JOSIAH MARTIN, proprietor of a stone quarry in the town of Walton, where he also carries on the trade of a carpenter, is a practical, well-educated man of good business talents, which have made him highly successful in his present enterprise. Mr. Martin is a native of this State and county, his birth having occurred in the town of Hancock, September 19, 1829. He is of German descent, his paternal grandfather, Ebenezer Martin, having, it is thought, been born in Germany, whence he emigrated to America, settling in Connecticut, where he took up land, and there passed his remaining years.

His father, also named Josiah Martin, was born on a farm in Mansfield, Conn., and was there reared to man's estate. He received a good education, and in his early manhood was a popular teacher. He was a remarkably fine reader, a circumstance which is well remembered by his children. He also learned civil engineering, a vocation which he followed for many years. When about twenty-five years of age, he came to Delaware County, and in the town of Hancock carried on his former occupation for a while, but finally became a tiller of the soil, following this occupation until his death, at the age of sixty-eight years. He married Rachel Williams, the daughter of Titus Williams, a farmer of Hancock, and also a local preacher in the Methodist denomination. Of this marriage seven children were born, namely: Charles, Williams, of East Branch, and Josiah, now living, and James, Jane, Levi, and Rachel, deceased. The mother of these children was an esteemed member of the Methodist church, of which the family were regular attendants.

Josiah, son of Josiah and Rachel (Williams) Martin, was reared upon his father's farm in Hancock, and passed the years of his boyhood in the usual manner, attending the district school in the winter, and working on the farm during the summer season. He had some native talent as a mechanic, and worked at the carpenter's trade when he could conveniently, remaining with his parents until attaining his majority. He secured work as a bridge-maker for the Pittsburg, New Castle, & Erie Railway Company; and during the year that he was in their employment he assisted in the construction of eleven bridges, and, as foreman of the workmen, made every pattern and laid out the entire work. He afterward worked for a while for the Ontario & Western Railway Company. In 1871 Mr. Martin came to Walton, and purchasing a lot, erected his present fine residence, which he has since occupied. Forming a partnership with E. P. Berray, he established the cabinet business here, and conducted it for about six years. He then resumed his former vocation of carpentering, which he continued until 1889, when he bought the stone quarry, where he has since been actively employed in getting out stone. He is an enterprising representative of the industrial interests of the town, and is widely and favorably known in business circles as an upright, incorruptible man and a good citizen.

An important step in the life of Mr. Martin was his marriage with Fannie Niles, the daughter of Festus and Sarah Niles, the former of whom was a native of Walton and the latter of Hamden. The only child of this union was a son, James Curtis Martin, who is now studying law. He was born during the residence of his parents in Hancock, the date of his birth being October 7, 1869. When he was four years old, his parents removed to Walton, where he was educated, attending first the district schools, and subsequently being graduated from the Walton Academy. He began his business career as a clerk in the store of D. McLean, and was afterward with G. O. Mead, with whom he remained for a time, relinquishing that position to accept the general agency of the publishing house of H. J. Smith & Co. of Philadelphia, for whom he travelled about a year, his territory being in the State of New York. He afterward entered the United States mail service as a clerk on the train running from Oneida to New York City, continuing in this business about eighteen months. Going then to Cornwall, he was for a short time a clerk in the general store of Oliver & Bogara. On his return to Walton, he entered the law office of Marvins & Hanford, where he is rapidly qualifying himself for admission to the bar. He is a young man of exceeding promise, genial and courteous, and very popular in social circles. Entering the Thirty-third Separate Company, N. G. S., New York, October 12, 1887, as a private, in 1889 he was promoted to the rank of Corporal, and in March, 1892, to that of Sergeant, and in the same month was elected Second Lieutenant, a rank which he still holds.

Mr. Josiah Martin has always been a staunch adherent of the Democratic party, and takes an active interest in local and national affairs. During his residence in Hancock he served as Justice of the Peace two terms, and was elected to the same office the third term, but refused to qualify. While there he acted as Inspector of Elections, Constable, Collector, and as Assessor, filling each office with credit to himself and satisfactorily to all. Since coming to Walton, he has been Road Commissioner and Inspector of Elections; and he came within forty votes of being elected Supervisor and Justice of the Peace, which speaks well for his standing in the community, this town being a Republican stronghold. Both he and his wife are members of the Methodist church.

SAMUEL E. WHITE, who lives in the town of North Walton, in District No. 9, is the owner of one of the finest homesteads in this part of Delaware County. It consists of one hundred and sixty-five acres of land, with a comfortable and substantial residence, a good barn, and all necessary outbuildings for the storing of grain and the shelter of stock. The fences and farm machinery are kept in good repair, and everything about the premises indicates the supervision of an intelligent and practical farmer. Mr. White is a native citizen of Walton, and is the offspring of a New England family, his father, Daniel White, having been born in Stamford, Fairfield County, Conn., in which town William White, his grandfather, was a life-long resident. He was a successful farmer, and also carried on an extensive shoe business, and was closely identified with the industrial interests of the town. He reared a large family of twelve children.

Daniel White came to Walton in the days of its early settlement, when the clearings were few, and, purchasing a tract of wild land, set himself industriously to work to improve its condition and to raise the crops upon which he depended for his profits and livelihood. His first residence was the customary log cabin of the pioneer; but this in a few years was replaced by a fine frame structure, a good barn was erected, and on the homestead which he had thus established he lived until 1849, when his death occurred at the age of sixty-six years. On November 10, 1808, he married Catherine Webb, a native of Connecticut, born June 11, 1788, being one of six children born to Ebenezer and Hannah Webb. Her brothers and sisters were Clarissa, Jemima, Phebe, Joseph and Ebenezer Webb. Mrs. White proved herself an efficient helpmate during their years of pioneer life, and with her busy hands found time to card, spin, weave, and make the garments worn by the family. Both were original members of the Congregational church of North Walton. Previous to the formation of this church, they were members of the First Congregational Church at Walton, where they used to go on horseback, following a path through the woods, there being then no public highway. Mrs. Catherine White survived her husband many years, dying October 30, 1876, at the home of one of her daughters in North Walton. She reared six children; namely, William Edward, Eliza Ann, George E., Emily, Samuel E., and Charles E.

Samuel E., the third son, who was born on June 24, 1824, spent his early years on the parental homestead near the one which he now occupies, and in the district school and the academy at Franklin received a practical education. After finishing his studies, he assisted his father on the farm; and several years before the death of the latter he assumed the sole management of the homestead, his father being in feeble health and unable to superintend the work. He afterward engaged in general farming in Woodlawn near by, remaining there three years. He then bought the farm where he has since resided, and has carried on mixed husbandry. He makes a specialty of dairying, and until within a few years manufactured choice butter, which he sold in the New York and Connecticut markets, but has recently adopted the plan of selling his milk.

Mr. White was married in 1852 to Elizabeth C. Knapp, a daughter of William and Rebecca (Webb) Knapp, of Stamford, Conn. The only child of their union is a son, Arthur L., a finely educated man, having been fitted for college at the Franklin Academy. He is now at home, and assists in the management of the farm. The entire family are members of the Second Congregational Church of North Walton, of which Arthur has been Clerk for many years, besides faithfully performing the duties of superintendent of the Sunday-school.

WILLIAM S. THOMSON, a successful farmer and stock-raiser and a leading dairyman of his native town of Bovina, is the possessor of a fine homestead containing two hundred and two and a half acres of well-improved land, on which he and his family reside. His estate is supplied with a substantial set of modern farm buildings, his stock and machinery are of first-class description, and everything about the premises is indicative of the industry, intelligence, and thrift of its proprietor. The date of his birth, December 22, 1861, shows him to be yet in the prime of early manhood. His parents, Andrew and Margaret (Scott) Thomson, were also natives of Bovina, where his father entered upon this stage of existence on January 14, 1836, and his mother on the 3d of April, 1835.

On the paternal side of Mr. Thomson is of sturdy Scotch ancestry. His grandfather, William Thomson, who was born in Scotland in 1801, emigrated in 1825 from the land of his birth to America, and, coming to Delaware County, bought a farm in the town of Bovina, and here engaged in tilling the soil. He died at the good old age of fourscore years. He was a man of strong religious convictions, and a member of the Reformed Presbyterian church, of which he was for many years an Elder. He married Janet Hamilton; and to them were born six children, three sons and three daughters, all of whom are living except Andrew, the father of the subject of this present sketch.

Andrew Thomson spent his entire life in the town of Bovina, and was the larger part in his time engaged in agricultural pursuits. In 1861 he bought the farm now owned by his son, William S., and made thereon the major portion of the excellent improvements, placing it among the most valuable homesteads of this locality. He was a man of good business ability, and faithfully fulfilled his obligations as a good citizen, residing here until his death, July 17, 1888, at the age of fifty-two years. His wife, Margaret Scott, was the daughter of John Scott, a life-long resident of Bovina, and one who performed his full share in the pioneer labor of developing its resources and assisting its growth. She survived her husband a short time, dying January 11, 1891, at the age of fifty-four years. Both were active workers in the cause of religion, and were members of the Reformed Presbyterian church, in which he was an Elder. Five children were born of their union, as follows: William S.; Edwin F., a well-known dealer in boots and shoes, who resides in the village of Delhi; Burtis M., a farmer, who lives in Walton; Carrie E., the wife of A. T. Doig, a merchant in Bovina Centre; and Millard H., a farmer residing in Walton.

William S., the eldest of the family, was reared on the old home farm, and educated in the district schools. Having grown to manhood, he continued to make his home with his parents, and during the winter seasons taught school for three years, between terms working on the land. After the death of his father he bought the family homestead, taking possession in 1890, and here carries on an extensive business in general farming and dairying, milking thirty-five cows, which in 1893 yielded an average of two hundred and eighty pounds of butter per head. He has full-blooded Jersey cattle and graded, and also keeps other stock, having about sixty head in all.

Mr. Thomson was married on January 29, 1890, to Jennie A. Archibald, who was born April 24, 1870, and is the daughter of Sloane and Elizabeth (Russell) Archibald, esteemed residents of the town of Bovina, where her father is a prominent agriculturist. Both Mr. and Mrs. Archibald were born in New Kingston, his birth having occurred on January 5, 1848, and hers on November 13, 1848. Both are members of the United Presbyterian church of Bovina Centre, and in politics Mr. Archibald is a staunch Democrat. They are the parents of two children, namely: Mrs. Thomson; and Russell, who resides at home with his parents. The paternal grandfather of Mrs. Thomson, James Archibald, was born in Bovina on July 20, 1816, was married to Margaret Sloane on April 7, 1842, and resided at New Kingston till after her death in 1848. He afterward lived in Bovina, but is at present in New Kingston. He has been three times married. His occupation is farming. Until quite recently he has also speculated in stock. He is a Democrat in politics, and is a member of the United Presbyterian church.

John G. Russell. the maternal grandfather of Mrs. Thomson, and his wife, whose maiden name was Jane Chisholm, were natives of New Kingston, where he still lives, and of which town his father, Matthew Russell, was a pioneer settler. During his earlier years John Russell was an active farmer and a successful miller, and one of the influential members of his community, His first wife died at the age of sixty-nine years, and he subsequently married again.

Of the happy union of Mr. Thomson and his wife two sons have been born - A. Ralph and Archibald. They have a pleasant and attractive home and enjoy the society of a large circle of warm friends. They are sincere Christian people, he being a member of the Reformed Presbyterian church, and she belonging to the United Presbyterian church.

FORREST F. GIBSON was born in South Kortright, on March 21, 1851, and died at his home in Stamford on May 28, 1890. His father, the Rev. John D. Gibson, was born in Washington County; and his mother, Catherine D. (Wood) Gibson, in Orange County. His grandfather, Colin Gibson, was born in Scotland, and came to America when a young man, being one of the early settlers of Washington County, where he died at a good old age. He was a United Presbyterian, and politically a Democrat. He was married three times. The Rev. John D. Gibson was a minister in the United Presbyterian church, and a very successful man in his calling, standing at the head in his profession. He spent the greater part of his life in Delaware County. He was a graduate of the Theological Seminary in Newburg, and was pastor of the South Kortright church for over forty years, beloved by his people, and well known and venerated throughout the county. He retired from the ministry seven years before his death, which occurred at his son's home in Stamford, January 6, 1893, when he was seventy-six years of age. His wife died in August. 1892. They had five children, all of whom grew up, and three are now living, namely: John B. Gibson, residing in Kansas City; Robert P., who resides in Westchester County; Margaret A. Gooding, wife of D. M. Gooding, who resides at Hoosick Falls, Rensselaer County; Charles A., who died when fifty years of age; the subject of this sketch, who was the youngest of the family.

Forrest F. Gibson grew up in Stamford, and received more than an ordinary education. He first went to the district schools of the town, then to Andes Academy, and from there to Delhi Academy. When his school days were over, he bought his first land, one hundred and twenty-five acres, at Rose Brook, shortly after his marriage, in 1874, and resided there for nine years. He then sold out, and in 1884 bought the farm where his widow now resides. He here owned one hundred and seventy-five acres and carried on general farming and dairying. He made many improvements, adding to the farm buildings, and in 1885 built a commodious modern residence worth thirty-three hundred dollars. He was a successful farmer an active man in promoting the welfare of the town, of which he was at one time Assessor.

