Page:Men of Mark in America vol 1.djvu/521



ROSVENOR, CHARLES HENRY, LL.D., is one of many prominent Americans whose lives have demonstrated that in this country a decidedly unfavorable environment in childhood and youth is not an insurmountable barrier to success in later life. Although his boyhood was spent on a farm, and the educational advantages of his earlier years were extremely limited, by his industry and energy, and by his readiness to take advantage of opportunities which were open to him, he has reached a position of high honor and commanding influence. From a log school house he has made his way to the national house of representatives.

He was born at Pomfret, Windham county, Connecticut, September 20, 1833. His parents were Peter and Ann (Chase) Grosvenor. He was married December 1, 1858, to Samantha Stewart, who died in April, 1866. On May 21, 1867, he married Louise H. Currier.

His father, Peter Grosvenor, was a fine specimen of the sturdy common-sense New Englander. By occupation he was a farmer. While he did not seek public honors, his honesty and efficiency were clearly recognized by his fellow citizens who made him an officer in township affairs. Among those of his line who have been especially distinguished was Thomas Grosvenor, of Pomfret, Connecticut, an excellent lawyer, an honored judge, who served as colonel in the War of the Revolution.

Charles Henry Grosvenor spent most of his early life in the country and knew the hard work and the long hours which sixty years ago marked the lot of farmer boys in the sparsely settled western country to which his father had removed. His educational advantages were very limited — a few terms at an inferior school which was held in a primitive log school house. But he learned all that he could and wherever he could. He has always been eager to obtain knowledge from every available source. Although he may be called "self educated," the work that he has accomplished proves that he fitted himself thoroughly for public and professional life.