Ratay-Johnstone Ancestors - Person Sheet
Ratay-Johnstone Ancestors - Person Sheet
Spouses
BirthOct 1872, New Jersey
Death11 Jan 1965, Passaic County, New Jersey4038
Burial14 Jan 1965, Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Totowa, New Jersey
FatherMichael J MORRIS (1839-1903)
MotherAmelia Emma CALVIN (1847-1927)
Marriage17 Jan 1894, Paterson, Passaic County, New Jersey4041
ChildrenJohn R. (1894-1960)
Josephine M. (1895-1976)
Catherine E. (1897-1980)
Frank J. (1903-1981)
George A. (~1906-1989)
Notes for John R. LEE
The Biographical Cyclopedia of New Jersey, edited by Samuel F. Bigelow and George J. Hagar, National Americana Society (New York City:1909)
John R. Lee
Paterson, New Jersey, as a business center, takes high rank among the cities of America, and the subject of this review has been an important factor in sustaining her reputation in this direction. He is at the head of some of her leading enterprises, and his devotion to the interests of the community has become almost proverbial. He has the faculty of imparting to others, clearly and readily, the original ideas which spring from his active mind, and in the way the work which has has under consideration is carried on with a conscientious attention to detail which has been lacking in some of the most important enterprises.
P.F. Lee, late of Paterson, New Jersey, father of John R. Lee, was born in county Cavan, Ireland, and came to the United State while he was still a young lad. Endowed with the energy and super-abundant health so characteristic of the natives of the “Emerald Isle,” he grasped every opportunity which presented itself, and he was still a very young man when he engaged in the contracting business at Easton, Pennsylvania. Removing to Paterson, New Jersey, in 1867, he took a contract for the grading of the Paterson-Newark branch of the Erie railroad, and continued his residence in Paterson until his death in 1889. By this time he was at the head of an important contracting concern, and was extensively engaged in railroad construction work. He was highly esteemed as a citizen, and born his share bravely in any undertaking which promised to result in benefit to the community.
John R. Lee was born in Deposit, Broome county, New York, June 14, 1859. His education was unusually excellent and comprehensive, and included courses at St. John’s University, Fordham, New York, and Packard’s Business College, New York City. From his earliest years he had take a keen and intelligent interest in the huge business interests controlled by his father, and his education well qualified him to take them up in a manner which would be a credit and benefit to all concerned. For this reason he was admitted to a partnership in the firm when the majority of young men are still in their probation periods, but the results of his efforts proved the wisdom of this course of procedure. At the time of his admission to partnership, the firm name was changed to read P.F. Lee & Son, and in 1885, when his father retired from business, John R. Lee became the acting head of the concern, and is still enjoying that responsible position. Railroad construction work forms the bulk of the business undertaken by this company, but there have been a number of other contracts which have been no less important and beneficial improvements in the city of Paterson. Another important undertaking was the construction of the sewerage system, its successful completion greatly increasing the reputation of Paterson as one of the most healthful cities in the United States. His ability as a business man, as an engineer and as a public-spirited citizen has bee amply recognized by selection for offices of trust and responsibility. Among these are: Member of the Park Commission; director of the Second National Bank; director of the Safe Deposit and Trust Company; director of the Central Storage Company; director of the Jersey City, Hoboken and Paterson Railway Company; president of the Colt Hill Land Company; president of the Title Guarantee Land Company; and he is connected in official capacity with a number of other organizations.
Mr. Lee married, in 1894, Annie M., daughter of M.J. Morris, of Paterson, and they have five children. Their beautiful home is located at No. 225 Broadway. Recently, being engaged in railway construction work in Ohio, Mr. Lee has removed there temporarily, making his home at Lima.
John R. Lee
Paterson, New Jersey, as a business center, takes high rank among the cities of America, and the subject of this review has been an important factor in sustaining her reputation in this direction. He is at the head of some of her leading enterprises, and his devotion to the interests of the community has become almost proverbial. He has the faculty of imparting to others, clearly and readily, the original ideas which spring from his active mind, and in the way the work which has has under consideration is carried on with a conscientious attention to detail which has been lacking in some of the most important enterprises.
P.F. Lee, late of Paterson, New Jersey, father of John R. Lee, was born in county Cavan, Ireland, and came to the United State while he was still a young lad. Endowed with the energy and super-abundant health so characteristic of the natives of the “Emerald Isle,” he grasped every opportunity which presented itself, and he was still a very young man when he engaged in the contracting business at Easton, Pennsylvania. Removing to Paterson, New Jersey, in 1867, he took a contract for the grading of the Paterson-Newark branch of the Erie railroad, and continued his residence in Paterson until his death in 1889. By this time he was at the head of an important contracting concern, and was extensively engaged in railroad construction work. He was highly esteemed as a citizen, and born his share bravely in any undertaking which promised to result in benefit to the community.
John R. Lee was born in Deposit, Broome county, New York, June 14, 1859. His education was unusually excellent and comprehensive, and included courses at St. John’s University, Fordham, New York, and Packard’s Business College, New York City. From his earliest years he had take a keen and intelligent interest in the huge business interests controlled by his father, and his education well qualified him to take them up in a manner which would be a credit and benefit to all concerned. For this reason he was admitted to a partnership in the firm when the majority of young men are still in their probation periods, but the results of his efforts proved the wisdom of this course of procedure. At the time of his admission to partnership, the firm name was changed to read P.F. Lee & Son, and in 1885, when his father retired from business, John R. Lee became the acting head of the concern, and is still enjoying that responsible position. Railroad construction work forms the bulk of the business undertaken by this company, but there have been a number of other contracts which have been no less important and beneficial improvements in the city of Paterson. Another important undertaking was the construction of the sewerage system, its successful completion greatly increasing the reputation of Paterson as one of the most healthful cities in the United States. His ability as a business man, as an engineer and as a public-spirited citizen has bee amply recognized by selection for offices of trust and responsibility. Among these are: Member of the Park Commission; director of the Second National Bank; director of the Safe Deposit and Trust Company; director of the Central Storage Company; director of the Jersey City, Hoboken and Paterson Railway Company; president of the Colt Hill Land Company; president of the Title Guarantee Land Company; and he is connected in official capacity with a number of other organizations.
Mr. Lee married, in 1894, Annie M., daughter of M.J. Morris, of Paterson, and they have five children. Their beautiful home is located at No. 225 Broadway. Recently, being engaged in railway construction work in Ohio, Mr. Lee has removed there temporarily, making his home at Lima.
