Norfolk Town (part 3 of 23)

At the age of fourteen Benjamin Johnson ceased to attend the public schools, and on account of the death of his father assumed the responsibility of providing for the family, Inbeing the eldest child. He went to work at lumbering, being principally employed on the river, and remaining in a subordinate position until he had become familiar with that branch of industry. In 1848 he embarked in enterprises on his own account, buying large tracts of standing timber, and converting it into lumber in mills hired for the purpose. He formed a partnership with Mr. Palmer, becoming junior member of the firm thus established; and for many years Palmer & Johnson cut from twenty to thirty million feet of lumber annually, employing sometimes more than three hundred men. On the ist of May, 1879, ne came to Quincy, and bought the lumber-yard of a man who had been one of his best customers in the preceding seven years. Here he has since carried on a very prosperous business, handling between four and five million feet of lumber each year. On his wharf is a finish-mill, from which all kinds of dressed lumber are sold to both the wholesale and retail trade.

Mr. Johnson married Maria, daughter of Samuel J. Foster, of Weston, Aroostook County, Me. The latter was born in Topsham, Me., April 21, 1809, and there grew to manhood. Following the lumber business on a large scale, he kept sixty oxen at work in the woods during the winter season, and had four or five six-horse teams constantly employed. He was also an extensive stock-raiser, having the largest farm of the kind in Maine, and keeping from eighty to one hundred horses and colts. In politics he was a prominent Whig, and, having served on Governor Kent's staff, was afterward known by all as Colonel Foster. He married Julia A. Brown, daughter of Benjamin Brown, of Vassalboro, Me., who at one time was the president of a bank in Hallowell, and was considered the richest man in the State. He was descended from one of two brothers, Philip and William Mc- Clellan, who came from Scotland to Portland, Me., at an early day. The entire history of this family is preserved in "Good Old Times,'' written by Elijah Kellogg.

Of Mr. Johnson's three children two arc living. These are: Lillian M., the wife of Frank K. Damon, of Ouincy; and Benjamin Johnson, Jr. The latter was elected by the Republican party to the City Council in 1896, and is serving on the Finance and Legislation Committees. He is engaged in the lumber business with his father, with which he has been familiar from his youth. An esteemed Odd Fellow, he belongs to Mount Wollaston Lodge of Ouincy and to Manet Encampment. He is also a member of Hodenesonee Tribe, Improved Order of Red Men, of Wollaston; of the Granite City Club; of the Quincy Yacht Club, to which his father likewise belongs; and to the Boston Lodge of the Concatenated Order of Hoo Hoo, a social organization of lumber dealers. He married Sarah T. Burke, of this city, and has four children - Marian E., Sarah, Edith, and Benjamin (third). Mr. Johnson, Sr., belongs to St. Andrew's Lodge,' F. & A. M., of Bangor, Me.

UGENE SNELL, the president of the Holbrook Co-operative Bank of Holbrook, Mass., was born in this town, February 7, 1847, son of Alvin and Annie B. (Holbrook) Snell. His paternal grandfather, who came from Ireland, and settled in what is now Brockton, had two sons. Of these, Alvin, born in Brockton in 1805, settled in 1832 where his son Eugene now resides, and engaged in agricultural pursuits. He also did considerable shoemaking, which was the principal industry of the vicinity at that time. His wife, Annie B., was born in East Randolph, now Holbrook.

Eugene Snell grew up in this town, and his early education was received in the common schools. When only fourteen years of age he became a regular employee in the shoe factory of A. C. Chandler, for whom he worked during the next four years. He was subsequently employed in different manufacturing concerns and finally in the well-known establishment of Thomas White & Co. After working for four years in Mr. White's shop, he became foreman and superintendent. He had held that position for twenty years when he resigned in January, 1894. For five years Mr. Snell was vice-president of the Co-operative Bank. In 1894 he was elected president, which office he holds at the present time. Mr. Snell's position is one of great responsibility; and his election to it was a tribute, not only to his ability as a financier and an administrative officer, but to the integrity of his personal character. As vice-president he showed in an unusual degree his financial and executive ability, and it was a natural consequence that he should be chosen president.

Mr. Snell married Olive A. Poor, of Boston, Mass. She has been the mother of three children - Hattie A., Elmer A., and Annie L. Hattie is a teacher in one of the public schools of Arlington. Mr. Snell and his family attend the Congregational church at Holbrook, and they are active in the social and benevolent work of the society. In politics Mr. Snell is a Republican. Public-spirited to a high degree, he is devoted to the interests of his native town. He is a member of the Masonic bodies at Brockton. A wellinformed man, Mr. Snell has clear and definite views regarding questions of social and political importance.

ANFORD P. BOWDISH, a carpenter and builder of Foxboro, was born July 21, 1S17, in Burrillville, R.I., which was likewise the birthplace of his father, Asa Bowdish. The family in Rhode Island originated with an ancestor who located in Gloucester, Providence

County. Here David Bowdish, the grandfather of Sanford I'., was born and bred. David afterward removed to Burrillville, settling in the midst of a dense forest, from which he reclaimed a farm. At first he lived in a log cabin erected by his own hands; bul before many years he had a substantial frame hdiis.-, in which he spent his declining days, passing away at the age of eighty years. He married Lois Pierce, and of their children Asa was the only son.

Asa Bowdish inherited the parental homestead, and managed it for several years. Subsequently he sold the property, that he might give his exclusive attention to his trade of a cooper. This occupation he followed in Wrentham, Norfolk County, for a time. Then he removed to Uxbridge, where he bought land, and carried on mixed husbandry in connection with coopering until his demise, in the seventy-fifth year of his age. His wife, Patience, who was a daughter of Timothy Perry, had seven children, as follows: Sanford P., the subject of this biography; Lois, who died some time ago; Crawford, of Northbridge; Rachel, a resident of West Townsend, Mass.; Caroline, of Foxboro; Mary, who lives with her eldest brother; and Asa W., also of this town. Having enlisted in 1862, Asa W. served for nine months in the Civil War, participating with Company K, Forty-fourth Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, in the engagements at Goldsboro and White Hall, N. C. At the expiration of his term he was mustered out of the service at Readville, Mass., and is now a comrade of the G. A. R. post at Canton.

Having acquired his education in the district schools of Burrillville, R.I., Sanford P. Bowdish worked for the neighboring farmers by the month. After the removal of the family to Uxbridge he learned the carpenter's trade, becoming one of the most skilful workmen in the vicinity. This craft has been his regular occupation since 1844. At one time he was Surveyor of Wood and Lumber in Uxbridge. In 1886 Mr. Bowdish purchased the James Daniels estate in Foxboro. Here he has since lived somewhat retired from active occupation. In i860 he was unfortunate enough to lose the sight of his left eye. Well

Mr. Bowdish was married to Miss Mary A. Smith, a daughter of Chauncev Smith, of Macedon, N.Y. She died in 1882, leaving no children. Mr. Bowdish has been an Odd Fellow since he joined the lodge of Uxbridge in 1847. He cast his first Presidential vote in 1840 for Martin Van Buren, and since the formation of the Republican party has been one of its stanchest supporters. Both he and his brother Asa are living witnesses of the strange outbreak in Rhode Island known as "Dorr's Rebellion."

KEMUEL W. STANDISH, the editor (jf the Stoughton Sentinel, was born ^ in North Easton, Mass., December 13, 1858, son of David B. and Hannah G. (Ellis) Standish. His grandfather, Lemuel Standish, who was a shipbuilder of Bath, Me., was accidentally killed when about sixty years old.

David B. Standish, born in Bath, was a resident of Stoughton during the last fifteen years of his life. He was an engineer on the Boston & Providence Railroad; and in this capacity he had travelled constantly between the two cities for thirty-seven years, when he retired on a pension in 1880. At his death, which occurred in 1880, he was the oldest engineer in point of service on the road or in the country. By his wife, Hannah, who is a native of Dedham, Mass., and is now living in Stoughton with a daughter, he became the father of seven children. These were: Albert E., now an engineer on the N.Y., N. H. & H. Railroad; Henry A., now a conductor on the same road; David H., who is a wholesale dry -goods dealer in New York City; George E., in the dry-goods business in Boston; Lemuel W., the subject of this sketch: Ella L., who resides with her mother in Stoughton; and Elmer W., deceased. Albert married Miss Rebecca Capen, of Stoughton, and has four children - Miles, Ellis, Lucy, and Ethel; Henry married Miss Nellie Kinsley, of Stoughton, and has one child, Edward

Lemuel W. Standish graduated from the Stoughton High School in 1876. On leaving school he learned the printing business, serving an apprenticeship in Wakefield, Mas^., and working for four years in Boston. Then, returning to Stoughton, he went to work in the Sentinel office. In 1883 he bought the paper, which since that time has been under his management. The Sentinel, which was established in 1861 by William A. and W. H. Wood, of Stoughton, under Mr. Standish's management has been a bright, progressive, and newsy weekly. In the well-equipped office all kinds of job printing are also thine.

Mr. Standish was married in 1885 to Nettie A. Briggs, of Stoughton, and has four children - Rose, Karl. Clement, and Walker. An active Republican, he has been a member of the Republican Town Committee as secretary for the past ten years, is now serving his second term on the Republican State Committee, and is a member of that body's Executive Committee. He was the party candidate for Representative in the General Court in 1891, when he carried his own town in the face of an adverse party vote, and came within eighty votes of being elected in a district which gave four hundred Democratic majority. A Mason in good standing, he is Senior Warden of Rising Star Lodge; and he belongs to Lafayette Commandery, U. O. G. C. He is a member of the Stoughton Musical Society, and he has sung in the Congregational church choir for ten years. Mr. Standish is one of the leading young men of Stoughton, and has many friends.

