1914 Delaware County History pgs. 104-105

Erwin R. Stone, proprietor of one of the leading lumber and hardware establishments of the county, located at Delhi, was born in that place on the 4th of May, 1865, a son of Chester D. and Mary D. (Van Antwerp) Stone. The father was born in Oswego county, New York, on the 7th of May, 1841, and in 1853 he came with his parents, Andrew and Priscilla (Pepper) Stone, to Delhi, where he spent the remainder of his life. For many years he successfully conducted a general store, but when fifty-six years of age retired from business. He died on the 16th of January, 1910. He is survived by Mrs. Stone, who makes her home in Delhi.

Erwin R. Stone began his education in the common schools of Delhi, later attended school in Manchester and Fayette and completed his education by a business course in Cedar Rapids. For five years he successfully engaged in teaching school in Delhi township and then started out upon an independent business career by becoming connected with the lumber industry in Delhi in February, 1890. Shortly afterward he opened a hardware store at that place, which he has since conducted in connection with his lumber and coal business.  During the intervening quarter of a century he has been the proprietor of this business, which has proved successful and remunerative. He exercises foresight and sound judgment in buying his stock and, as he realizes the value of persistent advertising and as his prices are moderate, his patronage is large. Many of his customers have been dealing with him ever since he started in business and this is the best proof of his fair dealing and integrity.

On the 3d of January, 1895, Mr. Stone was united in marriage to Miss May A. Harris, a daughter of A. P. and Adelaide (Seger) Harris, who settled in this county many years ago. Mr. Stone is a republican and has held several township offices, including that of trustee and that of constable. Fraternally he belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He is a factor in the business expansion of Delhi and in many other ways has aided in the development of his town, and his upright and useful life has gained him the respect of his fellow citizens.

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