Biography of James Pike
John Pike, a key figure in the Connecticut branch of the Pike family, settled in Salem, Massachusetts, in 1664. From him descended Jonas Pike, who had four sons, including David. David’s son, William, advanced dyeing techniques in the early 19th century and eventually founded William Pike & Co. His son, James Pike, born in 1826 in Sterling, excelled in the dyeing industry, creating a superior black dye and establishing the Sterling Dyeing and Finishing Company. James was also active in local politics and civic duties.