Livingston County New York Biographies - Surnames U-Z

Transcribed by Lynn Tooley

Livingston County New York Biographies extracted from the History of Livingston County, New York: from its earliest traditions to the present, together with early town sketches.

John O. Vanderbelt Biography

JOHN O. VANDERBELT. — Of Geneseo, N. a former manufacturer and dealer in harnesses and saddlery, and now conducting a livery and omnibus business, was born in Mansfield, Amsterdam county, N. J., March 1, 1826. Kis father, Cornelius Vanderbelt, a native of Milford, N. J., was a blacksmith by trade and was also noted as an expert in breaking colts and training horses for the turf. He made a specialty of manufacturing hand-made snaps which were quite celebrated at the time and much in demand. He died in 1833 at the age of thirty-two. His wife, whose maiden name was Mary Ann Olp, was a daughter of John Olp, also of New Jersey. Of the three children born to them, only one survives, John O., the subject of this article. After the death of her husband. Mrs. Vanderbelt with her son removed to Mt. Morris, making their home with the former's parents on a farm which he had purchased near that village.

John O. Vanderbelt passed his early days on this farm and received his education in the district schools of the neighborhood. At the age of sixteen, he began learning the harness making trade at Mt. Morris and the year following, in 1843, he came to Geneseo. w^here he finished his apprenticeship. In 1848 he opened an establishment of his own and has since that time been identified with the business interests of Geneseo. Mr, Vanderbelt is widely known as the owner of a flourishing livery and stage establishment -in Geneseo, which he has conducted a number of years. On December 31, 1849, Mr. Vanderbelt married Helen M. Reed, a daughter of Mortimer Reed. They have had in all six children, as follows: Delia M., now a widow; Elizabeth R., the wife of A. R. Scott, editor of the Republican at Geneseo, having three children; John A,, a druggist in Rochester, who married Lucy Maples, Mary, who died at the age of twenty-four, an accomplished young lady especially skilled in music; Charles R. a dentist in Rochester; and Hattie, who died at the age of three years, Mr. Vanderbelt is a musician of considerable repute, having led the village band for many years.

Alfred L. VanValkenburg Biography

ALFRED L. VANVALKENBURG,— One of the leading merchants of Dansville, N. Y., has been identified with the business and social interests of Dansville since 1895. He was born in Wayland, April 25. 1861, and a liberal education which included a course in the Geneseo State Normal school, amjply prepared him for a successful business career. He first conducted a general merchandise business at Cuylerville, N. Y., until 1889 when the Singer Sewing Machine Company appointed him as their representative with headquarters at Cleveland, Ohio, In 1895 he established his present business in Dansville, which has since developed into one of the largest musical establishments in Western New York, In 1883 he was united in marriage with Cora S. Johnston, of Geneseo, N. Y., daughter of the late Lawrence Johnston, of Webster, N, Y,, and their family consists of a son and daughter. Earl W. and Mazie R. Mr. VanValkenburg is prominently identified with a number of social organizations. He is at present Prophet of the order of Red Men, a member of the Maccabees, Odd Fellows, Haymakers, Sons of Veterans and the Protective Fire Company No, 1, Mr. Van Valkenburg is a thoroughly public spirited citizen, progressive in his ideas,, and a valued member of the business fraternity of the village of Dansville.

Foster W. Walker Biography

FOSTER W. WALKER, — Of Caledonia, N. Y., treasurer of Livingston county, was born in Caledonia, June 4, 1848. His father, Andrew Walker, came to that place from Orange county in 1814, afterwards removing to LeRoy, Genesee county, where he died in 1884, aged ninety-four. He was a soldier in the war of 1812, with the rank of ensign. His father, William H. Walker, was born in New Hampshire and with his seven brothers joined the patriots at the outbreak of the Revolution and gallantly served their country in its struggle for independence. Of the seven brothers, James was killed at the siege of Fort Meigs, Peter became a colonel of militia, and Thomas a captain of militia. Andrew Walker married Cloey Maxwell, of Deleware county, who died leaving one daughter, Jane, now Mrs. Foster Watson, of Benton, N. Y. He again married Elizabeth Hawley. a native of Edinborough, Scotland, and they had nine children: Andrew, James, John, Anna, Isabel, Elizabeth, William, Susan and Foster. Isabel, Susan and Foster are the surviving members of the family.

Foster W. Walker received his education at the LeRoy Academic Institute and the Oswego State Normal, graduating from the latter in 1868. He taught school for a number of years, both in New York and Michigan. In 1874 he engaged in the hardware business in Caledonia, which he disposed of four years later. In 1878 he was elected school commissioner of the northern district of Livingston county, making him the

The Ward Family Biography

THE WARD FAMILY, — About the year 1760 George Ward, with his wife, Mary Greer, and son Thomas, left their home, in Durham, England, and sailed for America. They settled at Hanover, Dolphin county, Pennsylvania, near the city of Harrisburg. Thomas was born in England in 1759. He enlisted and served in Wisner's regiment through the Revolutionary war. In 1796 he came to Livingston county and located on a tract of land in what is now the town of Groveland, eight miles south of the village of Geneseo. He married Mary Howd and five children were born to them: John, Samuel, Thomas G., Elizabeth and Ann. John, the oldest son was born in 1794, married Olivia Watrous, January 2, 1831 and had five children: Mary Ann, Augusta. Olivia A., John W. and Henry Dana. Olivia Watrous was a daughter of Captain Josiah Watrous, a noted officer of the state militia and a soldier in the war of 1812. He was a descendant of Jacob Watrous who, in 1647, had assigned him a tract of land embracing wliat is now the city of New London, Connecticut.

John Ward became prominent in the early hiytory of the county. In 1822, when Livingston county was first contemplated, five of the leading men of this region namely, Myron H. Mills, Charles H. Carroll, W. H. Spencer, Daniel H. Fitzhugh and John Ward, met and drew up a petition that resulted shortly thereafter in the formation of the new county. To John Ward was intrusted the conveying of the document to Canandaigua where it was deposited with the county clerk. He made the journey on horseback, and a leather pouch at his side encased the petition. These five men then formed a body to promote the interests of the county, and they performed a noble work along the lines of progress, at a time when the future growth and prosperity of the count)' demanded intelligent and concerted action on the part of its leaders. These men have all passed away but much of the fruits of their labors still remain and stand as monuments to their zeal and industry. John Ward was appointed postmaster, February 15, 1819, and was the first to hold that office in the town of Groveland. He resigned the office November 3, 1829. He remained in Groveland until 1848 when he sold the farm to Patrick Gilbrath and removed to the village of Geneseo, where he resided until 1863 when he purchased a farm in the town of Leicester. In 1867 he disposed of his farm in Leicester and purchased the place in Avon now occupied by his son John W. He resided on this place until his death which occurred August 22, 1867. An interesting family relic of Colonial days is a back comb, made of pure turtle shell, which was worn by Mary Howd Ward at General Washington's funeral and is now in the possession of her grand-daughter. Miss Clara O. Dake, of Rochester, N. Y.. and the family clock, brought from England, by George Ward in 1760 and carried overland from Pennsylvania to the new home in Groveland, and is now owned by William Ward Dake. This clock has been in continual service for upwards of two hundred and fifty years and is. today, the equal of modern clocks as a time keeper.

