Claremont New Hampshire

Biography of Hon. Ira Colby

Hon. Ira Colby, born January 11, 1831, in Claremont, New Hampshire, emerged as a prominent lawyer and public figure. Descended from distinguished English ancestry, he pursued education at Dartmouth College after teaching in New Hampshire and Massachusetts. A committed Republican, Colby served multiple terms in the New Hampshire legislature, was a county solicitor, and notably declined an appointment as Associate Justice of the Supreme Court. He married Louisa M. Way in 1867 and continued his family’s Methodist legacy through active church involvement.

Biography of Horace Childs

Horace Childs, born on August 10, 1807, in Henniker, N.H., was a distinguished railroad bridge builder linked to a prominent lineage tracing back to 1630 in Massachusetts. After assisting his father in various construction projects, he took on bridge contracts, notably for the New Haven Hartford Railway, which led to substantial profits and innovations in design. A dedicated community member, Childs supported education and served as a deacon in his church. He married Matilda R. Taylor in 1837, and their family lineage is also notable for longevity.

Biography of Frederic Augustus Briggs

Frederic Augustus Briggs, born on September 9, 1838, in Charlestown, New Hampshire, hailed from a distinguished lineage tracing back to the medieval English family of De Ponte. His father, Joseph Gilman Briggs, was a notable cabinet-maker and community leader in Claremont, where he engaged in various enterprises and public offices. Frederic married Juliette Rebecca Cowles and fathered several children, contributing to the continuation of his family’s legacy in the region. His life reflects the blend of personal accomplishment and deep familial heritage.

Biography of Charles Mortimer Bingham

Charles Mortimer Bingham, born on February 22, 1804, in New London, Connecticut, was a prominent merchant in Claremont, New Hampshire. After training in general merchandise, he established a successful business in hardware and dry goods. Bingham served his community as a representative and town treasurer while being an active member of the church as a chorister. He married three times and had six children. Known for his integrity, energy, and musical talent, he passed away on March 5, 1888, at eighty-four, leaving a lasting legacy in Claremont.

Biography of William O. C. Woodbury

William O. C. Woodbury, born on February 26, 1818, in Acworth, N.H., was a prominent businessman in Claremont and a leading member of the Odd Fellows in Sullivan County. Following in his father’s footsteps as a clock repairer, he initially worked in a silverware store before establishing his own successful business. A charter member of the Sullivan Lodge, he played a crucial role in its reinstatement in 1872. Woodbury was known for his generosity and good judgment. He married Polly M. Spencer and passed away on December 29, 1875.

Biography of Cyrus E. Baker, M.D.

Cyrus E. Baker, M.D., born on April 9, 1835, in Plainfield, N.H., was a prominent physician and oculist originating from a longstanding family with roots tracing back to the 17th century. After receiving an education at Kimball Union Academy, he relocated to Kansas during its tumultuous era to secure land while supporting Union efforts against slavery. Graduating from the College of Physicians and Surgeons in 1862, he served as an acting assistant surgeon in the Civil War. Returning to Claremont post-war, he specialized in ophthalmology and was later involved in local medical societies.

Biography of Edward Dimick Baker

Edward Dimick Baker, born April 21, 1827, in Meriden, N.H., was a prominent lawyer and advocate in Claremont. A graduate of Kimball Union Academy, he studied law under notable judges and was admitted to the bar in 1851. As a fearless lawyer, he championed public interests and opposed unnecessary spending. Politically active as a Republican, he served in the General Court and held various positions of trust. Married to Elizabeth Ticknor, Baker was regarded for his honorable character and commitment to charity. He passed away on February 1, 1895.

Biography of George William Dunbar

George William Dunbar, born on February 15, 1822, in Westmoreland, NH, was the son of a respected family with Scottish roots. He apprenticed in harness-making and later embarked on a whaling voyage before engaging in a millinery business with his brother. Driven by the California gold rush, he made multiple trips to the mines but ultimately returned to New Hampshire, where he became a village merchant. Dunbar was active in local politics and church, marrying twice and raising four children.

Biography of Bridgeman Hapgood

Bridgeman Hapgood, born in 1800, was a prosperous merchant and influential politician in Vermont. He notably served as Postmaster, Justice of the Peace, and Town Clerk, and represented Reading in the legislature. Despite facing financial challenges, he maintained his integrity, refusing to defraud anyone during a bankruptcy crisis. Hapgood was involved in various businesses including starch and woolen goods, and he retired from hardware in Claremont. He married Laura M. Weston and had three children before his death in 1877.