Stories in Stones: Stories from Oneida County, NY Cemeteries

      William M. French was born Dec 1, 1829 to Mr. and Mrs. John French in New Hartford, NY. Came to Utica when he was 17 and became a clerk in George Tracy's bookstore. Seven years later went into partnership with Hugh H. Roberts and opened a bookstore at 172 Genesee St. He conducted it for five years. He then sold his part to Mr. Roberts. He retired to New Hartford.     In 1863, William M. French became a clerk in the War Department in Washington D.C. During his time at the War Department, the Confederates beleaguered the city and all the clerks were put under arms. Mr. French was a clerk in the Quartermaster's office under General Montgomery C. Meigs. In 1865, he retired back to New Hartford and became a farmer.     William M. French was treasurer of the Young Men's Association of Utica; was a fireman with Columbian Hose Co. and later Neptune Co No 5; and was Secretary of Oneida County Committee of the Republican Party.   ...

       William R. Holden was born Sept 1, 1828 in England. Came to the United States around 1843 and went into the monumental business in NYC. Moved to Rome, NY in 1858 and engaged in the same business. He later moved to Utica, where he established the granite dealer firm of Ray and Holden which later became Thompson and Holden. In 1872, William R. Holden was elected alderman of the 4th Ward of Utica.     Around 1883, William R. Holden left Utica to represent the Hinsdale Granite Co. of Connecticut. He established a monumental and architectural office in Brooklyn, NY. He conducted it until about 1893.     William R. Holden married Eliza Davis. They had seven sons and one daughter.       William R. Holden was interested in Horticulture. He studied different species of cacti. He wrote much about it.     William R. Holden passed away on Sept 15, 1903. He is buried in Plot 21 Lot 450 of Forest Hill Cem...