Census notes for John R. LEE
1900 New Jersey, Passaic County, Paterson, ward 3, E.D. 121, sheet 16B (taken 14 June 1900), film T623-991
225 Broadway, dwelling 223, family 338
Lee, John R., Jr., head, white, male, June 1859, age 40, married 6 years, born New York, father born Ireland, mother born New York, contractor
-----, Annie M., wife, white, female, Oct 1872, age 27, married 6 years, born New Jersey, parents born New Jersey
-----, John R. Jr., son, white, male, Oct 1894, age 5, single, born New Jersey, father born New York, mother born New Jersey
-----, Josephine M., daughter, female, Oct 1895, age 4, single, born New York, father born New York, mother born New Jersey
-----, Catherine E., daughter, white, female, April 1897, age 3, single, born New York, father born New York, mother born New Jersey
McKue, Katy, servant, white, female, April 1870, age 30, single, born Ireland, parents born Ireland, imm 1887, servant
Smith, Anna, servant, white, female, Dec 1879, age 20, single, born Ireland, parents born Ireland, imm 1900, servant
-------, Katey, servant, white, female, Oct 1878, age 21, single, born Ireland, parents born Ireland, imm 1895, servant
1910 New Jersey, Passaic, Paterson, ward 4, E.D. 114, sheet 3B (taken 19 April 1910), film T624-906
225 Broadway, dwelling 41, family 55
Lee, John R., head, male, white, age 48, married once for 17 years, born New York, father born Ireland, mother born New York, general contractor
-----, Annie, wife, female, white, age 37, married once for 17 years, mother of 5 children, 5 living, born New Jersey, parents born New Jersey
-----, John R., Jr., son, male, white, age 15, single, born New Jersey, father born New York, mother born New Jersey
-----, Josephine, daughter, female, white, age 14, single, born New York, father born New York, mother born New Jersey
-----, Catherine, daughter, female, white, age 12, single, born New Jersey, father born New York, mother born New Jersey
-----, Francis, son, male, white, age 7, single, born New Jersey, father born New York, mother born New Jersey
-----, George, son, male, white, age, 4 single, born New Jersey, father born New York, mother born New Jersey
Smith, Katie, servant, female, white, age 30, single, born Ireland, parents born Ireland, servant
Ready, Katie, servant, female, white, age 23, single, born Ireland, parents born Ireland, servant
--------------------------deceased
225 Broadway, dwelling 223, family 338
Lee, John R., Jr., head, white, male, June 1859, age 40, married 6 years, born New York, father born Ireland, mother born New York, contractor
-----, Annie M., wife, white, female, Oct 1872, age 27, married 6 years, born New Jersey, parents born New Jersey
-----, John R. Jr., son, white, male, Oct 1894, age 5, single, born New Jersey, father born New York, mother born New Jersey
-----, Josephine M., daughter, female, Oct 1895, age 4, single, born New York, father born New York, mother born New Jersey
-----, Catherine E., daughter, white, female, April 1897, age 3, single, born New York, father born New York, mother born New Jersey
McKue, Katy, servant, white, female, April 1870, age 30, single, born Ireland, parents born Ireland, imm 1887, servant
Smith, Anna, servant, white, female, Dec 1879, age 20, single, born Ireland, parents born Ireland, imm 1900, servant
-------, Katey, servant, white, female, Oct 1878, age 21, single, born Ireland, parents born Ireland, imm 1895, servant
1910 New Jersey, Passaic, Paterson, ward 4, E.D. 114, sheet 3B (taken 19 April 1910), film T624-906
225 Broadway, dwelling 41, family 55
Lee, John R., head, male, white, age 48, married once for 17 years, born New York, father born Ireland, mother born New York, general contractor
-----, Annie, wife, female, white, age 37, married once for 17 years, mother of 5 children, 5 living, born New Jersey, parents born New Jersey
-----, John R., Jr., son, male, white, age 15, single, born New Jersey, father born New York, mother born New Jersey
-----, Josephine, daughter, female, white, age 14, single, born New York, father born New York, mother born New Jersey
-----, Catherine, daughter, female, white, age 12, single, born New Jersey, father born New York, mother born New Jersey
-----, Francis, son, male, white, age 7, single, born New Jersey, father born New York, mother born New Jersey
-----, George, son, male, white, age, 4 single, born New Jersey, father born New York, mother born New Jersey
Smith, Katie, servant, female, white, age 30, single, born Ireland, parents born Ireland, servant
Ready, Katie, servant, female, white, age 23, single, born Ireland, parents born Ireland, servant
--------------------------deceased
Obituary notes for John R. LEE
Paterson Press, 21 July 1915, p. 1
John R. Lee’s Death Expected Momentarily
A telegram from Lima, Ohio, stating that John R. Lee, the local contractor, is rapidly dying, was received by the sick man’s son, John R. Lee, Jr., at 2:20 o'clock this afternoon. The telegram went further to say that all hope for the contractor’s recovery has gone, and that his death will only be a matter of a few hours.
Paterson Press, 22 July 1915, p. 1 and 3
John R. Lee Passes Away
Paterson Contractor Breathes Last in Lima, O. – Funeral Services to be Held Here
Although prepared to hear the worst, the news of the death of John R. Lee, the local contractor, in lima, Ohio, at 10: o’clock last night, was a great shock to hundreds of people in the city today. All during the morning his relatives in this city were showered with words of sympathy from the deceased’s many friends and admirers in Paterson.
A little over two weeks ago, Mr. Lee, who has been in Lima for the past few years fulfilling a large contract for the Erie Railroad, fell and inflicted a deep cut just below the lower right knee. He was revved to his home, and although physicians were summoned, it seems that some dirt had found its way inside the wound, which escaped the eye of the physicians. A few days later bloom poisoning set in, and depute the skill of some of the most noted specialists in the country, Mr. Lee’s condition steadily became worse.
It was not until a few days ago that his condition became alarming, which was upon the announcement that Mr. Lee could not recover. Since then telegrams as to his condition have been received by local relatives several times a day. The word of his death came at 11 o’clock last night.
The body of the deceased will be shipped to the home of the contractor’s two maiden sisters, Misses Anna and Alice Lee at Auburn and Fair streets and the funeral will be held from there. The final arrangements have not been made as yet.