John W, Ward was born in Geneseo, October 14, 1844. He attended the district school and a course in the Temple Hill Academy completed his education. When fifteen years of age he engaged as clerk in a Geneseo store where he remained until 1863, when he removed with his parents to their farm in the town of Leicester, remaining there until the spring of 1867 when the family removed to Avon, locating on the place now occupied by John W. Ward. In 1874 he engaged with the Rochester Scale works, as salesman, with whom he remained fourteen years. He then became salesman for the Hawley Salt Company, of Warsaw, N. Y., and one year later engaged with the LeRoy Salt Company. In 1898 that company passed into the hands, of the National Salt Company, and in 1902 was reorganized as the Empire State Salt Company. Mr. Ward has retained his position with this concern during its changes in ownership, and continues to represent its interests on the road. On September 30, 1869 he was joined in marriage with Amelia D. Lindsley, daughter of Solomon Lindsley of Livonia, N, Y., and they have one son, Allen W. born November 7, 1871, who resides in Avon.

Mary A. Ward married Dr. Jabez W. Dake of the town of Portage, January 16, 1851. The ceremony was performed in Geneseo by Dr. Ferdinand Ward. Dr. J. W. Dake was born at Hunt's Hollow, in the town of Portage, in 1829. He was a graduate of the Genesee Wesleyan Seminary, and first took up the study of medicine in the Geneva Medical College, an Old School institution, from which he received his certificate. He afterwards entered the Western Humeopathic College, Cleveland, Ohio, from which he graduated in 1860. He practiced, first in Warsaw, N. Y., where he remained several years, and removed to Albion. Dr. Dake, after a few years, was compelled, on account of ill health, to retire from active practice, and returned to his old home among the hills of Livingston county, where he lived a quiet life for some years in Nunda, N. Y. On restoration to what seemed permanent health, he returned to Rochester, N. Y., and opened an office in the Powers Block, but a few years later v;as obliged to give up the confinement of office practice, and became consulting physician for H. H. Warner, and in his interest travelled through most of the states of the Union.

An elder brother of his father. Dr. Jabez P. Dake, who was born April 22, 1788, was the first physician of Nunda, riding on horseback, through valleys and forests, over hills, and fording streams in ministering to the sick. He died in 1846 in Nunda, where a monument marks his resting place.

Mr. and Mrs. Dake reared to maturity a family of six children: namely, Mrs. W. G. Humphrey, Clara O., Henry J., George C, William Ward and Charles Alonzo. The last two named being of the well-known firm of the Dake Drug Company, of Rochester, and all reside in that city. Dr. Dake died in Rochester, February 1, 1886. This branch of the Dake family are descendants of George Dake (Deake), who came from Wales with his parents and two brothers and located in Massachusetts. One brother remained in that state, the other removed to Connecticut and George settled in Westerly, Rhode Island. His son Charles located at Greenfield, Saratoga county, N. Y., in the summer of 1770 and that place, until comparatively recent years, was known as Daketown. Charles Dake married Anna Gould, who after the battle of Bennington, labored for hours in supplying the wounded and suffering soldiers on the field of battle with water, and her name now appears on the roll as a patriot of the Revolution. Both Charles and his son William were soldiers in the Revolutionary war, and were with Washington at Yorktown.

William Dake, a grandson of Charles and the father of Jabez W., was born July 25, 1792, in Saratoga county. He settled in the town of Portage and was one of its earliest pioneers, coming there in 1820. He married Orpha Miller of Greenfield, Saratoga county, and reared a family of five sons and one daughter; Charles Alonzo, Jonathan A., Clarissa E., William^ G., Jabez W., and Benjamin F. It is said of William Dake that he was strong mentally and physically and frequently held offices of trust and honor in his town and county and passed away beloved by all who knew him.

Charles Alonzo Dake, son of William and Orpha Dake, was born in Greenfield, N. Y., March 8, 1819. He graduated with high honor at Lima Seminary and entered the Buffalo Medical School, going from there to the Cleveland Medical College from which he graduated in 1853. He then entered the Hahnamann Institute and graduated from there in 1856, after which he located in Warsaw, N. Y., where he practiced medicine for many years. He was the first Homeopathic physician to practice in Wyoming county. In 1866 he retired from active professional life to his home in Irondequoit, N. Y., where he now resides. He married Maria Roberts of Oak Hill, N. Y., and has one son, Reuben Dake, who has for many years been one of the best known and most progressive men, both in the religious and political life in the town.

Dr. Jabez P. Dake, Sr., elder brother of William, had five sons, four of whom were physicians, Chauncey M. Dake, located in Geneseo, N. Y., being the first Homeopathic physician in the town, where he lived and practiced for twenty years. He married Harriet Cady of Nunda," N. Y., and had one son; he went to Irondequoit, N. Y.. in 1862.

L. W. Warford Biography

L. W. WARFORD, — A prosperous farmer of Geneseo, was born in the Warford homestead in 1845. His father, Theodore P. Warford, came to Geneseo about 1830 from New Jersey and for a number of years managed a large farm owned by James Wadsworth, but being of an enterprising, ambitious disposition he afterwards purchased 143 acres south of the village of Geneseo, which he enriched and improved and afterwards beautified and made more valuable by erecting a fine modern residence and commodious barns and stables. His death occurred in 1896; his wife survived him until 1903. when she also passed away.

L. W. Warford succeeded to his father's estate on which he now resides. In 1874 he married Harriet Begole, of Geneseo, and their family consists of three children: Ida, a student in the State Normal School of Geneseo, Daisy and Henry.

