My Genealogy Hound

Aaron S. Palmer, one of the prominent farmers and highly respected citizens of Milford township,, Oakland County, residing on his fine farm of 67 acres in section 5, was born at Allentown, Monmouth County, New Jersey, April 18, 1823. He is a son of John G. and Margaret (Stewart) Palmer, the former of whom was born in Connecticut and the latter in Monmouth County, New Jersey.

About 1800 John G. Palmer removed to New Jersey and there engaged in business as a tanner and currier, becoming very prominent and wealthy. Later in life he disposed of his tannery and invested in valuable farming lands. He died in 1860, at the age of 88 years. His first wife, the mother of our subject, died in 1833, and he married as his second wife, Mrs. Hannah Taylor. The children of the first marriage were: Mary T., who married Sterne Palmer; Charles S.; Lydia W., who married William S. Fish of Pontiac; and Aaron S. John G. Palmer and wife were Quakers. In politics he was a Whig.

Aaron S. Palmer came to Michigan in 1840, locating at Saginaw, where he learned the tanning business with his brother, who owned a plant at that place. Some years later he gave up tanning and operated a livery for a time, later selling boots and shoes, and still later engaging in a grocery business. About 1852 he bought a farm in Novi township, Oakland County, and operated it eight years, when he rented it and returned to New Jersey. One year later he sold his farm and bought another in Lyon township, Oakland County, which he sold after six years and moved to Pleasant Valley, Midland County. There he bought another farm which he rented at a later date and bought the property known as the “Old Foundry” in Novi township. This he also disposed of a year after and then removed to Milford, where he bought a house and three lots, also his present farming property in section 5. On his farm Mr. Palmer erected a fine residence and substantial outbuildings and barns in 1875. Since 1890 he has not been actively engaged in agricultural labor, renting his land and enjoying a large income.

In 1849 Mr. Palmer was married to Sarah Johnson, of Novi, Oakland County, and six fine sons were born to them, namely: John G., Daniel J., Frank B., William E., Harry H. and George W. The mother of this family died in 1883. She was a worthy member of the Methodist Church. In 1886 Mr. Palmer was married to Sarah Armstrong.

In political sentiments Mr. Palmer is liberal, voting more for the man than the party. He has been village trustee and for many years has shown his interest in the public schools by serving as a director.