USA > Connecticut > Hartford County > History of Hartford County, Connecticut, 1633-1928. Volume III > Part 50
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FRANCIS STEPHEN MURPHY
Francis Stephen Murphy, business manager of the Hartford Times and thus a well known figure in the newspaper circles of New England, has been a lifelong resi- dent of Connecticut, he having been born in New Haven, October 12, 1882. His parents were Henry J. and Mary (Dunn) Murphy, who were natives of New Haven and of Norfolk, Connecticut, respectively. The father was a mechanic who in 1893 removed to Hartford, where for thirteen years he made his home, passing away in 1906. His widow survives and yet makes her home in the capital city.
Having acquired a good public school education in Hartford, Francis S. Murphy became identified with the Hartford Times in 1898, in the capacity of errand boy. He was then a lad of sixteen years and he cherished no false ideas concerning the attain- ment of success. From the beginning he realized that close application, thoroughness and efficiency must constitute the rounds of the ladder on which he would climb to success. He has therefore steadily worked his way upward through various positions and for a time he was secretary and a member of the directorate of the old company operating under the name of the Burr Printing Company and holds the same position with the new organization-the Hartford Times, Inc., of which Frank E. Gannett is the president. He has been very active in building up the paper, his entire business life being spent in this office. He is familiar with every phase of the business and has been watchful of all the elements pointing to success. As an executive he is making a creditable record, his service as business manager being. direct, forceful and resultant.
In 1907 Mr. Murphy was married to Miss Iva Pearl Marsh, a daughter of John
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and Emma Marsh, of Hartford, and they have one son, Warner, who was born Janu- ary 21, 1913.
Mr. Murphy is well known in musical circles, having for twenty years been a member of the Hartford Choral Club, in which his position has been that of first tenor. He has sung in many of the Hartford churches and is equally widely known as a skilled violinist. His keen appreciation of music has been manifest in a mastery of the art that has enabled him to contribute as a vocalist and violinist to the work of shaping the musical taste of the city. He belongs to the Hartford Club and the Hartford Golf Club.
LAWRENCE COLE HUMASON
Lawrence Cole Humason was born May 16, 1891, in New Britain, Connecticut. After completing a course in the local public schools he continued his studies in the Sheffield Scientific school of Yale University. He graduated with the class of 1913 and in the following year entered the employ of the Humason Manufacturing Com- pany of Forestville, Connecticut. In 1927 he was elected secretary and treasurer of this concern.
In New Britain, Mr. Humason was married, June 24, 1916, to Miss Ruth Damon. They now have three children, John Damon, Florence Mary and Hala Cole.
Mr. Humason belongs to the Yale Club of New York city and also to the American Society of Mechanical Engineers.
HAROLD C. BAILEY
Modern business conditions have brought about the development of hitherto unknown commercial interests and it is through his efforts in taking advantage of the opportunities of the times that Harold C. Bailey has come to be the founder and president of the Hartford Automobile Finance Company and in this connection has built up an enterprise of large and substantial proportions. A native son of Connecti- cut, he was born in Middletown, June 13, 1888, and is a son of Frederick T. and Grace G. (Bailey) Bailey. His father figured prominently in business circles for many years as vice president of the Middletown Silver Company.
At the usual age Harold C. Bailey became a public school pupil, mastering the work of consecutive grades until he completed his studies in the high school. His identification with the insurance business dates from 1907, in which year he became a clerk in the accounting department of the Travelers Insurance Company, there continuing until 1912, when he went to Buffalo, New York, to act as special agent of the liability department. Mr. Bailey next became associated with the City National Bank of Troy, New York, as assistant manager of the new accounts department and later he returned to Hartford, where he was made manager of the S. R. Benjamin & Company Insurance Agency, continuing with that corporation until 1918, when he became associated with the late Judge Joseph P. Tuttle as general manager of the Industrial Realty Title & Guarantee Company, filling that position of responsibility until the organization of the Mutual Bank & Trust Company of Hartford, when the interests of the former company were sold to the bank. When the industrial depart- ment was reorganized for the insurance business Mr. Bailey continued in full charge thereof until November, 1922, when he organized the Hartford Automobile Finance Company, of which he is the president. Opportunity has always been to him a call to action and he saw the chance for the establishment and upbuilding of a business enter- prise which he believed would prove a profitable and growing concern. Time has demonstrated the wisdom of his opinion, for through a period of six years the com- pany's interests have steadily grown in volume and importance. Mr. Bailey is like- wise the president and treasurer of H. C. Bailey, Incorporated, and thus continues his activity in the insurance and real estate field. Whatever he undertakes he carries forward to successful completion and both of his business interests are enjoying a steady development with gratifying financial returns.
