Trails to the Past

Kent County, Rhode Island Biographies

Source The History of Washington & Kent Counties
Written by J. R. Cole published in 1889 by W. W. Preston & Co.

CHARLES TILLINGHAST JAMES, son of Silas and Phebe James, was born in West Greenwich September 15th, 1805. He received a common school education, learned the carpenter's trade and became a skillful mechanic and inventor. His mechanical talent and executive ability were of a high order and soon placed him in important positions. He became superintendent of the Slater Cotton Mill in Providence, built the Atlantic De Laine Mill at Olneyville, R. I., and furnished plans and superintended the construction of mills at Newburyport and Salem, Mass., at Reading, Penn., and in the states of New York, Maryland and Tennessee. He was chosen major general of the militia of Rhode Island, received the honorary degree of A. M. at Brown University in 1838, and in 1851 was elected a senator of the United States as a protective tariff democrat for the term of six years, by the legislature of Rhode Island, and served as senator from March 4th, 1851, to March 3rd, 1857, a period marked by the passage of the Kansas-Nebraska bill and the consequent rescinding of the Missouri compromise and the organization of the republican party at the north. He published pamphlets on the cultivation and manufacture of cotton and on rifled cannon. The extraordinary abilities and usefulness of General James were soon lost to his native state and to the nation. He invented a rifle cannon and while experimenting with one at Sag Harbor, lost his life by the explosion of a shell October 17th, 1862.  Biographie Index

JOHN JAMES, the son of Judge Silas and Phebe (Tillinghast) James, was born in West Greenwich, R. I., May 7th, 1802. His father was a soldier in the war of the revolution, and was present at the battle of Bunker Hill. His maternal grandfather, Charles Tillinghast, was a resident of North Kingstown, and during the war was taken prisoner by the British and imprisoned at Newport. John James was educated in the common schools of his native town, and at Plainfield academy. Conn. He was a farmer by occupation, but devoted the greater part of his life-a period of nearly fifty years-to the public affairs of his native town, and by his talent and address became a leading spirit in matters pertaining to town government. He was elected representative to the state legislature from the town of West Greenwich, August 30th, 1831, which office he held until April 17th, 1833; also from April, 1836, to August, 1838 ; was president of the town council and court of probate from May 27th, 1834, to 1837; was town clerk from May 29th, 1838, to May 25th, 1857; auctioneer from 1833 to 1852; surveyor of highways from 1832 to 1857, and from 1861 to 1875. August 31st, 1841, he was appointed a delegate to the convention which met at Providence to form a constitution, and again, August 30th, 1842, was appointed a delegate to the convention which met at Newport for the same purpose. He has twice held the office of sheriff, the second time in 1842 and 1843 ; was appointed postmaster in 1848, which office he resigned in 1860 ; was appointed commissioner to purchase the site for the new custom house in Providence, and was disbursing agent for the government until the building was finished. He was a brother of the late Silas James, M. D., and of General Charles Tillinghast James, United States senator. John James was in politics a life-long democrat. He died in West Greenwich, January 24th, 1875.  Biographie Index

THOMAS E. KENYON. -George Kenyon, the grandfather of the subject of this sketch, resided in the town of Hopkinton in Washington county, Rhode Island. To his wife, formerly a Miss Hoxie, were born thirteen children, one of whom was Solomon, a native of Hopkinton, who married Eunice Sheffield, of Portsmouth, in Newport county, in the same state. Their children were: Martha, Peleg, Solomon H., Catherine, George C, John T., Eunice S. and Thomas E.

The youngest of this number, Thomas E., was born April 21st, 1807, in Richmond, Washington county, where a private school, conducted during the winter months, afforded the only opportunities for education he enjoyed, the remainder of the year being devoted to work upon his father's farm. He continued to reside with his parents until 1836, meanwhile for several years leasing the property. During the year above mentioned, he purchased a small farm at Pawtucket, cultivated the land until the fall of 1838, and returned to Richmond, where his first experience as a farmer occurred. In 1842 Mr. Kenyon became the owner of his present home in East Greenwich, then embracing thirty-five acres, which by industry and thrift he has since fully doubled in area. He has made farming the business of his life, and is ranked among the most successful agriculturists of the town of East Greenwich.

He was many years since a director of the Rhode Island Exchange Bank of East Greenwich, and has borne a somewhat conspicuous part in affairs connected with his town and county. A whig of positive opinions during the existence of that party, and afterward a republican, he has been a member of the town council and held other local offices. He has twice been elected to the state legislature, and been each time assigned to various important committees. He was educated in the faith of the Society of Friends and still maintains his allegiance to that belief.

Mr. Kenyon has been thrice married. To his first wife, Mary L. Pierce, of Richmond, were born two children, Peleg G. and John R. He was married a second time to Mary Ann Gardner, whose only son, Thomas E., is deceased. His present wife is Elizabeth N. Austin, of Coventry, whose children are Thomas E., Albert A. and Mary E.

John R. Kenyon was born in 1834 and married Clara, daughter of Charles Nichols. Their four living children are: John H., Frank T., Eunice N. (wife of Lewis A. Walton of Cranston) and Solomon H.  Biographie Index

JOHN J. KILTON.- The Kilton's came from England and settled in Providence. At a conflagration of their dwelling house in Providence the early records of the family were destroyed. Some of the family were buried in the North Burial Ground. Thomas Kilton resided in Providence, where he died May 11th, 1749, aged fifty-nine years. His son, Thomas, was born in Providence, and married Sarah Pearce, sister of Samuel Pearce, of Prudence island, who was the father of Dutee J. Pearce. Thomas Kilton, like many ambitious young men of his time, chose a seaman's life, and rose by the usual gradations to the command of a vessel. During a tempestuous gale his bark was, in 1753, wrecked on Cape Breton. As the unfortunate seamen were washed ashore by the breakers they were surrounded by savage Indians, and all, excepting the mate, barbarously murdered. Sylvanus Hopkins, son of Stephen Hopkins, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence, was one of the crew, and suffered death. The mate returned to the colony with the sad news of the slaughter of his comrades. The widow of Captain Thomas Kilton, with her only child, a son, resided in Providence, and was teacher in a school, of which Silas Downer was the principal, whom she afterward married and had four daughters. Mr. Downer was a man of literary taste and ability, and was prominent in the early history of Providence, where he delivered a discourse at the dedication of the Tree of Liberty. Extravagant in his habits, he soon spent the property left his wife by her first husband. Consequently her son was in early life thrown upon his own resources.

John Jenckes Kilton. only son of Captain Thomas and Sarah (Pearce) Kilton, was born in Providence March 1st, 1749, and there learned the trade of a tailor, at which trade he worked most of his life, and by which and farming he supported himself and family. He was one of the heroes who opened the great drama of the American revolution. In June, 1772, he, with a brave party disguised as Indians, and led by John Brown, of Providence, boarded the British revenue sloop "Gaspee" and set her on fire. He was frequently in service during the war which followed, and was in Sullivan's expedition to the island of Rhode Island in 1778. He moved from Providence to Scituate in 1772, and afterward removed to Coventry, upon a farm a mile north of Washington, where, with his family, he spent the remainder of his life. In 1771 he married Sarah, daughter of Francis and Sarah (Phillips) Brayton. Francis Brayton, when a lad, migrated with his elder brother,Thomas, from the island of Rhode Island. They were the first settlers in Washington, and from them it was first called Braytontown. Here he resided till he died. May, 1784, aged sixty-three years. His body, with those of his wife, children and grandchildren, three infant sons of his daughter, Sarah (Brayton) Kilton, are interred in the yard of the Methodist Episcopal church in Washington. John Jenckes Kilton died February 28th, 1824, aged seventy-five years. He was buried on a spot selected by him on his own land as his family burial place, and now lies in Woodland cemetery. His wife Died December 1st, 1832, aged eighty-one years, and was buried by his side. They had twelve children, of whom three sons died in infancy.

