Biographies
from
The History of Otsego County, New York
1740-1878
D. Hamilton Hurd
Published by Everts & Fariss, Philadelphia
CHILDS, Charles - Otsego
Charles Childs was born in the town of Exeter, Otsego Co.,
April 27, 1810, being the fifth child of Elisha and Nancy Childs.
About the year 1800 his parents, who were natives of Connecticut,
settled in Exeter, Otsego Co., N. Y., where all their children were
born, - six sons and four daughters. His father was one of the founders
of the Congregational church of Exeter. His mother was also a member.
Mr. Childs has been twice married. His first wife was Diantha
CUSHMAN, daughter of David and Hettie Cushman, of Exeter. Their
marriage occurred Oct. 7, 1847. No children by this marriage. His
wife died Aug. 22, 1859. His second marriage was July 3, 1866, to
Augusta THORPE, daughter of Henry and Mary Thorpe. Mrs. Childs
was born in the town of Butternuts, Otsego Co., Jan. 5, 1841. They
have one child, Helen Augusta, born Feb. 14, 1868.
Mr. Childs was bred a farmer. In the year 1833 he came to
Oaksville, and served four years as clerk in a store. Then went to
Vanhornsville, Herkimer Co., N. Y.., and assisted Elias BRAMAN
in starting a cotton-manufactory. He remained there three years..
In 1840 he returned to Oaksville and became part owner in the
manufacture of cotton goods, in calico printing, with Russell WILLIAMS.
After five years of successful business she sold his interest to Mr.
Williams and went into the commission business, handling wool,
cotton, and produce. At the expiration of several years, the failure
of Colonel Williams threw the mill back into his hands, and he sold
to Rufus STEER. He has continued the commission business and
farming till the present time. Mr. Childs is Republican in politics,
and has held various offices of public trust; was postmaster for many
years, director in Otsego County agricultural society, director of the
C. & S. railroad since its organization and railroad commissioner
for the town of Otsego for four or five years past.--
Excerpt from History of Otsego Co., NY, page 255