Frank E. Markham

Frank E. Markham was born at Brooklyn, Mich., Jan. 28,1861. When 7 years of age his parents moved to Big Rapids. When 15 years of age he started to learn the trade of painter, decorator and sign-writer. In 1880 he went to Des Moines, Iowa, and from there to Minneapolis, Minn., spending the next four years in these two places. In 1884 he returned to Big Rapids entering the employ of Crocker & Hudnutt, and remaining with them fiour years.

In 1888 he engaged in business for himself and in a very short time worked up a large trade in sign-writing, painting and decorating. In 1902 he opened a store on Maple street, opposite the Northern Hotel, where he carries a very large stock of wallpaper; metal ceilings, interior decorations and picture frames. He also makes a specialty of high class sign-writing.

Mr. Markham was married to Miss May Cook, of Ann Arbor, then a teacher in the Big Rapids schools. The accompanying illustration shows the decoration of theuir dining room, the work of Mr. Markham.

Mrs. Markham takes a very active interest in club work and is at the present time president of the Big Rapids Women's Club; regent of Big Rapids Chapter, D.A.R. and one of the vice presidents of the Big Rapids Improvement Club.

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