In his political views Mr. Bailey is a republican but without ambition for office,
(Photograph by John Haley)
Haustil G Daily
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preferring to concentrate his time and attention upon his business affairs. In leisure hours, however, he is interested in the activities of the Hartford Club, the Hartford Golf Club and the Avon Fish and Game Club, in all of which he holds membership, enjoying the good will and friendship of his fellow members of those organizations.
JAMES GOODWIN BATTERSON, JR.
It is the enterprise and character of the citizen that enrich and ennoble the com- monwealth. From individual activity has sprung all the splendor and enterprise of the state and in no country is opportunity so open to the determined and ambitious as it is in America. This, therefore, is the land of the self-made man-the man whose innate powers and capabilities enable him to advance steadily until he reaches the heights of notable success. Such was the career of James Goodwin Batterson, New York resident manager of the Travelers Insurance Company, in which connection he developed one of the foremost business enterprises of New England. Farsighted though he was, he perhaps did not dream at the outset to what lengths he would go through the establishment and development of this now strong and powerful corpo- ration and, moreover, in the development of this business he made valuable contri- bution to the upbuilding and material progress of his state.
A native of Hartford, Mr. Batterson was born in 1858 and was a son of James G. and Eunice (Goodwin) Batterson. His father was the founder of the Travelers Insurance Company and it was to that field of labor that he directed his efforts when he had completed his education, acquired in the public schools of Hartford, in a military academy and in Williams College. He was first a clerk with the Travelers but after a brief period asked for an opportunity to sell accident-ticket insurance. Soon after he had been given an assignment he learned that the Putnam Phalanx, a military company, had chartered a boat for a trip down the Connecticut river, and without consulting anyone he proceeded to the pier, where he sold travel tickets to the great majority of those ready to embark on the excursion. He was feeling par- ticularly happy over his success when he returned to the office and informed the secretary of the company what he had done, but upon looking at his note book it was discovered that he had made the company liable for about four hundred thousand dollars, and considerable anxiety was felt by the officials of the company until the vessel had safely returned to her dock. Discussing this a half century later, Mr. Batterson said: "If the boiler of that old tub had blown up, the Travelers assets would have been absorbed; it would have had to send out to stockholders an S. O. S. call for funds and the probability is that there wouldn't have been this fiftieth anni- versary to celebrate." At that dinner, by the way, Mr. Batterson was introduced by President Dunham as "a chip off the old block." This he was, as he not only had business and executive combined with sales ability, but was a good hard aggressive fighter. It is furthermore said that Mr. Batterson throughout his entire life and long after he had been promoted to official position could never resist the opportunity to sell a Travelers policy, which he did again and again while actively managing other business interests. For a time he was engaged in the grain trade in the west and later he returned to New York, where he was associated with an advertising business, contributing largely to its success through his initiative and originality. However, the field of insurance was continually calling him and he could not resist the lure of the business. He became the New York manager for the Travelers and his success in the metropolis was immediate. Through his well directed efforts the business grew with notable rapidity until the Travelers became one of the best known companies in the city, and many of the most successful insurance men of New York were developed under his direction. Later Mr. Batterson was given the title of resident director. When he became manager of the Travelers in New York about 1898, its premium income there was two hundred and fifty thousand dollars, and under his direction the premium writings in 1922 had reached eighteen million dollars.
