiving a practical education in
the public schools of the town, he entered the world of
industry in the employ of the Rossie Velvet Mills, where
he remained for sixteen years, v/orking in the weaving
department. In the course of his long residence in
the town of his birth, he became well and favorably
known among his townspeople, and in 1915 was ap-
pointed postmaster of the town of Mystic, which posi-
tion he still fills with marked ability. By political affilia-
tion Mr. Foley is a Democrat, and he is interested in
every phase of the public welfare. He is a member, and
holds the office of trustee, of the Father Murphy Coun-
cil, Knights of Columbus, Mystic. In 1895 he became
an active member of the B. F. Hoxie Engine Company
(Fire Company), was made foreman in 1902, being the
youngest foreman in the history of the company, served
as foreman for two years. He was made an honorary
life member in 1914.
On June 26, 1907, Mr. Foley married Mary L. Kinion,
of Valley Falls, Rhode Island, daughter of Patrick F.
and Catherine (Finnegan) Kinion. Patrick F. Kinion
was born in Valley Falls, Rhode Island, and his wife
was born in Mystic, Connecticut. They were the parents
of six children, Mary L., being the first child. For
many years Mr. Kinion was town clerk of the town of
Cumberland, Rhode Island. Mr. and Mrs. Foley are
the parents of two children: Creorge Henry, Jr., born in
Mystic, July 6, 1908; and Helen, bom in Mystic. June
10, 1912. The family are members of the Roman
Catholic church.
ELMER EDV/IN MILLER, a successful farmer
of the town of Griswold, Connecticut, is well-known
and influential, holding the regard of all men who value
integrity and uprightness. He is a son of Oliver S.
and Sarah A. (Eccleston) Miller, his father bom in
Clinton. Connecticut, his mother in North Stonington,
both now deceased.
Oliver S. Miller grew up at the home farm in Clin-
ton, which was then a fishing village of some note.
Tiring of farm life, he went to sea for a time, but did
not long continue a sailor, life on the farm proving to
him the more attractive. He returned home, and until
1855 was his father's farm assistant. In that year he
bought a farm in the Ashwillett district of the town of
North Stonington, and there spent the remainder of his
life. His farm was heavily timbered, and this he worked
into lumber and ship timber, owning his own saw mill
and marketing his product with the ship builders of
Noank. As his own timber was cut, he bought other
tracts, including the William Bailey and the Dawley
farms, both in the Ashwillett district. He prospered in
228
NEW LONDON COUNTY
both his farm and lumber activities, and continued in
business until his death from a shock, June 6, igi2. His
wife, Sarah A. (Eccleston) Miller, survived hira for two
years, dying at the home of her daughter, Mrs. William
Kilroy, in Bozrah, Connecticut, in 1914. They were
the parents of twelve children, all of whom were born
in North Stoning^ton, except the two eldest, who were
born in Clinton, Connecticut: Avery E., deceased; Sarah
Almira, married Herbert Stark, whom she survives ;
Susan, married Daniel Ferguson, who now owns the
Oliver S. Miller farm in North Stonington ; Everett
Oliver, a fanner of Norwich, Connecticut ; Lillian, de-
ceased wife of William Hull, of Old Mystic ; John, who
was drowned when a lad of twelve ; Stella, wife of
Joseph Wheeler, a farmer of Stonington: Effie, second
wife of William Hull, of Old Mystic; Minnie, wife of
V^lliam Kilroy, of Bozrah ; Rose Belle, wife of Warren
W. Bentley, of Bozrah ; Lydia, died at the age of twenty-
two years ; Elmer Edwin, of further mention.
Elmer Edwin Miller, twelfth child and youngest son
of Oliver Smith and Sarah A. (Eccleston) Miller, was
born at the home farm in North Stonington, New Lon-
don county, Connecticut, April 24, 1873, and obtained
his education in the public schools in his district. He
remained at home, his father's assistant in his farming
and lumbering operations, until 1897, when he moved
to a leased farm in North Stonington, where with his
wife he spent two years. In 1899 he moved to another
leased farm near Glasgow, town of Griswold, and there
remained until 1903, when he rented the Albert Ayer
farm in Preston. Connecticut. He continued a tenant
on that farm until 1908, when he bought the property
which became famous as Sunny Hillside Farm. That
farm of two hundred and sixty-two acres he cultivated
and owned until the last year, 1921, when he sold it
and bought the John Hawkins farm of two hundred
acres in the town of Griswold, where he is now residing.
He devotes his acres to general and dairj' farming, is a
successful breeder of light harness horses, and since
1914 has had at the head of his stud the stallion, "Peter
Agan," 2-1354. the sire of several fast trotters. Mr.
Miller is a well-known county fair exhibitor, his track
and draft horses winning many "blue ribbons," prizes
and purses. He is a man of high standing in his com-
munity, and one of the prosperous and substantial men
of the town. In politics Mr. Miller is a Republican,
and is at present tax assessor. In religious faith he is
a Congregationalist. He is a member of Preston City
Grange ; New London county Pomona, and the Con-
necticut State Grange, Patrons of Husbandry.
Mr. Miller married, in North Stonington, January I,
1895, Sarah Edith Main, born in North Stonington,
daughter of Lester and Thankful (Eccleston) Main.
Mr. and Mrs. Miller are the parents of three children :
I. Everett Avery, born in North Stonington, Connec-
ticut, July 2i. 1897, now engaged in the garage business
ill Jewett City; he enlisted in the Coast Artillery, Con-
necticut National Guard, March 16, 191 7, his command
being reorganized as Battery D, 56th Regiment, United
States Artillery, assigned to the 26th (Yankee) Divi-
sion, and was engaged in the fierce fighting of the
Meuse-Argonne drive and other battles with the Ger-
mans in France. 2. Ruth Ethel, twin with Everett A.,
is a teacher, now connected with the Preston public
schools. 3. Herbert Lester, born in Preston, Con-
necticut, May 24, igo6.
SEYMOUR AARON STODDARD— ?Iolding a
responsible executive position in Mystic, New London
county, Connecticut, Seymour Aaron Stoddard is in one
of the constructive branches of business endeavor. He
is a son of Ichabod and Eliza (Rogers) Stoddard.
Ichabod Stoddard was born in Montville, and received
a practical education in the public schools of that town.
He became a carpenter and contractor, following this
class of work during all of his active life, then retired,
spending his last years in the city of New London,
where he died in 1920. His wife, who was born in Mont-
ville also, still resides in New London. They were the
parents of two children : Myra, who became the wife
of Charles Appley, of New London; and Seymour A.
SejTnour A. Stoddard was born in Montville, Con-
necticut. October 15, 1883. Receiving a thoroughly
practical education in the public schools of the city of
Norwich, he later learned the carpenter's trade with
his father, and followed this trade for a period of ten
years. Then in the year 1915 he went to Mystic, Con-
necticut, where he took charge of the hardware depart-
ment of the Cottrell Lumber Company, of that city. He
found his experience along construction lines valuable
here, and he was by nature fitted for an executive posi-
tion. Thus, as time passed, he became a force for
progress in the business, and upon the death of the
president of this company, Mr. Charles C. Dodge, in
1919, Mr. Stoddard became the manager of the com-
pany, in which capacity he is now engaged. In the
various interests of public and fraternal life, Mr. Stod-
dard is well known. He supports the principles and
policies of the Republican party, although he consist-
ently declines political preferment. He is a member of
the Stonington Lodge, No. 26, of Mystic, Independent
Order of Odd Fellows.
On April 11, 1912, Mr. Stoddard married Artis Z.
Lamb, of Mystic, daughter of Herbert and Louise
(Allen) Lamb, of Mystic. They have one daughter,
Emily Louise, born in M.vstic, June 4, 1920. The fam-
ily are members of the Baptist church, and are active
in the benevolent and social organizations of the church.
WILLIAM FRANKLIN BITGOOD, wagon
manufacturer of Pachaug village, was born in Volun-
town, Connecticut, March 10, 1877, the son of William
H. and Abby (Lewis) Bitgood. William H. Bitgood
was also a native of Voluntown, and there in the district
schools obtained his meagre education. After termi-
nating his studies he engaged in farming and continued
in this occupation on the old homestead throughout his
entire lifetime.
William F. Bitgood attended school until he was
eighteen years of age, when he became a woodsman and
W'Orked for his uncle, Andrew Jackson Bitgood, for
three years, after which he returned to his home and
worked on the farm with his father. Still later he
apprenticed himself to the carpenter's trade and then
BIOGRAPHICAL
229
removed to Hopeville, Rhode Island, where he engaged
in the same business for seven years. In 191 1 he came
to Pachaug, where he established himself as a wagon
manufacturer and blacksmith and has continued thus
engaged ever since that time. Mr. Bitgood has always
interested himself in everj-thing which pertained to civic
welfare, and in politics is a staunch Democrat, taking a
keen and active interest in the affairs of the local organ-
ization. In religion he is a Congregationalist and attends
the church of this denomination in Pachaug.
On June 27, 1896, William Franklin Bitgood was
united in marriage with Susan James, the daughter of
Ezekiel and Mary E. (Barber) James, both natives of
Voluntown. To Mr. and Mrs. Bitgood have been born
four children: i. Harold W., enlisted in August, 1918,
in United States army, sent to Camp Greenleaf, Georgia,
assigned to the 102nd Sanitary Train to France in No-
vember, 1918, and discharged at Camp Upton, Long
Island, July 24, 1919; is now associated in business with
his father. 2. Herman J. 3. Irving E., deceased. 4.
Robert E.
JOHN WILLIAM BIRCHALL— When Mr.
Birchall was transferred to Colchester, Connecticut, as
manager of the Atlantic & Pacific Corporation's local
store he became a resident of the town. This was in
March, 1920, and since then Mr. Birchall has identified
himself with everything pertaining to civic advancement
in Colchester.
John William Birchall was born in Stonington, Con-
necticut, March 29, 1887, the son of William and Mary
(Teevan) Birchall. William Birchall was a native of
Manchester, England, and died May 28, 1916, at Ston-
ington, where he had resided since 1884. He was an
iion moulder by trade. His wife still resides in Ston-
ington. Eight children were born of this union. John
W. Birchall being the second child.
John W. Birchall attended the public schools of New
London, Connecticut, and after completing his educa-
tion at the Bulkeley High School, secured a position
as clerk with the Trumbull Grocery Company at Ston-
ington, Connecticut. He remained with this concern
for seven years and then resigned to become manager
of the New London branch of the Atlantic & Pacific
Corporation. Five years later he was transferred to
his present position, in which he has continued up to
the present time. Active in his business relations and
with a ready courtesy for all, he is a man who is a
conspicuous figure in the business circles of Colchester.
Mr. Birchall is independent in politics, not having iden-
tified himself with any particular party, preferring to
remain free from all partisan influences in the exercise
of his own judgment on public issues. He affiliates with
the Knights of Columbus, and in religion is a Roman
Catholic.
On June 5, 1912, John William Birchall was united in
marriage with Anne Irene Barrett, a native of Queens-
town, Rhode Island. To Mr. and Mrs. Birchall have
been born five children: John Teevan, born May 15,
1913 ; Mary, born January T, 1915, deceased; Joseph,
■born October I, 1916; William Francis, born July 5,
1918; and Edward, deceased.
FREDERICK JACKSON APPLEY— In North
Stonington, Connecticut, one of the most progressive
and up-to-date farmers of New London county is Fred-
erick Jackson Appley, a son of Andrew Jackson and
Marj- Elizabeth (Armstrong) Appley.
Andrew Jackson Appley was bom in Chaplin, Wind-
ham county, Connecticut, in the year 1834. He was a
farmer in that village, and continued active along this
line until the Civil War, when he enlisted in the iSth
Regiment, Connecticut Volunteer Infantry, and served
all through the period of the war. Returning to his
birthplace at the end of the war, he married, and in
1869 he and his wife and infant son, Frederick J., went
West, locating in Lee Summit, Lee county, Illinois, then
a frontier settlement of the West. It was here that the
other three of their four children were born. A few
years later the father suffered a sun-stroke, from the
effects of which he never fully recovered. He died
there on July 3, 1876. Three years later, in 1879, the
widowed mother returned East, with two of her remain-
ing children, one having been lost by an accidental
death. She went to Summit, Rhode Island, where she
purchased a farm. Later she married Warren W.
Moone, another veteran of the Civil War, who died
April 6, 1915. In 1900 the family removed to North
Stonington, Connecticut, and there bought a farm. Later
tliey sold this farm, and bought the present Appley
farm, in 1906, where the two brothers, Frederick J. and
George H., now conduct a large wholesale and retail
dairy business. Mrs. Moone died February 10, 1921.
The children of Andrew Jackson and Mary Elizabeth
(Armstrong) Appley are: Frederick Jackson, of whom
extended mention follows : George Henry, who was born
in Lee Center, Lee county, Illinois, married Cora Maine,
of North Stonington, and is now associated with his
brother on the farm ; Bertie, who was born October 13,
1872, in Lee county, Illinois, and was accidentally
drowned at the age of two years and a half; and Lillian
May, who was born in Lee county, Illinois, January 10,
1875, became the wife of Frank Standley, of Stoning-
ton, Connecticut, March 5, 1907, and has two children,
Clayton F., born September 5, 1910, and Marian Eliza-
beth, born September 3, 1915.
Frederick Jackson Appley was born in Chaplin, Wind-
ham county, Connecticut, April 15, 1868. Removing with
his parents to Illinois, while still a little child, his edu-
cation was gained in the schools of Lee county, that
State. The boy, being eleven years of age when his
mother returned East after his father's death, was
permitted his own choice, which kept him in the West,
with an uncle in Lee county, first in the town of Lee
Center, then later in Franklin Grove, in the same
county. When the lad was seventeen years of age, his
uncle was killed on a hay wagon, and the boy was left
to shift for himself. Remaining in Illinois until he was
eighteen years of age, he came East and joined his
mother in Rhode Island. But the lure of the West was
strong, and he soon returned to the State and county
v/here his boyhood had been spent. There he remained
until 1895, when he came East permanently. Joining
the family in Summit, Rhode Island, he remained with
them, and upon their removal to North Stonington,
230
NEW LONDON COUNTY
Connecticut, he allowed nothing to tempt him away
from the home place. Now for years lie and his brother
George H. have carried on the interests of the farm,
constantly improving the place, building up a fine herd,
and a very large and extensive business. Mr. Appley is
now considered by his townspeople one of the most pro-
gressive farmers of this section. Mr. Appley is a
member of North Stonington Grange, No. 138, Patrons
of Husbandry, and in his relationship to the farming
community through this organization is a vital force for
the upbuilding of the farming interests of the town.
Mrs. Appley died February 10, 1901.
Scotland. Mr. and Mrs. Bavier attend the Congrega-
tional church of Mystic, and are prominent in all its
social and benevolent activities.
EARL STANLEY BAVIER— Ably filling a posi-
tion of responsibility in the community, prominent in
the social and fraternal life of the town, Earl Stanley
Bavier is representative of the broadly useful citizens
whose interests embrace many branches of activity.
Mr. Bavier is a son of Nelson and Sarah (Curtiss)
Bavier. Nelson Bavier was born in Newark, New Jer-
sey, and there received his education in the public
schools. Thereafter, he became interested in the manu-
facture of hardware, and has followed this general line
up to the present time. For several years he was super-
intendent of the New Haven Clock Company at their
New Haven plant. He is now located at Chatham, Con-
necticut, where he is a manufacturer of various kinds
of hardware. His wife was born in Waterbury, Con-
necticut, and is a daughter of Captain Lucius Curtiss, a
soldier of the Civil War. Mrs. Bavier's mother, Mary
(Cleveland) Curtiss, was a sister of ex-President
Grover Cleveland. Mr. and Mrs. Bavier are the parents
of four children, three sons and one daughter : Nelson,
Jr., now city engineer of Hartford, Connecticut, who
married Olive Reeves; Isabelle, who became the wife of
Herbert S. Bush, and is a resident of New Haven;
George H., now of Boston, who is assistant to the presi-
dent of the Boston & Maine railroad, and an important
figure in New England railway circles, and married
Maude Vv'hite ; and Earl Stanley, of whom further.
Earl Stanley Bavier was born in New Haven, Con-
necticut, on January 28, 1884. He received his early
education in the public schools of that city, then com-
pleted his studies at the Baypath Institute, of Spring-
field, Massachusetts. In 1898 he became associated with
his father in the office of his factory, remaining until
1901. In that year he entered the employ of the New
York, New Haven & Hartford railroad, in their New
Haven offices, later becoming inspector of stations,
which position carried him to all points on the lines in
the control of this company. In 1914 he was sent to
Mystic, Connecticut, to reorganize the station manage-
ment, later becoming agent at this station. He still acts
in that capacity, and has become a well-known figure
in the life of the town, as well as in his official capacity.
Politically, Mr. Bavier is a supporter of the principles
of the Democratic party, although he has never accepted
political preferment of any kind. He is a member of
the American-Asiatic Society of New York City.
On October 10, 1908, Mr. Bavier married Isabelle
Drysdale, of Westerly, Rhode Island, daughter of Rob-
ert and Mary (MacCracken) Drysdale, both natives of
JOHN JEFFREY HERBERT, the popular and
energetic automobile dealer of Norwich, Connecticut, is
a native of New London county, and has been well-
known in business circles of this vicinity ever since his
education was completed.
Mr. Herbert is a son of Jonas L. and Lillian E.
(■Jeffrey) Herbert, of Voluntown, Connecticut. Jonas
L. Herbert was born in Whiting, Vermont, and was
educated in the public schools of the city of Quebec,
Canada. In 1885 he came to the United States, and
located at Voluntown, in New London county, Connecti-
cut. There he bought out the general store, and has
continued in this business until the present time, be-
coming one of the leading men of the town. His wife
v.as born in Westerly, Rhode Island, and they are the
parents of four children.
John Jeffrey Herbert was born in Glasgo, New Lon-
don county, Connecticut, on May 24, 1893. He received
his early education in the district schools of Voluntown,
then entered the Norwich Free Academy, from which
he was graduated in the class of 1912. With this prac-
tical preparation for the battle of life he became his
father's assistant at the store in Voluntown, where he
gained the experience which is now of real benefit to
him. He remained with his father until 1919, when he
came to Norwich, and bought out the Charles S. Peck-
ham Garage. He has been most successful from the
first, and is now considered one of the foremost men
in the automobile world of New London county. He
handles the Maxwell and Chalmers cars, and has a very
complete stock of automobile supplies of every descrip-
tion. Although a comparatively short time has elapsed
since his entering this field, he has become a power
therein, and is forging ahead to an enviable position
in the trade.
Mr. Herbert is alert to every phase of civic and in-
dustrial progress, a Republican by political choice, but
caring little for the political game. He is a member of
the Loyal Order of Moose, of Norwich, and of the
Foresters of America.
On August 24, 1916, Mr. Herbert married Eva L.
Dawley, daughter of George B. and Anna (Briggs)
Dawley, of Plainfield, Connecticut, and they have one
son, John Jeffrey. Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Herbert are mem-
bers of the Methodist Episcopal church.
WILLIAM HENRY BUCKLEY— In the busy
manufacturing community of Baltic, Connecticut, Wil-
liam Henry Buckley holds an important executive posi-
tion, being superintendent of the extensive cotton tex-
tile plant of the Baltic Mills Company.
Mr. Buckley is a son of William H. and Mary E.
(Newton) Buckley, both of whom were born in Eng-
land. William H. Buckley was born in Manchester, Eng-
land, and was educated there. During the greater part
of his life he was an exporter of textile machinery,
having entered that line of business in 1876. He died
in Elngland, in 1914, at the age of seventy-eight years.
BIOGRAPHICAL
231
His first wife, Mary E. (Newton) Buckley, died in
England, in 1875, at the age of twenty-seven years. He
married (second) Eliza Ogilvic, also born in England.
The children of the first marriage numbered three, and
are as follows: James N., now a resident of Man-
chester, England, and prominent in the insurance busi-
ness in that city, who married Nellie Tippets, of Man-
chester; William Henry, of whom further; and Fred-
erick Charles, who married Sarah Fielding, of Man-
chester, England, both being now deceased.
William Henry Buckley was born in Manchester,
England, on September 28, 1868. He received a thor-
ough education in the National schools of that country,
then served an apprenticeship in the manufacture of
textile machinery, covering a period of seven years.
This placed him among the experts in his line, and
after working several years in the employ of Piatt
Brothers, of Oldham, England, he entered the installa-
tion field, becoming an erection engineer. This was in
1890, and he set up textile machinery in many different
parts of the world. In igoo Mr. Buckley placed ma-
chinery for the same plant of which he is now super-
intendent, the Baltic Mills Company. Then for two
years thereafter he continued along the line of erec-
tion engineer. In 1902 he became superintendent of the
Coosa Manufacturing Company, of Piedmont, Alabama.
Two years later he was induced to accept the position
of superintendent for the plant of Thomas Henry &
Sons, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, then from 1908
until 191 1 he acted as superintendent for the Cornwall
& York Company, of St. John, New Brunswick. With-
out exception these plants were cotton mills.
In 191 1 Mr. Buckley, with this broad and compre-
hensive experience behind him, came to Baltic, Con-
necticut, as superintendent for the Baltic Mills Com-
pany. He has been most successful in this connection,
and has carried the standard of production to the high-
est point. For ten years he has held this position, with
ever increasing efficiency, and stands among the big men
in the textile industry in this county.
Mr. Buckley has few interests outside his business,
and is an influential member of the Southern New
England Textile Association. Politically, he throws his
influence on the side of the Republican party, although
he has always declined political honors. He is a regular
attendant upon the services of the Baptist church.
On June 8, 1894, Mr. Buckley married Margaret A.
Parks, daughter of John and Mary (Wetherell) Parks,
of Ireland, and they have one daughter, Mary Ellen,
born in Portadown, Ireland. Miss Buckley was gradu-
ated from the Connecticut College for Women, of New
London, in the class of 1919, with the degree of Bachelor
of Science. She is now engaged as an instructor in
drawing.
activity wonderfully well. William R. Cromwell is a
son of Ira R. Cromwell, born in Mystic, Connecticut,
who has spent his adult life as a carpenter and builder.
He married Lillian B. Brown, who was born in Mystic.
William R. Cromwell was born in Mystic, Connecticut,
August 23, 1881, and there was educated in the public
schools and Mystic Valley Institute. Later he learned
the machinist's trade, then went with his father and
learned the carpenter's trade, finally becoming his fore-
man. He continued in that line of activity until 1920,
when he bought the general store at Poquonock Bridge,
which he now conducts. He is a Republican in politics;
a member of Fairview Lodge, No. lOl, Independent
Order of Odd Fellows, of Groton ; Dolgeville Lodge,
No. 796, Free and Accepted Masons; and of the Mystic
Baptist Church. During the World War, 1917-18, he
served with the State Guard.
Mr. Cromwell married, January 2, 1901, at Old Mystic,
Connecticut, Julia E. Maine, of Ledyard. Connecticut,
daughter of Leeds and Sarah (Holdredge) Maine.
Mr. and Mrs. Cromwell are the parents of two children:
Lewis Maine, born in Mystic, Connecticut, July 28,
1905; Mae Arline, bom in Mystic, July 15, 1912.
WILLIAM RYAN CROMWELL— Now a gen-
eral merchant at Poquonock Bridge, town of Groton,
New London county, Connecticut, Mr. Cromwell is
showing his versatility of talent, for he has given the
preceding years of his life to mechanical occupations.
He bought the James Fletcher general store at Poquon-
ock Bridge in 1920 and is succeeding in his new field of
CHARLES HENRY SMITH— Success in any
chosen line of work is the direct result of perseverance,
energy and ability, coupled with a sincere desire to per-
form all duties in the best manner possible, and these
qualities are manifest in large measure in the person of
Charles H. Smith, a resident of Noank, Connecticut,
his native town.
Oliver R. Smith, father of Charles H. Smith, was
born in the town of Eastford, Connecticut, April 15,
1821, and died in Noank, in 1913. He was reared in his
native town, educated in the common schools of that
day, and upon attaining a suitable age to earn his own
livelihood, turned his attention to the pursuits pertain-
ing to the sea, making whaling voyages u-hich covered
periods of from two to three years, sailing from the
port of Mystic, Connecticut. Although he met with a
fair degree of success in this enterprise, he only con-
tinued in it up to the year 1850, when twenty-nine
years of age, then changing his place of residence to
Noank, Connecticut, where he engaged in an entirely
different pursuit, that of shoemaking, so continuing for
the remainder of his active career. During his long
life of ninety-two years he witnessed many changes in
the manners and customs of people, in the rapid growth
and increase of population in towns and cities, and in
various improvements along many lines, all of which
added to the comfort and pleasure of humanity. Mr.
Smith married Lucy E. Perkins, daughter of Noyes
Perkins, who also attained an honorable old age, and
who bore him four children: John, died at the age of
two years; Charles Henry, of further mention; Wil-
liam Chester, a resident of Noank; and Jennie, who
became the wife of John N. Porter, of Noank. Mr. and
Mrs. Smith were members of the Baptist church of
Noank, in the work of which they took an active
interest.
Charles Henry Smith was born in the Moses Ashbey
house, near the Cove, Noank, Connecticut, September
232
NEW LONDON COUNTY
10, 1851. He obtained a practical education by attend-
ance at the public schools of Noank, and his first occu-
pation was as clerk in the store conducted by Mr. Fitch,
where he remained one year, then entered the employ
of W. W. Latham, in whose service he remained for
two years. In i86g, deciding to learn the trade of
boat building, he served a three years' apprenticeship
with Jeremiah Davis, an expert in his line, then began
business on his own account in the mold loft at the
Palmer yard, where he built all kinds of fishing boats
and yachts. In 1875 he erected a shop on land which
later became the property of Mr. Palmer, where he suc-
cessfully plied his trade until the fall of iSgS, when he
erected a shop and put in a marine railway on the
Potter property at Noank; this pulls out fifty-foot boats.
His location is excellent for wintering boats, and in
addition to building boats he does a general repair
business, yachts and other seafaring craft being brought
to him for thorough overhaulings. His workmanship is
of the best, the materials used being thoroughly in-
spected, and the success he has acliieved is well merited.
For many years Mr. Smith has taken an active interest
in public life, representing the town of Groton in 1891
and in 1895 in the Legislature, serving on the Fish and
Game Committee, and again from 1919 to 1921. From
1911 to 1921 he has served as a county commissioner.
He is a Republican in politics.
ATr. Smith married, November 16, 1872, Mary E.
Potter, born August 5, 1845, died June 9, 1905, daughter
of Joseph and Mary (Fowler) Potter, of Noank. grand-
daughter of Joseph and Mercy (Burrows) Potter, great-
granddaughter of Thomas Potter, and great-great-
granddaughter of William Potter, who emigrated to this
country in 1784.
On February 8, 1902, Mr. Fort married Ann Frances
Fort, of Colne, England. She is the daughter of John
and Margaret (Mitchell) Fort, residents of England.
Two children have been born of this marriage: Con-
stance M., and Margaret F., both born in England. Mr.
and Mrs. Fort are members of the Protestant Episco-
pal church of Stonington.
ALBERT FORT is the son of English parents,
although his father. Hartly Fort, was a native of Gla.';-
gow, Scotland, where he grew up to manhood and where
he was educated in the public schools. Later he went
to Lancaster, England, and became overseer of the
spinning department in a cotton mill there, following
this calling for the remainder of his life. His wife was
Mary (Thompson) Fort, who died in 1877, Mr. Fort
dying in 1905. Seven children were bom to them, Albert
Fort being the youngest.
Born in Lancaster, England, September 4, 1877, Albert
Fort acquired his education in the English schools, after
which he took up the study of electrical engineering.
In 1899 Mr. Fort came to the United States, but after
spending a year here he returned to his home in Eng-
land, remaining there until June, igo8, when he again
came to this country, locating in New Bedford, Massa-
chusetts, with his family. Becoming engaged in his
profession, Mr. Fort was occupied in various places in
electrical engineering and wiring. In 1917 he left
Massachusetts, and coming to Stonington, Connecticut,
he opened a store for the sale of electrical supplies and
entered into general electrical contracting. He has been
very successful and is still engaged in that business.
Mr. Fort is a member of Asylum Lodge, No. 57. Free
and Accepted Masons, of Stonington, and of the
Ancient Order of United Workmen of the same town.
JEAN BAPTISTE LE CLAIRE— Among the
residents of French-Canadian birth in Jewett City, Con-
necticut, none is more deserving of mention in a
work of this character than the late Jean B. Le Claire,
who gave to the country of his adoption a loyalty not
to be surpassed by any native-born son, a man of
enterprise and public spirit, esteemed by all with whom
he was brought in contact, whether in business, fra-
ternal or social life.
Joseph Le Claire, father of Jean B. Le Claire, was
born at La Presentation, Province of Quebec, Canada,
a descendant of one of the first French settlers of that
section. He was reared and educated in the town of
his birth, spent his entire life there with the exception
of four years spent with his son at Jev.'ett City, gave
his attention to agricultural pursuits, becoming the pos-
sessor of large holdings of land, and his death oc-
curred there in the year 1896. His wife, Zoe (De
Grange) Le Claire, also a native of the Province of
Quebec, bore him six children, as follows : Jean Bap-
tiste. of whom further; Napoleon, Adelia, Francis, Her-
mides, and Jesse, who died in early life.
Jean B. Le Claire was born at La Presentation, Prov-
ince of Quebec, Canada, February 22, 1856. His boy-
hood and early youth were spent in attendance at the
goveniment schools of his native place and in assist-
ing his father with the labor of the home farm. At
the age of sixteen, feeling that the time had come to
depend upon his own resources for a livelihood, and
realizing that the United States offered more oppor-
tunities for advancement than his native land, he
accordingly came here, locating at Putnam, Connecti-
cut, where he secured work in a woolen mill. His next
position was as driver of a bakery wagon, in which
capacity he served until 1886, during which time he
accumulated a small amount of capital, the result of
prudence and thrift. He then took up his residence at
Jewett City, where he engaged in the baking business
and he succeeded so well that at the end of two years
he was in a position to erect a house for his own use
and a bakery, and twelve years later, in 1900, he built
the Le Claire block, where he conducted a branch store,
and in 1910 he established a meat market in connection
with his baking business, deriving a substantial income
from both lines of trade, and these enterprises are con-
ducted at the present time (1920) by members of his
family. In addition to the property above mentioned,
Mr. Le Claire had other parcels of land in different
sections of Jewett City, which have increased in value
during the passing years. He was interested in all
that concerned the welfare of his adopted city, and was
chosen by his fellow-citizens to serve in the office of
tax collector, the duties of which he performed in an
efficient manner for six years, having been elected on
BIOGRAPHICAL
233
the Democratic ticket. He was a member and trustee
of St. Mary's Catholic Church at Jewett City, and held
membership in the Knights of Columbus, of Taftville,
Connecticut, the St. Louis Society, and the St. John
Baptistc Society at Putnam.
Mr. Le Claire married, April 20, 1883, Vittline Quiry,
daughter of Michael and Adelide Quiry, of Putnam,
the ceremony being performed by Father Vygen. Chil-
dren: Arthur; Albina, who became the wife of Louis
Guillotte of Jewett City ; Alpherie, Eugene, Eudor, Wil-
fred, Hector, and Jean Baptiste, Jr. Three children
died young.
Reeves, of Baltic ; they have an adopted daughter, Rhea
Despathy. The family are members of the Roman
Catholic church.
LOUIS JOSEPH FONTAINE is a familiar figure
in the business world of Norwich. He is a descendant
of one of the old French families who sought refuge
from the horrors of the Revolution by emigrating
to Canada.
Henry Fontaine, father of Louis Joseph Fontaine, was
born in St. Pie, Province of Quebec. He received his
education at the old Convent School in that city. When
he was eighteen years of age the United States was
in the throes of the Civil War, and the young man left
his home and came to this country for the express pur-
pose of taking part in that conflict. He served as a
private in Company D, 8th Regiment, New Jersey
Volunteer Infantry, with honor and distinction. At
the close of the war he came to Connecticut and lo-
cated at Willimantic, where he was employed in the
cotton mills for some years, then removed to Taft-
ville, Connecticut, where he has resided for the past
forty-two years. He is now retired from active busi-
ness, but still hale and hearty. He married Celia
Cloutier, also a native of St. Pie, and they were the
parents of nine children. They celebrated their
golden wedding May 3, 1921.
Louis Joseph Fontaine was born in the town of Baltic,
Connecticut, on March 4, 1872. and is the eldest of the
family. He received his education in the public
schools of the village of Taftville, then at St. Artha-
baska College, at Victoriaville, Province of Quebec,
where he made a special study of the French language.
Then coming to Norwich, he worked for several years
as a clerk in the men's furnishing store of Murphy &
McGarry, finally rising to buyer. In 1904 Mr. Fon-
taine bought a drug store in Baltic, and for ten years
conducted it under the name of the Fontaine Pharmacy.
In 1914 he sold this store, and returning to Norwich,
started in business along the line of real estate and
insurance. He was successful from the first, and has
come to be considered one of the leading men in the
city in the line of insurance, having developed this some-
v/hat more extensively than the other branch of the
business.
Mr. Fontaine resides in the village of Baltic, and is
health officer for the town of Sprague. He is a staunch
supporter of the Republican party, and cliairman of the
Republican Town Committee. He is a charter member
of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. Lodge
No. 430, of Norwich ; a member of the Chamber of
Commerce of Norwich ; and was postmaster of Baltic,
Connecticut, in 1908-12.
Mr. Fontaine married, on June 18, 1901, Rose A.
FREDERICK GEORGE THUMM— Gusfave and
Rosine (Grauer) Thumm, who were married in their
native Wurttemburg, Germany, there resided until 1885,
the father a skilled cabinet maker. The family con-
sisted of seven children, all born in Germany, In 1885
Gustave and Rosine Thumm came with their children
to the United States, locating in Taftville, New London
county, Connecticut, where Gustave Thumm followed
his trade until the failure of his health. He then en-
tered the employ of a wholesale tobacco house as trav-
eling cigar salesman, continuing until his death in Taft-
viile. May 6, 1892.
Mrs. Thumm, after being left a widow, removed to
Norwich, Connecticut, where in 1900 she bought out a
delicatessen store on Franklin street, which her son
Gustave had established in 1896. Her son Frederick G.
became her assistant, and after conducting the store
very successfully for twelve years, Mrs. Thumm sold
the business to him and retired. She died in Norwich,
February 20, 1916, a woman honored, respected and
loved by all who knew her.
Frederick George Thumm, youngest child of Gustave
and Rosine (Grauer) Thumm, was born in Wurttem-
burg, Germany, April 17, 1881, and in 1885 was brought
to Taftville, Connecticut, by his parents. He attended
Taftville public schools until fourteen years of age,
then became a worker in the Ponemah Cotton Mills,
there remaining five years, until 1900. His father died
in 1892. and in 1896 the eldest son of Gustave Thumm
established a delicatessen store in Norwich, which passed
under Mrs. Thumm's management and ownership in
1900.
In the latter year Frederick G. Thumm left Taft-
ville and became his mother's store assistant, and in
1912 purchased the business, Mrs. Thumm then retir-
ing. The Thumm delicatessen store has always been
a successful business enterprise, and is now the larg-
est of its kind in New London county. The goods
sold are of the grade of delicatessen store goods, and
iiiost of them are made by Mr. Thumm or under his
direction. He thoroughly understands the business,
having had the very best of training under an un-
usually capable housewife, his mother, who was
moreover an excellent business woman. Mr. Thumm
is a member of the German Lutheran church, and
in political faith an Independent. He is affiliated
with Somerset Lodge, No. 34, Free and Accepted
Masons; Franklin Chapter, No. 4, Royal Arch Ma-
sons; Franklin Council, No. 3, Royal and Select
Masters; Columbian Commandery, No. 4, Knights
Templar; Sphinx Temple, Ancient Arabic Order Nobles
of the Mystic Shrine; Gardner Lodge, No. 46, Knights
of Pythias, and Norwich Lodge, No. 430. Benevolent
and Protective Order of Elks. He is a member of
Norwich Chamber of Commerce, and bears his part in
making Norwich an attractive place in which to reside.
On June 15. 1905. Frederick G. Thumm married, in
Norwich, Bertha Budzeck, born in Prussia, daughter of
John and Mary Budzeck. Mr. and Mrs. Thumm are
234
NEW LONDON COUNTY
the parents of four children : Emilie Marie, Rudolf
Frederick, Gertrude Bertha, Martha Caroline, all resid-
ing at the family home, No. 128 Broadway, Norwich.
Mr. Thumm's place of business remains at the old stand
it has occupied for a quarter of a century (1896-1921),
No. 40 Franklin street.
LEONARD EUGENE BILL— Prominent in
many activities in Clarks Falls, Connecticut, but best
known as a specialist in fine poultry, Leonard Eugene
Bill is one of the largest and most successful producers
along this line in Eastern Connecticut.
Elisha Bill, grandfather of Leonard E. Bill, was a
leading man and extensive farmer in Griswold, Con-
necticut, in the very early years of the nineteenth cen-
tury. He married Olivet Geer, also of a prominent
family of that day in New London county.
James Leonard Bill, their son, and father of Leonard
E Bill, was born in Griswold, Connecticut, August 16,
1821. He was educated in the district schools near
Pachaug village, then upon completing his studies went
to Griswold and learned the trade of blacksmith. Later
on he went to the ship yards in Mystic, Connecticut, and
Westerly, Rhode Island, where for some years he was
iron worker. Later still he returned to wagon work
and a general line of blacksmithing, and removed to
Canterbury, Connecticut, where he followed his trade.
At length his health failed, and thus he was obliged to
forego heavy work of this nature. He took up farm-
ing, and conducted farming operations in various Con-
necticut towns, spending the last thirty years of his
life with his son, Leonard E., in North Stonington.
There he died July 18, 1913. He married (first) Lucy
A. Maine, daughter of Russell Maine, March 12, 1843.
She died January 29. 1845. He married (second)
Juliette Chapman, daughter of Prentice Chapman, a
member of one of the oldest Pendleton Hill families,
August 22, 1848. She died December 23, 1857. He
married (third) Addie H. Howland, June 23, 1861. They
lived together for more than fifty years, and she now
survives him, residing at the home of her step-son at
Clark's Falls.
Leonard Eugene Bill is a son of James Leonard and
Juliette (Chapman) Bill, and was bom in Canterbury,
Windham county, Connecticut, August 7, 1852. His first
school attendance was on Pendleton Hill, in North
Stonington, as his mother had died in his childhood, and
he was cared for by his grandparents. Later he went
with his father to Chesterfield, Connecticut, and re-
mained there for two years, then still later going to
Old Lyme, Connecticut, and Hopkinton, Rhode Island,
attending the various schools in these towns, completing
his education in the Ashaway, Rhode Island, High
School. He then entered the employ of E. P. Chapman,
as clerk of the general store at Clarks Falls, and re-
mained with Mr. Chapman for a period of nine years.
Developing a good measure of practical business ability,
he took up the life insurance business, and for the fol-
lowing fifteen years was successfully engaged along
this line in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Massachu-
setts.
During this time Mr. Bill purchased the farm in the
town of North Stonington, at Clarks Falls, where he
is now located. In 1902, when he was fifty years of
age, he retired from all business interests, and coming
to this farm permanently established the poultry busi-
ness which is now one of the largest in this part of
the State. He has been most successful, and while
constantly working for utility has also some of the
finest of show stock. His flock of laying hens regu-
larly numbers over one thousand birds. Mr. Bill finds
little time for outside interests, but is always alert to
the questions of the day. Politically he holds an inde-
pendent attitude, making his own decisions and sup-
porting the best man in the field.
On October 25, 1873, Mr. Bill married Ruth Caroline
Babcock, in North Stonington, daughter of Hoxie Perry
and Elizabeth Perry (White) Babcock. Mrs. Bill's
parents were born in North Stonington, and her father
was a farmer and carpenter by trade. Mr. and Mrs.
Bill are the parents of seven children, three of whom
are now living: i. Herbert Perry, born in North Ston-
ington, January 27, 1875 ; married Dora Annabelle
Brown, of North Stonington, and has two children.
Thelma Glendora and Hoxie Babcock, the family now
living in Ashaway, Rhode Island. 2. Allison Maillard,
born in North Stonington, August 30, 1878; now a resi-
dent of Hampton, Virginia, and interested in the hotel
and bakery business; married Alfreta Allison, of
Yonkers, New York. 3. James Bard, born in North
Stonington, April 12, 1888; married Harriet Elizabeth
Congdon, also of this town, and is now conducting a
farm here ; their three children are : Perry Eugene,
James Allison, and Edwin Chapman. One other daugh-
ter, Grace Deista. who married John Main, of Ledyard,
Connecticut, was born in North Stonington, November
3, 1876, and died December 2, 1902, leaving two children:
Ruth Elizabeth and Troy Irving.
LEWIS B. BRAND, of the village of Versailles,
Connecticut, one of the most delightful suburbs of
Norwich, Connecticut, is a New London county man
born and bred, and is a son of Lewis and Bridget
(Shea) Brand, long residents of Bozrahville.
Mr. Brand's father was born in Bozrah, and educated
in the district schools of that town. As a young man
he entered the cotton mill which was located there, and
worked up to the position of overseer of spinning. He
continued along this line until past forty-five years of
age, and is still a resident of the town of Bozrah. His
wife, who was a native of Ireland, died in Bozrahville,
in 1919. They were the parents of six children, of
whom four are living.
Lewis B. Brand was born in Bozrahville, Connecticut,
on October 22, 1869. He received a practical education
in the district schools of the village, then, as a young
man, worked in the cotton mill for a short time. This
work, however, did not appeal to him for a permanent
occupation, and when nineteen years of age he became
clerk in the general store at Fitchville, in the town of
Bozrah. This store he later bought, and conducted from
1912 to 1918, also being postmaster during the greater
part of that time. For the next two years he had
charge of a general store at Norwich town. In 1920
^-t'.
BIOGRAPHICAL
235
he bought the general store at Versailles, and is making
a success of the venture. Well-known throughout this
region, and naturally gifted with business ability, he
is recognized as one of the leading men in this branch
of mercantile activity.
Mr. Brand is interested in every line of public en-
deavor, and politically throws his influence on the side
of the Republican party. He is a member of White
Cross Council, Knights of Columbus, and of Court City
of Norwich, Foresters of America.
Mr. Brand married (first) Annie E. Irwin, of Col-
chester, Connecticut, who died in 1907. They had three
children, of whom two are living: Mary Gertrude, who,
in 1921, attended Yale Summer School; and Annie
Elizabeth, a student at Willimantic Normal School. He
married (second), in 1912, Rose McManus. The family
have always been members of the Roman Catholic
church.
Mr. Rioux married Ellen Gagnon, of Jewett City,
daughter of Francis and Mary (Peletier) Gagnon,
natives of the Province of Quebec. Both families have
always been members of St. Mary's Roman Catholic
Church.
THOMAS ALPHONSE RIOUX— The success
which comes through industry and thrift is that success
which makes for the public prosperity as well as for
individual gain. It is in such manner that Thomas
Alphonse Rioux, the Jewett City, Connecticut, tailor,
has placed himself among the most successful men in
this progressive and prosperous New London county
town.
Mr. Rioux is a native of Canada, and came to this
country in 1883. He is a son of Francis and Elionas
(Dumont) Rioux, both natives of the town of Trois
Pistoles, in the Province of Quebec, Canada. Francis
Rioux was an industrious farmer, and spent his entire
life in agricultural pursuits in the town of his birth,
and died there, in 1893. His wife also was born and
died there, she surviving him for two years. They were
the parents of nine children, of whom Thomas Alphonse
was the seventh.
Thomas Alphonse Rioux was born in Trois Pistoles,
Province of Quebec, Canada, on August 9, 1863. He
received a thorough education in the parochial schools
of the town, then served an apprenticeship as tailor.
When he was twenty years of age he came to the
United States, locating in Boston. There he worked as
a tailor, and from time to time worked in different
places, going wherever good opportunities offered, and
gaining a wealth of excellent experience. At length, m
1897, fourteen years after his first coming to Boston,
Mr. Rioux settled permanently in Jewett City. He
opened a men's tailoring shop, thereby establishing the
only place of the kind in the town. The lack of com-
petition, however, detracted not one whit from the
progressive methods by which Mr. Rioux has conducted
this business. He keeps in touch with the latest modes,
and the work he turns out is of metropolitan style and
workmanship. His shop would do credit to any large
city, and the success which has attended his efforts is
shown by the fact that he is located in the Rioux block,
a structure which is an ornament to the town.
Mr. Rioux is prominent in the social and public life
of the town. Politically, he is affiliated with the Re-
publican party, and he is a member of the St. James
Club, of Jewett City.
CHARLES HOPE— .After a varied business ex-
perience in different lines of activity, Mr. Hope finally
.settled in the position which he has now filled for
twelve years, 1909-1921, agent for the Central Vermont
Railroad in Montville, Connecticut. He is of English
parentage, his father, John Charles Hope, a native of
Truro in Cornwall, England, and son of Joseph and
Elizabeth (Anear) Hope. John Charles Hope came to
the United States, settled in Montville, Connecticut, and
tiiere for half a century was employed in the woolen
mills. He married Elizabeth Arundel Anear, who died
in Montville, aged sixty-six; he in 1911, aged seventy-
six. One of their sons, Frederick Joseph Hope, a
merchant of Montville, married Helen May Skinner.
Another son, Charles, is the principal character of this
review.
Charles Hope was born in Montville, New London
county, Connecticut, October 14, 1867. He there at-
tended the public schools. He completed his studies at
New London Business College, and while attending that
institution began his business career as a bookkeeper in
the C. M. Robertson Paper Mills in Montville. After
leaving business college, he entered the office employ of
the Central Vermont Railroad in New London, there
lemaining until entering the employ of C. D. Boss &
Son, cracker manufacturers of New London, remaining
with that company five years as foreman of the packing
department of the factory, a department there employ-
ing two hundred and twenty-five girls. For nine years
after leaving the Boss Company, Mr. Hope was in the
employ of the Metropolitan Life Insurance Company,
New London, resigning in igog to become station agent
in Montville for the Central Vermont Railroad, carry-
ing with it the agency for the American Railway Ex-
press Company and other railroad allied businesses. In
politics Mr. Hope is a Republican, and in religious pref-
erences a Methodist. He is the third oldest member (in
point of years of membership) of Oxoboxo Lodge, No.
116, Free and Accepted Masons, of Montville, a past
master of that lodge, and for a quarter of a century
past down to the present has been its secretary. He is
also a companion of Franklin Chapter, Royal Arch
Masons, of Norwich, Connecticut ; a Cryptic Mason of
Norwich Council. Royal and Select Masters; a Sir
Knight of Columbian Commandery. Knights Templar,
of Norwich; and a thirty-second degree Mason of the
Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite. He is also a Noble of
Sphinx Temple, Ancient Arabic Order Nobles of the
Mystic Shrine, of Hartford.
Mr. Hope married, in Norwich, Connecticut, Sep-
tember 28, 1896, Charlotte Isabelle Bolles, born in
Uncasville, Connecticut, daughter of Jared and Clarissa
(Comstock) Bolles, her father, Jared Bolles, for many
years a United States mail carrier. Both parents are
now deceased. Mr. Hope is one of the progressive,
public-spirited men of the village, a good business man.
236
NEW LONDON COUNTY
standing high in the regard of his company, and a good
citizen, holding the confidence and esteem of his towns-
men who have known him from his earliest days.
HENRY ALBERT ADAMS— One of the ener-
getic men of New London county, serving the
needs of the motoring public in the line of auto-
mobile accessories, is Henry Albert Adams, of
Baltic, in the town of Sprague, Connecticut.
Mr. Adams is of English parentage, the son of
John and Elizabeth (Lawton) Adams. His father,
who is now seventy-three years of age, was born in
Devonshire, England. There were two sons, Mr.
Adams' brother being John Nelson Adams. He
married Dorothy Harrold, and resides in Hanover,
Connecticut.
Henry Albert Adams was born in Hanover, Con-
necticut, April 6, 1882. In the public schools of
that town he received a thorough and practical
training for the realities of life, and after some
years' activity in various industrial fields, came to
Norwich, where he opened the present business.
He established this business in 1916. and since that
time has developed it and broadened its scope, until
now, he not only carries on a profitable and pros-
perous business, but handles everything required
by the motorist in the way of accessories. His loca-
tion outside the city, and on a thoroughfare which
is the scene of constant traffic, places him in an
ideal position for the convenience of his patrons;
and his business ability, and the "quality first" rule
of the store arc carrying him rapidly forward on
the road of success.
Mr. Adams finds little leisure, and his interests
outside his business are few. Fraternally he is a
member of the Masonic order Ancient Free and
Accepted Masons. Mount Vernon Lodge, No. 75,
Jewett City, Connecticut ; Franklin Chapter, No. 4,
Norwich, Connecticut, and in political affiliation he
is connected with the Republican party.
He married Edith J. Smith, and they have one
daughter, Elizabeth, born June 11, 1918. Mrs.
Adams is a daughter of Lester and Imogene (Allen)
Smith, of Canterbury, Connecticut.
GEORGE LINTON— For nearly a quarter of a
century on the police force of the city of Norwich,
Connecticut, George Linton is now chief of the
very efficient organization which makes Norwich
one of the most desirable residential cities of the
State.
Chief Linton was born in the town of Griswold,
in New London county, Connecticut, on January
3, 1861. His father, Benjamin Linton, was born in
Londonderry, Ireland, and was educated in the Na-
tional schools of that country. Coming to America
when he was a young man, he located in New
London county, Connecticut. He worked as a rail-
road man all his life, and died in Norwich in 1870.
He married Martha McClure, who was also a native
of Ireland, and she died in Norwich, in 1916. They
were the parents of eight children, of whom four
are now living.
George Linton, son of Benjamin and Martha.
(McClure) Linton, was reared in the city of Nor-
wich, and received his education here in the public
schools. He grew up with the pride of citizenship^
in his heart. As a young man he began life as
an operative in the cotton mills, but he was not
satisfied to live out his life in the factory. Oa
July I, 1886, he was appointed to a position on the
police force of the city. Fully alive to his responsi-
bility to the public as a patrolman, he took pride in
keeping his beat the most orderly and quiet in the
city. He discharged every duty faithfully, was al-
ways punctual, and in every way made himself
necessary to the safety and well-being of the public.
It was inevitable that he should rise. He was pro-
moted to sergeant, then captain, filling with honor
every office in the line, then was made chief ia
1912. His long and honorable record is a source of
pride to his friends.
Chief Linton is the local vice-president of the
State Police Association. He filled the ofifice of
health commissioner for one term. He is a member
of L'ncas Lodge, Independent Order of Odd Fel-
lows: and of Norwich Lodge, No. 430, Benevolent
and Protective Order of Elks.
Mr. Linton married, on March 27. 1882, Margaret
Phelan, daughter of Thomas and Julia Phelan, of
Pownal, Vermont. They are members of the Con-
gregational church.
WILLIAM EDWARD HISCOX, a native son,
has spent his years, sixty-six, in New London
county, Connecticut, engaged from youth in agri-
culture. He has since 1908 been the owner of a.
good farm in the town of Griswold and there he
conducts general farming operations. William Ed-
ward Hiscox is a son of John Henry Hiscox, who-
was born in New York City, and there educated in
the public schools. Later he moved to Connecticut
and was living in North Stonington when his son,.
William Edward, was born. His business w'as that
of a wholesale fish dealer. John H. Hiscox married
Emily Maine, who married a second husband, Henry
Palmer, of North Stonington. Their only child.
Bertha E., married Manthel Culver, and resides in
Stonington.
William Edward Hiscox, son of John Henry and
Emily (Maine) Hiscox, w-as born in North Stoning-
ton, New London county, Connecticut, March 17,
1854, and was educated in Stonington public schools.
After finishing school years he became a farm
worker, employed by others until 1890, when he
leased the Billings' farm in North Stonington, and
there remained until 1908. He then purchased his
present farm of one hundred and seventy-five acres-
in the town of Griswold, long known as the Smith
farm. There he has very successfully conducted a,
general farming business, and is one of the sub-
stantial men of the town. In politics Mr. Hiscox
is a Democrat; in religious faith a Methodist.
Mr. Hiscox married Hannah Worden, of Utica,
New York.
BIOGRAPHICAL
237
JOSEPH RIVERS— Since 1912, Joseph Rivers has
teen connected with Palmer Brothers as engineer
at their Fitchville Mills, he having been previously
associated with the Keyes Company at their Mont-
ville plant. He is a son of Joseph and Marie (La
Croix) Rivers, both born in Canada, his father de-
ceased, his mother now residing with him in Fitch-
ville. Joseph Rivers, Sr., was a lumberman and
saw mill operator in Canada, but shortly after his
marriage came to the United States, locating in
Oneco, Windham county, Connecticut, and there
continuing in the lumber business; in fact, that
was his lifelong business wherever located. From
Oneco he went to New Jersey, thence to New Lon-
don county, Connecticut, here remaining many
years, but finally going South. Joseph and Marie
(La Croix) Rivers were the parents of eight chil-
dren, two of whom are deceased. The living are:
Joseph, of further mention; William, married Myr-
tle Duprey, of Colchester, Connecticut; Freemont,
married Sarepa Potter, of Groton, Connecticut;
Rose, married Allan Maine, of Ledyard, Connec-
ticut; Flora, married John Delosha; Oelina, mar-
ried John McCain, of Taftville, Connecticut.
Joseph Rivers, third child of Joseph and Marie
(La Croix) Rivers, was born in Oneco, Wind-
ham county, Connecticut, September 20, 1888. He
was quite young when his parents moved to New
London county, the family residing on the Thomas
farm in Groton. He obtained his education in the
public schools of Ledyard and New London. After
school years were over, he located in Montville,
where he secured employment in the engine room
of the Keyes Mills. He there remained for three
years, when he was appointed engineer at the Palmer
Mill in Fitchville, and has most satisfactorily acted
in that capacity during the nine years, 1912-21, which
have since intervened.
Mr. Rivers enlisted in the United States arm.v,
September 20, 1917, trained at Fort Devens, and for
sixteen months was in the service attached to the
depot brigade at Camp Devens. He is a member
of Robert O. Fletcher Post, of the American Le-
gion, the Fraternal Order of Eagles, Modern Wood-
men of America, and of the American Association
of Stationary Engineers.
JEROME WILLIAMS HOUSE— Among the old
Colonial families of Connecticut not one can claim
a straighter line of descent from the founders of
New England than the House family of Montville.
One of their ancestors came to this country in the
"Mayflower" in 1620, and more than a hundred years
afterward one of his descendants fought in the
Revolutionary War. He was the great-grandfather
of Jerome Williams House.
Jerome Williams House is the son of Chauncey
and Emma (Stranahan) House. Chauncey House
was born in Haddam Neck, Connecticut, where he
resided for many years, following the business of a
stone cutter, his death occurring in Bristol, Con-
necticut, in 1888. He is buried in Haddam Neck.
Emma (Stranahan) House was born in Bashon,
town of Moodus, Connecticut. She was the mother
of two sons, Jerome Williams and Albert Silliman.
Albert S. was adopted by his aunt. The death of
Mrs. House occurred when the former was only
three years old. Born in Haddam Neck, Connec-
ticut, February 9, 1867, Jerome Williams House
received his name from a friend of the family, an
old sea captain, the child being named in his honor.
Attending the local school until he reached the age
of nine years, the boy then made a trip to Cali-
fornia, in those days a much more lengthy journey
than it is at the present day. He resided in the
city of Los Angeles for eight months, then went
to Chicago, Illinois, where he lived for three years,
attending school in that city. Coming back to his
native State, Jerome Williams House finished his
education in Naugatuck, Connecticut, later taking
up farming as his occupation in Massapeag, town
of Montville, Connecticut. For four years Mr.
House remained there. He then returned to Chi-
cago and became interested in the broom corn
business, in which he was engaged for three years.
Coming to Connecticut again Mr. House entered
into the blacksmith business in 1895 in Massapeag,
making his home in Uncasville, township of Mont-
ville, where he still resides.
Mr. House is one of the foremost citizens in the
locality, assisting in all public matters connected
v/ith its welfare, and has served on the Board of
Selectmen, both third selectman for two terms and
as first selectman, which latter ofifice he now holds,
1920-21. In politics he is a Democrat, and was the
only one of that party to be elected in the town in
1920. Equally active in fraternal aflaixs, Mr. House
is a charter member of the local lodge of Inde-
pendent Order of Odd Fellows, Thames Lodge, No.
22, and is a third degree Mason, affiliated with Oxo-
boxo Blue Lodge, Free and Accepted Masons, of Mont-
ville, Connecticut. He is district deputy of that section,
and has occupied both chairs in his lodge. He is a past
noble grand of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows,
also past district deputy and a past master of the
Masons.
Jerome Williams House was united in marriage
with Lottie Beebe Church, the daughter of Charles
and Isabelle (Beebe) Church, of Massapeag. She
is a member of an old and highly respected family,
the Beebes, who have been prominent in Connec-
ticut for many years. Mr. and Mrs. House had one
child, Chauncey Edwin, who died in infancy. They
attend and support the Methodist church.
ARTHUR AUSTIN GREENLEAF— The Green-
leaf family traces descent through nearly three hun-
dred years of New England life to Edmund Green-
leaf, who came to Massachusetts in 1635, and was
one of the original settlers of Newbury. Arthur A.
Greenlcaf, of Groton and New London, Connecticut,
is a son of Atherton C. Greenlcaf, of Southport,
Maine, a descendant of Edmund Greenlcaf, the
American ancestor of this branch, which prior to
the Revolution settled in the State of Maine.
Atherton C. Greenlcaf was born in Edgecomb,
238
NEW LONDON COUNTY
Maine, and from boj-hood lias been connected with
the sea food industry, being now a wholesale and
retail dealer in fish and lobsters at Southport,
Maine. He married Susan P. Chase, and they are
the parents of Arthur A. Greenlcaf, of Groton,
Connecticut.
Arthur A. Grecnleaf was born in Edgecomb, Lin-
coln county, Maine, June 5, 18S3, the fifth child of
Atherton C. and Susan P. (Chase) Greenlcaf. His
parents moved to Southport, on a small island of
the Maine coast, in Lincoln county, about twelve
miles southeast of Bath, and there he attended the
public school, finishing his education in business
college at Portland, Maine. For twelve years, 1897-
1909, he followed the sea and rose to the rank of
captain. Upon his retirement from the sea in 1909,
he located in New London, Connecticut, where in
association with A. L. Young, of Boston, ne as-
sumed control of the G. M. Long Company, and
still retains the interests in that company, the
Young interest having been purchased by N. H.
Avery, in 1918. The company deals in fish and
sea foods. Mr. Greenleaf is a member of the New
London Chamber of Commerce, a Republican in
politics, and a member of the Baptist church.
Mr. Grecnleaf married, in Southport, Maine, Sadie
Alley, daughter of William and Sarah (Nickcrson)
Alley, of Southport, Maine. Captain and Mrs.
Greenleaf arc the parents of si.x children: A. Clay-
ton, Howard P., Susan C, Carl, William A., and
Lucy M., all residing at the family home in Groton.
here, and politically is affiliated with the Demo-
cratic party, although thus far he has declined poli-
tical honors. He is a member of St. Mary's Roman
Catholic Church, of Baltic, Connecticut.
THOMAS J. BURKE— Born in the city of Nor-
wich, and identified always with the business life
of New London county, Thomas T. Burke, of Baltic,
Connecticut, may well be numbered among the
representative men of the section. As a dealer in
automobile accessories, he has come to be widely
known, both to the people of this vicinity, and to
the thousands of tourists who find this highway
through Baltic a convenient and delightful motor
thoroughfare.
Mr. Burke is a son of John Burke, who was born
in Limerick, Ireland, and of Mary Donovan Burke.
Mr. Burke was a man of great industry, and fol-
lowed the occupation of gardening. He and his
wife are now deceased.
Thomas J. Burke was born in Norwich, Connec-
ticut, January 30, 1876. He received his education in
this city, and in the schools of Baltic, where his
family removed when he was ten years of age. He
early started out in the world of industry, but, never
satisfied to work for others permanently, bent every
energy toward the ambition which he realized on
March 14, 1911, when he started in business for
himself. His early plans had not been decisive in
regard to v/hat line he should follow, but they
comprehended independence, and this was what he
achieved, in his final choice of business. He handles
all kinds of automobile accessories, and meets the
needs of the stream of motorists which daily sweeps
through the little village of Baltic.
Mr. Burke is a man of considerable prominence
GEORGE ALBERT HYDE— A member of one
of the old families of Stonington, Connecticut, George
Albert Hyde is the son of Theodore Wales and
Julia Addie (Lamb) Hyde, of Stonington, and the
grandson of Albigence and Nancy (Pulsiver) Hyde.
Theodore Wales Hyde was born in Stonington and
educated in the public schools there. When a young
man he went to New Britain, Connecticut, where
he was employed by Landers, Frary & Clark, manu-
facturers of cutlery, remaining with them for seven-
teen years as bookkeeper. Resigning from this
ofTice, he became a clerk for D. C. Judd, of New
Britain, and after a time, in 1896, gave this up and
moved his family to Stonington, where he was em-
ployed in various occupations. Theodore W. Hyde
is now living a retired life in Stonington. He and
his wife had but one child, George Albert Hyde, of
whom further.
Born in New Britain, January 12, 1882, George
Albert Hyde obtained his education in the public
school there and afterward became a pupil in the
Lincoln Street High School of that town. After
graduating from same, he accepted a position with
the American Velvet Company of Stonington, hav-
ing charge of their stock room. In 1904, Mr. Hyde
started in business for himself, opening a general
merchandise store at Trolley Station, Stonington,
where he is still located. In politics, George Albert
Hyde is a Republican, though not holding any pub-
lic office. He is a member of the Second Congre-
gational Church, of Stonington.
THOMAS MELVIN— In Mystic, New London
county, Connecticut, Thomas Melvin is engaged in
one of the most practical lines of endeavor. As a
general blacksmith and wagon builder, he is bearing
a very necessary part in the daily activities of the
town, and his personal history is of interest to all.
Mr. Melvin is a son of William and Mary (Mac-
Kenzie) Melvin. William Melvin was born in Eng-
land, and educated in the National schools of the
country. As a young man he came to the United
States, locating in Colchester, Connecticut. Later
he went to Nova Scotia, where he conducted a farm
during the remainder of his life, and tiiere he died.
His wife, who was born in Nova Scotia, died in
Mystic, Connecticut, in 189S. Thomas Melvin was
their only child.
Thomas Melvin was born in Colchester, Connec-
ticut, on February 24, 1859. Removing with his
family to Nova Scotia when he was a little child,
it was there that he received his education. How-
ever, when he became twenty-three years of age, he
returned to the United States, locating in New Lon-
don, Connecticut. There he worked as wagon
builder, and in 1886, four years later, having an
opportunity to purchase a prosperous business in this
line, he did so. This was the business of Stephen Lam-
BIOGRAPHICAL
239
phere, in Mystic, and Mr. Melvin is still carrying on
this business in the same location. He has greatly
increased its scope, and its growth and development is
still a feature of this branch of endeavor in Mystic.
Although always a busy man, Mr. Melvin takes a deep
interest in all public matters. Politically, he is affiliated
v.'ith the Republican party, although he has never been
a candidate for public office. He is a member of Ston-
ington Lodge, No. 26, Independent Order of Odd Fel-
lows, of Mystic. He attends the Baptist church, and
gives of his means to support the benevolences of the
church.
In July, 1888, Mr. Melvin married Blanche C. New-
man, of Hartford, Connecticut, and they are the parents
of four children: William R., who served in the World
War with the American Expeditionary Forces, and is
still in the United States army; Erving T., who mar-
ried Clara Barman, and resides in Stonington, Connec-
ticut ; Clarence S., who served in the United States
navy during the war, and is now in the Naval Reserves ;
Stella F., who became the wife of Clifford T. Cornell,
and is a resident of Stonington.
SAMUEL STANTON BROWN MacKENZIE—
As the name would indicate, the MacKenzie family is
of Scotch ancestry, though the father of Samuel Stan-
ton Brown MacKenzie, William MacKenzie, was born
in Nova Scotia, Canada, where he was educated in the
public schools of his native town. In the early sixties
of the last century, William MacKenzie came to the
United States, and locating in Mystic, Connecticut, be-
came associated with a man named Haynes in the ship
building industry, the firm being known as MacKenzie
& Haynes. They built sailing vessels and for many
years carried on a very successful business, but as the
use of steamships increased, the demand for sailing
vessels decreased, so eventually Mr. MacKenzie retired
from this line of occupation and entered the employ of
the New York, New Haven & Hartford Railroad Com-
pany as foreman in the bridge department. He con-
tinued with this company until his death, which occurred
in Mystic in 1905. William MacKenzie married Isa
bella Augusta Strang, and of this union ten children
were born, of whom eight are now living.
Samuel Stanton Brown MacKenzie was the seventh
son of his parents, and was born in Mystic, Connec-
ticut, July 9, 1879. He attended the public school in
the village and later the Broadway High School of
Mystic. After graduating from this, the young man
was employed for several years as an assistant in the
market gardening establishment of Ira C. Noyes, of
Mystic. Later Mr. MacKenzie became an apprentice
in the marble and granite stone cutting business of
John Trevena, remaining with him until 1904. For the
next seven years he worked at his trade in several dif-
ferent places, and in 191 1 formed a partnership with
L. F. Barstow, and bought out the business of John
Trevena. For six years they conducted a monument
works in Mystic, and on July i, 1917, Mr. MacKenzie
bought up his partner's interest in the concern and is
now running it in his own name. Active in all affairs
of his native place, Mr. MacKenzie is interested in the
v.ork of the Republican party, also in the fire depart-
ment there, being a member of the hook and ladder
company ; he is connected with the local lodge of Wood-
men of the World, and witli Stonington Lodge, No. 28,
Independent Order of Odd Fellows, of Mystic.
In Mystic, April ig, 1919, Samuel Stanton Brown
MacKenzie married Elizabeth Adamson, daughter of
Robert and Sarah (Anderson) Adamson, residents of
Mystic. Mr. MacKenzie is a member of the Methodist
Episcopal church in Mystic, and Mrs. MacKenzie is a
member of the Congregational church.
JOHN HURLBURT BUELL, JR., was born in
Middletown, Connecticut, January 18, 1886, son of Cap-
tain John H. and Lucy M. (Edwards) Buell, his father
a master mariner, who, after following the sea all his
active years, retired to his birthplace, Clinton, Con-
necticut, and is now residing there (1921). Captain
John H. and Lucy M. (Edwards) Buell were the
parents of three sons: i. John H., Jr., of further men-
tion. 2. Captain Oliver H. Buell, a trans-Atlantic
steamship captain, Boston to Hamburg. He enlisted in
the United States navy as seaman, and was retired as
senior lieutenant in 1919, and is the youngest captain
in the service of his present company. 3. (jeorge Buell,
also a mariner.
John H. Buell, Jr., completed grammar and high
school courses of study in Middletown, Connecticut, and
finished his studies under the direction of Professor
Thomas Emmett. After school years were over, he
learned the machinist's trade with the Hubbard Motor
Company, and was employed in different shops and
places until 1907, when he located in New London. He
was engaged at his trade until July 2, 1917, when he
enlisted in the United States navy as a first-class ma-
chinist for the period of the World War, and served
until not longer required, but is still on the reserve list.
In 1919 he became manager for C. K. Smith, and in
October, 1920. he purchased the business which he is
now conducting. He is agent for a number of the
principal automobile concerns.
Mr. Buell is a member of Brainard Lodge, No. 102,
Free and Accepted Masons, of New London; Trumbull
Lodge, Knights of Pythias ; the Masonic Club ; and the
Northwest Fire Company. He attends the Baptist
church. In politics he is a Republican. Mr. Buell mar-
ried, December 22, 1919, Christina H. Rae, of Barrie,
Vermont, daughter of James H. and Helen Rae. Mr.
and Mrs. Buell are the parents of a son, Charles R.
Buell, bom September 29, 1920, in New London.
FRANK PALMER WILCOX GEER— Five gen-
erations of the Geer family have lived upon the old
homestead farm in the town of Griswold, New London
county, Connecticut; four generations were actively en-
gaged as farmers, the children in the fifth generation
being still too young to assist in its work. This fine old
landmark was bought considerably more than one hund-
red years ago, March 4, 1804, by John Geer, who was
born in the town of Preston, New London county, Con-
necticut. Here he made his home and reared his family,
sowing and reaping year after year until his death,
240
NEW LONDON COUNTY
which occurred upon the farm, the place then going to
the son, John Wheeler Geer, born upon the farm, and
who died there. His wife was Mary (Cook) Geer.
Their son was Samuel Leonard Geer, also bom on the
homestead. He attended the district school in his youth,
assisting his father in the care of the farm, and after
his father's death he assumed the management of it
and continued to live there until his failing health com-
pelled him to give up farming, when he moved into
Jewett City in the early part of 1917. He had only
lived there a year, when he died February 6, 1918. He
married Ella Jane Wilcox, a native of Griswold, where
she was born on the Tyler farm, another old family
homestead. Since the death of her husband she has
continued to reside in Jewett City. Mr. and Mrs.
Samuel Leonard Geer were the parents of three chil-
dren : I. Samuel Leonard, living in Willimantic, Con-
necticut, where he is a clerk in a grain establishment ;
he married Grace Huntington, a resident of Preston,
by whom he has one child, Mildred Ella. 2. Frank
Palmer Wilcox, of whom further. 3. John Wheeler,
who died at the age of fourteen years, having been
drowned July 7, igoo.
The second son, Frank Palmer Wilcox Geer, was born
on the homestead farm in Griswold, Connecticut, De-
cember 5, 1884. He was educated in the district school
of Griswold, and was brought up on the farm, assisting
his father. Until he reached the age of twenty-one
years, he worked for his board and clothing, but after
reaching his majority the young man worked out on
other farms for a year, then went into Jewett City and
obtained employment in the Jewett City Bleachery,
where he remained for two years more. It was about
this time that his father's health became somewhat im-
paired and he went back to the home farm, taking
charge of it, and in 1910 took over the entire manage-
ment of it.
On January 15, 1914, Frank Palmer Wilcox Geer mar-
ried, in Griswold, Ursula Mildred Paten, who was born
in Ardsley, New York, the daughter of William Edgar
and Sarah Augusta (Ford) Paten, the former a native
of Ossining, New York, the latter born in Greenpoint.
Long Island, New York. Mr. and Mrs. Frank Palmer
Wilcox Geer have three children, all born in Griswold,
the eldest on the Thomas Tyler farm, while the other
two were born on the homestead farm; they are: Helen
Julia, born November 16. 1914; Arthur Frank, born
July 10. 1918: Ivy Mildred, born December 14. ipiQ-
After his marriage, Mr. Geer went to live at the
home of his wife's mother, Mrs. Sarah A. (Ford)
Paten, who was then living on the Thomas Tyler farm
near his own home. Remaining there until 1917, he then
returned to Jewett City, becoming an employee in the
mill of the Ashland Cotton Company, continuing as such
for a year and a half. In the meantime, his father hav-
ing died, Mr. Geer bought the old place from the other
heirs and returned to the home of his ancestors in 1918,
where he is still living. The farm consists of one
hundred and ninety-six acres, in a fine state of cultiva-
tion, and he is engaged in general farming. In politics
Mr. Geer is a staunch upholder of the principles of the
Republican party, though he is not active in it. He and
his familv are members of the Congregational church.
ARTHUR ROY, of Baltic, Connecticut, has placed
himself high in the business world in one of the con-
structive lines of industry. As a general blacksmith,
and a manufacturer of wagons, he is well and favorably
known throughout this vicinity, and is making a profit-
able and successful career.
Mr. Roy is a son of George and Virginia (Medrou)
Roy, natives of the Province of Quebec, Canada. George
Roy was educated in his native country, and grew to
manhood there, married, and conducted the farm until
the year 1879. Then he came to the United States,
locating in Baltic, Connecticut, where he found employ-
ment in the mills. He followed along this line until his
death. His wife was born in White Rock, Rhode Island,
and died in Baltic. They were the parents of thirteen
children, of whom Arthur is the eleventh.
Arthur Roy was born in Quebec City, Province of
Quebec, Canada, on May 22, 1862. He received his
education in the schools of that city, then coming to the
States with his parents, started out in the world of
industry. He first was employed in the plant of the
Baltic Mills Company, in the carding department, but
continued there for only a short time. He became
interested in work of a more directly constructive
nature, and served an apprenticeship with Louis St.
Onge, of Baltic, one of the most skillful men of that
day in the wagon-making and blacksmithing line.
In 1887, Mr. Roy took the step which has led to his
permanent and substantial success. He established a
blacksmith business of his own in which he has been
most successful, and now holds a leading place in this
line of work in this part of New London county.
As a public-spirited citizen Mr. Roy is among the first
men of the town. Politically a staunch supporter of the
Democratic party, he has long been a servant of the
people. In 1910 he was elected second selectman, and
has been re-elected to that office continually since, hav-
ing handled the work entrusted to his care with the
sound business judgment and common sense that have
given him success in his personal endeavors. Socially,
Mr. Roy is a member of Union St. Jean de Baptiste of
Baltic.
On November 30, 1888, Mr. Roy married Mary
Flarety, of Baltic, and they have five children : Mary,
now the wife of Virtume P. A. Quinn, of Versailles,
Connecticut ; George, who resides at home ; John, who
married Myrtle Morin. of Willimantic, Connecticut;
Arthur, who married Emily Gocier; and Irene, who
resides at home. The family are members of St. Mary's
Roman Catholic Church, of Baltic, Connecticut.
THURSTON BROWNING LILLIBRIDGE—
one of the best-known farmers in the town of Norw-ich,
New London county, Connecticut, is also one of the
best-loved. Educated and broad-minded, keen of in-
tellect and alive to every opportunity, his life has been a
success from whatever angle viewed, and as he now
walks amid the greatly lengthened shadows he can
review with satisfaction a life lived in one com-
munity seventy-six years and not a voice raised
but in praise. He is a descendant of ancient English
family, herein briefly reviewed.
(I) Thomas Lillibridge, the founder of the fam-
%
Ccx±,
aV^
^
BIOGRAPHICAL
241
ily of Lillibridge in tlie United States, was born in
England, in 1662, His earliest record in New Eng-
land is the signing of a petition dated September
26, 160Q, to the Earl of Bellomont, there in New-
port, Rhode Island, asking that he use his influence
with his Majesty, William III., for the establish-
ment of a Church of England at Newport. This
church was established, and was the original Trin-
ity Church of which Thomas Lillibridge was a
warden, 1709 and 1713, and where he owned pew
No. 8 until 1719. He was admitted a freeman at
Newport, May 6, 1701, was vestryman in 1718-22-
24 in St. Paul's Narragansett Church, built in 1707,
moved five miles north of its original site to Wick-
ford; is still occasionally in use, and said to be
the oldest Episcopal church north of the Potomac.
He settled in old Westerly, in 1715, in that part
later set of? as Richmond, where he died, August
29, 1724. He married (first) Mary Hobson, (second)
Sarah Lewis, who died in Richmond, Rhode Island,
January 22, 1761, aged eighty-five. By his first
wife, two children were born, by his second wife,
nine children. Descent in this branch is traced
through Benjamin, the sixth child of the second
wife.
(II) Benjamin Lillibridge was born July 11, 1712,
died August 11, 1800. He married, December 15,
1743. Annie Sherman, daughter of Jonathan, son
of Benjamin, son of Philip, son of Samuel, son of
Henry (i) Sherman, of Dedham, England. Benja-
min and Annie (Sherman) Lillibridge were the par-
ents of eight children, the seventh child, Gardiner,
head of the third generation in this branch.
(III) Gardiner Lillibridge was born September
IQi 1758, died in Exeter, Rhode Island, July 23, 1834,
a soldier of the Revolution and a pensioner. He
married Sarah Dawley, also born and died in
Exeter. They were the parents of nine children.
This branch of the family descends through Daniel,
the third son.
(IV) Daniel Lillibridge, born July 7, 1778, died
August 20, 1S28, at the homestead in Exeter, Rhode
Island, where he w^s born, lived and died, a farr.ier.
He married, August iS, iSii, Hannah Barber, born
in Exeter, August 23, 1793, died October 3, 1S7S,
the daughter of Lillibridge Barber. They were the
parents of four children, all sons, descent being
traced in this branch through Daniel (2).
(V) Daniel (2) Lillibridge was born in Exeter,
Rhode Island, July 27, 1814, died at the Lillibridge
homestead on Scotland Road, Norwich, March 26,
1901. He was born in the old homestead and re-
mained at home, his father's assistant, until the
latter's death. He was then a lad of fourteen and
he continued at home two years more, then in the
spring of 1830, he came to the farm owned by his
uncle. Captain Leonard Barber, on Plain Hill, Nor-
wich, Connecticut. In 1831 he returned to the home
farm in Exeter, where he married in 1834, and re-
mained on the home farm in Exeter until 1S45,
when he removed to the present Lillibridge farm
on Scotland Road, in the town of Norwich, New
London county, Connecticut, once owned by his
N.U— 2.W.
grandfather, Lillibridge Barber. This old farm was
once a tavern kept by M. Tracy, the tavern, the
present farmhouse, now remodeled and modernized.
It is located on Scotland Road, the main road
from Norwich North. The last proprietor of the
tavern was Gideon Ray, the signboard reading, "G.
Ray's Inn." Lillibridge Barber, who became its
owner, was a wealthy landowner of Norwich and
Exeter, and in his generosity he deeded this farm
to his grandson, Daniel (2) Lillibridge, in 1840.
Daniel (2) Lillibridge cultivated the farm of two
hundred acres until some time prior to his death,
when he retired from its active management. He
married, May 18, 1834, Hannah Matteson, born in
West Greenwich, Rhode Island, April 25, 1815,
daugliter of Pcleg and Mary (James) Matteson,
her mother a descendant of Gen. Nathanael Greene,
an officer of the Revolution, and a friend of Gen-
eral Washington's. She died on the home farm,
February 22, 1901. Mr. and Mrs. Daniel (2) Lilli-
bridge were the parents of five children: Thurston
Browning, of whom further; Rhoda B., born Feb-
ruary 26, 1838, married, June 2, 1862, Edward Ladd,
and died March 6, 190I; Amy, born August 19, 1840,
died March 20, 1881, married, November 24, 1862,
Henry L. M. Ladd; Alice, born September 13, 1S42,
died January 25, 1845; Hannah, born July 29, 1845,
died April 19, 1879, married, March 5, 1873, Thomas
Potter.
(VI) Thurston Browning Lillibridge, eldest child
of Daniel (2) and Hannah (Matteson) Lillibridge,
was born March 27, 1836, at the Lillibridge home-
stead, Exeter, Rhode Island, the same in which his
father was born, and there spent the first nine years
of his life. His parents then moved to the farm on
Scotland Road, in the town of Norwich, New Lon-
don county, Connecticut, where the lad grew to
manhood and yet resides. He attended the dis-
trict public school and private school in Norwich,
and later, for several years, taught school in Exeter,
Rhode Island, then two terms in Bozrah, Connec-
ticut, and a few terms in Norwich, but always living
at home and assisting his father in his farming
operations during vacation days. Later, he gave up
teaching and remained at home in management of
the farm which he inherited from his father, being
the only son. The farm which he now owns has
been his home for seventy-six years, 1845-1921, he
coming to it a lad of nine years, and he is now a
veteran of eighty-five, but in remarkably good
health. He has now retired from all participation in
farm management, that department now being in
the hands of his son.
Mr. Lillibridge is a Democrat in politics, and
represented the town of Norwich in the State Leg-
islature in 1886-87-88, his first election for one
year, his second for two years. For several years
he was selectman of the town of Norwich, five of
those years, 1888-1893, being first selectman. He
was also for years a member of the School Board.
He is a member of Somerset Lodge, No. 34, Free
and Accepted Masons, one of the oldest members
of that lodge, he having been made a Mason therein
242
NEW LONDON COUNTY
in 1865. He is a member of the Masonic Veterans'
Association, and is held in the highest esteem and
veneration by his Masonic brethren and by every-
body in his community, one of his neighbors ex-
pressing his regard in the sentence which everyone
echoes, "a beautiful old man."
Mr. Lillibridge married, November 5, 1865, at
Norwich, Lydia Ann Lillibridge, born in North
Kingstown, Rhode Island, November 8, 1841, died
at the home farm in the town of Norwich, April
10, 1907, daughter of Green and Lucy (Smith) Lilli-
bridge, her father dying in Norwich, Connecticut,
February 7, 1892, age eighty-three, son of Benjamin,
son of Thomas Lillibridge, the American ancestor.
Thurston B. and Lydia A. (Lillibridge) Lillibridge,
were the parents of four children: Albert Warren,
born January 30, 1867, now in the management of
the home farm; Daniel Green, born September I,
1868, died September 27, 1869; Annie May, born
May 20, 1870, married Dwight L. Underwood, of
Norwich, Connecticut, and they have a daughter,
Bernice; Erroll Courtney, born June 10, 1872, at
the home farm, where he now resides, a stone
mason, married Mary Sullivan, of Norwich;
Charles Frederick, born July 16, 1877, on the home
farm, died in Norwich, Connecticut, in 191 1, a far-
mer; he married Susan Austin, who survives him
with three children: Thurston Daniel, Charles
Gardiner, and Clarence Austin. Mr. Lillibridge re-
tains the ownership of the home farm, which is
cultivated by his son, Albert W. He has acquired
other farm property, but those farms he has deeded
to his sons. He has many friends, and is tenderly
cherished bv his children.
CAPTAIN JOHN HENRY GURNEY — The
great war took its grim toll in lives from every
walk of life; every profession, every vocation gave
of its best to the end that civilization might survive
the menacing onslaught of the "Hun." Previous to
our entrance into the war, we had suffered all sorts
of humiliations, and even tragedies had occurred in
mysterious fashion, the late Captain John Henry
Gurney being one of the victims of the Germans.
