Norfolk Town (part 2 of 23)

J. Varnum Abbott completed his education at Phillips Academy in Andover, pursuing his studies there three years. He began his business life as clerk in a country store, where he had an experience in selling various kinds of merchandise, including grain, groceries, light and heavy hardware, and dry goods. After three years in that position he went to Boston, and was employed eighteen months as clerk in a large wholesale and retail dry-goods house. In 1857 he began learning the trade of a machinist at North Andover, entering the machine shops of Davis & Furber, manufacturers of woollen machinery, staying there until after the breaking out of the late Civil War.

In May, 1861, Mr. Abbott was made First Sergeant of a company of Volunteer Infantry that was formed in North Andover to aid in putting down the Rebellion; but, before the company could be mustered into the United States service, word came from the office of the Adjutant-general that no more troops were then needed by the government. The company was accordingly disbanded, and Mr. Abbott resumed his former occupation. In 1862 Mr. Abbott again offered his services to his country, enlisting in Company A, Thirty-third Massachusetts Regiment, as a private. A short time after his enlistment he was seriously injured, and, not being able to do active duty, was placed in the office of the military governor, General Slough, of Ohio, at Alexandria, Va., as a clerk, a position which he

Returning at once to North Andover, he resumed his former work in the machine shop, continuing there until 1864. From that time until 1874 he was employed in the shops of the Grover & Baker Sewing Machine Company. Coming then to Dedham to establish himself in business on his own account, he began the manufacture of his present line of goods on a modest scale, being the pioneer of this industry. His trade rapidly increased; and he was making fine progress when, in 1883, his buildings and tools were completely destroyed by fire. At this time he had a large force of men at work, Charles E. Luce, his son-in-law, being a partner. The plant was rebuilt and newly equipped, and in 1885 the company was formed and incorporated under its present name. The business has steadily increased, new orders constantly coming in from all parts of the country, so that even in the recent time of financial depression new hands had to be hired to complete the work, and the buildings have had to be enlarged from twenty-two feet by thirty feet, to twenty two feet by seventy-five feet. One secret of the great success of this enterprising firm is that none but the best material and tools are used.

Previous to Mr. Abbott's engaging in the manufacture of loom pickers, the work was done wholly by hand. Machines invented by Mr. Abbott and his son-in-law, Mr. Luce, when introduced completely revolutionized the business, their labor-saving qualities enabling the company to produce better goods at less cost than the hand-made. All the goods placed on the market by this company are now made by machinery of Mr. Abbott's and Mr. Luce's invention. Some of these machines have been patented, and rights to use them have been sold to other manufacturers at remunerative prices.

Mr. Abbott has been thrice married. In 1857 he married Mary F. Frye, a daughter of Stephen Frye, of Andover. She died at the age of twenty years of consumption, a disease which carried off many of her family. Mr. Abbott's second wife was Mary J. Sutcliffe. She was the mother of one child, a daughter, Jennie E. The maiden name of the present

Mrs. Abbott was Lucy J. Rogers. She was born in Danvers, Mass., a daughter of L. C. Rogers. The two children born of the third marriage are: Helen F. and Florence R. Jennie E., the eldest daughter, is the wife of Charles E. Luce, D.M.D. , who was engaged in business with Mr. Abbott until 1890. In that year he was graduated from the Harvard Dental College, and then went to Frankforton-the-Main, Germany, and later to Stuttgart, where he is successfully engaged in the practice of his profession, being the only American dentist in the place. Mr. and Mrs. Luce have two children - Elmer V. and Marguerite. Helen F. Abbott, Mr. Abbott's second daughter, is an accomplished musician, having studied two years in Germany, completing her education at the Boston Conservatory of Music. She is now supervisor of music in the schools of Bristol, R.I. Her sister, Florence R. Abbott, a graduate of the Bridgewater Normal School and of the Cambridge Kindergarten, is a teacher in the Endicott School.

Mr. Abbott is an unswerving Republican in politics, and has been a member of the Republican Town Committee. He has been repeatedly urged to accept public office, but has persistently declined. He is prominent in the order of Odd Fellows, being a charter member of Samuel Dexter Lodge, I. O. O. F., and a member of Monterey Encampment, No. 60, Hyde Park; he is a member of the Royal Arcanum and R. S. G. F., in which he has filled all the chairs; he is also a member of the Home Circle, of which he has been Grand Vice-Leader two years and Grand Leader the same length of time; and is now an instructor in the Supreme Council. He is an active member of the Charles W. Carroll Post, No. 144, G. A. R., of which he has been Commander; and he belongs to the Fisher Ames Club of Dedham. He is a regular attendant of the Episcopal church, of which his wife and children are members.

ENRY A. BELCHER, of Randolph, the present Representative of the Seventh Norfolk District in the General Court, was born in Randolph on August 6, 1844. A son of Henry and Harriet Belcher, both natives of this town, he comes of English origin, and traces his ancestry back to a Belcher who settled in Braintree, Mass., in 1639. He grew to manhood in his native town, attending the public schools and later the Stetson High School. When thirteen years old he entered the employ of Francis Townsend, who kept a general merchandise store in Randolph, and remained with him for several years. In his twentieth year he went to Boston, where he became a salesman in the great dry-goods establishment of Jordan, Marsh & Co. In 1873 he became a buyer, and the manager of their dress-goods department. Three years later he entered the firm of R. H. White & Co, a connection that lasted until January I, 1896, when he withdrew. In that period of twenty years he shared and, in a large degree, was instrumental in securing the business success which the firm of R. H. White & Co. is known to have achieved. Mr. Belcher is a financier of unusual ability, and his judgment and advice have been earnestly sought by numerous societies and corporations having large financial interests. He is now a director of the Boylston National Bank of Boston, and is a trustee in the Turner Library at Randolph. He is a member and Past Master of Norfolk Union Lodge, F. & A. M.; and he is Deputy Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of the State of Massachusetts.

Mr. Belcher married Hannah B. Nye, a daughter of Stephen and Mary A. Nye, of Sandwich, Mass. He is a Republican in politics, and he was elected to his present office as Representative on the Republican ticket. He is identified with the Unitarian church, and is a liberal supporter of its various enterprises. Mr. Belcher is the owner of one of the most beautiful and attractive homes to be found in Norfolk County. The spacious and elegant mansion is surrounded by lawns and shrubbery in harmony with its architecture. Mr. Belcher's career as a business man needs no eulogy. To his ma'rked natural abilities as a business manager, his good judgment and sound sense, he united push, honesty, and a determination to succeed; and as a result he rose from the position of clerk to that of partner in one of the foremost mercantile con- cerns in the United States, the possessor of a handsome fortune. His life stands forth as a brilliant example for younger men, and will undoubtedly be an inspiration for many years to the youth of his native town.

f ^TeORGE F. HUSSEY, the well-known \ '*) I superintendent of the Jenkins Manufacturing Company's works at East Braintree, is a native of Albion, Me. Born in June, 1846, he is a son of Benjamin and Elizabeth E. Ilussey, both also natives of the State of Maine. He remained at home until sixteen years of age, attending the public schools. When President Lincoln issued the first call for nine-months troops, Mr. Hussey, then a mere lad, responded by enlisting in Company G of the Twenty-sixth Maine Regiment. He served for nearly a year, doing duty around Fort Hudson, La., sharing in General Banks's Red River campaign, and fighting in the siege of Fort Hudson, at Irish Bend, and in other minor engagements. He subsequently enlisted in Company H of the Second Maine Cavalry, which was attached to the Ninteenth Army Corps, and took part in sundry cavalry raids, principally made in Louisiana and Florida. Having spent more than two years in the cavalry service, he was discharged. Then he returned to Maine, and for a short time attended the academy at Freedom. Afterward he learned the trade of machinist, and worked for several years as journeyman. In 1880 he came to East Braintree for the purpose of building some special machinery for the plant of which he is now the superintendent. He had worked here as machinist for about a year when he was made foreman, or assistant superintendent. This position he held until May 1, 1889, when he was appointed to the post of superintendent left vacant by the death of S. F. Jenkins, the former superintendent. The Jenkins Manufacturing Company, of which he is the official representative, manufactures boot and shoe laces, wetting cords, and braids. The plant is located on the Monatiquot River at East Braintree, and is run by water-power and by steam. It employs on an average forty operatives, and is carrying on a highly successful business

Mr. Hussey is a self-made man, and enjoys universal confidence and esteem. In politics he is a Republican, and he favors every movement for the public good. He is a member of General Sylvanus Thayer Post, No. 87, G. A. R., at South Braintree; and of Neponset Lodge, No. 84, I. O. O. F., at Neponset. Mr. Hussey's wife was formerly Mary M. Dike, of Sebago, Me.

ENRY F. BICKNELL, one of the prominent merchants of East Weymouth, was born in this town, March 26, 1S24, son of James and Nancy (Wilder) Bicknell. His father was a native of Weymouth; and his mother was bom in Hingham, Mass. The Bicknell family is one of the best known in this locality. (A more extended account of its ancestry will be found in the biography of Zachariah L. Bicknell.) James Bicknell, who was a shoemaker, and followed that trade in Weymouth and Hingham, died in 1851. He was an industrious man and an esteemed member of the community. Of the several children reared by him, Henry F. is the only survivor.

Henry F. Bicknell was reared and educated in East Weymouth. At the age of ten years he began to learn the shoemaker's trade, and he followed it afterward as a journeyman for about twenty-seven years. Then he engaged in manufacturing, in company with Q. L. Bicknell and E. G. Gardner, under the firm name of Bicknell, Gardner & Co. A year later he became the sole proprietor of the business, and thereafter carried it on alone until 1S85, when he relinquished it to enter the grocery business, which he has since followed. His prosperity began at the start; and his ability and regularity have gained the confidence of his business associates and the public generally, who give him a liberal share of their patronage. In politics he is a Republican, and is in favor of all movements relative to increasing the prosperity of the town. He was one of the incorporators of the East Weymouth Savings Bank, which he serves in the capacities of trustee and a member of its Investment Committee. He is a Master Mason, a member of South Shore

Biographical Rkview

Mr. Bicknell married Betsey C. Our, of Hingham, and has had three children. Of these the only one living is Clara E.p the wife of Peter W. French, of this town. Mr. and Mrs. Bicknell attend the Congregational church.

