GEORGE L. HALL, the efficient superintendent of the Easthampton poor farm, is a native of Simsbury, Conn., where he was born March 28, 1861. His parents were William R. and Mary (Hiland) Hall, the former of whom was born in Vermont in 1840.

William   R.   Hall followed the calling of agriculturist with good success.     When the Civil War broke out in 186l, he entered the army as a volunteer, and during his service received a shell wound in his ankle.    Prior to receiving his honorable discharge he was promoted to the rank of Corporal.    He died at Simsbury in 1891.    His wife, who was born in Ireland, bore him seven children, of whom a daughter died in infancy and a son when four years of age.    The living are as follows : William H. Hall, a successful merchant in Simsbury; George L. ; Frederick C., living on the old homestead; Nellie K., residing with her brothers on the farm; and Joseph L., who assists his brother in the management of the homestead place.    Their mother, who lives with them, receives a widow's pension.

George L. Hall, who was reared to farm life, received a good common-school education. At fifteen years of age he began to work for himself. He had been engaged in different places before he came to Easthampton in 1890 to take charge of the poor farm.    It is a salaried position, and Mr. Hall in his management has proved himself the right man for the place. The house is large and commodious, and the farm, which is small, is in an excellent state of cultivation. There are at present between fifteen and twenty inmates in the institution.

He was married on February 9, 1889, to Miss Margaret Buckner, of Easthampton, a daughter of Clement Buckner and his wife, whose maiden name was Christina Hannah. Her father was born in Germany, and her mother was a native of Scotland. The former died in 1880, leaving his widow with three children, namely: George L. Buckner, a Deputy Sheriff, residing in Easthampton; Clement Buckner, also living in Easthampton; and Mrs. Hall. In his political relations Mr. Hall is a Republican.   He and his wife are highly esteemed members of the Congregational church.

THERON O.   HAMLEN, an enterprising merchant and the Postmaster of Cummington, Mass., was born in that town on April 9, 1842, son of Theron A. and Clarinda (Orcutt) Hamlen, and a grandson of Isaac Hamlen.

Theron A.   Hamlen was also a native of Cummington, where he acquired his education. After completing his studies at the academy there he engaged as a school-teacher. Later he was employed for several years as post rider between his native town and Northampton. In 1848 he went to Bleecker, Fulton County, N.Y., where he first engaged in tanning. This employment, together with lumbering, made an extensive business, which he carried on until 1860, when he removed to Gloversville in the same State. There he became a contractor and speculator, buying land, erecting houses on it, and then selling. In this business he continued for the remainder of his life. His politics were Republican, and while a resident of Bleecker he served in the office of Town Supervisor. His wife, Clarinda Orcutt before marriage, was a daughter of John and Hannah (Richards) Orcutt. Her father was an enterprising and successful farmer and stock-raiser of Cummington, Mass., besides being an extensive wool buyer. She bore her husband one son, Theron O. Hamlen. After her death Theron A. Hamlen married Miss Mary A. Orcutt. Of this second union three children were born, namely: Flora C., who lives at Gloversville, N. Y. ; Ida H., who died at twenty-three years of age; and John R., a resident of Gloversville, N.Y.

Theron O. Hamlen received his education in Bleecker, N.Y., and at Kingsboro Academy. He began his business career as assistant in the post-office at Gloversville, where he remained for five years. Following this he was engaged as a clerk in a dry-goods store for three years. He then went to Cleveland, Ohio, where he secured a position as traveling salesman for the firm of C. B. Smith & Co., dealers in fruits and fancy groceries. After nine years profitably spent in this way he joined his father at Gloversville, N. Y., in the building business, and three years later came to Cummington, Mass., and served as clerk for Mr. Lyman. Not long after, in 1883, he purchased of D. W. Lovell a house and store on Main Street in Cummington, and opened therein a general store. Ten years later, in 1893, the business having outgrown the original quarters, he erected a new store, where he keeps a full assortment of such goods as are generally demanded in a country district. At the same time he built a house and barns. On May 5, 1881, he was joined in marriage with Miss Hattie L. Lovell, a daughter of Jacob and Laura A. (Barrus) Lovell, and their union has been blessed by a son and daughter, namely: Esther L., born November 11, 1891 ; and Harold E., born February 5, 1893. Mr. Hamlen was appointed Postmaster in 1885, and has held the office continuously since that time. He is also the Secretary and clerk of the Cummington Creamery Company. His wife is an active and influential member of the Congregational church.

WOLCOTT HAMLIN, one of the oldest lawyers in Amherst, who was connected with the political centre at Washington during one of the most stirring epochs of the country's history, was born in Livermore, Me., November 4, 1823, son of Isaac and Mary (Wolcott) Hamlin, the former a native of Harvard, Mass., the latter of Bolton. His grandfather, Major Eleazer Hamlin, who also was a native of Massachusetts, was an early settler on Cape Cod. He was an officer in the Revolutionary army, and received for his services grants of land in Ohio and Maine. His last years were spent in Westford, Mass., where he now lies buried. Major Hamlin was a man of considerable force of character, a prominent citizen wherever he made his home. He was three times married, and reared a large family, all of whom have passed away.

His son, Isaac Hamlin, grew to manhood in Harvard, Mass., early becoming familiar with agriculture, and adopting farming for his occupation. The greater part of his life was spent in Livermore, Me., where he was a prominent man. His last days were passed in Dover, N.H.; and there he breathed his last when eighty years of age. In politics Mr. Hamlin was a Whig. In religious belief he followed the teachings of the Baptist church. Mrs. Hamlin, who lived to be seventy-six years old, also spent her last days in Dover, N.H. They had a large family, one of whom died in infancy. Eight children attained maturity; namely, Isaac Green, Samuel B., Hannibal, Henry H., Mary, Lorinda, Augusta, and Wolcott.

Wolcott Hamlin, the subject of this sketch, was the youngest child of the family. He was reared on his father's farm in Livermore, Me., attending the district schools in boyhood, and finishing his education at Kent's Hill   Seminary.   He   taught   school   for a while, and also engaged in other occupations. After spending some time in Boston, he went to Andover, N.H.   In this place he was engaged in mercantile business for some years. He then took up the study of law, reading under Samuel Butterfield, and was admitted to the bar of New Hampshire in 1852. In 1856 he removed to Dover, N.H., and was there appointed Solicitor for Strafford County, his term of service to be five years.   Just before its expiration he resigned, and in 1861 went to Washington, D.C., where for nine years he was engrossing clerk of the Senate. In the mean time he was elected Representative from the city of Dover, N.H., to the national legislature, and served in 1866 and 1867.    In 1870 he was made Supervisor of Internal Revenue for the States of Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont, and filled the office until 1872, when the district was abolished.    In the fall of that year he invested in a large tract of timber land in Connecticut, and for six years was engaged in lumbering; and   in   1878   he   moved   to Amherst, and erected a large building for one of the college societies.    In 1880 Mr. Hamlin again took up the work of his profession, and up to the present time has been actively engaged in legal practice.

