My Genealogy Hound

C. A. GRIDLEY, a general merchant of South Hadley, was born in Granby, Mass., October 27, 1845, son of Addison and Sibel (Ayers) Gridley. Mr. Gridley’s grandfather, the Rev. Elijah Gridley, moved from Mansfield, Conn., to Granby, and became pastor of the church in that town, where he was a well-known and much esteemed clergyman. He also engaged in agriculture, and resided in Granby until his death, which occurred June 10, 1834.

Addison Gridley was born in Granby in 1801. He was twice married. His first marriage was with Sibel Ayers, a native of Granby, who made him the father of five children, of whom the subject of this sketch is the only survivor. His second wife is the present Mrs. Gridley, whose maiden name was Maria Burnham.

C. A. Gridley was educated in the schools of Granby and South Hadley, and later attended the business college in Springfield, Mass. He commenced life for himself at the age of twenty, and worked for a time in his native State. He then went to La Salle, Ill., and, after remaining there for a time, returned to Massachusetts, and in 1871 came to South Hadley, where he engaged in mercantile business with Mr. Montague. The next year Mr. Montague sold his interest to W. A. Warner, who, after remaining one year, sold his interest to E. W. Gridley, brother of C. A., after which the business was continued under the firm name of C. A. Gridley & Co. In 1876 the store was destroyed by fire, but was rebuilt; and later, selling out to his brother, C. A. Gridley went to Brattleboro, Vt., where he conducted a boot and shoe business for two years. He then returned to South Hadley again, and resumed business at the old store, from which his brother retired. It is at present a general country store, well stocked with the varied line of goods usually carried in such an establishment; and it has a large amount of trade. He has also invested in real estate, carries on an insurance business, and owns the home farm in Granby.

On June 4, 1874, Mr. Gridley was united in marriage to Martha P. Miller, who was born in South Hadley in 1852, daughter of Edward C. and Elizabeth Miller. Mr. and Mrs. Gridley have two children: James Leonard and Bessie Maria. They are active members of the Congregational church.

Mr. Gridley is independent in his political views, believing that the most capable should serve in offices of public trust. He has been prominently identified with political questions, and was a member of the School Board for four years. He is also a Justice of the Peace and a Notary Public. His successful life is due entirely to his own energy and business ability.