History of Holly, (Oakland County) Michigan United States of America

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Lawyer, of Holly, Michigan, Thomas L. Patterson was born in Clarkson, Monroe County, New York, March 22, 1835. His parents were James and Eliza (Patton) Patterson, both natives of Pennsylvania. His father served in the War of 1812, and his grandfather was a commissioned officer in the Revolution. Mr. Patterson is of Scotch-Irish extraction,--a stock of great intellectual vigor, from which have sprung some of the ablest men, and which, through them, has exerted upon America, and the world, a potent and enduring influence. At nine years of age, he came with his parents to Michigan, and, five years later, returned to New York, being, while there, under the care of an elder brother. He was instructed in the primary schools, both of Michigan and his native State, till 1850, when he entered the Collegiate Institute, at Brockport, New York. Here he studied with such diligence as not only to master the course, but to read, meanwhile, the elementary principles of law. After graduating at the academy, he returned to Michigan, and taught school in Holly for three years. During this time, he pursued the study of law, and was admitted to the bar in 1865, where he at once entered upon the practice of his profession. Besides his legal business, he is largely engaged in agriculture. During the civil war, he was employed in raising troops. Since 1863 he has been Supervisor of the township of Holly, having been, for nine years of this period, Chairman of the Board of Supervisors. He held the position of School Inspector three years; and has taken a lively interest in educational matters. He has been Master of the blue Lodge, of Holly, and a member of the Chapter, also of the Fenton Commandery. Mr. Patterson's family are members of the Presbyterian Church, to which he gives his support. He has always been associated with the Democratic party, working actively in its ranks; and, at times, making stump speeches throughout the county in behalf of the Democratic interests. On the 2d of January, 1865, Mr. Patterson married Miss Eunice A. Hadley, daughter of Hon. John Hadley, Jun., one of the pioneers of Oakland County. They have three sons and one daughter. In person, Mr. Patterson is of medium height, with high forehead, regular features, hair and whiskers tinged with gray. He ranks well in his profession, being considered a judicious counselor, and a good advocate. His manner of presenting a case is clear and straightforward. He has those rare qualities that enable their possessor to win, without seeking, popularity. Social, generous, delighting in acts of kindness towards all, he is respected and believed wherever known. The truest index of character is found in the privacy of home life; here Mr. Patterson is known to be an affectionate husband and father.

History of Holly, (Oakland County) Michigan

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