Archibald Wasson Biography

ARCHIBALD WASSON, — Was born in Buffalo, N. Y., February 8, 1860. His education was obtained in the excellent public schools of that city. His father, Archibald Wasson, Sr., was a native of Livingston county, having been born in Leicester where he spent the early years of his life. He followed bookkeeping as an occupation for some time in Leicester, then removed to Cuylerville, N. Y., where in company with Captain Delano he was for a time engaged in the mercantile business. Fire, however, destroyed their establishment and Mr. Wasson removed to Rochester, where for a number of years he served the Genesee "^''ailey Canal Packet Company as its Rochester agent. He continued in that capacity until the abandonment of the canal as a vi^ater way when he moved to Buffalo where he passed the remainder of his days.

Archibald Wasson, our subject after completing his education, was for several years engaged in hotel work in New York, Brooklyn. Chicago and St. Louis, and came to Mt. Morris in 1888 where he opened and still conducts an establishment for ihe sale of groceries. Mr. Wasson is a clean cut, active, enterprising business man. He carries an inviting stock of staple and fancy groceries and intelligently caters to the better class of Mt. Morris trade. For the past five years he has assisted the New York Tribune in their laudable work of furnishing the little street waifs of New York a summer outing, where, away from the dirt and turmoil of a large city with an abundance of wholesome food, clean surroundings, and pure, healthy air to breathe they thrive and gain daily the strength they cannot acquire amid tenement surroundings. Mr. Wasson cares for about one hundred of these children each year. June 22, 1892, he was united in marriage with Amanda E. Perry, formerly a teacher in the Mount Morris High schools. Both Mr. and Mrs. Wasson are members and supporters of the Methodist church in which the former has held the office of trustee the past ten years. He has also served as superintendent of the Sunday school for eleven years.

William J. Weed Biography

WILLIAM J. WEED, — Cashier of the State Bank of Avon, has occupied that position eleven years, coming here from Cattaraugus. N. Y., where for the three years preceding he had acted as assistant cashier in the state bank at that place. He was born at Franklinville, N. Y., July 19, 1858, and his education was obtained in the schools of that place and the Ten Broeck Academy. Immediately upon leaving the latter institution, when sixteen years of age, he secured the position of bookkeeper in the First National Bank of Franklinville, where he remained until his removal to Cattaraugus in 1889. In 1880 he was united in marriage with Miss'Alice M. Shokency, of Avon, N. Y., and their family consists of one son, W. Stanley. A daughter, M. Adelaide, died in 1894 at the age of fourteen years. Mr. Weed has by his own efforts and ability attained the position he now occupies. Endowed with a natural aptitude for the banking business and possessed of originality and enterprise with a thorough knowledge of the business, acquired during his thirty years of experience, Mr. Weed has performed skilfully and well the various exacting duties incident to the position he occupies.

Richard R. Welch Biography

RICHARD R. WELCH, — A prominent citizen of the town of Leicester, residing near Cuylerville, was born in Rochester, N. Y., November 27, 1842. His father, John R. Welch, was a native ot Ireland, having been born in the county of Cork. He came to America about 1835 and soon thereafter drifted to Rochester, where in 1840 he married Margaret McCarthy, also a native of County Cork, Ireland. In 1846 they removed to Rush, Monroe county, where he owned and operated a farm for ten years. The ten years following were spent on farms which he owned and worked successively in West Mendon, Canav.'augus and West Sparta. He then moved to Leicester, where he purchased a farm on which he resided up to the time of his death which occurred in 1887. They reared a family of five children, of whom four are now living. His wife died in 1883.

Richard R. Welch married Anna Sullivan of the town of York, and they have had five children, three of whom are now living: Charles Edward; Mary Lilian; and George Francis. William Plarrison, an exceptionally bright young man, studious and with every prospect of a promising career and a graduate of the State Normal school was stricken with pneumonia and died April 6, 1903 at the age of twenty; John Richard, died in 1902, aged sixteen years. Charles and George are at home and have taken the care and management of the farm. Mr. Welch having in a measure retired from the active duties incident to farm life. Mr. Welch is a life-long Democrat and has ably served the citizens of his town as Highway Commissioner and Justice of the Peace.

Lovette P. West Biography

LOVETTE P. WEST, — A former well known citizen of the village of Lakeville and town of Livonia, was born December 24, 1841. His gjraudfather, Hezekiah West, a native of Connecticut, was killed at an early age by the falling of a tree. His widow and nine children then removed to the state of New York. Erastus West, the third eldest of the family, was born in Hartford, Conn. At an early age he developed a decided talent for mechanism and secured a position in a factory in Pennsylvania. While engaged at this place he invented a carding machine which was made in the factory and put on the market in quantities. In 1815 he journeyed by wagon to Livonia and upon their arrival found only a few white families in the locality, which was still a favorite hunting ground of the Indians. Soon after their arrival in Livonia, Mrs. Sophronia Bucklin West died, leaving three children: Perry, DeForest and Experience. Shortly after the death of his wife Mr. West returned to Pennsylvania and married Lucy M. Burns, who was born in that state May 6, 1800. The young bride accompanied her husband to his home in Livonia on horseback. Nine children were born to them: Lovette, Ziba H., Covil G. who died at the age of nineteen, Lucy M., Elisha, Jonathan B., Frank G., Erastus N. and Thomas Henry. The father died at the age of seventy and the mother was eighty-eight years of age at the time of her death, February 23, 1888. Lovette P. West obtained his early education in the schools of Livonia and later took a course in Poughkeepsie, "Eastman" Business College. He afterward became travelling salesman for the firm of Johnson and Company, with whom he remained eighteen months. He then purchased the interests of the other heirs to his father's estate. For three years he occupied the position of foreman of a manufacturing concern in Jeffersonville, Indiana. On returning to Lakeville he embarked in a mercantile enterprise which he carried on successfully for eleven years. Mr. West was the prime mover in accomplishing the building of the railroad from Lakeville to Conesus Lake Junction, which has been of inestimable value to the community. This road, of which he became President, was in 1886 sold to the Erie Railroad Company. In 1869 he married Hattie M. Dimmick, daughter of Shubael Dimmick, of Susquehannah county, Pa. Mrs. West's paternal grandfather was an officer holding the rank of Captain in the Revolutionary army. Mr. and Mrs. West have reared five children: Harry F,, Erastus L., Charles S., Florence L. and Livingston D. Mr. West was a republican and cast his first vote for President Lincoln. He has held the office of postmaster, at Lakeville and for many years served as Justice of the Peace. He was a valued member of the order of Masons, having joined that society many years ago. His death occurred March 6, 1904.