John J. Kilton was born January 24th, 1788. His childhood was spent at his father's home on the farm. He attended the common schools in his neighborhood, of which at one time his sister Betsey was teacher, and afterward spent one or two terms at the academy in Plainfield, Connecticut. He worked on the farm, and later became an apprentice under his eldest brother, Thomas, to learn the carpenter's trade, boarding in his family in Washington. He worked at this and the machinist's trade till over forty years of age, living in Arkwright a portion of the time. In December, 1827, he married Jane McMurray, only child of Alexander and Hannah (Bennett) McMurray. In April, 1829, he, with his wife, removed to Washington, being employed as machinist by the Washington Manufacturing Company, who owned a mill on the north side of the river, with four-fifths of the water power. He afterward purchased the remaining one-fifth of this water power and land on the south side of the river, in 1831 built a mill, and the next year commenced weaving cotton cloth. By the advice of his friends, Governor Elisha Harris and Mr. David Whitman, he commenced the manufacture of a style of goods unlike any in the market, carefully selecting and using the best kind of cotton. The Kilton sheetings soon gained a wide reputation, and orders were received faster than could be filled. For them he received many diplomas from the Rhode Island Society for the Encouragement of Domestic Industry, of which he was for many years a member; and also from the American Institute, New York. The latter, in 1852, awarded him a silver medal for the best brown sheeting then made. He had, by economy, been able to save only an amount of money sufficient to pay for the land and water privilege, and when the mill was built and filled with machinery was in debt; yet he had no difficulty in purchasing all the stock and supplies needed to commence work, giving his note for eight months, without endorser or security. For twenty years he had the entire management of this business, employing no agent or bookkeeper. He bought the supplies for the mill, kept the books, and paid the help, depending upon no watchman, but going through the mill twice each night after work had ceased. He prospered, and was soon able to pay his entire indebtedness. Mr. Kilton then purchased an estate near the mill, and in 1840 erected a house, where, with his family, he lived during the remainder of his life. After conducting the business about twenty years he relinquished the management to his son, who bore his father's name, and who finally leased the mill property. The last years of his life were devoted to farming, for which he retained his early fondness.

He was for many years a director in the Bank of Kent, which position he held until the institution was closed. He was also a director in the Warwick Institution for Savings. He was a whig and republican, and a law and order man at the time of the Dorr rebellion. He was neither a politician nor an office seeker. He was identified with the anti-slavery reform when to be an abolitionist rendered a man unpopular. He was always interested in the temperance cause, and a member of the first temperance society in his native town. Mr. Kilton took a deep interest in the cause of education, was many years a trustee of the public school, and did much toward its improvement. He was not a member of any church, but a believer in the truths of divine revelation and a reader of the Bible. He was a constant attendant on public worship, and never absent from the church on Sunday unless detained by sickness. He preferred the Methodist Episcopal church, of which his wife and his three elder sisters were members, and mainly through his influence the church property in Washington, of which he at the time owned nearly one-fourth, was given to the Methodist Episcopal church.

He gave liberally for the support of the church and for benevolent and charitable purposes; was modest, unassuming and cautious. His word was as good as his bond. He was not brilliant, but displayed good common sense and business capacity. He was hospitable, felt a strong attachment for his family and friends, and was a kind husband, father and brother. His death occurred July 7th, 1873. He was buried in the family burial lot, now in Woodland Cemetery, where a plain granite monument is erected to his memory and that of his wife, who died July 27th, 1877. A son and daughter survive their parents.  Biographie Index

BENEDICT LAPHAM. -The Lapham family are of English lineage, their progenitor being John Lapham, a weaver, born in 1635, who settled in Providence, where he married Mary Mann, daughter of William Mann. John Lapham's son Thomas was a deputy in the general assembly in 1747 and 1749, and a judge in 1760. Reverend Richard Lapham, the father of Benedict and Enos Lapham, married Phebe Arnold. He was a farmer, and a minister in the "Wesleyan Methodist church, though not settled as a pastor. His father, Levi Lapham, and his grandfather, Jethro Lapham, were members of the Society of Friends, the former a minister, and both were prosperous farmers and influential citizens. Phebe Arnold Lapham was the daughter of Noah Arnold, a prominent citizen of Burrillville, Rhode Island.

Benedict Lapham, born June 26th, 1816, was in early life employed on a farm, and in manufacturing establishments in Burrillville, Rhode Island, and Palmer and Douglass, Massachusetts. He also for a time had charge of the farming interests of the Albion Manufacturing Company at Smithfield, Rhode Island. In 1837 he attended Bushee's Academy at Bank Village, Rhode Island, where he paid special attention to the study of mechanics. He then worked several years as a carpenter and wheelwright. In 1839 he hired the Tillinghast factory in East Greenwich, and engaged successfully in the manufacture of cotton goods until the fall of 1840, when the factory was sold and the stock disposed of to the purchasers of the property. He then resumed farming, his father having conveyed to him the old homestead. Mr. Lapham afterward carried on the manufacturing business in North Scituate, Wallum Pond, and Pascoag, Rhode Island. In the summer of 1852 he bought of the executors of the will of the late John Greene of Warwick, the estate in Centreville, embracing two-thirds of the water power, and all the machinery of the old mills which were built in 1794 and 1807, with later additions. Here Mr. Lapham and his brother Enos engaged in the manufacture of cotton cloth with about 5,000 spindles. In 1861 he made a large addition to the mill, and in 1871 removed the old building, erecting on the site a new structure three hundred and three feet long, one of the finest mills in the state, and probably one of the largest. It has a capacity for 40,000 spindles and employs both steam and water power. He was his own architect, making the plans and supervising the work of building. Mr. Lapham was also engaged in the cotton and grain trade, visiting the South and West in the interest of this branch of his business.

During the " Dorr Rebellion " he was captain of a militia company. In 1849 he was a member of the Rhode Island house of representatives from Scituate. In 1863 he was elected to the state senate from Warwick to fill a vacancy, and re-elected the following year. He was appointed by Governor Smith, state commissioner of the Antietam Cemetery, and reappointed by Governor Padelford. He was president of the town council for five years, justice of the peace, and the incumbent of other offices. In 1863 he purchased the Smithville Seminary and gave it to the Free Will Baptist Association. He afterward carried on that institution for five years at his own expense. He married, in November, 1849, Ann Eliza, daughter of the late Russell and Catherine (Essex) Austin, of North Kingstown.

Mr. Lapham's business career extended over a period of more than forty years, and was characterized by strict integrity and ceaseless energy. He was a man of iron constitution, indomitable perseverance, and great executive ability. He possessed a thoroughly disciplined mind, and was master of his business, comprehending all its details, from the buying of cotton in the fields, through all the processes of manufacturing, to the sale of all the products of his mills. His liberal spirit and interest in the public welfare led him to devote much of his wealth to the cause of education and to benevolent purposes. His career was one of great usefulness until his death, which occurred June 16th, 1883.  Biographie Index

ENOS LAPHAM, also the son of Richard and Phebe (Arnold) Lapham, was born in Burrillville, R. I., September 13th, 1821. When a lad, with only the educational opportunities afforded at a district school, he entered a cotton mill as a mill hand. But he was bright and promising. At an age when the boys of today are still in the high school, he was running a little mill in his native town, which he had leased. In 1839 he joined his older brother, Benedict Lapham, in operating a small factory in East Greenwich, and although the business was conducted in the name of the older brother, they continued together until the latter's death. Enos was the practical mill man and superintendent, while Benedict devoted his time to the business management of the concern. Their venture having prospered, they removed to Centreville and greatly extended their manufacturing interests, as has been before stated. On the death of his brother, in 1883, Mr. Lapham became sole owner of this valuable property. He thus stands as a conspicuous example of the possibilities of a poor boy under the American system of industries and government.