On Christmas Eve, December 24, 1873, he married Helen T. Sackrider, daughter of James and Jane Ann (Thomas) Sackrider. (See the sketch of James Sackrider and Mrs. Agnes Thomas.) Mr. and Mrs. Gibson became the parents of two children: a daughter, J. Anna Gibson, born November 21, 1874, now Mrs. Henry E. Smith, residing in New York City; and James Sackrider Gibson, born August 23, 1877, who lives at home and assists in the management of the farm. They keep twenty-one milk cows, and also much young stock. All the family are members of the United Presbyterian church. Mr. Gibson, who was also of the United Presbyterian faith, and in politics was a Democrat, was a man who stood in high honor among his associates; and in his death occasioned heartfelt sorrow throughout the town.

MRS. HANNAH D. OGDEN, widow of the late Chauncey Ogden, is a woman well known and much respected in the town of Franklin, where her husband died in 1892, and where she still makes her home. Mr. Ogden's grandfather, David Ogden, Sr., was a soldier of the Revolution. He was born in Dutchess County in 1764; and, although very young at the time of the war, like so many of the patriots of that day he enlisted in the cause of freedom, and was taken prisoner, not by the British, but by the Indians. For two years he lived in a wigwam with the squaw who adopted him, and then he escaped and returned to his home. During the time of his captivity he acquired great fluency in the Indian tongue, which was of great use to him in his dealings with the red men. He died in Croton in 1840, at the age of seventy-six years. His son, David Jr., who was born in that town in 1792, and died in 1858, married Sally McCall. She was born January 7, 1794 and died in 1869. They had ten children, four sons and six daughters, only four of whom are now living, namely: Linus Ogden in Croton; Susan, widow of Isaac Hitchcock, in North Carolina; Marian, widow of Pardon Howland, of Whitney's Point, N.Y.; Mary, widow of the late Julius Brownson, of Oregon.

Chauncey Ogden, son of David Jr., and his wife Sally, was born in Croton in 1824, and married Hannah D. Munn, born in the town of Franklin, October 5, 1830. She was the daughter of Reuben and Lydia (Jones) Munn, and was but eighteen years old in 1848, when she became Mrs. Ogden. She has three children still living, namely: Emma, wife of Charles Potter, of Franklin, and the mother of two sons - Albert Ogden, twenty-one years old; and Orion C., eighteen years old. Mr. and Mrs. Chauncey Ogden began life as farmers, with a capital of five hundred dollars; and before the death of Mr. Ogden the property was worth several thousand dollars. In religion Mrs. Ogden is a Congregationalist.

Alfred K. Ogden, the eldest son of Mrs. Ogden, was born December 22, 1851. He received his primary education in the common schools, and then spent two years at the Delaware Literary Institute. He remained at home until December 8, 1887, when he was married to Ida Isabel Penfield, who was born in the town of Harpersfield, January 12, 1860, and was the daughter of David Penfield. Her father died in January, 1893, at the age of seventy-three. He was a native of Harpersfield, and was a son of David Penfield, Sr., and Boadicea Scoville, both of Danbury, Conn. Coming to Delaware County with his brothers, they here manufactured the famous Penfield axe. Mrs. Ida Isabel Ogden was educated in the Delaware Literary Institute, and taught school for three terms. After remaining one year on the old farm, she and her husband came to their present home and farm of ninety-five acres, which they had bought in 1889. They have one child, Chauncey, three years old, named for his grandfather.

Mr. Ogden is a Republican voter; and he and his wife are members of the Franklin Congregational church, in which he is a Deacon. He carries on a general farming business and a dairy of fourteen cows. He is a much esteemed citizen and one of the rising young men of the county, being one to whom all look for the fulfillment of much promise in the future.

EDSON S. DANN who stands prominent among the prosperous agriculturists of this county, is an extensive landholder in the town of Walton, where he occupies a fine farm on the south side of the Delaware River, about a mile and a half from the village. It is amply supplied with modern farm buildings; and his handsome residence, which he erected in 1886, has a charming location on the river's bank, overlooking the village below, and commanding picturesque natural scenery. The birth of Mr. Dann having taken place on the parental homestead near by on March 25, 1849, he is now in full vigor of manhood, and is contributing his share toward the advancement of the industrial and business interests of his native town.

His paternal grandparents were Ebenezer and Sarah Dann, of Connecticut, the former of whom was born on July 25, 1768, and the latter on October 10, 1770. They reared the following children - Amariah, Sarah, Phoebe, Ebenezer, Enoch, Asa, Matthew, Darius, and Harvey. Darius Dann came to Delaware County before his marriage, and in the town of Franklin learned the hatter's trade of a man by the name of Northrup. After working at his trade for some time, he came to Walton, and, purchasing the tract of land known as the Goodrich farm, engaged in general farming, living here nearly half a century, passing away September 9, 1892, in his eighty-ninth year. He married twice. On September 23, 1830, he wedded Minerva Seeley, a daughter of Abijah Seeley, of Franklin. She was a faithful member of the Congregational church, and died on the old homestead, September 21,1851. She bore her husband five children, namely: Sterling S., deceased; Julia, who married P. F. Sprague; Theron, deceased; Ellen M., who married Silas Bradley for her first husband, after his death becoming the wife of A. N. Tracy; and Edson, the subject of this sketch. On November 20, 1855, Darius Dann married for his second wife Almeda Beers.

Edson S. Dann was but two years old when his mother died. He remained with his father until twenty-two years of age, assisting in the necessary labors of the farm. He received the rudiments of his education in the district school. afterward becoming a student of Walton Academy. He acquired while on the home farm a practical experience in the art of agriculture that was of incalculable benefit to him in after years. After his marriage he settled on the farm where he now resides, and which he had previously purchased of William Marvin, it having in former times been known as the Case farm. Besides this property, which contains one hundred and twenty-five acres of excellent land, Mr. Dann owns the valuable parental homestead near by, which consists of two hundred and fifty acres. On these farms there are three substantial dwellings. Mr. Dann devotes his attention principally to stock-raising and dairying, keeping about forty cows, horses, and young stock, raising all the hay he needs and having some to spare, his farms being among the most productive in the vicinity. His fine cattle are of a native breed, producing large quantities of milk, which he sends to the creamery.

Mr. Dann was united in wedlock May 29, 1872 to Miss Ella E. Pierson, who was born in Walton, December 2, 1850. Her father, Joseph M. Pierson, was born February 25, 1820, in the town of Saratoga, and on February 2, 1848, he married Priscilla R. Lyon, who was born in Stamford, July 28, 1824. Mr. and Mrs. Pierson, who reared three children - Charles J., a farmer; George J., a worker in the Novelty works; and Mrs. Dann - still live in the village of Walton.

The home of Mr. and Mrs. Dann has been brightened by the advent of two intelligent and promising children. The elder, George J., born March 13, 1874, was graduated from Walton Union School with honors, when eighteen years old. He then entered Union College at Schenectady, and, having passed through the Sophomore class with a high rank, is now a member of the Junior class, and will be graduated in 1896. Florence E., born December 21, 1879, is now a student in the Walton High School, where she has a fine record for good scholarship. Mr. Dann is one of the leading citizens of his community, and for two years has served as Highway Commissioner. In politics he has usually supported the Republican ticket. He and his wife, and also his son, are among the most esteemed members of the Methodist church, in which he has been Steward for many years.

GEORGE BARLOW, a highly respected member of the agricultural community of the town of Stamford, N.Y., is a man who from a modest beginning has worked his own way up in the world to a good position, socially and financially, among his fellow-citizens and who by his upright life has secured their kindly regard and confidence. Mr. Barlow is a worthy representative of the native-born citizen, having first opened his eyes to the light September 14, 1825, in the town of Stamford, which was also the place of nativity of his parents, Jesse and Lucretia (Rollins) Barlow, the former having been born January 12, 1789, and the latter November 14, 1788.

Mr. Barlow comes from excellent New England stock. His grandfather, Edmund Barlow, who was one of the pioneer settlers of Stamford, having been born in Connecticut, came here when this part of the country was an almost pathless wilderness, with an occasional opening, whence the smoke from the chimney of some pioneer's cabin might be seen. He cleared a farm, placing it in good condition, and continued its cultivation until the time of his death while in the prime of life. His widow survived him many years, living to a ripe old age. They reared eight children, but none are now living.

Jesse Barlow, who was reared on the parental farm, was of invaluable assistance from the time he was old enough to wield the axe or spade, and performed his full share in the pioneer labor of felling trees and improving the land. He became a farmer from choice, and, devoting his whole time and attention to agriculture, became very successful. He lived sixty-four years of useful life, dying October 14, 1854. His faithful wife preceded him to the golden shore, passing quietly away November 27, 1853. Both parents were conscientious members of the Episcopal church, and in politics he was a zealous advocate of the principals of the Democratic party. Of the nine children born to them two are now living, namely: George, of Stamford; and Edmund, a resident of the village of Hobart. The names of the deceased are as follows: Mary Ann, Burr, Aaron, Betsey, Samuel, William, and Eunice. All of these grew to maturity excepting William, who died young.

George Barlow was reared and educated in the place of his birth, attending the district schools, and assisting his parents on the homestead until the time of his marriage. He subsequently bought the home property, where he resided for some years, engaged in general farming. Selling that, Mr. Barlow bought the farm where he now resides, taking possession of it April 1, 1868. It contains one hundred acres of well-tilled and productive land, which he has furnished with new and substantial buildings, besides adding other necessary improvements. He carries on mixed husbandry, paying a good deal of attention to dairying, which is a very important branch of his industry. He still resides on the farm, but has given up its management to his son, William S. Barlow.

Mr. Barlow was married October 27, 1853, to Mary P. Taylor, a native of Stamford, where she was born November 20, 1827. Her father Hezekiah Taylor, was a cooper by trade, and when a young man was united in marriage with Phoebe Beers, who became the mother of Mrs. Barlow. The happy union of Mr. and Mrs. Barlow was made still more bright by the birth of three children - Mary Ann, William S., and Fannie E. Mary Ann, the wife of Roswell Barlow, lives in Stamford, where her husband is engaged in farming. William S., who carries on the home farm, married Emma J. Hubbard, a native of Jefferson, Schoharie County, and a daughter of Lucius and Jerusha C. (Havens) Hubbard, who now make their home with her. Mr. Hubbard was formerly a carpenter, but is now retired from the active pursuits of life. Fannie E., is the wife of George E. More, a marble dealer of Hobart.

The life of Mr. Barlow has not been with out its sorrows, his most severe affliction having been the loss of his beloved companion, who departed this life May 6, 1893. Although not a confirmed invalid, Mrs. Barlow had never fully recovered from injuries which she received in October, 1882, when riding with her husband and Mrs. Augusta Foot. They were struck by a train while crossing the track, Mrs. Foot being killed outright, Mrs. Barlow injured severely, while Mr. Barlow had a very narrow escape from death. Both horses were killed. In his political views Mr. Barlow is a warm advocate of the principles of the Democratic party. Religiously, he is an Episcopalian, and is a Warden of the church in Hobart, of which his wife was also an esteemed communicant.

ORLANDO GOULD is a farmer by calling, and the owner of a valuable homestead on the West Brook road in the town of Walton. He is a native of Delaware County, born in the town of Walton, May 5, 1834; and during the many years that he has lived in this locality he has fulfilled his obligations as a good citizen, and has contributed his full quota toward the advancement of the community.

Mr. Gould is the scion of an excellent New England family, his grandfather, Eli Gould, Sr., having been a native of Connecticut, and one of the pioneers of Walton. He removed here with his family, and buying a tract of partly improved land, erected a frame house, which was his home until his death. Eli Gould, Jr., was born on the homestead of his parents in Walton, and was reared a farmer and lumberman. After becoming of age he started as a farmer on his own account, living on his father's farm for several years. He then purchased a farm at the foot of Walton Mountain, three miles from the village of Walton, where he lived for a number of years. Selling this, he then bought the farm where his son Orlando now lives, and here continued his agricultural labors, living to the good old age of fourscore years. His wife, Ophelia Wakeman, was a native of Connecticut, being the daughter of Epaphras and Abigail (Banks) Wakeman. She died at the venerable age of eighty-five years. Both she and her husband were members of the Methodist church. The names of the five children born to them were as follows: Alfred, Emily, Amelia, Adelia, and Orlando.

Orlando Gould was the youngest child of the parental household. During the days of his youth he remained at home, assisting on the farm, receiving his elementary education in the district school, and afterward for two or three terms attending the Walton Academy. After his marriage Mr. Gould lived for seven years on part of the homestead. In 1864 he entered into the livery business in Walton, buying out a stable owned by George Smith, devoting his time to that for the next two years. Disposing of his livery interests, he again went to New Jersey, where he lived for a year, learning the carpenter's trade which he followed for a time. He then returned to Walton, and, buying out the interests of the other heirs, soon after took possession of the homestead. He now carries on a substantial business in general agriculture, devoting his farm in the main to dairying, which he finds very profitable.

