ISAAC WHIFFEN
Isaac Whiffen was born in Kimbolton, Huntingdonshire, England, October 10, 1817, and died in Utica, N. Y., June 24, 1889. He received his education mainly in his native country, where as a lad he developed those sturdy characteristics which mark the successful man. His elder brother, Uridge Whiffen, a gentleman of scholarly attainments, had become professor of Greek and mathematics in Bartlett's high school in Utica, and this led the family to emigrate to America and settle in this city in September, 1832, when Isaac was scarcely, fifteen years of age. But he soon left Utica and shipped on a whaling steamer, remaining away three years, mainly for his health. Returning to Utica he engaged in the milk business with his brother
John. In 1843 he established a meat market on the corner of John and Jay streets and here he laid the foundation for his successful business career. He remained on these corners, in trade, until his death, and the business was continued there by his sons till April, 1893, a period of fifty years.
Mr. Whiffen, at the time of his death, was the oldest butcher and meat dealer in Utica, and was known all over the State. At first he confined his operations to the retail trade. Gradually, however, an increasing wholesale business was added, the two branches being combined with unusual success. In 1886 he admitted his sons, George I. and B. Allen, to partnership, under the firm name of Isaac Whiffen & Sons, and upon Mr. Whiffen's death in 1889 they succeeded to the business, taking the present firm name of Isaac Whiffen's Sons. In 1892-93 they erected on Bleecker street, opposite Chancellor Square, a large and commodious brick block, into which they moved in April, 1893, occupying the entire lower floor. Here both wholesaling and retailing of meats are carried on extensively, and here the business, established on the corner of John and Jay streets fifty-three years ago, has an appropriate home.
As a citizen Mr. Whiffen was energetic, enterprising, and public spirited, and during his long and successful career won universal respect and confidence. He was a man of unswerving integrity, true to his convictions, steadfast in his friendship, and unfailing in the discharge of his obligations. Plain, substantial and honest, he was a model citizen, and always took a just pride in advancing the welfare of the community. He was one of the organizers and for many years a director of the Utica and Mohawk street Railroad Company. Early in life he became interested in farming, and was a charter member of the Central New York Farmers' Club. He was also a prominent member of the Central New York Agricultural, Horticultural, and Mechanical Association, and a life member of the Utica Mechanics Association. He was one of the oldest members and at one time president of St. George's Society, long a member of Utica Lodge, No. 47, F. & A. M., and a member and president of the Utica Curling Club. In polities he was an active and influential Republican, but never sought and only twice accepted political office. He served one term as canal collector, and in 1885 was appointed a police and fire commissioner of the city of Utica, but after about one year resigned. Mr. Whiffen was charitable, broadminded, honorable, and industrious, and by every one was held in high esteem.
November 25, 1841, Mr. Whiffen was married to Miss Elizabeth Seaton, who survives him. She was one of the eleven persons who founded the Bethel (later the Bleecker street and now the Park) Baptist church of Utica. They had nine children, of whom six are living, viz.: Charles B., George L, B. Allen, and Edward U., of Utica; Mrs. W. H. Gibson, of Rochester, N. Y.; and Mrs. U. M. Whiffen, of Rock land, Ill.
George I. Whiffen, born June 24, 1856, was educated in the Utica public schools and academy, and at the age of seventeen entered his father's meat market. He is trustee and treasurer of the Park Baptist church, a member of Imperial Council R. A., and a charter member of the Arcanum Club. November 7, 1883, he married Miss Carrie A., daughter of Charles Reed, of Utica, and they have one child, Marjorie G.
B. Allen Whiffen was born August 26, 1858, received his education in the Utica public schools and academy, and on leaving school entered his father's business. He is a member of Imperial Council R. A., and of the Arcanum Club. June 17, 1891, he married Miss Anna N., daughter of Henry B. Beckwith, of Utica.
Edward U. Whiffen was born August 11, 1844, was educated in the public schools and academy of Utica, and remained with his father until 1870, when he went to Canada and engaged in the lumber business, continuing successfully until 1890. He then removed to Louisiana, Pike county, Mo., and carried on a lumber trade until March, 1896, when he sold out and returned to Utica. In 1867 he married Miss Susan L. Brazie, of Utica, and they have four children: Harry L, Fannie A., Flora L., and Frank A.
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