On July 3, 1845, Mr. Hamlin was united in marriage with Miss Susan Westman, the ceremony taking place in Boston. Miss Westman, who was a daughter of Peter Westman, of Bath, Me., was born in the latter place, May 1, 1821. Mr. and Mrs. Hamlin had a family of nine children, of whom the following are living: Edward F., who resides in Boston; Emma A., wife of Dr. Danforth, of New York City; John, a lawyer in Thompsonville, Conn.; Mary, wife of Thomas Wood, of Utica, N.Y.; Frederick W., a physician in New York City; and Arthur W., who resides in Amherst.

In politics Mr. Hamlin favors the principles of the Prohibitionists.    He and his wife are members of   the   First Congregational Church, of which he has been Deacon, and is now Treasurer.   Mr. Hamlin's career has been an eventful one.    Engrossing clerk of the Senate during Lincoln's administration, when   his   distinguished   relative, Hannibal Hamlin, was Vice-President, he was in close touch with the pulse of the nation during the Civil War.    He was in Washington at the time of the assassination of President Lincoln and the attempted murder of Secretary Seward, and his two years in the House of Representatives were respectively signalized by the laying of the first Atlantic cable and the purchase of Russian America by the United States.

GEORGE D. HANNUM, an enterprising farmer of Southampton, was born in Westfield, June 3, 1836, son of Theodore and Selemna (Stocking) Hannum. Mr. Hannum's father was born in Chesterfield, and there spent his earlier years.    He subsequently conducted a hotel in Huntington, and likewise paid some attention to farming. He removed to Westfield, where he again engaged in the hotel business, and in connection there with successfully managed a livery business. His wife died in March, 1840, and he survived her but a few months, dying January 16, 1841. They had two children, of whom the first died in infancy.   The other is the subject of this sketch.

George D. Hannum, left an orphan at the age of five years, was. taken charge of by his grandfather, Jaius Hannum, of Agawam, where he was reared and educated. In 1851 his grandfather removed to Southampton, settling on a farm, which he operated successfully until his demise, February 7, 1854, aged seventy-one years.    Though but eighteen years old Mr. Hannum took charge of the estate, and continued to manage its affairs until 1866, when he purchased a part of the farm he now occupies.    The rest of it he has since added to the original purchase, making a snug farm of sixty acres.    All of it is under cultivation, and it shows many recent improvements. Mr. Hannum's operations are marked by ability and foresight, and are always successful.

On June 9, 1856, while living on the old homestead of his grandfather, Mr. Hannum was united in marriage with Eliza E. Strong, born in this town May 9, 1837, daughter of Alpheus and Eliza Strong.    Her parents were early settlers of the locality, and there spent their last years.    Mr. and Mrs. Hannum had four children, as follows: Mabel, born August 2, 1858, who died July 16, 1860; Florence, born November 22,   1860, living at home; George A., born September 2, 1863, now employed in an office in Hartford, Conn. ; and Clayton E., born October 22, 1865, living on the home farm, and assisting in its management.    The   latter is married   to Julia B. Streeter; and they have one child, Iola. In politics Mr. Hannum is a supporter of the Republican party.    He was Selectman from 1876 until 1884, and has been Collector of Taxes for eight years.

CHARLES N. HARLOW, senior member of the firm of C. N. Harlow & Co., of Northampton, Mass., well-known contractors and builders, is a native of Cummington, Hampshire County, born May 13, 1836, son of Charles and Orissa (Mason) Harlow and grandson of Matthew Harlow, born in Abington, Mass., in the year 1770. Matthew Harlow, having been reared in Abington, removed to Cummington, where he bought land, and became quite an extensive farmer.    He was twice married.    His first union was with Rachel Thompson, who died comparatively young, leaving him four children; namely, Matthew, Hattie, Hannah, and Lydia.  He afterward married Persis Parker, widow of Benjamin Parker, and who had two children, Jacob   and Benjamin Parker. Of this second union five children were born; namely, Charles, father of the subject of this sketch, Rachel, Asa, William, and Joseph, all of whom are now deceased. Grandfather Harlow died in 1842, having outlived both of his wives, who had passed away on the Cummington homestead.

Charles Harlow, born in Cummington in the year 1817, spent his early years on his father's farm. When old enough, he learned the tanner's trade of William Hubbard. In 1841 he removed with his family to Amherst, Me., where he worked at his trade as an employee for five years. He was afterward in business for himself for two years in tanning in Murival, Me., remaining there until he was burned out by a fire that was caused by lightning. In 1848 he returned to the place of his nativity, and, purchasing the William Hubbard farm, containing five hundred and twelve acres, engaged in the manufacture of lumber, using the mill on his farm for manufacturing purposes. He also undertook bridge building, and erected thirty of the bridges that cross the Westfield River. Another of his enterprises was a barrel factory, which supplied the Berkshire Glass Works with barrels. He was an important factor in the industrial interests of Cummington, was esteemed for his business capacity and good judgment, and served the town as Selectman for ten years. In 1835 he was united in marriage to Orissa Mason, who was born in Cummington in 1819, being the daughter of Jesse Mason, another pioneer farmer and lifelong resident of Cummington. She had been a schoolmate of the Hon. Henry L. Dawes and of the beloved poet, William Cullen Bryant. Eight children were born to them, of whom a son died in infancy; and a daughter, Sarah J., died when twenty-one years old. Those living are as follows: Charles N., of this sketch: George W.; Ozro F.; Orrissa I., wife of F. E. Brown; Persis O., wife of Charles O. Gloyd; and Willis E. All are residents of this city. The brothers, who have inherited the mechanical ability of their father, are in the building business. Neither of the parents is living, the mother having passed away in 1881 and the father in 1886.

Charles N. Harlow received a substantial common-school education, attending the district schools in Amherst, Me., and in Cummington, Mass. He early turned his attention to mechanical occupations, working with his father until he came of age. Then he went to Detroit, Me., where he made and stamped leather for the F. Shaw Brothers and for the Detroit and Plymouth tanners. In 1859 he went to Roxton Falls, Canada East, and conducted a tannery for F. Shaw & Brothers for three years. He went west in 1866 to Hebron, 111., where he had charge of a busy dairy farm until 1868, when he returned to Cummington. Soon after he purchased the old store of Elisha Mitchell in West Cummington, and ran it for eight years. He then went to Northampton, forming a copartner ship with his brother George; and they have since built up a business as flourishing as any in the city. In 1881 the firm purchased their present establishment. Mr. Harlow bought his residence in 1888, having previously paid rent for it for seven years. In politics he is identified with the Republican party, but has little time for official work. He was elected to the Common Council in 1888, but resigned after serving nine months. He belongs to the Masonic fraternity, being a Knight Templar.

Mr. Harlow was married March 14, 1860, to Lovina S. Howes, a daughter of Henry and Lucy Ann (Simons) Howes. Mrs. Howes died in July, 1887, aged sixty-seven years. and Mr. Howes April 28, 1889, in the seventy-sixth year of his age, leaving seven of their ten children, eight of whom grew to maturity. Of the union of Mr. and Mrs. Harlow five children were born, one of whom, Linus E., died when two years of age. The others are as follows: Lillian L., residing at home, engaged in the millinery business; Charles N., Jr., a salesman in Springfield, married to Lila A. Hannah; Emma P., wife of Alfred B. Montville, a traveling salesman of Northampton, having two daughters; and Henry Howes, a carpenter, a promising young man of nineteen years.

