Abner Kirby

Abner7 Kirby (Abner6, Justus5, Nathaniel4, Robert3, Richard2, Richard1) of Milwaukee, Wis., born April 11, 1818, in Norridgewock, Me. He received a meagre education in his native town, and learned the jewelry trade in Skowhegan and Bangor, Me. In 1844 he removed to Wisconsin, and erected a small store in Milwaukee. His business thrift,industry,and keen appreciationof the possibilitiesof the Territory of Wisconsin en- abled him to rise to prominence and affluence. He was the founder of the Kirby, Carpenter Company, one of the largest lumber manufacturing concerns in the United States. The output of this company in 1894 was 150,000,000 feet of lumber. He built and owned the "Kirby House " in Milwaukee, Wis., and the "Kirby House " in Menominee, Mich. He was the first person to use steam upon the great lakes. His vessel,"The Cream City," so equipped in 1862, was the marvel of the day. He was elected Mayor of Milwaukee in 1864, and served one term, but declined a renomination. At the time of the outbreak of the Civil War, being too old for active service,and his applicationas a volunteer having been refused, he raised and equipped at his own expense an entire company. He was always noted for his public spirit and generosity. Although a firm Democrat, none mourned the death of President Lincoln more than he. When Richmond sur- rendered " he then being Mayor of Milwaukee " he issued an order to his chief of police that is still remembered in the city:

"William, the war is over. Let us have a celebration,and arrest every able-bodied man who is sober by night."

Abner Kirby died Sept. 21, 1893, in Milwaukee, Wis. He was married three times. He married (1) Rebecca Chase; married (2) Mary Chase; married (3),Oct. 8, 1854, in Amsterdam, N. Y., Letitia R. Chase, born Feb. 3, 1833, who survives him.