Ezra Smith Barnum

     Ezra Smith Barnum was born June 21, 1792, in Danbury, CT. Moved to Utica in 1809 with his brother-in-law whom he was indentured as an apprentice in the shoemaking, tanning, and currier business. He stayed with him until his apprenticeship expired in 1812.

    In 1812, Ezra S. Barnum moved to Buffalo where he worked in the leather business. When the War of 1812 started, he volunteered and was at the first taking of Fort Erie. He took ill and returned to Utica. While in Utica, the British burned Buffalo so he did not go back. He became partners with his brother-in-law in the manufacture and sale of boots and shoes.

    On May 5, 1815, Ezra S. Barnum married Mary Ostrom. They had ten children.

    In 1832, Ezra S. Barnum turned to farming. Later entered in the grocery and confectionery business on the corner of Genesee and Catherine. In 1849, Mr. Barnum visited Europe for the first time for health and business purposes and while there started an importing business.

    In 1817, Ezra S. Barnum was elected constable; collector; and coroner. While holding those offices he was appointed under sheriff and Justice of the Peace. When accepting the Justiceship, he stepped down from the other offices. After 17 years he declined to be candidate for reelection. During those 17 years only two of his cases were appealed.

    In 1835, Ezra S. Barnum was appointed Deputy US Marshall, and Commissioner of Deeds. He served for over 30 years in both offices.

    Ezra S. Barnum was director of the Oneida Bank. He served two years as Vice-President and one year as President. He was a member of the Mechanic's Association (was President and also a long-term trustee). 

    Ezra S. Barnum was one of the original subscribers to the Clinton Liberal Institute (a preparatory boarding school established by the Universalist Church). He was a member of its first Board of Trustees (he was the last living member).

    When Utica was set off from Whitestown he was one of the five who run out and established the boundaries of the village. When Lafayette came to Utica in 1825, Mr. Barnum was a member of the Utica Committee to meet him at Whitesboro. When Mr. Barnum went to Paris 25 years later; he presented Lafayette's son with the plans for the Washington Monument.

    Ezra S. Barnum was a member of different Masonic organizations and hold top positions in them. He was at a number of dedications and laying of corner stones etc... including the laying of the corner stone for the Washington Monument.

    Ezra Smith Barnum passed away on Feb 20, 1878. He is buried in Plot 11C Lot 360 of Forest Hill cemetery in Utica.