OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS

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Chicago: Its History and Its Builders

A CENTURY OF MARVELOUS GROWTH

ILLUSTRATED

VOLUME V

1912

THE S. J. CLARKE PUBLISHING COMPANY CHICAGO

SAMfEI, W. AT,LERTON

Biographical

SAMUEL WATERS ALLERTON.

Eighty-three years of age, and Samuel Waters Allerton is still a vigorous, active man, although retired from the control of extensive business operations which formerly engaged his attention. In matters of public concern as well as in the conduct of private enterprises, he has played a leading role on the stage of action in Chicago and yet it is not to cities with their commercial, industrial and professional activities that he would direct the attention of young men start- ing in life, but to the farm — "the almost certain source of revenue." George Washington declared agriculture is the most useful as well as the most honorable occupation of man, and in this occupation and its kindred interests — stock rais- ing— Mr. Allerton laid the basis of his success. His history through several gen- erations has been distinctly American in both direct and collateral lines. The progenitor of the family in this country was Isaac Allerton, who was born in Eng- land between the years 1583 and 1585, the exact date being unknown. He re- sided in London for some time prior to his removal to Holland in 1609 and came to the new world as one of the Mayflower passengers in 1620. It is generally admitted that he was the wealthiest of all of the Pilgrims and was one of the few among them to whom Bradford, and contemporaneous writers always gave the prefix "Mr.," which at that time was used as an index of superior family or respectability. He was also one of the three upon whom the privilege of citizen- ship was conferred by the city of Leyden, his associates in this honor being Wil- liam Bradford, afterward governor of the Plymouth colony, and Degory Priest, his brother-in-law. He was married in Leyden, September 4, 1611, to Mary Norris, of Newbury, England, and they had four children when they embarked on the Mayflower. His wife died February 25, 1621, and in 1626 he married Fear Brewster, daughter of Elder William Brewster. Her death occurred in 1634, while Isaac Allerton died in 1659.

Samuel W. Allerton of the ninth generation of the family in America was born in Amenia, New York, May 26, 1828, a son of Samuel W. Allerton, whose birth occurred at Amenia, December 5, 1775. He was married March 26, 1808, to Hannah Hurd, who was born in South Dover, Dutchess county, New York, the eldest daughter of Ebenezer and Rebecca (Phillips) Hurd, the former an ex- tensive farmer and stockraiser of Amenia. Samuel W. Allerton, Sr., studied for the medical profession but abandoning his plan for the practice of medicine, learned the tailor's trade and became a merchant tailor, at the same time con- ducting a general store. In 1828 he joined with others in building and operating a woolen mill but the litigation of the sheriff in 1 833 caused the loss of nearly

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6 CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS

all his fortune. In 1837 he removed westward to Iowa with the hope of retriev- ing his lost possessions but becoming ill, returned to the east. In 1848 he rented a farm in Yates county, New York, and six years later purchased land in Wayne county, upon which he spent hig remaining days. His religious faith was that of the Universalist church and he was one of the respected men of his community, although he did not seek to figure in public life. He lived to the venerable age of ninety-nine years and eight months.

The youngest of the nine children in his father's family, Samuel W. Allerton of this review was but seven years of age when his father failed in business and was a lad of twelve when he began providing for his own support. He remained in Amenia until fourteen years of age and in 1842 went to Yates county with his parents, giving them the benefit of his services until they were able to buy the Wayne county farm. He then joined his brother Henry in renting a farm on which they made fifteen hundred dollars, which they gave in partial payment for the farm in Wayne county, assuming an indebtedness of three thousand dol- lars. In the cultivation of a rented farm Mr. Allerton saved thirty-two hun- dred dollars and then went to Newark, where he worked with his brothers on their farm and also traded in live stock to some extent. On his return from Albany, New York, where he had sold cattle, it was found that he and his brother were the possessors of three thousand dollars in cash and a farm clear of all indebted- ness. They divided their interests, Mr. Allerton taking the cash and starting out tor himself, bis brother advising him: "Make a name and character for your- self and you are sure to win." This advice he has ever followed and it has been the substance of his admonition to young men since that time. At the end of his first independent venture— the sale of cattle in New York— his sales amounted to seven hundred dollars. With characteristic energy and determination, however, he continued in business and later when he made a shipment of live stock to New York there was such a shortage of cattle on the market there that his sales netted him three thousand dollars.

It was about that time that Mr. Allerton heard and heeded the call of th west and for a year thereafter engaged in raising and feeding cattle in Fulton county Illinois, but like hundreds of others, he was the victim of the financial panic which swept over the country at that time. This and ill health occasioned his return to the east and with his brother he engaged in merchandising for a short time in Newark, New York, but felt that the limits and possibilities in such an undertaking were too narrow. Disposing of his interest in the store and rowing five thousand dollars he returned to Fulton county, and in March, 1 removed to Chicago, from which point he has since conducted his operations. At the same time he made further preparations for having a home in the city by his marriage at Peoria, to Miss Paduella M. Thompson, a daughter of Astor C. Thompson, of Fulton county. They became the parents of a daughter and son: Kate Bennett, who was born June 10, 1863, and on the 14th of October, 1 became the wife of Dr. Francis Sidney Tapin. Following his death she marr.ed Hugo R Johnson. The son, Robert Henry, born March 20, 1873, is supervising extensive property interests. Following the death of his first wife Mr. Allerton wedded her sister, Agnes C. Thompson, on the 15th of March, 1882, and the.r home on Prairie avenue has ever been the center of a cultured society circle.

CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS 7

Mr. Allerton has always pinned his faith to farming and live-stock dealing as the surest source of success although he has operated extensively in other fields. He bought his first cattle shipment in the old Merrick yards on Cottage Grove avenue and as the city had no bank he had to depend upon express shipments of money from New York. It is well remembered by old time traders that in May, 1860, upon sharp decline in prices he cornered the market by buying every hog in Chicago. He was at that time alone in the city and it was difficult for him to obtain money. Three telegrams, one from his own bank and two from New York, however, were regarded as sufficient security on the part of Aiken & Morgan, bankers, to secure him a loan at one per cent interest and the profits which accrued from that deal constituted the foundation of his fortune. Moreover, the experi- ence brought to him a recognition of the need and value of union stock yards and better banking facilities in Chicago and he set to work to accomplish both. In the '60s there were three stock yards in Chicago. In 1865 he joined with John B. Sherman in the agitation of a proposition to combine the interests and that their labors were resultant is indicated in the fact that the Union Stock Yards were organized in 1866. The wisdom of his judgment being attested in this en- terprise and success resulting therefrom, he also became interested in the stock yards at Pittsburg, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Jersey City (New York yards), St. Joseph and Omaha. For many years he was president of the Allerton Pack- ing Company. His early experience with the banks led to his efforts for the es- tablishment of the first Chicago bank under the national banking law and he be- came one of the original directors of the First National Bank, in which he still holds large interests. There are two things which he says he never offers for sale — stock in this bank and his Illinois farm lands. His experience bears out the statement of one who has long given close study to the economic conditions of the natural resources of the country and declares that "Illinois farm lands are the safest investment in all America." The holdings of Mr. Allerton com- prise eleven thousand acres in the Mississippi valley, including farm property in this state, Ohio, Iowa, Nebraska and Wyoming. He formerly owned nine thousand acres near Monticello, Illinois, known as "The Farms," which is one of the model live-stock farms of the world, now the property of his son. The home thereon is modeled after the typical residence of the English country gentle- man and although every acre is tilled to perfection, fine horses, cattle and hogs are the chief sources of revenue. Another Allerton property which is ever a source of delight to the owner is his summer home at Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, standing in the center of two beautiful farms of eighty acres each. In California he main- tains his winter residence, an old Spanish mission building having been converted into a quaint yet elegant home. The business relations of Mr. Allerton in Chicago have been of vast benefit to the cHy. After watching the workings of the cable street car company in San Francisco in 1880 he used his influence as a stock- holder in the South Side Traction System, inducing Superintendent Holmes to investigate the cable with the result that it was adopted by the street railway companies of the city. He is still a director of the Chicago City Railway Com- pany. In addition to acting as a director of the First National Bank through all these years since its inception in 1863, he is a director in the First Trust & Sav- ings Bank, National Safe Deposit Company, the Weaver Coal & Coke Company

8 CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS

and the North Waukegan Harbor & Dock Company, and vice president of the Art Marble Company. He has at times made generous division of his wealth for the benefit of mankind, one of his chief benevolences being the establishment in conjunction with the late Henry E. Weaver of the St. Charles Home for Boys. He was at one time nominated by his friends for the mayoralty on the republican ticket but the entire ticket suffered defeat in that year. He is a strong protec- tionist and an advocate of all which advances the condition of American labor. He gave efficient aid to the World's Columbian Exposition as one of its directors, and has been a cooperant factor in much that has worked for the upbuilding and benefit of the city along yarious progressive lines. His name is on the member- ship rolls of the Calumet, Union League, Washington Park, Chicago Golf and Marquette Clubs, and he is, moreover, a member of the Illinois Society of the Sons of the American Revolution and the Society of Mayflower Descendants. He is of unemotional nature, yet of well balanced character who early learned to cor- rectly judge of life and its contacts, of his own capacities and powers and of those things which make up life's contacts and experiences. He has ever held to the principle which he has again and again enunciated in this fashion "no boy can suc- ceed unless he build up a character." He has never theorized much concerning life but has been a central actor on the stage. Never an extremist, he belongs to that class who maintain an even balance, never carried away by the chimerical illusions of the optimist nor moved from a stable center by the dark and depres- sing views of the pessimist. He recognizes the advancement of the world and the obligation of the individual to put forth intelligent effort if he would keep pace with universal progress. Among his strongly marked characteristics is a demo- cratic manner, a manner that always commands respect, preserves dignity and yet never forces onto one the knowledge of his success or prominence. Notwithstand- ing his prosperity he is a most approachable gentleman and nothing in his man- ner or speech would ever suggest his wealth. He is today the only Chicago busi- ness man' who was contemporaneous with the founders of Chicago's great industries, the Armours, Morris', Pullmans, Swifts, Palmers and Fields, with all of whom he had close personal acquaintance. No living citizen of Illinois today has done more toward the advancement of her agricultural, financial, industrial and general busi- ness interests than Samuel Waters Allerton. Inheriting a naturally robust con- stitution, observing the laws of nature throughout a most busy, active life, his reward, in addition to magnificent success, is a remarkable preservation of the physical man and mental faculties whose keenness is unimpaired.

FRANK WALDO SMITH.

There is perhaps no man in all Chicago who has done more to keep alive civic pride than Frank Waldo Smith, in business circles occupying the position of cashier of the Corn Exchange National Bank since 1885 and enjoying throughout all the intervening years the high regard of his colleagues. He is more widely known in the city at large because of the active part which he has taken in pre- serving records relative to Chicago's history and in disseminating among the younger

PRANK W. SMITH

CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS 11

generation a knowledge of past glories and events which have constituted the foundation upon which Chicago's present greatness and permanent prosperity rests. Although Mr. Smith has not yet passed the prime of life, he is one of Chi- cago's pioneers and his memory forms a connecting link between the primitive past and the progressive present. He was born in this city, May 19, 1849, only twelve years after its incorporation. In fact, it was at that time only a town — a growing town to be sure — upon a western prairie and had comparatively lit- tle commercial or industrial importance. His parents were Mr. and Mrs. Waldo Wait Smith, who at the time of his birth resided at the northeast corner of Franklin and Madison streets. His mother in her maidenhood was Jane Elizabeth Fogg, a daughter of Ebenezer Fogg and was born at Cambridgeport, Massa- chusetts and came to Chicago in 1847. Mr. Waldo W. Smith came to Chicago from Pawlett, Vermont in 1836, settling here at the time when the city probably boasted of two brick buildings. The father's eldest brother, who had arrived in 1835, es- tablished the Union Ridge Hotel at the corner of Higgins street and Sixty-fourtli avenue, and in all the years which have since been added to the cycle of the cen- turies the members of this family have taken active and helpful part in the work of general progress and municipal improvement.

In the acquirement of his education Frank Waldo Smith attended successively the Mosely school, in 1857, the Haven school in 1862, and the old Chicago high school, Monroe and Halsted streets in 1863. Four years later he entered the em- ploy of his father, who was a wholesale grocer at 43 South Water street as a partner of the firm of Smith Brothers, successors of Smith, Pollard & Company. In the great fire of October, 1871, their business was destroyed with a total loss, and Mr. Smith, therefore, turned his attention to other lines. Paralyzed for a brief moment by the awful calamity with which it had been visited, the city be- gan its rebuilding with renewed activity, accepting its losses as an impetus for in- creased development and progress. Mr. Smith, on the llth of April, 1872, se- cured a position as clearing house clerk in the employ of the Third National Bank, where he remained until the failure of that institution in 1875. For ten years thereafter he was chief clerk with the Merchants Loan & Trust Company and on October, 31, 1885, was elected to the position of cashier of the Corn Exchange National Bank, with which he has thus been connected to the present time, cov- ering a period of a quarter of a century. He is one of the oldest bank cashiers in years of continued service in Chicago and his long incumbency in the position stands in incontrovertible evidence of his ability and the high place which he occupies in the regard of his colleagues in banking circles.

On the 9th of April, 1873, Mr. Smith was married to Miss Dora A. Hadden and unto them have been born three children: Fannie B., Osborn F. and Ethel H., who reside with their parents at No. 5539 Cornell avenue with the exception of Osborn F. Smith, who is now married and has established a home of his own. Mr. Smith is a prominent and popular member of the Press Club and for two years was its treasurer. Those who know him have been better for his friend- ship. Loyalty is one of his marked characteristics and it is manifest in all of his relations with his fellowmen.

During the past ten years Mr. Smith has given much time to research concern- ing the early history of Chicago and has lectured to and entertained many audiences

12 CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS

with his illustrated scenes and stories of the early days. His devotion to local interests has been like the loyalty of a dutiful son to a father. He stands today among the honored band of pioneer settlers, but, unlike many of them, he has not only been associated with the city during its formative period but has continued an active factor in its later day progress and improvement. While an honored representative of the past, he is doing for the present generation that which keeps fresh and causes to be cherished the memory of the old Chicago which was builded upon a strong and broad foundation of lofty purpose. No citizen possesses more valuable recorojs concerning the early days nor has a mind more greatly enriched by reminisciences of men and events of an earlier generation. His lectures have at times constituted the force that has called to life the memories of the earlier settlers, while the younger Chicago has listened speelbound to his stories of the early days. His efforts in this direction have been put forth all because of his devotion to the city which he loves so well, and both the older and younger genera- tion owe to him a debt of gratitude that can never be paid for what he has ac- complished in perpetuating not only for the present but for all future time the his- tory of the Queen city by the lake.

ANDREW HULL PARKER.

Dr. Andrew Hull Parker, of Chicago, designer, inventor, manufacturer and for many years past a leading specialist of the United States in the treatment of hernia, comes of one of the early Revolutionary families of New England and New York state. He was born at Springfield, Ohio, May 3, 1834, a son of Emory and Delopha (Bailey) Parker. The father was born in Graf ton county, New Hamp- shire, but the family subsequently located near Binghampton, New York, and lie removed to Ohio about 1830, taking up his residence at Springfield. He served most of his time in public office while in that city but in 1848 located on a farm near Geneseo, Illinois, where he spent the remainder of his life. He was twice married, his first wife dying in New York state. By that union there was one son, Albert B., who is now deceased. At Springfield Mr. Parker was married to Miss Delopha Bailey and to this union seven children were born, four boys and three girls, the subject of this review being the eldest. Those surviving are: David K., of Long Beach, California ; James Douglas, of Colby, Kansas ; and Orpheus B., of Oregon.

Mr. Parker of this review received his preliminary education in the public schools and in an academy at Geneseo. He continued upon his father's farm until he was nineteen years of age and then, possessing the laudable desire to become independent, he secured employment in the grading of the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railway. While at work he figured out the cost of grading and excavat- ing and attracted the attention of his employer who induced him to take a contract on his own account. He was thus engaged until fall and then entered school for the winter at Geneseo, working in a dry-goods store for his board. He again engaged in railroad contracting during the next summer and fall and spent the winter of 1851-55 teaching in a country school near Geneseo. In the spring of

CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS 13

1855 he associated with Captain John Baxter, of Geneseo, in the dry-goods busi- ness, but one year later disposed of his interest to his partner and entered the academy at Geneseo. In the spring of 1857 he took another contract on the Rock Island Railway to grade nine miles of track beginning the work one station east of Washington, Iowa. The panic in the autumn of 1857, however, put a stop to the work and he went to Ste. Genevieve, Missouri, where he taught school for three years. After the battle of Bull Run the rebel governor of the state took posses- sion of the school funds, thus temporarily closing most of the schools in the state. Mr. Parker was offered an appointment as quartermaster for a Union regiment, a part of which was being organized at Ste. Genevieve and he visited his old home in Illinois with the expectation of accepting this appointment. His wife and par- ents induced him to remain in private life and he took up his residence at Oquawka, Illinois, where he made a thorough study of trusses and appliances, beginning late in 1861 as a traveling specialist, selling trusses and appliances which were, manu- factured by eastern firms. In the fall of 1866, at the solicitation of Bartlett & Butman, of Boston, he established a house at No. 133 Clark street, Chicago, where business was carried on until after the fire, when he removed to 58 State street, remaining there for thirty years. Although the name of the firm was Bartlett, Butman & Parker, he was sole proprietor but conducted the business under that name until June, 1882, when he incorporated as the Common Sense Truss Com- pany. In the beginning he carried principally a line of trusses made by Bartlett & Butman, which he named the Common Sense Truss, taking out a trade-mark under that title. In 1882 he established a department for the manufacture of trusses with numerous improvements which he had invented from time to time, also manufacturing a large variety of other articles, principally of his own inven- tion. Probably the most noteworthy of these is the Parker Retentive Truss, rec- ognized the world over as the greatest invention in this line.

In 1888 Dr. Parker was sued in the United States court by an eastern firm for alleged infringement of patent in the manufacture of elastic stockings. He excited much comment by acting as his own attorney and defeating some of the best legal talent of the country employed by his opponent. Since 1865 he has made a study of hernia and in 1883 was given a state certificate as a physician and has since made a specialty of the treatment of that disease. For over forty years he has been known as the leading expert in America in the treatment of rupture and has received the highest recognition as an authority in his specialty. In 1872, by an act of congress, the United States government through a medical board appointed for that purpose adopted Dr. Parker's truss as excelling all others in use and since that time has furnished these trusses free to its pensioners. His Common Sense Truss was awarded a medal and diploma at the International Exhibition at Phila- delphia, in 1876, and he received from the Columbian Exposition at Chicago, in 1893, a medal of "Award for the great extent and variety of trusses and bandages, ingenuity of design and great adaptability," and a diploma of honorable mention "For his skill as a designer and inventor." In addition to his business as a manu- facturer he has invested successfully in real estate and lands and is the owner of a valuable ranch of over one thousand acres under irrigation, which is located four miles from Torrington, the county seat of Goshen county, Wyoming.

14 CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS

On the 5th of May, 1858, Dr. Parker was married at Oquawka, Illinois, to Miss Mary Mickey, of that place, and six children have been born to this union, Emory H., Charles W., Maud D., Louis Frederick, Lily M. and Andrew H., Jr.

Dr. Parker has taken the interest of a public-spirited citizen in politics and at various times has been prominent in securing the election of competent men to local and state officers. His office is at Nos. 300-306 Madison street, Chicago, and he resides at the Parker apartments, corner of Hinman avenue and Church street, Evanston. These apartments he erected in 1910 and they are pronounced the finest and most complete in the state outside of Chicago. He has made it a prin- ciple of his life to do to the very best of his ability whatever he undertakes, and it is to the observance of this principle that he largely owes his success. He has the satisfaction of looking back upon a long and useful career, in the course of which he has contributed his share toward the alleviation of the ills of humanity, and the respect in which he is held by his friends and by those who have benefited by his services is evidence that he has not lived in vain. By virtue of his ancestry he holds membership in the Sons of the American Revolution.

HENRY DIBBLEE.

Henry Dibblee to the time of his death was numbered among those resourceful men whose activity has, constituted the substantial and enduring qualities that have given Chicago her commercial greatness. He figured prominently in real- estate circles for many years as the senior partner of the firm of Dibblee & Man- ierre and also had voice in the management and control of important corporate interests of the city. Here he resided from 1872 until his demise on the 19th of December, 1907. He was born in New York city, August 20, 1840, a son of E. R. and Frances M. (Hayes) Dibblee. His father was recognized as one of the leading importers of dry goods in the metropolis until his later years, when he retired from business.

Henry Dibblee was a pupil in private and boarding schools of the eastern metropolis until eighteen years of age, when he entered his father's establishment as a clerk and bent his energy toward the mastery of the various phases of the business until his knowledge, experience and ability had qualified him to take up the responsibilities of a partnership and he was admitted to the firm, so contin- uing until 1872. Thinking that the growing western city of Chicago offered still broader opportunities, Mr. Dibblee came to Illinois and in January, 1873, joined William R. and John S. Gould in the foundry and iron business, which was con- ducted under the firm style of Gould & Dibblee until 1 878. After the dissolution of the partnership Mr. Dibblee continued in the field as a dealer in ornamental iron work and afterward extended the scope of his trade by handling mantels and tiles, becoming an importer of man}' of the finest English encaustic tiles and also western agent for the leading American manufacturers. For eight years he con- ducted an extensive and growing business in those lines and then retired from the commercial field in 1886 to enter real-estate circles as a partner of George Manierre, operating under the firm style of Dibblee & Manierre up to the time

1IKNIJY DIBBLEE

CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS 17

of his demise. They soon became recognized as one of the leading real-estate firms in the city, negotiating many important transfers and managing deals which have left their impress upon the real-estate history of the city. Embracing favor- able opportunity for the extension of his interests in other lines, Mr. Dibblee became president of the Chicago Auditorium Association and an influential director of the Calumet and Chicago Canal & Dock Comapny. The leading business men of the city regarded his judgment as sound, his enterprise unfaltering and his business integrity unassailable.