John R. Lee was known to every Patersonian. He was born in New York City, in the year 1859. His father, P. Lee, was at that time known all over the country as one of the largest railroad builders of his time. After finishing his preliminary studies and graduating from Fordham College, Mr. Lee associated himself with his father and soon the firm was P. Lee & Son. Full of energy, and having a thorough knowledge of his father’s business, the young man took charge of affairs, and continued to conduct the business to the satisfaction of his father as well as to the patrons of the firm. The senior member of the firm had completed many large contracts before the advent of his son into the firm. Among the railroads built by him were the D.L. & W. through this city, and from Dansville, N.Y., to Wayland, N.Y. The West Shore at Lyons, N.Y.; the Baltimore and Ohio at Perryville, Md., and at Chester, Pa. It was Mr. Lee, father of John R., who cut through the Newark Branch of the Erie road into this city. On the death of his father, the younger Lee followed in his footsteps, and one of his greatest achievements, and one which surprised the eyes of every Patersonian, was the removal of the Colt hill on Main street. This was considered almost impossible, but Mr. Lee’s energy and ability showed themselves and the level piece of land, whereon the Post Office now stands, is a monument to his labors. He also constructed the big Eastside sewer, a marvelous undertaking. He also built the Chicago Madison and Northern Railroad, at Elgin, Ill., and a part of the Pennsylvania P. & B. at Sussex, N.J.
One of his large contracts was the putting in of the great Westside sewer at Rochester. John R. Lee was very popular with his townsmen. His genial manners and evenness of character were his principal traits. In 1894 Mr. Lee married Miss Annie M. Morris, daughter of M.J. Morris, and the wedding was the social event of the season. He was a member of the Park Commission, a Director of the Second National Bank, Paterson Safe Deposit and Trust Company, President of the Colt Hill Land Company, Vice President of the Lake View Land Company, Vice President of the Passaic County Building Company, Director in the Home Land Company, Citizens’ Land Company, Hamilton Land Company, Central Storage Company, President of the Title Guarantee and Land Company and several others. He was also largely interested in the local railroads.
Paterson Press, 23 Jul 1915
John R. Lee’s Body Arrives from Ohio
After a journey from Lima, Ohio, the body of the late John R. Lee, the local contractor, arrived in the city this afternoon. Undertaker William Stafford took charge. It was removed immediately to the home of the late contractor’s sisters at 84 Auburn street. Arrangements have been made to conduct the funeral on Monday morning at the house at 9:30 o’clock and at 10:30 o’clock from St. John’s Roman Catholic Church.
Paterson Press, 24 Jul 1915, p. 3
Pallbearers Chosen for J.R. Lee’s Funeral
Several prominent local men have been chosen as honorary pallbearers at the funeral of the late John R. Lee, which will be held from the home of his sisters at Auburn and Fair streets, next Monday. Among those who have been chosen are: Charles Agnew, John Agnew, Dr. Thomas Dolan, of Elizabeth; John S. Dolan, of New York; William B. Gourley, Wayne Dumont, Walter Bamford, Michael Dunn, John Tait, of Easton, Pa., and Richard Rossiter.
LEE – In Lima, Ohio, on Wednesday, July 21, 1915, John R., beloved husband of Annie M. Lee. Relatives and friends, also the members of Paterson Council, 240, K. of C., and Paterson Lodge, No. 60, B.P.O. Elks, are invited to attend the funeral on Monday, July 26, from the residence of his sisters, Annie and Alice Lee, 84 Auburn street at 9:30 o’clock a.m., and from St. John’s Roman Catholic Church at 10:30 o’clock a.m. Interment at Holy Sepulchre.
Paterson Press, 26 July 1915, p. 1
Many Attend Lee Funeral
Prominent Men Among Mourners – Dean McNulty Speaks Eloquent Eulogy
Funeral services for one of Paterson’s best know citizens, John R. Lee, the contractor, were held in St. John’s Roman Catholic Church starting at 10:30 o’clock this morning. A solemn high requiem mass was celebrated by the Rev. Edward F. Hillock of St. John’s Church, celebrant; Father Brady, of St. George’s Church, deacon; Father Donovan, former rector of Our Lady of Victories Church and now of Bloomfield, sub-deacon; and Rev. Anthony H. Stein, of St. Joseph’s Church, master of ceremonies.
During the morning hours up to 10 o’clock the body lay in state at the home of Mr. Lee’s sisters at Fair and Auburn streets. Hundreds of people called at the house to pay their respects. There were many distinguished people in the gathering at the house and church.
The floral tributes placed about the casket were very numerous and beautiful. Three extra coaches were pressed into service to convey them to the church and cemetery.
In tribute to the deceased the beautiful side altar at St. John’s Church, which was presented to the institution by Mr. Lee nine years ago, was illuminated with candles. Another of Mr. Lee’s gifts to the church is the memorial window in honor of his father, which is located of the Grand street side.
The Very Rev. Dean William McNulty delivered the eulogy and recited the requiem for the dead. The dean’s remarks were brief. In part he said:
“We are assembled here this morning to pay our respects to a man whose character is without a blemish and who has been a lifelong member of this house of God.
“He was the father of a family which he cherished, indeed, and as as the father of a family he never forgot his duty to the heavenly Father.
“Over there is a beautiful altar given to this house of God by the noble man who has just passed from our midst. Mr. Lee was always a friend of everybody and at no time were the poor ever turned away from his door.”
The dean spoke for seveal [sic] minutes upon the many contracts in the life of Mr. Lee, closing by stating that he was charged with a supreme contract. “Did he keep it?” asked the dean. “His life and his works give answer better than I can say.”
As the funeral procession entered the church the choir, under the direction of John Coogan sang Schmidt’s mass for the dead. The choir consisted of William Wade, tenor; Miss Anna Long, soprano; Miss Belle Crowley, alto, and John Kaufman, bass.
The interment was made in the Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in the family plot, where the parents of the deceased now repose. A seventy-foot monument will be placed over the grave of Mr. Lee in the very near future.
There were fourteen honorary pallbearers at the funeral, as follows: Richard Rossiter, Wayne Dumont, John G. Tait of Lima, O.; Bernard Tighe, of Easton, Pa.; William B. Gourley Michael Dunn, John F. Dolan, Thomas Dolan, of Elizabeth; Walter Bamford, George Dwyer, of Newark; John P. Agnew, Charles Agnew, Isaac A Hall and George H. Burke.
The ushers were: Leo Rogers, James Kearns, James Dunn, Arthur Dunn, Frank Gatjen, Cyril Forbes, John Agnew, Jr., David Warren and John Connolly.
