(IV) Lieutenant Lester P. Thompson, son of Joshua Thompson, was born September 3, 1840, in Lima, New York. He married, and shortly after the birth of his son, Robert F., he removed to Phelps. New York, where he followed the occupation of a manufacturer of agricultural implements and resided there until shortly before his death, April 25, 1889. He rendered faithful service to his country during the rebellion, serving in the Fifth and Seventh United States Regular Infantry. He became prominent in Grand Army and political circles: a born leader of men, he wielded a powerful influence in that great military organization and in the local political field. He served at one time as senior vice department commander of the State of New York, Grand Army of the Republic. He married Sarah Jane, daughter of William K. and Mary (Butler) Foster. Her parents were both natives of Kent county, England, and came to the United States about 1825. The Foster residence was a safe harbor for escaped slaves making their way to freedom by way of “the underground railway” during slavery days. Mr. Foster was a close friend and confidant of William Lloyd Garrison, Wendell Phillips, Thompson. and other famous anti-slavery leaders.
