Wednesday, April 7, 1915
Observance of 80th Birthday.
(From Sun-American of Lawrence, Mass., March 12th.)
Ingram B. Dodge, a long and respected resident of this city, celebrated his eightieth birthday at his home, 232 Broadway, Thursday. The day was pleasantly spent among his relatives and friends, many of whom availed themselves of the opportunity to call and extend to Mr. Dodge their hearty congratulations and good cheer. Dainty refreshments were served, those assisting, Ruth Wheelock, niece and Bertha Grimes, granddaughter. In addition to the calls there was a shower of post cards, about 150, many coming from out of town. A purse of gold was presented to Mr. Dodge by his immediate relatives, also cut flowers and potted plants. No one seeing him would ever take him to be over sixty-five; he is hale and hearty and takes active interest in the city’s affairs and other matters as well.
Mr. Dodge was born in Middleton, Nova Scotia, in 1835. He was the son of Ambrose and Abbie Dodge. He was named after the famous preacher, Rev. I. E. Bill, for many years pastor of the Pine Grove Meeting House, Middleton. His grandson, at fourteen years of age was called the "Boy Preacher" of his time. Mr. Dodge was one of a large family. There were seven boys and four girls, but three brothers are living, Charles, Robert and Ambrose, all residing in the provinces. At the age of fifteen he came to Salem and learned the carriage business, returning a few years later to the provinces, and engaged in the mill business, setting up saw mills. When he left Salem he carried with him the axles and springs with which he made a three spring express wagon for two horses and this was the first wagon run on axles into Halifax with the exception of the mail coaches. He also made a wagon for his brother Robert that is in use today. He made the first pair of cattle guards at Aylesford Station, N.S. He worked on the opening up of the railroad from Berwick to Waterville, including the big Berwick cut.
Cupid made a trip to the provinces one summer and "Ingram Bill" could not hold out against the little fellow although he had been acquainted with his tricks for fifty years. The pride of his affection came from the United States so Mr. Dodge began to take a sudden liking to return to this country and in 1884 he made the trip and the following year was married to Mrs. Mary A. Grimes, widow of the late Guy Carleton Grimes and mother of Eben Grimes of the firm of Bride, Grimes & Co.
Mr. Dodge took up the carpentry trade, working for the city five years as foreman of the public property department. He worked on many of the school houses, Union Street, and at the time of the cyclone was working on the Essex school house. He worked under Fred Palister and worked for George Smith, contractors, and also the B.& M.R.R. Later years, although not steadily engaged he has been active in various lines of work and was heard to say, "he felt like a boy again."
All wish Mr. Dodge many years of joy.
"We may grow old, but never lose life’s zest; because the road’s last turn will be the best."