Austin W. Weelock Biography

AUSTIN W. WHEELOCK, — Late of the town of Leicester, was born in Leicester, N. Y., May 8, 1827. Ralph Wheelock born in 1600 A. D., and a native of Shropshire, England educated at Clare Hall Cambridge, taking his degree of A. M. in 1631, came to America in 1637 and settled in the town of Medfield, Norfolk county in southeastern Massachusetts, on the Charles river. Goodman Wheelock, as he was then called became a member of the first town board of Selectmen. He died in 1683 leaving a family of nine children. Rev. Eleazer Wheelock, D. D. one of Ralph's great grandchildren, a Congregational clergyman, was born in Windham, Conn., and died in 1779. Dr. Wheelock is celebrated as the founder and first president of Dartmouth college in Hanover, N. H., established for the benefit of the Indians. Ralph Wheelock's son Benjamin was born in Medfield in 1640, married Elizabeth Bull and reared five children. Of these five, Benjamin Jr., was born in the same town in 1678 and December 9, 1700, married Huldah Thayer and they had four children. Of the four Silas was born in 1718 and had eight children, one of whom was Simeon who was born in Medfield, March 18, 1741. He served as first lieutenant in a company of Minute Men in the battle of Lexington, He died in 1786 from injuries and exposure in the putting down of Shay's rebellion. He married his cousin, Deborah Thayer, of Mendon, who bore him eight children. His son, Royal Wheelock, was born in Uxbridge, Mass., in 1766. He married Lydia Taft and in 1794 with his wife and two children came to New York state and settled in Ontario county. A blacksmith by trade, he erected a shop as well as a log house, in what is now the to\vn of West Bloorafield, on a tract of heavily timbered land which he purchased from the Government. Nine children were born to them. His wife died January 13, 1847, and his death occurred November 24, 1856. His son, Harry was two years old when the family removed from Uxbridge, where he was born October 20, 1792, He served in the war of 1812 and afterward assisted his father in farm work until 1819 when he came to Livingston county and purchased a tract of land in the town of Leicester, whereon a log house was the only improvement. He then returned to Ontario county and married Judith Gillett, They took up their residence in the log house and here was born May 8, 1827 Austin W. Wheelock our subject. A commodious frame house later took the place of the log cabin and here Harry Wheelock resided until his death June 13, 1873. His marriage with Judith Gillett took place in 1819. She was born in Lyme, Cunn., February 4, 1797, and died January 28, 1867. They reared four children, Charles A., Austin W., Martha M., and Ira T.

Austin W. Wheelock attended the district school and the Temple Hill and Lima Seminaries. November 10, 1853, he married Mary Lovicy Francis, a daughter of Harley and Lois Francis, of York, Livingston county. To them were born eight children. Helen G., born September 3, 1855, married xXewton H. Crosby of Moscow, N. Y. Mary F., born December 12, 1857. married Frank Tolman, of New Paynesville, Minn. Ruth L, born March 3, 1860, died at the age of two years. Harry H., born September 28, 1862, married Katherine Hayes Waugh of Chicago and resides in Fargo, N. Dak. George Francis, born November 29, 1864, married Harriet Tyler Young, of Jewett City, Conn., and has three children, Louise Young, Austin W., and Harriet Tyler. Alice M., born January 30. 1868 married Albert G. Whitney of St. Cloud Minn. Charles Austin born November 15, 1871 married Grace Ball and lives in Fargo, N. D., and Martha Lucille born February 20, 1879.

Mr. Austin Wheelock has always been^a man of affairs, energetic and enterprising and possessed of keen business judgment. He has made the most of his surroundings and so conducted his business affairs that his farm annually yielded a handsome income and his other enterprises almost invariably proved successful. In politics a Republican, he served as Supervisor of the town of Leicester two terms. In 1900 he was appointed by Gov. Roosevelt as a trustee of the N. Y. State School for the Blind at Batavia in which he totjk great interest and was rarely absent from the meetings of the board. In 1858 he united with the Moscow Presbyterian church and was ever a regular attendant and generous supporter. For many years he was one of its active trustees and for eight or ten years a most devoted and efficient superintendent of the Sunday school.

He has been an extensive dealer in apples which he shipped in quantities to the eastern markets. For some years previous to his death Mr. Wheelock had been in ill health and the past year or two had been spent in travel in the western states but Avithout avail and his death occurred April 18, 1904. During the past six or eight years the farm has been under the management of his son, George F. Wheelock, who raises annually large quantities of produce for shipment, as well as fruits and vegetables.

John L. White Biography

JOHN L. WHITE, — Was born in the White homestead at Mount Morris, April 18, 1869. His father, George White, having lost his parents, sailed with his brother from Ireland when only nine years of age and his brother thirteen. They landed in New York and came first to Ramsey's, N. Y., where they secured employment and remained working on various farms until 1851 when George came to Mt. Morris, where he purchased land and established a home. With keen insight, he chose for his location the rich bottom land lying near the village, this soil so rich and productive, under his management soon paid for itself and he was enabled to purchase more land, which he did from time to time and the farm today comprises over 600 acres, all under a high state of cultivation, and owned and managed by his two sons, John L. and George. His family consisted of a w'ife and five children: George, Mary, John L., Alma and Rachel who died in 1881. John L. White married Florence L. Brown, of Rochester, and they have two children, Donald Freeman and an infant.

Mrs. Rebecca E. Whiteman Biography

MRS. REBECCA E. WHITEMAN, — Is a member of one of the oldest families in Livingston county. In the early part of the nineteenth century Telemachus Clemons came from Rome, Oneida county, to Sparta to live with his sister who resided at that place. Upon reaching his majority he started out to earn his own livelihood by working for neighboring farmers. By industry and the practice of strict economy he was at last able to purchase a small farm to which from time to time he added until his estate finally covered an expanse of four hundred acres. Mr. Clemons was one of the earliest settlers in the town and as the population increased and the country became more settled he was recognized as the leading spirit in all matters of a public nature and for many years held the office of Justice of the Peace. He finally sold his farm in Sparta and removed to Dansville where he purchased a home and thereafter resided until his death. His wife, whose maiden name was Rhoda Roberts, was a daughter of an early settler of Springwater. Twelve children were born to them, seven of whom are now living: Mary, Lydia, Rebecca, Samuel, Abner, George, and Eliza. Mrs. Clemons died in 1884 at 83 years of age. Rebecca Clemons was joined in marriage in 1845 with Reuben Whiteman, a son of Jacob Whiteman, a farmer of the town of Sparta. Jacob Whiteman was of German parentage and a native of Pennsylvania. He came to Sparta in 1824 and purchased a farm on which he always resided. Reuben Whiteman was educated in the district school and upon reaching his majority purchased a farm in Wayland, Steuben county, where he lived until 1852, when he came to Dansville and established a lumber yard, which hs conducted until his death in 1888. His career as a business man in Dansville was a successful one and being a shrewd financier and a careful manager he rapidly accumulated a competence. To Reuben and Rebecca Whiteman were born five children, two of whom are now living, Alonzo J., and Clara J., who married A. Lester Gibbs and has one child.