The first wife of Mr. Gould, to whom he was united in 1857, was Mary St. John, who was one of six children born to John and Sarah (Acker) St., John, early pioneers of Walton. She lived but a few years after their marriage; and Mr. Gould subsequently married Eliza Jane Kerr, the daughter of Joseph and Antoinette (Honeywell) Kerr. Of this last union two children have been born, Mary Anna and Frank Wheeler. In local affairs, Mr. Gould is a man of influence, and in whatever position he has been placed has acquitted himself in a creditable and praiseworthy manner. In politics he supports the Republican party, and has served as Inspector of Elections. He has been a stockholder and one of the directors of the Delaware County Bank. Socially, he is an active member of the Sons of Temperance. Religiously, he and his family are members of the Congregational church, toward the support of which they are liberal contributors.

HENRY ENGLAND, a retired merchant, has been an important factor in advancing the wealth and prosperity of Delhi, whose position among the flourishing villages and towns of Delaware County is due to the men whose excellent judgment singled it out as an eligible point for business, it being situated in the midst of a country possessing vast resources ready for development. Prominent among the keen, far-sighted men who took advantage of this condition was the subject of this personal history, who for more than half a century has been closely identified with its interests, and taken an active part in promoting its welfare. He is a native of England, having been born on April 21, 1807, near the city of Bath, where his father, John England, carried on the trade of cloth-dresser, dying, however, when comparatively young. He married Elizabeth Bleakley, a life-long resident of England, and a native of Bradford on the Avon. She was a beautiful type of true womanhood, and a conscientious member of the Baptist church, her long life of eighty-nine years being spent in doing good. She reared the following children: Rachel, Ruth, Thomas, Henry, Isaac, and George.

Until twenty years of age Henry England lived with is parents, obtaining a substantial education in the excellent schools of Bath, and a practical knowledge of the cloth-dresser's trade from his father. In the mean time he won the affections of an attractive girl, Mary Knapp, one of the seven children of William and Mary Knapp, the former of whom was the superintendent of a large cloth manufactory; and their banns were soon published. The same year, on May 6, 1827, their marriage was solemnized in the old church of Bradford Wells, England. The following day the youthful couple bade adieu to home and friends, and started on their wedding trip, going by stage coach to the coast, and then crossing the Channel, and spending the first month of their honeymoon in France. Finally, embarking at Havre de Grace in a sailing-vessel, they came to America, their long voyage of nine weeks and three days being one of pleasure. After landing in New York, they proceeded to Fishkill on the Hudson, thence, after a short stop, to Glenham, Dutchess County, where Mr. England began working at his trade. Five years later he removed to Poughkeepsie, where he continued at his occupation until 1839. In that year he came to Delaware County, and, securing employment with Mr. Titus, the owner of a factory in Delhi, remained with him for ten years. Mr. England then entered into business as the American agent for Hatfield & Shaw, boot and shoe manufactures of England. In 1844 the firm dissolved partnership; and Mr. England established a dry-goods business, opening a store on the corner of Meredith and Main Streets, in the building now occupied by Groat & Ferguson, of whom a sketch is given elsewhere in this book. From that time until 1884 Mr. England carried on an extensive and very lucrative business, occupying a conspicuous position among the leading merchants of the county. He then sold out to Bell & Honeywell, and has since lived retired from the active pursuits of life, enjoying the competency which he earned by his many years of honorable labor.

He has been twice married. Of his union with the bride of his youth were born three children - Theophilus, Henry J., and Emeline. Henry J., who married Elizabeth Barns on January 1, 1852, now resides in the South; and his household includes five children - Mary, Charles, Augustus, Libbie, and Jessie. Of these, Mary married Edgar Watkins; and they have two children - Bessie and Harry. Libbie married James G. Jester of Delhi. Augustus married Jennie Covert; and they have one child, Henry. Emeline, the youngest child, married Thomas Carter, the pastor of a Methodist church; and they are the parents of four children - Josie, Annie, George, and Harry. Theophilus, who was born October 2, 1834, was educated in the schools of Fergusonville, and was connected with his father in the dry-goods business until 1861, when, inspired by an earnest and patriotic zeal, he raised a company of one hundred men from among the best and most chivalrous of Delhi's population, and on October 21 went to the front as Captain of Company I, Eighty-first Regiment, New York Volunteer Infantry. He was as brave and true-hearted an officer as ever drew a sword, and for gallant conduct and meritorious services was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. He showed his valor in several hard-fought battles, among which might be mentioned those of South Mountain, Antietam, Fredericksburg, the advance on Petersburg, and, and many others. While passing over the battlefield after a severe engagement on June 18, 1862, and when stooping to give a gray-coated private from the Rebel army a drink from his canteen, he was shot by a sharpshooter, receiving his death wound. He was loved, honored, and respected by every man in his regiment; and his body was tenderly cared for and subsequently brought home, and is now interred in the beautiful cemetery of Delhi. He was the idolized child of his father, who has never fully recovered from the shock of this sudden bereavement. The Grand Army Post of Delhi takes its name from the memory of this heroic soldier.

A few months after the loss of this beloved son, sorrow again laid its chastening hand upon Mr. England in the death of his wife, who was taken from him, after a blessed companionship of more than thirty-five years, on the 25th of October, 1862. In her daily life she exemplified the teachings of the Methodist church, of which she was a consistent member.

Mr. England subsequently formed a matrimonial alliance with Mrs. Margaret Beller, widow of the late James E. Beller, and the daughter of Henry C. and Magdalen (Becker) Shaver, life-long residents of Schenevus. Her mother died at the age of sixty-two years, and her father at the venerable age of eighty-two years. Both of the parents were members of the Lutheran church. Mr. and Mrs. England attend the Methodist Episcopal church, of which he is a member, having been one of the organizers, and in which he has held all the offices.

Mr. England is a straight and staunch Republican. He has filled several of the more important offices of the town, and served as Justice of the Peace for many years. He has always been a leader among men, and was for years a stockholder and a director in the bank. The beautiful home occupied by Mr. and Mrs. England was built in 1862, and is one of the most complete and attractive residences in the village.

SAMUEL M. WHITE, a practical and prosperous farmer of the town of Tompkins, was born in the town of Kortright, September 10, 1838. He is of Irish descent, his parents, James and Catherine (Pursell) White, having been born in the Emerald Isle, the former in the year 1793 and the latter in 1798. In 1818, soon after their marriage, the emigrated to America, landing in New York City after a voyage of fourteen weeks. They proceeded directly to Kortright, where Mr. White bought one hundred and fifty acres of land, on which many improvements had already been made. He labored with unceasing energy, and, as time passed on, bought other land, owning at the time of his death a valuable farm of two hundred and fifty acres and being classed among the leading farmers of the town. Politically, he was identified with the Democratic party, and held liberal views in regard to religious matters; while his good wife was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. They were the parents of nine children, five of whom are now living, as follows: James, a farmer, lives in Unadilla. John, also engaged in farming, resides in Kortright. Susan, the widow of John B. Burdick, lives in Davenport. Samuel M. lives in Tompkins. Amelia is the wife of E. N. Thompson, a farmer of Meredith. The deceased are: Edward, who died when sixteen years old; Mary, who passed away at the age of twenty years; Henry, who died when forty-five years old; and Catherine, at the age of fifty-one years.

Young Samuel spent the earlier part of his life in the town of Kortright, obtaining his elementary education in the district schools and afterward attending the Delhi Academy two terms. He remained under the parental roof-tree until twenty-nine years of age, working most of the time on the home farm, although for three years he worked out as a farm laborer, receiving for his wages three hundred dollars a year, a portion of which he saved. In 1871 Mr. White purchased the farm where he has since resided, and which was known at that time as the Brundage farm. To the eighty acres that then consisted the farm he has since added by purchase, and now has a beautiful homestead of one hundred and seventy acres. Here he is interested in general farming and dairying, keeping twenty-four cows and young cattle, the proceeds of his dairy yielding him an annual income of one thousand dollars. He also makes a specialty of raising sheep, having a fine flock of twenty-six, of the Shropshire breed.

Mr. White was united in marriage October 15, 1867, to Catherine M. Hammond, born in Delhi, April 5, 1848, being a daughter of William and Maria (Burgett) Hammond, both natives of Delaware County. Her father was born in Delhi in 1806, and her mother in Davenport in 1812. William Hammond's father Gideon Hammond, served in the Revolution, and afterward, became one of the pioneer settlers of the town of Delhi, where he took up a tract of wild land, and made his home thereon until his death.

Mr. William Hammond is still living on his farm in Delhi, and is an active, hearty old gentleman, bearing well his burden of eighty-eight years. He has always been an industrious and energetic man of business, evincing excellent judgment in the management of his affairs. In religious matters he is liberal, and in politics is an uncompromising Democrat. Mrs. Hammond passed to her rest in 1868, being then but fifty-six years old. Three of the children born of their union are yet living, as follows: David G., who lives in Peoria County, Ill.; Walter W., on the home farm in Delhi; Catherine M., Mrs. White. Their other children were: Harmon S., who enlisted to serve his country in the late Civil War, in the Sixth New Jersey Volunteer Infantry, and died in Andersonville Prison, aged twenty-five years; and Hulda A., the wife of J. D. Gardener, who died at the age of fifty-one years.

Mr. and Mrs. White have three children living, namely: Florence A., born June 26, 1872; Marsha M., born July 25, 1880; and Susan H., born April 16, 1886. A son, William H., born September 22, 1875, passed to the life eternal on February 17, 1891. Mr. White is one of the useful and valued citizens of his town, and is contributing his full share toward its prosperity and advancement. Mrs. White is a conscientious member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and he is liberal in his religious views. In politics Mr. White is a sound Democrat, and invariably casts his vote in support of the principals of that party. Socially, he is a member of St. Andrew's Lodge, No. 289, A. F. & A. M., at Hobart.

JAMES H. JENKINS, a prosperous lumber merchant of Union Grove was born April 14, 1860, at the family home on Barkerboom Creek, in the town of Andes, Delaware County. His parents were Anson and Sarah (Mekeel) Jenkins. Anson Jenkins was born December 3, 1833, in Roxbury, and was the son of James and Polly (White) Jenkins. His brothers, and sisters were Alonzo, Nathan, David, Egbert, Delilah, Elephan, Lucinda, Ella, and Angelina. James Jenkins was in several different occupations in his younger life; and in 1849, a number of years after his marriage, he bought one hundred and thirty acres of new land in the town of Andes, where in company with John Mekeel & Son he built a saw-mill on the Barkerboom Creek. Here they sawed their lumber and rafted it down the river to Philadelphia. To this estate he afterward added two hundred and seventy acres, on which he worked till his death, at the age of seventy-two years. He was a man of great activity, accumulating quite a large property, the care of which during his life occupied his whole attention. In politics he was a Republican. His widow now lives with her son Nathan at Union Grove.

Anson Jenkins, who came with his father to Andes, here grew to manhood, and worked at clearing the land and running the saw-mill. He married Sarah Mekeel, daughter of John Mekeel. This latter gentleman, already spoken of as the partner of the elder Jenkins, was born October 6, 1798, and was the son of Lewis and Mary (Birch) Mekeel, natives of Connecticut, who came from there to the town of Middletown, and settled on a farm of one hundred acres. Their children were John, Charles, George, Phebe, Martha, Betsy and Axie. They were members of the Baptist church, and Mr. Mekeel was a Democrat in politics.

The children of Anson Jenkins were: John W., deceased; James H.; and Emery, of whom a sketch, with further account of the father and grandfather, may be found on another page. James H. grew up in the town of Andes, and was educated in the district school. At the age of twenty-two he married Inez J., daughter of James H. and Melissa (Miner) Davis, farmers on Tremperskil in the town of Andes. Mr. Jenkins bought of Mr. Hitt a house below his saw-mill, which was built by Harris Hulbert. This he has entirely remodelled, and here he dwells near his business. The work at the saw-mill is in a flourishing condition, about two hundred thousand feet of his own lumber being run, beside much custom work. The manufacture of shingles and laths forms an important branch of his industry, which also includes planing and matching boards.

Mr. and Mrs. Jenkins have one child, a son Roy, born October 6, 1882. They are members of the Episcopal church, and he is a staunch upholder of the Republican principles. Mr. Jenkins is widely known throughout this section for his extensive lumber interests, and personally is held in high regard for his straightforward business ways and manly character. He is much respected, and is one whose opinion and advice in regard to materials for carpentry and cabinet-work are highly valued.

ELBERT O. SCOTT, attorney-at-law of Croton, Delaware County, N.Y., is a gentleman who possesses rare qualifications for his profession, and enjoys a well-established reputation as an able counsellor and advocate. He is a grandson of Caleb Scott, a Connecticut farmer who fought in the Revolution, and three years before his death, at seventy-four years of age, received a pension from the government. In 1812 he and his wife, Phebe (Webb) Scott, with their two-year-old child, Harvey, left the land of their birth and removed to the town of Franklin, N. Y.

