USA > Connecticut > New Haven County > New Haven > Noted men of Connecticut as they look in life : as published in the columns of The Evening Leader of New Haven : being a collection of portraits and biographical sketches of representative men of Connecticut who have made and are making the history of the states > Part 9
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He was also an incorporator of the Linwood Cemetery Association, and is now its treas- urer.
Among other positions of responsibility and trust which he is called on to occupy is that of trustee of Bacon Academy.
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He is a member of Wooster Lodge, No. 10, F. & A. M., of which he has been master for several terms, and was a charter member of Colchester Lodge, No. 31, A. O. U. W.
Outside of his town, Senator Buell's interests have been centered in the Constitutional Convention of 1902, to which he was delegate from Colchester, and in the last session of the Senate, to which he was sent by the Republicans of the Twentieth District.
He served as chairman of the committee on roads, bridges and rivers, and was also a member of the committee on Capitol furniture and grounds.
In his town he is a power in molding public thought, for he has the reputation of being a deep thinker, a man who is shrewd in his deductions and positive in his assertions, because he is guided by a system of level headed reasoning and seldom makes a mistake. His business success has come through the same qualities which have made him politically triumphant. The same rules which apply to clean business competition he has applied to his public life, and his experience proves that such methods pay.
On June 7, 1877, Senator Buell married Miss L. Loretta Tew, daughter of John Tew. Their home is in Colchester.
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Senator ALONZO R. ABORN
SENATOR ALONZO R. ABORN, NORWICH
Environments of both Connecticut and Massachusetts entered into the childhood of .Senator Alonzo R. Aborn who represented the Nineteenth Senatorial District in the last session of the General Assembly. The son of Reuben and Amelia Peters Aborn, he was born in Ellington, Tolland County, Connecticut, about sixty years ago.
In his early childhood the family moved to Oxford, Massachusetts, and there he obtained his grammar school education; entered and was graduated from the Oxford High School.
From the first the boy demonstrated a decided bent toward business. His mind was methodical and his insight keen. He was endowed with a gift for mathematics and sound common sense.
So when the time came for him to enter on the serious stage of life, business claimed him. He gained his first experience as a clerk in the store of the Norwich Grocery Com- pany on West Main Street, Norwich.
He was well directed in his choice of work, for his diligence, excellent sense of busi- ness and close attention to detail pleased proprietors and customers from the beginning, and when after two years, it became known that young Mr. Aborn was in a position to become the proprietor of the store, there was little surprise among the discerning.
He enlarged the business, engaging both in the feed and grocery lines and success was his almost constantly. For several decades he pursued the business which thrived under his able management and made it possible for him to retire from the mercantile life in 1890.
A man of his activity however, could not be content in a life of idleness and pleasure, so he devoted much of his time to real estate transactions. Here, too, he has been eminently successful, as he not only has the business ability but a wide and valuable acquaintance among men of affairs.
His enterprise and public spirit have won him respect and friendship, as well as a place in the history of Norwich ; for he has labored early and late for the good of the city.
When there was found need of a new First Baptist Church, Senator Aborn was selected as a member of the building committee and did valiant service in raising funds for the structure. For years he was also a trustee of that society.
A staunch Republican., Senator Aborn has exhibited in his political activities the same sterling attributes which won him success in his business and public life.
He cannot be classified as a professional politician, but is a politician in the broader and original sense, as referring to a man into whose keeping public trusts may be given with utmost confidence.
His initial public service was done in 1874. when he was chosen a member of the West Chelsea school board and during his decade of earnest labors on that board, served as chair- man part of the time.
His most signal work was his share in wiping out a long standing debt of about $25,- 000. In this big and important service to the town he was influentially instrumental.
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At the close of his term on the school board he was elected a member of the cominon council and here performed many acts which f.irthered the good of his home city.
Nine years later he was elected an alder nan and again had an opportunity of serving the city during a term of four years. It is a n teworthy fact that all matters of public moment received his earnest attention and that his support was ever enlisted in the questions of public good.