The life of Enos Lapham has been one of keen and persistent toil, devoted, with his brother, to the building up of a great business. He is emphatically a man of the people, great-hearted, whole-souled, and cordially esteemed by those who understand him. He is well known for hard common sense, often more valuable in legislative halls than college education or polished manners. Reared in a Methodist family, he has been a member of that denomination nearly all his life, is a trustee of the church in Centreville, and a director of the Providence Conference Seminary in East Greenwich. The temperance question, which is one of vital importance in Rhode Island, finds in him no lukewarm defender. He is one of the strongest temperance advocates in the state. In his school district no intoxicating liquors are sold, and none have for years past been allowed. He is identified with the interests of the town as president of the Centreville National Bank and the Centreville Savings Bank.

In politics Mr. Lapham has been a republican since the life of that party, is active in affairs connected with his locality, and has been for three years president of the Warwick town council. In 1886 he was elected to the Rhode Island senate, and in 1888 was the unanimous choice of his party for the office of lieutenant-governor, which distinguished position he now fills. A man of progressive ideas, of much executive ability, evincing a deep interest in public affairs, and of genial nature, he has won a deservedly honored place in the regard of his fellow citizens.

Mr. Lapham was married April 23rd, 1843, to Abby B., daughter of the late Russell and Catherine (Essex) Austin, of North Kingstown, who died March 18th, 1885. Their only child, Elizabeth S., is the widow of Franklin Treat, and has one son, Robert Byron Treat. Mr. Lapham was a second time married, December 30th, 1885, to his present wife, Lydia Harriet, daughter of the late Henry and Maria (Pierce) Hamilton, of Centreville, R. I.   Biographie Index

THE LOCKWOOD FAMILY. -Abraham Lockwood, one of the earliest if not the earliest representative of this family in this country, was born in the year 1670. He settled in that part of Warwick known as old Warwick. His first wife was Sarah, daughter of Amos and Deborah (Stafford) Westcott, by whom he had five children: Abraham, Amos, Adam, Deborah and Sarah. His second wife was Priscilla, daughter of John and Ann (Gorton) Crandall and by whom he had no issue. He was possessed of extensive real estate both in Warwick and in Providence. He died in the year 1747, his will being admitted to probate in Warwick June 7th, 1747, in which he devises by far the greater portion of his estate, both real and personal, to his son Adam, who is appointed executor.

Abraham(2), son of Abraham(1), must have been at one time a resident of that part of Providence which is now Scituate, as a deed from his father is in existence conveying to him real estate in Providence (now Scituate) which tends to prove this fact. He died in 1762. His issue was five children: Abraham, Joseph, Jacob, William and Damaris.

Amos(2), second son of Abraham(1), was born in Warwick in 1695. December 23d, 1725, he married Sarah, daughter of William and Ann (Stone) Utter. Twelve children were born to them: Amos, Sarah, Ann, Benoni, Alice, Mercy, Ruth, Wait, Phebe, Barbara, Abraham and Millicent.

Adam(2), the third son of Abraham(1), was married December 24th, 1734, to Sarah, daughter of Henry Straight. Their issue was as follows: Ann, Sarah, Abraham, Hannah, Adam, Deborah, Almy, Patience, Adam, Abraham and Benajah. The date of his death is not certain.

Deborah(2) daughter of Abraham(1), was married in December, 1724, to Nathaniel Stone. Their children were three in number -Sarah, Nathaniel and Deborah.

Sarah(2) daughter of Abraham(1), was married June 16th, 1728, to Abel Potter. Seven children were born to them: Phebe, Phebe, Prudence, Margaret, Mercy, Dinah and Abel.

Benajah(3), the youngest child of Adam(2) married Abbie Webb, by whom he had nine children : Mary, married John Mackenzie; Sallie, married John Mackenzie after the death of his first wife ; Russell, married Amey Arnold; Amey, married Chauncey Andros; Celia, married Russell Fiske; Freelove, married John Humphrey ; Thomas, married his cousin Lucy Ann Lockwood ; Henry, died in infancy, and Eliza, married James Titus of New Jersey.

The children of Thomas(4) and Lucy Ann Lockwood were fifteen in number, four of whom died in infancy. Eleven reached maturity, viz.: Mary M., married Albert Phillips; Thomas H., married Adaline A. Titus, daughter of James and Eliza* (Lockwood) Titus ; Benoni T., married Margaret J. Seaman ; Abby F., married (1) John Weaver (2) John Searle; Abraham, married Sarah A. Carr; Lewis, married Anna K. Knapp; Lucy Ann, married George T. Searle ; Nancy, married Willard M. Briggs ; Russell, unmarried; Elisha P., married Amey Austin, and Lydia C, married George Eukers. Six only survive, viz.: Thomas H., Abby F., Abraham, Nancy, Lucy Ann and Lydia.

Thomas H.(5), son of Thomas(4) and Lucy Ann Lockwood, was born in Warwick, March 9th, 1827. April 14th, 1850, he married Adaline A., daughter of James and Eliza (Lockwood) Titus of Tappan, New Jersey. Their children are : Amanda Augusta, born at Warwick January 28th, 1851 (she was married December 25th, 1872, to John Waterman, grandson of John R. Waterman and now resides in Providence, R. I.; James T., and Eliza Evelyn, born at Tappan, New Jersey, July 5th, 1856, unmarried.  Biographie Index

JAMES T. LOCKWOOD(6), son of Thomas H.(5) and Adaline A. Lockwood, was born at Providence, R. L, May 20th, 1853. He attended the public schools of Providence, R. I., New Jersey and Warwick until his seventeenth year; entered Mount Pleasant Academy in the spring of 1869, graduated from that institution in June, 1872, and in September of that year entered Brown University in the class of 1876, graduated in June, 1876. During the period from this time to 1881 he followed the occupation of school teaching in New Jersey and Warwick, R. L In the autumn of 1881 he entered as a student in the law office of Colwell & Colt, two of the leading attorneys of Providence, R. L, and was admitted to the Bar in the summer of 1883. From that time till June, 1887, he filled the position of clerk of Attorney General Samuel P. Colt, as well as being engaged in the practice of his profession. October 21st, 1886, he married Alice K., daughter of Andrew J. and Mary A. Smith of Warwick, and granddaughter of ex-Mayor Edward P. Knowles of Providence. In June, 1887, he was elected to the office of town clerk of the town of Warwick, which office he now holds, removing from Old Warwick in November, 1887, to Apponaug, R. I., where he now resides.  Biographie Index

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CHARLES MATTESON, of Providence, associate justice of the supreme court of the state, is a native of the town of Coventry, and was born March 21st, 1840. He is a son of Asahel and Julia M. (Johnson) Matteson, of Anthony. Asahel Matteson, a native of West Greenwich, was a merchant at Escoheag, afterward at Rice City, where the subject of our sketch was born ; and subsequently in the city of Providence. He now resides in the town of Coventry, where he enjoys the confidence of the people, and where he has held several important trusts. He was president of the Coventry National Bank of Anthony for ten or twelve years, trustee of the Coventry Savings Bank, and also state senator from that town for a number of years. Mrs. Julia M. Matteson is the daughter of Uzal Johnson, who was a resident of Lyme, Conn.

