My Genealogy Hound

WILLIS D. LEET, one of the proprietors in the large tanning business at Laona, is a son of William and Harriet (Belden) Leet, and Mas born at Point Chautauqua, this county, October 29, 1856. The Leet family came from the eastern states, and grandfather Anson Leet settled in the town of Stockton in 1811, coming there from Connecticut and remaining two years, when he moved to the shore of the lake. The father of our subject was born there and has been engaged in the produce business for the past thirty years, and during that time has been twice elected treasurer of the county.

Willis D. Leet was reared in Chautauqua town, acquired a good common-school education and then entered the produce business with his brother, George E., and followed it for eight or nine years. Being of a genial, good-natured disposition, Mr. Leet became very popular, and when only twenty-eight years of age he was elected treasurer of Chautauqua county and filled the office during the term of three years. In 1889 he came to Laona and bought a third interest in the White tannery, one of the largest in the county. The buildings are very extensive and the product exceeds $100,000 annually, the principal sales being made in Boston, and the works give employment to about twenty-five hands.

Willis D. Leet led Carrie White to the matrimonial altar in 1884, and their union has been blessed with three children: Arthur W., Willis D. and Harvey E. In addition to this Laona property Mr. Leet owns a fine home at Mayville. Willis D. Leet is a gentleman of recognized integrity and of strong force of character. His business ability stands out prominently in the mercantile world, and the older men, who have passed their experimental stage, warmly grasp his hand and welcome him, for they recognize an equal.