Former United States Senator James Smith, Jr., was one of the distinguished men at the church service. Among some of the local men were: Alderman Wallace Kind, Republican County Chairman Fred Van Blarcom, Finance Commissioner Frank Van Cleve and others.
A blanket of sweet peas and orchids from the Misses Annie and Alice Lee covered the casket. This was the only floral tribute taken inside the church. Other floral tribes were a basket from the engineering department of the Erie at Lima; a floral lyre sent by three friends, John Hollback, W.W. Stalter, and Frank Forbes; a wreath sent by the local lodge of Elks, a toll composed of lilies sent by the Lima Elks’ lodge; the emblem of the Rotarians sent by the Rotary Club of Lima; a casket piece sent by the Lima City Club; pieces from the Parmenter family and Dr. Huntley family; Ralf Zetlitz, of Lima; and the following individuals: Mrs. Emma E. Morris, Mr. an Mrs. L.M. Morris, Arthur Smethurst, Mr. and Mrs. A/P. Gray, M.J. McGill, Mrs. LeBel, Mr. and Mrs. J.C. Howley, Powers Brothers, Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Kearns, William B. Gourley, Mrs. Thomas Byrnes, Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Christen, Benjamin Grunauer, L. Edwards and family, Miss Henrietta Browne, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Formans and family, Mr. and Mrs. George MacDonald, Miss Annie and Thomas Leonard, Mr. and Mrs. Walter Bamford, Mr. and Mrs. Isaac A. Hall, the Dwyer family, Mr. and Mrs. S.J. Meyers, Mr. and Mrs. T.B. Shandley, employes of Edward Seeery, Mr. and Mrs. J.P. Agnew, C. Moritmer Wiske, Mrs. Mary Nightingale Shepherd, Mr. and Mrs. E.H. Rogers, Mr.and Mrs. Edward Seeery, Miss Katie Smith, Richard Rossiter, Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Dumont, Mr. and Mrs. George F. Wright.
Paterson Morning Call, July 23, 1915 pg 1 col. 6 & continued on pg 8
Funeral of John R. Lee on Monday
Remains of the Deceased Contractor Will Arrive Here This Afternoon
The remains of the late contractor, John R. Lee, will arrive from Lima, Ohio, this afternoon at 3 o'clock, and will be taken in charge by Undertaker William Stafford, who will be in charge of the funeral, and will be removed to the home of the sister of the deceased, No. 84 Auburn street. Arrangements have been made to hold the funeral on Monday morning at the house at 9:30 o'clock and at 10:30 o'clock, at St. John's church, and the requiem mass will undoubtedly be largely attended.
Though Mr. Lee passed away at 10:30 o'clock Wednesday evening, the information of his death was withheld from his son and other relatives in this city until 7:15 o'clock yesterday morning to permit them to enjoy a night's rest because of the severe strain they have been under for the past two weeks. The sad news spread rapidly about the city and on every hand were heard expressions of deepest regrets over the loss of so valuable a citizen, particularly as Mr. Lee and his family were going to resume their permanent residence in the city in the fall.
For about two weeks Mr. Lee had put up a hard fight for life. He was injured while fulfilling a contract for the Erie company and sustained a severe gash in his right knee. Dirt found its way into the wound and pneumonia, then blood poison set in. Though he had notable experts attend him, nothing could be done to save his life. He suffered excruciating pain and after many days of suffering he passed away.
Mr Lee was fifty-six years of age and was born at Deposit, NY in 1859. He was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Lee, his father also having been a contractor. Until John was fourteen years of age the family resided at Easton, Pa and then moved to this city, where the father obtained the contract to level Colt's hill. He was the first one in New Jersey to introduce a steam shovel here and many of the old-timers remember what a curiosity it proved to be. John was educated in the public schools and later went to Seton Hall college. Completing his studies there he entered Packard's business college in New York city and then went into business with his father. The elder Mr. Lee died about eighteen years ago and the business was continued by the son.
Mr. Lee was one of the ablest business men in this section of the country. He was a man of indomitable will power and farsightedness in all transactions. With his eyes always upon the future he could discern where certain improvements would be invaluable to a community long before others realized them and this sagacity stood him in good stead in pushing gigantic projects to a successful conclusion.
Practically all of the first permanently improved roads in this city were constructed by John R. Lee. It was he who improved Broadway, Park avenue, all the streets surrounding the courthouse and many other thoroughfares. He also built the famous Cannonball road at Scranton, PA., constructed the largest power house and dam in the country at Glendale, Mass., and for a long time was with the Delaware, Lackawanna and Western railroad, for whom he did all the construction work. He built the trunk sewer in Rochester, N.Y> and at the same time on his death was the general contractor for the Erie railroad.
About three years ago Mr Lee and his family moved to Lima, Ohio, as he obtained the contract to double track the Erie road all the way from Lima to Chicago. This was the crowning work of his career, and was completed about two weeks ago. At the time of his death two large reservoirs were being guilt by him, one at Fostoria and the other at Fremont, Ohio.
Mr. Lee was married in Paterson twenty-two years ago to Miss Annie Morris, daughter of the late Michael J. Morris, whose home was on Ward street. The couple made their home at 225 Broadway, which was only temporarily given up when Mr. Lee went to Lima to execute some big contracts. At various times he was a member of the Park commission, a director of the Second National bank, Paterson Safe Deposit and Trust company, president of the Colt Hill Land company, vice-president of the Lakeview Land company, vice president of the Passaic Building company and numerous other land companies.
Besides his wife the deceased is survived by three sons, George, Francis and John R. Jr. and also two daughters, Josephine and Catherine. (Two sisters, Miss Annie and Miss Alice Lee)
John R. Lee’s Death Expected Momentarily
A telegram from Lima, Ohio, stating that John R. Lee, the local contractor, is rapidly dying, was received by the sick man’s son, John R. Lee, Jr., at 2:20 o'clock this afternoon. The telegram went further to say that all hope for the contractor’s recovery has gone, and that his death will only be a matter of a few hours.
Paterson Press, 22 July 1915, p. 1 and 3
John R. Lee Passes Away
Paterson Contractor Breathes Last in Lima, O. – Funeral Services to be Held Here
Although prepared to hear the worst, the news of the death of John R. Lee, the local contractor, in lima, Ohio, at 10: o’clock last night, was a great shock to hundreds of people in the city today. All during the morning his relatives in this city were showered with words of sympathy from the deceased’s many friends and admirers in Paterson.