On the 26th of November, 1873, Mr. Dibblee was married to Miss Laura Field, a daughter of John Field, of Conway, Massachusetts, a sister of Marshall Field and a representative of a family whose ancestral connection with the old Bay state dates back to 1650. Mr. and Mrs. Dibblee became the parents of two daughters, Bertha and Frances F. The former is the wife of John O. King and the latter is the wife of A. A. Sprague, 2d. The children of this marriage are A. A. Sprague, 3d, and Laura Sprague.

The death of Mr. Dibblee occurred December 19, 1907, and took from Chi- cago one of her prominent men and citizens. He attended the Episcopal church and gave his political support to the democracy. He held membership in the Saddle and Cycle and Mid-Day Clubs and was honored with the presidency of the latter. He greatly enjoyed social life and outdoor sports, anything in the line of athletics making strong appeal to him. He was also a lover of art, music and travel but more than all his interest centered in his home, where his friends found him a social, genial host whose cordiality was unfeigned, while his family knew him as a devoted, considerate and loving husband and father. It is these personal traits of character, even more than business success, that serve to keep alive the memory of a man among his fellowmen, and such were Mr. Dibblee's excellencies of character that many years will pass ere his memory will cease to be a cherished possession to those who knew him. '

GEORGE RANDOLPH DYER.

If one could turn back the hour-glass until seventy-six years had been marked oil the calendar and could visit Chicago as it was more than three-quarters of a century ago, a little village would be found bordering the river near its mouth and within its boundaries there would be found few thoroughfares. However, the little town was peopled by an enterprising, progressive population — men who had realized the opportunities of the west and had come hither to take part in the up- building of the wonderful inland empire which was springing up in the Missis- sippi valley. Among the number of Chicago's residents at that day was George Randolph Dyer, prominent as a citizen and as a man of business ability. In later years his efforts became a factor in the development of other sections of the state and in whatever community he lived, his service was of worth as a factor in pro- gress and improvement. He was born in Clarendon, Rutland county, Vermont, June 3, 1813. His ancestry can be traced back directly to Roger Williams, who was banished from Massachusetts to Rhode Island, and authentic history establishes

18 CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS

the fact that a maternal ancestor was Mary Dyer, the Quaker, who was hanged on Boston Commons by order of the general court of Massachusetts at that period of unexplainable illusion which cost the lives of so many of the colony's worthy citizens. The Dyers came from England early in the seventeenth century, settling in Vermont, where some members of the family still reside. His father, Daniel Dyer, had a state reputation as a sheep raiser and substantial farmer, and was a soldier of the Revolutionary war. After the establishment of American independence he was commissioned major in the Massachusetts State Militia and his commission bearing the signature of Governor Hancock came into the possession . of his son George R. His mother was a Miss Susanah Olin, of the popular Vermont family of that name. A brother of George R. Dyer was the venerable and well known Dr. Charles V. Dyer, long a distinguished citizen of Chicago.

Captain George R. Dyer acquired an academic education in the West Rutland Academy and at the age of twenty-one years started for the west, driving across the country alone from Clarendon, Vermont, to Chicago. He remained a resident of Chicago and of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, until 1841, and during that period aided in the organization of the territory of Wisconsin in 1838. He also assisted in mak- ing the survey of the Fox river with a view to using that stream as a feeder for the Illinois canal. In 1841 he removed to Will county where he engaged in farming and stock-raising, conducting a large and profitable business along that line. He was noted far and wide for his remarkable energy, which intelligently directed, brought him substantial success in life. In 1856 he was called to public office in his election to the position of sheriff of the county and after his term of office expired he returned to his farm where he remained until the outbreak of the Civil war in 1861. When the first gun was fired, prompted by the same patriotic spirit which permeated his ancestors, he and his two sons joined the army for the union. The elder son was commissioned captain when but seventeen years of age and partici- pated in many a hotly contested battle. He died November 13, 1863, from disease contracted in a southern swamp. The history of the younger son is given below. A biography of Captain Dyer, written while he was still living, gave the following:

"During the last thirty years Will county has known Captain Dyer as a citizen of note, not a little eccentric, witty, jolly as a companion and satirical in the reprov- ing of that which had not sense to recommend it. As a defender of the rights of man he has always been distinguished, and he considered it no disgrace to be called an abolitionist. He joined hands with them in bringing this country to be what it is today. In bold activity and uncompromising devotion Captain Dyer was the undisputed pioneer in Will county of that enthusiastic movement, as it was called by his friends, and fanatical movement, as it was called by his enemies, which ulti- mately struck the shackles from the American slaves. His home was one of the sta- tions on the line of the underground railway whereby many runaway slaves were ushered mysteriously into a locality and as mytseriously and quietly made their way out of it toward freedom in the north. He was a personal friend of Abraham Lincoln and Owen Lovejoy and it was to be expected that he would espouse the cause of the Union when war became the order of the day. He was serving as quartermaster at Pilot Knob while the battle raged there. On the 8th of January, 18-11, he married Miss Elizabeth Howe Kimball, of Elgin, a lady of fine natural endowments and graceful manner, whose excellent sense, fine culture and domestic

COL. GEORGE RANDOLPH DYER

CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS 19

accomplishments eminently fitted her to become a helpmate for a young man of ambition and energy but without financial resources."

Daniel Burns Dyer, the younger son of George Randolph Dyer, was educated in the public schools and the Illinois State Normal school. A contemporary biog- rapher has written of him as follows:

"In 1862, leaving his father's farm on which he was reared, he joined his father and only brother, who were then in the Union army, and though but thirteen years of age at the time, he served until the close of the war in southeastern Missouri and Arkansas. He was captured during the war by General Sterling Price's army and held a prisoner for two weeks before making his escape.

"Following the close of hostilities between the north and the south Colonel Dyer started for Kansas and the Indian territory, where he engaged in general merchandising, banking and trading with the Indians. He was also United States Indian agent in the southwest. In all of his business affairs he has displayed keen discernment, with a quick recognition of opportunity. He has always formed his plans readily, is determined in their execution and has ever recognized the fact, which too few people seem to understand, that when one avenue of effort seems closed there are others which are open and which may lead to the desired result. Mr. Dyer continued in the southwest until 1885, when he removed to Kansas City and here became a prominent factor in real-estate dealing. With remarkable prescience he recognized what the future had in store for this growing western city, made judi- cious investments in real estate and so handled his property interests in purchase and sale as to win a most gratifying financial return. For a considerable period he figured as one of the most prominent real-estate dealers of Kansas City.

"While Colonel Dyer is well known because of his successful and extensive business operations, his efforts have been by no means confined to commercial and financial undertakings, for in many other lines he has labored wherein the public has been a direct beneficiary. For a period of fifteen years he was occupied in civilizing the Indians and teaching them self-support. He had charge of the fa- mous Lava Bed Modoc tribe, as well as eight other tribes at the same time, and later was given charge of the Cheyennes and Arapahoes. When Oklahoma was opened Colonel Dyer was chosen the first mayor of Guthrie and took an active part in shaping the policy of the city during its formative period. During his connection with Indian affairs and with matters in Oklahoma, he had many most interesting and thrilling experiences.

"In 1889 Colonel Dyer removed to Augusta, Georgia, and placed on foot a movement which has resulted in the transformation of that city's appearance. He there constructed the first trolley line in the south operated by water power and, extending his efforts into various fields of activity; in addition to being president of the Augusta Railway & Electric Company, he was president of the Georgia Rail- road Land & Colonization Company, the Dyer Investment Company, the Gas Light Company, of Augusta, and the Augusta Chronicle, the south's oldest newspaper, established in 1785. With superior business ability he possesses great public spirit and a love of the beautiful, and to these qualities of his nature Augusta is indebted for Lake View Park and Monte Sano Park. Colonel Dyer still maintains a winter home in the vicinity of Augusta, in which connection a local paper said: 'Chateau Le Vert, Colonel Dyer's private residence in Summerville, is one of the show

20 CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS

places of the country. There he entertains with princely hospitality and with al- ways a hearty welcome to all his friends.' This home was formerly the residence of Madame Octavia Walton Le Vert, granddaughter of George Walton, the first governor of Georgia and one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. Everything connected with this brilliant woman is carefully and highly prized by Colonel Dyer, who in her honor named his famous home Chateau Le Vert. This house of twenty-seven rooms is furnished entirely with antique furniture — one of the best known collections in the United States. Interested also in military affairs, Colonel Dyer has for many years been an officer in the Georgia State Militia.

"His membership relations also extend to the Society of Colonial Wars and Sons of the American Revolution, the Grand Army of the Republic and the Loyal Legion, and anything which pertains to the welfare of the soldier or bears upon our military history is of interest to him. In fraternal lines he is connected with the Odd Fellows and with the Masons. He has attained the Knight Templar degree in the commandery and is also a Noble of the Mystic Shrine.

"At a recent date Colonel Dyer has returned to Kansas City, for which he has always had an especial fondness. In various ways he has manifested his interest in the city, one of the most tangible being his gift of fifteen thousand objects to the city for a museum. For more than thirty years he has been a collector of In- dian curios, which were exhibited and awarded medals and diplomas at the World's Columbian Exposition at Chicago and also at Atlanta and Augusta. This is by far the finest collection of Indian relics in the country and while it is almost impossible to place a money value on these, it is estimated that the collection is worth not less than two hundred thousand dollars. It also contains curios from Africa, the Phil- ippine Islands, Mexico and other countries. An article of rare value is an Indian gar- ment which is strung with fifteen hundred elk teeth, which are quoted on the market at from two to five dollars each. Since his return to Kansas City Colonel Dyer has here erected one of the most palatial residences of the entire Mississippi valley. Its woodwork and decorative features have come almost entirely from the Columbian Exposition held in Chicago in 1893, and the interior from the Victoria House, which was all made in England at the suggestion of Queen Victoria and made part of the building at Chicago by the royal commission for Great Britain, while other parts of his home came from the Alaska building, the Indian Territory building and the Louisiana State building of the St. Louis Exposition. It stands on a tract of forty acres of land on Independence Road, north of Beaumont station and occupies a sightly bluff commanding a view for many miles. The Corinthian columns, supporting the portico, which is two stories high, extend across the entire front and both sides of the building. The ground plan of the house measures one hundred and twelve by sixty-nine feet and it is three full stories in height. The woodwork in the first story is nearly all from the Victoria House. The feature of the music room is a handsomely carved organ case taken from the New York State building at the St. Louis fair. The modeled plaster ceiling in the parlor and hall are copied from ceilings in Plas Mawr at Conway, North Wales, built about 1550 by the Wynns of Gwydir and known in England as Queen Elizabeth's Palace. The staircase from the Victoria House is of English walnut, the carving wrought by hand, and the ceiling, the stairway and main landing are copied from one still existing at Haddon Hall in Derbyshire. In the living room is a fireplace taken

CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS 21

from Victoria House and built of terra cotta. Above the fireplace is a deep frieze and upon it is carved in old English lettering the following inscription:

'Babble not o'ermuch, my friend,

If thou wouldst be called wyse. To speak or prate or use much talk

Engenders many lyes.'

"The house contains many beautiful works of art as displayed in its bric-a-brac, fancy chandeliers, heavy bronze lamps designed by Tiffany for the veranda, urns and statuary for the terraces and lawn. In any analyzation of the life of Colonel Dyer it would seem almost difficult to designate his predominant characteristic. When one sees him, considering a business proposition, he seems an alert man whose entire thought and purposes are concentrated upon business problems ; to converse with him, concerning the curios and the antique furniture that he has collected, one would imagine that his entire life had been devoted to that task; if one discuss with him the Indian question, it would seem that his time had been given exclusively to the study of this governmental problem; meeting him socially one finds him a most genial, hospitable host, whose one aim seems to be the com- fort of his guests. Summing up all these things, one comes to know Colonel Dyer as a most broad-minded man of wide interest, who is never too busy to be cordial nor never too cordial to be busy."

When the Kansas City Museum was established Colonel Dyer made valuable contributions thereto of his famous collection accumulated during a residence of fifteen years with the Indians, and since then in all parts of the world, for in mak- ing his collection Mr. Dyer did not confine his researches to the limits of Indian reservations. Hence there are found in his collection many most curious objects of great interest from the isolated islands of the sea and from Mexico; South America; the wilds of Africa; from Alaska, China, Japan and Turkey. Colonel Dyer is now residing in Augusta, Georgia, but is well known in Chicago and in other parts of the country where his interests and labors have taken him and where at all times his personal worth and public spirit have made him a valued citizen.

WILLIAM JOSEPH WATSON.

William Joseph Watson, now living retired, was born in Philadelphia, March 26, 1843, a son of James V. and Elizabeth M. Watson. He was graduated from the Central high school of his native city and, in 1863, went to Battle Creek, Michigan, where he remained in business for seven years. In 1870 he went to St. Louis, Missouri, as representative of the Middleton Car Spring Company, of Philadelphia, and on the 1st of May, 1873, arrived in Chicago as representative of the same company, with which he was promoted until he became president in 1890. He has organized several well known companies in the railway supply business, among the most prominent being the Buda Foundry & Manufacturing Company, established in 1884. He was also the promoter of the Hewitt Manufacturing Com-

22 CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS

pany, which he organized in 1886, and the Fort Madison Iron Works Company, which he founded in 1887. He served as president of all, and at one time was vice president and a director of the Metropolitan National Bank. He was like- wise vice president of the Calumet & Chicago Canal Dock Company and of the Willard Sons & Bell Company, manufacturers of car axles.

In 1865 Mr. Watson was united in marriage to Miss Amelia E. Gould, of New- ark, New Jersey, and they have a son, James V., born in November, 1866. The family reside at No. 2640 Prairie avenue.

CALVIN S. SMITH.

When a man possessed of good judgment, clear insight and unusual business acumen assumes duties for which he has natural ability he seldom fails to make a success of his undertaking. Thus it was with Calvin S. Smith, for many years general agent in Chicago for the Penn Mutual Life Insurance Company of Phila- delphia. Thrown upon his own resources at the early age of thirteen, his life record furnished a splendid exemplification of courage and self-confidence crowned with well earned success.

A product of the Nutmeg state, which has contributed so many able insurance men, Calvin S. Smith was born December 21, 1851, at Thompsonville. He was n son of Martin M. and Anne (Stevens) Smith, the former of whom was born in Connecticut and the latter in Glasgow, Scotland. The father of Mrs. Smith, James Stevens, came to America in the latter part of the '80s with his family and established his home in Connecticut. He was a successful merchant, financier and wholesale coal dealer. Martin M. Smith, the father of our subject, was a skilled mechanic. He also possessed unusual inventive ability and was the inventor of the c-il spring now universally used in railroad coaches. He died in 1867, his wife passing away ten years later. Calvin Smith, the grandfather, came west early in the '40s. He traveled on the Erie canal, which was then the principal route across New York state, and drove an ox team from Detroit, locating in Armada, Michigan. He engaged in farming and died early in the '50s, on the farm upon which he- established his home. His faithful wife survived until 1872. The Smith family participated prominently in early wars of the country. David Smith was a valiant soldier at the time of the Revolution and Calvin Smith wore the uniform of the United States government in the war of 1812. The men of the family have been noted for their bravery in times of danger and their unswerving fidelity to any cause which they espoused. Martin M. Smith was one of the first men to en- list in the Union army at the time of the Civil war, serving in the Forty-seventh Massachusetts Volunteers.

Until the age of eleven years Calvin S. Smith attended the public schools in Chicopee, Massachusetts, and about one year later entered the Wesleyan Academy at Wilbraham, Massachusetts, where he remained one term. Unfortunate circum- stances then threw him upon his own resources and made him the architect of his own fortune. After leaving school he started in as an errand boy and was thus engaged in a store in Chicopee for some time. Following this he obtained a posi-

CALVIN S. SMITH

CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS 25

tion in his uncle's store in Thompsonville, Connecticut, where at the end of one year, by industry and economy, he had accumulated sufficient money to pay his expenses for another term at Wesleyan Academy, Wilbraham, Massachusetts. After completing his term he went to Hartford, Connecticut, where he obtained a posi- tion as clerk in a wholesale fruit house, where he was engaged two and one-half years. Leaving this position, he went west, locating in Fort Wayne, Indiana, about 1869, and there took the position of clerk in the office of the United States Express Company. Later he ran as express messenger for about four years for this company between Fort Wayne, Indiana, and Cadillac, Michigan, and subse- quently, after a year spent in northern Michigan and Chicago, where he was en- gaged in the lumber business, he went into the men's furnishing business, which he carried on for four years. Satisfied that better returns could be secured by tak- ing on a larger subject, he entered the life insurance field in 1880, connecting him- self with the Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company, of Milwaukee, Wis- consin. He made a success of the business from the beginning. He found the in- surance business a congenial occupation. His mind was unusually quick of appre- hension and he advanced rapidly, taking a foremost position as a producer of busi- ness. In 1883 he was made general agent for Chicago and Cook county of the Penn Mutual Life Insurance Company of Philadelphia, one of its most important general agencies. In this capacity he not only made a big success but employed methods that dignified the business and took rank among the ablest men in the country in his position and developed the business until the agency became one of the leading ones in the city. In 1902 he admitted C. J. McCary and M. E. Ran- dolph into the business, the firm becoming Smith, McCary & Company, in which Mr. Smith continued as the head during the remainder of his active life.

Soon after taking up the insurance business in 1880 Mr. Smith established one of the pioneer real-estate businesses on the south side, founding the firm of L. M. Smith & Brother. At that time he carried on the business during his .spare hours and evenings. He soon found that he had assumed too much and that he had more work than he could attend to properly, so he turned the business over to his brother L. M. Smith, the present head of the firm.

Politically Mr. Smith gave his support to the republican party and in religious belief he was reared as an anti-fiddler Scotch Presbyterian but after his marriage adhered to the Reformed Episcopal church. He was a prominent club man and his presence at club gatherings was always welcome as he possessed a sunny dis- position and the rare faculty of creating a feeling of geniality wherever he ap- peared. He was a valued member of the Union League, Washington Park and Midlothian Clubs, and held life memberships in the South Shore Country Club and the Chicago Athletic Association, also being connected with the Big Lake Shooting Club and the Pekin and Spring Lake Gun and Fishing Club. He took great de- light in outdoor sports and was a lover of golf and the automobile.

Pleasing in manner, witty and universally esteemed, Mr. Smith drew friends through the force of an agreeable personality. He was a lover of his home but his business required contact with the world and few men were so active in affairs, traveled more extensively or could claim a larger circle of acquaintances in all parts of the United States. He personally met most of the prominent men of America and some of his warmest friends were men high in business, social and political

Vol. V— 2

26 CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS

circles. He never yielded to excesses as his character was remarkably well bal- anced and the longer he was known — the greater the confidence and respect in which he was held.

Such is a brief outline of the life and work of one of the brightest and most popular insurance men Chicago has known. He was manly, honorable and upright and had the esteem and regard of all who knew him. His death, which occurred on the 26th of December, 1909, was deeply felt. He is survived by his widow, Mrs. Ida A. Smith, who previous to her marriage, on November 24, 1875, at Kalamazoo, Michigan, was Miss Ida A. Allen, a daughter of John Baker and Katherine (Murray) Allen. For a number of years her father was prominently identified with the woolen manufacturing business at Syracuse, New York, later taking up his residence at Kalamazoo. Mrs. Smith still resides in the home at 3982 Lake avenue which her husband built and lived in for more than twenty years previous to his death. He was buried in Oakwoods cemetery, where his widow has erected a magnificent mausoleum. His memory is held in profoundest regard by those with whom he associated and his many generous and friendly acts like a beautiful benediction continue to wield their influence although he is no longer to be seen in the home circle or in the social gatherings of which he was the ac- knowledged leader.

STEWART SPALDING.

Preeminently a business man, Stewart Spalding has never sought to figure be- fore the public in any other light and, in fact, has always manifested a spirit of modesty in regard to his personality. He was born in Middlebury, Vermont, a son of Joel and Harriet C. (Allen) Spalding, and in early life removed to Water- town, New York, where he acquired his education and training in the public schools of that city, graduating from the Jefferson County (N. Y.) Institute. His school days over, he sought the opportunities of the west and his dynamic force and keen discernment have been vital forces in the management of important business inter- ests in Chicago. For twelve years he was secretary and treasurer of the Calumet & Chicago Canal & Dock Company, the company that founded the town of South Chicago and that made it possible for the Illinois Steel Works to build their im- mense plant at that place.

Chicago owes it to Mr. Spalding for its only exposition building as it was his conception and his enterprise that gave the city the Coliseum building. As secre- tary and managing director of the Coliseum Company he has capably met the demands required, in the successful control of an enterprise of such magnitude. In the Coliseum have been held some of the world's greatest exhibitions. It has been the convention hall for some of the most prominent gatherings in the United States. To control the Coliseum's interests, to make its rentals a paying invest- ment is the duty which devolves upon Mr. Spalding, and his business associates speak of his labors in this connection in terms of praise and commendation.