John Henry Gurney was born in South Rondout,
New York, November 7, 1874. He was the son of
George and Margaret (Hillsinger) Gurney. George
Gurney was for many years captain of the schooner
"Sarah Jane," which sailed from New London. He
is now identified with the Ship Engine Company,
of New London. The boy, John H., remained in his
native place until he was sixteen years of age,
when he went to Groton, subsequently removing to
New London, where for several years he went as
cook on his father's vessel, later being promoted to
first mate. He later secured employment as a deck-
hand on a tug boat of the T. A. Scott Company,
and for eighteen years was captain of this tug. In
fact, it was while he was thus employed that he
met his tragic death. In the early part of No-
vember, 1916, the German submarine "Deutschland"
came into the harbor of New London and the offi-
cers of the German boat were entertained by the
citizens of the city. After a three days' visit, during^
which time stores were taken on board for con-
sumption, the craft got under way. It Vv'as to have
followed the tug boat of which Captain Gurney was
in command, but instead the submarine took a
sudden dive and rammed the tug which immediately
sunk with all on board.
On April 27, 1896, Captain Gurney was united in
marriage with Annie May Malone, and to them were
born two children: i. George Maynard, whose birth
occurred April 29, 1897; he enlisted in the Medical
Corps of the United States army, and was stationed
at Fort Monroe; he died May 12, 1918, while in
the service. 2. Ralph Henry, who was born Sep-
tember 2, 1900; he is now with the T. A. Scott Com-
pany, of New London.
Captain Gurney was a man of strong domestic
instincts, who found his chief happiness in his work
and the intimate intercourse of family life and with
such of his friends .is were on terms of close per-
sonal friendship with him.
DANTEL PALMER COLLINS— A member of
the old Scottish family of Collins, whose ancestry
dates back to the romantic days when Mary Stuart
was the adored Queen of Scotland, the land of
legendary song and story, Daniel Palmer Collins
is the son of Daniel and Esther (Bindloss) Collins.
Esther Bindloss was an English woman by birth, the
daughter of William and Margaret (Palmer) Bindloss,
of Kendal, England, the latter a distant relative of the
Palmers who are extensively known in connection
v/ith their large quilt mills in New London county.
The elder Daniel was born in Queenstown, Ireland,
March 26, 1821, his father and mother living in
Ireland at that time, the father being one of the
Scotch Guards stationed in Queenstown when Dan-
iel Palmer Collins was born. Daniel Collins, Sr.,
early in life, became a cabin boy on board a sailing
s!;ip, the "Yorkshire," and for many years followed
the call of the sea, rising step by step from cabin
boy to the rank of first mate. He crossed the At-
lantic ocean one hundred and four times and the
finish of the last trip to the United States marked
the close of his career as a sea-faring man. It was
in 1846 that Daniel Collins, Sr., came to New Lon-
don, remaining there for the next sixteen years,
then, in 1862, moving with his family to Montville,
he bought a farm there and for forty-eight years
enjoyed his life upon this homestead, dying in 1909,
when eighty-nine years old.
Daniel and Esther (Bindloss) Collins were the
parents of the following children: I. Daniel Palmer,
of wlsom further. 2. Joseph Scroggie, a mail car-
rier, born in New London, in September, 1858; he
married .^ddie Brown, by whom he had one child,
which died in infancy. 3. Esther Bindloss, born in
New London, now the wife of James DifFley; they
have three children: Frank Palmer, James Palmer,
and Esther. 4. Ellen Hillier, born in New London;
she married James Carver, of Montville, and has
two children: Lillian Ellen, and George D. 5. Mar-
garet Palmer, born in New London, the wife of
BIOGRAPHICAL
243
Charles Crawford Haight, of Torrington, Connec-
ticut; they have one child, Margaret C. 6. Mary-
Foster, born in Montville; she married Frederick
Crocker, who died in 1903; they have no children.
7. Anson Benjaanin, a sketch of whom follows.
Daniel Palmer Collins was born in New London,
Connecticut, April 7, 1853, on Cedar street, then
called Waxer street, one of the first thoroughfares
in the county. In his boyhood he attended both
public and private schools in the village, going for
some time to the old Main Street School, one of
the' first six schools established in New London.
It is now known as the Winthrop School. For
three years young Collins also was a pupil at the
private school conducted by Mrs. Manning on Post
Hill.
After finishing his education, Daniel Palmer Col-
lins obtained employment in a sail loft in Bank
street, owned by Carl Barry, and for twenty-eight
years remained so engaged. In 1897 he went into
business for himself, establishing a sail-making loft
on Howard avenue, and taking into partnership
James Sterry. This combination continued for five
years, then Mr. Collins purchased Mr. Stcrry's in-
terest in tl'.e business and since that time has car-
ried on the work in his ov.-n name, still in the
building on Howard street.
In fraternal circles, Mr. Collins is very v/ell
known, particularly among the members of the Free
and Accepted Masons, he having gone through the
Scottish Rite from the Blue Lodge to the. thirty-
second degree. He is also affiliated with Mo'icgan
Lodge, No. 55, Independent Order of Odd Fellows.
Equally popular in other associations, Mr. Collins
has been connected with Konomoc Hose Company
since 1882, being one of the oldest three men in it.
For the past five years he has been a member of
the Harbor Club of New London. Actively inter-
ested in the work of St. James' Protestant Episcopal
Church, Mr. Collins is a vestryman in that body of
Christians. In political affairs he is a Republican,
generally voting that ticket, but at times choosing
the candidate he may regard as the better man,
irrespective of party affiliations.
In New London, on December 28, 1885, Daniel
Palmer Collins was united in marriage with Grace
Evelyn Whiting, born in Waterford, Connecticut,
March 31, 1868, the daughter of Noyes Whiting, of
Mystic, and his wife, Sarah Nichols, of Waterford,
Connecticut. In early manhood Noyes Whiting
went to Waterford to reside, being employed as a
ship carpenter by the Chappell Company. He died
in 1884 and is buried in Cedar Grove Cemetery,
New London. Mrs. Sarah (Nichols) Whiting is
also deceased. She had one sister, Agnes Nichols,
who became the wife of Frederick R. Gould, of
Perrysville, Rhode Island. Mr. and Mrs. Daniel
Palmer Collins have no children. They reside at
No. 104 Montauk avenue. New London.
26, 1872. This homestead lies in the district now
known as Collins District.
.'\ttcnding the village school in Montville until he
reached the age of twelve years, Anson Benjamin
Collins then left home, and going to Mystic, Con-
necticut, entered the employ of Charles H. Johnson,
who was the proprietor of a carriage manufactory
there. Remaining there for a year and a half, the
boy then came to New London, where he found
employment in the wagon works of George A.
Richards, being at that time fourteen years old.
Continuing in this line for some years, the young
man finally bought up the business, owing to the
death of Mr. Richards, and has carried it on suc-
cussfully since that time, and, in addition, conducts
a blacksmith establishment.
Interested in the institutions of his town, Mr. Col-
lins is a member of Mohegan Lodge, No. 55, Inde-
pendent Order of Odd Fellows, and is also con-
nected with the Harbor Club of New London.
While a Republican in politics, Mr. Collins fre-
quently exercises the right of selecting the best
man for whom to vote.
In New London, Connecticut, in June, 1897, Anson
Benjamin Collins was united in marriage with
Catherine E. Murray, the ceremony being performed
by the Rev. Thomas P. Joint. Mrs. Collins was
born in 1872, the daughter of 'William A. and Mary
(Ahern) Murray, of New London. Of this union
two children have been born: I. Benjamin Murray,
born in New London, May i, 1899; he is now a
student in Rensselaer Institute of Technology, at
Troy, New York. 2. Helen Mary, born February
4, 1902, a student at Wellesley College, Massachu-
setts. The family home is at No. 84 Alontauk
avenue. New London.
ANSON BENJAMIN COLLINS, son of Daniel
and Esther (Eindloss) Collins (q.v.), was born upon
his father's farm in Montville, Connecticut, August
CASSIUS F. HARRIS— Born in New London
and identified vi\ih the mercantile interests of this
city throughout his career, Mr. Harris is novi' con-
nected with the Thames River Lumber Company.
Mr. Harris is a son of Frederic Hal! Harris, who
was born and reared in New London, and educated
in the schools of the city. Frederic H. Harris, in
association with a partner, established a clothing
business in New London many years ago, continu-
ing the same, under the name of Shepard & Harris,
until his death, which occurred about 1888. Mr.
Harris married Frances Burns, and they were the
parents of three children, of whom Cassius F. was
the youngest.
Cassius F. Harris v^as born in New London, Con-
necticut, May 3, i860, and received his early educa-
tion in the public schools of his native city, com-
pleting his studies at Cheshire Academy, in Cheshire,
Connecticut. After finishing his studies, Mr. Harris
became associated with his father in the clothing
business, but dissolved the partnership not long
after his father's death, withdrawing from the firm
in 1895. He was later associated v/ith S. R. Wight-
man, who conducted a thriving business in whole-
sale and retail tobacco, continuing in this branch
of mercantile endeavor until about IQIS. He then
244
NEW LONDON COUNTY
entered the office of the Thames River Lumber
Company, in the capacity of bookkeeper, which
position he still holds. By political affiliation, Mr.
Harris is a Republican, but takes only the interest
of the progressive citizen in public affairs.
On .^pril 30, 1890, Mr. Harris married Marie
Elizabeth Payne, daughter of Nchemiah Benjamin
and Mary Eunicia (Ransom) Payne, of New Lon-
don. Mr. and Mrs. Harris have one daughter,
Gretchen, born in New London, July 30, 1892, wife
of Terence V. O'Brien, who resides in that city.
JAMES SWEENEY— For many years identified
with the upbuilding of New London and vicinity as
an architect of unusual talent, James Sweeney, whose
death has placed his work in other hands, left an
enduring record of high achievement in the many
fine structures which owe their beauty and sta-
bility to his art.
Mr. Sweeney was a son of John and Bridget
(Halvey) Sweeney. John Sweeney was born in
County Limerick, Ireland, in 1828, and came to
the United States in 1843 with his family, locating
in Norwich. Receiving a practical education in
Ireland and in the public schools of Norwich, he
later learned the trade of stone mason, which he
followed for many years. During the latter part
of his life he did general stevedore work. He died
in New London, on April 2, 1881. His wife, who
was also born in County Limerick, in 1832, died in
New London, November 22, 1900, at the age of
sixty-eight years, having survived her husband for
nearly twenty years. They were the parents of six
children: Hannah, who resides in New London;
Thomas R., now retired, a resident of New London;
John H., of Waterford, Connecticut, who married
Nora Gleason; Timothy W., of New London; James,
now deceased, whose name heads this review; and
Edward M. Sweeney, who has been engaged in the
lumber trade since leaving high school in 1899.
James Sweeney was born in New London, on
December 27, 18&8, and received his early education
in the public schools of the city and Bulkeley High
School. Thereafter, he took a special course in
architecture at the New York Art School. About
18S8 he became connected with Cole & Chandler,
of Boston, Massachusetts, and New London, Con-
necticut, in the capacity of draftsman, and before
the end of that year was placed in charge of their
New London office. He continued here in their
employ until 1893, when he took over the office
after the death of George Warren Cole, thereafter
continuing the business of constantly increasing im-
portance, as a practicing architect, until his death.
He designed many of the prominent buildings in
New London and its vicinity. Noteworthy among
these are St. Mary's Roman Catholic School, the
Municipal building, and the Union Bank and Trust
Company's building, all of New London; the Town
Hall of Saybrook, Connecticut; the Harbor School
of New London, and the Flinders School of East
Lynn; Thames Hall, at the Connecticut College for
Women, in New London; and hundreds of public
buildings, industrial plants and private residences.
Mr. Sweeney was reputed one of the best architects
in the State, and his work bears the stamp of a
competent and creative mind. He died in New
London, on July 3, 1919, and among his business and
professional associates and personal friends his loss
will long be keenly felt. He was a man of thought-
ful habit of mind, of pleasing personality, and of
unselfish spirit, and numbered the most prominent
people of the city among his friends.
Politically, Mr. Sweeney was a Democrat, and
was influential in party affairs, although he never
accepted nomination for public office. He was a
member of the American Institute of Architecture;
the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, No.
360; and of Seaside Council, No. 17, Knights of
Columbus. He was a member of St. Mary's Roman
Catholic Church.
BENJAMIN FRANKLIN BAILEY— In the days
when the American clipper was winning its way
around the world, the defeated opponents asserted
that it was neither the ships nor the sailors that
outclassed them, but the men that made the sails.
In later years, when, having failed again and again
to "lift the cup" from American yatchsmen, the
famous English sportsman. Sir Thomas W. Lipton,
tried to analyze the causes of his failure, he said:
"I can equal your yacht builders; my sailors are
as good as yours; but I can't beat your sailmakers."
There are but few men who have the skill and the
technical knowledge necessary for the expert maker
of sails in all their various sizes and shapes, and
to meet the many needs. Sails that fit and draw,
sails light enough to be easily handled, yet staunch
enough to hold until the spars are endangered, sails
that make the men who depend upon them for
life and livelihood want more of them year after
year — to be a master maker of such sails means
m.ore than the mere possession of knowledge and
skill; the sailmaker must be as ruggedly dependable
and as staunchly honest as his sails.
To this select class of sailmakers belongs Ben-
jamin Franklin Bailey, of New London, Connecticut.
Born in Noank, Connecticut, September 2, 1840, of
a father whose whole life was identified with the
fisheries of Noank, he early manifested a taste and
ability for what later became his profession. Henry
Bailey, the father, died about 1861, at the age of
sixty-two, having married Susan Franklin, of Block
Island, and become the father of ten children: Nor-
ris, Rosands, Henry, Charles, William, George, Ben-
jamin Franklin, Diana, and Almira. Associated
from earliest life with the sea and with the ships
that go out to win a livelihood from the deep, it
was natural that the interests of the family should
center about ships and that one of them, at least,
should give his attention to that important part of
the structure upon which so much depends — the
sails.
After completing his education in the local
schools, Benjamin F. Bailey sought for a place in
which he might learn sailmaking and found it in
BIOGRAPHICAL
24.S
New London, Connecticut. Four years he spent
with Mr. B. Arnold, and, characteristically, when
he was ready to enter business for himself it was
bad: to Noank that he went. A few years later,
however, came that cataclysm which interrupted
and shattered the plans of so many men, the Civil
War. He enlisted in 1862, in Company C, 21st
Regiment, Connecticut Volunteer Infantry, which
formed part of the Army of the Potomac, and took
part in no fewer than fifty-two engagements, re-
ceiving his honorable discharge in June, 1865. Un-
like many of his companions, he was not unsettled
by his years of campaigning and soon resumed his
business at Noank, where he remained for fifteen
years. At the end of that time, in 1880, superior
workmanship and business integrity had created
the need for a larger field of labor and he moved
his business to New London, establishing himself
on Bank street. In 191 1 he moved further along
the same street to his present location, opposite
Green street.
Mr. Bailey married (first) Abbey Perry, and to
this marriage was born one daughter, Georgina,
who is deceased. He married (second) Amanda
Franklin, born at Noank, November 25, 1865, daugh-
ter of Thomas and Anna Franklin, Vv'ho died in 1916.
To this second marriage were born two children:
Frederick, born in Noank, died in 1901, at the age
of thirty-four; and John Bennett Bailey, of whom
further.
John Bennett Bailey was born at Noank, August
10, 1869. He married Margaret McGowan, of Nova
Scotia, New Brunswick, and they are the parents
of six children: Gladys Anna, born at Noank, April
20, 1894; Athena Bonita, born at New London, Feb-
ruary 7, 1897; Mildred Franklin, born at Noank,
August 30, 1901; Eloise Benjamin, born October 27,
1903; Edythe Thelma, born April 9, 1906; and Ben-
jamin Franklin, born August 10, 1909-
BARTHOLOMEW JOSEPH McCARTHY— One
of the most loyal and patriotic of New London's
citizens is Mr. McCarthy, the subject of this review,
an Irishman by birth, with all the love of home
and family for which the Irish race is famed.
Though he has lived in this country for nearly
twenty-five years, he still has a fondness for the
land of his boyhood. He comes of purest Irish
stock, his ancestors for many generations living in
their home section.
The parents of Bartholomew Joseph McCarthy
were Jeremiah and Margaret (Hennessey) McCar-
thy, natives of County Waterford, Ireland, where
the former was for many years engaged in farming
on a rather more extensive scale than usual. After
a long and useful life he died, at the age of ninety-
two years, in 1901. His wife, Margaret (Hennessey)
McCarthy, survived him for several years, passing
away in 1908, when seventy-one years old. Neither
she nor her husband had ever left their home in
the old country. They had a family of seven chil-
dren: I. Jeremiah, born in County Waterford, Ire-
land, where he was a farmer. He married Catherine
Foley; they had no children. 2. John, also born in
County Waterford, also a farmer. 3. Patrick, born
at the old home in Ireland; he came to the United
States in 1892. In his early manhood he spent most
of his life in railroad work, but is now employed in
a ship and engine company. He married Bridget
Corcoran, by whom he has had four sons and one
daughter. 4. Thomas, born in Ireland; in his youth
he came to this country, but died December 31, 1918,
leaving a widow, who before her marriage was Mary
Connolly, and six children. 5. Mary, born in Ire-
land and still living there; she is the wife of Gerald
Fitzgerald, and is the mother of four sons and three
daughters. 6. Bartholomew Joseph, of whom fur-
ther. 7. Margaret, who died young.
Bartholomew J. McCarthy was born in County
Waterford, Ireland, April 23, 1871. After acquiring
a good common school education in the village, the
lad assisted his father on the farm for some years,
then, in 1896, emigrated to the United States, com-
ing directly to New London to join relatives who
had emigrated some time before. Obtaining em-
ployment with the New York, Nev; Haven & Hart-
ford Railroad Company in their freight department,
Mr. McCarthy remained there for five years and
eight months. After leaving the railroad company
he was employed in various ways for the next two
years, then started at the bottom in the Arnold
Rudd Grain Company and by degrees was advanced
until he became foreman of that firm, having stayed
with them for sixteen years. In September, 1919,
Mr. McCarthy established a business of his own,
dealing in wholesale quantities of grain and other
commodities of like nature, and has been very suc-
cessful thus far.
A popular man among his associates, Mr. Mc-
Carthy is connected v/ith several fraternal orders,
being a member of Seaside Council, Knights of
Columbus, and also is secretary of the Ancient
Order of Hibernians, and is affiliated with the local
lodge of the Loyal Order of Moose, No. 304.
Though a member of the Democratic party, Mr.
McCarthy exercises the right to vote an inde-
pendent ticket if he so desires. He attends the
Roman Catholic church in New London.
Mr. McCarthy married, in New London, June 28,
191 1, Annie Reardon, born in County Kerry, Ireland,
in September, 1883, the daughter of Michael and
Mary (Hussey) Reardon. Mrs. McCarthy is one
of an unusually large family, her parents having had
twenty children. Mr. and Mrs. McCarthy have two
children: Mary Margaret, born June 12, 1912; Mar-
garet Veronica, born July 4, 1913. The family home
is at No. 12 Goddard street. New London, Connec-
ticut.
JOHN DEAN AVERY— Many generations of
Averys have follov»ed Captain James Avery in New
London county, Connecticut, he and his father
being contemporaries. Beginning with Christopher
Avery, the generations now number ten, John Dean
Avery being of the tenth. He is a son of Thomas
W. Avery, and grandson of Albert Lay Avery,
346
NEW LONDON COUNTY
whose careers are traced in this work under the
headings, John Dean Avery, who is the uncle of
the present John Dean Avery, and Thomas W.
Avery. These Averys, John D. and Thomas W.,
were born at the homestead at Eastern Point, town
of Groton, New London county, and there this
second John Dean Avery was born and spent his
youth, as did his brother, Albert T. Avery, also of
record in this work.
John Dean Avery, son of Thomas \V. and Mary
Alice (Maine) Avery, was born at the Avery home-
stead, town of Groton, December 29, 1895, and
began his education in the public schools of the
town, continuing in Norwich Free Academy, whence
he was graduated, class of 1914. He then entered
Brown University, there receiving his degree of
Ph. D., class of 1917. In that year patriotism was
so strong that many of the students hardly waited
for the school year to close before ofTering them-
selves to 'the government for army service in the
World War. Among these was John Dean Avery,
who in 1917 was commissioned first lieutenant in the
L^nited States Aviation Corps and assigned to the
316th Aero Squadron. He was flying instructor at
Barron Field, Texas, and continued in the service
until December, 1918, when he was honorably dis-
charged and mustered out of the service at Camp
Dix. He is now retained as an officer in the United
States Reserves.
After retiring from the army. Lieutenant Avery,
in association with his brother, Albert T. Avery,
organized the John D. Avery Company, Inc., and
established in the automobile business in New Lon-
don. They are agents for the Marmon and Nash
cars, and in connection with their selling agencies
they operate a large garage, modernly equipped
with service and supply departments. The busi-
ness is prosperous, and the company a popular one.
Mr. Avery is a member of the New London Auto
Dealers' Association; Phi Gamma Delta fraternity;
a Republican in politics; and a member of Groton
Congregational Church.
Mr. Avery married, June 22, 1917, Irene Woods,
of New London, daughter of Howard A. and Lucy
(Randolph) Woods, of New London, Connecticut.
Mr. and Mrs. Avery are the parents of a daughter,
Juliet D., born in October, 1920.
HERBERT AUGUSTUS RICHARDS— In the
little village of Cecum, in the town of Norwich,
Connecticut, is one of the most up-to-date general
stores in this section. At the head of this business,
and proprietor of it, is Herbert A. Richards, for
many years a familiar figure in the industrial and
mercantile life of the neighborhood.
Mr. Richards is a son of John Henry and Fannie
(Curtis) Richards. The elder Mr. Richards was
born in Wakefield, New Hampshire, and educated
in the district schools of that State. While still a
young man he entered the cotton mills, and after
an experience of seven years, became assistant
overseer for the Lyman Thread Company, at Hol-
yoke, Massachusetts. There he remained for four-
teen years, then went to the Headley Thread Mills,
in the same city, as head of their carding depart-
ment. It was with this practical experience that
he came to the plant of the Totoket Cotton Mill at
Cecum when it was built, and started with that
company, at the head of their carding department.
Continuing with this company until his retirement
from all active work, Mr. Richards still lives in
Versailles, and is the oldest resident in the village,
having been born in 1843. His wife, who was a
native of Ohio, died in 1875. They were the parents
of five children: Edith, now the wife of William O.
Soule, a dealer in confectionery, doing a prosperous
business in Jewctt City, Connecticut; Herbert A.,
whome name heads this review; Mabel, now the
wife of Charles Fisk, an iron foundry foreman, in
Fairfield, Alabama; Tyler C, bookkeeper for the
Hood Rubber Company, at Watertown, Massachu-
setts, who married Mildren Marr; and Ethel Curtis,
deceased.
Herbert A. Richards was born in Holyoke, Massa-
chusetts, on June 27, 1878. His parents coming to
New London county when he was only one year
old, his education was received in the public schools
of the village of Versailles. When he entered the
world of industry, it was in the employ of the
Totoket Cotton Mill Company, in the carding de-
partment, which was under his father's manage-
ment. He followed this work from 1887 to 1892,
then rented the Baldv/in Farm, near the village of
Cecum, going into dairying and general farming.
For ten years he handled a large milk route in the
adjoining village of Taftville.
In October, 1910, Mr. Richards made the change
v.-hich has proved substantially and permanently
advantageous to him. He bought out the general
store of Hal! & Hawkins, in Cecum, increased the
business, and developed its scope, until now he con-
ducts one of the best establishments of this class
in New London county. He is held in the highest
esteem bj' his fellow-citizens, and is enjoying the
fruits of well-earned success.
Mr. Richards is alive to every phase of public
progress, and always interested in the welfare of
the people. In political matters he reserves the
right to individual decision, and gives unqualified
support to no one party. He has never sought nor
accepted public oflfice.
Mr. Richards married Iva M. Rathbun, daughter
of Isaiah and Emily (Austin) Rathbun, of Hebron,
Connecticut, and they have three children: Ethel
Julia, born May 4, 1908; Herbert A., Jr., born July
21, 1910; and Iva Emily, born May 11, 1912, who
died December 16, 1920. The family are members
of the Methodist Episcopal church of Versailles,
and interested in all its social and benevolent
activities.
HENRY RHODES PALMER— For many years
Palmers have inhabited a good farm in the Road
district of the town of Stonington, and there Henry
Rhodes Palmer of the ninth American generation
was born and there resides. He is a descendant
BIOGRAPHICAL
247
of Walter Palmer, who was born in England, and
who came to New England probably as early as
1629. He is credited with having built the first
dwelling house in Charlestown, Massachusetts, but
in 1640 he joined the organizers of the town of
Rehoboth and in 1653 located in Stonington, Con-
necticut, where he died, November 10, 1661. He
was twice married, and had sons, descent in this
line being through the founder's son, Nehemiah;
his son, Nehemiah (2); his son, Thomas; his son,
Thomas (2); his son, Thomas; his son, Major
Alden Palmer; his son, Eugene Palmer; his son,
Henry Rhodes Palmer. Thus, for two hundred and
sixty-eight years, 1653-1921, Palmers have been resi-
dents of the town of Stonington.
Major Alden Palmer was born July 17, l8o2, in
Stonington, District No. 7, and earned his rank in
the military company of the town. He farmed the
old homestead and built the present farm house.
He was a Democrat, and a man of influence until
his death, March 32, 1876. He married, October 10,
1831, Nancy D. Palmer, born February 20, 1810,
died May 13, 1886, daughter of Lemuel and Abigail
(Davis) Palmer. Their sixth child was a son, Eugene,
father of Henry Rhodes Palmer.
Eugene Palmer was born at the homestead,
November 29, 1841, and there died after a life of
t:sefulness and honor, February 11, 1918. With the
exception of four years spent in Trenton, New
York, his life was spent at the homestead in the
town of Stonington, and farming was his lifelong
occupation. He married, June 9, l83l, Mary Adelia
Chesebrough, born July 30, 1857, daughter of Gideon
P. and -"Xnna Adelia (Lasher) Cliesebrough, who
survives her husband and makes the old farm her
home during the summer months. Five children
were born to Eugene and Mary Adelia Palmer:
Henry Rhodes, of further mention; Daniel Stanton,
born September 25, 1884, died May 29, 1903; Mary,
born May 2, 1886, died May 5, 1886; Adelia M.,
born December 2, 1887, married Stanley Clark John-
son, and resides in Providence, Rhode Island; Jean,
born August 7, 1900.
Henry Rhodes Palmer, of the ninth American gen-
eration and also the ninth in the town of Stoning-
ton, Connecticut, only living son of Eugene and
Mary Adelia (Chesebrough) Palmer, was born at
the homestead upon which he now resides and cul-
tivates, October 26, 1S82. He was for years con-
nected with the Narragansett Electric Lighting
Company of Providence, Rhode Island, and made
his home in that city. He later returned to the
homestead, where he continues. He is a director
of the New London County Farm Bureau, and a
man of modern ideas on all subjects. He is an
attendant of the First Congregational Church and
a generous supporter of same. In politics he is a
Republican.
Henry R. Palmer married, January i, 1908, Nancy
Louise Wheeler, and they are the parents of two
children: Sylvia Wheeler, born January 21, 1910;
Nancy Wheeler, born September 13, 1920.
THORNTON N. M. LATHROP— Since 1915 Mr.
Lathrop has been established in New London in
the automobile business, having the agency for the
Franklin and Studcbakcr cars. He is a young man,
but since 1906 has been actively employed in some
form of construction work, and is a thoroughly
capable and elTicicnt young man. He is a son of
Edward F. and Nancy (Lane) Lathrop, who at the
time of the birth of their son were living in Brook-
lyn, New York. Edward F. Lathrop was born at
South Hadley Falls, Massachusetts, and in early
manhood became a contractor of railroad construc-
tion, senior member of the Lathrop & Shea Com-
pany, whose ofTice headquarters were in New
Haven, Connecticut. He was engaged in railroad
construction until his death, in Brooklyn, New
York, in 1910. His wife, born on Long Island, sur-
vives him, and is a resident of Brooklyn, New York.
Thornton N. M. Lathrop, youngest of the five
children of Edward F. and Nancy (Lane) Lathrop,
was born in Brooklyn, New York, March 8, 1886.
He was educated in Brooklyn public schools, finish-
ing with graduation from high school in 1906. The
tvi^o years following he was employed as salesman
for the Brooklyn Edison Company, and for two
years next following (1908-1910), he was associated
with his father in the Lathrop & Shea Company,
engaged in railroad construction. In 1910 he lo-
cated in New London, Connecticut, and, with R. P.
Smith, established a garage and agency for the
E. M. F. and Hudson cars. In 1915 he began busi-
ness under his own name as agent for the Franklin
and Studebaker automobiles and has established a
garage, salesrooms and service station on Montauk
avenue, where he is meeting with merited success.
Mr. Lathrop is a member of the Auto Dealers'
Association of New London; member and past
president of the Harbor Club; member and director
of the Rotary Club; and a member of the Chamber
of Commerce, of New London. In Masonry he
has attained the thirty-two degrees of Norwich
Valley Consistory, Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite,
and in the York Rite is affiliated with Brainard
Lodge, No. 102, Free and Accepted Masons; Union
Chapter, No. 7, Royal Arch Masons; Gushing Chap'
ter, Royal and Select Masters; and Palestine Com-
mandery, Knights Templar. He is also a noble of
Pyramid Temple, Ancient Arabic Order Nobles of
the Mystic Shrine, of Bridgeport. In politics, he
is a Republican, and in religious affiliation, a mem-
ber of the St. James' Protestant Episcopal Church.
On June 17, 1908, Mr. Lathrop married Clara May
Smith, of New London, daughter of William W.
Smith. Mr. and Mrs. Lathrop are the parents of
two sons: Richard T., and Donald C.
THEODORE N. HANSEN--A practical man in
an eminently practical field of endeavor, Mr. Han-
sen is bearing a significant part in the growth and
development of the Mason & Hansen Company, of
which he is president.
Mr. Hansen is a son of Hans Peter and Christina
248
NEW LONDON COUNTY
(Ingeberg) Hansen. The elder Mr. Hansen was
born in Apenrade, Denmark, and educated in the
national schools of his native land. Learning the
carpenter's trade there, he followed it throughout
his lifetime, first in Denmark and later in this
country. He came to the United States in 1880,
locating in New Haven, Connecticut, residing there
until his death, in 1919. His wife, who was also
born in Apenrade, Denmark, survives him, and is a
resident of Waterbury, Connecticut. Their three
children are as follows: Anna D., who died at the
age of ten years; Theodore N., whose name heads
this review; and Katie M., the wife of Thomas B.
Blaikie, of Waterbury.
Theodore N. Hansen was born in New Haven,
Connecticut, March 30, 1888. Receiving his educa-
tion in the public schools of that city, he early
made his start in the business world. Entering the
employ of the Peck Brothers Company, wholesale
dealers in plumbers' supplies, he continued with this
house for eighteen years, for a greater part of the
time in the capacity of traveling salesman. In 1920
he became associated with Orion A. Mason, of
Medway, Massachusetts, and under the name of the
Mason & Hansen Company, founded the present
business in the same line for which the experience
of both young men had prepared them. The Mason
& Hansen Company, located on Sparyard street.
New London, is doing a constantly increasing busi-
ness in the wholesale distribution of plumbers' sup-
plies, and is capitalized at $25,000. The business is
at present conducted by Mr. Hansen, president of
the company, and E. S. Carpenter, treasurer.
In civic matters Mr. Hansen is interested, and
holds a seat in the Chamber of Commerce. Poli-
tically, he affiliates with the Republican party. He
is a member of Adelphi Lodge, No. 63, Free and
Accepted Masons, of Fairhaven, Connecticut; of
Palaski Chapter, No. 26, Royal Arch Masons, of
Fairhaven; and of Crawford Council, No. 19, Royal
and Select Masters, also of Fairhaven. He is a
member of the Rotary Club of New London.
Mr. Hansen married Louise Harriet, daughter of
Luther E. and Alice (Hewitt) Miller, of Torrington,
Connecticut. They have three children: Theodore
N., Jr., Henry M., and William P. The family
attends the First Congregational Church, of New
London.
JOHN B. BEAUVAIS, who is conducting an
up-to-date service station in New London, Connec-
ticut, was born in Worcester, Massachusetts, Jan-
uary 27, 1880, and is a son of Albert and Margaret
(Germain) Beauvais. The father, who was born
and educated in Plattsburg, New York, has been a
machinist all his life, and is a resident of Worcester,
Massachusetts.
John B. Beauvais was educated in the parochial
schools of Worcester, and after leaving school, from
1894 until 1898, he served an apprenticeship with
Reed, Prentice & Company, learning the trade of
machinist. At the end of his apprenticeship, Mr.
Beauvais enlisted in Company I, 2nd Regiment,
United States Marine Corps, serving in Cuba and
the Philippines during the Spanish-American War.
He also served in China during the Boxer uprising,
when he was stationed at Pekin. While in China,
Mr. Beauvais received a special medal for endur-
ance shown while on a "hike" of two hundred and
forty six miles, which was accomplished in a period
of ten days. He was discharged from the service
on October 12, 1904, and returned to Worcester,
Massachusetts, where he filled the position of fore-
man in the machine shop of Reed, Prentice & Com-
pany for ten years. In 1914, Mr. Beauvais came to
New London county to accept a position as ma-
chinist with the New London Ship and Engine
Company, where he continued until December,
1919. At the time he purchased the Willard Service
Station, at No. 225 Main street, theretofore con-
ducted by John B. Corbin, and has since conducted
a thriving business in this line of endeavor, doing
all kinds of battery repairs.
With the veteran organizations in New London,
Mr. Beauvais is identified, being a member of the
G. M. Cole Camp, No. 7, Spanish War Veterans,
and also of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. He is a
member of St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church.
Politically, he supports the Republican party.
Mr. Beauvais married, June 27, 1906, in Wor-
cester, Massachusetts, Mattie Jarvis, daughter of
Augustus and Meciline (Brockway) Jarvis, of New
York State. Mr. and Mrs. Beauvais have four
children: Lawrence J., Roland J., Bernard J. C, and
Margaret M., all born in Worcester.
AUSTIN AVERY MAINE— Among the sub-
stantial citizens of New London county was Austin
Avery Maine, successful farmer and merchant, who
during his entire lifetime lived and worked in vari-
ous towns and cities of his native county. Born in
the town of Griswold, New London county, Con-
necticut, December 20, 1868, son of Avery Alonzo
and Mary Jane (Brown) Maine, he was reared and
educated in North Stonington, to which place his
parents removed soon after his birth. Griswold
was the birthplace of his mother, born September 16,
1847, died, at North Stonington, in 1873.
Austin Avery Maine attended the district schools
of North Stonington, Connecticut, and Westerly,
Rhode Island, after which he assisted his father
upon the home farm until he was twenty-one years
of age. He then hired a farm in Stonington, which
he worked for one year, and then moved to North
Stonington, rented a farm and settled down to the
serious business of becoming a successful farmer.
For seventeen years he worked steadily and effi-
ciently, then, in 1906, he quit farming, bought out
the general store of Calvin Ho.xie, in the village of
North Stonington, and successfully conducted the
business until 1908, at which time, in December, he
sold out to Brown & Stone, moved to Voluntown,
Connecticut, and took over the management of the
farm property and general store of his grandfather.
Palmer A. Brown, who was too far along in years
to continue the conduct of the business. Under this
BIOGRAPHICAL
249
new arrangement, the grandfather owned the store
building, while Austin Avery Alaine owned and
conducted the business. Here he continued until
1916, when he rtired, continuing to live in Voluu-
town during the remainder of his life. He died
September 26, 1918.
Politically, Mr. Maine supported the Republican
party. He served the town of North Stonington
as tax assessor, being the candidate of both parties,
and filled several public offices of trust, including
that of tax collector during a term of several years.
A member of the Third Baptist Church of North
Stonington, he was active in its work, serving as
trustee and as a member of the fmance committee,
as well as giving of his time and his means for
the furtherance of its various lines of work. He
was also a member of the North Stonmgton
Grange, No. 138, and of Court Advance, No. 3836,
Independent Order of Foresters.
On March 30, 1890, he married, at North Stoning-
ton, Connecticut, Eva Angeline Burdick, daughter
of Horace Franklin and Mary Frances (Shirley)
Burdick, both natives of North Stonington, and
both deceased. Since the death of Austm Avery
Maine, Mrs. Maine has removed to the village of
North Stonington. where, among the friends and
scenes of her childhood, she is passing the peaceful
evening of her life.
THE PRENTIS FAMILY— Three generations of
the Prentis family are herein reviewed, their heads
being: Captain Benjamin Prentis, a farmer and sea-
faring man, sailing his own fishing smack; his son,
Eldredge Packer Prentis, undertaker and funeral
director of New London; his son, Samuel Mott
Prentis, his father's business associate and suc-
cessor. Two of these three men have passed "to
that bourne from which no traveler ever returns,"
but the third, Samuel M. Prentis, is one of New
London's active and respected citizens, successful
in business, esteemed in private life, and prominent
in city affairs.
Captain Benjamin Prentis was born at the Prentis
homestead in Waterford, Connecticut, and was edu-
cated in the district public school, attending its
sessions during the winter term, and working on
the farm during the summer months. The farm
lay along the Connecticut coast, and at certain
seasons the lad would slip on one of the smacks
sailing out of New London harbor. Later he left
the farm, and finding fishing a profitable business,
adopted it as his regular occupation. He prospered,
and finally became the owner of his own vessel,
and for many years he was a regular "banks"
fisherman, sailing from New London and delivering
his fish to New York City buyers. He ran his
schooner on her fishing trips from New London
to the "banks," thence to New York City, and for
many years was very succesful and widely known
among the sea-going community as a brave and
skillful skipper. He finally retired from the sea
and lived a quiet life in New London, free from
business cares, until his death. He was for many
years custodian of the Light House Department, of
New London.
Captain Prentis married Miranda Beckwitii, born
in East Lyme, Connecticut, who also died in New
London, and they were the parents of seven chil-
dren, two of whom are living: Kate, wife of H. C.
Holmes, of New London, Coimecticut; and Ste-
phen A., who married Carrie Mason, and resides
in New London.
Eldredge Packer Prentis, son of Captain Ben-
jamin and Miranda (Beckwith) Prentis, was born
in Waterford, New London county, Connecticut,
March 25, 1848, died in New London, February 15,
1921. He was the third child of his parents, and
was given a good public school education. After
school life was ended he became a clerk in Ralph
Smith & Son's general store of New London. He
continued in business in New London as an em-
ployee until reaching the age of thirty-four, then,
in 1882, purchased the undertaking business of
Hammond & Caulkins, having been a partner in
that firm during the previous year. In 1883 he
purchased the entire interest, and from that year
until his death conducted the business under his
own name. He became widely known as an under-
taker, maintained a well-equipped establishment,
and was the leading funeral director of the city.
He invested largely in New London real estate,
and was highly esteemed, his sudden death carry-
ing sorrow to many homes where he was well
known and loved.
Eldredge P. Prentis married, in New London,
Olive Mott, daughter of Samuel Mott, of Water-
ford, Connecticut. She died in New London, in
1915, leaving a son, Samuel Mott, of further men-
tion. Mr. Prentis was a Republican in politics,
and both he and his wife were members of the
Congregational church.
Samuel Mott Prentis, only child of Eldredge
Packer and Olive (Mott) Prentis, was born in New
London, Connecticut, September 26, 1879, ^nd there
yet resides, one of the leading undertakers of the
city. He was educated in New London public
schools, and in 1896 finished his course with gradu-
ation from Bulkeley High School. During the
ensuing nine years, 1896-1905, he was an office
salesman with F. H. and A. H. Chappell, of New
London, his experience with that firm being most
valuable and profitable. In 1905 he became asso-
ciated with his father in the undertaking business,
that connection existing for sixteen years, when the
hand of death was laid upon the senior member.
The son, Samuel M. Prentis, upon the passing of
Eldredge P. Prentis, succeeded the latter as head
of the business, which, since 1883, has been in the
Prentis name, a period of thirty-eight years.
Mr. Prentis is a Republican in politics, and for
two terms has represented the Second Ward on
the New London Board of Aldermen. He is an
ardent and influential party man, and works hard
for the triumph of party candidates. He is a mem-
ber of New London Lodge, No. 360, Benevolent
and Protective Order of Elks, of which he is a past
2S0
NEW LONDON COUNTY
exalted ruler; member of Nonanemtuc Tribe, No.
40, Improved Order of Redmen; New London
Chamber of Commerce; Konomoc Hose Company,
of New London; the Thames Club; and Connec-
ticut State Funeral Directors' Association.
WALTER BODINE SMITH JEFFERS— En-
gaged in a somewhat varied business career during
a life that ended far short of the allotted three-
score years and ten, the recent death of Walter
Bodine Smith JefTers removed from Palmertown,
Connecticut, a man who had done his work well
and whose loss was keenly felt by those with wliom
he had been associated. He died in Palmertown,
August 9, 1920, and was buried in Hanover, Connec-
ticut.
Walter Bodine Smith Jeffers was the son of Jo-
siah JefTcrs, a native of Atlantic City, New Jersey,
who in his early life had been a seafaring man, but
in later years had been employed as a mechanic in
Connecticut. His death occurred in 1903, at the
age of si.xty years. He was buried in the family
plot in Jcwett City Cemetery. The mother of
Walter Bodine Smith Jefifers was Lucy (Yerring-
ton) Jefifers, of Jewett City.
Born in Jewett City, Connecticut, April 18, 1865,
Walter Bodine Smith JefFers was educated in the
public schools there, and following this went to his
father's old home in Atlantic City, where he re-
mained for a few years. Returning to Jewett City,
Mr. Jefrers was employed for a time in flower cul-
ture, assisting in the care of a greenhouse, later
going into one of the mills in Jewett City. In
1907, accepting the position of superintendent of
the Camp Grounds at Willimantic, Atr. JefFers lived
for two years in that city. In April, 1909, he came
to Palmertown and entered into mill work again,
continuing thus occupied until his death.
During the Spanish-American War, Mr. JefFers
enlisted at Xiantic, Connecticut, and was assigned
for duty at Savannah, Georgia, where he served as
a corporal in Company C, Third Regiment.
Walter Bodine Smith JefFers is survived by his
widow, Mrs. Margaret Louise (Allen) Jeffers,
whom he married October 10, 1900, in Hanover,
Connecticut. She is the daughter of Alexander
Allen, a successful farmer of Hanover, a man who
had been prominently connected with affairs in that
town, and was for years a deacon in the Congre-
gational church there. He died in 1895. His wife
was Caroline Allen, v.'hom he married in Illinois,
having met her there during a trip which Mr. Allen
made through the West. Their daughter, Margaret
Louise Jeffers, was born in Charlton, Massachu-
;setts, March 12, 1872. She had two brothers, Pratt
Allen and William Allen who are now deceased.
In addition to his wife, Mr. JefFers left two
sisters, Mrs. Robert Smith, of Phenix, Rhode Island,
and Mrs. Fred Gilbert, of Jewett City. Mrs. Mar-
garet Louise (Allen) JefFers is now librarian of the
'Community Library, Palmertown.
VIGGO E. BIRD, general manager of the Con-
necticut Power Company, to which office he was
appointed January i, 1920, is a man whose ever
alert public spirit and ready cooperation in all that
concerns the general welfare constitute a lasting claim
on the regard of the city of New London.
Regnar E. Bird, father of Viggo E. Bird, was
born in London, England. When two years old his
father moved to Flensburg, Slesvig-Holstein, to
look after his shipping interests, and incidently
served as British Counsel. The boy secured his
primary schooling in Flensburg, but at the age of
twelve years was sent to a boarding school near
Copenhagen, Denmark. After graduating from this
school he matriculated at the University of Copen-
hagen, in the engineering department, and was
subsequently graduated from this institution with
the degree of Civil Engineer. He remained in
Copenhagen, Denmark, where today he is one of
the leading engineering contractors of that country.
He married Regina Ewaldsen, and to them have
been born four children: Svcnd, who married Jo-
hanna Schmidt, and is an interior decorator in
Copenhagen; Tage, who married Jennie Nielsen,
and is a civil engineer at Valparaiso, Chili; UfFe,
who is a civil engineer, being associated with his
father in business, and who married Elizabeth
Olsen; Viggo E., of further mention.
Viggo E. Bird, son of Regnar E. and Regina
(Ewaldsen) Bird, was born in Copenhagen, Den-
mark, April 29, 1885. After graduating from the
local high school, he entered the engineering de-
partment of the University of Copenhagen, winning
from this institution, in the class of 1902, the degree
of Mechanical Engineer. Two years later he came
to the United States and upon landing in New York
City, remained there for a while in the employ of
the General Electric Company. Some months later,
however, l;e resigned and went to Boston, Massa-
chusetts, where he entered the Masaschusetts Insti-
tute of Technology, graduating v/ith the degree of
Bachelor of Science in 1908, and working for the
next ten years for the following companies:
Assistant engineer for Harmond V. Hayes, of Bos-
ton; engineer for Stone & Webster, of Boston;
general superintendent of the Fall River Gas Com-
pany; and then to New London, where he secured
a position as manager of the New London division
of the Connecticut Power Company. In this capac-
ity he proved himself to be an able organizer and
executive, keenly alert to every changing phase of
the business, and as a man of keen foresight, he
was promoted to his present position, general man-
ager of all the divisions for the Connecticut Power
Compan}', January i, 1920.
The thorough business qualifications of Mr. Bird
have always been in great demand on boards of
directors of various institutions, and his public
spirit has led him to accept many such trusts.
He is director of the Lawrence ilemorial Asso-
ciated Hospital of New London; director and
•Q
i
BIOGRAPHICAL
251
Scout commissioner of the Boy Scouts of New
London; and is a director of the New London
Chamber of Commerce. His political affiliations
are with the Republican party, and while he has
never consented to be a candidate for ofTice, his
advice upon questions of public moment is fre-
quently solicited. A Congregationalist in religion,
he attends the First Church of this denomination in
New London, and is ever ready to respond to any
deserving call made upon him, being widely char-
itable. His clubs are the Thames and the Shene-
cossett Country, both of New London.
On April lo, 191 1, Viggo E. Bird was united in
marriage with Anita Parker, daughter of Thomas
G. and Mary (Owens) Parker, of San Francisco,
California. Mr. and Mrs. Bird are the parents of
four children: Mary P., Elizabeth E., Thora A.,
and Regnar E. (2).
THOMAS EDGAR— A pioneer of the city of
New London, Connecticut, in the insurance busi-
ness, Thomas Edgar was for many years identified with
the progress and growth of the city, and in the busi-
ness, in which he was one of the first to engage,
set a high standard for those who should follow
after.
Mr. Edgar came of good old English antecedents.
His grandfather, Thomas Edgar, was born at New-
Castle-upon-Tyne, England, and was educated there. He
came to the United States during the Revolutionary
War, and settled at New London, casting his lot with
the Colonies.
He lived a retired life, taking no active part in
the business affairs of the community. He married
Mary Latimer, who was born in New London, and
both died there. They were the parents of two
children: Jlark and Nancy.
Mark Edgar, son of Thomas and Mary (Latimer)
Edgar, was born in New London, December 3, 1779,
died December 2;, 1863. He was educated in the
public schools of this city, and when a young man,
served an apprenticeship as a carpenter, and later
became prominent as a contractor and builder,
many of the substantial structures which went up
under his hand still being in constant use in the
city. He followed this line of activity throughout
his lifetime, and died in New London, December
25, 1863. He married Annie Dennis, of Norwich,
born March 10, 1788, died June 7, 1873, and they
were the parents of four children.
Thomas Edgar, youngest child of Mark and
Annie (Dennis) Edgar, was born in New Lon-
don, Connecticut, January 19, 18.29. He received
his early education in a private school in Col-
chester, New London county, Connecticut, then
completed his studies in a private school in Farm-
ington, Hartford county, Connecticut. About 1850
he entered the business world in the employ of
William Benjamin & Company, of New London, in
their dry goods store, which was one of the leading
mercantile establishments of that day. Remaining
only a few years with this firm, however, he started
in business for himself, and for about nine years
conducted a thriving dry goods business at No.
104 State street. In 1861 he established himself in
the field of insurance, until then scarcely knov.n in
this city, and up to that time an undeveloped branch
of endeavor. It can truthfully be said that Mr.
Edgar was the pioneer in this line, and his activities
in the insurance business were beneficial both to
himself and to the economic progress of the city
during the remainder of his life. He died in New
London, on April 2, 1909.
Mr. Edgar married, in 1856, Eliza B. Smith,
daughter of Captain Parker and Mary (Potter)
Smith, both of New London. His wife died Jan-
uary 8, 1904. They were the parents of two chil-
dren, both born in New London: George P., a resi-
dent of New London, who married Sallie D. Dennis;
and Janie L.
Miss Edgar, upon the death of her father, took
over the insurance business which he laid down,
and added to it a real estate business, in which she
has been very successful and is now one of the
leading operators in this field in the city of New
London.
ROBERT B. KEYES— In New London, Connec-.
ticut, his native city and lifelong home, Robert B.
Keyes has won high professional standing, and as
a musician and teacher of the violin he has no
superiors in his city. Keyes Orchestra, which fur-
nishes music for all occasions, is a city institution,
and Professor Keyes, one of the best known men
of his city. He is a son of Benjamin and Mary
(Buckley) Keyes, who were born in Ireland, but
spent most of their lives in New London, Connec-
ticut, where Benjamin Keyes, a stationary engineer,
died, in 1906. They were the parents of six chil-
dren: Richard; Jennie; and Robert B., of further
mention; all residing in New London, and three
deceased.
Robert B. Keyes was born in New London, Con-
necticut, January 28, 1870, and there was educated
in the public schools. From youth he was pas-
sionately fond of music, and all through his school
years he was a student of the violin, having as his
instructor Professor George W. Richards, of New
London. After school years were over he continued
his lessons in music with Professor Richards, then
placed himself under the instruction of Professor
Nahan Franko, of New York City. In 1890 he
returned to New London, where he has for the
past thirty years been a teacher of violin music,
his reputation exceedingly high both as performer
and teacher.
During those years Mr. Keyes has played with
different orchestras in both Connecticut and Rhode
Island, and through the medium of Keyes Orches-
tra, his own organization, has furnished music for
many of the great social and public events of New
London and vicinity. He has taught and directed
many school orchestras both at the Nathan Hale
School and at Bulkelcy High School in New Lon-
don. His personal talent as a musical director is
not more marked than his natural ability to instruct
252
NEW LONDON COUNTY
and really teach others his wonderful mastery of
the violin. He is one of the oldest and best vioiln
teachers in the State, and for several years has
confined his classes to New London. He is not
only a musician of note, but a man highly esteemed
for his personal qualities. He is a member of the
National Association of Musicians, and ranks with
the leaders of his profession.
JOHN DOLLBAUM— Since the inception of his
business career, John Dollbaum has been identified
with the velvet industry, and since 1906 has been
assistant superintendent of the American Velvet
Company, Stonington, Connecticut. John Doll-
baum was born May i, 1864, in Crcfeld-Mischeln,
Germany, the son of the late August and Anna
(Busch) Dollbaum. .■\ugust Dollbaum was in the
silk and velvet industries throughout his entire
lifetime, being overseer in various shops of Ger-
many until his death in 1897.
John Dollbaum obtained his elementary educa-
tion in the public schools of his native place, after
which he entered a trade school in Crefeld, where
he devoted himself to the study of the textile indus-
try, and later entered a commercial school. Upon
completing the prescribed course at this latter
school, he became designer in a velvet mill in
Crefeld, subsequently becoming superintendent of
this mill. His many efforts toward betterment of
the mill equipment led to his inventing and build-
ing the Velour Carpet Loom, on which double
fancy carpets of any size can be woven. This
brought him the "Medaille D'argent" at the World
Exhibition in Paris in 1900. Patents were granted
in all industrial countries. He remained in Ger-
many until 1906, when he set sail for this country,
and in the fall of this same year came to Stoning-
ton, Connecticut, and accepted the position of assis-
tant superintendent of the .-American Velvet Com-
pany here, in which he still continues. He is an
able organizer, and being keenly alert to every
changing phase of the business he is an active
factor in its development and growth. In politics
Mr. Dollbaum is a Republican, and in his religious
views he is a Roman Catholic and attends the
church of that denomination in Stonington. He
affiliates with Nina Council, No. 43, Knights of
Columbus.
On June 30, 1890, John Dollbaum was united in
marriage with Adelhaide Isabelle Hymmen. Mr.
and Mrs. Dollbaum are the parents of six children:
1. John A., a director in the Compagnie Interna-
tionale de Machines Agricoles, of France, who at
the outbreak of the World War went to Germany
with Frederick J. to settle some business matters for his
father, was called to service in the German army,
and in 1916 was killed in an airplane accident.
2. Anna A., who married Daniel H. Gleason, a me-
chanical engineer of New York City. 3. Ernest T.,
served in the signal corps of the United States Army
and was at Camp Devens when the Armistice was
signed. 4. Frederick J., who was detained in Ger-
many during the war, and upon his return became
a student in Cornell University. 5. Henry J.,
served with the United States army in France dur-
ing the World War; since 1920 he is a student at
Cornell. 6. Paul M., while a sophomore at the
Massachusetts Institute of Technology of Cam-
bridge, and a member of the S. A. T. C. in 1918,
dica from influenza.
EDWARD B. HOLTON— John Holton, father
of Edward B. Holton, of Groton, Connecticut, was
born in Ireland, but when a child was brought to
Canada where he was educated and learned the
ship carpenter's trade. In 1870 he came to the
United States, finding employment at this trade in
the ship yard in Mystic, Connecticut. Later he
moved with his family to Groton, Connecticut, and
died December 12, 1916. His widow, Hannah Hol-
ton, survives him and is a resident of Groton. They
were the parents of twelve children, Edward B.
Holton being ninth in order of birth.
Edward B. Holton was born in Groton, Connec-
ticut, August 24, 1882, and there completed public
school courses of study. Later he finished a course
at New London Business College, and for one year
afterward was associated with J. F. Bailey, a meat
dealer. In 1913 he bought out a general market in
Groton and has since devoted himself to its man-
agement. In religious faith Mr. Holton is a Roman
Catholic, and in politics a Republican. He mar-
ried, August 2, 191 1, Anna McGill, daughter of
Thomas and Ruth (Stanley) McGill, of New York.
CORNELIUS P. BARRY— Robert Barry, father
of Cornelius P. Barry, came from his native County
Cork, Ireland, to the United States when a young
man, and located in New London, Connecticut.
There he became a prosperous commission mer-
chant, and for twenty years continued in that busi-
ness. He then retired to a well-earned life of con-
tentment and ease, and still resides in New London.
He married Johanna Collins, and to them ten chil-
dren were born, Cornelius P. their fifth child.
Cornelius P. Barry was born in New London,
Connecticut, March 5, 1888, and there educated in
the parochial school, finishing in Bulkeley High
School, whence he was graduated, class of 1905.
From 1905 until 1913 he was associated with his
father's commission business, succeeding his father,
Robert Barry, after the latter's retirement. In 1913
he entered the United States postal service as car-
rier in the New London Post Office, and four years
later (1917), was appointed secretary of the Board
of Civil Service Commissioners of New London.
He served the board until 1919, then was appointed
superintendent of the Post Office in Groton, Con-
necticut, his present position. He is a member of
the Roman Catholic Church, and of Seaside Coun-
cil, Knights of Columbus.
Mr. Barry married, July 6, 1910, Annie Maloney,
of New London, daughter of John and Mary
(Boggan) Maloney, her parents born in Ireland.
Mr. and Mrs. Cornelius P. Barry are the parents of
three children: Robert J., Mary A., Lauretta E.
BIOGRAPHICAL
253
The family home is No. 20 Pleasant street, New
London, Connecticut.
RALPH H. KOELB, of Pawcatuck, Connecticut,
in the town of Stonington, is one of the fine group of
younger men whose business ability and progressive
endeavors are carrying this section forward in the
march of events. Mr. Koelb was born in the town
of Stonington, Connecticut, October 7, 1897, a son
of Carl A. Koelb, whose life is reviewed elsewhere
in this work.
Gaining his early education in the public schools,
he thereafter attended Cushing Academy, then com-
pleted his studies at Dartmouth College. Return-
ing to Stonington, he became paymaster for the
Ship Construction & Trading Company, one of the
principal corporations of Stonington. But he was
scarcely settled in the routine of this position be-
fore the great call of Humanity reached the young
men of America, and he enlisted in the Naval Re-
serves, serving during the World War. Late in
the year 1918 he returned to Stonington, locating
in Pawcatuck, where he became associated with
the Westerly Grain & Flour Company, in the capac-
ity of manager. He is still with this company, and
is ably handling the affairs connected with their
wide and important business. Mr. Koelb is broadly
interested outside his business connections. He is
a member of Asylum Lodge, No. 57, Free and
Accepted Masons, and his college fraternity is the
Sigma Chi. Politically he is affiliated with the
Republican party, and is taking a deep and con-
structive interest in the public questions of the day.
On July 28, 1919, Mr. Koelb married Gladys C.
MacGowan, daughter of Dr. Philip T. and Eliza-
beth (Collins) MacGowan, of Mystic, Connecticut,
and they have an infant son, Clayton T., born
May 9, 1920. Mr. and Mrs. Koelb are members of
Calvary Baptist Church, of Westerly, Rhode Island.
FRANK COXETER— A well known figure in
the business life of Norwich, Connecticut, is Frank
Coxeter, one of the leading custom tailors of the
city.
George Coxeter, Mr. Coxeter's father, was born
in Hampshire, England, and there he received a
practical education in the National schools. After
leaving school he learned the trade of tailor. In
1870 he came to this country and located in New
York City, where he followed his trade for three
years, then went to Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, where
he still worked at his trade. In 1882 he came to
New Haven, Connecticut, and there worked as
tailor until his death in 1915. He married Elizabeth
Tuson, who was born in Newbury, England, and
died in New Haven, in 1900. They were the parents
of nine children, of which Mr. Coxeter of Norwich
is the fourth.
Frank Coxeter was born on the Isle of Wight,
England, on February 18, 1864. When he became
of an age to attend school the family resided in
Harrisburg, and there the boy's education was
begun. Upon the removal of the family to New
Haven, he continued his education in the public
schools of that city, then served an apprenticeship
as tailor. He followed this trade in New Haven
until 1907, when he came to Norwich and entered
the employ of the N. Johnson Company as cutter.
Two years later he bought out the Johnson firm,
and continued the business as a merchant tailor
under his own name. Mr. Coxeter is remarkably
adept in his line, and his success has been definite,
and will assuredly be permanent.
Mr. Coxeter keeps in touch with public progress,
and may well be called a representative citizen. He
is a Republican by political choice, and is a mem-
ber of the Chamber of Commerce. He is a positive
and frankly outspoken disciple of Christian Science.
He was one of the organizers of the Christian
Science Society of Norwich, and has taken an active
interest in this society since its origination and
during 1921 served as the First Reader of the society.
Mr. Coxeter married, on June 23, 1908, Ada Cran-
dall, of Norwich.
CHARLES JENNINGS TWIST, agent for the
Shetuckct Mills, of Norwich, Connecticut, is a
young man of Norwich birth, reared in that city,
and fitted for his present position by broad expe-
rience and special training.
Charles S. Twist, father of Charles J. Twist, was
also born in Norwich, and received his education
in the public schools of the city. He learned the
trade of tinsmith, and for the past fifty-two years
has followed the same line of work for the J. P.
Barstow Company, of this city, with whom he is
still (1921) connected. He married Minnie E.
Clark, also of Norwich, and they are the parents
of two children: Charles J.; and Elva C, who died
in November, 1918.
Charles Jennings Twist was born on June 28,
1881. He received his early education in the public
schools of Norwich, then entered the Norwich
Commercial School and took a business course. He
then entered on his business career and for a time
was electrical operator at the Massachusetts Cot-
ton Mills, at Lowell, Massachusetts. He next came
to Norwich, as master mechanic for the Shetucket
Company, who operate immense cotton mills in
this city. The death of Robert A. Smith, former
agent of this company', left that office vacant, and
Mr. Twist was placed in charge. This was in 1918,
and the young man's experience and executive abil-
ity made him the right man in the right place. He
continues in charge of this important branch of
the company's activities.
Mr. Twist is a man of broad interests. He is a
Republican by political affiliation. He is a member
of the Masonic order, affiliating with Somerset
Lodge, No. 34, Ancient Free and Accepted Masons;
Franklin Chapter, No. 4, Royal Arch Masons;
Franklin Council, No. 3, Royal and Select Masters;
Columbian Commandery, No. 4, Knights Templar;
all Scottish Rite bodies, of the thirty-second degree;
and Sphinx Temple, Ancient Arabic Order Nobles
of the Mystic Shrine, of Hartford, Connecticut.
254
NEW LONDON COUNTY
Mr. Twist married, on April 26, 1905, Carrie V.
Sherman, daughter of John E. and Sarah E. (Mc-
Call) Sherman, of Norwich. They are members
of the United Congregational Church.
JAMES HENRY SHEA, Sr. — Well-known
ainoiij,' the successful business men of Tewctt City,
Connecticut, is James H. Shea, owner and manager
of a large coal, ice and lumber business here. He
was born in Griswold, Connecticut, August 14, 1873,
the son of Timothy and Julia (Doyle) Shea, both
natives of Ireland. Timothy Shea came to this
country when a young man, locating in Plainfield,
Connecticut, where he has since been engaged in
general farming and dairying. Mrs. Shea, the de-
voted wife and mother, passed away in February,
1907. To Mr. and Mrs. Shea were born eleven
children, James Henry, of further mention, being
the si.xth child.
After receiving his education in the public schools
of Plainfield, Connecticut, James H. Shea v/orked
on his father's farm until 1894, when he came to
Jewett City and in company v,rith his brother,
Michael E., established, under the name of Shea
Brothers, the ice, coal and lumber business in which
they have continued to the present time. Mr. Shea
is also interested in general farming.
In everything pertaining to the v-felfare of the
community, Mr. Shea's interest is deep and sincere,
and no project, which in his judgment tends to fur-
ther that end, lacks his cooperation and support.
He is an active member of the Democratic party,
and served as first selectman from 190S until 1917-
He was also constable for many years. He is
affilirited v/ith the Knights of Columbus, holding
membership in the White Cross Council of Nor-
wich, Connecticut. In religion he is a Roman Cath-
olic, and no good work done in the name of charity
or religion appeals to him in vain, for h.. brings
to bear in his work of this character the same dis-
crimination and thoroughness which is manifest in
his business life.
On January 2, 1907, James H. Shea was united
in marriage with Abbie E. Doyle, daughter of Jere-
miah and Mary (Sullivan) Doyle, of Plainfield, Con-
necticut. Mr. and Mrs. Shea are the parents of
eight children: Arthur D., Anna E., Claire J., Mar-
garet M., Abbie E., Doris J., James H., Jr., and
Alice M.
THOMAS V/ILSON REYNOLDS— For more
than a quarter of a century Mr. Reynolds has been
manager for the Pawcatuck branch of the Standard
Oil Company, the first and yet the only manager,
his term of service in that capacity at that point
beginning February 13, 1893. His previous expe-
rience had been in railroad employ, in office and on
trains. He is a son of William Franklyn and Cla-
rissa (Wilcox) Reynolds, both of New London an-
cient and honorable families.
William Franklyn Reynolds was born in Stoning-
ton, Connecticut, and after completing public
school study, he became a blacksmith's apprentice.
serving his full time. Later he became a farmer
and truckman, a business which he followed in
Stonington until his death, February 26, 1882. His
wife, Clarissa (Wilcox) Reynolds, died in 1850,
and he married (second) Percy Ann Weaver, of
Stonington.
Thomas Wilson Reynolds, son of William Fiank-
lyn Reynolds and his first wife, Clarissa (Wilcox)
Reynolds, was born in Stonington, Connecticut,
August 31, 1854, and there v/as educated in the
public schools. After leaving school he was a farm
worker in various places, but in 1875, at the age
of tv/enty-one, he entered the employ of the New
York, Boston & Providence Railroad Company as
brakeman, and for twelve years he continued in the
train of the company. In 1887 he was transferred
to the freight department as agent at the Westerly
Station, and there continued for six years more,,
making his railway service a penoa of eighteen
years. On February 13, 1893, he was appointed the
first manager of the Standard Oil Company in
Pav.-catuck, Connecticut, a position he has held con-
tinuously during the twenty-eight years v.'hich have
.since elapsed. Mr. Reynolds is a Republican in
politics, a member of the First Baptist Church, of
Westerly, and of the Royal Arcanum, of Stoning,
ton.
In Stonington, Connecticut, Mr. Reynolds mar-
ried, August 24,- 1893, Mary Elizabeth Cheseboro,
born in Brooklyn, New York, daughter of Enoch
and Margaret Cheseboro. Mrs. Resmolds was reared
in Stonington, Connecticut. The Cheseboro family
is one of the oldest families in Stonington, Connec-
ticut.
WILLIAM CHARLES HARRISON is one of
those men who started at the bottom of the ladder, and
by means of his own efTort has made his way to the
position which he now holds in the manufacturing circles
of this county.
William Charles Harrison was born in Preston,
England, October o, 1867, the son of Charles and
Elizabeth Ellen (Thompson) Harrison. When he
was but six years of age his parents brought him to
this country, to New Bedford, Massachusetts,
where he continued his education, previously started
in England. His father died when William was-
but nine years of age. This necessitated the lad
seeking work at an early age, so when he was but
fourteen years of age, the business of life began
for him. He secured employment in the cotton
mills of New Bedford, where he remained for a
time, later going to Ware, Massachusetts, as assis-
tant percher in the George Gilbert mills. From
this time until 1899 he worked in various mills
throughout New England, and then came to Han-
over, where he still continued to be identified with
manufacturing, and was subsequently given the
position of overseer of the Dressing Department, in
which position he still continues, fulfilling to the
letter every trust committed to him,
Mr. Harrison married Alice Mabel Nickols ; she was
born in Ware, Massachusetts, the daughter of Edward
J] _
Cly;^. 6tje,^(jz.^i^cl^ (D. /^^^.<::^-w*r*-<^
BIOGRAPHICAL
2Si>
and Sarah Nickols. Mr. and Mrs. Harrison are the
parents of three children : Harlan Mellin, born Novem-
ber 22, iSgj; William Charles, Jr., born September lo,
1896; Dorothy May, born October 28, 1901.
The career of William Charles Harrison has been
devoted entirely to his work. He has never taken
any active part in public affairs but has always
interested himself in everything pertaining to the
welfare of Hanover which has been his home for
so many years. He was a Republican in politics,
attended and supported the Congregational Church
of Hanover, of which his family are members and
of which he is trustee.
REV. ULDERIC OSCAR BELLEROSE— It is
peculiarly gratifying to the biographer to record
the lite history of a man who has devoted his life
to the service of the church. Standing, indeed, in
the relation of a father to the people under his
care, the world is better and the lives of men and
women richer for his ministrations. Rev. Ulderic
O. EcUerose, pastor of Sacred Heart Church, of
Taftville, Connecticut, is deeply beloved and rever-
enced by the people of the church, and has won
the respect of all who know him, regardless of
creed.
Father Bellerose is a son of Frederick and Ceserie
(Andair) Bellerose, both his parents having been
born at St. Cesaire, Province of Quebec, Canada.
In 1865 they came to the United States, and located
at Grosvenor Dale, Connecticut, where Mr. Belle-
rose soon established himself as a general blacksmith,
becoming successful in his chosen line, and is still a
resident of that town, now retired. Eight children were
born of this marriage, Ulderic Oscar the first child.
Father Bellerose was born in North Grosvenor
Dale, on December 7, 1873. He received his early
education in the parochial schools of that town,
then for his classical education went to the College
of St. Hyacinthe, at St. Hyacinthe, Province of
Quebec, Canada, from which institution he was
graduated in January, 1893, with the degree of
Bachelor of Letters. He studied philosophy from
1893 to 189s at St. John's Seminary, in Boston,
Massachusetts. Thereafter, he entered St. Mary's
Seminary, at Baltimore, Maryland, where he was
ordained a priest of the Roman Catholic church, on
June 14, 1898, with the degree of S. T. B.
In that same year Father Bellerose was appointed
assistant pastor of St. Patrick's Church, in Nor-
wich. He was most devoted in his work in this
parish, and won the deepest regard of the people.
After four years he was appointed assistant pastor
of the Sacred Heart Church in Taftville, again
serving most acceptably, and giving great promise
of the future. In 1906 he was appointed pastor
of the church at Wauregan, where he remained
until 1910, and here, in 1908, built a parochial
school. In 1910 he was appointed to the Church
of St. Mary, in Baltic, where he served for four
years, building, in 1912, a new church for that parish.
In 1915, Father Bellerose was appointed pastor
of Sacred Heart Church, at Taftville, and the parish
is still under his charge. Here he built a new
church, and since his appointment to this field.
Father Bellerose has built up the church both mate-
rially and spiritually. His assiduous and unselfish
devotion to duty is a noble example, and the people
of the church have learned to love and honor him.
He has led the people through the trying period of
the V/orld War, comforting, encouraging and suc-
coring, and has been most active in leading the
many movements which lent aid to the boys over-
seas. He is always cognizant of his responsibility
to the community-at-large, and his most earnest
endeavor is to make his church a living force for
progress.
Father Bellerose is an influential member of
White Cross Council, No. 39, Knights of Columbus,
of Norwich, and is a fourth degree knight in this
order. He is also a member of St. Mary's Alumnus,
of Baltimore.
ALBERT ANDREW HALEY, owner and man-
ager of an extensive trucking business in Groton,
Connecticut, is a native of this place, and since
reaching young manhood has identified himself with
everything pertaining to the v/elfare and advance-
ment of the community.
Andrew Haley, father of Albert Andrev/ Haley,
was born in New York City, and when but a child
Vi'as brought by his parents to Groton, Connecticut.
Here he obtained his education, and after finishing
his studies, apprenticed himself to the printer's
trade, later giving this up to follow agricultural
pursuits, in which he continued until his retirement
from active business life. He now lives retired with
his son, Albert A. Mr. Haley married Josephine
P. Egglcston, a native of Groton; she died in 1915-
To Mr. and ilrs. Haley was born one child, Albert
Andrew, mentioned below.
Albert Andrew Haley was born October 15, 1870,
at Groton, Connecticut, and obtained his education
in the public schools of his native place. When a
young man he secured employment with the Mystic
Woolen Company, at Old Mystic, Connecticut, and
subsequently became overseer of the spinning de-
partment. Here he remained until 1900, when he
purchased from Charles Briggs the latter's interest
in a trucking business, and has conducted it suc-
cessfully since that time. Together with this, Mr.
Haley became owner and manager in 1910 of a
general store at Old Mystic, which he bought from
W. D. Beckwith, and also continues his interest in
this particular line.
In politics, he is a Republican and is a staunch
adherent to the principles and policies of this party.
He is afifiliated with Stonington Lodge, No. 26,
Independent Order of Odd Fellows, of Mystic; and
attends the Methodist church of Old Mystic.
On July 6, 1893, Albert Andrew Haley was united
in marriage with Kate Mitchell, a native of Groton,
and the daughter of William H. and Mary (Ed-
wards) Mitchell.
2s6
NEW LONDON COUNTY
ERNEST ORVIL RODIER— All honorable suc-
cess is based upon a definite aim in life and the
persistency of purpose which enables one to perse-
vere in a given course regardless of obstacles, dilfi-
culties and discouragements. There are many self-
made men in this country, and there is full praise
here for the man who has started at the bottom
and by means of his own efforts made his way to
the top. New England has its share of such men,
and to this list has been added the name of Ernest
Orvil Rodicr.
Ernest Orvil Rodier was born in Philadelphia,
Pennsylvania, October 3, 1876, the son of Oliver and
Anna (Hamilton) Rodier. His father, Oliver Ro-
dier, was born in Montreal, and obtained his edu-
cation in the public schools there. He was a
painter of scenery until his death, which occurred
at Philadelphia, in 1877. His mother was a native
of Philadelphia, and died there, in 1892.
The education of Ernest Orvil Rodier was ob-
tained in the public schools of Philadelphia, after
which he was employed by several different com-
panies, among them the T. W. Clarke, Myers &
Taylor Company, and the Otto C. Muller Company.
In 1902 he became an agent for the Prudential Life
Insurance Company, later bemg promoted to the
position of assistant superintendent of the Phila-
delphia office. In 1909 he was transferred to Ports-
mouth, New Hampshire, as superintendent, in the
capacity of agency organizer, and was there until
1910, when he came to Norwich, Connecticut, and
has continued here to the present time as district
superintendent.
In politics, Mr. Rodier is a Republican. He is
president of the Building and Loan Association of
Norwich, and a member of the Connecticut Under-
writers. He is a member of the Chamber of Com-
merce, a past vice-president of same. He is also
prominent in Masonic circles, and is a member of
Richard Vau.^ Lodge, Free and Accepted Masons,
of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Franklin Chapter,
Royal Arch Masons, of Norwich; Franklin Council,
Royal and Select Masters, of Norwich; Columbia
Commandery, Knights Templar; and is a thirty-
second degree member of the Connecticut Consis-
tory, Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite. Mr. Rodier
is also a member of Girard Court, Foresters of
America, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; a member of
the Patriotic Sons of America, of Philadelphia; and
in religious faith a member of Trinity Methodist
Episcopal Church of Norwich, Connecticut.
Mr. Rodier married, October 7, 1903, Emma Ray-
bold, born November 22, 1875, at Philadelphia, Penn-
sylvania, the daughter of James Raybold, of Phila-
delphia, and Isabel (Dougherty) Raybold, who was born
in England, but whose family moved to Ireland when
she was a child. Mr. and Mrs. Rodier are the parents
of two children : Isabel H., and Anna P., both children
born in Philadelphia.
sleeve is also well known in fraternal circles.
Mr. Gilderslecve is a son of Smith M. and Nina
(Hunt) Gildersleeve. Smith M. Gildersleeve was
Lcjrn in Fireplace, Long Island, where he received
part of his schooling in the public schools, complet-
ing his education in Brooklyn, New York. For
many years, as a young man, he worked as travel-
ing salesman, later entering the grocery business in
Noank, in the town of Groton, Connecticut. About
1905 he sold the grocery business and worked as
a boat builder, but is now living retired at Noank.
Smith M. and Nina (Hunt) Gildersleeve were the
parents of two children: Charles W., of whom fur-
ther; and George E., who died about 1910.
Charles Wilbur Gildersleeve was born in Brook-
lyn, New York, on January 28, 1883. He received
his education in Brooklyn, New York, and in
Noank, New London county, Connecticut. Upon
the completion of his studies, the young man en-
tered the employ of the Brainerd & Armstrong
Company, of New London. There he continued as
clerk in the offices until the year 1904. He then
became connected with the grain business of the
Arnold Rudd Grain Company, of which Ernest E.
Rogers, of New London, was president. Four years
later, in 1908, Mr. Gildersleeve came to Mystic to
fill the position of manager of the Mystic Grain
Company. His work in this capacity has been most
successful, and he is still at the head of this busi-
ness.
Mr. Gildersleeve is a member of Charity and
Relief Lodge, No. 72, Free and Accepted Masons,
of Mystic; a member of Stonington Lodge, No. 26,
Independent Order of Odd Fellows, in which order
he is past noble grand; and a member of Pequot
Camp, Modern Woodmen of .America, of Mystic.
Politically, he upholds the principles of the Repub-
lican party.
In April, 1907, Mr. Gildersleeve married Alice
Brown, of Noank, daughter of Clarence and Ar-
metta (Moshier) Brown, 01 Noank. Mr. and Mrs.
Gildersleeve have two sons: Ernest W., and Charles
E., both born in Mystic, Connecticut. The family
are members of the Baptist church.
CHARLES WILBUR GILDERSLEEVE— Prom-
inent in one of the most practical of the mercantile
lines in Mystic, Connecticut, Charles Wilbur Gilder-
AGNES (BUTLER) PARK was born in Coos
county, Oregon, the daughter of Parker and Mary
,'Skidmore) Butler. Parker Butler was educated
in the public schools of his native place, and upon
reaching manhood, became interested in coastwise
shipping on the Pacific coast, which occupation he
followed throughout his entire lifetime. Captain
of a ship for years, he was lost at sea in the Pacific
Ocean, in 1872. His wife died in 1901, in Marshfield,
Oregon. Mr. and Mrs. Butler were the parents of five
children, of which number is Agnes, mentioned below.
The preliminary portion of Mrs. Park's educa-
tion was obtained in the public schools of East .
Greenwich, Rhode Island, after which she entered j
the East Greenwich Academy, subsequently matric- ■
ulating at Boston University, from which institution <
she was graduated in 189S with the degree of
Bachelor of Arts. After graduation she became a
BIOGRAPHICAL
257
teacher in Burrillville, Rhode Island, and made her
home in Mystic, Connecticut. In 1900 she estab-
lished herself in business by buying out the Mystic
Variety Shop, founded by I. D. Miner in 1897. The
venture proved successful, and her business has con-
sistently grown until she has reached her present
position, which has placed her among the leading
business women of the county. Since coming to
this community Mrs. Park has taken a keen interest
in public affairs, devoting herself to all measures
calculated to benefit the community and promote
its rapid and substantial advancement. In politics
she is a Republican, and in her religious affiliations
she is a Methodist.
On June 15, 1901, she married Amos Park, and
to them has been born one child, Ripley B., born
in Mystic, Connecticut, January 15, 1903.
SAMUEL EDWARD STEWART, JR.— Among
the many young soldiers who returned from serving
their country in France during the World War is
Samuel Edward Stewart, Jr., who in company with
George A. Feeney, a sketch of whom follows, en-
tered into a partnership, opening the Arcade Mar-
ket, in Stonington, Connecticut, which venture has
proved to be a very successful one.
Samuel Edward Stewart, Jr., is the son of Samuel
Edward, Sr., and Matilda J. (Mabbitt) Stewart. The
elder Mr. Stewart was born in Lancaster, Pennsylvania,
where he acquired his education in the public schools
and learned the trade of house painter. When twenty-
one years of age he came to Mystic, where he has since
resided and where he has been employed at his trade.
Mrs. Matilda J. Mabbitt) Stewart is a native of West-
erly, Rhode Island. She was the mother of four
children: May, who died in infancy; Leo, who also
died in infancy; Sarah, who is living at home; and
Samuel Edward, Jr., of whom further.
Born in Mystic, Connecticut, May 26, 1895, Sam-
uel Edward Stewart, Jr., attended the public school
an later the Cushing Academy, and after leaving the
latter institution, went into the office of P. F. Cas-
sidy, an attorney of Woonsocket, Rhode Island,
where he studied law.
While engaged in this pursuit, the United States
entered into the World War, and Mr. Stewart en-
listed in the service of his country, January 6, 1917,
at Boston, Massachusetts. He was assigned for
duty in the Medical Corps, in Ambulance Company
No. 28, and was sent with the American Expe-
ditionary Forces to France, where for seventeen
months he was engaged in the famous battles of
Chateau-Thierry (where he was gassed), St. Mihiel,
and also in the various drives on Argonne Forest.
He was sergeant of detail, first aid. Company C, of
the 47th Infantry, when the great Krupp gun, "Big
Bertha," that shelled Paris, was captured. Return-
ing to the United States, he was sent to Camp Dix,
New Jersey, where he v.-as honorably discharged,
with the rank of sergeant, in August, 1919. In
November, 1920, Mr. Stewart, in association with
Mr. Feeney, entered into the market business pre-
•viously referred to.
N.L.— 2.17.
While not active in politics, Mr. Stewart has
joined the ranks of the Republican party. He is
also affiliated with Charity and Relief Lodge, No.
72, Free and Accepted Masons, of Mystic; Benev-
olence Chapter, Royal Arch Masons, of Mystic;
Mystic Council, Royal and Select Masters, of Mys-
tic; Palestine Commandery, No. 6, Knights Tem-
plar, of New London; and Pyramid Temple, An-
cient Arabic Order Nobles of the Mystic Shrine, of
Bridgeport, Connecticut. Mr. Stewart is a member
of the Protestant Episcopal church of Mystic.
GEORGE A. FEENEY— One of the partners in
the Arcade Meat Market of Stonington, Connec-
ticut, is George A. Feeney. Although his business
is located there, his residence is in Mystic, where
he has lived for most of the years of his life.
The parents of George A. Feeney were both
natives of Ireland. His father, Thomas Feeney,
was born in County Galway, where he was educated
in the National schools. When a young man he
came to the United States and located in Pawcatuck,
Connecticut, taking up the trade of moulder, work-
irg at it all his life. He now resides at Mystic.
His w;.''e, Bridget .^gnes Casey, was born in Illi-
nois; her death occurred in Mystic, in 1917. They
had a family of seven children: i. Annie, who re-
sides at home. 2. George A., of whom further.
3. Edward, now living at home; he was engaged
in active service during the late World War with
the American Expeditionary Forces, 68th Regiment,
Coast Artillery Corps, having spent eighteen months
in France. 4. Francis S., living at home, who also
was in the American E.xpeditionary Forces, serving
in Company D, 77th Division. This young soldier
was a member of the famous Lost Battalion. 5.
Thomas, deceased. 6. Joseph. 7. Mary, both living
at home.
The second member of this family, George A.
Feeney, was born in Pawcatuck, Connecticut, July
16, 1892. He was educated in the public schools of
Mystic, and after leaving school was employed by
B. D. Williams, in Mystic, as a clerk, remaining
with Mr. Williams for eleven years, when he left,
in 1917, to become one of the workers in the ship-
yard at Groton, Connecticut, and in the Groton
Iron Works, where he remained until 1919. At that
time, Samuel Edward Stewart, Jr., of Mystic, a
sketch of whom precedes this, returned from service
in the American army in France, and Mr. Feeney
and Mr. Stewart entered into partnership and
established a meat market in Stonington, known as
the Arcade Market, where they are now located.
In politics, Mr. Feeney is a Democrat; in his
religious affiliation he is a member of the Roman
Catholic church of Mystic, his people also being
attendants there.
PETER HAMMACHER— .A. prominent figure in
the business life of Mystic, Connecticut, is Peter
Hammacher, owner of a large general store here.
Since coming to this community in 1909, Mr. Ham-
macher has always taken an interest in everything
258
NEW LONDON COUNTY
pertaining to the betterment of civic conditions and
the advancement of the businecs life of the place.
Henry Hammachcr, father of Peter Hammacher,
was born at Rhyland, Germany, and died in Stoning-
ton, Connecticut, in 1902. He obtained his educa-
tion in the public schools of his native place, and
then went to work in the winding department of
a velvet mill there until 1892, when he came to
this country with his family and located in Astoria,
New York, where he became identified with the
American Velvet Company. In 1896 this company
started a velvet mill at Stonington, and Mr. Ham-
macher, being a skilled mechanic, helped greatly in
the new mill, where lie was located until his death.