A little over two weeks ago, Mr. Lee, who has been in Lima for the past few years fulfilling a large contract for the Erie Railroad, fell and inflicted a deep cut just below the lower right knee. He was revved to his home, and although physicians were summoned, it seems that some dirt had found its way inside the wound, which escaped the eye of the physicians. A few days later bloom poisoning set in, and depute the skill of some of the most noted specialists in the country, Mr. Lee’s condition steadily became worse.
It was not until a few days ago that his condition became alarming, which was upon the announcement that Mr. Lee could not recover. Since then telegrams as to his condition have been received by local relatives several times a day. The word of his death came at 11 o’clock last night.
The body of the deceased will be shipped to the home of the contractor’s two maiden sisters, Misses Anna and Alice Lee at Auburn and Fair streets and the funeral will be held from there. The final arrangements have not been made as yet.
John R. Lee was known to every Patersonian. He was born in New York City, in the year 1859. His father, P. Lee, was at that time known all over the country as one of the largest railroad builders of his time. After finishing his preliminary studies and graduating from Fordham College, Mr. Lee associated himself with his father and soon the firm was P. Lee & Son. Full of energy, and having a thorough knowledge of his father’s business, the young man took charge of affairs, and continued to conduct the business to the satisfaction of his father as well as to the patrons of the firm. The senior member of the firm had completed many large contracts before the advent of his son into the firm. Among the railroads built by him were the D.L. & W. through this city, and from Dansville, N.Y., to Wayland, N.Y. The West Shore at Lyons, N.Y.; the Baltimore and Ohio at Perryville, Md., and at Chester, Pa. It was Mr. Lee, father of John R., who cut through the Newark Branch of the Erie road into this city. On the death of his father, the younger Lee followed in his footsteps, and one of his greatest achievements, and one which surprised the eyes of every Patersonian, was the removal of the Colt hill on Main street. This was considered almost impossible, but Mr. Lee’s energy and ability showed themselves and the level piece of land, whereon the Post Office now stands, is a monument to his labors. He also constructed the big Eastside sewer, a marvelous undertaking. He also built the Chicago Madison and Northern Railroad, at Elgin, Ill., and a part of the Pennsylvania P. & B. at Sussex, N.J.
One of his large contracts was the putting in of the great Westside sewer at Rochester. John R. Lee was very popular with his townsmen. His genial manners and evenness of character were his principal traits. In 1894 Mr. Lee married Miss Annie M. Morris, daughter of M.J. Morris, and the wedding was the social event of the season. He was a member of the Park Commission, a Director of the Second National Bank, Paterson Safe Deposit and Trust Company, President of the Colt Hill Land Company, Vice President of the Lake View Land Company, Vice President of the Passaic County Building Company, Director in the Home Land Company, Citizens’ Land Company, Hamilton Land Company, Central Storage Company, President of the Title Guarantee and Land Company and several others. He was also largely interested in the local railroads.
Paterson Press, 23 Jul 1915
John R. Lee’s Body Arrives from Ohio
After a journey from Lima, Ohio, the body of the late John R. Lee, the local contractor, arrived in the city this afternoon. Undertaker William Stafford took charge. It was removed immediately to the home of the late contractor’s sisters at 84 Auburn street. Arrangements have been made to conduct the funeral on Monday morning at the house at 9:30 o’clock and at 10:30 o’clock from St. John’s Roman Catholic Church.
Paterson Press, 24 Jul 1915, p. 3
Pallbearers Chosen for J.R. Lee’s Funeral
Several prominent local men have been chosen as honorary pallbearers at the funeral of the late John R. Lee, which will be held from the home of his sisters at Auburn and Fair streets, next Monday. Among those who have been chosen are: Charles Agnew, John Agnew, Dr. Thomas Dolan, of Elizabeth; John S. Dolan, of New York; William B. Gourley, Wayne Dumont, Walter Bamford, Michael Dunn, John Tait, of Easton, Pa., and Richard Rossiter.
LEE – In Lima, Ohio, on Wednesday, July 21, 1915, John R., beloved husband of Annie M. Lee. Relatives and friends, also the members of Paterson Council, 240, K. of C., and Paterson Lodge, No. 60, B.P.O. Elks, are invited to attend the funeral on Monday, July 26, from the residence of his sisters, Annie and Alice Lee, 84 Auburn street at 9:30 o’clock a.m., and from St. John’s Roman Catholic Church at 10:30 o’clock a.m. Interment at Holy Sepulchre.
Paterson Press, 26 July 1915, p. 1
Many Attend Lee Funeral
Prominent Men Among Mourners – Dean McNulty Speaks Eloquent Eulogy
Funeral services for one of Paterson’s best know citizens, John R. Lee, the contractor, were held in St. John’s Roman Catholic Church starting at 10:30 o’clock this morning. A solemn high requiem mass was celebrated by the Rev. Edward F. Hillock of St. John’s Church, celebrant; Father Brady, of St. George’s Church, deacon; Father Donovan, former rector of Our Lady of Victories Church and now of Bloomfield, sub-deacon; and Rev. Anthony H. Stein, of St. Joseph’s Church, master of ceremonies.
During the morning hours up to 10 o’clock the body lay in state at the home of Mr. Lee’s sisters at Fair and Auburn streets. Hundreds of people called at the house to pay their respects. There were many distinguished people in the gathering at the house and church.
The floral tributes placed about the casket were very numerous and beautiful. Three extra coaches were pressed into service to convey them to the church and cemetery.
In tribute to the deceased the beautiful side altar at St. John’s Church, which was presented to the institution by Mr. Lee nine years ago, was illuminated with candles. Another of Mr. Lee’s gifts to the church is the memorial window in honor of his father, which is located of the Grand street side.
The Very Rev. Dean William McNulty delivered the eulogy and recited the requiem for the dead. The dean’s remarks were brief. In part he said:
“We are assembled here this morning to pay our respects to a man whose character is without a blemish and who has been a lifelong member of this house of God.
“He was the father of a family which he cherished, indeed, and as as the father of a family he never forgot his duty to the heavenly Father.
“Over there is a beautiful altar given to this house of God by the noble man who has just passed from our midst. Mr. Lee was always a friend of everybody and at no time were the poor ever turned away from his door.”
The dean spoke for seveal [sic] minutes upon the many contracts in the life of Mr. Lee, closing by stating that he was charged with a supreme contract. “Did he keep it?” asked the dean. “His life and his works give answer better than I can say.”
