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 EORGE W. GRAY, a prominent citizen of Humbolt, is the leading merchant of the village, and also the owner of an estate containing 120 acres of fine farming land in the vicinity. He was born June 3, 1827, in Greene County, Pa., and is the son of John and Rhoda (Bane) Gray. John Gray was likewise a native of Pennsylvania, and the son of David and Elizabeth (Baston) Gray. He was a farmer and miller by occupation, and in 1830 left his native State, moving further westward, and settled in Athens County, Ohio, purchasing a farm in Hocking Valley. During the summer he cultivated his farm, and in the winter operated the Athens mill, for the firm of Miles & Matheny. He was successful in both lines of business, and passed the remainder of his life there, his death occurring in 1848. His wife was the daughter of Mordecai Bane, and was also a native of Pennsylvania. George Gray was a graduate of the High School at New Albany, Athens County, and at the close of his studies there, determined to enter one of the professions, and with this aim in view, began the study of medicine at Hibbardsville, under the instruction of Dr. Dixon. At the close of the first year his preceptor died, which event influenced him to change his plans. He returned to the farm and engaged in its various duties, and about a year later his father’s death occurred. This event caused a change in family affairs, and he then decided to come west. On his arrival in Illinois, he first located at Jacksonville, and remained there a year, engaged in stock-dealing with an uncle. He then came to Coles County, and operated a saw and grist mill near Westfield, for the firm of Brown & Hite. The business proved successful, and he remained there seven years. At the expiration of that time he took charge of the Westfield mill for three years, and then moved to Charleston, where he engaged in the grocery business with Mr. Hullman. He remained there from 1860 to 1865, and then left Charleston and opened a grocery store at Humbolt. Five years later he enlarged his business, making it a general store, and has since made this place his home. April 24, 1855, Mr. Gray was married to Miss Mary E. Brown. Her parents, William and Clara (Salmon) Brown, were natives of Ohio, but subsequently removed to Madison, Ind., where Mrs. Gray was born. April 18, 1836. Mr. Brown was an engineer and mechanic, and successfully carried on his trade in Madison. Mr. and Mrs. Gray had a family of eight children, only four of whom are now living. The following is their record: Marietta, Mary, Belle, Rhoda, Clara, William, Jennie Maude and Jessie Blanche. Belle became the wife of Thomas I. Smith, a farmer residing in this township; Rhoda, Jennie and Jessie reside at home. The daughters are accomplished young ladies, and Rhoda is a graduate of the Oxford Female College, of Ohio. She possesses a vigorous mind and enjoys active employment. She is a fine musician, and utilizes her talent by giving instructions in music, and spends her leisure time assisting her father in the store. Mr. Gray has been successful in both of his business enterprises. In conducting his farm he gives special attention to stock-growing, and has commenced raising thoroughbreds. He possesses an unusual degree of executive ability, supervising his farm and store with equal facility. He was appointed Postmaster by Andrew Johnson, and retained the office until the reins of Government changed hands, filling the position ably and satisfactorily. Mr. Gray has been a Deacon and Trustee in the Presbyterian Church for many years, and is always interested in promoting measures calculated to benefit the community. He owns his store and residence, besides several vacant lots in town and other property. In politics, he is a stanch Republican. |
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