Judge Matteson received a liberal education, both in the literary and legal departments of learning, being a graduate of Brown University and a student of Harvard Law School, He took his preparatory course of instruction in the Providence Conference Seminary, now East Greenwich Academy, and in the University Grammar School, Providence, graduating from the latter institution in 1817. In the meantime he clerked for his father in his store in Anthony for two years. The opportunities here afforded the young student for reading character from the multitude of faces that came and went from that place of business, modified by so many conditions and "circumstances in life, were not only educational in their tendencies, but the advantages herein afforded did much to qualify the judge for that high position he has so long and ably filled on the bench. In the fall of 1857 he was matriculated for Brown University and in 1861 he graduated from that institution with the degree of A. M. In the year 1861 he entered the office of Wingate Hayes, U. S. district attorney, and began the study of law. He was with Mr. Hayes two years and then entered Harvard Law school. Here he remained another year and then returned to the office of Mr. Hayes, and on January 9th, 1864, he was admitted to the bar of the supreme court of the state of Rhode Island. From this time until his election as associate justice he practiced law, part of the time on his own account and then as a member of the law firm of Hayes & Matteson. His success at the bar gaining for him the confidence of his brothers in the profession led to his election as associate justice of the supreme court of the state February 11th, 1875. On February 28th, fourteen years ago, he took the oath of office qualifying him for the duties of the bench, and he has held that position ever since.

August 2nd, 1872, Judge Matteson was married to Miss Belle, daughter of Paul and Sally (Covil) Hines of Warwick. Her father was for many years superintendent of the Brayton Foundry at River Point. Three children were the result of this marriage : Archibald C, George A., and Paul. At the time of his marriage Judge Matteson resided in Coventry, and from that town was elected senator in 1871, and re-elected in 1872. In 1872 he removed his residence to Providence. His acquaintanceship with members of the general assembly, by reason of his recent service in that body, probably contributed largely to his election in 1875. In 1885 he erected his present residence in the city of Providence.  Biographie Index

 

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THOMAS MAY, of Mayville, in East Greenwich, is a conspicuous example of success in life as the result of industry and thrift. The son of Thomas and Mary Mercer May, he was born in Milton, near Clitheroe, Bowland, Yorkshire, England, on the 31st of May, 1819, and spent the first four years of his life at this point. Removing with his parents to Whiteash, near Blackburn, his father there started the first power loom and operated it for a period of two years. The town of Acerington then became his home, where at the age of seven he entered the weaving room, and was there engaged in carrying cops to the operatives, at half a crown a week. While residing here he was left fatherless and largely dependent upon his own exertions. Enjoying no opportunities for education, he was taught to read in the Sunday school.

On the death of his father he lived for three years with a farmer, and, returning again to his home, entered a spinning factory, where he soon became conversant with the spinner's art. At the age of sixteen the young man entered the print works near Bolton, in Lancastershire, first in the dye room, and second in the department of printing. Here he served an apprenticeship of seven years, at eleven shillings per week for two years, twelve shillings for the succeeding two years, thirteen shillings for the two years following, and fifteen shillings for the final year. Having been married on the 20th of March, 1839, this apprenticeship was begun the day following. On its conclusion he received thirty-six shillings, and later two pounds per week. He was then employed at Belmont, near Bolton, and as foreman printer here introduced the then new style of rainbow printing, at a salary of fifty shillings per week.

Mr. May has crossed the ocean twenty-one times, during seven of which his wages were paid while absent, and on several occasions his passage. The first of these trips occurred in 1850, in response to a summons from the Bunnell Print Works at Pawtucket, Rhode Island, where he was employed for one year. The last was on the occasion of the Queen's jubilee, with a wife and two children. He returned again to England, remained a year, and in 1852 settled in Manchester, New Hampshire, his wages at this point being twenty-five dollars per week. The year 1853 found him again in England, at Syddall's Print Works at Chadkirk, near Stockport, in Cheshire. Mr. May had meanwhile become thoroughly imbued with the American spirit, and in 1854 accepted an engagement at Crompton, Rhode Island, as foreman for Abbott & Sanders. His voyage, with a wife and eight small children, on accepting this offer, was an eventful and perilous one. Shipwrecked off Cape Race rock, and detained amid many inconveniences at St. Johns, Newfoundland, for three weeks, at the expiration of the seventh week their destination was reached in safety. Mr. May spent the period between 1861 and 1862 in England, was for a brief time in Dover, New Hampshire, and then engaged in machine printing for the Richmond Manufacturing Company at Providence.

The year 1866 Mr. May spent in Cranston, and in 1867 made East Greenwich his residence, having closed a contract as foreman for Messrs. Adams & Butterworth. With the exception of brief intervals of absence, this village has since been his home.

His wages have at times been as high as forty dollars per week, indicating the appreciation in which he was held by his employers. Having by prudence and unceasing industry gained a competence, he has retired from active labor and invested his savings in real estate at Mayville, which hamlet is being constantly improved. Mr. May is the father of nineteen children, thirteen being daughters and six sons. Fifteen of these are living. On the 15th of October, 1888, he raised the stars and stripes in celebration of the birth of the nineteenth child, a daughter. He is not attached to any political party, but enjoys the privilege of the franchise and votes for the best man, irrespective of party ties. He was educated in the faith of the Wesleyan Methodist church, and still worships with that body. Mr. May is in his seventieth year, though still hale and hearty as a boy.  Biographie Index

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EZRA KNIGHT PARKER, son of Joseph and Mary (Knight) Parker, was born in Scituate, R. I., December 29th, 1832. His boyhood was passed on his father's farm at "Summit," a beautiful location in the town of Coventry, R. I., whither the family had removed in 1836. He received his early education in the public schools of the town and made such progress in his studies that he commenced teaching school at fifteen years of age. Later, he was fitted for college at the University Grammar School in Providence, R. I., and at Smithville Seminary, North Scituate, R. I., and at the latter place gave the valedictory address upon graduation. He entered Dartmouth College, Andover, N. H., and graduated in the class of 1857, having achieved the honor of being first in rank of scholarship in his class of sixty-five graduates. The speakers were chosen by lot. He is a member of the Phi Beta Kappa and Alpha Delta Phi fraternities. During the years 1859 and 1860 he read law with Virginius O. Carroll, in Portsmouth, Va. Soon after the opening of the war, September 4th, 1861, he enlisted as private in Battery D, First Rhode Island Light Artillery, and was promoted to second lieutenant in the same year. He was appointed A. A. General of Artillery Brigade, 1st A. C, Army of the Potomac, and in the spring of 1864 was promoted to first lieutenant and transferred to Battery E of the same regiment. Army of the Potomac and 6th A. C, and commanded said Battery E for the last six months of service, until mustered out the last of June, 1865. The official reports show that these two batteries, of which Lieutenant Parker was at times commanding officer, were engaged in some of the most memorable battles of the war, and that they were prompt and efficient in performing the duties assigned them. The war having closed Mr. Parker returned to the old homestead in Coventry, where he engaged in the more peaceful occupations of farmer and teacher until 1881, when he resumed the study of the law and was admitted a member of the Rhode Island bar in 1883 and a few months later a member of the bar of the United States court, and is now practicing law in Providence, R. I.

He married Mary M., daughter of David Hopkins and has a son and a daughter: George B. Parker, representative from Coventry in the state legislature 1887, and Grace H. Parker, a student of Boston University.  Biographie Index

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PARDON S. PECKHAM.- The Rhode Island Peckhams are descended from English ancestors. Judge Samuel, the grandfather of Pardon S. Peckham, resided in Charlestown, Washington county, where he cultivated a farm, and also followed his trade of cooper. He married Hannah Stanton of the same county, to whom were born eleven children. The birth of Daniel, the youngest of this number who grew to mature years, occurred September 10th, 1796, and his death in April, 1862. He was both a farmer and boat builder, occasionally engaged in contracting, and was one of the most active and enterprising men of his town. He was much interested in local military affairs, attained the rank of captain of militia, and was familiarly known among his friends as " Captain Daniel." He married Olive, daughter of Pardon Kenyon, of Hopkinton. Their children were: Pardon S., Samuel, Daniel, Olive A. F., Thomas C, and John G. Mr. Peckham married a second time Maria Ennis, of Cranston, whose children were Leander W. and Luther A.