KRANK WALLACE BRETT, M.D., a representative physician of South Braintree, was born in Hingham, Mass., May 14, 1861, eldest son of Mersena and Ann S. (Loring) Brett. His father, a native of Duxbury, a mason by trade, is now retired from active business, and resides in Boston. The Doctor's mother was a descendant of Thomas Loring, one of the earliest settlers of Hingham, where he drew a house lot in September, 1635.

Frank W. Brett was educated in the public schools of Hingham, graduating from the high school ; and from his thirteenth to his eighteenth year he worked more or less at his father's trade. Entering the Bridgewater State Normal School at the age of eighteen to prepare for teaching, he was graduated in 1880, and first taught school in Norwell, Mass. Two years later he became preceptor of the Hanover Academy at Hanover, Mass., where he remained six years, resigning to become the principal of a grammar school in Needham, Mass. In 1891 he came to Braintree as principal of the Monatiquot School, and he remained in that capacity here for four years. He had developed a strong taste for chemistry and kindred branches of science, and he frequently lectured upon these subjects. During his years of teaching in Braintree he attended lectures at the College of Physicians and Surgeons in Boston ; and in 1894, immediately after receiving his degree, he was appointed professor of bacteriology there. In the fall of 1895 Dr. Brett began the active practice of his profession in South Braintree. He now command;; the patronage of a steadily increasing number of the residents of the town, and enjoys the confidence and esteem of the public at large.

Cuming, of Hingham. They have two sons - Afley L. and Roy C. The Doctor is a valued member of the Massachusetts Medical Society and of the American Medical Association. He is also well known in the best fraternities of the vicinity, being identified with Rural Lodge, A. F. & A. M., at Quincy, with the I. O. O. F. at South Braintree, and the LTnited Order of the Golden Cross at Hanover, Mass., being one of the charter members of Fraternal Commandery, No. 260. He holds a prominent position in the town, and is serving at the present time on the School Board of Braintree.

REDERICK BARNICOAT, a skilful ;ranite sculptor of Quincy, was born in Penryn, Cornwall, England, April 7, 1857, son of Thomas P. and Emma (Curdew) Barnicoat. The father, also a native of Penryn, was there for many years a contracting mason, having a large business and employing man)' men. His wife, Emma, likewise a native of Penryn, bore him nine children. These are: Elizabeth, the wife of James Coles, of Leeds, Yorkshire, England; Emma, the wife of James Hogg, also of Leeds; Mary Hannah, the wife of Henry VVorsdell, of Quincy, Mass. ; Charlotte, a school teacher in Birmingham, England; John, of Providence, R. I.; Edwin, of Mylorr Cornwall, England; Frederick, the subject of this sketch; S. Henry, of Quincy, Mass. ; and Charles, of Providence, R.I.

Frederick Barnicoat was educated, and learned the trade of a granite cutter in Penryn, England, living there until twentyfour years old. Emigrating then to America, he settled in Westerly, R.I. Here he followed his trade for five years, and subsequently in Boston for six months. After coming to Quincy in 1886, he had been employed as a carver and statue cutter for two years, when he started in business for himself, being the only person in the city making a specialty of statue cutting. Since then, by remarkably artistic work, he has achieved a wide reputation, and now receives orders from all parts of the Union. He has done much work for soldiers' monuments. In the last year he cut and shipped thirty-three figures, employing as assistants about twenty-two men. He takes great interest in anything connected with the development of the granite industry, and is one of the directors of the T. W. Smith & Co. Granite Turning Company.

Mr. Barnicoat is a member of the Sons of St. George. He married Mary M. I. awry, who was born in l'enryn, England, daughter of Alexander Lawry. They have seven children living; namely, Charles, Gertrude, Stanley, Nelson, Minnie, Emma, and Frederick, Jr.

LISHA HAWKS, a retired contractor and builder of North Stoughton, was born in this town, April 19, 1 8 14, son of John and Eunice (Worthington) Hawes. His father was born in Stoughton in 1785, and his mother in Canton, Mass., in 1790. His paternal grandparents, Elisha and Sarah (Went worth) Hawes, of Canton, had a family of six children; namely, Samuel, Elijah, Enos, John, Ruth, and Rebecca. Grandfather Hawes followed agricultural pursuits until his death, which occurred in 1796, and was caused by an accident.

John Hawes, son of the elder Elisha, was engaged in farming and teaming during his active period, and was an able and industrious man. He died December 10, 1877, at the advanced age of ninety-two years; and his wife, who lived to the age of ninety years, died December 14, 1880. Both were members of the Baptist church. They reared seven children, as follows: Alpheus, William, Elisha, Mather E., Abigail, Elijah, and Emery. Alpheus Hawes, who is no longer living, married for his first wife Lucy J. Stephenson, of Ohio, and for his second, Jane Tucker, of Canton, Mass. William, who was a shoe manufacturer, married Charlotte Hawes, of Stoughton, the two being now deceased. Mather E., who married Laura Bond, of Vermont, was originally a shoe manufacturer, was afterward a schoolmaster, still later a Universalist minister, and for a time was engaged in the real estate business in Boston. For several years he was connected with the Boston post-office, and he is now residing in that city. Abigail is the widow of Charles Upham, late of Canton, and is now residing in Los Angeles, Cal. Elijah, who married Jane Wadsworth, of Vermont, was formerly a shoe manufacturer, and went to California. Emery, who was in early life engaged in shoe manufacturing, is now a merchant and Postmaster at North Stoughton. His first wife was Lucy A. Wentwortb, of Canton; and his present wife was formerly Mrs. Emeline Packard Snell, of Brockton.

Elisha Hawes was educated in the common schools of Stoughton; and at the age of eighteen he went to Roxbury, where he learned the carpenter's trade. Four years later he returned to his native town, and, starting upon his own account as a contractor and builder, was actively engaged in that business for sixty years, during which time he erected many dwelling-houses and other buildings in this village. He retired in 1896, but is still a strong and active man, possessing the agility of a much younger person.

Mr. Hawes has been three times married. His first wife, with whom he was united on January 24, 1837, was Hannah A. Tucker, of Roxbury, who died December 25, 1853. His second wife, Mrs. Eunice P. Glover, widow of Elijah Glover, of Stoughton, died March 26, 1 891 ; and on November 12 of the same year he married Mrs. Susan H. Bailey, a daughter of Daniel and Susan (Fowler) Herring. Her father was born in Dedham ; and her mother was born in Dorchester, Mass. Daniel Herring resided in Dedham, and followed the trade of mason in connection with farming. His wife died in 1851, and he died in 1S53. Mrs. Hawes's first husband, Calvin C. Bailey, a native of Vermont, who was engaged in the express business, died February 15, 1876.

By his first marriage Mr. Hawes became the father of seven children; namely, Lucy Ann, Marsena B., Ellen Mary, Alvah T., Hannah A., Allah, and Elisha S. Lucy Ann Hawes married John T. Farrington, of Milton, and is now residing in Iowa, where her husband is a prosperous farmer. She has six children - John M., Lucy Ella, Lizzie Lee, Marsena, Elisha, and Charles H. Marsena B. Hawes died July 7, 1864, while serving in the Civil War. Ellen Mary is the wife of Charles W. Cook, formerly of Milton, and now a farmer in Berkley, Mass. Her children are: Arthur B., Charles, Beulah, Lizzie A., and Samuel H. Alvah T. is a carpenter in Boston. He married Alice Davenport, and she died leaving two children - Silas G. and Jennie. Hannah A. married J. Henry Farrington, a farmer of Milton, and her children are: Emily, Fred M., Mary A., Frank H., Lucy A., Ellen R., Dora, and Evelyn. Allah Hawes died November i, 1852. Elisha S., who is following the carpenter's trade in North Stoughton, married Hattie Lothrop, of Avon, Mass., and has four children - George M., Mildred, Bertha, and an infant deceased. By his second union Mr. Hawes had one child, Alia, who married H. Addison, of Nova Scotia, and died November 20, 1884.

Politically, Mr. Hawes is a Republican, but has never sought for or held office. He is connected with Rising Star Lodge, F. & A. M., and the Sons of Temperance. He is a member of the Universalist church, and served upon the Parish Committee for several years.

fHOMAS LADNER WILLIAMS, a jeweller, optician, and engraver, of Quincy, was born at Penzance, County Cornwall, England, December 8, 1850, son of William James Williams. The great-grandfather, James Williams, Sr. , was a lifelong resident of England and for many years a blacksmith at one of the mines in Devonshire. The following incident related of him shows the high regard in which he was held by his workmen. During the progress of some war, probably that of the American Revolution, when there was a great demand for men, he was forcibly seized by the press gang, and taken to Plymouth. The miners became so incensed at this outrage that they marched in a body to that town, and, arriving at the physician's office just as James Williams was undergoing an examination, walked in unannounced, their leader saying, "There is a little man here we want." Without further formalities, they picked up the said James Williams, and, placing him upon their shoulders, carried him home, a distance of fifteen miles.

William James Williams, a son of James Williams, Jr., who was also a well-known blacksmith of Devonshire, was born in Tavistock, Devonshire, England, April 1, 1825, and was there educated. He learned the stone-cutter's trade, which he followed throughout a large part of his life. In 1872 he came to America, and; after working as a stone-cutter in Maine for two years, returned to his native land. Subsequently, in the capacity of contractor under the English government, he was engaged in building bridges and a railroad in Central Africa for about two and one-half years. He married Mary Hosking, who had four children. These are: Sarah Ann, the widow of William Berryman, late of Penzance, England; Elizabeth, the wife of Professor James Hicks, a teacher of swimming in Penzance; William James, a resident of Wales; and Thomas L., the subject of this sketch. The father died in 1884. Both parents were attendants of the Protestant Methodist church.

