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Osborne |
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| Abel C.Osborne, proprietor of the Palace Barber Shop at Big Rapids, was born at Casenovia, N.Y., June 3, 1841. He is a son of Thomas E. and Salome (Hanks) Osborne, and was sent to school in his native place until he was 16 years old. His first occupation of any importance was in the capacity of page to the Sergeant-at-Arms of the New York Assembly, at the State Capitol at Albany, N.Y. At the age of 18 he began to prepare for his vocation by obtaining a position in a barber shop in Oswego, N.Y. In the fall of 1863 he went to Toledo, Ohio, and established himself in business, remaining about two years. He then went to Fulton, N.Y., where he again embarked in business and operated until 1867. In this year he made his first essay in his calling at Big Rapids, associated with George Jones. In 1869 he went back to Fulton, N.Y., and remained two years, when he returned to Big Rapids again and purchased an interest in the business owned by B.F. Brazee. They sold out to J.R.Lalone, and Mr. Osborne entered the employ of L.T.Loveless, engaging a year later with Langsworth & VanHaun. After six months he purchased the claim of the senior member of the firm, and after another six months he became sole proprietor, by buying out Mr. VanHaun. He opened the Place shop in December 1881 and the establishment is acknowledged to be the finest in the Peninsular State. He employs two assistants, and owns another shop in a different locality under the management of William Disley and one assistant. In connection with his shops he has a fine set of bathrooms which, with his operating rooms, are fitted with the best modern fixtures. His assistants are skilled with their business, and his establishment is deservedly famous throughout Michigan. Mr. Osborne was married in Oswego, N.Y., June 21, 1865, to Sarah E., daughter of Stephen and Mary Hare, born April 7, 1850, in Pictou, Canada. Clayton the eldest child, was born in Toledo, Ohio June 6, 1866, and now is a messenger in the employ of the W.U. Telegraph Co. Minnie was born Oct. 11, 1869, at Big Rapids. Mr. Osborne belongs to the I.O.O.F. and has held the offices of Past Grand and P.C.P. |