Mr. Spalding's wife was Carrie S. Chapin of Chicago; they reside at No. 1349 North State street. Mr. Spalding is a republican in his political sentiments, but

CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS 27

has never sought activity or prominence in political circles, preferring to concen- trate his energies upon the complex and important business problems which are continually arising for solution in connection with the management of the Coliseum. He is, however, interested in Chicago's upbuilding, and his opinions have on many occasions proved influencing factors in questions of vital municipal importance bearing upon the material upbuilding and the adornment and improvement of the city.

WALKER O. LEWIS.

Walker O. Lewis is occupying a position of responsibility as assistant treasure* of Sears, Roebuck & Company. Mr. Lewis was born in Petersburg, Illinois, June 24, 1874. His paternal grandfather was the Rev. W. H. Lewis, for many years a well known minister of the Methodist church, connected always with the Mis- souri conference. He passed away in 1909, at the age of ninety-five years, being at that time the oldest minister in Missouri. His influence was a potent force in behalf of Christianity and his labors did much to spread the truth of the gospel in the state which he made his home.

Charles T. Lewis, the father of our subject, was a native of Howard county, Missouri, born near Glasgow, and his early youth was spent at Independence, Mis- souri, a district which at that time was in a state of continuous unrest, for this was just before and during the early period of the Civil war, when desperate fighting was going on between the Kansas jayhawkers and the Missouri guerrillas. Inde- pendence was also the starting point for California mail and passengers carried overland in coach drawn by six Mexican mules with side driver. Life and property were rendered unsafe owing to the high feeling which prevailed, and because of this fact the grandfather of Walker O. Lewis removed with his family to Fayette, Missouri. It was not long after this that Charles T. Lewis enlisted for service in the Confederate army, serving for nearly three years with the troops under General Price. He was wounded at the battle of Pea Ridge, where the Confed- erates were defeated by Siegel's army, and after their defeat hurried away down the Arkansas river, proceeding by boat down the Mississippi to Memphis. Mr. Lewis was also wounded in the siege of Vicksburg, which lasted from April until July. Prior to that time he had been wounded three times in the battle of Corinth and was again wounded at Champion's Hill, just before entering upon the siege of Vicksburg. He participated in twenty hotly contested engagements and many skirmishes. Following the siege of Vicksburg he was taken up the Mississippi river to St. Louis, where he was placed in the home of a friend until he had suffi- ciently recovered to be transferred, under bond, to Petersburg, Illinois, where he now resides. He was united in marriage there to Miss Annie White, a daughter of Isaac White, a successful business man of Petersburg, and unto them were born three sons and five daughters, two of the sons, Walker O. Lewis and Ralston I. Lewis, D. D. S., being residents of Chicago. The third brother was killed by accident in Chicago. Two daughters of the family are married and a third is a successful teacher of music, while the two youngest daughters of the family became equally successful as public-school teachers.

28 CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS

While spending his boyhood days in the home of his parents, Walker O. Lewis mastered the branches of learning which constituted the public-school curriculum in his native city, and later in Chicago had the benefit of a special course in high- school studies. After completing his earlier education, he took a position with Harms, Levering & Clary of Petersburg, Illinois, in September, 1889, which he retained until September, 1895, when, attracted by the broader business oppor- tunities of the city, he came to Chicago, and in order to better equip himself for a commercial career, spent six months as a student in the Bryant & Stratton Busi- ness College. On the 25th of February, 1896, he entered the employ of Sears, Roebuck & Company as office boy. He became deeply interested in the business, early manifested his willingness to work, gave indication that his industry was directed by good judgment, and thus he advanced steadily from one position to another until he was made assistant treasurer. His labors and ability have con- tributed to the splendid success of this house, the growth of which has been almost phenomenal, its trade interests covering the entire country. It is one of the largest mail order houses in the world and its success is due to the efforts of young busi- ness men like Mr. Lewis, who fear not that close application and unfaltering industry which are indispensable elements of success.

On the 27th of April, 1900, Mr. Lewis was united in marriage to Miss Hattie Kaestner, daughter of Herman Kaestner, a pioneer tobacco merchant. Mr. Kaest- ner. lost his property and stock of tobacco in the great Chicago fire. He died in 1895. Mrs. Kaestner, nee Gebhardt, came over from Germany in a sail boat in the '50s, and the time consumed in making the trip was seventy-seven days. The trip was accompanied by many perils. Mrs. Kaestner enjoys telling about their early experiences in Chicago, and especially relative to the growth thereof. Mrs. Kaestner spends most of her time with Mrs. Lewis in Oak Park and still enjoys good health. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Lewis have been born three sons: Harold Walker, Ralph Palmer and Paul Osborn.

Mr. Lewis has also served as treasurer of the Seroco Mutual Benefit Associa- tion since its formation in 1902, an organization operated in the interests of the employes of Sears, Roebuck & Company. Mr. Lewis owns a home in Oak Park, is a member of the Cuyler Avenue Methodist Episcopal church of Oak Park, and is much interested in religious work. He holds a membership in the City Club, Young Men's Christian Association and Art Institute, and is a graduate of the Western College of Law.

GEORGE B. CURRIER.

George B. Currier, residing at No. 312 Kedzie street, Evanston, and well known as an extensive dealer in flour, feed and grain, was born in Newburyport, Massa- chusetts, November 18, 1856, his parents being George E. and Harriet (Bartlett) Currier, both of whom spent their entire lives in the old Bay state, where they now lie buried. His paternal grandfather was Joseph Currier and his maternal grandfather was Joseph Bartlett. George E. Currier was an old-time shipbuilder on the banks of the Merrimac river, which even back in Revolutionary times was

CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS . 29

noted as a ship-building place, the old Dreadnought having been built there. George E. Currier was one of the last of the old ship-builders of that place and was widely known as a reliable and capable business man. He was twice mar- ried, his first wife being Harriet Bartlett, by whom he had two children: George B. Currier, of this review; and Nellie, who was two years younger than her brother and is now deceased. For his second wife the father chose Sarah Simonds and unto them were born six children, three sons and three daughters, all yet living with the exception of two daughters.

George B. Currier, whose name introduces this record, attended the public schools of his native town until he had mastered the work of successive grades and was graduated from the high school. He entered business in connection with the dry-goods trade at Georgetown, Massachusetts, in 1878 and there remained for five years. On the expiration of that period he removed to the middle west, set- tling first at Kansas City, Missouri, where he was engaged in the grain business from 1883 until 1895. In that year he removed to Paola, Kansas, where he also conducted a grain business for three or four years. Seeking, however, a broader field of labor, he came to Chicago in 1899 and here engaged in the flour and grain business in connection with Arthur G. Pearson at Evanston. The undertaking prospered and after three years he purchased his partner's interest, having been engaged in business alone since 1902. He now has an extensive trade in flour, feed and grain, being well known among the retailers of the north side as a man liberal in his dealings and at all times straightforward and honorable in his methods.

In October, 1881, Mr. Currier was united in marriage to Miss Mary Agnes Pearson, of Newburyport, Massachusetts, her parents being Alonzo and Lydia Pearson. Our subject and his wife have two daughters, Nellie and Edith, both still at home.

Politically Mr. Currier is a republican, well informed concerning the questions and issues of the day yet with no ambition for office. He was reared in the Con- gregational church and he is a Mason of high rank, belonging to all the different Masonic bodies.

OTTO J. DEWITZ, M. D.

Dr. Otto J. Dewitz, an alumnus of the College of Physicians and Surgeons, has since his graduation in 1904 been engaged in practice in Chicago. He was born in Peotone, Illinois, June 7, 1876. His father, Jacob Dewitz, was a native of Frankfort-on-the-Main, Germany, devoted his life to wagon manufacturing and passed away on the 22d of March, 1904. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Mary Offner, was also born in Germany and died November 21, 1910. They were the parents of five children: Theodore H., who is a druggist of Chicago; Mary, of Cheyenne Wells, Colorado; August C., living in Salt Lake City; Otto J., of this review; and Louis C., who makes his home in this city.

When six years of age Otto J. Dewitz became a pupil in the public schools of Peotone, wherein he continued his studies until shortly before the time of gradua- tion, when he left school to accept a position, working in a general store for two

30 . CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS

years. Within that period, however, he had determined to become a physician and so continued at work in order to earn the money to defray his expenses through college. At the close of his two years' experience as a clerk in a general store in his native town he removed to Chicago and for three years was employed as a salesman in Gus Naerup's grocery store. He afterward spent three years in his brother's drug store and also attended the Chicago College of Pharmacy, from which he was graduated in 1901. This gave him broad and beneficial knowledge of remedial agencies and in 1902 he entered the College of Physicians and Sur- geons, from which he was graduated in 1904, standing ninth in his class and receiv- ing honorable mention. Immediately afterward he opened an office at No. 4001 Milwaukee avenue, where he has since been located. He does not specialize but continues in the general practice of medicine and surgery and has a splendidly equipped and appointed office, supplied with the latest improved instruments and help| in practice. He now has one of the latest X ray machines in his office and this has been of great help to him in his surgical work. He holds membership in the Chicago Medical Society and the American Medical Association and is con- tinually studying to promote his knowledge and skill.

Dr. Dewitz holds membership with the Masonic fraternity and the Modern Woodmen of America and of the latter is medical examiner. He is also a member and medical examiner of several other societies. In politics he is a republican, voting for the men and measures of the party yet not seeking office. He has his residence and office at No. 4001 Milwaukee avenue and is a very busy man, con- stant demands being made upon him for his professional service. He has won a position that many an older practitioner might well envy and what he has already accomplished argues well for the future.

RUDOLPH MATZ.

Chicago has always been distinguished for the high rank of her bench and bar. The legal profession here represented has numbered among its members many men whose work has gained for them national prominence. Native intellectual force wisely directed in professional channels has brought Rudolph Matz to a dis- tinguished position, and as senior member of the firm of Matz, Fisher & Boyden he is accorded a very extensive clientage. His birth occurred in Chicago, December 11, 1860, his parents being Otto H. and Mary Elizabeth (Lewis) Matz. Since 1854 the father has been an architect of Chicago. He was born in Berlin, March 8, 1830, and in the '50s he was architect for the Illinois Central Railroad and the Chicago & Alton Railroad. He built the great Illinois Central depot that was destroyed in the Chicago fire of 1871. He became connected with the Union army as a civil engineer at the time of the war of the rebellion and held the rank of major at its close, serving in the meantime on the staffs of Generals Fremont, Hallock and Grant. He worked with General Wilson in the preparation of the plans for the capture of Vicksburg and rode into that city with General Grant. From 1869 until 1871 he acted as school architect of Chicago and in 1892, while serving as county architect,

RUDOLPH MATZ

CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS 33

he erected the present criminal court building. After the Chicago fire he received the first prize of five thousand dollars in competition with forty other architects for plans for the city hall and county building.

His wife was born in Pulaski, New York, December 13, 1837, and on the 26th of October, 1857, gave her hand in marriage to Otto H. Matz. She came to Chicago in 1852 with her parents, Hiram and Mary Jane (Gillespie) Lewis. Her brother, Hiram LaMotte Lewis, was for many years a prominent lawyer in Chicago, was a partner of Thomas Hoyne, who was at one time mayor of Chicago, and later was a member of the firms of Miller, Van Arman & Lewis, and Miller, Frost & Lewis. Until the time of her death, November 13, 1911, Mrs. Matz was prominent in connection with philanthropic, charitable and educational work in this city. She was for many years president of the Mary Thompson Hospital for Women and Children and was one of the founders of the Fortnightly Club. She was also a prominent member of the Chicago Woman's Club and some years ago served as its president. For forty-four years the Otto H. Matz residence has been on Oak street near the Lake Shore drive. The home was burned in the Chicago fire but was replaced by a more modern residence shortly thereafter.

There were three children born to Mr. and Mrs. Otto H. Matz, two sons and a daughter. Hermann Lewis Matz, who was born on the 2d of February, 1859, was graduated from Williams College with the class of 1880 and is a member of the Alpha Delta Phi and Phi Beta Kappa fraternities. He is now serving as 'vice president of the S. S. Kimbell Brick Company of Chicago. Evelyn Matz, whose natal day was September 7, 1862, is a graduate of the University of Chicago, was at one time principal of the Dearborn Seminary and is now associate principal of the University School for Girls.

Rudolph Matz was reared amid the refining influences of a cultured home. His early educational opportunities came to him through the Chicago public-school system, he attending successively the Sheldon, Ogden and Haven schools and the Cen- tral high school. His collegiate course was pursued in Williams College, which conferred upon him the Bachelor of Arts degree at his graduation in 1882. Drawn to the profession of the law, he pursued a course in the Northwestern University Law School and was graduated Bachelor of Law in 1886. Before entering that school he had spent two years, from 1882 until 1884, as a teacher in the Higher School for Boys, now the University School of Chicago, and he completed his law course with valedictorian honors. In the year 1885-6 he was a student hi the law office of Dexter, Herrick & Allen, and following his graduation from Northwestern University he spent a year (1886-7) in foreign travel, making a trip around the world. Following his return in the latter year he became assistant in the law office of Barnum, Rubens & Ames, and from 1888 until recently practiced in partnership with Walter L. Fisher. The firm was known as Matz & Fisher until 1897, when they were joined by William C. Boyden, now one of the overseers of Harvard University, and the present firm name of Matz, Fisher & Boyden was assumed. They were joined by Laird Bell in January, 1910, and by William Warren Case in October, 1910. Mr. Fisher was obliged to leave the firm in March, 1911, owing to his ap- pointment by President Taft to the office of Secretary of the Interior, but the firm

34 CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS

name remains unchanged. Because of being executor of the estate pf his father- in-law, Charles M. Henderson, Mr. Matz was also vice president and director of the wholesale boot and shoe house of C. M. Henderson & Company from 1896 until 1902. He is also a director of the United Shoe Machinery Company. During the World's Columbian Exposition the firm of Matz & Fisher acted as attorneys for the ways and means committee. Their practice has long been of an important char- acter, connecting them with prominent litigated interests, the conduct of which has proven their ability to cope with intricate and involved problems of the law. Wide and varied experience has brought to Mr. Matz comprehensive familiarity with legal principle and precedent and has prevented any display of faulty judgment or wrong deduction. Aside from his work in connection with the legal profession he is known in business circles as a director of the Chicago Savings Bank & Trust Company and as a director of the Chicago Auditorium Association.

On the 19th of November, 1890, in this city, Mr. Matz was married to Miss Florence Humphrey Henderson, a daughter of Charles M. and Emily (Hollings- worth) Henderson. Mrs. Matz was born in Chicago and is a member of the Fort- nightly Club and a director of the Illionis Training School for Nurses. She takes much interest in various phases of charitable work. Their children are: Ruth Hen- derson, born August 18, 1904; Charles Henderson, December 13, 1905; and Emily Florence, July SO, 1907. Mrs. Matz's father, Charles Mather Henderson, was a prominent citizen of Chicago from 1853 until his death in 1896. He was a direct descendant of Cotton Mather, and was born in New Hartford, Connecticut, in 1834. For many years he was president of C. M. Henderson & Company, one of the largest boot and shoe houses in the west. After the Chicago fire in 1871 he was active in assisting in the reorganization of the Chicago fire department. At one time he was president of the Young Men's Christian Association and for many 'years was super- intendent of the Railroad Chapel Sunday school. He became one of the founders of the Citizens Association, also of the Chicago Relief and Aid Society, was a trustee of the Home for Incurables and of the Children's Aid Society, and a director of the Third National Bank and the National Bank of America. While he occupied a position of prominence in commercial and financial circles, he was equally widely known because of the specific aid which he gave to many good works done in the name of charity and religion.

Mr. and Mrs. Matz formerly attended the Second Presbyterian church of Chicago, in which he served as a trustee from 1902 until 1904. Their home is now situated at Hubbard Wopds and he is a trustee of the WTinnetka Congregational church. He is likewise a member of the excutive committee of the Western Society for the Sup- pression of Vice. His political allegiance is given to the republican party and that he is interested in matters of progressive citizenship and questions of vital interest to the city is indicated by the fact that he is serving as a trustee of the Civic Federa- tion of Chicago. He is also a director and president of the Legal Aid Society of Chicago and because of his professional connection is a member of the American Bar Association, the Illinois State Bar Association and the Chicago Bar Association. He also belongs to the Alpha Delta Phi and Phi Beta Kappa, college fraternities, and is an alumnus visitor of Williams College. He holds membership with the University Club, the Chicago Literary Club, the' Chicago Law Club, the Skokie Coun- try Club, the City Club, all of Chicago, and the Alpha Delta Phi Club of New York

CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS 35

city. His life has at all times been honorable and upright, characterized by un- faltering adherence to those principles which, aside from any business or social dis- tinction to which he has attained, win for the individual the unqualified respect and trust of his fellowmen.

GUSTAF H. CARLSON.

Gustaf H. Carlson is perhaps the most prominent surveyor in America of Swedish descent and such is his standing in his profession that he has been re- tained for expert work in many important connections, his word coming to be widely accepted as authority. He was born in Malmo, Sweden, April 16, 1848, and at the age of twelve years went to Germany, pursuing his education in the schools of Schleswig until graduated from the technical institute at Christianfeld. In 1869 he returned to Sweden and the following year sailed for America, making his way first to Kansas, where he remained until 1873.

In that year he came to Chicago and his name has since been closely associated with the most important surveys made in this city and vicinity. From 1874 until 1877 he was engaged as village engineer of Hyde Park, surveying the village and compiling an official atlas for said village. The thoroughness and exactness of his work in this connection brought him at once into such prominence that the fol- lowing year the democratic nomination was tendered him unsolicited. Later Mr. Carlson compiled atlases of the city of Chicago, the city of Lake View and the town of Lake. He had previously formed a partnership with Samuel S. Greely for the publication of these atlases under the firm name of Greely, Carlson & Company, which in 1887 was incorporated under the name of the Greely-Carlson Company. For ten years afterward Mr. Carlson continued as manager of the com- pany and all of the work including the planning of town sites, subdivisions and cemeteries, was thus under his personal supervision. These atlases are regarded as authority and are used by the various departments of the city government and in the offices of attorneys and real-estate firms. The towns of Hegewish, Pullman, Normal Park, Auburn Park, Chicago Heights and Edgewater are among those laid out by Mr. Carlson. He is frequently consulted as an eminent authority in cases of disputed boundaries in the city of Chicago and also in this state and in other states when a high degree of accuracy is required.

In 1898 Mr. Carlson sold his interest in the Greely-Carlson Company and opened an independent office at what is now No. 25 North Dearborn street, where he is still located. Among other important surveys made for the city of Chicago Mr. Carlson undertook on the 10th of January, 1903, a survey from Madison street to Van Buren street for the depot grounds of the Pennsylvania Railroad. This survey was made with the ultimate purpose of widening the Chicago river, the survey being to determine the accuracy of previous surveys and the right to some of the property held by the Pennsylvania Railroad which contested the right of the city for endeavoring to encroach on what they termed was their rightful prop- erty. The sanitary board employed Mr. Matheson, who originally laid out the Illinois and Michigan canal and whose authority on such questions had previously

36 CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS

never been questioned. Mr. Matheson's survey showed that the railroad com- pany's property encroached on the Chicago river and on the strength of this survey they brought a suit of ejectment against the railroad company. Mr. Carlson's expert testimony was called into the case of the people of the state of Illinois against the Illinois Steel Company in regard to the property occupied by the south works of the Illinois Steel Company along the shore of Lake Michigan at South Chicago, that in pursuance of such employment he made such survey and examined the records of the United States engineering department, showing the location of the lake shore in that vicinity from time to time, and that from such survey and examination of such records he found that land had been made along the shore line from Seventy-ninth street to Calumet river to the extent of one hundred and eighty-seven and a fraction acres. Furthermore as the result of his survey it was ascertained that other land, together with the extent of two hundred and thirty- four and thirty-five huiidredths acres was reclaimed by the Illinois Steel Company and that this was worth twenty-three thousand, four hundred and thirty-five dollars.

On the 8th of November, 1878, Mr. Carlson was married to Miss Julie Vodoz, of Vevey, Switzerland, and unto them have been born a son and daughter, Gustaf and Julie Vodoz, named respectively for the father and mother. The son who is in business with his father is thoroughly proficient in that line and is now general office manager.

In religious faith Mr. Carlson is a Christian Scientist and in politics is a demo- crat of the old school but is not so bound by party ties that he does not feel that he can vote independently. In fact he did cast a presidential ballot for Wiliam Mc- Kinley. He is an associate member of the Chicago Real Estate Board but is not prominent as a club man. He makes his home at Glen Ellyn and is interested in the progress and welfare of that attractive suburb. Thorough technical training qualified him for the work to which he has devoted his life and in which he has made continuous progress until he stands as one of the foremost surveyors of the countrv.

ELIJAH BERNIS SHERMAN, LL. D.

Honors multiplied unto Elijah Bernis Sherman as the years passed and his life became recognized as of large worth in the profession of the law, in citizenship and in the field of literature. He was an attorney of marked ability, a writer of grace and force, an orator whose eloquence never failed to move his hearers, and under- all circumstances he measured up to the high standards which make of the indi- vidual a serviceable factor in the world's work and progress — and what else is there in life? Mr. Sherman was born in Fairfield, Vermont, June 18, 1832, and came of the same ancestry as General William Tecumseh Sherman and the Hon. John Sherman, the line being traced back to Samuel Sherman, who came from England in 1637 and settled in Connecticut. His grandfather was Ezra Sherman, who removed from Connecticut to Vermont about the beginning of the nineteenth century. His son, Elias Huntington Sherman, married a granddaughter of the

E. B. SHEUMAX

CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS 39

Rev. Peter Worden, a distinguished patriot and pioneer minister prominent in the early history of western Massachusetts and southern Vermont.