Thomas L. Williams left school when eleven years old. Three years later he began working at the stone-cutter's trade, which he followed for about twelve years. On reaching man's estate he emigrated to the United States, and settled first at Dix Island, Me., where he assisted in cutting the granite for the New York post-office. In 1873 he went to Hurricane Island in Knox County, .Maine, and there worked on the granite destined for use in the erection of the St. Louis postoffice. During the four years he spent here, his evenings and the rest of his leisure time were employed in watch repairing. That he had a propensity for this occupation from his early years is easily recalled to him by his vivid recollection of a thrashing he received in that period for fooling with an American clock that his father had just brought home. In 1877 he removed to Tenant's Harbor, in the same county, and established himself as a jeweller and country merchant, later dealing in gentlemen's furnishing goods. With characteristic enterprise, in order to advertise the business, he started a small sheet called Town Talk, the only paper in the town, and soon had a list of five hundred subscribed in the place, the population of which was three thousand souls. In 1887 Mr. Williams disposed of this store, and came to West Ouincy. Here he embarked in the jewelry business, and also started a paper known as the West Ouincy Enterprise, which he had conducted tor about six months, when he sold out. His present jewelry store, which he opened in 1896 in the city proper, is one of the largest establishments of the kind in Norfolk County. Persistent study during the last few years, supplemented by practical lessons obtained in Boston, has made him a skilful optician.

While in politics he is a sound Republican, he is popular with both parties. In West Ouincy, which usually goes Democratic by three to one, he came within twenty votes of election to the Council, without any effort on his part. He is a member of the Sons of St. George. The first of his three marriages was contracted with Annie Cook, of St. George, Me., who died leaving one child, Annie. His second marriage was made with Mary J. Richards, a native of England, who became a resident of Hurricane Island. Of his children by her, Lauretta E. is living. His present wife, born in Burlington, Vt., whose maiden name was Eva B. Sullivan, has borne him one child, Thomas Lindall.

"CjOISIIA THAYER, a prominent business man of Braintree, was born November ^"""" " 5, 1S25, in East Randolph (now Holbrook). A son of Elisha and Annie (Reed) Thayer, he is descended from John Thayer, a pioneer settler of Braintree. His father, who was an agriculturist by occupation, in early life kept the toll-gate at East Braintree for a time. Of his parents' other children, two survive, namely: Charles, who lives in South Braintree: and Eliza A. Capen, of Stuughton, Mass.

Mr. Thayer spent his early youth in Holbrook, Mass. At the age of sixteen years he was apprenticed to I.. G. Morton, of Quincy, t<> learn the baker's trade. Subsequently, for a time, he followed this calling in Milton and South Weymouth, ami then engaged in the express and grocery business at South Braintree, under the firm name of Cook & Thayer. Subsequently the partial loss of health induced him to remove to Wentworth, N.H., where he was engaged in farming and the lumber business for two years. At the end of that time, his health being improved, he resumed the grocery business at the old stand. His next venture was in the manufacture of carpet slippers; and for several years, in partnership with Edward Potter, he carried on the Boston Carpet Slipper Company, afterward establishing the same business alone in Boston. He was for three years the president of the Hingham Steamboat Company. When the interests of this company were sold to another concern, Mr. Thayer engaged more or less in real estate. During the administration of President Buchanan he was Postmaster of South Braintree, and for the past fourteen years he has served as Justice of the Peace. He married Celia A. M. Bates, of Hanover, Mass., whose children by him are: Mrs. S. A. Willis, of Worcester, Mass; and Mrs. Charles H. Sprague, of Braintree. Mr. and Mrs. S. A. Willis have four children - Mabel, Nettie, Lila, and Samuel T. Mr. and Mrs. Sprague have one daughter, Ethel B.

Mr. Thayer is identified with the Knights of Honor at South Braintree, Mass. He has spent two winters in Elorida. Several years ago, with one of the well-known Raymond parties, he spent four weeks in Mexico, going as far South as the tropics, and making a two weeks' stay in the city of Mexico, where he was an interested spectator of a genuine bull fight. On the same excursion he visited San Francisco and other parts of California, besides spending some time at Salt Lake City.

,ATHAN TUCKER, one of the prominent business men of Avon, was born in Milton, Mass., April 2, 1820, son of Nathan and Kate (Tucker) Tucker. The Tuckers, who come of English origin, are one of the old families of Milton. Amariah Tucker. Mr. Tucker's grandfather, resided here for a number of years. Nathan Tucker, Si., who was a farmer, and his wife were born in M ilton.

Elisha Thayek

emy. He remained under the parental rooftree until he was eighteen years old. After attaining his majority, he was engaged for six years in the retail shoe business in Cincinnati. Returning to the East, he then came to Avon, and engaged in the manufacture of boots and shoes. Two of his brothers were at first associated with him, under the firm name of E. Tucker & Co. He was afterward in business with one brother, the firm name being Tucker & Brother. Later he retired from the shoe business, and was afterward for a number of years in the retail coal trade in East Stoughton. He is now the sole proprietor of a large retail ice business in Brockton.

On December 27, 1853, Mr. Tucker was married to Miss Almira Brett, a native of Rochester, Mass., who died in 1891. She left one daughter, Hattie L. , who is now the wife of Elmer C. Packard, of Brockton, Mass., and has two children, Nathan E. and Emerson H. In politics Mr. Tucker is a Republican. He was a member of the first committee called to promote the project of building the Avon Water Works, and of the first Board of Commissioners. He is still a member of the latter body, and he has served as its treasurer and superintendent since its organization. Mr. Tucker represented this district in the legislature in 1865, when Avon was still a part of the town of Stoughton. For two years he served as Selectman of the original town of Stoughton. Mr. Tucker is a member of the Boston branch of the American Legion of Honor.

ANIEL N. TOWER, a civil engineer and superintendent of the Cohasset Water Works, was born in Cohasset, Mass., February 28, 1846, son of Abraham H. and Charlotte (Bates) Tower. His parents were natives of this town; and a more complete account of his ancestry may be found in a sketch of his brother, Abraham H. Tower, which appears upon another page of the Review. The subject of this sketch was educated in the public schools, and also made a special study of civil engineering. He remained at home for some time, assisting his father, who carried on a large dairy farm. After the death of the elder Tower he went to National City, Southern California, where for two years he was engaged in mercantile business with Martin Sanders, under the firm name of Sanders & Tower. Subsequently, selling out his interest in the concern, he returned to Cohasset, and in 1886 was appointed superintendent of the water-works. In politics he is a Republican. He is connected by membership with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows.

Mr. Tower married Miss Almatia Josephine Smith, daughter of Captain Joseph Smith, late of this town, and has two children - Bessie L. and Gilbert S.

,APOLEON B. FURNALD, a Constable and Justice of the Peace of ( Juincy, was born in this town, August 24, 1828, son of Lemuel Furnald. The grandfather, Thomas Furnald, was a farmer in Nottingham, N.H., his native town.

Lemuel Furnald, who was born and reared in Nottingham, assisted in the management of the parental homestead until after his marriage. Then, coming to Massachusetts, he was engaged in farming during the period of the War of 1812 on Thompson's Island in Boston Harbor. Subsequently he removed to Hough's Neck, and there continued his chosen occupation for some years. In 1837 he gave up farming, and was thereafter engaged in the trade of stone-mason, making his home in Ouincy. He attended the Unitarian church, and, considering his means, was a liberal contributor toward its support. His wife, in maidenhood Mary Wiggin Evans, a native of Lee, N. H., and a daughter of Edmund Evans, had ten children, of whom two died young. The others were: Mary W. , born October 10, 1806, who is the widow of Benjamin Freeman, late of Sumner, Me.; Caroline W., born October 18, 1808, who is the widow of Jonathan Merritt, late of Ouincy, Mass. ; Eliza W., born December 6, 18 10, who was the wife of Joshua Fisher, of Dedham, Mass., and died March 8, 1896; Harriet W., who married Aaron Ouimby, of Lyndon, Vt. ; Dolly E., born June 29, 18 15, who died at the age of fif- teen years; Ann M., living in Quincy, who successively married William T. Meade and the late William Everson ; Bryant N., born May 27, 1823, who died in 1894; and Napoleon B., the subject of this biography. The father died June 4, 1850.

Withdrawn from school at the age of twelve, Napoleon B. Furnald worked at various employments until 1854. Beginning in that year, he dealt in and repaired furniture for nearly a score of years. On July 5, 1872, he was appointed by the Governor to the State constabulary force, on which he served until 1875, when that branch of service was abolished. For many years thereafter he was engaged in detective work, also serving as Constable of Quincy. In the capacity of detective he had charge of many notable cases. One of the more important was the Langmaid case, in which he discovered and arrested the murderer, and subsequently, by finding the knife with which the miscreant had severed his victim's head from her body, and procuring other evidence, had him convicted. He was the leader in the capture and conviction of James Henry Costley for the murder of Julia Hawk, a case which Judge Devens pronounced one of the most interesting murder cases in the history of the country. It was also entirely through his efforts that James MacKenney was convicted and sentenced for life, for the murder of William McCormick at Braintree. The State officers had given up this case, the medical examiner had given alcoholism as the cause of death, and the body had been buried a week when Mr. Furnald began his labors, with the result stated above. He has been in the detective business more or less for the past quarter of a century, and for more than a score of years he has held the commission of Justice of the Peace. In addition, he does an extensive collecting business, giving a good deal of attention to delinquent taxpayers.

Mr. Furnald belongs to Mount Wollaston Lodge and Manet Encampment of the I. O. O. F. ; to Amana Lodge, Daughters of Rebecca; to Mahantom Tribe, I. O. R. M. ; to the Knights of Honor; and to the Knights and Ladies of Honor. In 1S50 he married Elizabeth Fowles Dodge, a daughter of Benjamin Dodge, of Beverly, Mass. They have three children - Thomas E., Mary Lizzie, and Henry Plumer. Both Mr. and Mrs. Furnald are members of the First Unitarian Church of Quincy.

