Louis R. Richmond Page 559 - Louis R. Richmond, proprietor of the Richmond Stamp Works, of Grand Rapids, is a descendant of the first Dutch immigrant to settle permanently in that city. He was born in Grand Rapids, September 23, 1875, the son of Eugene and Mary (Lyon) Richmond, both of whom were natives of Michigan. Eugene Richmond was born in Grand Haven in 1850, and came to Grand Rapids when he was still a small child, with his parents. He was active in politics in Grand Rapids and was the first Republican alderman elected from the Fifth Ward of that city. He and his wife were passengers on the first train to enter the city on what was then the Grand Haven and Milwaukee. Eugene Richmond died in 1922 in Grand Rapids where his widow is still living. Louis R. Richmond received his education in the grade schools of Grand Rapids, and in 1889, he became engaged in the manufacturing of stamps of all kinds. He manufactures rubber stamps and steel stamps, his business being one of the largest of its kind in this section of the state. The enterprise has been developed solely through his own efforts, and his achievements have won him recognition as one of the successful business men of the city. In 1900, Mr. Richmond was united in marriage to Miss Marie Mankle, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Mankle, deceased, pioneer residents of Grand Rapids. To this union have been born two children, Richard born in 1903, and now living in California, and Virginia born in 1908, and now a student in the Grand Rapids high school. Mr. Richmond is a member of the Exchange Club and is affiliated with the Central Church of Christ. He is greatly interested in Filipino boys who come to Grand Rapids for their education, and each year finds several of them living at his home while they are attending school. He has been an active worker in the Y. M. C. A.

Transcriber: Marcia Shears
Created: 25 November 2002