The eldest of these sons, Pardon S. Peckham, was born October 2nd, 1821, in Charlestown, Rhode Island, from whence he removed at the age of twelve years with his parents to Westerly. His education was obtained under difficulties, the winter months only being devoted to study at the nearest school, located nearly two miles distant and requiring a tedious walk to and from his home each day. such, however, was his determination, that a thorough knowledge of the English branches was soon obtained, and later a mastery of elementary mathematics, that contributed greatly to his success as a business man. At the age of seventeen he removed to Warwick, in Kent county, and was employed to tend woolen cards in a mill near Pawtuxet. His skill and fidelity to the work assigned him soon placed him in charge of that department, where he remained three years, when it ceased operations.

Removing to Apponaug, he entered the employ of Festus L. Thomson as superintendent of the carding room, and later assumed the management of the mill, which he purchased in 1846, forming a co-partnership with E. S. Peckham under the firm name of E. S. & P. S. Peckham. This business association lasted for two years, the product of the mill being woolen stocking yarns, which found a ready sale and soon established a reputation for the " Peckham Yarns " as the most popular and desirable goods of their kind in the market. Selling his interest in the spring of 1848, he removed to Coventry Centre and established the firm of Peckham & Spencer, which a year after became Peckham & Card. This firm continued four years in business, woolen yarns being their specialty, when the senior partner in 1853 purchased the entire interest and conducted the mill alone until the year 1861, when his brother, Thomas C. Peckham, was admitted to a quarter interest. This relation existed for a brief time, when the subject of this biography again became the exclusive owner and purchased in addition a cotton mill which underwent material changes and was devoted to the manufacture of woolen yarns, his selling agents at this time being Messrs. Taft & Co., of Providence. In the year 1865 a corporation formed under the title of the Peckham Manufacturing Company operated the two mills above mentioned and a third, located at Spring Lake in the town of Coventry. In 1870 Mr. Peckham became sole owner of the Spring Lake property, a year after dissolving his connection with the Peckham Manufacturing Company.

In 1881 his two sons, Samuel D. and Pardon S., Jr., were admitted to a partnership under the firm name of P. S. Peckham & Co., and have since assumed the management of the business. To them is attributable in a large degree its success, the senior partner giving it little attention aside from a general supervision of the business of the concern. In 1884 a new and commodious mill was erected on adjacent ground. Ten sets of woolen machinery are now used, the amount of business formerly done multiplied by six representing the present capacity of the establishment. This indicates the growth and success of the woolen mill under judicious and successful management.

Mr. Peckham is a democrat in his political views, and a firm believer in free trade principles. He has been for three years a member of the town council and is now its president. He has been actively interested in the cause of education, and for a long period held the office of school trustee. He was formerly a director of the Coventry Savings Bank. He was formerly identified with the Free Will Baptist church of Warwick and has since espoused the belief of the Second Adventists.

Mr. Peckham in 1841 married Hannah E., daughter of Gardner Gorton, of Apponaug, who died in the fall of 1847. He the following year married Sarah J., daughter of George W. Bates, of Warwick. Their children are: Samuel D., Ellen F., wife of George H. Tyler, who has two children; Mary Jane, deceased, wife of George E. Rounds ; Pardon S., Jr., Olive A., married to Mason Dewitt, who has five children; Sarah G., wife of N. B. Yars, who has one child; William H., Charles H., deceased; Eva A., Emily B. and Walter W.

Samuel D. Peckham was born at Coventry Centre in 1847. After having spent five years at Westerly on a farm which his father owned, he began in business with the Peckham Manufacturing Company. His wife is Eugenia, sister of George H. Tyler. They have one son, Irving Peckham.

Pardon S. Peckham, Jr., was born in 1855. His wife was Ella Tucker, of Hopkinton, R. I. He was educated for business as was also his brother, Samuel D., at the Bryant & Stratton Business College at Providence.

William H. Peckham was born in 1863, was married in 1881 to Eunice A., daughter of Stephen and Mary Cornell, and has two sons.  Biographie Index

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THOMAS C. PECKHAM. -The name of Peckham is largely identified with the growth and development of the town of Coventry, and equally so with its manufacturing interests. Thomas C. Peckham was born December 21st, 1836, in Westerly, R. I., where his parents at that time resided. At the age of fifteen he removed to Coventry Centre, and from that date until the present his life has been one of unceasing industry. His education was chiefly acquired during the winter months, his time and services for the remainder of the year being of more value on the farm and in the saw mill. He also sought employment in the immediate vicinity, and thus at an early age became self-reliant and independent. Removing to Coventry Centre in 1851, he entered the woolen yarn mill owned by an older brother. Pardon S. Peckham, where he was assigned to the pickers and cards, receiving for this service seven dollars per month and his board.

Two years later he was placed in charge of the carding room, and in 1861 his industry was rewarded with a quarter interest in the business. This co-partnership existed for a brief period, when Mr. Peckham, on retiring, established the firm of T. C. Peckham & Co., removed his business to Spring Lake in the same town, and there purchasing a cotton mill, materially improved the structure and converted it to the purposes of a woolen mill. He made many important changes in the property and its surroundings, placed in the mill four sets of machinery and continued the manufacture of woolen yarns. In 1865 the Peckham Manufacturing Company was organized, its stockholders being Thomas C. Peckham, Pardon S. Peckham, and the firm of Hartwell Richards & Co., of Providence. Three mills were operated, two at Coventry Centre and one at Spring Lake. Pardon S. Peckham in 1870 withdrew from this corporation and purchased the Spring Lake property. The subject of this biography, who had previously acted as agent of the company above-mentioned, now assumed the management of its mills at Coventry Centre, which are devoted to the manufacture of worsted and stocking yarns, fine underwear and tweeds. Mr. Peckham is the president of this corporation, and Hartwell Richards & Co. its agents. A more detailed description of the mills of the Peckham Manufacturing Company will appear on another page of this volume. Their successful operation and the excellence of their products is largely the result of the master mind at their head, who has added extensively to the property, erected a commodious and well equipped store, numerous buildings for the comfort of his employees, and infused into the little hamlet the spirit of progress and business. Through his influence a post office was established, as also a station on the New York & New England railroad. He is besides interested in the Oneco Manufacturing Company in Connecticut, of which he is secretary and treasurer.

Mr. Peckham is an earnest champion of the principles of the republican party, and has learned from practical experience the necessity for protection to home industries. He was a delegate to the republican national convention convened at Chicago in 1884, represented his town in the general assembly, as a member of the house of representatives during the sessions of 1875, 1876 and 1877, and as a member of the state senate for the years 1882, 1883, 1884, filling among other positions that of chairman of committee on accounts and claims. He is actively interested in all measures affecting the town, has been a member of the town council, president of the board of assessors, and for fifteen years a school trustee. He has also attained to rank and influence in the Masonic fraternity, with which he has for years been identified.