He married Elizabeth Schoren, who died in Ger-
many, in 1883.
Peter Hammacher, third child of Henry and Eliza-
beth (Schoren) Hammacher, was born at Rhyland,
Germany, June 12, 1877, and attended the public
schools of his native place. In 1899 he came to
this country and located in Stonington, where he
became a weaver with the .American Velvet Com-
pany. Ten years later he came to Mystic and
established himself in business under the name of
P. Hammacher & Company, in which he has con-
tinued successfully up to the present time.
A Republican in politics, Mr. Hammacher gives
to the afi'airs of the organization the interest de-
manded of everj' good citizen, but has never held
public office. He affiliates with Mystic Lodge, No.
26, Independent Order of Odd Fellows; he attends
the Cliristian Science church of Mystic.
On February 4, IQOI, Peter Hammacher was
united in marriage with Elizabeth Muller, a native
of Germany. Mr. and Mrs. Hammacher are the
parents of one child, Henry P., born at Stonington,
Connecticut, January 21, 1502, and now associated
in business with his father.
In connection with his general store, Mr. Ham-
macher operates a large and very complete confec-
tionery store, under the name of the Riverside Ice
Cream Parlor.
REV. JAMES EDWARD O'BRIEN— Dedicating
his life to the service of the Roman Catholic
church, James Edward O'Brien in his early man-
hood entered the priesthood when twenty-seven
years old and has devoted himself to the many
demands of his calling.
Born in Branford, Connecticut, October 14, 1870,
James Edward OBrien is the son of Daniel OBrien,
a native of County Cork, Ireland, and his wife,
Catherine (O'Donnell) O'Brien, also born in County
Cork. They came to the United States when young
and located in Branford, Connecticut, where they
have continued to make their home ever since.
The education of their son, James Edward, was
acquired in the public school and high school of
Branford, graduating from the latter in the class
of 1890. During the fall of that same year the
young man became a student at St. Mary's Sem-
inary, in Emmitsburg, Maryland, from which he
g.-aduated in 1894, with the degree of A. M. Enter-
ing upon his preparation for the church, James
Edward O'Brien was ordained a priest by Cardinal
Gibbons at the Roman Catholic Cathedral of Balti-
more, Maryland, in 1898.
Being assigned to the Church of the Immaculate
Conception at Waterbury, Connecticut, as assistant
priest. Rev. Father O'Brien entered upon his duties
there in the same year, continuing as assistant until
July, 1914. Upon that date he was advanced to the
office of Pastor at Stonington, Connecticut, in St.
Mary's Church. Rev. Father O'Brien is still en-
gaged in his work here at the present time (1921).
EDGAR CALVIN STODDARD — During an
eventful life of frequent change, Mr. Stoddard spent
two years at the Crocker House, New London's
hotel landmark, then under the management of
A. T. Hale. He has been engaged in many fields
of activity, and is a veteran in theatrical work,
having been twenty years in the business, a line
to which he has recently returned, his present en-
gagement being as assistant manager of the Crown
Theatre, in New London. He is a son of James B.
and Susan M. (Barnes-Clark) Stoddard, both of
Connecticut birth, his father dying in 1900, aged
sixty-eight, his mother, daughter of Samuel D.
Barnes, who still survives her husband, is in her
eightieth year, a resident of Waterford, Connecticut.
Mrs. Stoddard was a widow w-ith two children when
married to Mr. Stoddard, her first husband being
Horatio Clark, a seafaring man, who left two
daughters.
Edgar Calvin Stoddard was born in New Lon-
don, Connecticut, May 5, 1868, and there was edu-
cated. He was variously employed until 1886, when
he began studying veterinary surgery under a prac-
tical teacher, and continued until he was badly
injured by a horse he was treating. He then re-
turned to the hotel business, and for seven years
was connected with the Crocker House, in New
London, during the management of F. E. Parker.
He was then for twenty years engaged in theatrical
work, but after the death of his wife, in July, 1918,
he abandoned the theatre for some time, but since
June 20, 1920, he has been manager of the Crown
Theatre. He is a musician of great ability, and for
seventeen years was president and official of the
Musicians' -Association.
Mr. Stoddard is a member of Brainard Lodge,
No. 102, Free and Accepted Masons; New London
Lodge, No. 360, Benevolent and Protective Order
of Elks; Jibboom Club, No. i; and of the Konomoc
Hose Company.
Mr. Stoddard married (first), January I, 1889,
Sarah Frances .Ashcroft, born in Waterford, in
1874, died in July, 1918, and is buried in Waterford,
Connecticut. She was the daughter of John Roe
and Mary (Chapman) Ashcroft, of Waterford. Mr.
Stoddard married (second) Jessica Stuart McLean,
born in England.
\doa/i/' XS.
^
c^c^ay?^
Il
BIOGRAPHICAL
259
WILLIAM FRANCIS BAILEY — Among the
comparatively recent additions to the list of auto-
mobile dealers in Norwich, Connecticut, the name
of William Francis Bailey stands out prominently.
Mr. Bailey is a member of an old Connecticut
family, and his father, Jabez H. Bailey, was born in
the town of Bozrah. There he conducted a farm
until 1893, when he removed his family to Yantic,
Connecticut, where he still resides. He is now a
mail carrier on a rural free delivery route. He mar-
ried Fannie E. Spicer, and they have three sons:
Albert J., who is married and lives in Yantic; Will-
iam Francis, of whom more extended mention fol-
lows; and Bertram B., who is married and lives in
Waterbury, Connecticut.
William Francis Bailey received his primary edu-
cation in the public schools of Bozrah, where he
was born, November 6, 1885. He was eight years
of age when his parents removed to Yantic, and his
education was continued in th.e public schools of
that town, then completed by a course at the Nor-
wich Free Academy, where he studied for three
years. In 1906 he went to Norwich, where he con-
ducted a iiverj' stable. He is still in this line of
business, but in IQI9 branched out and established
a thoroughly up-to-the-minute garage, one of the
finest in the city. He handles a complete line of
automobile supplies, and the Cole Eight car.
Mr. Bailey is a member of Shetucket Lodge,
Independent Order of Odd Fellows, of Norwich,
Connecticut; the Benevolent and Protective Order
of Elks, No. 430, of the same place, and of the
Arcanum Club. He is a member of the Chamber
of Commerce, and was a member of the Common
Council for a term of two years. His political
convictions place him in the ranks of the Repub-
lican party.
Mr. Bailey married, on December 19, 1911, Marion
R. Parkinson, daughter of John Parkinson, of Nor-
wich; she is a member of the Central Baptist
Church, and Mr. Bailey attends and helps to sup-
port same.
OSCAR HERBERT MAIN, deputy sheriff of
New London county, and county jailer at Norwich,
Connecticut, was born in Ledyard, Connecticut, No-
vember 19, 1883, the son of Dwight W. and Frances
Elizabeth (Johnson) Main. Dwight W. Main was
born in Ledyard, and was educated in the district
school of his native place. When a young man he
worked with his father on the latter's farm, and
for the past twenty-five years has owned and man-
aged a large farm of his own in North Stonington,
Connecticut, and also owns one at Preston, consist-
ing of three hundred acres. To Mr. and Mrs.
Main were born six children: Timothy D., a resi-
dent of North Stonington, Connecticut; Mary E.,
wife of Thomas Conlon; Oscar Herbert, the subject
of this review; Alfred E., a resident of Ledyard;
Irving B., a resident of Stonington; Edna, wife of
Frank Brown, of Stonington, Connecticut, the latter
now deceased.
Oscar Herbert Main was educated in the district
schools of Preston, Connecticut, and then worked
on his father's farm until 1902, when be removed
to Hallville, Connecticut, and secured a position as
clerk for Wood Brothers, who carry on a general
store. Two years later he accepted the position of
foreman with the Norwich & Westerly railroad,
and one year later was appointed turnkey of the
county jail at Norwich. In 191 1 he was appointed
to his present office, that of deputy jailer of the
county jail, and March 15, 1920, was appointed
deputy sheriff. In politics he is a Republican, and
has always been deeply interested in the welfare of
the community, giving his aid in every possible way
to the promotion of the public good. He is a mem-
ber of the Chamber of Commerce, and affiliates
with the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks,
Norwich Lodge, No. 430.
On November 29, 1916, Mr. Main was united in
marriage with Nettie M. Karoli, daughter of Philip
and Isabella (Metzger) Karoli. Mr. and Mrs. Main
are the parents of two children, both born in Nor-
wich: Barbara Karoli, born September 17, 1917;
Elizabeth Isabella, born February 14, 1920. Mr. and
Mrs. Main attend the Episcopal church of Preston,
Connecticut.
JOSEPH CHARLES PELOQUINN, one of the
progressive and prosperous business men of Occum,
where he is the owner of a general store and mer-
cantile business, was born here, June 9, 1883. He is
the son of Charles and Melvina (Perreault) Pelo-
quinn. Charles Peloquinn was born in Canada, in
1S53, and came to this country v/hen a young man.
locating in Occum, where he has continued to reside
ever since. To Mr. and Mrs. Peloquinn were born
three children: Joseph Charles, of further mention;
Charles, a resident of Greenfield, Massachusetts; Fannie,
who married Emile Blain, of Baltic, Connecticut.
The education of Joseph Charles Peloquinn ^vas
obtained in the schools of his native place, after
which the business of life began for the boy. In
1917 he established himself in business, and has
since been actively engaged in this enterprise, de-
voting the greater part of his time to its affairs.
Being a good citizen, he has ever by his vote and
influence been actively engaged in furthering inter-
ests which had for their aim the betterment of
civic conditions, and no good work, done in the
name of charity or religion, fails to receive his
earnest support.
On September 11, 1903, Joseph Charles Peloquinn
was united in marriage with Mary Ward, a native
of Occum, Connecticut, her birth having occurred
there, September 6, 1886. Mr. and Mrs. Peloquinn
are the parents of three children: Ward Joseph,
born in Waterbury, Connecticut; Marie Elizabeth,
born in Sprague; and Irene, born in Spraguc.
In politics Mr. Peloquinn is an Independent, and
is a member of St. Joseph's Roman Catholic Church,
of Occum. Connecticut.
FRANK JOHN FRANER— Having spent the
early years of his life in Hungary, Frank John
ate
NEW LONDON COUNTY
Franer, when thirty-two years of age, came to the
United States, and entering into the business life
of the country, has made his home here ever since.
His people remained in Hungary, where his father,
Franl-: John Franer, Sr., was the owner of a flour
mill. The elder Mr. Franer was born in Central
Hungary, and died there, in 1893, at the age of
seventy-six years. His wife, Elizabeth Franer, also
was a native of Central Hungary, where she died,
in 1899, when seventy-six years old. In addition
to their son, Frank John, Jr., she and her husband
were the parents of two daughters, Caroline Fran-
cesca, and Anna, and a son, William.
Frank John Franer, Jr., was born in Central Hun-
gary, January 6, 1862, and in his boyhood was edu-
cated in the public schools there. In 1898 he came
to America, landing in New York City, remaining
there for some years, at first engaged in the hotel
business and later holding several other positions
for about three years. Crossing the Hudson river
to New Jersey, Mr. Franer opened a small moving
picture theatre, not far from New York City, being
one of the pioneer exhibitors in that line. A few
years later he made a trip to his old home in Cen-
tral Hungary, but returned to the United States
after spending a short time there. Buying a home
in Brooklyn, New York, Mr. Franer remained in
that city for a while. At that time he was the
owner of a moving picture house on Jamaica
avenue, Richmond Hill. Eventually he went to
Waterbury, Connecticut, where he again became
interested in the theatre business, buying the Star
Theatre. In 1918 he came to New London, Con-
necticut, and purchased the Orpheum Theatre,
changing its name to the Rialto (by which name it
is now known) and is engaged in its management.
In Central Hungary, Frank John Franer married
Mary Ebenspangcr, a native of the same place. They
have one child, born in New York City, February 18,
1903. They make their home in New London.
FREDERICK J. OSTMAN— After several years'
experience in the wholesale and retail fish market
business in connection with his father, Frederick
J. Ostman is now sole proprietor of a most success-
ful and up-to-date market in Stonington, Connec-
ticut, supplying the trade for surrounding retail
dealers.
The business was started many years ago by
Frederick Ostman, a native of Germany, who, with
his family, came to the United States when a child
of twelve years. The boy had attended the public
schools in Germany, and when his people arrived
in this country he was sent to the public schools in
New York City, where they had located. Having
arrived at the age of nineteen years, Frederick Ost-
man came to Stonington and established the fish
market previously referred to. He also entered
into the fish catching occupation, which is a very
thriving business of the population in the seaboard
towns of that locality, Mr. Ostman becoming recog-
nized as one of the big fishermen of his day. After
a prosperous and successful life he died at Stoning-
ton, January 13, 1912. His wife, Elizabeth (Ham-
mond) Ostman, was born in Stonington; she died
in Westerly, Rhode Island, April 26, 1913. Mr.
and Mrs. Ostman were the parents of nine children:
.^nnie, deceased; John, who married Gertrude Pat-
terson, and now resides in Stonington; Elizabeth,
Jennie, Bessie, Frederick J.; William, who resides
in Stonington; Lena, and Etta. The last seven live
at home in Stonington.
Frederick J. Ostman, the sixth of this family
group, was born in Stonington, February 19, 1883.
Attending the public schools of his native town, he
acquired a good education, and after graduating
from the Stonington High School, in 1900, he be-
came associated with his father in business. For
a number of years they continued in this work,
then, his father dying, the son took over the man-
agement of it and has so continued since 1912.
Interested in every local enterprise, Mr. Ost-
man is connected with most of the fraternal organi-
zations in the locality; he is a member of Asylum
Lodge, No. 57, Free and Accepted Masons, of Ston-
ington; Benevolence Chapter, Mystic Council, Royal
and Select Masters; and Palestine Commandery, No.
6, Knights Templar, of New London. He is also
affiliated with the local lodge of the Red Men, of
Westerly, Rhode Island. Mr. Ostman is interested
in the fire department of Stonington, and was fore-
man for six years, 1911-17. He is a member of the
Republican party.
On June 10, 1918, Frederick J. Ostman was united
in marriage with Mabel Bates Dias, a resident of
Hyde Park, Boston, Massachusetts. She is a
daughter of John Q. and Lotty (Jordan) Dias, of
Boston, Massachusetts. Mr. and Mrs. Ostman
attend the Protestant Episcopal church of Stoning-
ton.
EUGENE P. HYDE— The name of Hyde is a
familiar one in and around the town of Stonington,
Connecticut, where several members of the family
have been in business, both in the past and at the
present time.
Eugene P. Hyde is the son of Albigence and
Nancy L. (Pulcifer) Hyde, the father a native of
Canterbury, Connecticut, where he was educated in
the district school. As a youth he worked upon
his father's farm, but after reaching manhood he
went to Norwich and learned the trade of carriage-
making and wagon-building. In the early fifties,
Albigence Hyde moved to Stonington, where he
started a carriage factory, which he conducted until
the time of his death, in 1896, his wife sur\'iving
him for several years, her death occurring in 1905.
They were the parents of five children: Albert,
married, and resides in New Britain, Connecticut;
Hannah, residing in Stonington; Theodore Wells,
retired from business and lives in Stonington; Eu-
gene P.; and Elida, who died in 1910.
The fourth child, Eugene P. Hyde, was born in
Stonington, Connecticut, February 28, i860. In his
childhood days he attended the village school, and
when older, completed his education with Professor
. BIOGRAPHICAL
261
A. J. Foster, of Stonington. He afterward entered
into business with his father, remaining in the
carriage-making business with him until the latter's
death, when he carried on the business alone, adding
automobile repairing and painting to the carriage
and wagon worlds, and has been very successful.
He is now retired.
Having been a Democrat in politics all his life
and a regular voter, Mr. Hyde has been quite active
in the affairs of Stonington, having served on t''e
Board of Burgesses for several years. He and his
wife are members of the Baptist church, and are
supporters of all its work.
Mr, Hyde has been married twice, his first wife
being Hattie B. Taylor, the daughter of John A.
Taylor, who died in 1900. Of this marriage two
children were born: Frederick E., living at home;
and Edmond P., who married Edith Pendleton, of
New York City. Eugene P. Hyde married (sec-
ond), September 26, 1904, Mary Pendleton, of
Stonington, daughter of Captain B. F. Pendleton.
JOHN CARLSON, a native of Sweden, came to
this country when very young, being only seventeen
years old when he arrived in Boston, Alassachusetts.
Born in Lurtenburg, Sweden, April 21, 1879, John
Carlson was the son of Oscar and Louise (Ander-
son) Carlson, natives of Sweden. Oscar Carlson
was educated in the National schools of Sweden,
and learned the trade of carpenter, afterward be-
coming a contractor, in which business he was
occupied during his entire life. He and his wife
had four children, John being the third. Oscar
Carlson died in 1905, his wife having died in 1S91.
Acquiring his education in the National schools
of Sweden, John Carlson left his home in 1896 and
came to the United States. His first occupation
was an instructor in auto driving for the Keith
Automobile School of Boston, remaining as such
for several j'ears. For some time after leaving
there, Mr. Carlson acted as chauffeur in various
places, but in 1909 he came to Stonington, Connec-
ticut, as chauffeur for Eugene Atwood, of that bor-
ough, by whom he was employed for a long period.
In 1920 Mr. Carlson entered into business for
himself, opening a garage under the name of the
Stonington Automobile Station, also being the
agent for the Lexington automobiles. This is Mr.
Carlson's business at the present time.
Since his residence in Stonington, Mr. Carlson
has become greatly interested in Masonic matters,
having joined Asylum Lodge, No. 57, Free and
Accepted Masons, of Stonington ; Benevolence Chap-
ter, Royal Arch Masons, of Mystic; and Mystic
Council, Royal and Select Masters. In politics Mr.
Carlson is a Democrat.
On May 4, 1916, John Carlson was married to
Elizabeth Fritz, a resident of Astoria, Long Island,
New York. She is the daughter of Theodore and
Tillie (Kirchoffer) Fritz. Mr. and Mrs. Carlson
are members of and active in the Protestant Epis-
copal church of Stonington.
FRANK EUGENE ADAMS— The first settler in
the town of Colchester, New London county, Con-
necticut, to bear this old and honored New England
name was Benjamin Adams, who settled near Com-
stock's Bridge. He was a farmer, as his descend-
ants have been in each generation down to the
present. Benjamin Adams, the original Adams,
in Colchester, had a son, Benjamin Williams Adam's,
born in Colchester, Connecticut, April 4, 1792, and died
here in 1864. He married, August 24, 1824, Hannah
Davis Warner, born May 18, 1802, at Chester, Con-
necticut, who died many years prior to his death. They
were the parents of a son, Benjamin Adams, of whom
further.
Benjamin Adams was born in Colchester, July 9,
1834, died there, in December, 191 1. Benjamin
Adams enlisted, in 1861, at Colchester, in Company
A, Twenty-first Regiment, Connecticut Volunteer
Infantry, and served throughout the entire four
years of the Civil War. During the latter part of
the war he was a member of the Twenty-first Regi-
mental Band. After the war he returned to his
farm and here continued until his final retirement.
Mr. Adams was fife major of the famous Moodus
Fife and Drum Corps, of Moodus, Connecticut, and
during his ten years' membership, travelled with
that organization all over the United States, giving
concerts and exhibitions. He was also an instructor
on tlie fife. He married Martha Clarissa Bercham,
born November 15, 1837, and they were the parents
of three children: John W., who died in infancy;
Frank Eugene, of whom further; and Carrie Eliza-
beth, who married Clayton D. Barton, of East
Hampton.
Frank Eugene Adams, son of Benjamin and
Martha Clarissa (Bercham) Adams, was born at
Westchester Center, town of Colchester, New Lon-
don county, Connecticut, November 29, 1859. After
finishing his education in the public schools he
became his father's farm assistant and remained
at the home farm until the age of thirty-eight. In
1897 he located in East Hampton, Connecticut,
where he was employed in the N. N. Hill Brass
Company until 1904, when he returned to the town
of Colchester and bought the William H. Siems
farm at Westchester Center, where he yet resides,
a prosperous, general farmer and dairyman. His
farm of two hundred acres is well located, mod-
ernly improved and equipped, its well-kept appear-
ance indicating thrift and prosperity. He is a
Republican in politics, and has served his town as
assessor of taxes. He is a member of the West-
chester Congregational Church, and of the church
committee.
Mr. Adams married (first) in New York City,
December 20, 1887, Anna May Bissell, daughter of
Hezekiah and Mary J. (Cone) Bissell. Anna May
Bissell was born at Hebron, Connecticut, and died
in East Hampton, Connecticut, in 1902. Mr. and
Mrs. Adams were the parents of three children:
Frank Bissell, born October 18, 1888, died Septem-
ber 2, 18S9; Clarence Bissell, born December 14,
263
NEW LONDON COUNTY
1890, now station agent at Chestnut Hill for the
New York, New Haven & Hartford Railroad; Ben-
jamin Warner, born November 3, 1893, now with the
New York, New Haven & Hartford Railroad, at
New Haven, Connecticut. Mr. Adams married
(second) at New York City, April 26, 1904, Mary
Hyde, a native of East Hampton, Connecticut, a daugh-
ter of Andrew and Catherine (Wall) Hyde, of East
Hampton. Mr. and Mrs. Adams have an adopted daugh
ter, Florence, who was born in New London, Connecti-
cut, September 30, 1910.
THOMAS EDWIN WHEELER— Long active
in various branches of individual enterprise and
public endeavor, Thomas Edwin Wheeler, of North
Stonington, Connecticut, is a representative citizen
of New London county.
Mr. Wheeler is a son of Noyes Denison and
Susan S. (Wilbur) Wheeler. Noyes D. Wheeler
was a native of Rhode Island, and during all his
lifetime was a farmer in Hopkinton, in that State,
v/here he died in 1902. His was was born in Rich-
mond, Rhode Island, and died at Mystic, Connec-
ticut. They were the parents of eleven children, of
whom Thomas Edwin was the seventh.
Thomas Edwin Wheeler was born in Hopkinton,
Rhode Island, August 23, 1858. Educated in the
public schools of that town, he began life on the
farm, working with his father for several years.
For several years he taught school in Hopkinton,
Charleston, Exeter, and Richmond, Rhode Island,
and also taught in North Stonington and Volun-
town, Connecticut. He resigned as school teacher
while in North Stonington to accept a position as
field manager for King Richardson & Company,
.publishers, of Springfield, Massachusetts. After
three years thus engaged he returned and took up
school teaching in Voluntown. Later he again
taught in North Stonington and in 1898 he bought
a farm on Pendleton Hill, and farmed there till
1918. Then he moved to his present farm at Laurel
.Glen, a neighboring town cf North Stonington,
where he still remains, conducting extensive opera-
tions in general farming.
In the public life of the town of North Stoning-
ton Mr. Wheeler's ability has long since been rec-
ognized, and the call of the people has placed re-
sponsibility upon his shoulders which closelv in-
volved the welfare of the community. In political
affiliation a Republican, he was first elected tax
collector, and served for a period of six years. He
has served on the school committee of North
Stonington for a period of three years, having been
elected Chairman of the Committee during one
year. He is a member of the Loyal Order of Moose,
,of Westerly, Rhode Island, and is a member of
North Stonington Grange, No. 138. He is a devout
member of the Baptist chuch.
In the borough of Stonington, on March 15, 1897,
Mr. Wheeler married Caroline Hopkins, a native of
Council Bluffs, Iowa, daughter of Samuel and
(Bidmead) Hopkins, of that city, whose parents died
when she was a child, and she was raised in Provi-
dence, Rhode Island. They have one son, Noyes
Denison, who was born on the home farm, Pendle-
ton Hill, North Stonington, was born July 29, 1898.
Noyes Denison Wheeler served during the World
War in the Thirty-third Regiment, United States
Engineers. He enlisted on March 16, 1918, saw
considerable service in France, and was discharged
on July 16, 1919.
He married, on September 21, 1920, Mary M.
Riley, of Willimantic, Connecticut. They are the
parents of a daughter, Katherine Alice, born July
ID, 1921.
CHARLES R. STOLL, when twelve years of age,
left his native Stuttgart, Germany, and came to the
United States, locating in New London, Connec-
ticut, in 1850. There he served an apprenticeship
at the stonecutter's trade, finally becoming the
owner of a granite quarry at New London, and
conducted a profitable business until 1901, when he
opened a coal yard in New London, which he
conducted until his death in June, 1901. He was
one of the leading business men of New London
for many years and was highly esteemed. He mar-
ried Louisa Kopp, who survived him until 1905.
Mr. and Mrs. Stoll were the parents of two chil-
dren: Charles R., of further mention; and Alfred
W., who married Ida Jones, and resides in New
London.
Charles R. Stoll, eldest son of Charles F. and
Louisa (Kopp) Stoll, was born in New London,
Connecticut, April 2, 1875, and was educated in the
public schools, finishing at Bulkeley High School
with the graduating class of 1892. The first years
of his business life were spent v.'ith Swift & Com-
pany, of New London, as accountant, but later he
became a salesman. In 1901 he succeeded to the
coal business established by his father in New Lon-
don, and since that year has devoted himself to its
management. The business as now conducted
embraces in addition to coal and wood a line of
building and contractors' materials.
Mr. Stoll is a member of Union Lodge, No. 31.
Free and Accepted Masons; Mohegan Lodge, No.
53, Independent Order of Odd Fellov,-s; New Lon-
don Lodge. No. 360, Benevolent and Protective
Order of Elks; Modern Woodmen of America,
Camp No. 7523; Komonoc Hose Company, No. 4;
and the Chamber of Commerce, of New London.
Mr. Stoll is a Democrat in politics. His religious
connection is as a member of St. James' Protestant
Episcopal Church.
ALBERT C. CARACAUSA— Born in New Lon-
don, interested in every phase of public progress,
and broadly active in welfare work for the Italian-
American population, Albert C. Caracausa, of New
London, is bearing a constructive part in meeting
the public problems of the day.
Mr. Caracausa is a son of Anthony and Vincenza
(Poma) Caracausa. Anthony Caracausa was born
in Trapani, Italy, June 14, 1848, and received his
education in the National schools of his native land.
'PfdrU^^ J^ CO^^^^^^-^-^^^^x^
BIOGRAPHICAL
3^
While still a young man he went to sea as seaman
on a sailing vessel, and followed the sea during the
greater part of his life. In 1875 he became half-
owner and captain of the sailing ship "Emma," and
visited many points of interest on his voyages, con-
tinuing to follow the sea until he came to the
United States in 1891. During his nautical experi-
ence lie was twice shipwrecked, and once robbed by
sea bandits. The robbery occurred ofT the coast
of Africa, Captain Caracausa losing 20,000 lire, and
three members of the crew being killed.
Locating in New London with his family in 1891,
Captain Caracausa entered the fruit business. But
he only continued along this line for one year. His
long experience had taught him much of value to
others as well as to himself, and he saw a wider
field, and his own ability to serve his fcllowmcn
in that field. In 1894 he established a steamship
agency, and doing business under his own name,
handled foreign exchange, and met the jnany needs
of his fellow countrymen. He carried on this
business, which developed to an important interest,
until his death, and then left it in the hands of his
son. He died in New London, on May I, 1916, at
the age of sixty-eight years, leaving behind him
many friends, and a name which all who knew him
in his adopted country had learned to honor. His
iwife, who was also born in Trapani, Italy, sur-
vives him and still resides in New London. They
were the parents of five children: Albert, who died
in infancy; Fillippina, now the wife of Joseph Lup-
pino, and a resident of Brooklyn, New York;
Rosaria M., the wife of Prof. Francis MinutoUo, of
New York City; Emma, the wife of John Belbuno,
of New London; and Albert C, whose name heads
this review.
Albert C. Caracausa was born in New London,
•October 19, 1892, and is a son of Anthony and
Vincenza (Poma) Caracausa. Receiving his early
education in the public schols of this city, he was
later graduated from the Bulkcley High School, in
the class of 1913, then spent one year at the Rhode
Island State College. Thereafter, Mr. Caracausa
became associated with his father in business, and
upon the death of the elder man, not long after-
wards, the son took over the business, which he
still carries on. He continues the activities which
his father began, and to the steamship agency and
foreign e-xchange he has added an important and
constantly growing interest in real estate and insur-
ance, and also has a sub-post office at his place of
business at No. 697 Bank street.
Entirely outside of his business, Mr. Caracausa
takes a deep interest in all Italians who come to
our shores, and actively engages in individual and
organized work for their Americanization, alwavs
standing ready to be of service to them and help
them to their hoped-for success in the new country.
He is president of the Italian-American Citizen's
Club, of New London, and is an active member of
the Chritospher Columtus Lodge of the Sons of
Italy, of New London.
When the World War brought the young men
of America to take up their responsibility to hu-
manity, Mr. Caracausa enlisted in the United States
Naval Reserve Force, and was made chief of the
Naval Intelligence Bureau Station, at New London.
He enlisted on April 4, 1918, and was discharged
December 17, 1918.
Politically, Mr. Caracausa supports the Demo-
cratic party. Fraternally, he belongs to Lodge No.
360, Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, of
New London; to Seaside Council, No. 17, Knights
of Columbus; and to Lodge No. 654, Improved
Order of Red Men. He is a member of the Rotary
Club of New London.
On June 2, 1919, Mr. Caracausa married L. Louise
Chartier, of Willimantic, Connecticut, daughter of
Nicholas and Octave (Bourquc) Chartier, formerly
of Montreal, Canada, now residents of Willimantic.
Mr. and Mrs. Caracausa have one son, Anthony
Vincent, born August 9, 1921.
CLARENCE W. THOMPSON— The father of
our subject, Eugene W. Thompson, was born in
Columbia, Tolland county, Connecticut, and there
attended public school, and as a young man worked
as a clerk, married, and later became a farmer. He
married Hattie A. Post, and they were the parents
of ten children, the ninth a son, Clarence W.
Thompson, of further mention. Eugene W. Thomp-
son died in New London, Connecticut, in 1891, his
widow surviving him twenty-one years.
Clarence W. Thompson was born in .^ndover,
Tolland county, Connecticut, October 21, 1886. He
was educated in the public schools of New London,
and early in life became interested in automobiles
and their construction. He became an expert gar-
age worker, and in different establishments became
an expert in his line. In 1915 he started in busi-
ness under his own name, opening a garage in
New London, at No. 289 Bank street. He is agent
for the Chevrolet and Columbia cars, and for the
Indiana truck. His plant includes a wcll-equiipped
service station and all necessary equipment.
Mr. Thompson is a Republican in politics, and
during the years 1915 and 1918 was a member of
the Nev/ London Board of Aldermen, representing
the Fourth Ward. Mr. Thompson is a member of
Union Lodge, No. 131, Free and Accepted Masons;
New London Lodge, No. 360, Benevolent and Pro-
tective Order of Elks; Pequot Lodge, No. 85, Inde-
pendent Order of Odd Fellows; the Niagara Fire
Company; and the New London Auto Dealers'
Association. He is also a member of the Chamber
of Commerce of New London, a member of the
Baptist church, and the Masonic Club, of the same
place.
Mr. Thompson married, February 21, 1905, Min-
nie F. Daly, of New London, daughter of James F.
and Christina (Roake) Daly, and they are the par-
ents of two children: Gertrude ^L, and Helen V.
ALBERT ELI PAQUETTE-— .\mong those men
who, by successfully and efficiently carrying on a
business necessary to the life of the people serve
264
NEW LONDON COUNTY
their community is Albert Eli Paquette, son of Paul
and Corrinne (Lamarclie) Paquette. Paul Paquette
was born in North Adams, Massachusetts, and at-
tended the public schools of that place, and then
learned the bakery business. He was first em-
ployed by Theophile Perreau at North Adams,
Massachusetts, and later began business for him-
self in Williamstown, Massachusetts, where he
remained for sixteen years. He then came to New
London and established a business of his own, the
Paquette Domestic Bakery; this was in 1907. For
the remainder of his life he gave his strength to
building up and carrying on his increasingly suc-
cessful enterprise. He retired in 1916, and died
March 4, 1921. His wife, Corrinne (Lamarch) Pa-
quette, survives him, and resides in Fall River,
Massachusetts. Paul Paquette and his wife had
five children, Albert Eli being the second.
Albert Eli Paquette was born September 8, 1886.
He attended the schools of Williamstown, Massa-
chusetts, and then served an apprenticeship in the
Paquette Domestic Bakery. Continuing with his
father, he acquired a thorough knowledge of the
business, and in 1916 formed a partnership with
Francis E. Le Blanc. They bought the Paquette
Domestic Bakery from Paul Paquette, the father,
and have successfully continued the business. The
young men have a modern, sanitary plant, and are
carrying on an increasingly successful business.
Politically, Mr. Paquette is independent, voting
for those candidates who seem to him best fitted
to fill the office for which they are nominated. He
is a member of the Knights of Columbus, Seaside
Council, No. 17, New London, Connecticut; a mem-
ber of the Chamber of Commerce, of New London;
and a member of St. Mary's Roman Catholic
Church, of New London.
MORRIS LUBCHANSKEY— A prominent mem-
ber of the New London county bar, with offices in
the city of New London, Connecticut, Morris Lub-
chanskey is bearing a part in tlie general progress
of the community.
Mr. Lubchanskey is a son of Max and Anna
(Wolfe) Lubchanskey. Max Lubchanskey came to
the United States from Russia, the land of his
birth, in 1892, his family coming later, in 1898. He
began life in the new country in the wholesale
junk business, and has developed an extensive and
important interest in the reclamation of iron and
metal waste. He died in 1911.
Morris Lubchanskey, youngest of the six children
of Max and Anna (Wolfe) Lubchanskey, was born
in Russia, on April 7, 1890, and came to this coun-
try in 1898, after the Spanish-American War. Re-
ceiving his early education in the public schools of
New London, he was graduated from the Bulkeley
High School, in the class of 1908. He early deter-
mined upon a professional career, and was largely
instrumental in working out the financial problems
involved. During the four years of his high school
course he worked on the New London "Tele-
graph," one of the city dailies, as city reporter,
and in connection with this work, gained much valu-
able experience as well as funds for his higher edu-
cation. Entering the University of Michigan, at
Ann Arbor, in 1909, he was graduated from that
institution in 1912, with the degree of Bachelor of
Laws. In the same year he was admitted to the
Connecticut bar and the Michigan bar, and began
the practice of law in New London. He has won
his way to success and a position of influence in
his profession.
In various interests, Mr. Lubchanskey is active.
He is a mem'ber of the Connecticut State Bar Asso-
ciation and of the New London County Bar Asso-
ciation. Politically, he thinks and acts indepen-
dently. He is a member of Golden Rule Lodge,
No. 359, Free and Accepted Masons, of Ann Arbor,
Michigan; of the Independent Order of B'nai
Brith, of New London, and also of the John Win-
throp Club, of New London.
On June 27, 1916, Mr. Lubchanskey married Mil-
dred C. Frankel, of New York City, daughter of
Aaron H. and Lillian (Shapiro) Frankel. Mr. and
Mrs. Lubchanskey have one son, Harold F., born
September 21, 1918. The family attend Ahvat
Chesed Synagogue.
CHARLES L. MAXSON— Well known among
the business circles of New London, Connecticut,
is Charles L. Maxson, owner and proprietor of
the "Kosy Korner" Restaurant, which is one of the
best in the city, and caters extensively to business
men. Being a good citizen, as v/ell as an able
business man, Mr. Maxson is ever ready to co-
operate v/ith everything pertaining to the welfare
and advancement of his home community.
Charles L. Maxson was born at Nev/ London,
Connecticut, July 7, 1886, the son of the late George
W. and Adelaide (Cann) Maxson. George W. Max-
son was born in New York City and died at New
London, October 11, 191 1. At the age of twelve
years he came to New London and here in the
local public schools continued his education until
he entered Amherst College. Following his college
career, he early became interested in the laundry
business. To Mr. and Mrs. Maxson were born five
children, among the number being Charles L., of
further mention. Mrs. Maxson survives her hus-
band and resides at New London.
The education of the boy Charles L. was ob-
tained in the public schools of his native city, after
which the business of life commenced for him. His
first employment was in the G. M. Williams Hard-
ware Store, where he worked as a clerk for eight
years, resigning at the end of that time to become
a clerk for Palmer Brothers. Here he remained
until 1917 when, on March 20th, of that year, he
enlisted in the United States navy, was appointed
chief commissary steward, and was stationed at
Newport, Rhode Island. On May 20, 1919, he
was placed on the reserve list, and at this time re-
turned to New London, where he became assistant
paymaster of the Groton Iron Works, subse-
quently resigning to establish himself in the res-
BIOGRAPHICAL
265
taurant business, and this he accomplished on Sep-
tember 20, 1920, when he opened the "Kozy Kor-
ner" Restaurant. The enterprise has already
proven successful, for although it is comparatively
but a short time since its inception, business men
in large numbers have acquainted themselves Vifith
the place, and its popularity is widespread, which
is due in no small measure to the capable manage-
ment of Mr. Maxson.
Mr. Maxson is a member of the Masonic frater-
nity, being afTiliated with Brainard Lodge, No. 102,
Free and Accepted Masons; Union Chapter, No. 7,
Royal Arch Masons; Cushing Council, No. 7, Royal
and Select Masters; Palestine Commandery, Knights
Templar; Pyramid Temple, Ancient Arabic Order
Nobles of the Mystic Shrine, Bridgeport, Connec-
ticut; Tall Cedars of Lebanon, New London For-
est No. 72; and a Thirty-second degree member of
Norwich Valley Consistory, Ancient and Accepted
Scottish Rite. He is also a member of Moliegan
Lodge, No. 55, Independent Order of Odd Fellows,
of which he is a past grand master; of Orrin En-
campment, No. 4, of which he is past chief patriot;
and past commander of Canton Unity, No. 19, Inde-
pendent Order of Odd Fellows. Mr. Maxson is char-
ter member of the Northwest Hose Company, No.
7; and in religious faith is an Episcopalian, attend-
ing the church of this denomination in New Lon-
don.
On July 14, 1907, at New London, Charles L.
Maxson was united in marriage with Mabel Shep-
ard, and to them has been born one child, Dorothy
F., born January i, 1913.
Salem, Connecticut. Children: Elizabeth, Charles
B. (2), and Matthew H.
CHARLES B. TINKER, of New London, Con-
necticut, son of Matthew A. and Carrie (Powers)
Tinker, was born in Salem, New London county,
Connecticut, June 14, 1888. Matthew A. Tinker
was born in the town of East Lyme, New London
county, and all his life has been spent as a farmer.
He is now a resident of Montville, Connecticut,
where he has a farm. He married Carrie Powers,
and they were the parents of nine children, Charles
B., being the eldest.
Charles B. Tinker was educated in the public
schools of Montville. He was first employed by
the New York Telephone Company, where he was
foreman of construction. He then was employed
by the Southern New England Telephone Com-
pany, where he filled various offices. From there
he went to the Stevens, Duryea Motor Car Com-
pany, where he was tester of new chassis, and held
other positions. In 1915 he became manager of
the Frisbie & McCormick Garage, now W. R. Fris-
bie, in New London, and still holds that position.
He is a Republican in politics; an attendant of the
Baptist church; member of Pequot Lodge, No. 85,
Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Oxoboxo Lodge,
Free and Accepted Masons, of Montville; and New
London Lodge, No. 360, Benevolent and Protective
Order of Elks. Mr. Tinker married Amy Eva Rip,
daughter of Howard A. and Eva (Howard) Rip, of
JOHN HENRY WILSON— At "Hillside Farm"
in the town of Preston, wliich has been his home
for three decades, Mr. Wilson has proved himself
a skillful agriculturist, his farm bearing all the
evidences of careful, intelligent cultivation and effi-
cient management in all its branches or depart-
ments. He is a man of progressive ideas and
spirit, a careful, conservative man, and not afraid
to trust his own udgmcnt.
James Wilson was born in Jewett City, Connec-
ticut, and there learned the trade of machinist. He
worked as a journeyman machinist in Norwich,
Connecticut, for many years, being employed in the
old car shops, becoming boss machinist. He later
went to the South, where he died. His wife, Lucy
(Harvey) Wilson, was born in Jewett City, and is
also deceased. They were the parents of John
Henry Wilson, of this review.
John Henry Wilson was born in Preston, New
London county, Connecticut, May i, 1863. He was
educated in the public schools, and as a young man
was employed in farm and mill work. In 1883 he
came to the farm in Preston, which is now his
home, as an employe of H. H. Hopkins, and there
has since conducted general farming, dairy farming,
stock and poultry raising operations. He is a Re-
publican in politics, and a member of Preston City
Congregational Church. He is a very active mem-
ber of the old Preston City Grange, Patrons of
Husbandry, and has made "Hillside Farm" an
attractive and profitable estate.
Mr. Wilson married, September II, l838, Jennie
Sarah Hopkins, daughter of Henry H. Hopkins,
and a descendant of Governor Stephen Hopkins, a
signer of the Declaration of Independence.
HENRY HUNT HOPKINS, father of Mrs. John
Henry Wilson, was born in the town of Preston,
Connecticut, 1808. He was the son of Joseph Olney
and Lydia P. (Hazen) Hopkins, grandson of Col-
onel Silvanus and Mary (Wanton) Hopkins, and
the great-grandson of Rufus Hopkins, who filled
many positions of trust in the Revolutionary times,
such as judge, assemblyman, and one of the owners
and builders of Hope Furnace, which cast cannon
for the use of the Continental army. Rufus Hop-
kins was the eldest son of Governor Stephen Hop-
kins, a signer of the Declaration of Independence,
Governor of Rhode Island, chief justice of the
Superior Court of Rhode Island, and of the fourth
American generation of the family which was
founded by Thomas Hopkins, the founder of this
very old and distinguished family. The line of
descent to Governor Stephen Hopkins is through
Major William Hopkins, son of the founder; his
son, William Hopkins, is the father of Governor
Stephen Hopkins.
From such distinguished ancestry came Henry
Hunt Hopkins, whose career is herein traced. He
a66
NEW LONDON COUNTY
was educated in the public schools of the "Falls"
district of Norwich, and at the age of sixteen
years became a machinist's apprentice, attracted to
that trade through his father's skilled mastery of
metal working. The lad remained two years in
Allen's machine shop in Greeneville, his father
being superintendent of that plant, but the latter
becoming superintendent of the Abner Pearce shop
in Norwich Falls, he obtained a position there. He
completed his years of apprenticeship, became a
good machinist, and when his father died the
young man was appointed his sucessor as super-
intendent of the plant, although at that time he
had not quite reached the age of twenty-one years.
He retained that position one year, then trans-
ferred hia services to Allen & Thurber, going with
that firm to Worcester, but later returned to his
native State.
He bought a farm of one hundred and twenty
acres in Preston, New London county, Connecticut,
after returning from Worcester, and there lived for
a year, after which time he began working for
Christopher Brand, of Norwich county, who was
manufacturing whale guns for the use of the
whalers, shooting the harpoon instead of hunting
it by hand. He continued at that work eighteen
months, then returned to his farm in Preston, and
about a year later he purchased a block in the
newly formed Hopkins & Allen Company, of Nor-
wich county, of which firm he became superin-
tendent. That company manufactured firearms, and
after several years' connection there, Mr. Hopkins
sold his stock and returned again to his Preston
farm and its management. There he continued
his residence until the end of his life, bringing
his farm to a high state of cultivation, and con-
ducted almost as successfully a dairy proposition.
For more than fifty years he lived upon his Preston
farm, and no man in town was more genuinely
esteemed. He served the town in ofTicial capaci-
ties, as selectman, assessor, school committeeman,
and was most conscientious in the performance of
his duties.
His connection with tlie inventions leading to
the typewriting machine is perhaps not well known.
During his connection with the firm of Allen &
Thurber, Mr. Thurber invented a machine for the
use of blind people, and upon this machine Mr.
Hopkins, together with Horace Smith, later senior
member of the famous Smith & Wesson Arms
Company, worked until it was brought to perfec-
tion. That machine formed the nucleus of the
typewriting machine later invented.
Mr. Hopkins married, November 20, 1842, Lucy
Lathrop Sherman, who died January 5, 1899, in
Preston, daughter of Nathaniel Sherman, of that
town. They were the parents of the following children:
I. Joseph H., born August 12, 1843, in Norwich, died
in Preston in 1914. 2. Henrietta V., born Septem-
ber 7, 1852; married, August 14, 1883, Herbert L.
Prentice, and later with her husband moved to
Marshalltown, Iowa, where Mr. Prentice engaged
in business as a general merchant; Mrs. Prentice
died June 7, 1886; no children. 3. William H., born
April 2, 1856, died October 28, 1870. 4. Jennie
Sarah, born January 21, 1859, married, September
II, 1888, John Henry Wilson, of Preston.
FRANK HORACE BROWN— Long active in
mercantile pursuits, and now a leading business
man of North Stonington, Connecticut, Frank Hor-
ace Brown has for years also taken a progressive
and constructive part in the public life of the
community.
Mr. Brown is a son of Smith and Rebecca
(Miner) Brown, old residents of this vicinity.
Smith Brown was born in North Stonington, and
there received his education in the district schools
near his home. He was a man out of the ordinary,
not content always to tread the beaten track.
While obviously taking up for his occupation work
along agricultural lines, he made his way into a
wider field, becoming an extensive dealer in real
estate, largely in farm properties. He died in
North Stonington in 1892. His wife, who was also
born in North Stonington, died about two years pre-
viously. They were the parents of six children, of whom
four are now living.
Frank Horace Brown, youngest child of Smith
and Rebecca (Miner) Brown, was born in Volun-
town, Connecticut, September 14, 1851. He also
received a practical education in the district schools
of the town, then became associated with his father
in his farming interests. Continuing along this
line until he was twenty-one years of age, the young
man then entered the business world. Familiar, as
he was, with living conditions in the rural districts,
and with the needs of the family under these cir-
cumstances, he found the clerkship in the general
store in Voluntown the stepping-stone to success.
He worked in several different stores in this county,
then in 1895 went to Westerly, Rhode Island, and
there engaged in business along mercantile lines,
remaining there until 1908. In that year be became
associated with George H. Stone, whose life is also
reviewed in this work, and together they purchased
the general store, theretofore conducted by Austin
Maine. The partnership still continues Brown &
Stone, and this store is the largest and most im-
portant in the town of North Stonington.
Mr. Brown has repeatedly been called to the
public service. Politically he is a Democrat of the
old school, and in 1509 he was elected town repre-
sentative to the State Legislature, and again in the
election in 1913. During his stay at the Capital
he was a member of the Railroad Committee, and
also of the State Prison Committee. He served as
selectman of the town of North Stonington for a
period of five years. Mr. Brown is also a member
of the North Stonington Grange, No. 138.
In Voluntown, Connecticut, Mr. Brown married
Mary Geer, daughter of Henry C. and Mary (Geer)
Geer, of North Stonington. Their two children,
Mary and Henry, died in infancy.
/:?
C/fy^u^^ H /2^
BIOGRAPHICAL
367
ERNEST DELANO CHAPMAN— In Clark's
Falls, Connecticut, in the eastern part of North
Stonington, New London county, the general store
of the village has for many years been in the hands
of the Chapmans, father and son. Ernest Delano
Chapman, the present head of the business, is con-
sidered one of the leading men of the village, and
of the town of North Stonington, of which this vil-
lage is a part.
Mr. Chapman is a son of Edwin Prentice and
Carry L. (Whitford) Chapman. Edwin Prentice
Chapman was born on Pendleton Hill, North
Stonington, September 26, 1835. He received Lis
education in the district schools of the neighbor-
hood, and for several years taught school here in
the winters, working on the farm during the sum-
mers. About 1864 he bought out Pelig Clark, of
Clark's Falls, for years theretofore the owner of
the village store. From that time until the present
the store has been in Mr. Chapman's hands. He
enlarged the scope of the business, and in 1872
built the large and for that time handsome structure
which still accommodates the business. Mr. Chap-
man's wife was born in Cranston, Rhode Island,
and died in 1900. They were the parents of three
children: Ernest Delano, whose name heads this
review; Arthur E., now deceased, who married
Grace Snow, of Providence, Rhode Island; and
Addie C, who became the wife of Elbert W. Clark,
in Clark's Falls, where they now reside.
Ernest Delano Chapman was born in Clark's
Falls, December 10, 1865. Receiving his early edu-
cation in the district schools of the village, he com-
pleted his studies at the Providence, Rhode Island,
High .School. He then became associated with his
father in the general store at Clark's Falls. He is
still in this business, now taking the management
largely into his own hands on account of his
father's advancing years. This store is considered
one of the leading establishments of its class in
the section. In the public interests of the com-
munity Mr. Chapman bears a part, as far as his
limited leisure will permit. He is affiliated, politi-
cally, with the Republican party. His church
membership is with the Baptist denomination. He
is postmaster of Clark's Falls, having been appointed
March 19, 1894.
REUBEN PALMER SMITH— As one of New
London's youngest automobile dealers, Mr. Smith
has met with decided success in the business in
which he has been engaged since 1910, and since
1915, under his own name. He is a son of William
W. and Althea (Whiteman) Smith, his father, born
in New London, a grocer in that town, conducting
a prosperous business.
Reuben Palmer Smith was born in New London,
Connecticut, March 12, 1890, and educated in the
public schools of the city. He finished his school
work in the New London Vocational Training
School, and in 1910 began his connection with the
automobile business. In that year, in association
with his brother-in-law, Thornton N. M. Lathrop,
he established a garage service station and sales-
rooms for the E. M. F. and Hudson cars. They
operated very successfully until 1915, when the firm
dissolved, each partner continuing in the same
business. Mr. Smith secured the agency for the
Dodge Brothers and Overland cars, and has a
garage service station and show rooms at No. 555
Bank street, Nev/ London. He is a young man of
energy and ability, v/ell-likcd and widely-acquainted.
Mr. Smith is a Republican in politics. In his
church affiliation he is a member of the Second
Congregational Church. He is a member of the
New London Auto Dealers' Association, the Rotary
Club, tlie Chamber of Commerce, and the Harbour
Club.
Mr. Smith married, in January, 1914, Jeannette
Franklin Smith, daughter of Frank Smith, of New
London. Mr. and Mrs. R. P. Smith are the parents
of a son, Laurence P., and a daughter, Virginia.
EDWIN WEST— Three generations of Wests in
this branch have tilled the acres they owned in
North Stonington and Stonington, New London
county, Connecticut. The first of these was Will-
iam West, who came from Rhode Island to North
Stonington and bought a farm which at his death went
to his son Edwin, and when the latter was "gathered to
his fathers," his son Herbert took charge of it.
William West was born in Westerly, Rhode Is-
land, in 1810, and died in North Stonington, New
London county, Connecticut, in 1886. His early
life was spent in Rhode Island, but later he became
a farmer of North Stonington and there continued
a well known and substantial tiller of the soil until
his death at the age of seventy-six. He married
Demarius Sisson, who survived him until i8c>i.
They were the parents of eleven children, all of
whom have joined the "innumerable throng" except
Emily, Mrs. John Johnson, of Ashaway, Rhode
Island. Two of the sons, Alfred and Robinson,
served in the Union Army during the Civil War,
Alfred giving up his life for his country. The
fourth child was Edwin, to whose memory this
review is dedicated.
Edwin West was born in North Stonington, Con-
necticut, January 24, 1831, and died in the village
of Stonington, Connecticut, in 1901. He was edu-
cated in the public schools, and early in life became
his father's farm assistant. After the death of
William West, in i886, his son, Edwin West, suc-
ceeded to the ownership of the home farm, but
ill health compelled him to surrender its manage-
ment to his son in 1891. Edwin West then left the
farm and for the following ten years lived in Ston-
ington and there died. He was a man of quiet,
industrious life, devoted to his family, and a good
citizen.
Edwin West married Sarah Ann Yerington, who
died in January, 1912. They were the parents of
four children: Edwin Everett, married Elizabeth
Chapman, and resides in North Stonington; Jennie,
married Charles E. Chapman, of North Stonington;
268
NEW LONDON COUNTY
Ella, resides with her brother Herbert; Herbert,
of further mention.
Herbert West was born at the West homestead
in North Stonington, Connecticut, February i8,
1866. He was educated in the public schools, and
remained at the home farm as his father's assis-
tant until the latter's death in 1901. He continued
the operation of the farm until 1905, when he with
his sister, Ella West, bought a farm north of the
borough of Stonington known as the Hull Farm,
part of the Hull Estate, containing one hundred
and seventy-five acres, where they reside, both un-
married. The home overlooks Long Island Sound
and commands a view of Long Island. They also
own the Chase farm adoining, the two farms, form-
ing an estate of three hundred acres. They are
members of the First Congregational Church of
Stonington, of which Herbert West is trustee,
Stonington Grange, Patrons of Husbandry, and
highly esteemed residents of their town. Politically,
Mr. West is a Republican.
and Protective Order of Elks, of which he is past
exalted ruler. He is also a member of the Chamber
of Commerce.
Mr. Aubrey married, May 15, 1916, Margaret C.
Young, daughter of Daniel and Margaret (Dono-
van) Young, of Norwich. The family were mem-
bers of the Roman Catholic church.
FRANK G. AUBREY— It is often difficult to
realize how much of time, thought and executive
effort must be expended on the ordinary daily needs
of the people. Frank G. Aubrey, general manager
of the Mohican Market, Norwich, Connecticut, is a
man of fine executive ability, whose foresight and
judgment have much to do with the daily v^ell-
being of the people.
Mr. Aubrey is descended from New York State
and Vennont families. His father, Elias A. Aubrey,
was born in Albany, New York, where he v/as edu-
cated in the public schools, later becoming a ma-
chinist. He followed the same trade all his life,
and now resides in New Haven, Connecticut. He
married Josephine Thibodeau, of Vermont birth,
and they have had nine children, of whom Frank G. is
the eldest.
Frank G. Aubrey was born in Albany, New York,
July 24, iSSl. His parents removed to Norwich,
Connecticut, and he received his education in the
public schools of that city. He made his start in
life as a clerk for Welcome A. Smith, a local grocer.
The young man was ambitious, and it was the
farthest from his intentions always to remain in a
subordinate position, so he made the most of every
opportunity to increase his knowledge of the busi-
ness, and of business principles in general. He
remained in this connection for five years, then
became bookkeeper and foreman for R. W. Mar-
shall, remaining for a short period. In 1910 he
was offered the opportunity to become a member
of the working force of the Mohican Market, which
he accepted, acting in the capacity of clerk for a
time, then rising to positions of greater responsi-
bility, until now he is general manager of the mar-
ket. The Mohican Market Company is one of the
large corporations operating a wide chain of stores
throughout the Eastern States. Mr. Aubrey is a
Democrat by political choice; he was a member of
the Common Council in 1918 and 1919. He is a
member of Norwich Lodge, No. 430, Benevolent
ALBERT MORGAN BROWN — Nathaniel
Brown, grandfather of Albert M. Brown, of the
town of Ledyard, New London county, Connecticut,
was born on the old Brown farm in the town of
Ledyard, as was his son, Albert Brown, and the
latter's son, Albert M. Brown. Tlie house in which.
Nathaniel Brown was born was not the one in
which his son and grandson were born, but be-
longed to an earlier day. Nathaniel Brown mar-
ried Lottie Wilbur, and both spent their lives on
the farm in Ledyard, where he passed away; his
wife died in Waterford.
Their son, Albert Brov/n, was born, lived and
died on the same farm, and most of his life was
spent in cultivating its acres. He, however, was a
sicillcd wheelwright, and built houses. He v/as
sciiool committeeman, and a man of a good deal
of influence in his town. He married Surviah Main,
who was born, lived and died in Ledyard. They
were the parents of Albert Morgan Brown, of
Ledyard, nov." too passed to his reward.
Albert Morgan Brov.-n was born on the Brown
farm in Ledyard, New London county, Connecticut,
June 22, 1843, and died at his farm near the Peck-
ham Church, in the tov/n of Ledyard, August 8,
1913. He attended the district schools, and spent
his youth after the fashion of the average farmer
boy, the old farm his home until he arrived at legal
age. He then hired out to others, but continued
to assist his father in the latter's sav/ mill and at
such times as he was needed. At the age of twenty-
two years he married, and then rented a small farm
in Main Town, Ledyard. He continued there nine
years, then bought a farm on which he lived for
seven years before purchasing the larger farm near
the Peckliam Church, in the town of Ledyard, upon
which he died in 1915.
Albert M. Brown married, at her home in Pres-
ton, Connecticut, January 6, 1862, Nancy Amelia.
Peckham, daughter of John Owen and Margaret
(O'Connell) Peckham. After the death of her hus-
band, Mrs. Brown sold the farm in Ledyard and
now makes her home with her daughter, Mrs.
Emma B. Bennett, in Preston. Mr. and Mrs.
Brown attended the Peckham Baptist Church, Mr..
Brown, while not a member, being greatly inter-
ested in its welfare. They were the parents of
four children: I. Nancy Ella, now the widow of
William H. Bennett, a farmer of the town of Pres-
ton; Mrs. Bennett continues her residence at the
Preston farm; Mrs. Bennett has two children:
Albert Philctus and Harriet. 2. Philetus Albert,
now a farmer of the town of Stonington, New Lon-
don county; he married Florence Burris Main, of
Ledyard, and they were the parents of a daughter.
BIOGRAPHICAL
269
Iva Nancy, who died at the age of six years. 3.
Emrna Betsy, married Earl Bennett, a farmer of
the town of Preston. 4. Minnie Agnes, who died at
the age of eighteen years.
Albert M. Brown was a man of kindly, generous
heart, and universally esteemed. He was a Demo-
crat in his political belief, and served Ledyard as
selectman, school committeeman and assessor. He
was a quiet, home-loving man and provided well
for those depending upon him.
WILLIAM PRENTICE BABCOCK— The Bab-
cock family of North Stonington, Connecticut, is
one of the old established families of New London
county. For many generations the men of this
family have borne a part in every progressive move-
ment of the community, and contributed, through
their individual enterprise, to the prosperity of the
town. William Prentice Babcock, the present head
of one branch of this family, is representative of the
citizenship in which his ancestors also took the
lead.
Mr. Babcock is a son of John Davis and Eunice
,A.nn (Maine) Babcock. John D. Babcock was born
in North Stonington, the son of Stephen and Mercy
(Davis) Babcock, natives of North Stonington, and
received his education in the district school of the
town. Then, like his father, he took up farming,
and followed agricultural interests all his life. Ex-
cept for eleven years of this time, he was a resident
of North Stonington. In 1844 John Davis Babcock
went to Westerly, Rhode Island, where he con-
ducted a farm until 1855. This was the Morse
place, of Westerly, and it was the only time that
the family lived outside the town of North Stoning-
ton. On returning to this town Mr. Babcock lived
on the Martha Stanton place. Later in 1858 he
bought the Sa.xton Maine place, the present home
farm of Wm. P. Babcock, his son. He gradually
added to his land until he had in all four hundred
acres, and did extensive farming until he retired in
1879, renting the farm to his son, William Babcock.
He then moved to Pawcatuck, in the town of
Stonington, where he bought a home and lived until
1886. There he made his home with his son, John
R., and his daug'hter, Susan H., at Old Mystic,
where he died, January 11, 1887, at the age of sev-
enty years.
He married (first), Harriet Delight Bentley, of
North Stonington, and to this union were born two
children: Susan H., of Old Mystic; and John Rus-
sell, deceased. He married (second), Eunice Ann
Maine, a sister of Isaac Maine, of mention elsewhere
in this work.| His second wife also was born in North
Stonington, and she died there April 30, 1876. They
were the parents of four children, all born in North
Stonington : Wealthy Ella, who died in 1880, aged
twenty-two ; Betsy Anna, who died in 1863 ; Abbie
Lathrop, who married Wallace A. Phillips, of North
Stonington ; and William Prentice.
William Prentice Babcock was born in North
Stonington, July 14, 1855. He received a thorough
grounding in the essentials of education at the dis-
trict schools of the town, then followed the long-
established precedent of the family, and took up
farming as his life work. He has been very suc-
cessful, and is held in the highest respect in the
community. Mr. Babcock now owns the old Babcock
homestead, where he has lived since he was nine
years old. After the death of his father, he bought
out the interest of the other heirs and has owned it
for the past thirty-three years or since, 1889. He
docs general farming and stock raising.
In the public life of the town Mr. Babcock has
long been prominent. By political affiliation he is
a staunch Democrat, and is one of the leaders of
the party here. He has served the public in several
different offices, having been elected selectman of
the town at three different times, has also been con-
stable, tax collector, and justice of the peace. In
all his public duties he is loyal to the highest ideals
of responsibility, and carries forward the interests
of the town with steadfast integrity. Mr. Babcock
is widely interested in the various branches of pub-
lic endeavor. He is an active member of the New
London County Farm Bureau, and gives generously
01 his time and energies to forward its progress.
On September 24, 1882, Mr. Babcock married
Mary Burdick, daughter of Horace Franklin and
Mary Frances (Shirley) Burdick, of North Stoning-
ton. They are the parents of six children, all born
on the Babcock home place, of whom four are now
living: i. Allis May, deceased, who became the
wife of George H. Stone, of North Stonington,
whose life is reviewed in this work; she died Sep-
tember 21, 1918. 2. Ida Belle, wife of James F.
Maine, of Stonington. 3. Anna Louise, who became
the wife of Maurice B. Caswell, of Mystic, Connec-
ticut. 4. Bessie Evelyn, now the wife of Thomas
McGowan, of North Stonington. 5. Susan Vinnie,
deceased, wife of John H. Stedman, of Westerly,
Rhode Island, and mother of one son, Orrin Rich-
ard. 6. Frances .-Vbbie, wife of Noah Dupont, of
Voluntown, Connecticut. The family have always
been members of the Baptist church.
HIRAM HENRY AMBURN— In the town of
MontviUe, New London county, Connecticut, Hiram
Henry Amburn is considered one of the leading
men of the community. Interested quite exten-
sively in general farming, he still follows his trade,
that of carpenter, and bears a constructive part in
the progress of the town.
Mr. Amburn is a son of George Amburn, who
was born in Germany, and received a common
school education there, then came to America with
his parents at the age of thirteen years. The family
located near the village of Poquetannoc, just over
into the town of Preston, and the boy took up
farm work here. Later they removed to the town
of Lebanon, New London county, Connecticut, and
there he farmed for many years, and there four
of his six children were born. He went to Penn-
sylvania, remaining for a few years, and there two
children were born. He then returned to Lebanon
and followed farming there until his death in 1S72.
2/0
NEW LONDON COUNTY
He married Mary Anna Shallc, who was born in
Germany, came to America in her youth, and set-
tled in Lebanon, where she died in 1900.
Hiram Henry Amburn was born in Lebanon, Con-
necticut, September 18, 1870. He was only two
years of age when his father died. He attended
the district schools of the town of Salem, New
London county, Connecticut, then later the public
schools of the nearby town of Colchester, where
he enjoyed the advantage of the larger schools.
From an early age he worked out as farm hand,
continuing thus until the age of eighteen years.
At that time he went to Norwich and served an
apprenticeship as carpenter with his brother, George.
This completed, he married, and took up his resi-
dence on the Valentine Geer farm, in the northern
end of the town of Montvillc. It was in 1891 that
Mr. Amburn came to Montville, and from the first
he has carried on important interests in farming,
also working, as he found openings along that line,
at his trade of carpenter, and doing a considerable
amount of blacksmithing. Now outside of his
farming activities, he does only carpenter work.
Always a man of tireless industry, and capable
in the handling of his many interests, Mr. Amburn
soon came to be looked upon as one of the solid
citizens of the town of Montville. Five years ago
he was made fire warden of the town, and has
served most acceptably in that position ever since.
Later he was also appointed caretaker of the Nor-
wich City Reservoir. Politically he is affiliated
with the Republican party, but always considers
the man before he casts his vote. Mr. Amburn is
a member of Llncas Lodge, No. 11, Independent
Order of Odd Fellows, of Norwich, and of Pal-
myra Encampment, No. 3, of Norwich, same order.
Mr. Am'burn attends and aids in the support of the
Methodist church of Montville.
On June 18, 1S91, Mr. Amburn married, in Mont-
ville, Catherine Geer, the adopted daughter of Val-
entine Geer, and the daughter of Mattis Servis.
She was adopted when a little child, and was always
considered a member of the Geer family, one of
the oldest and most prominent families of this sec-
tion. Mr. and Mrs. Amburn are the parents of two
children: i. Clarence Henry, born in Montville,
September 3, 1892; a mechanic, who was in the
utility department of the United States army, at
Camp Devens, Massachusetts, during the World
War; married Mabel Dexter, of Norwich. 2. Fred-
erick Valentine, born in Montville, July 28, 1894;
was in Company E, 307th Supply Train, 82nd Divi-
sion, American Expeditionary Forces, in France,
being captain's orderly; he is also a mechanic.
Both young men are members of the Independent
Order of Odd Fellows.
COURTLAND BURROWS YORK— One of the
fine farms of the town of Stonington is the York
farm on the Westerly-Old Mystic road owned by
Courtland B. York, who became its owner in the
year 1900. It was formerly the Gideon Chesebor-
ough farm, but under Mr. York's modern, pro-
gressive management bears little resemblance to
the farm of twenty years ago. The farm in its
appointments and improvements reflects the nature
and spirit of its owner, who is one of the thor-
oughly modern dairy and general farmers of New
London county. His dairy herd is of Guernsey
blood, and all modern aids to dairy farmmg have
been given a trial and adopted if found to be a
step in advance.
Mr. York is a great-grandson of James York,
v/ho owned and cultivated a farm on the Shore
road in the town of Westerly, Rhode Island.
He was succeeded by his son, William York, born
in the town of Westerly, Rhode Island, and all his
life a farmer of Westerly, Rhode Island, Stonington
and Groton, Connecticut. He married Mary Bar-
ber, and both died in the town of Westerly, where
both w-ere born.
William (2) York, son of W^illiam (i) and Mary.
(Barber) York, was born in the town of Westerly,
Rhode Island, in 1834, and died at the home of
his son, Courtland B. York, in Stonington, Connec-
ticut, December 10, 1915, aged eighty-one years.
He lived in Vi'esterly the first twelve years of his
life, then his father rented a farm in Stonmgton,
on Togwank Hill, then owned by the Smith family.
There the lad finished his school training, and until
reaching legal age was his father's farm assistant.
From 1855 until 1861, he was employed m the
neighborhood as a farm hand, but lived at home.
In that year his parents moved to Groton, and
soon after the outbreak of the Civil War, William
(2) York enlisted from Groton with his brother,
Edwin York, in Company K, Twentj'-sixth Regi-
ment, Connecticut Volunteer Infantry, for a term
of nine months. In that regiment there were six-
teen other couples, brothers, who had enlisted to-
gether, and the York brothers were the only couple
to both escape injury. After the war, William and
Edwin York went to the State of California and
were employed on farms and cattle ranches. Edwin
York remained in California forty-five years, but is
now an inmate of a Soldiers' Home in Grand Rapids,
Michigan. William York returned to Stonington
after two years of California residence, and there
made his home, but was engaged in teaming in
and around Westerly, Rhode Island. He also
learned the blacksmith's trade in Westerly and at
the Klondike Stone Quarry in Niantic, Rhode Is-
land. In 1904 he retired from his trade and spent
the last eleven years of his life with his son, Court-
land B., at the latter's farm in Stonington. William
York married Mary S. Wheeler, born in Stonington,
Connecticut, and only survived her husband two
months, dying at the home of her son, Courtland
B., February 12, 1916. William and Mary S. York
were the parents of two children: Ellen Fitts, who
died December 30, 191 5, wife of Abel H. Stanton,
a blacksmith of New London, Connecticut; and
Courtland Burrows, of further mention.
Courtland Burrows York, only son of William
(2) and Mary S. (Wheeler) York, was born in the
town of Westerly, Rhode Island, April 19, 1869,
Hr'^M^ ^N-J^CT^^i^^
BIOGRAPHICAL
271
and there spent his youth. He attended Westerly
district school until fourteen years of age, then
became a pupil at the Charleston District School,
also attended district school in Niantic, Rhode Island.
After school years he was employed as a farm hand for
two and a half years, then as a quarry man for six
months, going in 1892 as a farm hand for William
J. Potter at his Watch Hill farm. A year later he
rented the farm and worked it during the years
1893, 1894, and 1895. In 1897 he rented the Sumner
Chapman farm on the Shore road in the town of
Westerly, there remaining three years. During all
these years Mr. York had prospered, and in igoo
bought the Gideon Cheseborough farm of one hun-
dred and thirty acres in the town of Stonington,
New London, Connecticut, the farm lying on the
Westerly-Old Mystic road in the Anguilla district.
Mr. York has built new houses, barns and out-
buildings on the farm, converted the farm house
into a modern residence with all conveniences, and
transformed the entire property into a beautiful
and profitable estate. He is a general farmer,
but runs a large dairy and makes the production
of milk and dairy products a specialty. He is a
believer in the Guernsey breed of cattle for dairy
purposes and has a fine herd. He is a member of
Stonington Grange, Patrons of Husbandry, and a
devoted member of the First Baptist Church, of
|H Westerly, Rhode Island. In politics he is a Ficpub-
lican.
Mr. York married, in Westerly, Rhode Island,
April 27, 1899, Lena Sarah Potter, born in Westerly,
daughter of William J. and Jennie L. (Milchein
Potter.
GEORGE HENRY STONE, a progressive citi-
zen and leading merchant of North Stonington,
Connecticut. George Henry Stone, of the firm of
Brown & Stone, is widely known in New London
county.
Mr. Stone is a son of George Washington and
Fannie (Geer) Stone, for a considerable period
residents of this county. George W. Stone was
born in Worcester, Massachusetts. He received a
thoroughly practical education in the public schools
of that city, then faced the future with dauntless
spirit. He was interested in the mercantile world,
and at once set foot upon the upward path. He
took up the work of travelling salesman, and has
been most successful in this line of effort. Now,
having reached an age when many men retire
from business, he is still actively engaged in selling
goods in many states, with the same progressive
force which placed him among the successful men
of his calling.
George Henry Stone was born in the Clark's
Falls district of the town of North Stonington,
August 6, 1888. He received his education in the
public schools of Westerly, Rhode Island, and
became the youngest merchant in Westerly, carry-
ing forward this first business enterprise, a variety
store, for four years. At the end of that time,
1908, in association with Frank H. Brown, whose
life is also reviewed in this work, he bought out
the general store of Austin A. Mame, of North
Stonington. This partnership still continues, and
in the years which have passed tlie business has
grown and developed, placing this store at the
head of the mercantile interests of the vicinity. It
is the largest store in the town of North Stoning-
ton, and commands a wide trade throughout this
section among the best families.
Mr. Stone is prominent in political circles of the
town. He is a leader in the Republican party, v/as
a candidate of both parties for legislature, and was
elected to represent the town of North Ston-
ington in the State Legislature in the fall of igi6.
Contrary to the frequent custom in other New Lon-
don county towns, he was re-elected, in 1918, serv-
ing since his first term on the Committee on- Edu-
cation. Mr. Stone is a prominent member of the
North Stonington Grange, No. 13S, and he is a
member of the Third Baptist Cliurch, of North
Stonington.
In North Stonington he married, October 15,
1919, Ruth, daughter of George A. and Grace L.
(Pitcher) Tliompson, of Nortii Stonington. Mrs.
Stone is a native of North Stonington, Connecticut.
George Thompson, her father, was a native of
Pendleton Hill, in the town of North Stonington,
but was reared in North Stonington. Here he v/as
a farmer, owning Sunny Side Farm, north of the
village, an extensive farm property, and was en-
gaged in general farming and stock raising, but is
now retired. His wife was born in the village of
North Stonington. Both the Thompsons and Pitchers
are of old New London county families, the Thompsons
old settlers of the Pendleton Hill section.
CLARENCE HORATIO NORTON— From boy-
hood until tlie present, Clarence H. Norton has
been connected with the grain and milling business
and with the manufacture of paper board, the for-
mer business claiming him until the year 1900, the
latter during the last two decades of his life. He
is a native of Hebron, Tolland county, Connecticut,
his parents, grandparents and great-grandparents
also natives of Hebron, but his grandfather, Samuel
Summcrfield Norton, moved to Colchester, in New
London county, that his children might attend
Bacon Academy. He did not remain in Colchester,
but later in life returned to his native Hebron,
where he died. The farm of David Norton, father
of Samuel S. Norton, was located in the north-
eastern part of the town of Hebron, Connecticut,
where Samuel S. was born.
Samuel Summerfield Norton was reared at the
farm in Hebron, Connecticut, but he was of a me-
chanical turn of mind and learned the carpenter's
trade. In addition to a natural mechanical skill
which he developed, he possessed inventive genius
and made a superior gauge for the use of car-
penters. He lived in Colchester, Connecticut, for
many years, and while there was active in the erec-
tion of a new Methodist Episcopal church, a de-
nomination with which he was long connected and
272
NEW LONDON COUNTY
which he loyally supported. He was an Abolition-
ist, and when the Republican party was formed,
affiliated with that party. He died in Hebron, aged
seventy-one years.
Samuel S. Norton married, at Killingworth, Con-
necticut, Sylvina Chapman, who survived him until
April 6, 1888, passing away at the age of eighty-
seven. They were the parents of four children:
John Summerfield, a graduate of Wesleyan Uni-
versity, who married Josephine Joynes, of Southern
birth, settled in Texas, where he engaged as a
teacher until the Civil War, when he entered the
Confederate army as a musician, serving until Lee's
surrender; Daniel Ives, of further mention; Ellen,
a graduate of Bacon Academy, married Henry
Cook, of North Carolina; Edward H., a merchant
of Brcnham, Texas, who never married.
Daniel Ives Norton, second son of Samuel S.
and Sylvina (Chapman) Norton, was born in
Hebron, Connecticut, in 1827, but was young when
the family moved to Colchester, New London
county, Connecticut. He died in North West-
chester, Connecticut, from a stroke of paralysis,
October 9, 1880, aged fifty-three years. He was
educated in Colchester public schools and Bacon
Academy of the same town, then, when school years
were over, learned the carpenter's trade under the
direction of his father, continuing with him until
1861. He then, in partnership with David Thomp-
son, engaged in the operation of a cotton mill at
Hope Valley, in the town of Hebron. In 1876
the mill was destroyed by fire and was not rebuilt.
Daniel I. Norton then moved to North Westchester,
where he settled on the farm of his fathcr-in-'av,-,
Talcott L. Buell. There he repaired the old Buell
grain and grist mill, which he put in operation, but
in 1S77 suffered an attack of paralysis, from which
he never recovered. He was a member of the
Methodist Episcopal church, and in politics a Demo-
crat. He was buried in North Westchester Ceme-
tery.
Daniel I. Norton married, at North Westchester,
Connecticut, Eunice Blish Buell, who died there,
aged seventv-nine, daughter of Talcott Loveland
and Mary Gates (Carrier) Buell Talcott L. Buell,
a farmer and miller, died in Westchester, in 1885,
aged eighty-seven years and nine months. Mr. and
Mrs. Norton were the parents of an only child,
Clarence Horatio Norton, of whom further.
Clarence Horatio Norton, son of Daniel Ives and
Eunice Blish (Buell) Norton, was born in Hebron,
Connecticut, October 22, 1853, and educated in the
public schools. After the removal to North West-
chester, in 1876, poor health incapacitated his father
from all but the lightest work, and the work of
the mill and farm fell to the lad, Clarence H.
When the health of the father utterly failed, and
■ death resulted, in 1S80, the son took entire charge
of the business of the mill, running both the grist
department and the saw mill, purchasing grain,
shipping and carrying on a regular county grain and
mill business. The saw mill was dropped first, and
in 1888 he began the manufacture of straw board
in an old building in North Westchester, used by
his Grandfather Buell and others. That mill burned
in 1893, but was replaced by another much larger,
and rnodernly equipped. In 1900 paper board manu-
facture became his sole business and he yet oper-
ates along that line. A man of remarkable energy,
he has won for himself an honoied name, and is
of the very best type, progressive, upright and
thoroughly reliable in all things.
In politics, Mr. Norton is a Democrat, and in
1885 represented his district in the Connecticut
State Legislature. He has also served his town
as selectman, assessor, and member of the Board
of Relief.
Mr. Norton married, in North Westchester, De-
cember 24, 1885, Atta Bell Carrier, born in West-
chester, in the town of Colchester, New London
county, Connecticut, January 2, 1867, daughter of
Demas and Roxy Eliza (Staples) Carrier, both her
parents born in Westchester, and both deceased.
Demas Carrier died December 13, 1893, aged sixty-
five years; his wife died at the age of fifty-three.
Mr. and Mrs. Carrier also had a son, who died in
infancy, and another daughter, Susan Minette Car-
rier, who married Robert Samuel Brown. Mr. and
Mrs. Clarence H. Norton are the parents of four
children, all born in North Westchester: i. Sylvina
Chapman, born November 10, 1886. 2. Minette Car-
rier, born November i, 1889; married Daniel Wayne
Williams, of Wallingford, Connecticut, a purchasing
agent, and has two children: Daniel Norton Will-
iams, born December 6, 1917, and Warren Brooks
Williams, born March 4, 1921. 3. Marion Eunice,
born July 2C, 1893; married Edward Forbes Smiley,
a minister of the Gospel. 4. Edward Howd, born
July 7, 1896, associated with his father in the paper
mill. The family are members of the Westchester
Congregational Church.
JAMES RICHARDSON ARMSTRONG was
born in Rutland, Jefferson county. New York,
April 21, 1844, the son of John and Sarah (Porter)
Armstrong. John Armstrong was a native of Sara-
toga county. New York, his birth having occurred
at Saratoga, November 7, 1801. He was educated
in the district schools of his native place, after
which he engaged in farming until his death, March
17, 1887. His wife, Sarah (Porter) Armstrong, was
born March I, 1807, died December 17, 1889. Mr.
and Mrs. Armstrong were the parents of seven
children, James Richardson, the subject of this
review, being the sixth child.
James Richardson Armstrong obtained his educa-
tion in the district schools of Rutland, and then
worked on his father's farm until 1870, when he
moved to Westerly, Rhode Island, and there en-
gaged in farming for eight years, removing at the
end of that time to Lebanon, Connecticut, where
he still followed the same vocation and has con-
tinued in agricultural pursuits ever since. In 1895
he purchased what was then the W. .A. Browning
farm in Griswold, near Jewett City. This estate
BIOGRAPHICAL
273
covers one hundred and eighty acres and here Mr.
Armstrong engages in general farming and dairy-
ing on a large scale. He also owns thirty-four
head of cattle, some of which are registered short-
horned cattle, and has built up a large and extremely
flourisliing business. In his political affiliations he
is a staunch Republican, althougli no office seeker.
Mr. Armstrong married, December 25, 1867,
Susan Abby Carpenter, of South Kingston, Rhode
Island, and to them have been born seven children:
I. Flora L., a resident of Mount Hermon, Massa-
chusetts. 2. Sarah M., a resident of Foster, Rhode
Island. 3. John, married Lillian Carpenter, of Paw-
tucket, Rhode Island. 4. Hannah M., married Fred-
erick Gregor, and resides in North Attleboro,
Massachusetts. 5. Benjamin A., married Bertha
Tillinghast, and resides in Balboa Heights, Panama
Canal Zone. 6. Charles T., married Nettie A. Geer,
of Griswold, Connecticut; he resides on the farm
with his father. 7. Susan E., a resident of Mount
Hermon, Massachusetts. Mrs. Armstrong passed
away May 28, 1916. She was in every sense of the
word a helpmate to her husband, and her cheerful
disposition and courage in the midst of trials inci-
dent to the care of a large family was a consider-
able factor in making her husband's life the success
that it is.
ZOEL GAUCHER— One of the principal indus-
tries of the village of Baltic, in the town of Sprague,
Connecticut, is the wholesale bakery, conducted by
Zoel Gaucher. Mr. Gaucher has been a resident of
Baltic for the past twenty-one years, and is widely
known thereabouts.
Mr. Gaucher's parents were Canadian born, being
natives of St. Damasa, Province of Quebec. They
were farming people, and his father died in St.
Ceasere, twenty years ago, and is buried there. His
mother still survives, at seventy-three years of age,
living in St. Ceasere. They were the parents of
four sons, of whom Zoel is the eldest. The others
are: Jean, thirty-eight years of age; Fred, thirty-
five; and Albert, thirty.
Zoel Gaucher was born in Knowlton, Province of
Quebec, in the year 1877. He was educated at St.
Ceasere, Province of Quebec, Canada, and there
learned the trade of baker. He came to this country
in August, 1899, coming directly to Baltic, where
he has since remained, winning the respect and
esteem of the community, and achieving success in
his chosen line. He established the big wholesale
bakery, which has become a feature of the business
life of the town, in the year 1907, and has worked
up, until now he controls a very extensive trade,
and handles an immense volume of business.
Mr. Gaucher is a leader among his fellow-country-
men in this section, and an influential member of
the Societe St. Jean de Baptiste.
He married (first) Evelyn Labunne, who was born
in the Province of Quebec, and died, 1913, in Baltic.
He married (second) Louise Bles, of Baltic. They
have four children: I. Antoinette. 2. Leo. 3. Ran-
dolph. 4. Evelyn.
N.L.— 2.1s.
ORRIN LEONARD SWAIN— In the prosperity
of any farming community the hand of the village
blacksmith is a vital factor. In North Stonington,
New London county, Connecticut, Orrin Leonard
Swain meets the need for construction and repairs
on the farm, his business covering a wide territory
in this section.
Mr. Swain is a son of George W. Swain, who was
born in Norwich, Connecticut, and educated in the
public schools of that city. After completing the
regular course of study, he learned the trade of
machinist, which he followed all his active life. He
v/as employed for a period of twenty-two years in
C. B. Rogers' machine shop, in Norwich. He is
now retired from this work, and lives in the town
of North Stonington. He married (first) Maria
Rogers, who was born in Montville, Connecticut,
and died in Norwich, in the year 1882. They were
the parents of two children: George Roberts, who
married Addie Holmes, and is now a resident of
Old Mystic, Connecticut; and Orrin Leonard. He
married (second) Mrs. Eliza (Verguson) Smith.
