USA > Michigan > Genesee County > Biographical history of Genesee County, Michigan > Part 20
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While in college at Albion he became acquainted with the young lady who later became his wife. This was Martha A. Dutton, who was born January 12, 1830, in Oneida county, New York. They were married in
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Albion December 19, 1849. After their marriage they went to Jackson, Michigan, purchased a Jackson wagon and loaded it with their household goods that had been brought from Albion to Jackson. With this equipment they drove through from Jackson to Grand Blanc to their farm, where they continued to live until April, 1863. They then rented out their farm and removed to Flint. He then engaged in the produce business and continued at that for about thirty-eight years. He showed a fine talent for business and made a cardinal principle to deal fairly and honestly in all matters, how- ever trivial. Death ended his labors August 31, 1904. He was called upon to fill places of trust and responsibility. He was identified as a director with the Genesee County Savings Bank from the time of its organization until his death and was one of the moving spirits in the growth and prosperity of that institution. Religiously inclined he took an effective part in the work of the First Baptist church of Flint, as did also his esteemed and highly re- spected wife. Their children were six in number, enumerated here in order : Martha J. is the wife of William H. Pier; Enos D., Charles S., Anna H., wife of William H. Edwards; Fredrick J. and Alice A., wife of A. M. Grieve.
Charles S. was born in Grand Blanc township July 9, 1860. He was three years old when his parents moved to Flint. Here he was brought to manhood and was educated in the public schools of Flint. After completing his school course he took charge of his father's farm in Grand Blanc town- ship. He remained on the farm for twenty-two years, and by dint of close application and vigorous effort succeeded in bringing the farm up to a high state of cultivation and productiveness.
Mr. Pierson was married September 21, 1882, to Miss Carrie Knapp, of Seneca Castle, Ontario county, New York. She was born there August 24, 1860, and was the daughter of Albert N. and Margaret (Stevens) Knapp. Mrs. Knapp was a native of New York state. She died at Seneca Castle May 9, '1896, having attained the age of sixty-six years. Six children were born to them, of whom Carrie was the second.
Mr. and Mrs. Pierson are the parents of two daughters, Margaret S. and Harriet K. In the spring of 1903 the family came to Flint and Mr. Pierson has since engaged in handling real estate and in buying and shipping wool. He has become firmly established as one of the reliable business men of Flint. The family are devoted members of the First Methodist church.
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DAVID CRAWFORD.
One of the best appointed clothing stores in the city of Flint is the one under the name of Crawford & Zimmerman. Their facilities for handling suits are the very latest kind, while their stock is always up-to-date, ample and thoroughly reliable. Mr. Joseph H. Crawford, of the above firm, was born in Otisville, Genesee county, Michigan, on November 7, 1860. His par- ents were David and Cornelia (Murray) Crawford, his father having emi- grated with his parents to the United States from his birthplace in northern Ireland in an early day, he being at that time about twelve years of age. They settled first at Ypsilanti, coming later to Otisville. His paternal grandparents were James and Mary Crawford, while those on his mother's side were Barney and Ruth Murray.
Joseph's father operated a sawmill near Otisville, did some farming and in later years came to Flint, where he died February 7, 1892, aged sixty-six years, after having farmed so successfully as to acquire three hundred acres of good, well-improved land. Joseph's mother still survives and is a woman who loves "home" best of all. Out of a family of nine children, three died when young. One son. James M., died in 1907. He was proprietor of a leading bazaar store at Oxford. Two daughters, Melissa and Isabel, are un- married; Anna, formerly a teacher in Flint, became the wife of Mr. F. G.
19
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Matthewson. Alexander is a successful carriage manufacturer of Kalamazoo, Michigan.
Joseph remained on the farm until eighteen years of age, acquiring a high school diploma from the Flint schools in the meantime. He then went into office work, becoming bookkeeper for a reputable local business house, and followed this work for a number of years. All this time he was acquiring valuable training, and was shaping in his own mind a broad and fundamental estimate of the principles of business success. In 1890 he opened up business at the present stand in company with Frank D. Wright, now of Chicago. Under the name of Crawford & Wright they conducted a lucrative trade until 1903, when the changes were made in the firm as indicated in the present name. Close attention to business, upright dealing and a progressive spirit have made it necessary for the firm to carry a heavy stock approaching $30,000, in order to supply the extensive patronage. Their annual sales frequently exceed $60,000, making it necessary to employ from five to six competent men constantly to wait on the trade.