In 1831 Harvey Scott married Miss Mary Blair, who was born in Aurora, Portage County, Ohio, daughter of Elam and Anna (McOnoughey) Blair. This worthy couple were natives of Hampden County, Massachusetts, whence in 1811 they moved to Ohio, where they remained but one year, after which they returned eastward, and engaged in farming in Stamford, Delaware County, and later in Jefferson, Schoharie County. Mr. Blair died in 1865, at the advanced age of eighty-five, his wife surviving him nine years. Mr. and Mrs. Blair were blessed with nine children, of whom these four daughters still live: Mrs. Scott, the mother of the subject of this sketch; Angeline Blair, a maiden lady of Franklin Village, aged eighty; Arvilla, who taught in the public schools for sixty-one terms, but retired seven years ago, and now lives in Croton; and Mrs. Juliet Shepard, a widow lady, who lives in Croton.

Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Scott spent most of their wedded life on the farm which Mr. Scott's father bought eighty-two years ago; and here, on November 10, 1891, they celebrated the sixtieth anniversary of their marriage. On this joyous occasion there were present two of the ladies who had acted as bridesmaids at the wedding - Mrs. Scott's sister and Mrs. Hine (Nell Green); and it is needless to say that they occupied the places of honor next to the bride and groom. At the death of Harvey Scott, the farm of one hundred and sixteen acres adjoining the old homestead was left to his son Elbert. Mrs. Harvey Scott is still living, in her eighty-third year, spending the summers with her son Elbert in Croton, and going to her other son at Oneonta for the cold, hard winters. She is a well-preserved lady, being still active both in mind and body.

Elbert O. Scott was born March 6, 1839, in Franklin, where he attended the district school until about fourteen years old, after which he entered the academy, and at eighteen began the study of law. In 1860 he was admitted to the bar, for which he was fully prepared one year earlier, but had not reached the required age. Previous to this, he had been in charge of the office of Judge Lamont in Schoharie County during the five months absence of the judge at the meeting of the legislature. For one year he remained in this office, practising on his own responsibility. In 1863 he left for New York City, where, in company with his brother, he became a salaried attorney for Henry A. Burr, which position he occupied for three years. After one year in business with Major J. B. Caryl in Candor, Tioga County, he opened an office for himself in that flourishing village, and continued to practise his profession with no other help than his own well-balanced brains, remaining there for twenty-two years. During his residence in Candor, Mr. Scott was a candidate for Special County Judge; but, as he was a Democrat and the county Republican, he was defeated, although in his own district he stood far in advance of the other candidate. Mr. Scott now spent a year in Owego, and in the spring of 1889 removed to Croton.

In 1860 Mr. Scot married Miss Anna R. DeGraff, of Schoharie County; and two sons have been born to them: Harry D., a commercial traveller in Syracuse, who is married and has one son; and William H. Scott, and accomplished electrician, who for several years has occupied a responsible position at Fishkill on the Hudson.

An honorable man, highly intellectual and strongly practical, Mr. Scott stands in the front rank of his profession; and the high regard in which he is held gives abundant proof of his ability as a lawyer and his strong and noble character.

AMASA PARKER COOK, who has converted his home at Butternut Grove into a most delightful summer hostelry, which is well patronized by the inhabitants of the neighboring cities, is one of the best-known and most popular citizens of the town of Colchester. He is the great-grandson of John Cook, who came to America as an English soldier, and was wounded at the battle of Monmouth.

During his confinement in a hospital John Cook met Miss Dolly Parker, whom he afterward married, and who became the mother of four children - Daniel, Joseph, Prudence, and Catherine. He lived for a short time at Collicoon, Sullivan County, where he was engaged in the lumber business, and whence he moved to Pepacton in the town of Colchester, there building a log house and barn. The family, being subsequently attacked by Indians, were obliged to flee for their lives, leaving the redskins to carry off all of their earthly possessions which were of any value and to burn all the buildings on the place. After peace was again restored, John Cook returned to the old location, which was unusually attractive, rebuilt the demolished house and barn, cleared the land, and raised grain and cattle. He remained there for several years, but in 1797 sold the farm, and with his family and some stock crossed the mountain to Beaver Kill, where he bought one hundred and sixty acres of land, which he cleared, erecting buildings, and sending the logs down the river to Philadelphia. Bears, deer, wolves, and panthers were frequently killed, the two former for food, the latter to prevent their depredations. A herd of elks, at first twelve in number, which lingered near the clearing, for some time supplied the family larder with game. Trout, also, were very plentiful in the neighboring brooks and creeks, and furnished an agreeable and wholesome article of diet. This was fortunate, as, although John Cook raised grain on his farm, he was obliged to carry it to Kingston to be ground, the nearest mill being in that town. The journey to this mill and return occupied four days, and so was only made when absolutely necessary. John Cook made his home at Beaver Kill for the remainder of his days, but died at Downsville while on a visit to his daughter, at the advanced age of eighty years, his wife also living to be very old.

Joseph, son of John and Dolly Cook, was born in 1777, at Collicoon, Sullivan County, where he grew to manhood, and married Miss Eleanor Carrier, afterward settling at Liberty in the same county. They were the parents of four children - Halsey, Munoris, Alonzo, and Lucretia. At Liberty Joseph Cook built a hotel, of which he was proprietor for ten years, at the end of which period he returned to the old homestead and with the assistance of his brother operated the farm there, being at the same time engaged in the lumber business. He was a volunteer in the War of 1812, taking part in the engagements at Brooklyn and Sackett's Harbor. When peace was declared, he once more returned to his old occupation, and devoted much of his leisure to hunting, killing over four hundred deer, which with other game he exchanged for groceries. He was an ardent Democrat, and died, a firm believer in the principles of that party, in 1851, his wife living until 1879.

Halsey, eldest son of Joseph Cook, was born at Liberty Village in 1820, and removed with his parents in 1832 to Beaver Kill, where he was educated in the common schools, and followed the occupation of his father, that of a lumberman and farmer, in which he was very successful. By patient labor and economical living he managed to accumulate enough money to purchase a farm of one hundred and sixty acres near that of his father, which he also bought some time later, and was then the possessor of seven hundred acres. Halsey Cook married Elsie Lawrence; and had two children: Amasa Parker, the subject of this notice; and Emily, who was born July 21, 1850, married Horton Cook, and died in 1875, leaving one daughter, Viola. Halsey Cook resided on his farm until his death in 1867. He was a Republican, and always voted with that party. His wife passed away in 1880.

Amasa Parker Cook was born February 8, 1847, and was but four years of age when he came to his present home, where he was reared to manhood, and received his education in the common schools of the town. His days were devoted to the work on the farm and lumbering, and his evenings he spent in studying and reading. By this means he became well informed and a good business man. He began to ship his lumber to Philadelphia when he was but twenty years of age, sending one thousand dollars' worth down the river in a year. For five years he continued in this business, cutting the trees himself.

When twenty-eight years of age, he married Rebecca, daughter of William Davidson, who lived on Campbell Mountain, and had six children - Charles, Rebecca, Elizabeth, William, Nettie, and Fannie. William Davidson was the son of William Davidson, Sr., who was the father of seven children - John, James, Thomas, William, Nelson, Walter, and Nettie. Mr. and Mrs. A. Parker Cook are the parents of four sons, namely: Harmon, born December 22, 1875, a pupil at Walton Academy; George C., born February 10, 1878; Edmond, who was born August 21, 1880; and Walter, born June 24, 1885.

Mr. Cook owns one hundred and eighty-two acres of farm land and a fine, large house, where he accommodates twenty-five summer boarders, the situation of the estate on the bank of Beaver Kill giving exceptional facilities for fishing and other sports. He has erected commodious barns, and he keeps on the premises ten choice Jersey cows. This pleasant summer resort is about one and one-half miles from the railway station, Cook's Falls, and during the heated season is well filled with city residents, who seek the cool and quiet of country life. Mr. Cook is an earnest member of the Prohibition party, in whose cause he is an able champion. He is an energetic, practical man, whose success in life is largely due to his own untiring efforts, who performs his duties as a citizen in a conscientious manner, and enjoys the esteem and good will of his townspeople.

HECTOR SHAW is a native of Hamden, Delaware County, N.Y., and an influential and worthy citizen of that town, for the welfare of which he is ever laboring. He is of Scotch ancestry, being a son of Donald Shaw, who was born in Argyle, Scotland, in 1788, and was brought to America by his parents when but nine years of age. Twenty- four years later he married Janet McNaught, who was also Scotch, being a native of Dunbartonshire on Loch Lomond, where she was born in 1798, a daughter of John McNaught. She sailed for the New World in 1817; and in 1821 they were married in Bovina, and settled in Hamden, on the flats one mile below the village, where they were at one time possessors of one thousand acres of land.

They became the parents of nine children. of whom six are still living, two sons and one daughter having died in the prime of life. One son, Donald Douglas Shaw, was a brilliant young lawyer, a graduate of Yale in the class of 1856, who studied his profession in Albany and was elected Assemblyman, but died December 29, 1859, and was buried on the day when he would have taken his seat in the legislature. He was a genial, scholarly man, with prospects of a brilliant future, whose loss was keenly felt by a large circle of admiring friends made in his short but effective career. Another son, Augustus Shaw. died of consumption, in Hamden, March 13, 1861, at the age of twenty-nine years. The children now living are: Alexander, a retired merchant, with a family at Delhi; Marshall, of Rock Island, Ill., who was an officer in the Civil War, but was forced by illness to resign his commission; Hector, the subject of this sketch; Edwin, a farmer near Hamden; Catherine, wife of Daniel Crawford; and Arthur, who married Jennie Bostwick, daughter of Marcus and Deborah (Kellogg) Bostwick, and is the father of four children. Donald Shaw, the father, died in September, 1865. His widow, Janet, is still living, and at ninety- six years of age her mind is yet clear.

Hector Shaw was born in the village of Hamden in 1828, and received a common school education. He has been twice married. His first wife, Harriet Bastow, was the mother of two children, namely: Arabella, who died when five years of age; and Malcom, an electrician in Albany, who is married and has a daughter. On February 2, 1866, Mr. Shaw married Miss Rachel McClaren, of Hamden, daughter of David and Catherine (Coon) McClaren, the father a native of Glasgow, Scotland, and the mother of New York State. Mr. McClaren was a farmer in Hamden, where he died in 1850, aged fifty years. His wife, Mrs. Shaw's mother, survived him about thirty-two years, and passed away after reaching her seventy-eighth year. Mrs. McClaren was the mother of three daughters and one son, the latter dying when an infant of eighteen months. These daughters are: Mary C., wife of the Rev. George Brown, of Walton; Mrs. Shaw; and Emily, wife of John Gemmell, of New York City, who resides in Syracuse.

Mr. and Mrs. Shaw are the parents of two children, as follows: David Alexander, who was a student at Delhi Academy, a graduate of Phillips Academy at Andover, Mass., and of the business college at Poughkeepsie, and is now a book-keeper at Mishawaka, Ind.; and Catherine, wife of the Rev. H. A. Percival, a Presbyterian minister of Mishawaka. Mr. Shaw has lived in his large, pleasant house in the village for the last four years, his farm of three hundred and eighteen acres, three miles from Hamden, being occupied by one of his tenants. His wife is a member of the Presbyterian church, where she is a constant and interested attendant. Mr. Shaw is a Republican, of which party organization he has long been an active member. He is held in great esteem by his associates and fellow-townspeople, whose interests he ever has at heart, and for whose progress and improvement he is always ready to lend a helping hand.

THOMPSON K. WALKER, the genial and capable proprietor of the Downs House at Downsville, N.Y., is a man of versatile talents and varied experience, among other things having had much to do with educational matters. He is a descendant, in the fifth generation, of Philip Walker, who was of English ancestry, and whose son, Philip, Jr., was a brave soldier in the Revolution, and afterward served as Town Clerk in the town of Rehoboth from 1787 to 1801. These facts show the character and tendencies of the early Walkers, and those who have followed have duly exemplified the same. This Philip, Jr., was father of Thompson Walker, who was born in Rhode Island, June 11, 1786, and died May 12, 1842, in Roxbury, N.Y. He was a carpenter, and, coming to Roxbury in his early manhood, here followed his trade until his death.

By his wife, Mary Lynch, he had four children - George W., Daniel L., Delia C., and Henry L. He was a Democrat, and a member of the Methodist Episcopal church.

Henry L. Walker was born in Roxbury, September 6, 1818, and was educated in the district schools, after which he started in business, first driving a team for Isham Brothers, tanners and merchants, and after a year being promoted to a clerkship, in which he remained three years. He then went as clerk for Matthew Griffin, and after three more years went into business with Harvey Keator, establishing himself in Kingston, Ulster County. Many years later he went to Roxbury, and bought the old homestead and the farm connected with it, comprising in all about one hundred and forty acres. His wife was Allice Griffin, born March 10, 1814, a daughter of Ezekiel and Charlotte (White) Griffin. Her father was born April 24, 1776, and her mother on June 11, 1779, a daughter of John and Tabitha White. Mrs. Allice Griffin Walker died January 10, 1887. Henry L. Walker was an industrious and a very prosperous man, and one who is well remembered for his great generosity. In politics he was a Republican. He died February 13, 1890, and had two children - Thompson K., and Mary C., the latter of whom was born October 18, 1854 and died February 4, 1874.