Orrin Leonard Swain, son of George W. and
Maria (Rogers) Swain, was born in Norwich, Con-
necticut, December 7, 1881. He received his educa-
tion in the public schools of that city, then served
an apprenticeship as a wagon maker and black-
smith with T. H. Peabody, of Norwich, for five
years. In 1903 he came to North Stonington, where
he established a shop. Here he has built up an
extensive business in wagon making and repairing,
and general blacksmith work, and is the leading
worker along these lines in this part of the county.
Mr. Swain is interested in every phase of public
progress. Politically he is affiliated with the Demo-
cratic party. He is a prominent member of the
North Stonington Grange, No. 138.
He married, in North Stonington, in 1902, Frances
Melvina Rogers, of Montville, Connecticut, daughter
of Frank C. and Kate (Crandall) Rogers, of Mont-
ville. They are the parents of ten children: Myrtle
F.; Ruby E.; Orrin Leonard, Jr.; Madge P.; Violet
T.; Lester M.; Jennie L.; and Beatrice and Barbara,
twins; and Donald. The family are members of
the Baptist church.
CARL AUGUST KOELB— When the .American
Velvet Company opened their branch factory in
Stonington, Connecticut, they wanted skilled men
to fill the important positions connected with its
management. Transferring Carl August Koelb from
their office in New York City to Stonington, the
company made him assistant superintendent under
John M. Killars, superintendent and builder of the
plant.
Carl August Koelb, Jr., was born a subject of
Germany, his parents having lived there all their
lives, his father, Carl August Koelb, Sr., following
the profession of school teacher for many years.
He died in Germany, in 1897, aged sixty-six years.
His wife, Maria (Denzer) Koelb, died in 1872.
They were the parents of eight children.
Their son, Carl August Koelb, Jr., was born Jan-
274
NEW LONDON COUNTY
uary 15, 1865. Having acquired a good education
in the public schools of Germany and also under
his father's tuition, young Mr. Koelb, when only
eighteen years old, came to the United States, and
locating in New York City, in June, 1884, obtained
a position with A. Wimpfhcimer & Brother, of the
American Velvet Company. Remaining with them
for eight years, Mr. Koelb was one of those chosen
to assist the company in their new enterprise in
Stonington. Going there in 1892, he is still in their
employ, and is one of the well known residents of
the borough, having lived here nearly thirty years.
Becoming greatly interested in Masonic matters,
Mr. Koelb loincd Asylum Lodge, No. 57, Free and
Accepted Masons, of Stonington; also Benevolent
Chapter. lvoy;il Arch Masons, of Mystic; and Mystic
Council, Royal and Select Masters. In addition to
these, Mr. Koelb is affiliated with Stonington
Lodge, No. 26, Independent Order of Odd Fellows.
He is also a member of the Republican party in
that locality.
In Stonington, Connecticut, March 8, 1893, Carl
August Koelb was married to Caroline E. Ham-
mond, the daughter of John and Elizabeth (Palmer)
Hammond, residents of Stonington. Of this mar-
riage four children have been born: Helen May,
living at home; Ralph H., who married Gladys C.
MacGowan, and they reside at Westerly, Rhode
Island; ?Ioward E., living at home; and Milton C,
also at home. Mr. and Mrs. Carl August Koelb
and family are members of the Baptist Church of
Stonington.
JOHN FRIBANCE— In the manufacturing world
of Mystic, Connecticut, one of the skilled workers
is John Fribancc, who has been master mechanic
of the Mystic Manufacturing Company's plant for
twenty-three years. He is a son of William and
Rose (Payne) Fribance.
William Fribance was born in London, England,
where he was also educated, later becoming a me-
chanic, and following along this line during all his
active life. He still lives in London, but is now
retired from all active work. Of the twelve chil-
dren Mr. Fribance, of Mystic, was the eldest.
John Fribance was born in London, England,
September 20, 1874. He was educated in the Na-
tional schools of his native country, but as he
approached manhood the lure of the Western Land
across the Atlantic reached him with strong appeal,
and at eighteen years of age he came to America.
Locating in Rockville, Connecticut, he entered the
employ of a manufacturing company now the New
England Manufacturing Company, in their great woolen
mill. He worked there as machinist until 1898, when
he came to Mystic, and became master mechanic at the
plant of the Mystic Manufacturing Company. This
responsible position he still fills.
In the public welfare of the town of Stonington,
Connecticut, Mr. Fribance has long borne a part.
Always a strong adherent of Republican party prin-
ciples, he has been a worker in the ranks for many
years, and for the past three years has ably filled
the office of selectman, his term of office not yet
being expired. He is a member of the Mystic Fire
District Committee, which numbers three, and is in
charge of the fire department, the water depart-
ment, and the electric lighting department. The
other members of the committee are Conrad
Kretzer and William L. Main. Mr. Fribance is a
member of Charity and Relief Lodge, Free and
Accepted Masons, of Mystic, and is a member of
Stonington Lodge, No. 26, Independent Order of
Odd Fellows, being a member also of the Encamp-
ment.
On September 4, 1906, Mr. Fribance married Min-
nie Austin, of Rockville, Connecticut, daughter of
Enoch and Sarah (Bilson) Austin, of that city.
Mr. and Mrs. Fribance are the parents of three
children: Austin Edward; William Bilson; and Ar-
thur Kenneth. The family are members of the
Congregational church of Mystic, and active in the
social and benevolent work of the church.
EDWIN FITCH BENJAMIN— One of the hon-
ored names which will long live in the memory of
the people of Ledyard is that of Edv.'in Fitch Ben-
jamin, prominent farmer and highly respected citizen
of the town of Griswold, Connecticut.
Mr. Benjamin came of an old New London county
family, leading people of the community. His
father, Levi Benjamin, was born in Preston, Con-
necticut, July 2, 1830, and lived there during all
his lifetime, conducting e.xtensive farming opera-
tions, and taking a comprehensive interest in the
affairs of the town. He died in Preston, April 4,
1898. He married Anna Webb Hinckley, who was
born in Norwich, Connecticut, December 23, 1835,
and died in Preston, October 2y, 189S. They were
the parents of three children: George Hinckley,
deceased; Edwin Fitch, deceased; Irving H., resides
in Hartford, Connecticut.
Edwin Fitch Benjamin was born in Ledyard, New
London county, Connecticut, April 25, 1859, and
died in Griswold, Connecticut, February 10, 1920.
He received his education in the district schools
of Preston, then upon leaving school took up farm-
ing. He soon purchased the Kinney farm in Pres-
ton, which he conducted for a time, later selling
out his interests there and removing to the town
of Griswold, where he bought the Leonard farm.
Remaining on this place for two years he again
sold, and this time bought the Horton farm, in
Griswold, which he conducted until his death.
Mr. Benjamin was more or less interested in
political matters when living in Preston, and was
one of the Democratic party leaders of the town.
He served for some time as first selectman of
Preston. He was broadly interested in every phase
of public progress, and always kept well informed
of the affairs of the day, State and National, as
well as those of his own community. He was a
man of lofty ideals and unnselfish spirit, sparing
himself no trouble to do a good turn or right a
wrong. His influence among those who knew him
BIOGRAPHICAL
275
was always for the betterment of society, and he
will long be remembered as a man of upright char-
acter and estimable worth.
Mr. Benjamin married (first) Annie Yerington, of
Preston, and they were the parents of five chil-
dren, all born in that town: Clarence E., born
December 24, 1893; Elizabeth, born June 14, 1896,
who is now a school teacher in Griswold; Daisy,
born February 27, 1S99; Vernon H., deceased; and
Allen H., born February 2, 1907. Mr. Benjamin
married (second) Mrs. Amy (Lockwood) Mc-
Cracken, a native of Brooklyn, New York, widow
of Dan C. McCracken. Mr. and Mrs. McCracken
were the parents of a son, Dan C, Jr., who is a
resident of Preston.
a native of Austria, born in 1883, the ceremony tak-
ing place in Montville in 1917.
WILLIAM SMIDDY— Recognized by his fellow
townsmen as a man of deep thought and broad-
minded conclusions, William Smiddy is regarded
in Montville, Connecticut, as a progressive citizen
who, though entirely a self-made man, has attained
a comfortable competence in life.
Of American birth, William Smiddy is the son
of Irish parents, who in 1853 came to this country
and settled in Montville, Connecticut. His father
was Charles Smiddy, born in County Cork, Ireland;
he was m the employ of Mr. Hooper, the owner of
the Hooper v/oolen mills of Montville, Connecticut,
for a great many years, being his nostler. His
death occurred in 1903, at the age of eighty-four
years. Charles Smiddy was survived by his wife,
Jane (Kelleher) Smiddy, also born in County Cork,
Ireland, who died three years later, 1906, when
seventy-five years old.
The son of Charles and Jane (Kelleher) Smiddy,
William Smiddy, was born in Montville, Connec-
ticut, June 28, 1855. Until thirteen years old he
attended the local school, then, starting in the card-
ing room of the Hooper Woolen Mill Company,
Montville, Connecticut, he continued in that em-
ployment for seventeen years. Havmg an oppor-
tunity to advance in business, Mr. Smiddy became
foreman of the Palmer Brothers Mills in Montville,
manufacturers of quilts, where he has been engaged
for the past thirty-five years as overseer of the carding
and filling department.
Having always been a public-spirited man, and
active in the affairs of his town, Mr. Smiddy has
held several public offices; is now justice of the
peace, and was register of voters and judge of
local court. He is a Democrat in politics. He is a
member of St. John's Roman Catholic Church;
Knights of Columbus, Pequot Council, No. 123, of
Montville ; past grand knight of Independent Order of
Odd Fellows, Thames Lodge, No. 22, of Montville.
William Smiddy was twice married, his first wife
having been Nellie (Harrington) Smiddy, the
daughter of Aiding and Lucy (Sweet) Harrmgton.
She died in September, 1915. One child was born
of this marriage, William Henry, born December 20,
1884. He died September 28, 1918. Mr. Smiddy's
first marriage took place in New London in Sep-
tember, 1872. He married (second) Johana Sopola,
JOSEPH ALBERT MARCOUX— When their
son Joseph A. was eleven years of age, John and
Mary (Dion) Marcoux left their Canadian home
in Eads county. Province of Quebec, and came to
the United States, locating in North Grosvenor
Dale, Connecticut, and there finding employment in
the cotton mills. Six years were spent there, after
which John Marcoux moved to Montville, Connec-
ticut, securing a position with the Attawangan
Company, tliey having mills there. He remained in
Montville eighteen years, then moved to Willi-
mantic, Connecticut, where he died in 1907. His
wife, born in St. Marie, Beauce county. Province of
Quebec, Canada, survives her husband, and con-
tinues her residence in Willimantic.
Joseph Albert Marcoux was born in Eads county,
Quebec, Canada, April 29, 1873, and there spent the
years until 1884 attending school, when the family
came to the United States. In North Grosvenor
Dale, Connecticut, the first home of the family, and
later in Montville, New London county, Connec-
ticut, he was employed in the cotton mills, and in
Montville he was for twelve years a worker in the
weavirig room of the Attawaiagan Mills. He then
spent two years in the engine room of the Melcer
Mill, then when the C. D. White Company bought
the mill he continued with that company for ten
years, serving as engineer of the plant. In 1912
the mill was bought by the J. B. Martm Company,
and Mr. Marcoux has continued with that corpora-
tion during the years which have since inter-
vened. He is now in charge of all outside work
around the plant, and is also the general mechanic
of the company. He has won high reputation tor
ability and faithfulness to his duties, and he is an
honored and trusted employee. In politics Mr.
Marcoux is an Independent, and in religious faith
a Roman Catholic. He is a trustee of Montville
Camp, Modern Woodmen of America, and takes an
active interest in camp affairs.
Mr. Marcoux married, in Montville, March 21,
1894, Josephine Bonville, born in Quebec, Canada,
and they are the parents of seven children, as
follows: Joseph, born in Windsor Mills, Richmond
county, Canada; Adelard, born in Montville, Con-
necticut, served in the World War with the Amer-
ican Expeditionary Forces; Mary Louise, married
Ralph Bugbee, of Montville; Almar, born in Wind-
sor Mills, Canada; William, born in Montville;
Agnes, born in Montville; and Rose, also born in
Montville.
JAMES DAVID CARVER, numbered among the
older generation of residents of Montville. Con-
necticut, was born in Colchester, July 5, 1844, the
son of the late George Nelson and Olive (Shaler)
Carver George Nelson Carver was born in
Hebron, and died at Colchester in 1913, at the age
of seventy-four years. He was a carpenter by trade.
276
NEW LONDON COUNTY
Mr. and Mrs. Carver were the parents of three chil-
dren: Frank, Charles, and James David, of further
mention.
After receiving his preliminary education in the
schools of Colchester, James David Carver entered
Bacon Academy. After finishing his studies, he re-
turned home and for the following seven years
was employed by the neighboring farmers, so that
he gained a thorough knowledge of the subject.
He then went to Piano, Illinois, where he was em-
ployed by the Marsh Harvester Company for eight
years. He resigned at the end of that time and
came to Montville, where he purchased a small
farm, which he conducted until he purchased his
present place, which was the former homestead
of his wife's people, and had been in their posses-
sion for a great many years. In politics Mr. Carver
is an Independent, preferring to remain free and
to exercise his own judgment on public issues. He
has never held public office, but has always been
keenly devoted to the welfare of the community
and active in securing the choice of the best men
available for the posts. Mr. Carver is a member
of the Methodist church of Montville.
Mr. Carver married, in Montville, Ellen Collins,
who has been a resident of Montville ever since
she was three years of age, her birth having oc-
curred in New London, in 1869. Mr. and Mrs.
Carver are the parents of two children: George,
w^ho married Macy Coma, of Montville; Lillian,
who married Mason Daniels.
WILLIAM WELLES LYMAN, one of the pro-
gressive men of Montville, New London county,
Connecticut, has from the time of his graduation
from college gone steadily forward in the business
world, until he now holds the position of super-
intendent in the Montville Mill of the Palmer
Brothers Company.
Born in Brooklyn, New York, May 18, 1888,
William Welles Lyman is the son of William Pren-
tice and Octavia (Rudd) Lyman, the former en-
gaged in business with Joseph Wild & Company,
Oriental rug importers of New York City. William
P. Lyman died in 1890 in New York; his wife re-
sides in New York at the present time. To the
marriage were born two children: Virginia, resides
at home; and William W., of whom further.
In his boyhood William Welles Lyman attended
the public schools in Norwich, Connecticut, gradu-
ating in 1903, after which he entered the Norwich
Free Academy and graduated from it in 1907. Then
going to Ithaca, New York, young Mr. Lyman be-
came a student in the Sibley College of Mechanical
Engineering of Cornell University. Graduating
from the four-year course in the class of 191 1, Mr.
Lyman received the degree of Mechanical Engineer.
Shortly after leaving college, 191 1, Mr. Lyman
accepted a position with the Binghamton Gas
Works, Bing'hamton, New York (a subsidiary of
the American Light and Traction Company). Hold-
ing the position of assistant to the superintendent
of the plant for two years, he was promoted to the
office of superintendent of works in 1914, remaining
as such for one year, when he resigned to become
superintendent of the Palmer Brothers Company
mill at Montville, v.'hcre he is located at the present
time (1921).
While attending the Norwich Free Academy, Mr.
Lyman became a member of a Greek letter frater-
nity, the Rho Alpha Mu. He is also a member of
the Norwich Golf Club and of the Binghamton Ten-
nis Club, out-of-door sports being his special de-
light. Though not an active worker in the party,
Mr. Lyman votes the Republican ticket. Connected
with the Connecticut State Guards, he has been for
two years lieutenant in the Montville Company.
In Montville, Connecticut, October I, 1914, Will-
iam Welles Lyman was united in marriage with
Gladys Estelle Latimer, daughter of Joseph Strick-
land and Arabelle (Palmer) Latimer. Of this union
three children have been born: Elizabeth Latimer,
born August 3, 1915: William Welles, Jr., born
August 31, 1916; Arabelle Palmer, born April 3,
1918. Mr. Lyman is a member of the Protestant
Episcopal church of Montville, and Mrs. Lyman is a
member of the Union Baptist church of Montville.
HARRY EVERETT CARTER, a young man
not yet arrived at man's estate, has proved his ambi-
tion and enterprise by establishing in business for
himself, and in Montville there is none but wishes
him well. He is a son of Edward and Jane (Lesuno)
Carter. Edward Carter was born in Canada, and
in 1880 came to the United States, settling in Provi-
dence, Rhode Island. Later he came to Montville,
Connecticut, where he yet resides, a machinist. He
married Jane Lesuno, born in Canada, and they
have two sons and a daughter: Harry Everett,
Edward Gilbert, and Lillian, wife of George Mc-
Gregor, a merchant of New London, Connecticut.
They have two sons, George and Samuel Mc-
Gregor.
Harry Everett Carter was born in Uncasville,
New London county, Connecticut, August 26, 1900,
and educated in Palmer Memorial School. He was
his father's helper in the machine shop for two
years, and in 1919 started a wood-turning and repair
shop under his own name, continuing to the present
time. He is a young man of energy, well liked and
sure to succeed. He is a member of St. John's
Roman Catholic church, of Montville, Connecticut.
He is a member of the Knights of Columbus,
Pequot Council, No. 125, of Montville, and Modern
Woodmen of America, of Montville.
GEORGE PETER MADDEN— In the great
drama of life Mr. Madden carried his part in a most
capable and e.xemplary manner, and when the final
curtain was rung down, he left behind him the
record of a well-spent life. He was a man of quiet
home-loving tastes, finding his greatest pleasure
in ministering to the comfort and pleasure of
those he loved. Among business and fraternal
associates he was esteemed as a man of high prin-
ciple, and in his passing all feel a personal loss.
BIOGRAPHICAL
27;
George Peter Madden, son of Hugh and Catherine
Madden, was born in Norwich, Connecticut, in
December, 1872, and died in the city of his birth.
May 18, 1921. He was educated in the public
schools and early in life learned the cigarmaker's
trade. About 1896 he began business for himself
as a cigar manufacturer, having his factory in the
Steiner building, later moving to quarters on Bath
street and finally to a factory which he built on
Cliflf street. He built up a large business, his
brands of cigars becoming famous through their
dependable quality and through Mr. Madden being
so well known for his sterling character, his just
and upright dealing. He had the distinction of
having the largest cigar manufacturing factory be-
tween New London, Connecticut, and Worcester,
Massachusetts, and was very proud of the fact
that his business had grown to such proportions
under his own management and solely on merit.
For twenty years he maintained a retail tobacco
store at No. 243 Main street, that store being a
center for baseball and athletic devotees.
Mr. Madden traveled all over Eastern Connecticut
and parts of Massachusetts in the interest of his
cigar factory, thus becoming widely known. He
was enthusiastic in his support of all clean sports
and was one of the men that supported the Norwich
baseball team in the Trolley League. He was a
charter member of Court City of Norwich, For-
esters of America, and was initiated a member of
Norwicli Lodge, Benevolent and Protective Order
of Elks, April I, 1901, being very popular in both
orders. He was a member of St. Patrick's Roman
Catholic Church and the Holy Name Society. In
politics he was a Democrat, and was a member of
the Norwich Chamber of Commerce.
Mr. Madden married, in St. Patrick's Church, in
Norwich, November 6, 1895, Rev. P. M. Kennedy
ofTiciating, Mary Elizabeth Craney, daughter of
John and Annie Craney. Five children were born
to Mr. and Mrs. Madden, i. James Joseph, born in
Norwich, August 4, 1896; he was his father's busi-
ness associate until the entrance of the United
States in the World War in 1917. He then entered
the United States navy at the New London sub-
marine base, June 8, 1917, and was rated a first-class
yeoman when honorably discharged from the serv-
ice, August 30, 1919. He then returned to Norwich,
where he again became identified with his father's
tobacco business and succeeded his father as man-
ager of the business. 2. Esther Roslyn, born in
Norwich, February 22, 1897. 3. George Fullerton,
born in Norwich, in Jani'ary, 1900; he is also asso-
ciated in the management of the tobacco business.
4. Anna Elizabeth, born in Norwich. 5. Catherine,
also born in Norwich. The family home is at No.
40 Otis street, Norwich, Connecticut.
ALBERT TRACEY UTLEY— No list of the
long-established business men of Norwich would be
complete without the name which stands at the
head of this article. As a citizen, Mr. Utley takes
a quiet but helpful interest in everything relating
to the welfare and prosperity of his community.
John Chapman Utley, father of Albert Tracey
Utley, was born in Griswold, Connecticut, and as a
boy assisted his father in the labors of the farm.
On reaching manhood he obtained a p-osition in
the grocery store of D. C. Coon, of Norwich, re-
maining until he was about thirty years old, when
he opened a grocery store of his own on Water
street. This he conducted successfully for sixteen
years, retaining his active connection with it to
the close of his life. A Democrat in politics, he
held no office and belonged to no orders. He was
an attendant of the Central Baptist Church of
Norwich, of which his wife was a member. Mr.
Utley married Mary Prentiss Richards, a native of
Preston, Connecticut, and they became tbe parents
of the following children, all of whom were born
in Norwich: John R., who died in Baltimore, Mary-
land; George Tyler, who died in Hartford, Connec-
ticut; Frank, who died in Norwich; Mary Ada, also
died in Norwich; and Albert Tracey, mentioned
below. The death of Mr. Utley occurred in Nor-
wich about 1864, and in 1895 his widow passed away
in the same place, having survived her husband more
than thirty years.
Albert Tracey Utley, son of John Chapman and
Mary Prentiss (Richards) Utley, was born October
29, 1850, in Norwich, Connecticut, and received his
education in schools of his native town. When
about si.xteen years old he began to learn the drug
business in the drug store of the Lee & Osgood
Company, of Norwich, and after completing his
course of preparation, remained with them fo.- a
number of years, the entire time of his connection
with the firm amounting to a period of thirty-six
years.
In 1903, in partnership with R. C. Jones, Mr.
Utley opened a drug store at No. 145 Main street,
under the firm name of Utley & Jones. Steadily
and rapidly the business has increased, the part-
ners acquiring as the years went on what is to-day
one of the best trades in its own special line to
be found in Norwich.
In politics, Mr. Utley is a Republican, but has
never mingled in public life, having neither the
time nor the wish to become an ofTice holder.
Neither does he affiliate with any orders. The fam-
ily are members of the Central Baptist Church.
Mr. Utley married, November 4, 1873, in Norwich,
Mary Jane Brown, born in that town, daughter of
George E. and Elizabeth (Manning) Brown, and
they are the parents of two daughters, both of
whom were born in Norwich: 1. Ella M., who
married Arthur B. Faulkner, of New Brunswick,
Canada, and they have three children: Albert, Char-
lotte, and Marjorie. 2. Laura, who became the wife
of William B. Pervis, of Norwich, and has one
child, Mary Anne. Like his father before him, Mr.
Utley is an active business man, much respected
by his townsmen. He has built up, on a basis of
unimpeachable integrity, one of the leading drug
trades in the State of Connecticut.
278
NEW LONDON COUNTY
GEORGE EDWARD SPARKS— Among the rep-
resentative citizens of Jewett C'ty, Connecticut, is
George Edward Sparks, who holds the distinction
of being the oldest employee of the Ashland Cot-
ton Company, having been machinist there since
t886. During the many years of Mr. Sparks' resi-
dence in this community, he has ever been a zealous
advocate and supporter of its most vital and essen-
tial interests.
George Edward Sparks was born in Lisbon, Con-
necticut, August 25, 1867, the son of Alfred and
Alice (Curtis) Sparks. His father, Alfred Sparks,
was also a native of Lisbon, and was a mechanic
and millwright throughout his entire lifetime. He
died in Bozrah, Connecticut, in 1905. To Mr. and
Mrs. Sparks were born seven children, George Ed-
ward being the second child.
The boy George received his education in the
district schools of Bozrah. His inception into busi-
ness life was made with the Ashland Cotton Com-
pany in 1886, where he served an apprenticeship
to the machinist's trade. In this machine shop he
has continued ever since and has seen many changes
throughout these many years, but he himself has
continued ever faithfully in the performance of
his various duties. His predominating character-
istic throughout his career has been his ability,
which has been backed by sterling integrity and
self-reliance.
In politics he is a Republican, giving to that
party the interest demanded of every good citizen,
but taking no active part in the affairs of the
organization. He is a charter member of Reliance
Lodge, No. 29, Independent Order of Odd Fellows,
of Jewett City, and attends the Baptist church of
Jewett City, of which he is a member.
Mr. Sparks married, at Jewett City, Connecticut,
October 8, 1908, Gertrude J. Prior, daughter of
Daniel and Anne E. (Phillips) Prior.
JOSEPH PATRICK CUMMINGS, of Cummings
& Ring, one of the leading undertaking firms of
Norwich, Connecticut, is an up-to-date, progressive
man of business, and a man of broad interests and
keen sympathies.
His father, Thomas Cummings, was born in the
County of Limerick, Ireland, and was educated in
the national schools there. He came to America
when a young man and located in Norwich, where
he lived for the greater part of his life. He was,
by trade, a heater in a rolling mill, and this work
he followed as long as he lived. He was a thrifty,
industrious man, highly respected in the community.
He married Bridget Gleason, also born in the
County of Limerick, Ireland. He died in Norwich,
Connecticut, in May, 1906, his wife, who survives
him, now living in Thamesville, Connecticut. They
were the parents of seven children, of whom five
are now living.
Joseph Patrick Cummings was born in Norwich,
Connecticut, October 11, 1881. He received his
education in the public schools of the city, growing
up in the traditions of the community. As a young
man he entered the employ of Charles A. Gager,
Jr., as assistant undertaker, remaining with him for
eight years. Then, having decided to make this
business his life work, Mr. Cummings entered the
Massachusetts College of Embalming, taking their
regular course, and receiving his diploma in 1906.
He also passed the examination of the Connecticut
State Board of Embalmers, after which for a time
he still continued to work for Norwich undertakers.
Then in 1913, in company with John F. Ring, he
established an independent undertaking business,
under the name of Cummings & Ring. This asso-
ciation has continued to date, the young men having
gone forward rapidly to an assured position in
their line of business. This is one of the leading
undertaking firms in the county. They always
have on hand the greatest abundance of fittings
and supplies, and have all motor-driven equipment.
Mr. Cummings is deeply interested in all public
affairs, keeping in touch with every movement that
involves the general welfare. In political affiliation
he is a Democrat. He is a member of the Benev-
olent and Protective Order of Elks, No. 430, of
Norwich; of the Knights of Columbus; and of the
White Cross Consistory, of the Fourth Degree.
Mr. Cummings married, on September 16, 1916,
Annie E. Maher, daughter of Daniel J. and Annie
(Devine) Maher, of Norwich, Connecticut, and
they have three children: Rosalie, Joseph, and
Richard.
The family are members of the Roman Catholic
church.
JEREMIAH JEROME SULLIVAN — Nearly
three-quarters of a century ago John Paul Sullivan
came to Colchester, Connecticut, from his farm in
Ireland, and as soon as possible obtained possession
of a farm in Colchester, on which he lived in con-
tentment until the end of his useful life, one of the
first men of his race to obtain title to lands in this
town. He was succeeded in the management of his
farm by his youngest son, Jeremiah Jerome Sullivan,
who still resides at the home farm, although post-
master of Colchester, an office he has held since
1913. He is a man of enterprise and public spirit,
one of the representative men of the community in
which he was born and in which his life has been
spent. He is well known and is highly esteemed
for integrity and ability.
Mr. Sullivan is a son of John Paul and Nellie
(Sheehan-Riorden) Sullivan, his parents both born
in County Kerry, Ireland. John P. Sullivan was a
farmer in Ireland, and there married Mrs. Nellie
(Sheehan) Riorden, a widow with a daughter, Mary
T. Riorden, who married William T. Irwin, of
Lynn, Massachusetts. Immediately after their mar-
riage in 1847, Mr. and Mrs. Sullivan came to the
L'nited States, locating in Colchester, Connecticut,
where Mrs. Sullivan had a sister living. Mr. Sul-
livan secured employment in the factory of the
Hayward Rubber Company, then a leading industry
BIOGRAPHICAL
279
of Colchester. After a few years his love of the
soil asserted itself and he bought the present Sul-
livan farm, being one of the first Irish landowners
of Colchester. He cultivated his farm very success-
fully and became one of the substantial and prom-
inent men of his community. He was a well educated
man and took a deep interest in the schools, serving
as school committeeman. He continued at the farm
until his passing, October 2, 1899. Mr. and Mrs.
John Paul Sullivan were the parents of four chil-
dren: Daniel John, who died in Indianapolis, Indi-
ana; Nellie Frances, married Timothy P. Sheehan,
of New London, Connecticut, who survives her;
Nora, died young; Jeremiah Jerome, of further
mention.
Jeremiah Jerome Sullivan, youngest son of John
Paul and Nellie (Sheehan-Riorden) Sullivan, was
born in the town of Colchester, New London
county, Connecticut, at the farm he now owns on
the Colchester-Norwich State Road, April 16, 1861.
He was educated in the public schools near the
home farm, Bacon Academy, Colchester, and under
the private instruction of Professor George H.
Tracy, of Colchester. After completing his own
education, he began teaching in Colchester; that
period of his career covering the years 1889-1907.
During those years he spent his summers at the
farm and continued alternately between school and
farm until 1907, when he resigned his school to
devote all his time to the farm which he owns.
From 1907 until August, 1913, he gave himself ex-
clusively to the farm, but in the latter year he v^rs.s
appointed postmaster of Colchester, an office which
he yet holds (1921). He continues his home at the
farm, his birthplace, but his sons operate the farm
with the help of hired labor.
Prior to his appointment as postmaster, Mr.
Sullivan had been a member of the Board of Reg-
istration for Colchester for twenty-six years. He
was a member of the State Central Democratic
Committee in 1896, has served on the Board of
School Visitors since 1886, and since 191 1 has been
chairman of the board. He is a strong force in the
party locally, and one of the substantial citizens of
his town. He is a member of St. Andrew's Roman
Catholic Church.
Mr. Sullivan married, April 27, 18S8, at New
London, Connecticut, Elizabeth McGrath, daughter
of Patrick and Catherine (Reddy) McGrath, her
parents both born in Ireland. Mr. and Mrs. Sullivan
are tlie parents of six children, all born at the home
farm at Colchester, still the family home: Eileen
Katherine, nov/ a teacher in Colchester schools;
Jerome John, a rural free delivery carrier from the
Colchester ofTice; Marion Elizabeth, a graduate
nurse; Raymond Joynt, residing at home; Mildred,
residing at home; Willard A., residing at home.
Mr. Suni\'an has spent his life in the community
of which he is now a substantial member, and here
he has won public confidence and approval, a man
of vision and public spirit, a man to be trusted and
relied upon.
HERBERT V. MOXLEY, one of New London's
young and successful merchants, is of an old Groton
family, founded in that town by Joseph Moxley, who
was brought by his parents to Groton in 1736, an infant.
All trace seems lost of his parents, but the child grew
to manhood, and was the head of a family, when, in
1781, the enemies of his adopted country landed at New
London, on pillage and destruction bent. Joseph Mox-
ley volunteered to aid in the defence of Fort Griswold,
and there gave up his life. Herbert V. Moxley, of the
sixth generation, traces in lineal line through the pa-
triot's third son, Samuel Moxley.
Joseph Moxley. of Scotch ancestry, was born in Glas-
gow, Scotland, in 1736, but when but six months of
age was brought to New England by his parents, they
making their home in Groton, Connecticut, now Led-
yard. There he lived until the War of the Revolution,
a farmer. When Fort Griswold was attacked by the
British, he was in the fort as a volunteer, having been,
it is said, the last man to enter the fort by the north
gate, those troops which came in from Fort Trumbull
entering by the south gate of the fort. Joseph Moxley's
station was in the southeast bastion, next to Samuel
Edgecomb. He was wounded in the abdomen, and was
later taken in an ox-cart down the heights, and that
night died from his injuries. His son, Joseph (2)
Moxley, also a volunteer, was in the fort, and when the
massacre began he jumped from the wall, landing on
a British bayonet which passed through his body. He
was left on the field for dead, but that night he crawled
away to a place of succor, and in time his youth (nine-
teen) asserted itself and he recovered from his wounds
and lived until 1815.
Joseph (i) Moxley, at the time of his death in 1781,
was forty-five years of age. He married Elizabeth
Horsford, of the Royal House of Horsford, and they
had six children: I. Joseph (2), born in 1762; married
Prudence Lamb, who survived him; she married (sec-
ond) Benjamin Daboll, and died aged eighty-five. Jo-
seph (2) Moxley lived in Ledyard, and there died, in
1815. 2. Jonathan, married Sally Woodmansee, and
moved to Pennsylvania. 3. Samuel, of whom further.
4 Deborah, married Henry Hallett. 5. Esther, married
Moses Jones, who was killed at Fort Griswold ; she
married (second) a Mr. Colver, of Groton, Connecticut.
6. Elizabeth, married Benjamin Daboll.
Samuel Moxley, third son of Joseph and Elizabeth
(Horsford) Moxley, the Revolutionary martyr, was a
resident of Groton, New London county, Connecticut,
and there married a Miss Woodmansee, and they were
the parents of two sons; Samuel (2). and William,
descent in this line being through the second son,
William.
William Moxley, son of Samuel (l) Moxley, was
born in Groton, Connecticut, there passed his life, and
died in 1890. He married Lucy Gecr, daughter of
George and Deidamia (Daboll) Geer, granddaughter
of Benjamin and Elizabeth (Moxley) Daboll, and great-
granddaughter of Joseph and Elizabeth (Horsford)
Moxley. William and Lucy (Geer) Moxley were the
parents of a son, George William, head of the next
280
NEW LONDON COUNTY
generation in this line, and of a daughter, Mary Abb,
born in 1834, died in 1876, wife of Albert Lamb.
George William Moxley, only son of William and
Lucy (Geer) Moxley, was born in Groton, Connecticut,
in 1831, and there married Amy Green, and they were
the parents of two sons: Francis Geer, head of the next
generation in this line ; and Everett DaboU, born in
1859, married Lucrctia Briggs, and had a daughter,
Adelaide L.
Francis Geer Moxley, eldest son of George W. and
Amy (Green) Moxley, was born in Groton, Connecticut,
in 1854, died in New London, Connecticut, in 1913.
When a young man he entered mercantile life and be-
came a prosperous New London merchant. He married
Mary E. Ayer, bom in Preston, Connecticut, who died
in 1905. They were the parents of three children:
George P., who died young ; Herbert V., of further
mention ; Bessie May, deceased, married Captain George
Healy, of New London, a master mariner.
Herbert V. Moxley, second son of Francis Geer and
Mary E. (Ayer) Moxley, and of the sixth generation
of the family founded by the Scotchman, Joseph
Moxley, the Revolutionary martyr, was born in Groton,
Connecticut, February 15, 1883. He was educated in
Groton and New London public schools, finishing with
graduation from Bulkeley High School, New London,
class of 1000. He entered the employ of the American
Express Company as clerk in their New London office
immediately after graduation, and continued with that
company for seven years. After the death of his father,
Francis Geer Moxley, in 1913, he succeeded him as head
of his business, and so continues.
Mr. Moxley is a member of the New London Cham-
ber of Commerce; the Rotary Club; New London
Lodge, No. 360, Benevolent and Protective Order of
Elks ; and the First Baptist Church of Groton. In poli-
tics he is a Republican. Mr. Moxley resides in New
London.
JOHN PHELPS TAYLOR ARMSTRONG— A
native son of New London, and since 1904 connected
with one of the city's important corporations, and its
general manager, Mr. Armstrong, both by birth and
environment, is closely bound to New London, Con-
necticut, which is also the home of his parents. Ben-
jamin A. and Louisa A. (Smith) Armstrong, his father
also of New London birth. Benjamin A. Armstrong
was born in 1844, and his wife was born in Franklin,
Connecticut, in 1845, both now living in New London.
Mr. Armstrong, Sr., a manufacturer of silk, served
New London twenty-five years as president of the
Board of Water Commissioners. He is a Republican in
politics, and a member of the Congregational church.
John P. T. Armstrong was born in New London,
Connecticut, July i, 1882, and there began his education
in the public school, finishing the courses of Bulkeley
High School with the class of 1899- He then completed
courses of preparatory study at Phillips Andover Acad-
emy, class of 1900, going thence to Yale University,
A. B., class of 1904. He entered the employ of the
Brainerd & Armstrong Company as a clerk the same
year, and has been with that company during the
years which have since intervened, his rank con-
stantly advancing until he is now (1921) general man-
ager, secretary and director. He is a director of the
National Bank of Commerce of New London; is a
Republican in politics; member of the Second Congre-
gational Church; the Masonic order; Yale Club, of
New York City; Thames Club, of New London; Shene-
cossett Country Club, of New London ; and the Nor-
wich Golf Club, of Norwich, Connecticut.
Mr. Armstrong married, at New Rochelle, New York,
February 28, 1918, Lillian T. Washburn, born in Owens-
boro, Kentucky, daughter of Homer T. and Laura
Washburn.
JOHN H. W. SCHRODER, now and since 1868
superintendent of Elm Grove Cemetery of Stonington,
Connecticut, was born in Germany, June 17, 1833, son
of Jochiam Schroder. His parents died while he was
but a child, but he obtained a good education, studied
landscape gardening, and remained in his native Ger-
many until twenty-six years of age. In 1859 he came to
the United States, locating in Stonington, Connecticut,
where his first position was in caring for and beautify-
ing the Seminary grounds. He came to his present
position, superintendent of Elm Grove Cemetery, in
1867, more than half a century ago, and by his skill
and artistic talent has developed one of the most beau-
tiful of Connecticut cemeteries. His years, eighty-seven,
have been largely spent as a landscape gardener, and
if it be true that "he who makes two blades of grass
grow where but one grew before is a public benefac-
tor," then John H. W. Schroder is one of the public
benefactors, for he has given his life to reclaiming the
waste places and causing grass, shrubbery and trees to
grow where none grew before, and to making beautiful
places more beautiful.
John H. W. Schroder married, in 1861, Maria W.
Schroder, who died February 15, 1906. They were the
parents of five children : W'ilhelmina D., who resides
with her father in Stonington, Connecticut ; Louisa R.,
secretary at Teachers' College, Columbia University;
Henry C., married Emma Baxter, of Brooklyn, now and
since 1885 assistant superintendent of Elm Grove Ceme-
terj', father and son having been associated in its care
for thirty-five years ; Nettie, married C. W. Crandall,
and resides in Groton, Connecticut ; Charlotte M., mar-
ried Charles D. Wolf. Mr. Schroder and family are
members of the Congregational church.
EDWIN FITCH COMSTOCK— A list of the very
old settlers of Connecticut would be incomplete without
mention of the Comstock family, whose members have
lived in the State for several hundred years, coming
down in a straight unbroken line to the present genera-
tion. They were all tillers of the soil, those who have
been the backbone of the country, and the present repre-
sentative of them, Edwin Fitch Comstock, has followed
in the footsteps of his forbears, and owns and culti-
vates his own land in Oakdale, Montville towmship.
Connecticut.
Edwin Fitch Comstock is the son of D. Chester Com-
BIOGRAPHICAL
281
stock, and the grandson of David Comstock. D. Chester
Comstock was born in Montvillc, December 15, 1839.
He was a farmer, and when the Civil War brolce out he
left his farm to become a soldier in the Twenty-fourth
Regiment, Connecticut Infantry. After the close of the
war he returned to Montville, where he married Frances
Raymond, born in Montville, December 16, 1839. In
addition to their son, Edwin Fitch Comstock, they had
two daughters, both now married, one being Mrs. Min-
nie (Comstock) Rogers and the other Mrs. Julia (Com-
stock) Beebe. D. Chester Comstock died very suddenly,
March 9, 1912, at the age of seventy-three years, his
wife having passed away November 2, 1874, when only
thirty-five years old.
Born upon his father's farm in Montville, Connec-
ticut, August 21, 1868, Edwin Fitch Comstock attended
the district school in his boyhood, and afterward took
a course at a business college, then went to California,
where he lived in Santa Cruz county until 1893, when
he returned to his home in Montville and started upon
the life of a farmer. Though a Republican in politics,
Mr. Comstock does not always vote for the candidate
named on that ticket, preferring to choose the man best
fitted for the office under consideration. He has been
very active in the public affairs of his township, having
held various offices at different times; he was a member
of the Board of Selectmen and of the Board of Asses-
sors, also town representative to the State Legislature
in 1919, and has served on the Board of Relief. Mr.
Comstock and his family are members of and workers
in the Congregational church of Montville.
On April 4, 1894, in Montville, Edwin Fitch Comstock
married Lena E. Williams, born in Montville, January
12, 1870. She is the daughter of Ephriam and Evelyn
(Williams) Williams, of that town. Of this marriage
four children have been born: i. Evelyn, born in Mont-
ville, June I, 1895; she is the wife of Carl Johnson, of
Montville, and is the mother of one child, Joice John-
son. 2. Chester Williams, born August 4, 1898; served
in the Student Army Training Corps, United States
Army, World War. 3. Hope Morgan, born August 19,
1902. 4. Percy Edwin, born January 12, 1905, died
aged eighteen months.
ALBERT JOHN FOX— Among the old settlers
in or about the town of Montville, the oldest is prob-
ably the Fox family, the ancestral members of it having
lived here for several generations. The present repre-
sentative of the name is Albert John Fox, the son of
Joel Henry Fox, born in September, 1842, in Montville,
where he has been a successful farmer for many years
past. He was the son of Robert Fox, also a resident of
Montville. Joel Henry Fox married Addie Woodman-
see, whose people were residents of Montville, where
she was born.
The son of Joel Henry and Addie (Woodmansee)
Fox, Albert John Fox, was born in Montville on his
father's farm, July 28, 1875, spending his boyhood and
youth on the farm and attending the local schools,
where he acquired an education. When twenty-two
years old Mr. Fox came to the town of Montville, in
1897, and obtaining employment in one of the mills went
to work as an ordinary mill hand, beginning at the
bottom and working his way upward until now he is
foreman of the mill. Not only has Albert John Fox
njadc good in the mill; he has a large farm just outside
the town (Oakdale), this being the homestead place
of which Mr. Fox is manager, and he has made a great
success of it, working early and late to bring it to its
present prosperous condition. In the matter of politics,
Mr. Fox is not bound to any party, but follows the dic-
tates of his conscience in voting for a candidate for
office.
Albert John Fox was united in marriage with Ellen
C. Johnson, a native of Hartford, t.'onnccticut, born
September 18, 1876. She is the daughter of Bernard
and Mary (Anderson) Johnson. Of this union two
children have been born: Albert Henry and Charles
Raymond, both born on the homestead place in Oak-
dale. Connecticut. Mr. and Mrs. Fox are members of
the First Congregational Church in Montville Center.
THOMAS JOSEPH LYNCH was born in Leb-
anon, Connecticut, March 26, 1875, the son of Michael
and Eleanor (Sullivan) Lynch. Michael Lynch was
born in County Cork, Ireland. He came to this country
at the age of seventeen years, locating in Lebanon,
where he purchased a farm and subsequently became
employed by the Haywood Rubber Company factory in
Lebanon, in which industry he continued until the fac-
tory closed. He then returned to his farm in Lebanon
and has conducted it to date, having purchased the farm
in 1873. Mrs. Lynch was also a native of Ireland ; she
died in Lebanon, September 25, 1917, and is buried in
Greenville. To Mr. and Mrs. Lynch were born seven
children: I. Katie, born in Lebanon, wife of Thomas
Craney, of Norwich. 2. Timothy, born in Lebanon,
now lives in Norwich. 3. Thomas Joseph, mentioned
below, born on the Lynch farm, Lebanon, as were all
later children. 4. Mary, died in infancy. 5. Mary,
employed in Palmer Brothers' Mill, Fitchville, Con-
necticut. 6. Nellie, at home. 7. Anna, died in infancy.
The boyhood of the lad Thomas Joseph was spent on
his father's farm, and most of the time was given in
aiding the elder man in his work about the place. After
terminating his studies in the Lebanon schools, he con-
tinued to reside with his parents, and was employed by
the neighboring farmers so that he gained a wide and
extensive knowledge of the subject, and became well
skilled in agricultural methods generally. Thus he con-
tinued until 1902, when he came to Fitchville and
accepted his present position as head farmer of the
Palmer Brothers' Mill farm in the town of Bozrah,
which consists of 600 acres, and he also has charge of
all outside work, such as teaming, hauling, etc. Upon
coming to this community Mr. Lynch purchased an
attractive little farm, and together with his sister he
has continued to reside here up to the present time.
His spare time is devoted to the cultivation of his own
property, which he has already brought to a highly
productive state. Mr. Lynch is one of those men who
take a deep inteerst in the welfare of the community
in which they reside, and as such identifies himself with
all that makes for the betterment of civic conditions.
He is a Democrat in politics, and attends St. John's
Roman Catholic Church, Fitchville, Connecticut.
282
NEW LONDON COUNTY
VINCENT MASTRODDI— John Mastroddi, a
merchant of Rome, Italy, died there in December, 1910,
al the age of seventy-four years, and there was buried.
He married Catherine Chicarelli, also born in Rome,
who after the death of her husband came to the United
States and joined her children. She now resides in
New Britain, Connecticut, aged 56 years.
Vincent Mastroddi, son of John and Catherine (Chi-
carelli) Mastroddi, was born in Rome, Italy, July 4,
1882, and there spent the years of his minority, securing
a good education. He came to the United States in
igi3, and for ten years was variously employed, his last
position prior to coming to New London county being
with Armour & Company, of Chicago, in their Hart-
ford, Connecticut, branch. In 1920 he opened a general
store near New London, Connecticut, there remaining
until recently, when he moved his business to Palmers-
town in the town of Montville in the same county, and
there is successfully conducting a general store.
Vincent Mastroddi married (first) Rose Filippo, born
in Buenos Aires, South America, April 30, 1889, died
December 4, 1918, daughter of Dominick Filippo. They
were the parents of five children : Catherine, born Au-
gust 10, 1907; John, born September, 1909; Loquina,
born October 28, 1913; Anna, born June 4, 1916; Rose,
born November 20, 1918. Mr. Mastroddi married (sec-
ond) Mrs. Anna (Johnson) Daniel, born in Montville,
Connecticut, daughter of Swanty and Ida Johnson, and
by her first marriage was the mother of two children,
William and Clinton, the first named killed in an auto-
mobile accident, October 28, 1920. Mr. Mastroddi is a
member of the Woodmen of America, the Catholic
church, Pequot Council, No. 125, Knights of Columbus,
of Montville, and Norwich Lodge, No. 430, Benevolent
and Protective Order of Elks.
ERASTUS DENISON MINER— In 1646 Lieu-
tenant Thomas Miner, an officer of Colonial soldiers,
settled in New London, Connecticut, and from that year
Miner has been an honored New London county name.
Erastus Denison Miner, born in Stonington, Connecti-
cut, December 16, 1830, died April 23, 1907, was of the
eighth generation in Connecticut, and son of Elias and
Betsey (Brown) Miner, his father a farmer of Ston-
ington all his life. His wife, Betsey (Brown) Miner,
was also born in Stonington, and they were the parents
of four children, Erastus D., the youngest.
Erastus D. Aliner was educated in the district schools
of the town of Stonington, and early became a farmer.
In 1858 he bought a farm of fifty acres in the Hinckley
Hill section in his native township, and there he resided
until his death at the age of seventy-seven years. He
■was a Republican in politics, although he took no part
in politics, but he was a devoted member of Broad
Street Congregational Church, of Westerly, Rhode
Island, and served that church as deacon for forty
years. He was a man of upright life and industrious
habits, highly esteemed in his town.
Erastus D. Miner married, August 15, 1852, Jane
Breed, who died in Stonington, July I, 1910. On August
15, 1902, they celebrated their Golden Wedding day.
Five years later the husband died, his widow surviving
him three years. Four children were born to Erastus
D and Jane (Breed) Miner: i. Herman E., married
(first) Fannie Savitte; (second) Fannie Wilcox;
(third) Ethel Thorpe, who survives him, a resident of
Westerly, Rhode Island. 2. Sarah, married (first)
Herman Brown; (second) Henry L. Allen, of North
Stonington, Connecticut. 3. Mary E., married Frank E.
Wilcox, and resides on the home farm. 4. Annie E.,
married John Seymour, and resides in Pawcatuck. The
home place of fifty acres is run by Frank E. Wilcox.
STAVROS FRANCIS PETERSON — Widely
known in New London and Norwich, Connecticut,
as owner of the favorite confectionery shops, Stav-
ros F? Peterson is a leading manufacturing confec-
tioner of the State.
Mr. Peterson was born of Greek parents, in
Bathy Erdek, Asia Minor, on March 20, 1887. Re-
ceiving a limited education in his native land, he
came to the United States as a boy of thirteen to
work for his uncle, who was also a confectioner.
Thoroughly familiarizing himself with the busi-
ness, Mr. Peterson established a store in New Lon-
don in 1907 under the name of Paterson & Peterson.
In 191 1 he opened a branch store in Norwich, under
the title of Peterson & Tyler. Later, under title
of Peterson & Nichols, Inc., he engaged in the
manufacture of confectionery at V/aterbury, Con-
necticut. This business was subsequently brought
to Nev/ London and established in the old Boss
cracker factory, but was later discontinued. In
1913 he purchased the William Frisbie store in
Nbrv/ich, which business, combined with the larger
and more important store in New London, was
incorporated for $50,000, and has come to be a
leader in the confectionery business not only in
the county, but in the State. Mr. Peterson is presi-
dent of the company. They make the finest candies
and also handle an extensive catering business. In
the New London store alone he employs twenty-
five people.
Mr. Peterson is a member of the Chamber of
Commerce of both New London and Norwich. Dur-
ing the V'.'orid War he enlisted in the United States
navy, and was stationed at the Cloyne School,
Newport, Rhode Island, as chief of the Commissary
Division. He entered the service on April 20, 1917.
and was discharged on December 24, 1918. He is
now a member of the John Coleman Prince Post,
American Legion.
Politically, Mr. Peterson supports the Republican
party. Fraternally, he is a member of Brainard
Lodge, No. 102, Free and Accepted Masons; Union
Chapter, No. 4, Royal Arch Masons; Gushing Coun-
cil, Royal and Select Masters; Knights Templar;
and the Mystic Shrine. He is a member of Mo-
hican Lodge, No. 85, Independent Order of Odd
Fellows; and of New London Lodge, No. 360,
Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. He is a
member of the Rotary Club and the John Winthrop
Club, both of New London.
On June 16, 1920, Mr. Peterson married Henrietta
BIOGRAPHICAL
283
L. Costigan, of New York City, and they attend St.
James' Episcopal Church, of New London. They
reside at the Mohican Hotel.
FREDERICK WILLIAM CHAPEL— The old
Hill estate now owned by Frederick W. Chapel and
his brother, Charles L. Chapel, has been in the Hill
family for over sixty years. Mr. Chapel is a resi-
dent of the village of Montville, and there is engaged
in milling and farming. He is a son of Leander
Davis Chapel, born in Chesterfield Society, town
of Montville, New London county, Connecticut, the
Chapel family being one of the old families of the
county. He married Sibyl Fox Hill, daughter of
George Washington Hill, of Montville. They were
the parents of two sons: Frederick VV., of further
mention; Charles Leander, born March 16, 1879.
Frederick VV. Chapel was born in the village of
Palmerstown, New London county, Connecticut,
May 14, 1870. He was educated in the village pub-
lic schools and Norwich Business College, finishing
courses at the latter institution with graduation.
His first mercantile position was with Sherman &
Larkin as clerk in their grocery store in Montville,
but later he went in the same capacity with F. C.
Sherman, a merchant of Palmer, Massachusetts.
He remained there but seven months, then returned
to Palmerstown, where he has since resided, en-
gaged in mill operations and farming. He owns, as
stated, in company with his brother, the old Hill
homestead, and is a man of high standing in his
community. For seven years he has been a mem-
ber of the Board of Relief for the town of Mont-
ville, member of Montville Centre Congregational
Church, member of Thames Lodge, No. 22, Inde-
pendent Order of Odd Fellows, and a Republican
in politics.
JACOB DICK is one of those men whose suc-
cess is in every sense of the word self-made, the
result of his own indefatigable belief in his ability
to succeed. Coming to this country when but fif-
teen years of age, he has won his own way to
the position which he holds in the community
to-day.
Jacob Dick was born in Bavaria, April i, 1875,
the son of the late Frederick and Gertrude (Fuss)
Dick, both natives of Bavaria. The boy Jacob
went to school in his native place until he was
twelve years of age. The business of life then
began for the lad, and he apprenticed himself to
the bakers' trade. In 1890, at the age of fifteen
years, he came to this country and located in Brook-
lyn, New York, v/here he secured employment as
a baker until 1893, when he went to New London,
Connecticut, and worked at his trade in various
places until 1918, when he purchased the A. C.
Weeks Bakery in Mystic, Connecticut, since which
time he has conducted this enterprise under the
name of The Mystic Home Bakery. Previous to
buying this business, Air. Dick had been manager
of it for Mr. Weeks for seven years, and during
this time gained a thorough knowledge of its vari-
ous branches.
In politics Mr. Dick is a Republican, and while
he has never consented to hold office is nevertheless
somewhat active in political circles, and always as a
good citizen gives loyal support to measures calcu-
lated to promote the welfare of Mystic. He is
active m church work, and is a member of St.
Mark's Episcopal Church of Mystic. Mr. Dick is
also affiliated with the Independent Order of Odd
FellovvS, Stonington Lodge, No. 26.
On June 11, 1897, Jacob Dick was united in mar-
riage with Elizabeth (Muller) Dieter, daughter of
William and Elizabeth (Fischer) Muller, widow of
the late Emile Dieter, who died in New London,
1894, and the mother of three children: George D.,
married Nellie Menge, resides in Mystic; Catherine,
married to Augustus Dick, resides in Norwich;
Augusta, married Otto Hoppe, resides in Montreal,
Canada. To the marriage of Jacob and Elizabeth
Dick were born six children, as follows: Carrie,
who married Francis Brown, of Reading, Massachu-
setts; Gertrude, who married Charles Phee, of
Waterbury, Connecticut; Minnie, who married Har-
old Fox; Winifred, Jacob F., and Edward J.
CLARENCE A. COOGAN is the youngest child
of six children of Edward C. and Lucy E. (Crumb)
Coogan, of Mystic, Connecticut. Edward C.
Coogan, born in Boston, Massachusetts, came to
Putnam, Connecticut, when a boy and there at-
tended public schools. Later he located in Mystic,
obtaining employment with the Standard Machine
Company and there continues, having been receiv-
ing and shipping clerk for the past tv/enty-one
years, 1899-1920.
Clarence A. Coogan was born in Mystic, Connec-
ticut, August I, 1898. He obtained a good grammar
school education in the Mystic public schools. He
completed his studies in Stonington High School in
1917, and at once began farming as a business in
the town of Stonington, near Mystic. He rented
the Walter Morgan farm of one hundred and
twenty acres near Mystic, and there has since con-
ducted profitable farming and poultry raising opera-
tions. He is a member of Mystic Grange, Patrons
of Husbandry, and in politics a Republican.
Mr. Coogan married, March 5, I9i9> Clara .A.very
Morgan, daughter of Walter C. and Martha
(Wheeler) Morgan, of Mystic. They are both mem-
bers of the Congregational church. They are the
parents of two children: Clarissa .\very, born in
the town of Stonington, October 10, 1920; Edward
Carle, born January 27, 1921.
TORRES OLSEN — From Mandal, the southern-
most town of Norway, twenty-three miles from
Christiansand, on the Skagerrak, came Torres
Olsen, now and for twenty-five years engineer with the
T. A. Scott Company, of New London, Connecticut.
He is a son of Ole and Bergetta Olsen; his father
also born in Mandal, where he died at the age of
284
NEW DONDON COUNTY
forty-five, in 1897, leaving the following children:
Elias, Torres, Olaf, Christian, and Tobine.
Torres Olscn, second son of Ole and Bergetta
Olsen, was born in Mandal, Norway, August 15,
1877, and there spent the first eighteen years of
his life. He obtained his education in the public
schools, and continued his father's helper until
1895, when he came to the United States, finding
employment and a home in New London, Connec-
ticut. Soon after coming to New London he en-
tered the employ of the T. A. Scott Company as
engineer and there he has continued for a quarter
of a century. The T. A. Scott Company are wreck-
ing contractors, and during his service with them
Mr. Olsen has had many exciting experiences, for
wherever there is a wreck the Scott Company is
found, and wherever the Scott Company wrecking
outfit is found there will Torres Olsen be found,
sometimes in a diver's suit ready for a descent into
the dark places beneath the surface, sometimes in
the engine room or on other duty, but wherever
you find him you will find a man of efficiency,
devoted to his employers' interests, and ready for
duty. He has worked on many wrecks all along
the coast, and made many descents as a diver. He
is highly regarded by his employers and by his
associates in the often hazardous business in which
they are engaged. Men learn to value fidelity and
faithfulness in such a business, a business where a
man's life hangs on the cooperation of another, and
where a slight deviation from the agreed plan may
mean disaster to all. So Torres Olscn has gained
the reputation he holds, for on his quick action
and promptness, his clear head and strong arm,
men know they may confidently rely.
Torres Olsen married Hulda Lofholm, born in
Finland, July 24, 1875, daughter of Carl Lofholm.
Mr. and Mrs. Olsen are the parents of three chil-
dren: Carl Olaf, born October 7, 1903; Walter Will-
iam, born October 7, 1905, died .A.pril 18, 1920;
Edith Johanna, born February 10, 1908. The family
home is at No. 53 Sherman street, New London,
Connecticut.
LUTHER CLINTON TEFFT— The first position
Luther C. TeiTt ever held in a mill was with the
Palmer Brothers Quilt Mills, and since that time he
has filled many positions, now being assistant superin-
tendent of the Bank's Paper Mills in Montville, Con-
necticut. He is a son of Elmer Tefft, a farmer of the
town of Griswold, New London county, Connecticut,
but later moved to a farm in Oakdale, Connecticut,
where he is now living, aged fifty-four years. He
married Jessie McClure, born in Griswold, Connecticut.
Luther Clinton Tefft was born at the home farm in
the town of Griswold, Connecticut. August 28, 1891.
He attended public schools until fifteen years of age,
then secured employment with the Palmer Brothers
Quilt Mills in Montville, his parents having previously
moved there. He remained three years with Palmer
Brothers, going thence to what is now the Keyes Prod-
ucts Company's mill, where he remained until 1915.
In that year he came to his present position, assistant
superintendent of the Bank's Paper Mills in Montville.
Mr. Tefft is a member of Oxoboxo Blue Lodge, Free
and Accepted Masons, in Montville, Connecticut, and in
politics is extremely independent.
Mr. Tefft married Mabel La Flame, born in Yantic,
Connecticut, February 11, 1892, daughter of James and
Grace (Windsor) La Flame. Mr. and Mrs. Tefft are
the parents of four children : Dorothy T., born Feb-
ruary 7, 1912; Ruth, born January 26, 1914; Elsie, bom
February 16, 1917; Luther, born May 5, 1920. Mr. and
Mrs. Tefft are members of the Episcopal church of
Norwich, Connecticut.
ROBERT THOMAS BAKER— James Baker, of
early Colonial family, was born in Brooklyn, Con-
necticut, and all his life was a farmer in different
Connecticut towns. He died in the year 1900, aged
fifty-five years. He married Sophia Fitch, who died in
1890, aged forty years. They were the parents of sons,
James Albert and Robert T. ; and daughters, Mary,
married Luciun Bishop, and Elizabeth, married George
Kimball.
Robert Thomas Baker, son of James and Sophia
(Fitch) Baker, was born in Woodstock, Connecticut,
June 29, 1870. His parents moved to Pomfret, Con-
necticut, in 1871, and there the boy grew to manhood.
He remained at home during his minor years, then was
employed in various places until 1892, when he spent
three years in Bozrah, Connecticut, engaged as a painter.
The next fifteen years were spent in farming in Pom-
fret, on the Sawyer place, after which Mr. Baker spent
two years in farming in the town of Norwich, then
spent two years in Bozrah, then bought his present farm
in the town of Montville, in the Raymond Hill District,
in 1914.
Mr. Baker married, in Bozrah, November i, 1893,
Jessie Sawyer, daughter of Joseph and Mary (Perkins)
Sawyer. Joseph Sawyer was of a Lynn, Massachusetts,
family of manufacturing people. He died in 1910, and
v.'as buried in Hartford, Connecticut. Mary (Perkins)
Sawyer, born in Bozrah, August 18, 1850, was a daugh-
ter of Samuel Perkins. Mr. and Mrs. Baker have no
children. He is an enthusiastic trapper and hunter and
very skillful. In politics he is a Republican. They
attend and support the Congregational church.
HENRY HASKELL GALLUP— The Norwich of
today is the outgrowth of constructive effort on the part
of men endowed with breadth of vision and the practical
business ability which carries an individual or a com-
munity far and high along the "Way of Progress."
Henry Haskell Gallup for nearly twenty years president
of the Norwich Belt Manufacturing Company, and for
more than fifty years active in the mercantile and indus-
trial interests of Norwich, is one of the men who have
done most for the development of this city.
In the closing years of the eighteenth century, when
the echoes of the Revolutionary guns had scarcely died
away in the hearts of New London county citizens,
Isaac Gallup, Mr. Gallup's grandfather, was born in that
BIOGRAPHICAL
235
part of Groton which is now called "Ledyard." He
grew up to be a youth of courageous bearing, and a man
of ambition and resource. Seeing both duty and oppor-
tunity in the constructive industries which were to
develop the new-fledged nation, he became a carpenter
and builder, later broadening the scope of his activity
by taking up surveying. In 1828 he came to Norwich,
bringing his little family with him, but remained for
only a year in the town. The year following, he removed
to Preston, bought land, and built a home for his family.
This property has ever since been known as the Gallup
homestead, and is still in the family. He carried on
the farm in connection with his other activities, until
his death in May, 1867. He married Prudence Geer,
who was born in Ledyard, and died at the Gallup home
farm in Preston, in the year 1871.
Isaac (2), son of Isaac (i) and Prudence (Geer)
Gallup, was born on the farm in the town of Ledyard,
New London county, Connecticut, in 1820. With his
parents he removed to Norwich in 1828, and was nine
years of age when the farm in Preston was bought
and the home built. As a young man he assisted his
father on the farm, and upon his father's death inherited
the property. He continued to conduct the farm until
he was able to retire from active work, but lived there
throughout his lifetime. He died there in 1906, at the
age of eighty-six years, having spent seventy-seven
years on the home farm in Preston. He married Maria
Theresa Davis, who was born in Preston, and died at
the homestead, December 30, 1910. Isaac and Maria
Theresa (Davis) Gallup were the parents of three chil-
dren, all born on the Gallup homestead in Preston, near
Poquetanuck (spelled Poquetannoc in Connecticut State
Register and Manual). Henry Haskell, whose name-
heads this review; Ella Maria, who is now the widow
of Avery D. Wheeler, of Norwich, Connecticut ; and
Charles Davis, who is superintendent and vice-president
of the Norwich Belt Manufacturing Company, of which
his elder brother is president.
Henry Haskell Gallup was born in Preston, January
2, 1846. He received his early education in the district
schools near the farm, then completed his studies in
private schools. He then taught school for four win-
ters, in Ledyard, North Stonington, and Norwich, help-
ing on the home place during his vacations.
But the young man was not interested in a profes-
sional career, and the future of the city of Norwich
appealed to him as full of business possibilities. He
came to Norwich in 1868, and secured a position as
clerk in a retail clothing store, a little later working as
bookkeeper for Barstow & Palmer, in their hardware
store. This gave Mr. Gallup practical experience, and a
comprehensive grasp of the business situation of the
time and the place. In 1871 he made the start which
has developed to the important business interest of
which he is now the head. He formed a partnership
with George S. Smith, and as Smith & Gallup the new
firm conducted a business in leather findings, saddle
hardware, etc. This arrangement continued until July
10, 1873, and on that date the partners with Frank
Ulmer, organized the Norwich Belt Manufacturing Com-
pany. They retained the partnership arrangement, which
continued for ten years unchanged, and in that first
decade the business was placed on a sound basis and
developed to become one of the most promising indus-
tries of the city. On September i, 1883, the senior part-
ner, Mr. Smith, retired from the firm, and Mr. Gallup
and Mr. Ulmer continued the business jointly. This
arrangement continued for ten years, a period of steady
growth and development for the firm. The beginning
of the twentieth century saw the business developed to
such a point that a different form of organization was
advisable, and January i, 1902, the incorporation of the
Norwich Belt Manufacturing Company, with a capital
of $300,000, became a fact.
In the new concern Mr. Gallup acted as treasurer and
general manager of the business. The president of the
company was Roswell A. Breed, who held this office
until his retirement, in 191 1, when Mr. Gallup became
president of the company, still retaining the general
managership, handling the duties of both offices up to
the present time.
The Norwich Belt Manufacturing Company is now
one of the oldest as well as one of the most important
of the Norwich industries. Their principal product is
large and small leather belts for factory and other uses,
and they also do an extensive business in tanning leather
of many kinds and grades, for all sorts of purposes,
their market covering a very wide range of territory.
Their office and tannery are on North Main street, in
Norwich, and they have a branch office in Providence,
Rhode Island.
In both industrial and financial circles of Norwich
Mr. Gallup has long been a power for stability and
advancement. He has been a director of the Chelsea
Savings Bank since 1875, and one of its vice-presidents
since 1919. He was a director of the Thames National
Bank of Norwich from January, 1888, to November,
1909. He was president of the Norwich Industrial
Building Company for twenty-five years. He was presi-
dent of the Crescent Fire Arms Company, of Norwich,
for twenty-six years, up to May, 1919, when he disposed
of his interests in this connection. He is president of
the Smith Granite Company, of Westerly, Rhode Island,
and president of the New London County Mutual Fire
Insurance Company. He was president of the Bulletin
Company, publishers of the Norwich "Bulletin," for a
period of eight years. In all these varied interests Mr.
Gallup has displayed the well-balanced judgment and the
assured discernment which make for permanent stability
in the business world. His fearlessness in every relation
is one of his dominant characteristics, but is balanced by
a fine conservatism, which nevertheless admits no com-
promise.
But individual enterprise is not the sum of Mr. Gal-
lup's activities. He has done much for the civic ad-
avncement of the city of Norwich. No man who had
a worthy object in view has ever found an unwilling
listener in Henry Haskell Gallup, when proposing a
reform or bringing about a movement which involved
the public good, particularly affecting the city of Nor-
wich. He has always been a leader in the promotion of
all industrial and manufacturing growth of the city. It
has been said of him that he has done more to advance
286
NEW LONDON COUNTY
the manufacturing interests of Norwich than any other
citizen holding residence here. Of later years he has
been obliged to delegate much of the active work along
these lines to younger men, but his assistance, in an
advisory capacity, is still freely given and highly prized.
His long membership on the board of trade was a force
for progress, and for two years he was president of
that body.
Politically Mr. Gallup has always supported the prin-
ciples of the Republican party, and it was only in tlie
natural order of sequence that his services were sought
for the commonwealth. He was elected State treasurer
in IQOO, taking office January i, 1901. He was re-
elected in 1902, and served two terms, or until January
I, 1905.
Mr. Gallup has been a member of the Arcanum Club,
of Norwich, for twenty-five years. His religious con-
victions long since placed his membership with Christ
Church, of Norwich, of which he has been senior
warden for many years.
On September 26, 1871, Mr. Gallup married, at Nor-
wich, Irena Harriot Breed, of this city, daughter of
Edward and Harriot (Hebard) Breed. Mr. and Mrs.
Gallup are the parents of five children, of whom two
are now living: Walter Henry, who was born in Nor-
wich, on April 13, 1873, is also associated with the
Norwich Belt Manufacturing Company, and married
Maud Anna Morgan, of Norwich, they being the parents
of two children, Maria Theresa, and Henrietta Hebard;
and a daughter, Susie Irena, who resides at home. Since
1912 Mr. Gallup and his family have made their home at
the Mohican Hotel, in New London, Connecticut.
HARRY TODD GRISWOLD, of the J. Warren
Gay Electrical Company, electrical contractors, of New
London, Connecticut, is of the ninth generation of the
family formed in the town of Old Lyme, New London
county, Connecticut, by Matthew Griswold, who, with his
brother Edward, came to New England in 1639. He
first located at Windsor, going thence to Saybrook, and
later was the 'pioneer in the movement from Saybrook
to Lyme, where he died in 1698. He was a stone-cutter
by trade, and there is registered at Saybrook a receipt
for i700, dated April 2, 1679, and signed by Matthew
Griswold, in payment of the tombstone of Lady Fenwick.
He married Anna Wolcott, who died in 1693, daughter
of Henry Wolcott. From Matthew and Anna (Wol-
cott) Griswold the line of descent to Harry Todd Gris-
wold of New London is through their son, Matthew (2)
Griswold, a farmer of Lyme, and a man of great
strength ; his son. Rev. George Griswold, who was pastor
of the Congregational church at Niantic, Connecticut,
for thirty-nine years; his son, George (2) Griswold,
who lived at Giants Neck, in the town of Lyme ; his son,
George (3) Griswold, who moved to New York when
a young man, and was one of the founders of M. L. &
George Griswold, a firm of East India merchants; his
son, Richard Sill (i) Griswold, a partner of M. L. &
George Griswold, who spent several years in China, and
in 18.40 built a mansion in Old Lj-me ; his son, Richard
Sill (2) Griswold, merchant and manufacturer; his son,
Harry Todd Griswold, of New London.
Richard Sill (i) Griswold was a graduate of Yale
College, class of 1829, and immediately after graduation
was sent to China as his father's agent, representing
ML. & George Griswold. He spent several years in
Uiina, and upon his return to the United States was
admitted as a partner. He was a most capable business
man and very successful. He occupied the mansion he
built in Old Lyme in 1840, although his business interests
were in New York City. He married Louisa Griswotd
Mather, and after her death he married her sister
i- ranees Augusta Mather, both wives being daughters of
James and Caroline (Tinker) Mather, and descendants
ot Kev. Cotton Mather, the famous Puritan divine
Richard Sill (2) Griswold was born in Lyme. Con-
necticut, June 3, 1845, and died June 30, 1904. After
completing his education, he entered business life in
New York City, and in the course of his business life
made about twenty voyages across the Atlantic He
was later in business with Brown & Brother, brass
manufacturers, of Waterbury, Connecticut, continuing
with them for seven years. He was well-known in
business and fraternal circles, and in 1878 and 1879 he
represented Lyme in the State Legislature. He was a
member of Lodge, Chapter, Council and Commandery
of the Masonic order in Waterbury, Connecticut, and
held his Scottish Rite degree in Norwich, Connecticut,
being affiliated with King Solomon Lodge of Perfection •
Van Rensselaer Council, Princes of Jerusalem; Norwich
Chapter of Rose Croix; Connecticut Consistory, Sov-
ereign Princes of the Royal Secret; Mecca Temple
Ancient Arabic Order Nobles of the Mystic Shrine of
^ew York City; and the Veteran Masonic Association.
In 1890 the Boxwood School for Girls was established
in Lyme, which was under the direction of Mrs Gris-
wold.
Richard Sill (2) Griswold married, February 9 1869
in Waterbury, Rosa Elizabeth Brown, born in Aberdeen'
Mississippi, November 25, 1849, tracing descent through
her father. Dr. James Brown, from Francis Brown, an
early settler of Connecticut, one of the seven men who.
weathered the winter of 1639 in New Haven. Richard
S. and Rosa E. (Brown) Griswold were the parents of
eight children: i. Dr. Richard Sill (3) Griswold, bom
Aovember 15, 1869, a graduate of Bellevue Hospital
Medical College; went to the Philippines with the 26th
Regiment, United States Volunteer Infantrv, as assistant
surgeon, ranking as lieutenant, and was kil'led at Samar
September 28, 1901. 2. Dr. James Brown Griswold a
graduate of Dartmouth Medical College, and the Col-
lege of Physicians and Surgeons, New York City; mar-
ried Mary E. Stokes ; he was a lieutenant in the Medical
Corps during the World War, and died in the fall of
1917- 3- Daniel Eddie Griswold, a graduate of Williams
College and Columbia Lav/ School ; married Helen Ban-
croft, daughter of Major Bancroft, of New London.
4. George Griswold, a graduate of the School of For-
estry, and of the Bartlett School in Lyme. 5. Harry
Todd Griswold, of further mention. 6. Rosa Elizabeth
Griswold, a graduate of Miss Porter's School, Farming-
ton, Connecticut. 7. Joseph Perkins Griswold, a grad-
uate of the Bartlett School, as were all his brothers.
8. Woodward Haven Griswold, born July 28, 1885.
r"
9^ i^(^^ZU
BIOGRAPHICAL
287
From such ancestry came Harry Todd Griswold, born
in New Haven, Connecticut, January 22, 1879. He was
educated in the Bartlett School in Lyme, whence he was
graduated, class of i8q6, and for three years was a
student of the violin in New York City. Later he pur-
sued courses in civil engineering, and from 1901 until
1904 was with the engineering department of the New
York, New Haven & Hartford railroad. In 1904 he
became an engineer in the Terminal System of the
Pennsylvania railroad in New York City, continuing
with that company for three years. During 1907-09 he
was engaged in special engineering work for the Lozier
Motor Company, at Plattsburg, New York. In 1909,
his health having become impaired, he returned to the
old home in Old Lyme and engaged in farming.
With health restored, he entered the engineering
division of the United States War Department, making
special reports on a power development, being stationed
at New London, Connecticut. He was so engaged dur-
ing 1911-13, then, during 1913-17, he was a partner in
the electrical contracting firm of J. Warren Gay Elec-
trical Company. Then came the great war period, 191 7-
l8, and, with millions of his young American brethren,
Mr. Griswold, whose family had served with distinction
in other wars waged by the United States, from the
Revolution down, with the memories of Fort Griswold
as a part of the family tradition, with the memory of
two gallant brothers as a latter day offering on patri-
otism's altar, volunteered his services and entered the
army. Having joined the Connecticut National Guard
in 1916, he was commissioned a second lieutenant of the
loth Company, Connecticut Coast Artillery Corps, in
April, 1917, that corps of the Connecticut National
Guard which later became the 56th Regiment, Coast
Artillery Corps, United States army. After training at
Fort Wright, New York, at which place he was pro-
moted to a first lieutenant and put in charge of the
building and barracks being built at Fort Wright and
Fort Terr}', he sailed in March, 1918, for France. In
August, igi8, he was detached from his regiment, then
at the front, and assigned to duty as drilling officer with
the Intelligence Section of the First army, being sta-
tioned at the headquarters of that army. Lieutenant
Griswold was in France until fighting ended. During
the spring of 1919 he returned to the United States and
was mustered out of service at Fortress Monroe, Vir-
ginia.
Upon his return to New London, he formed an asso-
ciation with Major Morris Benham Payne, the firm,
Payne & Griswold, resulting. Mr. Keefe being admitted
in 1920, the firm name became Payne, Griswold & Keefe,
architects and engineers, now successfully operating in
New London.
In politics a Republican, Lieutenant Griswold, in 1920,
was the successful nominee of his party for the State
Legislature, serving on the Railroad Committee. He is
a member of Pythagoras Lodge, No. 45, Free and Ac-
cepted Masons, of Old Lyme, Connecticut; Burning
Bush Chapter, Royal Arch Masons, Essex, Connecticut;
Palestine Commandery, Knights Templar, of New Lon-
don ; and is a thirty-second degree Mason of the Ancient
Accepted Scottish Rite. He is an associate member of
the American Society of Civil Engineers; member of
the National Geographic Society of Washington, Dis-
trict of Columbia; American Society for the Advance-
ment of Science; Thames Club of New London; and
Old Lyme Post, No. 41, American Legion, of Old
Lyme.
Lieutenant Griswold married, at Vergennes, Vermont,
September i, 1907, Florence Van Deusen, daughter of
Robert T. and Alys (Bates) Van Deusen, of Kinder-
hook, New York. Mr. and Mrs. Griswold are the
parents of a daughter, Alys E., born in Old Lyme, May
26, 1913.
PLINY LE ROY HARWOOD— At the age of
twenty years Mr. Harwood entered the service of the
Mariners' Savings Bank of New London, Connecticut,
and during the quarter of a century which has since
intervened that association has continued.
P. LeRoy Harwood was born at West Stafford, Con-
necticut, March 25, 1876, and was educated in the
schools of New London. He entered the Mariners'
Savings Bank in 1896, was elected secretary and treas-
urer in 1903. and vice-president and treasurer in 1921.
He is also vice-president of the New London Morris
Plan Bank.
Mr. Harwood is president of the New London Board
of Education, and chairman of the Rivers, Harbors and
Bridges Commission of the State of Connecticut. His
interest is deep in these matters and his service to both
city and state is invaluable. In politics he is a Repub-
lican. He served in the Connecticut State Guard, attain-
ing the rank of captain. He is affiliated with lodge,
chapter and commandery of the Masonic order, and is a
past commander of the last-named body, Palestine Com-
mandery, No. 6, Knights Templar. In the Scottish Rite
of Masonry he has attained the thirty-second degree.
His patriotic and colonial ancestry has gained him
admission to the Sons of the American Revolution and
to the Society of Mayflower Descendants. He is chair-
man of the executive committee of the Savings Bank
Association of Connecticut, and is highly regarded in
financial circles. His clubs are the Thames, of New
London, and the Transportation, of New York City.
His religious affiliation is with the First Congregational
Church of New London.
Mr. Harwood married, at New London, June 6, 1900,
Rowena Mosette L^e, and they are the parents of three
children : Pliny LeRoy (2), born October 9, 1901 ; Don-
ald Lee, born April 11, 1905; and Rowena Mosette, born
June 23, 1909.
WAYLAND BLACKMAN FRINK— One of the
men of Preston now gone to their reward, but whose
good deeds live after them, was of the eighth genera-
tion of the family founded in New England by John
Frink, born in England, who is first of record in
Ipswich, Massachusetts, in 1673- John (2) Frink, son
of John Frink, the founder, came to Stonington, Con-
necticut, at an earlier date, being of record there as
early as 1666. He served in King Philip's War, and
was a landowner. He married Grace Stevens, of Taun-
288
NEW LONDON COUNTY
ton, and they were the parents of four daughters and
three sons, the sons all born after the coming to Ston-
ington. Descent from John (2) Frink is traced in
direct line through his eldest son , Samuel Frink, and
his wife Hannah (Miner) Frink; their son, Jedediah
Frink, who settled in Preston, Connecticut, and his wife,
Lucy (Stanton) Frink; their son, Andrew Frink, born
in Preston, and his wife, Sarah (Kimball) Frink; their
son, Rufus Frink, born in Preston, and his wife, Polly
(Smith) Frink; Rufus Frink died in Preston, January
I, 1868, in his ninety-seventh year; their son, George
Washington Frink, born in Preston, and his second
wife, Cornelia E. (Blackman) Frink; their eldest child.
Wayland B. Frink, born in Preston, and his wife, Grace
A. (Eccleston) Frink, their children forming the ninth
generation in New England.
George Washington Frink, of the seventh generation,
was born in Preston, Connecticut, June 17, 1820, and
died there May 8, 1892, having spent his life in his
native town where three generations of his family had
lived before him. His father lived to the age of
ninety-seven, and the son resembled him in disposition,
being jovial, good-natured, and full of fun, a confirmed
optimist and everybody's friend. He was a member of
the Preston City Baptist Church, a Whig and later a
Republican in politics.
George W. Frink married (first), March 4, 1846,
Sally Maria Williams, born in Ledyard, Connecticut,
May 13, 1819, died September 14, 1855, daughter of John
Anson and Sally (Williams) Williams, of Preston;
granddaughter of Amos and Mable (Newton) Williams;
great-granddaughter of John Williams, bom in 1714, son
of Christopher Williams, of Welsh ancestry. Mr. Frink
married (second) Cornelia Ellison Blackman, daughter
of Benjamin and Caroline Fountain (Chapman) Black-
man, her father a farmer of Franklin. Connecticut, until
his removal to Norwich, where he died. Four children
were born to George Wi and Sally M. (Williams)
Frink; George Anson, of Preston; Lemuel Williams, an
ordained minister of the Baptist church; Charity, mar-
ried Benjamin F. Bentley; Henry, educated for the
ministry, but never ordained, his health failing. Three
children were born to George W. and Cornelia E.
(Blackman) Frink: Wayland B., of further mention;
Charlotte L; Cornelia Fountain, married William Tar-
bo.x, and has two sons, \\'aiter S. and Harold F. Tarbox.
Wayland Blackman Frink was born at the homestead
farm in Preston, New London county, Connecticut, No-
vember 2, i860, and died at his farm in Griswold in
the same county, November 3, 1916. He was educated
in the district public school, private schools at Pachaug
and Preston City, finishing his studies in Connecticut
Literary Institute, Suftield, Connecticut. He taught
school thirteen consecutive winter terms save one, when
he sold books in Ohio and Michigan, and was very suc-
cessful as an instructor of youth. He was popular
with both parents and scholars, possessing those pleas-
ing qualities of disposition and those sterling traits of
character which made his father and grandfather so
popular.
After his marriage in 1888, he resided at the home
farm one year, then leased the Butler Chapman farm in
Griswold, which he cultivated until 1896. In that year
he bought a farm of sixty acres, formerly a part of the
Simon Brewster farm, lying one and one-half mik'S
south of Jewett City, and there engaged in general
farming and dairying until his death. He was a man
of industry and thrift, one of the substantial, influen-
tial men of his communitv, honored and respected by
all. A Republican in politics, Mr. Frink never sought
public office, but was keenly alive to his obligations as
a citizen and shirked no duty. He was a long time
member of Preston City and Jewett City Baptist
churches, serving the first-named for eight years as
superintendent of Sunday school.
Mr. Frink married, February 15, 1888, Grace A. Ec-
cleston, born in Griswold, New London county, Con-
necticut, June 21, 1865. Mrs. Frink is a daughter of
John D. and Susan K. (Chapman) Eccleston, of the
town of Griswold, granddaughter of Avery Nelson and
Sallie B. (Ray) Eccleston, and great-granddaughter of
Benedict Eccleston, a farmer and resident of North
Stonington, Connecticut, where he almost reached cen-
tenarian distinction, dying at the age of ninety-five
years. The family have long been seated in eastern
Connecticut, and the name is an honored one in town
annals.