The business interests of the east soon came to recognize his marked capability and efficiency and his cooperation was sought in various fields. He became the presi- dent of the New England Granite Works of Westerly, Rhode Island, chartered about 1860 by the Connecticut legislature, and in this organization he was his father's
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successor. It was this company which furnished granite for the erection of the Travelers building in Hartford, the State Library of Connecticut, the Congressional Library of Washington and the buildings of the Guaranty Trust Company and the Bankers Trust Company of New York, the American Telegraph and Telephone Com- pany and still other buildings, as well as many memorial structures. Mr. Batterson never stopped short of the successful accomplishment of his purpose and as he was a man of broad vision he came into control of interests of far-reaching public benefit as well as a source of individual success.
Mr. Batterson was ever deeply interested in sports from the time when he began playing baseball in the military academy which he attended. It continued through his college days and through his later life when his active interest-for he was an unusually good ball player in youth-was merged into patronage of baseball in Hartford and in Concord. He always enjoyed clean sport and was one of the best billiard and pool players of his city. Although he was forty-four years of age when he took up golf, he became a devotee of the game, and despite the fact that he had rather short arms he won some amateur matches and came to be a well known figure in golf circles. His was the spirit of the true sportsman. During the war, when there was great competition in the Metropolitan Opera House and many financiers and other prominent men were gathered in a Liberty Loan meeting, where they were bidding for the privilege of owning a glove of Guynemer, a famous French aviation ace who had died in service, the Travelers bid one million dollars and secured the glove, which Mr. Batterson took to France to present to the French people. This was in the winter of 1918 and on the trip he carried with him, as representative of the New York Athletic Club, baseball bats, gloves and other para- phernalia for the American soldiers, which he presented to various army outfits. Mr. Batterson ever greatly enjoyed travel and made extensive trips not only to European countries and in the United States but in South America as well.
In his political views Mr. Batterson was ever a stalwart republican and again in this he followed in the footsteps of his father, who had been one of the first sup- porters of the candidacy of Abraham Lincoln and was in the office of the martyr president in Washington on the day when he was shot. Mr. Batterson acted as marshal in the insurance district for the Hughes Business Men's League parade and during the World war period he was always active in organizing insurance men for the Liberty Loan and other drives. He had reached the age of sixty-five years when death suddenly claimed him. Always genial and companionable, he counted his friends in many walks of life. He had been a popular member of the New York Athletic Club, the Westchester Hills Golf Club and various other social organiza- tions, and all who knew James G. Batterson felt deep regret at his passing because he had shed around him much of life's sunshine and had contributed to the pleasure and interest of all with whom he came in contact.
HENRY S. GRISWOLD
Henry S. Griswold, general agent for the Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company, has continuously operated in this field for eighteen years, starting out in the humble capacity of office boy and working his way upward until he now has charge of the entire state of Connecticut for the corporation which he represents. With offices at 64 Pearl street in Hartford, he is directing the activities of a large force of agents and the business is enjoying a steady and healthful growth. Mr. Griswold is a man who is every prepared to meet any emergency or opportunity, readily mastering the former and utilizing the latter in a way that makes for success.
Born in Wethersfield, Hartford county, Connecticut, September 25, 1887, he is a son of Frederick A. and Mary (Stillman) Griswold, also natives of this state, where they have spent their entire lives. The father was general agent of the Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company for many years, his association with the company covering thirty-six years, but he is now living retired.
Henry S. Griswold obtained his education in the public schools, being graduated from the high school with the class of 1907, after which he began learning horticulture and for three years was actively interested in fruit raising and farming. In 1910, however, he turned his attention to the insurance business, becoming office boy in his
(Photograph by The Johnstone Studio)
HENRY S. GRISWOLD
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father's employ. Parental authority was not exercised to give him an easy berth. He worked his way upward through various positions, gaining his promotions as the result of his knowledge and capability in the business, and following the retirement of his father he was appointed to succeed him as general agent for the Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company on the 1st of July, 1925. Since that time he has had entire charge for the company of the state of Connecticut and is represented by about thirty-five or forty special agents throughout the state. Although yet a young man, Mr. Griswold has been very successful in the business, having been trained under his father's supervision, while his ready adaptability has enabled him to master every phase of the business and win substantial success.