Thompson K. Walker was born in Kingston, March 22, 1849, and while yet a boy removed to the old home at Roxbury. There he attended the academy, and then finished a full course at the Franklin Institute. He was book-keeper for Dr. Keator for a while, and when but twenty years old began teaching school at Olive, Ulster County N.Y. Here he remained for two years, and then accepted the position of principal in the union graded school at Napanock in the same county. After holding this position for fifteen years, in 1883 he resigned, and engaged in the real estate and insurance business in Middletown. During this time he bought the Holding House property, and there for about two years he conducted a hotel. By this time an accomplished landlord, thoroughly acquainted with the business of inn-keeping, he came to Downsville, and bought the Downs House, which is beautifully located among the hills and in close proximity to some of the best trout brooks in the country. What sportsman who makes his yearly visit to these pleasant streams does not know the hospitality of "mine host" of the Downs House? The place is well managed, everything being neat, orderly, and in good condition; and those travelling on business, as well as those seeking sport and recreation, are glad to lodge at this hostelry, the doors of which are always open to welcome the stranger.

In 1871 Mr. Walker married Evelyn M. Munson, daughter of John H. and Julia (Hodge) Munson. Her father, who was born in 1815, a son of Herman and Julia Munson, was a farmer in Delaware County. He and his wife raised a family of six children: Ainer, who resides at the old homestead; Albert H., who lives at Sheridan; Milton D., of North Franklin; Dr. J. A. Munson, of Woodbourne; Mrs. Josephine McMinn, of Oneonta; and Mrs. Walker, of Downsville. Herman Munson, father of John, married Sarah Hecock, and came from the Eastern States, settling at Meredith. There they carried on their farm for about forty years, and thence moved to Oneonta, N.Y., where Mr. Munson died. His widow still lives in Oneonta. They were Universalists, but John H. Munson's family are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. The wife of John H. Munson, Julia Hodge, was a daughter of John A. and Evelyn (Goodrich) Hodge, who raised a large family of children, namely: Julia, wife of John Munson; Rebecca, wife of Major Osterhout; Evelyn, wife of C. Clark, of Owego; Lucretia, wife of I. Wilson, of Illinois; Lavinia; Walter, a Major in the late war; Henry and William, who died young; and John, a Lieutenant in Company K, One Hundred and Forty-fourth New York Infantry, now living in New Mexico, and practising medicine as well as being interested in mining. Mrs. Munson is still living at Oneonta. She is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church.

Thompson K. Walker has one child, Harry L. Walker, born December 7, 1872, who is with his father in the hotel business, connected with which they also have a large livery. Mr. Walker is a Republican and a man of liberal religious views, being ever ready to adopt those principals which embrace the most modern and progressive thought. Fraternally, he is a Mason, belonging to Downsville Lodge, No. 464, A. F. & A. M., Wawarsing Chapter, No. 286, Ellenville N.Y., Rondout Commandery, No. 53, Rondout, N.Y., and Dewitt Clinton Consistory, No. 11, Middletown, N.Y. He is also a member of Lancelot Lodge, No. 189, Knights of Pythias, Middletown, N.Y. He has shown marked ability for carrying on a line of business in which it is most difficult to please, his success being such as to win the plaudits of his patrons. A highly intelligent gentleman, possessing a well-stored and well-trained mind, courteous, obliging, and genial, he has a happy faculty for making his guests feel at home, and for retaining them as friends.

The portrait of Mr. Walker on another page will be recognized with pleasure by many who have tarried for a longer or shorter time under the hospitable roof of the Downs House, here perhaps first realizing the warm welcome of a wayside inn.

HIRAM E. STOUTENBURG, cash collector of the Adams Express Company, and a business man of ability, is a native of Delaware County, having been born in Delhi on October 14, 1842. The first of his paternal ancestors to come to America was his great- great-grandfather, Jacobus Stoutenburg, who emigrated from Holland early in the eighteenth century, in 1717, and, settling in Eastern New York became a pioneer of Dutchess County, where he purchased land and improved a farm. He raised a large family; and among them was Tobias Stoutenburg, father of Peter Stoutenburg, who was the grandfather of Hiram E. Peter Stoutenburg after his marriage moved still farther westward, coming to Delaware County and buying wild land in the town of Kortright, being among the earliest settlers of that town. Erecting the customary log cabin of the pioneer, he spent many a long year in the arduous labor of clearing his land and placing it under cultivation. He was, however, prospered in his undertaking, and resided here until his death, at the ripe old age of ninety years. He married Lydia Borden, who bore him twelve children; namely, William, Edward, Tobias, Jackson, Alfred, Charles, Silas, Ann, Sarah, Eliza, Catherine, and Maria. His wife also spent her last years on the homestead, living to an advanced age. His mother, who after the death of her husband left her home in Dutchess County, to live with her grandson, William Stoutenburg, lived to the remarkable age of one hundred and two years; and her venerable form is held in vivid remembrance by the subject of this sketch, her great-grandson.

William Stoutenburg, eldest son of Peter and Lydia, was reared to agricultural pursuits, remaining on the parental homestead until attaining his majority. Following in the footsteps of his ancestors, he, too, became a pioneer, settling in the village of Delhi at a time when two or three houses sheltered its entire population. In addition to farming, he also followed the trade of a millwright; but has long since retired from active life, and is now spending the sunset years of his life in comfort and plenty. The maiden name of his wife was Caroline Peake. She was a native of Delhi, and the daughter of Oliver and Elizabeth (Clark) Peake, who were of New England birth. To them were born five children - Sarah, Maria, Hiram E., William C., and Jane. The latter died at eight years of age. Sarah is the wife of A. M. Burdick, a retired farmer of Delhi. Maria, the widow of George Hutson, lives in the village of Delhi. William C. was wounded at the battle of the Wilderness, and soon afterward died from its effects, at Philadelphia, Pa. The mother, a woman of much force of character, and a faithful member of the Baptist church, departed this life in 1886, at the age of threescore and ten years.

Hiram E., the third child of his parents, and their eldest son, received a good education in the district schools and academy of Delhi, assisted in the management of the home farm until after the breaking out of the late Rebellion, when, in response to his country's call, he enlisted, September 15, 1861, in Company G, One Hundred and First Regiment, New York Volunteer Infantry, under the command of Captain A. Buckham. This regiment belonged to the Third Army Corps, which was then commanded by General Heintzelman, afterward by General Sickles; and in December, 1862, it was consolidated with the Thirty-seventh New York Volunteer Infantry, commanded by Colonel Keeley, and Mr. Stoutenburg became a member of Company A, which was commanded by Captain Dougherty. In May, 1863, the regiment was united with the Fortieth New York; and here Mr. Stoutenburg remained until September 10, 1864, when he was removed to the hospital, from there receiving his honorable discharge in the spring of 1865. He has a long and honorable war record, having been an active participant in forty-two of the most hotly contested battles of the Rebellion, besides numerous skirmishes. The following are some of the most important battles in which he was engaged: with the One Hundred and First New York at Fair Oaks, Seven Pines, Peach Orchard, Savage Station, Chickahominy Swamp, White Oak Swamp, Charles City Cross-Roads, Malvern Hill, second Bull Run, Groveton, Chantilly, and Fredericksburg; with the Thirty-seventh New York at Chancellorsville; with the Fortieth New York at Antietam, Bealeton, Bermuda Hundred, Brandy Station, Bristoe Station, Callett's Station, Cold Harbor, Culpeper, Deep Bottom, Gettysburg, Harrison's Landing, Jerusalem Plank Road, Kelley's Ford, North Anna River, Petersburg, Rapidan, Ream's Station, Snicker's Gap, South Mountain, Spottsylvania (1863 and 1864), Sulphur Springs, Va., Wilderness, Wapping's Heights. A number of these were from one to four days' continuous fighting.

Mr. Stoutenburg was promoted to the rank of Orderly Sergeant three times, but twice, on account of consolidation, was reduced. He, however, held that position at the time of being wounded, and was discharged as Orderly Sergeant of Company E, Fortieth New York Regiment. He was three times wounded during his army life, the first two wounds being slight; but the third was occasioned by a shot from a sharpshooter's rifle, which shattered the bone of the arm to such an extent that he was obliged to have it amputated at the right shoulder joint, which necessitated a six months stay in the hospital.

Returning to Delhi after the cessation of hostilities, Mr. Stoutenburg was soon after elected Under-sheriff, a position which he held for three terms of three years each, from 1865 to 1874. Since then he has been with an express company, first in the employ of the National Express, and more recently in that of the Adams Express. He is well fitted for the responsible position of cash collector, which he is filling with such fidelity, being a most genial and accommodating man, with whom it is a pleasure to transact business, and one whose sterling integrity, and every-day honesty have gained for him the entire confidence of his employers and of the public in general. Mr. Stoutenburg is quite prominent in England Post, No. 142, Grand Army of the Republic, of Delhi, of which he was elected Commander in 1889, serving one year. He had previously been Quartermaster since 1866, and still holds that position.

The union of Hiram E. Stoutenburg with Miss Frances A. Hine, a daughter of Reiley Hine, of Franklin, was solemnized on October 14, 1865. Their only child is a daughter, Estella M., who married John J. Burke, a prominent business man of Delhi, of whom a sketch appears on another page of this volume. Mr. and Mrs. Burke are the parents of one child, a little daughter named Leda. Politically, Mr. Stoutenburg is a stanch supporter of the principles of the Republican party. Religiously, he and his family are valued members of the Second Presbyterian Church, and active laborers in the good works of that organization.

EDMUND H. ROSE bears the name that has long been known and highly respected in Delaware County. Among the pioneers of this section of the Empire State was one Hugh Rose, who came here from Scotland prior to the Revolutionary War. He settled in the town of Stamford, being the first to make his home on the stream of water that in his honor has since been known as Rose's Brook. Taking advantage of the water-power, he put up a saw and grist mill, the very first in the vicinity, and for many years followed his former occupation of a miller. On his arrival he took up six hundred acres of land, but this he let revert to the government. He subsequently, however, acquired two hundred acres that are now included in the homestead of the subject of this sketch, his great-grandson. His mill was built of logs, as was also the house which sheltered himself and family. In his home on Rose's Brook he rounded out a full period of years, dying there at the age of eighty-six. He was a religious, God-fearing man, and one of the prime movers in organizing the Presbyterian church at Kortright Centre.

His son, Hugh Rose, the second, was born in Stamford, and was, like him, both a miller and a farmer. He and his family at first occupied the primitive log cabin, subsisting principally upon the game from the forest and the productions of their own land, and were clothed in "homespun," which was spun, woven, and fashioned into garments by the dexterous fingers of the good housewife. When he first moved into his humble habitation, it had neither doors nor windows; but the appearance of a panther led him to hasten his operations and hang the doors. He was persevering, and cleared a fine homestead, on which he resided until his departure from this life, at the age of sixty-four years. He married Elizabeth Barlow, who bore him ten children, of whom only one, Edmund Rose, of Delhi, is now living. His wife survived him, living until seventy-three years old. Both of them were consistent members of the Reformed Presbyterian church at South Kortright. In politics he was a Whig.

The third Hugh Rose, son of the second Hugh, was born on the farm which his father cleared from the wilderness, and afterward succeeded him in its ownership. Toiling early and late to place his land under cultivation, and adding somewhat to its acreage, he had at the time of his decease, when only forty-four years old, a farm of two hundred and forty acres. He married Isabelle Blakely, the daughter of William Blakely, of whom a sketch appears on another page of this volume. She survived him, dying on the old homestead, at the age of sixty-four years. Of the four children born to them three are now living, as follows: James H., a resident of Stamford; Mrs. Gibson Grant, of Stamford; and Edmund H.. Mr. and Mrs. Hugh Rose were held in high esteem by all who knew them, and were valued members of the United Presbyterian church of South Kortright. Politically, he was a Republican.

Edmund H. Rose was the youngest child of Hugh Rose, the third, his birth occurring August 14, 1855, on the farm where he now resides. He received the rudiments of his education in the district school, and this was further advanced by an attendance at Walton Academy. Following in the pathway marked out by his honored ancestors, he has devoted his time and attention to the various branches of agriculture; and, having come into possession of the old homestead, where his entire life has been spent, he has made constant and valued improvements, and owns now one of the finest estates in this locality. He has two hundred and eighty-eight acres of land, on which he has a comfortable residence and substantial farm buildings. His farm is devoted chiefly to dairying, his fifty fine Jersey cows yielding him an average of eight cans of milk a day throughout the year.

Mr. Rose and Miss Ida L. Kilpatrick were united in marriage on February 19, 1879. The home circle established by this pleasant union has been gladdened by the birth of five children, namely: Clarence A., born September 5, 1881; Everett Bruce, born July 23, 1887: Edmund H. and Ethel J., twins, born January 13, 1889; and Anna Belle, born August 9, 1891. The parents of Mrs. Rose, Richard and Juliet (Dennison) Kilpatrick, were for many years esteemed members of the agricultural community of Kortright, where her father's death occurred in 1880. His widow is still living, and resides in Stamford.

