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J. WHITBECK FOSTER,
manager of the Norwalk Incandescent Light and Power Company, is a son of
John H. Foster, who was a native of New York, and in 1834 came to
Ohio. He was a school teacher, afterward a stockman and drover, then
served in the Civil war as major of the Third Ohio Cavalry. On his
return home from the war he conducted a commission establishment in Norwalk
for some time. He was married to Nancy M. Boardman, also a
native of New York. The father died in 1874 (his death being hastened
by his wounds and exposure during the war), and was followed to the grave by
his wife in 1886. In their family there are, besides our subject, two
sons - Frank B. and William S. - and one daughter - Maria
Louise - all yet living.
J. Whitbeck Foster was born July 25, 1844,
in Norwalk, Huron Co., Ohio. He attended the high schools of his
native place, then took a two years' commercial course in Brooklyn, N. Y.,
graduating in 1865. After leaving school he returned to Norwalk, and
entered the sewing machine business in partnership with N. S. C. Perkins
and W. A. Mack, with whom he remained until the firm dissolved; then,
in company with N. S. C. Perkins, manufactured the Queen and
Dauntless sewing machines, until they too went out of business. He
afterward became connected with the Norwalk Light and Power Co., continuing
with them until April, 1891, and in April, 1892, he accepted the management
of the Norwalk Incandescent Light and Power Company.
On October 22, 1888, Mr. Foster was married to
Clare A. Morehouse, who has borne him one son, Vernon W.
In politics our subject is a Republican, and has served four years as a
member of the council, during which time he was very active in securing
electric lights for the city; also served on many important committees.
He is secretary of the National Union at Norwalk, and president of the City
Board of Equalization. |
