Essex

CONWAY, John

Men of Vermont: Illustrated Biographical History of Vermonters & Sons of 
Vermont. Ullery. Brattleboro: Transcript Publishing Company, 1894, p 79 
(portrait p 79)

John CONWAY, of Norton Mills [Essex County, Vermont], was born 29 November 
1841 at St. Catherine's, Province of Quebec, son of John and Catharine 
(SULLIVAN) CONWAY, and was educated in the common schools of that place. 
John CONWAY, Sr., was a farmer and teacher, and John remained with him until 
he was twenty-three years old, when he married and moved to Quebec. In 1871 
he took up his abode at Norton Mills, then a little hamlet on the line of the 
Grand Trunk Railroad, and was employed by the Norton Mills Company in the 
lumber business. Soon his faithfulness and efficiency secured him the 
position of foreman, both in the mill and in the woods. In 1878 he became 
the general foreman for A. M. Stetson and for twelve years served him in this 
very responsible position. About eight million feet of lumber per year were 
handled, and as Mr. STETSON was absent much of the time, Mr. CONWAY had the 
entire charge and supervision of this large business, which employed in the 
winter one hundred and fifty hands.

On 25 July at St. Caharine [Province of Quebec], he [John Conway, Jr.] was 
married to Judith, daughter of John and Elizabeth (LANNIN) GRIFFIN, of St. 
Catharine. Their union has been blessed with eight children: Katharine E., 
wife of Dr. ELIE of Island Pond [Essex County, Vermont]; John F.; Elizabeth 
G.; Mary Ann; Nellie; Henry J., deceased; Alice, deceased; and Rose Lottie. 
Mr. CONWAY is an independent Democrat and as such was elected to the 
Legislature in 1888-1890-1892; received the appointment of custom officer in 
1892; served on the county board of education in 1889; has been for several 
years a member and chairman of the board of school directors, a striking 
proof that he has won the confidence and respect of the community.

Submitted by Cathy Kubly