Alfred D. Rathbone III, Page 664-665 - has been prominent in the business activities of his home city for more than a quarter of a century. He was born in Grand Rapids, in 1869, and was educated in the public schools and at the University of Michigan, where he received the degree of Bachelor of Arts in 1892. In the same year he entered the employ of the Alabastine Company, beginning in a humble position and working his way upward to an executive office in that concern. He remained with the company fifteen years, mastering each detail of the manufacture and sale of gypsum products, and distinguishing himself as an energetic, able and upright business man. Leaving the Alabastine Company, he associated himself with the Aldine Grate and Mantel Company, with which he remained twelve years. In 1919 he acquired an interest in the old firm of Clapp & Stewart and at once reorganized this enterprise, making Earl Stewart president, and himself secretary and treasurer. The name of the Grand Rapids Marble and Fireplace Company was adopted to replace the former name of the concern and a vigorous selling campaign was immediately begun. This company today does a large amount of contract installation of fireplaces and laying of tile and marble floors, walls and ceilings. Under Mr. Rathbone's able management the Grand Rapids Marble and Fireplace Company has become one of the biggest concerns of its kind in the middle west. He says his success is chiefly due to his hard work and close attention to duty. He married Jessie Ball, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. O. A. Ball, who formerly conducted a wholesale grocery in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Mr. and Mrs. Rathbone have three children, one of whom, Alfred D. IV, is an employe of the Mutual Benefit Life Insurance Company and is a rising business man.

Transcriber: Gloria Paas
Created: 22 March 2003