The real calibre of the man however, was never fully tested and revealed until 1896 v. hen the Republicans urged him to become their candidate for the mayoralty of Norwich. Mr. Aborn had been loyal to his party and felt that he could not refuse their earnest and compelling call.
The election was exciting, the contest about even ; when the ballots were counted, it was discovered that the Democratic candidate hal received a majority of the votes cast, but among these were scores of illegal ballots, so many in fact that Mr. Aborn was legally declared elected.
Great was the rejoicing among the Republicans, and the numerous personal friends of the elected mayor, but they rejoiced without knowing the kind of man with whom they reck- oned.
An election on a technicality had no charm for Mr. Aborn. His manhood required that his elections to all positions of public trust and service, should be absolutely above suspi- cion. So he refused the high honor accorded him and retired to private life. Keen disap- pointment among his followers gave way to a strong admiration for the high standard of honor, the nobility of mind displayed by their candidate.
Such a man could not remain in obscurity however, and he was always uppermost in the minds of the party leaders.
So in 1906 when they wanted a strong candidate, a man who would commend himself to the thinking voters, they sought Mr. Aborn and after volumes of persuasion, prevailed upon him to stand .. He was elected by a plurality of 293 votes.
In the State senate he was a power and was honored by several of the most important committee assignments. He was selected as chairman of the committee on manufactures and was also a member of the committee on humane institutions and of the committee on forfeited rights.
Always active and a born worker, Senator Aborn was ever at hand at committee meet- ings, skilled in his mode of investigation and discussion, alert in his judgments and a tireless and energetic public servant.
In line with his business interests, has been Senator Aborn's close affiliations with the Board of Trade in which he has been a valued member for years. So much was his activ- ity appreciated that he was twice chosen as its president, his two terms ending in January, 1902.
Senator Aborn was one of the three unmarried members of the Senate of 1907.
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Senator CHARLES B. WALLER
SENATOR CHARLES B. WALLER, NEW LONDON
That Charles B. Waller, Senator from the Eighteenth District, has the courage of his convictions, and that those convictions are positive, is amply verified by the announcement that he is a Republican, for in Connecticut the name of Waller was synonymous with that of Democracy for many years. One of the most brilliant minds produced in eastern Connecti- cut in many decades belonged to Thomas M. Waller of New London, a wonderful power in the Democratic ranks of the state.
From one position to another was he elevated by admiring friends and citizens until he was honored by election to the post of Governor of the State. In that office, he had a gio- rious record and his strength with the people greatly enhanced. His wonderful gifts of oratory, his remarkably magnetic personality, and his splendid mind made him a great power in state affairs, and at national conventions the Democrats of Connecticut were admirably represented by Governor Waller, the "Democratic warhorse."
It was quite natural that his son should follow in his father's footsteps and great was the surprise of friends and the public in general when he registered himself as a member of the Republican party. It was readily seen that here was a remarkable young man, deter- mined to hew out his own destiny.
Senator Waller was born in New London, July 27, 1875, and after studying in the pub- lic schools there, attended the University of Minnesota. He completed his education at the Yale Law School, being attracted to the legal profession and was graduated in 1896.
He opened an office in New London and has become a decisive success as an attorney. He has inherited his father's intellect and clearness of vision and his endowments of mind and speech have won him numerous triumphs.
While avowedly a Republican, he found but little time aside from his profession to devote to politics until a few years ago, when he was asked to stand as a candidate for Repre- sentative from New London, by the Republicans of the city. He consented and was elected in 1905.
The most important work fell to him as a member of the judiciary committee and he also acted on the committee on assignment of seats. His quickness of vision and steadiness of judgment were noted with pleasure by his colleagues, for he was one of the youngest mem- bers of the House, and combined with the enthusiasm of youth, the calm judicial quality of character which is seldom found in a man of that age.
His New London constituents liked his work and they liked his personality. So in the next election, not content to merely register their approval in the ordinary way, that is by returning him to the House of Representatives, they decided that another Waller should be elevated as had his father. So they advanced him a round higher in the ladder of political honor and public life, by electing him as Senator from the Eigliteenth District, thus display- ing flattering confidence in his capability and his use of the powers entrusted to him.