GEORGE   W.   HARLOW, carpenter, contractor, and builder, of the firm of C. N. Harlow & Co., Northampton, was born during the residence of his parents, Charles and Orissa (Mason) Harlow, in Maine, his birth occurring in the town of Amherst, September 5, 1842..

Mr. Harlow was educated in the common schools.   His native mechanical talent was developed while working with his father when a young man.    He remained beneath the parental roof until some time after the breaking out of the Civil War, when, in August, 1863, he enlisted   in defense of the Union. He joined Company C, Fifty-second Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, and served one year, during which he was at the forefront in several hard-fought battles.   At the time of his enlistment he was a strong and rugged man, five feet eleven inches in height, weighing one hundred and eighty-four pounds. After the battle at Franklin, from lying out at night in the rain he took a severe cold, which resulted in a serious lung trouble and diarrhea. In the course of the three following weeks Mr. Harlow lost sixty-three pounds in weight, yet he rejoined his regiment in season for the siege at Port Hudson.   He was, however, disabled from further service, and took no part in that action.    Finally one of his lungs was pronounced "entirely gone"; and he was sent home, supposedly to die.    He returned to his father's house on July 19, 1864, a mere wreck of what he was when he left it less than twelve months before.    His grand constitution, however, and his strong determination to live enabled him to recuperate and after a while to resume his former occupation.    Since 1881 Mr. Harlow, in company with his brother, has been in business at his present stand.

On September 28, 1865, the ceremony uniting Mary Louise Kneeland and George W. Harlow in the bonds of matrimony was performed.    Mrs.   Harlow   is   a   native of Northampton, born September 25,   1842, a daughter of Isaac Newton and Frances N. (Strong)   Kneeland.    Her   maternal grandfather, Seth Strong, was one of the early settlers of Northampton, coming here at a time when wild turkeys and other game were plentiful and the site of the present city was a part of the favorite hunting-ground of the dusky savage.    He was a mason by trade, had much inventive genius, and was a lineal descendant   of   Governor Strong, of Colonial fame.    He and his wife reared two children of the four born to them; namely, Frances N. (Mrs. Harlow's mother) and   Harriet. H. lived to the age of eighty-nine years, dying in 1879.    In the public library of the town is a history of the Strong family, which dates back five generations; and there are also two valuable historical works relating to this locality, published   by Frederick N. Kneeland. Mrs. Harlow's father was very prominent and well-to-do.    He made a good deal of money from machinery which he invented for the manufacture of paper and of ink.   The latter is now used by the government.   He had an income of fourteen hundred dollars per month, but never hoarded it, being generous to a fault.   His brother Joseph married Harriet, another daughter of Seth Strong.    Isaac N. Kneeland was born April 1, 1820, and died April 4, 1860, just as he was to be appointed government printer.   His widow is still living in Northampton,   an active and bright woman of seventy-two years.   She has buried four   of   the seven   children   born   to her, namely:   Emily Jane, who died   in 1847; Charles,   in   1850;   Lillian,   in   1857; and Anna Isabelle, in 1863.   The three who are living are: Mrs. Harlow; Frederick Newton, Cashier of the First National Bank: and Hattie Josephine, residing at Paradise Road with her mother and brother.

The union of Mr. and Mrs. Harlow has been blessed by the birth of six children, as follows: Sarah Gertrude, wife of Charles H. Warren, of Roxbury, Mass., who has one son and two daughters; George F., who graduated from the high school in 1889, and is book-keeper for C. N. Felts; Arthur Bradford, a salesman for the Banister Company; Annie Mabel, a student in the high school; Grace Evelyn, a pupil in the grammar school; and Ralph Eugene, a school boy of eleven years. Mr. Harlow and his family occupy 13 Monroe Street, a pleasant and conveniently arranged house, which he built in the summer of 1895. He is a Master Mason, having been Junior Deacon of his Lodge, and belongs to the William L. Baker Post, No. 86, Grand Army of the Republic, being Sergeant-major of the post. In politics he is a Republican; and he attends the Congregational church, of which Mrs. Harlow is an esteemed and active member.

RICHARD HARNEY, a well to do farmer of Worthington, was born in Blackburn, England, June 15, 1827, son of Richard and Jane (Tomlinson) Harney. Mr. Harney's father was engaged in different kinds of employment, and resided in England until his death. His mother had four other children: Thomas, William, Jane, and John. She also died in England.

Richard Harney commenced to work in a cotton factory at an early age.    Having acquired a good knowledge of the business he was in time advanced to the position of overseer.   On September 30, 1863, he embarked for the United States, in company with his wife and seven children.    After arriving in New York City he went to Cohoes, N. Y., where he found employment in a cotton factory for one year.    He then moved to Easthampton, Mass., and secured a position in another factory of the same kind.    During the eighteen years that he spent there he earned the character of a capable and reliable workman. In 1883 he removed to Worthington and purchased the farm on which he now resides. The property included seventy acres of improved land, which he has since cultivated industriously. He devotes himself chiefly to general farming and dairying.

On December 24, 1847, Mr. Harney was united in marriage to Ann Tempest. She was born in England, March 12, 1827, daughter of John and Mary Tempest, the former of whom was engineer of a large cotton-mill, an occupation which he followed until his death. Both parents of Mrs. Harney died in England. Mr. and Mrs. Harney have had ten children. Six of them survive, and are as follows: John, married to Henrietta Comstock, and foreman of a cotton factory in New Bedford, Mass. ; Mary, wife of James Tetlow, a loom repairer of Adams, Mass. ; Jane, wife of Frederick White, a teamster of Holyoke, Mass. ; Richard, married to Mary Lamprey, and residing in New Bedford, Mass. ; William, wedded to Dora Schroeder, and a mule spinner in Taunton, Mass.; and Sarah, who resides at home. Those deceased were: Thomas, Hannah, Elizabeth, and Joseph.

Mr. Harney was formerly a teacher of a Sabbath-school in England. Both he and his wife are members of the Congregational church in Worthington, and are actively interested in church work.

BENJAMIN T. HARWOOD, a prominent farmer of Enfield, also engaged in butchering, was born in that place on May 6, 1825. He is a son of Abel and Polly (Townsend) Harwood and a grandson of Benjamin Harwood. Benjamin Harwood, who was born in Hardwick, Mass., was one of the early settlers of Enfield. He was both a carpenter and a blacksmith, and followed both trades throughout the active period of his life. He served acceptably as Selectman of his town, and also as a Representative to the State legislature. He was a member of the Orthodox church. His death occurred in Enfield village, when he was eighty-six years of age. He was the father of seven children, all of whom attained maturity, but none are now living. They were: Betsey, Abel, Harriet, Benjamin R., Harlen, Ezra A., and Burnice.

Abel Harwood became a mechanic, and for twenty-seven years was employed in the Woods Brothers' card manufactory at Enfield. Later in life he engaged in the meat business. He lived but fifty-seven years, dying on the old homestead. His wife, whose maiden name was Polly Townsend, bore him six children, of whom four grew to maturity. Of these three are now living, namely: Benjamin T.; Myron W., a carpenter in Springfield, Mass.; and Charles E., a Congregational minister, living in Maine. The deceased were: William C, Elizabeth, and Reuel S.