§OSEPH WARREN HAYDEN, the Chief of Police in Ouincy, was born here in December, 1841, son of George W. Hayden. The father, born in Braintree, Mass., in 1813, grew to man's estate in his native town, and learned the trade of shoemaker. After his marriage he removed to Ouincy, where he followed his trade until his death in 1865, while yet in the prime of life. His wife, in maidenhood Eliza M. Whiting, who was a native of this town, bore him four children. These were: George L. , who died November 29, 1896; Joseph Warren, the subject of this sketch; Albert A- and William A., both of Braintree, this county. Both parents were members of the Congregational Church of Quincy.

Joseph Warren Hayden was educated in the common schools of Ouincy. When old enough to select an occupation, he chose that of stone-cutter, and thereupon began learning the trade. While the late Civil War was in progress, he ran away from his employer to enlist in the service of the Union. Joining Company M, Urst Massachusetts Heavy Artillery, he was sent to Washington, D.C., where he remained on guard for two years. He was then sent with his regiment to the Army of the Potomac, and on June 22, 1864, was taken prisoner in front of Petersburg. He was held by the Confederates for more than six months, during which time he was an unwilling visitor at Libby Prison, Belle Isle, Salisbury, Andersonville, Savannah, Florence, Mellen, Charleston, and St. John's College Hospital. He was discharged from the hospital, July 2, 1865, a mere anatomy, having been reduced in weight while in Southern prisons from one hundred and ninety nine pounds to ninety -six pounds. After his return home, when his health permitted, Mr. Hayden resumed his trade, and followed it for a number of years. He was then appointed Inspector by the Board of Health, a position which he held for six or seven years. Then he became a permanent patrolman on the police force. Two years later, in 1893, he was appointed Chief of Police, a capacity in which he has since served most satisfactorily to the city and with credit to himself.

For several years Chief Hayden was captain of the old "Tiger Fire Company," and he was engineer of the fire department for five years. He is a member of Mount Wollaston Lodge, I. O. O. F.; of Delphi Lodge, K. of P., of Weymouth: of Philedian Senate, K. A. E. O. ; and of Paul Revere Post, G. A. R. In November, 1866, he married Miss Lavina H. Thayer, a daughter of John H. Thayer, of Braintree, Mass.

§OSLl'li DYER, a leading business man of South Weymouth, president of the South Weymouth Savings Bank, and formerly a member of the Massachusetts legislature, was born in this town, November g, 1830, son of Joseph and Betsey (White) Dyer. His parents were both natives oi Weymouth; and his grandfather, John Dyer, was in his day one of its wealthy and prominent citizens. The family has long been a reputable one in this locality.

foseph Dyer grew to manhood in his native town, and acquired a common-school education. At the age of twenty-one he engaged in stamping and. gilding boots, a business which he followed successfully for fifteen years. In [ 866 he established himself in the grocery business in Independence Square, where he has since continued to maintain a large patronage. He was one of the organizers of the .Smith Weymouth Savings Bank, of which he is now president and a trustee; and he is a director of the First National Bank, of which also he was an incorporator. He is a member of the Weymouth Grocers' Association, and as a live business man is actively interested in the prosperity of the town. In politics a Republican, he was elected to the legislature in 1873; and for a number of years he served the town as Auditor.

.Mr. Dyer has been twice married. The maiden name of his first wife was Caroline Blackinton. His present wife, who was in maidenhood Florence Deane, is a native of South Weymouth. Mr. Dyer is widely and favorably known among the business men of this section, and possesses the esteem and confidence of his fellow-townsmen.

LIVER CAPEN, born in Dedham, October 14, 1804, son of Nathaniel and Submit (Bullard) Capen, was prominent in business circles, both in Dedham and Boston, and is well remembered by the older residents of Dedham. His first American ancestor, who came from England, was an early settler in Dorchester, Mass. .Nathaniel Capen, born in Sharon, Mass., spent his last years in Dedham. His first marriage was contracted with Submit Bullard,

Oliver Capen at first engaged in farming. Shortly after he embarked in a mercantile business here in Dedham. When the Readville branch railroad was extended to Dedham, he took the road on a lease, and was for some time its sole manager. He subsequently went into the wood and coal business at Packard's Wharf, Boston, afterward adding the sale of brick, lime, and cement. For several years after his marriage he occupied his father's old homestead on Westfield Street, Dedham. Later he removed to the Whiting homestead on High Street, where he afterward lived.

Mr. Capen married Sarah Ann Whiting, who was born in Dedham, daughter of Calvin and Elizabeth (Fuller) Whiting. Her grandfather, Isaac Whiting, was a farmer and large land-owner here, and influential in town affairs. Calvin Whiting, who was a man of much inventive genius, was engaged in the cotton manufacturing business for a time, but was better known as a manufacturer of tinware. His inventive ability served him well in both these lines, for use in which he invented and improved numerous pieces of machinery. Soon after his marriage he built the house now occupied by his grandchildren, the son and daughter of Oliver and Sarah Ann Capen, and where his last days were spent. Mrs. Whiting was born in Dedham, daughter of Hezekiah and Anna (Draper) Fuller. Mr. Capen died October 23, 1865, and his wife on March 27, 1888. A son and daughter survive them - Calvin Whiting Capen and Elizabeth Fuller Capen. The son, who was in business for some years, of late has lived retired, only looking after his private* interests. The daughter received a high-school education. Since the death of her mother she has resided with her brother.

ENRY WHITE, turnkey at the Norfolk County jail and house of correction, located in Dedham, Mass., has held this position since 1859, making a service, with the exception of a brief term of absence in war time, of nearly four decades. He was born April 20, 1824, in the neighboring town of Weymouth, where his great-grandfather White had settled early in life, and where his father, George W. White, and his grandfather, whose name was Jonathan, were both born and reared. Jonathan White was engaged in agricultural pursuits in Weymouth, and also worked at the shoemaker's trade more or less during his long life of eighty years.

George W. White was a noted musician in his day, and for some years in addition to his other labors he kept a livery stable in Weymouth. He was progressive in his views, highly respected for his intelligence and integrity. His wife, whose maiden name was Betsey Burrell, was a native of Weymouth, being one of a large family of children born to Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Burrell. Her father, who lived to the age of fourscore years, was a shoemaker and farmer throughout his active life. Mrs. Betsey B. White bore her husband twelve children, all of whom grew to mature years, the following being yet alive, namely: Elizabeth, a teacher in San Francisco, Cal. ; George W. , Deputy Sheriff of Norfolk County; William; Henry, the special subject of this brief biographical record; Francis E. ; and Melvina, who married Francis Bush. The mother, who was connected with the Orthodox church, died at the age of seventy-three years.

Henry White grew to man's estate on the home farm, attending the district schools in his boyhood and youth, and learning the shoemaker's trade from his father. On attaining his majority, he embarked in business for himself, engaging in the manufacture of shoes at Weymouth Landing, where he continued until his appointment to his present office in 1859. In this position Mr. White has served most faithfully and satisfactorily, discharging his official duties in a manner worthy of the highest commendation, and has the entire confidence and respect of those above and below him. The number of prisoners under his charge averages about ninety, although it has at times been as high as one hundred and fifty, but not often. In 1862 Mr. White, shortly after the hanging of Hersey at the jail, left his position in order to serve in defence of his country, enlisting from Weymouth in Company A, Forty-second Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, in which he served nine months, being with General Banks's expedition at various points along the coast. At the expiration of his term of enlistment he returned to Dedham, ami resumed his duties as turnkey.

Mr. White was married in May, 1849, :o Miss Mary Wales, who was born in Weymouth, a daughter of Asa B. Wales, for forty years a well-known and popular tavern-keeper of that town. Mr. and Mrs. White reared one child, a son, Frank W., who is in the insurance business in Boston. He married Delia Starrett, and has two children - Winnifred and Starrett. Mrs. White passed to the life beyond in May, 1893, aged sixty-two years. She was a woman of great strength and purity of character, highly esteemed by all who knew her, and a regular attendant of the Universalist church, as is Mr. White. He is a steadfast Republican in his political affiliations, and, fraternally, belongs to Constellation Lodge, F. & A. M., which he joined soon after its organization.

ORING G. LITTLEFIELD, a shoe manufacturer of Avon, is a native of Randolph, born October 24, 1848. lie is a son of Aaron and Emily (Wales) Littlefield. The father is a native of the Pine Tree State; and the mother was born in Randolph, Mass. They had a family of fourteen children, of whom Loring G. was the seventh child. He acquired his primary education in the public schools of East Stoughton, to which place his parents moved when he was three years old. Subsequently he attended school for one term in Middleboro, Mass. When about fourteen years of age he went to work in the boot manufactory of E. Tucker & Co. in East Stoughton (now Avon), where for a short time he was employed in the stitching department. Afterward for a number of years he worked in the stitching department of E. W. S: G. W. Littlefield's factory. Entering into partnership with E. W. and G. F. Littlefield in

1872, he was engaged in the manufacture of boots and shoes at East Stoughton, under the firm name of E. W. Littlefield & Co., for four years. Then for six years Mr. Littlefield was in the livery business in East Stoughton, and bought and sold all kinds of live stock. During the ensuing five years he was associated with G. F. Littlefield in the manufacture of boots and shoes in East Stoughton and Brockton, the firm being G. F. & !..(.. Littlefield. Since 1888 he has managed an independent business, manufacturing a medium grade of men's, boys', and youth's shoes. He has erected a large plant, and when business is good employs about one hundred and eighty hands.

In 1882 he was married to Miss Celia Lynch, of East Stoughton, and has a promising family of Wvc children - Loring, George H., Frank W., Annie G., and Celia V. Mr. Littlefield, who is a Republican, served for three years as Selectman of Avon. He is actively interested in local politics.