In the Senate, the young Senator was chosen as a member of the judiciary committee, as chairman of the committee on contested elections and as a member of the committee on joint rules.
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That Senator Waller is remarkably adapted to the legal and judicial lines has been demonstrated times innumerable and an honor recently bestowed came in recognition of this fact. On September 28, 1907, Governor Woodruff chose him to succeed Judge Walter C. Noyes (who was elevated to the superior bench), as a Judge of the Court of Common Pleas of New London county.
He richly deserves the honors which are being heaped upon him, as he is a man of character. All that is clean and upright, that is far removed from suspicion of dishonor or corruption, has been his standard in public life, and he has the high ideals of manliness, and the culture which bespeaks the true gentleman. He is absolutely fearless, daring much and never afraid. With his talents and decision of character, no task is insurmountable and it is safe to predict that he will not falter in anything which he undertakes.
Through his native gifts, energy and power, he has reached an enviable height and that Connecticut may yet have another chief executive of the name of Waller, is far from an idle dream, should Judge Waller be willing to undertake such responsibilities. At least, the state may rejoice in the possession of a son so eminently worthy of the father.
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T.R.INAUTE-06
Senator ALTON B. FARREL
SENATOR ALTON B. FARREL, ANSONIA
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Even though the constitution of our good old United States contends that "all men are born equal"- even though we may always believe that on entering this glorious old world each and every one is as ably equipped to fight the battle of life as the other-it is a fact, nevertheless, that sometimes a man is born to command-to lead his fellowmen along the paths of least resistance and-when the opportunity presents itself-to prove to his army of followers that he is a commander, a man who can be depended upon-one who is never found wanting.
Claimants for this honor, it is true, in these days of progress and advancement are surging and crowding about us at every turn, but we usually find the larger proportion of such aspirants to be men who have reached their majority, and when a young man not yet 30 years of age stands among us-his public life shining out like a beacon light, it calls to mind that quotation so often heard and whose origin is never forgotten-"And a little child shall lead them."
The Hon. Alton Farrel of Ansonia, 29 years of age, a young man who has been hon- ored time and again by his fellow-townsmen, is a man we cannot overlook. Fearless in all his undertakings, keeping in mind at all times the very important fact that he is a representa- tive as well as a leader of his fellow-men, we find that to-day he has accomplished many things of which any man twice his age might well be proud.
Mr. Farrel is a true son of Ansonia, being born in that city in the year 1879. His early education was received in Ansonia and in order to prepare for Yale University, he took a course in St. Paul's School in Concord, N. H.
On graduating from Yale (academic) in the year 1902, he immediately entered his father's immense factory, The Farrel Foundry and Machine Co., in Ansonia, not as vice- president, not as treasurer, but in the same capacity as the most uninformed laborer, and he learned the business thoroughly, from the truck which brought the copper ingots in, to the enormous machines, with their intricate parts which turned out for the use of the world the finished. and perfected product.
He not only studied his father's business, but he studied men-he studied them as they worked-he saw their moods-their needs, and their ideas-their aspirations, and how well he studied them can best be told by his records in public office.
For two years he worked among the men who later on were to choose him as their leader, until in 1904 the officials of the company found he would be more valuable to them in the capacity of assistant treasurer.
Mr. Farrel's college education, his knowledge of the business gained in two years' expe- rience in the factory, and his general ability to readily adapt himself to conditions have proven to the officials of the Farrel Machine and Foundry Company that no mistake has been made in appointing him to the responsible position of Assistant Treasurer.
Mr. Farrel's public life has been one he may well be proud of. In the year 1902 he was appointed an aide-de-camp on the staff of Governor Chamberlain, and in the year 1903 was nominated as alderman on the Republican ticket and elected for a two years' term.
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In the year 1904 he was elected to represent the same party in the State Legislature and was conspicuous by his strict appliance to his duties-his straightforwardness in all business matters, and his never failing zeal in the interests of the people whom he represented.
While in the State Legislature he made a host of friends, and his sound business judg- ment was often sought by his many associates, both old and young.