Benjamin T. Harwood grew to manhood in Enfield, receiving his education in the public schools of that town. He then learned the trade of a butcher; and at his father's decease he proceeded to start in the business alone, and has continued to follow it since that time. For twenty-seven years he ran a meat cart throughout Enfield and vicinity. He has made a specialty of killing veal calves for the Boston market, slaughtering as many as nine hundred in a single year. He has been engaged in this branch of his business during the past forty-six years. In addition to his meat business he owns a good farm, which he carries on with success.

On May I, 1848, he was united in marriage with Miss Lydia P. Chaffee. She died on June 10, 1878. In 1881, on January 11, he married a second time, taking for his wife Miss Frances A. Hutchinson. He is the father of four children- namely, Charles E., George S., Willard I., and Clara J. -all of whom reside in Enfield; and the last named lives at home. Mr. Harwood is one of the best-known residents of Hampshire County, and has a large circle of friends and acquaintances. He votes the Republican ticket.

CHARLES D. HASKELL, an enterprising merchant of Enfield, Hampshire County, Mass., and a substantial citizen of this community, is a son of Ira D. and Adeline E. (Ayers) Haskell. He was born in the adjoining town of Greenwich, Mass., on April 18, 1858; and both his parents were also natives of that town. As early as 1858 Ira Dexter Haskell established himself in mercantile business in Enfield, opening a general store at the stand now occupied by his son, which he continued to conduct in a successful manner up to the time of his death. He took an active interest in town affairs, and was often called upon to fill positions of responsibility and trust. He served as Selectman for a number of years, during the major part of the time acting as chairman of the board, and in the last years of his life he affiliated with the Democratic party. In matters of religion his views were liberal. He died in February, 1887, at sixty-three years of age.    He and his wife, Adeline Elizabeth Ayers, reared one son, Charles Dexter Haskell. Mrs. Adeline E. Haskell survived her husband about four years, dying in 1891.

Charles Dexter Haskell acquired his early education in the public schools of Enfield; and later on, in 1877, he attended Williston Seminary. He entered his father's store in his boyhood as a clerk, continuing in that position until his father's decease, when the full charge of the business devolved upon him; and since that time he has continued to conduct the store on his own account. It today enjoys the distinction of having been established longer than any other house in Enfield. He carries an excellent line of such goods as are found in a first-class general store, and sells at prices as low as consistent with the laws of trade.    Mary Patten Allen, to whom he was united on the 6th of June, 1892, was born in Enfield, Conn., and is a daughter of Horace B. Allen, of West Hartford, Conn. The home of Mr. and Mrs. Haskell has been brightened by the birth of an only son, Ethelbert Allen Haskell.

Mr. Haskell casts his vote with the Democratic party, of which he has ever been a faithful adherent. In religion he is a liberal, and his wife is a communicant of the Congregational church. During his lifelong residence in Enfield, by his faithful attendance to business and integrity in all his dealings Mr. Haskell has won the respect and esteem of his fellowmen, among whom he has many warm and valuable friends.

FRANCIS L.. HATCH, of Huntington, a retired merchant and manufacturer, was born in Worthington, Mass., April 3, 1832, son of William and Abigail (Leonard) Hatch.

Mr. Hatch's father was a lifelong resident of Worthington, and was born in 1797. He followed the trade of a mechanic, and also engaged in agriculture with much success. He was originally a Democrat in politics, but later he joined the Whig party. In his religious opinions he was a Congregationalist, and for many years led the singing in that church in Worthington. He possessed many sterling qualities, and was highly esteemed by his fellow-townsmen as an intelligent and useful citizen. William Hatch was accidentally killed in November, 1843. His wife, Abigail. Leonard in maidenhood, who was born in Worthington in 1802, became the mother of twelve children, as follows: Fordyce EM born in October, 1822; Almond,1 born April 5, 1824; Martha A", born March 14, 1826; Elmira L., born April 5, 1828; Royal F., born April 18, 1830; Francis L., the subject of this sketch; Louisa H., born October 6, 1834; Rosalia M., born April 5, 1837; Carlos W. and Caroline A., twins, born April 19, 1839; Ellen S., born in June, 1841 ; and Anna S., born in May, 1844. The mother died in March, 1894, aged ninety-two years.

Francis L. Hatch began life for himself at the age of seventeen, when he took charge of the finishing department of a basket factory in Knightsville. After following that occupation for a year, he engaged in the manufacture of wooden bowls upon his own account. Failing health then caused him to suspend active labor for two years, and after his recovery he engaged in the manufacture of carriages and sleighs. In 1856 he went to New York City, where he was employed as a clerk in a hardware store for several months. He then went to Oneida, N.Y., where he established himself in the grocery business. At the expiration of a year he was again taken ill; and, disposing of his investment, he returned to Huntington. He resumed his connection with the carriage business, and continued in that employment until 1860, when he became a clerk in New York City. In 1863, in company with his brother, he purchased the business in which he was employed, and engaged in the hardware trade, dealing in stoves and tin ware, etc. The firm became extensive manufacturers of shipping and milk cans, and conducted a successful business until November, 1894, when the feeble condition of his health compelled Mr. Hatch to permanently retire. Having disposed of his business in the metropolis, he once more returned to Huntington for the purpose of settling there permanently; and in February, 1895, he purchased his present farm in Norwich, where he is now engaged in farming. He was formerly a Republican in politics, but at present votes with the Democratic party. He has been a successful business man, and is now enjoying a well-earned rest from the cares of business life.

Mr. Hatch has been three times married. His first wife, whom he wedded on March 9, 1853, was Ellen E. Randall.    She was born in Huntington, March 9, 1836, and had one child, who died in infancy.    She died July 29, 1856.    On September 9, 1859, Mr. Hatch was united in marriage to Mary J. Coit, who was born in Huntington, October 19, 1838. She became the mother of four children, as follows:   Foster L.,   who   married Jane E Cherry, and is engaged in mercantile business in Newark,   N.J.; Frank L.,   who married Carrie York, and is employed in the office of the United States Express Company in Newark; Mabel W., wife of J. Vreeland Harring, a draughtsman of Newark; and Maria, who died at the age of eighteen   months. The mother died   March   16,   1878.    Mr. Hatch then wedded Ella Hayden, who was born in Huntington,   November 19,   1845.   By this union he has two children; namely, Ellen A. and Jennie B.    Mrs. Hatch is a member of the Dutch Reformed church of Newark, N.J.

HORACE HAUNTON, a prominent citizen of Westhampton, and in charge of the Loudville grist-mill, was born in County Norfolk, England, December 13, 1850, son of Thomas and Miriam (Ellis) Haunton, both natives of the same county. Thomas Haunton, who was a shoe-maker, worked at his trade up to the time of his death in 1872. His wife lived through seventeen years of widowhood, passing away in 1889. They had a large family - fifteen children - five of whom died in infancy. The others were named: Miriam, Fannie, Thomas, Sarah, Ellen, Herman, Tabor, Charles, Horace, and Horeb.