EORGE E. REED, treasurer of the \\$ I South Weymouth Savings Bank, was born in this town, August 2, 1852, son of George and Maria H. (Vinal) Reed. The Reed family has long been identified with the town of Weymouth, which was the birthplace of George E. Reed's father, his mother being a native of Scituate. Several members of the family have been able and successful businessmen here; and Josiah Reed, an uncle of the subject of this sketch, was for several years president of the Savings Bank.

George E. Reed was educated in his native town, and in his youth learned the art of telegraphy. For some time he was employed by the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Railroad Company as a station operator in Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana, successively; and he was later employed by the Eastern Railway Company in the same capacity at Amesbury, Mass., and at Saco, Me. Returning to South Weymouth in 1887, he became book-keeper for H. B. Reed & Co., shoe manufacturers, with whom he remained until July 1, 1895, when he was appointed to his present position of treasurer of the Savings Bank. He is also a member of the Board of Trustees. In politics he is a Republican, and is now serving as Town Auditor.

Mr. Reed married Clara A. Lowell, of Kennebunk, Me.; and he and his wife are the parents of two daughters - Mary G. and Clara L. Mr. Reed is a Deacon of the L'nion Congregational Church and treasurer of that society. He joined the Independent Order of Odd Fellows in Saco, Me., and is still a member of the lodge in that city.

§OHN PRESCOTT BIGELOW, of Quincy, the secretary of Park County Gold Mining Company, with an office in Boston, was born June 17, 1848, in the house he now occupies. A son of Captain

Jabez Bigelow, the fifth in the line of succession bearing the name of Jabez, he is a descendant of an old Colonial family. His grandfather, Jabez Bigelow (fourth), was a farmer and shoemaker by occupation, and at one time was the proprietor of a hotel in Westminster, Mass., where he took a prominent part in town affairs, and served in the more important public offices.

Captain Bigelow was born in Charlestown, Sullivan County, N.H., in 1801. He learned the boot-maker's trade, which he followed in Charlestown until 1830. In that year he came to Quincy, where he established himself as a manufacturer of shoes, and for many years after carried on a flourishing business, being one of the foremost manufacturers of his time. He was a strong Whig in his political affiliations, and he served on the Quincy School Board for a number of terms. For years he was Captain of the Quincy Light Infantry; and he was a member of Mount Wollaston Lodge, I. O. O. F. By his wife, Eliza, who was a daughter of Ebenezer Green, of Quincy, he became the father of ten children, six of whom attained maturity. The latter were: Amanda, who married Dr. William G. Dawes, of Maiden, Mass. ; Adelaide, who married Augustus Peabody, of Danvers, Mass. ; Josephine, the wife of Ira P. Goodale, also of Danvers; Loring, who served in the Civil War, and was killed at the second battle of Bull Run; John Prescott, the subject of this biography; and Annie Maria, the wife of William Mason, of Binghamton, N.Y. The Captain and his wife were both members of the Adams Temple Unitarian Church.

John P. Bigelow obtained his early education in the Quincy schools. Afterward he became the private secretary of Stephen Morse, a broker, who in former years had been his teacher. In 1868 he accepted the position of head book-keeper in the establishment of John H. Pray, Sons & Co., remaining with that firm ten years. From 1878 until 1884 he was employed as an expert accountant, and in the ensuing ten years he was an accountant in the Internal Revenue Department. In 1894 he started in business as an accountant and broker at 13 Exchange Street, Boston. Also, since then, he has been the secretary of the Park

Mr. Bigelow is a member of Merry Mount Lodge, Knights of Honor. An ardent Republican in politics, he is the vice-chairman of the Republican City Committee. He was a member of the City Council two years, but he refused a nomination for Representative to the State legislature. In July, 1867, he was married to Sarah Gill Osborne, a daughter of Henry Osborne, of Hingham, Mass. Three of the children born to him have since died. The others are: Grace Green, the wife of Otis A. Edgarton, of Boston, Mass. ; John P. Bigelow, Jr.; Martin S. ; Loring; Jabez; and Celia Elizabeth. Both parents are members of the Adams Temple Unitarian Church.

HARLES SIMMONS, the well-known contractor and builder of East Weymouth, was born September 3, 1832, in the part of Scituate now called Norwell, son of Peleg and Lucy (Damon) Simmons, both also natives of Scituate. The Simmonses, like so many of the old families in this section, can trace their ancestry back to good old Pilgrim stock and to the earliest settlers. The founder, Moses Simmons, came to America on the ship "Fortune," and landed at Plymouth Rock in 1621. One of the family's ancestors was a soldier of the Revolution. Mr. Simmons's father was a farmer by occupation and a lifelong resident of Norwell, where he was much respected.

Beginning when he was eight years of age, Charles Simmons worked out on farms for eight years during the summer, and attended the three months' term of school in the winter. Living about a mile away from the school-house, he was obliged to walk the distance even in the severe winter weather. At the age of sixteen he went to Boston, and began to learn the trade of carpenter and joiner. After two years spent there, he came in 1850 to East Weymouth, where he served another year as an apprentice. Then he worked as a journeyman until 1856, since which time he has followed the business of contractor and builder. He has built the

Masonic Hal] in East Weymouth, the Odd Fellows Hall in South Weymouth, and a "umber ot public buildings, as well as many residences, in Weymouth town. He has also remodelled the Masonic Hall at Abington built a school-house in Hingham, and a number of summer cottages at Nantasket Beach

All-. Simmons married Esther M. Stoddard ot Hingham, and has one daughter Edith' now the wife of Wallace Bicknell, of Weymouth. He takes an earnest interest in the affairs of the town, and is a loyal supporter of the Republican party. He attends the Congregational church, and is a member of the Masons' and Odd Fellows' Lodges of East Weymouth, both of which organizations he has served in various capacities.

MOS CHURCHILL, a venerable and honored citizen of Ouincy, Mass., who, by persistent toil, frugality,' and judicious investments, acquired a handsome property, is now spending the declining years of his long and useful life in retirement He was born at West Bolton, Canada West, December 31, 18.6. A son of Amos Churchill, St., he comes of the English Church. lis, one of the oldest families in England who stood high in royal favor, and many of whom were knighted for deeds of valor and other meritorious conduct. The Ameri can family began with Josiah Churchill, born in England, probably about the year 1612 who settled in Wethersfield, Conn:, l6,6 In 1638 he married Elizabeth, daughter of Nathaniel Foot. The children of this marriage were: Elizabeth, bom January M, 1640 who married Richard Buck; Hannah, born July 1, r644; Anne, born in 1647; Joseph, the next m hue of descent; Benjamin, born February 16, ,652; and Sarah, born December 11, 1657.

Joseph Churchill, born February a 1640 married Mary (surname unknown) on May ,3 1674. Their children were: Mary, bora April 6, 1675, who married David Edwards; Natharne born July c, 1677, who married Mary Hulbert; Elizabeth, born in ,679, who married Thomas Butler; Dinah, born in 1682, who became the wife of Thomas Wickham Samuel, born in ,688, who married Martha Boardman; Joseph, born in 1690, who marned Lydia Dickerman ; David and Jonathan twins born in ,692; and Hannah,' born " 1696. The line was continued through Jonathan, who was married, and reared three children, namely: Jonathan and Dorcas wins, born in ,724; and William, born in 17-7. I he second Jonathan married Lydia Smith, and they had ten children, namely: Oliver who died in infancy; Jonathan, born November 25, i749; Hezekiah, born February 5. 1752; Josiah, bom February ->r r7C4- Lydia, born July 5, ,756; Moses, "born December 1, 1759, who married Mary Crosby: Oliver born April ,5, 1?62> who marrieycj Fun, ce Barnes; Rebecca, born July 20, 1764 who married Solomon Ranney; Abigail, born December 2, i766, who died at the age of four years; and Amos, the father of the subject of this sketch.

Amos Churchill, Sr., was born October 19 I770, in Connecticut, where he learned the trade ot a tanner. He subsequently went to Fa.rfax, Vt., and thence to Canada, where he was for several years engaged as a shoe manufacturer and farmer in the town of West Bol ton. Eventually he returned to his former home in Fairfax, Vt., where he spent the rema.nder of his life, and died at the advanced age ot eighty-six years, a worthy and respected citizen. On October ->c ,-~>r 1 - ,

The early years of Amos Churchill were chiefly employed in working on the home farm and attending the district school durin- the winter terms. After attaining his majority he came to Massachusetts, and learned stonecutting. ,n Medford. Here he afterward worked as a journeyman for three years He settled in Westford, Vt., after his mama" and was there engaged in general farming for two or more years. In 1845, desirous of resuming his trade, he came to Quincy, Mass., where for twenty years he was employed in stone-cutting for other people. During the latter part of this period he had charge of the granite works of Williams & Spellman. In 1865, having by this time saved some money, he formed a partnership with Charles R. Mitchell, and under the name of the Mitchell Granite Works began to quarry and cut and polish granite. Four years later Mr. Churchill purchased his partner's interest, and thereafter conducted a very lucrative business until his retirement from active work in April, [892. The product of his establishment was widely reputed for superior quality and finish, am! met with a ready sale in all parts of the Union.

Mr. Churchill is a stanch Republican in politics. Public-spirited and liberal, he takes a deep interest in the welfare of the city. An esteemed Mason, he belongs to Rural Lodge of Quincy and to the South Shore Commandery of East Weymouth. On September 27, 1842, he married Lucretia, the seventh child and youngest-daughter of Alexander Rowe, of Campton, N,H. Mr. Rowe, who was born in Moultonboro, N.H., February 17, 1780, lived to the age of fourscore years. In 1805 he married Sally Bean, who was born at Sandwich, N.H., April 9, 1787, and died at Campton, July 28, 1840. Their daughter Lucretia was born in Campton, N.H., January 4, 1824. Mr. and Mrs. Churchill have one child, Ellen 15., who married J. H. Emery, of Quincy, Mass., and has two children - Alice J. and Florence B.