Probably the greatest achievement of Mr. Farrel, to date, occurred in 1905, when he defeated for mayor the Hon. Stephen Charters, who had been termed the "Labor Mayor," and was admittedly the friend of the workingman.
Mr. Farrel's life among the workers in his father's factory had proven to them his sin- cerity, his interest in them-and their support during his campaign portrayed to the people of Ansonia the respect in which they held him. .
The nomination of Mr. Farrel in 1906 for the important office of Senator followed as a natural sequence. His party recognized in him a man who knew the needs of the public- a man who would fairly and faithfully cater to those needs and who would at all times ren- der an account of himself that would be most satisfactory to even the most exacting.
His election followed as naturally as did his nomination, and it is safe to say that if Mr. Farrel chooses to remain in public life, his record in the various offices to which he has attained will serve as a stepping stone to any office which is within the voting power of the people of Ansonia.
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Senator JOHN HURLEY
SENATOR JOHN HURLEY, WATERBURY
With the courage and vigor which have made the young son of Ireland a famous fig- ure, John Hurley, a lad not yet two decades old, bade farewell to his beautiful island home and set sail for America in the late seventies to make a fortune for himself.
Lovely Tralee, in Kerry County, Ireland, was his birthplace, and his infant eyes opened on the world, March 10, 1862. Among the hills and dales of that fair land, he grew to boyhood and was registered among the pupils of the Tralee High School.
Before graduation time came, his footsteps, guided by his thoughts and dreams, turned toward the United States where so many of his neighbors and friends had gone.
So with hopes high, he sailed for this country and made his home in Waterbury, Conn. He was a diligent worker along many lines and achieved his greatest success in the whole- saling and retailing of wine and liquor.
He established himself in this business on Scovill Street, Waterbury, in the year 1883. and has followed it with marked success ever since. He has not confined himself to Water- bury but has acted as an agent representing some of the largest brewing houses of the east, among them, Evans & Sons of Hudson, N. Y., and Bernheimer and Schwartz of New York City.
At present he is district agent for Feigensparis Brewing Company of Newark, N. J., having accepted the position in June, 1907.
He comes of a long lived family, his mother having lived to the age of seventy-five, his father seventy-eight. The vigor and dash of the family find striking exemplification in Sen- ator Hurley.
He is possessed of the spirit of true charity. To every needy and unfortunate who has come in his path, he has extended the warm hand of good fellowship, the cordial greeting, the brotherly interest, the practical friendship. Known far and wide for these delightful characteristics, his charity also takes a deeper and quieter form, for much of the good which he has done, has never come to light.
Home and its attractions have always held a deep fascination for Senator Hurley, and he delights in throwing aside business cares for the home circle. He is very fond of read- ing, and confesses to a preference for Alexandre Dumas, Marie Corelli, Victor Hugo and A. Conan Doyle.
Like most men who rightly prize the quietude of the home, he is thoroughly in touch with the life of out-door sports. He has a never ceasing interest in baseball, football and practically all of the out-door sports.
Wrestling and boxing are also among his favorite hobbies, and he has financed sev- eral exhibitions conducted in accordance with the rules of clean sportsmanship. Another sport which often carries him away from his home city is good horse trotting. In all of these he has the interest of a critical and experienced spectator.
A well traveled man nearly always possesses a well stored mind, and from years of travel both for business and pleasure, through almost the entire extent of the country he has
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filled his mind with information. Most extensively he has journeyed through New England and the Middle States, visiting at various times all the large centers of population.
Politically Mr. Hurley has espoused the Democratic faith, and has been a loyal and consistent worker for the party. His initial public service was as alderman from the Fourth Ward, to which position he was elected in 1895, and re-elected two years afterward.
His place of residence changing to the Fifth Ward, he was chosen as alderman from that district in 1901, again in 1903, 1905 and 1907, each time for a term of two years.
Mr. Hurley's public spirit soon won him recognition, and his unceasing activity in behalf of his city and the interests of his ward, were noted with pleasure by his fellow citi- zens.
