Genesee County MI Archives Biographies.....Mason, Charles A. 1839 - 
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Joy Fisher sdgenweb@yahoo.com December 13, 2007, 9:43 pm

Author: Chapman Bros. (1892)

HON. CHARLES A. MASON. A cursory view of the business streets of any town,
whether large or small, will impress the observer regarding the business ability
of the various dealers. The very appearance of a store will give an indication
of whether or not the establishment is in a thriving condition, and it
necessarily follows that the degree of judgment that has been shown by the
proprietor and his good taste in selecting his stock is made manifest. In Flint
one of the most thriving establishments is that of Mr. Mason, who is a dealer in
general produce and a commission merchant. Having come to this city in 1848 and
residing here continuously since, he has become thoroughly identified with its
progress and has contributed his quota to its development.

  The son of Jared and Lydia M. (Hurlburt)Mason, our subject was born May 22,
1839, in New Hartford, N. Y., of which place the father was one of the
merchants. Charles A. was less than ten years old when he accompanied his
parents to Michigan, the father engaging in this city in the hotel business, and
he was for many years foreman in the old Capron factories at New Hartford. After
coming to Flint he also engaged in keeping an hotel known first as the River
House and later as the Genesee House, which was located on the corner of the
First Ward Park. Afterward he built the Carlton on the present site of the
Bryant. Mr. Mason was landlord of the Scoville House, which was burned down.
Later he resided in Fenton, this county, one year, and next engaged in farming
in Burton and Atlas Townships. After selling his estate he removed to Flint,
where his death occurred.

  In this city our subject received his education, and in his early manhood he
engaged in the drug business, being with Messrs. Turris & Witherby afterward
Petty, then with Mr. Wetson and Giles Bishop for ten years. In 1868 he purchased
Witherby's store opposite the Byrant House and remained there from 1868 until
1890, making his experience in the drug business cover a period of almost
twenty-three years. He made a financial success of his chosen calling, but while
devoting himself closely to his business, he yet found time for dealings in real
estate. He erected a beautiful residence on the corner of Third and Lyon
Streets, where he has made his home for the past sixteen years.

  Mr. Mason has served in the highest position to which his fellow-citizens have
the power to elect him—that of Mayor, in which he energetically favored any
measures for the public good. He also served in the capacity of Alderman for
eight years, has been on the School Board for the past six years, and filled
other positions of honor and trust. Politically he votes the Democratic ticket.
In his present business as a dealer in hides, wools, etc., and as a general
commission merchant, he is succesful, [sic] and carries on an extensive
business. Socially he is identified with the Ancient Order of United Workmen,
and with his excellent family, stands high in the estimation of the community.
His wife bore the maiden name of Lucinda Smith, and is the daughter of David and
Lucinda Smith, of Fenton. They have two children—Edna L. and Luella, both of
whom are graduates of the Flint City High School and young ladies of many
accomplishments and much culture.


Additional Comments:

Extracted from:

Portrait and Biographical Record of Genesee, Lapeer and Tuscola Counties,
Michigan, Containing Biographical Sketches of Prominent and Representative
Citizens, Together with Biographies of all the Governors of the State, and of
the Presidents of the United States

Chicago:
Chapman Bros.
1892

File at: http://files.usgwarchives.net/mi/genesee/bios/mason921gbs.txt

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