Avery Nelson Eccleston was born at the home farm
m North Stonington in 1806, and there died in 1891,
that town his home all through life except for one year
passed in Griswold. He married Sallie B. Ray, born in
Griswold, Connecticut, in 1807, died in 1886, daughter
of Jabez and Hannah (York) Ray.
One of their ten children was a son, John D. Ec-
cleston, born in North Stonington, August 24, 1844.
He was well educated, and for several years was an
efTicient, popular school teacher. He commenced
his first term of school teaching in Rockland, Con-
necticut, and was boarded around in the district. On
returning to Griswold, he taught in the neighboring
districts. He was also much interested in church
work, belonging to both the Methodist and Baptist
societies. He was a violinist and bass singer of
unusual ability. Having moved to Iowa, where he
resided for three years, he for one year taught school
in Mantcno. While a resident of Iowa, his son,
Hubert Ward Eccleston, was born. He resided in
Jewett City, where he served as street commissioner,
assistant visitor of schools, and in other capacities
served his townsmen. In 1864 Mr. Eccleston mar-
ried (first) Susan K. Chapman, daughter of Butler
Chapman, of Griswold, Connecticut. He married
(second) Sarah L. Brown, daughter of Shepard
Brown, of Griswold, Connecticut. Five children were
born to John D. and Susan K. (Chapman) Eccles-
ton: I. Lizzie, deceased. 2. Lila, deceased. 3. Annie,
deceased. 4. Hubert W., a graduate of Sheffield
Scientific Institute, Ph.D., 1896, and a civil engineer
of Los Angeles, California; he married Eulalia K.
Compton, of California, and has two children, John
D., and Doris Huberta. 5. Grace A., married, Feb-
ruary IS, 1888, Wayland A. Frink.
Mrs. Frink survives her husband and continues her
residence at the home farm, her five children all with
BIOGRAPHICAL
289
her. She was a member of Bethel Methodist Episco-
pal Church, later joined the Baptist church at Pres-
ton City, and later with her husband joined Jevvett City
Baptist Church, where she continues her member-
ship. Five children were born to Wayland B. and
Grace A. (Eccleston) Frink: Arthur A., Marion E.,
Mabel C, Esther C, and George W.
DUDLEY ST. CLAIR DONNELLY— The career
of Mr. Donnelly, of New London, Connecticut, an
architect of wide reputation, is one to e.xcite unusual
interest. Born at the very threshold of the United
States, but under the English flag (Barbadocs, West
Indies), he was brought to the United States by his
father (who had here been educated) when but a boy
of five years, and in Yonkers, New York, took his
first lesson in architecture, a profession in which he
has gained high and honorable rank, and is a mem-
ber of Connecticut Chapter, American Institute of
Architects. For more than a quarter of a century he
has practiced his profession in New London, and
there continues a leader.
His father, Henry C. Donnelly, was born in the
Barbadoes, West Indies, but was sent to New Eng-
land to be educated. He then returned to Barbadoes
and for several years filled secretarial positions. He
married Catherine Barry, and in 1875, with his wife
and five-year-old son, Dudley St. Clair, came to the
United States and located in Yonkers, New York.
He became secretary to Lawrence Brothers, of that
city, continuing until his death in 1920. His wife
survives him and continues her residence in Yonkers.
Henry C. and Catherine (Barry) Donnelly were the
parents of eleven children, five of whom survive
their father: i. Dudley St. Clair, of further mention.
2. Mabel, a teacher in a school in Yonkers. 3. James,
a contractor of Yonkers, married Frances Percival.
4. Eliza, a musician teaching piano and voice, resid-
ing with her mother and sister in Yonkers. 5.
George, a deputy sheriff, who married Ethel Wright,
and resides in Yonkers.
Dudley St. Clair Donnelly was born in the Bar-
badoes, West Indies, September 17, 1870, and there
passed the first five years of his life. In 1875 he
was brought to Yonkers, New York, by his parents,
and there finished public school courses, with gradu-
ation from high school, class of 1888. He then spent
three years in the office of Benjamin Silliman, archi-
tect; then, in 1891, continued architectural work in
Boston, Massachusetts, under Arthur F. Gray, re-
turning the same year to Yonkers and reentering
the employ of Mr. Silliman. In 1892 he came to
New London, Connecticut, with Cole & Chandler, of
Boston, the architects of the Winthrop School,
•which they designed and superintended. Mr. Don-
nelly was chief draughtsman for Cole & Chandler,
and in 1892, shortly after the death of Mr. Cole,
opened an office as architect, and designed many
buildings. He formed a partnership with Louis R.
Hazeltine, of New London, in 1899, the firm being
known as Donnelly & Hazeltine. Donnelly & Hazel-
tine continued successfully until 1906, and during
N.L.— 2.18.
that period they designed several important build-
ings, including an addition to the Winthrop School
in New London (the same building which served as
Mr. Donnelly's introduction to New London), the
New London Savings Bank building on Main street
(which Mr. Donnelly regards w-ith special pride, he
having personally designed it), the Congregational
church in Groton, the Masonic building in Green-
point, New York, "Ye Faire Harbour" apartment
house in New London, the addition to the Bill Public
Library, Groton, and the Mariners' Savings Bank,
of New London. On December i, 1906, Donnelly
& Hazeltine dissolved partnership.
In 1907, Mr. Donnelly designed and built the Day
and March buildings in New London; in 1908 the
Plant Hunting Lodge, in Lyme, and all the buildings
pertaining thereto; in 1909, the Walter S. Guard
residence, at Neptune Park, and an addition to the
New London County Court House; also remodeled
the old Rhinelander Mansion at Pequot for Robert
Moore; designed and built the Independent Order
of Odd Fellows' building on Bank street. New Lon-
don; and the Fort Griswold Hotel Annex at Groton.
His chief building in 1910 was the Percy Coe Eg-
gleston residence at Post Hill, Connecticut; a large
garage for Morton F. Plant, and buildings for the
Ship and Engine Company, of Groton. In 1911 his
contribution to the notable buildings of the Con-
necticut coast were the Hotel Garde at New Haven,
and a high school building at Groton, donated to
the town by P. F. Bill; in 1912 the La Pointe factory,
the J. N. La Pointe and Mainwaring buildings, and
the Polish Society Hall, Norwich, Connecticut. He
designed the Natchaug School in Willim.-.ntic, Con-
necticut ; the Shennecossett Country Club, at Eastern
Point, Groton, in 1913; the Plant building and Monte
Cristo garage, New London, in 1914; the Young
Men's Christian Association building. New London;
and the Plant building in Groton, in 191S; an addi-
tion to the Hotel Griswold in 1916, and the Marsh
building; a dormitory and gymnasium at Connecticut
College for Women at New London; the Sexton
building at New London in 1917; the Jewish Syna-
gogue at New London ; Belleview Club and winter cot-
tages for Emery Ford and Charles J. Schlotman, of
Detroit, at Belleair, Florida, in 1919; and in 1920 the
Receiving building at the Connecticut State Farm,
Lyme. These complete a list of notable buildings which
owe their design to the genius of Mr. Donnelly, and
many of these have arisen under his supervision.
Mr. Donnelly is a Republican in politics and has
served his city as councilman. He is affiliated with
Brainard Lodge, No. 102, Free and Accepted Ma-
sons; Union Chapter, No. 4, Royal Arch Masons;
and the New London Lodge, No. 360, Benevolent
and Protective Order of Elks. He is a member of
the Rotary, Thames, and Masonic clubs of New
London; Shennecossett Country Club of Groton;
Union League Club of New Haven; the Lambs Club
of New York, and the American Institute of Archi-
tects, of Washington, District of Columbia.
Mr. Donnelly married, at New London, Joanna E.
290
NEW LONDON COUNTY
Hurley, of New London, daughter of Thomas and
Elizabeth Hurley. Two children have been born to
Mr. and Mrs. Donnelly: Dudley St. Clair (2), and
Thomas Henry, both in New London at the outbreak
of the World War, 1917-18. Dudley St. Clair (2)
Donnely was a student at Dartmouth College, but
at once enlisted in the United States Naval Re-
serves and served as a seaman on a submarine
chaser, stationed at New London. He married
Mildred Reeves, of New London, and they are the
parents of a daughter, Bettie C. Donnelly, born in
New London, the home of her parents. Thomas
Henry Donnelly also served in the United States
Naval Reserve during the World War. He is now
engaged in journalism in Hartford, Connecticut, as
a reporter.
REUBEN LORD— There was much to admire in
the character of Reuben Lord, and little to condemn,
although he was a man of strong convictions, and
always ready to contend for that which he believed
right. He held most decided opinions. His likes and
dislikes were very strong, but if he opposed a man
he did it openly and fairly; and if you were his friend
he never faltered in his friendship, nor would he
stand silently by and hear friendship assailed. His
opinions were often publicly e.xpressed in the news-
papers, but always over his own name, for he never
asked a newspaper to use an article signed by an
assumed name. He was a man of great energy, and
until his health became impaired, was a hard worker.
He had a great many sincere friends who deeply
mourned his passing. He never hesitated to do a
kindness for a friend, and from those unfriendly he
asked no favors. As a city official and a pension
agent he was much in the public eye, and lawyers
always spoke of him as most correct in his concep-
tion of proper legal ethics. He was not admitted to
the bar, although educated in the law, but this was
because he did not wish to practice. Yet he advised
his friends in legal matters, and his advice was
always in accordance with his genuine belief, as he
saw the situation. He died suddenly while in his
own office, being about to leave when stricken.
Reuben Lord was a descendant of Thomas Lord,
born 1585, who with his wife, Dorothy, came from
England to New England in 1635, settling first in
Newtown, Massachusetts, but in 1636 moving to
Hartford, Connecticut, where his wife died in 1678,
aged eighty-seven years. They were the parents of
eight children, descent in this line being traced
through William Lord, both in 1623; died at Say-
brook, Connecticut, May 17, 1768.
William Lord married, and the line continues in
this branch through his son, Thomas (2) Lord, of
Saybrook, born 1645, died 1730, and his wife, Mary
Lee; their son, Joseph (i) Lord, of Lyme, Connec-
ticut, born 1697, died 1736, and his wife, Abigail
Comstock; their son, Joseph (2) Lord, of Lyme,
born 1730, died 1788, and his wife, Sarah Wade; their
son, Reuben (l) Lord, of Lyme, born 1760, died 1804,
and his wife, Elizabeth Selden; their son, Joseph (3)
Lord, of Lyme, born 1781, died 1836, and his wife,
Phoebe Burnham; their son, Reuben (2) Lord, and
his v/ife, Sarah Weaver; their son, Reuben (3) Lord,
to whose memory this review is dedicated.
Ixcuben (2) Lord, of the eighth American genera-
tion, was born in Lyme, Connecticut, died in Salem,
Connecticut, in 1900. He was a farmer all his life,
first as his father's assistant, and later took over
the home farm. After his marriage he moved to
Ohio, where his son, Reuben (3) Lord, was born.
Later the family returned to Connecticut, where he
was engaged in farming and fishing, owning fishing
rights along the Connecticut river. After his retire-
ment he moved to Salem, Connecticut, where he
died. He married Sarah Weaver, born in Lyme,
Connecticut, died in the village of Hamburg, town
of Lyme, in 1876. They were the parents of six
children, one only now living, Walter H. Lord,
residing in Terryville, Connecticut.
Reuben (3) Lord was the third child of Reuben (2)
and Sarah (Weaver) Lord, was born in Carlisle,
Ohio, May 16, 1850; died in New London, Connec-
ticut, September 22, 1908. His parents in 1850 re-
turned to the town of Lyme, Connecticut, where the
lad attended the public schools of the village of
Hamburg. He was a studious youth, and early
showed ambition to become a lawyer. With that
end in view, while attending school in New London,
in 1871, he became a law student in the office of
Thomas M. Waller, of New London, later governor
of Connecticut and consul general to London, and
soon acquired a remarkable knowledge of law. For
some reason, known to himself alone, he would not
ask admission to the bar after qualifying, and the
only reason he would ever give was that he "did
not want to."
But although he never practiced or appeared in
court, he did a great deal of legal office work, and
was an expert at drawing deeds, contracts and war-
rants, and for many years was Mr. Waller's valued
clerical assistant. As a title searcher it is said that
no one excelled him. In July, 1873, he was elected
clerk of New London police court, and by reelection
and appointment held that office until September,
1883, when he resigned and also left Governor Wal-
ler's office to give his entire time to the pension
business, becoming one of the best-known pension
attorneys, over 7,000 successful applications for Civil
War pensions having been made out by him. Pen-
sion office inspectors complimented him many times
on his work, and as frequently stated that nothing
was ever found to be irregular that came from Mr.
Lord's office. In November, 1889, he added real
estate and insurance to his pension business, and a
few j'ears prior to his death joined in partnership
with Wallace R. Johnson, an association dissolved
prior to his death. He was in poor health for
several years, having heart trouble, but he would
not spare himself, and delayed too long before seek-
ing medical aid.
Mr. Lord was a member of Union Lodge, No. 31,
Free and Accepted Masons; of Pequot Lodge, No.
BIOGRAPHICAL
291
85, Independent Order of Odd Fellows; of Trumbull
Lodge, No. 48, Knights of Pythias, and was also a
member of the Niagara Engine Company, having
been affiliated with these orders for many years.
In politics he was an ardent Democrat; in religious
faith an Episcopalian.
He married, in New London, October 12, 1875,
Julia A. Peck, daughter of Palmer and Mary (Caton)
Peck. Mrs. Lord did not long survive her husband.
She died in New London January 24, 191 1.
Associated with Mr. Lord and Wallace R. John-
son prior to the dissolution of the firm was a young
lady. Miss Jennie Lester Doyle, daughter of John
J. and Sarah (Peck) Doyle, and niece of Mrs. Julia
A. (Peck) Lord, and also niece of Mr. Lord by
marriage. After the firm dissolved, Miss Doyle
remained with Mr. Lord and gave him valuable and
deeply appreciated service. Miss Doyle succeeded
to the business, real estate and insurance, and, al-
though she is the sole owner, she continues the
business under the old firm name, "Reuben Lord &
Company." She is an able business woman and a
leader among the business women of her city in
her line. John J. Doyle died April 19, 1887, and
afterward Miss Doyle and her mother resided with
Mr. and Mrs. Lord.
GROSVENOR ELY— A man of energy and en-
terprise, Grosvenor Ely, treasurer of the Ashland
Cotton Company of Jewett City, has from the incep-
tion of his business career been identified with manu-
facturing interests, gradually making his way to the
position of prominence which he now holds. In
everything pertaining to the welfare of the com-
munity, he takes a deep interest, as in his undertak-
ings in the business world, and all good causes find
in him a friend and ally. He is a son of Edwin S.
Ely, paper manufacturer and bank president, and
is of the ninth American generation of the family
founded in New England by Richard Ely, of Ply-
mouth in Devonshire, England, who came to New
England between the years 1660 and 1663. Richard
Ely settled, after a brief Boston residence, in Lyme,
Connecticut, which in 1660 was a part of Saybrook.
Descent in this branch is traced through William
Ely, son of Richard, the founder, and his second
wife, Mrs. Elizabeth (Tullick.
(II) William Ely, born in England in 1647, did not
come to New England with his father, but came
from the West Indies at his father's invitation in
1670. He married, May 12, 1681, Elizabeth Smith;
lived in Lyme, and was for many years judge of
New London county court. He died in February,
1717, leaving sons and daughters.
(III) His son, William (2) Ely, married, October 25,
1715. Hannah Thompson, who died in 1733. Mr. Ely
died in 1766, and was succeeded in this branch by James
Ely.
(IV) James Ely, son of William (2) and Hannah
(Thompson) Ely, was born in 1719; died in 1766.
He married Dorcas Andrews, and their six sons,
James, Jacob, of further mention, Aaron, Andrew,
John and Gad, all served in the War of the Revo-
lution.
(V) Jacob Ely, son of James and Dorcas (An-
drews) Ely, was of Lyme, Connecticut, born in 1748.
He was a Revolutionary soldier, and lived to a good
old age, dying in 1836. He married, in 1773, Tem-
perance Tiffany, born in 1747, died in 1781, leaving
a son, Eli Ely.
(VI) Eli Ely, son of Jacob and Temperance (Tif-
fany) Ely, was born in 1780, and married, in 1805,
Sarah Sanford, of Plymouth, Connecticut, born in
1784, daughter of Jesse and Sarah (Fenn) Sanford.
Mrs. Ely died in 1854; Eli Ely in 1869.
(VII) Jesse Sanford Ely, son of Eli and Sarah
(Sanford) Ely, born in 1807, married, in 1835, Har-
riet Grosvenor, of North Killingly, Connecticut,
born in 1813, daughter of Dr. Robert and Mary
(Begg) Grosvenor. They moved to Norwich, Con-
necticut, and were the parents of three sons: Gen-
eral William Grosvenor, a brave officer of the
Union, Colonel of the Eightheenth Regiment Con-
necticut Volunteer Infantry, and was made brigadier
general; he married Augusta Elizabeth Greene; Edwin
Sanford, of further mention, and Charles Albro Ely,
who died young.
(VIII) Edwin Sanford Ely, son of Jesse Sanford
and Harriet (Grosvenor) Ely, was born July 17,
1841, died suddenly at his home. May 4, 1898. He
was quite young when his parents moved to Nor-
wich, and there he v/as educated in the public schools
and Norwich Free Academy. He studied law under
Judge James A. Hovey, but later he engaged in
paper manufacture, being owner and manager of the
Reade & Obenauer Paper Company, of Versailles.
His health broke and he sold his paper mill interest
in 1889. From 1882 until 1893, he was president of
the Uncas Bank of Norwich, and at the time of his
passing was a director of the Broadway Theatre
Corporation. He was a member of the Norwich
Club, a man of most pleasing personality, and very
popular. In politics he was a Republican. Mr. Ely
married. May I, 1873, Mary Brewer Chappell, born
November 13, 1845, in Norwich, daughter of Edward
and Elizabeth E. (Brewer) Chappell. Mrs. Ely died
in Philadelphia, March 19, 1895, the mother of four
children: Mary Grosvenor Ely, born May 30, 1875;
.\ugusta Chappell Ely, born April 6, 1878; Edward
Chappell Ely, born May 9, 18S2, an importer of New
York; Grosvenor Ely, of further mention.
(IX) Grosvenor Ely, of the nintii generation,
youngest son of Edwin Sanford and Mary Brewer
(Chappell) Ely, was born in Norwich, Connecticut,
February 21, 1S84, and received his education in the
public schools of Norwich and at Norwich Free
Academy, whence he was graduated in 1900. He
took a preparatory course at Hotchkiss School, grad-
uating at the conclusion of his course in 1901. The
next few months he spent in travel in France, and
then returned to this country and entered Yale Col-
lege, whence he was graduated, A. B., class of 1906.
Immediately after graduation he went again to
Europe, remaining there until 1908. Upon his return
292
NEW LONDON COUNTY
to this country he decided to make a study of the
manufacturer of cotton textiles, and with this end
in view spent the year of 1908 in the Falls mills at
Norwich, and the Ponemah mills at Taftville. Later
he became manager of the Ashland Cotton Company
at Jewett City; then agent; and eventually treasurer,
which position he now holds. The company has
steadily prospered, and today occupies a high posi-
tion in the industrial world. Mr. Ely is also vice-
president and treasurer of the Chadwick Hoskins
Company, at Charlotte, North Carolina; treasurer of
the Martinsville Cotton Mills, Incorporated, Mar-
tinsville, Virginia, and secretary of the Turner Hal-
sey Company, of New York City. In politics Mr.
Ely is a Republican, and has served the city of Nor-
wich two years as alderman. His thorough business
qualifications are also always in demand, and his
public spirit has led him to accept many such trusts.
He is a member of the board of governors, and a
former vice-president of the National Association
of Cotton Manufacturers; trustee of the Norwich
Free Academy; trustee of the Young Men's Chris-
tian Association; director of the Chamber of Com-
merce; and formerly vice-president of the Board of
Trade; director of the Thames National Bank of
Norwich; and director of the Chelsea Savings Bank
of Norwich. He was at one time director of the
Uncas National Bank, of the Falls Company and of
the Shetucket Company of Norwich. He belongs to
the Arcanum Club, the Chelsea oBat Club, and the
Golf Club of Norwich, of which he has been presi-
dent for five years, the Yale Club, the University
Club, the Merchants' Club of New York City, the
Southern Textile Manufacturers' Club, of North
Carolina, and the Charlotte Country Club.
Mr. Ely married, September 6, 1906, Mary Learned.
Mr. and Mrs. Ely are the parents of two children,
Grosvenor (2) and Larned.
LEVI QUINCY RAYMOND— In the city of New
London, Connecticut, is located one of the largest
concerns in the lumber business in this county — the
Raymond & Alexander Lumber Company. Levi
Quincy Raymond, as the head of this important cor-
poration, is one of the leading men in this line here-
abouts.
Mr. Raymond is a son of Thaddeus K. and Mary
(Ayres) Raymond, long ago residents of New Lon-
don county. Thaddeus K. Raymond was born in
Lyme, Connecticut, educated in the district schools
of the day, and was a cattle farmer and lumber
dealer during his lifetime. He died in i860, while still
a young man. Thaddeus K. and Mary (Ayres) Ray-
mond were the parents of three children: Oliver O.,
who married Adelaide La Place, and is now a retired
cattle dealer, and resides in Wethersfield, Connec-
ticut; Levi Quincy, of whom further; and Helen,
who became the wife of William Clifton, moving to
Savannah, Georgia, dying shortly thereafter.
Levi Quincy Raymond was born in Lyme, New
London county, Connecticut, on March 27, 1857. The
family removing to Vineland, New Jersey, when he
was a child of seven years, his education was secured
in the public schools of that town. His studies com-
pleted, the young man entered the world of industry
in 1872, choosing his own path in making the start.
He went to Taunton, Massachusetts, where he en-
tered the employ of the Mason Locomotive Works,
remaining for two years in that connection. In 1874
he went to Springfield, Massachusetts, and there
became a machinist for Beames & McCall, remaining
for one year. Next he came to N'ev/ London county,
Connecticut, locating in Lyme, where he worked on
the farm for his uncle, James L. Raymond, remaining
with him for a period of five years. At the end of
that time he went to East Haddam, Connecticut,
where he took up the business of teaming and lum-
bering. Among the heavily wooded slopes of that
section he gained his start in life. In 1888 he pur-
chased a saw mill, and from that time until the
present he has been in the lumber business. At first,
and indeed for more than twenty years, he bought
standing timber, converting it into the lumber of
commerce, and followed along this line until 1901,
when he came to New London to make it his home.
From that time until 1910 he engaged in real estate
and building business, erecting some three hundred
houses, and a large block on the corner of Bank
street and Montauk avenue, which is now known as
the Raymond block. In 1910 he purchased land on
Moore avenue and Shaw street, built on it a mill
and established a lumber business. This business
increased to such an extent that in 1914 he took into
partnership F. J. Alexander, whose life is reviewed
in the following sketch, the concern taking the title
of the Raymond & Alexander Lumber Company,
they buying the Hopkins and Chapin plant on How-
ard street, the site of which was on a part of what
was known as Shaw's Cove and at that time mostly
under water. They began filling in on the north side
of Hamilton street and the east side of Howard
street, and built there the plant and oflFice buildings
they now occupy. All about them on redeemed
land are now new docks, warehouses and railroad
yards. This business was capitalized at $60,000, and
is now one of the most important concerns in this
line in New London county. Besides dressed lum-
ber they handle all kinds of builders' supplies, and
kindred stock, and do a very extensive business.
Outside of his business Mr. Raymond has few in-
terests, but is a prominent member of the New
London Chamber of Commerce. Politically, he sup-
ports the Republican party.
Mr. Ra>-mond married (first) Millie Chappell, of
Lyme, Connecticut, on February 19, 1880. She was
a daughter of Ira Chappell, of that town. She died
on December 9, 1903. They were the parents of five
children: Thaddeus K., who married, in 1903, Mildred
Pearson, and resides in Groton, Connecticut; Charles
L., who married, in 1906, Esther Sutton, and is a
resident of Lyme; Edward I., who married Mary
Robertshaw, and now lives in New London; during
the World War he was first sergeant in the Quarter-
master's Corps, and was stationed at San Antonio,
BIOGRAPHICAL
293
Texas; and twins, Annie and Millie, Annie now being
the wife of Arthur Beckman, of Philadelphia, and
Millie is deceased. Mr. Raymond married (second)
Georgette Burch, of Groton; (third) May E. Walsh,
of New London, Connecticut, who is now living.
The famiily are members of the Congregational
church of New London.
Mr. Raymond's mother, Mary (Ayres) Raymond,
married a second time, becoming the wife of L. Lee
Wood, of Lyme, Connecticut, and they were the
parents of four children: James R., who married
Georgia TifiFany, and resides in Chester, Connecticut;
Bell, who became the wife of William Blair, and
lives in Hartford; John E., who married Minnie
Tiflfany, and lives in Hartford; and Mary L., who is
also married, and resides in Hartford. The mother
died in 1900, and Mr. Wood survived her for five
years.
FRANK J. ALEXANDER— For many years in-
terested in e.'ttensive agricultural operations in New
London county, and now a partner in the important
lumber firm of Raymond & Alexander, in the city
of New London, Connecticut, Frank J. Alexander
has achieved unusual success in life.
Mr. Alexander is a son of Charles P. and Harriet
E. (Jerome) Alexander. Charles P. Alexander was
born in the town of Groton, Connecticut, in 1832,
and there received his education in the public schools.
He took up farming in early life, and continued in
this line of work until his death, which occurred in
1904. His wife also was born in Waterford, and
there died. They were the parents of two children:
Charles J'., deceased; and Frank J., of whom further.
Frank J. Alexander was born in Waterford, Con-
necticut, on Decemlber 14, 1870. He received a
thoroughly practical education in the public schools
of the neighborhood, and later attended Snell's
Business College, in Norwich, Connecticut, then
began business life working on the farm for his
father. In 1895 he bought the grocery business of
F. P. Robinson, in Waterford, and thereafter con-
ducted the store for a period of six years. In 1901
he took up teaming and contracting, specializing in
the building of roads, along which line he did a large
amount of work which counted for the permanent
improvement of interurban traffic conditions. Later
on he purchased a farm of ninety-six acres in Water-
ford, and still later acquired a farm of one hundred
and twelve acres adjoining the first. These farms
he stocked, and did a large dairy business. After
his mother's death he sold the home place of thirty
acres to the Connecticut College for Women for a
building site.
In 1914, Mr. Alexander formed his present asso-
ciation with L. Q. Raymond, whose sketch precedes
this, in the lumber business which they have devel-
oped to such an important interest. The Raymond
& Alexander Lumber Company is now one of the
principal lumber concerns in New London county,
and is capitalized at $60,000. Mr. Alexander is sec-
retary and treasurer of the corporation, and very
active in the management of the company's affairs.
In the public life of the city Mr. Alexander is
bearing a prominent part. Politically affiliated with
the Democratic party, he served for seven years as
a member of the Board of Relief of Waterford, and
was for years a selectman of the town of Waterford.
Fraternally, Mr. Alexander is well known. He is
a member of Oxoboxo Lodge, No. 116, Free and
Accepted Masons, of Montville, in this county, and
he is a member of Pequot Lodge, No. 85, Inde-
pendent Order of Odd Fellows, of New London.
He is a member of the Harbour Club, of New Lon-
don.
On October 12, 1S97, Mr. Alexander married Alice
Lawson, daughter of Otto and Martha (Combs)
Lawson, of Waterford. Mr. and Mrs. Alexander
have three children: Prentice L., who resides at
home; Elizabeth, now the wife of Frederick Schad,
of Bellefonte, Pennsylvania; and Alice, at home.
The family attend the Baptist church, and are prom-
inent in all its activities.
JOHN G. WHEELER— From a sturdy race of
farmers, seafaring men and business men, comes
John G. Wheeler, one of the best-known druggists
of New London county. Several generations of the
Wheeler family have made their home in Mystic,
Connecticut, and the name is a well-known one in
Stonington township. The first known ancestor in
this country was Thomas Wheeler, already a resi-
dent of and holding official position in the town of
Lynn, Massachusetts, in 1635. He became a free-
man in 1642, purchased a large tract of land, and
built a saw and grist mill which he operated. He
was made a freeman of the Connecticut Colony in
1669, elected to the general court in 1673, and was
one of the nine who organized the First Congre-
gational Church in Stonington, June 3, 1674, he and
his wife partaking of the first communion service
held in that church. Both arc buried in the old
Whitehall burial place on the east bank of the
Mystic river. He died March 6, 1686, aged eighty-
four years. Isaac Wheeler, his son, served in the
Colonial Indian Wars; married Martha, daughter of
Thomas and Dorothy (Thompson) Park; and died
June 5, 1712. Richard Wheeler, a grandson, married
Prudence, daughter of Deacon John Payson, and
granddaughter of Edward Payson and Mary Eliot,
sister of Apostle Eliot. Jonathon Wheeler, a great-
grandson, born February 7, 1708, married Esther
Dennison, and died October 8, 1790- Jonathan (2)
WTieeler, born January 20, 1737, married Pris-
cilla Lester, and died January 28, 1807. His son,
Lester Wheeler, born July 24, 1757, married Eunice,
daughter of David and Eunice (Brown) Bailey, and
died May 15, 1835. William Wheeler, son of Lester
and Eunice (Bailey) Wheeler, born January _ 21,
1782, was one of the defenders of Stonington against
the attacks of the British. He married Wealthy
Turner, in 1800, and they became the parents of two
children: Eliza A., born in 1802, married Benjamin
F. Williams; and William E., born June 16, 1807. So
294
NEW LONDON COUNTY
far the family had won their living from the soil.
With the next generation they began to follow the
sea.
William E. Wheeler, born at Stonington, went to
sea on a sailing vessel, later on whaling vessels, and
still later on coasting vessels, sailing from New
York to southern United States ports. In 1854, he
went into the East India trade, sailing from New
York to China for A. A. Lxjwe & Brothers on the
barque "Penguin." In 1865 he ran a steamer from
New York to southern ports. He was a member of
the State Legislature, and very prominent as a
Democrat. He married, in Groton, August 24, 1831,
Pedee Heath, of Groton, and they became the parents
of four children; Eliza A., who married John J. God-
frey, and died in Groton; William E., Jr.; Charles
H.; and Horace N.; the three sons all of further
mention.
The son William Edward Wheeler, Jr., went to sea
with his father as a cabin boy ; then attended the
academy at Mystic; served as a shipping clerk; then
went to sea again for a year, and upon his return
went to work in a sash and blind factory. He then
shipped aboard the "Abraham Lincoln," bound for
France, and upon his return enlisted for three years
in Company C, Connecticut Volunteers. He was
wounded at Drury's Bluff, May 16, 1864, and honor-
ably discharged July i, of the same year. After the
War he went to Illinois and to Wisconsin, but
returned and went into partnership with his father
in the grocery business, later, in 1885, building his
own store and handling groceries, dry goods and
hardware, until 1902, when he sold out to R. A.
Stanton.
He married Sarah Stark, daughter of Albert and
Hannah (Wolfe) Stark, of Groton, and to this mar-
riage four children were born: i. Albert Edward,
born February 5, 1871, married Bessie Page, July
22, 1913, and they are the parents of one child,
William Edward (3), born August 22, 1915. He was
educated in Mystic; went into business with his
father; in 1903 was a Democratic representative of
his town in the State Legislature, serving on the
Committee of Manufactures and Legislative Ex-
penses. 2. Ada, born March 14, 1873; died Septem-
ber 27, 1874. 3. Frank Rowland, born November 4,
1875, a graduate of Connecticut Literary Institute,
and of Brown University, from which he received
the degree of Bachelor of Arts in 1897, and the
degree of Master of Arts in 1898. He later attended
Galludet College, and then was a teacher of the
deaf at Washington, D. C, and of the deaf and dumb
at Jackson, Illinois; and at Fairbault, Minnesota,
married Helen M. Rudd, of West Mystic; they have
one child, Helen E., born May 25, 1902. 4. Ella
Harris, born October 22, 1889; married Palmer
Brown, April 8, 1911, and they are the parents of
one daughter, Phyllis Wheeler, born July 16, 191 1.
For many years numbered among the most suc-
cessful business men, his house ranking among the
first of its kind, William Edward Wheeler, Jr., took
pride in giving his customers the best articles on
the market, at prices as low as was consistent with
good quality.
Charles Henry W'heeler, born in Mystic, Connec-
ticut, July 19, 1845, also followed the sea, shipping
on the "Penguin," the "B. F. Hoxie," and numerous
other vessels. He was captured by the southern
privateer, "Florida," and held ten days, then placed
on the whaling vessel "Vernon H. Hill," where he
remained ten days more, and from which he was
landed at Bermuda and placed with the United
States consul there. He voyaged to most of the
ports of the world, and engaged in almost every
kind of seafaring life, finally buying a fish market
in New London, which he managed for a while, until
he embarked in the grocery business on Pearl street,
in Mystic. He married Isabel F. Myers, of Noank,
Connecticut, and one child was born to the union,
Eliza A., who married George J. Green, and resides
in Westport, Connecticut. They are the parents of
one child, Estelle Wheeler.
Horace N. Wheeler, born in Mystic, October 8,
1848, did not become a seafaring man. He attended
school in Mystic, on the Groton side of the river,
and then attended the academy, later studying at
Palmer Gallup's Private School, in Connecticut.
When he was fourteen years old he began clerking
for Francis M. Manning, of Mystic, becoming a
druggist in 1873, and in July, 1882, succeeded Mr.
Manning in control of the business. He also was
interested in the Mystic Distilling Company, manu-
facturers of witch hazel and witch hazel soap, and
controlled the Aceton Medical Company, making a
remedy for headache, neuralgia, and grippe. He
married, November 30, 1871, at Mystic, Ella E. Gid-
dings, who was born at Mystic, daughter of Gurdon
and Louisa (Niles) Giddings, of Groton, and twx>
children were born of the marriage: Margaret Pedee,
born May 18, 1873, died February 14, 1874; and
John G. Mrs. Ella E. Wheeler is still, 1921, living
in Mystic, a very interesting and active woman. She
is a charter member of the Fanny Ledyard Chapter
of the Daughters of the American Revolution, of
Mystic, of which she is past regent, and has been a
registrar for many years. Horace N. Wheeler was
a very prominent citizen of Mystic, and an active
worker in St. Marks' Episcopal Church, where for
many years he was junior warden, being succeeded
in the office by his son, John G, who held that office
until his death.
Throughout his active years he held the unwaver-
ing regard of his fellows, for strict adherence to
principles of uprightness and rectitude, and he lived
always in their regard and esteem. To business
problems he brought the same high sense of honor
that guided him in personal relations, and he was a
substantial, dependable member of the business fra-
ternity of the region. He was representative of a
high type of manhood and citizen.
John G. WTieeler, only son of Horace N. and Ella E.
(Giddings) Wheeler, was born in Mystic, March 19,
1875, and in his death, May 3, 1921, his community
lost a capable, active, helpful member and a public-
BIOGRAPHICAL
295
spirited citizen. He attended the public schools of
Mystic, and then continued his studies at the Mystic
Academy, after which he entered the Bryant and
Stratton Business College at Boston. For two years
after finishing his business course, he acted as book-
keeper for the Regal Shoe Company, of Boston, after
which he was for a short time associated with the
Ivers & Pond Piano Company. Returning to Mystic
in March of 1901, he entered the drug store of his
father, and after the necessary study became a regis-
tered druggist in 1905, continuing with his father
until the death of the latter, October 16, 1916. The
son then took over the business, which he success-
fully conducted until his sudden death. May 3, 1921.
Mr. Wheeler made a specialty of the Rexall prepara-
tions, and conducted a modernly equipped drug
store. The business was established by F. M. Man-
ning in 1841, and in the eighty years of its existence
has had but three owners, F. M. Manning, Horace
Nelson Wheeler, and John G. Wheeler. John G.
Wheeler also succeeded his father as proprietor of
the Al-ce-ton Medical Company, of Mystic, formerly
known as the "Aceton Medical Company," manu-
facturing in addition to the well-known headache,
neuralgia, and grippe remedy, other preparations
bearing that name. Politically, Mr. Wheeler was
for many years a Democrat, but became a Republi-
can in 1920. He was a member of the Episcopal
church, and was active in fraternal work, being
affiliated with Stonington Lodge, No. 26, Indepen-
dent Order of Odd Fellows, located in Mystic.
On October 9, 1901, he married Sadie Balmer, of
Cambridge, Massachusetts, and they became the
parents of one son, Edwin Reynolds, born at Mystic,
Connecticut, April 21, 1905. Death came suddenly
to Mr. Wheeler, and his passing leaves a deep sense
of loss in the hearts of his many friends and ac-
quaintances. He was highly esteemed by his towns-
men, and held a high reputation as a man of integ-
rity and moral worth. Such citizens are the real
wealth of their community, and their influence
remains long after they have passed from our sight.
HENRY ALFRED RICHMOND— One of the
first purchasers of land at Taunton, was John Rich-
mond, born in England, in 1594, the American an-
cestor of Henry Alfred Richmond, of Preston, Con-
necticut, a prosperous farmer and business man,
now an octogenarian, but well preserved and active,
the head of a family of twelve sons and daughters.
Teaching has become a favored profession of these
children of the ninth American generation, and they
are filling or have filled many positions of impor-
tance in the educational life of their State.
(II) The line of descent from John Richmond is
through his second son, Edward Richmond, born
about 1632, probably in England, whose second wife
was Amy Bull, daughter of Governor Henry Bull.
Edward Richmond, a man of refined and scholarly
tastes, was one of the founders of Little Compton,
Rhode Island, and the owner of large tracts of virgin
soil bought from the Indians.
(III) He was succeeded by his son, John (2) Rich-
mond, born in Newport, Rhode Island, who was a
resident of Westerly and Kingstown, Rhode Island,
representing the latter town as deputy in 1740. His
wife was Elizabeth, her surname unknown.
(IV) Stephen Richmond, son of John (2) and
Elizabeth Richmond, was born in Kingstown, Rhode
Island, October 3, 1704; died June 26, 1787. He was
a member of the Society of Friends, and a minister
of that sect. He was deputy, rate maker and mod-
erator president of town council, Richmond, Rhode
Island; owned tv/o hundred and fifteen acres in
Exeter, also about one-half of Fisher's Island, and
the Watch Hill farm in Westerly, Rhode Island. He
married Mary Lawton, and among their children
v/as a son, Stephen.
(V) Stcplien (2) Richmond, son of Stephen (i) and
Mary (Lawton) Richmond, was born in Westerly,
Rhode Island, and died at Exeter, December 12, 1797.
He was a leather merchant and a member of the
Society of Friends. He married Lucy Mowry, of
Exeter, Rhode Island, who died February 17, 1825,
surviving her husband twenty-eight years.
(VI) John (3) Richmond, son of Stephen (2) and
Lucy (Mowry) Richmond, was born in Exeter,
Rhode Island, December 25, 1777. He became a
farmer and landowner of Exeter, his holdings total-
ing 157 acres. He served the town for fourteen
years as justice of the peace, and for several years
was constable. He married, March 22, 1801, Polly
Maxson, born in Hopkinton, Rhode Island, February
21, 1783; died January 5, 1857. Their children were:
Susannah, born March 22, 1802; Sarah, born Feb-
ruary 10, 1804; Stephen H., born December 7, 1805;
John M., of further mention ; Mary, born January
30, i8n; George W., born April 8, 1813; Robert H.,
born March 9, 1815; Nancy, born June 15, 1817;
Lucy, born November 20, 1819; Almira, born August
20, 1S21.
(VII) John Maxson Richmond, head of the sev-
enth generation, and second son of John (3) and
Polly (Maxson) Richmond, was born at Exeter, Rhode
Island, December 25, 1S08, and died in Preston, Con-
necticut, December 13, 1876. He spent the first
quarter of a century of his life in Exeter, where he
engaged in farming, after school years were over.
In 1833, he located in the town of Preston, Con-
necticut, leasing a farm in the northern part of the
town. A year later he moved to a leased farm on
Broad Brook, Preston, which he worked for several
years before purchasing its 117 acres. As he pros-
pered he was the owner of four farms, all situated
in the town of Preston. He was a man of great
energy, frugal and industrious by nature, conscien-
tious and upright, rendering to every man his due.
He became one of the substantial men of his town,
his wealth all accumulated from his agricultural
activities, which included cattle raising and dealing.
He continued active and in good health until the
closing of his years, at the age of sixty-eight. He
was a Democrat in politics, but took no part in
public affairs beyond exercising his rights and duties
as a citizen.
296
NEW LONDON COUNTY
Mr. Richmond married, in 1832, Emily Frink, who
died at the home of her son, George J. Richmond,
August 6, 1899, daughter of Rufus and Polly (Smith)
Frink. Mrs. Emily Richmond survived her husband
twenty-three years and attained the extreme age of
ninety-five years. Mr. and Mrs. Richmond were the
parents of five children: George John, a farmer of
Preston, born January 14, 1833; married May Jan-
ette West; Mary Ann, died unmarried at the age of
sixty-one; Henry Alfred, of further mention; Albert
Ephraim, born July 25, 1S41; Harriet Jane, married
George O. Malloy, of Preston.
(Vni) Henry Alfred Richmond, of the eighth
generation of the family founded in New England
by John Richmond, and second son of John Maxson
and Emily (Frink) Richmond, was born in Preston,
New London county, Connecticut, April 2, 1839,
and in that town his eighty-two years have been
spent. He attended the Brown district school near
the homestead in Preston, and later was a scholar at
a private school in Preston City. School years hav-
ing ended at the age of eighteen, he then became his
father's farm assistant. He remained at the home
farm until his first marriage, when he bought one of
his father's farms in the town of Preston, and from
that time until the present has owned and cultivated
its 210 acres. There was an interval, from the
time of the death of his wife in 1868, to his second
marriage in 1871, when he returned to his old home
and managed the home farm for his father. Upon
taking a second wife he returned to his own farm,
and has since known no other home, a full half-
century having since elapsed. He conducts a diary
business in connection with general farming, and
has been very successful in his business undertak-
ings, having learned well the lessons of thrift, in-
dustry and economy, taught him by his father
through both precept and example.
Mr. Richmond has always enjoyed the confidence
and esteem of his townsmen, who have elected him
to many of the town offices, and in 1883 sent him to
the State Legislature, and he has been assessor and
a member of the board of relief, and a grand juror.
All these offices he has most creditably filled, and
while in the Legislature served with credit on the
Agriculture Committee. In politics he is a Demo-
crat, and in religious faith a member of Bethel
Methodist Episcopal Church, serving that congre-
gation as steward and trustee for many years.
Mr. Richmond married (first) Juliette Kinney, of
Volunfown, Connecticut, who died February 14,
1868, at the home farm in Preston. She was the
daughter of Samuel and Lydia (Phillips) Kinney,
and the mother of a daughter, Emma, who died in
infancy. Mr. Richmond married (second) January
31, 1871, Lucy Ellen Richardson, daughter of Wil-
liam and Lucy Ann (Dawley) Richardson, of North
Stonington, Connecticut. To them twelve children
were born at the home farm in Preston: (l) Lucy
Emily, educated in district and select schools, later
becoming a teacher in Griswold and Norwich
schools. She married Byron P. Young, a farmer of
Sterling, Connecticut, and they are the parents of
three sons, Byron Herbert, Raymond Alton, and
Richard Milton Young. (2) Juliette, educated in
the district school, Norwich Free Academy, and a
select school; now a teacher in Jewett City schools,
residing at home. (3) Ida Florence, a teacher at
the time of her marriage to Albert Saunders, a mer-
chant of Jewett City, Connecticut. Mrs. Saunders
died in January, 1919. (4) John Henry, now a con-
tractor and builder of Springfield, Massachusetts.
He married Minnie Richardson, of North Stonington,
Connecticut, and has three children: John Lloyd,
Sylvia Minnie, and Mildred Richmond. (5) Grace
Lydia, educated in the district school and Manches-
ter High School, was a teacher in Ellington, Con-
necticut, prior to her marriage to Merton H. Bart-
lett, a farmer of the town of Griswold. (6) Bessie
May, a teacher in the public schools, who married
Albert W. C. Burdick of Jewett City, now in real
estate and insurance business, with offices in Nor-
wich and Jewett City. Mr. and Mrs. Burdick have
two daughters, Christine and Arline Burdick. (7)
William Richardson, now a contractor and builder
of Springfield, Massachusetts, married Mamie M.
Luther, of Preston, and has five children, Elizabeth
M., Luther H., Marguerite, Gertrude E., and Hen-
rietta M. (8) Mary Dawley, educated in Preston
schools and a graduate of Willimantic State Normal,
and now a teacher in Willimantic schools. (9) Min-
nie Belle, a teacher in Suffield, Connecticut, prior
to her marriage to RajTmond Matson, of Windsor,
Connecticut. Mrs. Matson died in 1914. (10) Alice
Hannah, a teacher in Jewett City, married Lyle C.
Gray, a farmer of North Stonington, Connecticut,
and they are the parents of four children, Marjorie
Flostina, Jeannette, Anita, and Marilyn Gray. (11)
Harold A., a graduate of Wesleyan University, A. M.
He served nearly two years in the World War, and
was captain in the Sanitary Corps. He is now at
the head of the sales research division of the Equita-
ble Life Assurance Society of the United States,
New York City. He married Marian B. Ireland, of
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (12) Ernest Albert, a
graduate of Norwich Free Academy, who cultivates
the homestead farm, the only son to embrace the
time-honored calling of his eight generations of
great ancestors. All of the daughters of the family
became educators, and two of them have made it
their life work. Ten of these twelve children are
living — a remarkable record.
JOSEPH MATTHEW GANEY, M.D.— A native
son. Dr. Ganey has won high standing in the city
of his birth, both as a physician of learning and skill
and as a citizen of highest motives and loftiest
patriotism. He has proved his worth as a physician,
as shown by his clientele and his work in the hos-
pitals of New London, and as a patriot, by his
volunteer service at home and overseas during the
period of war between the L'nited States and Ger-
many, 1917-1918. Dr. Ganey is a son of John Crocker
and Mary (Ahearn) Ganey, both born in Ireland,
(l.U^,Qa^ /^^.
BIOGRAPHICAL
297
but later residents of Portland and New London,
Connecticut. John C. Ganey was a skilled worker in
metal, and for more than a quarter of a century his
trade was that of a blacksmith at the Brown Cotton
Mills in New London. Both he and his wife died
in New London.
Joseph Matthew Ganey was born in New London,
Connecticut, November 8, 1878, and there completed
public school study with graduation from Bulkeley
High School. Deciding upon the medical profession,
he entered the College of Physicians and Surgeons
at Baltimore, Maryland, whence he was graduated
M. D., class of 1904. He served as interne at the
Mercy Hospital, Baltimore, then returned to New
London, where in 1905 he began private practice,
continuing with satisfactory results until 1909, when
he spent a year abroad in special study in the med-
ical department of the University of Vienna, Austria.
He returned to New London in 1910, and resumed
practice, continuing until June 16, 1917, when at the
call of duty he laid aside personal consideration and
enlisted in the United States Army and was assigned
to duty at Camp Oglethorpe, Georgia, with the rank
of first lieutenant. He then was sent to the Coast
Defense Artillery Corps, along Long Island Sound,
with headquarters at Fort H. G. Wright on Fisher's
Island. He was medical officer with the Third Bat-
talion, Fifty-sixth Regiment, Coast Artillery Corps,
United States Army, under the command of Major
Morris B. Payne, of New London, and with that
battalion he went overseas and was in all their bat-
tles and experiences in France. His regiment,
organized in December, 1917, at Fort Wright, sailed
from the United States, March 28, 1918, and arrived
in France April 4 following. The 146th Regiment
served continuously on the line from August IS to
November 8, 1918. Dr. Ganey was wounded at
Chevy-Chartreuse, August 23, 1918. They were
engaged in Aisne-Marne, Oise Aisne, Meuse Ar-
gonne, in the First Army Sector, and saw war in
all its horrible forms until the struggle ended with
the overthrow of German power and the flight of
the craven Kaiser. Dr. Ganey was awarded the
Distinguished Service Cross for his services and
exploits, described as follows, in the recommenda-
tion for his decoration:
Ofifice of the Surgeon
56th Artillery (C. A. C), A. E. F.
A. P. O. No. 728, Nov. 21, 1918.
Lt. Ganey with Sgt. Roberts and Privates Gow
and Handley of the Sanitary Detachment, 56th
Artillery (C. A. C.) arrived at the road between
Charpentry and Baulny, France, on the night of
Oct. 3, 1918, with the Third Battalion of the 56th
Artillery (C. A. C.) under heavy shell fire and con-
centration of gas which continued all night. On
the morning of Oct. 4, 1918, the Infantry attacked
at daybreak and a great number of untagged soldiers
were brought back to this road from the line just
over the hill with their wounds not dressed. Lt.
Ganey and his men immediately established an aid
station on the side of the road under constant shell
and machine gun fire and continued dressing and
evacuating wounded from daylight until 1 1 :00 A.M.,
with utter disregard for their personal safety, the
nature of the locality being such as to offer them
no protection. During this time they dressed and
evacuated several hundred soldiers of the First
Division, largely from the l6th and l8th Infantry.
The Battalion to which Lt. Ganey and his men were
attached was not in action and the improvised aid
station was established on his own initiative.
The 56th Artillery sailed from Brest, France,
January 5, 1919, still under command of Major
Payne, on the United States battleship '"South Da-
kota," and arrived in New York, January 17, 1919.
Dr. Ganey was honorably discharged and mustered
out, January 29, 1919, at Fort Schuyler, New York,
and returned to his home in New London.
After his return from France, Dr. Ganey for the
third time began the upbuilding of a practice in
New London and as before has met with great
encouragement from his acquaintances and friends
of a lifetime. He is building up a practice along
general lines, including surgery, and makes a spe-
cialty of obstetrics, and ranks very high in that
department of his profession. He is a member of
the New London City, New London County, and
Connecticut State Medical societies, and the Amer-
ican Medical Association of Vienna. He served on
the staff of the old Memorial Hospital, New London,
and the consolidation of that and Lawrence Hos-
pitals under the name of the Lawrence and Memo-
rial Hospital, and from that time until the present,
he served as chief obstetrician. He is also assistant
surgeon to the United States Public Health at New
London. He is a member of the Military Order of
the Foreign Wars of Connecticut Commandery, and
of John Coleman Prince Post of the American
Legion. In politics he is a Democrat, in religion, a
Roman Catholic.
On March 22, 1916, Dr. Ganey married, at New
London, Anna Williams, born in New London,
daughter of John and Mary (Enos) Williams. Dr.
and Mrs. Ganey are the parents of three children,
Joann, Joseph Matthew (2nd), Jane. The family
home is at 205 William street, New London.
WILLIAM MARVIN— When Reynold Marvin,
one of the original proprietors of the town of Lyme,
Connecticut, settled in that locality, he established
a line, w'hich through more than two and a half
centuries has continued to furnish valuable citizens
to that town, as well as to what is now called, Old
l.ym.e. Elisha Marvin, great-great-grandfather of
Judge William Marvin, was born in what is now
Old Lyme, and moved from that town to Lyme,
v.-hcre he built the house which has ever since been
the family homestead. He married Catherine Mather,
and the fourth and last of their children was Joseph
Marvin, who, born in the old homestead in Lyme,
was a soldier in the Revolutionary War, and died
2g8
NEW LONDON COUNTY
November 19, 1839. He married, October 16, 1783,
Phebe Sterling, and became the father of six chil-
dren, the third of whom was William Marvin, also
born on the old homestead, w'ho served in the War
of 1812. He was a deacon in the Congregational
church, and was a probate judge. He married, Oc-
tober 21, 1819, Sophia Griffin, of East Haddam, and
they became the parents of six children, tlie fourth
of whom was William Joseph, father of Judge Wil-
liam Marvin.
William Joseph Marvin, son of William and Sophia
(Griffin) Marvin, was born in the old homestead at
Lyme, April 6, 1830, and spent his life in his native
place. He attended the Academy at Essex, and then
went to work on a farm, in which occupation he
continued throughout his life. He was very promi-
nent in the life of the town, and at the time of his
death, which occurred April 7, 1878, was treas-
urer. He married, January 28, 1869, Ann M.
Parker, daughter of Marshfield S. Parker, who
was born in Lyme, September 30, 1830, and died
October 23, 1900. Their two children were: Wil-
liam, mentioned below; and Harry S., born August
8, 1875, who, educated at East Greenwich Academy
and at Dow Academy, Franconia, New Hampshire,
was a member of the drug firm of Mitchell & Mar-
vin, in Boston for a few years, and is now in the
drug business for himself. He married Annie
Powell, and is the father of two children, Grace
Mary and William Joseph.
Hon. William Marvin, eldest son of William Jo-
seph and Ann M. (Parker) Marvin, was born at the
old home in Lyme, March 13, 1873. He attended the
local schools, and then went to East Greenwich
Academy, in Rhode Island, graduating in 1893. After
his graduation, he returned to the home farm, where
he has remained. In 1896 he was elected town
clerk, although but twenty-three years of age, and
has continued to fill that office which, 1921, he still
holds. He is also judge of probate, and very active
in the political and agricultural aiTairs of his locality.
He is a member of the Lyme Chapter of the Grange,
and of the Farm Bureau, in both of which organiza-
tions he has given his services to the agricultural
interests of the county. He is a Republican in his
party affiliation, and was a member of the Connecti-
cut Legislature in 1905 and also in 1907.
Judge Marvin married Julia Niles Ely, daughter
of Dr. J. Griffin and Elizabeth (Chadwick) Ely, of
Lyme, Connecticut. No children have been born to
the union.
JEROME BONAPARTE RATHBUN— Of an an-
cient Rhode Island family, Mr. Rathbun remained in
his native State many years, then located in Groton,
Connecticut, coming thence to the village of Niantic,
Connecticut, where the past thirty years of his life
have been spent. Much of his early life was spent
in the saw mills of Summit, Rhode Island, and Gro-
ton, Connecticut, and from manufacturing lumber he
became a dealer, and until his retirement in 191.^
operated a lumtcr yard in Niantic.
Jerome B. Rathbun was born in Exeter Hill, Rhode
Island, December 8, 1858. He was educated in the
Exeter Hill public schools and after school years
were over, became a saw mill employee, thoroughly
learning the business of manufacturing lumber of
any dimension from the log. He was employed in
different mills, and continued in that line of activity
until about 1890, when he located in Niantic, his
present home. For ten years he conducted a steam
saw mill in Niantic, but in 1914 retired, after a very
successful business life. Mr. Rathbun is a member
of Fairview Lodge, No. 101, Independent Order of
Odd Fellows.
Mr. Rathbun married, in West Greenwich, Rhode
Island, May 13, 1881, Harriet Estella Brown, born
there October 18, 1866, daughter of Elisha and Louisa
Parkis (Capwell) Brown. Twelve children were
born to Mr. and Mrs. Brown, six of whom died
young. Those w'ho grew to mature years were: I.
Maria Emmeline, born in E.xeter, Rhode Island, mar-
ried George Richmond, of Westerly, Rhode Island,
and they are the parents of: George, Frank, Amy
and Elizabeth Richmond. 2. Atmore Robinson, who
married Nellie Capwell, and they are the parents of:
Thomas, Flora and Rose Brown. 3. Henry Elisha,
married .'\daline Arnold, they the parents of: Lil-
lian, William and Walter Brown. 4. Lois Anna, who
married Clarke Greene, of West Greenwich, Rhode
Island, and four children were born to them: Laura,
F"red, Caliph, Mabel and Anna Greene. 5. Bowen,
who married Mary Ann Carr, and they are the par-
ents of: Fanny, Louisa, George, Bertha and Sadie
Brown. 6. Harriet E , who married Jerome B. Rath-
bun, and resides in Niantic. Mr. and Mrs. Rath'bun
arc the parents of six children: Henry Albert, born
February 14, 1884, married Agnes Beebe, and resides
in Black Hall, Connecticut; Mary Evelyn, born in
West Greenwich, Rhode Island, January 23, 1886,
married Timothy Maine, of Ledyard, Connecticut,
and has two children, Elizabeth and Maurice; Everett
Elmer, born in West Greenwich, Rhode Island, Sep-
tember 13, 1888, married Gladys Daniels, and they
are the parents of the following children: Lawrence,
Earl and Lillian Rathbun; Susan Estelle, born in
Groton, Connecticut, September 8, 1891, married Fred
SJsson, of Clarks Falls, Connecticut, and has tw^o
daughters, Sophia and Evelyn Sisson; Arthur Earl,
born at Groton, Connecticut, July 9, 1893, married
Julia Beebe, and has a daughter. Pearl; Caribell, born
in Center Groton, Connecticut, November 14, 1900,
married William Fellows, and has a son, George.
CAPTAIN DAVID CARROLL QUINLEY— The
late Captain Quinlcy was born at North Lj-me, Con-
necticut, August 22, 1848. He was the son of David
Tyron and Roxanna (Spencer) Quinley, both de-
ceased. The boy, David C, left the home farm early
in life and went to live with his uncle, who was an
inlartd fisherman, plying his trade on the Niantic
river. Early in life, David C. Quinley developed a
keen interest in the sea, and a familiar sight to the
people who lived about here was the lad rowing up
3)ol)n ZWi. matron
BIOGRAPHICAL
299
and down the Niantic. The longing to explore what
was beyond the blue horizon finally compelled him
when but twelve years old to ship as a deck liand
on board a schooner bound for Georges Banks.
When he attained manhood he was given command
of the schooner "Game Cock," which was used to
carry stone from the quarries at Millstone Point to
the site upon which was being built the Battery in
New York. Later he purchased the schooner "Irving
J. Lewis." One day the steps from the deck to the
cabin on the "Game Cock" were removed by a mem-
ber of tlie crew, who later neglected to replace them.
That night Captain Quinley, not knowing of this,
fell to the deck below, and in this fall struck his
heart against a box. Although he lived for many
years after this accident, he never fully recovered
from the Mow. Selling the "Irving J. Lewis," he
subsequently was given command of the yacht "Vio-
let," owned by Mr. Haymes, whose summer estate is
at Sandy Point, and it was while engaged in this last
capacity that Captain Quinley met with the painful
accident which hastened his death; this occurred
February 8, 1915.
Captain Quinley was united in marriage witli Au-
gusta Anne Wheeler. Mrs. Quinley, who survives
her husband, and resides at Niantic, was born at New
London, Connecticut, July 27, 1850, the daughter of
William and Nancy (Beebe) Wheeler. Mr. and Mrs.
Wheeler had six children, three of whom are dead,
the others: Augusta Anne, previously mentioned;
Isabella, who married Charles Leonard, of Niantic;
and Eliza Anna, who married Charles Bcckwith, of
Hartford.
JOHN WILLETTE WATSON— Perhaps more
widely than any others do the records of an ocean-
bordered section reach out into the interesting and
significant places of the world. In New London
county, Connecticut, there arc few of the old families
who do not count at least one memlber who has fol-
lowed the sea, at least for a time. More than eighty
years ago, John Willette Watson, as a child, became
a resident of this county, and the story of his life
closely follcnvs the growth of this section in import-
ance as a mercantile and industrial center, his activi-
ties, through the greater part of his life, centering
in the agricultural districts of the county, and in the
productive pursuits which arc the foundation of all
prosperity.
Mr. Watson was born in West Greenwich, Rhode
Island, January I, 1833, and died in Gales Ferry, New
London county, Connecticut, November 7, 1917, hav-
ing nearly reached the eighty-fifth anniversary of his
birth. He was a son of John and Betsy (Corey)
Watson, both of old New England families, and the
death of his mother when he was seven years of age
broug'ht about changes in the circumstances of the
family, and his removal to Westerly. With only the
scant opportunities of the district schools of that day
for the acquiring of an education, Mr. Watson at a
very early age began working on the farm. While
still a young lad of impressionable age he came to
Mystic, and here the lure of sea reached deep into his
soul as he watched the coming and going of the
outside fishermen. He soon secured the opportunity
of joining them, and for eight years was identified
with the fishing trade between here and Florida, tak-
ing a man's part in the work of the fleet with whiah
he was connected. At the age of twenty-four years
he shipped for a whaling voyage, which eventually
covered a period of three years in length and took
him all around the world.
A short time after his return to his native land he
heard, with the other high-souled young men of the
day, the shot w'hich, fired on Fort Sumter, re-echoed
to the northernmost boundaries of the nation. He
enlisted from (he town of Groton, and going to the
front, participated in the early battles of the war,
including Vicksburg and Port Hudson, serving under
General Banks. He was wounded in the latter en-
gagement, and in the year 1863 was honorably dis-
charged from the service. Returning at once to his
home in this county, he removed his little family to
the community in the southwestern part of Ledyard,
known as Gales Ferry. Here he took up the peace-
ful activities of the little farming village, and through-
out the remainder of his lifetime tilled the soil, and
occasionally, as the building operations of the neigh-
borhood made occasion, he bore a part as a stone
mason. Active almost until the time of his death,
Mr. Watson was one of the best known men of the
section, and his high integrity and genial disposition
gave him the friendship and goodwill of all with
whom he came in contact. He was a man of rare
good sense, and capable of calm, unbiased judgment,
and his influence in his community gave impetus to
all good movements and stood as an example in
honoraible citizenship for the younger men as they
followed after him.
Not long after his return from the voyage around
the world, Mr. Watson married, in Mystic, Marian
Chapman, the ceremony taking place on June 27,
1859. They were the parents of six children: Wil-
liam R.; J. Lewis; Charles H.; Jennie M., who be-
came the wife of Joel H. Davis, a sketch of whom
fellows: George W., and Augusta E. The mother
died at Gales Ferry, in the family home, on October
10, 1904.
As a devoted husband and father, as a citizen loyal
not only to the written tenets of his native land but
to the ideals which inspire all lofty codes of human
conduct, John Wiilette Watson left a mark on the
records of his day, both those records which are
written for all men to read, and those records which
live in the hearts of men, and which go down to
posterity in noble impulses and worthy deeds.
JOEL HARRISON DAVIS, whose life from the
age of fourteen had been one of activity on land and
sea, closed his earthly career at the age of seventy-
three, being at the time of his death a resident of
Norwich, Connecticut, and owner of a general store
there. At the age of fourteen he made his first voy-
age at sea, and all through his life he was at times
300
NEW LONDON COUNTY
a sailor on country craft, government vessels and
private yachts and clipper ships, always, however,
on sailing vessels. His life was principally spent at
sea, and but for poor health he would never have
followed any other occupation. He was a son of
Joel Davis, son of Elisha Davis, son of Silas Davis,
son of Benjamin Davis (2), son of Benjamin Davis
(i), who first settled in Plymouth, Massachusetts,
later going to Brookhavcn, Suffolk county, Long
Island. Benjamin (i) Davis was a land owner, and
some of his land remained in the family until 1902,
when Joel Harrison Davis sold it.
Elisha Davis, of the fourth generation, was a large
landowner in that part of Brookhaven known as
Mount Sinai, and there died, in April, 1843. He
married Julianna Hulse, their third child a son,
Joel, of whom further.
Joel Davis was born in Brookhaven, Long Island,
October 13, 1805, spent his entire life at the home-
stead in Mount Sinai, and there died, April 7, 1883.
He was a man of means, owned a large amount of
land, and was a prosperous farmer. He was a well-
known musician, taught singing school in early life,
and for twenty-seven years was chorister of the
Congregational church at Mount Sinai, Brookhav-
en, and later of the church at Port Jefferson, Long
Island. He married (first) Sarah Maria Turner, who
died December 14, 1846, aged thirty-four, daughter of
William Turner, owner of Artist's Lake, Long Isl-
and. Five children were born to Joe: and Sarah M.
(Turner) Davis: Susan M., married Captain Ells-
worth Carter, a sea captain; Amelia M., married
Erastus Brown, a farmer; Elisiha, a sea captain;
John, a sea captain and sound pilot; Joel Harrison,
of whom further. Joel Davis married (second) Han-
nah M. Davis, a distant relative, born August 19,
1817, died May 3, 1875. They were the parents of
three children: Vincent R., a merchant; Koswell, of
Yaphank, Long Island; and Ida Belle.
Joel Harrison Davis, youngest son of Joel Davis and
his first wife, Sarah Maria (Turner) Davis, was born,
at the homestead at Mount Sinai, Suffolk county.
Long Island, November 4, 1845, died at his horne in
Norwich, Connecticut, December 9, 1918. He attended
district school until the age of fourteen, then shipped
on the coasting sloop "Guide." He was large for
his age and very strong, and was able to perform
any ^vork required of him. He again went to sea
the following season, and the next became a second
mate. In 1862, at the age of seventeen, he was stew-
ard of the schooner "Reuben H. Nelson," and on
that vessel, commanded by his cousin, Henry G.
Davis, he made his first voyage to foreign waters,
going to Banacoa, Cuba, returning to New York with
the largest cargo of fruit they ever delivered there,
69,000 cocoanuts and 4,600 bunches of bananas.
Shortly after that voyage the lad was taken sick
and for three years was not able to do anything, but
with the recovery of his health he took a book-sell-
ing agency, covering Long Island with splendid
success, selling Holland's "Life of Lincoln," and
"Sherman's and Grant's Campaigns and Generals."
He than was clerk in a Patchogue, Long Island,
grocery and restaurant for one year, then took up
photography, and for one season owned and traveled
witli a studio on wheels.
In 1868 his health permitted him to return to his
first love, the sea, and he shipped as seaman on the
United States revenue cutter "Isaac Tousey," serv-
ing on Long Island Sound five months, lie then
shipped on a coaster, and as steward, made a trip
to Tabasco, Me.^ico. Later he was steward of the
schooner "Franken Bell," then steward of the clipper
ship "Susan Bergen," sailing to Palermo, Sicily, and
in that vessel sailed to Messina and Cuban ports.
He was steward on the private "Dreadnaught," then
the schooner "Florence Shay," in coasting and for-
eign trade, sailing as steward and navigator, making
a year's voyage to South America. He then sailed
as steward on the schooner "Benjamin Jones," the
"Jennie Rosaline," the "Hattie B. Kclsey," the "Hat-
tie M. Crowell," the "John Holland," the "Florence
Randall," and the "Adalaide Randall." He followed
the sea as steward on these different vessels until
June, 1891, when he ended his career as a mariner,
and thereafter resided in Norwich, a merchant.
In Norwich he bought a general store of E. Walter
Phillips and began the work of building up a busi-
ness. He was very successful and continued active
in the business for nearly a quarter of a century,
then, in 1915, was compelled by failing health to re-
tire. Mrs. Davis then assumed the management, and
until the death of her husband, in 1918, continued the
business.
Mr. Davis married, in New London, Connecticut,
.'Kpnil 3, 1889, Jennie M. Watson, born at Gales Ferry,
Connecticut, daughter of John W. and Marian (Chap-
man) Watson (see preceding sketch).
After the death of her husband, Mrs. Jennie M.
(Watson) Davis rented the store in Norwich, but
continues her residence at No. 318 Laurel Hill ave-
nue. She is a member of the Baptist church, and
both she and her husband had many friends, all of
whom she retains.
HERBERT MORTON SWINNEY, now a pros-
perous lumber dealer of Niantic, Connecticut, has
gone far along the road to success, although only
in the prime of his manhood. He is a son of Ethan
Edward and Elizabeth (Tillett) Swinney, his father
born in Lebanon, Ohio, October 2, 1837. Ethan E.
Swinney, a harness maker by trade, died in 1905,
aged sixty-eight years, his wife, Elizabeth, in 1897,
aged fifty-nine. They were the parents of five chil-
dren, two of whom survived childhood: Herbert M.,
the principal character of this review; and Annie G.,
since deceased.
Herbert Morton Swinney was born in Westerly,
Rhode Island, June 14, 1872, and there was educated
in the public schools. At the age of seventeen years
he began work with Maxson & Company, contractors
and builders, of Westerly (and for nineteen years,
1889-1908, he continued in that company's employ.
On March i, 1908, he bought an interest in the firm
BIOGRiVPHICAL
301
of Babcock & Wilcox, of Westerly, contractors and
builders, and for eight years continued in business
as a partner in that firm. He then sold his interest
and removed to Niantic, Connecticut, where he, in
connection with Louis C. Dimock, bought the lum-
ber yards of Asahei R. DeWolf, an established busi-
ness of twenty-one years' standing, and at that time
was incorporated as the Niantic Lumber Cojiipany,
Herbert M. Swinney, secretary, treasurer and gen-
eral manager.
Mr. Swinney is a member of Niantic Lodge, No.
17, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and the
Junior Order United American Mechanics, Hope
Council, No. 6, of Westerly, Rhode Island; he is an
Independent in politics, and a member of the Seventh
Day Baptist church.
Mr. Swinney married, in Stonington, Connecticut,
May 16, 1901 Belinda Robinson Southwick, born Au-
gust 13, 1881, at Wakefield, Rhode Island, daughter
of Wanton and Annie Laurie (Holland) Southwick,
who were the parents of three daughter: Sarah, Be-
linda and Annie. To Mr. and Mrs. Swinney four
children were born: Morton Remington, born May
S, 1902, in Stonington, Connecticut; Ruth Elizabeth,
born Alarch 8, 1918, in Niantic, Connecticut, and two
children who died in infancy.
ERNEST CHAMPLIN RUSSELL, clerk of the
town of East Lyme, New London county, Connecti-
cut, was born in Niantic, Connecticut, May 6, 1876,
and was educated in local schools. Most of his life
has been spent in his native village, and since arriv-
ing at man's estate he has been engaged in business
as a real estate dealer, and to that business has added
insurance. Soon after school years were ended he
left the village of his birth for a short time, but re-
turned, and for eighteen years, 1903-1921, has been
town clerk, an office that he has held continuously,
the voters of the town of East Lyme, in which town
Niantic is situated, refusing to consider anyone else
for the office.
Mr. Russell is a son of Benjamin Franklin Russell,
born in Hartford, Connecticut, in 1824, died in Nian-
tic, at the age of seventy-three, and is there buried.
He came to Niantic a youth, and became a mariner,
following the sea for many years. He married Ellen
Lock, of Leeds, England, born in 1834, daughter of
Thomas Lock. They were the parents of four chil-
dren: Marion Clarence; Frank William, of Niantic;
Claude Charles, of New Haven, Connecticut; and
Ernest C, of previous mention.
at Niantic. He married Juliet S. Bishop, a native
of Stony Creek, Connecticut, and to them have been
born three children: John, who was drowned at the
age of four years; Clifford Erv/in, of further
mention; and Perry G., of Hartford, Connecti-
cut, department manager of the Fox & Company
store.
Clifford Erv/in Chapman was born at Niantic, Con-
necticut, May 13, 1880, and during his childhood at-
tended the local schools, at the same time devoting
Iiis spare time to helping his father in his work about
the farm and the blacksmith shop. He was associ-
ated with the elder man in business until 191 1, when
he received his appointment to the Legislature, sub-
sequently returning the following year to his former
employment and continuing thus until 191 5, when
he was made postmaster of Niantic, which office he
still holds. He occupies a high place in the opinion
of those who know him, a place w^iich he has won
by his energy and upright character. The public's
interests are well served by servants of this type.
In politics he is a Democrat, and in religious faith
a Baptist. Mr. Chapman is affiliated with the Ma-
sons, and belongs to Bayview Lodge, No. 120, Free
and Accepted Masons. It is hard to predict the
future of an already sucessful man who is still com-
paratively young in years, but the past gives promise
of an even more brilliant future.
On February 25, 1910, at Niantic, Clifford Erwin
Chapman was united in marriage with Minnie A.
Bcebe, daughter of John and Amanda (Andrea) Bee-
be, who also have three other children: Arthur, a
resident of New London; Chester A., a resident of
Niantic; and Almeda Littlefield, who married Dwight
Luce, of Niantic. Mr. and Mrs. Chapman are the
parents of one child, Andrea Juliette, born February
9, 191 1.
CLIFFORD ERWIN CHAPMAN, postmaster of
Niantic, Connecticut, to w<hich office he was ap-
pointed in 191S, has served his community well in
many public capacities, having filled each post with
untiring faithfulness and devotion to duty, which are
characteristic of the man.
Savalian Edwin Chapman, father of ClifTord Erwin
Chapman, was born in the Whistle town district of
East Lyme, September 16, 1844, and for many years
was a farmer and blacksmith. He now lives retired
ALBERT CLARK FREEMAN, M. D., came to
Norwich, Connecticut, in 1913, with his newly-ac-
quired honors bestowed by the University of Ver-
mont. But he did not then begin private practice,
for after a year as interne at the M. W. Buckus Hos-
pital, he spent eighteen months in practice in Plain-
field, Vermont, his Norwich residence dating from
January, 1916. The five years that nav« since inter-
vened have brought him a fair share of professional
success and he is becoming well established in public
esteem.
Dr. Freeman, grandson of George and Mary
(Fiske) Freeman, and son of George Freeman, who
was born in Brookfield, Vermont, and educated in a
Barre, Vermont, school. He was his father's farm
assistant until reaching man's estate, when he went
West, locating at Rolfe, Pocahontas county, Iowa,
thirty miles from Fort Dodge, the center of a farm-
ing and stock-raising region. This move was caused
by poor health, but in Iowa he bought a farm near
Rolfe, and in addition to working his farm, taught
in the district school. In 1885 he sold his farm, and
in June of that year passed away at Rolfe. He was
a Repulblican in politics, and in religious faith a
302
NEW LONDON COUNTY
inenibcr of the Methodist Episcopal church, and
superintendent of the Sunday school.
George Freeman married Mary Cooley, 'born in
Iowa, died at Rolfe, in 1885, daughter of Henry
Cooky, an Iowa pioneer. Mr. and Mrs. Freeman
were the parents of three children, all born in lawa:
Kate, married James Mitchell, of Barre, Vermont;
Mabel, married George Turner, a contractor of
Council Bluffs, Iowa; and Albert Clark, of further
mention. After the death of their mother in 1885,
the children came East, to Barre, Vermont.
Albert Clark Freeman, son of George and Mary
(Cooley) Freeman, was born November 8, 1883, at
Rolfe, Iowa, and in 1885 came to Barre, Vermont, an
orphan. He attended school in Barre, passing thence
to the Montpelier (Vermont) Seminary, whence he
was graduated in 1905. Being determined to make
his own start in life, Mr. Freeman was employed for
about four years at farming, and at the same time
taught the district school and sold milk in Barre.
His independent spirit and ambition carried him
through these formative years. In 1909 he entered
the medical department of the University of Ver-
mont, where after a four years' course he was gradu-
ated M. D., class of 1913. After one year in the
M. W. Buckus Hospital, at Norwich, Connecticut,
Dr. Freeman went to Plainfield, Vermont, where he
opened an office, remaining about a year and a half.
In January, 1916, he returned to Norwich, where he
has since been continuously engaged in the success-
ful practice of his profession. He is pathologist of
the M. W. Buckus Hospital, of Norwich, and during
the World War was post surgeon of that town and
also served in the Medical Advisory Board. In
politics Dr. Freeman is a Republican, and in 1917
was appointed milk inspector for Norwich, serving
until resigning in 1920. Dr. Freeman has been secre-
tary and treasurer of the New London County Medi-
cal Association since 1917; is a member of the Nor-
wich Medical Society, the Connecticut State Medical
Society, and the American Medical Association. He
affiliates with S'hetucket Lodge, Independent Order
of Odd Fellows, of Norwich; is a member of the
Norwich Arcanum Club, and of the United Congre-
gational Church.
Dr. Freeman married, August II, 1917, in Norwich,
Eva Annie Bisbee, born in Waitsiield, Vermont,
daughter of Burton and Lucia (Joslin) Bisbee, of
that town, her father a prosperous farmer. Dr. and
Mrs. Freeman are the parents of two children, both
born in Norwich: Alberta, born April 12, 1919; and
Emerson Osgood, born December 23, 1920. Pro-
gressive in his profession and in his citizenship,
genial and friendly in disposition. Dr. Freeman is
building up a good practice and forming friendships
on a basis which will endure.
who was born in New Brunswick, New Jersey, lived
on a large ranch in the West for a few years, and
is now living at Crescent Beach. He married Julia
Griffin, of Scotch descent, and their four children
are as follows: Harriet, who was born in New
Rochelle, Ne^v York, and married Lewis Adriene,
a New York City banker; Mary G., wdio was born
in New Rochelle, married Vaughn H. Ray, of Hart-
fort, Connecticut, who is connected with the Travel-
ers' Insurance Company of that city, and has two
children: William and Margaret; William A., also
born in New Rochelle, who married Mary , and
has one daughter, Julia; and Percy A., of further
mention.
Percy A. Wheeler was born in New Rochelle, New
York, December 30, 1894, and came to Crescent
Beach, East Lyme, Connecticut, with his family
while still a child. He received his early education
in the schools of this community, then completed
his studies at the vocational school in New London,
same State. His first business experience was in
the employ of the Buick Motor Car Company, at St.
Augustine. Florida, and he continued there during
the winter, opening his own garage at Crescent
Beach for the summer months. He has been very
successful thus far, broadening his operations con-
stantly, and was contemplating opening a large
garage of his own in St. Augustine, Florida, for the
winter of 1921-22.
On April 4, 1917, Mr. Wheeler enlisted for service
in the World War, at New London, in the United
States navy. After a short period of training at
the Newport Training Station, he was assigned to
duty on board the speed boat "Tocksway," a sub-
marine patrol boat, serving for one year. He was
discharged from the service in April, 1919, and re-
turned to his interrupted business.
Mr. Wheeler is interested in the affairs of the day,
but in political matters holds an independent posi-
tion, giving his support to the party placing the best
man in the field.
On November 10, 1915, Mr. Wheeler married, at
Niantic, Connecticut, Florence Luce, of that town,
who was born September 25, 1900, and is a daughter
of Dwight and Almedia (Beebe) Luce, and their only
child. Mr. and Mrs. Wheeler have had three chil-
dren, the eldest of ■whom died in infancy. Those
living are: Rockwell Augustine, who was born in
Niantic, June 13, 1918; and Griffin John, born De-
cember 27, 1921, in St. Augustine, Florida.
PERCY ALPHONSUS WHEELER— One of the
enterprising young men of East Lyme, Connecticut,
is Percy A. Wheeler, who is achieving success at the
attractive shore resort known as Crescent Beach.
Mr. Wheeler is a son of William Ubrick Wheeler,
WILLIAM FRANCIS HILL— The keenest inter-
est attaches to the man of any community who has
to do with the development of the city itself. In
Norwich, Connecticut, William Francis Hill is one
of the leaders in the real estate business.
Mr. Hill comes of a solid old New Hampshire
family. His father, Alpheus M. Hill, was a native
of Nashua, New Hampshire. Throughout his life
he owned a fine stable of horses, and handled the
teaming for the granite quarries and lumber mills
which form the principal industries of the region
BIOGRAPHICAL
303
around Nashua. He married Elizabeth Dorcas Barlc-
er, who was born in New York City in 1834; he died
in 1875, and his wife died in 1901, in Lancaster, New
Hampshire. They were the parents of four chil-
dren, of whom William Francis Hill, of Norwich, is
the only one now living.
William Francis Hill was born in Nashua, New
Hampshire, on February 4, i860. He received his
education in the public schools of the town, then
for a time worked in a shoe factory. Later he went
to Providence, Rhode Island, where he worked in a
gun shop of the Providence Tool Company. In 1879
he came to Norwich, and entered the employ of
Hopkins & Allen, gun makers, and here he remained
until 1886. In that year he became a railway mail
clerk, continuing for one year. At this time his wife
had a breakdown, and for the sake of her health, he
traveled with her; she died in 1898, in Norwich. In
1899 Mr. Hill established himself in the real estate
business, handling also a considerable amount of
insurance. He has been very successful, having
handled some of the most interesting business in this
line in the recent development of Norwich, and is
ranked high in the forefront of the real estate
■business.
Mr. Hill is a Democrat by political afifiliation, and
for five years, from 1893 to 1898, was city and town
tax collector. He belongs to the Masonic order,
being a member of Somerset Lodge, No. 34, Free
and Accepted Masons; Franklin Chapter, No. 4,
Royal Arch Masons; Franklin Council, No. 4, Royal
and Select Masters; Columbian Commandery, of Nor-
wich; Sphinx Temple, Ancient Arabic Order Nobles
of the Mystic Shrine, of Hartford; and the Connecti-
cut Consistory, thirty-second degree; also of the
Knights of Pythias, and the Chamber of Commerce.
Mr. Hill married (first) Nellie H. Crowell, of Nor-
wich, in 1886, and she died in 1898. They had three
children: Mary C, who lives at home; Andrew C,
who is now associated with his father and is married;
and Elmer, who also is associated with his father in
business, and is married. Mr. Hill married (second)
Mrs. Lucy C. (Coit) Jennings, of Norwich, who died
in January, 1912.
MALCOLM MacFARLANE SCOTT was born in
New London, Connecticut, July 5, 1877, son of
George Hall and Agnes Jane Scott, his father a stock
clerk with the Babcock Printing Press Manufactur-
ing Company. He attended the public schools until
through grammar school courses, then entered New
London Business College, where he completed his
studies. He then entered the office employ of the
Brown Cotton Gin Company, there continuing for
twenty-three years. In 1916 he entered the employ
of the Union Bank and Trust Company, of New
London, and has continued with that corporation
until the present, 1922, holding the position of pay-
ing teller.
Mr, Scott, for six years, represented his ward on
the Board of Aldermen, and when New London
went under the Council manager form of govern-
ment, became an official and is now serving as
councellor. He is a member of the First Church of
Christ (Scientist); is a past master of Brainard
Lodge, No. 102, Free and Accepted Masons; past
high priest of Union Chapter, No. 7, Royal Arch
Masons; past thrice illustrious master of Gushing
Council No. 4, Royal and Select Masters; member of
Palestine Commandery, No. 6, Knights Templar; of
New London Lodge, No. 360, Benevolent and Pro-
tective Order of Elks; Clan Cameron, No. 154, Order
of Scottish Clans; New London Lodge, No. 34,
Loyal Order of Moose; and Jibboom Club No. i.
Mr. Scott married, in New London, Connecticut,
October 17, 1898, Abbey Jane Sweet, daughter of
Riley and Katherine (Ferguson) Sweet, and they
are the parents of a son, Henkle Sweet Scott.
JAMES N. KELLEY, when a boy, came to the
city of New London, Connecticut, and there has
spent his life, and is now a successful undertaker.