It has been said of Elijah B. Sherman that he inherited his full share of the energy, courage, self-reliance and ambition which characterized his ancestors. Un- til his majority he lived and toiled on a farm, acquired a common-school education, and at nineteen began teaching a district school. His boyhood comprehended the almost invariable conditions from which the energy of our large cities is each year recruited. He had ambition without apparent opportunity, a taste for literature without access to it, a predisposition to thoughtfulness without the ordinary scho- lastic channels in which to employ it. But what he then supposed were limitations upon his life were in reality the highest opportunities. With nature for a tutor and himself and his environment for studies he found a. school from which the city-bred boy is barred and whence issue the men who in city and country make events.

Elijah B. Sherman was a pupil in the schools of Brandon and Manchester and in 1856 matriculated in Middlebury College, from which he was graduated with honors in 1860. He then took up the profession of teaching and resigned his posi- tion as principal of the Brandon Seminary in 1862 in order that he might aid the Union. After assisting in raising a company of the Ninth Vermont Infantry he enlisted as a private but on the organization of the regiment was elected second lieutenant. In September of that year the command was captured at Harper's Ferry but was paroled and sent to Camp Douglas, Chicago, to await exchange. Three months having passed in enforced idleness, Lieutenant Sherman resigned in January, 1863, and entered the law department of the Chicago University, from which he was graduated the following year. Twenty years later he delivered the annual address before the associated alumni of his alma mater and, with the law for his theme, set forth a masterly presentation of the majesty and beneficence of the law, its supreme importance as a factor of civilization, and a severe arraign- ment of the defective administration of the criminal law by the tribunals of the country. The trustees of the college conferred upon him the honorary degree of LL. D., a distinction more highly prized because the college has conferred the degree upon few of its graduates who have attained eminence. From 1894 until his death Mr. Sherman was one of the trustees of the college and actively inter- ested in its administration.

In the stirring times of the Civil war and the period which immediately pre- ceded it, it was impossible for any man who had the least spark of national pride and patriotism in him not to become actively interested in politics. Mr. Sherman was early recognized as a stanch advocate of the republican party, which was formed to prevent the further extension of slavery. He had been trained in a school of abolition thought, for his father's home was one of the stations on the famous underground railroad, whereby many a fugitive slave was assisted on his way to freedom in the north. Throughout his life Mr. Sherman remained a close and dis- criminating student of the vital questions of the day and following his election to the general assembly in 1876 became a recognized leader in that body, which num- bered among its members some of the most prominent men of Illinois. He was made chairman of the judiciary committee and was largely influential in securing the passage of the act establishing appellate courts. His personal and professional

40 CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS

character also made him one of the most influential supporters of General Logan for reelection to the United States senate. Mr. Sherman's course received in- dorsement in reelection in 1878 and during his second term he was chairman of the committee on corporations and a member of the committee on militia. In 1877 an act had been passed organizing the Illinois National Guard, which in 1879 was amended, amplified and largely brought into its present shape. Governor Cullom recognized the important part Mr. Sherman had taken in this work and appointed him judge advocate of the first brigade with the rank of lieutenant colonel, which position he filled until 1884. He never held political office other than that of leg- islator, preferring at all times to concentrate his energies upon his professional interests. A contemporary writer has said of him in this connection: "Mr. Sher- man's duties as master in chancery of the United States circuit court commenced under appointment of Judges Harlan, Drummond and Blodgett in 1879. In that capacity his penetrating judgment and judicial acumen have had full and con- tinuous exercise and have established his high character as a chancery judge and won the general approval of attorneys and those who have brought matters before him for adjudication. In 1884, Mr. Sherman was appointed chief supervisor of elections for the northern district of Illinois and supervised the congressional elec- tions until the time of the repeal of the law for ten years later. At the November election of 1892 he appointed fourteen hundred supervisors who registered two hundred and sixty-seven thousand voters, made inquiry as to their right to vote, scrutinized the votes cast and made return to the chief supervisor as to the results. The delicate duties of this responsible position were performed so ably and fairly that he chief supervisor received unstinted commendation."

Mr. Sherman's name should ever have an honored place on the roster of Illi- nois' distinguished attorneys from the fact that he was one of the founders of the Illinois State Bar Association in 1877 and rendered valuable service thereto as its president in 1882. The same year he became a member of the American Bar Association and was its vice president from Illinois in 1885 and 1899. For many years he was a member and officer of the American Institute of Civics, a society whose membership included citizens of high character and commanding influence from every state of the Union. He likewise belonged to the National Municipal League and was a close student of every subject that bore directly and indirectly upon the welfare of city, state and nation. His patriotic impulses and military serv- ice drew him to membership in the Grand Army of the Republic and the Illinois Commandery of the Loyal Legion. He was prominent in the Odd Fellows society, having been grand master of the Illinois grand lodge and grand representative to the sovereign grand lodge, while in Masonry he attained the Knight Templar de- gree of the York Rite and the thirty-second degree of the Scottish Rite, belonging to Chicago Commandery and to Oriental Consistory. He was welcomed to the membership of the Philosophical Society, the Saracen, Alliance, Oakland Culture and Twentieth Century Clubs, wherein he found literary companionship and was also honored with office, serving as president of several of the organizations. He was fond of belles lettres and delighted in the exquisite charm of the masterpieces of literature. His excellent literary ability and taste are seen in many essays from his pen, which show a unique and vigorous style, enriched by a chastened fancy and glowing with gentle and genial humor. His interest in his native state

CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS 41

and his pardonable pride in what his ancestors had wrought and in the noble herit- age which New England had bequeathed to her sons and daughters, led to his deep interest in the Illinois Association of the Sons of Vermont. He was its president and later when it was merged into the New England Society of Chicago, he served for two years as president of the latter. He paid glowing tribute to New England in his introductory address and on that occasion said:

"Let others meet to chant the praises of science. We assemble in the name of a pure sentiment. The votaries of science may smile at our supposed weakness ; we, in turn, may deride their affected wisdom, remembering that science has given us none of the words that touch the heart and unseal the deep fountains of the soul — friendship and patriotism, piety and worship, love, hope and immortality. The sweet solace of the matchless trinity — mother, home and heaven — is neither the blossoming of reason nor the product of scientific research, but the efflorescence of a divinely implanted sentiment. Science, indeed, is the primeval, barren rock; but sentiment disintegrates its flinty surface, converts it into fertile soil, gives the joyous sunshine and the falling rain, brings from afar the winged seed, and lo! the once sterile surface is clad with pleasing verdure, rich with ripening grain, fragrant with budding flowers, and vocal with the hum of living things."

In kindly remembrance of his college life and affiliations and yielding to the unanimous wish of the annual conventions, he was elected honorary president of the national society of the Delta Upsilon fraternity for thirteen years. In 1894 he delivered a scholarly address at the convention held in Chicago on "Scholarship and Heroism," a few sentences of which will illustrate this eloquent appeal to the young men who are to control the destinies of the morrow:

"Scholarship holds in equilibrium the instrumentalities and agencies of civiliza- tion, even as gravitation reaches its invisible arm into infinite space and bears onward in their harmonious orbits uncounted worlds, while it cares tenderly for the tiniest grain of sand on the seashore and softly cradles in its bosom the fleeciest cloud which floats across the sky. From the serene heights where scholarship sways its benign scepter its message has come to you, at once an invitation and an impera- tive summons. You have been bidden to join the shining cohorts of the world's greatest benefactors. You have obeyed the divine mandate. You have taken upon yourself the tacit vows of heroic living. You are dedicated to the exalted service of scholarship; its sanctions demand your instant and implicit obedience. Con- secrated to this ennobling service, this priesthood of humanity, let not your foot- steps falter, nor your courage fail. Stand firm, remembering the words of the Master: 'No man having put his hand to the plow and looking back is fit for the kingdom of God.' If heroic impulse comes to men in humble life, surely it can come no less to those whom culture and scholarship have broadened and enriched and ennobled. If opportunity for heroic endeavor comes to those whose lives run in narrow channels, much more does it come to those to whom the world is indebted for its advancement and improvement."

While declaring that scholarship and heroism are allied powers of civilization and joined by divine edict, Mr. Sherman paid a beautiful tribute to the humble heroes and heroines who have lived and died in obscurity: "While I have thus em- phasized the heroism of true scholarship and cherishing as I do a feeling of pro- found reverence and admiration for the great heroes who through the ages have

42 CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS

wrought grandly for humanity and achieved enduring renown, whose inspired utter- ances and shining deeds have been graven upon imperishable tablets and who have bequeathed to us and all coming generations the inestimable legacy of their illus- trious example, I must yet confess a doubt whether the most magnificent exemplars of heroism have not been found in the humbler walks of life, among those who in their simplicity of soul and modest grandeur of character never dreamed that in all the essentials of true manhood and womanhood they held high rank in heaven's untitled aristocracy. How many heroic souls, obscure and unknown, whose names have perished from remembrance, were wrought and fashioned in nature's divinest mold and have made their lives sublime by gracious deeds of beneficence and self- abnegation. As the most delicate and fragrant flowers are often found nestling modestly among the dead leaves or peeping timidly forth from some shady bower, so the most resplendent virtues blossom and diffuse their sweet aroma beside the lowliest and roughest paths trodden by bruised and bleeding feet. The rose may seem to add pride to peerless beauty; the lily to minimize its delicacy by a tacit demand for admiration ; but the shy arbutus yields its unrivaled fragrance only to the earnest wooer who seeks it with loving care in the hidden nook where it was planted by fairy hands and perfumed by the breath of dainty dryads. God has vouchsafed to the world no choicer blessing than the unconscious heroes and heroines who give to earth its greatest charm, and without whose presence heaven would suffer irreparable loss."

Touching the home life of Mr. Sherman, those who knew the man and his high ideals can never doubt the pleasant relations which there existed. Naught else in life held the sacred place in his affections which did his home. He was married in 1866 to Miss Harriett G. Lovering, a daughter of S. M. Lovering, who at that time was a resident of Iowa Falls, Iowa, but was a native of Vermont. Mrs. Sherman has been spoken of as a woman of excellent judgment, self-poised and self-reliant, has read widely of the best literature and is held in high esteem by all who know her. She belongs to the Chicago Woman's Club, the Daughters of the American Revolution, the Colonial Daughters of Patriots and Founders and was one of the organizers of the patriotic society known as the Dames of the Loyal Legion, being now president of the national organization. Their only living son, Bernis Wilmarth Sherman, was graduated from Middlebury College of Vermont in 1890, from the Northwestern University College of Law in 1892 and is now assistant city attorney. He belongs to the Loyal Legion and the Chicago and Illi- nois State Bar Associations and, inspired by the noble example of his father, has achieved an excellent reputation as a lawyer, man and citizen. He married Eva Stanley Stearns, of Kalamazoo, Michigan, and they have two children, Wilmarth A. and Frederick J.

The death of Elijah B. Sherman occurred May 1, 1910. In his early residence in Chicago he had been a member of Dr. Evart's church and afterward attended the services of Professor Swing and upon the death of the latter had become a sup- porter of Dr. Gunsaulus' church. Seldom does a family receive as many resolu- tions on the death of any individual as came to Mrs. Sherman at the time of her husband's demise from the various societies and organizations with which he was connected, containing strong expressions of high regard and honor entertained for him. He had passed the seventy-seventh milestone on life's journey and his life,

CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS 43

growiilg richer mentally and spiritually as the years passed on, had given out of its rich stores of wisdom and experience for the benefit of others. He was ready to meet every demand that came to him in the course of an active life fraught with large responsibilities. The splendid use he had made of his time, talents and oppor- tunities had equipped him for the important work which he was called upon to do and which gave decided impetus to the city's progress and improvement and up- held its legal, political and moral status.

GEORGE PECK MERRICK.

As man leaves the elemental and approaches a higher civilization, using in mul- tiple forms the varied natural resources of the country, and from the results achieved therein evolves still more intricate interests wherein the rights and privileges of an increasing number of individuals are involved, the complexities of the law have become greater and legal problems more difficult of solution. Gradually, therefore, law has resolved itself into departments and specialization in the field of practice is therefore the outcome. George Peck Merrick, choosing the profession of the law as a life work, has concentrated his efforts more and more largely upon corpo- ration law and is today recognized as the legal representative of many important interests of this character in Chicago. Moreover his entire life has been actuated by the spirit of undaunted enterprise which has ever dominated the middle west.

A native son of Illinois, he was born October 4, 1862, of the marriage of Dr. George C. and Mary (Peck) Merrick. His more specifically literary education was acquired in the Northwestern University, from which he was graduated in 1884. His early professional reading was done under the direction of Judge Hanecy and in May, 1886, he passed the required examination which admitted him to prac- tice in the Illinois courts. Early in his career he become identified with corpora- tion law, being made assistant attorney for the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Rail- road Company with headquarters in Chicago. He was thus identified with the railroad until 1889, when he became a partner of his former preceptor, Judge Hanecy. This relation was maintained until the election of Mr. Hanecy to the circuit bench in 1893, after which Mr. Merrick continued alone in practice until he became senior partner of the firm of Merrick, Evans & Whitney.

While advancement at the bar is proverbially slow, Mr. Merrick early displayed the possession of those qualities whereby he has gradually won his way to a fore- most position in the field of corporation law. Many important cases have tested his metal and have found him qualified for the demands made upon him. He was one of the leading practitioners in the lake shore litigation, in which he secured the decision of the supreme court establishing the lake shore as a park. The field of his activity, however, is not confined to his work as an advocate and counselor, but reaches out into public affairs, particularly in connection with Evanston, where he maintains his home. He has served as alderman and as civil service commis- sioner there and in the discussion of questions of moment his opinions have been an influencing and beneficial factor.

44 CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS

In 1885 Mr. Merrick was married to Miss Grace Thompson, of Galesburg, Illinois, and unto them have been born two sons and a daughter, Clinton, Grace W. and Thompson. The family are prominent in the social circles of Evanston and Mr. Merrick belongs to the Evanston, Glen View, Chicago and University Clubs, and to the Sigma Chi fraternity. He has been president of the Evanston board of education, is a trustee of the Northwestern University and has been hon- ored with the presidency of its alumni association. Interested in all manly outdoor sports and athletics, his training permits that well developed physical manhood which must constitute the basis of all strong intellectual effort. No matter how varied or extensive his interests, however, his attention is chiefly centered upon the law and his devotion to his clients' interests is proverbial. He has close fra- ternal and professional association with the members -of the city bar through his identification with the Chicago Law Club, the Chicago Law Institute and the Chi- cago Bar Association, and still wider interests as a member of the Illinois Bar Association and the American Bar Association.

THEODORE F. RICE.

Theodore F. Rice, who for over thirty-five years was connected with the paper manufacturing business in Chicago, was born in Corydon, Indiana, in May, 1844, his parents being John and Sophia (Hinsdale) Rice, who were also natives of Corydon. The father was a prominent merchant and miller of that place.

Theodore F. Rice obtained his education in the schools of New Albany and Bloomington, Indiana, pursuing his studies until he reached the age of eighteen years, when he put aside his text-books. The seed of manhood which is in each boy sprung forth as a fully developed plant in many an individual when the tocsin of war sounded and the call was sent widely forth for all patriotic citizens to come to the aid of the Union. Mr. Rice was among the number who left the schoolroom to learn in the hard school of military experience the more difficult lessons of life. He joined the Union army as a member of the ordnance depart- ment and continued at the front until his aid was no longer needed. When the war was over he returned home and remained with his parents through the two succeeding years.

In 1867 he arrived in Chicago and sought favorable opportunity for advance- ment along business lines. He did as best he could anything that came to hand, seized legitimate advantages as they arose and when the way was open never hesitated to take a forward step. His skill and power accordingly increased from day to day and his second position was in the employ of Bradner, Smith & Com- pany, paper manufacturers, with whom he always remained. There he proved his aptitude for business in the successful performance of the work assigned him and continuously won promotion and was vice president of that firm for many years. For over thirty-five years he was identified with the paper manufacturing business in connection with that house, with which during the greater part of the period he sustained partnership relations. That success came to him is indicated in the fact that he continued for so long a period in one line. He became one of

THKODOKK F. KICK

CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS 47

Chicago's well known, substantial and trustworthy business men and was held in highest esteem by all with whom he came in contact, whether in commercial or other relations of life.

On the 19th of September, 1871, Theodore F. Rice was married to Miss Edith M. Price, a daughter of William and Anna (Hill) Price, who came from England to America and established their home near Mendon, Illinois, the father engaging in the real-estate business. To Mr. and Mrs. Rice were born six children: Wil- liam P., now a resident of Denver, Colorado; Edith G., at home; Robert H., of Chicago, who married Margaret Pollock, October 16, 1907; Henry H., of Mexico City; Theodore; and Gordon. Since 1893 the family residence, erected by Mr. Rice, has been at the northwest corner of Forty-sixth street and Woodlawn avenue.

In his political views Theodore F. Rice was a republican from the time that age conferred upon him the right of franchise and always kept fully informed concerning the vital questions of the day, yet without desire for office. He recog- nized, however, the duties and obligations of citizenship and availed himself of the opportunities to aid in the development, growth and improvement of the city in which he so long made his home. That his life was actuated by high and hon- orable principles is indicated in the fact that for over thirty years' he served as elder in the Sixth Presbyterian church, his life at all times being in harmony with his professions. He was also a member of the Union League Club for many years. He held friendship inviolable and, as true worth could always win his regard, he had a very extensive circle of friends. He did not seek to figure prominently in public affairs, yet in his life were the elements of greatness because of the use he made of his talents and his opportunities, because his thoughts were not self- centered but were given to the mastery of life problems and the fulfillment of his duty as a man in his relations to his fellowmen and as a citizen in his relations to his city, state and country.

JOHN L. NEWMAN, M. D.

Dr. John L. Newman is one of the younger physicians of Chicago yet has al- ready gained success that many an older practitioner might well envy. He was born at Freehold, New Jersey, July 4, 1887, and is one of the four survivors of a family of seven children whose parents were Benjamin and Rose (Gerber) New- man. The father was born in Lapland, Russia, in 1861, and followed the profes- sion of teaching there. He is now a merchant of Chicago, owning and conducting a department store. His wife was born in Riga, Russia, in 1 860. Their living children are: Lena, now the wife of J. Herman, of Chicago; Sarah, who married J. Lamb, of this city; John L., of this review; and Leon, who is still a student. It was in the year 1896 that the parents came to this city, where Mr. Newman has since built up a large mercantile enterprise.

Dr. Newman was but five years of age when he entered the public schools of Freehold, New Jersey, there pursuing his studies for two years. He also spent two years as a pupil at Long Branch, New Jersey, and two years in Philadelphia. He continued in the latter city after the removal of his parents to Chicago, attend-

t

48 CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS

ing Brown Academy for four years. In 1903 he arrived in Chicago and was a student of the Central Young Men's Christian Association Institute, studying chem- istry and other branches. In 1905 he entered the University of Illinois and was graduated in 1909, after which he accepted a position as interne in St. Mary's Hospital at Superior, Wisconsin, and became assistant to one of the surgeons there. A year later, however, he returned to this city and opened an office at No. 2400 West Madison street in January, 1910, since which time he has remained in active practice here.

On the 2d of July, 1911, Dr. Newman was married to Miss Emma Sleph, of this city, and they reside at No. 1315 South Central Park avenue. They have many friends in the social circles in which they move and Dr. Newman has won for him- self a creditable position in the field of labor which he has chosen as his life work. He belongs to the Chicago Medical Society and the American Medical Association, and their proceedings keep him familiar with the original and advanced work that is being done by the profession.

JOHN EDWIN CHAPMAN.

John Edwin Chapman was born at Warehouse Point, Connecticut, September 1, 1835. His first American ancestor was Edward Chapman, who came from Eng- land to Windsor, Connecticut, about the year 1660 and lived in the part of Windsor called Simsbury. The line moves down through distinguished names and connec- tions to Ashbel Chapman, who married Lydia Lord, whose sixth child was John Buckley Chapman, born May 12, 1799, at Windsor Locks, Connecticut. He moved to Warehouse Point, where he first married Lydia Holkins. They had five chil- dren : Albert Buckley, Frederick Augustus, Lydia Louisa, John Edwin and Harvey Holkins. Thomas Holkins came from England to Boston and settled in Dorchester. Thence his descendants went to Rhode Island and Connecticut, and George Hol- kins settled in Preston, Connecticut, about 1698.

John Buckley Chapman was a successful lumber merchant, a man of influence and of great strength and nobility of character. He was married three times, but the only children who lived were those of his first wife. John Edwin Chapman grew up in Warehouse Point, devotedly cared for by Lydia Aurelia Lord, his sec- ond stepmother, his own mother having died when he was about four years old. He was ready for college at fourteen, but as his father considered him too young to enter, he decided to let him come to Chicago for two years with a cousin, Samuel Chapman Griggs, and to occupy his time in the latter's book store and publishing house, which later became the firm of A. C. McClurg & Company. During this period his father died at sea, on his way to California to look after large lumber investments, so the college career had to be abandoned and the support of the stepmother and family and the keeping up of the family homestead in Connecticut fell on the young boy in the west.