Mr. Crawford's associations have been long continued and pleasant. He was elected grand commander of the Knights Templar of Michigan in June, 1906, having previously served for nine years in various positions in the Grand Commandery, and has also been eminent commander of Genesee Valley Com- mandery, No. 15, Knights Templar, besides having at one time or another served in various capacities in the local lodge. He is an A. A. O. N. M. S .; also a Scottish Rite Mason of the Detroit consistory, having reached the climax of being a thirty-second degree Mason several years ago.
He was married October 10, 1900, to Miss Blanch Palmer, daughter of Charles Palmer, of Imlay City. She has borne him one child. Charles David. now four and one-half years old.
Mr. Crawford has taken an aggressive stand for civic improvement, and has been closely identifled with such movements as those that had for their aim the welding together of the forces of progress, so that by united effort, effective work for the advancement of the city's best interests might be accomplished. He is president of the Flint Improvement League. This or- ganization is making itself felt in business and civic circles. In this respect the city of Flint is in line with similar organizations in the more pretentious metropolitan centers. They are becoming more and more necessary to the growth and progress of municipal affairs. Mr. Crawford is also president
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of the Masonic Temple Association, which has in view the erection of a magnificent temple in the city. His work in this capacity will without a doubt prove as effective and as satisfactory as have his achievements in the past.
FRED R. OTTAWAY.
Fred R. was born December 18, 1867, and in 1887 came to Flushing to help his father build and operate the elevator there. He continued this till the partnership ceased, and then managed it in company with his brother, Claude, till 1905. He has shown great interest in stock raising and has an eye for good blood in animals. He runs the Pioneer stock farm, raises short- horn cattle, Berkshire hogs, fine sheep, etc., and never fails for premiums at the local fairs.
He was married January 17, 1893, to Miss Nettie M. Phelps, daughter of Cyrus Phelps, the hardware merchant in Flushing. She was born at Buffalo, New York, educated in the Chicago public schools, and also attended Val- paraiso University of Indiana. At one time she taught in the public schools of Flushing. Their children are Marion E., Ralph J., Stewart, and Marjorie.
Mr. Ottaway is a Republican and has served as township treasurer and also supervisor. He was made a member of a building committee of five men for the construction of the new courthouse, this demonstrating the con- ficence that is placed in his ability and integrity.
MRS. THOMAS A. WILLET.
The life history of Thomas A. Willett is one of interesting and varied experiences. His parents, William Thomas and Julia Ann ( Pritchard) Wil- let, were natives of Canada. His father was a sailor and had attained the position of captain when he died of cholera in Montreal in 1854. His mother lived to quite an advanced age. Six children were born to this union, of whom Thomas was the oldest and the only son. He was born in the province of Quebec, New Richmond, Bonaventure, April 7, 1842, and here spent his boyhood days up to his twelfth year. He then went out to sea with his father, and for the next two years served as cabin boy on his father's vessel. He continued the sailor's life until 1861, and had many exciting experiences with storm and wave.
His next move was to enlist in the United States navy, in which service he continued until 1864. This period of his life was also filled with many ups and downs. Conspicuous among these was a close call while in the con-
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test for the capture of Ft. Henry on the Tennessee river. He had been assigned to the gunboat, the "Essex." when the boilers of the vessel were exploded by the bursting of a shell. Mr. Willet was close at hand and suffered scalding, and his body was so riddled that twenty-one wounds were counted. For three hours he lay in a semi-conscious state. being able to realize what was going on around him, but unable to speak or make any move or demonstra- tion. His life hung apparently by a thread, but strength finally returned and he ultimately recovered his health.
After the close of the war he repaired to New York state and became engaged at carpentering, following this until 1867. He then came west to Michigan, and for three years followed carpentry at Battle Creek. In 1883 he came to Flint, continuing his trade, but also forming a partnership with E. J. Bennett, manufacturers of carbonated soda water. He was one of the firm for nine years and is now living chiefly a retired life.
