Charles F. Barnard, of the firm of Reed & Barnard, Stanwood, is a native of Livingston Co., Mich., where he was born Oct. 2, 1853. He is a son of Ely and Aristeen (Curtis) Barnard, natives of New York; the former emigrated to Michigan in 1834, and the latter at a later date, where the father followed farming through life and died, in July, 1871: the mother is still living. He was reared on a farm, and, although his educational advantages were limited, he managed, by his own exertions, to obtain sufficient knowledge to enable him to teach school, after which he worked on a farm during the summer season and taught during the winter, for several years. In March 1879, he came to Mecosta County and entered the store of G. W. Reed, at Stanwood, as clerk. After one year he entered into partnership with Mr. Reed in mercantile business, under the firm name of Reed & Barnard. They keep on hand a large stock of dry goods, groceries, boots, shoes, hats, etc., and command a large trade, their sales amounting annually to $30,000. Mr. Barnard is a self made man. He had no means to commence life with; but having early acquired habits of industry and economy he has succeeded in accumulating considerable property. In all his dealings he is marked for his uprightness and integrity. He is at present serving the township of Mecosta as Clerk.
He was married in Livingston Co., Mich., May 13, 1878, to Alice M., daughter of Staats and Rachel (Wilcox) Green, who was born in Yates Co., N.Y., May 13, 1861. They have had two children: Edna L., born Dec. 25, 1882; one died in infancy. Politically he is a Democrat, and religiously, is liberal.
Researcher note from: Patricia L. Smith**
Their first child Roscoe E. Barnard b: 26 June 1881; d: 22 Aug 1881. A third child Celia M. Barnard b:12 Sept. 1884. Another daughter is Hazel M. Barnard b: 22 Aug 1887. All except Celia lived in Mecosta Co all their life. Celia married and moved to Livingston Co.
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