On the 16th of April, 1913, Mr. Griswold was married to Miss Ruth Chapman, of Windsor, and they have two daughters, Katharine Chapman and Marjory Merrill. Mr. Griswold owns the old Michael Griswold home in what was formerly Back Lane, now Garden street. It was built about 1730 and is the oldest house in Wethersfield. It is also one of the most hospitable, its doors being ever open for the reception of their many friends, and their social position is an enviable one. Mr. Griswold is a member of the Kiwanis Club, the City Club, the Wethersfield Country Club and the Congregational church of Wethersfield-associations that indicate much concerning the nature of his interests and the line of his activities outside of business. He stands for all that is best in community life and his endorsement and support are ever given to measures for the public welfare.
ALFRED W. HANMER
Alfred W. Hanmer, one of Wethersfield's loyal sons and enterprising merchants, is always found in the van of movements for civic growth and betterment and has also aided in framing the laws of the state. He was born in 1867, a son of Charles H. Hanmer, who was also a native of Wethersfield. The latter devoted his energies to agricultural pursuits and death terminated his labors in 1884. His widow, Mrs. Clara E. (Way) Hanmer, was born in Hebron, Connecticut, and lives with her son, Alfred W., during the winter months, residing in Gilead during the remainder of the year. She had five children but Edward S. and John W. are deceased. Charles H. follows the occupation of farming and William E. is connected with the firm of Frayer & Foster, coal dealers of Hartford.
In the acquirement of an education Alfred W. Hanmer attended the old academy in Wethersfield and for one term was a pupil in Wilbraham Academy of Massa- chusetts. After his father's death he took charge of the homestead and successfully managed the farm until he reached the age of twenty-one. Going to Hartford, Con- necticut, he obtained work in the market of A. Squares & Son and was there employed for one and a half years. On the expiration of that period he returned to Wethers- field and in partnership with Charles Bulkley purchased the business of Dix & Wells, dealers in meat and groceries. The firm of Bulkley & Hanmer existed for about eight years and in 1900 the senior partner retired, selling his stock to Mr. Hanmer, who has since conducted the business. In addition to staple and fancy groceries he carries a complete stock of general merchandise and is always prepared to supply the needs of customers. His patrons receive good value for the amount expended and his well known honesty has enabled him to win and retain a large share of the local trade.
In 1890 Mr. Hanmer married Miss Nellie L. Tolcott, of Wethersfield, and five children were born to them, namely: Clara T., who is the wife of Robbins N. Gris- wold, of Watertown, Connecticut; Henry Francis, superintendent of the Wethersfield post office; Alfred W., Jr., who is in the employ of the Colt Patent Firearms Com- pany; John Way, who assists his father in managing the store; and Elizabeth, a senior in the local high school.
Mr. and Mrs. Hanmer are zealous members of Trinity Episcopal church, of which he has been a warden for years, and in politics he is a strong republican. In October, 1898, he was elected a selectman and has been retained in that office for a period of thirty years, an eloquent testimonial to the quality of his service. He is a member of the town plan and sewer commissions and was connected with the board of education for six years. In 1913 he was chosen to represent his district in the
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state legislature and manifested that devotion to the public interests which has characterized all of his official service. Mr. Hanmer is a Mason in high standing and since its organization in November, 1920, has been treasurer of Hospitality Lodge. He belongs to the Hartford City and Wethersfield Country Clubs and his wife is a member of the Saturday Afternoon Club, the Ladies Tuesday Afternoon Whist Club and the local chapter of the Eastern Star. Many trusts have been reposed in Mr. Hanmer and all have been faithfully and efficiently discharged. Through all the varied responsibilities of life he has acquitted himself with dignity and honor, thus winning the approbation and esteem of his fellowmen.
