Another Valued Citizen Gone.
One of Norwood’s most estimable citizens died at his home on Washington Street at 3 o’clock on Wednesday morning, at the age of 68 years. Mr. Draper was born in Medfield, Mass., on August 19th, 1819, and lived there and in adjoining towns during Ids younger days. Being of a strong mechanical turn of mind he learned the cabinet making business, and in 1842 went into business for himself in Pawtucket.
In 1843, he married Miss Ann Hersey, of Dedham. He was successful until the panic of 1847, when he gave up business in Pawtucket, came to South Dedham, now Norwood, and worked in the employ of Curtis Morse, where the Ink Mill now stands.
He remained until Messrs. Haley, Morse & Boyden erected the new shop, now used as a part of Lyman Smith’s Sons’ Tannery.
He worked for them till 1861, when he, in company with his brother, R. H. Draper went into the Foundry business in West Dedham under the firm name of Draper & Co. Ten years later (1871) he purchased the Spencer Fuller estate, where he has successfully carried on the same business ever since in company with his son, F. D. Draper, who succeeds him.
Four children came to bless their home, two of whom are now living.
Mr. Draper knew what it was to be a poor boy. In his early manhood, he laid the cornerstone to success, by his frugality, honesty, and untiring industry.
He began business in a small way, and with almost unerring business sagacity, he caused it to grow and strengthen, till at the time of his decease it gave employment to about fifty men, who feel very deeply the loss of their kiud employer.
Draper took an active interest in public affairs, was well read, of sound judgment—a man of ideas, with whom it was always a pleasure to converse. He was a lover of justice and truth. The molds he has made in iron and brass, may crumble and be destroyed, but the impressions he has made upon the minds of those with whom he has come in contact during life, will endure.
During his busy life, he found time to read and study scientific works, of which astronomy was his favorite one, and in this he was a most pleasing instructor. Esteemed by all, and loved by a large circle, Ellis D. Draper has left the scene of earth’s activities.
His devoted companion through the ups and downs of a busy life is sadly bereaved. Now, “a three-fold cord shall draw her through the weariness of sorrow, nearer to the things unseen.”
The funeral services, which xvere well attended, were held on Friday, Dec. 23d. Revs. Ellis Mendell and B. W. Burrows officiated. The bearers were D. B. Farrington, J. W. Roby, Elijah Wheelock nnd Francis E. Colburn. The interment was in Highland cemetery.
(All articles originally published in the Norwood Messenger)