My Genealogy Hound

THOMAS GRANGER. The people of Hagar Township are familiar with the name of Thomas Granger, for he has resided among them for some time, and has earnestly identified himself with every worthy enterprise, his active mind fitting him in an admirable manner for the occupation of fruit-grower, which he has followed since locating here. He has assisted very materially in building up the fruit-growing interests of this section of the State, and in all matters of character, intelligence and liberality no man has a higher reputation.

Mr. Granger is a fair example of many young Englishmen who are generously endowed by nature and ambition to grow to their fullest possible height in the land of great possibilities and chances. He was born in Cambridgeshire, England, and, reared as a lad in his native country, he grew in strength and stature until he was old enough to attend school, commencing his studies at the age of six years. He early became familiar with farm life, and for thirteen years worked for a farmer and fruit-grower in his native land. After reaching mature years, he was married to Miss Elizabeth Whiting, and in 1872 this young couple crossed the ocean to this country, locating first in Chicago. One year later they came to Berrien County, Mich., and Mr. Granger at once began working on farms for other people. With the means thus obtained he purchased a part of the farm he now owns.

Our subject is now the owner of sixty acres, all of which he has improved and which is in a fine state of cultivation. Although he and his wife came to this country with very little means, they have worked hard and are now rewarded by owning one of the pleasantest rural homes in their section. Everything around them indicates that they are progressive and industrious, and as citizens and neighbors they are held in high esteem by all who know them. Two children were the fruits of their union. Francis W., a wide-awake, thorough-going young man, is the owner of fifty acres of valuable land on the lake shore, and is actively engaged in fruit-growing. The other child, Arthur E., is at home, and assists his father in the work on the place.

Mr. Granger had one brother, Fred, and a sister, Martha, who came to America, but both are now deceased. The latter left two children, Alfred Hopkins and George M. Shann, the former by her first and the latter by her last husband. The parents of our subject, Edward and Phoebe (Nunn) Granger, were natives of England, and there the father followed farming and fruit-growing many years. Both passed their last days in that country, where they were much respected by all acquainted with them.

In all that he undertakes, Mr. Granger shows the same qualities of perseverance and determination, and is correspondingly successful. Years of economy and industry have placed him upon a solid footing and he can now enjoy the fruits of his labor. He and his estimable wife are members of the Baptist Church, and in politics he is a Republican.