USA > Massachusetts > Suffolk County > South Boston > History of South Boston (its past and present) and prospects for the future, with sketches of prominent men > Part 53
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THOMAS A. MULLEN, lawyer, for many vears a resident of this district. was born in South Boston, June 10, 1862. His father, Edward Mullen. lived in the district sixty years. Educated in the Lawrence School, he graduated from the Boston Latin School in 1880, a Franklin medal scholar, took the academic course at Harvard, graduat- ing in 1884 with highest honors. From 1885 to 1893, he was a teacher in the Boston Latin School, enjoying the distinction of being the youngest teacher in that school since its foundation in 1635. He entered the Harvard Law School, finishing a three years' course in two years, graduating in 1895. In 1896 he was appointed private secretary to Mayor Josiah Quincy of Boston. which position he held until 1898, when he was made assistant city solicitor. He has an extensive law practice, and is a mem- ber of many leading organizations. In 1891, he married Miss Mary Louise Quigley, has two children, and they live on Aberdeen Road.
M ICHAEL J. MURRAY, a proprietor of Brigham's Hotel, 642 and 644 Washington St., born in South Boston, July 11, 1860, of Michael and Margaret Murray, attended the Lawrence and Boston Latin Schools. He work- ed at the clothing, and then the insur- ance business, then, in 1889, for the city engineer in the construction of im- proved sewerage, in 1890, the western division of the water works de- partment, in 1891, in the superintend- ent of streets office, and from 1892 to 1900, was chief clerk of the sani- tary division and civil service clerk for the street department. In 1900, he bought the famous Brigham's Hotel, which he has conducted ever since. He married Miss Mary E. Sullivan, has six children, Thomas H., Michael J., Jr., George D., Mary A., Margaret and Norman, and they live at 7 Grace St., Ashmont. He is a member of the Royal Arcanum, the Workmen, the Hep- tasophs, Knights of Columbus, Boston College Asso., Catholic Union and Clover Club.
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544
HISTORY OF SOUTH BOSTON.
D R. PATRICK MORRIS, who died Nov. 10, 1897, was one of the oldest druggists in Boston, having first entered the business in Roscommon, Ire., his native place, in 1841, with Dr. John Burke, uncle of the famous Dominican preacher, Rev. Thomas Burke. Arriving in this country he entered the employ of Dr. Sharkey, in the same business, at the corner of Federal and Purchase Streets, and in 1850 he opened a place for himself. Daniel Webster. Rufus Choate, Edward Everett and Dr. Hyndman were cus- tomers and close friends of his. Dr. Morris was burned out in the big fire of 1872 and he then moved to the corner of Federal and Kneeland Streets, and, in 1884, he established a branch store at 14II Washington Street, where he continued until his death. Three daughters and four sons survived him, the latter being Dr. John G. Morris, Dr. George P. Morris, Robert E. Morris and Charles H. Morris.
DR. GEORGE P. MORRIS, physician at 702 East Broadway, is a son of Patrick and Mary (Gavin) Morris. He received his early educa- tion in the public schools of this district, graduating from the Lincoln Grammar School. After finishing his studies there he entered the Boston Latin School, where he took the regular course of study. After finishing there, he then entered Harvard College, and graduated from that institution with the degree of A. B. Later he began the study of medicine at the Harvard Medical School, and finished the course in 1891, receiving the degree of doctor of medicine. Shortly after this he became established, and has been practicing medicine since that time. Dr. Morris is a member of the Massachusetts Medical Society.
DR. GEORGE P. MORRIS.
DR JOHN G. MORRIS, physician at 97 West Broadway, was born in Boston. He received his early education in the Lincoln Grammar School and the Boston Latin School. Concluding his studies at the latter institution, he en- tered Harvard College, and, after receiving the degree of A. B., he entered the Harvard Medical School, and received his degree of doctor of medicine. He then began the practice of medicine in South Boston, in which he has been very successful. Dr. Morris has been visiting physician to St. Elizabeth's Hospital, Boston, for over twelve years. He is a member of the American Medical Association, the Massachusetts Medical Society and the Suffolk District Medical Society. He is also medical examiner for the Equitable Life Assurance Society of the United States. He resides at 97 West Broadway.
J JOSEPH HENRY S. NEWTON, produce merchant, is associated with his brother, William L. Newton. He was born in Roxbury, Dec. 30 187S, of Joseph H. and Theresa J. (Dunn) Newton. Coming to South Boston in ISSo, he was educated in the Bigelow School and attended the Evening High School. He first worked for the Boston Stock Exchange as a messen- ger and finally as a clerk, but resigned, after eight years service, to enter the produce business. He is a member of South Boston Council of the Knights of Columbus, Lady of the Rosary Court, C. O. F., Broadway Associates, and the Boston Pedlers' Protective Association. He resides at 265B West Broadway.
