Providence Archives — Page 3 of 22 — Rhode Island Genealogy

Biography of Jonathan Andrews

Rhode Island - three centuries of democracy vol 3

Descended from Colonial stock and inheriting the best traits of his forefathers, who carved the path of civilization into the wilderness that confronted the settlers of New England and tested the mettle of that hardy company, Jonathan Andrews, of Woonsocket, has worthily followed the traditions of industry and progress that were handed down to him. He holds a secure place in the esteem of his fellow-citizens, as has been amply illustrated by his selection for important public office, in which he has served with commendable activity in the interests of the people. He has shown himself to be devoted to … Read more

Biography of Charles Roderick Makepeace

One of the best-known designing and consulting industrial architects and mechanical engineers in the United States, the late Charles R. Makepeace was regarded as an authority in his profession. During his long and exceptionally successful career he was identified with the erection of some two hundred and fifty plants in various parts of the United States, as well as in several foreign countries. Having always made his headquarters in Providence, this city naturally benefited extensively by his widespread activities and by his high professional standing. He also took a very active and effective part in civic affairs, rendered valuable services … Read more

Biography of Ephraim Perry Colson

Progressive work in the educational field of Rhode Island has been done since 1920 by Ephraim Perry Colson in the office which he has held during that period of superintendent of the schools of Scituate and Foster. A prior experience dating back to 1907 was brought to his present office and has materially assisted him in the efficient work he has performed in the system here. Sincerely devoted to his work, Mr. Colson has constantly sought to improve himself while supervising that of the student body over which he has jurisdiction, with the results that his efforts have met with … Read more

Biography of Clarence E. Sherman

As a result of his decision to devote his life to library work, Mr. Sherman, after graduating from college, took a special course in the New York State Library School. After having spent some ten years as librarian of a well-known college and later of a large public library, both in Massachusetts, he came to Providence some eight years ago and since then has been continuously connected with the Providence Public Library, of which he is now the librarian. In this capacity he has done work of lasting value to the community and he is regarded as one of the … Read more

Biography of Rev. B. Marenchino

Five years of active work as pastor of St. Rocco’s Church of Thornton, Rhode Island, have served to win for Rev. B. Marenchino the deep regard and the hearty cooperation of his people. St. Rocco’s parish was organized in 1905, with Rev. Belliotti Dominic as its first pastor. Father Belliotti Dominic labored a year organizing and starting the parish on the road of progress, building the church and establishing its societies, and then was succeeded by Rev. Joseph Gotti, who remained in charge from 1903 to 1918, for fifteen years. During that time Father Joseph Gotti accomplished a great work, … Read more

St. Charles’ Church of Woonsocket, Rhode Island

Since 1920 Rev. Cornelius J. Holland has been the able pastor of St. Charles’ Church of Woonsocket, Rhode Island. St. Charles’ parish is the oldest Catholic parish in northern Rhode Island. As early as 1828 Rev. Robert D. Woodley visited Woonsocket and said mass in the house of Walter Allen, a generous Protestant, for the ten Irish Catholics who were then living in the town. That house, a two-story Colonial structure in Great Road, known as the Osborne House, is still standing (1930). Father Woodley’s ministry to this district ceased in 1831. During the next ten or fifteen years the … Read more

Biography of Henry Manchester Boss, Jr.

Henry Manchester Boss, Jr., United States District Attorney for the district of Rhode Island and a member of the law firm of Boss, Shepard & McMahon, leading attorneys of Providence, has made an enviable reputation in his profession since he was admitted to practice before the Rhode Island bar in 1900. He has served efficiently in the public office to which he was appointed April 24, 1929, prosecuting offenders against the law of the State with fearlessness and forcefulness, but the public has watched his work with complacency rather than surprise, for it was already assured of his exceptional abilities. … Read more

Biography of Alfred M. Halliday

A native and lifelong resident of Rhode Island, Mr. Halliday has been connected with the Providence post office for almost a quarter of a century. From his first position as a substitute clerk he has been advanced at different times to positions of ever-increasing importance and responsibility until he became superintendent of mails. His long experience in the various branches of the local post office made him especially well qualified to fill his present position. He is generally regarded as one of the most efficient, as well as popular, executives of the local post office. For many years he has … Read more

Biography of Albert Sidney Almy

To the notable group of Americans who have contributed most to the progress which has made this one of the most remarkable periods in the history of mankind belongs the late Albert Sidney Almy, of Bristol, Rhode Island, by virtue of his lifelong connection with shipbuilding. To the improvement of water craft he gave his very considerable abilities and his devoted attention. He was prominent in business and in civic activities, and a man of many warm and lasting friendships. Albert Sidney Almy was born July 31, 1836, at Little Compton, Rhode Island, son of Isaac C. and Alice (Bateman) … Read more

Biography of Christopher J. Brennan

A native of Providence, Mr. Brennan was born September 5, 1893, the son of Christopher P. and Mary E. (Flynn) Brennan, both of whom were born in Providence. The father, who still resides in Providence, spent his life in the city in the trade of a master plumber. The subject of this sketch received his elementary education in the Providence public schools and attended the Classical High School. At Holy Cross College he received his Bachelor of Arts degree with the class of 1915, and went from thence to the Harvard School of Law, but the entry of the United … Read more