'ECHARIAH L. BICKNELL, an ex- Representative to the General Court from Weymouth, and the president of the East Weymouth Savings Bank, was born in Weymouth, June 28, 1820, son of Lovell and Rebecca (Dyer) Bicknell, who were also natives of Weymouth. The family is an old and honored one in the town. Its first representative came here about the year 1635. Mr. Bicknell's maternal grandfather, Asa Dyer, was a soldier of the Revolution. His paternal grandfather was Zechariah. Lovell Bicknell, the father, was a stanch Democrat, and for a time the Town Treasurer of Weymouth. In his youth he was a seaman. Later he was employed by the government in building stone piers and walls, and did considerable work of that kind at Newport, R.I. He kept his residence in Weymouth, and died in 1872. Of his children, Zechariah L. is the only survivor.

Zechariah L. Bicknell received his education in the public schools of Weymouth and in a private academy at Hingham. When about seventeen years of age he began to learn the carpenter's trade in Boston. Having served an apprenticeship of four years, he worked as a journeyman for some time. In 1850 he engaged as clerk in a store of East Weymouth; and in 1865 he started a general merchandise business for himself, and conducted it afterward for fifteen years. He subsequently became an insurance broker, which business he still carries on, representing the Hingham Mutual Fire Insurance Company in Weymouth. One of the organizers of the East Weymouth Savings Bank, he is now a member of its Board of Trustees and its president. He was a Representative to General Court for the sessions of 1856, 1857, and 1 89 1. For fifteen years he served as Selectman of Weymouth, being for much of the time chairman of the board. He was a member of what has since been known as the War Board. He has also been a member of the Board of Assessors. In politics he is a Democrat.

Mr. Bicknell married Abbie L. Perry, who bore him three children. These were: Mary L. , now deceased, who was the wife of George Miles, of Weymouth: Ruth L., the wife of Charles Harrington, of Weymouth ; and Marinda, the wife of Samuel C. Denton. Mr. Bicknell's present wife was previously Mrs. Sarah C. Barker, the widow of the late Warren W. Barker, of Marshfield. Mr. Bicknell is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and one of the trustees of the society. He is also a member of Orphans' Hope Lodge, F. & A. M., of East Weymouth, and was the first Master after the return of its charter. He belongs to Crescent Lodge of the I. O. O. F. of East Weymouth, is one of its trustees, and takes an active interest in its welfare. He has done considerable business in settling estates, having been administrator in a number of instances. He has also been a Justice of the Peace. A self-made man of high integrity and sterling character, he has the respect of his townsmen.

UGUSTUS L. CHASE, M.D., of Randolph, physician and surgeon, was born in Somerset, Vt., March 9, 1849. A son ot Abraham and Catherine (Reed) Chase, he comes of an old

Zechariah L. Bickxell Riographical Review

New England family. Three brothers, Thomas, William, and Aquila Chase, came to this country from England some time after the arrival of the "Mayflower," and settled in New England. Dr. Chase is a descendant in the seventh generation from Aquila. His great-great-grandfather Chase was a Revolutionary soldier. Abraham Chase was a farmer and a native and lifelong resident of Whitingham, V't. His wife also was of English descent and a native of Whitingham. Her father, Calvin Reed, was a soldier in the War of 1 812.

Augustus L. Chase was reared on his father's farm in Whitingham, and attended the public schools of that town, including the high school. When he was twenty years of age he began to study medicine with Dr. C. Edwin Miles, of Boston, under whose direction mainly he studied three years, in the meanwhile taking the regular course of lectures at the Eclectic Medical Institute of Cincinnati, Ohio. Having graduated from this institution on February 7, 1872, in the month of March following he entered upon his profession in Randolph, which has been his field of labor ever since. He worked hard to qualify himself for his calling, and earned money by teaching school in Whitingham during the winter season. Dr. Chase has a large general practice, and is highly esteemed by his fellows. An editorial in the Massachusetts Medical Journal of August, 1894, says he "is painstaking in his methods; bases his views and efforts only upon the most careful investigations; and, his conclusions once formed, is prompt to act, firm in his convictions, and fearless in the discharge of duty." He was the recording secretary of the Massachusetts Eclectic Medical Society for years, and was the president in 1885, doing much to promote the growth and prosperity of the organization. He is a member of the Boston District Eclectic Medical Society and the Boston Eclectic Gynaecological and Obstetrical Society. In 1894 he was appointed a member of the Massachusetts State Board of Registration in Medicine for six years; and from August, 1891, to September, 1893, during President Harrison's administration, he was a member of the Pension Examining Board of

Brockton. His practice includes his duties as the medical examiner for a number of fraternal organizations and insurance companies. In 1873 Dr. Chase was married to Mary L. , daughter of Ephraim Mann, of Randolph, Mass. His children are: Ella L. , a graduate of the department of liberal arts in Boston University; Herbert M., a student at Harvard College; and Gilman L., a graduate of the Randolph High School. Dr. Chase has served as chairman of the Randolph Republican Committee, and he takes an active interest in the welfare of his party and the progress of his town. He is a member of the New England Order of Protection; of the Knights of Honor; of Rising Star Eodge, No. 76, I. O. O. F. , of Randolph; and of Golden Star Lodge, No. 69, Daughters of Rebecca, of the same place.

HARLES HENRY BELCHER, a retired merchant of Holbrook, is a Is native of East Randolph (now Holbrook), born June 4, 1830. His parents were Jeremiah and Hannah (Brooks) Belcher. The father also, who was a farmer, was a native of East Randolph. The mother was born in Hanover, Mass.

The subject of this sketch was reared on a farm in East Randolph, and educated in the public schools of this town. When about sixteen years of age he began to work at shoemaking, and when he became of age he engaged in the shoe business on his own account in East Randolph. His business prospered, and in course of time he added the manufacture of boots. He had a large factory, and did a prosperous business, employing from forty to fifty hands. In 1883 his factory was burned, and he did not attempt to rebuild. He subsequently opened a general store in Holbrook, which he conducted until 1894, when he retired.

Mr. Belcher has been twice married. His first wife, who was before marriage Miss Elizabeth A. Gurney, of Abington, Mass., died March 16, 1867, leaving one daughter, Clara F., who is now the wife of J. Elliott Chandler, of Brockton, Mass. The present Mrs. Belcher was in maidenhood Miss F.liza J.

Biographical Kf.Vif.W.

Thayer, daughter of Otis Thayer (now deceased), of Hoi brook. By her also he has one living daughter, Fannie E., wife of I. ester S. Holbrook, of Holbrook, Mass. Mr. Belcher is a Republican, politically. Me was on the Holbrook Board of Selectmen for a number of years. lie is a public-spirited citizen, in favor of all projects for the advancement of the town, and has aided materially in improving it. Belcher Street is named in his honor. Mr. Belcher is Assistant Dictator of the Knights of Honor of Holbrook. He is a member of the Winthrop Congregational Church. A well-known citizen, he has the confidence of his townsmen, and is universally respected. He has a pleasant home at the corner of Plymouth and Weymouth Streets.

|RS. LOUISA MARSH, of Dedham,_the widow of the late George Marsh, is a native of this town and a daughter of Ezra W. and Lendamine (Guild) Taft. Her paternal grandfather, Frederick Taft, who was a lifelong resident of Uxbridge, Mass., and was for many years prominently identified with the public affairs of that town, died at the age of eighty. Ezra \V. Taft was a native of Uxbridge. He settled in Dedham, and became one of the best known cotton manufacturers of this locality in his day. He built a cottonmill in Readville, and carried it on for some years. He then constructed the dam at East Dedham; and, erecting a large stone cotton factory, he continued to manufacture goods extensively until his retirement from business, which took place in 1861. He was prominent in financial circles and the president of the Dedham National Bank. In politics he acted with the Republican party. He was a member of the Board of Selectmen for many years, and a Representative in the State legislature for four terms. At his death he was eightyfour years old. His wife, Lendamine, was born in Dedham. Her father, Calvin Guild, descended from one of the earliest settlers in this town. She died October 24, 1897, aged ninety-four years. Of the six children reared by her, live are living, namely: Josephus, who resides in Boston; Cornelius, who resides in Dedham; Minerva, of whom there is no special record; Louisa, the subject of this sketch; and Ezra F., a resident of Cambridge, Mass. Both parents were united with the Congregational church.

On June 19, 1869, Louisa Taft was joined in marriage with George Marsh. He was born in Dedham, June 24, 1838, son of Daniel Marsh. His father, who was a native of Hingham, Mass., learned the mason's trade in Dedham, and followed it during the active period of his life. He died here at an advanced age. George Marsh was educated in the graded and high schools of this town. After completing his studies, he entered Tower's drug store as an apprentice. He remained with Mr. Tower for some time, and then went to Boston, where he was employed as a drug clerk for four years. When twentyone years old he returned to Dedham, and, purchasing his former employer's store, he engaged in business upon his own account. For over thirty years he conducted one of the best pharmaceutical establishments in Dedham, and enjoyed a liberal patronage. He took a lively interest in all matters relative to the progress and improvement of the town, was highly esteemed for his many commendable qualities, and was a regular attendant of the Congregational church. He died December 25, 1890, aged fifty-two years. Mrs. Marsh and he were the parents of three children, namely: Theodore T. , who resides in Dedham, and is in the insurance business in Boston; Alice, who is employed at the Dedham Public Library; and Louise, a kindergarten teacher in Dedham.

Mrs. Marsh and her children are members of the Congregational church, and take an earnest interest in Sunday-school work. The family occupy a pleasantly located residence, which was built by the late Mr. Marsh in 1870.

learning the trade of a blacksmith, followed that occupation in his native town for a few years. Then he removed to Quincy, thinking this town a better location for one in his business, and thereafter remained a resident until his death in 1862, at the age of seventy-six years. A man of much enterprise, he not only followed blacksmithing after coming here, but added materially to his income by his dealings in granite, for some years operating a quarry from which he obtained a valuable building stone. In politics he was an old Jacksonian Democrat. He married Louisa, daughter of Micaiah Adams, of Quincy, and became the father of nine children, namely: George Frederick, now deceased; Emeline, who married William Parker, of this city; Ann, also deceased, who was the wife of Albert Thayer, of Quincy; Francis, likewise deceased; William, now of San Francisco, Cal.; Charles, the subject of this sketch; John, of Ouincy; Adeline, the wife of Edward Nutter, of South Lancaster, Mass.; and Lydia Amanda, the wife of Wallace Manuel, of North Weymouth, Mass. In religion both parents were of the liberal type of believers, and were active members of the Universalist church.