Mr. Peckham was on the 8th of March, 1858, married to Mary V., daughter of the late Daniel Reynolds and Hannah H. Gardner of Washington village, and granddaughter of John G. Reynolds of East Greenwich. Their children are: Daniel W., born January 26th, 1859, who died April 18th, 1881; Annie F., wife of Louis L. Angell, born July 23rd, 1860; Mary E., wife of Sylvester L. Tillinghast, born June 15th, 1862, who died April 10th, 1883; Grace G., wife of Frank W. Tillinghast, born March 27th, 1864; Hattie, born December 24th, 1865; Amie G., November 14th, 1868; Susie E., March 30th, 1870, who died October 17th, 1881; Bertha V-, born August 13th, 1872, whose death occurred October 16th of the same year; Bertha E., born March 3d, 1874, who died on the 3d of the following October; Isabella B., born March 21st, 1871, and Charles Herbert, born December 29th, 1875.

The Peckham family are largely represented in Rhode Island, and presumably trace their descent from the common ancestors, John Peckham and his wife, who was a daughter of one James Clark. Their son William was born in 1675, and married Mary Clark, whose birth occurred in 1680. To this union were born two sons, William and Samuel, one of whom is the direct progenitor of the grandfather of the subject of this biographical sketch, Judge Samuel Peckham. By the marriage of the latter to Hannah Stanton were born eleven children, one; of whom, Daniel, married Olive, daughter of Pardon Kenyon, of Hopkinton, Washington county. Their fourth son in order of birth is Thomas C. Peckham.  Biographie Index

 

 

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DAVID PIKE. -The subject of this sketch is the grandson of Jonas Pike, and the son of Ephraim and Lucy Pitman Pike. He was born on the 13th of March, 1807, in Sterling, Conn., and there spent his boyhood days. His father carried on the trade of a hatter and his son, until the age of sixteen, divided the time between the school room and the shop, making himself in various ways useful in the latter place. In 1820 he removed to Lippitt, Kent county, R. I., and entered a store as clerk, but finding this employment yielded but little profit, he sought an engagement in the cotton mills at that place. His first experience was in connection with what is known as the dresser, after which he was placed in the weaving department, and where he became overseer of that branch of the mill industry. He found this labor somewhat circumscribed and on the death of his father began the manufacture of acids, then largely used in the printing of fabrics.

Mr. Pike next embarked in teaming, which prior to the construction of railroads was an important industry, and soon secured a large patronage, employing many horses for the purpose. He began at a later date the manufacture of packing boxes, and in conjunction with this conducted a large lumber business at River Point, the material being shipped to Coweset, from whence it was drawn by horses to its destination. Mr. Pike's versatile mind enabled him to master more than one enterprise, and soon a grist mill was erected on the site of the present planing mill. This was successfully operated until 1873, when a disastrous fire laid it in ruins. Not discouraged by this loss, its owner, who had also been a considerable buyer of grain, erected an extensive building on the old site, which was devoted to the manufacture of sash, moulding and blinds, as also to planing on a large scale. The firm, by the admission of his son as partner, became in 1875 David Pike & Son. With the exception of a farm owned and cultivated by him, this business absorbed most of his attention.

Mr. Pike was a striking example of the results accomplished by industry, thrift and solidity of character. He began without aid, in youth was self-reliant and persevering, and from the commencement maintained that firm adherence to principle, which made his name a synonym for honesty and probity. His judgment was excellent, his business habits methodical, and his word as good as his bond.  Biographie Index

BYRON READ, the subject of this sketch, whose portrait appears in this volume, is the youngest son of Henry and Phebe (Wait) Read, and grandson of Joseph and Sabria (Knight) Read, and was born in Coventry, Kent county, R. I., April 7th, 1845. His father was born in Coventry, R. I., April 7th, 1801, and died August 11th, 1887. His mother was born September 6th, 1804, and is still living. They had a family of thirteen children, whose names are as follows: Almond, Levi B., Julia A. (the last two twins), Rebecca W., Henry, Jr., Sheffield W., Sybiel W., Joseph, Sheldon, Christopher J., Phebe W., Jane W., and Byron. Those deceased are Henry, Jr., Sheldon and Jane W.

The father was a farmer, and the son, Byron, also followed that honorable calling until he became twenty-one years of age. His early education was such as could be obtained in the district schools of his native town. He showed, however, at a very early age, that he possessed both industry and perseverance, and the lessons learned, both on the farm and in the school, have not been forgotten. In the year 1866 he entered the employ of his brother, Henry, Jr., who was at that time engaged in the business of undertaking, furniture and small hardware, in the village of Anthony. He continued with his brother until 1872, at which time he bought a half interest in the business, and the firm was known as H. Read, Jr., & Co.

In March, 1873, his brother died, and Byron at once purchased of the heirs their interest in the business and became manager of the same, although the old firm name was allowed to be used for seven years, when it was changed to that of his own. The increasing trade demanding larger quarters and better facilities, and as the building where he was located belonged to the estate of Isaac B. Aylesworth. who originally began the business, Byron decided to erect buildings of his own, sufficiently large and convenient to meet the demands. Having previously purchased of the Coventry Manufacturing Company a lot of land just opposite the old stand, he proceeded in the year 1878 to build a barn 40 by 80 feet, with an L 20 by 21 feet, with compartments specially arranged and adapted to the needs of the trade. In 1882 work was begun on the store, a building 40 by 100 feet, with three stories and basement. Instead of giving out the work to a contractor and having an architect to superintend the work, Byron secured the services of his brother-in-law, Horace N. Foster, to plan and execute the work, giving it his own supervision.

In the basement is the workshop and store room, where all goods are received, also a room especially designed for embalming purposes. By means of an elevator the goods are taken from the store room below to the various compartments above, while telephone, speaking tubes and call bells provide for conversation with workmen in and about the various rooms and adjacent business centers. In the center of the first or main floor, as you enter from the street, is the office and salesroom. On the right is the carpet and paper-hanging room; while on the left of the office is a room, second to none outside of Boston and New York for convenience in the display of funeral furnishings. The second and third floors are reached either by elevator or easy flights of stairs and are used for household furniture of every description. The entire building is heated by steam, and thoroughly furnished with all modern appliances for extinguishing fire.

In June, 1870, Mr. Read married Julia A., daughter of Edward S. and Eleanor (Johnson) Pinckney, of Coventry Centre, and granddaughter of Jacob and Sarah (Fowler) Pinckney, of Providence, and by this union has two sons: Herman Byron, born February 17th, 1878, and Charles Sheldon, born November 23rd, 1879.

It now seemed desirable that he should have a more commodious dwelling place, and in 1887 he purchased of Eliza F. Briggs, the estate of her father, Oliver Matteson, and removing the old house to another lot, to be used for tenements, erected on the old site, the house 33 by 44 feet, with all modern improvements, where he now resides. Thus, by his industry, perseverance and economy, Byron Read has acquired a competency, and gained the confidence of all with whom he has been associated.

He is a member of Manchester Lodge, A. F. and A. M., and of Anthony Lodge, No. 21,1. O. O. F.

In politics he has always supported the principles of the republican party. He has declined all public trusts tendered him and giving his undivided attention to his business, has become one of the leading business men in the county.  Biographie Index

ROBERT REOCH. -Mr. Reoch is of Scotch parentage, and the grandson of Robert Reoch, who resided in Renfrewshire, Scotland, where he was well known as a skillful calico printer. His services were later in demand in Denny, a famous center for calico prints, in Sterlingshire, from which point he moved to Barrhead, in Renfrewshire, where his death occurred. He married Bethia Tennant, of Sterlingshire. Their children were: Archibald, Abraham, Robert, Elizabeth, Margaret and Bethia. Robert, the third son in order of birth, was a native of Denny, where the greater part of his active life was spent. Under the instruction of his father he became proficient in the art of calico printing, and was employed both at Denny and Paisley, a large manufacturing point not far distant. He married Ann, daughter of Daniel McNeal, who resided in the suburbs of Paisley. Their children were : Robert (the subject of this biography), Mary (Mrs. Faulds), and Archibald.