A man of so much force of character, such readiness of mind and such pronounced executive ability was needed in higher paths of public activity, and when the time of the bien- nial contest for Senatorship from the Sixteenth District drew nigh, the Democrats turned toward Alderman Hurley.
He was not only possessed of personal popularity, but was regarded as a safe and sane candidate,-one in touch with all phases of life, a friend to the classes and the masses.
So it was with elation that his party heard his words of acceptance of the candidacy, and with greater joy that they noted the result of the battle of the ballots, through which Senator Hurley was elected.
In the Senate he was given a place on the committee on claims, and on the senate com- mittee on executive nominations. He was a capable and untiring worker and accomplished much good.
Socially a favorite, Senator Hurley has also affiliated himself with several fraterni- ties, among them the R. F. Phelan No. 122 Foresters of America, and Waterbury Aerie No. 379 Fraternal Order of Eagles, in both of which he has made many tried and true friends.
His whole souled nature, generous spirit toward his neighbors and qualities of good citizenship have made him a distinct success in life and a credit to his community, his family and his mother country.
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Senator IRVING HALL CHASE
SENATOR IRVING HALL CHASE, WATERBURY
A type of man whose upward strides through paths leading to business triumphs have in no wise diminished his love for the artistic and æsthetic phases of life, is represented in Irving Hall Chase, of Waterbury, one of the prominent figures in our state life.
Senator Chase has an earnest interest in the forces which lead to culture and com- bines the industrial and intellectual life to excellent effect.
The Brass City claims him not only as one of her most influential citizens, but also as 3 native son. It was in the morning of May 15, 1858, that he arrived to brighten the home of Mr. and Mrs. A. S. Chase, a grandson in whom Seth Chase, one of Pomfret's leading citi- zens, took pride and delight.
Love for his native place grew with the lad, and he has been glad to make his home in Waterbury since his birth.
Education was first gained in public schools until at the age of 18 years he qualified and entered the famous Gunnery School at Washington, Conn., from which have been gradu- ated so many men of mark.
The following year he decided to specially prepare himself for college and enrolled among the students at Phillips Academy, Andover, Mass.
In the centennial year he entered the Freshman Class at Yale University, and received his diploma in 1880.
Then began his struggle in the arena of business, which has culminated so success- fully. After the summer vacation, early in November, he became an employe of the Water- bury Clock Company.
As shipping clerk he demonstrated alertness and a level head. Promotion was deserved and won and the foremanship of the finishing department was offered the young graduate. Later, his aptitude for office work won him a position in the office of the company.
At the age of 27 years he was elected secretary. Constant and increased proof of efficiency induced the board of directors to elect him to their number the following year.
In 1900, he was chosen as treasurer, and has remained in that position ever since, wielding an important power and influence in the affairs of the firm.
With his keen business sense, it is not surprising that Mr. Chase's name appears on the board of directors of several other companies, although he confines his active interest to the Waterbury Clock Company. Among these others are the Chase Rolling Mill Company, Waterbury Manufacturing Company, "American" Printing Company, the Waterbury Hotel Corporation, Starr Brothers' Bell Company, and the New Haven Journal and Courier Com- pany.
In 1889 he was married to Elizabeth Hosmer Kellogg, daughter of the late Stephen W. Kellogg, and the family consists of four daughters. Their home is a center of social life.
The family is fond of travel, and trips to Europe have been frequent. A true patriot, Mr. Chase believes that a man should know his own country thoroughly in order to meet men of other countries and discuss questions intelligently. Therefore, he has spent much time and many pleasant months in visiting his own country and Canada.
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Every year he has set aside a season for travel, and has greatly broadened his mind and increased his information through such means. The Bahamas and West Indies have been favorite spots of recreation.
In his own city Mr. Chase is held in very high esteem. He has had an honorable pub- lic record and has always been identified with movements of progress.
His thorough public spiritedness makes him a valuable worker for the people, and he has always been in demand in the political life. Repeated requests to serve in various pub- lic capacities have met with refusals. Mr. Chase wished to remain classified solely as a busi- ness man and was content to exercise the rights of a citizen in voting for others, rather than to permit his name to appear on the ballot.
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