Washington

PERRY, James M.

Men of Vermont: Illustrated Biographical History of Vermonters & Sons of 
Vermont. Ullery. Brattleboro: Transcript Publishing Company, 1894, pp 307-308 
(portrait p 307)

James M. PERRY, of Barre [Washington County, Vermont], was born 28 February 
1858 in Plainfield [Washington County, Vermont], son of Daniel A. and Dulcina 
(FREEMAN) PERRY. His father was a farmer of English descent, and during his 
whole life resided in Plainfield, where he was prominent in civil life, and 
was twice a member of the legislature. The boyhood of James was passed on 
the old homestead, where he divided his time between labor on the farm and 
attendance at the common schools of Plainfield, and Barre Academy.

At the age of twenty-one Mr. PERRY commenced his mercantile life as a clerk 
in the Union store of Barre [Washington County, Vermont]; this was a good 
school, for the establishment was a financial success. In 1864 he returned 
to his native town and engaged in trade for four years. He then, perceiving 
a fine business opportunity in Barre, opened a large store in that village, 
where he still continues to reside, carrying on a large trade in dry goods 
and boots and shoes. He is recognized as a safe and successful financier and 
has been prominently identified with the monetary interests of the village. 
He has been for twelve years and still is a director of the national bank and 
also holds the office of president of the Barre Savings Bank and Trust 
Company.

Belongs to Granite Lodge No. 35, Free & Accepted Masons, of Barre, and to 
Royal Arch Chapter No. 26, and was one of the founders of Hiawatha Lodge No. 
20, Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Republican; has been chairman of the 
village board of trustees and also an active member of the town committee; in 
1890 was elected to the House of Representatives and did good service as a 
member of the committee on claims. On 16 February 1869 Mr. [James M.] PERRY 
married Alma H., daughter of Allen and Betsey (NELSON) MARTIN, of Barre 
[Washington County, Vermont]. Four children are the issue of this union: J. 
Frank, Carl M., Edna D., and Dean H.

Submitted by Cathy Kubly