William Whitmore Biography

WILLIAM WHITMORE, of Avon, was born in that town January 1, 1850. When a lad his parents moved to Alexandria, N. Y., where he attended school until twelve years of age when they returned to Avon and here he completed his schooling. Born with a strong liking for an agricultural life he immediately took up farming. For a time he worked out with the neighboring farmers but soon leased a farm and being successful he continued in this way until 1896 when he purchased seventy-five acres of the Stapley farm lying one and one-quarter miles southeast of Avon village. In 1900 he purchased the Theron Chapel farm of 100 acres which he sold in 1903. In 1880 he erected a grain elevator on the Wadsworth farm at McQueen's switch, which he operated and for many years it proved a profitable enterprise. In the spring of 1902 he purchased a grain elevator in Avon and is today carrying on a very successful business in grain, beans and farm produce. He furnishes employment to upwards of seventy hands and ships his products to every state in the Union.

Mr. Whitmore has served as town assessor on the Republican ticket for six years and as highway commissioner for the past seven years. May 14, 1875, he married Mary E., daughter of George Dooer, of Avon. They have two children: Harry E. married Minnie, daughter of John Smith, of Avon; and Jennie E., a teacher in the High schools of Tonawanda, N. Y. Mr. Whitmore possesses the commercial spirit in a high degree, manages his business and farm interests successfully and well, and is withal a public spirited citizen, always ready and willing, financially or otherwise, to lend his assistance towards the furtherance of enterprises tending to the best interests of the community in which he resides.

Frederick H. Wiard Biography

FREDERICK H. WIARD, — Secretary and general manager of the Wiard Manufacturing Co., of East Avon, N. Y., comes from one of the most prominent of pioneer families who were associated with the early history of Livingston county. Thomas Wiard, his grandfather, was born in Connecticut and came to Livingston county at the beginning of the nineteenth century, taking up his abode at Geneseo, where he remained twelve years following his trade of blacksmith. He then reiuoved to Avon, where he purchased a farm and also conducted a blacksmith shop. His ingenuity and skill in the invention and manufacture of tools and implements was unquestioned and this ingenuity was transmitted to some of his sons, one of them Thomas, becoming known the world over as the originator of the Wiard plows. He married Susan Hall, of Connecticut, and nine children were born to them: Matthew, Henry, George, Thomas, William, Seth, Mary A., Margaret and Rachel. After some years the mother died and he took for his second wife Nancy Ganson. They had two children: Elizabeth and Nancy. Henry, the next eldest, who was the father of our subject, inherited from his father a liking for the workshop and under his tuition became a skilled mechanic. For thirty years he was identified with the manufacturing interest of the country as a maker of plows. The later years of his life were spent in quiet on his farm in Avon. He was twice married, his first wife, Caroline Palmer, daughter of David H. Palmer, of Avon, having two children: Frederick H. and Julia D. Julia married Lorenzo Wilbur and has one child. Harold Wilbur. Mr. Wiard's second wife was Amanda Landon, daughter of Luther Landon, of Avon.

Frederick H. Wiard, under the influence of his father's training, grew to manhood with the inventive instinct strong within him. His early days were spent in the plow factory where he acquired a skill and thoroughness which amply fitted him for the position he now holds as the manager for the company, which manufactures a washing machine perfected and patented by him and having a sale in all the countries of the globe. Mr. Wiard began in 1890 in a limited way the manufacture of these machines at East Avon and during the ten years following the business increased to such an extent that he deemed it expedient to materially increase the capacity of the plant and in other ways arrange for the proper care and maintenance of this constantly growing enterprise. With this end in view a company was organized in 1900 and incorporated under the name of the Wiard Manufacturing Company, with Frank E. Hovey president, Frederick H. Wiard secretary and manager, and W. P. Schanck treasurer. The output is now upwards of one thousand machines a month and the factory is worked to the fullest capacity to meet its demands. The machines are sold entirely by mail, the company having no representatives on the road. Mr. Wiard married Adele Spencer, daughter of Henry Spencer of East Avon, and has four children: Robert, Maud, Fannie and Walter.

Dr. Charles C. Willard Biography

Dr. CHARLES C. WILLARD, — Veterinary surgeon of Mount Morris, was born at Pittsford, N. Y., February 18, 1859. He received his school education at that place. Having a natural love for horses he early began a study of their diseases, attended lectures and so perfected himself in veterinary surgery that in 1887 the Rochester Veterinary Association granted him a diploma which was endorsed by the Regents of the State University. He immediately began practicing at Mendon, N. Y., where he remained two years and removed to Mount Morris, his present home. As an auctioneer, Dr. Willard is also well known throughout the country, having conducted scores of successful farm and stock sales since his first sale in 1896. In 1890 he married Miss Mercie Louise Richardson, of Pittsford, N. Y.. and their family consists of two children, Clarence Richardson and Charles Leslie.

William N. Willis Biography

WILLIAM N. WILLIS, — An energetic and prosperous young business man of the village of Springwater and recently elected a member of the county Board of Supervisors, was born and reared in the town of Springwater, the date of his birth being December 9, 1859. His education was acquired in the village schools and later at the State Normal school at Geneseo. After finishing his course in the latter institution he took up teaching, which he followed until 1891, when he purchased his present handsome residence in Springwater and engaged in the grain and produce business, which he has since conducted. Archibald Willis came to Springwater from Cayuga county in 1816. He experienced the toil and hardships incident to the lot of the early pioneers, but possessed of a hardy constitution with a brave spirit, he surmounted the many obstacles and succeeded in establishing a comfortable home, where he ended his days at the age of about 80 years. His son Nelson, father of William N., was born in 1817, one year after their arrival at Springwater. He succeeded to the property and devoted his time through life to the management of the farm. William N. Willis married Ortha B. Stuart, daughter of C. W. Stuart, of Springwater, in 1884. She died in 1892 leaving one son, Stuart N. He again married, June 1, 1893. Gertrude, daughter of A. M. Withington, of Springwater. Mr. Willis has, since reaching his majority, been an ardent supporter of the Republican party. In 1892 he was elected town clerk, which office he held until 1897, and in the spring of 1903 was elected supervisor for the town of Springwater.