After recovering from a breakdown from overwork, at about twenty-five, he and his youngest brother, Harvey Chapman, opened a Chicago branch for Henry Chase & Company, of Boston, manufacturers of bags and bagging, in which busi-

CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS 49

ness he made a large fortune for those days. He lived at the old Clifton and Tre- mont Houses, with a group of men from all parts of the country, who were then laying the foundations of Chicago's great commercial position. Mr. Chapman was an ardent and influential member of the First Baptist church, of Chicago, and gave liberally to its work. He was a life member of the Baptist Theological Union, of Chicago, now a part of the Chicago University.

In 1869 he married Mary Caroline Adams, a daughter of Hugh and Amanda (McCormick) Adams. Hugh Adams was a grain merchant in Chicago, a descend- ant of Robert Adams, who came from England about 1708 and settled in Campbell county, Virginia. The ancestors of the Adams family were of good English stock, and their descendants ranked among the first families of Virginia. Amanda Mc- Cormick Adams was the daughter of Robert McCormick, a prominent farmer and inventor, of Rockbridge county, Virginia.

In 1871 the Chicago fire swept away home and fortune and though Mr. Chap- man's store was the first one rebuilt in the burned district and his business started again, the great nervous shock had shattered his heatlh, and in a few years he was obliged to give up business entirely and spend the rest of his life as an invalid.

Throughout this life one can see courage, ability, dutifulness, good citizenship — all high qualities ; but the part that shone and lives longest in the memories of all who knew him was the part when he was forced to lay down his tools and cease to work for his wife and children, knowing that he had but a little longer to live, and that the rest of his service must only be to stand and wait. His deeply relig- ious nature met this supreme trial, not only with strength enough to overcome it for himself, but also to spread into the lives of all around him his own cheerfulness and brightness of soul, so that his friends said of him, it was a benediction to have him enter the house.

He died January 4, 1882, in New York city, leaving his wife and two children, Anna and John Adams Chapman. They are now married — Anna to Morrill Dunn, formerly of Washington, and John to Eleanor Thompson Stickney, of Baltimore, — and live in Chicago.

HARRY E. MOCK, M. D.

Dr. Harry E. Mock, member of the staff of Rush Medical College and busily engaged with hospital and private practice, specializing to a considerable extent in the field of surgery, in which he has developed more than ordinary skill and ability, was born in Muncie, Indiana, October 27, 1880. His father, John D. Mock, was also a native of Muncie, born February 28, 1856, and after a successful career as a manufacturer is now living retired there with his wife, Mrs. Minerva (Jackson) Mock, who is also a native of Muncie. In both the paternal and ma- ternal lines Dr. Mock is descended from an ancestry prominently connected with the military history of the country. His paternal great-great-grandfather was a soldier of the Revolution and was ordered shot for sleeping at his post but was pardoned by General Washington when the General learned that he was relieving a comrade as sentinel after several successive nights of similar duty on his own

50 CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS

account. The Doctor's grandfather on his mother's side and four of the latter's brothers served in the Civil war. His great-grandfather, Henry Jackson, was a soldier of the war of 1812 and also of the Mexican war. Mr. and Mrs. John D. Mock are the parents of five sons and two daughters, of whom three are living, the eldest being J. Frank Mock, a salesman of Chicago. The youngest, Mildred M., is still at home with her parents in Muncie.

Dr. Mock, who was the fifth in order of birth, was a pupil in the public schools of his native town until graduated from the high school at the age of eighteen years. He afterward spent two years in Franklin College at Franklin, Indiana, and in 1902 entered the University of Chicago, from which he was graduated in 1904 with the degree of Bachelor of Science. He next entered Rush Medical College, which is affiliated with the University of Chicago, therein pursuing his studies from 1902 until 1906, when his professional degree was conferred upon him. During his boyhood he decided to enter the medical profession and earned the money with which he paid his expenses during his college course. The same spirit of deter- mination and of indefatigable energy has characterized him throughout all his later years. After his graduation he had the benefit of three months' experience as interne in the Presbyterian Hospital under Dr. Nicholas Senn and three months in the Monroe Street Hospital under Dr. A. I. Bouffleur. He then went to Burke, South Dakota, where he practiced for six months, after which he returned to Chi- cago and for a year and a half was interne in the Cook County Hospital.

Having had two years' experience as interne in the leading hospitals of the city and practicing for six months in South Dakota, Dr. Mock felt that he was ready for the general practice of medicine and surgery and accordingly opened an office in this city, where he has since built up a large practice. He is now serving on the staff of Rush Medical College, on the staff of the Monroe Street Hospital, is surgeon for Sears, Roebuck & Company, assistant attending surgeon for the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railroad Company, surgeon for the Lincoln Motor Car Works and medical examiner for the Mutual Life Insurance Company of New York. All this indicates beyond a doubt the high position to which he has attained, the wise use he has made of his time and opportunities and the success which he is now enjoying and which has come to him as the merited reward of close application, comprehensive knowledge and conscientious performance of duty. In addition to his practice he has business interests, being president of the Irving- ton Development Company, owning five thousand acres of land in Alabama.

Dr. Mock has been married twice. On the 15th of June, 1903, he wedded Miss Vetha, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Louis Honecker, of Thorntown, Indiana. Mrs. Mock died at the birth of their little son, Raymond, April 13, 1904, and the child also passed away in infancy. On Christmas day of 1908, Dr. Mock was united in marriage to Miss Golda M. Taylor, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William B. Taylor. Her father is prominent in Chicago, being secretary and treasurer of the firm of Halsey Brothers, wholesale drug manufacturers of Chicago. Unto Dr. and Mrs. Mock have been born two sons: Harry Edgar, whose birth occurred September 26, 1909; and William Taylor, born January 14, 1912.

Both the Doctor and his wife are prominent socially and both are interested in many movements which are significant features of the present age. Mrs. Mock belongs to the Anti-Cruelty Society and Dr. Mock holds membership in the Med-

CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS 51

ical Historical Society of Chicago, the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity and the Nu Sigma Nu, a medical fraternity, and the Alpha Omega Alpha, an honorary medical society. He is also a member of the City Club, the University Club, the Western Economic Society and in his professional relations is connected with the Chicago Medical Society and the American Medical Association. He votes with the republican party, which he has supported since age conferred upon him the right of franchise, and his religious belief is indicated in his membership in the Baptist church. For pastime he indulges in motoring, fishing and hunting as the demands of his profession give him opportunity. In his school days he was much interested in athletics. When a high school student he held the Indiana state rec- ord for the two hundred and twenty yard dash for three years and also tied for the state record for one hundred yards, ten seconds flat. In 1903 he was a member of the University of Chicago track team. He has always maintained an interest in athletics and manly out-of-door sports. He maintains a down town office at No. 122 South Michigan boulevard, a west side office at 1605 Van Buren street and he has his residence at No. 404 South Ashland Boulevard.

SAMUEL GEHR.

Samuel Gehr, prominent for many years in real-estate circles of Chicago, was born at Smithsburg, Washington county, Maryland, October 6, 1829, a son of Isaac and Mary (Funk) Gehr, of Smithsburg, where his father carried on merchandising. The family is descended from French Huguenot ancestry, two brothers having come to America about 1 763, and, securing land patents from the government, one located in Maryland and the other in Pennsylvania.

Liberal educational advantages were afforded Samuel Gehr, who attended one of the excellent schools of his day — that conducted by George Pearson. He after- ward entered Marshall College of Pennsylvania, from which he was graduated in 1851. He then determined upon the study of law and for two years pursued his reading in the office of the Hon. Judge Weisel, of Hagerstown, Maryland. In 1853 he removed from his native county to Chicago and here continued his preparation for the bar until admitted to practice in the courts of the state. He did not follow the profession, however, but turned his attention to the real-estate business, becoming a clerk in the office of Rees. & Kerfoot, the firm being composed of James H. Rees and Samuel H. Kerfoot.

In 1861 he withdrew from that connection to establish himself in business in partnership with the Hon. Luther Haven on Lake street, opposite the Tremont House, under the firm name of Luther Haven & Company. This association was continued until Mr. Haven was appointed by Abraham Lincoln collector of cus- toms for the port of Chicago, and Mr. Gehr then remained in business on his own account, winning substantial returns for his labor. His legal studies have been in- valuable to him in settling questions of title, proprietorship or conveyance. His early experience with Rees & Kerfoot gave him the requisite acquaintance with local business and values, while his judgment and integrity made casual customers steady clients. In 1863 he removed his office to 114 Dearborn street, where he remained

52 CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS

for many years, and in that year he extended the scope of his business to not only include the purchase and sale of real estate but also the placing of loans for eastern capitalists. He continued uninterruptedly in the real-estate and loan business to the time of his death, which occurred June 8, 1886.

On the 17th of June, 1857, Mr. Gehr was married to Miss Phoebe Bostock, a daughter of Edward and Jane (Yates) Bostock, of Nottingham, England, who came to America in 1832, settling in Marshall, Michigan. The father had followed mer- chandising in England, but lived retired in America. The family traces their an- cestry back to 1080 A. 13. Two representatives of the family were aids to General Washington in the Revolutionary war. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Gehr were born seven children: Walter Lee, deceased; S. Whipple; Arthur Cleveland, of Washington, D. C.; Herbert Bostock, who is living in Seattle, Washington; Francis Lycett, a resident of Idaho ; Fannie, a musician of this city ; and Ralph Winter, deceased.

Mr. Gehr voted with the democratic party, but never cared to mingle freely in political circles and take an active part in the work of any political organization. He was, however, very helpful as a factor in church work. He belonged to the Church of the Ascension, in which he served as warden for twenty-five years. He was also one of the first trustees of St. Luke's Hospital. Xo good work done in the name of charity or religion ever sought his aid in vain. He was very sociable in manner and was ever appreciative of the good in others, his life proving the force of the Emersonian philosophy, "the way to win a friend is to be one."

JOHN SANBORN METCALF.

John Sanborn Metcalf, president of the John S. Metcalf Company, engineers and builders of grain elevators, is one of the best known men in his line in Amer- ica. His identification with grain elevator construction extends over nearly forty years, during which time he has not only witnessed and kept pace with wonderful changes and improvements in such structures but has advanced from an obscure place to what can be said to be the foremost position in building operations of this kind.

Mr. Metcalf was born March 7, 1847, in Sherbrook, in the province of Que- bec, Canada, and came from one of the old New England families dating back to 1637, in which year Michael Metcalf, the progenitor of the family in America, came from Norwich in Norfolk county, England, and settled at Uedham, Massa- chusetts. Samuel Metcalf, the great-grandfather of John S. Metcalf, served in the Revolutionary war, doing active duty at first as minuteman and later reenlist- ing at three subsequent dates for active participation in the struggle for independ- ence. On the maternal side John S. Metcalf comes from a fine old family. His great-grandfather was the Rev. Isaac Smith, a noted Congregational clergyman, who was pastor of the church at Gilmanton, New Hampshire, for many years.

While a Canadian by birth John S. Metcalf had the environment and influences of a New England youth. His parents, Lucian and Hannah (Smith) Metcalf, lived in a section of the province of Quebec, south of the St. Lawrence river, and immediately bordering on the state of New Hampshire. That locality had been

JOHN

CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS 55

settled up almost entirely by farmers from New England and so it, too, might be called the land of "steady habits." After attending the district schools of Cookshire, Quebec, Mr. Metcalf continued his course in the Cookshire Academy, which practically concluded his scholastic training. It was in 1870 that he came to the United States to remain and located in Indianapolis. His previous thor- ough training and experience in building lines had been greatly stimulated by a natural adaptation for mechanical work, so that he was quite competent to per- form the duties assigned him in the construction of elevator "A" in that city, and following its completion he was superintendent of the operation of the elevator until 1881.

In the meantime Mr. Metcalf had given considerable attention to elevator con- struction and improvement and had come to be regarded as an authority thereof, so that in 1881 he became superintendent of construction for a prominent grain firm of Indianapolis and devoted the ensuing three years to the important and re- sponsible duties devolving upon him in that capacity.

At the end of that period he became superintendent of operation for the Bur- lington & Mississippi elevator at Burlington, Iowa, where he continued until 1887, when he located in Chicago and formed a partnership with T. K. Webster and James MacDonald in the building of grain elevators. In this department of building he has since labored and has gained distinctive prominence in his partic- ular field. From 1889 until 1901 he was interested in the Webster Manufacturing Company and served on its board of directors during the greater part of the time. As a member of the Metcalf, MacDonald Company he was engaged in building elevators from 1887 until 1894, and after the dissolution of the partnership the firm style became the John S. Metcalf Company with T. K. Webster as partner until 1901, when Mr. Metcalf purchased Mr. Webster's interest in the business and subsequently incorporated it under the present name of the John S. Metcalf Company. As the president and chief executive officer he directs its affairs con- tinuously, planning for the expansion of the business and basing its growth upon the efficient service rendered, ever regarding satisfied patrons as the best adver- tisement. His operations have been of a most extensive and important character and include structures for the leading corporations on the American continent. Among those built by his company are the Burlington elevator at St. Louis ; the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy elevator at East St. Louis ; the Missouri Pacific at Kansas City; the Southern Pacific at Galveston; the Grand Trunk at Portland, Maine, and Montreal; the Chesapeake & Ohio at Newport News, Virginia; the Manchester ship canal elevators at Manchester, England ; the Canadian Pacific elevators at Victoria Harbour, Ontario; and the shipping conveyer system for Harbour commissioners of Montreal. Many of those structures were gigantic af- fairs and represent millions of capital as well as the highest type of efficiency for the rapid handling and safe storage of grain. The international demand for the work of the John S. Metcalf Company led to the organization of the John S. Met- calf Company, Ltd., of Montreal, from which office the foreign business is super- vised. Mr. Metcalf has the general supervision of all the business and his familiarity with every detail enables him to direct affairs with judgment and intelligence. He has practically come up with the business so that there is scarcely a position in the whole system that he could not fill. No small amount of his success comes

56 CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS

from "knowing how to do things/' His operations have taken him into all parts of the country and the importance of his work has placed him prominently in the front rank of engineers and grain elevator builders in America. He is a man of wonderful business activity, and although now past sixty has the vigor and vitality of one many years his junior. Inheriting a strong, robust constitution, living a life of regular habits, the strenuous character of his work has not told on him phys- ically. Although at times traveling over fifty thousand miles a year, and in that time spending one hundred nights on a sleeping car, his capacity for work seems to increase rather than diminish. His success is merited. His start in life was his good rearing and habits of industry that have been many times reflected in the prosperity that has come to him. A modest, approachable and genial gentle- man, there is nothing in his manner that would suggest to a new acquaintance his superior ability nor his success.

Mr. Metcalf was married December 25, 1873, in Indianapolis, to Miss Alice S. Richey, a daughter of John and Charlotte (Millard) Richey and a native of Marseilles, Illinois. Their children are: Hugh Fred, who died in infancy; Ter- ressa Adelia, who is the wife of C. C. Bonar, of El Paso, Illinois, and has three children, Dorothy M., Janet M. and John Metcalf; Anne Maria, who is the wife of Rev. P. E. Thomas, a Congregational clergyman of Somerville, Massachusetts, and has two children, Frederick Metcalf and Gordon Metcalf; Bertha Alice, who became the wife of John F. Strickler and died in Evanston, Illinois, in Novem- ber, 1910; and Kate Lora, who completes the family.

Mr. Metcalf is a republican in sympathy and usually supports the principles of the party, but is not bound by party ties, merely taking a business man's in- terest in politics and supporting the best men and issues. He is a member of the Union League Club, the Chicago Engineers Club, the Montreal Engineers Club, the Western Society of Engineers and the Canadian Society of Civil Engineers. In all matters of citizenship he takes a progressive stand. His membership rela- tions are mostly with societies that have for their object the promotion of en- gineering interests. Since deciding upon his life work he has bent every energy not only to the accomplishment of specific tasks but also to the attainment of higher efficiency by close study of the scientific problems and questions which un- derlie his work as well as the practical methods of construction. Readily utilizing each improvement that is introduced through modern invention, he has maintained a high standard of excellence in his work that has gained him the prominence and success which he now enjoys. The family reside at No. 1023 Maple avenue, Ev- anston, and are prominent in the social circles of that city.

HARRIET C. B. ALEXANDER, M. D.

Dr. Harriet C. B. Alexander is one of the most widely known and best authori- ties on mental diseases of women in the United States, her study and investigation along this line bringing to her such thorough understanding and ability as to cause her opinions largely to be accepted as authority. She was born in Waterford, Penn- sylvania, December 16, 1858, a daughter of John L. and Eleanor (Smallidge) Ber-

CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS 57

inger. Her father was born at St. Catherines, Ontario, January 13, 1837, and his life record covered the intervening years to November, 1905. Her mother was born near Water ford, Pennsylvania, April 8, 1838, and is now spending the evening of life in California, where the salubrity of the climate is more to her liking than the rigorous winter winds of Chicago and the east. Mr. Beringer was a soldier of the Civil war, but owing to an attack of typhoid fever and to serious wounds which he sustained, was prevented from continuing in the service until the close of hostilities. Among the maternal ancestors was Francis Mandeville, who served in the Revolu- tionary war as lieutenant, thus rendering Dr. Alexander eligible to membership with the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Dr. Alexander attended private and public schools until twelve years of age and then entered the Lapeer, Michigan, high school, where she pursued her studies until sixteen years of age, when she was graduated. The following year, 1876, she entered Vassar College at Poughkeepsie, New York, and was graduated therefrom in 1880 with the B. A. degree. In the fall of that year she entered the medical depart- ment of the University of Michigan, for it was her earnest desire to qualify for the practice of medicine, and following her graduation in 1883 she became assistant physician at the Foundlings Home of Detroit, there remaining in 1884. In 1885 she was assistant physician at Dunning, Illinois, and in 1889 became assistant super- intendent of Dunning, having entire professional charge of the women, numbering about seven hundred. Eager to advance still further in her profession, she went to Europe in 1895 and studied in the medical colleges of London, Paris and Vienna, pursuing post-graduate courses under some of the eminent physicians and surgeons of the old world. She then returned to Chicago and opened an office in Central Music Hall, where she remained until the building was razed. She then established an office in the Venetian building at No. 15 East Washington street, where she has since been located.

On the 25th of February, 1884, Dr. Harriet C. Beringer became the wife of Horace C. Alexander, of Chicago, who is not only known as a civil engineer, but made a creditable name for himself during his service as superintendent of Lincoln Park under the administration of Governor Altgeld. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Alexander have been born two children. The elder, Harriet Gay, born February 3, 1887, is the wife of John W. Claussen and they have a little daughter, Harriett Suzanne. Mrs. Claussen attended the public schools of Chicago and then went abroad to study for two years in Switzerland and Paris, after which she spent three years in Berlin as a pupil of Etelka Gerster. The son, who was born September 30, 1898, is now residing in France.

As previously stated, Dr. Alexander has come to be recognized as an authority upon mental diseases and her advanced investigations have been given to the world in several published volumes, her works including Mental Phases of Tuberculosis, Insanity in Children, and others. She read a paper at Lisbon, Portugal, and also at Buda Pest, at the international congresses there held, the latter in 1909. She is now serving on the staff of the Mary Thompson Hospital, specializing in the treat- ment of nervous diseases, and is also on the staff of the State Training School for Girls at Geneva. She was a member of the Chicago Woman's Club from 1885 until 1905, when the demands of her profession made it necessary for her to resign. In 1894 she served as the second president of the Rogers Park Woman's Club, but also

58 CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS

resigned from that organization, having no time for club work. Her reading has been very broad, bringing her into close touch not only with the active work of the profession, but with many of its kindred interests. She was a member of the social hygiene committee of the Chicago Woman's Club and also one of its lecturers, is a fellow of the Chicago Academy of Medicine, a member of the Woman's Medical Club and of the Chicago Medical Society.

WALTER W. ROSS.

Walter W. Ross is engaged in the practice of law in both Chicago and New York, his ability winning for him that success which in the profession of the law comes only as the logical sequence of comprehensive understanding and correct application of legal principles.

A son of Edward T. and Ellen (Wall) Ross, the birth of Walter W. Ross occurred in Pulaski, Illinois, March 29, 1866. His mother descended from the distinguished Adams family of New England. The father was born in Vermont and was engaged in business as a lumber dealer and manufacturer in Illinois. The mother was a daughter of Dr. George T. Wall, at one time a resident of Rhode Island. He married a member of the Adams family and in the '30s removed westward to follow his profession as a doctor in one of the more recently founded towns of the middle west. About 1840 he arrived in Chicago but was not pleased with the city and its prospects at that day, and accordingly sought a location else- where, taking up his abode in Perry county, Illinois, where he continued in prac- tice and made his home until 1892. He opened up one of the first coal mines ever operated in Illinois and in other ways was closely associated with the material progress and development of that part of the state.

Walter W. Ross supplemented his early education by study in the Illinois College at Jacksonville and was graduated from the New Jersey University at Princeton in the class of 1888. He began his legal studies in Northwestern Uni- versity of Chicago, which he attended for a year, and afterward heard law in the Harvard Law School for a year. He had previously won the degrees of B. A. and M. A., and following his mastery of many of the principles of jurisprudence he was admitted to the Illinois bar in 1890. The same year he began practice and for a time devoted his attention to general law work. In 1893, however, he was appointed assistant corporation counsel for Chicago and the following year he received the appointment of trial attorney for the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroad at this point. In 1899 he formed a partnership with his uncle, George W. Wall, a distinguished lawyer and jurist, who for more than twenty years sat upon the bench. In 1901 Mr. Ross was made general attorney for the Delaware, Lackawanna & Western Railroad with headquarters in New York, but in 1905 again resumed the general practice of law, having offices in both Chicago and New York. He appeared in litigation before the United States commerce commission in 1907 and has been entrusted with the management and supervision of important financial and other interests, including the Yerkes estate. Capable of handling large affairs, important interests have been entrusted to his keeping

CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS 61

and whether in the courts or in the relation of counselor he has given proof of his power in solving intricate legal problems or in devising a course of action that has its foundation in sound legal wisdom.