Horace Haunton received his education in the national schools of England, and at sixteen started to earn a livelihood in a paper mill. At the end of two years he obtained employment in the chemical works at Thetford, where he remained four years. He had a brother-in-law living in America, from whom he heard good accounts of the country; and in 1872 he sailed for the United States, taking passage on the "James Foster, Jr." The voyage occupied five tedious weeks, and Mr. Haunton was well pleased at the end of that time to find himself in the city of New York. He went direct to Loudville and obtained work in a paper-mill owned by Caleb Loud, remaining three years. In 1875 he went to Georgetown, Province of Ontario, Canada, and, obtaining work in the government mills under the charge of William Barber & Brothers, paper manufacturers, remained something over four years. He returned to Loudville in 1880, and again entered the employ of Mr. Loud. Nine years after he was made superintendent of the mill then owned by Buchanan & Bolt. Subsequently he was given charge of the Loudville grist-mill, which he has conducted for two years, making many important repairs. He is also to some extent engaged in farming.

In 1875 Mr. Haunton was married to Mary J. Clark, a native of Unionville, Conn. Her father, Kenas Clark, sacrificed his life on the altar of patriotism, having been killed in the Civil War. Mrs. Haunton died May 3, 1888, leaving four children, namely: Hermon Victor, now in Easthampton; Percy Claude, Charles Kenas, and Mattie Ellen, at home with their father.   On   December 3,   1890, Mr. Haunton was again married, taking for his wife Susan E., daughter of Franklin and Dorcas Strong, of Westhampton. Mr. and Mrs. Strong are both deceased. Mr. Haunton is a naturalized citizen and a zealous Republican.

He is a member of the A. F. & A. M., belonging to Ionic Lodge of Easthampton. In religious belief he is a Congregationalism and attends the church in Westhampton, in which he leads the choir. While a strong business man, Mr. Haunton appreciates the refinements of life. He is especially a lover of music, as his office in the church choir indicates; and he is always a willing assistant, when not too inconvenient, in any musical project in need of his services.

ROBERT HAY, a leading citizen of Greenwich, and at one time a popular hotel keeper, was born in Buffalo, N.Y., September 17, 1838, son of Henry and Lydia (Higgins) Hay. Henry Hay, who was a native of Scotland, was a carpet manufacturer in the old country; and he was also proficient in the art of frescoing. He emigrated to America in 1824 or 1825, and lived for some years in Utica and Buffalo. Later he was conducting a small business in Rochester, N.Y. An industrious and thrifty man, he attained a fair degree of prosperity, but died at the early age of forty-seven in Massachusetts, where the latter part of his life was spent.   He was twice married. His first wife, Lydia Higgins, mother of Robert Hay, was a native of Buffalo, and died at the age of thirty-one. Besides Robert three children were born to Mr. Hay, namely: Henry, an engineer, who resides in Danvers, Mass.; Allison, widow of Robert Hume; and Elizabeth, widow of the Rev. J. Ashton, who resides in Binghamton, N.Y.

Robert Hay spent his early boyhood in New York State. He became a resident of Connecticut at the age of fifteen. He began to learn carpet-making when a boy of fourteen, and worked at his trade until twenty-six years of age. In 1865 he engaged in the hotel business in Greenwich, assuming charge of the Greenwichville Hotel, which he conducted for six years. He was subsequently proprietor of the hotel at Waltham for three years.

Returning to Greenwich, he was three years engaged in the mercantile business, but re-turned to his former occupation of hotel keeping at the end of that time, taking charge of the Park House at Niagara Falls. At the end of a year he removed to Worcester, where for seven years he was proprietor of the Waverly House. He next took charge of the Massasoit House at Spencer, which he conducted for six years. He then returned to Greenwichville, where he has since resided, retired from the cares of active life. As a hotel man he was very popular, and his enterprise and tact insured success wherever he went.

Mr. Hay was united in marriage with Dolly, daughter of Benjamin C. and Huldah (Schoolcraft) Cotton. The Cottons, who are of English origin, were among the first settlers of New Hampshire, and for generations have been prominently identified with the public welfare, taking part in every war for the preservation of the Union. Mrs. Hay's great-grandfather and grandfather were soldiers in the Revolutionary army.    Her father served in the War of 1812; and two brothers, Gilman and James Cotton, were volunteers in the Federal ranks at the time of the late war. Her father, Benjamin C. Cotton, was one of the leading citizens of Warren, N.H., where Mrs. Hay was born.    Seven children have blessed the union of   Mr. and Mrs. Hay: three of them - Dolly, Thomas A., and Inez Blanche - have passed away; Henry is married, and is proprietor of the Dresser House; Addie F. is the wife of Frank Southgate, a manufacturer in Worcester, Mass.; Mabel E. is the wife of Otis Everett, superintendent of the skate factory in Worcester; and Robert, Jr., who also is married, is a shoe cutter in Greenwich.

In political matters Mr. Hay favors the Republican party. He belongs to the Lodge of A. F. & A. M. at Worcester and also to the Continentals of that city. His home, which is one of the finest in Greenwich, a handsome residence surrounded by beautiful grounds, is the centre of genial and courteous hospitality which none know better how to dispense than Mr. and Mrs. Hay.

IRVING B.   HAYES,   M.D.,   a well-known and very successful physician of Florence, Mass., was born at Farmington, N.H., March   17, 1862.   His father, Benjamin F. Hayes, was born there in 1813, his grandfather, David Hayes, in 1787, the latter having been a son of Joseph Hayes, whose father, Benjamin, was a son of Peter Hayes and a grandson of John Hayes, who emigrated from   Scotland,   and   settled at Dover, N.H., in 1680.    David Hayes wedded Eliza Furber, daughter of Richard Furber, and   successfully   followed   agriculture in Strafford County, New Hampshire, where the family have resided for a period of over two hundred years.    He raised a family of two sons and four daughters, who grew to maturity, and of whom Dr. Hayes's father and his sister Deborah, wife of Jonathan Seavey, of Rochester,   N.H.,   are   the only survivors. David Hayes died at the age of seventy-two, in the year 1859; and his wife survived him about six years.   Mrs. Benjamin F. Hayes, whose name before marriage was Elizabeth Waldron, was born at South Berwick, Me., in 1817, and is still active at the age of seventy-eight years.   Her father was the sixth consecutive   Richard    Waldron,   descended from William   Waldron,   brother   of   the famous

Major Waldron, first President of the once republic of New Hampshire.     The original ancestor, who came to America from England in 1634, and was known as Recorder William Waldron, settled at Dover, N.H., then a part of the Colony of   Massachusetts, in 1636. The family, numerous members of which have distinguished themselves in different walks of life, have resided in Strafford County, New Hampshire, for many years, occupying a position of wealth and influence.   Dr. Hayes's maternal grandmother was a daughter of Richard Kimball, of New Hampshire.   The parents of Dr. Hayes, who were both teachers in early life, were married in the month of December, 1841.   They reared five children, three sons and two daughters: Mary A. Hayes married R. G. Hayes, of Dover, and died at the age of twenty-one; David resides at the old homestead, having a wife and one child; Lizzie K. also lives at the home; Dr. J. G. Hayes, of Williamsburg, Mass., has one son.