Harvey W. Wilcox Biography

HARVEY W. WILCOX, — A representative farmer of the town of Springwater and ex-supervisor of that town, was born July 16, 1855. His father, Eber Wilcox, previous to his death in la67, was a thriving merchant in Springwater. After the death of his father, Harvey worked for neighboring farmers until 1881, when he purchased his present farm of one hundred and fifty acres, lying on the main road near the village of Springwater. That year he married Cora Colgrove, daughter of Theodore Colgrove, of Springwater, and they have one daughter, Pearl. Mr. Wilcox has always been a prominent worker in the Republican party. He has served four terms as highway commissioner and was twice elected supervisor, an office he filled to the entire satisfaction of the citizens of Springwater and with honor to himself.

Fred M. Wilner Biography

FRED M. WILNER, — An extensive farmer of the town of Portage, was born on the farm his grandfather took up soon after the war of 1812, George Wilner, grandfather of Fred, was a native of Berkshire county, Mass. He afterward removed to Connecticut and joined the American Army in the war of 1812. His brother also enlisted and was killed at the battle of Plattsburg in 1814. George participated in the battle of Stonington with his regiment and at the close of the war came to Livingston county, making the journey by wagon, and settled on land on the Genesee river, which he afterwards sold. He then removed to Indiana, going thence by the way of the Ohio river. Three years later he returned to Portage and settled upon a land grant which comprises the present large productive farm owned by his grandsons, Fred M. and Frank A. Wilner. He married Betsey Moses, a daughter of Elisha Moses, a pioneer of this county, and they became the parents of six children: Hannah, Flavia, Marcus W., Malcom, Merriman J. and Mortimer.

Marcus W. Wilner, the father of our subject, was for twenty-five years a merchant in Portageville, where he was also engaged in the lumber business. In 1850 he married Susan A. Adams, daughter of Gayloid Adams, of Granville, Ohio. They have had four children: Frank A,, Fied M., Gaylord and Nellie. Frank A. is now a commander in the U. S. Navy, stationed at New Orleans. During the recent investigation as to the alleged frauds in steel plate he was appointed inspector, by the Government, of all steel plate used in the manufacture of armor clad vessels. Gaylord is warden of the State Insane Asylum at Kalamazoo, Mich. Marcus W. Wilner died January 14, 1897.

Fred M. Wilner married Ida E. Paul, of Portage, and they have one daughter Gretta. A republican in politics, Mr. Wilner has served his town as road commissioner two terms and is a member of the republican central committee.

Charles W. Wingate Biography

CHARLES W. WINGATE, — Of Avon, was born in the town of Rush, April 11, 1858. His father George Wingate, is a native of England, having been born at Lincolnshire. He came to America in 1856 and settled at Rush where he conducted a farm for many j'ears. He is now leading a retired life at Avon village. Charles W. Wingate was born and reared on a farm and has made progressive farming a study. For the past thirty years he has managed successfully the large 340 acre farm known as the "Storey"' farm, owned by Major William A. Wadsworth. This farm is devoted largely to dairying and is well adapted to that purpose. Mr. Wingate is a supporter of the Democratic party and has for years been an active worker and a prominent factor in local politics. He has for the past six years held the office of highway commissioner for the town of Avon. His marriage with Lenor Wilson, daughter of Moses Wilson, of York, took place in 1887. They have two children, Lillian and Raymond.

John C. Witt Biography

JOHN C. WITT, — One of the leading citizens of the town of Mount Morris, was born at Schenevus, Otsego county, February 28, 1835. Isaac Witt, the paternal grandfather, migrated from New Hampshire to Maryland. Otsego, county New York, where he sought to establish a home for his family in the midst of the primeval forest. He bought a tract of wooded land and with the help of hia sons succeeded in his efforts in clearing the land and bringing it to a state of cultivation. Here he passed the remainder of his days. His son, Samuel Witt, the father of JohnC., after his marriage, removed to the town of Worcester, Otsego county, where he purchased a hotel, which he owned and managed until his death, which occurred when nearly eighty years of age. His wife, whose maiden name was Susan Gary, was a native of Vermont and a daughter of Isaac Caryl, a pioneer settler of Schoharie county.

John C. Witt began his business career as clerk in a general store and cne year later embarked in business for himself. He was engaged in the mercantile business in Otsego and Schoharie counties until 1863, when he came to Livingston county and for a number of years was engaged in various enterprises in Nunda, and Dansville. In 1878 he became the owner of the farm in Mount Morris which he now occupies, a portion of which lies within the limits of the village. He at the same time purchased a boot and shoe store which he conducted a year or two and sold, and has since devoted his attention to his agricultural and stock raising interests, which he carries on at his several farms, one of which comprises fifty acres of the Genesee flats and is very rich and productive. Mr. Witt has been twice married. His first wife, Catherine Moak, of Schoharie county, died in Canaseraga in 1872. In 1874 he was united in marriage with Helen Baylor, of Mount Morris, and they have one son Caryl. An earnest Democrat, Mr. Witt has always been accorded a seat in the councils of his party. In 1894 he was elected a member of the Board of Supervisors, which he filled with honor five terms.

The Woodworth Family Biography

THE WOODWORTH FAMILY, — Probably no family in the lower part of Livingston county are better known or more highly respected than the Woodworth family of Nunda village. Charles R. Woodworth, the father came to Nunda in 1849 from Georgetown, Madison county, where he was horn February 3,1831. His brother, James R., accompanied him and together they established a blacksmith business in the eastern portion of the village. Expert tool makers, they early acquired a reputation for manufacturing cutlery of the finest quality, and while their work was done entirely without the use of machinery their skillfulness enabled them to give to their work a finished appearance which with the extra quality of tempered steel that they always used created a lasting demand for their output. They continued in the manufacture of cutlery until 1863, when Charles joined the Union army and took up arms in defence of his country. He was attached to the 52d New York Infantry. After a service of one year and a day, and while at Spottsylvania during the battle of the Wilderness, he suffered the loss of his left hand which was shot off by a Minnie ball. He then returned home and shortly thereafter removed to Pitcher, N. Y., where he resided ten years, then returned to Nunda in 1878 and again began the manufacture of cutlery, this time in the basement of what is now the casket works. He continued in the business until 1886, when his son Frederick E., who had learned the art of knife making under the able tuition of his father, purchased the establishment and has since conducted it.*

Frederick E. Woodworth was born in Nunda, December 17, 1861. His education was obtained in the public schools of the village. Having early shown an aptitude for the business in which his father was engaged, he grew up under his training to a knowledge of the work which enabled him later to successfully manage the business. Shortly after his purchase of the concern he secured ground and erected a building in the eastern part of the village which he occupied some two years when the rapidly increasing volume of business necessitated the building of the present commodious structure. This building is installed with the latest machinery and equipment for the manufacture of knives. From ten to fifteen hands are employed regularly and from 800 to 1200 knives constitute the output for a day. November 25, 1886, he was united in marriage with Cora Demmon, of New York city, and their family consists of four children: Amy Olga. Minnie May, Clayton D., and Frederick E. Jr. Mr. Woodworth has for many years been a member of the Methodist church choir. He is captain of the Sons of Veterans, a member of the Board of Education, and thoroughly public spirited he takes a leading part in all enterprises of a public nature.