In 1891 Mr. Ross was united in marriage to Miss Jane Rose Ames, a daughter of Miner T. Ames, a well known coal mine operator. Four children were born to them, of whom three are living, Ames W., Willard and Robert, while the other son died at the age of four years. Mrs. Ross is a direct descendant of Colonel Knowlton, who participated in the battle of Bunker Hill and was killed in the battle of Harlem Heights. She is also directly descended from William Dawes, who shares with Paul Revere in the honor and fame of arousing the minute men of Massachusetts to prepare for the attack of the British in the opening battles of the Revolutionary war at Lexington and Concord. The family residence is in Evanston. The parents are members of the Presbyterian church and Mr. Ross belongs to a number of prominent social organizations, including the University Club of Chicago, the Princeton Club of New York and the Essex County Country Club of West Orange, New Jersey. Endowed by nature with strong mental powers, he has so used his time and talents in the acquirement of a liberal edu- cation and in the practice of law that he has won wide recognition as a leading attorney of Chicago.

JAMES MESSER JENKS.

James Messer Jenks, well known in the grain trade circles of Chicago, was born at Crown Point, New York, July 14, 1850. He is descended from Joseph Jenckes, a noted engineer of Wales who came to America at the request of the first governor of Massachusetts to build the first fire engine and apparatus for the city of Boston. Another member of the family was a distinguished inventor and was one of the first to make application to the United States patent office, having invented a scythe for cutting hay. In time the orthography of the name underwent a change to its present form.

Benjamin L. Jenks, the father of James M. Jenks, was a native of New Hamp- shire and engaged in business in the east as a lumberman. Later he made his way to the center of the lumber interests of the middle west, removing to St. Clair, Michi- gan, in 1856. His death occurred at Fort Sanilac, Michigan, about 1868. He had married Amanda Messer, a native of New Hampshire, who was born on the old homestead at North Sutton, New Hampshire, granted to her father, James Messer, and his brothers by King George. Mrs. Jenks long survived her husband passing away about 1895. In a family of five children James M. Jenks was the eldest. Three of the number still survive. His brother, Professor Jeremiah W. Jenks, is a professor of political economy, a noted writer and government agent. The other brother, Martin L., is a grain merchant of Duluth, Minnesota. The de- ceased members of the family are: Robert H., who was a prominent lumberman of Cleveland, Ohio, and died February 26, 1911 ; and Hester P., who passed away in June, 1910.

62 CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS

The public schools of St. Clair, Michigan, provided James M. Jenks with his early educational privileges, for he was only six years of age at the time of the removal of the family to that city. He afterward continued his studies at Penna- cook Academy at Concord, New Hampshire, but on account of his father's death left school in 1868 and began providing for his own support, entering the employ of Woodson & Company, lumber dealers at Fort Crescent, Michigan. About three years later he went into business for himself, establishing the firm of J. Jenks & Company, general merchants and manufacturers at Sand Beach, now Harbor Beach, Michigan, where he continued for ten years. On the expiration of that period he turned his attention to the grain trade at Port Huron, Michigan, and has since con- tinued in that line, spending three years at Port Huron and three years in Minne- apolis before his arrival in Chicago in 1 89 K Here he organized the present firm operating under the name of the Nye & Jenks Grain Company and has since been continuously the head of the Chicago office. James Bradley, another member of the firm, has also been associated with the active management for many years. The business has been steadily growing from the outset and the company is now a prominent one in grain trade circles in Chicago. Mr. Jenks is a member of the Grain Exchange of this city and also of Minneapolis, Duluth and New York city.

On the 20th of July, 1878, occurred the marriage of Mr. Jenks and Miss Nellie L. Neill at Port Austin, Michigan, her father being Captain Thomas Neill, of that place. They became parents of one daughter, Maxwell B., who is the wife of Cap- tain Isaac Newell, of the Twenty-second United States Infantry, now detailed as tactics officer at West Point. Mr. and Mrs. Jenks reside at No. 535 Deming place.

He is independent in politics, voting as his judgment dictates rather than in accordance with the demands of party affiliation. He belongs to the Union League and to the Illinois Athletic Clubs and is well established in the city socially as well as in business circles. He was eighteen years of age when his father's death threw him upon his own resources, since which time his diligence and determination have carefully fostered progress, bringing him in time to a prominent and creditable position as a dealer in grain in what is today the world's most prominent grain center.

HOMER E. TINSMAN.

Homer E. Tinsman, a representative of the Chicago bar, was born in Romeo, Michigan, October 21, 1860, a son of William H. and Mary J. Tinsman. The father was born upon a farm near Romeo, August 21, 1837, representing one of the old families of that section of the country. He carried on general agricultural pursuits throughout his entire life and for a period also engaged in the conduct of a general mercantile store but retired from that field of business in 1892. Fifteen years passed and he then again entered upon active business life, in which he still continues, for indolence and idleness are utterly foreign to his nature and he could not be content without some occupation.

Homer E. Tinsman was a pupil in the public schools of Romeo, pursuing his course through consecutive grades until graduated from the high school in 1878.

IIOMEH E. TIXSMAX

CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS 63

He spent a year thereafter at home and then resumed his education, becoming a pupil in the University of Michigan, from which he was graduated in 1883 with the Bachelor of Arts degree. In August of that year he came to Chicago and entered the law office of Grant & Brady as a student and clerk, continuing in that connection for three years. Admitted to the bar, he practiced law alone for a year and in 1887 became a partner in the firm of Burke, Hollett & Tinsman, this asso- ciation being maintained until 1893, when Mr. Burke was elected judge of the circuit court. The two remaining partners continued in practice under the firm style of Hollett & Tinsman until 1898, when they were joined by Mr. Sauter, and under the style of Hollett, Tinsman & Sauter they continued in practice until 1905. At that time Mr. Tinsman became the senior partner in the firm of Tinsman, Rankin & Neltnor. He is an able lawyer, well versed in the principles of jurisprudence, and his energy prompts him to the careful preparation of every case, while his presentation of his cause is marked by logical reasoning and sound deduction. He filled the office of assistant county attorney from 1888 until 1890 but has not been a politician in the usually accepted sense of the term. In the spring of 1908, how- ever, he was elected alderman from the thirty-second ward but resigned on the 1st of March, 1909.

Mr. Tinsman was married in Chicago to Miss Christina P. Dale on the 24th of October, 1894. Aside from the enjoyment which his home offers him in his leisure hours he spends some time in golf, holding membership in the Beverly Golf Club, and he also takes pleasure in walking and driving. He is also an amateur photog- rapher and has done some creditable work with the kodak. His political allegiance is given to the republican party and his religious faith is that of the Episcopal church. He is well known in the membership of the Hamilton Club, is a member of the City Club of Chicago, and is identified with various fraternal organizations, holding membership in Englewood Lodge, No. 690, A. F. & A. M.; Englewood Chapter, No. 176, R. A. M.; Englewood Commandery, No. 59, K. T. ; Imperial Council, R. & S. M.; Oriental Consistory, S. P. R. S.; and Medinah Temple of the Mystic Shrine. He likewise holds membership with the Odd Fellows, the Royal League and the Modern Woodmen. He has a very wide acquaintance and his strongly marked and commendable characteristics have gained him wide popularity.

JOY MORTON.

Joy Morton, for over thirty years one of Chicago's busiest men of affairs, was born at Detroit, Michigan, September 27, 1855. He is a son of Hon. J. Sterling Morton, who was secretary of agriculture during President Cleveland's second ad- ministration and who had the distinction of being the originator of Arbor Day. His mother, Caroline (Joy) Morton, departed this life in 1881. The early repre- sentatives of the Morton family came to the United States in the year 1620 from England and settled in Plymouth, Massachusetts, and were subsequently prominent in the early struggle for American independence. The maternal side (Thomas Joy) came also from England, settling in Boston in 1632. He was a contractor and built the first town house of Boston in 1650.

64 CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS

The family of Morton moved to Nebraska in 1854, where Joy Morton spent his youth on the frontier, together with his brothers, Paul and Mark, freighting and roughing it on the plains. It was at a little Episcopal boarding school called Talbot Hall, located near Nebraska City, that their primary education was attained. At the age of fifteen, Joy Morton entered the employ of the Merchants National Bank at Nebraska City, where he remained for six years, passing through the various grades to the position of teller and ultimately acquiring an interest in the institu- tion, of which he is still a director.

His railroad experience was with the Burlington & Missouri River Railroad as a clerk in the treasurer's office at Omaha. After two years' service he was trans- ferred to Aurora, Illinois, as supply agent of the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad, which position he retained but a short while, having determined to en- gage in the salt business in Chicago, as a member of the firm of E. I. Wheeler & Company. In 1885 control of the business was secured and together with Mark Morton, the style of the firm was changed to Joy Morton & Company, agents for The Michigan Salt Association and some years later also for the Retsof Salt Mining Company of New York. For over twenty-five years this business has progressed and today the Morton Salt Company is the largest salt merchant and manufacturing concern in the United States.

Besides his salt interests Mr. Morton is actively and officially identified with many other important industrial, financial and commercial enterprises, in all of which he has been successful and a factor in their upbuilding. He is president and a director in The Great Western Cereal Company; president and a director in The Morton-Gregson Company (pork packers) ; director in The Western Cold Storage Company; director in the American Hominy Company; president and di- rector of The Hutchinson-Kansas Salt Company; director in The Equitable Life Assurance Society of New York ; director in the Chicago & Alton Railroad ; director in The Continental & Commercial National Bank (the largest in Chicago) ; presi- dent and director of the Standard Office Company ; owner of the Railway Exchange building; vice president and director of the Railway Exchange Bank.

Mr. Morton is a member of the Chicago Historical Society, the Commercial, Chicago and Caxton Clubs of Chicago, and the Lawyers Club of New York city. He was married in 1880 to Miss Carrie Lake, a daughter of Hon. George Lake, of Omaha, chief justice of the supreme court of Nebraska, and to them two chil- dren have been born, Jean Morton in 1883 and Sterling Morton in 1885. The lat- ter is now connected with the Morton Salt Company and is secretary of the cor- poration.

WILLIAM ARTHUR McGUIRE.

Mining for the precious metals is an occupation that presents great inducements to men of practical knowledge and sound business judgment and in this class may be named William Arthur McGuire, who for six years past has made his head- quarters at Chicago. He is a native of New Brunswick, Canada, born August 10, 1864, and is a son of Patrick and Barbara (Edgett) McGuire. The father was

CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS 65

born in County Wexford, Ireland, and came to America in 1850. He was a farmer and for many years was actively engaged in that occupation in New Brunswick. His father was an architect in the old country. The mother of our subject was a native of Canada and was born of English parents. She was a daughter of Stephen Edgett, one of the leading citizens of New Brunswick and a member of a family that was long identified with public affairs. Patrick McGuire died in 1906 at the age of seventy-eight, and his wife was called away in 1904.

Mr. McGuire of this review was second in order of birth in a family of six children. He possessed good advantages of education in the public schools of Canada and continued with his parents until twenty-one years of age. He then went to St. Paul, Minnesota, and was connected with the railway business until 1895. In that year he became interested in mining in Arizona and subsequently organized the Arizona Alpha Mining Company, of which he is president. The properties of this company are located near Kingman, Arizona, and consist of sil- ver and lead deposits that yield a handsome revenue. Mr. McGuire maintains an office at No. 403 Commercial Bank building, Chicago, and spends a portion of each year in the city. He is connected with several mining enterprises in Montana, Idaho and Colorado, and as he is greatly interested in everything he undertakes and has used good judgment, he has met with a gratifying measure of success.

On December 6, 1890, Mr. McGuire was married at Moncton, New Brunswick, to Miss Josephine Walsh, a daughter of M. W. Walsh, a leading lumber merchant of that place. By this union one son, Thomas, has been born. He is now eighteen years of age and is attending a college preparatory school at Ashville, North Carolina.

Politically Mr. McGuire supports the principles and candidates of the demo- cratic party and socially he is identified with the Illinois Athletic and Glenview Clubs. Having had an experience of sixteen years in mining in various parts of the Rocky mountains, he is acquainted with the details pertaining to the location of ores and also mining and smelting, and has been successful in the development of properties upon a legitimate paying basis. He is an active and useful man and possesses genial social qualities which have won for him the friendship of all with whom he has come in contact. He and his family reside at Golf, Illinois, near the Glenview Club, where he recently erected an attractive country home.

WILLIAM NATHAN EISENDRATH.

A native of Chicago, William N. Eisendrath has spent almost his entire life in this city and for nearly forty years has been actively connected with its develop- ment. He was born December 5, 1853, a son of Nathan Eisendrath. The father was a native of Dorsten, Westphalia, Germany, and came to America about 1848, making his home for a time in Philadelphia. In 1851, believing that more favor- able conditions existed further west, he settled in Chicago and engaged in the soap and candle business for a number of years, later being identified with the real- estate and banking business. He died in 1903 at the age of four score. He married

66 CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS

Helena Fellheimer, a native of Augsburg, Bavaria, who survived him four years and passed away in 1907. In their family were nine children, four of whom are prominent citizens of Chicago: Benjamin W., who is engaged in the real-estate and loan business; William N., of this review; Joseph N., who is president of the Eisendrath Glove Company, the largest concern of its kind in the United States; and Dr. D. N. Eisendrath, who is a well known surgeon.

William N. Eisendrath received his preliminary education in the public schools of this city. At the age of thirteen he was sent abroad and spent two years in the private schools of Brussels, Belgium. Upon returning he entered the preparatory school of Professor George Quackenbos, of Chicago, at which he was graduated in 1870. Having decided to devote his attention to business rather than professional life he entered the employ of Stearns & Company, dealers in building material, and was connected with this company from 1873 to 1876. At the end of that time he entered the tanning and leather manufacturing business and established a house of which he was the head until 1899. He then associated with others in the organ- ization of the American Hide & Leather Company, with principal offices in New York city, and was elected first vice president of this company. He retired from active business in 1903 and in 1909 became president of the Monarch Leather Company, a position which he still holds. He is a large owner of Chicago real estate and in his various enterprises has shown an ability and discrimination through which he has gained a gratifying measure of financial prosperity.

On the 21st of December, 1883, Mr. Eisendrath was married to Miss Rose Lowenstein, a daughter of Leopold Lowenstein, of this city, and of their children three are living, Edwin, Marion and William N., Jr. The family resides at No. 3949 Ellis avenue.

Politically Mr. Eisendrath is independent and socially he is identified with the Standard Club, the Illinois Athletic Association and the Ravisloe Country Club. He is of a generous and philanthropic nature and served for a number of years as vice president of the Michael Reese Hospital. He is also actively connected with the Associated Jewish Charities and is one of the valued members of the Chicago Sinai congregation. Having been governed through life by a spirit of progressive- ness, he has assisted materially in advancing the permanent interests of all with whom he has been identified in business. Alert, energetic and enterprising, he has attained more than an ordinary degree of success and is recognized as one of the reliable and substantial men whom to know is to respect and honor.

FREDERICK MORGAN STEELE.

The ancestry of the Steele family of which Frederick Morgan Steele is a rep- resentative can be traced back not only through various generations in this country to an early period in the colonization of the new world, but also to England. Two brothers, John and George Steele, arrived in Cambridge, Massachusetts, in 1632, and as the years have run their course to the present time their descendants have taken active and prominent part in shaping the history of the various localities in which they have resided. Among the ancestors of Frederick M. Steele was Gov-

FREDERICK M. STEELE

CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS 69

•ernor William Bradford who made the voyage on the Mayflower in 1620, Governor John Webster, Governor Peter Schuyler, of New York, Governor Rip Van Dam of New York, Captain Roger Clap, the historian of Massachusetts Bay colony, and from both progenitors of the Livingston family of New York.

Fortunate is a man who has back of him an ancestry honorable and distin- guished, and happy is he if his lines of life have been cast in harmony therewith. In person, in talents and in character Frederick Morgan Steele is a worthy scion of his race. His father, John F. Steele, was a young hardware merchant in the city of Albany, New York, recognized not only as a man of great promise but of most attractive nature, and so deep was the regard he inspired that he was frequently called the "beloved John" by his numerous friends and associates. He died of pneumonia at the comparatively early age of thirty-three years. His wife, Mrs. Frances Mary (Steele) Steele, was a lady of marked literary talent and was among the first to use her powers in that direction for the advancement of women. In her early womanhood she had much to do with the establishment of circulating libraries. After her removal to Chicago she became a prominent member of the Chicago Woman's Club and as such was a leading spirit in the establishment of the Women's Protective Agency, being known as the "mother" of the organization. Throughout her entire life she was a frequent contributor to magazines and newspapers and her writings, widely read, were of marked in- fluence. She died on Easter morning, the 14th of April, 1895.

Frederick Morgan Steele was born in Albany, New York, November 27, 1851, and acquired his education in the public schools of New England. He came to Chicago in 1879 when a young man of about twenty-seven years, and here became connected with railway manufacturing enterprises, establishing and promoting the Chicago Forge & Bolt Company and the American Bridge Works, two of the lead- ing corporations in their line in this city. Possessing an initiative spirit and the power of coordinating forces, he was active in the management of large industrial enterprises. At the present writing he is the president and treasurer of the Standard Forgings Company which succeeded the Cliicago Forge & Bolt Company and is one of the most extensive producers of car axles in the United States. At one time he was the president of three railroads which have since been merged into larger systems. He is now the vice president of the Salt Lake Southern Railway Company and vice president of the Highland Park State Bank. He has never hesitated to advance where favoring opportunity has led the way and in his business career progressiveness and conservatism are well balanced forces.

Mr. Steele was married in Chicago on the 6th of November, 1883, to Miss Ella A. Pratt, a daughter of William H. H. and Roxanna (Roe) Pratt. She is de- scended from Governor Thomas Welles, one of the early colonial governors of Con- necticut. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Steele were born a son and daughter: Frederick P., who died in early childhood; and Elizabeth Livingston, who on the 18th of June, 1908, at Highland Park, Illinois, became the wife of George Washington Childs.

Mr. Steele has always been deeply interested in historic and genealogical re- search. He is now serving as deputy governor general of the Society of the May- flower Descendants, was former governor of the Illinois organization, and was numbered among those who assisted in its formation and establishment. He is

Vol. V— 4

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CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS

not unknown as a writer of merit and in 1909 published a little volume of his poems under the title of "After Hour Idyls," which in sentiment and literary con- struction will stand close criticism. His wife possesses notable artistic talent as manifest in ceramic work which appeared at the Paris Exposition in 1900 and the World's Columbian Exposition in 1893. She has been for many years an officer in the Daughters of the American Revolution, occupying various positions from secretary to regent. She was president of the Atlan Club of Chicago and has been a prominent worker in the Gads Hill settlement on the North Shore. She is now president of the colony of New England Women of Illinois. In 1901 Mr. and Mrs. Steele and their daughter sailed from America on a two years' world's tour for pleasure and education. Their keen delight in antiquities and in all that is rare and artistic, prompted them to secure a most attractive collection of old and interesting curios and art treasures on their trip. Mr. Steele, who for thirty- six years has been gathering historical data and autograph manuscripts, probably possesses one of the largest collections of this kind in the United States and has the largest collection of manuscript hymns in the world. He is himself a writer and has written the song of Illinois, which has already won wide approval and is given below. He travels to a considerable extent and much of the time spent on railway trains has been employed in his compositions. He is an active member of the Sons of the American Revolution, belongs to the Highland Park Club, of which he was formerly vice president, and to the Union League Club. His polit- ical allegiance is given to the republican party and he is an officer in the Pres- byterian denomination. While a man of marked commercial spirit, with ability to formulate and execute plans resulting in mammoth undertakings, his success has allowed him leisure to cultivate graces of character and the higher interests of life until companionship with Frederick Morgan Steele has come to mean ex- pansion and elevation. Both Mr. and Mrs. Steele are prominent and influential factors in the social circles of this city where intelligence is regarded as an essen- tial attribute to agreeableness. Travel, study and research have gained for them prominence in various fields of knowledge, while recognition of the responsibilities of wealth and a sincere interest in their fellowmen have prompted them to put forth effective effort for the amelioration of the hard conditions of life for the unfortunate.

ILLINOIS!

(Meaning: "We are men!") Air: — "Baby Mine."

O'er thy rivers, gently flowing,

Illinois, Illinois, Where thy stately corn is growing,

Illinois, Illinois,

Hark! that word to us, so dear, With its message bold and clear, 'Tis the name we love to hear,

Illinois, Illinois, — 'Tis the name we love to hear,

Illinois !

See ! 'mid flow'rs in mighty measure,

Illinois, Illinois, Golden Rod, thy yellow treasure,

Illinois, Illinois; 'Tis the emblem of thy host Gathered here from ev'ry coast — Stalwart hearts, thy pride and boast,

Illinois, Illinois, — Stalwart hearts, thy pride and boast,

Illinois !

CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS

71

Pride of all thy sons and daughters,

Illinois, Illinois, By thy peopled inland waters,

Illinois, Illinois, Fair Chicago, great and grand, Wealth and progress on each hand, Welcome gives to ev'ry land,

Illinois, Illinois, — Welcome gives to ev'ry land,

Illinois !

While thy Lincoln's fame is cherished,

Illinois, Illinois, Till thy Logan's name has perished,

Illinois, Illinois,

While thy Grant shall honored be Thro' our Nation grand and free, We shall love and honor thee,

Illinois, Illinois, — We shall love and honor thee,

Illinois !