WILLIAM L. NEWTON, produce merchant, and councilman in 1903. was born in South Boston, Feb. 27, 18SI, of Joseph H. and Theresa J. (Dunn) Newton. He attended the Bigelow Grammar School, graduating in 1894, and then attended the Evening High School. He first worked for Clarence Hallett, stationer, during the early morning, and late afternoon and evening outside of school hours, and also worked three years for the Boston Stock Exchange. In ISOS he entered bus- JOS. H. S. NEWTON. WM. L. NEWTON. iness for himself as a produce merchant, and in 1899 formed a partnership with his brother, Joseph. The business has rapidly increased, and they now have five horses and five teams. In the fall of 1902, but a few months after becoming of age, the subject of this sketch was elected to the Common Council from Ward 13. after one of the most interesting and vigorous campaigns ever waged in the district. He served in that body in 1903. He is a member of Robert Fulton Council, of the Knights of Columbus (of which he is lecturer), Division 60, A. O, II., Young Men's Lyceum, (a past president), Broadway Associates, Pickwick Club, Lady of the Rosary Court, C. O. F., Holy Name Club of St. Vincent's Church, and the Boston Pedlers' Protective Association. He lives with his mother at 260B West Broadway.
545 1
HISTORY OF SOUTH BOSTON.
HON. PATRICK A COLLINS
Mayor of Boston, 1902-1903; started political career in south Boston, which was many years his home : now a resident of Brighton.
JUDGE JOSEPH D. FALLON
Presiding Justice of the Municipal Court since 1893: earnest advocate and vigorous supporter of matters in the interest of the district.
BERNARD JENNEY
President of the Jenney Manufacturing Co .; a resident of South Boston since 1837; public spirited and highly estermed by all.
MICHAEL ANAGNOS
Successor to Dr. Howe as Superintendent of the Perkins Institution for the Blind, and Seere- tary of the Board of Trustees.
WELL KNOWN CITIZENS.
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HON. HENRY F. NAPHEN.
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HISTORY OF SOUTH BOSTON
HON. HENRY F. NAPHEN. lawyer and congressman from the 10th Massachusetts District 1599 to 1903. was born in Ireland. August 14. 1852. of John and Jane ( Henry) Naphen and. in his infancy. came to Lowell, with his parents. He was educated in the public -chools. After a course at Harvard. as resident bachelor. he studied law in the Harvard and Boston Universities and was admitted to the Suffolk bar in November, 1879. after a final course in the office of Burbank & Lund. Con- gressman Naphen occupies a high position among the lawyers of Suffolk County and has a wide and extensive practice.
From the time of his removal to South Boston. Mr. Naphen has been identified with its interests. and. ever a sterling Democrat. he allied himself with that party and fought with it in many battles. before he would accept public office himself. He was elected to the School Board in ISS2 for a three years' term, and in ISS5 and 1556 he represented the Fifth Suffolk Dis- trict. South Boston. ) in the State Senate, thus being obliged to decline a reelection to the School Board. In the Senate, a> in the School Board, Mr. Naphen did magnificent work advocating and securing much important legis- lation.
In ISgS. having received the Democratic nom- nation for Congre -- in the 10th Massachusetts District. he was triumphantly elected. The dis- :rict. then. was somewhat in doubt as to whether t wa, Democratic or Republican, and by some t was considered a Republican stronghold xecause previously represented by one of that political faith. Throughout his first term in Congress. Mr. Naphen gave unsparingly of his ime to that important office and took an im- portant part in national legislation. He vigor- ously opposed the expansion policy of the Republican party and made memorable speeches on the Porto Rican question, the trusts, the Philippine question. the improvement of Boston Harbor and many other important measures. Of particular interest to his district were his ucce -- ful effort, in behalf of Cove Street Bridge nd the Dorchester Bay Life Saving Station. When a gigantic combination of moneyed men nd corporation» were striving to prevent the building of the important Cove Street Bridge, which was provided by the Massachusetts Legis- ature to take the place of the abolished Federal street, and had successfully appealed to the xcretary of War to stop it because it would be
an " interference to navigation ", Congressman Naphen brought forth sufficient argument and influence to reconsider such action and the order was issued to proceed with the bridge. It was through his work in Congress, also, that the. appropriation was secured for the large steam launch for the life saving station. This station, since its establishment in 1896, had given re- peated evidences of its great value and necessity. There were times, however, when it was found that the small naptha launches were of but little use in heavy storms or for heavy service. The matter was brought to the attention of Congress- man Naphen. and he, against some little oppo- sition. succeeded in getting an appropriation for the steam launch " Relief," which was ever afterward in use.