Irving B. Hayes, the third son, received his primary education in the common schools, and at the age of fourteen began his higher studies under the tuition of his   brother and his cousin.   At the age of seventeen he entered Dartmouth College, where he was graduated in 1883, when he was twenty-one years old. He followed civil engineering for three years, and then studied medicine at the University of New York, graduating from Long Island College Hospital   in   1889.    He commenced the practice of his profession in Atlanta, Ga., where, in company with his brother, he resided until 1893, when he came to Florence, where he now has a very large and exceedingly profitable practice.   He is a searching investigator into the scientific principles of his useful profession and one of the coming lights of the regular school of medical practice.

On January 29, 1895, Dr. Hayes was most happily wedded to Miss Agnes F. Crier, of Florence, daughter of John and Sarah (Irwin) Crier.    Her parents were natives of England, and are now deceased, the father having first passed away.   The mother,   being   left a widow, succeeded in providing her daughter with a good education, which was obtained at the schools of Holyoke and in Boston. Mrs. Crier became well known and highly respected in Florence, where she was actively engaged in church work; and Miss Crier was a very successful   music   teacher previous to her marriage. Dr.   Hayes is a Fellow of the Massachusetts Medical Society of the Hampshire County District and a Master Mason. The pleasant home where he now resides was purchased by him in 1894.

JOSEPH HEBERT, contractor and builder, manufacturer of lumber, and dealer in all kinds of builders' materials in Northampton, is a Canadian by birth and breeding, Montreal being the city of his nativity, and 1854 the year of his birth. He comes of French ancestry, his grandfather, Francis Hebert, having been a native of France, coming to Montreal as a government official, and being High Sheriff of the city of Quebec at the time of his death. He married Josephine Palmer, native of Boston, who lived more than a century, dying in Montreal at the remarkable age of one hundred and one years and two months, and retaining full possession of her faculties to the last. She bore her husband sixteen children, of whom her son Nelson was the father of Joseph Hebert.

Nelson Hebert was born in Montreal, Canada, in 1826, and lived there during the earlier years of his life. He was a carpenter and builder by trade, and was engaged in these occupations in Northampton for some years, after which he went to Jamestown, N. Dak., where he established a successful business, building some of its finest residences and business blocks. Subsequently he returned to this city, where he died March 16, 1895, at the home of his son Joseph, leaving a handsome property to his heirs. He married Christiana Derwent, a native of Montreal, born in 1827, who now makes her home with her son Joseph. She is the mother of ten children, one of whom died when a little lad of two years. The others are all married, and one son is a prominent resident of Dakota.

Joseph Hebert is the second son and the fourth child of Nelson Hebert, and attended the common schools of his native city until he was eleven years old, when his parents removed to Northampton, where he has since resided. When thirteen years old, he began working at his present business with his father and a Mr. Stetson, and has since continued in the same occupation. Beginning to make contracts when a youth of sixteen years, his business faculties, which are naturally of a high order, have been well developed. By a strict attention to his business and honor-able methods in his dealings he has won an extensive trade, and accumulated a large property. He established his well-equipped lumber yard in the winter of 1883, building the three sheds, one of them three stories in height and two hundred and twelve feet long. In 1887 Mr. Hebert built his fine brick office, and put in his steam-mill, with which he manufactures lumber, laths, and shingles. He keeps on hand a complete assortment of lumber and building material, and employs from one hundred to one hundred and seventy-five men. Mr. Hebert has also other valuable property. He owns seventeen tenement-houses, besides two blocks in the business part of the city - one occupied by Lee's Hotel and the other by the Bay State House. Besides his own residence at 42 Cherry Street he has also two residences in Ware.

Mr. Hebert was united in marriage in 1874 to Delphine Beauregard, who, with her only child, died within a few years.   He subsequently married Mary Beauregard, a sister of his first wife; and of the seven children born to them but two are now living.   These are: Rudolph, in college in Canada; and Paul, a little lad of seven years.   In his politics Mr. Hebert is independent of party.   He is a member of the Knights of Pythias and of the St. John the Baptist's Society. Religiously, he is a French Catholic, being one of the founders and strong supporters of that church in Northampton.

CHARLES E. HERRICK, a machinist and manufacturer in Northampton, was born here, January 17, 1843, son of Webster and Melissa (Strong) Herrick.

His father, Webster Herrick, was born November 7, 1811, in Sangerfield, Oneida County, N. Y., but was reared in Worthington, Mass. From there, when a lad of fifteen years, he came to Northampton to learn the cabinet-maker's trade. He was one of four children born to Joseph and Jerusha (Parsons) Herrick, of Worthington. His father died in early life; and his mother subsequently married a Mr. Stowell, by whom she reared another family of children. She died in Peru, Berkshire County, at the venerable age of ninety-six years. Webster Herrick became very expert, almost an artist, in his cabinet work. Some of his handiwork is seen in the pulpit, communion table, and the chairs of the Edwards Church, which was dedicated in 1833. He traveled for some time, working at his trade when the opportunity offered. He was in Charleston, S. C, in 1834, and in South America in 1835 and 1836. Returning North he opened a machine shop on the site of the Lamb Wire Works, Northampton, in 1840. He remained there fourteen years, after which he built the large brick shop where his son, the subject, Charles E., carries on his business.

He did a general line of mechanical and machine work, putting up one of the very first circular sawmills in Massachusetts. He erected sawmills in many different States of the Union, building about seven hundred in all, one year making as many as twenty-five to go South, in the interest of the American Machine Works of Springfield, Mass. He was married in 1840 to Melissa Strong, who died January 25, 1876, on the night of the Northampton Bank robbery, leaving but one child, Charles E., the subject of this sketch. Her husband survived her many years, dying August 2, 1892. He was a man of high moral principles and a strong advocate of the temperance cause. He was very patriotic and was prevented from taking an active part in the Civil War only by his lameness, from which he suffered from his boyhood. Both he and his wife were esteemed members of the First Church.

Charles E. Herrick had excellent educational advantages; but he did not choose to avail himself of them, preferring to enter his father's workshop, where he might exercise his mechanical talent and ingenuity. Succeeding to his father's shop and trade, he has continued the business, doing general jobbing and making a specialty of paper-folding machines and other devices.

The union of Mr. Herrick with Emma W., daughter of Roswell and Roxana (Hunt) Hubbard, of this city, was celebrated in October, 1864. They had two children: Edward W. and Annie. Edward W., who was graduated from the Boston School of Technology in 1888, is a mechanical engineer in New York City. Annie married L. B. Cipeland, of Omaha, Neb. ; and they have one daughter.

The mother of Mrs. Herrick was a daughter of Luther and Eunice (Alvord) Hunt. She was a finely educated woman, being a graduate of the Ipswich Academy, and afterward a teacher in the Bridge Street School and later in schools of Mobile and Tuscaloosa, Ala. Of her union with Mr. Hubbard three daughters were born, namely: Anna, who died at the age of ten years; Helen, who died when fourteen years old ; and Emma W., wife of Mr. Herrick. She was for many years a singer in the choir of the Congregational church, having a very sweet and flexible voice. Mr. Hubbard was prominent in local affairs, and served as a member of the legislature. His wife outlived him many years, dying in 1892, at the advanced age of eighty-six years.

