Terrence W. Rice, nurseryman of Geneva, New York, belongs to that class of citizens who, although undemonstrative in their natures, nevertheless form the character and mold the society of the communities in which they live. This class it is that develops our great manufacturing interests, spreads our commerce, and furthers enterprises of all kinds. They, above all others, develop our cities and towns, and they alone deserve the credit for it.
John Rice, father of Terrence W. Rice, was born in Dundalk, Ireland, in 1845, and came to this country about the year 1868. He was industrious and painstaking, and was a foreman in the Washington street nursery for a period of about twenty years. He married, in Ireland, Catherine Rafferty, born in that country in 1849, died in America, June 22, 1902. She was a lovable woman and devoted to her home and family. Children : 1. John P., born in 1870, married, in February, 1892, Anna S. Dailor, and has had children: John F., born in 1904: Timothy R., 1905; Marie, 1907: Helen, 1908. 2. Terrence W.. mentioned forward.
Terrence W.. son of John and Catherine (Rafferty) Rice, was born August 4, 1872, and owes his present high standing in the financial and social world to his own unaided efforts and energy. His education was the usual one acquired by a boy in moderate circumstances, but this has been largely supplemented by later study and keen powers of observation, together with the desire to make progressive advancement in the calling he adopted, and for which he seems to he so eminently fitted. He commenced at the bottom of the ladder and in this manner has become thoroughly acquainted in a practical manner with even the smallest details in his business. now (1910) he is at the head of one of the large wholesale and retail nurseries, and the business is increasing annually at a very satisfactory rate. Mr. Rice has about one hundred acres of land under cultivation, employs from thirty to fifty men constantly, and his annual sales amount to from $65,000 to $95.000. he has dealings with all parts of the United States and Canada. and bears a well deserved reputation for the quality of the goods which he delivers, which consist of fruit and ornamental trees, shrubs of all kinds, and all other plants generally to be found in nurseries. He is a member of the Catholic church, and in politics entertains independent views. His social affiliations are with the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, the Knights of Columbus, and the Grange. The industry and energy of Mr. Rice are exemplified in his career, and his courage and fidelity to principle are worthy of emulation. Scrupulously honorable in all his dealings, he bears a reputation for public and private integrity second to that of no man in the land. Mr. Rice married, February 7, 1910. Helen A., daughter of James Mooney.