William M. French

     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.

    In 1881, William M. French started working in the canning industry first at a canning company in New Hartford. The following year he was appointed superintendent of the Newport Canning Factory. He also worked at canning factories in Hoopston Ill and Pittsburgh, PA. In 1892, he superintended the building of the Kirkland Canning Company's factory. He was also was the company's superintendent and general manager.

    William M. French was Justice of Peace in New Hartford; Justice of Sessions; and Village Trustee.

    In 1854, William M. French married Eliza Palmer. They had two sons.

    William M. French passed away on Jan 15, 1912. He is buried in Plot 21 Lot 515 at Forest Hill Cemetery in Utica. 





Location: 2201 Oneida St, Utica, NY 13501, USA

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