Mr. and Mrs. Herrick occupy the house at 20 Greene Street, in which her mother lived for upward of thirty years.    Mrs. Herrick, who is an accomplished and cultivated lady, was educated at the Maplewood Institute in Pittsfield, and has inherited the musical talent of her mother, being a fine pianist and, before she lost her health, a beautiful soprano singer.

DAVID HILL, a well-known and respected attorney of Northampton, was born in Perrinton, Monroe County, N.Y., on February 9, 1838. On the paternal side he is of English antecedents, his father, Robert Hill, having been born and bred in Yorkshire, England.

After arriving at maturity, Robert Hill left his Yorkshire home for America, going first to Canada, where he lived a few years, and where in 1829 he married Isabel McMitchell, who, born in the north of Ireland, was reared in Canada. He was a blacksmith, following that trade in Perrinton, N.Y., whither he removed soon after his marriage, until past middle life, also carrying on general farming on the homestead which he there purchased. Both he and his wife lived to an advanced age. He died in 1879, and she ten years later. They had a family of sixteen children, of whom four sons and four daughters grew to adult life.   Of the four sons two have since died, namely: George H., a farmer in Wayne County, New York, who died at Palmyra, August 4, 1894, aged sixty-four years, leaving one son and one daughter; and Robert L., a farmer on the old homestead, died at the age of fifty-six years. One son besides the subject of this sketch is now living; namely, Nelson H. Hill, a farmer at Bushnell Basin, Monroe County, N.Y.

David Hill was reared on the home farm, and there obtained a practical experience in agriculture, not taking a permanent leave of farm life until about thirty years of age. He acquired a good education, leaving the district school when fifteen years old to attend the Lima Academy, and subsequently pursuing his studies at Fairfield Academy, in Herkimer County. This institution he left in 1862 to defend the old flag, volunteering as a private in the One Hundred and Twenty-first New York Volunteer Infantry. He was early promoted to the rank of First Lieutenant. On his promotion his friends at home presented him with a sword, toward the purchase of which no one was allowed to contribute more than one dollar.     This sword is one of Mr. Hill's most cherished possessions.    His war service, however, was mostly in the Army of the Potomac, as Captain of Company F, One Hundred and Fifty-second New York Volunteer Infantry, from which he was discharged a scarred veteran, he having received many wounds, though the only very serious one was the wound in his right hand, received at the battle of Spottsylvania, May 12, 1864. After receiving his discharge, he returned to Fairfield Seminary, and completed his course there, and   then entered   Amherst College, Amherst, Mass., graduating in the semi-centennial class of 1871.

In the fall of 1871 Mr. Hill came to Easthampton, accepting the position of a teacher in Williston Seminary, where he remained as one of the corps of instructors five years.   While there he devoted his leisure to his professional studies, reading law with Judge Bassett, and entered the Boston University Law School in 1877. He graduated from there the following year, and was admitted to the bar in June, 1878. In 1882, having rested and traveled in the West for a year, Mr. Hill formed a copartner ship with J. B. O'Donnell in Northampton, and has since then won an excellent reputation in his professional career and a large general law practice.    Politically, he is an uncompromising Democrat, although he has not been conspicuous in official positions. For three years he served as chairman of the Board of Education in Easthampton, and for several years has been chairman of the parish committee   of   the   Payson Congregational Church of that place.

Mr. Hill was married June 7,   1880, to Josephine Scott, of Perrinton, N.Y., a daughter of William Scott, deceased.   They have five sons, as follows: David Arthur, born in 1880, who is in Williston Seminary; Anson Harris, born in 1883; Robert Scott, born in 1885; Francis Web, born in 1887; and Joseph Henry, a bright little lad, born in 1892. Should these sons, so favorably launched upon life's journey, grow to stalwart men, with the physical, mental, and moral attainments of their parents, Mr. and Mrs. Hill will have served their day and generation well, and will have a family of which they may be justly proud.

HENRY W. HILL, Town Clerk and Treasurer of   Williamsburg, Mass., was born in this town, June 16, son of Otis and Philena (Packard) Hill. Mr. Hill is a descendant of Samson Hill, who came from Hatfield to Williamsburg in 1775, and, clearing a good farm, resided thereon until his death, which occurred at the age of eighty years. Mr. Hill's grandfather, Ephraim Hill, succeeded to the ownership and occupation of the farm, and devoted his energies to its cultivation and improvement. He died in 1851, aged eighty years. His children were : Hiram, Russell, Calvin, Otis, Wealthy, Sarah, Cynthia, and Electa.

Otis Hill, the fourth son of Ephraim, as named above, was born in Williamsburg, April 1, 1808. After completing his studies in the district schools he taught school for several terms, and then in company with his brother Hiram engaged in the manufacturing of broom handles, wooden boxes, and buttons at the old mills, which were located just above the village. He later bought his brother's interest, and continued in business until failing health caused him to relinquish the enterprise, when he retired to the old homestead, where he passed the remainder of his life in agricultural pursuits. Otis Hill was prominently identified with public affairs for many years. He followed the majority of the old Whig element into the ranks of the Republican party at its formation, and served as a Selectman for several years, was Town Clerk and Treasurer for twenty years, and in 1857 was a member of the House of Representatives. He died December 27, 1883. His wife, Philena Packard, became the mother of the following children: Lemira A., Melvin W., Hiram G., Henry W., and John W. Mrs. Philena P. Hill died in 1865, at the age of fifty-three years.

Henry W. Hill was educated in the schools of Williamsburg, and then entered mercantile business as a clerk for D. W. Lovell, in Cummington, Mass., where he remained a few months.    In 1870 he engaged in running an express from Williamsburg to Northampton, and three years later bought an interest in the button manufactory established by his brother, Hiram G. Hill. When the Co-operative Creamery was started, Mr. Hill was elected clerk and treasurer of that enterprise, a position which he still holds. He is a Republican in politics, and was School Committee for six-years. He was elected Town Clerk and Treasurer in 1894, and is President of the Williamsburg Library Association.

On October 28, 1868, Mr. Hill was married to Mary S. Morton, daughter of Nehemiah M. and Asenath S. (Miller) Morton. Mr. Morton, who was a prosperous farmer of Williamsburg, died July 8, 1878. His widow is still living, and makes her home with Mr. and Mrs. Hill. Of the two children born to Mr. Hill and his wife, the only son, named Harry, died in infancy. The daughter, Myra A., is now a student at Mount Holyoke College. The family attend the Congregational church, of which Mr. Hill is a Deacon, and has been for thirty years organist. Mr. Hill also owns real estate in the village, besides his very pleasant residence.

HIRAM G. HILL, one of the leading business men of Williamsburg, was born in that town, June 22, 1840, son of Otis and Philena (Packard) Hill.