His first marriage was in Battle Creek. Michigan, to Miss Emily W. Jones, who was born at Scipio, New York. They were the parents of three children -- Fred S., Francis S. and Anna O. The mother died at Maple Rapids, Michigan, May 2, 1881.
He was again married on June 30, 1886, to Miss Elise A. Judd, who was born in Flint, and was the daughter of Richard and Mary (Gayton) Judd, who were natives of Devonshire, England. They came to Genesee county in 1851 and settled in Flint. Mrs. Judd died in Flint in 1889. having reached the age of sixty-five years. Mr. Judd passed away in 1896 at the age of seventy years. Three children were born to them in Flint. viz., George H., Thirza, and Elise.
Mr. and Mrs. Willet are active members in the Episcopal church and are closely identified with many of the leading orders and societies of the city. Mr. Willet has held some of the chief places of trust and honor in the lodges of Odd Fellows and Maccabees. He was a charter member of the first canton of Odd Fellows organized here and was its first presiding officer. Mrs. Willet taught in the city schools of Flint for nine years, and has been a member of the Columbian Club for some time, giving many of her spare hours to the work. She is one of the leaders in the literary life of the city and is responsible in a measure for the lively spirit and aggressive activities of those interested in this phase of the city's social achievements. Mr. and Mrs. Wil- let are held in high esteem and are the subjects of good wishes on the part of a host of friends.
GEORGE GORDON MARSHALL.
This gentleman was born in Huron county, Ohio, November 23, 1842. His father, Abel, died when George was twelve years old. George then worked at farm work by the month with a Mr. Wolverton for three years. In 1857 his mother, with three children, removed to Michigan and settled in Thetford township. She had traded her Ohio farm, the man with whom she made the deal agreeing to bring her and her family through to their destination. George returned to Ohio, doing a man's work, remain- ing with the said Wolverton until 1861. He then rejoined his mother, who later married Orrin Seeley and continued to live in Thetford township until her death at the age of eighty-three. The children were Francis, Sarah, George, Philip, and Eliza, Sarah becoming married to one of the sons of Mr. Seeley.
In February, 1862, Mr. Marshall enlisted in Company I of the Tenth Michigan Volunteer Infantry under Colonel Thompson. He served until the close of the war, being veteranized at the end of the second year, August 4. 1864. His service was chiefly in the army of the Cumberland, beginning at Corinth and extending through Tennessee, Alabama and the Atlanta cam- paign to the sea. He participated in twenty-four skirmishes and engagements and was promoted first to corporal and then to the rank of sergeant. His
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experiences in these activities were such as were characteristic of the war. Excessive marches, narrow escapes, fearful and gory conflicts followed in quick succession. On one march, upon reaching camp, but two men of the company reported, Lieutenant Algeo and himself. They stated that they could not stack arms, but they could report the presence of the company. At the close of the war he was discharged with his comrades at Jackson, Michi- gan. During all this exposure and carnage he was neither wounded nor cap- tured, but his coat was shot through so many times that he would not bring it home. There are many trophies to be found in his home, kept as memorials of the struggle. Among these are his old knapsack, canteen, and a belt belong- ing to a lieutenant killed at Atlanta.
After his return and discharge he went to Pit Hole, Pennsylvania, near Oil City, where oil fields were abundant. Later he returned to Thetford township and engaged in farming, moving later to Genesee township. Here he cleared and improved land and brought his farm up to a high degree of convenience and excellence, having a large house and barns. Coming later to Flint he has built excellent residences, the one on East Court street being a desirable one with spacious grounds. He has taken a lively interest in the general affairs of the city, but has not aspired to local offices or appointments.
In 1866 he was married to Miss Anna Fletcher, of Thetford township. who died in 1883. She was the mother of five children-George Thomas died in infancy; Ethel is the wife of Charles Pettingill, a farmer of Thetford township; Phila Mary died in infancy : Orrin is still at the Flint homestead. In 1894 Mr. Marshall was married to Miss Eva Billings, of Flint, the daugh- ter of Albert Billings, another patriot and soldier of the Civil war.