He has worked his way upward to an honorable
position among business men by his own efforts, and
has been from boyhood the architect and builder of
his own fortunes. Men respect and honor him for
his upright life, and in his business he has no su-
periors.
James Kelley, father of James N. Kelley, born in
Dublin, Ireland, came to tlie United States when a
boy, and early in the decade of 1850-60, located in
New London, Connecticut. He was then but a boy,
and in New London he obtained his education. After
school days were over for the lad he began follow-
ing the sea, and all his after life he spent as a sea-
man. He died in New London, July 10, 1903, aged
fifty-six. He married Catherine Cronin, born in
County Cork, Ireland, died in New London, January
10, 1903, her husband surviving her exactly six
months. James and Catherine Kelley were the par-
ents of four children: Mary, married Richard Pren-
dergast, of New London; Catherine, married George
Mahoney, of Norwich, Connecticut; James N., of
further mention; and Agnes, who died at the age of
eleven years.
James N. Kelley, only son of James and Catherine
Kelley, was born in Norwich, Connecticut, April 25,
1873, but his education was obtained in New London
schools. Upon coming of legal age in 1S94, he en-
tered the employ of Keefe & Davis, general mer-
chants, as a clerk, and for ten years continued with
that company as such. In 1904 he went with the
Stephen Merritt Burial Company, of New London,
spending one year in their employ. He liked the
business and determined to fit himself to conduct it
properly. To that end he pursued a full course at
the Massachusetts College of Embalming, Boston,
and after receiving his diploma from the college,
went before the Connecticut State Board of E.x-
aminers and successfully passed all required tests
of his ability to conduct the business of an under-
taker. He then established undertaking rooms in
New London, and has won for himself high reputa-
tion and business standing. He is well equipped
304
NEW LONDON COUNTY
personally for the business he conducts, and has
availed himself of all modern aids used in the care
and preservation of the dead.
In politics Mr. Kelley is an Independent; and his
religious conviction is as a member of St. Mary's
Roman Catholic Church. He is a member of St.
John's Literary Society, the Ancient Order of Hi-
bernians, the Benevolent and Protective Order of
Elks, the Chamber of Commerce, all these New
London bodies, and of tlic Connecticut State Em-
balmers' Association.
Mr. Kelley married, at New London, August 6,
1907, Ellen Condon, daughter of John and Ellen
(Davis) Condon. Mr. and Mrs. Kelley are the par-
ents of a son, James Davis Kelley, born in New
London, Connecticut.
JONATHAN FAIRBANKS LESTER— The life
of Jonathan F. Lester was passed in his native coun-
ty. New London, and in the Srate of California,
where he engaged in farming in the latter place for
about seven years. He was a man of energy and
•enterprise, highly esteemed by all who knew him.
He was the son of Isaac A. and Mary (Chapman)
Lester, and a descendant in paternal line from An-
drew Lester, born in England, who came to New
England, settled in Gloucester, Massachusetts, where
he was elected constable, January 7, 1646, and li-
censed to keep an "ordinary" February 6, 1648. His
Connecticut residence began in 1651 at Pequot (New
London), where he had a home on the "Neck" and
had land rights allowed him. He was elected collector
of taxes and constable, holding office and being a
resident of Pequot until his death, June 7, 1669. The
death of his first wife, Barbara, February 2, 1653,
is the first death of a woman recorded in Pequot.
He married a second wife, Mrs. Joanna Hempstead,
widow of Robert Hempstead; and a third, Anna
. The "Widow Lester" was admitted to the
New London church by letter from the church at
Concord, Massachusetts, in 1670. By his first wife,
Barbara, Andrew Lester had children: Daniel, An-
drew, Mary and Anne; by his second wife: Joanna;
and by his third wife: Timothy, Joseph and Benja-
min, descent being traced through the last-born son.
(II) Benjamin Lester was born in New London,
Connecticut, about 1666, and with his half-brother
Daniel, and his brother Joseph, settled in the vicinity
of the town site. His will was dated May 23, 1737,
and it is believed that he died the next day. He
married Ann Stedman, and they were the parents of
nine sons, also of two daughters. In his will he
names his wife, sons — Timothy, John, Benjamin,
Isaac, Daniel, and his daughters, Ann and Hannah.
Other sons were David, and Jonathan, of further
mention; two sons died young. These children were
cither born in New London or Groton.
(III) Jonathan Lester, son of Benjamin and Ann
(Stedman) Lester, was born at New London, Con-
necticut, July 26, 1706, and was married May 15,
1729, and with his wife owned the covenant at Gro-
lon Congregational Church. He had children: Jona-
than; Deborah; Thomas; Amos, of further mention;
and Wait; these five baptized October 11, 1731;
Simeon, baptized August 14, 1734; and David, No-
vember 7, 1736.
(IV) Amos Lester, son of Jonathan Lester, was
born at Groton about 1730, and baptized with four
of his brothers and sisters, October 11, 1731. He
was a soldier of the Revolution, engaged at the bat-
tle of Groton, and was one of those reported as
wounded (Revolution Rolls, p. 578). His v/ound
was in the hip, and he was one of the wagon-load
of wounded men that suffered from the careless
handling of the wagon which broke loose and
coasted down the hill until stopped by a tree. The
captain of the company, Samuel Allyn, was killed in
the battle, he and Ensign Amos Lester riding to the
battlefield together. Amos Lester had a grant of
land in 1792 in Pennsylvania, "at the head of Lake
Eric," on account of his Revolutionary service. En-
sign Amos Lester married Anna Lester, born De-
cember 17, 1736, daughter of Peter and Anna (Street)
Lester, her mother a daughter of James Street.
(V) Amos (2) Lester, son of Ensign Ajmos (i)
and Anna (Lester) Lester, was born March 25, 1776,
and married, January 18, 1800, Sarah Avery, born
March 3, 1781, daughter of James Avery, of an an-
cient New London county family. They were the
parents of five children: i. Anna, who married
Oliver S. Tyler. 2. Lydia, married Erastus Kimball.
3. Amos A. 4. Isaac Avery, of further mention. 5.
Eliza Maria, who married Asa Lyman Lester.
(VI) Isaac Avery Lester, son of Amos (2) and
Sarah (Avery) Lester, was born at Groton, Con-
necticut, March 4, 1810. He married, October 17,
1838, Mary Chapman, daughter of Ichabod Chap-
man, they residing in Ledyard, Connecticut. They
were the parents of eleven children, the fifth son,
Jonathan Fairbanks Lester, to whose memory this
review is dedicated. Children: I. Amos, married
Caroline Gallup. 2. Mary Jane, married Courtland
Lamb. 3. Nathan Larrabee, married Sarah Elizabeth
Spicer. 4. Henry C, died young. 5. Jonathan Fair-
banks, of further mention. 6. William Isaac, married
Sarah E. Simmons. 7. Frank Larrabee, born April
23. 1850, died November 17, 1876. 8. Samuel Wood,
removed to California. 9. Walter C, died in infancy.
10. Sarah E., died in infancy. 11. Edward Everett,
married Almyra Chapman.
(VII) Such were the antecedents of Jonathan
Fairbanks Lester, who was born in Ledyard, Con-
necticut, June II, 1846, died March 14, 1904. He was
educated in the public schools, and when his own
education wan finished he taught school in both
Ledyard and Groton. When a young man he went
to the State of California and there spent several
years engaged in farming. He returned to Connecti-
cut and was for a time engaged in the meat and
provision business in Norwich. His California ex-
periences had left a pleasant impression, and later
he formed an association with his brothers, Amos,
Samuel W. and Frank L., and they all went to Cali-
fornia, where for four years they engaged in farm-
.^<£Ze^
BIOGRAPHICAL
305
ing. In 1873 Jonathan F. Lester returned again to
Norwich, married the same year, and for a time
engaged in tlie optical manufacturing business.
Afterward, and for several years, he was a mcmiber
of the wholesale produce business of Cook & Lester,
and gained high reputation as a man of fine busi-
ness ability.
Mr. Lester married, May 28, 1873, Cecelia Williams
Spiccr, born September 30, 1852, daughter of Captain
Edmund and Bcthiah Williams (Avery) Spicer, of
Groton. Captain Edmund Spicer was a son of John
and Elizabeth (Latham) Spicer, grandson of Ed-
ward, son of John, son of Edward, son of Peter
Spicer, -who settled in that part of New London
county known as Ledyard in 1666. Captain Edmund
Spicer, born in North Groton, January 11, 1812, died
May I, 1890. He was one of Groton's most promi-
nent men, selectman seventeen years; clerk and
treasurer twelve years; representative to the State
Legislature, 1849; candidate for State Senator, 1862;
judge of probate twelve years, 1865-77; charter mem-
ber and for eighteen eonsecutive years secretary of
the Bill Library Association; and froim 1867 until
his death, postmaster of Ledyard. Captain Spicer
married, November 16, 1836, Bethiah W. Avery,
daughter of John Sands and Bethiah (Williams)
Avery, of Groton. Captain and Mrs. Spicer were the
parents of eig'ht children: I. Mary AfTy, who mar-
ried George Fanning. 2. John Sands, who married
Anna Mariah Williams. 3. Joseph Latham, who died
in childhood. 4. Sarah Elizabeth, who married Na-
than L. Lester. 5. Caroline Gallup, who married
Amos Lester. 6. Cecelia Williams, wife of Jonathan
F. Lester. 7. Edward Eugene, who married Sarah
Adelaide Griswold. 8. George Walter, who married
Elizabeth Griswold.
Jonathan F. and Cecelia (Williams) Lester were
the parents of five children: i. Ella Cecelia, born
September 12, 1874, a graduate of Mt. Holyoke Col-
lege, and for several years taught school, now re-
siding at home in Norwich, Connecticut. 2. Jonathan
Frank, born November 25, 1876, married (first) Mary
Louise Shaw, who bore him a son, Jonathan Forest;
he married (second) Nina Grace Skinner, and they
have one child, Nina Jean. 3. Fanny Berthia; born
May 7, 1880, a trained nurse; married Frederick Os-
born Morrill, and resides in Boston; they are the
parents of three children: Bethia Cecelia, Olive Ma-
rie, and Frederick Lester. 4. Ida May, born March
17, 1882, died September 7, 1891. 5. Mary Carrie,
born January 8, 1886, died September 30, 1891.
THOMAS J. HILL— Since 1897 Mr. Hill has been
established in the meat and grocery business at Ni-
antic, Connecticut. Beginning in a small way, he
has gradually made his way to the position of promi-
nence which he now holds. He has always asso-
ciated himself earnestly and actively with the life of
the community, and is respected and held in the
highest esteem by all who know him.
Thomas J. Hill was born at Niantic, Connecticut,
May 4, 1874, the son of the late Thomas and Eliza-
N.L,.— 2.20.
beth (Jose) Hill, the former a stone-cutter by trade.
Thomas J. Hill obtained his early education in the
schools of Niantic, after which he entered Wilbra-
ham Academy, where he remained for one term. He
tlien returned to Niantic and worked as a clerk in
a grocery store. Three years later he resigned from
this position and went to New Haven, Connecticut,
where he entered a business college, later going to
New York City. In 1897 he again returned to his
native town, and established himself in the meat and
grocery business. The enterprise proved successful,
for since that time Mr. Hill has consistently pros-
pered, being essentially the alert and progressive
business man. He affiliates with Bayview Lodge,
No. 120, Free and Accepted Masons; Niantic Lodge,
No. 17, Independent Order of Odd Fellows; and at-
tends the Methodist church of Niantic. In politics
he in an Independent, casting his vote for the man
regardless of party label.
Thomas J. Hill married, in 1898, Lillian Merritt,
and they are the parents of three children: Grace
Elizabeth, who married Leon Mandell Farrin, of
Cambridge, Massachusetts; Thomas Merritt, born
in February, 1901; and Annie May, born in July,
1902.
HORACE A. ADAMS— A New Hampshire boy
and man, a farmer, dairyman and expert butter-
maker, Mr. Adams continued along these lines in
New Hampshire and Connecticut until early in 1919,
when in association with M. Henry Trail, a newly-
returned soldier of the World War of 1917-18 (see
following sketch), he entered the automobile busi-
ness as garage proprietor and automobile agent, in
Groton, Connecticut, on the Shoreline road between
Groton and Mystic. This venture has proved suc-
cessful, and a good business is being built up.
Horace A. Adams is a son of Hiram Adams, born
in Salisbury, New Hampshire, where he spent his
youth in obtaining an education and in working on
the home farm. Upon reaching manhood he bought
a farm at Enfield, New Hampshire, and there en-
gaged in general farming until his death in 1876. He
married Harriet Cook, born in Lyme, New Hamp-
shire, who died in Enfield in 1898. They were the
parents of six children, three of whom are living:
Horace A., of further mention; Mary E., married
George E. Amos, and resides in Penacook, New
Hampshire; and Charles, a resident of Groton.
Horace A. Adams was born in Enfield, New
Hampshire, July 12, 1867, and obtained his education
in the public schools of Enfield and Lyme. After
leaving school he was engaged in farming until 1887,
then left home, and until 1893 was employed by D.
W. Wilton & Son, dairymen, of Wilton, New York.
There he became thoroughly familiar with modern
dairying operations and methods, and an expert in
butter manufacture. From the Wilton farm Mr.
Adams went, in 1893, to the Peterboro Creamery,
at Peterboro, New Hampshire, and there remained
as manager of the plant for four j'ears. His next
3o6
NEW LONDON CX)UNTY
position was as manager of the large estate of Rob-
ert P. Bass, a former governor of New Hampshire.
This estate was at Petcrboro, and there Mr. Adams
remained for eight years, until 1905. In that year
he came to Connecticut, spending the first two and
one-half years in the State at the Norton F. Plant
estate in Groton. For the next ten years, 1908-18,
he was engaged at the Thomas W. Avery farm in
Groton, and then abandoned agriculture for the auto-
mobile business.
His partnership with M. Henry Trail began shortly
after Mr. Trail's return from the army in January,
1919, they establishing a garage on the Shoreline
road between Groton and Mystic, where they have a
well-fitted plant, service station and stock of sup-
plies for tiie automobile. They are also agents for
the Atterbury truck, and are fast winning public
confidence. In politics Mr. Adams is a Republican;
in religious faith a Baptist; and in fraternity, affili-
ated with Union Lodge, No. 31, Free and Accepted
Masons, of New London, and Fairview Lodge, No.
loi. Independent Order of Odd Fellows, of Groton.
Mr. Adams married, at Somerville, Massachusetts,
September 6, 1892, Isabella Allan, daughter of John
D. and Charlotte (Arksen) Allan, of Scotch ancestry.
Mr. and Mrs. Adaaiis are the parents of two chil-
dren: Allan H., who married Bessie Card, of Gro-
ton, and resides in Brooklyn, New York; and Leslie
E., who married Evelyn Silvia, of Stonington, Con-
necticut, and resides at Groton, Connecticut.
M. HENRY TRAII Upon returning from the
service in the United States army in 1919, Mr. Trail,
in partnership with Horace A. Adams (see preceding
sketch), opened a garage and service station in Gro-
ton, Connecticut, and there continues a successful
business. He is a young man of forceful character,
and is winning many personal business friends
through his upright, manly life. He is a son of
Marcus and Ann M. (Marquardt) Trail, his father
born in the town of Groton, New London county,
Connecticut, and is now living retired in Groton, after
a busy and useful life as a contractor of road-build-
ing. To Mr. and Mrs. Trail si.x children were born,
three of whom are living: Ruth R., a teacher in
Kansas State College; M. Henry, of further mention;
and Stanley R.
M. Henry Trail was born in Groton, Connecticut,
November 15, 1896, and there was educated in the
public schools. He was variously employed until
August 31, 1917, when he entered the United States
army to serve in the war against Germany. He was
assigned to duty at Fort Travis, San Antonio, Texas,
and served until honorably discharged, January 27,
1919, with the rank of sergeant. Upon leaving the
army Sergeant Trail returned to Groton, where, as
stated, he is established in the garage business, in
association with Horace A. Adams. In politics he is
a Republican.
Mr. Trail married, in Groton, June 16, 1917, Esther
Spicer, and they are the parents of three children,
all born in Groton: Henry S., Esther P., and Ann E.
GEORGE PARKER HILL— Son of a soldier of
the Union who gave up his life at Gettysburg, and
bereft of a mother's love and care a year later,
George P. Hill, of Niantic, Connecticut, had to fight
life's battle alone from boyhood. So well has he
borne his part that now, although by no means an
old man, he has retired from business and is enjoy-
ing a well-earned rest. His father, Sanmci Hill, was
a Philadelphian, and enlisted in the Union army from
tiiat city. He was engaged with his regiment at the
battle of Gettysburg, July 3, 1863, and was instantly
killed, his son, George P., then a boy of five years.
In 1864 his mother died, and the boy was alone in
tlie world, his only sister having been burned to
death.
George Parker Hill was born in Philadelphia,
Pennsylvania, January 30, 1858. He was taken in
charge by friendly hands and sent to school until
he reached the age of twelve years, when he was
sent to South Halifax, Vermont, where he spent a
year on a farm. At the age of thirteen he went to
Shclburnc Falls, Massachusetts, and there found em-
ployment with a large stock farmer, v/ith whom he
remained until 1878. He was then in his twenty-
first year, well-developed, strong, and hearty, his
out-of-door life at the farm having developed a
strong, self-reliant, resourceful lad. In 1878 he came
to the town of Waterford, in Nevir London county,
Connecticut, and found work and a home at the
Warren Gates & Son's farm, on Durphy Hill. Tv;o
years were spent there, then in 1880 he exchanged
the farm for the sea, and spent eight years as a
Menhaden fisherman, sailing from New London,
Connecticut, with factories at Niantic, Connecticut,
and Lewes, Delaware. For seven years he was a
memlber of the crew of the fishing steamer "Ari-
zona," of which he was made junior officer in his
seventh year. In 1888 he was made first mate of
the steamer "Quickstep," and at the close of the
season of that year he abandoned the sea and re-
turned to land pursuits.
In 1889 he again made a complete change of busi
ness, and in the village of Niantic, opened an ice-
cream parlor and confectioner}' store. He built up
a very pretentious establishment, and catered so
skillfully to the public taste that he continued in
business most successfully for twenty-six years. He
then sold his business and retired, but continues his
home in Niantic.
Since becoming a landsman again, Mr. Hill has
taken an active part in politics, has held about all
town offices, and represented his district in the State
Legislature, his politics ardently Democratic. He is
a member of Niantic Lodge, No. 17, Independent
Order of Odd Fellows; the New England Order of
Protection; and Niantic Lodge, No. 10, Ancient Or-
der of United Workmen.
Mr. Hill married Emma U. Flint, born in Lyme,
Connecticut, August 18, 1864, daughter of William
Henry and Catherine Flint, her mother born in
England. William H. Flint w-as born in Greenport,
Long Island, and during the Civil War enlisted for
1
^
BIOGRAPHICAL
307
duty in the Secret Service Department, attached to
the Twenty-sixth Regiment, Connecticut Volunteer
Infantry, in which he held the rank of sergeant. He
was once captured while serving on a secret mission,
and evidence of his branch of the service being found
upon him, he was sentenced to be shot as a spy.
During the night preceding the morning set for the
carrying out of the sentence pronounced against
him, a Confederate soldier whom Sergeant Flint had
befriended, aided him to escape and he lived to a
good old age, dying in Lyme, Connecticut, in March,
1914. His wife died in Lyme v^hile her daughter
Emma U. was a child. Mr. and Mrs. William Flint
were the parents of four children; Lydia Jane;
Helen Maria; William Henry (2); and Emma U.,
wife of George Parker Hill, above mentioned. Mr.
and Mrs. Hill have no children.
sketch of whom follows: Jessie, married Andrew
Cossar, and resides in Glasgow, Scotland; Mary,
married William Perry, of Norwich, Connecticut,
who died in Camp Lee, Virginia, in the service of
his country during the World War of 1917-18; Wil-
liam M., married Carol Bliss, of Jewctt City; and
Andrew, a resident of Jewett City.
ARCHIBALD McNICOL— Since 1871, a date now
half a century in the past, Archibald McNicol has
been an important factor in textile manufacturing
in New London county, Connecticut, first, in Nor-
wicli, then in Jewett City. The McNicols, Archi-
bald, the father, and Alexander, the son, were con-
temporary in the business, and when the elder man
passed away, at the age of seventy-four, he was
succeeded by the son, who from his capable father
had received the instruction in manufacturing which
made him a worthy successor.
Archibald McNicol was born in Glasgow, Scot-
land, in 1S40, where he spent the first twenty-six
years of his life, there obtaining a good education
and mastering the details of the machinist's trade
in its relation to textile printing machinery. He
came from Scotland to the United States in 1866,
and for five years was employed in erecting machin-
ery, manufactured by a Scotch firm, and used in the
printing of textiles. In 1871 he entered the employ
of the .Arnold Print Works, and was connected with
different mills until 1889, when he came to Green-
ville, a suburb of Norwich, Connecticut, there as-
sociating with the Norwich Bleachery, now the
United States Finishing Company, dyers and printers
of textiles. In 1893 he was appointed agent and
manager of the Aspenook Mills, at Jewett City, Con-
necticut, a large cotton cloth printing, dyeing and
finishing plant. From 1899 until 1902 Mr. McNicol,
with his family, visited in Scotland, his old home,
and toured Europe, returning in 1902 to Jewett City.
There he re-entered business life as founder and
principal owner of the Jewett City Textile Novelty
Company, of which he was president until his death,
in May, 1914, aged seventy-four years. He was one
of the strong men of the textile manufacturing busi-
ness in Eastern Connecticut, and was highly re-
garded by his business associates and contempo-
raries.
Mr. McNicol married, in Scotland, Mary Mont-
gomery, born there in 1865, who died in Jewett City,
Connecticut, in January, 1919. They were the par-
ents of six children: Archibald (2), who died in
Jewett City, aged twenty-one years; Ale.xander, a
ALEXANDER McNICOL— Although one of the
youngest textile executives, Alexander McNicol,
treasurer and agent of the Jewett City Textile Nov-
elty Company, of Jewett City, Connecticut, has been
engaged in the business since leaving school, and
in the same plant over which he now has authority
he began his training, having the added advantage
of being under the direction of a Scotch father,
whose motto was "thoroughness," and who made
no exemptions on account of relationship. Mr. Mc-
Nicol is a native son of New London county, edu-
cated in Norwich schools, and in his native county
his thirty-two years have been spent, his connec-
tion with the textile business beginning in 1909.
Alexander McNicol, second son of Archibald and
Mary (Montgomery) McNicol (see preceding
sketch), was born in the city of Norvv^ich, Connecti-
cut, January 21, 1890. Lie was educated in Norwich
public schools, the free academy and business col-
lege, finishing in 1904. He then became associated
with his father in the Jewett City Textile Novelty
Company at Jewett City, and beginning at the bot-
tom, he worked through the various departments
until he arrived at a thorough and complete knowl-
edge of the business of which he is now the head.
He was his father's valued and trusted assistant
until the latter's passing in 1914, and then succeeded
him as agent and manager of the company founded
by Archibald McNicol in 1902, and developed by
Alexander McNicol, one of the youngest of all New
England textile manufacturers, and one of the most
able. He has no other business interests of import-
ance, his entire force, energy and business ability
being given to the management of the affairs of the
Jewett City Textile Novelty Company, a successful
corporation from its beginning, nearly two decades
ago.
On August 26, 1918, Mr. McNicol entered the
United States army, and was sent to Camp Green-
leaf, Georgia, for training. On October 25, 1918,
he was made corporal, and with his regiment was
awaiting marching orders for an embarkation camp
when the armistice was signed. His company was
ordered to Camp Mills, Long Island, where he was
in charge of a sanitary department of the camp, de-
voted to the reception of home-coming soldiers. Fie
was honorably discharged and mustered out of the
service January 26, 1919.
Mr. McNicol is a member of Norwich Chamber of
Commerce; the Connecticut Manufacturers' Associa-
tion; the Rotary Club, of Norwich; Orville La
Flamme Post, American Legion, of Jewett City;
member, and for years clerk of the Jewett City Con-
gregational Church; member of Reliance Lodge, No.
3o8
NEW LONDON COUNTY
29, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, of Jcwett
City; and in politics a Republican.
Mr. McNicol married, August 5, 1917, Bernice
Reed, daughter of Alva B. and Mary (James) Reed,
of Lynn, Massachusetts. The family home is in
Jewctt City.
SAMUEL ROGERS— A prominent figure in the
business life of Niantic, Connecticut, and the sur-
rounding country is Samuel Rogers. Since 1917 he
has been established in tlie stationery business in
Niantic, under the firm name of Rogers & Son, and
has also been active in the political and public life
of the community. The welfare and advancement
of the town is always uppermost in his mind, and he
has always given his earnest support to all move-
ments calculated to advance its development.
Samuel Rogers was born at Niantic, Connecticut,
August 6, 1871, the son of the late Samuel and Mary
B. (Elford) Rogers. Mr. Rogers, Sr., previous to
his death, which occurred in 1916, was engaged suc-
cessfully in the monumental business. Mrs. Rogers
was a native of England; she died at Niantic in 1910.
To Mr. and Mrs. Rogers were born si.x children:
Lucy Jane, deceased; William, deceased; Ellen, de-
ceased; Samuel, of further mention; Mary, deceased;
and Grace, deceased.
The boyhood of Samuel Rogers was spent in his
native town, where he attended school, subsequently
entering the schools of Clinton, Connecticut, where
he remained until the termination of his studies.
The business of life then began for the boy and he
entered the employ of the New York, New Haven
& Hartford railroad, as agent at Millstone, Con-
necticut. Resigning six years later, he became as-
sociated with G. M. Long, of New London, and re-
xnained there for eight years, when he returned to
Niantic and secured employment with the Hum-
phrey, Cornell Company, wholesale grocers, as a
travelling salesman, and thus continued until 1917,
when he established himself in his present business.
The venture proved successful, and although start-
ing in a small way, he has already built up quite an
extensive stationery business. Mr. Rogers is an In-
dependent in politics, preferring to exercise his own
judgment on all public questions and issues rather
than identify himself with any formal political party.
He has been town auditor for ten years. He affili-
ates with Bay View Lodge, No. 120, Free and Ac-
cepted Masons; and Niantic Lodge, No. 17, Inde-
pendent Order of Odd Fellows.
On June 5, 1895, Samuel Rogers was united in
marriage v/ith Minnie Emma Beckwith, daughter of
Willard Parker and Stella Beckwith. To Mr. and
Mrs. Rogers have been born two children: Elford
Parker, mentioned below; Eleanor Hamilton ,who
was born December 18, 1904, and is now (1921) at-
tending the William Memorial High School, at New
London, Connecticut.
Elford Parker Rogers, son of Samuel and Min-
nie E. (Beckwith) Rogers, was born at Niantic,
Connecticut, March 17, 1896. He was educated in
the public schools of his native place and also
graduated from the Connecticut Agricultural Col-
lege, at Storrs, Connecticut. After leaving college
he was with the Industrial Bank of Hartford, Con-
necticut. On April 25, 1917, he enlisted in the
United States army, Troop B, of the One Hundred
and First Machine Gun Battalion, of Hartford, Con-
necticut. After a training period at the State mili-
tary camp he was ordered overseas on October 9,
1917, and arrived at Havre, November I, 1917, go-
ing immediately to the training camp at Neufchateau,
where he remained for three months. On February
I, 1918, he went into action, and on July 22, 1918,
was desperately wounded in the left leg at Chateau-
Thierry. He was honorably discharged October 19,
1920. He is a member of the Veterans of Foreign
Wars. Elford Parker Rogers married Sybil Beebe,
a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. Lee Beebe, of Niantic,
and to them one child has been born, AUyn.
Elford P. Rogers is just one more of our brave
American lads who was willing to make the supreme
sacrifice if necessary. As it happened, he was not
called upon to do this, but the wound which he re-
ceived was so severe that he will never fully recover
from its effects. Such a record is certainly worthy
of emulation and should certainly have mention in a
a work of this nature.
CAPTAIN NELSON J. HUNTLEY— Now an
octogenarian, retired from all cares, and living at his
comfortable home in Niantic, Connecticut, not far
from the place of his birth. Captain Huntley reviews
a long life of adventure, during which he sailed the
seven seas, faced every form of peril known to those
"who go down to the seas in ships," and rose from
cabin boy to master. He has travelled to about
every port on the Atlantic Ocean, endured every dan-
ger and trial that besets the mariner, including ship-
wreck and all its attendant horrors. Then, too, he
recalls the pleasures and the wonders of those voy-
ages, the strange things of the sea and land he saw,
of the lights under the Southern Cross, the strange
life of the Orient, the wonders of the tropics, and
the glory of the Northern Lights as seen from high
latitude. Then when the sailing ship gave way to
the steamship, he quit the merchant service, but
clung to the sea, and for fifteen years was a lightship
keeper watching over the destinies of those adven-
turous souls who trusted him to keep the lights
burning that they might make safe entrance to New
York Harbor, and he never failed them. Then
came a decade at Sandy Hook, and then the
quiet, the comfort, the peace of home and loved
ones.
Captain Nelson J. Huntley is a son of Elisha Hunt-
ley, born in that part of the town of East Lyme,
New London county, Connecticut, known locally as
Whistletown, and there engaged in farming until his
retirement to the village of Niantic, where he died
in 1895. Elisha Huntley married Nancy Tinker,
born in Whistletown, where she died in the year
1900. They were the parents of six children: Frank:
BIOGRAPHICAL
309
Nancy; Julia; George;; Mary; and Nelson J., of
whom further.
Nelson J. Huntley was born in the Whistlctown
section of the town of East Lyme, New London
county, Connecticut, September 24, 1837, and on his
father's farm spent the first fourteen years of his
life. He attended the district school at Whistle-
town until the age of fourteen, when his parents
moved to Niantic, and there an inborn love of the
sea gained control of his life, and while yet a boy
he sailed with the Niantic fishermen. He quickly
advanced in rating until he commanded a full share
of the vessel's catch, and for ten years he continued
a fisherman. He then shipped on deep-sea craft, and
from common seaman advanced through every grade
of ship life until he trod his own quarter-deck. He
ccmni-indcd ships in the merchant service and sailed
to nn:. > ports, carrying home products and bring-
ing I icK the most valuable cargoes from the islands
and lands of the far Atlantic. His life was filled
with action and adventure for many years, then he
engaged in the more peaceful coasting trade, owning
his own coal-carrying schooner. Finally he retired
from the coasting trade and accepted service with
the United States Government in the lighthouse
department of the navy. For fifteen years he was
in charge of the lightship that marked the entrance
to Ambrose Channel, New York Harbor, a life quiet
in comparison with his previous one, but filled with
adventure and danger when winter storms beset the
ship, and lights must be kept burning at any cost.
After fifteen years of lightship duty he was trans-
ferred to shore duty at Sandy Hook and after ten
years there he retired, and has since occupied his
home in Niantic. Captain Huntley is a member of
the Congregational church; in politics a Republican.
Captain Huntley married, in Saybrook, Connecti-
cut, July £4, 1867, Eleanor Anne Parker, born in
Essex, Connecticut, March 26, 1840, daughter of
Jonathan and Abigail (Wilcox) Parker. Mrs. Hunt-
ley is the last to survive of a large family of chil-
dren born to her parents. Captain and Mrs. Hunt-
ley are the parents of three children, but one of
whom survives, Maud Eleanor, born in Niantic,
Connecticut, June 8, 1875, married, October 14, 1896,
to Gurdon Beckwith Coates, and has two children:
Eleanor Irene, born in Niantic, July 29, 1897, married
George A. Garrett, of Washington, District of Co-
lumbia, and has a son, George Coates (2); and Mar-
jorie Elizabeth, born August 22, 1909. The first
child born to Captain and Mrs. Huntley was a son,
Walter Nelson Huntley, born in Esse.x, Connecticut,
now deceased; he is buried in Niantic. Their second
child died in infancy. Mrs. Coates was their young-
est.
While so much of his life has been spent in dif-
ferent places. Captain Huntley's love for the home
town has always continued, and his interest is deep
in all that concerns the welfare of his town and
townsmen. He is now in his eighty-fifth year, but
well-preserved for one of his years.
WALTER GIFFORD BARKER, who conducts
a popular confectionery store in Niantic, Connecti-
cut, is a son of Captain Walter Harris Barker, who
was born in New London, Connecticut, in 1856, and
died there in igii. Captain Barker was captain of
the "Mohawk," a coastwise freighter. He married
Emma May, who was born in New London in 1864,
and still survives him, residing in her native city.
They were the parents of three children: i. Jean,
who was born in New London, became the wife of
Samuel Mallory, who died, leaving her with two
children, Leonard and Viola. 2. Herbert Nelson,
also born in New London, who married Arlene Sher-
man. 3. Walter G. Barker, whose name heads this
review.
Walter G. Barker was born in New London, Con-
necticut, February 18, 1883, and received his early
education in the public schools of this city, then, in
preparation for the future, went to Washington, Dis-
trict of Columbia, where he attended a physical
training school, conducted by Henry S. Curtis. For
a number of years following his course at this school,
Mr. Barker was identified with physical training
work in various parts of the country, for several
years serving as physical director of the Young
Men's Christian Association at Frederick, Maryland,
and for one year holding a similar position with the
association at Martinsburg, West Virginia. He then
came to Niantic, where he has since been success-
fully engaged in the confectionery business.
In political affairs Mr. Barker endorses the prin-
ciples of the Republican party, but holds an inde-
pendent position, voting with the party only when
liis judgment coincides. He has for several years
served on the school board.
Mr. Barker married Maud Louise Patterson, who
was born in Noank in 1886, and is a daughter of
William E. Patterson, of that city. They are the
parents of two children: Daniel Cleveland, who was
born in Bridgeport, Connecticut; and Jane Patter-
son, born in Niantic, in 1916.
CHARLES BUTSON— Learning the boat-build-
er's trade from his father, Joseph W. Butson, father
and son worked together for some time, the father
going to Long Island, where he built boats for twen-
ty-five years, the son going to Mystic, Connecticut,
later to Groton, where he has continued a boat-
builder for sixteen years, from 1905 to 1921.
Joseph William Butson was born in Fowey, Eng-
land, and there learned boat-building, which he made
his lifelong occupation. In 1889 he came to the
United States and located on Long Island, where he
died in 1916. He married Mary Hickson, who died
in November, 1891. They were the parents of four
cliildrcn, Charles of this review, the second in order
of birth.
Charles Butson was born in Fowey, England, May
22, 1872, and there spent the first seventeen years
of his life obtaining an education in the public
schools. The family came to the United States in
3X0
NEW LONDON COUNTY
1889, and until 1903 Charles Butson worked with his
father in boat-building operations on Long Island.
In 1903 he moved to Mystic, Connecticut, and there
built boats until 190S, when he moved to his present
home in Groton. Here he has continued boat-build-
ing, principally small craft, motor and row boats.
He is a good workman, and a man highly respected
by all who know him. He is a member of the
Methodist Episcopal church, the American Order
of United Workmen, and in politics he is a Re-
publican.
Mr. Butson married, November 3, 1897, Charlotte
Bishop, daughter of Jeremiah and Elizabeth Bishop,
and they are the parents of seven children: Charles
H., Louis N., Joseph B., Kenneth, Sidney, Frank,
and Eugene.
JAMES PATRICK HAYES— Among the repre-
sentative citizens of Norwich, Connecticut, James P.
Hayes, owner and manager of the Dell Hoff Hotel,
at No. 26 Broadway, must have mention. A native
son of Norwich, he has spent his entire life there,
and in everything pertaining to the welfare and ad-
vancement of the community he takes a keen and
intelligent interest.
John Hayes, father of James P. Hayes, was born
in Cork, Ireland, and there was educated and mar-
ried. When a young man he came to the United
States and located in Manchaug, where he was em-
ployed in a woolen mill until 1884, then removed to
Norwich, Connecticut, where he was with the United
States Finishing Company until his death, July 23,
1893. He married Mary Coughlin, also born in
Cork, Ireland, who died July 25, 1917. To Mr. and
Mrs. Hayes were born five children: Patrick John,
associated with his brother, James P., in the hotel
business; Mary Theresa, wife of John Driscoll, of
Norwich; Dennis Joseph, a partner with his brother.
Tames P., in the ownership and management of the
bell HofT Hotel, married Nellie Kirby, of Norwich;
James P., the subject of this review; and Elizabeth
Theresa, principal of the Norwich Falls public
school.
James P. Hayes was born in Norwich, Connecti-
cut, March 9, 1886, and there obtained his education
in the public and parochial schools. As a young man
he served an apprenticeship as a polisher and gun-
smith with the Hopkins & Allen Company, continu-
ing until 1904, when he became associated with his
brother, Patrick J. Hayes, in the ownership of the
Dell HofJ Hotel, one of the leading hotels of Nor-
wich. Hayes Brothers conducted the hotel until
1920, when Patrick J. Hayes retired from the busi-
ness and was succeeded by his younger brother,
Dennis J. Hayes, the new firm, James P. and Dennis
J. Hayes, continuing the management of the popular
Dell Hoff Hotel.
In politics James P. Hayes is a Democrat, and
takes a lively interest in public affairs. Mr. Hayes
is past exalted ruler of Norwich Lodge, No. 430,
Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, serving
in 1914, and in 1919 was appointed district deputy
for the State of Connecticut, representing the grand
exalted ruler of the order in the State of Connecti-
cut. As district deputy he visited every Elks' lodge
in the State, becoming widely and favorably known
to Connecticut Elks, and is likewise well known in
the national body of the order, having represented
his home lodge in the Supreme Lodge as a delegate
and as a member of the Grand Lodge of Connecticut.
He has attended several of these national conven-
tions in a private capacity, and is one of the most
entliusiastic and loyal Elks in the State of Con-
necticut. He has been a tireless worker for the good
of the order, the purchase of the Osgood homestead
in Norwich as a home for the Elks being a project
he ardently advocated until the purchase was made.
To the homestead a large addition has been made,
which is used as a lodge room, the whole forming
one of the most complete and beautiful Elks' homes
in the State. He labored with all his might to bring
about this result, and his work in all Elk activities
is bringing him to prominence in Connecticut Elk-
dom. In religious faith he is a Roman Catholic, a
member of St. Patrick's Church, Norwich. He en-
joys the respect and confidence of his brethren of
the order who nobly second his efforts.
LUCIUS BRIGGS— Although a native-born son
of the State of Massachusetts, Lucius Briggs has
resided long enough in the State of Connecticut to
become identified with its interests, financial, indus-
trial, political and social, contributing his share to
the improvement and upbuilding of his adopted city,
Norwich, where he is honored and respected, his
word there being considered as good as his bond.
The branch of the Briggs family herein followed,
traces to John Briggs, who was a resident of Kings-
ston, Rhode Island, in 1671, where he served in pub-
lic capacity. Among his children was James Briggs,
a resident of East Greenwich, Rhode Island, who
married, and among his children was Jonathan
Briggs, born in East Greenwich, Rhode Island, in
175s; died December 23, 1837. He resided for a
time on Block Island, but later removed to Coven-
try, Rhode Island, where he followed farming as a
means of livelihood. He was a Revolutionary sol-
dier, serving for nearly seven years. His wife, Abi-
gail (Greene) Briggs, bore him six children, one of
whom was Wanton Briggs, born in Coventry, Rhode
Island, October 5, 1788, died, at Phoenix, Rhode
Island, March 27, 1849. He served as a soldier in
the War of 1812. He married Mary Tift, who bore
him twelve children, one of whom was Lucius
Briggs, grandfather of the present member of that
name, born in Coventry, Rhode Island, December
21, 1825, died at his home in Norwich, Connecticut,
January 27, 1901. His boyhood and young manhood
were spent in his native town, but m 1849, the year
of the gold craze in California, he journeyed West,
accompanied by his brother. Wanton Briggs, Jr.,
and there remained two years. Upon his return
East, he located in Masonville, town of Thompson,
Connecticut, and entered the employ of the Mason-
7/
^.
BIOGRAPHICAL
311
villc Manufacturing Company, later acquiring an
interest therein, which he disposed of in 1883. He
was associated with the Grosvenors and built part
of the Grosvenor Dale Mills. He became half-owner
and manager of the Glasgo Yarn Mill Company, of
Glasgo, Connecticut, where he took up his residence,
and in 1898 sold his interest to the American
Thread Company. Two years previously he took
up his residence in Norwich, where he spent the
remainder of his days. He was president of the
Thompson Savings Bank; a director in the Thomp-
son National Bank, Thames National Bank, Uncas
Paper Company, Manufacturers Insurance Company,
and in the Grceneville Blcachery. He was a repre-
sentative from the town of Thompson in the Lower
House of the State Assembly in 1867; served in
the State Senate in 1875; and was a presidential
elector on the Republican ticket at the time of the
second election of General Grant, as president. He
married Harriet Taylor Atwood, of Coventry, Rhode
Island, and they were the parents of four cliildren,
among whom was Charles Wanton, father of Lucius
Briggs, of this review. Mrs. Briggs died September
9, 1887.
Charles Wanton Briggs was born in Grosvenor
Dale, town of Thompson, Windham county, Con-
necticut, October 2, 1855, died in Norwich, Connecti-
cut, 1915. After the completion of his studies, which
terminated with his graduation from the Highland
Military Academy, at Worcester, Massachusetts, in
1874, he accepted a position in the Grosvenor Dale
Mills, in due course of time becoming assistant
superintendent, which position he filled until 1879.
He then was appointed superintendent of a mill at
Haydenville, Massachusetts, purchased by his father,
and so continued until the latter purchased the mills
at Glasgo, Connecticut, and consolidated both mills.
Charles W. Briggs then went to Boston, Massachu-
setts, as special agent of the company, remaining
two years, then was sent to New York City, where
lie filled the same position until 1898, when his
father disposed of his interest in the mills. He
then engaged in the manufacture of folding box
board paper at Bogota, New Jersey, acting as trea-
urcr and general manager of the Bogota Paper
Company, and this connection was retained until the
year 1902, when the company sold out to the paper
trust. Mr. Briggs then returned to his native State,
locating in Norwich, and there became interested in
several enterprises, serving as director of the Daven-
port Fire Arms Company. Mr. Briggs married,
February, 1880, Sadie Elizabeth Home, a native of
Somersworth, New Hampshire, daughter of Samuel
P. and Mary Home. Her death occurred in Nor-
wich in 1914. Children: Lucius, of whom further;
Charles Walter, born October, 1885; Robert Elmer,
born June, 1893.
Lucius Briggs was born in Haydenville, Massa-
chusetts, September 30, 1882. The family moved to
New York in 1885. He attended the public schools
of New York City, and the College of the City of
New York, being a student in the latter named in-
stitution in 1900, '01, '02. His first employment was
in the paper mills at Bogota, New Jersey, in which
his father had an interest, he having charge of the
selling end of the business. He removed with his
parents to Norwich, Connecticut, in 1902, and ac-
cepted a position as clerk in the Thames National
Bank of that city, serving for two years, and from
1905 to 1908 was assistant bookkeeper in the Uncas
Bank of Norwich. From the latter named date to
1911, a period of three years, he served as salesman
for the firms of Hornblower & Weeks and Tucker
and Anthony Company of Boston, Massachu-
setts, brokers, selling bonds, etc.. then became
connected with the Edward Chappell Com-
pany, of Norwich, and in 1913 was chosen to serve
as secretary, ofTice manager, and manager of the
coal department, and is so serving at the present
time, his long incumbency of office being the best
testimonial of his efficiency. He is trustee of the
Dime Savings Bank of Norwich. He is a Republi-
can in politics, and a member of Arcanum, Norwich
Golf, Chelsea Boat, and Rotary clubs, all of Norwich.
Mr. Briggs married, in 1904, Mary GolTe Brewer,
of Norwich, Connecticut, daughter of Arthur H.
Brewer. Children: Lucius Gofre, born October 8,
1904, and Marion Brewer, born January 11, 1906.
Mr. and Mrs. Briggs attend the Episcopal church.
LOUIS PACKER ALLYN— The Allyns of Mys-
tic, Connecticut, now represented by Louis Packer
Allyn and his sons. Dr. Louis M. and Dr. Gordon S.,
trace descent from Robert Allyn, of Allyns Point,
from almost the beginning of things in New London
county. On the mother's side, these Allyns, men-
tioned above, descend from Captain James Avery, of
Groton.
Robert Allyn, from Salem, Massachusetts, and
Captain James Avery were among the company
from Gloucester, Cape Ann, who joined John Win-
throp and the little colony at New London, Connec-
ticut, in March, 1651, and lots on Cape Ann street.
New London, were set ofT to them. In 1653 Robert
Allyn received a grant up the Thames river, and
Captain James Avery one on Poquanock Plains.
John Allyn, son of Robert Allyn married Elizabeth
Gager, daughter of John Gager, who came to Pe-
quot, or London, with John Winthrop, and was also
given a grant adjoining and south of Robert AUyn's,
at what is now known at Stoddard's Wharf. Be-
fore 1670 Robert Allyn and John Gager joined a
company in settling Norwich. After his father's
death, John Allyn left Norwich and returned to the
paternal farm, where he built a house and warehouse
near the river, at a place since known as Allyn's
Point. (Miss Caulkin's "History of New London").
Robert (2) Allyn, who was the son of John .A.llyn,
married Deborah .A.very, daughter of Lieutenant
James and Deborah (Stallyon) Avery. His son, Eben-
ezer Allyn, married Mary Thurber; and Ebenezer's
son. Elder Rufus .A.!lyn, married Hannah Billings,
daughter of Stephen and Bridget (Grant) Billings.
Captain Rufus Allyn, son of Elder Rufus ."Mlyn, mar-
ried Freelove Morgan, daughter of Deacon Shapley
312
NEW LONDON COUNTY
Morgan, son of John Morgan, who through the
Shapleys, his wife's family, and John Pickett, who
married Ruth Brewster, was a descendant of Jona-
than Brewster, son of Elder William Brewster, of
Plymouth.
Gurdon Spicer AUyn, of the sixth American gen-
eration, was born at the farm of his parents, Captain
Rufus and Freelove (Morgan) Allyn, located just
west of Meeting House Hill, in the town of Led-
yard, New London county, Connecticut, in 1817, and
died in Mystic, Connecticut, in February, 1876, aged
fifty-nine. He passed his youth at the home farm,
but when young, came to Mystic, where he learned
the carpenter's trade under Harry Latham. He
worked at that trade as apprentice, journeyman and
contractor, but soon abandoned it for quarry and ice
interests, but his chief business was menhaden fish-
ing and their conversion of the fish into oil and by-
products. He was at one time attracted by the Wis-
consin lumber business, but a few years sufficed and
he then returned to the fish business, in which he
remained engaged until his death. He was a man of
tremendous energy, which made it possible for him
to conduct his large business interests successfully.
He was the leading spirit in any of the enterprises in
which he was engaged, and exerted a deep influence
in the business affairs of his section of the country.
He was the controlling spirit in the building of the
old waterworks at Mystic, and in all that pertained
to the good of the town he lent a willing and helpful
hand. In politics he was a Republican, serving as
selectman in 1868 and again in 1874. He represented
the town of Groton for two terms in the State Legis-
lature and held many minor town offices. He was a
member and trustee of the Union Baptist Church,
and affiliated with the Masonic order. Conscien-
tious, upright, and honorable, he won public confi-
dence and esteem to a degree unusual, and the trust
reposed in turn was never betrayed. Mr. Allyn mar-
ried (first) Hannah (Avery) Rathbun, widow of
Alden Rathbun, and daughter of Joseph Swan Avery
and his wife, Mary (Hudson) Avery, the former a
son of Colonel Simeon Avery, who was on the staflf
of Genera! Washington in the Revolutionary War.
Mary (Hudson) Avery was a daughter of Phineas
and Margaret (Sabin) Hudson. A number of these
Allyns and Averys were killed at Fort Ledyard in
17S1. Gurdon S. and Hannah (Avery-Rathbun) Al-
lyn were the parents of four children: Juliette; Louis
Packer, of further mention; Francis; and Hannah;
all deceased except Louis Packer. Mr. Allyn mar-
ried (second) Martha Champion, and they were the
parents of a son, Gurdon C.
Louis Packer Allyn was born in Mystic, Connec-
ticut, July 22, 1851, and there yet resides (1921).
He was educated in the public schools and began
business life as a clerk in the Luther A. Morgan &
Company general store, in which his father was part
owner, remaining there four years. He was then ad-
mitted to a partnership v/ith his father and Captain
John E. Williams, in the menhaden fishery, and until
the death of the senior member, they operated the
fishery most successfully as G. S. Allyn & Company.
He continued to operate the fishery after his father's
death with Captain John E. Williams until 1883,
when the company was dissolved and he joined his
interests with S. S. Brown & Company. That connec-
tion existed for ten years, and after the death of
Mr. Brown, he and Captain Lcnen formed a new
company, known as James Lenen & Company, of
Lewes, Delaware, also engaged in the menhaden
fishing and manfacturing. Later they merged with
the syndicate controlling menhaden fishing on the
coast, in which Mr. Allyn was director and the man-
ager of the Lewes, Delaware, plant. When he re-
signed from the syndicate, he and Captain Lenen
formed a new company known as the Menhaden Oil
and Guano Company, which they conducted success-
fully for eighteen years, when they sold out and re-
tired from business.
.A.though his business interests led him away from
Mystic, he has always maintained his residence
there, and retirement from business has given him
opportunity for pursuing many interests in his na-
tive village. He was active on committees and
drives during the World War. He is a director of
the Mystic River National Bank; a deacon and trus-
tee of the Union Baptist Church; a member of
Charity and Relief Lodge, No. 72, Free and Ac-
cepted Masons; and first selectman of the town of
Groton, 1920-22. He is on the board of directors
of the Community Club.
Mr. Allyn married, October 24, 1876, Emily Fen-
ner Maxson, a descendant of John Maxson, one of
the founders of Newport and Westerly, and the
daughter of William E. and Sarah Maria (Fenner)
^faxson, the former a noted shipbuilder of Mystic,
the latter a daughter of Philip A. and Sallie (Pot-
ter) Fenner, of Rhode Island. Mrs. Allyn is a mem-
ber of the Union Baptist Church; of the Fanny
Ledyard Chapter, Daughters of the American Revo-
lution, of Mystic; the Daughters of Founders and
Patriots of America; of other Colonial societies;
and of the Society of 1812, also the Women's Relief
Corps; the State Missionary and Promotion boards;
and does associational and local church missionary
work. Mr. and Mrs. Allyn are the parents of three
sons: Louis Maxson; Gurdon Spicer (2); and Wil-
liam Ellery, all of further mention.
Louis Maxson Allyn, after graduation from Mystic
High School, prepared at school in Westerly, Rhode
Island, and entered Lehigh University. Later he
entered the medical department of the University of
Pennsylvania, whence he was graduated M.D., class
of 1903. He served as a resident physician 'at St.
Joseph's Hospital, Reading, Pennsylvania, until May
1904, when he located in Mystic, where he has since
been in successful practice. He is a member of the
local, county. State and national medical societies,
and while at the University of Pennsylvania, joined
the John Guiteras Medical Society. He was a col-
lege athlete, played football at Lehigh, and in 1889
was a member of the "Eight Oar" crew that won the
Inter-Class Championship for the University of
Pennsylvania. His college fraternity is Delta Up-
silon. Dr. Louis M. Allyn was selectman of the town
BIOGRAPHICAL
313
of Groton three years, and highway commissioner
ten times. He is chairman of the school committee
in his district, and member of the board of school
visitors. He is health officer of the town of Groton;
chairman of the board of trustees of the Mystic Oral
School for the Deaf, a State institution; member of
the Union Baptist Church; and of Charity and Re-
lief Lodge, No. 72, Free and Accepted Masons, in
which lodge he is the fourth in succession in his
Imc, his great-grandfather, Captain Rufus Allyn, be-
ing one of the charter members. Dr. Louis M. Al-
lyn married Laura A. Greenman, of Greenmanville,
Mystic, and they are the parents of two daughters:
Lucia Greenman; and Emily Maxson.
Dr. Gurdon Spicer (2) Allyn is a graduate of Mys-
tic High School, Bulkeley High School (New Lon-
don), and took a course in Colgate University, New
York. He is a graduate of the medical department
of the University of Pennsylvania, receiving his de-
gree of Doctor of Medicine from the last-named in-
stitution, class of 1903. He ranked high in college
athletics, and rowed on the "Varsity Eight" for four
years. In 1900 he was No. 4 in the crew that won
the Inter-Collegiate Championship on the Hudson
at Poughkeepsie and broke the record for the dis-
tance. In 1901 he was No. 6 in the University of
Pennsylvania crew which contested at the Henley
Regatta in England, and pronounced the best crew
the United States ever sent abroad. That crew,
while they did not win, had the distinction of being
the only foreign crew that ever made the finals for
the Grand Challenge Cup at Henley. He rowed No.
6 for three of his four college years, and was made
captain of the 1902 crew while in England. In honor
of his brilliant career as an oarsman, he was chosen
for membership in the senior societies, "Skull and
Dagger," and the "Sphinx." He was a member of
the John Guiteras Medical Society of the University;
of the Alphi Mu Pi Omega, a medical fraternity;
and of the Delta Upsilon fraternity. After gradua-
tion in 1903, Dr. Allyn was for a year resident phy-
sician at St. Joseph's Hospital in Lancaster, Penn-
sylvania. In October, 1904, he began private pro-
fessional practice in New London, Connecticut, and
was surgeon on the staff of the Memorial Hospital,
and also of the Lawrence Hospital. He was a mem-
ber of New London County and Connecticut State
Medical societies. He was selectman for the town
of Waterford two years, and is now chairman of the
town committee. He is a member of Brainard
Lodge, No. 102, Free and Accepted Masons; of the
Mayflower Society; and Thames Club, of New Lon-
don. During the period of war between the United
States and Germany, 1917-18, he served as surgeon,
ranking as lieutenant, in the United States navy.
He is now president of the New London Sand and
Stone Company, also president of the Masons Island
Company. He is a member of the Union Baptist
Church of Mystic. Mr. Allyn married Annie Bal-
four Hislop, of New London, Connecticut, and they
are the parents of two sons: James Hislop, and Gur-
don Spicer (3).
William EUery Allyn, the youngest son of Louis
Packer and Emily Fenner (Maxson) Allyn, is a
graduate of Bulkeley High School, New London,
and had a two years' course at the University of
Pennsylvania, class of 1907. His college fraternity
is the Delta Upsilon. He began his business career
with the Babcock Printing Press Company, of New
London, with whom he continued for several years.
When he left the company on account of ill health,
he was sales manager for the southern territory,
from Pennsylvania to the gulf.
During the World War, 1917-18, he served in the
United States army, with the rank of captain, in the
Department of Ordnance, and was supervisor of
inspection of the Railroad and Scacoast Artillery.
He is a member of Brainard Lodge (New London),
No. 102, Free and Accepted Masons. He was repre-
sentative from the town of Waterford to the State
Legislature in 1920-1922, when he served on the
Committee of Finance. He is now cnlef field deputy
of the Internal Revenue Department, District of
Connecticut. He is secretary and treasurer of the
Masons Island Company; member of the executive
committee of the New London County Farm Bur-
eau; secretary and treasurer of the Waterford Far-
mers' Exchange; director of the Winthrop Trust
company. New London; member of the Thames
Club, New London; the Hartford Club; Shemacas-
sett Golf Club, New London; and Keiongs to the So-
ciety of Mayflower Descendants. Also is a member
of the Baptist church in Waterford. Mr. Allyn mar-
ried Marguerite Lonard Almy, daughter of Dr. Leon-
ard Almy, of Norwich, Connecticut, and they are the
parents of two daughters: Lydia Ballau, and Diana.
JAMES A. BERAN, real estate and insurance
broker, was born in Bridgeport, Connecticut, Sep-
tember 19, 1896, son of Andrew and Matilda Beran,
both now residing in the town of Waterford, New
London county, Connecticut. Andrew Beran, born
July IS, 1872, is a farmer, horticulturist, and land-
scape gardener, very skillful and successful. Ma-
tilda, his wife, was born May 18, 1877. Their home
in Waterford is on R.F.D. No. i.
James A. Beran began his education in the Bridge-
port schools and continued his studies in Bulke-
ley High School, New London, after which he
spent two years at United States Naval College.
From 1919 until 1921, he was a member of the firm
of Wetmore & Beran, but since 1921 has conducted
the business alone. He is district manager of the
Guardian Life Insurance Company of America, 108
State street. New London, and conducts a general
insurance and real estate business. He handles a
great deal of Ocean Beach property, renting, leasing
and selling.
In politics Mr. Beran is a Republican. He served
in the Naval Reserves as seaman, yeoman, chief yeo-
man and assistant paymaster. He is a member of
the Harbor Club of New London, and of the Episco-
pal church, his family belonging to St. Mary's Ro-
man Catholic Church.
314
NEW LONDON COUNTY
WILLIAM TRACY CRANDALL, assistant cash-
ier of the Thames National Bank, of Norwich, is a
descendant of John Crandall, who came trom Wales
to New England in 1635. John Crandall was a Bap-
tist preacher, and one of the persecuted ones of the
Massachusetts Colony, who fled to Rhode Island,
there finding the freedom of conscience, denied them
in Massachusetts. In 1637 he settled in Providence,
later was the first eldar of the church at Westerly,
and died in 1676, in Newport. He was twice married,
and had sons: John, Peter, Joseph, Samuel, Jere-
miah, and Ebcr. His son, Joseph, was a minister of
the Seventh Day Baptist church, and others of the
family have been ministers of the Gospel, including
Rev. Phincas Crandall, grandfather of William T.
Crandall, of Norwich. Phincas Crandall was a trav-
eling minister of the Gospel in New England, and at
the time of the birth of his son, John Newland
Crandall, was living in Maine.
John Newland Crandall, son of Rev. Phineas
Crandall, was born in the State of Maine, and edu-
cated in different schools in the town in which his
fatl;er was tlie settled pastor. He was a student at
Wilbraham Academy, (Massachusetts), and at Wes-
leyan Unversity, Middletown, Connecticut, and when
his own education was finished he taught school in
Norwich, Connecticut, for several years. Later, he
was employed in the Norwich Savings Society as
clerk, but after a year with that bank he resigned
and engaged in the real estate and insurance busi-
ness. He conducted that business very successfully
until 1902, when he retired from active life but con-
tinued his residence in Norwich for eight years lon-
ger, dying in 1910. He married Frances Emily
Tracy, who was born in Franklin, Connecticut, and
died in Norwich, April 25, 1898, and they were the
parents of four children, William T. being the sec-
ond.
William Tracy Crandall was born in Norwich,
Connecticut, July 28, 1859, and there was educated in
the public schools and in the Free Academy, com-
pleting his studies in 1878. In that same year he en-
tered the employ of the Norwich National Bank as a
clerk. In 1889 he transferred his allegiance to the
Thames National Bank of Norwich, of which insti-
tution he is now assistant cashier. He has devoted
his life to the banking business for more than forty
years, and has been with the same mstitution, the
Thames National Bank for more than thirty years.
His qualifications are high, his experience wide, and
his knowledge of banking, banking laws and pro-
cedure, very extensive. He is a member of Park
Congregational Church. He holds membership in
the Arcanum Club, and politically, gives his support
to the Republican party.
Mr. Crandall married, December 19, 1889, Eliza-
beth A. Gates, of Norwich, daughter of Henry A.
and Anna (Albro) Gates. The family home is at
No. 161 McKinley avenue, Norwich.
JOHN OILMAN STANTON, M.D.— On Novem-
ber 2, 1877, Dr. John G. Stanton arrived in New Lon-
don, Connecticut, and began private medical and
surgical practice. Forty-four years have since
elapsed, and he is now the honored physician and
surgeon, with all the professional honors the com-
munity can bestow and the intense satisfaction of
knowing that he has faithfully and devotedly per-
formed his duty as one of the guardians of the health
of that community.
Dr. Stanton is of New Hampshire parentage, a
grandson of John Stanton, and a son of John (2)
Stanton, the latter born in Brookfield, New Hamp-
shire, December 31, 1810, and died while on a jour-
ney to Marseilles, France, in December, 1848. John
(2) Stanton went to New Orleans, Louisianna, and
organized there an ice company, and later became
president of an ice company which bore his name.
That company, with headquarters in New Orleans
and Mobile, had branches in Savannah, Georgia,
Charleston, South Carolina, and Boston, Massachu-
setts, and was a very large, prosperous concern, Mr.
Stanton, its active head until his passings He
married Sophia Cook, born in Wakefield, New
Hampshire, died in Amherst, Massachusetts, in 1870.
John Gilman Stanton was born in New Orleans,
Louisiana, December 25, 1848, and there resided
until the death of his father, when the family came
North to Winchester, Massachusetts, where he pre-
pared for and entered Amherst College, whence he
was graduated A B., class of 1870. Deciding upon
the medical profession he went abroad and prepared
in German institutions, studying in the medical de-
partment of the University of Gottingen, a univer-
sity founded in 1737 and one of the foremost of the
German universities. He also spent two years at the
University of Berlin, and received his M.D. from the
University of Wurzburg, Bavaria, the seat of the
famous Julius Hospital founded in 1576.
In the fall of 1874 Dr. Stanton returned to the
United States and located in Boston, Massachusetts,
where he remained six years. During that period he
practiced as an assistant, and as physician to Boston
District Hospital eighteen months; for one year sur-
geon to out patients of the Boston City Hospital;
tv/o years as district physician to the Boston
Dispensary, and also practiced privately.
He came to New London, Connecticut, November
30, 1877, and there has practiced continuously until
the present, 1921. In addition to a private practice,
always large. Dr. Stanton has been surgeon to the
New London Northern & Central Vermont Railroad
for many years, president of the Lawrence and
Memorial Associated hospitals of New London, for
twenty-five years has been surgeon in the United
States Public Health Service, surgeon to the United
States Coast Guard Academy at Fort Trumbull, and
surgeon, with the rank of major, of the Third Regi-
ment, Connecticut National Guard.
In civic affairs Dr. Stanton has always been the
friend of progress, and as the ardent friend of educa-
tion has been able to do a great deal for the cause,
having been for a quarter of a century president of
the New London Board of Education and was a
member of the Connecticut State Board of Educa-
tion. He is also president of the New London Public
BIOGRAPHICAL
3»5
Library, president of the board of trustees of the
Unitarian church of New London, trustee of the
Savings Bank of New London, trustee of New Lon-
don Vocational Training School. His professional
societies are the New London County Medical So-
ciety, (past president); Connecticut State Medical
Society, and the American Medical Association. He
Society, (past president); New London City Medical;
is affiliated with Brainard Lodge, Free and Accepted
Masons, Brainerd Chapter, Royal Arch Masons,
Palestine Commandery, Knights Templar. His col-
lege fraternity is Delta Kappa Epsilon. In politics
he is Independent Democratic.
Dr. Stanton married in Amherst, Massachusetts,
October 13, 1875, Elizabeth Savage Cooper, born in
Calais, Maine, daughter of James S. and Abigail
(Gcrdlcr) Cooper. Mrs. Stanton died in May, 1920.
Dr. and Mrs. Stanton were the parents of a daughter,
Alice Cooper, born in New London, Connecticut,
married Harrison T. Sheldon, a member of the New
Haven, Connecticut, bar, and they have a daughter,
Anne.
ANDREW SMITH DEXTER.— After the close
of the World War, the little village of Poquonock
Bridge, town of Groton, Connecticut, being in need
of a new postmaster, the position was tendered An-
drew Smith Dexter of the same village, and he has
filled the office since July, 1920.
The parents of the young postmaster were
Andrew S. and Ida (Anderson) Dexter, the former
for many years a resident of Norwich, Connecticut,
where he was born, but in the later years of his life
residing at Poquonock Bridge, where he died De-
cember 30, 1917. In his early youth he was edu-
cated at Norwich. After leaving school he took up
the study of mechanics and was employed through-
out his active life in the mechanical department of
the New York, New Haven & Hartford railroad. Mr.
and Mrs. Dexter were the parents of seven children:
Andrew Smith, of whom further; Marion, George,
Merritt, Nellie, Annie, and Arthur, all of whom are
living at home.
Andrew Smith Dexter was born in Norwich, Con-
necticut, April 12, 1897. His parents having moved
to Poquonock Bridge shortly after his birth, he
grew up there, attending the public school. When
the United States became involved in the World
War, young Mr. Dexter went into the Groton Iron
Works, then greatly in need of men, and remained
with them until he received the appointment of post-
master at Poquonock Bridge.
In politics Mr. Dexter is an independent, and his
religious interest is with the Baptist church, of Po-
quonock Bridge, of which he is an attendant. He is
also connected with Fairview Lodge, No. loi. In-
dependent Order of Odd Fellows, of Groton, Con-
necticut; and with Charity and Relief Lodge, No. 72,
Free and Accepted Masons, of Mystic.
WILLIAM WHALEY — The life of William
Whaley, farmer and merchant, of the town of East
Lyme and the village of Niantic, Connecticut, began
in the second decade of the nineteenth century, and
for sixty-eight years he was numbered among the
residents of that town, and there, in the town of his
birth, he was laid at rest. He was a man of industry,
a good business man, kind-hearted and generous,
living a quiet life of usefulness and doing good as
he had opportunity. While a quiet, home-loving
man, he did not shirk public duty, but served in dif-
ferent capacities, being postmaster for fourteen
years, having the office in his store. But one of his
three children is now living in the village of Niantic,
Miss Emma Baker Whaley, an esteemed lady, who
resides in the old home her father built. William
Whaley was one of a family of seven, i. Jonathan,
born in Montville, Connecticut, February 5, 1801. 2.
Ezra Moore, born February 18, 1808, married
(first) Mary Anne ; and (second) Mary Ann
Chapel. 3. James, born June i, 1811, married
Phoebe Harding. 4. Henry, born September 12,
1813, married Mary Brockaw. 5. William, of fur-
ther mention. 6. Hannah, married Joseph Burton.
7. Waitstill O., born April 25, 1821, married William
H. Wheeler.
William Whaley was born in Montville, Connecti-
cut, January 30, 181 5, died in the town of East Lyme,
New London county, Connecticut, January 3, 1883.
He was educated in the district schools and Bacon
Academy, Colchester, Connecticut, being a graduate
of the last-named institution. After school days
were over he became his father's farm assistant, and
there remained until 1857, when he moved to the
village of Niantic, in East Lyme, where he built
a house in which he resided until the erection of the
present family home. In Niantic Mr. Whaley con-
ducted a general store with much success until his
death. For fourteen years of that period he was
postmaster of Niantic, and also held many of the
minor town offices. He was a good business man
and a good citizen, highly esteemed in his com-
munity. He is buried in East Lyme cemetery.
William Whaley married Laura Ransome Turner,
born in Montville, Connecticut, February 9, 1815,
died August 5, 1905, daughter of James and Mary
Turner. Mr. and Mrs. James Turner were the par-
ents of nine children: Nathaniel; David, who was
United States Consul at La Paz, Mexico, during
President Grant's administration; Mary; Elmira;
Laura Ransome, wife of William Whaley; Emme-
line; Abby; James Henry; and Pere G.
William and Laura R. (Turner) Whaley were the
parents of three children: l. Laura Turner, born
in East Lyme, March 17, 1846, died May 11, 1921;
she married George Lester, of Niantic, Connecticut,
but they later moved to Brooklyn, New York, where
their two children, Edward Whaley and Ursula
Hamilton Lester, were born. 2. Emma Baker, born
in East Lyme, June 12, 1847; Miss Whaley has resided
in Niantic since 1857, when her parents moved from
the farm to the village, sixty-four years ago. 3.
Sarah Romelia, born in Niantic, Connecticut, mar-
ried Willis Goddell, of Hartford, Connecticut, and
3i6
NEW LONDON COUNTY
now resides in Newport, Rhode Island; they are the
parents of a daughter, Rutli Turner Goddcll.
JAMES BERNARD SHANNON— A man of pro-
gressive nature and public spirit, James B. Shannon,
now gone to his reward, accomplished a great deal
for the improvement of the city of Norwich, to which
city he came in 1867. For half a century he was
engaged in business in the city, continuing it in the
same location on Water street for thirty-seven years.
It was not until 1892 that he began building opera-
tions, but from that year until his death, twenty-five
years later, he bought, built, and remodeled count-
less buildings, made waste places bloom, and the
rocks and mighty places become beautiful with
homes and improved grounds. He reclaimed many
old buildings and made them sightly residences. In
fact, the work he did and inspired made a new
Norwich, and he set an example in city improvement
that is worthy of emulation.
James B. Shannon was of New York City birth,
son of Patrick Shannon, born in Ireland, who came
to the United States, settled in New York, and in
1849 joined the "gold seekers," and went to Cali-
fornia. He died in New York City, in 1870, his wife,
Mary (Carroll) Shannon, in 1892. For a time after
the return of Patrick Shannon from California, in
1859, the family resided in Worcester, Massachusetts.
James B. Shannon was born in New York City,
February 16, 1845, and died in Norwich, Connecticut,
June II, 1917. He was educated in New York City
public schools, and there resided until the age of nine
years, when he located in Worcester, Massachusetts,
there continuing until reaching the age of twenty-
one, when he came to Norwich, residing there from
1867 until his death, half a century later. He had
been reared to work, and from his early experience
came forth a sturdy, self-reliant young man, one not
afraid of life, and equipped to resist adverse fortune,
a test which fortunately he was not in later life
called upon to endure.
Soon after coming to Norwich he established a
business on Water street, and continued there until
1904, when he moved to a brick building he had
erected at the corner of Market and Commerce
streets, there continuing until his retirement. In
1878 he became interested in real estate, and from
that year his building operations date, and he be-
came one of the city's largest improvement factors,
not, however, as a philanthropist, but as an investor.
From the time he began his building operations in
1878 he purchased sites and erected new buildings
thereon, bought and remodeled old buildings, many
of them difficult to change. For his own use he built
a beautiful house on Washington street, with two
acres of ground surrounding it, a great addition to
the exclusive residential district.
In 1858 he built the first Shannon building, a five-
story modern building at the corner of Main and
Shetucket streets. That building was destroyed by
fire February 9, 1909, but rebuilding on a large scale
began as soon as the ruins had cooled enough to al-
low workmen to enter. The present Shannon build-
ing, with one hundred and thirty feet frontage on
Main and Shetucket streets, resulted, which is a mod-
ern five-story office and store building, rated as a
model fire-proof construction. One year after the
fire the new building was ready for occupancy.
The Marguerite Block, a modern apartment and
store building, was erected in 1901, at the corner of
Main and North Main streets, having a forntage of
one hundred ninety feet on both streets, and was
the first apartment block built in Norwich. The Au-
ditorium Theatre, now The Strand, was built in 1905
on Water street, and the Auditorium Hotel, a mod-
ern, five-story, fireproof hotel, in 1915. The same
year the Majestic, a modern four-story, fireproof
block, with fourteen stores and a roof garden, was
erected at the corner of Shetucket and Water streets.
This block, the largest in Norwich, covers twenty-
two thousand square feet. In all he erected and re-
modeled more than twenty buildings, the foregoing
being the more important, and James B. Shannon is
recorded as the largest individual builder and the
city's largest individual ta.xpayer of his time. He
owned, in addition to his Norwich properties, a
woolen mill at Baltic, Connecticut, and was finan-
cially interested in other textile mills. He was a
man of genial, friendly nature, very easy to approach,
loyal to his friends, and very proud of his city.
Mr. Shannon was a director of the old First Na-
tional Bank of Norwich. .\ Democrat in politics, he
was very active in party affairs; was State central
committeeman for sixteen years, and in 1892 was
chairman of the Connecticut delegation to the Na-
tional Convention held in Chicago, which, for the
third time nominated Grover Cleveland for President
of the United States. He was a member of the Ro-
man Catholic Church, and very charitable, giving
generously to all good causes.
James B. Shannon married (first) at Norwich, in
May, 1870, Catherine Frances Cunningham, born in
Newton, Massachusetts, who died in Norwich, Con-
necticut, in July, 1894. Mr. and Mrs. Shannon were
the parents of six children, all born in Norwich, Con-
necticut: I. James B. (2), a physician of Daniel-
son, Connecticut, who died unmarried, in 1913.
2. Thomas I., a physician, who has made a special
study of tuberculosis, and was at one time chief phy-
sician in charge of the Loomis Sanitarium at Liberty,
New York. He is now proprietor of Falls Village
Sanitarium, Falls Village, Connecticut. 3. Mary Ger-
trude, residing at the Shannon home, Washington
street, Norwich. 4. Ella Claire, also residing at
home. 5. Margaret Frances, married Charles C.
McNamara, a merchant of Norwich, Connecticut. 6.
John Henry, a sketch of whom follows. James B.
Shannon married (second) in 1895, Katherine Frances
Cunningham, who survives him, they the parents of
one daughter, Madeleine Valerie, wife of John K.
Foran, of New London.
Mr. Shannon found in his home complete relaxa-
tion from weighty business cares, and was devoted to
his family. He never sought, nor would accept
public office, belonged to no secular fraternities, so-
cieties or clubs, his only affiliations of that nature
BIOGRAPHICAL
317
being with organizations of the church. He was
emphatically a home man, and there, where best
known and loved, he was at his best. Such in brief
was the career of one of the solid business men of
Norwich, who showed his confidence in the future
of his city by his works. He made prosperity, and
in every movement which tended to advance the
public good he either led the movement or warmly
supported it. It is men of like courage, vision and
judgment who make communities prosperous.
JOHN HENRY SHANNON— Of the three sons
of James Bernard and Catherine Frances (Cunning-
ham) Shannon (q. v.), the youngest, J. Henry Shan-
non, was the only one to choose a business career,
his brothers both having elected the medical pro-
fession. The carrying on of the business established
and developed by James B. Shannon has fallen upon
the shoulders of this capable young man, who was
his father's business associate and secretary during
the later years of his life. As administrator of the
Shannon estate, and as president of the Shannon
Building Company, Incorporated, to care for the
property interests of the estate he has demonstrated
a fine business quality and an executive ability
worthy of a veteran. And, indeed, he is a veteran in
fact, for he wore- the khaki on the battlefields of
France during the World War and was overseas
until June, 1920.
J. Henry Shannon was born in Norwich, Connecti-
cut, September 12, 1888. After finishing private
school study, he entered Norwich Free Academy,
whence he was graduated, class of '07. His brothers
having both chosen professions, the young man,
when academy days were over, took his place with
his father, and for ten years bore with him such
burdens and responsibilities as the older man would
surrender to his son. They were associated in many
building and real estate operations, the young man
serving his father as secretary in most confidential
relation. Those ten years brought to young Mr.
Shannon a wide experience, and when on June 11,
1917, the father's strong personality was removed
by death, J. Henry Shannon was appointed adminis-
trator, and without difficulty or dissenticn fulfilled
this important trust.
The war of 1917 with Germany was on when on
February 19, 1918, Mr. Shannon entered the United
States army, reporting at Camp Devens, near Lo-
well, Massachusetts. He was assigned to the Quar-
termaster's Department at Camp Johnson, Florida,
and there spent two months prior to sailing
overseas from New York on the transport "Vau-
ban." The transport landed her passengers at St.
Nazaire, at the mouth of the River Loire, and three
weeks later Mr. Shannon was at Tours, the head-
quarters of the Quartermaster's Department of the
American Expeditionary Forces. From Tours he
was sent to the Lorraine front with the American
troops engaged in the St. Mihiel sector, and after the
armistice he was retained for duty in France until
June, 1920, when he returned to the United States
and was mustered out with an honorable discharge.
June 24, 1920, at Camp Lee, Virginia.
After his return from France, Mr. Shannon re-
sumed business responsibilities as president of the
Shannon Building Company, Inc., and so continues.
The year of his return he established the Woodstock
Dairy, a store for the sale of delicacies and luxuries
for the table, and while this business is most suc-
cessfully run by specialists, Mr. Shannon, as its pro-
prietor, must share in the credit it has brought to
its manager.
In politics, Mr. Shannon is a Democrat, and in
1912-13 represented his ward in the Norwich Com-
mon Council. In 1913 he oflicially represented the
city of Norwich as one of the delegates to the Na-
tional Deep Waterways Convention which met that
year in Washington, District of Columbia, and at
that convention was elected secretary of the Con-
necticut Deep Waterways Association. He is a
member of the Norwich Chamber of Commerce,
Norwich Rotary Club, of the executive committee
of Robert O. Fletcher Post, American Legion, and is
a member of the Roman Catholic Church.
WILLIAM LESLIE FLETCHER— The Norwich
postoffice, an institution that comes nearer the lives
of the people in the city than any other department
of the government, has also been the one great busi-
ness interest of the life of William L. Fletcher since
graduation from Norwich Free Academy in 1880. He
is the second eldest man in the employ of the ofifice,
being now (January, 1922) superintendent of mails.
For forty-two years he has served the government
in the Norwich post oflfice, and there has compiled a
record of usefulness, efficiency and faithfulness
that cannot be excelled. William L. is a son of
William Sterry Fletcher, grandson of Joseph
Thompson Fletcher, great-grandson of William
Fletcher, and great-great-grandson of Thomas Flet-
cher. This name is found among the earliest comers
in New England, but none who came prior to 1630
left descendants. Robert Fletcher who came from
Yorkshire, England, in 1630, left sons and established
a family.
The family was founded in Norwich, Connecticut,
by William Fletcher, born July 26, 1774, who came
to that city a man of middle age, and there died in
his eighty-fifth year. He married, November 17,
1796, Sarah Young, born February 18, 1776, daugh-
ter of James Young, who survived her husband until
reaching the great age of ninety-five. One of her
sons, the youngest, Sterry Young Fletcher, went
West, became a Mississippi river steamboat captain,
and resided in Paducah, Kentucky. Another of the
sons of William and Sarah (Young) Fletcher was
Joseph Thompson, grandfather of W^illiam Leslie
Fletcher, superintendent of mails, Norwich, Connec-
ticut.
Joseph Thompson Fletcher was born in Warren,
Rhode Island, his father at the time of his birth,
August I, 1808, being a mill operative there. At the
age of sixteen he went to sea as cabinboy, crossing
the Atlantic ocean to Europe, and later was a sailor
on vessels trading with the West Indies. At the age
3i8
NEW LONDON COUNTY
of twenty-seven he was made captain of a steam-
ship owned by James L. Day, of Norwich, which ran
between New Orleans and Galveston, lower Missis-
sippi river, and other gulf ports. On his first voy-
age as captain he was taken ill at Mobile, Alabama,
there died August 19, 1835, and was buried in the
churchyard at Dog River, near Mobile. He married,
July 4, 1829, Eliza Lamphere, born in Plainfield,
Connecticut, November i, 1811, daughter of Russell
Lamphere. Mrs. Fletcher, left a widow at the age
of twenty-four, married a second husband, Ashabel
A. Parkerson, whom she survived, dying at the
home of her son, William S. Fletcher, in Norwich,
in 1896.
William Sterry Fletcher, second son of Joseph
Thompson and Eliza (Lamphere) Fletcher, was born
in Norwich, January 29, 1833, and died in the city of
his birth, in May, 1917. But two years of age when
his father died, and there being three children for
the young widow to support, the boys at an early
age became helpers, the lad William going to live
with relatives. He attended the district school of
his neighborhood, and remained at the home rela-
tives made for him until 1847, when he left school
and home, spending the ne.xt two years in the em-
ploy of the Falls Company, of Norwich, as a clerk.
His pay was fifty dollars annually with board, and
for two years he was content. Then his inherited
love for the sea v»on him away and he spent four
years as sailor and fisherman. Upon his return to
Norwich he entered the employ of Cobb and Bacon,
manufacturers of firearms, spending four years with
that firm and two with their successor, the Manhat-
tan Arms Company.
In 1858 he returned to his first employer, the Falls
Company, and continued in the clerical service of
that company for twenty-two years. In 1880 he
bought the store, later sold to N. A. Bingham, and
in 1884 built the store which he conducted as a dry
goods and grocery house very successfully until his
last illness. He was a hard worker, a good business
man, and a good citizen. In politics he was a Re-
publican and in religious faith a member of the
Methodist Episcopal church.
Mr. Fletcher married, in Norwich, Connecticut,
September 2, i860, Sarah Louise Jewett, born in Nor-
wich, October 15, 1842, died May 15, 1899, daughter
of Eleazer and Sarah Sherman Jewett. Mr. and Mrs.
Fletcher were the parents of three children: William
Leslie, of further mention; Cora E.; and Bertha G.,
who married William G. Browning, a traveling sales-
man of Providence, Rhode Island.
William Leslie Fletcher, eldest child and only son
of William Sterry and Sarah Louise (Jewett)
Fletcher, was born in Norwich, Connecticut, March
8, 1862, and there yet resides (January, 1922). He
was educated in Norwich Free Academy, whence he
was graduated, class of 1880, and the same year ad-
mitted to a position in Norwich postofFice as a clerk.
Forty years have since intervened and the asso-
ciation remains unbroken. Mr. Fletcher has ad-
vanced from post to post until reaching the present
position, superintendent of mails. He has seen the
office grow from a small affair, has seen administra-
tions and postmasters come and go, but under all
administrations and postmasters, and under con-
stantly improving conditions, he has kept on in the
even tenor of his way, performing his duties effi-
ciently and to the satisfaction of those he serves.
He is a Republican in politics, and a member of the
Park Congregational Church.