Mr. Hill's great-grandfather, Samson Hill, came from Hatfield, Mass., to Williamsburg in 1775, and settled upon a tract of wild land.   Besides serving   his country in the Revolutionary War, he cleared and improved the farm upon which his descendant, J. 0. Hill, now resides, and followed agriculture successfully until his death, which occurred at the age of eighty years.   His son, Ephraim Hill, Mr. Hill's grandfather, succeeded to the property, which he increased by purchasing more land.   He erected the present house and barn, and conducted the farm with energy, until failing health caused him to retire from active labor.   He died in 1851, aged eighty-six years.    His wife, who died   in 1849, eighty-three years old, was the mother of nine children, namely: Hiram, Russell, Willard, Calvin, Otis, Wealthy, Sarah, Cynthia, and Electa.

Otis Hill, Mr. Hill's father, was born in Williamsburg, April 1, 1808.    He made the best of his opportunities for obtaining an education at the district schools. After completing his studies, he taught school for several terms in the neighborhood during the winter season, his summers being passed in different occupations, but principally in farming. In 1838 he and his brother Hiram purchased the old mills in the village, and commenced manufacturing broom handles, later adding wooden boxes and buttons. In this business they were quite successful. Otis Hill purchased his brother's interest. in 1853, but continued the enterprise only two years longer, when the feeble state of his health compelled him to relinquish the cares of business. He sold out, and thereafter confined himself to agricultural pursuits, making a specialty of both pasturing and handling cattle. His parents passed their declining years with him upon the old farm, and were the objects of his most affectionate care and devotion. He was originally a Whig in politics, and joined the Republican party at its formation. He was a member of the Board of Selectmen for several years, Town Clerk, and Treasurer for twenty years; and in 1856 he represented his district in the legislature. As a business man he was both energetic and progressive, and as such was successful. He was kind-hearted and charitable, a steadfast friend and useful citizen. Otis Hill died December 7, 1883. He was a member of the Congregational church. His wife was the mother of five children; namely, Lemyra A., Melvin W., Hiram G., Henry W., and John W. She died at the age of fifty-three years.

Hiram G. Hill commenced his education in the district schools of Williamsburg, and finished his studies in Amherst. He resided with his parents until he reached the age of twenty-one years. At this time he purchased the machinery and other mechanical effects of M. Way & Son, of Williamsburg, and began the manufacture of suspender buttons and moulds. In the autumn of 1861 he bought the factory of W. & W. E. Thayer, and after moving his machinery to his new quarters continued business upon a more extensive scale. He admitted his brother, John W. as a partner; and later another brother, Henry W., became interested in the enterprise. The firm, which was known as Hill Brothers, conducted a successful- business until 1880, when Mr. Hiram G. Hill sold his interest to Damon & Wright. Owning the water-power and site formerly occupied by the old grist-mill, which was carried away by the flood of 1874, he erected a new mill there. The building stands upon the solid ledge that was laid bare by the flood, and contains the best improved machinery. Mr. Hill is engaged in grinding and dealing in all kinds of feed, handling about one hundred carloads per year, and also does a large amount of custom grinding for others. He is the owner of the old homestead of his uncle, Hiram Hill, which escaped destruction during the flood, and was able to give the shelter sought there by many of the neighbors on that occasion, on account of the substantial manner in which it was built. He has improved the property, and has one of the most attractive and comfortable homes in the town.

Mr. Hill is chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Public Library. He was made a Mason in Jerusalem Lodge, later becoming a charter member of the Hampshire Lodge at Haydenville and a member of the Chapter and Commandery of Northampton. On December 31, 1862, Mr. Hill was united in marriage to Charlotte M. Thayer, and has two daughters, namely: Genevra M., who resides at home; and Evalena, who married Albert Holton, and resides in Boston, having one son, named John Hill. Mr. Hill is independent in politics.

SAMUEL FOLLETT HILLS, a well-to-do farmer of Worthington, was born upon the farm he now owns and occupies, February 20, 1845, son of Julius and Elizabeth Follett Brown Hills. Mr. Hills's grandfather was Daniel Hills, a resident of Grantville, Conn., who moved from that State to Blandford, Mass., and followed agricultural   pursuits there until his death. Julius Hills was born in Granville, January 31,   1806.    He accompanied   his parents to Massachusetts, and when a young man he came to Worthington, where he purchased a farm of one hundred and fifty acres, which he conducted with success during the remainder of his life.    He died November 12, 1893. The wife of Julius Hills was a daughter of Luke Brown and Bethsheba (Warner) Brown, and was born in Hardwick, Mass., June 5, 1806. Her father, who was a graduate of Harvard College and was a well-known lawyer of his day, died in 1835.    Mrs. Julius Hills became the mother of two children, namely: Daniel F.   Hills,   who married Anna C. Coles, of Westfield, and died January 25, 1882; and Samuel Follett Hills, who bears the name of a patriotic ancestor now to be mentioned.

Samuel Follett, the great-grandfather of the subject of this sketch, was born in the town of Attleboro, Bristol County, Mass., November 23, 1757.    Immediately after the fight at Lexington (April 19,   1775) he enlisted at Swanzey, N. H., under Captain Jonathan Whitcomb, marched to Mystic, near Boston, where he joined the New Hampshire regiment commanded by Colonel Reed a few days before the battle of Bunker Hill (June 17, 1775), in which he participated.    He remained in this regiment until discharged.    Afterward he volunteered to serve one month longer in the company of Captain Baldwin or Spaulding. In April, 1778, he enlisted at Worcester in the company of Captain Nathan Harrington, which was ordered to join a detachment, under Major Reuben Reed, that was to guard a body of prisoners from General Burgoyne's army, then at Cambridge, Mass., to   Rutland, in Worcester County, Mass.    During a portion of the time he was on guard.    At that place he was sick with the smallpox and was in the hospital. In July, 1780, he again enlisted at Worcester, in the company of Captain Grout, who marched to Butts Hill in Rhode Island. He was granted a pension, May 10, 1833, to commence March 4, 1831. He came to the town of Worthington, Mass., in 1781, where he resided until his death, November 30, 1854, ninety-seven years and a few days old. His first vote was cast for General Washington for President of the United States in 1788, and his last for the defeated candidate, General Scott, in 1852.

Samuel F. Hills was educated in the district schools. He assisted in carrying on the farm, and succeeded to the ownership of the property after his father's death. His farm consists of two hundred and twenty-five acres, and is devoted to general husbandry and the raising of high-bred cattle, sheep, and horses. Mr. Hills is a Republican in politics, and is chairman of the Board of Selectmen.

On August 30, 1871, Mr. Hills was united in marriage with Josephine Maria (Mayhew) Burr, widow of Oliver C. Burr, and a daughter of Lyman and Mary E. (Richards) Mayhew. Her father was born October 3, 1821, in Huntington, Mass..    His wife, who was born in North A darns,   Mass., April 9,   1825, died October 2, 1869, having been the mother of nine children: Jerome B., Josephine, Mary Ella, Julia O., Arthur Elmer Scott, Lyman A., Henry W., Martha L., and Eliza A., five of whom are still living.    Mrs. Hills had two children by her first marriage: Frank, who died in 1868; and Frederick, who died in 1884.    Mr. and Mrs. Hills have three children, namely: Abbie Warner, who was born July 27, 1872, and married Judson G. Blackman, a farmer of Cummington, Mass. ; Mary E., who was born July 2, 1875, and is now a school teacher; and Josephine Scott, born December 10, 1880.

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