Robert, the only surviving child, was born October 9th, 1840, in Renfrewshire, and in early childhood became an inmate of his paternal grandfather's home. He pursued the ordinary branches at the common schools until fifteen, the age of his apprenticeship to the firm of Thomas Boyd & Sons, at the Fereneze Print Works at Barrhead, Renfrewshire. Here he remained for seven years, and meanwhile, desiring to become thoroughly conversant with the science of chemistry as applied to colors, took a special course under Professor Penny at the Andersonian University in Glasgow. On the conclusion of his apprenticeship he remained three years with the Fereneze Print Works as assistant manager of the coloring department, and then accepted an engagement to act in the same capacity with Muir, Brown & Co., of Glasgow. While here Mr. Reoch received from Messrs. S. H. Greene & Sons, in 1867, a flattering offer to assume the management of the Clyde Bleachery and Print Works, located at River Point, in Kent county, Rhode Island, which, after much deliberation, he accepted.

Under his able management these extensive works have attained a high degree of prosperity. In the conduct of the business skill and ability have been displayed conspicuously at critical times. Thus in 1872-3, when calico printing was greatly depressed and most concerns were either running on very short time or closed, the Clyde Print Works were being operated much of the time both night and day on a new style of black and green prints, then deservedly popular. As the green was a new coloring matter, which few printers were able to make fast, the Clyde works reaped a golden harvest. Again in 1876 (the Centennial year) the calico printing interests suffered severely, prices being low and business extremely dull. S. H. Greene & Sons embarked in the manufacture of printed flags, which proved a signal success, and enabled them to run almost their entire establishment for several months on this article alone. These included United States flags, British, French, German, and one or more international flags, the latter including the flags of all nations. In 1877 the Clyde Print Works gave their attention to a branch of industry never before introduced into the United States, the manufacture of Turkey red handkerchiefs. This also for several years proved a lucrative business, and indicates the influence of home industries in reducing rather than enhancing the price of goods. Previous to this achievement these handkerchiefs retailed for twenty-five cents each, and three years later an article equal in every respect could be purchased for seven cents. The present price is five cents. The Messrs. Greene & Sons are therefore, through their manager, the pioneers in this branch of industry, and have laid the foundation for a large Turkey red trade, both in plain and printed goods. These facts will illustrate the progress and development of their extensive works under skillful and energetic management.

Mr. Reoch is vice-president of the Pawtuxet Valley Water Works, of which he was one of the foremost projectors. He has happily adapted himself to his surroundings, and is identified with many enterprises in Phenix, his residence, and its immediate vicinity. As a republican he has been president of one or more local clubs and given his influence to the success of his party. He is more especially interested in the advancement of the musical taste of the community, and was president and conductor of the Choral Union. Mr. Reoch is a member of the Congregational church of River Point, president of the society, and has for sixteen years acted as its chorister. He is a member of the Congregational Association of Providence, and has frequently been a delegate to ecclesiastical conventions. He is also president of the British-American Club of Phenix.

Mr. Reoch was married March 31st, 1865, to Helen, daughter of William Stewart, of Barrhead, above mentioned. Their children are: Lillias Stewart, born in Scotland, and Robert A. S., William S., Helen M., Archibald T., Mary E., Norman G., and John S., born in Kent county. All, with the exception of the youngest, are living.  Biographie Index

CHRISTOPHER SPENCER. -The name of Spencer has been one of prominence in both Washington and Kent counties for more than a century. Thomas Spencer, the grandfather of the subject of this biography, was a resident of North Kingstown. His son, William Spencer, a firm patriot during the period of the revolutionary war, was, in June, 1779, taken prisoner by an armed force from the British ships lying near Hope Island, his stock grazing in the field captured, and his farm produce appropriated, leaving his family destitute of the means of subsistence. William Spencer married Waite Spencer, daughter of Walter Spencer, of East Greenwich, January 21st, 1770. They were the parents of Christopher Spencer.

The latter was born in North Kingstown, May 17th, 1783, on the farm of the late Governor Greene. The opportunities for acquiring a thorough education were at that time exceedingly limited, and he may therefore with propriety be regarded as self-educated. He was reared on his father's farm, and much of the time resided with his parents, occasionally teaching school in winter, and meanwhile improving his leisure time in study. He remained at home until 1797, then accompanied his parents to East Greenwich, where he resided one year, when Cranston became his home. Here he was actively employed in farming for six years, and later resided upon various farms in the town of Warwick.

In 1816 Old Warwick became his home, his father having leased a farm at Conimicut Point, which he assisted in cultivating until 1821, and where the death of both his parents occurred. Here he for several years was the genial landlord of a country inn, the property purchased by him having formerly belonged to his wife's father. He also kept a country store and dealt in yarn which was woven by hand until it ceased to be profitable. Mr. Spencer was in 1822 elected to the house of representatives, in which he served for four years. He was afterward elected to the state senate under the " old charter " and continued in office for the same period. In 1856 he again represented Warwick in the house of representatives for one year. He held various local offices, was for fifteen years a member of the Warwick town council and part of that time its president.

In 1866 he sold the store that had witnessed his coming and going for a period of forty-five years, and retired from active business life. He was a man of great activity and always occupied, either with his store, farm, or public duties, occasionally adding surveying to his other pursuits. Mr. Spencer was much esteemed in the community for his sound judgment, his enterprise, and his marked integrity of character.

He was a member of the Rhode Island Society for the Encouragement of Domestic Industry, in which he was much interested. His death occurred May 11th, 1870, in his eighty-seventh year, on the farm which had been his home for nearly half a century. His remains were interred in the family burying ground on the farm.

Mr. Spencer was thrice married. He was in 1813 united to Celia Westcott, daughter of Captain Nathan Westcott, by whom he had six children : William, Arnold W., Thomas, Edwin, George W. and John Q. A. Mrs. Spencer died in 1827, and the following year he married Sarah C. Spencer of Ira, Vermont, by whom he had two sons, Charles A. and John. Mrs. Spencer died in 1831 and in 1833 he married Welthan Tiffany of Warwick, who survives him. The sons now living are William, who resides in Providence, and George W. on the homestead farm.

William, the son of Christopher Spencer, was born in 1817, and in 1831 began his mercantile career in Providence as a clerk. Six years later he became proprietor of a business which he still continues in that city.   He is unquestionable the oldest merchant in point of service in Providence. Mr. Spencer married Penelope S., daughter of John Tiffany of Crompton. He still resides much of the year at Old Warwick.

George W. Spencer, of Old Warwick, is also a son of Christopher Spencer. His son George W., Jr., is the principal of the Spencerian Business College located in Providence, having graduated first at the Rhode Island State Normal School in 1884 and at Eastman's Business College, Poughkeepsie, in 1885. He is an active Odd Fellow and presiding officer of Perseverance Lodge of that order, located at Apponaug.

Thomas Spencer, of Old Warwick, grandson of Christopher Spencer, was born in 1851. He has been actively engaged in business since 1872, and has devoted some attention to public affairs. He was for two years a member of the town council, and one year represented his district in the general assembly. For two years he was president of the Warwick League, and in 1888 a delegate to the democratic national convention held in St. Louis.  Biographie Index

RICHARD SPENCER.- John Spencer, who came from England on the 24th of March, 1633, and died in 1648, leaving no children, was uncle to John Spencer, the progenitor of the family in East Greenwich. The latter participated in the King Philip's war, and was one of forty-eight settlers who purchased the territory now embraced in East and West Greenwich. His son John born in 1666, married Audrey Greene, daughter of Deputy-Governor John Greene. Their son William, born in 1695, was the father of William, whose birth occurred in 1723 and his death in 1777. His son John, born in 1760, and representing the fifth generation in line of descent, was the father of the subject of this biography. He was drafted during the revolutionary war and finding it impossible to leave, secured a substitute. By his marriage to Huldah Johnson were born five sons-John, William, Hezekiah, Oliver and Richard-and two daughters-Huldah and Betsey.