George C. Woodworth early took up the study of electricity and has become an expert upon all matters pertaining to the appliance of electricity in the many ways which modern ingenuity have invented. He installed the electric plant which now furnishes light and power for the village of Nunda, and he now holds the position of manager for the immense Electiric light and power plant at Henderson, N. C.

Clarence A. Woodworth, the third son, has for the past six years held a position under the government as first class machinist at the Washington Navy Yards. His position calls for an expert knowledge of the various parts of both large and small guns used in naval and inland warfare.

Clayton J. Woodworth, a normal graduate, for a number of years was connected with the Maryland Steel Works at Sparrows Point, Md. as private secretary to the president of the company. A man of much natural ability and having executive talents in a high degree he soon made himself invaluable to the company with whom he was connected. In 1895 he received an offer from the officers of the Scranton commercial schools to become their assistant general manager, which he accepted, and in the spring of 1902 he was made manager of the entire establishment.

Albert J. Woodworth as a boy was well known as a fast bicycle rider and had the championship honors for the counties of Livingston, Wyoming and Steuben, For a time he was occupied as telegraph operator for the Pennsylvania Railroad. He then became connected with the Maryland Steel Company in the electrical department where he remained four or five years then entered the electrical engineering business for himself and one year later returned to the Maryland Steel Works as chief electrician of the entire establishment and holds that position today.

Zula M., the eldest daughter, married Frank Wood, consulting engineer of the Maryland Steel Company. They have three children.

Minnie M., married Frank Davis, inspector of ordnance at the gun works in Germantown, Pa. They have one child. Mrs. Davis was before her marriage an accomplished contralto singer and for some years was a member of the choir in one of the leading churches in Rochester, N. Y.

Clara A. lives at the homestead. She has always been prominent in musical circles and plays the organ of the Methodist church of Nunda.

Julia Sylvia, a recent graduate of the State Normal school is an artist of exceptional ability. Her pen drawings have found sale in familicb of wealth in Buffalo and eastern cities. She is now engaged in teaching in the Long Island schools.

Rose, the youngest, for a season was with the Boston Lyceum Company. As a whistler she has no superior. Her pure, bird-like notes always under thorough control elicit the greatest admiration from all who hear her.

* Charles R. Woodworth was married September 3, 1849 to Elizabeth H. Bennett of Pitcher, N. Y. who died in 1887. Mr. Woodworth died November 21, 1903.

George R. Woodworth, the father of Charles, came to Madison County, N. Y. from L,itchfield Conn., with his parents, when six years of age. He married a Miss Howe of litchfield, the ceremony being performed by Rev. layman Beecher, the father of Henry Ward Beecher. Samuel Woodworth, a second cousin of Charles, was a printer by trade and the author of "The Old Oaken Bucket." A sister of Charles was an author of note and contributed to the leading journals before and during the war period.

Edward B. Woodruff Biography

EDWARD B. WOODRUFF, proprietor of the Hemlock Lake Roller Mills, was born in Conesus January 28. 1859. His great grand father Solomon Woodruff was the first white settler in the town of Livonia, coming from Connecticut in 1789. Buel D. Woodruff, the father of Edward, married Ortencia Viola Harding, of Hornellsville, Steuben county, N. Y., and four children were born to them, Herbert S. of Rochester, Edward B. of Hemlock. Frank T. who was drowned when two and one half years of age and Frank H. of Livonia. The family removed to Livonia while Edward was an infant and in the schools of that village he later received his education.

He also attended the Geneseo Normal school for two years. Through his boyhood days and until he was thirty-four years of age he assisted his father in the care of his large farms. In 1893, he rented of his father the Hemlock Roller Mills at Hemlock, N. Y., which property he has since conducted on profitable lines. Mr. Woodruff has been thrice married. He was first joined in marriage with Georgiana Quackenbush, of Geneseo, N. Y., and they had two children, Emma^ Lena, born December 3, 1880, and George Arthur, born July 27, 1882. Mrs. Woodruff died August 2, 1882. In September, 1891, he was again married to Flora Naracong, daughter of James Naracong, of East Bloomfield, N. Y. They had one child, Berta, born July 4, 1894. Mrs. Flora Woodruff died December 24, 1894. June 17, 1896, Mr. Woodruff married his present wife, Isabelle Gilbert, youngest daughter of Haskell Gilbert, a former miller of Hemlock. They have two children, Marion, born May 21, 1898, and Doris, born August 23, 1901. Haskell Gilbert was born at Canadice, Ontario county, November 8, 1820. While very young he lost his parents and was taken to Ohio to live with an uncle, remaining there until about twelve years of age, when he came to Livonia and made his home with his uncle. W. S. Gilbert, and finally married his daughter, Lucia S. Gilbert. They had four children: Randall died at the age of six years; Rose E. married Haskell Smith and died in March, 1898; Lillian married Paul E. Hamilton, of Honeoye, and Isabelle became the wife of E. B. Woodruff. Edward B. Woodruff has for many years been actively identified with the Republican party of his town and county and has at various times occupied several important offices which he has invariably filled in an able manner. He was elected Justice of the Peace in 1899 and resigned that office upon his election in 1903 as supervisor of the town of Livonia. Mr. Woodruff's father, Buel D., held the office of supervisor of the town in 1881 and 1882 and his grandfather. Austin Woodruff, also held the same office in 1849. He is a member of Livonia Lodge No. 778 F. & A. M., Hemlock Lodge No. 200, I. O. O. F., Hemlock Tent, No. 747, K. O. T. M. He is Past Noble Grand in the I. O. O. F. and Record Keeper in the K. O. T. M.

