My Genealogy Hound

THOMAS C. RODGERS. Prominent among the young business men of Cass County stands the name of this popular citizen of Summerville, Pokagon Township. He was born July 13, 1853, one mile west of Summerville, on the old homestead which his grandfather had entered from the Government in 1828. Elsewhere in this volume appears the biographical sketch of his parents, Thomas and Sarah Jane (Rogers) Rodgers. He was reared to manhood upon the home farm and in his youth was the recipient of the best educational advantages afforded by Pokagon Township.

At the early age of eighteen years the subject of this sketch entered the flourishing mill business at Summerville, and remained thus occupied for a number of years, becoming thoroughly familiar with the work in all its details. Finally, however, he abandoned that business and for the past few years he has given his attention exclusively to house-painting, in which he has been very successful. He has steady employment during the entire year, and as a business man has proved himself to be prompt, reliable and honorable, possessing good judgment and abilities above the average.

A very important event in the life of Mr. Rodgers occurred May 10, 1877, at which time he was united in marriage with Miss Emma, daughter of Edward and Julia B. (Drake) Badger. Mrs. Rodgers was born in New Jersey, and her father and mother were natives respectively of England and New Jersey. One son, Carl A., has been born to brighten the home and hearts of Mr. Rodgers and his cultured wife. Socially, he is identified with the Masonic fraternity of Pokagon Township and has reached the Royal Arch degree, being also a member of the latter lodge at Dowagiac. He is prominent in the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and affiliates with Crystal Spring Lodge No. 325.

In his political opinions, Mr. Rodgers is a Republican and a strong supporter of his party, being one of the leaders in its ranks. He has officiated in many positions of trust and responsibility in the community, having first been chosen to serve as Constable, later elected Justice of the Peace, and afterward appointed Deputy Sheriff. In addition to these positions he has also served as Census Enumerator and Notary Public. In the spring of 1893 he was chosen Supervisor of his township, and although it has a Democratic majority of twenty, he was elected by a majority of sixteen votes. He gives his influence to all measures having for their object the promotion of the village, morally, socially or materially, and aids so far as possible all public-spirited and progressive enterprises.