In his boyhood Charles Wilson attended the public schools of Ouincy. He began earning his living by working in a quarry. At the age of nineteen he embarked in business for himself as a manufacturer of paving stone for the New Orleans and Philadelphia markets. Now he has what is claimed to be the most extensive trade in his line of any dealer of the locality. At the outset he employed about twenty men - in cutting the granite, and did a good deal of teaming, keeping six of the largest and sleekest oxen in Ouincy. Since then, on occasions when business was at its prime, he kept as many as one hundred men busy in preparing the paving blocks, of which he shipped from seventy^five to one hundred thousand in a day. He is likewise somewhat interested in real estate, his sales in realty being considerable. In politics he affiliates with the Republican party, but has never been an aspirant for official honors.

East Stoughton, Mass. She passed away on February 26, 1897, leaving one son, Charles Henry. Two other children born of the union died at an early age. Mr. Wilson is liberal in his religious beliefs, and an attendant of the Universalist church. He is held in high respect as a man of good business capacity, upright and honorable in all his dealings, and a most useful citizen.

RANCIS AMBLER, of Weymouth, an ex-member of the State legislature for Weymouth and Ouincy, and a dealer in flour and grain at East Braintree, was born here in June, 1833. He is a son of Nelson and Emily (Nash) Ambler, both natives of Weymouth. The family is an old one here, and is well and favorably known. Mr. Ambler's great-uncle on his mother's side was a soldier of the War of 18 12. His uncle, William G. Nash, though now eighty-four years old, is still actively engaged in the grocery business in Weymouth.

When Francis was in his fourth year his father died; and his mother subsequently married Silas Binney, who for twenty years was a Deputy Sheriff of Norfolk County. Owing to an injury of a leg, received from the stroke of a hammer when in his fifth year, he could not go about much until eleven years of age, and in the interval received special instruction at home, and later attended a private school. When able to do so, he went to the Weymouth public schools, working mornings and evenings in the drug store of Amos S. White at Weymouth. When about thirty years of age, having acquired a thorough knowledge of the drug business, he bought out Mr. White, and afterward conducted the store for about seventeen years. Early in the eighties he joined A. L. Hobart in the flour and grain business, which, with a mill located at the head of Monatiquit River, was carried on under the name of Ambler & Hobart. At the end of a year Mr. Ambler bought out his partner's interest, and since then, while retaining the firm name, has been the sole proprietor. In the different departments he employs eight men, and he gives his personal supervision to the details of the business. Some time after en- gaging in this business, he sold out his drug store to Dr. E. L. Warren. In politics he is a Republican, and he has taken an active part in the town affairs. For several years he was a member of the Board of Selectmen of Weymouth, and for a part of that time the clerk of the Board. In 1885 and 1886 he represented Weymouth and Quincy in the legislature, and was clerk of the Legislative Committee on Insurance.

Mr. Ambler married Elvira C. Paty, of Plymouth, and has one daughter, Emma F., now the wife of Dr. John F. Welch, of Quincy. He attends the Union Congregational Church of Weymouth and Braintree, is a member of the Masonic Lodge of Weymouth, and a promoter and charter member of the Royal Arcanum at Weymouth. He has been president of the South Shore Co-operative Bank since its organization, a director of both the Union National Bank of Weymouth and the Weymouth Savings Bank, and a trustee of the Tufts Library since its incorporation. A self-made man, Mr. Ambler is a good representative of those who win respect for themselves, a position of influence, and a comfortable fortune.

/^EORGE W. FOSTER, a leading cit- \ '*> I izen of Franklin, Mass., was born in ^ - this town, February 20, 1841, son of Benjamin and Mary Ann (Cook) Foster. The father, who was a farmer and a boatbuilder by occupation, was also a much respected citizen of Franklin. He had two children: George Thompson, who died in boyhood; and George W., whose name appears at the head of this sketch.

George W. Foster was educated in the public schools of Franklin. He engaged in farming, after his marriage settling on his present farm, then known as the Jabez Wright farm, and which contains at this time about fifty acres. Mr. Foster is thoroughly up-to-date in his methods, and has greatly improved his property. He carries on general farming, and also devotes considerable attention to raising poultry for the market. He is a Republican in politics, and takes an active interest in the welfare of the town, but has hitherto declined office. He was married on June 29, 1870, to Amelia Wheldon, of Lynn, Mass. Mrs. Foster's lather was an awl-maker by trade, and her mother is now living in Attleboro. Mr. and Mrs. Foster have had three children: Alice A., now living at home; Mabel, working in Boston; and Gertrude Louise, a bright little girl, who passed away at the age of four years. Although Mr. Foster has kept out of politics, he fulfils the obligations of citizenship by using his influence in behalf of the best men and measures; and he and his family are highly esteemed by their fellow-townspeople.

,OYAL T. MANN, a prosperous dairy fanner of Randolph, son of Alvan ami Emeline R. (Mitchell) Mann, was born February 10, 1843. at the homestead where he now resides. This farm was purchased by his great-grandfather, Joseph Man, a native of Scituate, in 1734, what is now the town of Randolph then being the South Precinct of Braintree. Its next occupant was Seth, son of Joseph, born in Scituate in 1724; and the third owner was John Mann, a native of Randolph, son of Seth and grandfather of Royal T= Mann. Joseph Man was a son of Thomas and grandson of Richard Man, emigrant, who was made a freeman at Scituate in January, 1644.

Alvan Mann, son of John, was a lifelong resident of Randolph; and for many years he cultivated the farm which his son, Royal T. , now carries on. He married in 1836 Emeline R. Mitchell, who was born in 18 14, daughter of Eliphalet and Hannah (Howard) Mitchell, of Easton, Mass. Her paternal grandfather, Colonel Abiel Mitchell, commissioned in February, 1776, rendered gallant and valuable services to his country during the Revolutionary War.

He was a son of Timothy Mitchell, of Bridgewater, grandson of Thomas, greatgrandson of Jacob, and great-great-grandson of Experience Mitchell, one of the forefathers who came to Plymouth in the third ship, the "Ann," in 1623. Colonel Mitchell was a Selectman of Easton twenty-one years and Representative to the Genera] Court twenty-two years. He died in 1821, aged eighty-eight years. "His grave in the South Easton cemetery," says the historian, "is annually decorated with flowers, and with the flag which he so gallantly defended."

Alvan and Emeline R. M. (Mitchell) Mann became the parents of five children, four of whom are living, namely: Dr. Augustine A. Mann, who served as surgeon of a Rhode Island Cavalry Regiment during the Civil War, and is now practising in Central Falls, R.I. ; Royal T. ; Edwin M., of Randolph; and Luthera H., who makes her home with her brother, Royal T., the subject of this sketch.

Royal T. Mann received his education in the common schools and the Stetson High School, and his industrial training on his father's farm. He owns now the homestead of one hundred and twenty-five acres, which he has managed since 1870, and also has some outlying wood lots. He devotes his principal energy to dairy farming, and supplies a large number of regular customers with milk. He has served as a Selectman for six years, three years of which he was chairman of the board ; is now serving as a member of the School Board and as a trustee of the Stetson High School: and has acted as a Justice of the Peace for a number of years. In politics he is a Republican.

Mr. Mann is a member of the Congregational church, and has been a Deacon since 1878. He is one of the most able farmers and stirring citizens of Randolph, and his public services have been of much benefit to the community. He has been for many years a trustee of the Randolph Savings Bank.

LBRIDGE F. PORTER, the manager of the Weymouth Clothing Company, of the Braintree Clothing Company, and of the Granite Clothing Company of Quincy, is one of the most enterprising and progressive business men of the county. Born July 31, 1853, in South Braintree, Mass., he is a son of the late Joseph Porter. His grandfather, Rodolphus Porter, a carpenter by trade, was born and reared in Middleboro, Plymouth County, and there spent his life.

Joseph Porter was born April 28, 1824, in Holbrook, Mass., where as a boy he worked at the shoemaker's trade. On coming of age he learned butchering, and subsequently carried on a prosperous business in that line, running two carts for many years. He gave up that business when he was made Postmaster at the State-house in Boston, where he remained until his death in 1870. He was a stanch Republican and an active politician, but was not an office-seeker. A man of broad and generous sympathies, he was ready to share his last dollar with the needy. He was strictly temperate, and had the sincere respect of all with whom he was brought in contact. His friends were legion, and he had not a known enemy in the world. Although not a member of any religious organization, he took an active interest in church affairs, and for many years was a member of the Congregational church choir, singing every Sunday when not detained at home by reason of sickness. He married Mary, a daughter of John Arnold, of South Braintree, Mass. She was born in that town in 1823, and is still living, a bright and most lovable woman. She attends the Congregational church. Of their four children, the survivors are: Ann Mary, the wife of Douglas A. Brooks, of South Braintree: Sarah P., who married Azel R. French, a native of Canton, Mass., now a resident of South Braintree; and Elbridge F. , the subject of this sketch.

Elbridge F. Porter attended the public schools of his native town until after the death of his father. Going then to Boston, he worked in a boot and shoe store for two years. Subsequently he was employed in a gentlemen's wholesale furnishing house until he was of age. Familiar with the details of that business, he established a store of a similar kind in South Braintree in 1875 for his brother-in-law, Mr. French, and managed it for some years. In 1882 he opened a second store at Weymouth: and a short time later he established a like business in Stoughton, which he conducted for five years. In 1892 he opened his present store in Quincy, under the name of the Granite Clothing Company.