Mr. Fletcher married, December 11, 1892, Eliza-
beth Ida Ogden, daughter of John R. and Elizabeth
(Stoner) Ogden. Mr. and Mrs. Fletcher are the par-
ents of three children:
I. Robert Ogden Fletcher, born August 8, 1893;
sergeant major, 56th Artillery Regiment. The fol-
lowing appeared in one of the local newspapers:
"For the second time this week the flag on the City
Hal! and the flag on Chelsea Parade will fly at half
mast, the tribute to Sergeant Robert O. Fletcher, of
this city, sergeant major of the 56th Artillery Regi-
ment, who was killed on August 13, 1918, in action,
while convoying supplies. Sergeant Fletcher was a
native of this city and was twenty-five on the 8th of
August. He attended the Falls School, graduated
from Norwich Free Academy, class of 1912. He was
prominent in athletics in school, and was captain of
the baseball team in his graduating year. Immedi-
ately after graduation he entered the office of the
Hopkins and Allen Arms Company, and from there
came to the 'Bulletin' to fill the position of sporting
editor, which he did with marked ability for several
years, and it was while in this position that he heard
the call of his country, and enlisted in the Third
Company, Coast Artillery, in the early spring of
1917. He became company clerk, and went to Fort
Wright at Fisher's Island, when the company trans-
ferred there for training in July, 1917. When the
56th Artillery Regiment was formed from the Con-
necticut Coast Artillery men, he became regimental
supply sergeant, and left with the company for over-
seas duty on March 20, 1918, and while over there
was promoted to sergeant-major. Sergeant Fletcher
was one of the thousands of splendid, stalwart, six-
foot Americans who swung along the French high-
ways, hailed as saviors of their native country by
the aged French men and women. His friends and
business associates recall with pride his earnest,
manly desire to do his whole part, the interest he
took in perfecting himself in soldierly efficiency from
the moment of his enlistment, and the eagerness
with which he looked forward to the time when he
could serve at the front. He was a friend and fav-
orite of all with whom he was associated in business
or social relations, and his love is one that will be
long felt. He was a member of Park Congregational
Church, Norwich Lodge, No. 430, Benevolent and
Protective Order of Elks, and Union Lodge, No. 31,
Free and Accepted Masons of New London, Con-
necticut, in which he was raised shortly before leav-
ing Fisher's Island for overseas. As a tribute to him
the American Legion Post, No. 4, has named it the
Robert O. Fletcher Post. He is survived by a sister,
Hazel Louise, and a brother, William L. Fletcher,
Jr., who enlisted in the Tank Corps, and was over-
II
BIOGRAPHICAL
3«9
seas from September to March. Mr. Robert served
four years as a first baseman with the Norwich Free
Academy team. His graduating class of 1912 gave
a fund of $200 to the Academy in memory of their
classmates, Charles Willey and Robert Fletcher.
And the interest from same fund was to be used to
provide for future victory on the athletic field each
year. There have been memorial trees planted from
his church (Park Church), and the manager of the
Bulletin Company has planted a memorial tree with
a tablet hung to it, showing his birth and how he
met his fatal wounds.
2. William Leslie Fletcher, Jr., born October 21,
1897. At the age of twenty years, March 29, 1918,
he enlisted in the United States Tank Corps, at New
York City, going from there to Fort Slocum, New
York. Later he was transferred to Gettysburg,
Pennsylvania, for training, being assigned to Com-
pany B, 326th Battalion. From Gettysburg he went
to Tobyhanna, Pennsylvania, in August, 1918, and in
September went overseas, landing first in Liverpool,
England, going by rail to Southampton, where his
corps went across the channel during the night,
touching at Cherbourg, where for two weeks they
were in a rest camp. From Cherbourg his battalion
headed north for the tank training center at Bourg,
five miles west of Langres. He was stationed here
until after the armistice. On December 2, 1918, he
was transferred to Company C, 303rd Battalion,
Tank Corps, at Neuvy-Pailloux. While at the latter
place he was taken sick and transferred to Base
Hospital No. 63, at Chateauroux, but later assigned
back to his company, one day before they left France
for home. His company came over on the French
liner "Patricia," landing in New York, March 17,
1919. He was discharged at Camp Meade, Maryland,
May I, 1919, as private, first class.
3. Hazel Louise Fletcher, born June 21, 1899; re-
sides with her parents.
FRANK HERBERT MALLOY— With broad ex-
perience in his chosen field of activity, Mr. Malloy,
of Baltic, New London county, Connecticut, is filling
the responsible position of superintendent of the
large plant of the S'hetucket Worsted Mills.
Mr. Malloy is a son of James and Lillian (Hunt)
Malloy. His father was born in Lowell, Massachu-
setts, and educated in the public schools of that city.
About 1875, at the age of seventeen years, he became
a fireman on the Boston & Maine railroad. Working
up to the position of engineer, he served in that ca-
pacity until the time of his death, which occurred in
Lowell, in February, 1891. His wife, who was born
in Portland, Maine, still resides in Lowell. They
were the parents of five children: Lena Maud, born
in Lowell, now the wife of Frank Wright; Annie
May, the wife of Fred Miller; Alice, the wife of Bur-
ton Stockham; Frank H., whose name heads this
review; and Mabel, who resides with her sister
Alice, in Providence.
Frank Herbert Malloy, fourth child and only son
of James and Lillian (Hunt) Malloy, was born in
Lowell, Massachusetts, June 9, 1888, and received his
early education in the public schools of his native
city, then was graduated from the Lowell High
School in the class of 1906. During the next three
years Mr. Malloy was a student at the Lowell Com-
mercial College, also, during this period, studied
nights at the Lowell Textile School, qualifying for a
designer of woolen cloth. With this comprehensive
preparation Mr. Malloy became assistant designer
for the Rhode Island Worsted Company, at Stafford
Springs, Connecticut. Taking this position in igog,
he resigned in 191 1 to become designer and assistant
superintendent for the Faulkner Manufacturing
Company, at Stafford Springs, remaining with this
concern for one year. In 1912 he went to Atlanta,
Georgia, to fill a similar position for the Atlanta
Woolen Mills, remaining for three years, returning
North in 1915 to become designer and assistant su-
perintendent for the Mohegan Mills at Trading
Cove, in the town of Montville, near Norwich, re-
maining with this concern for a period of two j'ears.
Since 1917 until 1920 Mr. Malloy filled the position
of superintendent of the Shetucket Worsted Mills,
of Baltic, then in January, 1920, went to the Rut-
land Worsted Mills, of Rutland, Worcester county,
Massachusetts, in the capacity of superintendent, re-
maining for one year. In January, 1921, he returned
to Baltic, where he is again filling the office of su-
perintendent of the Shetucket Worsted Mills.
Mr. Malloy is prominent fraternally, being a mem-
ber of St. James Lodge, No. 23, Free and Accepted
Masons; Franklin Chapter, No. 4, Royal Arch
Masons; Franklin Council, No. 3, Royal and Select
Masters, all of Norwich. Politically he supports the
Republican party, and he and his family are members
01 the Episcopal church.
On December 24, 1910, Mr. Malloy married, in
Stafford Springs, Rev. Raymond Dow Adams, min-
ister of the Episcopal church, performing the cere-
mony, Madeline Lazzerin, daughter of John and
Mary (Santin) Lazzerin, natives of Venice, Italy.
Mr. and Mrs. Malloy have three daughters: Lillian
Marie, born in Stafford Springs, November 11, 1911;
Emma Madeline, born in Norwich, September i,
1917; and Mae Agatha, born in Norwich, January
21, 1922.
JOHN STANTON BLACKMAR, M.D. — Al-
though since 1898 devoted to the healing art as phy-
sician and surgeon. Dr. Blackmar has had an active
part in two wars, and in the great World War of
1917-18, earned that coveted French decoration, the
Croix de Guerre, a decoration pinned upon his breast
by the famous French officer, General Retain. His
first military experience was in the Spanish-Ameri-
can War, as assistant surgeon, with the rank of
lieutenant. In the war of 1917 he went overseas as
regimental surgeon, a commissioned captain, and at-
tached to an American regiment brigaded with a
French division. That regiment, the 372nd United
States Infantry, won honors in France, and received
from the French government a regimental decora-
tion. Dr. Blackmar was especially cited and dec-
orated for his service.
320
NEW LONDON COUNTY
CITATION.
At General Headquarters, January 13, 1919.
The Marshal,
Commander-in-Chief of the French Army of the East,
P*ETAIN.
Order No. I2,833D-
(Extract.)
After approval of the Commander-in-Chief of the
American Expeditionary Forces, the Marshal of
France, Commander-in-Chief of the French Army
of the East, cites a Divisional Order.
Medicine-Major John S. Blackmar, 372nd Infantry
Regiment, distinguished himself especially during
the period from September 27th to October 6th, 1918,
when he showed the greatest zeal in the accomplish-
ment of his duty, working day and night under vio-
lent bombardment and taking care of over four
hundred wounded, many of whom were in a con-
dition requiring the most difficult operations.
During the interval between the two wars in
which he served, Dr. Blackmar practiced surgery
and medicine in New York City, and Norwich, Con-
necticut, returning to the latter city trom the army,
and is again in private practice.
Dr. Blackmar is a son of George F. Blackmar,
born in Killingly, Connecticut, who there obtained
a public school education. At a suitable age he
learned the machinist's trade and later located at
Taftville, where he was employed until his death,
which occurred at the age of twenty-six years, be-
coming a cotton mill master mechanic. He lost his
life by drowning in the mill stream at Taftville dur-
ing a sudden rise in the river in 1876. His widow,
Harriet (Stanton) Blackmar, born in Cohoes, New
York, yet survives him, her home with her only
child. Dr. John S. Blackmar, in Norwich, Connec-
ticut.
John Stanton Blackmar was born in Norwich,
Connecticut, March 15, 1875. He was educated in Nor-
wich public schools, Norwich Free Academy, and
the College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia
University, New York City, receiving from the last-
named institution the degree of Doctor of Medicine,
class of 1898. Soon after returning to Norwich he
was commissioned assistant surgeon of the 3rd
Regiment, Connecticut Volunteer Infantry, with the
rank of lieutenant, and served with that regiment
during the war with Spain. He was honorably dis-
charged from the service in March, 1899, and spent
the following twenty-seven months as interne at the
Harlem Hospital, New York City, then engaged in
private practice in New York City until 1912, when
he located in Norwich, Connecticut, and there be-
came well established as a skillful physician and
surgeon.
On January 15, 1918, Dr. Blackmar was commis-
sioned captain of the United States Army Medical
Corps and assigned to Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia, for
training in the .A.rmy Medical School. Having had
former military training, he was only at that camp
ten days when he received assignment as regimental
surgeon of the 372nd Regiment, United States In-
fantry, then at Newport News, Virginia. He joined
that regiment at once, and on March 30, 1918, sailed
for France. The regiment disembarked at St. Na-
zaire, France, and after a period of training camp
duty, the 372nd regiment (colored troops) was at-
tached to the iS7th Division of the French army,
General Gouraud commanding. The regiment,
classed as "shock troops," served on the French
front in the following sectors: the Argonne (West)
front, Vanquois, Verdun, the Champagne district and
Alsace, where they were on duty when the armistice
was signed. For meritorious service performed
with the regiment during battle, Captain Blackmar
was decorated with the Croix de Guerre, as prev-
iously mentioned.
After the armistice was signed, the 372nd Regiment
was returned to the United States, but Captain
Blackmar remained in France, where he was on
duty at the American Base Hospital, No. 41, at Is-
Sur-Tille. He returned to the United States, July 12,
1919, and was discharged at Camp Devens, Massa-
chusetts, July 30, 1919, with the rank of major in
the United States Army Medical Reserve Corps. He
at once resumed private practice in Norwich, Con-
necticut, his present location.
In politics. Dr. Blackmar is a Republican, and in
June, 1920, he was elected to represent his ward in
the Norwich Common Council. He is a member of
the American Medical Association, the Connecticut
State Medical and New London Medical societies,
and president of the Norwich City Medical Society.
He is a member of the stafT of William W. Backus
Hospital, Norwich; United States public health sur-
geon in Norwich, and a member of the board of
United States Pension E.xaminers for New London
county.
In Masonry, he is affiliated with Bunting Lodge,
No. 655, Free and Accepted Masons, of New York
City; Franklin Chapter, No. 4, Royal Arch Masons,
of Norwich; Franklin Council, No. 3, Royal and Se-
lect Masters, of Norwich; Columbian Commandery,
No. 4, Knights Templar, of Norwich; King Solo-
mon Lodge of Perfection; Van Rensselaer Council,
Princes of Jerusalem; Norwich Chapter of Rose
Croix; and Connecticut Consistory, Ancient Ac-
cepted Scottish Rite, in which he holds the thirty-
second degree. He is a member of Norwich Lodge,
No. 30, Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks,
and commander of Robert O. Fletcher Post, Ameri.
can Legion. He is a member of the Norwich Cham-
ber of Commerce, and the Norwich Rotary Club, of
which he is one of the board of directors (1921).
Dr. Blackmar married, in New York City, Octo-
ber 12, 1910, Mildred Martin, of that city.
CHARLES COTTRELL DODGE— With the un-
timely passing of Charles Cottrell Dodge, in the
prime of his manhood, the town of Mystic, Connecti-
cut, suffered a loss such as no community can af-
ford to sustain. Signally capable as a business
executive, a social leader, a patron of all the out-
BIOGRAPHICAL
331
door activities wliich count so far in the health
and well-being of the people, and personally a man
of the finest cliaracter, he is indeed lamented by all
who knew him.
Mr. Dodge was a son of John Lamphere and
Fannie A. (Cottrell) Dodge. John L. Dodge was
born in Groton, Connecticut, and educated in the
public schools of that town. As a young man he
made a study of chemistry and medicine, and later
became prominent in the field of medicine manu-
facture. He now resides in the South, and is re-
tired from all active participation in business. Mrs.
Dodge was born in Mystic, and their children num-
bered five, of whom Charles C. was the second.
Charles Cottrell Dodge was born in Mystic, Con-
necticut, on October 29, 1887. He received his edu-
cation in the public and high schools of New York
City, and thereafter attended the Hotchkiss Pre-
paratory College, from which he was graduated in
the class of 1907. In that year he returned to
Mystic, where he became associated with the Cot-
trell Lumber Company. He made a thorough study
of the business in all its brandies, becoming familiar
with every phase of the lumber trade, and in 1910
was elected president of the company, which office
he held until his death in 1919.
■lit this brief industrial career pictures only one
side of the man, and that inadequately. He was a
living force for all that makes for progress and
civic development. Poltically he supported the
principles of the Republican party, always working
for its interests. Still ahead of the party, as a
political organization, he held the ideals of civic
and national righteousness.
Mr. Dodge was president of the Country Club,
of Mystic. Popular among all the extensive mem-
bership of this club, he was an enthusiast in the
various branches of sport, particularly those which
contribute so materially to the physical health and
the upbuilding of the youth of today. In this
organization he is sadly missed, and his place will
long remain unfilled. Mr. Dodge was a member of
Stonington Lodge, No. 26, Independent Order of
Odd Fellows.
On August 18, 1910, Mr. Dodge married Jennie
Brunson, daughter of William and Bessie (Jones)
Brunson, of Perry, Georgia. They were the parents
of three children: William Brunson, born on June
21, 191 1 ; John H., born on September 10, 1912; and
Hamilton, born October 14, 1917. The family have
always been members of the Episcopal church, and
prominent in all its activities.
HENRY GAMBER, of Groton, Connecticut, is
connected with one of the most important industrial
concerns in the county of New London, — the New
London Ship and Engine Company, whose plant
is located at Groton. With special training for the
important position of foreman of the electrical de-
partment, he is bearing a significant part in the
manufacturing interests of the county.
N.L.— 2.21.
Mr. Gamber is a son of George and Leah (Van
Leer) Gamber. George Gamber was born in Phila-
delphia, Pennsylvania, and educated in the public
schools of that city. Union Academy, and a prepara-
tory school in Pennsylvania. Fortune placed him in
such a position in life that he had little to do besides
enjoy the money which had been accumulated by
other hands. For a time he was employed in the post
office department. His wife, a descendant of Gen-
eral Wayne, of Revolutionary fame, was born in
Chester county, Pennsylvania, and still resides in
Philadelphia, that State. They were the parents of
seven children.
Henry Gamber, the fifth child of George and Leah
(Van Leer) Gamber, was born in Philadelphia, on
April 30, 1876. Receiving his early education in
the public schools of that city, he was fired with
an ambition to take an active part in the work of
the world. He entered the Williamson Free Trade
School, taking the electrical-mechanical course, and
was graduated from that institution in 1895. As a
skilled electrician he entered the world of industry,
and was employed in several different places, gain-
ing a breadth of experience which he has since
found invaluable. In 1900 he entered the employ
of the Electric Boat Company, during the early and
experimental stages of the submarine, remaining
until 1912, when he came to New London county,
and locating in Groton, entered the employ of the
New London Ship and Engine Company, as fore-
man of their electrical department. In this posi-
tion Mr. Gamber has continued since, ably filling
its exacting demands during the trying period of
the World War, when production was speeded up
to the utmost.
In the public life of the borough, Mr. Gamber
takes a deep and constructive interest. Two years
ago he was elected warden of the borough, and still
holds that office. His political allegiance is given
to the Independent-Nonpartisan party. :Mr. Gamber
is a member of Brainerd Lodge, No. 102, Free and
Accepted Masons, of New London, and his church
membership is with the Presbyterian denomination.
On September 26, 1901, Mr. Gamber married Lillie
McGirr, daughter of Andrew and Mary Elizabeth
(Stewart) McGirr, of Philadelphia. Mr. and Mrs.
Gamber have three daughters, all at home: Doro-
thea L.; Grace O.; and Ruth I.
JOSEPH BYERS is the son of John W. Byers,
who was born in Massachusetts, but resided in the
State of Connecticut, where his son, Joseph Byers,
was born, the latter's home later becoming Massa-
chusetts. In 1919 Joseph returned to Connecticut,
and in New London is known as one of the enter-
prising owners of a successful business enterprise,
Byers Brothers, Inc., his partner, his brother, John
R. Joseph Byers is a veteran of the World War,
having enlisted with the first call for volunteers,
serving until placed on the reserve list in 1919.
322
NEW LONDON COUNTY
John W. Byers was born in Medford, Massachu-
setts, and there was educated. He was variously
employed until entering the employ of the Southern
New England Telephone Company, and still con-
tinues with that corporation, being commercial man-
ager of the Newton district, with headquarters at
Newton, Massachusetts. He married Fanny L.
Rogers, born in Weymouth, Massachusetts, and
they are the parents of two children: John R.; and
Joseph, of whom further.
Joseph Byers was born in Bridgeport, Connecti-
cut, November 21, 1894, but while young, Newton,
Massachusetts, became the family home, and there
he was educated, finishing with graduation from the
Newton Technical High School, class of IQM- For
a year after graduation he was engaged in the prmt-
ing business in Boston, and in 1915 was appointed
to a clerkship in the Webster & Atlas National Bank
of Boston, after which he was connected with the
Walter B. Snow Advertising Agency. He enlisted
in the United States navy during the World War,
and was rated a machinist, second class, and ad-
vanced to the first class while in the First Division.
In 1918 he passed the required examination and was
advanced to the rank of ensign, serving in the naval
overseas transport service. He was placed upon
the naval reserve list in 1919 and retired from active
service. In 1919, with his brother, john R. Byers,
he established Byers Brothers, Inc., capitalized at
$100,000, Joseph Byers, president.
Joseph Byers is a Republican in politics; is a
member of the Chamber of Commerce, the John
Winthrop Club, of New London, and is an attendant
of the Congregational church.
Mr. Byers married, at Newtonville, Massachusetts,
January 19, 1918, Louise A. Welch, of Garden City,
Long Island, daughter of John I. and Elizabeth
(Stedman) Welch, of New York City. Mr. and
Mrs. Byers are the parents of two daughters: Edith,
born in Brooklyn, New York; and Elizabeth, born
in New York City.
LEONE FRANKLIN LA PIERRE, M.D.— Well
known as a long-established general practitioner
and also as a highly successful specialist. Dr. La
Pierre requires no introduction to his friends and
neighbors of Norwich, but the simple inscription of
his name at the head of this article. It might be
added that his name would be greeted with instant
and respectful recognition by many of his fellow-
citizens far beyond the limits of his home com-
munity, by reason of the fact that his work is at-
tracting, with the lapse of each succeeding year,
greater attention and more cordial appreciation.
Henry H. La Pierre, father of Leone Franklin
La Pierre, was born in Montville, Connecticut, and
as a young man learned the mill business, later be-
coming a farmer in Montville. During the Civil
War he enlisted in the Twenty-sixth Regiment, of
Norvv-ich, and served nine months. At the end of
that time he again enlisted, this time in New Or-
leans, and was later made orderly to General
Canby, a position which he held during the re-
mainder of the war. On returning 10 Norwich he
was engaged for some years in a paper manufactur-
ing mill, and in his later years again became a
farmer, this time in Chesterfield, Connecticut. For
some years thereafter he served as a watchman for
the firm of Porteous & Mitchell, of Norwich. He
is now, at the age of eighty years (1921), living in
retirement in the home of his son, Dr. La Pierre.
In politics he is a Republican. He is a member of
the Grand Army of the Republic, and attends the
Congregational church. Mr. La Pierre married
Fanny A. Rogers, like himself a native of Montville,
and they became the parents of the following chil-
dren: I. Floyd H., born in Montville, Connecticut,
now living in New Haven, Connecticut; married
Minnie Maynard, of Norwich, and they have two
children. 2. Leone Franklin, mentioned below. 3.
Bessie E., born in Norwich, and died there in 1902,
at the age of twenty-one. 4. Arnaud Julian, a biog-
raphy of whom follows in this work.
Leone Franklin La Pierre, son of Henry H. and
Fanny A. (Rogers) La Pierre, was born November
6, 1876, in Colchester, Connecticut, and received his
early education in Yantic, same State, afterward
graduating from the Broadway School of Norwich.
For two years thereafter he served as clerk in a
drug store in that city, and in the autumn of 1897
entered Yale University, taking the four years'
course, and graduating in 1901 with the degree of
M.D., cum laude. This was followed by a two years'
course at the Rhode Island Hospital, Providence,
Rhode Island, and he then spent three years as
physician of the Hospital for the Insane in Middle-
town, Connecticut.
In 1906 Dr. La Pierre came to Norwich, opened an
office and entered upon a career of independent
practice. For about seven years he was steadily
engaged in building up a lucrative clientele, and a
reputation with the medical fraternity and the gen-
eral public to which he was justly entitled by reason
of talent, knowledge, skill and strict conscientious-
ness in the performance of his very important
duties.
About the year 1913 Dr. La Pierre began to give
special attention to the study ana treatment of
diseases of the eye, ear, nose and throat, and has
since, as the years have passed, met with marked
success in this field of medical practice.
Politically Dr. La Pierre is a Republican, but has
always been too devoted to his profession to have
time or inclination for office-holding. He is a mem-
ber of the City, County and State Medical societies,
the American Medical Association, and the Sons of
Veterans. He affiliates with St. James Lodge, No.
23, Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, of Norwich,
and is a member of the United Congregational
church, and the Young Men's Christian Association
of that city.
Dr. La Pierre married, October 5, 1906, in Mont-
BIOGRAPHICAL
323
pelier, Vermont, Ellen Holmes, born in that city,
daughter of Rodney and Alctha (Farrar) Holmes.
Dr. and Mrs. La Pierre are the parents of the follow-
ing children: Franklin Holmes, born August 6, 1907;
Arnaud Rogers, born August 10, 1910; Bessie Alctha,
born April 3, 1912; Warren VVinthrop, born Septem-
ber 17, 1914; and Ruth Helen, born December 27,
1915. All these, with the exception of Warren W.,
whose birthplace was Stonington, Connecticut, were
born in Norwich.
The reputation which Dr. La Pierre has already
acquired as a specialist gives assurance that greater
successes in his chosen department of the profession
await him in the years to come.
ARNAUD JULIAN LA PIERRE, son of Henry
H. and Fanny A. (Rogers) La Pierre, and brother
of Dr. L. F. La Pierre (see preceding sketch),
was born in Norwich, Connecticut, June 30, 1885.
He completed the courses of Norwich Free Aca-
demy, then entered the medical department of the
University of Vermont and was graduated from that
institution with the degree of Medical Doctor, in
the class of 1910. He was for a time physician to
Haymarket Square Relief Station, Boston; interne
at the Lying-in Hospital, New York City; interne
at William W. Backus Hospital, Norwich, after
which he engaged in general practice in Norwich for
fifteen months. Dr. La Pierre, desiring to specialize,
took post-graduate courses at the New York Eye,
Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital, then returned to
Norwich, where he very successfully specialized in
diseases of the eye, ear, nose and tliroat, his offices
with his brother. Dr. L. F. La Pierre, a specialist
in the same diseases.
In politics Dr. La Pierre is a Republican, and in
religious faith a member of the United Congrega-
tional Church. His professional societies are: The
Norwich City Medical, New London County Medi-
cal, and Connecticut State Medical, and he also is
a member of the American Medical Association. He
is a member of Burlington Lodge, No. 100, Free and
Accepted Masons, of Burlington, Vermont, and of
Connecticut Consistory, of Norwich, Ancient Ac-
cepted Scottish Rite, in which he holds the thirty-
second degree. His college fraternity is Delta Nu.
Dr. A. J. La Pierre married, September I, 1913,
at New Britain, Connecticut, Charlotte Mae Charter,
born in Boston, Massachusetts, daughter of George
M. and Margaret (Aldose) Charter. Mr. and Mrs.
La Pierre are the parents of: Fanny Louise, Char-
lotte Mae, and Arnaud Julian (2) La Pierre.
CHARLES WILLIAM MILLER— Among the
earliest New England colonists the Miller family
was represented, and through the nearly three cen-
turies that have passed since the first record of the
name appears, members of that family have been
steadily contributing to the upbuilding of the life
of the nation. Charles D. Miller, the grandfather of
Charles William Miller, was a foundry nan nf Prn-'-
dence, Rhode Island, capable, public-spirited, ahva-s
ready to serve his coramunit;-, .nnd th" sole founder
of the New England Butt Company, of Providence.
A man of sturdy independence and of great energy,
he left his son, Albert B. Miller, born in October,
1838, in Providence, not only a substantial business
interest, but what was of far greater value, an
abundant heritage of ideals, ability, and solid worth
of character.
Albert B. Miller passed his boyhood days in Provi-
dence, and then, wishing to see for himself those
western regions which at that time were attracting
so much attention, joined one of the westward mov-
ing groups and went to California, to Oregon and to
other Western States and territories. Unlike most
of his fellow-travelers, a tour of the West convinced
him that for him opportunity was largest in the
East, and he came back to Connecticut, where for
several years he was employed in the Scranton
Printing Press Works, then located at Norwich. In
1868 he purchased of John T. Trumbull the Joslin
.-Xrms Company, an iron and brass foundry, and for
several years worked there in association with the
Atwood A-Iachine Company. About 1880 he sold the
foundry to the Atwoods and built the foundry on
Miller street, where he continued in business until
his death, which occurred August 7, 1899. He was
burgess of the borough of Stonington in 1891, and
active in promoting the civic welfare of his com-
munity. He married, about 1861, Margaret Cough,
a native of Bath, Maine, who spent her early life in
Providence, Rhode Island, where she was married.
She died in April, 1896. To this marriage four chil-
dren were born: Charles William, of whom further;
Susie M., also born at Norwich, and who married
Dr. C. E. Maine, of Stonington; Hattie, teacher of
music in the public schools of Providence; and
Albert B., of Stonington.
Charles W. Miller, eldest son of Albert B. and
Margaret (Gough) Miller, was born in Norwich,
Connecticut, July 13, 1863. The family moved to
Stonington when he was but four years of age and
he attended the public schools of that place, after
which he went to Eastman's Business College, at
Poughkeepsie, New York, graduating in 1883. Com-
ing back to Stonington, he went into his father's
iron and brass foundry, gradually making himself
acquainted with all branches of the work, and espe-
cially with the executive and administrative depart-
ments. From 1892 to 1898, he was engaged in a
foundry business at Chicago, Illinois, which he man-
aged successfully, but shortly before his father's
death he came back to Stonington and took charge
of the foundry there. This plant he has successfully
managed since that time. .-Vt the foundry work is
done for the Consolidated railroad; also for the Rob-
ert Palmer & Son Company, ship-builders for
nearly forty years; for the Lorraine Manufacturing
Company, of Westerly, Rhode Island; for the
Thames Towboat Company, of New London; and
for the T. A. Scott Company, of New London.
Fraternally he is a member of the Benevolent and
'' otcctive Order of Elks, and is widely known and
" ratly respected.
Tn October, 1882, while in Chicago, Illinois, Jlr.
324
NEW LONDON COUNTY
Miller married Margaret Carter, and they are the
parents of six children: Albert, Charles E., Chester,
Frank, Margaret, and John. Charles E. Miller en-
listed for service in the World War, in May, 1917.
was stationed at Fort Sam Houston, Texas, com-
missioned a second lieutenant, .and sailed in Septem-
ber, 1918, for France, with the 345th Regiment, 90th
Division, being mustered out of service in June,
1919, at Camp Lee, Virginia. Chester Miller served
during the World War as a naval reserve, and is
now at home. Frank Miller served in the United
States army, being stationed at Camp Devens, Mass-
achusetts, during the war.
ALBERT STODDARD CULLEN— Holding a re-
sponsible position in the industrial v/orld, and with
an honorable record of service in the recent strug-
gle overseas, Albert Stoddard Cullen, of Baltic, Con-
necticut, is one of those young men who are carry-
ing New London county forward in the march of
progress.
Mr. Cullen comes of Scotch ancestry, and his
father, James Cullen, was born in Glasgow, Scot-
land, and educated in the National schools of that
country. He came to America when a young man,
locating at East Long Meadow, Massachusetts,
where he worked as a fancy stone and marble cutter
all his active life. He was gifted with artistic talent,
and many very beautiful examples of his work have
gone out from the yards where he was employed.
In 1902 he went to Scotland in the hope of regaining
his broken health, but died there in 1903. He mar-
ried Annie Stoddard, and she still survives him,
being a resident of Baltic. They were the parents
of four children.
Albert Stoddard Cullen was born in East Long
Meadow, Massachusetts, on February 4, 1890. There
he attended the public schools, gaining a practical
education in preparation for the battle of life. Hav-
ing completed his education, he entered the West
Warren Cotton Mill, in the mechanical department,
and continued there from 1906 to 1913. He learned
there the machinists' trade, as applied to the cotton
industry, and also the trade of stationary engineer.
Being naturally of a mechanical bent, he was an
adept at this work, and became a valuable hand.
In 1913 he came to Baltic, Connecticut, entering the
employ of the Baltic Mill Company, in the capacity
of engineer. Since 1919 he has been connected with
the Shetucket Worsted Mills, Incorporated, in the
capacity of master mechanic.
In 1918 Mr. Cullen answered the call of humanity
which reached so many thousands of the flower of
young American manhood. He was assigned to the
308th Machine Gun Company, of the 77th Division,
American Expeditionary Forces, and served with
honor in France until the close of the war. He
was mustered out of service at Camp Devens, on
May 13, 1919, when he returned to his old home in
Baltic.
Mr. Cullen is a popular young man of this vicinity,
and interested in the various branches of social,
fraternal and civic activity. Politically, he is a Re-
publican, and was recently elected selectman of the
town of Sprague. He is a member of the Masonic
order, belonging to a Warren, Massachusetts, Lodge,
Free and Accepted Masons; Franklin Chapter, No.
4, Royal Arch Masons, of Norwich; and Franklin
Council, No. 3, Royal and Select Masters, also of
Norwich. He is also a member of Quinebaug Lodge,
No. 187, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, of
Warren. He is a member of the Methodist Episco-
pal church, and active in the young people's organi-
zations.
ARTHUR DYER TRIPP— Among those who can
claim descent from the first families of the State of
Rhode Island is the present Tripp family, whose
ancestry runs back to the pre-Revolutionary days
when good Peregrine Tripp made stout shoes for
the people of the village of Exeter, Rhode Island,
where he lived, worked and died. His wife, Isabella
(Sprague) Tripp, was born August 26, 1768, and died
September 26, 1812, leaving a large family behind
them. These were: Isabella, born December 22,
1791; John, born November 17, 1793; Sarah, born
March 13, 1797, died May 25, 1798; Sarah (2), born
August 6, 1799, who married Silas Moore, and died
in Richmondtown, Rhode Island, March 19, 1862;
Betsey, born October 22, 1802, who married William
Northrop, and died in Warwick, Rhode Island; De-
borah, born September 29, 1804, who married Mr.
Hoxie, of Rhode Island, and died in May, 1846;
Lyman, born April II, 1806, died in March, 1808;
and Phoebe, who was born March 28, 1809, and mar-
ried in Rhode Island.
John Tripp, one of the sons of Peregrine Tripp,
carried on farming on the home place until his mar-
riage, when after a few years of working on rented
land near Exeter, he came to Plainfield with his
wife's parents, all locating in the southern part of
the town on a farm which the father-in-law pur-
chased. Until the death of his wife, Mr. Tripp re-
mained on this property and then went to Brooklyn,
Connecticut, where he lived with his son until his
death, in March, 1852. Through his marriage, in
Exeter, to Sarah Bissell, daughter of Samuel and
Sarah (Allen) Bissell, John Tripp became connected
with one of the leading families of Rhode Island.
Samuel Bissell served in the Continental army under
General Nathanael Greene, was made a lieutenant,
and later became captain of his company. He re-
signed soon after this last appointment, however,
and went on board a privateer, where he assisted in
the capture of twenty-seven British vessels.
Throughout the Revolutionary War he remained in
the navy, and drew a pension until his death. After
the war he worked at faritiing in Plainfield, Con-
necticut, for many years, and was buried in the
private burying ground at Flat Rock in that town,
where his wife, who died at the age of forty-nine,
had already been buried. The children of John
Tripp and his wife were: I. Lucy Ann, born at Plain-
field, in April, 1818, who married Gilbert Robbins,
a factory superintendent, and died in Plainfield. 2.
Samuel B., born February 23, 1820, who married
Ccu^^L^ ^^l^-/.^
BIOGRAPHICAL
325
Betsy Keach; he was a shoemaker by trade, entered
the army during the Civil War, and was killed at
Cold Harbor. 3. Huldah, born October 12, 1821,
who married Miner Tucker, and died in Plainfield.
4. Perry G., born October 12, 1823, who married
Abbie Pidgc; served in the Civil War in the First
and (second) Harriet Irene Robbins, of Brooklyn.
5. Stephen H., born in June, 1826, who married
Abbie Pidge, served in the Civil War in the First
Connecticut Cavalry, later became a farmer, and died
in Brooklyn. 6. Henry D., of whom further. 7.
Sophia, who died in infancy. 8. Emily, who married
Louis Trcscott, and died in Providence, Rhode
Island. 9. George, born August, i83.<, who married
Lydia Spicer, and after retiring from seafaring life,
engaged in the lumber business at Mystic, Con-
necticut.
Henry D. Tripp, father of Arthur Dyer Tripp,
was born in Plainfield, Connecticut, February 23,
1828, and died in Brooklyn, Connecticut, November
7, 1907, most of his life being spent in Windham
county, Connecticut. He worked at farming, prin-
cipally, but was a tanner by trade and made shoes.
He married Adelaide J. Simmons, a native of Provi-
dence, Rhode Island, who is now living in East
Brooklyn, Connecticut. Mr. and Mrs. Tripp became
the parents of twelve children, among whom was
Arthur Dyer Tripp, the tenth child.
Arthur Dyer Tripp was born in Thompson, Con-
necticut, September 25, 1875. He attended the pub-
lic school at Central Village, in the town of Plain-
field, Connecticut, completing his education at
Putnam Business College. He chose teaching as a
profession, and beginning in 1902, taught sixteen
years, half of those years in East Brooklyn, Con-
necticut, and the other half in different schools. In
1910 he located in Jewett City, and entering into
partnership with H. B. Chapman, engaged in the
lumber and coal business and the handling of
builders' supplies, under the firm name of Chapman
& Tripp. The association has been both pleasant
and profitable and is continued at the present time,
the firm carrying on a large and successful business.
Politically, Mr. Tripp is a Republican. Fraternally,
he is aflfiliated with Mount Vernon Lodge, No. 75,
Free and Accepted Masons; Reliance Lodge, No. 29,
Independent Order of Odd Fellows, of which order
he is a past noble grand; Faith Chapter, No. 82,
Order of the Eastern Star, of Jewett City; Un-
daunted Lodge, No. 34, Knights of Pythias, of Jewett
City; and Pachaug Grange, Patrons of Husbandry,
of Griswold, Connecticut. He is also secretary of
the Slater Library Corporation, of Jewett City. Mr.
Tripp attends the Baptist church.
■ Mr. Tripp married, September 17, 1913, Martha B.
Church, daughter of Rollin R. and Lydia (Brown)
Church, of Jewett City, and they are the parents of
three children: Arthur D., Jr., Rollin Church, and
Hermon Brown.
tember 27, 1869. His father was a native of Ger-
many, and came to this country when a young man,
locating in Groton, where he resided the remainder
of his lifetime, following agricultural pursuits.
Tlie education of the boy, Charles A., was ob-
tained in the public schools of Groton, after which
he served an apprenticeship to the carpenter's trade
and it is with this particular line of business that he
has ever since been interested in. In 1895 he founded
the Marquardt Brothers' Lumber Company, which
was incorporated in 1910, and was run under this
name until 191 7, when it was solJ, and is now con-
ducted under the name of the Groton Lumber Com-
pany. The success of this organization was due in
no small measure to the wonderful business genius
and business ability of Charles Adams Marquardt.
Since the dissolution of this company, Mr. Marquardt
has carried on successfully a large contracting busi-
ness, and is recognized as one of the most progres-
sive business men of this community.
Mr. Marquardt is an Independent in politics. He
affiliates with the Free and Accepted Masons, and
with the Independent Odrer of Odd Fellows, Fair-
view Lodge, No. loi, of which he is a charter mem-
ber. In religion he is a Baptist, attending the
church of this denomination at Groton.
Charles Adams Marquardt was united in marriage
with Celia Chapman, of Groton, a daughter of
Charles D. and Annie (Morgan) Chapman. Mr.
and Mrs. Marquardt are the parents of four children:
Alice E.; Gladys A., who married Edward Seaver, of
Groton; Percy; and Barbara.
CHARLES ADAMS MARQUARDT, the sixth
child of the late George and Martha (Salsman)
Marquardt, was born at Groton, Connecticut, Sep-
ALBERT LAMATE DUHAIME, proprietor of a
moving picture theatre in Mystic, Connecticut, has
been in the business here for some years, and con-
ducts a very popular enterprise.
Albert Lamate Duhaime is the son of Joseph L.
and Albina (La Montaine) Duhaime, the father be-
ing a native of Salix, Iowa, and the mother having
been born in Montreal, Canada. Joseph L. Duhaime
attended the public school of his birthplace and when
quite young became a ranch man, living that life for
a year, then, coming back into the business world,
he took up the meat market business, continuing it
for many years, finally retiring from active work.
He now resides in Providence, Rhode Island. He
and his wife were the parents of twelve children, of
whom their son, Albert Lamate, is the youngest.
Born in Mandeville, Rhode Island, September 8,
1883, Albert Lamate Duhaime acquired an education
in the public school of that village, and after leaving
it, became employed as manager of one of the large
chain of Childs' restaurants, located in Providence,
Rhode Island. For the next six years Mr. Duhaime
remained in this establishment, but his health be-
coming somewhat impaired at this time, he gave it
up and, coming to Mystic, opened the Lj'ceum Thea-
tre, in the Gilbert block; some time later the build-
ing was destroyed by fire, but this catastrophe did
not discourage Mr. Duhaime, for he at once set
about opening another theatre in an adjoining build-
ing, giving it the name of the Mystic Theatre,
326
NEW LONDON COUNTY
though it is devoted entirely to the work of the
screen. It has proved itself to be a very successful
venture, and Mr. Duhaime is still conducting it.
A member of the Knights of Columbus, Mr. Du-
haime is an active worker in Father Murphy Council
of Mystic. He also is affiliated with Westerly
Lodge, No. 678, of the Benevolent and Protective
Order of Elks, of Westerly, Rhode Island. In politi-
cal faith he is a Republican.
On June 21, 1905, Albert Lamate Duhaime was
married to Margaret King, daughter of Patrick
King. Three children have been born to them:
Ernest L., Margaret L., and Cyril L. ; they all live
at home. Mr. and Mrs. Duhaime and their children
all attend the Roman Catholic church of Mystic.
ALWARD JOHW HUGGARD— Born in the town
of Norton, Kings county. New Brunswick, Canada,
Mr. Huggard v/as there educated and spent the first
nineteen years of his life. His father, James Hug-
gard, born in Ireland, came to Canada when a lad
of twelve, and found a home in Kings county, New-
Brunswick, and there died in 1876, aged sixty-three
years. He married Anne Robinson, born in Queens
county. New Brunsv/ick, who died in 1891, aged
seventy-one years. She was the daughter of Thomas
and Isabella Robinson. James and Anne (Robin-
son) Huggard were the parents of five sons: Jo-
seph, Thomas, Jacob, James, Alward John, of
further mention; and four daughters: Elmira, Isa-
bel!, Mary, and Anne.
Alward John Huggard was born March 24, 1868,
and attended the public schools in his youth. He
remained in New Brunswick until 1887, when he
went to Waterville, Maine, there passing eight
months as an employee of the Lock-wood Cotton
Mills. He was next in Lowell, Massachusetts, where
for eleven years he was with the Kitson Machine
Company. His next employment was with the now
Climax Company until 191 2, when he went to New
Jersey, where he spent the years until May, 191S.
as a shipping clerk. On that date he located in
Montvillc, New London county, Connecticut, where
as a member of the firm, Chagnon and Huggard
Company, he is successfully engaged in the manu-
facture of paper tubes.
Mr. Huggard married, at Lowell, Massachusetts,
in December, 1892, Catherine MacAulay, born in the
Province of Quebec, Canada, August 7, 1867, daugh-
ter of John and Arabella Mac.^uIay, who had three
other daughters who grew to womanhood: Sophia,
Annie, and Jane; a daughter, Delina, and a son,
Malcolm, are deceased.
RAOUL M. DELAGRANOE— A descendant of
an old Huguenot family of France, Raoul M. Dela-
grangc is a native of that country, but since his
infancy he has lived in the L'nited States. His
father, Adolph A. Delagrange, was born in Fruriner,
France, and as a boy attended the public school in
his native city. In his young manhood he became a
commission merchant and a speculator in all export
foods, fruits and such commodities. In 1880, or
thereabout, Mr. Delagrange came to this country,
bringing his family with him, and located in Long
Island City, New York. He only lived a fev,- years
there, dying in 1897. By his first wife he had two
children: Gaston and Adolph. His second wife,
who was a Miss Poulver, also a native of France,
died at Long Island City in 1884. They were the
parents of two children: Raoul M., and Edgar M.,
who married Josephine Greiser, a resident ot Ston-
ington, where they now reside.
Having acquired an education in the public schools
of Long Island City, Raoul M. Delagrange came to
Stonington in 1898 and entered the employ of the
American Velvet Company, where he learned the
velvet weaving business. Continuing in this line for
ten years, Mr. Delagrange became interested in
marine engines, and in 1908 bought out the business
of William F. Broughton, a dealer in marine engines
and supplies, adding to this line a machine shop for
general jobbing. In 1920 he built a garage, 65x100
feet, which is one of the most up-to-date garages
within one hundred miles, equipped with modern
machincrj', all accessories, welding machines, etc.,
and the painting of cars is also done here. Mr.
Delagrange has inherited from his father a keen
desire to speculate and will become interested in
anything that promises a money return; to a certain
extent that has become somewhat of a hobby.
Mr. Delagrange is what might be called a fraternal
man, being connected with several organizations, in
which he is quite active. He is a member of
Asylum Lodge, No. 67, of Stonington, Free and
Accepted Masons, and of Pequot Council, Royal
Arcanum. For the past eight years Mr. Delagrange
has been foreman of the hook and ladder company
of Stonington. He also is a member of the Repub-
lican party.
In 1902 Raoul M. Delagrange was married to
Josephine OUweiler, a daughter of George Ollweiler,
a native of Germany. To this union four children
have been born: Constance M.; Olive; Winona; and
Reginald; and they are all living at home w-ith their
parents. Mr. and Mrs. Delagrange and their fam-
ily are all members of the Protestant Episcopal
church of Stonington.
CHARLES W. PRENTICE— One of the indus-
tries of TaftviUe and southern Connecticut is the roll
covering business, conducted by Charles W. Pren-
tice until his death in 1909, and since then under the
ownership of Mrs. Prentice, and managed by their
son, Harry E. Prentice, a sketch of whom follows.
The roll covering business was introduced into the
Prentice family by Ephraim Prentice, father of
Charles W., and grandfather of Harry E. Prentice.
He was a mechanical genius, a carpenter, millwright
and roll coverer, a business he began in one room,
with rented power and two assistants. The business
continued by his sons is now in the hands of grand-
sons.
Cnptain Thomas Prentice, born in England in
Tfi-^T, married in England, and with his wife, Grace,
ioined the church in Cambridge, Massachusetts, in
BIOGRAPHICAL
327
1652. He was captain of a troop of horse fighters
in the Indian War, 1675, and died in Newtown,
Massachusetts, July 6, 1710. His wife Grace died
Oi'tober 8, 1692, the mother of sons and daughters.
Tlie hnc of descent from Captain Tliomas and Grace
Prentice is tlirougli their eldest son, Thomas Pren-
tice, and his wife, Sarah Stanton; their son, Samuel
Prentice, and his wife, Esther Hammond; their son.
Joseph Prentice, and his wife, Mary Wheeler; their
son, Manasseh Prentice, and his wife, Asenath Ben-
ton; their son, Epiiraim Prentice, and his wife, Mary
Dow; their son, John D. Prentice, and his wife, Abby
Gray Gilmore; their son, Ephraim Prentice, and his
wife, Rachel S. Wilson; their son, Charles W. Pren-
tice, and his wife, Alice M. Brown; their son, Harry
E. Prentice, and his wife, Mary Waterman; their
children, Dorothy W., Charles W., and Ruth B.
Prentice. In the fourth generation this branch
moved from Newtown, Massachusetts, to Preston,
Connecticut, and that State has since been the home
of this branch of the family. Preston, Plainfield,
Moosup, Taftville, and Norwich have all been homes
of the family.
Ephraim Prentice, of the eighth generation, was
born near Moosup, in the town of Plainfield, Wind-
ham county, Connecticut, July 27, 1822, died at In^
farm in East Brooklyn, then a part of the borough
of Danielson, Windham county, Connecticut, No-
vember 13, 1899. He learned the carpenter's trade,
then was engaged for many years as a millwright,
and finally completed a process for covering top
rolls used in cotton mills in the making of textiles.
He developed a good business in that line at Wau-
regan, Connecticut, moving in 1883 to East Brook-
lyn, where he owned the old Stewart property.
There he built and prospered, and continued his
roll covering plant until his death in 1899, when he
was succeeded by his son, George E., in the East
Brooklyn plant. In 1871 he established a branch
plant at Taftville, New London county, Connecticut,
and that was placed under the management of his
son, Charles W. Prentice, in 1880.
Ephraim Prentice, after removing to East Brook-
lyn, devoted a good share of his own time to his
sixty-two acres and especially to the breeding of
pure-blooded Holstein cattle, having a fine herd.
He is a Republican in politics, an attendant and
supporter of the Congregational church, and a mem-
ber of Atount Moriah Lodge, Free and .'\ccoptcd
Masons, of Danielson, Connecticut. He married, in
Plainfield, Connecticut, Rachel S. Wilson, born in
Plainfield, September 22, 1821, died November 8.
1891; both were buried in Westfield Cemetery, Dan-
ielson. They were the parents of four children:
Charles W., of whom further; Ellen M., who never
married but always remained her parents' companion,
and after they had passed away she remained at the
old home in East Brooklyn: Emma R., who married
John Whitaker, of Plainfield; and George E., born
June 14, i860, long associated in the roll covering
business with his father, whom he succeeded at the
East Brooklyn plant.
Charles W. Prentice, eldest son of Ephraim and
Rachel S. (Wilson) Prentice, was born in Green-
ville, Connecticut, February 13, 1847, died in Taft-
ville, Connecticut, August 25, 1906. His youth was
spent in the various Connecticut towns in which
his father followed his trade, finally coming to Wau-
regan, which was the family home for twenty-four
years, and there the lad was educated in the public
schools. When school years were over he was em-
ployed as an assistant bookkeeper in a mill at
Wauregan, but soon entered the employ of his
father, who had established a shop in VVauregan for
the covering of rolls used in textile manufacturing.
The branch factory established at Taftville by his
father in 1871 was placed under the management of
Charles W. Prentice in 1880, and for twenty-nine
years he continued its operation, becoming its
owner. He became an important figure in cotton
manufacturing circles and his business grew to large
proportions. Pie was held in high regard as an
able business man, and in his citizenship there was
no flaw.
In politics, Mr. Prentice was a Republican, but
never active in the party, although keenly alive to
his obligations as a good citizen. He was a member
of the Masonic order and affiliated with Mount
Moriah Lodge, Free and Accepted Masons, of Dan-
ielson; the Scottish Rite at Norwich, holding the
thirty-second degree; and with Sphinx Temple,
Ancient Arabic Order Nobles of the Mystic Shrine.
He was very popular in tliese orders and in his
community.
Mr. Prentice married, in Manchester, New Hamp-
shire, Alice M. Brown, who survives him. She suc-
ceeded to the ownership of the roll covering busi-
ness, which she has continued until the present
time (1921) under the management of her eldest
son, Harry E., of mention below. Leonard Charles
Prentice, her youngest son, is also associated with
the same business; he married Florence Weller, of
Taftville, Connecticut, and has two daughters: Shir-
Icy Weller, and Lorraine Elizabeth Prentice.
HARRY EPHRAIM PRENTICE, eldest of the
two sons of Charles W. and -\lice ^L (Brown) Pren-
tice (q. v.), was born at the old home of his mother
in Manchester, New Hampshire, November 2, 1888.
Norwich, Connecticut, became the family home, and
there he was educated in the public schools and
Norwich Free Academy (class of 1907), later attend-
ing Phillips Exeter, Academy at E.xeter, New Hamp-
shire, class of 1909. He then spent two years at the
Massachusetts Institute of Technology, returning to
Norwich in 1912. In that year he became manager
of the business established in Taftville by his grand-
father, The Prentice Company, developed by his
father, and since the latter's death in 1906, owned
and operated by his mother. In politics Mr. Pren-
tice is a Republican, and in religious faith is a Con-
gregationalist.
Mr. Prentice married, at Waterford, Connecticut,
July II, 1911, Mary Waterman, born in Lebanon,
Connecticut, April n, 1889, daughter of Andrew and
Julia (Stark) Waterman. Mr. and Mrs. Prentice are
328
NEW LONDON COUNTY
the parents of three children: Dorothy Waterman,
born April 17, 1912, in Norwich, Connecticut; Charles
Wilson, born May 23, 1913, at Taftville, Connecti-
cut; and Ruth Brown, born March 23, 1920, at Nor-
wich, Connecticut. The family home is in Norwich
DR. FREDERIC EDMOND RAINVILLE was
born in Rouville county, Province of Quebec, Janu-
ary 7, i86i, son of Paul and Sophia (Giroux) Rain-
ville. His father, Paul Rainville, was born in Rou-
ville, and followed agricultural pursuits throughout
his entire lifetime. He died in 1871. To Mr. and
Mrs. Rainville were born nine children, Frederic
Edmond being the third child.
After preliminary education in the public schools
of Rouville, Frederic Edmond Rainville entered Fel-
ler Institute Preparatory School, whence he was
graduated in 1887. In the meantime, having decided
to adopt medicine as a profession, he entered the
University of Vermont, receiving his M. D. from
the Medical Department of that institution in 1891.
The same year he was appointed interne at Notre
Dame Hospital, Montreal, Canada, where he made a
special study of surgery. Later he established in
the practice of his profession in Montreal, Canada,
where he made a special study of surgery, but later
moved to Wauregan, Connecticut, subsequently go-
ing to Danielson, where until 1910 he practiced his
profession with success. He then came to Jewett
City, since which time his practice has been steadily
increasing. Dr. Rainville is a Republican in politici.
Dr. Rainville married, December 18, 1910, Eliza-
beth La Rose, daughter of Simeon and Mary (Clos-
sct) La Rose, and to them has been born one child,
Frederic F.
JOHN OWEN (2) PECKHAM— Among the
eighteen associates of William Coddington, who,
under the inspiration of Roger Williams, went out
from Massachusetts to found a plantation, was John
Peckham, who was of Newport, Rhode Island, in
1638, and there died in 1681, his wife, Mary (Clarke)
Peckham, dying in 1648. From John and Mary
(Clarke) Peckham the line of descent to John Owen
Peckham, farmer and coal dealer of Norwich, Con-
necticut, is traced through several generations to
Benjamin Peckham, who was born in Rhode Island,
settled in Ledyard, Connecticut, and married Lucy
Wilcox, who also was born in Rhode Island, they
the parents of fifteen children. Descent continues
through their son, Nathan Peckham, and his wife,
Sarah (Perkins) Peckham, both of whom died in
Ledyard, Connecticut. They were the parents of
five children, one of whom was a son, John Owen
(i) Peckham, father of John Owen (2) Peckham, of
Norwich, Connecticut.
John Owen (l) Peckham was born in Ledyard,
Connecticut, February 22, 1817, and died December
II, 1902, at Preston, Connecticut. He was for sev-
eral years engaged in farming in New York State,
but in 1842, returned to Connecticut, and purchased
a farm at Preston, in New London county. He
brought his farm of seventy-three acres to a high
state of cultivation and prospered abundantly. He
was a Democrat in politics, a deacon of the Baptist
church, and a man highly esteemed in his com-
munity. Mr. Peckham married, in 1840, Margaret
Connor, of New York, who died in 1857, in Preston,
leaving four children: I. Mary L., who married
Giles H. Bliven. 2. Nancy A., who married Albert
M. Brown. 3. Robert M., who married (first) Fannie
E. Brown, (second) Hannah Peckham. 4. Clarissa,
who married William H. Bennett. Mr. Peckham
married (second) November 7, 1858, Sophia Louise
Brown, who died May 16, 190S, daughter of .'\Ibert
and Seviah (Maine) Brown, of Ledyard, Connecti-
cut. They also were the parents of four children:
I. John Owen (2), of this review. 2. Sophia Louise,
married Edward Hallowell. 3. Joseph Tyler, mar
ried Hannah A. Story. 4. VVilliam Hazzard, who
married, November 27, 1908, May Ruge. He died
August 7, 1919.
Jolm Owen (2) Peckham, eldest son of John Owen
(l) and Sophia L. (Brown) Peckham, was born in
Preston, Connecticut, August 12, 1859. He obtained
his education in district public and select schools,
continuing his school years until the age of seven-
teen, when he became his father's farm assistant, re-
maining at home until his twenty-third year. For
three years following he was in the employ of Mrs.
Lyman Randall, of East Great Plain, as her farm
foreman. During that period he also ran a milk
route in Norwich. He was next foreman on the farm of
R. E. Turner, at Laurel Hill, Norwich, and while
there, obtained a knowledge of the carpenter's trade.
In 1887 he leased the one hundred acre farm in
Ledyard, known as the Theophilus Avery farm, and
there brought his bride. In March, 1889, he bought
a fine farm in Preston, near the Norwich city line,
and cultivated its two hundred acres personally, with
the help of a manager, and also conducted a general
farm with a dairy department, selling the dairy
product in Norwich until he sold out in September,
1913. He has been proprietor of a retail coal busi-
ness in Norwich since March, 1914, and has pros-
pered in every department of his business. Mr.
Peckham is also greatly interested in flowers and
makes a specialty of growing dahlias.
Mr. Peckham is a Republican in politics, but be-
yond grand jury duty has refused all public office.
In religious faith he is a Baptist, and for years has
served the church at Preston as a member of the
Church Committee, assistant superintendent, also
superintendent for several years of the Sunday
school and librarian of same, his wife also an active
worker until her death.
Mr. Peckham married (first) March 13, 1887, Anna
Elizabeth Avery, who died August 4, 1913, daughter
of Theophilus and Mary Lydia (Corning) Avery,
her father a farmer. Two children were born to
Mr. and Mrs. Peckham: Florence Belle, and How-
ard Clifton. Mr. Peckham married (second), Octo-
ber 17, 1914, Ivy Beatrice Otis, daughter of Frederic
and Nellie Almira (McClurc) Otis. :Mr. Peckham
is a man highly regarded for his fine business qual-
ity and his honorable, upright life.
BIOGRAPHICAL
329
FRANK CRANSKA— In 1885, Frank Cranska
came to the Thames National Bank of Norwich,
Connecticut, and has remained with that institution
during the thirty-seven and one-half years which
have since elapsed. He is the third eldest man in
the bank in point of years of service and has won
high standing as a business man. He is a son of
James and Asenath (Randall) Cranska, his fatlic.-
coming to Connecticut from the State of Maine. He
located in Thompson and there established a busi-
ness and a home. His five sons have all secured
honorable position in the business world, Cranska
being a name particularly well known in the textile
world, and Floyd Cranska among textile manufac-
turers.
James Cranska was born in Portland, Maine, April
17, 1815, and died in Thompson, Connecticut, in
April, 1905. He spent his youth in Maine, coming ia
youthful manhood to Thompson, where for thirty
years he was engaged in the shoe business. He was
also for twenty years station agent at Grosvcnor
Dale on the New York, New Haven & Hartford
Railroad in Windham county, Connecticut, thirty-
nine miles north of Norwich, and was also post-
master of the village. He was a man of indepen-
dence and enterprise, a good and useful citizen.
James Cranska married Asenath Randall, daughter
of Calvin and Caroline Matilda (Blackmar) Randall,
her father owner and manager of the Thompson
Mills. Mr. and Mrs. Cranska were the parents of
eight children: Helen, a resident of Thompson;
Isabel, married George Ballard, of Thompson; Cal-
vin, a factory superintendent of Towanda, Pennsyl-
vania; Caroline Matilda, a resident of Thompson;
Floyd, a textile manufacturer, and founder of the
Cranska Thread Company of Worcester, Massachu-
setts, married Evelyn C. Briggs; Frank, of whom
further; James, with B. B. & R. Knight, cotton
manufacturers; William, deceased.
Frank Cranska was born in Thompson, Connecti-
cut, September 4, 1S57, and there was educated in
the public schools. At the age of seventeen, in 1874,
he entered the office employ of the Grosvenor Dali
Company at Grosvenor Dale, Connecticut, that com-
pany being manufacturers of cotton goods. Pie re-
mained with that company ten years and when he
resigned, in 1880, he was filling the oftice of pay-
master. In 1883 he entered the employ of the B. B.
& R. Knight Company, at Manchaug, Massachu-
setts, as an accountant, and remained for two years
with that largest individual cotton manufacturing
concern in the world. In 1885 he located in Nor-
wich, Connecticut, where he entered the clerical
service of the Thames National Bank, and for thirty-
seven and one-half years has continued with that
bank, filling different positions. Mr. Cranska is a
Republican in politics, a member of the Chamber of
Commerce and of the Central Baptist Church.
He married in New York City, December 2.1, 188=;.
Lillian Wythe Leonard, daughter of Dr. Williams
Robert and Adelaide Muriel (MacKees) Leonard, of
New York. Dr. Williams Robert Leonard, born in,
V^irginia, died in 1892, was a descendant of George
Wythe, of Virginia, a signer of the Declaration of
Independence. Adelaide Muriel (MacKees) Leon-
ard, who died in Brooklyn, New York, in 1872, was
a daughter of George \V. and Sarah Louis (Vandcr-
hoof) MacKees, of New Jersey. Mr. and Mrs.
Cranska are the parents of five children, all born
in Norwich: Marian Asenath, residing at home;
Harold Wythe, a veteran of the American Expedi-
tionary Force in France, Company K, Ii3tli Infan-
try, 29th Division, now teller of the Irving Na-
tional Bank of New York; Wesley Randall, a vet-
eran of the war with Germany, serving in France
with the 304th Engineers, 79th Division, American
Expeditionary Force; Wallace Russell (twin of Wes-
ley Randall), died aged tv/o and one-half years;
Rosalind Joyce, residing with her parents. The
family home is in Norwich, on Laurel Hill avenue.
CLAUDIUS VICTOR PENDLETON, JR.—
One of the leading figures of Norv.-ich today is
Claudius V. Pendleton, Jr., sporting goods and
automobile dealer, and representative to the State
Assembly. Mr. Pendleton comes of an old New-
England family, the name being of Gaelic origin,
signifying the summit of a hill, from pendle, the sum-
mit, and dun, a hill.
Claudius Victor Pendleton, Sr., was born March
14, 1851. He is a graduate of Yale College, with
the degree of Civil Engineer, and while still a
young man was the head of an independent business
in the building of bridges. For many years he was
superintendent of construction with the American
Bridge Company, and later was inspector for that
concern. At one time he was with the Berlin Iron
and Bridge Company, of East Berlin, Connecticut.
He married Phebe J. Johnson, who was born in
September, 1850.
Claudius Victor Pendleton, Jr., was born in Nor-
wich, Connecticut, June II, 1885. His education,
begun in the public schools of the city, was contin-
ued through grammar school and completed in the
Norwich Free Academy, which he attended for
th-ce and one-half years. His first active interest ir.
life was semi-professional baseball, especially
throughout the State of Maine, his position being
catcher. In the year 1910 Mr. Pendleton established
himself in business in Norwich in the sale of motor-
cycles and sporting goods, and the interest became
very successful. In 1919 he extended his operations
to include the sale of Hupmobile cars, and he now
handles a large business, continuing all branches as
outlined, except motorcycles. Mr. Pendleton's busi-
ness activities are not, however, the only avenues of
usefulness in which he is a familiar figure. A Re-
publican by political afTiliation, he has for years bee.a
a worker in the party's behalf, always upholding
the broader interests of the people in its councils,
and some years ago was elected alderman. In the
fall of 1920 he was elected town representative to
the Legislature of the State. Fraternally, Mr. Pen-
dleton is widely connected, being a '■-■• ^f Som-
erset Lodge, No. 34, Free and Accepted Masons;
Franklin Chapter, No. 4, Royal Arch Masons; Frank-
330
NEW LONDON COUNTY
lin Council, No. 3; Coluinbian Commandcry, No. 4.
He is a member of all the Scottish Rite bodies, hold-
ing the thirty-second degree in this order, and is a
member of Sphin.x Temple, Ancient Arabic Order
Nobles of the Mystic Shrine. He is also a member
of Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, No. 130,
and Uncas Lodge, No. 11, Independent Order of Odd
Fellows, and of Palmyra Encampment, No. 3, of
the Odd Fellows. He is a member of the Arcanum
Club of Norwich, and of Trinity Episcopal Church.
His chief recreative interests are hunting and fishing.
Mr. Pendleton married, October 5, 1918, Blanche
Hall, daughter of George Everett and Annie B.
(Harvey) Hall, her father a prominent woolen man-
ufacturer and business man of this citv.
one son, Martin, Jr.; they reside in Taftvillc,
but are widely known in both Willimantic and
Norwich.
MARTIN E. MULLEN, D.D.S.— Among the
younger professional men of New London county,
Connecticut, Dr. Mullen is counted among the suc-
cessful dental surgeons, and with olTiccs in Taftville,
he is handling a prosperous and growing practice.
Dr. Mullen is a native of Windham county, this
State, and prepared for his professional career in
the leading institutions of the East. He is a son of
Joseph M. and Josephine (Boucher) Mullen, both
his parents having been born in Canada. His fathe"-,
vho was for many yoars active in Willimantic in the
grocery business, dealing also in meat. '^-'- "nd
bakery, died in the year 1915. His mother is still
living.
Dr. Mullen was born in the city of Willimantic,
Connecticut, August 17, 1890. His elementary and
intermediate studies were pursued at St. Joseph's
and St. Mary's parochial schools in his native place,
and he also attended the Windham High School, at
Willimantic. For his classical course he attended
Niagara University, at Niagara Falls, New York,
after which he entered the Baltimore College of
Dental Surgery, from which he was graduated in
the class of 1917. He has since practiced in Taft-
ville, with the exception of seven months, during
which period he served in the United States army,
being stationed at Camp Devens, Massachusetts.
He was discharged from the service on January 27,
1918, after which he came direct to Taftville, and
began his professional career, purchasing the prac-
tice of Dr. Raymond Couture. He has thus far been
very successful, and is counted among the rising
professional men of this section.
In public affairs Dr. Mullen takes only the inter-
est of a progressive citizen. He is a member of the
Connecticut State Dental Association, and the Hor-
ace Hayden Odontological Society of Baltimore.
Fraternally, he is identified with the Benevolent and
Protective Order of Elks, and also is a mem-
ber of the fourth degree. Knights of Columbus.
He is a member of the Church of the Sacred
Heart.
Dr. Mullen married, in Willimantic, in 1919, Mary
Ellen Cheney, a graduate nurse, who was born in
Willimantic, and is the daughter of Edward and
Anne (Peltier) Cheney. Dr. and Mrs. Mullen have
CARLOS CURTIS PECK— Peck is an honored
New England name and has been worthily borne
by sons of the family for many generations, in both
business and in the professions. Carlos C. Peck,
of New London and Norwich, Connecticut, belongs
to the Bridgeport branch of the family, his father,
Eugene B. Peck, being an eminent member of the
New England bar. Carlos C. Peck chose a business
career and is one of the successful merchants of
New London, Connecticut.
Eugene Benjamin Peck was born in Bridgeport,
Connecticut, April 4, 1854, and died in the city of
his birth, April 19, 1913. He received his early edu-
cation in Bridgeport grade and high schools, and
then, deciding upon the legal profession, he entered
Yale Law School, whence he was graduated Bache-
lor of Laws, class of 1875. The same year he began
the practice of law in Bridgeport and there continued
an honorable career until his retirement. He mar-
ried Mary Curtis, who was born in Bridgeport,
October 18, 1856, and died in that city. May 28, 1919;
they were the parents of twin sons: Richard
Eugene, who married Violet Smith and resides in
New York City; and Carlos Curtis, of further and
extended note.
Carlos Curtis Peck was born in Bridgeport, Con-
necticut, July I, 1877. He passed through the grade
and high school courses of Bridgeport public schools,
finishing with the high school graduation class of
1897. He then entered Trinity College, Hartford,
Connecticut, whence he was graduated, class of
1901. He at once entered business life, locating in
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 1901, and there re-
maining until 1912, as assistant superintendent of
the Nelson Valve Company. In 1912 he returned
to Bridgeport, where he was appointed assistant
superintendent of production for the Bridgeport
Brass Company, a promotion he retained for four
years. In 1916 he became manager of the Standard
Brass & Copper Tube Company, of New London,
Connecticut, remaining in that position for two
years. In 1918 he organized the Connecticut
Alachinery & Sales Company, of Norwich, of
which he was made president and manager. The
company is capitalized at $50,000, deals in mill sup-
plies and farm machinery at both wholesale and
retail, and is well established in business. Mr. Peck
is a member and former president of the New Lon-
don Chamber of Commerce, 1918-19; is a member
of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers,
Trinity College, Chapter of Delta Phi; of the Thames
Club of New London; and his religious connection is
with St. James Protestant Episcopal Church of New
London. He is a Republican in politics.
Mr. Peck married, in New London, Connecticut,
November 30, 1918, Mary Palmer, the Rev. J. Rom-
eyn Danforth officiating. The family home is in New
London, although Mr. Peck's business is in Norwich.
l^arrp £©. ^l)alett
BIOGRAPHICAL
331
JACOB SHALETT— As president of the Swiss
Cleaners and Dyers, Inc., which lie established in
1920, at No. 573 Bank street, New London, Connecti-
cut, Mr. Shalett holds a recognized place in the
business circles of the city. Since the inception of
his business career, Mr. Shalett has been identified
with this particular line of industry, and gained a
thorough knowledge of it years ago when he was
associated with his father, who was a dyer in
Russia.
Jacob Shalett was born in Russia, town of Starya,
October 30, 1883, the son of Moses and Mary (Kir-
lick) Shalett. There he was educated and lived
until he left Russia. In the fall of 1911, Mr. Shalett
came to this country, and after a two mon'chs' visit
with his brother Nathan at New Haven, Connecticut,
he went to New York City, where he secured
employment as a cleaner and dyer, and remained in
that city working with various prominent firms until
the year of 1914. After leaving New York City,
Mr. Shalett came to New London and opened a
cleaning and dyeing establishment, a year later
taking his brother, Harry M. Shalett (see following
sketch), in the business wi'th him. In April, 1920,
the partnership dissolved, Mr. Shalett selling his
share in the firm to his brother, Harry M. The
following August a fireproof building was con-
structed by Jacob Slialett and equipped with the
most modern machinery necessary for the various
processes of cleaning and dyeing, the plant being
known as the Swiss Cleaners and Dyers, Inc. Mr.
Shalett has been very successful, and has developed
a large and prosperous business.
Mr. Shalett married, in 1917, Fannie Rosen, a
native of Montville, Connecticut, the daughter of
Louis and Sara Rosen, both of Russia. Mr. and
Mrs. Shalett are the parents of two children: Marie,
born March 12, 1918; Melvin, born March 9, 1920.
HARRY M. SHALETT— One of the busiest men
in New London, Connecticut, is Harry M. Shalett,
founder of Shalefc's Cleaning and Dyeing Company,
which is located on Montauk avenue, at Bank street.
Since commencing business life in this country, Mr.
Shalett has identified himself with local interests,
gradually making his way to the position of promi-
nence which he holds at the present time.
Harry M. Shalett was born in Starya, Russia, Sep-
tember 18, 1888, the son of Moses and Mary (Kir-
lick) Shalett, and brother of Jacob Shalett (see pre-
ceding sketch). The boy received his education in
public schools and then became associated with his
father in the cleaning and dyeing industry. In 1906
he came to this country and located at New Haven,
where he attended Yale College, subsequently work-
ing with his brother Nathan, who had previously
come to America and established a cleaning and dye-
ing business on his own account. Here Harry M.
Shalett remained until 1914, when he removed to
New London and, together with his brother Jacob,
conducted a cleaning and dyeing establishment.
Later, in 1920, he purchased the lattcr's interest in
the business and has since carried it on alone.
We have spoken of Mr. Shalett as one of the
busiest men in New London, and he is obliged to
be so, for he is the head of a very busy and exten-
sive enterprise, which has branches in Mystic, Nor-
wich, and Westerly. The fact that he is so thor-
oughly occupied is largely owing to the constant
care and consideration which he has bestowed on
the upbuilding and maintenance of its interests.
He is a member of the Chamber of Commerce, and
the Rotary Club, and in the public affairs of the
city he manifests the same qualities which charac-
terize him as a business man — steadfast loyalty to
principle, and promptness and efficiency in the per-
formance of duty. In politics he is a Republican,
and yet, while taking no active part in the affairs of
the organization, his opinion is often sought and
his word carries weight. Energetic as he is, he
is too wise a man to ever sink into a mere business
machine, and is never neglectful of the social side
of life. He affiliates with the Benevolent and Pro-
tective Order of Elks, New London Lodge, No. 360,
and is a member of the Harbour Club.
On May 5, 1913, Harry M. Shalett was united in
marriage with Haddic Hughes, of Manchester, Eng-
land, daughter of Gifford and Elizabeth (Berigon)
Hughes, of Manchester. Mr. and Mrs. Shalett are
the parents of two children: Elizabeth, born May
19, 1914; and Harry, born July 10, 1920.
JOSEPH NAPOLEON LAPOINTE— This is the
record of a Canadian lad of eighteen years who
came to the United States, and without a false move
or mistake found his true vocation in a machine
shop, and from apprentice boy passed through the
various stages of promotion and development until
he was established in a plant of his own, manufac-
turing for home and foreign use a machine bearing
his own name and patentee — the Lapointe Broaching
Machine. He has won fame and fortune, and is yet
so much the man of action and energy that he has
recently embarked in a new line of manufacturing in
New London, Connecticut.
Joseph Napoleon Lapointe was born in St. Hya-
cinthe, a suburb of Montreal, Canada, March 31,
1861, son of Peter and Lucie (Perrault) Lapointe,
both born in Canada of French parentage. Joseph
N. Lapointe remained in the place of his birth until
attaining the age of seventeen, and acquired a fair
education there, to which he added to in the schools
of Waterbury, Connecticut, his parents moving there
in 1878. He entered the Benedict Brass Manufac-
turing Plant in W^aterbury, Connecticut, as an ap-
prentice to the machinist's trade, and proved so
apt that his progress was very rapid. He became a
skilled workman, and before passing out of his
eighteenth year he was foreman of a department of
Lhe Waterbury Watch Company, the makers of
that one time famous "Waterbury Watch." Mr.
Lapointe's department was the making of machine
332
NEW LONDON COUNTY
parts, tools, etc., and there he remained seven years,
being an important factor in the early development
of the Waterbury Watch Company.
He was twenty-five years old when he left the
Waterbury Watch Company to go with the Seth
Thomas Watch Company, at the request of Mr.
Heath, the general master-mechanic of the com-
pany. In his new position he was in charge of the
"train room" at the Thomaston, Connecticut, plant
of the company, a place he capably filled for three
years. While with the wa'cch company he invented
several devices that were of value and upon which
patents were issued, two in particular being most
useful, viz.: an automatic rotary pinion and polish-
ing machine. At the age of twenty-eight he left the
Seth Thomas Wa'cch Company and opened a small
machine shop in Waterbury, Connecticut, a success-
ful enterprise which he later sold to the Pearl Lake
Company, Mr. Lapointe then engaging with the
Pratt-Whitney Company of Hartford, Connecticut,
in charge of experimental work for Mr. Whitney.
A year la'ter he was made foreman of a department
at the plant. For fourteen years he continued in
that position, and during that period his inventive
genius was given full rein and he perfected and
made many improvements in the manufacturing of
both tools and tool making machines. While with
Pratt-Whitney Company he devised and inaugurated
the broaching system now in general use and known
as the Lapointe Broaching System the world over.
From the Pratt-Whitney Company, Mr. Lapointe
went to the Becker Milling Machine Company of
Hyde Park, Massachusetts, organizing the plant
upon a better basis and increasing its rate of pro-
duction. After three years with that company he
again established in business for himself, locating
at No. 35 Hartford street, Boston, Massachusetts,
where he perfected a broaching machine of his own
design. He was short of funds at this period, bu't
he weathered the crisis and in his little shop on
Hartford street perfected the Lapointe Broaching
Machine and received his first order for a machine.
His first order came from the Mason Regulator
Works of Milton, Massachusetts, his second from
Mr. Clements, connected with an automobile manu-
facturing company of Paris, France. This machine,
which cuts square holes of any size in steel, has been
a. boon to the automobile trade and has met with
a ready sale. In 1902 Mr. Lapointe visited France,
and from automobile manufacturers alone took
orders for broaching machines totaling $18,000.
In 1906 he built a plant at Hudson, Massachu-
setrts, the Lapointe Machine Tool Company, sever-
ing his connection with same in 1911, and then
organizing the J. N. Lapointe Company at Marlboro,
Massachusetts, for manufacturing broaching ma-
chines. In 1913 the company moved to New Lon-
don, and erected a modern plant, which he operated
successfully for six years, employing 200 hands. In
1919 he sold out, and in 1920 bought the Arnold
Electric Tool Company, then loca'ced in New Haven,
Connecticut. He at once removed the plant to New
London, and in a new building which he erected is
now manufacturing portable electric drills.
Such is the record of an energetic, capable busi-
ness man, inventive genius and mechanical spirit.
From the bottom of the ladder he has risen to a
position of influence and has made for himself high
reputation as an inventor and manufacturer of tools
and machines. But he has not given himself en-
tirely to the pursuit of fame and fortune as a
mechanician and business man. He is an accom-
plished musician, and at Hartford was at the head
of a military band bearing his name. He is fond
of art, music, and the theatre, and is a man of
most social, genial nature. His fortune has been
gained through his own ability and genius, and he
enjoys its possession. In politics he is a Republi-
can.
Mr. Lapointe married, at Waterbury, Connecticut,
June I, 1880, Malvina Chicoine, and they are the
parents of four children: Ralph R., a mechanical
engineer of Hudson, Massachusetts; Frank Jerome,
owner and manager of the American Broaching
Machine Company of Ann Arbor, Michigan; Lionel,
a surgeon of the United States navy, assigned to
the battle ship "Virginia"; and Liana, wife of Beech
Carpenter of New York City. The family home of
the Lapointes is in New London, Connecticut, al-
though the children have all founded homes of their
own in other localities.
CONRAD KRETZER— A business man of Mystic,
Connecticut, who has allied himself with everything
pertaining to the welfare and advancement of the
community, Conrad Kretzer deserves well of his
fellow-townsmen. He was born in New London,
Connecticut, August 26, 1864, third child of Conrad
and Eva (Roscncranz) Kretzer, both born in Ger-
many. His father, who was a shoemaker by trade,
came to the United States as a young man and
located at New London, Connecticut, in 1854, and
there followed his trade until his death in 1864. To
Mr. and Mrs. Kretzer were born three children; the
mother died in Mystic.
The education of Conrad Kretzer was obtained
in the public schools of Mystic, and after gradua-
tion from the high school he worked at various
places until 1890, when he purchased the business
of George Spink, general merchant of Mystic. The
venture proved successful, the business growing con-
sistently, until today Mr. Kretzer owns the large
block at the corner of Pearl and Main streets, in
which his store is located. He can review his life
u-ith satisfaction as he mentally traces his career
from a working boy to his present position as a
prosperous merchant. He has been the architect of
his own fortune, and has won his way through
pluck and that indomitable energy which in its last
analysis is the fundamental characteristic of the
successful business man.
The same qualities that Mr. Kretzer has exhibited
BIOGEIAPHICAL
333
in the conduct of his own business he also has shown
in the town business which has been committed to
his care. For eleven years he has served as a mem-
ber of the committee having charge of the town
fire, water and light departments, and has proved
himself a valuable public official.
Mr. Kretzer is afliliated with Charity and Relief
Lodge, No. 72, Free and Accepted Masons; Benevo-
lence Chapter, Royal Arch Masons; Mystic Council,
No. 29, Royal and Select Masters; Palestine Com-
mandery, Knights Templar; and is a thirty-second
degree Mason of Norwich Consistory. Mr. Kretzer
also affiliates with the Independent Order of Odd
Fellows, Lodge No. 26, of Stonington, Connecticut,
of which he is a past noble grand; and the Ancient
Order of United Workmen, of which he is past
master. In religion he is an Episcopalian, an at-
tendant of St. Mark's Church of that denomination
in Mystic. In politics he is a Democrat and from
1917 to the present (1922) he has been selectman of
Groton.
On July 12, 1888, Conrad Kretzer was united in
marriage with Lucy J. Bliven, a native of Stoning-
ton, Connecticut, daughter of George A. and Ruth
A. (Richmond) Bliven. Mr. and Mrs. Kretzer are
the parents of one child, Ruth E., who married
Leonard J. Hermes, of the same town, and has a
daughter, Isabella K., born in Mystic.
REGINALD LESTER LORD— One of the inter-
esting old landmarks of Lyme, Connecticut, is the
home of Reginald Lester Lord, the fourth genera-
tion born on this homestead, which he now owns.
The farm comprises four hundred and some odd
acres, the land having been a grant from the Mohi-
can Indians, the original grant being signed by the
mark of Chief Chapeto, who was a subordinate
chief to Chief Uncas, the head of the Mohican tribe.
It is situated in the village of Hamburg, and is still
known as Chapeto Farm.
James Lincoln Lord, Mr. Lord's father, was born
on this place, March 8, 1869, and for many years
carried on an extensive lumber business in connec-
tion with the regular farming operations of the
place. He is a son of Judah and Mary (Beckwith)
Lord, and from childhood was active in the work
of "the farm until his retirement from business a
few years ago. He has long held prominence in
the public affairs of the town, having held all minor
offices in the gift of the people, also represented the
town in the State Legislature of 1897. He has al-
ways supported the Republican party, and of recent
years has been a leader in its activities. He is still
broadly interested in every phase of public progress.
Reginald Lester Lord, son of James Lincoln Lord,
was born in the village of Hamburg, October 14,
1895. He received his early education at the dis-
trict schools near his home, then later attended the
Black Hall School, at Black Hall, Connecticut, a
well known school for boys. Completing the course
at this institution, Mr. Lord then entered Suffield
Academy, at SuiTield, Connecticut, from which he was
graduated in 1915. He thereafter entered Weslcyan
University, at Middletown, Connec'ticut, but left
before his graduation to enlist in the United States
Naval Reserve, on May 11, 1917, at New London.
He was not called to active service until November
of that year, and was then sent to the naval station
at Newport, Rhode Island. Late in December, 1917,
he was transferred to the United States Battleship
"Massachusetts," to be trained as a gun cap'tain.
Completing his course in gunnery, he was returned
to the Newport naval station to await assignment.
Later he was placed in charge of a detail of men
from New London, and all assigned to the United
States steamship "Narragansctt," his rating being
boatswain, second class. He was at Wilmington,
Delaware, until May 30, 1918, on which date he
sailed for a naval base to take on supplies, then
sailed for France, July 10, 1918, arriving on the
twenty-first of the same month. He was returned
to the United States the following June, when he
was placed on inactive service. After his return,
Mr. Lord attended the Massachusetts Agricultural
College, at Amherst, in that State, then in March,
1920, returned to Lyme to take charge of his father's
farm. He and his father are now (1922) engaged in
the general mercantile business in Hamburg, under
the name of James L. Lord & Son.
In the public affairs of his home town Mr. Lord,
like his father, takes a deep interest, and supports
the Republican party. He is a member of the Lyme
Grange, Patrons of Husbandry, No. 147, and served
as a lecturer of the organization. He is also a mem-
ber of the New London County Farm Bureau, and
is a member of the Lyme Post of the American
Legion.
On October 9, 1920, Reginald L. Lord married, in
London, England, Marie Florence Shepherd, daugh-
ter of Henry and Alice Shepherd, of that city.
Mrs. Lord was born in London, England, March 4,
1899. On July 30, 1921, a son, James Lincoln (2)
Lord, was born.
JOHN WILLIAM CALLAHAN, M.D., of Nor-
wich, Connecticut, was born in that city on July
19, 1888, and is the son of Thomas F. and Julia
(Kelley) Callahan.
His father is a native of Ireland, who came to
this country when he was a young man, locating in
Norwich, where he still resides, but is now retired
from active business. His mother was born in
county Kerry, Ireland, and Dr. Callahan is the only
son. His sister, Mary E., is principal of the Broad
Street School in Norwich. Both Miss Callahan and
the doctor reside at home.
Dr. Callahan received his early education in the
public schools of Norwich; then attended the Nor-
wich Free Academy, from which he was graduated
in 1907. In that same year he entered the College
of Physicians and Surgeons, in Baltimore, Mary-
land, from which he was graduated in 191 1 with the
334
NEW DONDON COUNTY
degree of Doctor of Medicine. In 1911 and 1912
Dr. Callah.nn practiced at St. Francis' Hospital, at
Hartford, Connecticut. Then in 1912 he came to
Norwich, and es'cablished himself in private practice
in this city, where he has since been successfully
engaged.
