Franklin County

ADAMS, Edward Payson

Men of Vermont: an Illustrated Biographical History of Vermonters and Sons of 
Vermont. Ullery. Brattleboro, VT: Transcript Pub. Co., 1894, Part II, Sons of 
Vermonters, pp 1-2 (Portrait p 2)

Edward Payson ADAMS, of Swanton [Franklin County, Vermont], son of Lemuel and 
Sally (SMALLEY) ADAMS, was born 16 March 1843 in Sheldon [Franklin County, 
Vermont]. His early education was obtained at the district school and a 
course of study at Barre Academy. Until he arrived at the age of 
thirty-nine, Mr. ADAMS remained upon the farm in Sheldon which had been in 
the possession of both his father and grandfather. In 1881 he removed to 
Swanton, where he became a heavy dealer in butter. For the last twenty-five 
years he has been engaged in this occupation. When the Swanton Suspender 
Company was organized in 1885, he was chosen its President, discharging the 
duties of that office with general acceptability. During his business career 
he has traveled extensively in the United States. 

On 07 September 1868 Edward Payson ADAMS was married to Helen A., daughter of 
Noah and Abigail (YALE) BEST, of Highgate [Franklin County, Vermont]. Four 
children are the issue of this marriage: Mary A., Helen B., Lemuel P., and 
John.

While residing in Sheldon, Mr. ADAMS took a leading part in the affairs of 
the town, and was the incumbent of many local offices. He was elected county 
Commissioner four successive terms and was appointed Railroad Commissioner 
during the administration of Governor PECK. Upon the incorporation of Swanton 
Village in 1882 he was elected its President, continuing in office two years. 
He has been Vice President of the Swanton National Bank, and in 1890 was 
honored by an election to the upper branch of the Legislature in which he 
served with great efficiency.

Mr. ADAMS united with the Congregational church in 1864, and for sixteen 
years performed the duties of Sunday school Superintendent. He has long been 
a Free Mason, and when Missisquoi Lodge No. 38, Independent Order of Odd 
Fellows was organized, he was unanimously elected its first Noble Grand. In 
this organization he at present holds the position of Grand Treasurer of the 
Grand Lodge of Vermont. Mr. ADAMS, from his general disposition and 
unaffected manner, is very popular in his section of the State, while his 
wide experience of men and affairs renders him an entertaining companion and 
sage counselor.

Submitted by Cathy Kubly