MAJOR GEORGE Q. WHITNEY
Major George Q. Whitney, a veteran of the Civil war, responded to the last roll call at Hartford, August 3, 1925. With military precision throughout his entire life he had marshaled his forces and he had won victory after victory not only in the business world but in the development of those forces of character which make for high and honorable manhood. When the end came it might well be said of him that he had "fought a good fight." He was born at Sacarappa, Maine, April 22, 1843, so that he had attained the age of eighty-two years. His parents were Aaron and Rebecca (Perkins) Whitney and his ancestry in the paternal line could be traced back to John Whitney, of England, who settled at Watertown, Massachusetts, about 1635. His grandson, Jonathan Whitney, served in King Philip's War and his grandson, Levi Whitney, was one of the heroes of the Revolution, ably aiding in the defense of American interests and winning the rank of lieutenant. The records of the Whitney family present the names of many skilled mechanics and machinists who did notable service in their particular field. This number includes the late Amos Whitney, who was a brother of Major Whitney and was one of the founders and for a long time presi- dent of the Pratt & Whitney Company, the largest manufacturers of aircraft in the world.
Major George Q. Whitney was a youth of but nineteen years when he responded to the country's call for aid in preserving the Union intact. He enlisted on the 14th of July, 1862, as a member of Company A, Sixteenth Regiment of Connecticut Volun- teers, and was mustered into the service on the 2d of August. With his command he went to the front and was first under fire in the memorable battle of Antietam on the 17th of September, 1862. He participated in other important engagements and was with his regiment at Plymouth, North Carolina, on April 30, 1864, when after a stub- born resistance against overwhelming odds-sixteen hundred Union troops against twelve thousand Confederates-the Union forces were captured. Mr. Whitney was then incarcerated in a Confederate prison until November 30, 1864 (prisoner ten months), when he was paroled, after which he was again on duty until mustered out with his regiment on the 24th of June, 1865, the war having been brought to a success- ful close.
In young manhood Major Whitney became identified with the Pratt & Whitney Company and was associated therewith for many years, his capability and thorough- ness contributing in substantial measure to the continued success of the organization. He afterward became identified with the Phoenix Manufacturing Company as its sec- retary and general manager and his well formulated plans and executive ability featured strongly in the continued expansion of the trade of the house. For more than a half century he remained an active factor in the commercial and industrial development of Hartford county and in fact his interests were so important in char- acter and so broad in scope that he was accounted one of the foremost business men of the state. He retained his active association with the Phoenix Manufacturing Com- pany until 1920, when he retired from business, spending his remaining days in the enjoyment of a rest which he had truly earned and richly deserved.
Major Whitney was united in marriage December 27, 1890, to Isabelle (Gaylord) Whitney, who survives him. He held membership in Robert O. Tyler Post, G. A. R., and thus always retained pleasant associations with his old army comrades. He won his military title by service with the Veteran City Guard. His life was ever actuated by high principles and he was a member of the Church of the Redeemer. Throughout his entire life he used his time, his talents and his opportunities wisely and well,
(Photograph by Curtiss-Schervee)
MAJOR GEORGE Q. WHITNEY
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gaining success and prominence in business and as the result of many admirable personal qualities winning the respect and warm regard of those with whom he was associated.
SAMUEL J. GLOTZER
Samuel J. Glotzer, long an outstanding figure in commercial circles of Hartford, is well known as one of the owners of the business conducted under the style of the New England Furriers, in which Julius Bassevitch is a partner. For two years they were associated in the same line in New York city and in 1896 transferred their activities to Hartford. Their first quarters were above Henry Cohn's store and in 1897 they secured a larger amount of space at No. 1235 Main street. In 1900 the business was established in the old Courant building at No. 36 Pratt street and in 1924 they moved to the present location in the Hudson building on the same thorough- fare. They occupy three floors and have long been recognized as leaders in their chosen field of endeavor. Until 1926 they dealt exclusively in fine furs and fur coats and then added a line of ladies' apparel, consisting of cloth coats and other garments. The partners have made a close study of the business and their enterprise and reli- ability have enabled them to win and retain a large share of the local trade. They are progressive merchants who have changed old methods to suit new conditions, and during the thirty-one years of its existence their business has constantly increased, keeping pace with the development of the city. The partners are members of the Chamber of Commerce and heartily cooperate in movements for Hartford's progress and betterment.
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