As the funeral procession entered the church the choir, under the direction of John Coogan sang Schmidt’s mass for the dead. The choir consisted of William Wade, tenor; Miss Anna Long, soprano; Miss Belle Crowley, alto, and John Kaufman, bass.
The interment was made in the Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in the family plot, where the parents of the deceased now repose. A seventy-foot monument will be placed over the grave of Mr. Lee in the very near future.
There were fourteen honorary pallbearers at the funeral, as follows: Richard Rossiter, Wayne Dumont, John G. Tait of Lima, O.; Bernard Tighe, of Easton, Pa.; William B. Gourley Michael Dunn, John F. Dolan, Thomas Dolan, of Elizabeth; Walter Bamford, George Dwyer, of Newark; John P. Agnew, Charles Agnew, Isaac A Hall and George H. Burke.
The ushers were: Leo Rogers, James Kearns, James Dunn, Arthur Dunn, Frank Gatjen, Cyril Forbes, John Agnew, Jr., David Warren and John Connolly.
Former United States Senator James Smith, Jr., was one of the distinguished men at the church service. Among some of the local men were: Alderman Wallace Kind, Republican County Chairman Fred Van Blarcom, Finance Commissioner Frank Van Cleve and others.
A blanket of sweet peas and orchids from the Misses Annie and Alice Lee covered the casket. This was the only floral tribute taken inside the church. Other floral tribes were a basket from the engineering department of the Erie at Lima; a floral lyre sent by three friends, John Hollback, W.W. Stalter, and Frank Forbes; a wreath sent by the local lodge of Elks, a toll composed of lilies sent by the Lima Elks’ lodge; the emblem of the Rotarians sent by the Rotary Club of Lima; a casket piece sent by the Lima City Club; pieces from the Parmenter family and Dr. Huntley family; Ralf Zetlitz, of Lima; and the following individuals: Mrs. Emma E. Morris, Mr. an Mrs. L.M. Morris, Arthur Smethurst, Mr. and Mrs. A/P. Gray, M.J. McGill, Mrs. LeBel, Mr. and Mrs. J.C. Howley, Powers Brothers, Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Kearns, William B. Gourley, Mrs. Thomas Byrnes, Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Christen, Benjamin Grunauer, L. Edwards and family, Miss Henrietta Browne, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Formans and family, Mr. and Mrs. George MacDonald, Miss Annie and Thomas Leonard, Mr. and Mrs. Walter Bamford, Mr. and Mrs. Isaac A. Hall, the Dwyer family, Mr. and Mrs. S.J. Meyers, Mr. and Mrs. T.B. Shandley, employes of Edward Seeery, Mr. and Mrs. J.P. Agnew, C. Moritmer Wiske, Mrs. Mary Nightingale Shepherd, Mr. and Mrs. E.H. Rogers, Mr.and Mrs. Edward Seeery, Miss Katie Smith, Richard Rossiter, Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Dumont, Mr. and Mrs. George F. Wright.
Paterson Morning Call, July 23, 1915 pg 1 col. 6 & continued on pg 8
Funeral of John R. Lee on Monday
Remains of the Deceased Contractor Will Arrive Here This Afternoon
The remains of the late contractor, John R. Lee, will arrive from Lima, Ohio, this afternoon at 3 o'clock, and will be taken in charge by Undertaker William Stafford, who will be in charge of the funeral, and will be removed to the home of the sister of the deceased, No. 84 Auburn street. Arrangements have been made to hold the funeral on Monday morning at the house at 9:30 o'clock and at 10:30 o'clock, at St. John's church, and the requiem mass will undoubtedly be largely attended.
Though Mr. Lee passed away at 10:30 o'clock Wednesday evening, the information of his death was withheld from his son and other relatives in this city until 7:15 o'clock yesterday morning to permit them to enjoy a night's rest because of the severe strain they have been under for the past two weeks. The sad news spread rapidly about the city and on every hand were heard expressions of deepest regrets over the loss of so valuable a citizen, particularly as Mr. Lee and his family were going to resume their permanent residence in the city in the fall.
For about two weeks Mr. Lee had put up a hard fight for life. He was injured while fulfilling a contract for the Erie company and sustained a severe gash in his right knee. Dirt found its way into the wound and pneumonia, then blood poison set in. Though he had notable experts attend him, nothing could be done to save his life. He suffered excruciating pain and after many days of suffering he passed away.
Mr Lee was fifty-six years of age and was born at Deposit, NY in 1859. He was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Lee, his father also having been a contractor. Until John was fourteen years of age the family resided at Easton, Pa and then moved to this city, where the father obtained the contract to level Colt's hill. He was the first one in New Jersey to introduce a steam shovel here and many of the old-timers remember what a curiosity it proved to be. John was educated in the public schools and later went to Seton Hall college. Completing his studies there he entered Packard's business college in New York city and then went into business with his father. The elder Mr. Lee died about eighteen years ago and the business was continued by the son.
Mr. Lee was one of the ablest business men in this section of the country. He was a man of indomitable will power and farsightedness in all transactions. With his eyes always upon the future he could discern where certain improvements would be invaluable to a community long before others realized them and this sagacity stood him in good stead in pushing gigantic projects to a successful conclusion.
Practically all of the first permanently improved roads in this city were constructed by John R. Lee. It was he who improved Broadway, Park avenue, all the streets surrounding the courthouse and many other thoroughfares. He also built the famous Cannonball road at Scranton, PA., constructed the largest power house and dam in the country at Glendale, Mass., and for a long time was with the Delaware, Lackawanna and Western railroad, for whom he did all the construction work. He built the trunk sewer in Rochester, N.Y> and at the same time on his death was the general contractor for the Erie railroad.
About three years ago Mr Lee and his family moved to Lima, Ohio, as he obtained the contract to double track the Erie road all the way from Lima to Chicago. This was the crowning work of his career, and was completed about two weeks ago. At the time of his death two large reservoirs were being guilt by him, one at Fostoria and the other at Fremont, Ohio.
Mr. Lee was married in Paterson twenty-two years ago to Miss Annie Morris, daughter of the late Michael J. Morris, whose home was on Ward street. The couple made their home at 225 Broadway, which was only temporarily given up when Mr. Lee went to Lima to execute some big contracts. At various times he was a member of the Park commission, a director of the Second National bank, Paterson Safe Deposit and Trust company, president of the Colt Hill Land company, vice-president of the Lakeview Land company, vice president of the Passaic Building company and numerous other land companies.
