SHEBOYGAN HISTORY

Levi E. Minott, Page 665

LEVI E. MINOTT, dealer in music and musical instruments, is an early settler of Sheboygan County, dating his residence here from 1849.  He was born in Westminster, Worcester County, Mass., September 2, 1827.  The Minott family is of French origin.  The parents of our subject were Joseph and Sallie (Graves) Minott.  The father worked at the carpenter's trade during the summer months, and in the winter time made musical instruments.  The family of this worthy couple numbered twelve children, two of whom came West.  Henry W. emigrated to this county in 1848, and died in Spring Valley, Minn.

    Mr. Minott received a meagre education in the old-time district schools.  When only thirteen years of age, he commenced to learn painting and cabinet-making, serving seven years as an apprentice.  In 1848, he went to Niles, Mich., and in the spring of the following year joined his brother in the Evergreen City.  In partnership with his brother, he began to manufacture and sell furniture, but later sold out to his partner.  At this time, he commenced manufacturing and dealing in musical instruments, which has been his chief business since.  Toward the close of the war, he was in the service of his country a short time.  He then, in company with the Crockers, started a sawmill, and later sold out to his partners.  He also worked in the Phoenix and the Crocker Bros. chair factories.  In all, he was identified with the manufacture of chairs for many years.

    Mr. Minott and Miss Orthonette R. Crocker were married in Sheboygan June 25, 1855.  The lady was born at Schroon, Essex County, N. Y., August 30, 1835, being a daughter of Silas R. Crocker, of whom see sketch.  Three children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Minott.  Charles E. died in infancy; William E. is in business in Chicago; and Douglas H. is cashier for the Crocker Chair Company, and resides in New York City.  On the 2d of July, 1882, Mr. Minott was called upon to mourn the loss of his wife.  She was a consistent member of the Congregational Church, and a lady much beloved.

    Mr. Minott adheres to the principles of the Republican party, but is not a politican.  He has lived in Sheboygan for forty-four years, and has witnessed its growth from a small village to an important and prosperous city.