Windham

MELENDY, Jonathan Washburn

Men of Vermont: Illustrated Biographical History of Vermonters & Sons of 
Vermont. Ullery. Brattleboro: Transcript Publishing Company, 1894, pp 273-274 
(portrait p 273)

Jonathan Washburn MELENDY, of South Londonderry, was born 18 November 1845 in 
Londonderry [Windham County, Vermont], son of Emery and Jerusha (PIERCE) 
MELENDY. Educated in the common schools; and West River and Saxton's River 
academies. Engaged with his father as blacksmith, a trade he had learned 
during boyhood. Later devoted his attention to agriculture; with his brother 
has operated the home farm to the present time. He was twice elected first 
constable and collector; was selectman nine years, six of which he was 
chairman of the board; in 1879 was made town railroad commissioner; 
instrumental in building the B. & W. [Brattleboro & Whitehall] Railroad; in 
1871 appointed deputy sheriff; held this position by successive appointments 
until 1878, when he was elected sheriff of Windham County; held that office 
six years; afterward appointed deputy by his successor, which position he 
still retains; in 1890 elected a state senator from Windham County; served on 
the committee on claims; chairman of committee on fish and game. Member of 
Anchor Lodge No. 99, Free & Accepted Masons, of South Londonderry, in which 
he has filled the Master's chair, and of Adoniram Chapter No. 15, of 
Manchester. Since the construction of the B. & W. [Brattleboro & Whitehall] 
Railroad, has been a director of the corporation. Since 1880 has been 
engaged with his brother in the undertaking business at South Londonderry. 
Has been a public-spirited and prominent in all movements for the benefit of 
his town and community. On 26 November 1868 he [Jonathan Washburn MELENDY] 
was married to Carrie L., daughter of Hon. David and Lydia (DUDLEY) ARNOLD, 
of Londonderry [Windham County, Vermont]. Of this union is one child: Emery 
A.

Submitted by Cathy Kubly