Fraternally, Mr. Porter belongs to the I. O. O. F. of East Weymouth, having membership in the Wampatuck Encampment of the same place: also to the Knights of Honor and the Knights of I'ythias of Braintree; to the Quincy Club, the Granite City Club, and to the Braintree Social and Commercial Club. He first married Ella, daughter of Joseph Oliver, of Avon, Mass. She died in early womanhood, leaving two children - Joseph and Herbert. His second marriage was contracted with Miss Louie Howland, of Randolph, Mass., who died leaving one child, Blanche. A third marriage united Mr. Porter with Miss Lizzie Nutter, daughter of George Nutter, of Quincy; and they have one child living, Elberta Porter.

"ON. HENRY O. FAIRBANKS, ex- Mayor of Quincy, Mass., is a native of Boston, where he is engaged in business as a flour merchant. Born June 21, i S 52, a son of Moses Fairbanks, he is a worthy representative of one of the oldest families of Norfolk County, being a lineal descendant of Jonathan Fairbanks, who emigrated from Sowerby, in Yorkshire, England, arriving in Boston in 1633, and in 1636 settled at Dedham. From timbers that he brought with him across the ocean, it is said, he built the main part of the old Fairbanks house, a celebrated landmark, still standing, which has during this time, a period of two hundred and sixty or more years, been owned and occupied by some of his posterity, who have kept it free from mortgage or other encumbrance, it being the oldest house in New England with such a record. Jonathan Fairbanks became a man of influence in the little hamlet to which he brought his wife and family, all of whom were born in England; and, having been admitted as a townsman, he signed the covenant in 1642, and resided on his homestead until his death in 1688.

Captain George Fairbanks, the son of Jonathan, remained in Dedham with his parents until 1657, when he located in that part of the county now called Millis. He was one of the original settlers and founders of the town of Sherborn, where he served four years as Selectman, and was chosen as one of the committee to select a minister for the parish church. He was a member of the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company. This highly esteemed citizen was accidentally drowned June 10, 1682. His wife. Mary Adams, of Dedham, whom he married October 26, 1646, died August 11, 171 1.

Their son, Eleazer, Sr. , through whom the line was continued, was born June 8, 1655. In 1679 he took up a home lot on Main Street, Sherborn. Captain Eleazer Fairbanks, son of Eleazer, Sr. , was born in Sherborn, October 29, 1690, and died there September 19, 1741. His wife, Martha Bullard, who was born December 25, 1712, a daughter of Captain Samuel Bullard, survived him, and a few years after his death married again.

Ebenezer Fairbanks, son of Captain Eleazer and Martha Fairbanks, born in Sherborn, Mass., June 1, 1734, was Lieutenant of a company of minute-men that promptly responded to the alarm given on April 19, 1775, and at a later period served for a time as a private in the Revolutionary War. He was a farmer by occupation; and in 1783 he removed to Brimfield, Mass., settling in the north-eastern part of the town. He was a man of sterling qualities, eminently pious, and served for many years as Deacon of the church. On July 2, [761, he married Elizabeth Dearth, who was born September 24, 1743, and died June 15, 1 8 1 S .

Asa Fairbanks, son of Deacon Ebenezer, was born March 4, 1762, in that part of the old town of Sherborn that is now known as Medway. Although but a boy when the colonies began their struggle for independence, he enlisted in the service of his country, and at the age of fourteen years aided in guarding the military stores around Sherborn: and two years later, having again joined the brave soldires, he was a ferryman during the summer season between Tiverton and Greenwich, R.I., transporting horses, men, provisions, and ammunition. In 1780 he re-enlisted, and was sent to West Point, where he was stationed on that day in September when Arnold attempted to betray the fortress into the hands of the

Henry O. Fairbanks

British. On April 28, 17S4, he married Hepzibah Adams, .who was born in Sherborn, December 8, 1761, a daughter of Captain Moses Adams. Very soon after their union he and his fair bride removed to Dublin, N.H., settling in the midst of the dense woods. For three months or more they lived in a rude log cabin, having neither chimney nor door, and did all of their cooking by the side of a log in the open air. Their son Asa was the grandfather of Henry O. P'airbanks, the special subject of this biographical sketch.

Asa Fairbanks, Jr., was born in Dublin, N.H., March 17, 1787; and in his early days he assisted in the pioneer labor of clearing the land which his father had purchased. He subsequently lived for a time in Peterboro, N.H., going thence to the town of Hancock. He met with a premature death, being frozen while out hunting near Centre Harbor, N. H. His first wife, the mother of Moses Fairbanks, was Polly Whitcomb, a daughter of John Whitcomb. She died September 24, 1838; and he subsequently married Miss Sarah Heniston.

Moses Fairbanks, born June 19, 18 16, in Peterboro, N.H., was reared on a farm, and obtained his education in the district school. At the age of eighteen years, deciding that he had no particular taste for agricultural pursuits, he went to Concord, N.H., where he worked in a hotel for two years, and thence to Boston, Mass. He obtained a situation as clerk with the firm of Boyd & Allen, being in their service while they were building the Howard Athenaeum. Subsequently entering into business on his own account, he was for a number of years at the head of the firm of Fairbanks & Beard, afterward being connected with the firm of Moses Fairbanks & Co. : and he was later in business alone for five years. He lived nearly fourscore years, passing from earth on February 4, 1896. On April 27,

1840, he married Frances Maria Moulton, who was born in Centre Harbor, N. H., May 23, 1 82 r , a daughter of Jonathan Smith and Deborah (\Tash) Moulton. Their children were as follows: Mary Frances, born December 1,

Henry O. Fairbanks was educated in the public schools of Boston, being graduated from the English High School with the class of 1869. He at once entered the employ of Nazro & Co., commission merchants of that city, and there acquired a thorough knowledge of the flour and grain business. In 1881 he resigned his position to become manager of a large flouring-mill at Columbus, Ohio, remaining there a year. In 1882 Mr. Fairbanks returned to Boston, and opened an office as a flour merchant on Commercial Street, where he soon established an extensive business, which has constantly increased. On the completion of the present Chamber of Commerce he removed his office to that building, where he is still engaged, being the representative of several of the leading flouring-mills of the United States. Removing to Quincy soon after his marriage, Mr. Fairbanks has since been identified with the highest interests of this city.

In 1889, when the city charter was granted, he represented Ward Five in the Common Council; and, being re-elected the succeeding year, he was unanimously chosen president of that body. In 1891 he was elected to the highest office within the gift of his fellow-citizens, being chosen Mayor of the city ; and the ensuing two years he was honored with a re-election to the same position. During his mayoralty the town reached its one hundredth birthday; and he, as chairman of the Executive Committee having charge of the celebration, did much to insure its success. While he was Mayor, the present system of waterworks was completed, the commodious and well-equipped high-school building was erected, also the large central fire engine house, and the lawsuit of Quincy with Dartmouth College over the Woodward fund was settled in the city's favor.

publican. He was made a Mason in Rural Lodge, F. & A. M., of Quincy, of which he is Past Master; is a member of St. Stephen's Chapter, R. A. M. j and of South Shore Commandery; and has been District . of the Twenty-fourth Masonic District. He also belongs to the John Hancock Lodge, I. O. (). F. ; to the Wollaston Lodge, K. of H., of which he has been Dictator and District Deputy; Woodbine Lodge, K. & L. of H., which he has served as Protector; and he is a Past Sachem of Hodenosaunee Tribe, I. O. R. M.

Mr. Fairbanks was married January 14. 1.S75. to Miss Carrie A., daughter of Henry 11. and Julia F. (Severance) Brown, of Boston, Mass. They have three children Mabel I'.. Harry M., and Mollie E. Mr. and Mrs. Fairbanks are members of the Unitarian Church of Wollaston.

AUSTIN THAYER, of Randolph, a dealer in coal and wood, hay, grain, shingles, brick, etc., was born in Randolph, February 27, 1847, son of Rufus and Margery A. (White) Thayer. The Thayer family is an old one in this town. Rufus Thayer was an extensive land-owner here and. a citizen of prominence and influence. A member of the old Whig party, he joined the Republican party at its formation, and continued one of its loyal supporters up to the time of his death, which occurred on May 25, 1855. His wife, Margery, a native of Braintree, was a direct descendant of Peregrine White, who was the first white child born in New England. Rufus and Margery Thayer were the parents of five children, of whom Rufus A., Charles M., and S. Austin are living.

S. Austin Thayer lost his father by death when young. He received his early education in the public schools of Randolph and in an academy at South Braintree. Afterward for two years he attended the Lawrence Scientific School at Cambridge, a department of Harvard University. In 1876 he went to Kansas, and was for a number of years engaged in cattle and sheep raising at Solomon City. In 1884 he returned and engaged in the grain business at South Braintree, having erected a mill in that town. After remaining there for a year, he came to Randolph, built a mill here, and started in the same business. Subsequently he added coal, wood, and other merchandise to his stock in trade. His present prosperity is largely due to his" punctual delivery of all goods bought, to his unfailing fairness in every transaction, and to the fact that everything he sells is as represented by him.

Mr. Thayer and his brother, Rufus A., were among the active promoters of the Randolph Street Railway connecting Randolph and South Braintree. Probably no one man taking part in the enterprise did more to forward it than did the subject of this sketch. For some time previously he saw that it would be of great convenience to the residents of both towns, and would increase the valuation of property. Every one now recognizes the value of the mad and the wisdom of Mr. Thayer's vigorous action in securing it.

Mr. Thayer is a well-known sportsman, being a fisherman of proverbial good luck and a famous shot. He makes occasional trips to Maine and the lower British Provinces, and invariably brings back trophies of his skill. In politics he is a Republican. He is the father of three children - -Arthur A., Ethel, and Lena.