Both Mr. and Mrs. Rose are valued members of the United Presbyterian church at South Kortright. In politics he casts his vote with the Democratic party. He has shown good judgment in the management of his business and farming operations, and has met with excellent success. In the various relations of life he acquits himself well, sustaining the character of an estimable and valued citizen, neighbor, and friend.

ORSON J. ELLS, of Walton, Delaware County, N.Y., is one of the oldest and most successful business men of this town, where he is the proprietor of a large furniture establishment, and has won a well-deserved reputation as a man of ability, integrity, and uprightness, the competency he is now enjoying being the result of the assiduous labor of many years. The family name was formerly Eells, but was changed by the last generation, one "e" being dropped, making it Ells, as above spelled.

Jacob Eells, the father of the subject of this sketch, was born in New Canaan, Conn., in 1785, son of Moses Eells, who learned the trade of a weaver, at which he worked throughout his life, using, as was the custom in those early times, an old- fashioned hand loom. Moses Eells married Miss Comstock; and they were the parents of eight children, six of whom lived to rear families of their own. Both Moses Eells and his wife lived to be over ninety years old, not an uncommon occurrence in those times.

In Colchester, Delaware County, in 1806, Jacob Eells married Miss Maria Halliday, who was born in Johnstown, but removed with her parents to Colchester when but three years of age. She was the daughter of William Halliday, a revolutionary soldier, who served for seven years in the war, being held as a prisoner during a portion of that time. Although a man small of stature, he possessed wonderful strength, activity, and endurance. Tradition has it that he reaped grain with a sickle for ninety-six years in succession - an unparalleled record. He married Miss Hitt, and ten children were the results of this union. A few years before his death Mr. Halliday lost the site of one of his eyes, but this misfortune did not prevent his being an attentive reader of the Bible to the last. He died at the extraordinary age of one hundred and four years, a Deacon of the Baptist church, in whose doctrines he was a firm believer.

Jacob Eells and his wife began their domestic life in a most humble manner in Walton, he working at his trade of carpenter and cabinet-maker, an occupation requiring the finest mechanical skill. Here were born their eight children, six daughters and two sons, namely: Alonzo, who died in 1835, aged twenty-two years; Antoinette, wife of Robert Shaw, whose death occurred in Laurel, Delaware; Louisa, wife of Sylvester Simpson, who died in Binghamton, N.Y., in 1858; Cornelia, wife of Whiting Beebe, who has also passed away; Catherine, wife of Ceely Rood, of Binghamton; Orson J., the subject of this sketch; Sally M., of Boardman, Wis., widow of Dr. C. R. Powers; and Harriet E., wife of Lowell Harding, of Binghamton. On March 30, 1876, Mr. Eells passed away, aged ninety-two years; and one year later his wife followed him to the eternal home, she being ninety-three years old. Both had been Congregationalists in early life, but later had adopted the Methodist faith.

Orson J. Ells was born July 25, 1818, in Walton, Delaware County, where he attended the district school until fourteen years of age, when he began working at the trade of carpenter and cabinet-maker, in which he was instructed by his father, with whom he remained until his marriage. This interesting event occurred on June 16, 1841, Miss Martha Strong, becoming his bride. She was a native of Franklin, and daughter of Alfred Strong. Two daughters - Augusta and Estella - were born of this union. Augusta became the wife of A. S. Chamberlain, and died in 1876, at the age of thirty-two years leaving one daughter, Cora Ells, now living in Seattle, Wash., the wife of William Perkins, a banker of that city. Estella is the wife of Hobart M. Cable, a member of the Cottage Organ Company, which operates a large factory in Chicago. Mr. Cable formerly lived in Massachusetts, and was for three years a member of the State legislature, serving on several important committees. For nine or ten years he was a member of the School Board of Hyde Park, a suburb of Boston, and for three years was one of its selectmen. Mr. and Mrs. Cable have three children, as follows: Martha, wife of Howard Morenus, who is employed by the Cottage Organ Company, and who resides in Chicago; Hobart, a lad of twelve years; and Mary, a bright little miss of ten summers.

It is now nearly five years since Mr. Ells was bereft of his wife, her death, on the 7th of March, 1890, being the result of a severe fall on the 17th of January previous. His spacious residence, with its extensive lawn and fragrant garden, is one of the finest in Walton. Here Mr. Ells is quietly passing the eventide of life, enjoying the esteem and affection of neighbors and friends, his home being frequently enlivened by the visits of his daughter and grandchildren.

JAMES ABNER MORSE, a well known carpenter of Halcottsville, in the eastern part of Middletown, N.Y., was born on Hubble Hill, in this town, July 5, 1838, son of Joseph and Abbie C. (Ellis) Morse. His grandparents were John and Martha (Mead) Morse. His great-grand-father, Joseph Morse, was a native of Wales, and when a young man came to this country, and first settled on a farm in Connecticut, but afterward came to Delaware County, and settled on a farm at Batavia Kill. Four children survived him - John, Ira, Joseph, and Henry.

John Morse, the eldest son of the emigrant, left his home early in life, and took up a tract of land in the wilderness, which he cleared, and began farming. He lived in a log house, and endured many hardships while endeavoring to establish a home, being compelled to go on foot forty miles to Kingston for supplies. He married Martha Mead, whose father was also a pioneer settler, and who became one of the progressive farmers of the district. Later Mr. Morse bought of Amos Sanford a farm of three hundred acres at Hubble Hill, where he spent the rest of his life. He died at the age of ninety-one, and his wife at the age of eighty. Both were members of the Baptist church, and in politics Mr. Morse was a Whig. He left eleven children, three sons and eight daughters - Phoebe, Anna, Cynthia, Arenia, Sally, Marinda, Mercia, Useabee, Joseph, Abner and Ezra.

Joseph Morse, son of John and Martha, was born at Batavia Kill. When a young man, he bought one-half of his father's three-hundred acre farm at Hubble Hill, and lived on it for many years. His wife was Albie C., daughter of Elijah and Eunice Ellis, the former of whom was a farmer of Delaware County. She is still living in Ulster County, at the advanced age of eighty-four years. Mr. Morse finally sold his farm at Hubble Hill; and with his son James he bought another one of two hundred and thirty acres at West Conesville, Schoharie County. Here he lived the rest of his life, dying at the age of sixty-five. Mr. and Mrs. Morse had nine children - John A., Jason A., James Abner, Jerome A., Mary J., Ezra J., Elijah W., Hiram K., and Eunice A.

To return now to the subject of this sketch, James Abner Morse received his education in the common schools at Hubble Hill. Ambitious and energetic, at the age of eighteen, three years before attaining his majority, he bought with his brother John a farm of one hundred and fifty-six acres, which they worked together for one year. He then sold his interest to John, and worked for him the following year. James and his brother Jason next became joint owners of the farm, and together worked it a year and a half, when James sold his interest, and bought another farm in the vicinity. In 1864, feeling that his country needed his services, the Rebellion not yet being quelled, he enlisted in Company G, One Hundred and Forty-fourth Regiment, New York Volunteers, and served one year as private. On his return, in 1865, selling his farm to his brother John, he bought a smaller place; and shortly afterward he and his father bought a two-hundred-and-thirty-acre farm in Schoharie County.

About this time Mr. Morse was marred to Mary A. Owens, daughter of Thomas and Emeline (Sanford) Owens. Mr. Owens was a well-known carpenter and millwright of Delaware County. The maternal grandparents of Mrs. Morse were members of the Baptist church, and lived to be about eighty years of age. They left five children: William R.; Emeline, Mrs. Owens; Electa; Phoebe; and Ransom W. Mr. Morse remained in Schoharie County two years, and then sold his interest to his brother John, and bought a farm at Hubble Hill, on which he lived for twenty years. During this time he did much to improve the land and the buildings thereon, greatly increased the value of the place, making it one of the finest farms in that region. He finally sold it, and in 1890 bought a half-acre of land at Halcottsville, where he built a large double house, in which he and his family now lives. At present he is successfully carrying on the business of a carpenter.

Mr. and Mrs. Morse have three children. The eldest, Emma, born December 1, 1867, wife of Henry S. Davis, of Hubble Hill, has three children. The second daughter, Celestia J., was born November 18 1870; and John, the only son, was born December 6, 1879. In politics, Mr. Morse is a Republican, and always takes a lively interest in all public matters. He and his wife are members of the Baptist church, in which they are active workers. They are much devoted to their home and family, and are widely known and respected.

DAVID R. HARRIS, foreman of the woodworking department of Crawford Brothers, carriage manufacturers of Delhi, N.Y., is an expert in his line of business, possessing unusual mechanical ability and artistic skill, and discharging the duties of his responsible position with practical sagacity and discretion. Mr. Harris is a native of the Empire State, having been born in Columbus, Madison County, August 9, 1839. His father, Devillo Harris, was also a native of Columbus, where his grandparents resided many years. They finally removed to Edmeston, Otsego County, however, where the grandfather spent his remaining years. His wife, who bore him four children - Devillo, Celia, Freelove, and John - died in Columbus.

Devillo Harris, like the majority of the farmers' sons of his day, worked on the farm, attending school when he was not needed at home, and remained with his parents until twenty-one years of age. He began farming on his own account in Otselic, where he rented a farm. He then worked for a few years for his wife's father, Lyman Carrier, going thence to Michigan, which was than an almost uninhabited country and presented the appearance of a vast wilderness in some of its districts. He bought land, and improved a comfortable homestead, on which he thereafter lived and where he died. He married Amanda Carrier, who died in New York City. They reared three children - David R., Martha, and Amelia.

David R. Harris, who was the eldest child and the only son born to his parents, spent the first ten years of his life beneath the parental roof, and from that time on lived in various places, the first being on the farm of an uncle, in Otsego County, New York. He next worked as a farm laborer in Otsego, going thence to his grandfather's for whom he worked for a twelvemonth. He was afterward in Brookfield, working for a Mr. Lamb, then in Coontown, West Edmeston, finally in Edmeston, in the manufactory of Julius Lines, of whom he learned his trade of carriage- making. Later he worked at his trade in Wheeler, Steuben County, whence he went to Edmeston, where he remained until 1862. In that year Mr. Harris began his career as a soldier, enlisting to defend his country's flag in Company F, One Hundred and Twenty-first New York Volunteer infantry, serving two years and nine months, and in the mean time being promoted from a private to the rank of Corporal. With his regiment he was in the thickest of the fight in several battles and skirmishes, and on June 21, 1863, received a severe wound at the battle of Petersburg. He was honorably discharged, May 17, 1865: and, returning to the State of his birth, he established himself in business in New Berlin, continuing there five years. The following twenty-two years Mr. Harris was employed in a manufactory, the Hanford wagon works, in Unadilla, the last ten years of the time being foreman of the shop. While there he was solicited to take his present position with Crawford Brothers, the inducements offered being such that he accepted them, coming here October 17, 1892, since which time he was labored with credit to himself and to the perfect satisfaction of all concerned.

Mr. Harris was married in 1861 to Anna Beatty, a daughter of Alexander Beatty, of New Berlin; and of their happy union three children have been born - Carrie, Nellie, and Hattie. Carrie, the eldest daughter, died at Unadilla, in her sixteenth year, in 1878, of typhoid fever. Nellie married Philip Brady, a cigar-maker in Unadilla; and they have two children - Guy and Leo. Hattie is a student in the State Normal School, preparing herself for a teacher.

Politically, Mr. Harris is a stanch supporter of the Republican ticket, and is a prominent member of the C.C. Siver Post, No. 124, Grand Army of the Republic, in which he was always taken an active interest, having been Commander of the post, and Senior Vice-Commander and Chaplain. He has also been Aide-de-camp in the Department Staff of the State. Both Mr. and Mrs. Harris are active workers and conscientious members of the Baptist church, and deeply interested in the Sunday-school connected with it, she being superintendent of the school, and he one its most valued teachers.

ANDREW J. CORBIN, a prominent merchant of the village of Bloomville, in the town of Kortright, was born in Roxbury, Delaware county, February 23, 1836. He is a grandson of McKeach Corbin, of Dutchess County, who in early manhood left his native place, and, with the pluck and energy requisite for the life of a pioneer farmer, became one of the first settlers in Roxbury. Here his intelligent and persevering efforts were crowned with success, and he was soon the possessor of a fine farm of one hundred and sixty acres, and the husband of a good wife. Children, seven in number, were sent to bless him home; and he had the happiness of seeing all of them reach maturity. Upon his pleasant farm Mr. Corbin's busy, but tranquil life, was spent; and here, at the age of threescore years and ten, his days were ended. His sense of justice, his kindliness of nature, and broad intelligence, all inclined him to liberality in religious views, though he lived in a time when bigotry and intolerance were far more common than to-day. He was a true Democrat; and, like Richard Rumbold, "never could believe that Providence had sent a few men into the world ready booted and spurred to ride, and millions ready saddled and bridled to be ridden."