DONIRAM J. WHITE, the well-known wholesale and retail milk dealer of Braintree, was born here, October 23, 1834, son of Livingston and Maria (Capen) White. He is a direct descendant of Captain Thomas White, who was a Selectman and a prominent resident of Weymouth in 1640. Michael White, his grandfather, was First Lieutenant of a company in the Revolutionary War; and an uncle, Captain Calvin White, was a soldier in the War of 1812.

Livingston White, who was a native of Randolph, early in life came to Braintree, where he carried on the manufacture of boots and shoes, and was also engaged in agricultural pursuits. In the latter part of his life his entire attention was given to the milk business. During the forties he served as Selectman of Braintree. While an enterprising business man, he was a member of the Baptist church and a consistent Christian. Two of his children survive - Adaline and Adoniram, both residing in this town.

Adoniram J. White received a commonschool education in his native place. From his youth he has been engaged in the milk business, in which line he has been very successful. In politics he is a Republican, and he takes much interest in the welfare of the town. Though often solicited to run tor office, he has never permitted the use of his name, preferring the quietude of his home life. He married Emma P. Childs, a daughter of the late Rev. Mr. Childs, of Gilmanton, N.H. Mr. White is a member of the Baptist church, and is familiarly known as Deacon White, from his office in that church.

Captain Nichols Tower was a seafaring man and a vessel-owner, engaged for years in mackerel fishing. He was also for a long period in the insurance business, acting as agent for several companies. Active, capable, and judicious, he was highly respected, and was elected to various public offices. He served as Selectman and Overseer of the Poor in Cohasset, and for a number of terms represented the town in the General Court. He had command of a company of militia, and served in the War of 181 2.

Frederick Tower was reared and educated in Cohasset. He naturally took to the sea. and in 1 84 1 , when he was twenty-one years old, began to assi>t in putting down buoys. Idwas occupied in this way also during a part of the following year. A few years later, chartering his vessel, he assisted in building the first light-house on Minot's Ledge. This work kept him employed during a part of 1847, 1848, and 1849. In 1 8 50 he signed a contract with the government, agreeing to take care of buoys and beacons for two years in Ipswich, Boston, and Cape Cod Bays, the north-eastern part of what is now the Second Light-house District; and he gave bonds to paint the buoys in accordance with the act of Congress requiring red on the starboard and black on the port side. His work was so satisfactory to the collector of the port of Boston that when his contract expired in 1852, just after the Light-house Board had been established, that gentleman gave him a letter to Commodore Downs, United States Navy, the first Light -house Inspector. Commodore Downs hired Captain Tower to put down buoys by the piece, the Captain furnishing everything required. In March, 1853, the Inspector bought the buoys, sinkers, etc., which Captain Tower then had on hand, chartered his vessel for a buoy tender, and engaged the Captain to command her. Commodore Downs was an old man, and shortly resigned his position as Inspector; and Lieutenant Knox of the United States Navy was appointed in his place. In June, 1S53, the new Inspector bought at New Bedford a vessel of forty -seven tons, which was taken to the navy-yard at Charlestown, and fitted for a light-house tender. She was the first government lighthouse tender in the district. The name first given her was "The Elizabeth," but on account of her speed she was afterward called the "Active." In July, 1853, Captain Tower was placed in charge of this vessel, and during the war he was instructed to keep on the lookout for strange vessels, and when he sighted one to run for the nearest port, and telegraph to Boston. In 1870 Inspector Commodore Blake, United States Navy, transferred him to the district then in charge of General James C. Duane, United States Army; and the Captain went to Portland with his vessel in July. In December of the same year he was given a position in the light-house engineer's office in Boston. He has now been identified with the light-house service for over half a century, and is one of the most valued and trusted employees of the government. From the establishment of the Lighthouse Board in 1852 until the present time (the fall of 1897), forty-five years, he has had but one week's vacation. His services are confined to the First and Second Lighthouse Districts. With the exception of his failing sight, Captain Tower is still active and in good health, though seventy - seven years old.

In February, 1844, he was married to Elizabeth P. Bates, who bore him four children, of whom two are now living - Anna B. and David B. Captain Tower was originally a Whig, and has been affiliated with the Republican party since its birth. He belongs to Mount Lebanon Lodge, F. & A. M., of Boston; the Consistory in the same city; and has taken all but the last degree of the Scottish Rites. He has a large circle of acquaintances, and is highly esteemed wherever he is known.

OHN H. STETSON, cashier of the First National Bank of South Weymouth and Treasurer of the town, was born in East Sumner, Me., October 28, son of Solomon M. Stetson. He resided in his native town until fourteen years old, when he moved with his parents to Hartford, Me., and his education was acquired in the public schools, both common and high. After teaching several terms of school in his native State, in 1872 he came to Massachusetts, and settled in South Weymouth. He was appointed assistant cashier of the First National Bank in 1S74, and since 1880 has ably filled the position of cashier. He is also a director and a member of the Investment Committee. In politics he is a Republican, and has served as Town Treasurer since 1885. He is a member of the Board of Water Commissioners and a trustee of the John S. Fogg Fund. He is connected with Orphans' Hope Lodge, F. & A. M. ; South Shore Commandery, K. T. ; and is a charter member of Wildey Lodge, I. O. O. F. Mr. Stetson married Emily T. White, by whom he has one daughter, Anna M. He is deeply in- terested in the general welfare of the town and the development of its business resources, and is much esteemed for his personal worth and public spirit.

29, 1867, at North Hampton, Rockingham County, N.H., a son of Richard Jenness. Of English origin, this family for several generations gave leading citizens to the maritime part of New Hampshire, and at one time owned a large portion of the town of Rye. John Bean Jenness, the great-grandfather of Charles M., died August 21, 1840, aged seventy-seven years. His son, Richard Jenness, Sr., the next in line of descent, who was a farmer in New Hampshire, died at Rye Beach, February 28, 1868, aged eighty-three years.

Richard Jenness, Jr., born at Rye Beach in 1825, died in that place December 6, 18S5. He learned the carpenter's trade in early manhood, and, coming to Boston, worked as carpenter and builder for some years, being known as a superior workman. When his parents became advanced in years, he returned to the old homestead in Rye, and was thereafter engaged in agricultural pursuits on the ancestral farm until his demise. A sound Democrat in politics, he was very active in local affairs, took a deep interest in educational matters, and filled various town offices. He married Sarah B., daughter of Stacy Page, of North Hampton, N.H., and reared with her two children - Charles Monroe and Ivan Douglas. In religious belief he was a Universalis!, and his wife was an Adventist.

Having received his elementary education in the common schools, Charles Monroe Jenness completed his studies at Comer's Commercial College in Boston. Subsequently he learned the carpenter's trade from his father, and followed it for about three years, being at Fort Meade, Fla., for one year. In 1889 he located in Quincy, and for nearly a year worked at carpentering in this town. Then he purchased his present hardware store of Samuel Spear. By systematic and progressive methods he has since acquired a large business, and made his establishment the headquarters of the surrounding district for the line of goods that he carries.

Mr. Jenness is one of the leading Republicans of this section of the county, and has been a delegate to both county and State conventions of his party. He is a member of Mount Wollaston Lodge and Manet Encampment, I. O. O. F. ; of Carrie E. Ruggles Lodge, Rebecca Degree; of Grand Canton Shawmut, of Boston ; of Maple Lodge, Knights and Ladies of Honor; of the Knights of Malta, Boston Commandery; of the Philedian Senate, K. A. E. O., of which he is Excellent Senator; and of the Princes of Kem, of which he is Illustrious Khedive.

§OHN A. RAYMOND, clerk and treasurer of the East Weymouth Savings Bank and Town Clerk of Weymouth, was born here, January 9, 1848, son of Robert B. and Lavina P. (Nash) Raymond, both parents natives of this town.

The Raymond family came from Middleboro, the first in Weymouth being Alvah, a shoe manufacturer, grandfather of Mr. John A. He fought as a soldier in the War of 1812, and was very influential as a citizen, taking an active part in all public affairs, holding the offices of Selectman and Overseer of the Poor, and serving also as Representative to the legislature. A great-grandfather of Mr. John A. Raymond, Robert Bates, was a soldier of the Revolution. Robert B. Raymond, above named, was a shoe cutter by trade and a man of decided musical ability. He was a prominent citizen, and universally esteemed. Mr. John A. Raymond passed his boyhood in his native town, and was educated in the common schools. At the age of fifteen he began his working life as clerk in the mercantile business of Henry Loud, of East Weymouth; and he remained in this business for a quarter of a century. His trustworthiness was fully demonstrated here, his painstaking and exact business methods were recognized, and in 1888 he was chosen clerk and treasurer of the East Weymouth Savings Bank. This responsible position he has filled to the present time, commanding the entire confidence of the public, and looked up to as a man of unquestioned honor. Mr. Raymond is likewise treasurer of the Congregational Society of East Weymouth. In 1879 he was elected Town Clerk of Weymouth ; and he has been reelected every year since, his long term of office bearing testimony to the efficiency of his service.

Mr. Raymond married Alberta Waldron, of Augusta, Me., and is the father of six children - Fred W., Emma W., Alberta W., Robert B. , Walter L. . and Marion. He is a member of Orphans' Hope Lodge, F. & A. M., of East Weymouth ; of Crescent Lodge, I. O. O. F., of East Weymouth; and trustee of Pilgrim Lodge, K. of H. He is a qualified Notary Public and Justice of the Peace, and is one of the most progressive and energetic citizens of the town.