Thou hast heard thy Country calling,

Illinois, Illinois, Mid the din of War appalling,

Illinois, Illinois, Then thy courage and thy will Rose each heart to fire and thrill ! Brave and loyal thou art still

Illinois, Illinois, — Brave and loyal thou art still

Illinois !

While thy glory we are singing,

Illinois, Illinois, Loyal homage to thee bringing,

Illinois, Illinois, Let us praise His holy Name Thro' Whose might all good we claim, Who has wrought thy wondrous fame,

Illinois, Illinois, — Who has wrought thy wondrous fame,

Illinois !

Frederick M. Steele.

J. FLETCHER SKINNER.

J. Fletcher Skinner, general merchandise manager for Sears, Roebuck & Com- pany, was born in Madison, Wisconsin, December 6, 1869. His father, William Skinner, was a native of England, but was only six years of age when taken to Canada by his parents, who located near Toronto. About 1860 he removed to Wisconsin, where he engaged in farming and also conducted a hotel. About 1876 he removed to Minnesota and continued in the same business, his death occurring at Redwood Falls, that state, about 1901, when he was sixty-three years of age. His wife bore the maiden name of Ellen Waldorn and was born near Toronto, Canada. They were married in that country and Mrs. Skinner is still living, now making her home in North Yakima, Washington. J. Fletcher Skinner is their only son, but there were two daughters in the family, namely : Emma, the wife of Victor M. Persons; and Flora, who gave her hand in marriage to -K. U. Lova. Both are residents of North Yakima, Washington.

In the common and high schools of Redwood Falls, Minnesota, J. Fletcher Skinner continued his education until graduated with the class of 1884. He then entered the general store of F. W. Philbrick, with whom he continued until 189-i, when he came to Chicago. Here in 1895 he entered the employ of Sears-Roebuck in connection with the clothing department, his duties covering every branch of the work in that department. He had known Mr. Sears in his home town and there- fore had no difficulty in obtaining the position. He developed his department until

72 CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS

it had reached such extensive proportions as to necessitate a division into four dis- tinctive departments, of all of which Mr. Skinner had charge until the early part of 1907, when he was made general merchandise manager, having charge of the buy- ing and selling of all the merchandise of the entire business. In this connection is found the largest variety and quantity of stock in any one place in the United States. Since 1908 Mr. Skinner has been a director in the company and it is a recognized fact that his labors have been an important element in the develop- ment and growth of the business.

While he is preeminently a successful merchant and manager, he has also ex- tended his efforts into other fields, being active in the work of the Young Men's Christian Association Training School. He is a member of the board of directors of the Chicago and Lake Geneva school and for some time has been identified with that movement. His club relations are of an important character, embracing mem- bership in the Union League, the Oak Park and City Clubs. In politics he is a republican where national issues are involved, but casts an independent local ballot. His religious faith is evidenced in his membership in the First Congregational church of Oak Park, in which he is active, his labors and support contributing in marked measure to its success. His recreation comes to him through tennis and golf and he is an enthusiastic advocate of the former.

On the 26th of October, 1892, at Redwood Falls, Minnesota, Mr. Skinner was united in marriage to Miss Hettie Persons, a daughter of Mrs. Diana Persons of that city. They now have four children, as follows : Mary Crete and Blanche, who are eighteen and fifteen years of age respectively ; Helen, who is eleven years old ; and James Fletcher, Jr., two years of age. The family reside at No. 605 Linden avenue, Oak Park, in one of the attractive suburban homes of the city. Mr. Skin- ner has a most creditable record, as is manifest in his continuous advancement, his progress being built upon the sure and stable foundation of indefatigable industry, unfaltering resolution and unassailable integrity. He recognized the fact that real merit never fails to win recognition and he made his service of value to the house with which he has been connected throughout the entire period of his residence in Chicago.

CLARENCE A. KNIGHT.

Chicago is continually recruiting her business and professional ranks from the surrounding territory and thus infusing into established business conditions the vigor and vitality .which are drawn from the more free and untrammeled life of the country. One of America's eminent statesmen has said: "When in the battle of life the city boy crosses swords with the country lad the odds are against him. The early rising, the daily tasks, the economical habits of the country boy prepare him for the struggle that must precede ascendency." In Clarence A. Knight was found one whose native talents and powers constantly expanded, tak- ing him from humble surroundings to a field of broad opportunity, wherein he so capably directed his energies that the most intricate law problems became of comparatively easy solution to him and he ranked with the distinguished repre-

CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS 73

sentatives of corporation law in Chicago. No gift of rhetoric is needed to prove his position, for the consensus of public opinion placed him in the foremost rank of those who are caring for the legal phase of large corporate interests. Illinois numbered him among her native sons, his birth having occurred in McHenry county, October 28, 1853. After attending the common schools near his father's home he had the benefit of instruction in the Cook County Normal School and then, as do the majority of young men, he turned to the city, thinking to find in its quickened activities the opportunity which he sought for advancement. He made Chicago his home after April, 1872, and after two years' thorough prelim- inary reading in the law office of Spafford, McDaid & Wilson he was admitted to the bar in 1874, taking the required examination before the supreme court then in session at Ottawa. The succeeding year was spent as assistant with his former instructors, at the end of which time he joined Mr. McDaid in the forma- tion of a partnership under the name of McDaid & Knight, practicing in that connection until 1879, when under appointment of Julius S. Grinnel he became assistant city attorney. Five years later, when in 1884 Mr. Gray was elected state's attorney, Mayor Harrison appointed him city attorney to fill out an unex- pired term and again he was appointed assistant city attorney following the elec- tion of Hempstead Washburn as city attorney. His connection with his profession in its official phase continued when in 1887 he was named assistant corporation counsel by Mayor Roche, in which position he continued until the first of July, 1889, when he resigned and formed a partnership with Paul Brown under the firm name of Knight & Brown, thus rounding out ten years of invaluable service with the municipal law department. The records are proof of the large amount of important business which he accomplished during that period. He was instru- mental in incorporating under the laws of the state a measure providing for the annexation of territory adjoining the city- — a measure of vital importance to Chi- cago. An act looking to that end was declared unconstitutional by the supreme court, after which Mr. Knight was selected to prepare a new measure to cover the case and did so, securing its passage in the legislature in 1889. This resulted in the annexation of Hyde Park, Lake View, the town of Lake, Jefferson and por- tions of Cicero to Chicago, in June of that year.

The marked ability which Mr. Knight displayed in his public professional service won to him the attention of leading corporations and caused the direction of his energies almost solely into the field of corporation law. In 1893 the Lake Street Elevated Railroad Company appointed him its general counsel and, in 1897, he was called to a similar position with the Union Elevated Railway Company, the Northwestern Elevated Railroad Company and the surface electric lines con- necting with the North and West Chicago Street Railway. In this professional association Mr. Knight conducted litigation, establishing the right to build the loop elevated railroad on Lake and Van Buren streets and Wabash and Fifth avenues. In this connection it has been said: "He handled this matter with the decision, good judgment and professional force which have marked his career as a private practitioner, a representative of the city and an advocate of transporta- tion improvements." Mr. Knight was president of the Chicago & Oak Park Ele- vated Railroad and this office in connection with his legal identification with other lines mentioned, made him one of the strongest factors in Chicago in the manage-

74 CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS

ment and development of the transportation systems of the municipality. In a partnership relation with the Hon. George W. Brown he organized the firm of Knight & Brown, which existed until the death of the junior partner, at which time Mr. Knight was joined by James J. Barbour and William G. Adams, under the firm name of Knight, Barbour & Adams. Throughout his life he remained a close student of his profession, especially of that branch of the law which bears upon corporations, and with a mind naturally analytical and inductive, he solved some of the most complex and intricate problems which have called forth the pow- ers of corporation lawyers in Chicago.

Mr. Knight was married in 1877 to Miss Adele Brown, a daughter of Dr. H. T. Brown, of McHenry, Illinois, and their children are Bessie and James H. Knight. Long connected with the Masonic fraternity, Mr. Knight took the degrees of Chevalier Bayard Commandery, K. T., and he also belonged to the Loyal League, the Union Club and the South Shore Country Club. Outside the strict path of his profession he was a splendid figure on the stage of action. Because of the innate refinement of his nature he rejected everything opposed to good taste; be- cause of his loyal devotion to the public welfare he advocated in a quiet yet force- ful way all measures looking to the progress and betterment of the city. The death of Mr. Knight occurred in July, 1911, when he was yet in the prime of life, his activity and his interests having brought him to a prominent position in finan- cial and legal circles, where his work was a serviceable factor in the city's prog- ress. His loss was keenly and widely felt but by none, except in his own household, more than by the circle of friends that he had gathered about him by reason of his personal worth and the possession of attractive social qualities and all manly attributes.

JOSEPH OLIVER MORRIS.

Joseph Oliver Morris, attorney at law, was born in Chicago, August 3, 1863, a son of Edwin E. and Anna (Oliver) Morris, both of whom were of English birth and parentage although the Morris family originated in Wales. For several genera- tions, however, it had been represented in the south of England and Edwin E. Morris was born near Brighton, in Sussex county. His wife was a native of London and a daughter of William Oliver, of the firm of William Oliver & Sons, of London Wall, the home of Milton. The family for several generations had been the largest dealers in the world in mahogany and rosewood. Mrs. Morris also traced her ancestry back to Oliver Cromwell and to the Marchant family, who were royalists. In the year 1854 Edwin E. Morris first came to America and made his way direct to Chicago but in 1857 returned to his native land and was married. He then brought his bride to his newly established home in Chicago and prior to the Civil war was the owner of the Phoenix Coffee and Spice Mills, one of the first and largest enterprises of the kind in the city at that day. He was afterward a member of the firm of Morris, Cloves & Company, proprietors of a pioneer wholesale grocery house that furnished supplies to the government during the war. Following the cessation of hostilities Edwin E. Morris removed to Cin-

CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS 77

cinnati where he engaged in the exportation of packing house products. He was the originator of this industry in America, opening up trade relations with Europe. He retired from active business twenty-five years ago and now resides with his son, Joseph O. Morris, at the age of eighty-seven years. His wife passed away in 1 890.

In the public schools of College Hill, Ohio, Joseph O. Morris acquired his early education and afterward pursued a preparatory course at Belmont College. On the removal of the family to Chicago he completed his education .in the Lake View high school, from which he was graduated in 1882. He afterward spent a year in travel and in 1883 entered upon the study of law in the office of Flower, Remy & Gregory, the predecessors of the present firm of Musgrave & Lee, with whom he spent four years. He also for a short time attended the Union College of Law, a department of the Northwestern University, where he qualified himself to pass the state examination that secured him admission to the bar in 1884. He engaged in practice as a member of the firm of Morris, Ganse & Craig until 1895, since which time he has practiced alone. Specializing largely in corporation law he has represented many of the important brokerage firms in the country, all members of the New York Stock Exchange, in litigation involving legal technical- ities peculiar to the brokerage business. He is considered an authority on that unique branch of the profession. In association with Mr. Ganse, Mr. Morris has also become largely interested in realty. In 1890 they purchased a tract of one thousand acres at South Waukegan and to control this incorporated under the name of the South Waukegan Land Company, their holdings being valued at one million dollars. They laid out and founded the town of South Waukegan and in 1894 changed its name to North Chicago. Mr. Morris guided this mammoth enterprise through the panic of 1893 and in 1895 disposed of the last of their holdings, realizing a handsome profit on the whole. In 1906 he purchased two large tracts of land at Hammond and guided this venture successfully through the financial difficulties of 1907. He now owns all of the stock of the company and the property at the present time consists of a tract of land one-half mile in length along the Calumet river, valued at two hundred and fifty thousand dollars. Part of this has been platted and is now on the market. He has passed through two financial panics but has so carefully managed and guided his interests that he is still the owner of large real-estate holdings in Chicago and vicinity in addi- tion to California land properties. He is also an officer and director in various corporations which own and control important business undertakings and his sound judgment and keen discrimination also constitute valuable elements in the success- ful direction of business affairs. He has given his leisure time, aside from busi- ness, to church and Sunday school work and his labors in that direction have been equally effective and far-reaching. In former years he was very active in the Young Men's Christian Association, was one of the board of managers and a prime mover in the erection of the splendid association building on La Salle street in 1893. His church membership is in the First Presbyterian church of Evanston and for twenty years he has been teacher of the Bible class composed of high- school girls.

On the 3d of May, 1892, in Cincinnati, Mr. Morris was married to Miss Edith Beatrice Green, a daughter of Joseph Green, of that city, and they have four chil-

78 CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS

dren, Joseph G., Edith Marjorie, Melissa DeGalyer and Constance Olive,, aged respectively seventeen, fourteen, eleven and eight years. They have also lost two- children. For the past eleven years the family has resided at No. 1138 Sheridan road, Evanston, and are prominent socially in that section of the city. Mrs. Morris is very active in literary and other clubs of Evanston and Mr. Morris holds membership in the Hamilton and Automobile Clubs of Chicago, the Univer- sity Club of Evanston and the Skokie Country Club. In leisure hours he may be frequently seen on the links for golf with him is a pleasant source of recreation. If one were to attempt to characterize his life work in a single word it perhaps might be done in the term "progress," for from the outset of his career he has steadily advanced not only in business and professional circles, although he has won success in both, but also in those connections which arise from the duty of the individual toward the community. His life has reached out in a constantly broadening field of activity and usefulness and figures strongly as one of service- ableness in many directions.

CHARLES ALBERT COMISKEY.

Charles Albert Comiskey, sole owner of the White Sox Baseball Club as well as their home, Comiskey Park, Chicago, stands at the top among the financial kings of baseball and is one of the foremost and most successful men connected with the national pastime in its entire history. A native of Chicago, born August 15, 1859, son of John and Mary Ann (Kearns) Comiskey, he was reared in his native city, where he received his education, graduating from Ignatius College. His identi- fication with baseball as a player, and like all who attain prominence, began when but a youngster. He was a natural-born ball player. His first knowledge of the game was secured on the lots of Chicago while his professional identification began in 1876. In that year, and before he was seventeen years old, he played third base position for Milwaukee. The following year he played at Elgin, Illinois, as a pitcher, in which capacity he displayed great promise. From the latter club he went to Dubuque, Iowa, in 1878, and remained there during that season and those of 1879, 1880 and 1881. Young Comiskey's work with the Dubuque team brought him to the attention of the owners of the St. 'Louis Browns, then in the American Association. Joining this club in 1882 he became captain and played first base. In 1883 he became manager of the St. Louis Browns, a capacity in which he con- tinued to act until 1892. It was while a member of this club that he achieved his great reputation not only as a player but as a captain and manager. Under his direction the St. Louis Browns became one of the greatest teams in the history of the game. With them during this period originated many new styles of play, not a few of which yet remain distinct features of up-to-date inside baseball. It was Mr. Comiskey who originated and successfully demonstrated the advantage of deep first base play, depending on the pitcher to cover the base. With a personality and force of character that naturally made him a leader he combined a superior practical knowledge of the game, an equipment that no doubt had much to do with the success of the team he directed. While their head, the St. Louis Browns won

CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS 79

the championship of the American Association in 1885, 1886, 1887 and the world's championship in 1885 and 1886. The four successive pennants won by this club in the American Association is a record in the major leagues that has never been equaled. In 1892 Mr. Comiskey became captain and manager of the Cincinnati National League team and remained there in a managerial capacity during 1892, 1893 and 1894. In 1895 he became the owner of the St. Paul Club in the Western League, retaining that connection during 1895, 1896, 1897, 1898 and 1899. As an owner at St. Paul Mr. Comiskey had been successful and at the organization of the American League in 1900 he became the owner of the Chicago franchise in that organization.

Up to this time Chicago had never been a member of any major league but the National and while one of the best ball cities in the country, it seemed a foolhardy move to attempt to successfully operate a club in opposition to the old organiza- tion. Mr. Comiskey thought differently, an opinion, which, if wrong, meant his financial ruin. The American League was attempting to do what a number of times previously had proven a failure — establish a second major organization. Its franchise did not carry the absolute protection given by the National League, with its wealth and prestige. Consequently an American League franchise at that time did not represent much, if any value, except to men like Charles A. Comiskey, who had implicit confidence in the success of the plan of the new organization. At that time a franchise was a long ways from a ball club meriting patronage and a home for its exhibitions, but Mr. Comiskey backed his judgment with every dollar at his command and subsequent results have shown the wisdom of his course. Grounds were secured at Thirty-ninth and Wentworth and his club became known as the White Sox. The great popularity of the team and its owner was in evidence from the first and a patronage surpassing the most sanguine expectations soon came to them. In 1910 Mr. Comiskey transferred his club to Comiskey Park, Thirty-fifth and Shields avenue, where he erected one of the finest baseball plants in the country at an outlay of probably more than the combined cost of all the American League plants at the inception of the organization. The White Sox were pennant-winners in 1900, 1906; world's championship winners in 1906; and winners of the city cham- pionship in 1911. Mr. Comiskey 's success is but that of a business man who studies closely the requirements of his patrons and never breaks faith with them. He has made baseball his business. When a player he took his vocation seriously and made it his business, not a pastime, tried to do his best and never forgot that he owed his employer his best efforts. No greater advocate of clean sport can be found in any walk of life. He has played the part of a clean, high-class sports- man, and has staunchly stood for the betterment of the game through the elimina- tion of pool selling, liquor and the bad element generally. When a few years ago a majority of the officials contended that it was impossible to make the game pay without these accessories, he stoutly maintained that the game would become greater and more successful financially without them. Results have proved the wisdom of his contention. When the ticket speculators tried to profit by the popularity of his team, he hired his own detectives and landed them in jail. In the management of his ball park and team he has always kept faith with his patrons and looked for his profits at the gate. Mr. Comiskey pays strict attention to business and is al- ways in touch with his team whether at home or on the road. He is popular with

80 CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS

his men but any man playing for him would rather tackle a sawmill than be called into the office for a lecture by "the old Roman." He does not swear at nor upbraid offenders, but says things based on his perfect knowledge of the game and the men's weaknesses, that are more effective than any torrent of abuse could possibly be. He may be said to be an optimist, never yielding to discouragement and always confident of success. It has been said of him that he never went into a game he did not expect to win and he felt it in his heart as truly as his spoken word indi- cated. Take one illustration: In 1886 when the St. Louis Browns won the pen- nant in the American Association and Chicago had won the National League pennant, A. G. Spalding, who had the Chicago team in charge gave out, as the condition to meeting the Browns for the world's championship, a winner take-all clause. Mr. Comiskey replied "You're on," and if he could have thought of a shorter affirma- tive, he would have used it. The Chicago National Club at that time was a formid- able aggregation of ball players yet the club under Mr. Comiskey drew the big purse.

The personal popularity of Mr. Comiskey is truly remarkable and has been no small factor in his success. A true friend, whose manifestation of sympathy is not confined to a mere protestation but invariably in a more helpful and substantial manner he never forgets a favor or declines an opportunity to return one. He is systematic and painstaking in whatever he undertakes and whatever he does, he does in the best possible manner. Mr. Comiskey has not lived solely to accumulate. He is able to consult his wishes and satisfy his desires for the luxuries and com- forts of life as well as to give liberally to charity and benevolent projects. He belongs to the South Shore, Chicago Yacht, Illinois Athletic and Chicago Automo- bile Clubs.

Mr. Comiskey married Miss Nancy Kelly, of Dubuque, Iowa, and has one son, John L.. who is closely identified with the business interests of his father.

MILO GIFFORD KELLOGG.

As one follows down the line of the inventors whose labors have given Amer- ica preeminence in the field of commerce as the result of devices for saving time and labor, he reaches in the later period of invention the name of Milo Gifford Kellogg — a name largely synonymous with the telephonic history of the country. He was of the ninth generation of Kelloggs born in the United States and was a son of James Gregg and Sarah Jane (Gifford) Kellogg. This branch of the Kel- logg family came from Great Leighs, England, and mention of them is found in the records of Farmington, Connecticut, as early as 1651. The Giffords came from Barnstable county, Massachusetts, and also date back to colonial days.

Milo Gifford Kellogg, born in Rodman, New York, April 14, 18-19, attended the preparatory school at Fulton, and continued his studies in the Hungerford Collegiate Institute at Adams, New York. In 1870 he was graduated from the University of Rochester, New York, which institution conferred upon him the degrees of A. B. and A. M. He was an Alpha Delta Phi of Rochester, and was

MILO G. KELLOGG

CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS 83

one of three chosen by the society to inaugurate the fraternity chapter at Cornell University.

Following his graduation Mr. Kellogg came to Chicago and entered into busi- ness with the firm of Gray & Barton, manufacturers of electrical apparatus, and saw the development of telephony and electrical illumination from their infancy. The Chicago Engineer in this connection once wrote: "Fancy this energetic trio of ambitious young men — Gray and Barton and Kellogg — all experimenting with electricity and making salable apparatus. Elisha Gray — Enos M. Barton — Milo Gifford Kellogg — makers of telephone history!" The firm of Gray & Barton in 1872 became the Western Electric Manufacturing Company and prospered for the ten following years, when, in 1882, the word manufacturing was dropped from the title. During all of these years and until 1885 Mr. Kellogg remained with the concern and from 1875 was superintendent of the manufacturing department of the Western Electric Company.