In 1917 Dr. Callahan offered himself to the Gov-
ernment, and on March 25, 1918, was called for mili-
tary service. Commissioned as first lieutenant, he
entered camp at the Army Medical School, at Wash-
ington, District of Columbia, later being assigned
to the Medical Examining Board, at Camp Upton,
New York, and to various other camps, including
Camp Johnson, Florida. He was discharged front
the service on May 19, 1919.
Dr. Callahan then returned to Norwich, and took
up his practice here. He is now staflf doctor of the
William Backus Hospital of this city, and is a mem-
ber of the Norwich Medical Society. He is also a
member of the New London County Medical So-
ciety, and of the Connecticut State Medical Society.
His college fraternity is the Phi Chi, and he is a
member of the White Cross Council, No. 13, Knights
of Columbus, of Norwich. In political affiliation
he is a Democrat.
The doctor's family have always been members
of the Roman Catholic church.
NATHANIEL LITTLEFIELD SHEFFIELD,
JR. — The first Sheffield of this branch to settle in
the town of Old Lyme, New London county, Con-
necticut, was Nathaniel L. Sheffield, Sr., who came
from Block Island, Rhode Island, in early manhood,
and there settled on a farm at Hackett's Point.
The family trace back in England to William the
Conqueror, and in New England to Amos Sheffield,
who came from his native England in 1630, being
then twenty-eight years of age. His grandson,
Amos (2) Sheffield, settled in Newport, Rhode Isl-
and, and it was not until the sixth American genera-
tion that the family appeared in Connecticut, Rev.
John Sheffield, a regularly ordained minister of the
Methodist Episcopal church, born in Rhode Island,
November 20, 1798, se'ttling in North Stonington
while a young man, and before entering the minis-
try. This branch of the family settled on Block
Island, Rhode Island, and there Nathaniel Littlefield
Sheffield, Sr., was born, July 14, 1844. He was a
young man when he came to Hackett's Point, Old
Lyme, Connecticut, and there he long remained on
the farm which he purchased there. Later he bought
a farm in the Blackball section of the town, where
he now resides (June, 1921). He married Caroline
Elizabeth Champion, born in South Lyme, Connecti-
cut; she died when her only son, Nathaniel L. (2),
was a child, leaving him to the care of his father
and three elder sisters: i. Caroline Elizabeth, who
was born in Old Lyme, married Franklin J. Howard,
also born in Old Lyme, and they have four children:
Bertha, Daniel, Clarence, and Theodora Howard.
2. Jennie Louise. 3. Lillian Leora. He remembers
no other mother than these three sisters, and they
have always been devoted to one another.
Nathaniel Littlefield Sheffield, only son of Na-
thaniel Littlefield and Caroline Elizabeth (Champion)
ShefTicld, was born in the town of Old Lyme, New
London county, Connecticut, January 14, 1878. He
was educated in the public schools, and there has
spent his life, with the exception of two years passed
in Middlctown, Connecticut. He began business life
as clerk in the general store owned and conducted
by James A. Roland, leaving his employ to take a
position in Middletown. After two years there he
returned to Old Lyme and resumed his old position.
In 1910 Mr. Roland retired from active business life,
but before doing so, incorporated his business as
J. A. Roland & Company, retail general merchants.
Mr. Sheffield was given a chance to enter the cor-
poration, which he did, and from its beginning has
been treasurer and general manager. He is the
managing head and guiding genius of the business,
which is an extensive one. His entire business er-
perience has been practically with this one house, he
being thoroughly familiar with the minutest detail,
and understands the every need of the community
and the store he serves.
Mr. Sheffield takes a deep interest in the cause of
education as represented by the public schools, and
since 1904 has served his town as a member of the
school board, for thirteen years being chairman of
same.
Mr. Sheffield is a member of Pythagoras Lodge,
No. 45, Free and Accepted Masons; Crystal Lodge,
No. 88, Independent Order of Odd Fellows; and in
politics is a Republican, but very independent.
Mr. Sheffield married Margaret Dickey Ruther-
ford, born in Brooklyn, New York, daughter of
James and Fanny Dickey. Mr. and Mrs. Sheffield
are the parents of a son, Nathaniel Rutherford Shef-
field, born November 29, 191 1, at Old Lyme, Con-
necticut.
KOPLAND K. MARKOFF, M.D., son of Lazar
and Sarah (Hurwich) Markoff, was born in Nor-
wich, Connecticut, April 7, 1896. He attended
Broadway grammar school, going thence to Nor-
wich Free Academj-. He was a student at New
York University and the University of Vermont, re-
ceiving his degree from the medical department of
the last named. He was interne at the Lying-In
Hospital, New York City, in 1918; house surgeon
at St. Vincent's Hospital, Bridgeport, Connecticut;
resident physician at Utica Hospital, Utica, New
York; and in 1920-21 was specialist at Manhattan
Eye, Ear and Throat Hospital, New York City. In
1921 he was appointed to the visiting staff of Man-
hattan Eye, Ear and Throat Hospital, and is now
practicing in Norwich, Connecticut, as eye, ear, nose
and throat specialist, his office suite Nos. 103-104
Thayer building.
On January 17, 1918, Dr. Markoff enlisted in the
Enlisted Medical Reserve Corps of the United States
BIOGRAPHICAL
335
army, and served until honorably discharged, De-
cember 13, 1919. He is a member of the New Lon-
don Counry Medical Society; American Medical As-
sociation; Norwich Medical Society; Tau Epsilon
Phi fraternity; B'nai B'rith; and Knights of Pythias.
ASAHEL ROWLAND De WOLF— From 1885
until 1916 Mr. De Wolf was an active factor in the
business life of the village of Niantic, New London
county, Connecticut, and then, after thirty-one years
of successful dealing in lumber, retired, and is spend-
ing the evening of life in contented ease. He comes
from ancient Connecticut family long seated in Old
Lyme, coming to that section of New London county
from Wethcrfield, Connecticut, where Edward De
Wolf is first mentioned in 1664. Four years liter, in
1668, he is mentioned in the records of Lyme. He
was born in 1646, and by his wife, Alice, had a son,
Steplien De Wolf, born in 1670, who died in 1702.
The line of descent from Edward and Alice De Wolf,
the American ancestors, to Asahel R. De Wolf, of
Niantic, is through their son, Stephen (i) De Wolf,
and his second wife, Hannah; their son, Stephen (2)
De Wolf, and his wife, also Hannah; their son,
Benjamin De Wolf, born in 1716, and his wife, Lucy
Champion; their son. General Stephen De Wolf, and
his three wives; his son, Jeremiah Winthrop De
Wolf, and his wife, Mary Chadwick; their son,
Winthrop Jeremiah De Wolf, and his wife, Hepzibah
C. Anderson; their son, John Anderson De Wolf,
and his first wife, Mary Abigail Rowland; their son,
Asahel Rowland De Wolf, of "the ninth American
generation now (May, 1921) residing in the village
of Niantic, in the town of East Lyme, a section of
Connecticut to which his ancestor, Edward De
Wolf came more than two and one-half centuries
ago.
John Anderson De Wolf, of the eighth generation,
was born in the town of Old Lyme, New London
county, Connecticut, April 5, 1832, and there died
in April, 1913. The death of his father, Winthrop
Jeremiah De Wolf, in 1847, threw the burden of
managing the home farm upon this boy of then
fifteen, the eldest of six children. That burden he
capably shouldered, but three years later he entered
the mercantile life, and about 1863 he built a store
at Black Hall and there conducted a prosperous busi-
ness for twelve years, then sold his store to his
brother, Roger De Wolf. He dealt heavily in cattle
and real estate after giving up his store and con-
tinued most successfully until his retirement several
years prior to his death. He represented Old Lyme
in the State Legislature five terms, between 1866-
1888, and held about all the leading offices of his
town.
Mr. De Wolf married (first) in Old Lyme, No-
vember 3, 185s, Mary Abigail Rowland, who died
January 12, 1858, daughter of Ashahel Rowland, of
Old Lyme. Mrs. De Wolf left a son, Asahel Row-
land De Wolf, whose career is hereinafter traced.
John A. De Wolf married (second) November 21,
i860, Irene E. Pratt, born March 20, 1840, daughter
of Henry Pratt, of Essex, Connecticut. They were
the parents of a son, John Anderson (2), born
November 30, 1877, who married Annie Rowland.
Asahel Rowland De Wolf, only son of John Ander-
son De Wolf and his first wife, Mary Abigail (Row-
land) De Wolf, was born at Black Hall, in Old
Lyme, New London county, Connecticut, June 16,
1857. He spent his early years at the home farm,
attended the public school and was also a student
at the Morgan School, Clinton, Connecticut. He
continued a farmer at the homestead until reaching
his twenty-fourth year, when he entered the store
of his maternal uncle, J. A. Rowland, in Old Lyme,
and there five years were passed in acquiring a
thorough mercantile training which prepared him for
the business in which his after-life was engaged.
In 1885 the young man, then twenty-eight years of
age, formed a partnership with a paternal uncle,
George W. De Wolf, and in May of that year estab-
lished a lumber yard at Niantic, Connecticut, under
the firm name of G. W. De Wolf & Company. That
business was continued as a partnership until No-
vember 7, 1891, when George W. De Wolf retired and
A. R. De Wolf succeeded him as head of the busi-
ness. Mr. De Wolf continued the business in Niantic
until January, 1916, when he sold out and retired
from the firm with which he had been connected
thir'cy-one years, twenty-five of those years as sole
owner.
An Independent in politics, Mr. De Wolf has given
much time to the public service. He served the
town of East Lyme as first selectmen, a member of
the Board of Assessors for three years, and has been
road commissioner. He is treasurer of the Congre-
gational church of Niantic, a member of the Ancient
Order of United Workmen, the Order of United
American Mechanics, and a man highly esteemed in
his community.
Mr. De Wolf married, in Old Lyme, November 24,
1885, Mary Elizabeth Moley, born in Old Lyme,
September 14, 1858, died February 26, 1919, daugh-
ter of Charles L. and Betsey (Ayres) Moley, of
Feeding Hills, Massachusetts, later of Old Lyme,
Connecticut. Mrs. De Wolf left a daughter, Clara
Irene De Wolf, born in Niantic, Connecticut, March
IS, 1891, married Milton Whited, of Albany, New
York, and has two daughters: Catherine De Wolf,
and Elizabeth Moley Whited; and one son, Milton
Height Whited. Mr. De Wolf married (second) in
February, 1921, at Niantic, Connecticut, Angeline
(Rowland) Burns, born in Lyme, daughter of John
and Julia (Anderson) Rowland, and widow of Ed-
ward Burns. By her first husband Mrs. De Wolf has
a son, Edward Rowland Burns.
GEORGE HENRY CLARKE— The name of
Clarke is one of great antiquity, and was probably
used as early as the eleventh century. It means a
learned person, one who could read and write ancient
and mediaeval lore, and carried with it special honor
336
NEW LONDON COUNTY
in those early ages when even royalty was illiterate.
John Clarke, of Shaneford, England, is said to have
been a man of extraordinary goodness and fatherly
spirit, deeply devoted to all his family, and much
beloved by them. His sons were William, Thomas,
Joseph and John. William's children were Mrs.
Elizabeth Scottan, Ann, and Seth, who came to
America. Thomas Clarke was the fa'thcr of three
children: William, of further mention; Mary, and
Ann. Mary became the wife of John Adkins, and
Ann became the wife of Josiah Shaw, both sisters
living and dying in England. Thomas Clarke died
in Lonaon, England, in 1817. Joseph Clarke, tli-
third son of John Clarke and his wife Hannah, died
without issue, and the descendants of Thomas re-
ceived a small legacy from them in 1845. John, the
youngest son of John Clarke, died in his early
youth, having never married.
William Clarke, son of Thomas Clarke and great-
grandfather of the subjec^t of thi? sketch, came to
America in June of 1800, and after residing in this
country for about eighteen years, spent a year in
England, then returning to America in 1810, made
his home in Exeter, Otsego county, New York, until
his death, which occurred in 1842. W'illiam Clarke,
01 Exeter, had a son William, who was the father
of .\driel E. Clarke.
Adriel Ely Clarke was born in OtseRO county.
New York, in 1840. As a young man he enlisted
in the Civil War, in Company B, loist Regiment,
New York Volunteer Infantry, and served in the
Army of the Potomac, taking part in fifty-two cam-
paigns. Following his honorable discharge he re-
turned home and took up farming, later in life locat-
ing at West Winfield, in Herkimer county. New
York, near Utica, where he died October 25, 1880.
He married Frances Amelia Countryman, who was
corn in Starkville, New York, and now resides with
her son, George H., in Niantic. Adriel Ely and
Frances Amelia (Countryman) Clarke were the par-
ents of six children: Frank William; George Henry,
of further mention; Florence Mary; Carrie L.; Grace
A.; and Charles A.
George Henry Clarke was born in Schenevus
Otsego county. New York, August 16, 1868. He was
one year old when his parents removed to West
Winfield, and there he attended school, securing a
broadly practical education along general lines. At
the age of twenty-two years he was station agent
for the New York Central Railroad at various sta-
tions, and was thus engaged for eight years. In
February of 1900 he entered the Utica Steam Gauge
Company as superintendent, remaining with that
company in the same capacity until 1912. The fol-
lowing year he spent in Jersey City, then came to
Niantic, Connecticut, and here established a factory
under the name of the New England Steam Gauge
Company. This was in 1913, and Mr. Clarke has
now passed nearly nine successful years, much of
his progress being due to his own persistence, thrift
and industry. Possessed of business acumen, his
upright methods have gained the confidence of the
trade, and his personal integrity has placed him
high in the respect and esteem of his fellow-citizens.
In politics Mr. Clarke is an Independent voter,
and his fraternal affiliations are the follov/ing: Mem-
ber of Baynew Lodge, No. 120, of which he is
master; and of Mohawk Lodge, No. 224, Knights of
Pythias, of Frankfort, New York.
.\Ir. Clarke married, on March 28, 1895, Emma L.
Kirsh, who was born in Oswego county. New York,
February 22, 1878, and is a daughter of John P.
and Laura J. (Minckler) Kirsh. They are the par-
ents of one son, Lester George Clarke, born at Har-
risville, New York, April 26, 1896, who married Shir-
ley Laraphcre, and is the father of two children:
Alison and Donald.
JOHN CARL STEVENS— For more than two
decades Mr. Stevens has been the proprietor of
a mill hotel in Baltic, Connecticut, and is one of
the well known men of the town. He is the son
of William and Mary (Chamberlain) Stevens,
his father born in Topsham, Vermont. William
Stevens was employed on a Vermont farm until
youthful manhood, then learned the carpenter's
trade, which he followed until his death in New-
bury, Vermont, in 1890. His wife, Mary (Chamber-
lain) Stevens, died in June, 18G5. They were th^r
parents of three children : John Carl, of further
mention; Ellen, who married Guy Granger, and re-
sides in Passumpsic, Vermont ; and William, de-
ceased.
John Carl Stevens was born in Barnet, Vermont,
June 7, 1S61, and there attended public schools.
But school years were soon over, and at an early
age he became an employee of Baker's Paper Mill,
at Bradford, Vermont. For three years he re-
mained in that mill, then spent a year as a farm-
hand with the Stater Company, at Webster, Massa-
chusetts. At the end of that period he located
with the Valley Falls Company, at Valley Falls,
Rhode Island, there remaining fourteen years, be-
coming their farm manager. He then went to
Baltic, Connecticut, where he continues proprietor
of the Stevens House, a prosperous hostelry.
Mr. Stevens is a Republican in politics, and is in-
fluential in party affairs in the town of Sprague.
He has been a delegate to State conventions of hi,^
party for the past twelve years, and is influential
in his district. He served as a.->sessor from IMS
until 1010, as first selectman of the town of Sprague,
1910-12, and as third selectman, 1912-14. He is a
member of Canonchet Tribe, No. 10, Improved Order
of Red Men of Valley Falls, Rhode Island ; Shetucket
Camp, No. 10,464, Modern Woodmen of .\merica,
Versailles, Connecticut; Gardner Lodge, No. 46,
Knights of Pythias, of Norwich, Connecticut, and
also is past chancellor commander of that lodge.
Mr. Stevens married Isabel Morse, born in Can-
ada, and they are the parents of two sons: I. Roswell
C, a veteran of the Spanish-American War, mar-
ried Minnie Russell, and resides in Moosup. Con-
iP'^-C^-n (^' -::i^^^>-^l_--2>r^
-r:7
BIOGRAPHICAL
337
necticut. 2. Clarence E., a soldier of the United
States during the war with Germany, l'J17-18; he
was called for service April 23, 1918, and was hon-
orably discharged July i, iQip- He was on duty at
Camp Upton for fifteen months, his duty the mus-
tering in and out of men sent to that camp. He
is now associated with his father in the manage-
ment of the Stevens House at Baltic.
ROBERT HENRY NOBLE— The grandparents
of Robert Henry Noble came to Old Lyme, New
London county, Connecticut, when their son, John
Henry Noble, was a boy. He was born in Kings-
ton, New York, October 7, 1856, but by far the
greater part of his life was spent in Old Lyme.
He became a substantial farmer and prominent in
the public life of his town, holding most of the
offices within the gift of his neighbors, and in 1899
and 191 1 represented the district in the Connecticut
House of Representatives. He was a member of
Pythagoras Lodge, No. 45. Free and Accepted
Masons. He died from the efifects of an operation,
April 12, 1911. He married Josephine Emelie Gib-
son, born in Brooklyn, New York, April 17, i859-
Mr. and Mrs. Noble were the parents of five chil-
dren: Mary Louise, Joseph Gibson, Martie Thomas,
James Londes, and Robert Henry, of whom further.
Robert Henry Noble, youngest of the children of
John Henry and Josephine Emelie (Gibson) Noble,
was born in Old Lyme, New London county, Con-
necticut, December 14, 1880, and was educated in the
public schools. Following school days he became
his father's farm assistant, remaining at the home
farm until reaching legal age, when he entered the
employ of J. F. Bugbee in his general store in Old
Lyme, and has continued in mercantile life until
the present, 1921. In politics Mr. Noble is a Demo-
crat, and has long been prominent in the public life
of his town. He has held nearly all town offices,
and is now serving as town clerk and judge of pro-
bate. In 1919 he represented his district in the Con-
necticut House of Representatives, as his father had
before him, and made an equally good record as an
efricient legislator. In religious faith he is a Con-
gregationalist. In fraternal life Mr. Noble is equally
prominent, having held the highest honors of both
the Masonic and Odd Fellow lodges. He is a past
master of Pythagoras Lodge, No. 45, serving in
1915 and in 1919; is a companion of Burning Bush
Chapter, No. 29, Royal Arch Masons; was twelve
years secretary of Crystal Lodge, No. 88, Indepen-
dent Order of Odd Fellows; and is a past noble
grand of that lodge.
Robert H. Noble married, June 21, 1905, Ruth
Bugbee, born in Old Lyme, July 21, 1885, only
daughter of James F. and Louise (Swan) Bugbee.
Mr. and Mrs. Noble are the parents of two children,
both born in Old Lyme: Marjorie, born March 31,
1907; Louise, born March 18, 1909.
N.L.— 2.22.
CAPTAIN ROBERT I. MACHETT— Widely
known in Mystic and vicinity, and highly effteemed
as one of the progressive business men of that local-
ity. Captain Robert I. Machctt is a representative
citizen of New London county. He is descended
from various early antecedents who bore their part
in the military service of the Colonies and of the
young American Republic.
John Machett, Captain Machett's father, was born
at Cornwall Landing, on the Hudson, in the State
of New York, was educated there, and became an
expert potter. He was engaged in the manufacture
of pottery until war broke out between the North
and South, when he enlisted in defense of the Union
and saw hard service with the 127th Regiment, Illi-
nois Volunteer Infantry. He was taken prisoner
and was confined in the Andersonville Stockade,
but escaped with his life, and after the war ended
went with his regimental comrades to Illinois, set-
tling in Pulaski. There he was actively engaged in
business as a pottery manufacturer until the time
of his death. He married Louisa Parks, who died
in Mystic, Connecticut, the home of her family for
generations. Through the maternal line Captain
Machett is closely connected with the historic period
in the War of 1812, when the southern communities
of New London county were the center of attention
by the young nation and the center of attack by the
British Imperial Navy. Captain Machett's mother
was a daughter of Isaac and Mary (Billinghurst)
Parks, Isaac being the owner of a windmill on
Mason's Island. The English landed at the island,
and, coming ashore, ordered Isaac Parks to get up
in his night clothes and grind corn for them. This
accomplished, they further commanded him to ac-
company them on board and pilot them up the
river. It was a very dark and foggy night, but he
was thoroughly familiar with the harbor, and ran
them aground on Clam Island. They were anxiously
looking ahead, and, pushing the tiller hard over as
the boat touched bottom, he stepped over the side
and began wading ashore. He moved away from
her broadside in the fog and darkness, leaving them
shooting at him, as they believed, over the stern.
He escaped in safety, and the little company of
soldiers on duty at Fort Rachel heard the commo-
tion and opened fire on the boat. Isaac Parks was
a farmer throughout his lifetime, and lived long to
recount to his children and grandchildren the ex-
periences of that exciting time. John and Louisa
(Parks) Machett were the parents of two children:
Robert I., of further mention; and Augusta L., who
became the wife of John Albert Williams, of Water-
ford, also in this county, and there died.
Robert I. Machett, only son of John and Louisa
(Parks) Machett, was born in Mystic, town of Ston-
ington. New London county, Connecticut, May 13,
1836. West Mystic, in the town of Groton, was his
mother's home, and there he spent his youth and
338
NEW LONDON COUNTY
obtained a broadly practical education in the public
schools. In his earlier years he followed the sea,
and at the age of thirty-one became captain of a
sailing vessel, the "Osprey." Captain Machett sailed
the schooner "Osprey" until she was sold to the
Pensacola Ice and Fish Company, of Pensacola,
Florida, in 1891. At that time he settled in West
Mystic, where he has since been engaged in the
ice business, developing a largely successful interest,
and becoming one of "the substantial business men
of the community, esteemed by all and taking the
part of a progressive citizen in the daily life of the
town. Captain Machett also gave to his native
State his services in her military organization, en-
listing on April 2, 1875, in Company A, 3rd Kegi-
men'c, Connecticut National Guard, for a period of
five years, and received his honorable discharge
from the military service of the State on June 25,
1880, by order of the commander-in-chief, on ac-
count of the expiration of his enlistment. Captain
Machett is prominent fraternally, being a member of
Relief Lodge, No. 72, Free and Accepted Masons,
of Mystic; Benevolence Chapter, Royal Arch
Masons, also of Mys'cic; Mystic Council, Royal and
Select Masters; and Palestine Commandery, Knights
Templar, of New London. He is a member of the
Union Baptist Church of Mystic.
Captain Machett married, January 10, 1883, Ann-
ette V. Burdick, only daughter of Benjamin L. and
Jane (Gilroy) Burdick, and granddaughter of Sam-
uel and Vianna (Porter) Burdick, of Norwich, Con-
necticut, all these names belonging to old New
London county families of note and distinction.
Mrs. Machett's parents are both now deceased, and
her only brother, Robert B. Burdick, is a resident
of New London.
JOSEPH ROBINSON— For many years active in
the industrial world, and in later life prominent in
public matters, Joseph Robinson, of East Lyme,
Connecticut, is thoroughly representative of the citi-
zenship which is not only progressive but, in a
broad sense, constructive.
Mr. Robinson is a son of George and Mary (Shirt)
Robinson. George Robinson was born in England
and came to the United States as a young man. He
was a painter by trade, and, settling in Woonsocket,
Rhode Island, he followed this trade as long as he
lived, but was cut down in the prime of his life,
and died when Joseph was a child. His wife, who
was also born in England, died in 1906, at the age
of eighty-eight years, at Woonsocket. They were
the parents of three children: Grace Elizabeth, who
died in childhood; Ruth, who became the wife of
James Farrar; and Joseph, all born in Woonsocket.
Joseph Robinson was born February 28, 1845,
and was reared in Woonsocket, receiving his educa-
tion in the public schools of that city. He began
life as a mill worker there, continuing this activity
until 1873. On December 2i of that year he came
to Taftville, Connecticut, to accept the position of
cliicf engineer of the Ponemah Mills. This plane
is said to be the largest textile factory under one
roof in the world, and Mr. Robinson ably filled
this responsible position until 1909, when he retired
from active work. At that time he removed to
Flanders, a small community in the 'town of East
Lyme, and has since m.ade his home in this village.
He has become very prominent in the political and
social life of East Lyme. By political affiliation a
Republican, he has taken a keen interest in the
progress of tlic party in this town since his residence
here, and with his long experience and ripened judg-
ment, is considered a wise counsellor in all party
delibera'cions. He is a member of the school com-
mittee, is justice of the peace, and held the office of
town treasurer for a period of eight years. Frater-
nally Mr. Robinson is well known. He is a member
of Woonsocket Lodge, No. 13, Free and Accepted
Masons; was a member of Woonsocket Comman-
dery, No. 23, of which he was elected prelate in
1S73. On September 17, 1887, he took a demit from
that commandery andjoined Columbian Comman-
dery, No. 4, of Norwich. He has been a member
of the Norwich Consis'tory, Ancient Accepted Scot-
tish Rite, since 1906. He is also a member of
Niantic Lodge, No. 17, Independent Order of Odd
Fellows.
Mr. Robinson married (first) Catherine Virginia
Owen, who was born in Salisbury, North Carolina,
and they were the parents of three children: George
Henry, who was born in Woonsocket, Rhode Is-
land, and died in infancy; Joseph, who was born
in Taftville, is a gradua'ce of the medical department
of Columbia University, now a successful physician
and surgeon of Anaheim, California, married Julia
Corcoran, of Cornwall, Connecticut, and has one
child, Marjorie Hill Robinson; and Samuel Eli, who
was born in Taftville, and died in infancy. Mr. Rob-
inson married (second) Mary Hill Chapman, who
was born in Centre Brook, Connecticut, daughter of
Frederick William and Adalie Douglas (Beach)
Chapman, now residents of East Lyme. Mrs. Rob-
inson died August 30, 1921, and is survived by her
husband.
ALBERT JAMES SINAY, D.D.S.— Advancement
in any of the learned professions is not so much
the result of fortuitous circumstances or of influ-
ence as it is the result of individual merit, application
and skill. When these are combined with ambition
and a fixed determination to achieve success, the
desired result is inevitable. Dr. Alber't James
Sinay, of Norwich, Connecticut, although young to
have achieved a reputation in the profession of den-
tistry, is fairly on his way to acquiring more than
local fame. He was born in Linden, New Jersey,
July 8, 1888, son of Alexander and Adelia (Kal-
mary) Sinay. Alexander Sinay was born in Lor-
raine, Germany, at one time French territory, and
came to this country when very young. For many
years he has been overseer of the starching depart-
BIOGRAPHICAL
339
ment of the United States Finishing Company of
Norwich. To Mr. and Mrs. Sinay have been born
four children, Albert James, being the second child.
The childhood of Dr. Sinay was passed in his
native place, Linden, and it was there that the pre-
paratory portion of his education was obtained. In
1895 he came to Norwich, and it was here tha't he
was prepared for college, subsequently entering the
dental department of the University of Maryland,
having decided to make that profession his career.
He took the usual course and graduated with the
class of 1912, taking the degree of Doctor of Dental
Surgery. He then returned to Norwich, Connecti-
cut, and opened his office at No. 321 Atain street.
Since that time he has made his headquarters at
this place.
On January I, 1915, Dr. Sinay married Bessie T.
Crary, daughter of Charles K. and Ida (Terry)
Crary, and they are the parents of one child, Ralph,
born December i, 1917. The family at'tend the
Broadway Congregational Church of Norwich.
With a vigorous and luminous intellect, Mr. Sinay
combines strength of character and a genial dispo-
sition. This union of traits explains in a large
measure his success and gives promise of even
more signal achievements in the future. He is a
close student, keeping fully abreast of modern
thought in all matters pertaining to his profession
and possesses the high esteem and confidence of the
general public.
HAROLD MONTAGUE DUNBAR— The founder
of the family of which Harold Montague Dunbar is
a member was Joseph Dunbar, a native of Scotland,
who in 1790 was living in Watertown, Connecticut.
His death date is fixed by the pension records as
February 2, 1813. The Daughters of the American
Revolution Lineage Book, Volume XIV, page 338,
gives the following:
"Joseph Dunbar served in Sheldon's Dragoons
and was wounded at the bat'tles of Germantown and
Whitemarsh in 1777. His name is found on the
invalid pension list of New London county, Connec-
ticut. He was born in Scotland!" He .married
Martha Sutliffe, born June 26, 1755, daughter of
Captain John and Martha (Bassett) Sutliffe. Chil-
dren, from family records, and the Daughters of
the American Revolu'tion Lineage Book: Giles,
Bassett; Ralph, of whom further; Lola, and Martha.
Ralph Dunbar, son of Joseph and Martha (Sut-
liffe) Dunbar, was born October 20, 1789, died in
Torrington, Connecticut, January 14, 1846. He mar-
ried Anna Starkweather, who was born August 18,
1791, died November 4, 1856, daughter of Thomas
and Sybil (Anderson) Starkweather. Children, the
first born in Winchester, the others at Torrington,
Connecticut: Hiram, born April 26, 1813; Nelson,
born May 20, 1815; Mary Ann, born June 3, 1817;
Lyman, born May 2, iSip; Martin, born February
15, 1821; Harriet, born May 29, 1824; Albert, born
January 29, 1827; Frederick, born May 15, 1829;
Emma (Emeline), born May I, 183O; Walter, of
whom further; and Minerva, born May 7, 1839.
Walter Dunbar, son of Ralph and Anna (Stark-
weather) Dunbar, was born at Torrington, Connecti-
cut, October 20, 1833. He married, in 1871, Rachel
Irene Dunbar (see 2nd Dunbar line) at Bridgeport,
Connecticut. Children: Walter L,, of whom further;
and Howard.
Walter L. Dunbar, son of Walter and Rachel Irene
(Dunbar) Dunbar, was born in Bridgeport, Connec-
ticut, died there November 2, 1917. He was reared
and educated in this city, completing his education
with a special course at Harvard University, and
throughout his active years was associated wi'lh the
Union Metallic Cartridge Company, filling the posi-
tion of assistant comptroller in that organization.
He was a man of strong capabilities and was held
in high esteem by his associates. He married, Sep-
tember 23, 1896, Omega Harden Foster, and they
were the parents of: Harold Montague, of whom
further; Helen Irene, born August 9, 1900; and
Walter Beverly, born February 25, 1908. The
mother resides at Stratford, Connecticut.
Harold Montague Dunbar, son of Walter L. and
Omega Harden (Foster) Dunbar, was born in
Bridgeport, Connecticut, January 11, 1898, He at-
tended the public schools of Stratford and upon
graduation from high school became a clerk in the
Stratford Trust Company, later entering the First
National Bank of Bridgeport in the same department
and becoming manager of the collection. Subse-
quently, he received an appointment as assistant
National Bank Examiner in the Second Federal
Reserve District of New York City, and in August,
1921, he became secretary and treasurer of the
Jewett City Trust Company. This office he fills
to the present time, bringing to its responsible
duties a varied and valuable experience in financial
affairs.
Mr. Dunbar is a Republican in political faith and his
church is the Methodist. In the Masonic order, he
holds membership in St. Johns Lodge, Free and
Accepted Masons, Stratford, Connecticut; Jerusalem
Chapter, Royal Arch Masons, Bridgeport, Connecti-
cut; and De Witt Clinton Commandery, No. 27,
Knights Templar, of Brooklyn, New York. He is
also a member of Sphinx Temple, Ancient Arabic
Order Nobles of the Mystic Shrine, of Hartford,
Connecticut.
(Second Dunbar Line.)
Robert Dunbar, immigrant ancestor of this line,
was born in Scotland in 1630. He and his wife.
Rose, settled in Hingham, Massachusetts, in 1655.
It was the general opinion that he brought with
him a considerable sum of money to begin life in
the new country, inasmuch as for years there were
but two men in the town who paid a higher tax than
he. He died October 5, 1693, and his wife, Novem-
ber 10, 1700.
John Dunbar, son of Robert and Rose Dunbar,
was born in Hingham, Massachusetts, December i.
340
NEW LONDON COUNTY
1657. He married (first), July 4, 1679, Mattithiah,
daughter of George and Catherine Aldridge, of Dor-
chester, Massachusetts. He married (second), July
24, 1700, Elizabeth Beecher, of New Haven, Connec-
ticut. In 1697 or 1698 he removed to New Haven.
John (2) Dunbar, son of John and Mattithiah
(Aldridge) Dunbar, married, June 14, 1716, Eliza-
beth Fenn, born April 29, 1692, daughter of Edward
ind Mary (Thorpe) Fenn, w!io were married N jveiu-
ber IS, 1688. She died in 1751. John Dunbar died
May 13, 1746.
John (3) Dunbar, son of John (2) and Elizabeth
(Fenn) Dunbar, was born September 28, 1724, in
Wallingford, Connecticut. He married Temperance
Hall, born in Wallingford, April 16, 1727, died May
26, 1770. Her husband died before that date, and
both were buried in Plymouth, Connecticut. Dur-
ing the Revolution he was one of three commis-
saries in Waterbury, chosen to furnish supplies to
the Continental army.
Miles Dunbar, son of John (3) and Temperance
(Hall) Dunbar, born in Wallingford or Plymouth,
removed to Oblong, New York, prior to 1818.
He was a fife major during the Revolution; enlisted
March 31, 1777, at Waterbury, Connecticut; served
until discharged, March 30, 1780, in New York. He
became overtaxed a't the battle of Monmouth, and
on his way home was taken sick at Newtown, New
York. His expenses at this time were paid by the
State of New York, and the same State afterwards,
in 1818, pensioned him. After the war he studied
law with Esquire Butler, and followed that vocation
during the remainder of his life. In 1776 he joined
the Congregational church at Plymouth. He mar-
ried. May I, 1779, Tryphose, daughter of Isaac and
Rebecca Butler.*
Isaiah Dunbar, son of Miles and Tryphose (But-
ler) Dunbar, married (first) Rachel Beach; (second)
Cloie Fenn. He was the father of six children, four
by his first wife, two by his second: Charles, Henry,
of whom further. Bertha, Thaddeus, Lucius, Clar-
issa.
Henry Dunbar, son of Isaiah and Rachel (Beach)
Dunbar, married, and had among his children Wil-
liam H. and Rachel Irene, who married Walter
Dunbar (see first Dunbar line).
*The above, the second line of Dunbar, is from
"Genealogical and Family History of the State of
Connecticut," Volume II, pages 788-9.
WILLIAM EDWARDS MANNING— In the busi-
ness, social and public life of Yantic, Connecticut,
William Edwards Manning is a prominent figure.
Coming of an old New London county family, active,
public-spirited, and always abreast of the times, Mr.
Manning is one of the leading men of the town.
Edward Manning, Mr. Manning's father, was born
in the town of Lebanon, Connecticut, on the old
Manning homestead, which had been in the family
for many years. He received his early education in
district schools of the town, then attended high
school at Ellington, Tolland county, Connecticut.
After leaving school he became associated with his
brother, Dr. J. H. Manning, of Pittsfield, Massachu-
setts, in the drug business, for which the exacting
demands of the doctor's profession left no time.
This continued until 1861, thus covering a period of
five years. In that year Edward Manning returned
to Lebanon, his birthplace, and built a residence
on a portion of the old homestead, and conducted
farming until his death in 1892. He married Lucy
E. Robinson, of Franklin, and she is still living, and
in excellent health, at eighty-eight years of age,
being now a resident of Yantic. Their four children
are all now living: E. Melville, residing in Lebanon
on the home place; George, who married Rose Ful-
ler, now resides in Yantic; William Edwards, of
whom extended mention follows; and Arad R., now
living in Yantic, who married Jennie Ayer, and is
now retired.
William Edwards Manning was born in Lebanon,
October I, i866. He received a practical education
in the excellent public schools of that town, then
began life on the farm of his uncle. Attracted, how-
ever, by a mercantile career, he entered the employ,
in 1884, of Peckham & Waterman, who conducted
the general store at Bozrahville, Connecticut. Con-
tinuing with this firm for a period of seven years,
Mr. Manning then bought out this firm in 1890,
and continued under his own name. The was suc-
cessful from the first, and continued the business
for eight years and for ten years served as post-
master of Bozrahville. In 1898 he disposed of
his interests there and removed to Yantic, where
he bought out the general store. Mr. Manning
still actively manages this business, and is the lead-
ing merchant of the town.
In 1901, Mr. Manning was appointed assistant post-
master of Yantic, then in 1903 became postmaster,
which ofTice he has now held for eighteen years to
the eminent satisfaction of the people of the town.
The postofTice is in the store building, and is the
point of departure of several rural free delivery
routes which serve a very extensive territory.
Mr. Manning is identified with many branches of
public activity. By political choice he is a member
of the Republican party, and in response to the in-
sistent demands of the people, he has repeatedly
served on the school committee of Bozrah and
Yantic. He is secretary of the Volunteer Fire De-
partment of Yantic, and is always a leader in every
public movement. He is a member of the Chamber
of Commerce of the city of Norwich, and is a
member of St. James Lodge, No. 23, Free and Ac-
cepted Masons, and Franklin Chapter, No. 4, Royal
Arch Masons, of Norwich.
On June 3, 1891, Mr Manning married Grace
Fuller, of East Greenwich, Rhode Island, daughter
of George H. and Elmira (Millard) Fuller, of that
city. Mr. and Mrs. Manning have a son and a
daughter: Frederick Fuller; and Lois A., who re-
BIOGRAPHICAL
341
sides at home. The family are members of Grace
Episcopal Church of Yantic, of which Mr. Manning
has been vestryman for twenty years.
SIMON (3) BREWSTER— The Brewster farm in
Griswold. Connecticut, was first owned in the family
by a Simon Brewster, a great-great-grandson of
Elder Brewster of "Mayflower" and Plymouth Col-
ony fame. Simon Brewster, of the fourth American
generation, bought the farm in the town of Gris-
wold, then Preston, about 1741. Elias Brewster
inherited the farm and there resided until his death.
He became wealthy through trade and commerce and
was the owner of several farms, aggregating 1,100
acres. His son, Simon (2) Brewster, was born on
the homestead, May 29, 1801. After the death of
his father on March 12, 1834, he purchased the inter-
ests 01 the other heirs in the homestead farm of
about four hundred and fifty acres and retained pos-
session of it un'cil his death, August 17, 1867.
There were children by each of the three wives of
Simon (2) Brewster, and on account of their varied
interests, it was necessary to sell the property. In
1868 the farm was sold and remained out of the
family until his son, Simon (3) Brewster, the present
owner of the farm, on reaching his majority, bought
the old homestead with one hundred and twenty-five
acres^all that remained of his father's farm. He
lived the first eighteen years of his life at the home-
stead, was absent three years, returned as owner
at the age of twenty-one, and lives there now at
the age of seventy. There has been none of those
years when he could not have been classed as a
worker, for at the age of seven he was helping
to drive his father's cattle to Norwich, and the
habits of industry, which were so noticeable in his
boyhood, are the strong characteristics of the ma-
ture man.
Simon (3) Brewster is of the eighth American gen-
eration, beginning with Elder William Brewster,
the line being traced from the elder's son. Love
Brewster, born in England, and also of the "May-
flower," and his wife, Sarah (Collier) Brewster.
They were married at Plymouth, March 15, 1634.
Their son, William Brewster, married, in 1672, Lydia
Partridge, and their son, Benjamin Brewster, born
in 1688, and his first wife, Elizabeth (Witter) Brew-
ster, had a son, Simon (i) Brewster, born in 1720,
who settled on the farm in now Griswold, Connecti-
cut. Simon (i) Brewster, by his wife, Anne (An-
dros) Brewster, had a son, Elias Brewster, born
in 1759, who inherited and added to the homestead,
and had by his first wife, Margery (Morgan) Brew-
ster, a son, Simon (2) Brewster, born May 29, 1801,
who bought out the interests of the other heirs and
became sole owner of the homestead and its four
hundred and fifty acres. He had by his second
wife, Abby A. Prentice, a son, Simon (3) Brewster,
born May 25, 1850, the present owner of the prop-
erty, and the principal character of this sketch.
Simon (3) Brewster attended public schools in
Jewett City and Preston City, and before his fath-
er's death was his valued assistant. He restored the
farm to its former condition as a profitable estate,
and has added many acres thereto. Half a century
has now passed since his return and he has become
one of the substantial men of his town, his pros-
perity equalling that of the generations that pre-
ceded him. He has, during his whole life, taken a
great interest in agriculture and stock-breeding in
his community, and for many years has been a
director in, and is now first vice-president of, the
New London County Agricultural Society.
Simon (3) Brewster married, April 8, 1873, Sarah
Elizabeth Browning, born April 2, 1854, daughter of
Beriah Hopkins and Sarah Elizabeth (Campbell)
Browning. Mrs. Brewster is the granddaughter of
Avery Browning, who married Mary Arnold, daugh-
ter of Peleg Arnold, and who died on the Plain
Hill farm in Norwich, May 9, 1865.
The Browning family descends from Nathaniel
Browning, who is of record in Rhode Island as
early as 1645.^ By his wife, Sarah, he had a son,
William, through whom descent is traced. William
Browning is of Portsmouth and South Kingston,
Rhode Island, and both he and his second wife,
Sarah, died in 1730. John Browning, son of William
and Rebecca (Wilbur) Browning, was born March 4,
1696, and was head of the third generation. He mar-
ried Anna Hazard, daughter of Jeremiah and Sarah
(Smith) Hazard, of South Kingston, Rhode Island.
The head of the fourth generation was their son,
John (2) Browning, who by his second wife, Eu-
nice (Williams) Browning, had among other children
a son, Avery, the grandfather of Sarah Elizabeth
Browning, wife of Simon (3) Brewster,
Simon (3) and Sarah E. (Browning) Brewster are
the parents of seven children: i. Sarah E., born
July 17, 1875, died January 15, 1886. 2. Alice Aid-
rich, born January 19, 1881, died February 24, 1884.
3. Martha Browning, born April 23, 1883, married
December 17, 1917, Asahel R. Cook, principal as-
sistant engineer of the Northern Pacific Railroad
Company. Mr. and Mrs. Cook reside in Tacoma,
Washington. 4. Abby Prentice, born June 22, 1885,
a graduate of the Norwich Free Academy, valedic-
torian of the class of 1903, a successful educator of
New York City. 5. Simon (4), born November s,
1887, now his father's valued assistant. 6. Sarah
Elizabeth, born November 12, 1891, married, May
26, 1917, Russell L. Davenport, of Ogden, Utah,
attorney-at-law, and now has two children: Mary
Brewster, and Eleanor. They reside in Holyoke,
Massachusetts. 7. Margery Morgan, born March
12, 1895, a graduate of Connecticut Agricultural Col-
lege, class of 1914, living with her parents.
These children are of the ninth generation of the
Brewster family, one of the oldest families in New
England, and one which represents three centuries
of American life, 1620-1920. Their Browning line-
age is nearly as ancient and equally honorable. The
coming of the "Mayflower" in 1620 was the begin-
ning of an epoch memorable in world history, and
3A»
NEW LONDON COUNTY
Elder William Brewster was one of the men who,
through the "covenant," established a new order and
built a community upon a religious foundation.
Three centuries have proved how well the founda-
tion was laid.
REV. ALBERT EDWARD KINMOUTH, born
in Cork, Ireland, May 5, 1846, was educated in the
city schools, Villards Academy, and Queen's Univer-
sity, Cork. He studied for the ministry in Eng-
land, but was not regularly ordained a clergyman
until coming to the United States, the ordination
ceremonies being held in Pottsdam, New York, in
1874. Later he was ordained an elder at Pottsdam,
New York. He was settled pastor over the Con-
gregational church at Seneca Falls, New York, in
1877. That was his first pastorate, and he afterward
was called as pastor over several churches, filling
every charge with the devoted zeal which marks
the true minister of the gospel. At Oswego Falls,
New York, he built a new church, and other churches
which he served were rescued from a condition of
financial distress and restored to a state of useful-
ness. He served the church at Ledyard, Connecti-
cut, for fifteen years with marked acceptability;
then went to Friendship, New York, remaining for
four years; then for five years was at Brooklyn,
Connecticut, after which time, his health failing, he
resigned and retired from the ministry. His life has
been a useful one, spent largely in the service of
his fellowmen through the medium of the church
and its allied forces.
Rev. Albert E. Kinmouth married (first) Elizabeth
Roycroft, who died, leaving three children: Cather-
ine, Eva Gertrude, and Richard Ray. Their first-born,
Minnie, died in infancy. He married (second)
Caroline Henrietta Bellows, born at Seneca Falls.
New York, in February, i860, daughter of William
Levin and Caroline P. Catt. They ■were the parents
of four children: Albert William, who will have
further mention; George Edward, of Mystic, Con-
necticut; Raymond Arnold, of further mention; Car-
rie Fredericka, born in Ledyard, died aged four
years, in 1904.
Albert William Kinmouth, son of Rev. Albert
Edward Kinmouth and his second wife, Caroline
Henrietta Bellows, was born at StoufTville, near
Toronto, Canada, July 5, 1881. In l88g his parents
moved to Greenwich, Connecticut, where his father
was pastor of the Congregational church, and there
the lad attended public school. Later he spent a
year in Montville, his father serving the church there
one year before going to the Ledyard church in
1893. Albert W., the son, attended the public
school until sixteen years of age, then, in 1897, taugin
school for one term. The next two years he was a
student at Mt. Hermon School, then for two years
taught in the Lester district, at Gales Ferry. He
then abandoned teaching and was employed for
several years by different street car companies. In
1916 he returned to the farm in Ledyard, to which
his father had retired after leaving the ministry, and
there has since been in charge of the farm. Mr.
Kinmouth is a member of the Grange, Patrons of
Husbandry, and for three years has served his town
as second selectman.
Raymond Arnold Kinmouth, a graduate of the
Medical Department of the University of Boston, a
physician, now at Massachusetts State Hospital for
the Insane, and has made a reputation as a surgeon.
He enlisted in the United States army during the
World War, went overseas with the American Expe-
ditionary Forces, served in the medical corps in
France with the looth Battery of Field Artillery, and
was cited for bravery in action. He was a victim of
the gas used by the Germans in their reversion to
barbarism, and suffered greatly. His parents received
a letter from General Edwards commending the
bravery of their son and his splendid military record.
CHARLES ORRISON MAINE, M. D.— The fam-
ily of which Mr. Maine was a member is a very old
one in New England. The first one of the family to
be known in this country was John Maine, who was
a native of York, England. Leaving his home there
in 1629, he sailed for the New World, and after a
time settled in Maine, at the small village of York.
He remained in that locality for forty years, then,
in 1669, came to Connecticut and made his home in
Stonington, residing there until his death. Many
of his descendants are now residing in this same
locality. His son, Ezekial Maine, is the forebear
of Charles Orrison Maine. Ezekial's wife was named
Mary, and they had a son Jeremiah, whose wife
was Ruth Brown. Their son, Thomas Maine, be-
came quite prominent as a deacon; he married Anna
Brown, by whom he had a son Jonathan. Jonathan's
wife was Patience Peckham, who became the mother
of Jabis Maine, who married Freelove Edwards.
Their son, Sidney O. Maine, was born in North Ston-
ington, where he was educated in the district school
and where he afterward became a farmer, following
this as a means of livelihood until his death, in
North Stonington, in 1897; his wife, Eliza Went-
worth, was born in Hillsdale, Massachusetts, dying
in North Stonington, in 1899. Mr. and Mrs. Sidney
O. Maine had five children, the eldest being Charles
Orrison Maine, of further mention.
Charles Orrison Maine was born in New Hartford,
Connecticut, June 16, 1845. His education began in
the public school of that locality and was finished at
Dartmouth College, where he became a student of
medicine in 1866, and from which he graduated in
1870, with the degree of Medical Doctor. Going in
that same year to Voluntown, Connecticut, he en-
tered into private practice, but after a short period
spent there returned to the borough of Stonington,
where he carried on his profession for many years]
his death occurring at his home March 6, 1916.
Active all his life in the affairs of his borough,
Dr. Maine was very prominent in Alasonic circles,
being a member of .'Asylum Lodge, No. 57, Free
and Accepted Masons, of Stonington, and also
C (^ ■ Uk(^^^
BIOGRAPHICAL
343
was one of the charter members of the local chapter
of the Order of the Eastern Star. He also was
connected with the Stonington Grange. Dr. Maine
was an active member of several societies relating
to his profession, among them being the American
Medical Association; the State Medical Association,
of Connecticut, and the New London County Medi-
cal Society. During the many years that Dr. Maine
was a resident of Stonington he was a staunch up-
holder of the Republican party. In religion he was
a member of the Baptist church.
Dr. Maine married, December i8, 1866, Phebe
Sarah Maine, the daughter of Robert P. and Phebe
E. (Edwards) Maine. To this union one child was
born, Charles Everett Maine, D. D. S., practicing in
Stonington, Connecticut.
GERTRUDE L. (MAINE) LATHAM— Bereft of
botli her parents at a very early age, Gertrude L.
(Maine) Latliam was brought up in the family of
Dr. Charles Orrison Maine (see preceding sketch),
of Stonington, Connecticut, spending the greater part
of her life in his home.
Gertrude L. (Maine) Latham was born in Wester-
ly, Rhode Island, her parents being Crawford R.
and Hattie M. (Tucker) Maine. Her father was a
native of Voluntown, Connecticut, wliere he was edu-
cated in the district school. Business interests
afterward taking his to Westerly, Rhode Island, Mr.
Maine died there in 1S77, his wife having died in
1875, and Gertrude L. was the only child of their
marriage. Going to live at Stonington with Dr.
and Mrs. Maine at that time, the young child re-
ceived a good education in the public schools of
the town, and she continued to reside with her
relatives until she reached womanhood.
Gertrude L. Maine married, June 29, 1898, Hiram
J. Latham, a resident of Mystic, Connecticut. Of
this union one child was born, Muriel, born in
Pawtucket, town of Stonington, January 6, 1900,
who lives at home. Mrs. Latham is the owner of a
confectionery store at Stonington, which she per-
sonally conducts. During the World War she was
appointed assistant postmaster of Stonington. Mrs.
Latham is a member of the Baptist church there
and active in its work.
JAMES DANA COIT— Filling a position of trust
in his native city, and identified with its public and
social life, James Dana Coit, of Norwich, Connecti-
cut, is a representative citizen of the day. He is a
son of George Douglas Coit, who was born in Nor-
wich, Connecticut, and received his early education
in the public schools of the city, Norwich Free
Academy and Yale University, receiving from the
last named his Bachelor's Degree with the class of
1866. After graduation he returned to Norwich and
became ub=ui.iaied with the Norwich Fire Insurance
Company in the capacity of clerk, remaining in that
connection for one year. For a few months he was
a part of the executive force of the B. P. Learned
Company, of Norwich, then prominent dealers in
real estate and insurance. In 1869 he was instrumen-
tal in organizing the Dime Savings Bank of Nor-
wich, serving as its first secretary and treasurer.
Nine years later, in July, 1878, he transferred his
services to the Chelsea Savings Bank, of Norwich,
succeeding his brother, Charles M. Coit (who was
drowned), as secretary-treasurer of that institu-
tion. For twenty-eight years he held that position
witli the Chelsea Savings Bank, his valuable service
terminating with his death, October 3, 1906. He
married Frances Henrietta Dana, who was born in
New Haven, Connecticut, July 26, 1848, daughter of
James D. and Henrietta (Sullivan) Dana, of that
city. George Douglas and Frances Henrietta (Dana)
Coit were the parents of three children: George D.,
deceased; Helen, deceased; and James Dana, of
further mention.
James Dana Coit was born in Norwich, Connecti-
cut, December 5, 1880. He began his education in
the city public schools, passing thence to Norwich
Free Academy, where he spent two years. This
was supplemented by two years at Holbrook Mili-
tary School at Sing Sing, New York (Ossining),
whence he ivas graduated, class of 1900. He spent
two years at Yale University, but withdrew in his
sophomore year, and on December 15, 1902, entered
the employ of the Merchants' National Bank of
Norwich, where he remained until 1906, when he
came to the Chelsea Savings Bank, with which his
honored father had so long been connected. He
entered as clerk, but the years have brought him
promotion, his present position being that of as-
sistant secretary and treasurer. He is well known
and highly esteemed in the banking fraternity, and
is interested in many of the city's social and philan-
thropic activities.
Mr. Coit is treasurer of the Norwich Americaniza-
tion Institute; treasurer of the Norwich Tuberculo-
sis Fund of the American Red Cross; member of the
Arcanum Club of Norwich; Norwich Golf Club;
Sons of the American Revolution; Society of Colo-
nial Wars; Delta Phi fraternity, and in politics is a
Republican.
On May 9, 1906, Mr. Coit married Emily Hurnell
Turnbull, daughter of Charles and Gertrude (Tabb)
Tnrnbull, of Baltimore, Maryland. They have one
child, Frances Dana Coit. Mr. and Mrs. Coit are
members of the Park Congregational Church, and
active in all the social and benevolent organizations
of the church society.
JAMES WILLIAM BENNETT— Throughout a
long and active lifetime James William Bennett
traveled through the New England States in the
interests of well known manufacturers, catering to
the grocery trade, and in his death, in 1921, the
friends he had made in every place he had visited,
from the great cities down to the most remote ham-
lets, felt the loss of that genial, warm-hearted
nature.
344
NEW LONDON COUNTY
Mr. Bennett was a son of Nathan and Abbie
(Manning) Bennett, both from old families of South-
ern New England. Nathan Bennett was born and
educated in Foster, Rhode Island, and as a young
man became a manufacturer of woolen fabrics, fol-
lowing tlie textile industry as a producer for many
years. He came to Baltic, in New London county,
Connecticut, then known as Lord's Bridge, early in
his career, and there operated a small woolen mill.
Later he purchased a hotel in the same community,
and this he managed personally, with marked suc-
cess. Eventually retiring from all active business
interests, he removed to Hanover, in the town of
Sprague, where he spent his declining years in
well-earned comfort, and died January 23, 1895. His
wife survived him for nearly twenty-two years, and
passed away in Canterbury, Connecticut, October 6,
1916, at a good old age.
James William Bennett was born in Franklin,
New London county, Connecticut, March 16, 1846,
and died in Willimantic, July 19, 1921. As a child he
attended the old district schools of Lord's Bridge
(now Baltic), later enjoying the privilege of a
course at Professor T. K. Peck's school in Hanover.
As a young man he began life on the farm, in Can-
terbury, but after one year of farm life, returned
home and was associated with his father in the
hotel and livery business in Baltic. Thereafter, Mr.
Bennett was employed for seven years by J. S. Ray,
of East Haddam, Connecticut, a manufacturer of
coffin trimmings. His next step was to become as-
sociated with Coles & Weeks, grain dealers, of Mid-
dletown, Connecticut, in the capacity of traveling
salesman, with whom he remained for four years.
Upon severing this connection, Mr. Bennett formed
the business tie which endured for a period of
thirty years, with the C. D. Boss Company, of New
London, the famous cracker manufacturers. For
this concern he traveled all over New England until
the old company was dissolved, and it was in con-
nection with the "Boss" crackers that he is best re-
membered in the trade, perhaps. Next, and last,
Mr. Bennett was identified with the A. H. Bill
Company, of Boston, wholesale tea and coflfee mer-
chants, going on the road for them with the estab-
lishment of the firm. How largely the success of
tliis concern is due to the ripened experience and
wide popularity of Mr. Bennett as a salesman can
hardly be estimated, his loyalty to the interests of
his house bringing their most scattered customers
into close touch with the concern, and immeasur-
ably advancing their mutual good. He was with
this concern fifteen years, and died in their service.
The nature of Mr. Bennett's activities as a business
man precluded largely those social interests which
mean so much. He resided in Middletown in early
life, but from his first connection with the Boss
concern, resided in Willimantic until 191 1, when he
removed to Hanover, taking possession of the old
Smith homestead, which was inherited by his wife
and others, and which had been the home of her
people for generations, where she was born and
still resides. Through all his travels, however, Mr.
Bennett invariably kept in touch with the progress
of the times, and his influence, in the many circles
which his influence reached, was always for ad-
vance, whether in public interests or individual en-
deavor.
Mr. Bennett was for many years a popular member
of the Commercial Travelers' Mutual Benefit Asso-
ciation, and was always broadly active in its inter-
est. Politically, Mr. Bennett was a Republican, but
did not always support that ticket, for he was not
blind to the faults of his party, as his vote in
National and State elections often testified. Frater-
nally, he held membership in Somerset Lodge, No.
34, Free and Accepted Masons, of Norwich. He at-
tended the Congregational church.
Mr. Bennett married, in Hanover, on November
13, 1872, Ella E. Smith, daughter of Norman and
Adeline (Cutler) Smith. Mrs. Bennett survives her
husband, also their two children and four grand-
children survive, as follows: Harry Norman, born
in East Haddam, Connecticut, September 4, 1873,
who is now engaged in the manufacture of chemi-
cals in New York City, married Lillian Louise Bass,
of Springfield, Massachusetts, their only child being
Harold Bass; and Grace Adeline, born in East Had-
dam, October 15, 1879, now the wife of Harry L.
Andrew, wholesale grocer and provision dealer in
New Haven, Connecticut, their three children being
Dorothy Cutler, Norma, and Bennett.
It is especially fitting that the life of such a man
as James William Bennett should be commemorated
in the permanent records of his native county. He
lived broadly and fully, and gave to his time the
wealth of a rich and generous nature. He will long
be remembered b3' all whose privilege it was to know
him.
LOUIS THOMAS CASSIDY, M. D.— Following
in the footsteps of his honored father. Dr. Cassidy,
of Norwich, has attained a high position in the
medical profession in New London county, being
a leading physician and surgeon of that city. Dr.
Cassidy is a son of Dr. Patrick and Margaret (Mc-
Cloud) Cassidy, long residents of this city. The
father is one of the most prominent medical prac-
titioners of Norwich, with a long record of success
behind him. He is still in active practice and widely
sought in consultation, a venerable and highly es-
teemed physician, both among the people to whose
needs he has given his life, and to the profession
of which he is a noteworthy member. At one time
he served as surgeon general of the State of Con-
necticut.
Louis Thomas Cassidy was born in Norwich, Con-
necticut, January 12, 1883. His education was begun
m the public schools, and he was graduated from
the Norwich Free Academy in the class of 1900.
His choice of a profession early determined, he en-
tered Georgetown University, at Washington, Dis-
BIOGRAPHICAL
345
trict of Columbia, and completed his course in arts
and letters in 1904, being graduated in that year.
He then took up his professional studies at George-
town Medical School, and was graduated in 1908.
He has since practiced in his native city with marked
success, and has attained an enviable position among
his contemporaries. Standing high in the profession,
he is a member of the American Medical Associa-
tion, tlie Connecticut State Medical Society, the New
London County Medical Society, and the Norwich
Medical Society. Widely prominent in fraternal
circles, he is a member of the Benevolent and Pro-
tective Order of Elks, the Loyal Order of Moose,
the Norvv'ich Aerie, Fraternal Order of Eagles, the
American Order of Foresters, and the Improved
Order of Red Men, all Norwich lodgss. His reli-
gious affiliation is with the Roman Catholic church.
Dr. Cassidy married, in Washington, District of
Columbia, in 1909, Mary Virginia Drury, daughter
of John S. and Alice (Mason) Drury.
CLARENCE LOWELL CLARK— In that school
which developed some of the greatest business men
of their day, the "Yankee peddler wagon," a school
now practically closed, but one that filled an im-
portant place in New England country life during
its heyday, William Frederick Clark gained his
training for the honorable place he has since filled
in the mercantile life of Old Lyme, Connecticut.
William Frederick Clarke is the father of Clarence
Lowell Clarke, whose business education began in
his father's general store in Old Lyme, but who has
since 1903 been in the government postal service as
mail carrier and postmaster at Old Lyme.
William F. Clark was born in Chester, Connecti-
cut, and until arriving at manhood was engaged in
farming. He left the farm to take up the life of a
traveling merchant, and drove over stated territory
with his wagon, loaded with tin and other ware,
which he sold or exchanged with farmers at their
homes. He was a successful merchant of that "old
time type," and continued until 1880, when he set-
tled in Old Lyme, New London county, and opened
a general store, which he now has successfully con-
ducted for forty years and still manages.
Mr. Clark married Elvira Comstock, born in Old
Lyme, of an old New London county family, and
among their children was a son, Clarence Lowell
Clark, of whom further. Mr. and Mrs. William F.
Clark reside in Old Lyme, where so many of their
years have been spent. They are highly esteemed
in the village, and "Clark's" is a well known and
popular trading center.
Clarence Lowell Clark was born in Old Lyme,
New London county, Connecticut, June I, 1885. He
was educated in the public schools of Old Lyme,
and after finishing high school he was appointed, on
July I, 1903, letter carrier at the Old Lyme post
office. He held that office seven years, until July
I, 1910, when he was appointed postmaster of Old
Lyme, the appointment being made by Postmaster-
General Frank H. Hitchcock. He was reappointed
under the Wilson administration by Postmaster-
General Burleson, and has held the office contin-
uously under both Republican and Democratic ad-
ministrations, although by political choice he is a
Republican. He has served the village on the school
board and before becoming postmaster was village
assessor.
Mr. Clark is a member of the Congregational
church of Old Lyme. Fraternally he is a member
of Crystal Lodge, No. 88, Independent Order of Odd
Fellows, of which he is a past noble grand and past
district deputy grand master; and Pythagoras Lodge,
No. 45, Free and Accepted Masons, both of Old
Lyme.
Postmaster Clark married, at Old Lyme, April 23,
1908, May Frances Austin, born in the village,
daughter of William Nelson and Susan E. (Chap-
man) Austin, her father a contractor and builder of
Old Lyme.
JAMES BATHGATE— For several centuries the
name of Bathgate has been identified in Scotland
with the manufacture of woolen fabrics, and a Bath-
gate, in the early days of the textile industry in
America, crossed the ocean and took his place
among the pioneers in this field in the United States.
With the ingrained ability which is the result of
generation after generation following the same line
of effort, the accumulated experience of the family
went into the development of the industry in
America.
James Bathgate was born in Gallashiels, Scotland,
and after a few years of successful management of
the mills in Scotland, followed the earlier pioneers
to Peterborough, Ontario, Canada, and then to this
country, and settled in Foxcroft, Piscataquis county,
Maine, where he was engaged in the manufacture
of textiles for a considerable period. About 1906
Mr. Bathgate came to East Lyme, Connecticut,
as treasurer and general manager of the Niantic
Manufacturing Company, located in the village of
Flanders, now a living monument to the spirit
which has lived through the centuries since the first
man of this name entered the textile field, and later,
with his son, George Hyslop, established a mill in
Waterford, Connecticut, known as the Jordan Mill.
James Bathgate married Laura Jane Tanner, who
was born in Scottsville, New York. Mr. and Mrs.
Bathgate were the parents of one son, George Hy-
slop (see following sketch), and one daughter, Mabel
Agnes, now the wife of Robert E. Hall, of Hart-
ford, Connecticut, who has two daughters: Jan.
Stuart, and Patricia.
GEORGE HYSLOP BATHGATE, son of James
and Laura Jane (Tanner) Bathgate (see preceding
sketch, was born in Fo.xcroft, Maine, December 25,
1889, and received his early education in his native
town. As a boy of fifteen he came to East Lyme
with his parents, and while residing here, attended
346
NEW LONDON COUNTY
Biilkelcy High School, of New London, from which
he was graduated in the class of 1908. Thereafter,
he attended the Norwich Free Academy for one
year. In the fall of 1909 the young man went to
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where he entered the
Philadelphia Textile College, and there learned the
most recent developments of the textile art, to-
gether with its history, ancient and modern, and the
fundamental principles of commercial application.
Since his graduation from the textile school in 191 1,
Mr. Bathgate has been identified with his father's
mill in East Lyme, first mastering the practical side
of the business, and soon becoming superintendent
of the plant; he now holds the positions of secretary
and superintendent.
Mr. Bathgate is a member of the Phi Psi frater-
nity of the Philadelphia Textile College. He takes
little leisure for interests outside his business, and
politically, while endorsing the principles of the
Republican party, reserves the right to individual
thought and action.
ROBERT HOOKER BYLES— Ebenezer Byles,
son of Josias (j), and grandson of Josias (i) Byles,
the founder of this family in New England, was of
Boston, Massachusetts, birth, but in 1743, at the
age of twenty, he removed to the town of Ashford,
in Windham county, Connecticut, about thirty miles
northeast of Hartford, the village of the same name
being known in history as the birthplace of General
Nathaniel Lyon. Four generations of the descend-
ants of Ebenezer Byles resided in Ashford: Josias
(3), of the fourth; Elisha, of the fifth; Deacon An-
drew H., of the sixth; and George Sharpe Byles, of
the seventh American generation; all were born
at the homestead, located on the turnpike, between
Ashford Centre and Warrenville, first owned by
Ebenezer Byles, of the third generation, and there
lived amid Ashford's familiar scenes, but the last
named, George S., who broke the continuity of resi-
dence, and in Norwich, New London county, en-
tered business life and there became a prominent
merchant, a member of the firm of J. P. Barstow &
Company. Robert Hooker Byles, of the eighth gen-
eration, continued business activities when he came
to a choice of occupation and spent his adult years
as a funeral director, and for a decade and a half
of years has been located in New London, where he
is well settled in a modernly-equippcd funeral es-
tablishment, at No. 15 Masonic street, where a for-
mer residence was purchased, converted into under-
taker's uses, and occupied as a mortuary establish-
ment January, 1920. Prosperity has come to Mr.
Byles in his New London business, and he is one of
the leading men of his profession.
Josias Byles, the founder, came from London,
England, to Gravesend, Massachusetts, on the ship
"Edward and Mary," arriving in May, 1692. He
married, in England, Sarah Hartwell, and there she
died, December i6, 1691. He was accompanied from
England by his son, Josias (2), and in Massachusetts
married a second wife, Sarah Davis, and a third wife,
Elizabeth Mather, children being born to each wife.
The line of descent from Josias and Sarah (Hart-
well) Byles is through their first-born, Josias (2),
and his wife, Abigail (Callender) Byles; their young-
est child, Ebenezer, and his wife, Anna (Bushnell)
Byles; their youngest son, Josias (3), and his wife,
Abigail (Clark) Byles; their fourth child, Deacon
Elisha, and his wife, Sophia (Huntington) Byles;
their youngest son, Deacon Andrew Huntington,
and his wife, Martha H. (Sharpe) Byles; their son,
George Sharpe, and his wife, Mary Eva (Hooker)
Byles; their son, Robert Hooker, of New London,
Connecticut, and his wife, M. Hortense (Eagles)
Byles.
Elisha Byles, of the fifth generation, was a deacon
of the Congregational church, and died at the old
farm, at the age of eighty-one. He was succeeded in
the ownership of the farm and in the deacon's office
by his son, .Vndrew H. Byles, who left the old farm
in 1888 and removed to Willimantic, and there died.
May 17, 1894. He was buried in the family burial
ground near the old farm in Ashford. He was a
man of fine character, with high ideals, possessed
rare judgment and tact, and was a power for good
in his community. His wife, Martha H. (Sharpe)
Byles, was a daughter of Judge George Sharpe, of
Pomfret, Connecticut, and granddaughter of Robert
Sharpe, a Revolutionary soldier who enlisted from
Pomfret.
George Sharpe Byles, son of Andrew H. and
Martha H. (Sharpe) Byles, was born at the old
farm in Ashford, Windham county, Connecticut,
March i, 1853, and died April 28, 1918. He remained
at the farm as his father's assistant until December,
1873, when he came to Norwich, New London county,
and entered the employ of his uncle, John P. Bars-
tow, a merchant of Norwich, with whom the young
man also made his home. As a clerk he continued
for three years, becoming thoroughly familiar with
the details of the business, and so valued were his
services that in 1876 he was taken in as a partner,
as was Frank H. Smith, the firm trading as J. P.
Barstow & Company. In 1893 the senior partner
died, but the surviving partners continued the busi-
ness under the old firm name, the house becoming
one of the oldest on Water street, its rating high
and its business large.
In politics Mr. Byles was a Republican, and in
religious faith a Congregationalist, attending the
Broadway Church in Norwich. He was a member
of Somerset Lodge, No. 34, Free and Accepted
Masons; held all degrees of Norwich Consistory
of the .■\ncient Accepted Scottish Rite up to and
including the thirty-second; was a noble of Sphinx
Temple, Ancient Arabic Order Nobles of the Mys-
tic Shrine; member of the Arcanum Club; and the
fraternal orders. New England Order of Protection
and the Ancient Order of United Workmen.
George S. Byles married, in Mansfield, Connecti-
cut, Mary Eva Hooker, born in Mansfield, January
c>Li^ti^i\^ J^r>^ ^L^ -^^t-i^
BIOGRAPHICAL
347
IS, 1854, daughter of Lothrop and Rachel (Sholes)
Hooker, her father a manufacturer, of Mt. Hope.
Three children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Byles:
Robert Hooker, whose career is herein reviewed;
Harold H., born March 30, 1883, died April S, 1893;
and Everett Barstow, born February 28, 1890.
Robert Hooker Byles, son of George S. and Mary
Eva (Hooker) Byles, was born in Norwich, Connec-
ticut, September I, 1878. He was educated in the
public schools and Norwich Free Academy, entering
the latter institution after completing the courses
of Broadway Grammar School. After completing
school years, he served for seven years as assistant
with different undertaking firms of Norwich, then,
on October 15, 1903, began business as an under-
taker in Lewiston, Maine.
After leaving Lewiston, he located in New Lon-
don, where he resumed business in July, 1906, as
successor to Pendleton & Son, his establishment
located at No. 52 Main street. There he conducted
business until the completion of the alterations and
additions to the dwelling at No. 15 Masonic street,
which A-Ir. Byles had purchased in the fall of 1919.
On January i, 1920, the new establishment was occu-
pied, and there he continues.
Mr. Byles is past master of Union Lodge, No. 31,
Free and Accepted Masons, and at present its secre-
tary; member of Union Chapter, No. 7, Royal Arch
Masons; Cashing Council, Royal and Select Mas-
ters; Palestine Commandery, No. 6, Knights Temp-
lar; Pyramid Temple, Ancient Arabic Order Nobles
of the Mystic Shrine, of Bridgeport; Hunguent
Lodge, No. 499, New England Order of Protection;
Mohegan Lodge, No. 55, Independent Order of Odd
Fellows; Nonomantuc Tribe, Improved Order of
Red Men; New London Lodge, No. 344, Loyal Order
of Moose; and the Masonic Club of New London.
Mr. Byles is a Republican in politics, and a member
of the First Church of Christ (Scientist).
In Norwich, Connecticut, September 26, 1906, Mr.
Byles married M. Hortense Eagles, born in Sprague,
New London county, Connecticut, September 19,
1886, daughter of William H. and Mary (Rich)
Eagles. Three children have been born to Mr. and
Mrs. Byles, they of the ninth American generation:
George Huntington, born December 10, 1907; Robert
Everett, born February 12, 1913; and Mary Lorine,
born March 16, 1919.
RICHARD LANE TARRANT is one of the well
known business men of Norwich, Connecticut. His
father, Nicholas Tarrant, like his son, a prominent
realtor, was born in 1846, and died in 1910. His
mother, Mary (Coyle) Tarrant, was born in 1866,
and died in 1906.
Richard Lane Tarrant was born at Norwich, Con-
necticut, August 14, 1892. His early school days
were spent in the Broadway Grammar and St. Pat-
rick's parochial schools of his native city. He en-
tered the Norwich Free Academy in 1906 and was
graduated with the class of 1910. Upon leaving
school he went in business with his father as a
realtor and insurance agent, and upon his father's
death in 1913, took over the ofTice and has built up
a large and lucrative business.
During the World War Mr. Tarrant saw service
with the American army, being a cadet in the air
service. He is an Independent in his political views.
His fraternal connections are with the Knights of
Columbus, White Cross Council, No. 13; Daniel
Mullin Assembly; and the Benevolent and Protec-
tive Order of Elks, Norwich Lodge, No. 430. His
clubs are the Rotary and Norwich Golf. He is a
communicant of the Catholic church.
JAMES GRAHAM— Many and valuable are the
contributions which Scotch character has made to
the life of this nation. From every station in life
and from nearly every Scottish family have come
individuals bringing with them the sturdy strength
of their native hills. Many of the names long hon-
ored in the annals of Scottish history are, and long
have been, represented in the United States. Among
these there is none that has been more esteemed
than that of Graham.
James Graham, father of our subject, was born
in Longside, Scotland, in 1822, received his early
education in the National School at Longside, and
then became a landscape gardener, which work he
engaged in until 1872. In that year Edward P. Taft,
agent for the Ponemah Mills, manufacturing cotton
goods, went to Scotland to secure operators, bring-
ing back two ship loads of Scottish people to work
in the mills. James Graham felt that this repre-
sented an opportunity to better his condition and
that of his family, and joined the group of emi-
grants, bringing with him his family. He settled in
Taftville, Connecticut, and worked in the Ponemah
Mills until his death, which occurred August 10,
1900. His wife, Mary (Smith) Graham, was born
at Longside, Scotland, in 1824, and died at Taftville
in March, 1902. To this union were born four chil-
dren: Mary, born at Longside, married Thomas
Emmerson, who was employed in the Ponemah
Mills, but is now retired and lives at Lisbon, Con-
necticut; Christina, born at Longside, resides in
Willimantic, Connecticut; Agnes, deceased, born at
Longside, married William Burgess, who is retired
and lives at Lisbon; and James (2), of whom further.
James (2) Graham, son of James (i) and Mary
(Smith) Graham, was brought to this country by his
family when he was seven years of age, received his
education in the public schools of Taftville, Con-
necticut, and then served a three years' apprentice-
ship as machinist in the Ponemah Mills. His ap-
prenticesliip ended, he worked for four years as
machinist in that same mill, and then, in 1884, en-
tered Eastman Business College, at Poughkeepsie,
New York, where he completed a two years' course.
Returning to Taftville, he worked as machinist in
the Ponemah Mills for one year more, and then
became shipping clerk in the office of that same
348
NEW LONDON COUNTY
company, contiiuiiiig to act in that capacity until
1912. During the period of years between l8g6 and
1912, he was also postmaster at Taftville. To en-
ergy and ability he added thrift and by 1902 had
saved enough to buy a farm of seventeen acres near
Taftville, where, in addition to his regular work,
he carried on market-gardening on a small scale.
In 1912 he gave up his position with the Ponemah
Company and bought the two hundred and thirty-two
acre farm, known as the Talbut farm, which adjoins
the place where he makes his home. Since that time
he has devoted his attention to market gardening.
He has made a scientific study of the subject, at-
tending lectures at agricultural colleges throughout
Southern New England, and keeping closely in
touch with experiments and reports sent out by both
National and State agricultural bureaus, until at the
present time he is regarded as one of the best gar-
deners in Eastern Connecticut. His two farms, to-
talling two hundred and fifty acres, are cultivated
by thoroughly scientific methods, and the most mod-
ern farm machinery is used, including that great
labor and time-saving device, the tractor.
In addition to the management of his big farm.
Mr. Graham has found time to fill important public
offices and to serve his county and his fellow-
agriculturists faithfully and well in the State Sen-
ate. Since 1915 he has been ta.x assessor for the
town of Lisbon and still (1922) holds that office.
In 1916 he was elected representative of Lisbon in
the State Legislature, served on the Public Health
Commission, and acted as prison coroner; in 1918
he was a member of the Excise Commission; and in
1920 was elected State Senator from New London
county, serving on the Agricultural Committee. He
is still (1922) State Senator from New London
county. Mr. Graham was one of the promoters of
the Bankers' Trust Company of Norwich, and when
the organization was perfected in 1921, became one
of the board of directors.
Mr. Graham married, in Taftville, March 3 1887
Mary Fulton, daughter of Hugh and Clementine
(Martm) Fulton, both of Scottish birth, the latter
bemg a member of a well known family named
Copeland Air. and Mrs. Graham are the parents
of four daughters: Clementine, teacher in Cristo-
bal C. Z.; Mary, married Fredrick Friswell, and
resides in Norwich; Christina, married William
Bode, and resides in Norwich; and Agnes, a teacher,
residing at home.
MATTHEW A. TINKER-The Tinker home-
stead, lying ,n East Lyme, New London county
Connecticut is very near the Montville town line
and near the village of Chesterfield, the present
home of Matthew A. Ti„ker. one of the prominent
men of the town of Montville, although the Tinke-
homestead lies in East Lyme, and the family history
M ,^f""^l'°^' ?"*"' """"'^ "^'^ °'d home where
Matthew A. Tinker was born, as were his parents
and grandparents.
Matthew A. Tinker is a great-grandson of Wil-
liam Tinker, v/ho was born in the old Tinker home-
stead in Lyme, Connecticut, near the Montville line,
and there spent his life. He was the father of
Matthew Tinker, also born at the Tinker homestead
in Lyme, he also farming the old place until his
death. He married Mary Miller, who was born in
Waterford, New London county, Connecticut, and
they were the parents of a son, Matthew (2) Tinker,
who was born at the homestead in East Lyme, April
5, 1832, and resided thereon until about 1911, when he
retired from farming and moved to Montville,
where he died April 7, 1916. He was a good man,
public-spirited and helpful, fond of his home and
his family, and ready to make any sacrifice for their
comfort or happiness. He married Mary Christine
Elizabeth Caulkins, born in Montville, and there yet
resides (1921).
Matthev/ A. Tinker, son of Matthew (2) and
Mary Christine Elizabeth (Caulkins) Tinker, was
born in Montville, New London county, Connecti-
cut, January 24, 1865, and grew to manhood on the
old Tinker farm in East Lyme. He attended school
in the nearby village of Chesterfield, and was his
father's farm assistant until attaining legal age. He
then left the farm and went West, and became a
fireman on a Great Lakes steamer. After returning
East, he was for a time on Long Island Sound boats,
and on coastwise steamers, as fireman. Finally he
tired of that life and returned to East Lyme, mar-
ried, and for two years worked a leased farm. He
then, in 1S98, bought a fine farm property in the
town of Montville, near the village of Chesterfield,
which he farmed intensively and v/ith great success
until 1918, when, on account of ill health, he turned
the management of his farm over to his son, William
R., and moved into the village of Chesterfield, where
he yet resides and conducts a small farm in connec-
tion with his auctioneering. Many years ago Mr.
Tinker discovered that he had a talent for public
selling, and later developed that talent, until he is
considered one of the best auctioneers in Eastern
Connecticut. For twenty-five years he has been in
that business, and each year "cries" many auction
sales. He was one of the organizers and a charter
member of the Connecticut Auctioneer's Associa-
tion, and in 1920 was elected vice-president.
Mr. Tinker served on the Board of Selectmen
of the town of Montville for six years; also was con-
stable, and in 1915-16 represented the town in the
State Legislature. He was excise commissioner;
doorkeeper of the House of Assembly, 1919-20, and
for twelve years has been a member of the Board
of Tax Commissioners for Montville. He is a mem-
ber of Thames Lodge, No. 22, Independent Order of
Odd Fellows; member of Colchester Grange, Pa-
trons of Husbandry; and in religious faith is a
Baptist. In politics he is a Republican. He has
served the people well in these various offices, and
is a man well liked by all who know him.
At New London, on April 5, 1887, Mr. Tinker
BIOGRAPHICAL
349
married Carrie Jane Powers, born in Stonington,
Connecticut, daughter of Frank and Ellen (Cole-
man) Powers, both parents born in Stonington. Mr.
and Mrs. Matthew A. Tinker arc the parents of ten
children, all born at the farm in the town of Mont-
ville: I. Charles B., married Amy Rix, and is en-
gaged in the automobile business in New London.
2. Christine, married Earl Lathrop, a farmer ^ of
Montville. 3. William Raymond, now managing
his father's large farm in Montville. 4. Mary, mar-
ried William Fosbcrge, engaged as a heating engi-
neer in New London. 5. Stanley, a mechanic of
New London. 6. Ruth, a teacher of Lyme, Connec-
ticut. 7. Bertha, a teacher of South Coventry, Con-
necticut. 8. Carrie. 9. Meredith. 10. Cornelia.
FREDERICK ALLAN BECKWITH— Since 1890
Frederick Allan Beckwith has been a resident of
Niantic, and the prominence which he has gained
both in business and public life has made him one of
the best known and most highly respected citizens
of this community. It has been said of Mr. Beck-
with that wherever philanthropic work is being
done you can always find him ready to give substan-
tial aid to further its progress.
John Tyler Beckwith, father of Frederick Allan
Beckwith, was born in New London, Connecticut,
July 10, 1838. For many years he was a successful
farmer in the section of Waterford known as Town
Hill, but later he moved to East Lyme to take
charge of his wife's old home, and here resided
until his death. He married Annie Turner Beck-
with, a native of Golden Spurr, East Lyme, daugh-
ter of Horace Beckwith, who was one of the pioneers
of East Lyme. To Mr. and Mrs. Beckwith were
born two children: Frederick Allan, of whom
further; Mary, who married Silas Weaver, of East
Lyme.
Frederick Allan Beckwith was born in New Lon-
don, Connecticut, January 7, 1865, but was brought
by his father and mother to the Golden Spurr sec-
tion of East Lyme, which was the latter's former
home and was located one-half mile west on the
spurr of the trunk line. The boy was educated in the
schools of East Lyme, and after completing his
studies taught school, during his spare time assist-
ing his father in his work about the farm. In 1890
he came to Niantic, where he subsequently estab-
lished himself in the coal business. Starting in a
small way his enterprise grew rapidly, due largely
to his tireless energy and his unwavering belief
in his ability to succeed. The welfare and progress
of Niantic have always been the object which has
pre-eminently influenced every action of Mr. Beck-
with's life, and to the furtherance of which he has
given generously of his time, thought and money.
In politics he is an Independent, casting his vote
for the man, regardless of party label. He has
served on the Board of Assessors, and since 1895
has been elected many times to the ofTice of first
selectman, which is proof in itself that he has ever
fulfilled his duties faithfully as a public servant.
Mr. Beckwith is prominent in the local fraternal
organizations. He affiliates with Bayview Lodge,
Free and Accepted Masons; Niantic Lodge, No. 17,
Independent Order of Odd Fellows, of which he is
past master; New England Order of Protection,
of whi 