Renominated by his party in 1900, Congress- man Naphen was re-elected by a majority of more than 7200 votes, a remarkable victory, placing the district in the Democratic column without a doubt. Congressman Naphen continued his good service during his second term, but, owing to the tremendous increase of his law business, in the fall of 1902 he was obliged to refuse a re- nomination for a third term. Mr. Naphen is vigorous and earnest in debate and in the halls of Congress his voice was frequently heard in support and for the public good.
Mr. Naphen is a member of the Boston Athletic Association, the Boston Press Club, the University Club, the Old Dorchester Club, the Democratic Club of New York, Boston Lodge 10 Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, Orpheus Musical Society, City Point Catholic Association, Charitable Irish Society, Catholic Union, Ancient Order of United Workmen, Ancient and Honorable Artillery Co., Bostonian Society, Dorchester Historical Society, Columbia Yacht Club, Mosquito Fleet Yacht Club, Young Men's Democratic Club of Massachusetts, Knights of St. Rose, Massachusetts Catholic. Order of Foresters, honorary member of Dahl- gren Post 2, G. A. R., and Benjamin Stone Post 68, G. A. R., American-Irish Historical Society, Harvard Union, South Boston Council K. of C., South Boston Citizens' Association, Roxbury Historical Society, associate member of the ist Corps of Cadets and a director of the Working Boys' Home.
In August, 1882, he married Miss Margaret A. Drummey and they have three children, Mary T., Gertrude C., and Agnes J. He resides at 501 East Broadway.
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HISTORY OF SOUTH BOSTON.
S ERGEANT GEORGE H. NEE served as a member of Company II, 21st Infantry, U.S.A., during the Spanish-American war in Cuba and through the Philippine Insurrection. His meritorious service won for him a Medal of Honor, two promotions, and recommendations for a lieuten- ancy and a Certificate of Merit. He was born in South Boston, receiving his early education in the Mather and Lawrence Schools. He was among the first to enlist in 1898, and his services won for him the highest decoration for personal valor, the Medal of Honor, presented in the name of Congress. Sergeant Nee participated in the campaign of Santiago and the battles of July 1, 2, 3, 10 and 11, 1898. It was at San Juan, July 1, 1898, that, through jeopardizing his life in rescuing wounded from in front of the firing line, he was awarded a Medal of Honor.
In the Philippines he was in the expedition into Cavite Province July 9 to 15, 1899; expeditions from Morong to Porte, July 16 to 20, 1899; engagements at and about Cal- amba, July 26, 27 and 30, 1899. At the battle of Calamba, he led his comrades to victory, after Lieut. Love had been shot, and was especially commended by his commander, recommended for a Certificate of Merit and promoted to a ser- geancy. Later he won distinction by volunteering to save his company from annihilation at Lake Los Banos. An attack was threatened and reinforcements were necessary. Sergt. Nee crossed the lake at night in a native dug-out with two Filipino guides. After landing, he penetrated the wilderness to Gen. Hall's headquarters and his company was saved by reinforcements which were sent to its aid. On his return home Sergt. Nee was tendered a reception and ban- quet by the citizens of South Boston and presented with a diamond studded charm. Sergeant Nee is a member of the Boston Police Dept., and is identified with the Police Relief Ass'n, Charitable Irish Soc., Medal of Honor Legion, Roger Wolcott Camp L. S. W. V., Robert Fulton Council, K. of C., St. Augustine's Lyceum and Div. 58 A. O. H. He represented the Medal of Honor Legion on the chief marshal's staff on Evacuation Days 1902 and 1903.
MICHAEL W. NORRIS, well known in political and business circles, was born in the County Cork, Ire., about 1853, his parents being Michael and Mary (Davis) Norris. Coming to America at an early age, he attended the East Street School and graduated from the old Boylston School, removing to South Boston in 1870, where he has since resided. He is one of South Boston's many self-made men. He had a varied ex- perience in business, being first a telegraph messenger boy, then a boy in the kindling-wood business, then drove a team for Prentice & Co., joined with James Nolan in the business of ballast lightering, then as a fisherman on the schooner Lady Thorne and later on other vessels, worked for Adams and Wenneberg on Commercial Wharf as a fish buyer, was a sailor on the Great Lakes, worked in the mills of Pittsburg, and, after trying his hand at several other lines, entered the liquor business in 1883.