In the following year Mr. Kellog became president of the Great Southern Telephone & Telegraph Company, so continuing until 1888. He was also one of the organizers and principal stockholders of the Central Union Telephone Com- pany of Chicago and was a director in that company from 1893 until 1898. In the meantime he traveled extensively, spending two years of the period in Europe. He studied the possibilities of telephone development, becoming identified with the operation of telephone plants and concentrating his energy on inventions. Dur- ing this period he became a fountain head of economical ideas, all pertaining to telephone work. He brought out numerous inventions and about one hundred and fifty of his patents formed part of the assets of the new company which he or- ganized in 1897. It was in that year that he organized the Kellogg Switchboard & Supply Company, of which he became president, a position he held at the time of his death. This company was the first to supply independent operating com- panies with multiple switchboards and was also the first to introduce the full-lamp- signal switchboard to independent operators. It was in 1897 that the Kellogg Com- pany built the first independent multiple switchboard for the Kinlock Company of St. Louis which was the first large city in the United States to successfully break away from the Bell monopoly. We quote again from the Engineer which said: "Milo Gifford Kellogg blazed the way for the independent telephone manu- facturer. It was through his personal efforts in 1892 that President Benjamin Harrison considered the claims of independent manufacturers with reference to the Berliner transmitter patents. The government's case to annul the validity of Berliner's claim was not successful, but it established the weaknesses which made the subsequent trials a success. The contribution of largeness to the cause of competitive telephony lies at the door of M. G. Kellogg, the man. The Kellogg manufacturing organization constitutes the best engineering and sales talent that is to be had. Little could have been added in men, plans or execution to secure greater success. Mr. Kellogg always addressed himself in earnest to the work before him. He surrounded himself with workers of like kind. The integrity and efficiency of the manufactured apparatus resulting from such organization has never been assailed."

Mr. Kellogg devoted his time and energies to the advancement of telephone and electrical apparatus and during the last five years of his life maintained a

84 CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS

separate organization for experimental work, largely concentrating his efforts and energies upon automatic telephone operating and manufacturing.

On the llth of March, 1873, Mr. Kellogg was united in marriage to Mary Frances, a daughter of Calvin and Frances (Kimball) De Wolf, both of whom were early settlers of Chicago, her father arriving in 1837 and her mother in 1840. They were married in this city by the Rev. Hooper Crews, one of the early pastors of the Clark street Methodist church, on the 9th of June, 1841. Extended mention of them is made on another page of this volume. To Mr. and Mrs. Kel- logg were born three children, Anna Pearl, Leroy De Wolf and James Gifford. Both sons are connected with the Kellogg Switchboard & Supply Company and the former was married in July, 1901, to Ellen Neel and they have three chil- dren, namely: Frances De Wolf, Venie Louise and Leroy Gifford.

Milo G. Kellogg passed away September 26, 1909. His family and friends were all the society he cared for and to them he was most loyal and devoted. He attended the Kenwood Evangelical church and was always interested in its bene- volent work. He had a firm belief in republican principles, although he at times found occasion to vote independently of the party ticket. He was a liberal sup- porter of the Municipal Voters' League, a life member of the Chicago Athletic Association and also a member of the Union League and Kenwood Clubs. He re- mains in the memory of his friends enshrined in a halo of a gracious presence1 and kindly spirit, and to the world he will ever be known as one whose efforts were foremost in the development of telephony, not only through invention and manufacture but also in the establishment of an independent system that broke the power of a monopoly.

JOHN R. CAVERLY.

History does not consist of the deed* of men who have figured most prominently in past ages. In a city like Chicago it is in the making and in various depart- ments of activity are men who are active in shaping the policy and molding the destiny of the city. Among this number is John R. Caverly, who is now serving as judge of the municipal court, to which office he was elected in 1911.

The world's metropolis claims him as her native son, his birth having occurred in London, England, on the 6th of December, 1861. His parents were James and Mary (Boulter) Caverly, the former a native of Ireland and the latter of Eng- land. The father learned and followed the machinist's trade and about 1867 sailed for the new world with his family, establishing his home in Chicago. His son John R. Caverly, then a lad of six years, pursued his education in the Annun- ciation parish school and in St. Patrick's Academy and his preparation for a pro- fessional career was made in the law department of the Lake Forest University, from which he was graduated with the LL. B. degree in 1897.

He has since been actively engaged in the practice of his profession and his progress has been substantial and gratifying. In April, 1897, he received appoint- ment to the position of assistant city attorney, which he filled for more than six years, or until the 1st of May, 1903. He then left the office to become police mag-

CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS 85

istrate at the Harrison street police court, which has always been considered the most trying and responsible position of the kind in Chicago. He presided over that court for nearly five years, executing its business with dispatch, his opinions ex- pressing absolute impartiality as well as comprehensive knowledge of the law. The excellent record which he had made as assistant city attorney, however, again suggested him for office and on the 1st of January, 1907, he was appointed city attorney and reappointed by Corporation Counsel Brundage. In that connection he made for himself a most creditable name, carefully safeguarding the interests of the city, his work being based upon a thorough and conscientious knowledge of the law and ability to accurately apply its principles. He is recognized as one of the ablest lawyers of the Chicago bar, having that mental grasp which enables him to discover the points in a case. A man of sound judgment, he manages his cases with masterly skill and tact, is a logical reasoner and has a ready command of English.

On the 15th of September, 1898, Mr. Caverly was united in marriage to Miss Charlotte J. Cochran. His political allegiance has always been given to the democ- racy and his religious faith is that of the Roman Catholic church. He belongs to the Knights of Columbus and the Royal Arcanum and also holds membership in the Illinois Athletic Club and the Iroquois Club. He is of a very social and genial nature and is ever heartily welcomed in the meetings of the organizations with which he is affiliated. The success of his life is due to no inherited fortune or to any happy succession of advantageous circumstances but to his own sturdy will, steady application, studious habits, tireless industry and sterling integrity.

WILLIAM ATWATER WEED.

(

It was while the country was involved in the throes of the Civil war that Wil- liam Atwater Weed became a resident of Chicago and here he resided to the time of his death, in prominent and useful connection with business interests. He was born in New York city, on the 17th of May, 18-10, and his life record covered scarcely more than a half century, his death occurring March 24, 1892. His fa- ther was Dr. John W. Weed, a practicing physician of New York, and the mother, Margaret Mix, who belonged to a family of Holland origin.

In the public schools of the eastern metropolis, William Atwater Weed pur- sued his education and entered business circles as an employe in the house of W. H. Schieffelin & Company. During the early part of the Civil war he responded to the call for troops, becoming a volunteer in the Thirteenth New York Regiment. He participated in the battles of Lookout Mountain and Gettysburg and afterward retired from the service, removing to Chicago late in the year 1863. From that time until his death he retained his residence in this city and was connected in various capacities with the wholesale drug houses that were predecessors of the business of the firm of Hurlbut & Edsall. He was a partner in the latter firm when the disastrous fire of 1871 swept away a very large amount of his fortune. He afterward organized the firm of W. A. Weed & Company, dealers in druggists sundries, and ten years prior to his death became actively connected as advertising

86 CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS

manager with the medical publishing house of G. P. Engelhard & Company. Dur- ing the last few years of his life he was the well known manager of the advertis- ing department of the Chicago Graphic, published by the same concern. In that connection he contributed not only to the success of the paper but also won sub- stantial returns for himself and gained recognition as one of the representative men in that field of business.

In Chicago, in 1869, Mr. Weed was united in marriage to Miss Sarah Morgan, a daughter of Thomas Morgan, who came with his family to America from Eng- land in 1844 and settled at Morgan Park, Illinois, which place was named in his honor. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Weed were born four sons and two daughters: Wil- liam F., who married Blanche Fowler and is a broker; Morgan, who is connected with the Swift Packing Company ; Charles F., who married Dorothy Walsh ; George L., who wedded Alice Thatcher and is engaged with his brother Charles in the insurance business ; Harriett M., the wife of Dr. P. C. Barnes, of St. Louis ; and Clara S., who died in 1902. Mr. Weed was a member of St. Mark's Episcopal church and also of the Masonic fraternity. The teachings of both organizations were exemplified in his life. Those who knew him found him a kind neighbor and a faithful friend ; the church counted him a loyal member ; and to his family he was all that could be implied in the term of husband and father. It was not his success but the qualities which he displayed in every relation of life that gave him firm hold upon the affectionate regard of those with whom he came in contact.

SOLON C. BRONSON, D. D.

Dr. Solon C. Bronson, professor of theology at Garrett Biblical Institute in Evanston, was born in West Union, Iowa, July 26, 1855. He represents an old family of Scotch and Irish lineage that was founded in Connecticut in colonial days. His father, Rev. Harvey S. Brunson, was born in Cuyahoga county, Ohio, May 10, 1814, and came to the middle west when twenty years of age, seeking to benefit his health by a change of climate. He tarried at different times and for different intervals in various states but about 1840 settled at Freeport, Illinois. His mother was widowed in early life and settled in Kenosha, Wisconsin, where she afterward passed away and was buried. Rev. H. S. Brunson was a pioneer minister of this state, of Iowa and of Wisconsin, devoting fourteen years to preach- ing the gospel. About 1842 he was for a short period pastor of the old Canal Street Methodist church of Chicago, which was afterward removed to another site and called the Centenary Methodist church.. After retiring from the pulpit he became a prominent factor in political circles and some time after the war was elected to the Iowa senate, wherein he represented his district for two terms. For a time he was identified with agricultural pursuits in that state and afterward became proprietor of a hotel in Fayette, Iowa. Through his well conducted busi- ness affairs he amassed a small fortune which he invested in railroads and thereby lost. For forty years he was a director of the Upper Iowa University at Fayette and at all times was interested in educational and moral progress. He was a warm personal friend of Senator Allison and was one of the first to propose his election

CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS 87

to the United States senate. When about sixty-five years of age Mr. Brunson retired and spent the remainder of his life in Fayette. He was one of the best known and most beloved residents of that community and his friends were found throughout that state and in fact in every locality, where he had resided. He died in Fayette, December 8, 1905, at the venerable age of ninety-one years. In early manhood he had wedded Jane McCool, who was born and reared in Freeport, Illinois, and there resided until her marriage, after which she traveled with her husband. She died in Fayette, Iowa, in the latter part of November, 1904, at the age of eighty-six years. She came of Pennsylvania Dutch parentage and had the home instinct which is characteristic of that class. She was a direct descendant of Joannes Nevius, secretary of New Amsterdam, now New York, and of William Chamberlain and Christian Nevyus (such was the spelling at that time), both of whom were active in the Revolutionary war as commissioned officers. On the Bron- son family records appears the name of one who gained distinction — Pinkney Bron- son, who was one of the most famous American orators about the middle of the nineteenth century.

In the family of Harvey S. Brunson and his wife there were five children, of whom Dr. Bronson of this review is the fourth in order of birth, the others being: Mrs. Henry E. Hurd, of Fayette, Iowa; Mrs. Anna E. Ferguson, of Los Angeles, California; Mrs. Sylvanus B. Warner, of Grand Junction, Colorado; and Miss Minnie H. Bronson, of Washington, D. C., who was one of those in charge of the educational exposition at Paris and at Buffalo and was the head of that department at the Belgium exposition at The Hague. More recently she has been active in the anti-suffragette work of New York and is now on the Pacific coast on the same mission.

Dr. Bronson pursued his early education in the public schools of Fayette, Iowa, and was graduated from the Upper Iowa University of that place in 1875. He then came to Evanston and entered the Garrett Biblical Institute, from which he was graduated in 1878. Having determined to devote his life to the ministry, he was ordained in Hopkinton, Iowa, in 1880, and for seventeen years was actively engaged in preaching the gospel in that state, being located at different times in Hopkinton, Waterloo, Toledo, Clinton and Burlington. In the spring of 1896 he was elected to the chair of practical theology in the Garrett Biblical Institute, where he has since remained, covering a period of fifteen years, his ability placing him prominent among the educators in this field in the country. The honorary degree of Doctor of Divinity has been conferred upon him by this school and also by Cornell College ofilowa, and from the Upper Iowa University at Fayette he received the Master of Arts degree. In that school he was doctor of theology for a time and some years later held a similar connection with the Cornell College.

In 1879, in Cleveland, Ohio, Dr. Bronson was married to Miss Frances Avann, a daughter of William Avann, an Englishman. She was graduated from Boston University, in 1879. Dr. and Mrs. Bronson have become parents of four children: Mrs. Edna B. Campbell, a widow, who is now a high-school teacher in Seattle, Washington; Elizabeth, the wife of Eugene W. Brownell, assistant cashier in the National Bank of Commerce at Seattle, Washington; Earl A., who is married and resides in Evanston ; and Reid R., a freshman of the Northwestern University. Three of these children are Phi Beta Kappa members of Northwestern University.

88 CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS

Dr. Bronson is a republican with independent tendencies. He does not believe in the blind following of party leadership and is recognized as an active supporter of many of the wholesome, purifying reforms which have been growing up in the political life of city and country. He is a member of the University Club of Evan- ston, of the Upper Iowa University Club of Chicago and of the Methodist Social Union of Chicago. The universality of his friendships interprets for us his intel- lectual hospitality and the breadth of his sympathy, for nothing is foreign to him that concerns his fellows.

JOHN WILLIAM ALLEN.

.John William Allen has long been well known in business circles of Chicago as the head of the firm conducting business under the name of J. W. Allen & Company, at Nos. 110-118 North Peoria street, dealers in bakers' and confectioners' supplies. His birth occurred near Ann Arbor, Washtenaw county, Michigan, on the ith of September, 1848, his parents being Almond A. and Lucy (Powell) Allen, both of whom were born near Rochester, New York. They passed away in Michigan. Al- mond A. Allen participated in the Civil war. He was sent west to assist in quelling the Indian disturbances and lost his health, which never was entirely restored.

John W. Allen began attending the country schools of Calhoun county, Michigan, when a little lad of seven years and for five years his big Newfoundland dog drew him to and from school on a sled, as he was a cripple and almost helpless for five years. When a youth of seventeen he began learning the milling business at Battle Creek and Ann Arbor, Michigan, and on attaining his majority came to Chicago, here securing a clerkship with the firm of Lyman & Silliman, tea and coffee merch- ants, in whose employ he remained for twelve years. On the expiration of that pe- riod he had accumulated sufficient capital to enable him to embark in business on his own account, but lost his earnings through the failure of the Fidelity Savings Bank. Later he was offered and accepted five hundred dollars for his bank book and again went to work to increase his financial resources. At the end of two years he began business at No. 80 Van Buren street, remaining at that location for eighteen years. He then removed to No. 208 Washington boulevard, where he occupied a five-story building for nine years. At the expiration of that period he built a modern rein- forced concrete and brick structure of four stories and basement at Nos. 110-118 North Peoria street, where he is now conducting business. He is now at the head of an extensive and profitable corporation, dealing in bakers' and confectioners' sup- plies under the name of J. W. Allen & Company. Some idea of the growth of the concern may be gained from the fact that when he started out in business he did all of the work himself and at present requires the assistance of a large force of em- ployes. He is likewise the owner of the old Windiate farm in Calhoun county, Michi- gan. His life record is one which merits both admiration and emulation. Though in early life handicapped both physically and financially, he has worked his way steadily upward to a position of prominence and influence in the community.

On the 30th of December, 1872, Mr. Allen was united in marriage to Miss Emma M. Windiate, a daughter of William and Almira (Mead) Windiate, of Cal-

J. W. ALLEN

CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS 91

houn count}', Michigan. Unto them was born one son, Harry W., who is now the secretary and treasurer of the firm of J. W. Allen & Company. Harry W. Allen is married and has a son, Frank W., who is now eleven years of age.

In politics Mr. Allen is a republican, loyally supporting the men and measures of that party. He belongs to the Chicago Association of Commerce and the Illinois Manufacturers' Association, also the National Master Bakers' Association and is a worthy exemplar of the Masonic fraternity. Motoring and fishing afford him pleas- ure and recreation. His record is an illustration of the fact that opportunity is open to all. With a nature that could not be content with mediocrity, his laudable ambition has prompted him to put forth untiring and practical effort until he has long since left the ranks of the many and stands among the successful few.

HENRY M. KINGMAN.

In banking circles of Chicago the name of Henry M. Kingman is an honored one and his memory is cherished by all who knew him. His high principles in private and business life ever commanded the respect of his fellowmen and his ability was evidenced in the fact that he steadily advanced in the business world until he became second vice president of one of the world's strongest financial institutions — the First National Bank of Chicago. His birth occurred November 29, 1842, in Winchester, New Hampshire. When a lad of six years he accompan- ied his parents, Marshall and Abby (Fairbanks) Kingman, to Boston, Massachu- setts, where he resided for eight years, pursuing his education throughout that period in the schools of Watertown, one of the city's suburbs. The family then returned to his native city and he further pursued his education in the schools of Winchester until he entered Power's Institute at Bernardston, Massachusetts. He entered business circles in 1861 as an employe in the office of a lumber firm at Albany, New York, but in 1862, when twenty years of age, he sought the oppor- tunities of the rapidly developing middle west and left the Empire state for Du- buque, Iowa. From that time forward his business career was in close identification with banking and for a period he was identified with his cousins, R. E. and J. K. Graves, in the Dubuque branch of the State Bank of Iowa. He was also con- nected for a time with the First National Bank of that city and, in 1871, entered the Commercial National Bank of Dubuque as its cashier. For ten years his efforts were effectively given to the upbuilding of that institution but at length he sought the broader opportunities of Chicago and in 1881, having resigned his position in Dubuque, became assistant cashier of the Hide & Leather Bank of this city. In August, 1882, he entered the First National Bank as assistant cashier, displaying in that capacity marked ability, and labored indefatigably to promote the interests of the institution. The year 1891 brought him advancement to the position of second vice president and although he was already suffering from the illness which finally terminated his life, he remained for sixteen months in that position, receiving the salary of the office throughout the entire period.

It was on the 28th of September, 1871, that Mr. Kingman was united in mar- riage to Miss Emerette Randall, a daughter of Job S. and Emerette (Foster)

92 CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS

Randall, residents of Dubuque, where her father was engaged in the lumber busi- ness. Mr. and Mrs. Kingman became the parents of three children, but the only one now living is Marie L., who makes her home with her mother. In August, 1890, ill health forced Mr. Kingman to seek relief and he made his way to the sanitarium at Alma, Michigan, where he spent several months. His condition did not improve, however, during that period and he rejoined the members of his family in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where they were visiting relatives. Soon af- ter he passed away, death coming to him on the 16th of December, 1891, when he was less than fifty years of age. His health had been sacrificed to unremitting toil. His close application and the earnest purpose which he displayed in his business had undermined his constitution and death resulted. His life had been one of much usefulness. During his residence in Chicago he held membership in St. Paul's Universalist church, at Thirtieth street and Prairie avenue, and was very active in church work, serving as superintendent of the Sunday school and as president of its Literary Society. He also conformed his life to the high stand- ards of Knight Templar Masonry and he likewise held membership with the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine. He was always very fond of music and possessed considerable natural talent in that direction, singing in the church choir when a resident of Dubuque. His political support was given to the republican party and in duties of citizenship he was never amiss. His name was also on the member- ship rolls of several of the leading clubs of the city and in every relation of life he won numerous warm friends.. At all times and under every circumstance he showed himself worthy of trust and this combined with his unfaltering diligence and close application gained him substantial advancement in business circles. His entire life was proof of the fact that there is no discord, as many contend, between successful business methods and religious principles.

MANDLEBERT WENDELL BAKER.

Mandlebert Wendell Baker, president of the Baker Manufacturing Company, manufacturers of road grading machinery, was born in Knob Lick, Missouri, Sep- tember 6, 1875, a son of Andrew H. and Marietta (McGlasson) Baker. His grand- father, Moses Wendell Baker, was born in St. Francois county, Missouri, in 1809, and is said to have been the first white child born in that district. His parents had emigrated from Kentucky and his grandfather was originally from Germany. The second wife of Moses W. Baker bore the maiden name of Lydia Kinkead and was a daughter of Samuel Kinkead, a Scotchman, who also removed from Kentucky to Missouri. It was their son, Andrew H. Baker, who became the father of Mandle- bert W. Baker. The last named, after attending the common schools in various places, completed his education in the high school of Hutchinson, Kansas, and started in business life there as a bank clerk after putting aside his text-books in 189(5. This gave him considerable experience and his growing efficiency led to his selection for the office of assistant cashier in the White City State Bank at White City, Kansas, in January, 1899. There his faithfulness won him promotion to the

CHICAGO: ITS HISTORY AND ITS BUILDERS 93

position of cashier in that institution, which was later converted into a national bank. While thus engaged Mr. Baker became interested in manufacturing and on the 1st of January, 1908, resigned his position to remove to Chicago and extend his manufacturing interests. He is • now president of the Baker Manufacturing Company, engaged extensively in the building of road grading machinery and tools, scrapers, contractors' equipment, street cleaning supplies, etc. He still remains financially interested, however, in the First National Bank of White City, Kansas, and is one of its directors. Under his careful guidance the business in Chicago has constantly grown and developed and has now reached extensive proportions. The business is well organized, the plant splendidly equipped and the output finds a readj' sale upon the market, for Mr. Baker seems to possess in large measure that quality which for want of a better term has been called commercial sense, includ- ing, as it does, excellent powers of organization, capable management and the ability to surround himself with an able corps of assistants.

On the 2d of October, 1906, in White City, Kansas, Mr. Baker was married to Miss Margaret Miller, a daughter of Frank B. Miller and a native of Alexis, Illinois, born .July 24, 1880. She was graduated from Knox College at Galesburg with the class of 1898 and unto this marriage has been born a daughter, Lucy Wendell. The parents are members of the Christian church