- brook and a leading merchant of the town, was born in Braintree, Mass., October 7, 1845. He is a son of Atherton T. and Avis A. (Hobart) Wilde, both natives of Braintree. Atherton T. Wilde, who is now in his eighty-sixth year, has been a farmer during the most of his life. He still resides in Hraintree, where he is generally esteemed.

George T. Wilde grew to manhood in Braintree, receiving his education in the public schools of that town and in Hollis Institute. When twenty-one years of age he was employed as a clerk by B. F. Shaw & Henry Loud at East Weymouth, and afterward worked for them for about two years. He was subsequently a clerk for a year with S. W.

Hayden, of Neponset. In 1871 he came to Holbrook, purchased the business of Henry H. Packard, and has. since carried on a general merchandise store. He removed to his present location in 1894. By careful and trustworthy business methods he has built up for himself a prosperous business. He aims to keep a full line of the different classes of goods usually carried in a general merchandise store, and to have only stock of high grade. Satisfied with moderate rates of profit, he supplies his customers with goods at low prices.

Mr. Wilde's wife was before her marriage Betsey B. White, daughter of Isaac W. White, late of Holbrook. Mr. and Mrs. Wilde have two children - George H. and Walter B. For years Mr. Wilde has taken an active interest in politics, constantly seeking "the greatest good of the greatest number,1" regardless of personal considerations, and supporting the Republican party. He has been the Town Clerk and Treasurer for nine years. He was one of the promoters and organizers of the Holbrook Co-operative Bank, and since its establishment has been its secretary and treasurer, with the exception of one year. An esteemed member of the Knights of Pythias of Holbrook, he is the present treasurer of the organization. He is a member of Winthrop Congregational Church of Holbrook.

1849. son 0I John O. A. and Eunice B. (Bates) Lothrop. His parents were natives of Cohasset, as were also his grandparents, Caleb and Mary (Snow) Lothrop. The English ancestor of the family was the Rev. John Lothrop, a noted preacher of his day; and Colonel Thomas Lothrop, a descendant of the Rev*. John, served in the Revolutionary War.

John O. A. Lothrop, when a young man, learned the stair-builder's trade in Boston, but did not long follow it. For some time he was employed by his father in mackerel fishing, and for a number of years he held the appointment of Custom-house Inspector at this port. He acted as a trustee and was finally elected president of the Cohasset Savings Bank, a position which he occupied at the time of his death. He was for a long period identified with the Board of Selectmen, both as a member and as chairman, was twice elected a County Commissioner, and served three terms in the legislature. Politically, he was a Republican; and his ability and activity as a party leader gained for him a wide acquaintance throughout the county. He was a member of Konohasset Lodge, F. & A. M. He died September 24, 1894, and his wife, June 23, 1897. Four of their children are living, namely: Caleb, the subject of this sketch; Mary T. L., wife of Charles A. Gross, of Cohasset; Ouincy A., who resides in Boston; and Eunice J., wife of Charles H. Cousins, a resident of this town.

Caleb Lothrop acquired his education in the common schools, and for a time was employed by his uncle, Ephraim Snow, of East Boston. Entering the store of Tower Brothers as a clerk, he later became a partner in the business, and was connected with that concern until 1883, when he was elected treasurer of the Cohasset Savings Bank. Mr. Lothrop has occupied the position of registrar of the Water Company since its organization. In politics he is a Republican, has served the town as Auditor, and is now secretary and treasurer of the School Board. He is prominent in local musical circles, being leader of the choir at the First Congregational Church (Unitarian), of which he is a member; and he was at one time superintendent of the Sunday-school. Mr. Lothrop married Mary E. Gross, by whom he has two sons - Thomas A. and Charles G.

RMAN, of Walnut ity, Mass., a welliccessful contractor and builder, was born in Edgecomb, Me., July 30, 1861, a son of Jared and Emily (Baker) Sherman.

Roger Sherman, father of Jared, was a farmer of Edgecomb, his native town. He died at the age of seventy-nine. Jared Sherman was born in Edgecomb in 1820, and spent his life there, engaged in farming and carpenter work. An active and publicspirited citizen, he served for some time as Selectman ol the town. Mis wife, who was born in Edgecomb in 1833, and is now sixtyfour years oi age, 1- a daughter of John Baker, a Revolutionary patriot, who lived to be eighty-four years old. Mrs. Sherman is living on the old homestead in Edgecomb. She is the mother of five children; namely, Roscoe J., Gertrude, Stanton 1)., Walter John, and Winnifred M.

Roscoe J. Sherman remained on the home farm until he was fourteen years of age, in the meantime attending school in Edgecomb. Eor five years he led a seafaring life, making a number of trips to the Western Banks, codfishing, two trips to the West Indies as an able seaman, and following the coasting trade for some time between New York and Boston and South Carolina. In 1882 he began to learn the carpenter's trade, working with Warren Worth ington, with whom he remained nine years. He then formed a copartnership with Otis Worthington, which continued about four years; and since the dissolution of the firm Mr. Sherman has been sole manager of his business. Among the noteworthy buildings he has constructed may be mentioned those of the Dedham Poor Farm. Most of his operations have been in Dedham and Newton I Iighlands.

Mr. Sherman was married in 1892 to Mrs. Charlotte M. Cobb, daughter of Luther Whitney. She was born in Hyde Park in 1861. They have one child, a boy. Mr. Sherman votes the Republican ticket. He is an Odd Fellow, belonging to Samuel Dexter Lodge, No. 232. He is an attendant at the Methodist church, of which his wife is a member.

lALPH METCALF FOGG, D.D.S., of Quincy, Mass., is one of the leading dentists of Norfolk County, having a large practice in this city and in adjacent towns. lie was born February 19, 1855, in Norwood, Mass., and is a son of the late David S. Fogg, M.D.

early settlers of New England. Tin- Fogg family estates in England, it is said, which were entailed, were recently held by Sir Charles Fogg. The History of Hampton, N.IL, records the name oi Samuel Fogg, probably the progenitor of most of the race in that State, as a grantee of land there in 1658. Ralph Fogg, who was made a frL-eman in Salem, Mass., in [634, and was Town Treasurer in i<>37, and was for some years active in municipal affairs, at length returned to London. The Gilmans are said to have originated in Wales. Edward Gilman, a native of Hingham, Norfolk County, England, came to this country in 1638, landing in Boston. A few years later he removed to Exeter, N.IL, where his sons were already settled.

Stephen Fogg and Bradbury Gilman, two of the great-grandfathers of Dr. Ralph M. Fogg, were born and bred in Exeter, N.H.;andfor many years the important points in the life history of these two men were nearly identical. Both were participants in the battle of Bunker Hill and in other memorable engagements of the Revolution; and at its close both married, moved to Meredith, N.H., and took up tracts of forest land on the banks of Lake Winnepesaukee, where each cleared and improved farms that are now in possession of his lineal descendants. Joseph Fogg, the son of Stephen Fogg, and the Doctor's grandfather, held a commission as Captain of a New Hampshire company in the War of 1812. He married Judith Gilman, daughter of Bradbury Gilman.

David Sylvester, their fourth son, attended Holmes Academy in Plymouth, N.H., and Dartmouth College, and then read medicine with Dr. Josiah Crosby, of Manchester, N.H., taking the degree of Doctor of Medicine at the Dartmouth Medical School in 1845. The succeeding year he spent in the medical schools and hospitals of Philadelphia, at that time the centre of medical culture. Coming to- Norfolk County in 1846, he settled in that part of Dedham now known as Norwood, and built up an extensive and lucrative practice in that and surrounding towns, at his deatli in 1893 being one of the most successful and best known physicians in this part of Massachusetts. In 1 86 1 he was appointed a volun- teer surgeon, and served in the Peninsular campaign. He was subsequently appointed by President Lincoln as surgeon of the Board of Enrolment for the Seventh Massachusetts Division, and had his headquarters at Concord, this State, until the close of the Rebellion. Returning to Norwood, he resumed his former practice among the people whose confidence and respect he had long since won. He was a physician of great skill, a man of sterling character, distinguished for his love of right and humanity, and was highly esteemed by old and young.

In 1847 he married Mary B. Tucker, a daughter of the Rev. Thomas W. Tucker, at that time in charge of the Methodist Episcopal church at Dorchester Lower Mills. The children born of their union were: Mary (deceased) ; Irving S. Fogg, M.D., a graduate of Harvard College; Ralph Metcalf, the special subject of this biography; Mabel (deceased); Ada; Helen (deceased); Arthur and Ernest T. , both of Boston. The Doctor was a member ot the Norfolk Medical Society, the Massachusetts Medical Society, and the American Medical Association.

Mrs. David S. Fogg's grandfather Tucker, a native of England, married Hannah Waite in Medford, Mass. Thomas W. Tucker was the youngest of a large family of children born of this union. He became a member of the Bromfield Street Methodist Episcopal Church in Boston when nineteen years old, and two years later was ordained a minister of that denomination, with which he was actively identified for more than threescore years. For a long period he was an itinerant preacher of the New England Conference, his circuit extending through New Hampshire and Vermont. His wife, whose maiden name was Mary Orne, was born in Charlestown, N.H. A woman of superior qualities of mind and heart, she became his worthy helpmeet, and was honored in the church and conference as a true mother in Israel. Mr. Tucker was eminently successful in his pastoral labors, by his earnest efforts winning large numbers of men, women, and children to espouse the Master's cause, and greatly increasing the membership of the churches. The Rev. Edward T. Taylor, familiarly known as "Father Taylor," for many years pastor of the Sailors' Bethel, Boston, was one of his early converts. The Rev. Thomas W. Tucker passed to the higher life in 1 87 1, at Chelsea, Mass., aged eighty years.