EORGE H. HITCHCOCK, a well- \ '*) I known dealer in granite, carrying on an extensive business in Ouincy, was born in Boston, Mass., April 7, 1846, a son of Jesse Hitchcock. He is a representative of one of the earliest families of New England and a direct descendant of one of the founders of New Haven, Conn. It is supposed that the Hitchcock family originated in Wiltshire, England, where land was held in their name from the time of William the Conqueror. Its founder in this country, Matthias Hitchcock, who was born in 16 10, came from London, England, t<> Boston on the bark "Sarah and Ellen,"' in the spring of 1635. He was a resident of Watertown, Mass., in 1636, receiving in that year twenty-three acres of land in the "Great Dividends." His name appears in the records of New Haven, Conn., as one of the original signers of the "foundamental agreement made on the 4th of the fowereth moneth, called June, 1639." He was also one of the five purchasers of the "South End Neck," now Last Haven, Conn., where he, with the other four owners, resided after 165 1. Nathaniel Hitchcock, son of Matthias, and a native of New Haven, Conn., was there married January 18, 1670, to Elizabeth Moss, who was born in the town, October 3, 1652, daughter of John Moss. The next in line of descent was their son, John Hitchcock, first, who was born in East Haven, January 28, 1685, and died there, October 14, 1753. He was a member of the legislature during seventeen sessions, from 1739 until 1747, and was a Deacon of the First Church of New Haven from 1742 until his death. His first wife, Mary, was a daughter of Stephen Thompson. She was married to him March 4 of either 1707 or 1708, and died in the following year,* on February 27. His second wife was Abiah Bassett Hitchcock. His only child by the first wife, John Hitchcock (second), who was born on January 1 of either 1708 or 1709, married on March 1, 1732 or 1733, Esther Ford, a daughter of Matthew F<ird. She died in New Haven, Conn., July 11, 1749. The second wife of John Hitchcock (second) was the mother of John Hitchcock (third), and, surviving her husband, who died in July, 1764, was married again. The third John Hitchcock, born in New Haven, Conn., married on May 2, 1774, Phebe Tyler, who was born May 21, 1756, in Wallingford, Conn., daughter of Colonel Ben Tyler. On May 16, 1768, he became one of the original settlers of Claremont, N.H., where both he and his wife spent their last years. Her death occurred January 30, 1S20, and his, July 19, 1835. Their son, Jesse Hitchcock, the grandfather of George H., was born in Claremont, January 7, 1794. He had worked at the trade of millwright in Claremont for some time when, in 1842, he became a resident of Drewsville, in the town of Walpole, N.H., where he remained until his demise, March 26, 1865. On July 9, 1 81 7, he married Chloe Grandy, who was born September 7, 1796, daughter of Colonel Benjamin Grandy, and who died April 6, i860.

Jesse Hitchcock, Jr., who was born in Claremont, N.H., February 13, 18 1 8, received his education in the common schools and at an academy of his native town. On attaining his majority, he located in Boston, Mass., where he lived for some years. Then he established himself in the mercantile business in Vermont. Afterward he returned to Boston, and kept a hotel and had a restaurant business for some time. He retired from ac- tive pursuits several years prior to his death, which occurred October 4, 1896. In 1843 he married Susan K., daughter of Joseph Storey Foster, of Essex, Mass. She died January 15, 1858, leaving these children, namely: Charles E., born June 27, 1844, who lives in Washington, D.C. ; George H., the special subject of this sketch; Fanny V., born November 15, 1847, who died October 16, 1870; Susan F., born December 2, 1849, who is the wife of Albion C. Colby, now of Brockton, Mass.; Lucy F. , born October 2, 1852, who married Samuel Williams, of Boston; and Hiram A., born May 13, 1857, who at the time of his death, January 2j, 1895, was Pro~ fessor of civil engineering at Dartmouth College. Both parents were liberal in their religious beliefs, and attended the Universalist church.

Having completed his education in the Boston public schools, George H. Hitchcock went to work in a wholesale leather store of that city, and was there employed until after the Boston fire in November, 1872. Coming then to Ouincy, he established his present business. He does monumental work as well as building, and has been quite successful. He has one of the finest quarries in the State, the product of which is favorably known in New York and New England. Among many large and costly buildings for which he has furnished the material may be mentioned the Tribune Building and the Central Park Museum of Natural History in New York. He is now serving as one of the directors of the National Granite Bank of Ouincy.

Mr. Hitchcock was married April 18, 1872, to Ellen E., daughter of Thomas Baker, of Marshfield, Mass. They have three children, namely: Fanny V., the wife of J. Percival Sears, of this city; Fay M. ; and Foster. Mr. and Mrs. Hitchcock attend the Congregational church. In politics Mr. Hitchcock is a consistent Republican.

J RADFORD HAWES, clerk of the Board of Selectmen of Weymouth and a well-known citizen of Norfolk County, was born in Weymouth, December 20, 1843, son of Captain Joseph and

Sarah (Pratt) Hawes, both natives of this town, where his paternal grandfather, Joseph Hawes, Sr., was a lifelong resident. Joseph Hawes, the younger, better known as Captain Joseph Hawes, was engaged in the fishery business, trading principally in mackerel for about forty years. He was master of different schooners during that time, and sailed from the port of Hingham, Mass. He served as a Highway Surveyor of Weymouth, and took an interest in building and repairing the roads of the town. He was Republican in politics.

Bradford Hawes was educated in the schools in Weymouth. In November, 1861, at the age of eighteen years, he enlisted in Company K, First Massachusetts Cavalry, and was attached to the army operating on the coast of South Carolina and Florida, and at a later period to the Army of the James. He was in the battle of Olustee, Fla. , anil when with the cavalry along the James was more or less under fire a great deal of the time. Much of the last year of his service he was in the hospital department of the Fourth Massachusetts Cavalry as nurse and steward. Receiving his honorable discharge, November 10, 1864, he returned to Weymouth, and was employed in the shoe business until the spring of 1893. In that year he was elected a Selectman of the town, and each succeeding year he has been unanimously re-elected. During his first year as Selectman he was chairman of the board. He is now clerk of the board, and is also now serving his tenth year on the School Board, his entire time for the past four years having been devoted to town business. In politics he is a stanch Republican.

Mr. Hawes married Jeannette Fairbanks, daughter of George Fairbanks, of Weymouth. They have had seven children, as follows: Joseph H., instructor in drawing in the New Hampshire College of Agriculture and Industrial Arts; Wilton L. ; Susan H.; Rachel L. ; Catherine J.; Helen W. ; and Harold A. Mr. Bradford Hawes is a man who has risen by his own unaided efforts. He is publicspirited, devoted to the best interests of the town, and has served for many years on the Republican Town Committee. He is a member of the Baptist church at Weymouth. He is a Grand Army man, belonging to Reynolds iHTON, a well-known citizen of Randolph, New York City, November 14, 1 8 1 9. His father Ralph Houghton, son of Jason, was a native of Milton, Mass. ; and his mother, Mary Marsh Houghton, was a native of Boston. Mr. Houghton is a lineal descendant of an English -born Ralph Houghton, who came to this country in 1647, first settling in Lancaster, Mass., and later removing to Milton, where he spent the rest of his life. One of Mr. Houghton's great-grandfathers was Joseph Wild, who was a commissioned officer in the Continental army during the Revolutionary War.

Jason Houghton, the paternal grandfather above named, was a lifelong resident of Milton. Jason's son Ralph, when a young man, learned the trade of a baker in Hingham, Mass. ; and during the War of 18 12 he and his next older brother were stationed at one of the forts in Boston Harbor. Some time afterward he engaged in business for himself in New York City. He eventually returned to Milton, and died there in 1822.

Ralph Houghton, the subject of this sketch, resided with his grandfather Houghton in Milton from the time of his father's death till he reached his fourteenth year. He then went to New York City, where he attended school, and was later employed in driving a baker's wagon for his uncle, George W. Houghton, who had succeeded to the business formerly carried on by his father. In 1837 he returned to Milton; and in 1843, after learning the cabinet-maker's trade, he established himself in business in Randolph. For a long time Mr. Houghton made a specialty of manufacturing coffins, but for several years past he has given his entire attention to the business of an undertaker and director of funerals. He stands high in the estimation of his fellowtownsmen, has served as Constable, and was at one time a Coroner. In politics he is independent. He has occupied important chairs

In 1842 Mr. Houghton was joined in marriage with Martha M. Bennett, a native of Bridgton, Me. She became the mother of five children, three of whom are living, namely: Mary F. ; Martha R., now Mrs. Cartwright, a widow; and Helen M. Houghton. Mrs. Houghton died in June, 1887.

(3>rLBERT J- NEWELL, an enterprising j^\ farmer of South Franklin, Mass., and yJ|A a son of Arnold J. and Eliza (Frost) - ' Newell, was born in Franklin, May 17, 1839. His grandfather was Dexter Newell, of Cumberland, R.I., who married Sylvania Brown, of Cumberland. Their son Arnold moved to Franklin about the year 1837, and there worked at his trade of boat-builder for many years, besides carrying on his farm. In his later years he devoted himself wholly to farming. He died in 1887, and his wife is now living in Franklin with her son Allen. Mr. and Mrs. Arnold Newell had twelve children, namely: Amelia, who married Frank Boyden, of East Walpole, Mass. ; Allen, who is a carpenter; Miranda, who married Harry Bryant, a showman in Boston; Sarah and Harriet, both deceased; Albert, the subject of this sketch; Mary, the widow of William Green, of Vermont ; Evelyn, deceased, who was the wife of Alfred Clarke, of Franklin: Henry, also dead; Anna, who married Daniel Corbin, of Franklin; Shady, deceased; and Reed, who married Marion Watson, of Franklin.

Albert J. Newell was educated in the public schools of Franklin and at Walpole. He left home when he was but thirteen years old, and went to work for Colonel P. B. Clark, of Franklin, with whom he remained for about fifteen years, working on the farm. Then he worked in a straw shop for twenty years. In 1862 he enlisted in Company K of the Twenty-third Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, under Captain Hart, and subsequently in the Civil War took part in the engagements at Newbury, White Hall, Hilton Head, and Spottsylvania. besides many skirmishes, coming out of all without a wound. When his term of enlistment expired, he returned to Franklin, and there worked on a farm for the ensuing five years. Then he was employed in a straw shop again for two years. After that he went to Lawrence, Mass., and engaged in the shoe business for a while. In 1882 he settled on the old Colonel P. B. Clark place in South Franklin, where he has lived since, occupied in general farming, but making a specialty of the milk business. Besides the one hundred acres of land in his farm proper, he owns several lots elsewhere. The measure of prosperity he now enjoys has been well earned by hard work. He is a member of the G. A. R. of Franklin, and he attends the Congregational church.