Becoming well known in Ward 13 affairs and interesting himself in politics, Mr. Norris was elected to the Common Council, and served in 1888, 1889, 1890, 1891, 1892, 1894, 1895 and 1898, and in the Board of Aldermen for 1900, 1901 and 1902. As chairman of the finance committee, he had splen- did opportunity to attend to the wants of his district, and the magnificent gymnasium at the foot of D Street is a monu- ment to his many years of effort. He was successful in se- curing park betterment assessments reduced in 1894, and worked hard for the completion of the Strandway. He mar- ried Miss Nellie A. Berrigan, who died in June, 1901, and has had ten children, one of whom, Michael W., Jr., died. Those living are Mary E., Lillian G., Frederick F., William L., Albert C., Joseph E., Irene H., Caroline M. and Michael W., Jr. He is a member of Div. 7, A.O.H., the Irish American Club, the 25 Associates, South Boston Council K. of C., Elks, Shawmut Rowing Club, Mosquito Fleet Yacht Club, Bay State Riding and Driving Club, South Boston Citizens' Asso., Dorchester Riding and Driving Club, Boston Schwaben Verein, and other organizations. His business is at 115 to 119 W. 4th St., and he resides at 123 W. 4th St.
HISTORY OF SOUTH BOSTON.
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OSEPH J. NORTON, deputy superintendent in the street cleaning division of the street depart- ment, is a son of John and Mary Norton and is a native of South Boston, having been born here November 19, 1870. He received his early education in the schools of this district, graduating trom the Lincoln Grammar School in 1884. He then entered the English High School where he pursued his studies until 1887, when he entered the employ of Patrick Raftery, who conducted a grocery business at the corner of K and East Third Streets.
The following year he became assistant secretary of the Boston Fruit and Produce Exchange, which position he held until 1899. In the meantime he became interested in politics and in 1895 he was elected a representative to the Massachu- setts llouse of Representatives front Ward 14 and the follow- ing year was re-elected. In 1898, he was a candidate for alderman and was elected and was re-elected in 1900 and 1901. Under the administration of Mayor Patrick A. Collins he was appointed to the position of deputy superintendent of street cleaning, in the street department, with offices at 923 Tremont Building.
During his political career Deputy Superintendent Norton was always active in the interests of South Boston, and was instrumental in procuring for the district many extensive and necessary improvements. It was through him that many other young men have become prominent in political life, and have been elected to public office in state and city.
Deputy Superintendent Norton was a member of the Demo- cratic State Committee in 1899 and was first vice-president of the Democratic City Committee during 1898 and 1899. Ile is at present a member of the Boston Fruit and Produce Exchange, the South Boston Citizens' Association, Massa- chusetts Catholic Order of Foresters, Mosquito Fleet Yacht Club, Somerset Associates, and Farragut Lodge of the Ancient Order of United Workmen and for many years was a member of the Ward 14 Democratic Committee. Deputy Superintendent Norton is married and lives at SS M Street.
J. CARLTON NICHOLS, a member of the hardware firm known as "The Hoyt Company," was born in Cohasset, Mass., in 1858, but came to South Boston with his parents when two years old and has resided here ever since. He was educated in the pub- lie schools of South Boston, and, when fifteen years old. entered the hard- ware business and has remained in it ever since, being at present senior member of "The Hoyt Company." having stores in South Boston and Dorchester. Ile represented South Boston in the Boston School Board in iSos, 1899, 1900 and 1901, Mr. Nichols is a trustee of the South Boston Savings Bank and of Be- thesda Lodge, Independent Order of Odd Fel- lows. He is also a member of St. Paul's Lodge, Free and Accepted Masons, St. Mat- thew's Royal Arch Chapter. South Boston's C'it- izens' Association and the New England Hard- ware Dealers' Association. He resides with his family at 159 K Street.
JEREMIAH F. O'BRIEN, iron and steel mer- chant at 165 A Street, was born in Boston. Dec. 16, 1860. of Patrick and Ellen Me- Carthy ) O'Brien. He is numbered among the most enterprising of South Boston's citizens. Notwith- standing his re- moval to South Boston in 1870 he continued his studies at the Brim- mer School and graduated in 1874. His father was one of the oldest iron and steel merchants in the city, having been in business forty years, and Was well known and highly re- spected by all who knew him. Jeremiah succeeded to the business about 18go, and has since conducted it most successfully. The business is that ot buying old iron and steel and is very lucrative- Mr. ()'Brien is single and lives at 191 West Fourth Street. Ile is a member and prominently iden- tified with the American Order of Fraternal Helpers. South Boston Conclave of the I. O. 11 .. Div. 4. A. O. H., and Defender Lodge. :So. N. F. O. P.