Richard Spencer was born May 9th, 1798, on the farm where he has during his lifetime resided. His education was received in the school house his father assisted in building, after which he began active life as a farmer. In consideration of the care bestowed upon his parents in their advancing years, he was given one half the farm, and purchased the remainder. This embraced originally ninety acres, but was reduced in its dimensions by the sale of twenty acres with which a substitute was secured for revolutionary service, when his father was drafted. Richard Spencer has added to this until his landed possessions now embrace three hundred acres, much of which is under a high state of cultivation. He has been industrious and frugal, 72 realizing that diligence and integrity in business are the prerequisites to success.

Always a democrat in his political convictions, his voice has been heard in the meetings of the town council, and the offices of auditor, overseer of highways for over twenty years, and manager of the town asylum have been filled by him. He was appointed justice of the peace but declined the honor, and likewise refused all offers of legislative preferment. Frequently made executor and administrator, his judgment no less than his stern integrity, have made his services invaluable in the settlement of estates.

Mr. Spencer regards the business aspect of his life as of little moment beside that larger religious experience which has been to him the support and comfort of his later years. He was "born a second time," as he graphically describes it, in 1838, was chosen deacon of the Six Principle Baptist church of Frenchtown in East Greenwich the same year, and ordained to that office in March, 1839. His life has since been a beautiful example of the virtues which should adorn the Christian character.

Deacon Spencer married April 3rd, 1817, Roby, daughter of Joseph Tarbox. Their children are: Richard Anthony, Audra E., Joseph J., William A., Huldah E., E. Amanda, and two who died in infancy. Richard Anthony died at the age of twenty-seven, leaving one daughter, Anna M., wife of John J. Spencer, whose children are : Richard Augustus, William J. B. and Alfred Earnest. Audra E. is now the widow of Benjamin Spencer; William A. is married to Mary E. Harrington ; Huldah E. is the wife of Daniel C. Bailey; and E. Amanda is married to Job Briggs.  Biographie Index

BENJAMIN F. WATERHOUSE. -Thomas Waterhouse, the grandfather of the subject of this biography, resided in Meltham, Yorkshire, England, where he followed his trade as a weaver of woolen fabrics. He had four sons-Samuel, Richard, James and Matthew, and three daughters-Mary, Ruth and Martha. Richard Waterhouse, a native of Meltham, emigrated to America in 1846, and was at once employed in the weaving department of the mill owned by Messrs. Waterhouse & Allen at Centreville. He remained with this establishment in the same capacity until his death on the 2nd of January, 1864. He married Mary, daughter of John Hurst, of Meltham. Their children were: Maria, Benjamin F., Walker, Richard, Martha, Mary, Hannah, John, Sarah, Maggie and Emma, seven of whom are still living.

Benjamin F. Waterhouse was born in Meltham on the 15th of September, 1830. Unlike the youth of the present day, his opportunities for education were exceedingly meager, being limited to instruction in the Sunday school and study at his home. At the age of nine years he entered a woolen mill and began winding bobbins, three years later having control of a hand loom which he operated until 1846, the date of his emigration with his parents to America. He at once entered the weaving room of the mill at Centreville, where his father was employed, and continued with the firm until he had become thoroughly proficient in the business of a woolen manufacturer. Mr. Waterhouse then accepted an engagement as foreman of the weaving department of a mill owned by Ezra Pollard at East Greenwich, and remained until 1857, when a mill in the city of Philadelphia offered superior attractions and kept him profitably employed for six years. In 1863 he returned to East Greenwich and for the same length of time superintended a woolen mill for his uncle, James Waterhouse. He next acted in the same capacity at Burrillville, R. I., and in 1872 returned to Centreville. Here with other partners he organized the Kent Woolen Company, became owner of one quarter of the stock, and its manager. In July, 1888, he purchased the property, of which he is now sole owner, thus by industry and application becoming proprietor of the mill which he first entered as a common hand. Of this organization he is president, George B. Waterhouse, treasurer, and Richard E. Waterhouse, superintendent. Elsewhere in the work this mill and its operation are more fully discussed, though it may be pertinent here to mention its capacity as recently doubled, and the working force largely increased.

Mr. Waterhouse is much absorbed in business and has little time for interests not immediately connected with his daily pursuits. He is a republican in politics, a firm believer in protection to home industries, and has participated in the administration of local affairs. He is a member and senior warden of the Protestant Episcopal church of Crompton.

Mr. Waterhouse was on November 13th, 1853, married to Margaret, daughter of Joseph and Mary Liddle, who is of Scottish descent. Their children are: Benjamin W., Henry A., Richard Edgar, George B., Fanny F., Maggie M. and Charles L. Henry A. married Genie Read and has two children ; Benjamin W. is married to Sarah Adams and has one daughter; Richard E. married Dora Arnold. Henry A. is a successful mill superintendent at Pascoag, R. I. The remaining sons are associated with their father as manufacturers.  Biographie Index

 

SILAS WEAVER. -The Weaver family, having originally emigrated from Wales, first settled in Newport. Dutee Weaver, the father of Silas Weaver, and a revolutionary soldier, was born February 11th, 1758, and resided in East Greenwich, where he first pursued his trade as a tailor, and later engaged in the sale of groceries and cultivated a farm he owned. He filled the office of justice of the peace, and held other positions of local importance. He married Almy Andrew, of East Greenwich, whose children are: Phebe, married to Thomas Howland; Arnold, Lydia, wife of Christopher Weaver ; Jonathan, Paul N., Eunice, married to Lewis Collings ; Silas and Simeon. The death of Dutee Weaver occurred May 9th, 1842, in his eighty-fifth year.

Silas Weaver, the youngest, with one exception, of the above children, was born March 2nd, 1802, in East Greenwich. He received private instruction, chiefly at evening schools, and until the age of twenty availed himself of any opportunities that afforded an honest livelihood. Then entering his father's shop he began the tailor's trade, and concluded the period of his apprenticeship at Nantucket and Providence. Returning to East Greenwich in 1822 he opened a shop, and soon found himself at the head of a prosperous business. This he continued until 1842, meanwhile working assiduously at his trade, and finally for a series of years abandoning any active pursuit. He early espoused the principles of the democracy, and has since been an active and influential member of the party. Mr. Weaver determined in 1835 to enter the arena of politics, and was, in October of that year, elected a representative to the general assembly, and again for the two succeeding terms. To this office he was again chosen under the new charter on the 5th of April, 1865. In June, 1849, he was made town clerk, and acceptably filled the office until 1865. He also held various other town offices previous to and after 1835, on many occasions receiving the suffrages of the opposite party. He was appointed surveyor of the Port of East Greenwich, R. I., in June, 1845, and continued to hold the office for four years, having been appointed by James K. Polk, then president of the United States. He has also been and is a leading spirit in the business affairs of the town, having been chosen a director of the Rhode Island Central Bank of East Greenwich, and held the same position in the Greenwich National Bank since its organization. In 1842 he embarked in the business of a real estate broker, which was successfully continued until 1870.

Mr. Weaver was, on the 28th of July, 1868, married to Sarah E., widow of Bradford C. Shaw, of Providence, and daughter of the late Nathan Whiting, Esq., a native of Massachusetts, who graduated at Brown University, and practiced law for many years in East Greenwich. Although reared in the faith of the society of Friends, Mr. Weaver and his wife worship with the congregation of St. Luke's Protestant Episcopal church.  Biographie Index

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