My Genealogy Hound

ARZA G. GAGE, President of the Citizens’ National Bank of Niles, was born in Cass County, Mich., near the city of Dowagiac, April 21, 1847. His parents, Ebenezer and Minerva (Allen) Gage, were natives of New York, and the former, by occupation a farmer, was one of the early settlers of Cass County, Mich., having settled there as early as 1837, at a time when settlements were few and neighbors equally scarce. Purchasing some land, he industriously and energetically tilled the soil, and as a result of his efforts developed a fine farm, which was considered one of the best estates in the county. There Mr. Gage made his home until his death, which occurred in 1871. An active, intelligent and public-spirited citizen, he took considerable interest in political matters, and in early life was a Whig, later becoming an advocate of the principles of the Republican party.

The paternal grandfather of our subject was Justice Gage, an early settler of New York State and a descendant of English ancestry. The family is one whose representatives have gained enviable reputations in their several communities and have occupied positions of influence in public life. Lyman Gage, the well-known financier of Chicago, is a member of this family, being a nephew of Ebenezer Gage. Our subject is one of eight children, three daughters and five sons, he being the fourth in order of birth. The biographer finds little of special importance to record concerning his boyhood. It was then that he acquired the habits of industry, enterprise and uprightness which laid the foundation of his success in business life. After carrying on his studies in the district schools of Cass County for some years, he entered the Mayhew Commercial College of Detroit, from which institution he was graduated in 1872.

Returning from Detroit to the parental home in Cass County, Mr. Gage soon afterward came to Niles, and in 1873, forming a partnership with his brother Eli A., he embarked in the grocery business in this city. The firm of Gage Bros, still conducts an extensive and lucrative business here and in their establishment, which is located at No. 54 Main Street, they carry a complete stock of groceries, crockery and queensware. They have long been identified with the mercantile interests of Niles and are prosperous as a result of close attention paid to the details of the business.

In 1886 Mr. Gage became connected with the banking interests of Niles, as at that time he purchased an interest in the Citizens’ National Bank and became Vice-President of that financial institution. Two years later he was chosen President, and still occupies that responsible and honored position. The bank conducts a general banking business and is regarded as one of the solid financial institutions of Berrien County. In the banking circles of southwestern Michigan Mr. Gage occupies a foremost position, and he is admirably adapted for the duties of his position, being quick in decision, sound in judgment and prompt in action. He is also a stockholder and Director in the Earle-Storms Manufacturing Company, of Niles.

The marriage of Mr. Gage took place in October, 1877, and united him with Miss Nettie, daughter of Charles and Cordelia (Messick) Wood, of Niles. Mr. and Mrs. Gage are the parents of one daughter, Edith. In his political opinions, our subject adheres to the policy of the Republican party, and is influential m the ranks of his chosen party; his influence, however, is quietly exerted and he has never been prevailed upon to accept official honors. In his social connections he is identified with St. Joseph Valley Lodge No. 4, A. F. & A. M.; St. Joseph Valley Chapter No. 2, R. A. M.; Niles Commandery No. 12, K. T.; and is also a Knight of Pythias. The First Presbyterian Church is the religious home of Mr. Gage and his cultured wife, and their contributions to its support are generous.