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550
HISTORY OF SOUTH BOSTON.
C APT. JAMES J. O'CONNOR, of the Boston Fire Department, was born in South Boston October 18, 1866, and has resided here all his life. He is a son of Timothy F. and Mary E. O'Connor. Hle received his educa- tion in the schools of this district, having attended the Hawes and Bigelow Schools. After finishing his studies he entered the printer's trade which he followed for a short time. Having a desire to enter the Fire De- partment. he made application and was
accepted January 6, 1888. His career since that time has won him promotion and his record for saving life has placed his name upon the department's roll of honor. He was promoted to a lieutenancy December 22, 1893, and to a captaincy February 18, 1898. Captain O'Connor is a trustee of the Boston Firemen's Relief Association, Boston Firemen's Charitable Association, a member of Farragut Lodge, Ancient Order United Work- men, Mt. Vernon Council, Knights of Colum- bus, and president of the Bachelors' Club.
J. FRANK O'HARE, printer, was born in 1875, and came to South Boston when a child, receiving his education in the pub- lic schools after which he learned the trade of pressman. Always having an interest in matters pertain- ing to the interests of South Boston, he entered politics. In 1900 and 1901 he represented Ward 14 in the Common Council, and suc- ceeded in having passed the first appropriation of $7000 for the ob- servance of Evacu- ation Day. He also secured an appro- priation of $3500 for the extension of P Strect, from Sixth Street to the Strandway and $9500 for the gymnasium for the M Street play-ground. Hc was elected to the Legislature for 1903 and was instrumental in having a resolu- tion passed protesting against taking Castle Island and to have it preserved for park pur- poses. He is a member of the Democratic Com- mittee, Division 13, A. O. H., Robt. Fulton Council K. C., Somerset Associates, City Point Catholic Ass'n and Pressmen's Union 67.
JAMES F. O'DONNELL, undertaker and
embalmer, was born in South Boston in 1861, and is a son of Michael and Ann O'Donnell. He received his early education in the public schools of this district, and after concluding his studies at the Law- rence Grammar School he entered the undertaking business, and has been engaged in it since that time. Hle worked at his chosen profession until 1882 when he entered business for himself at 224 West
Broadway. He re- mained at that place for a short time, his business being such that more commodious quarters were necessary, and he then moved to his present place of business, 204 West Broadway, where he has been located for the past fifteen years. Mr. O'Donnell is one of the oldest business men in his line in South Boston, having been in the undertaking business more than nineteen years, during which time he has had charge of very large funerals. He is a member of Division 58, Ancient Order of Hibernians.
A NDREW L. O'TOOLE was born in South Boston, March 25, 1878, and is a son of Patrick and Hannah O'Toole. He received his education in the public schools of this dis- trici, graduating from the Bigelow Grammar School in 1892. He then entered the English High School from which he graduated in 1895. In 1896 he won the New Eng- land and National Inter-scholastic walking champion- ships, both for in and out door
Finishing his studies, he entered business life as a clerk and worked himself up. has been interested in public affairs tor several years and took active part in local politics as soon as he became of age. He was elected to the Common Council by the Democrats of Ward 13 for 1901 and 1902, and to the Massachusetts House of Representatives for 1903.
Ile is a member of Robert Fulton Council, K. of C .; Division 58, A. O. H., Irish-Amer- ican Club, Shawinut Rowing Club and Irish Charitable Society.
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HISTORY OF SOUTH BOSTON.
M ILTON C. PAIGE, wholesale milk dealer, was born in Manchester, N. H., December S, 1861. His father was Orlando Paige. a prominent business man, and his mother was Susan Clark, a sister of Col. Charles R. Clark, a well known military man. At the age of 16 young Paige came to Boston and learned the business of stationary engineer, securing a position with the Boston Steam Laundry in Jamaica Plain. He remained here two years. relinquishing the position owing to ill-health. After working at the milk business a short time, he embarked for himself in ISSI. Since then he has secured a large and lucrative trade. besides attending to other important matters, notably his largely accumulated real estate. including a large stock farm in New Hampshire, surrounding Mosquito Pond. near Manchester.
Entering political life even before coming of age, he has ever been affiliated with the Republican party, having served on the ward committee many years and elected to the Board of Aldermen for IS97 and ISgS by the voters of Boston, serving on important committee, and ably representing the city and attending to the needs of South Boston. On the election of Mavor Thomas N. Hart. in 1900. he was appointed Superintendent of Public Buildings. which position he held during that administration.
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