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Below is a family biography included in the Biographical Review Volume of Biographical Sketches of The Leading Citizens of Hampshire County, Massachusetts published by Biographical Review Publishing Company in 1896.  These biographies are valuable for genealogy research in discovering missing ancestors or filling in the details of a family tree. Family biographies often include far more information than can be found in a census record or obituary.  Details will vary with each biography but will often include the date and place of birth, parent names including mothers' maiden name, name of wife including maiden name, her parents' names, name of children (including spouses if married), former places of residence, occupation details, military service, church and social organization affiliations, and more.  There are often ancestry details included that cannot be found in any other type of genealogical record.

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HENRY A. PARSONS, a successful business man at Westhampton, where his pleasant and accommodating disposition makes him a favorite with his fellow-townsmen, was born in Easthampton, March 16, 1856. His father, Joseph Parsons, a lifelong resident of Easthampton, is a thriving farmer and an influential citizen. He is a leader in public affairs, and has served as Selectman for several years. He married Cecilia Clark, also a native of Easthampton, and they became the parents of eight children, three of whom died; namely, Sarah, Louisa, and Julius. The surviving children are: Joseph E., a contractor in Meriden, Conn.; Henry A., the subject of this sketch; Mary C., wife of L. S. Janes, who is engaged in the dairy business at Easthampton; Anna, wife of F. E. Searle, of Easthampton; and Carrie M., a teacher in Northampton.

Henry A. Parsons was reared and educated in the place of his nativity, and assisted on the home farm until he was thirty years of age, when he entered upon a mercantile career. Coming to Westhampton in 1887, he bought his present store, and has since carried on a flourishing business in general merchandise. For a time he was Assistant Postmaster in this village. Being an energetic and enterprising man and honest and upright in his dealings, Mr. Parsons has built up a large trade in the village and surroundings. In politics he affiliates with the Republicans, while taking an active and intelligent interest in promoting the general welfare. He is a charter member of the Knights of Honor, and belongs to Hope Lodge, No. 1184.

Mr. Parsons was united in marriage December 12, 1878, to Miss M. Jennie Keene, who was born in England, being a daughter of James Keene, a leading merchant of Easthampton, where he is still carrying on a successful business. Three children have been born to them; namely, Lillian M., Emily L., and Annie K. Mr. and Mrs. Parsons are actively identified with the religious movements of the community, being valued members of the Congregational church. He is a member of the parish committee and the superintendent of the Sunday-school.

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This family biography is one of the numerous biographies included in the Biographical Review Volume of Biographical Sketches of The Leading Citizens of Hampshire County, Massachusetts published in 1896. 

View additional Hampshire County, Massachusetts family biographies here: Hampshire County, Massachusetts Biographies

View a map of 1901 Hampshire County, Massachusetts here: Hampshire County Massachusetts Map

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