Oscar Woodruff Biography

OSCAR WOODRUFF, — Editor and proprietor of the Dansville Express, a live, enterprising paper devoted to the interests of the people and upholding the principles of the democratic party is a native of Livingston county, Geneseo being his birthplace. He comes of old New England stock. His paternal grandfather, Oliver Woodruff one of the pioneer settlers of this county, was born in Litchfield county. Conn., in 1755. When nineteen years of age he entered Yale College and one week later enlisted in the Continental army. After serving six months he reenlisted and assisted in building Fort Lee on the Hudson river which was captured by the British one month after completion. He and others were taken prisoners and confined in New Bridewell, New York, through the winter mouths without fire, with every window in the building broken out and with but little food. An exchange of prisoners was effected the following spring and when released thirty-three out of the thirtyfive men in Mr. Woodruff's company died in one night from overeating. In 1804 he moved into the town of Livonia where he purchased a tract of heavily timbered land which he eventually cleared and converted into a productive farm and a comfortable home. He died December 24, 1845, at the age of ninety-one. His wife died at the age of fifty. Of his seven children who grew to maturity nearly all attained an advanced age. Sydney Stacey lived to be ninety-seven years of age, Hardy eighty-eight, Bushrod Washington, the father of Oscar, eighty-seven, Olive and Birdseye seventy and Steptoe sixty.

Bushrod W. Woodruff was born in Livonia May 26, 1806. When fourteen years of age he entered the office of a Geneseo paper, one of the first published in the county where he remained seven years and learned the printer's trade. He worked at his trade and as a publisher until 1860, after which he lived retired, until his death at Dansville in 1893, aged eighty-seven years. His wife's maiden name was Sally A. Rose, daughter of James Rose, of Bath. N. Y. Of the thirteen children born to them., four are now living, of whom Oscar is the eldest. She died August 27, 1899 at the age of eighty-five years.

When seventeen years of age Oscar Woodruff entered as a printer the office of the newspaper he now owns. It was then known as the Dansville Herald. He remained in this office until 1861, when at the nation's call for volunteers, he enlisted in the Tenth New York Cavalry and three years thereafter reenlisted and served to the end of the war. He actively participated in many battles and was three times promoted, first to the rank of Second Lieutenant, then to First Lieutenant, and afterward to the brevet rank of Captnin. Following the close of the war he returned to Dansville, where he has since resided with the exception of the years 1873, 1874 and 1875, when he held the ofifice of paymaster's clerk in the United States navy. Mr. Woodruff purchased the Dansville Express in 1877, which he has since very ably managed. His partner in this purchase was A. H. Knapp, who retained his interest until 1882 when Mr. Woodruff became the owner of the entire business. Mr. Woodruff has been twice married. His marriage with Mary Betts, daughter of John Betts, a pioneer settler of Dansville. took place in 1869 and her death occurred, one year later. In 1892 Mr. Woodruff took tor his second wife Nettie Carney, daughter of William G. Carney, of Sparta. Mr. Woodruff is in every sense a public spirited man. While in sympathy with the democratic party he is thoroughly alive to the best interests of all his fellow citizens and never fails to lend his influence and assistance in all undertakings tending towards the betterment of the community in which he lives. From 1890 to 1895 he served as supervisor and was chairman of the board one year. He has been four times elected president of the village of Dansville. He is a member of the Canaseraga Lodge of Odd Fellows in which he has held all offices. He is also a member of Phoenix Lodge of Masons and is a charter member and one of the organizers of the Seth N. Hedges Post G. A. R., of which he was commander three years and adjutant seven years.

Charles W. Woolever Biography

CHARLES W. WOOLEVER.— Of Dansville, N. Y., was born in Mount Morris, July 2, 1848. His first business experience was with the late L. C. Bingham in the hardware business at Mount Morris, with whom he remained tv^o years. In 1865 he engaged as clerk in a drug store where he remained until 1872 when he accepted the position of superintendent of the Wyoming Coal and Mining Company near Evanston, Wyo. He remained with this company one year, when seeing a favorable opening for a drug store at Evanston he resigned his position and established a drug business at that place which he conducted six years and sold out. He then for a short time ran a drug store in Chicago, and in July, 1879, came to Dansville and purchased the drug business formerly owned by Hamilton and Parmelee which he has since conducted. Mr. Woolever has always been actively identified with the political interests of the neighborhood. He has served as town clerk, town auditor, and for ten years was a member of the village Board of Education. He is a member of Phoenix Lodge No. 115 F. & A. M., of which he is Past Master. In 1876 he married Mary S. Durr of Dansville, and their family consists of five children: Sophie, Jane L., Mae F., Elizabeth and Fannie L.

Charles A. Worden Biography

CHARLES A. WORDEN, — The firm of Worden Brothers of Dansville, N. Y., is a well known firm throughout Western New York, being one of the largest and most extensive dealers in monuments and mausoleums in the state. Major Walter Worden, the paternal ancestor, was born in Rhode Island in 1753. He served through the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812. His sonCaptain Walter Worden, who was born in 1775, was also a soldier in the war of 1812 and died from the effects of a wound received at Queenstown. Hiram H., a son of Captain Walter, was born at Manlius, N. Y., in 1801, married Louisa Graves and reared a family of eight children. He was a prominent Mason, having been a member of that order for seventy years. He died at the age of ninety-two. Charles A. Worden, his fourth son and the father of our subject, was born at Oswego in 1829. He learned the trade of marble cuttings and became an expert workman and designer. He engaged in the monument business at Manlius and also ran an establishment of the kind in Fayetteville, N. Y., previous to his removing to Dansville. He married Eliza A. Sweeting, daughter of John Sweeting, of Syracuse, N. Y., and five children have been born to them. Ella married L. A. Stevens, Charles A., Fred E., Louisa married Ray Ackerman of Syracuse, and Addison W. Mr, Worden died in February, 1896. Charles A. and Fred E. Worden comprise the firm of Worden Bros. Charles A. was born at Manlius, N. Y., October 10, 1859. Early in life he began learning the trade of marble cutting in his father's establishment. When twenty-one years of age he took charge of the business at Manlius and Fayetteville, which he managed until 1885 when they came to Dansville. They reorganized the business and began work on a larger scale a.nd have since gradually extended their field of operations and expanded their works. Their product is now shipped to all parts of the United States and their weekly pay rolT amounts to about one thousand dollars. In 1880 Charles A. Worden married Jennie M. Morley, of Manlius. They have had two children, Leslie who died in 1900 aged sixteen years, and Arthur M., born August 24, 1887. Mr. Worden is a member of Phoenix Lodge, F. and A. M. Fred E. Worden was also born at Manlius, N. Y.. June 30, 1864. He became a skilled workman under the tuition of his father. He married Grace Clark, a daughter of Ezra W. Clark, of Conesus.

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