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Below is a family biography included in Biographical and Historical Memoirs of Garland County, Arkansas published by Goodspeed Publishing Company in 1890.  These biographies are valuable for genealogy research in discovering missing ancestors or filling in the details of a family tree. Family biographies often include far more information than can be found in a census record or obituary.  Details will vary with each biography but will often include the date and place of birth, parent names including mothers' maiden name, name of wife including maiden name, her parents' names, name of children (including spouses if married), former places of residence, occupation details, military service, church and social organization affiliations, and more.  There are often ancestry details included that cannot be found in any other type of genealogical record.

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W. P. Blake, dealer in jewelry, Hot Springs, Ark. In all the wide range of industrial enterprises, there is no industry of greater importance than that of watches and jewelry. In this line are a number of the leading citizens and merchants engaged, among whom may be found the substantial and representative establishment conducted by W. P. Blake. Mr. Blake is originally from Farmington, Me., and the son of R. K. Blake, also a native of the Pine Tree State. John M. Blake, an uncle of the subject of this sketch, was also a Maine man, and came to Hot Springs in 1869, where he established the first jewelry store of the place. He continued the business until his death, which occurred in July, 1887. He learned his trade at Winthrop, Me., and was extensively engaged in that business at the time of his death. William P. Blake then took charge of the business, and this he still continues. They carry the largest stock of jewelry in Hot Springs, and it will invoice at about $20,000. W. P. Blake learned his trade at Kokomo, Ind., and about 1873 came to Hot Springs, where he has since resided. He is a member of the Masonic order, also of the Knights of Pythias, and has passed through all the chairs of the last named order. He is a thorough gentleman, and courteous and genial to all customers.

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This family biography is one of 55 biographies included in Biographical and Historical Memoirs of Garland County, Arkansas published in 1890.  For the complete description, click here: Garland County, Arkansas History, Genealogy, and Maps

To view additional Garland County, Arkansas family biographies, click here

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