Philtus Corbin, son of McKeach Corbin, was born in Roxbury, in the memorable year 1812. His boyhood was spent upon his father's farm. When manhood was reached, he married Maria Benjamin, who, like himself, was a native of Roxbury. After the patriarchal manner of life, Philetus Corbin brought his bride to the home of his parents, which he made his permanent abiding-place. Here he brought up his family; and here, on the fruitful acres his father had wrested from the wilderness, the son's life work was accomplished. Philetus Corbin's children were three in number: Andrew J., the subject of this sketch; Hiram, who died at forty- three years of age; and Polly M., who married Orrin A. Meeker, and died at the age of fifty-seven. Philetus Corbin became of the leading farmer of Roxbury, where at one time he was the owner of several hundred acres of land. His knowledge and interest were not limited to the art of husbandry, as is proved by the fact that he served his town in various public capacities. His judgment in estimating the value of property made him especially capable as an Assessor. His interest in education led him, in conjunction with John B. Gould (the father of the late eminent financier, Jay Gould), to establish Beechwood Seminary. His humanitarianism influenced him to do all that lay within his power for the good of the community. His religious sentiments were in harmony with those of his worthy father; and politically, he supported the same Democratic policy. Mr. Corbin's wife was taken from him when she had reached the age of forty-seven. She was a woman whose devout nature found congenial expression in the worship of the Methodist Episcopal church. His active life was spent upon the farm where his father dwelt and toiled. His last days, however, were passed in the village of Roxbury. To his temperate life, his varied and wholesome interests, and his habits of mental and physical activity, he doubtless owed his longevity. It was not until the age of eighty-one years had been reached that this estimable man was laid to rest.

Andrew J. Corbin, of Bloomville, was the eldest son of Philetus and Maria Benjamin Corbin. He was born in the very month when John Quincy Adams was making his noble, single-handed fight in Congress (which lasted for eleven days) for the right of petition. At this time the wonder which had been excited in the minds of the people by Morse's invention of the electric telegraph - the scientific miracle of the age - was still unabated. It was a period of intense interest and great fruitfulness in the history of the country - a period likely to have a quickening influence upon a mind which was then beginning to unfold. Andrew's boyhood was passed in Roxbury, and he early became a student at Beechwood Seminary. Among his companions at this time who became famous was Jay Gould. The two boys became intimate friends, often visiting one another and sharing the same room. Andrew had a bright mind and scholarly tastes, and did himself much credit while at school. On leaving the seminary his ability and reputation were such, though only a lad in his teens, that he readily obtained a position as teacher for five terms in his native town, and also for a short time in Ulster County. At the age of seventeen, he became interested in mercantile life, and entered the employ of A.H. Burnham, of Roxbury, as clerk, for his first year's work receiving one hundred and fifty dollars. He remained with Mr. Burnham five years, showing marked and increasing mercantile ability. At the end of this apprenticeship, in company with Mr. H. B. Montgomery, he bought a store, where he did business for several years. In 1865 he sold out, and came to Bloomville, to establish himself in the store he still occupies.

The following year, 1866, Mr. Corbin was united in marriage with Lucy Ann, daughter of Aaron Champion; but their wedded happiness was of brief duration. She died in 1867, and her babe was soon laid beside its mother. In 1870 Mr. Corbin married Sarah E. Dales, daughter of George and Angeline Dales. Mr. Dales had been among the early settlers of the village, and was largely interested in the manufacture and sale of proprietary medicines. His widow now makes her home with her daughter, Mrs. Corbin.

Remembering with what ancestry Mr. Corbin was blessed, it is not surprising that he had within him the capacity for great usefulness. He has a well-filled general store, in connection with an extensive trade in flour and grain, and also deals largely in eggs. He carries a stock worth twenty thousand dollars; and in 1893, despite the general depression, he did a business amounting to nearly a hundred thousand dollars. The methods he has employed are the result of unusual sagacity and unerring judgment. Though Mr. Corbin has but reached the prime of life, he enjoys the distinction of being the oldest merchant in the town, while his success is proverbial. His large business interests now demand his entire time; but in the past he has held public offices, the duties of which he has discharged with honor to himself and satisfaction to his townsmen. He was Supervisor one term in Roxbury, and three terms in Kortright. Mr. Corbin is a member of St. Andrew's Lodge of Free Masons in Hobart. Like his father and grandfather, he is a Democrat; and he has also inherited their liberal religious opinions. Mrs. Corbin is a member of the Episcopal church at Bloomville; and its benevolent work is furthered by her kindly help. Mr. Corbin is a large-hearted, public-spirited man, from whom any worthy appeal is sure to meet a ready response, whether the call be for effort of his mind or hand, or for gift from his time or purse.

GEORGE W. BOOTH, Postmaster at Sidney Centre, a gentleman in the prime of life, although a veteran of the late war, is one of the most popular and well-known native residents of Delaware County. He was born in the town of Franklin, May 31, 1846, and is of sturdy New England stock, his father Isaiah Booth, being a native of Pittsfield, Mass. That State was also the birthplace of his paternal grandfather, who removed thence to Delaware County after marriage, and , becoming one of the pioneer settlers of the town of Walton, was largely instrumental in promoting its advancement and growth. Earlier ancestors came from England to Massachusetts, but cannot be traced, as the family records are lost.

Isaiah Booth accompanied his parents to this county, and, settling in the town of Franklin, purchased one hundred and twenty-five acres of land, and there improved a fine homestead. He was a man of unusual activity and ability, energetic and progressive, and was numbered among the leading farmers of his vicinity. The maiden name of his wife, to whom he was united in 1859, was Philanda Bronson. She was a native of Otsego County. Mr. Booth died in Franklin, when fifty-five years old, and his widow at the age of seventy-four years. She was a woman of much force of character, a valued member of the Congregational church; and her husband was liberal in his religious views. Of the eleven children born of their union six are now living, the following being their record: Mrs. Mary Youngs, wife of Norman Youngs, resides in Otsdawa, Otsego County. Mrs. Fanny Haskins is a resident of Franklin. Mrs. Jessie Murdock lives in Masonville, Delaware County. George W. is our subject. Mrs. Rosella Roof resides in Sidney Centre. Frank E., a commercial traveller, resides in the West.

George W. Booth, the elder of the two sons of Isaiah, was reared and educated in the town of his nativity, attending first the district schools, and afterward the Franklin Academy. When seventeen years of age, he began the battle of life on his own account, his first labor being on a farm. At this time the late Civil War was in progress; and in September, 1864, in the nineteenth year of his age, he enlisted in the Thirteenth New York Heavy Artillery, under the command of Captain H.C. Pratt. With his regiment he participated in several skirmishes, serving faithfully until the close of the war, and received his honorable discharge June 28, 1865. After returning home Mr. Booth engaged in various occupations, his versatile talents winning him success in most of his undertakings. He was for a while actively engaged in the livery business, surrendering that to become agent for an insurance company, and subsequently engaging in the hotel business in this county for eighteen consecutive years efficiently and profitably, managing hotels in Hancock and Walton, Downsville and Sidney Centre. While in Downsville, Mr. Booth held various responsible official positions, and for three years was in government employ in the city of Washington, having received during the first term of Grover Cleveland's administration his appointment as superintendent of the Treasury stables, and afterward holding the position of clerk in the Auditor's office in the Post-office Department. He was reappointed to this office during the administration of Benjamin Harrison, and resigned before its close. In 1893 he removed to Sidney Centre, and was appointed Postmaster here in February of the present year, 1894, assuming the responsibilities of his office on the 1st of April.

An important step in the life of Mr. Booth was his marriage on October 6, 1856, to Miss Prudence Hall, who was born in the town of Delhi, Delaware County, December 29, 1847, being a daughter of Asahel and Pamelia (Jackson) Hall. Their union has been blessed by the birth of one child, a daughter, Emma A., a most estimable young lady, who assists her father in the post-office.

Mr. Booth is an influential member of the Democratic party, and socially, is a prominent member of Hancock Lodge, No. 552, A.F. & A.M., of Hancock Lodge, No. 1026. Knights of Honor, and of Hancock Post, No. 483, Grand Army of the Republic, for one year being Senior Vice- Commander of the post. He was charter member of England Post, No. 142, Grand Army of the Republic, Delhi, N.Y., and a charter member of Fleming Post, No. 280, Downsville, N.Y., and is a charter member of George N. Riedfield Post, No. 512, Grand Army of the Republic, Sidney Centre, of which he is at the present time Commander. Religiously, both he and his wife are esteemed members of the Congregational church, and active workers in its support.

ARCHIBALD FOREMAN, a prosperous farmer, of Scotch birth and ancestry, now residing on his one-hundred-and-eighty-one-acre farm in the town of Bovina, presents a good example of the thrift, energy, and success-compelling qualities of most of Scotia's sons who seek a home in the New World. His paternal grandparents were Robert and Agnes Foreman, life-long residents of Scotland, making their home for the most part in the good old town of Edinburgh. The former was a slater by trade, and had a family of six sons and one daughter, all of whom are now deceased.

Archibald Foreman, Sr., son of the foregoing was the next in line. He grew to manhood in his native land, and when of proper age took for his wife, Margaret Hood. He was a farmer, but, like the father of Scotland's great poet, Burns, was too poor to become the owner of the land he worked. He raised a family of eight children, four of whom now survive, namely: James, now a retired carpenter, residing in Edinburgh; Janette, who became the wife of William Yule, and lives with her husband in Canada; Betsy, wife of Andrew Wallace, and resident in Berwickshire, Scotland. Agnes, Robert, Catherine, and Margaret, all of whom grew to maturity and married, are now deceased. The father of these children died in Berwickshire, at the age of seventy-five, and his wife when about seventy. They were members of the Presbyterian church, the former being an Elder.

Archibald Foreman, son of the preceding, grew to manhood and received his education in his native country, Scotland. The day of his nativity was February 11, 1827. In 1852 he emigrated to America, landing in July of that year, after a voyage lasting nearly six weeks. He wasted no time in the large cities, but came directly to Delaware County, New York, settling in the town of Bovina. He first worked out by the month for Daniel Frazier; and, as it was in the haying season and help was scarce, he received one dollar per day for his services. In 1854, feeling the influence of the gold excitement, he went to California, via the Isthmus of Panama, the trip occupying three weeks. On arriving at his destination, he engaged in mining, and so continued for nearly six years, meeting with fair success, and undergoing the privations and typical experiences of a miner's life. At the end of the time mentioned he grew tired of the life, and returned to Bovina.

On October 21, 1861, Mr. Foreman was united in marriage with Miss Devina Laidlow, who was born in Roxburyshire, Scotland, daughter of David and Ellen (Hart) Laidlow, both natives of the same shire. Mr. Laidlow was a shepherd by early occupation, and came to America in 1851, settling in Bovina, where he bought land and engaged in farming. He was an industrious man, and after a well-spent life died on his farm at the age of seventy years, his wife departing this life at the age of sixty. They were both faithful members of the United Presbyterian church. Their family consisted of six children, four of whom now survive, namely: Isabella, wife of William Wight, of Delhi, N.Y.; Helen, who married William Cook, and resides in the town of Bovina; Margaret, now Mrs. George Currie, of Bovina; and Devina, Mrs. Foreman. The other children were Robert, who died at the age of thirty-two, and George, who lived to the age of forty-nine.

In 1862, the year after his marriage, Mr. Foreman purchased the farm where he now lives, and on which he earned his first dollar after landing on American soil. He has since devoted his time to its cultivation with very happy results. He has a heard of twenty cows, Jersey grade; and the farm, which contains, as above mentioned, one hundred and eight- one acres, is very productive. In all he may be considered as a prosperous and successful man, his good fortune being due to his own habits of industry and perseverance, under the blessing of Providence. Mr. and Mrs. Foreman have four children, three sons and a daughter, namely: Archibald, Robert G., and James F., all residing at home, and engaged in farming; and Maggie B., a young lady attending school, and like her brothers, living at home.

In 1889 Mr. Foreman, desirous of seeing once more the land of his birth and the friends of his early years, took a trip to Scotland, remaining about three months, and pleasantly renewing old recollections. He has served his adopted town of Bovina as Road Commissioner (three terms) and Assessor, filling the latter office two terms. His politics are Republican, and the family are attendants and members of the United Presbyterian church at Bovina Centre.

EUGENE B. SOUTHWORTH, a worthy citizen of Trout Creek, Tompkins, Delaware County, N.Y., was born in Phoenix, Otsego County, May 19, 1855, and is of Pilgrim ancestry. His grandfather, Nelson Southworth, was born in Otsego County, and, after being educated in the district schools, learned shoemaking, and then became proprietor of a hotel at Seward. While engaged in this occupation, he was converted to the Methodist faith, and soon gave up the hotel business, and devoted himself to shoemaking and preaching. At the breaking out of the war he removed to Delaware County, settling at Masonville, where he purchased about three hundred and fifty acres of the best farm land in that section. He was well informed on legal matters, and assisted in many trials at the courts in the vicinity of his home. For the last three years of his life he was engaged in mercantile business in Loomis, where he died at the age of seventy-four years, in 1888. He married Jemima Finch, of Otsego County; and sixteen children were born of this union, of whom the following lived to reach maturity, and have families of their own: Keziah, Austin S., Emery R., Adeline, Lysander D., Lydia, Nelson, William, Henry A., Gurley S., and Lois.

