My Genealogy Hound

ROBERT SPINK, proprietor of one of the popular summer resorts of Berrien County and owner of a fine fruit farm on section 25, St. Joseph Township, was born in Jefferson County, N. Y., February 2, 1832. His father, Samuel Spink, was born in Jefferson County, and there was united in marriage with Miss Ada Consaul, whose father was a hero of the Revolutionary War, and lost a limb in that memorable struggle, being afterward a pensioner of the Government. In 1844 the parents of our subject removed Westward to Ohio, locating in Lucas County, and after a residence of two years there came to Michigan, in 1846.

Purchasing land in Bainbridge Township, Berrien County, the senior Mr. Spink devoted his attention to clearing the place and developing a fertile farm. After having resided there for three years, he sold the property and purchased the farm in St. Joseph Township which is the present home of our subject. At the time of its purchase the farm contained few improvements, and Mr. Spink devoted his attention unweariedly and closely to its cultivation until his death. He and his wife were the parents of seven children, all of whom grew to manhood and womanhood. The survivors at the present time (1893) are: Elijah, a veteran of the Civil War and a resident of Benton Township; John, who also makes his home in Benton Township; and Robert, of this sketch. The father was a devout member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and a man of indomitable energy and force of character.

At the age of fourteen years, Robert accompanied his parents to Michigan, but remained here only three years, when, his youthful ardor being inflamed by stories of the wonderful discovery of gold in the far West, he made the overland trip across the country with an ox-team, and in 1849 reached his destination, the Golden State. He remained on the Pacific Coast for nine years and two months, meantime engaging in mining, teaming and the mercantile business with varying success. Upon his return to Berrien County he purchased a portion of the old homestead in St. Joseph Township, and here he has made his home ever since.

In 1861 occurred the marriage of Robert Spink to Miss Miranda, daughter of Elnathan Phelps, a native of Canada. Mr. Phelps was a fine millwright and mechanic. He resided in Chicago thirteen years, and while there placed the machinery in a number of the best flouring-mills. Mr. Spink and his estimable wife have had a family of six children, of whom four are now living, namely: Netta, the wife of Patrick McGill, and a resident of Florida; Edna, who married Rufus Lass, a printer residing in Chicago; Hattie and Flora, who reside with their parents. The other children died in infancy. In his political belief, Mr. Spink is a Democrat, and he has served as Highway Commissioner of St. Joseph Township.

On section 25, Mr. Spink is the owner of sixty-eight acres, including Spink’s Island, and of that tract thirty-one acres are set out in fruit, a specialty being made of plums and peaches. The family residence is an attractive abode, occupying a fine location on Spring Bluff Avenue and fitted up as a summer resort. Here may be found all the modern conveniences and everything that will enhance the happiness of those who, unable to endure the heat of the cities, seek this cool and lovely retreat near the lake shore. The residence is a commodious one, having accommodations for eighty guests at one time. Near the house fine bathing-places have been fitted up, and boats are kept on the river for the convenience of the visitors, while the toboggan slide furnishes amusement for both old and young.