Mr. Newell was married December 28, 1864, to Betsey W. Clark, of Franklin. Her father, Colonel Paul B. Clark, was a schoolmaster for twenty years, teaching in Franklin, Medway, Wrentham, Canton, Randolph, Bellingham, Braintree, Walpole, and Franklin. He was on the School Committee of Franklin for a number of years: and he was Overseer of the Poor, Tax Collector, and Representative to the State legislature in 1849. Colonel Clark was a member of the Congregational churches in Franklin and South Franklin for over sixty years, and he was one of the most efficient church workers. His death occurred August 1, 1894, and that of his wife, in maidenhood Abigail Ann Wheeler, of Millis, Mass., on March 13, 1882. They had four children, of whom Mrs. Newell and Mercy are living. The latter is the wife of Henry Clarke, of Franklin. Mr. and Mrs. Newell have had six children: Abbie Ella and Eliza Harding, living at home; Henry C, dead; Arthur John, living at home; and two who died in infancy.

LIAS ANDREWS PERKINS, who is living in retirement in Quincy, this county, enjoying the fruits of his early years of industry, was born July 28, 1S22, in Alexandria, N.H., son of Elias Perkins. He is a lineal descendant of John Perkins, who was born in Newent, Gloucester shire, England, in 1590. This ancestor, on December 1, 1630, came to America with his wife and five children. He left England in the ship "Lion," on which Roger Williams was also a passenger. For two years after his arrival he lived in Boston. Then he removed to Ipswich, where he was engaged in farming until his death, in 1654. He was a Deputy to the General Court held in Boston, May 25, 1636, and served on the Grand Jury in 1648 and 1652.

John Perkins, Jr., born in England in 1614, came to Massachusetts with his parents in 163 1. He went to Ipswich in 1633, and there resided until his death, December 14, 1686. He opened the first public house in that town, was Quartermaster of the first military organization of the territory and one of the largest landholders of that part of Essex County. His wife, Elizabeth, whose last name is unknown, and whom he married in 1635, died September 27, 1684. Their son Isaac, who was born in Ipswich in 1650, married in 1669 Hannah, daughter of Alexander Knight. Isaac Perkins, Jr., born in Ipswich, May 23, 1676, was master of a ship for many years, and was well known as Captain Isaac- Perkins in Boston, where he resided for some time. The first of his two marriages was contracted June 3, 1703, with Mary Pike, or Picket, who died in 1720. The second, on October 10, 1723, united him to Mrs. Lydia Vifian, the widow of John Vifian. He died June 14, 1725. His children were all born ot his first marriage.

Jacob Perkins, son of Captain Perkins and great-grandfather of Elias A., was born in Chebacco parish, Ipswich, in 1717. In his early years he worked at shoemaking. Later in life he was engaged in farming. On August 30, 1743, he married Elizabeth Strong. Jacob Perkins, Jr., born in Chebacco parish, Ipswich, June 27, 1748, was there reared to agricultural pursuits. In 1783 he purchased wild land in Hebron, N. H. From this he cleared a farm, which he made his home for the remainder of his life, and died May 21, 1823. He was an honest, God-fearing man, eminently devout and strict in all things. On July 28, 1774, he married Hannah Andrews, who was born April 26, 1753, and died December 21, 1845.

born on the homestead in Hebron, N.H., March 18, 1794. He received such education as the limited opportunities of those days afforded. When a young man he spent a few years engaged in farming near Boston, Mass. Subsequently he returned to New Hampshire, and, buying a farm in the town of Alexandria, was afterward engaged in its management until his death in 1S63. He was among the leading agriculturists of the county in which he resided, making the raising of cattle his especial business. Prominent in local affairs, he represented the town in the State legislature, was Selectman for several years, and a Justice of the Peace for a long period. In connection with the last-named office he had the guardianship of a number of children at different times, and transacted a good deal of probate business. He was known and respected as a just and honest man. He enlisted for service in the War of 1812, but did not go beyond Portsmouth, as hostilities had ended before he reached there. With his wife, Rhoda, who was a daughter of Gideon Simonds, of Burlington, Mass., he reared four children, namely: Louisa Adams, who married Luke Gale, of Alexandria; Elias Andrews, the subject of this biography; Hannah A., the wife of David Rollins, formerly of Alexandria, but now of Groton, Mass. ; and Holbrook S. , of Alexandria. Both parents attended the Baptist church.

Elias A. Perkins was reared and educated in his native town, remaining on the home farm until he was twenty-two years old. Coming then to this county, he worked at the carpenter's trade in Ouincy. Having already learned the use of tools while a boy, he was paid journeyman's wages at the end of a year. After nine years' experience as a journeyman, he started in business for himself, locating in Dorchester as a carpenter and builder, remaining there until 1865, when he settled permanently in Ouincy. He carried on a very extensive business, erecting many houses, public buildings, and churches in towns near Boston, and at times employing from twenty to twenty-five men. For the past twelve or fourteen years he has been a trustee of the Ouincy Savings Bank and a member of its Board of Investment. He is also a director of

Mr. Perkins has been identified with the Republican party since its formation, and has always taken an active part in politics. He was a member of the Ouincy Board of Selectmen for four successive years. After the city charter was adopted, he served on the Board of Assessors for some time, being principal assessor for one year. He is a life member of the Mechanics' Charitable Association, which he joined in 1874. In 1863 he was married to Miss Mary Frances Hills, a daughter of Alden Hills, of Hudson, N. H. He attends the Unitarian church, and is very broad and liberal in his religious beliefs.

ILLIAM H. H. HANCOCK, a well-known and reliable jeweller of Cohasset, was born in this town, October 16, 1840, son of Horace and Susan (Stoddard) Hancock. The Hancocks are of English extraction. Horace Hancock was born in Winchendon, Mass., in 1 8co. He located in Cohasset when a young man, and for some time was engaged in shoemaking. His later years were devoted to the pursuit of agriculture. He died in 1881. Mrs. Hancock, who was born in Cohasset in 1802, and died in 1879, was °f Scotch descent. Her father, Major James Stoddard, was a member of the famous Boston Tea Party, and served as an artificer in the Continental army. He was among the sufferers at Valley Forge during the terrible winter of 1777-78.

William H. H. Hancock was educated in the public schools of Cohasset. He left school at the age of thirteen; but by reading and observation he has amply made up the deficiencies in his early training, and he is well informed on all matters of practical importance. Engaging in the manufacture of boots and shoes in Cohasset in 1 871, he was so occupied something over two years. In 1874 he opened a shop for making and repairing watches, and some time later he added miscellaneous jewelry to his stock in trade. He now has a prosperous business. Mr. Hancock is a Republican, politically. Actively interested in the welfare of the town, he has been

Amory Fisher

MORY FISHER, for many years a prominent business man of Dedham, was born November 4, 18 18, in Bolton, Mass., and died at his home on Church Street, Dedham, March- 20, 1894. His father, Jacob Fisher, was a farmer in Bolton, where he was a lifelong resident.

Amory Fisher learned the trade of a chairmaker in his younger days; but, after coming to Dedham in 1837, he worked for Joel Richards in the bobbin factory a number of years, then engaged in the barber's business, having his office in his dwelling-house, and later opened a market near by. He finally embarked in the coal and ice trade, which he carried on successfully for half a century, being at the time of his death one of the oldest merchants in this locality. Energetic, capable, and strictly honest in his dealings, a useful citizen, he was held in high respect, and, departing, was greatly missed throughout the community. He was a member of the Orthodox Congregational church, to which Mrs. Fisher also belongs.

On April 6, 1841, Amory Fisher married Miss Elizabeth Dexter Everett, who was born in Dedham, near the Hyde Park line, November 10, 1 S 1 8. Her father, Nathan Everett, who was one of a family of four children, was a native of Dedham, where his parents spent the later years of their lives. He was a stonecutter by trade, and was also a contractor, and as such did much general work about the neighborhood. He moved to the village of Dedham when Mrs. Fisher was a young child, and there lived until his death, at the age of fifty-five years. The maiden name of the wife of Mr. Everett was Hepzibah Colburn. She was born in West Dedham in 1797, being the descendant of a pioneer family of that locality, and the daughter of Isaac Colburn, a mechanic, who was twice married, and who reared fifteen children. Of the three children born to Mr. and Mrs. Everett, Elizabeth D., Mrs. Fisher, is the only survivor. Mrs. Everett lived a widow many years, always making her home with Mrs. Fisher, dying here at the venerable age of ninety-six. Her twin sister, Mrs. Sally Cole, it may be mentioned, lived to be ninety-three years old.

Mr. and Mrs. Fisher became the parents of two sons, Edward Everett and Frank Amory, both of whom died in childhood. In 1891 Mr. and Mrs. Fisher celebrated the golden anniversary of their marriage, the occasion being a very happy one to the numerous friends who participated in the. festivities. The comely and convenient dwelling now occupied by Mrs. Fisher was built by her husband in 1846, and has well withstood the winds and weather for fifty years. Other buildings on the place are comparatively new, having been constructed shortly after the fire of 1891, by which Mr. Fisher lost his barns, grain store, carriages, and six horses. Mrs. Fisher is a woman of superior intelligence, of a kind and generous disposition, doing much to relieve the wants of the poor, and is held in high respect by all who have the pleasure of her acquaintance.

ZT\HARLES VV. LINCOLN, the popular I \y and efficient Postmaster of Holbrook, ^^Is)^, was born here, December 31, 1849, son of Ephraim and Lucy A. (French) Lincoln. Both parents are also natives of Holbrook, and still reside here. The father, who is one of the most prosperous men of the town, was formerly the Postmaster, and filled the position with credit to himself and to the full satisfaction of the townspeople.