Mr. Marshall is a member of General Crapo Post, Grand Army of the Republic, and has attended many of the Grand Army national encampments. He has taken delight in traveling over the country he fought so nobly to de- fend, and has been permitted to see nearly all the sections of the common- wealth. He is now reaping a well deserved rest and a rich enjoyment of the heritage of life in the greatest republic of the earth.
STEPHEN CROCKER.
For more than half a century Mr. Stephen Crocker, of Flint, was a prominent character in Genesee county, assisting as much as any other man in ts marvelous development. England never contributed a sturdier mem- ber to the band of pioneers that made the wilderness "blossom as the rose."
Mr. Stephen Crocker was born in the parish of Fremington, near Barn- staple, County of Devon, England, on the 14th day of June, 1817. He was one of thirteen children, five of whom emigrated to America to tempt fortune in a strange land. Mr. Crocker came to Michigan and to Genesee county in 1843, arriving on the 19th day of June, in company with his sister. Caroline, who afterward became Mrs. Silas Pierce, and the mother of Mrs. F. H. Rankin, Jr.
Mr. Crocker's brother. George, had settled in New York in 1832 and in 1836 located in Genesee county. Michigan. After spending a year or two on a rented farm in Grand Blanc George Crocker moved to Flint township in 1838 and settled on a piece of government land which he had taken up. Stephen Crocker also purchased two pieces of land from the government. but these were afterward sold to Robert Dullam, who, with his wife ( formerly Mary Ann Crocker), came to Michigan about two years later. The settlement in the wilderness soon became known as the Crocker settlement, the name
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which it bears to this day. Mr. Crocker visited England a number of times, making nine trips across the Atlantic.
Stephen Crocker resided in Genesee county continuously for a period of sixty-two years and for over forty years in Flint, and died on the 27th day of November. 1905. He was married in 1848 to Prudence Dullam, who came originally from the same parish in England that was honored by the birth of Mr. Crocker. The estimable couple enjoyed fifty-seven years of wedded hap- piness, sharing together the privations and hardships of pioneer life in a new country, and the years of prosperity and comfort that came in after years as a richly merited reward. Their union was blessed with five children, one of whom died in infancy; another daughter. Sophie (Mrs. James Pierson). mother of Mr. Harry Pierson, of Flushing, Mich., passed to the land of eternal rest and peace in 1878, her death occurring at a time when Mr. and Mrs. Crocker were visting their old home in England. The son, Thomas Crocker, grew to manhood and died in Flint a few years preceding the death of his parents. The two surviving children at the time of the death of Mr. and Mrs. Crocker were two daughters. Mrs. Lester H. Henderson and Mrs. Edwin O. Wood, both of whom reside in the city of Flint.
Mrs. Crocker only survived her husband five weeks and went up higher on the 2d day of January, 1906.
Mr. and Mrs. Crocker were identified with everything that tended to up- build Flint and Genesee county, and in religious, educational and social mat- ters, were held in high esteem and respect by all. Hospitable, generous, and possessed of inherent integrity and sincerity. they have left their imprint on the entire community where they lived, and their influence for good will remain for years to come. They were actively identified with St. Paul's Epis- copal church, Flint, and aided materially in making it possible to erect the beautiful edifice occupied by the parish.
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WILLIAM GILMORE.
America is much indebted to Europe for many of her staunch and loyal citizens. Among the many contributors to the tide of immigration is Ireland, which has certainly sent us her quota. One of these was William Gilmore, who was born in County Cavin, Ireland, on April 30, 1831. He emigrated to America in 1850, taking up his quarters in Cayuga county, New York. Three years later he came over to Michigan and settled in Argentine township, Livingston county.
He built himself a log cabin, but worked out most of the time, making from fifteen to twenty dollars per month. Three or four years later he bought a tract of heavy timber land in Vernon township, Shiawassee county. On this he built a log house, but later, in 1872, he put up a good substantial frame dwelling. He has also erected good barns and has been able to add more land to his farm from time to time, thus showing not only thrift, but economy as well. At one time he sold a part of the original farm to his brother, Hugh, who died several years ago.