Ralph M. Fogg received his elementary education at private schools, afterward attending successively Dean ' Academy in Franklin. Mass., and the Harvard Dental College. In 1880 he began the practice of dentistry, opening offices in both Norwood and Boston, and met with good success from the first. In 1893 he gave up his office in Boston, retaining the one in Norwood, and opened two others, one in Quincy and one in Dedham ; and in each of these places he has a large patronage. For years Dr. Fogg was dissatisfied with nitrous oxide gas as an anaesthetic, it failing to protect the patient against pain; and, in trying to find some harmless compound to accomplish the desired results, he made many experiments, and after much study produced the "Boston Vegetable Vapor," an anaesthetic that has proved eminently successful. In 1885 the Boston Vegetable Anaesthetic Company was formed for the purpose of placing the vapor on the market, and it has since been used by leading dentists in all parts of the country with most satisfactory results. Dr. Fogg is a member of the State Dental Association.

In December, 1893, Dr. Fogg married Miss Anna Saville, a daughter of Charles Francis Saville, of Quincy, Mass. A brief history of her paternal ancestors may be found on another page of this volume, in connection with the sketch of her cousin, George Saville. Dr. and Mrs. Fogg are members of the Episcopal church.

Ev. Walter Russell Breed

EV. WALTER RUSSELL BREED, B.S., B.D., the rector of Christ Church, Quincy, was born January 10, 1866, in Lynn, Essex County, Mass. His father, Joseph Breed, a native of Lynn, Mass., born in 1826, who was a wellknown merchant of that city throughout his entire business life, married Frances, daughter of the Rev. John T. Burrill. They reared six children - Anna, George, Arthur, Henry. Walter, and Laura. George is now a resident of Lynn. Arthur, also residing in Lynn, has served as State Senator, and been a member of the Governor's Council. Laura is the wife of Charles Walker. The Rev. John T. Burrill was for some years the pastor of the Point church. Subsequently, after entering the Episcopal denomination, he became rector of Christ Church in Quincy, and later was the rector of the Old North Church in Boston, during the decade of the sixties.

Walter Russell Breed was educated in the Wesleyan University, Middletown, Conn., graduating therefrom in 1887 with the degree of Bachelor of Science. Three years later, having taken the prescribed course of stud)- in the Episcopal Theological School at Cambridge, Mass , he there received the degree ol Bachelor of Divinity. He was subsequently ordained Deacon by Bishop Paddock m Cambridge, and priest in Tarrytown, X.Y.. by Bishop Potter. His first pastoral charge was the Episcopal church at Concord, Mass., where he was settled for three years. In November, 1893, he accepted the rectorship oi Christ Church, Quincy, where he has zealously labored in his sacred calling.

A man of broad culture, Mr. Breed is deepl) interested in the cause of education, which he lias done much to advance as a member of the Quincy School Board and the chairman of the Board's Committee on Evening Schools. Also connected with the Woodward School since its organization, he is now the vice-president of its Board of Trustees. On June 4, 1894, he was united in marriage with Miss Ellen Broderick Zelmer, a daughter of William Zelmer, of Lansford, Pa., and now has one child, William Zelmer Breed.

EN AS A. FRENCH, the chairman and secretary of the Board of Assessors ol Holbrook, was born in this town on September 4, 1843, son of the Hon. Zenas and Julia (Tower) French. The French family is of English origin. Its first representative in America was John French, who came here about the year 1630. Captain Moses French, the great-grandfather of Zenas A., commanded a company of soldiers in the Revolution. His son Zenas, who was a drummer in the same war, became very prominent as a citizen, and served in the legislative session of 1818. Zenas (second), father of the subject of this sketch, was for seventeen successive years a Selectman of the old town of Randolph, represented it in the legislature in 1837 and 1839, and was State Senator from Norfolk County in 1852. He was a Republican from the time of the formation of the party, and took a leading part in its work. He voted for General Fremont, and was president of the local Fremont Club at East Randolph, now Holbrook. His mother, it is said, was a descendant of John Alden, of the Plymouth Colony. Julia, his wife, was a native of Braintree, Mass. Her grandfather was a member of the famous Boston Tea Party. The Hon. Zenas and Julia French wet parents of seven children. Of these, five are living, namely: Mrs. A. 11. Platts, of Aldington; Zenas A., the subject of this sketch; and Ruth W. , Sarah R., and Caroline F., who reside in Holbrook.

Zenas A. French was reared on his father's estate in Holbrook, receiving his education in the public schools of the town. At the age ot twenty-one years he was employed as a cutter in the boot and shoe manufactory of Thomas White, of East Randolph. Subsequently he entered the employ of Edmund White, working for him from 1865 until 1893, most of the time in the capacity of g superintendent of the shop. For sixteen years he has been a member of the Holbrook School Committee; and for a number of years he was chairman of the board, which position he now holds, in the spring of 1S97 having been unanimously elected to the School Board. He is also chairman of the Board of Assessors. In 1895 he occupied a seat in the legislature, and he served as a member of the legislative Committee on Education. While his political principles are warmly Republican, he is heartily in sympathy with the aims of the Prohibitionists.

Mr. French married Lucy J. Beebe, of Hampden, Mass. They have one daughter, Linda M. Mr. French is a director of the Holbrook Co-operative Bank, and he has been the librarian of the Holbrook Public Library since its establishment in 1874. Fraternally, he is a member of the Knights of Honor.

|EV. CARLOS SLAFTER is a highly respected resident of Dedham. A man of scholarly attainments and broad culture, a teacher for a full half-century, and the principal of the Dedham High School for forty consecutive years, many of the leading men of this and neighboring towns, including merchants, ministers, doctors, and lawyers, as well as their wives and children, are indebted to him for a large portion of their educational and moral training. He was born July 21, 1825, in Thetford, Vt., son of Sylvester and Mary (Johnson) Slafter. His grandfather, John Slafter, was born in Mansfield, Conn. When a young man, John removed to Norwich, \'t., where he was the first permanent settler, and was numbered among the leading farmers. He served as a soldier in the French and Indian War, and also for a short time in the Revolution, being a member of the Committee of Safety, and was present at the surrender of Burgoyne. He lived eighty years, and held town office. During most of the years he was a citizen of Norwich.

Sylvester Slafter, born and reared in Norwich, after reaching man's estate settled in the neighboring town of Thetford, where he was afterward engaged in general farming and fruit-growing until his demise, at the age of seventy years. He was active in town affairs, serving in various offices. 'His wife, Mary, was a daughter of Calvin Johnson, of Norwich, who for four years served in the Revolutionary army, taking an active part in many of the battles of that war. They reared ten children, of whom Edmund, Mrs. Christiana Tilden, Lyman, and Carlos are living. The mother passed away years before her husband, dying at the age of fifty-two years. Both parents were members of the Congregational church.

Carlos Slafter was fitted for Dartmouth in the Thetford Academy, and was graduated from that college with the class of 1849. Beginning when but sixteen years old, he had previously taught school for several terms in Fairlee, Vt., and in Lyme, N. H. While in college he taught for three winters in Massachusetts. In 1 85 1 and 1852 he had charge of the Framingham High School and Academy.

From there he came to Dedham in the latter year, to accept the position of master of the Dedham High School. This position he had ably filled for forty years, when he resigned his charge, in June, 1892. When he took the school he was the only teacher of its thirtyfive pupils. In 1892 the number of students enrolled was one hundred and seventy, while the corps of instructors included five other teachers beside himself.

Mr. Slafter was married August 4, 1853, to Miss Rebecca Bullard. She was born in Dedham, daughter of William Bullard, a substantial farmer and the representative of one of the earliest families of this locality. Mr. and Mrs. Slafter have two children, namely: Theodore S., an artist, in Dedham; and Anna R., the wife of Calvin Countryman, a merchant of Rockford, 111. In the capacity of master of the high school Mr. Slafter was identified with the highest interests of Dedham. He was also largely instrumental in securing the establishment of the public library, of which he is one of the trustees, and he has been active in the Historical Society, of which he is a curator. He was ordained Deacon by Bishop Eastburn in Trinity Church, Boston, May, 1865, and was afterward chaplain of the jail of Norfolk County for several years. In politics he has the courage of his convictions, voting for the best men, regardless of party dictation'.

Since relinquishing the work of an instructor, he has devoted much of his leisure to writing for periodicals, historical discourses, and the composition of several books still unpublished and not yet dismissed from his careful revision.

§OHN W. CHASE, M.D., one of the most active and skilful physicians of Norfolk County, has been a resident of Dedham for thirty years; and during this time he has been busily employed, and has built up a very large and lucrative practice. He was born December 9, 1839, >n Epping, N.H., a son of Prescott and Sally (Sanborn) Chase, and comes of old Colonial stock.

Mass., [646, having been al Hampton, N.H., in 1640, wild was the founder of a numerous family; his brother Thomas, of Hampton; and William, ot Roxbury, 1630. Jonathan, Jr., sun ol Jonathan Chase, Sr., and grandfather ill Dr. Chase, was born, lived, and died in Epping, where he was engaged in genera] farming until his death, at the age of seventyseven years.

Prescott Chase was one of a family of two children born to his parents. His entire life of sixty-nine years was spent in his native town, where he was numbered among the leading agriculturists, and was a leading citizen. Possessed of those traits of industry and thrift characteristic of the true New Englander, and guided by the principles of honesty and integrity, he became influential in the community, and was held in high respect by all who knew him. It was a common saying that Prescott Chase's word was as good as his bond. He married Sally Sanborn, a daughter of Zebulon Sanborn, a farmer and lumberman, and a prominent citizen of Epping, N.H. Eight children were born of their union, five of whom are now living, as follows: John W., the Doctor; Samuel; Jennie, the wife of Daniel K. Foster; Frank; and Hattie. The mother, Mrs. Sally S. Chase, is now, at the advanced age of seventy-nine years, living at the old homestead in Epping, N.H. She is a member of the Congregational church, with which her husband also was connected.