Charles W. Lincoln obtained his early education in the common schools, finishing at the high school of Holbrook, which was then known as East Randolph. Upon reaching his majority, he engaged in the manufacture of boots and shoes. After spending several years as the sole proprietor of a shop, he formed a partnership with N. P. Sprague, with whom, under the firm name of Lincoln & Sprague, the business was continued for a number of years. Then Mr. Lincoln retired from the firm in order to become a salesman for a produce concern doing business in Boston. He had been in this position for two years, when, in 1885, he was appointed Post- master at Holbrook. The satisfaction he has given as Postmaster is evidenced by the fact that he has held the position under the succeeding administrations, and that he is more popular to-day than he has ever been. In politics Mr. Lincoln is a Republican, and he has served as a Registrar of Votes.

Mr. Lincoln is a member of the Masonic order at Randolph. He married Marietta H. Wilde, of Holbrook, daughter of the late L. 1-'. Wilde, who was a shoe manufacturer of Last Randolph, now Holbrook. Mr. and Mrs. Lincoln have two children - Walter W. and Henry F.

HOMAS McDONNELL, the senior member of the firm of McDonnell & Cook, who execute cemetery and monumental work of all kinds at South Quincy, was born February 8, 1851, in Athlone, County Roscommon, Ireland, which was also the birthplace of his parents, Patrick and Bridget (Cunniff) McDonnell. The father was engaged in farming in his native county until 1873, when he emigrated to America. He located in Quincy, Mass., where he has since lived retired from active pursuits. With his wife, Bridget, who was a daughter of John Cunniff, of the County Roscommon, he reared a family of nine children, namely: Mary, who is the wife of Hugh Whoriskey, of Cambridge, Mass.; John A., of Quincy; Timothy, deceased; Thomas, the subject of this sketch; the Rev. Matthew F. McDonnell, of whom there is no special record; Rose A., who married James F. Kelley, of the firm of McDonnell & Kelley, of Quincy; Patrick and Margaret, both deceased; and Theresa, a school teacher in West Quincy.

Thomas McDonnell was educated in the national schools of Athlone, Ireland. Afterward he assisted in the labors of the home farm until 1871, when, with the purpose of bettering his condition, he came to the United States. Taking up his residence in ' (uincy, he here learned the stone-cutter's trade. After following that calling for four years, he formed a partnership with his brothers John and Timothy, under the firm name of McDonnell Brothers, continuing with them until

1878, when he sold his interest to the other members of the firm. Entering then into company with his present partner, Martin H. Cook, under the name by which the firm has since been known, lie has carried on a thriving trade in monuments and general cemetery work, employing about twenty-five men. He is also a director of the Blue Hill Granite Company.

Mr. McDonnell was married June 11, 1879, to Miss Mary A., daughter of Thomas Dol in, of this city. They have had nine children, of whom six are living. These are: Mary E., Matthew 1-'., Thomas C, John J., Lauretta, and Emily. Mr. McDonnell is a member of Monticello Lodge, A. O. U. W., of Charlestown, Mass. ; of the Workmen's Benefit Association: of the Royal Arcanum, John Adams Council, No. 12 10. of Wollaston.

son of Peter and Sally Ann (Van Houton) Van Ness. The grandfather, Henry I. Van Ness, was a native of Caldwell. Peter- Van Ness, also a native of Caldwell, was a shoemaker, and followed that trade and farming in his native town throughout his active period. His wife, who was born in Orange, N.J., died in 1863. She was the mother of nine children, as follows: Henry, the subject of this sketch ; Hettie, who resides in Caroline County, Virginia, and is the widow of Peter Ryerson ; Martha Jane, who is no longer living; Harriet, who married Fzra Bush, of Caldwell, and died leaving two children - Fred and Ida; Phcebe, who married the Rev. Henry Steel - man, and resides at the homestead in Caldwell: Josephine, the wife of James Wardell, a machinist of Newark, N.J. ; Charlotte, the wife of Samuel Wardwell, a cigar-maker in Caldwell: James A., who married Carrie Tompkins, and resides in Newark; and Edward, who is no longer living.

Henry Van Ness was educated in the common schools of his native town. At the age of twenty-one he engaged in the cigar business in Lynnfield, Mass. Three years later he established himself in a general merchan- dise business, which he subsequently carried on for seventeen years. He was also connected with the wholesale woodenware business in Worcester, Mass., for a time; and he was the proprietor of a general store in Ashburnham, Mass., until 1876, when he came to Medway, and bought his present farm. He now owns about forty-five acres, which he has brought to a high state of cultivation, and devotes to general farming, dairying, gardening, and fruit-growing.

Mr. Van Ness married for his first wife Sarah E. Norwood, of Lynnfield, who died in 1874. She was a daughter of the late James and Betsey Norwood. In October, 1875, Mr. Van Ness was again married to Sarah S. Brooks, who was born in Ashburnham, May 30, 1830, daughter of Elijah and Rebecca (Sanderson) Brooks. Elijah Brooks was a prosperous farmer of Ashburnham, his native town; and his wife was born in Littleton, Mass. Both are now deceased. The children of Mr. Van Ness by his first union were: Nellie, now the wife of Frank W. Whiting, of Southboro, Mass.; Charles H., a conductor by occupation, who married Gertrude Morse, and resides in Somerville, Mass. ; Emma E., the wife of Frank W. Reynolds, a cream dealer in Albany, N.Y.; Susie S. who married Earl A. Adams, a machinist, and resides in Norwood, R.I. ; and Ernest, who died young.

Politically, Mr. Van Ness is a Republican; and, though not an office-seeker, he takes a deep interest in public affairs. He is widely and favorably known as an industrious farmer and a worthy, upright citizen, and is highly esteemed by the entire community in which he lives. Mr. and Mrs. Van Ness are members of the Congregational church.

"ON. WILLIAM NEWCOMB EATON was born December 29, 1845, in Quincy, where he is now a leading ice dealer. His grandparents, John and Dorothy (Fox) Eaton, were lifelong residents of Meredith, N.H.

years. Starting then in life on his own account with but a dollar and a half in his pockets, he went to Boston in search of employment. Here he met a man who offered him one hundred and twenty dollars a year to work on his farm. This proposal he accepted gladly; and at the end of twelve months he went home, taking to his mother one hundred dollars. Afterward for several years he continued as a farm hand, each season prudently saving a large proportion of his earnings. Subsequently he hired Mount Wollaston farm, and conducted it for thirteen years, raising considerable produce for the market, establishing a successful milk business, and employing about ten men to assist him in his labors. He then purchased the farm now owned and occupied by his son, William N. Having, while in Boston, become somewhat familiar with the ice business as the driver of a team for a dealer in that commodity, he now determined to establish a like industry in this town. For this purpose he flooded about twelve acres of his forty-acre farm, making an artificial pond. In the course of time he succeeded in building up a flourishing trade in ice, and was for many years the only dealer in Quincy and in that part of Milton through which his route extended. He was a strong advocate of the principles of the Democratic party, and for a number of years served as Selectman. He was a Mason of Rural Lodge in Quincy, and belonged to St. Stephen's Chapter and to the Boston Consistory. He married Ann Jerusha, daughter of William Newcomb, of this town; and they had seven children. Of these six grew to maturity, namely: Lucy Annie, now the widow of Charles F. Pierce, late of Quincy; Edward J., of Milton; William Newcomb, the subject of this sketch; Emma Jerusha, the wife of Walter L. Wellington, of Cambridge, Mass.; Henry Warren, of Boston; and Carrie Newcomb, the wife of Eugene H. Sprague, of Wollaston. Both parents were members of the Adams Temple Unitarian Church. The father's death occurred in 1871.

William N. Eaton was educated in the public schools of Quincy. For about two years after leaving school, he was employed in a wholesale flour house in Boston. Returning then to Quincy, he embarked in the milk business on his own account, and in time acquired a profitable patronage. Since the death of his father, having sold his milk route, he has devoted himself to the ice business, in which he is meeting with a deserved success, being the principal dealer in this city and in a portion of Milton. He handles eight thousand tons of ice annually, and in the summer season employs fifteen men, together with six double and two single teams; while on his farm he cuts from fifty to sixty tons of hay each year.

In politics Mr. Eaton is an unswerving Democrat, and he has rendered his native town efficient service in various official positions. For seven years he was Selectman and Paymaster of Quincy. In 1883 and 1884 he was a Representative to the lower branch of the State legislature, serving during both terms on the Insurance and Prisons Committees. In 1 89 1 and 1892 he was Senator for the First Norfolk District, and while in that body was on the Public Works Committee. He was made a Mason in Rural Lodge, Quincy, of which he is now Past Master. He is also a member of St. Stephen's Chapter of the South Shore Commandery; of the Joseph Cerneau Consistory of Boston: and of the Granite City Club. On December 29, 1869, he married Mary Francesca, daughter of Elisha and Lucy (Newcomb) Packard, of Quincy. (An account of Mrs. Eaton's paternal ancestors may be found in the biography of her uncle, Colonel A. B. Packard.) Mr. and Mrs. Eaton have five children - Minnie Francesca, Lula, Annie Jerusha, Edith Elizabeth, and Grace. Lula is now the wife of Arthur Hall Doble, of whose father, Enoch Hall Doble, a biography is given elsewhere in this work.

ENJAMIN JOHNSON, of Quincy, who deals extensively in lumber, was born April 11, 1823, in St. Albans, Me., son of Charles Johnson. Charles Johnson, who was born, bred, and educated in Jackson, Me., was afterward engaged in the lumber business in Orono, and built some of the first mills erected on the Penobscot River, being at the time one of the most prominent lumber men in that section of the State. In 1837, when about to return from Galveston, Tex., then Mexican territory, to which he had gone with shipments of lumber, he was murdered. He was a man of superior business qualifications and a strong member of the old Whig party. He married Elizabeth Wiggins, a daughter of Asa Wiggins, of St. Albans, and with her reared five children. These were: Benjamin, the subject of this sketch; Augusta Scott, deceased; I.e Baron H., of Fort Wrangel, Alaska; Melville, of Macwahoc plantation, Aroostook County, Me. ; and Mary Ann. Both parents attended the Congregational church.