Besides his wife the deceased is survived by three sons, George, Francis and John R. Jr. and also two daughters, Josephine and Catherine. (Two sisters, Miss Annie and Miss Alice Lee)
Notes for John R. & Anna Marie (Family)
Paterson Daily Press, 17 January 1894, p. 1, viewed online at Google Newspapers
Lee-Morris Nuptials
St. John’s Church the Scene of a Fashionable Wedding
High Mass Sung Amid Fragrant Flowers
Two Well-Known Families United by Marriage
One of the most largely attended and stylish weddings that has taken place in this city for many years was that of Mr. John R. Lee, the well known contractor, to Miss Annie Marie Morris, elder daughter of Mr. Michael J. Morris, at St. John’s R.C. church this morning at 11 o’clock. The spacious edifice was filled, long before the hour set for the ceremony, by a congregation made up of leading fashionable people from this and other cities, and the scene was indeed a charming one. The congregation was, of course, composed principally of ladies, and their gorgous [sic] gowns in varied colors made a beautiful display in harmony with the grandeur of the brilliantly illuminated altar. The flowers in the church filled the air with their sweet scent while the potted plants, artistically arranged on the altar, lent much to the enchanting scene. Through this sea of splendor and to the wedding march from Mendelssohn played by Prof. Davis the bride was led to the altar by her father, proceeded by six ushers, and the maid of honor, Miss Josie Morris, the bride’s sister, who look the picture of loveliness in a costume of pink satin en train, trimmed with white lace. She wore the usual bridal hat to match the gown, and carried a bouquet of pink carnations knotted together with broad satin ribbon of pink. The bride’s costume was of rich white satin, slightly on the Empire style, with long train. She wore a veil that covered her face as she entered the church; it was caught up in loose folds and knotted with small diamond pins. A diamond pendant, a gift of the groom hung from her neck. In her left hand she carried a bouquet of lilies-of-the-valley, artistically tied with a long sweep of white satin ribbon that fell to the ground. At the altar she was met by the groom, who walked from the sanctuary door on the arm of his cousin, Mr. William Dolan, of Elizabeth. The bride and groom ascended the altar steps and were met by Rev. Dean McNulty, who performed the ceremony. The nuptial high mass followed, and was celebrated by Father Morris, of Avondale, an uncle of the bride, with Father Sullivan, of Ridgewood, as deacon, Father Cornelley sub-deacon, and Rev. I.P. Whelan, of St. Mary’s church, as master of ceremonies. Very Rev. Dean McNulty, Father Dolan and a number of other priests occupies positions at the altar. The singing was by a quartette from New York city, composed of Carlo M. Spigaroli, tenor; Samuel Rodmitsk, basso; Miss Clara Brandies, soprano, and Mrs. Lena Luckstone-Meyers, alto. The musical program me included the Kyrie from Marzo’s “Messe Solenelle,” and at the offertory “Li Prego O Padre,” by Nicolo. The offertory was a trio for soprano, tenor and alto and the Sanctus and Agnus Dei from Giorza’s first mass were also rendered. During the mass the bride and groom knelt inside the altar rails with their attendants while the six ushers knelt before the rails on the outside. To receive the blessing during the mass, the principals knelt on the top step of the altar with heads bowed down. Neither received at the mass, both having approached the sacrament at a mass early in the morning. At the conclusion of the mass the bride’s veil was removed from her face and she walked down the aisle on the arm of the groom to the sweet strains of the wedding music from “Lohengrin.” The entire wedding party followed, consisting of the maid of honor, best man, Mr. and Mrs. Michael Morris, and the mother and two sisters of the groom. These together will [sic] all the other guests were driven to the home of the bride’s parents of Ward street.
At the house a wedding breakfast was served by Davis, the Newark caterer, and about 200 guests congratulated the bride, who stood with the groom before an elegantly draped pier mirror in the front parlor. The rooms of the house were handsomely decorated with flowers and potted plants by Mr. Edward Seeery. The banisters leading to the upper room were hidden with similax, dotted here and there with carnations and pink roses. One room was entirely given up to the display of wedding presents, and they numbered many, and included some very costly ones.
All the afternoon the house was crowded with guests coming and going, and carriages under the direction of Mr. John F. Smith were kept constantly on the move. The efficient corps of ushers at the house and in the church were Messrs. Thomas E. Smith, John Dolan, Charles Agnew, Andrew Fletcher, I.A. Hall and Dr. Frank L. Hindle.
At 3:30 this afternoon, the bride and groom left the canopied portals of the house, amid a shower of rice and good wishes, to start on a short wedding tour.
Paterson Morning Call, Thursday, January 18, 1894, p1
WEALTHY AND POOR
Crowd St. John’s R.C. Church Yesterday Morning
LEE—MORRIS MARRIAGE
Very Rev. Dean McNulty Unites the Happy Pair in the Bonds of Matrimony
It was an Impressive Ceremony, With a Solemn Nuptial Mass Said by the Uncle of the Bride — A Grand Reception at Mr. Morris’ House — The Presents Were Numerous and Princely.
Ward street was alive with people of every description yesterday forenoon eager to see the principals in the most notable wedding that has taken place in this city for many years. Both sides of the street were lined with carriages, but only the tops of them could be distinguished rising above the dense crowd of people that filled the street. It was with difficulty that the bridal cotege extricated itself from the mass and proceeded to St. Joh’s R.C. church, where the nuptials of Mr. John R. Lee, the well-known contractor, and Miss Annie Marie Morris, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. M.J. Morris, were performed. At the church the crowd was still greater than in Ward street. The interior of the edifice was filled with those fortunate enough to have invitations, while on the sidewalk all sorts and conditions of people jostled each other in their desire to catch a glimpse of the two central figures.
As the bridal party entered the sacred portals and proceeded up the aisle towards the altar the organ burst forth with the stately strains of Mendelssohn’s wedding march. All eyes were directed to this procession at the head of which were the ushers: Thomas E. Smith, Dr. Thomas E. Dolan, Dr. Frank L. Hindle. I.A. Hall, Andrew Fletcher and Charles Agnew, all attired in cutaway coats and light trousers. Following them came the bride with her father. The bride was radiantly beautiful in a gown of white satin en train elaborately trimmed with duchess lace. Her veil was fastened on the head with a pretty coronet and an aigrette on the side. She was bedecked with diamonds among which was a magnificent pendant, the gift of the groom. She carried a bouquet of lilies-of-the-valley. The bridesmaid, Miss Josephine Morris, sister of the bride, was a no less lovely picture. She wired a costume of pink satin entrain, trimmed with white point lace and diamonds, and carried a bouquet of pink carnations, knotted with broad pink satin ribbon. At the altar the bride was met by the groom with his best man, Mr. John F. Dolan of Elizabeth, his cousin. Leo Morris, Percy Noonan and John Johnson acted as pages.
