Orleans

DAVIS, Samuel Ray

Men of Vermont: Illustrated Biographical History of Vermonters & Sons of 
Vermont. Ullery. Brattleboro: Transcript Publishing Company, 1894, pp 99-100 
(portrait p 100)

Samuel Ray DAVIS, of Troy [Vermont], was born 19 April 1837 in Troy [Orleans 
County, Vermont], son of Ray and Hannah (BROWN) DAVIS. His father was one of 
the first settlers of the town, having moved there in 1833 from Lexington 
[Middlesex County], Massachusetts. The subject received his education in the schools 
of the town, and at Bakersfield Academy [Franklin County]. At an early age 
he acquired a taste for general reading, which has increased over the years, 
and his well-stocked library of carefully selected books bears witness that 
his taste has been well cultivated. Mr. DAVIS has always resided in his 
native town. He is known as a progressive farmer whose success may be 
largely attributed to his untiring energy, together with good judgment and 
sound sense. Republican; though of an unassuming nature, he has been often 
honored by the confidence of his fellow citizens; has held various town 
offices, from juryman to selectman; represented Troy in the state Legislature 
in 1867 and 1868; was one of the county road commissioners in 1886-1887, and 
assistant judge for two terms from 1888. He is a close observer, and his 
extensive reading combined with a retentive memory serve to keep him abreast 
with the leading topics of the day. An evolutionist in his belief, his 
religious preferences are liberal, though he supports and attends the 
Congregational church. In 1858 Judge [Samuel Ray] DAVIS was married to 
[Miss?] Orcelia KENNEY, of Fairfield [Franklin County, Vermont], by whom he 
has had four children.

Submitted by Cathy Kubly