John W. Chase received his preliminary education in the district schools of his native town and at the academy in Kingston. During the war of the Rebellion he served for some time as a hospital steward in the regular United States Army. He subsequently pursued his professional studies in the Medical School hi Maine, at Bowdoin College, in Brunswick, Me., being graduated in 1867. - )n August \2 of that year the young Doctor located in Dedham, and in the practice of his profession met with such success from the start that he has since continued here. In [873, with the desire to still further perfect himseli in the science of medicine and surgery, he visited some of the principal hospitals and colleges of Europe, pursuing his studies and attending lectures in Leipsic,

In Brunswick, Me., on June 16, 1869, Dr. Chase married Miss Harriet E. Weeman, who was born in Freeport, Me., a daughter of James Pope and Elizabeth (True) Weeman. Mr. Weeman was a hardware merchant in Freeport until [866, when he removed to Brunswick, Me., where he is still actively engaged in business pursuits, although seventynine years old. His wife died some years ago, aged seventy-two years. They reared three children, of whom two are living - Mrs. Chase and her sister, Abbie C. Mr. and Mrs. Weeman were both members of the Congregational church, and for many years he was a Deacon. Dr. and Mrs. Chase are the parents of three children, two of whom are living ; namely, Alice W. and Julian D. , the latter a bright and active youth of fifteen, now preparing for a scientific education. Grace Lillian died aged eight months.

Dr. Chase is a stanch supporter of the principles of the Republican party. He has been a member of the School Board one year, of the Board of Health four years, and for four years under President Harrison's administration he was pension examiner. Being wideawake and public-spirited, he takes great interest in the establishment of enterprises calculated to benefit the town, and is one of the promoters and a large stockholder of the Norfolk Suburban Street Railway, and also of the Norfolk Central Railway.

The Doctor is a member of the Massachusetts Medical Society of Norfolk County, and for twenty-five consecutive years was county physician, holding the office for a longer time than any other incumbent since the office was established. Fraternally, he is a member of Constellation Lodge, F. & A. M., of Dedham: of the A. O. U. W.: of the Knights of Honor; of the Royal Arcanum; and of the New England Order of Protection. He and his family are attendants of the Congregational church. Mrs. Chase, a woman of culture and refinement, was educated in the high school of Brunswick, Me., and for some years prior tn her marriage was a successful teacher in that college town.

§OSEPH A. CUSHING, a prominent citizen of East Weymouth, now manager of the bicycle sundry department of the John P. Lovell Arms Company, Boston, was born in Hingham, Mass., December 24, 1846, son of Adam and Harriet (Loring) dishing, both parents natives of that old Plymouth County town.

The Cushing family is an old and honored one in this section of the State, and is of English origin. The emigrant ancestor, Matthew Cushing, settled in Hingham in 1638. Of the sixth generation in lineal descent from Matthew was Mr. Joseph A. Cushing's grandfather, Jonathan Cushing, who took a leading part in town affairs in Hingham in the early part of the century, serving as Selectman, and also as a Representative to the General Court. Adam Cushing, above named, was a soldier in the War of 1812; and his widow drew a government pension on that account.

When Joseph A. Cushing was twelve years of age, his parents removed to Cohasset; and he was educated in the public schools of that town, including the high school. When he was eighteen years old, his father died ; and he shortly became self-supporting, beginning his working life as clerk in the revenue office at Hingham. After serving there for some time, he was employed for several years as bookkeeper for A. W. Clapp & Co., boot and shoe dealers of Boston, and then went to North Weymouth, where he became identified with Alexis Torry & Co., manufacturers of boots and shoes, as clerk and treasurer, in which position he remained for twenty years. Since that time he has filled his present position with the John P. Lovell Arms Company.

Mr. Cushing married Dora L. Benson, a native of Falmouth, Mass., and a lady of taste and culture. He is a Republican in politics,, and has been interested in various ways in the administration of public affairs in the town. He has been on the School Committee of Weymouth for nine years, and part of the time was clerk of the board. He has also been Auditor. He was formerly treasurer of the East Weymouth Savings Bank, of which he is now vice-president, trustee, and a member of its Board of Investment. In religious belief Mr.

Cushing is a Methodist, and he and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. He is a steward and trustee, and is now treasurer of the society. Fraternally, he is a member of the I. O. O. F. and of the Temple of Honor at East Weymouth. In 1890 he was Representative to the State legisature, and while there served on the Committee on Banks and Banking:.

SEAVITT BATES, a former resident of East Weymouth, who had served in ^ the Civil War, and was well known in the wholesale clothing trade of Boston, was born in Weymouth, August 11, 1843. His father, Abraham Bates, was a native of Weymouth; and his mother, Susan L. (Stoddard) Bates, was born in Hingham, Mass.

Leavitt Bates attended the common and high schools of Weymouth for the usual period, and completed his studies at a business college in Boston. His business career was begun in the general store of Henry Loud at East Weymouth, where he remained until 1 861. In this year he enlisted as a private in Company A, Forty-second Regiment, Massachusetts Volunteers, for nine months' service in the Civil War. After the expiration of his first term of service he re-enlisted in the Fourth Heavy Artillery, with which he served until mustered out at the close of the war. Upon his return home he resumed his former position with Mr. Loud, serving in the capacity of salesman and that of assistant in the post-office, which was located in the store. Subsequently he became book-keeper for a Boston house dealing in tailors' supplies. Later he entered the wholesale clothing business as a member of the firm of Smith, Richardson & Bates, doing business on Summer Street, Boston. After the withdrawal of Mr. Richardson the concern was known as Smith, Bates & Co. Mr. Pates was also interested in the East Weymouth Savings Bank, of which he was a director. His connection with the clothing firm continued until his death, which occurred suddenly in New York, Mav 6, i.XSS, while representing the Providence District at the General Conference of the Methodist Epis- copal Church held in that city. He was not quite forty-five years old at the time, and the event was a shock to his business associates and fellow-townsmen. He took a deep interest in the general welfare and progress of East Weymouth, and his wise counsels and valuable assistance in all mailers of public importance ire still remembered by his townsmen. His business ability and integrity were of a high standard. He was an active member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and he served as its treasurer for seventeen years. He was connected with the Masonic fraternity, and was a comrade of Reynolds Post, G. A. R., of Weymouth. His political views were strongly Republican.

On December ii, 1867, Mr. Bates was united in marriage with Anne E. Tirrell, of Weymouth. She is a daughter of Harrison !-". S. and Elizabeth (Jacob) Tirrell. The former was a native of this town, and the latter was born in Hingham. Mrs. Bates's paternal grandfather was Norton Q. Tirrell. On her mother's side she is a descendant of John Hancock, the American patriot and statesman. She became the mother of three children - Harry \V., Leavitt W., and Emma E. Since the death of her husband Mrs. Bates has continued to reside at 73 Broad Street. She is connected with the Women's Relic! Corps, is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and stands high in the estimation of the entire community.

IDMUND WHITE, a well-known citizen of Holbrook, Mass., for many years a leading manufacturer of boots and shoes, is a native of this town, until recent years known as East Randolph. He was born on August 21, 1823, his parents being Thomas and Meriel (Burr) White, the former a native of Holbrook, and the latter of Cohasset.

John White (great-grandfather of Edmund) and Joseph White, brother of John, were among the earliest settlers in East Randolph, now Holbrook. They were of English descent, and belonged to an old Colonial family. Their earliest progenitor in America bearing this surname was Thomas White, who is said to have been "admitted a freeman of the Massachusetts Colony in 1636, being then and previously an inhabitant of Weymouth and a member of the church." Thomas White, of a later generation, father of Edmund White, was a shoemaker early in life, and later became interested in agricultural pursuits.

Mr. Edmund White received his early mental training in the common schools ot Holbrook. The education thus acquired he has supplemented by reading and by close observation of men and affairs during the years oi his business life. He is in every way a selfmade man; and his success has been due, not to exceptional opportunities at the beginning, but to his purpose and readiness to make the most of every opportunity for personal improvement, and to his persevering energy, ambition, and enterprise. When about twelveyears of age; he began to learn the shoemaker's trade, and when eighteen years old he was recognized as an expert Crispin. He worked at this handicraft as a journeyman until twenty-five years of age. when he started in business lor himself as .1 booi and shoe manufacturer. At the start he had a partner, George N. Spear, and the business was carried on under the name of White & Spear. A short time after, William Gray being added to the firm, it became White & Gray. For a number of years Mr. White carried on business alone; and in [.865 \\<- formed a partnership with his brother Thomas, which existed for over five vears. From the expiration of that time he was sole manager of a manufacturing business up to 1893, when he retired. Mr. White started manufacturing in a small way, and gradually increased until he carried on a very extensive business. His plant in Holbrook was among the larger manufacturing enterprises of New England, and employed at times as many as three hundred hands.

The marked administrative ability that has enabled Mr. White to become the head of a great manufacturing concern also demonstrates his fitness for other positions where breadth of outlook and sound judgment are needed. His townsmen have recognized his desirability and fitness for public office, and in 1S82 he served as Representative from the Sixth Norfolk District to the State legislature. He

Mr. White has three children living; namely, Emmons, Edmund B., and Albert B. , the last two named being graduates of Yale College. Mr. White is a Republican in politics. He is in favor of any movement looking to the general improvement of society or the welfare of his native town. He is one of the Deacons of Winthrop Congregational Church of Holbrook.

ILLIAM NASH, a prosperous general merchant and Postmaster of Nash, was born in Weymouth, Mass., April 6, 1835, son of William G. and Dorothy (Torrey) Nash. He is a representative of one of the oldest and most highly reputable families in Weymouth; and his grandlather, Joshua Nash, was a lifelong resident of Nash's Corners. William G. Nash and his wife were born in this town; and the former, who for many years kept a general store at "The Corners," is now eighty-eight years old. He has reared several children, of whom the survivors are: William, Maria D., and Elbridge. The last-named is a druggist of South Weymouth.