Mr. Gilmore was married on October 18, 1860, to Anna Jane Stringer. of Wayne county. Their experience when going to housekeeping was not unlike that of many another of our pioneer citizens. Having neither horse nor cow Mr. Gilmore soon paid for a cow by ditching at daily wages. Mrs.
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Gilmore's father presented her with a horse. This they soon traded for an ox team, but in a year or two the ox team was replaced by a good span of horses.
Just at this time the fearful contest for the flag was in full swing. True to the love of freedom burning within his breast Mr. Gilmore stood ready to leave his wife and babes and enlist for the defense of the stars and stripes. The recruiting officer, however, advised him to refrain for a while, saying that good men were also needed at home.
Mr. Gilmore believed in the maxim that "nothing venture, nothing have." He would often sell off the last cow he had on the farm. He would fre- quently buy a piece of land just because some one wanted to sell it. At one time the only payment he made for a forty-acre farm was his note, given without security. A little later he sold the same tract back to the original owner at considerable advance. His wife shared with him in their efforts at economy. As soon as they got out of debt they assumed another in order to get busy.
Out of a family of nine children six are now living. D. David H. is a mechanic at Owasso; William H. is a tile manufacturer at Durand: Elmer M., Winford L. and Ward B. are living on different sections of the old homestead, and Myrtle V. is married to Charles Markley, a clothing mer- chant of Gaines.
Although a Republican Mr. Gilmore believes in the principles of pro- hibition. He has been a school director for thirteen years, is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, has been superintendent of the Sunday school, class leader and an organizer of classes in his day.
Even though busy with home interests Mr. Gilmore has found time to do considerable hunting and traveling. He has seen all of Michigan and has satisfied himself as to what Florida is like. But in all his reflections nothing gives him more satisfaction than the fact that he has never had a law suit with any one.
HON. SIMEON REXFORD BILLINGS.
Hon. Simeon Rexford Billings, late of Flint, was born in Orleans county, New York, March 17, 1835, and died near Flint, Michigan, November 12, 1905. Mr. Billings was active in public life, having filled many places of trust and responsibility. His education was obtained in Albion Academy, but he had supplemented this by wide reading, close observation and active participation in the affairs of Richfield township. In 1875 he was sent to the state legislature as representative from his district, filling the place so ac- ceptably that he was returned the next term, and after that was again sent, this time as senator.
He was also appointed state railway commissioner by Governor Rich. His activity in the state assembly was such as to attract considerable public notice. He took broad and optimistic views of questions brought before the body, and when the matter of legislation dealing with the practice of medicine came up his utterances drew forth newspaper cartoons, one of which repre- sented him as being dissected by a body of physicians. He made an energetic fight in behalf of the State Normal at Ypsilanti and succeeded also in obtaining favorable legislation for the state school located at Flint. His paramount interest, however, was in his farm, to which he devoted the major part of his energy. He earned the well deserved reputation of being the most suc-
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cessful and progressive farmer in this section of the state. He soon bcame widely known not only for his progressive ideas and experimental knowledge, but he had also the ability to express himself in a clear and effective manner. Consequently he was greatly in demand as a speaker and made numerous addresses before the farmers' institutes. He was an easy and fluent talker, and was well informed on all topics of interest, hence he was called upon for addresses in various capacities. He made the speech introducing Governor Rich to the committee that announced his nomination as governor. He was an apt story teller, a good after-dinner entertainer, and an excellent toast- master. He was an ardent supporter and friend of the tariff idea, and was always ready with telling arguments in defense of his views.
His farm was known far and wide as a place of open and genial hos- pitality. He loved to entertain his friends and was very popular with the young people of the community, his rich fund of humor and keen witticisms keeping his guests in a continual uproar of laughter. He could see the bright side of life, and was successful in throwing sunshine into the lives and hearts of his host of acquaintances.
In the industrial line. also, Mr. Billings was far from being a blank. He invented and patented a door catch, which he manufactured and put on the market. This proved quite a success and resulted in a good income. He was an expert mechanic about the farm, installed his own water works, put up substantial buildings and in every way made his farm his pride.
He was also broad-minded in his religious views, and his doors were always open to the ministers of the neighborhood. He helped generously in the support of the messengers of the glad tidings, and took a firm stand. also, on the question of temperance.
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