My Genealogy Hound

WILLIAM H. GAYLORD, a retired manufacturer and much esteemed citizen of South Hadley, was born in that town, April 9, 1821, son of Moses and Jerusha (Smith) Gaylord. Mr. Gaylord’s father was also a native of South Hadley, and followed agriculture throughout his life. He became prominent in public affairs, held various town offices, and was highly respected. He died December 24, 1824. His wife bore him seven children, as follows: Lorenzo, John, Philotas, and Moses, Jr., all deceased; Roxana, who resides in South Hadley Falls; Simeon, who is also deceased; and William H., the subject of this sketch. The mother died May 14, 1858.

William H. Gaylord received his education in the district schools. At the age of twenty years he became an employee of the sash and door factory, now conducted by Howard, Gaylord & Burnett. He continued steadily in that employment until his circumstances enabled him to purchase an interest in the business. His connection with the firm, both as employee and partner, had lasted forty years, when he retired from active participation in its affairs. He, however, retained a fifth interest in the concern. He is also financially interested in several other business ventures, and is at present successfully conducting a farm. Mr. Gaylord takes a deep interest in the welfare of his town, and has been closely connected with many of the most important improvements therein. He has lately ordered a costly and handsome monument in stone to the memory of soldiers who fought in the late war, to be erected in the park, on a site opposite the church. Mr. Gaylord was formerly a Whig in politics, but joined the Republican party, which he now supports; and, though frequently called upon to accept office, he has always declined.

On September 8, 1858, Mr. Gaylord was united in marriage to Miss Betsey Stone, of Madison County, New York, where she was born, December 25, 1832, daughter of Samuel and Lucy (Howard) Stone. The father was a native of Connecticut, and the mother of Massachusetts. Both are now deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Gaylord had one son, Burton Wright, who died March 26, 1880. They are members of the Congregational church, and take an active interest in church work. Mr. Gaylord has presented the society with a fine organ, in memory of his son.