My Genealogy Hound

THOMAS W. REYNOLDS. The firm of Reynolds & Lemon, dealers in hardware, stoves and tinware, is one of the best known in Berrien Springs. They carry a very large stock, covering everything in the line of heavy hardware and shelf goods, and also have a large assortment of agricultural implements. By close attention to the details of business, by care in the selection of their stock, and by accurate methods in all their transactions, they have built up a large and profitable trade with the citizens of Berrien Springs and vicinity.

The senior member of the firm was born in Lake County, Ohio, December 2, 1853. He is the son of George and Sarah (Lamb) Reynolds, both of whom were born in Cheshire, England, and emigrated thence to America, the father in 1849, and the mother two years afterward. After their marriage in Cleveland, Ohio, they removed, in 1855, to Berrien Springs, Mich., where for a time Mr. Reynolds, Sr., followed the trade of a cabinet-maker, but later turned his attention to wagon-making. He was thus engaged until his death, which occurred in 1880. His wife passed away seven years prior to his demise.

The only surviving child of the parental family is Thomas W., the subject of this sketch. He passed his boyhood in Berrien Springs and gained his education in the public schools of this place. Later he learned the trade of a tinner under George Claar, and upon the completion of the term of his apprenticeship he traveled as a “jour” through Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin and Michigan. Returning in 1884 to his former home in Berrien Springs, he opened a tin shop and began business on his own account. He continued alone until 1891, when he formed a partnership with Albert Lemon, the title of the firm being Reynolds & Lemon.

A very important event in the life of Mr. Reynolds occurred in 1882, when he was united in marriage with Miss Lyda Filkins, the daughter of Peter and Sarah (Rooks) Filkins, residents of Berrien Springs. The union has been blessed by the birth of one daughter, Vera S., a bright and interesting child, of whom the parents are justly proud. In politics a Republican, Mr. Reynolds has served as City Treasurer, and is now filling the position of Treasurer of the School Board. Socially, he holds relations with Oronoko Lodge No. 69, A. O. U. W. He is now serving as Secretary and Treasurer of the local board of the Building & Loan Association, having its headquarters at Logansport, Ind., and is the Superintendent of the county poor. A man of deep religious convictions, he is an earnest worker in the Methodist Episcopal Church and is officiating as Superintendent of the Sunday-school. His wife is also identified with that denomination, and both are liberal contributors to the support of the church. They are highly regarded throughout the community where they reside, and their friends are wont to spend many pleasant hours in their cozy home.