Austin S. Southworth, eldest son of Nelson, was born in Seward, Schoharie County, and, after receiving his education in the district school at Seward, began to teach school when but fifteen years of age, and at seventeen entered the Methodist ministry. For a time he preached in Otsego, and then went to Edmeston. He was next at Morris two years, and went thence to Bainbridge, where he remained one year. Later he preached two years at Gilford. In July, 1862, he enlisted in Company A., One Hundred and Fourteenth Regiment New York Volunteers, at Oxford, as First Sergeant, and served throughout the terrible conflict. He was wounded in the foot by a shell at Cedar Creek, in the Shenandoah Valley, and was discharged from the service on account of disability. But he enlisted in his old company, and was then transferred to the Ninetieth New York Veteran Volunteers, and served on year in Georgia.

At the close of the great struggle he engaged in farming at North Walton, preaching at Sidney Centre, North Walton, Merriottville, and Little York. After a time he disposed of his farm and entered the life insurance and sewing-machine business. He preached at Clarksville, Albany County, for three years, and then removed to Wheelerville, where he was engaged in his good work for three years. His next parish was at Gloversville, where he remained for one year; and after that he was employed as book- keeper for the Harmony cotton-mills at Cohoes, also preaching in the Independent Methodist church of that town for two years. His next move was to Schenectady, where he was one of the organizers of the Independent Methodist church, of which he became pastor, and was also employed there by the Appleton Encyclopaedia Company for two years. At the expiration of that time he removed to Philmont on the Hudson, where he preached one year. He then settled in Albany, being again employed by the Appleton Company. After a year there he went to Chicago, his family going to live with his son Eugene at North Walton. For five years he was employed in Chicago, and then returned to Walton. While in Chicago he began to write a work on optimism, entitled "The Bright Side of Life," three parts of which have already appeared in pamphlet form, and when completed, will be bound in one volume. Since that time Mr. Southworth has lived in retirement, and now resides in Ware, Mass., with his son, the Rev. Victor Emanuel Southworth, pastor of the First Unitarian Church.

He married, at the age of seventeen, Miss Jane E. Gage, of Milford, Otsego County, N.Y., whom he first met when they were both employed in a cotton-mill at Cooperstown. They were the parents of thirteen children, namely: Eugene B.; Thaddeus D.; Emerson; Nettie A.; Victor and Victoria, who were twins; William A.; Ellen; Irena Vashti; Minnie M.; and Walter; Charles and Ira, who have passed away. Mrs. Southworth still lives at Walton on the farmed owned by the family there, and is employed as a nurse in that vicinity.

Eugene B., eldest son of the Rev. Austin S. Southworth, was educated in the district school and at Walton Academy, after which he worked on the farm until sixteen years of age, when he took charge of a flour-mill at Clarksville, Albany County. Two years later he went to Wheelerville, Fulton County, and learned the currier's trade in a tannery owned by ex- Governor Claflin. This trade he followed for eight years. He then rented a farm in North Walton, remaining there for seven years, after which he purchased the farm where he now resides. It contains one hundred and forty-four acres, nearly all of which is under cultivation, over forty acres having been cleared and ploughed in three years. When he moved to his present farm, it would support but eight cows and a team; but he now keeps twenty-four cows, five horses and forty sheep. His income in cash has resulted from the farm products, and for the year ending April 1, 1894, amounted to about two thousand dollars. His farm is rich in mineral paint, part of which was disposed of by a former owner. Mr. Southworth is a Republican in politics, and is a public-spirited citizen.

Mr. Southworth married, in Sidney, Miss Nellie Scott, daughter of James E. and Mary (Gardner) Scott, of Beach Hill, Masonville. David Scott, the father of James E., removed to Masonville from Queemans, Albany County, N.Y., and was engaged in farming and carpentering. James E. Scott was born at Masonville, where he also followed the life of a farmer and a carpenter. He married Mary Gardner, a daughter of Andrew Gardner, of Tompkins; and they had eight children: Nellie, the wife of the subject of this sketch; Fred; Elmer; Inez; Oscar; Flora; Willie; and Wallace, who died young. Mr. and Mrs. Eugene B. Southworth are the parents of eight children now living: Mabel C.; Alice Pearl; Henry A.; Nettie A; Edith Maud; Alta May; and Thaddeus D. and Mary J., who are twins. They have been called upon to part with three children, who died when very young.

MRS. SARAH RICH, who lives on the Rich homestead of two hundred and seventy-five acres in Almeda, in the town of Stamford, N.Y., and carries on the place with marked ability, is the widow of Stephen Rich. The Rich family, hers by birth as well as marriage is one of the oldest and best established in the county.

The present record begins with James Rich, who was born in New York City in 1764, and was therefore a boy eleven years old when the Revolution began, and still older when the patriotic tide reached his native city. By trade he was a tailor, but died at the early age of thirty-five, only ten years after his marriage and in the same year with the Father of his Country. His wife was Mary Altgelt, also a native of the metropolis, where she was born, July 30, 1769. She outlived her husband many years, and twice entered again the holy estate of matrimony. Her second husband was Joseph Thomson; and the other was Robert Forrest, of Stamford, who left her the third time a widow. Her own death occurred in Stamford on December 6, 1857. To her first husband she bore three sons, Stephen Altgelt Rich, a grocer in New York City, grandfather of Mrs. Sarah Rich, was born August 4, 1790, during Washington's first Presidency, and lived till 1858, when Buchanan was in the White House.

The next son, to whose line this sketch specially relates, was born October 23, 1791, and was named for his grandfather. James Rich was a Stamford farmer, and carried on the place subsequently owned by his son Stephen. This he did so practically and progressively as to make agriculture a profitable pursuit. He was an old-time Whig, and an Elder and Trustee in the United Presbyterian church in South Kortright. His first wife, Miss Helena Marshall, was born in New York City, October 13, 1792. They were marred in 1816, just a week before Christmas, when the second peace with the mother country had been finally declared, and praises of General Jackson's warlike pluck echoed on every hand; and she died on Christmas Day, 1835, aged forty-three, while Jackson was President, so that the great Christian holiday and America's democratic and autocratic statesman were peculiarly associated with her life.

From this union came ten children, two of whom survive. Henry Marshall Rich was born September 12, 1819, and lived, unmarried, on the homestead with his brother's widow until his death, August 24, 1894. He was a member of the Presbyterian church, and a Republican, greatly respected by his associates. Robert S. Rich was born March 7, 1823, and is a merchant in Hobart village. Helena Jane was born on February 24, 1832, and is now the widow of Hector Cowan, of Stamford, of whom a sketch may be found elsewhere in this volume. The eldest child, James Altgelt Rich, a Stamford farmer, named for his grandparents, was born in October, 1817, and died March 5, 1894. Mary Rich was born February 17, 1821, and died unmarried in New York City on April 3, 1842. Stephen was born October 8, 1824; and he died July 6, 1884, at the sound age of sixty. Of him more hereafter. Thomas Rich, a farmer, was born August 28, 1826, and died in Mexico on the last day of April, 1852. Alexander Rich was born on the first day of November 1830, became a New York plumber, and died February 18, 1854. Ann Eliza, twin sister of Helen, died in October 1889, at fifty-seven. James Rich's first wife, as already stated was Helena Marshall; but he was married again. The second wife was Jane Southard, a native of Dutchess County, and by her he had three children. The eldest, Hannah Rich, born July 17, 1838, married William B. Peters, of Bloomville, of whom a sketch may be found in its proper place in this volume. John Rich was born December 14, 1839, and died March 19, 1885, in Jacksonville, Fla., where he was acting as agent for the Mallory line of steamers. Isabella Rich was born April 10, 1841, four days after the country was appalled by the sad news of the death of General Harrison, when only a month in the Presidential chair. She married Rev. James M. Stevenson, and died December 19, 1893. Thus we see that James Rich was indeed a patriarch, with one more child than Jacob, of the Bible history he so loved. He was also an Elder in the Presbyterian church, and a Whig in politics, but would have rejoiced over the triumph of Abraham Lincoln, which occurred three years after Mr. Rich's death on the homestead, July 10, 1857.

The father of James Rich's first wife, Henry Marshall, was born in Scotland, and came to America before his marriage. He studied medicine, became a successful practitioner in Kortright in pioneer days, and reared a boy and six girls, all of whom have passed away. Dr. Marshall died in Hobart at threescore and ten, an Elder in the Presbyterian church, and a Whig in politics. His wife also lived to a good old age.

Stephen Rich grew up on the Stamford farm where he was born, and which had been bought by his grandmother, Mrs. Mary Altgelt Rich (Thomson) Forrest, of its former owner, Mr. Sheldon, early in this century, and upon which the widowed Mrs. Stephen Rich now resides. After attending the district school, Stephen went to New York City when he was eighteen, and found work with James Buchan & Co., manufacturers of soap and candles. In due time he was able to buy an interest in the concern, and pursued a successful trade until 1865, after the war, when he returned to Stamford, bought the old homestead, passed his last days there farming, and died July 6, 1884.

He was married May 6, 1869, at the mature age of forty-five, to his cousin, Sarah Rich, a native of New York City, the daughter of Stephen Altgelt Rich and his wife, Jane Oliver, who was born October 22, 1788. These parents were married May 12, 1812, by the Rev. Robert Forrest. Stephen A. Rich died August 29, 1858, and his wife on February 25, 1868. They had ten children, half of whom survive. Charlotte and Rachel are both widows in New York City, the former having married William Patterson, and the latter Mr. Buchan, of the firm above mentioned. Jane Rich lives with her sister Sarah on the homestead. Elizabeth Rich is the wife of James Rintoul, of New York City. Sarah Rich married her kinsman, Stephen Rich, as before stated. The five deceased children are as follows: James B. was born on the first day of March, 1813, and died in Alabama, August 12, 1844. Mary Struthers Rich was born March 18, 1815, and died January 28, 1892. Robert Forrest Rich, born January 3, 1820, died November 11, 1872, in New Jersey. Hannah Thomson was born November 19, 1822, and died March 27, 1852 in New York City. Andrew Mather Rich was born December 23, 1823, died August 17, 1826.

Mrs. Stephen Rich belongs to the United Presbyterian church in Kortright, in which her husband held the birthright office of Elder. He was also a Republican and a thoroughly good citizen, and left his widow well endowed. Both the land and house are valuable. In her management of the place Mrs. Rich was aided by her brother-in-law, Mr. Henry Rich, until the time of his death.

HENRY S. GRAHAM, who is one of the foremost citizens of Delhi, is carrying on a prosperous business as a dealer in hardware, at No. 477 Main Street. He is a native of this State and county, having been born in Meredith on October 23, 1860. He comes of pure Scotch ancestry, the first of his forefather to emigrate to this country being his great- grandfather, James Graham, who was born and reared to manhood in Scotland. Crossing the stormy Atlantic in search of a fortune, he came from New York City, where he had disembarked, to Bovina, and there engaged in tilling the soil for a time, and also established a mercantile business on a small scale. He afterward removed to Franklin, where he followed agricultural pursuits for many years, but later became a resident of Meredith, where he passed the remaining years of his earthly existence. He reared a family of eleven children, seven boys and four girls, of whom two are still living, one in Afton, N.Y., and one in Toledo, Iowa.

Henry R. Graham, son of James, was reared a farmer, and followed that peaceful occupation through the days of his active life. He purchased a tract of timbered land in the town of Meredith, from which he cleared and improved a comfortable homestead, and there made his abiding-place for many years. Later he removed to Delhi, where he departed this life at the age of seventy-three years. He married Esther Stilson, a daughter of Cyrenus Stilson, and a native of Meredith, of which town her parents were pioneer settlers. She is still living at the venerable age of eighty-six years, and is one of the oldest members of the Baptist church at Delhi. She became the mother of five children, namely: Edwin J., the father of Henry S.; Rosella, deceased, who married Edward Frisbee, of Delhi; Emeline, the wife of Darius Grant, pastor of the Baptist Church, Westville, N.Y.; Elmer M., who married Jennie Mein, of Meredith; and Lyman S., who married Jennie Kemp, of Meredith.

Edwin J. Graham was born in Meredith, January 19, 1832, and was reared on the farm, tilling the soil in season, and attending the district school in the winters. On attaining this majority he left the parental homestead, and was for some time employed as a clerk in a store. He subsequently purchased a farm; and, putting in practice the knowledge which he had acquired in the days of his youth, he successfully engaged in its cultivation for several years. In 1865, he came to Delhi, and invested a portion of his money in the store, where he continues carrying on a flourishing business in general merchandise. Ann Eliza Bill, who became his wife in 1857, was a native of Meredith, but of New England descent, being a daughter of Charles Bill and Lois (Woodworth) Bill, both of whom were natives of Connecticut, the latter being the daughter of a substantial farmer of that St