GAUTHIER, JOSEPH. This sturdy citizen is a native of Three Rivers,
Province Quebec, where he was born in 1846. He attended the public schools
of his native city, and spent his boyhood there until at sixteen years
of age he went to West Troy, New York, Waterville arsenal, and worked two
years at the United States arsenal, at his trade of harness-maker. Mr.
GAUTHIER recalls the fact that thirteen hours was then the regulation working
day at the arsenal. After leaving West Troy, he located in Concord, New
Hampshire, and remained there seven years, in the employ of the well-known
Hill Harness company. In 1870 he returned to his native city of Three Rivers
and for a time engaged in trade.
During that time he was a volunteer in the Fenian Raid, and received
a silver medal from the government in recognition of meritorious service.
Soon afterwards he engaged in the harness business for two years
with his uncle, Albert GILMORE, at Derby Line, Vermont, and later was located
at Newport, Vermont, one year. In 1874 he settled in St. Johnsbury and
bought the harness business of George W. COOK, to which he later added
the features of boots, shoes, and men's clothing, and conducted the same
successfully until 1897, when he sold the business and stock.
Mr. GAUTHIER has shown his confidence in the future of St. Johnsbury
by investment of his surplus in real estate, the rise in value of which
has justified his faith and brought him handsome returns. During the past
three years he has been the silent partner of the well-known real estate
firm of RICKABY & Company.
In January, 1903, Mr. GAUTHIER bought the St. Johnsbury wood-yard,
and since last May has been actively engaged in the sale of wood, straw,
and hay, shingles and cedar posts, a line of trade in which his wide personal
acquaintance and business ability are sure to win success. He married in
1875 Miss Carrie THERREIN. They have one daughter, Mamie.
Source: Successful Vermonters,
William H. Jeffrey, E. Burke, Vermont, The Historical Publishing Company,
1904, page 72.
Prepared
by Tom Dunn December 2004
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