The ceremony was a most impressive one. Rev. I.P. Whelan, master of ceremonies, escorted the party into the sanctuary where Very Rev. Dean McNulty joined the happy pair in the bonds of matrimony. A solemn nuptial mass was said, with Rev. Fr. Morris, uncle of the bride, as celebrant; Rev. Fr. Sullivan, formerly of St. John’s church, deacon; Rev. Fr. Kenealia of Franklin, sub-deacon; Rev. Fr. Whelan, master of ceremonies. Very Rev. Dean McNulty, Rev. Charles H. Meckel of Jersey City, and a number of other priests occupied positions at the altar. A score of altar boys assisted at the mass. The singing was by a quartette from New York composed of Carlo M. Spigarloi, tenor; Samuels Radnitski, basso; Miss Clara Brandais, soprano; Mrs. Lena Lucktone-Myers, alto, under the direction of Professor William Davis, who presided at the organ. Mass being over, the bridal party left the church to the music of a wedding march from Lohengrin.
A reception was held at the bride’s parents on Ward street, at which over 200 attended. The spacious dwelling was beautifully decorated for the occasion, the floral decoration by Ed. Sceery being particularly fine. In every room the fine taste of the florist was displayed and the fragrance of flowers permeated everything. Here all was happiness and congratulations, particularly the latter. A wedding breakfast was laid and the large company sat down to the following menu, served by Caterer Davis of Newark:
Bouillon
Fricasseed oysters
Chicken salad — Lobster salad
Chicken croquettes and peas
Sweet bread patties
Boned turkey
Charolotte russ — Wine jelly
Sherry — Claret punch — Champagne
Fancy creams, cakes, almonds, candies
Coffee
A most pleasant time was spent by the company. The father of the bride received a telegram from Archbishop Corrigan of New York, regretting his inability to be present, and sending his best wishes for the happiness of the bride and groom. About 100 other despatches were received from friends all over the country. All day carriages with prancing forces kept rolling to and from the door of the house, and it appeared as if everybody in town and everybody out of town was bent on offering congratulations to this most fortunate and happy pair. The festivities continued unabated till 3:30 p.m., when the bride and groom drove to the Lackawanna depot where they embarked on their wedding tour. It is supposed they have gone to Washington, D.C. After that the party began to dwindle till nobody was left but the family, minus the daughter who had cast her lot with another.
The presents to the bride and groom were princely. They occupied one large room and it is seldom that one room contains such an aggregation of wealth. Gold, silver, cut glass, china, costly Dresden ware, bric-a-brac, onyx work, in short everything that the memory could think of, all were there and in solid quantities. The groom’s gift to the bride, in addition to the diamond pendant already mentioned, was $5000 in bonds. He also gave the ushers diamond scarf pins. The bride gave the pages gold lovers’ knot scarf plus set with forget-me-knots. Mr. and Mrs. E. Shepherd, of Chicago, sent a clock of exquisite workmanship; Mr. Thomas Fletcher, full set of ninety-six cut glass pieces; Mr. Kemp, of Kemp & Smith, large size portraits of the bride and groom, which were in the form of surprise; Mrs. H. L. Hindle, exquisite chocolate set; Mr. K. Egan and C.E. Egan of Baltimore, partners of M.J. Morris, the former silver spoons and the latter a chair; Mr. John F. Smith, an elegant onyx stand; Dr. J.W. Smith, another stand; Thomas E. Smith, lamp. These are only a few of the great number of presents, a full list of which cannot be given for lack of space. A number arrived late and had not yet been opened.
Among the guests present were: Mayor Lawrence T. Fell of Orange, Mr. M.J. Clark of New York, Miss K. Deshler of New Brunswick, Dr. Dolan and Mr. John Dolan of Elizabeth, Mr. Frank Egan of New York, Mr. and Mrs. T. H. Hindle of Orange, Mr. Henry Lewis Butler, Mr. Jay V. Langden, Perth Amboy; Mr. William B. Gourley, Mr. and Mrs. La Bell of Avondale, Mr. E. Rourke and Mr. Harry Lewis of Brooklyn, Mrs. Hall and Mrs. and Misses Dwyer of New York, Mrs. O’Reilly of Orange, Mr. and Mrs. John F. Noonan, Mr. Minnehan, Mr. and Mrs. John Best, Mr. C.H. Sharkey, Mr. and Mrs. John H. Agnew, Mr. and Mrs. J.C. Nightingale, Mr. and Mrs. Rooney, Mr.s Raymond, Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Weidmann, Mrs. Mary l. Morris, Mr. and Mrs. Carberry, Mr. and Mrs. C. Ryerson, Senator and Mrs. John Hinchliffe, Mr. and Mrs. William Huff, Mr. and Mrs. M. Pettigrew, Mr. and Mrs. J.A. Morrisse, Mrs. Kane, Mrs. Michael Smith, Mr. and Mrs. John Johnson, Mrs. Travers, Mr. and Mrs. Edo I Merselis, Mr. and Mrs. Charles O’Dea, Mr. and Mrs. J.P. Agnew, Mrs. Haley, Mr. and Mrs. John Smith of Easton, Pa.; Mr. and Mrs. J. Crooks, Mr. and Mrs. S. McKiernan, Mrs. E. Hindle, Mr. and Mrs. Speer, Mr. and Mrs. Fordyce, Mr. and Mrs. Smith, Rochester; Mr. and Mrs. Dunning, Mrs. C.A. High, Mrs. H.G. Brown, Mr. and Mrs. George Morlot, Mr. and Mrs. C.E. Bush, Misses Alice Lee, P.M. Lee, M. Shepherd, Miss Bergin, E. Brooks, Miss Warren, Miss Hendrie, Mamie Buckley, M. Morrisse, Agnes Kerr, Faunde Dowell, Ella Tynan, Misses Mackel, Maria Moran, Bertha CCopper, Miss Monroe, of New York, Annie Sweeney, Annie Tynan, Margaret Van Wagoner, K. Hogan, New York, L. O’Dea, Misses Brown; Messrs. Thomas Fletcher, Dr. J. W. Smith, John Morris, Erastus Blauvelt, George Hopper, Joseph Sharp, Eddie Van Saun, Walter Bamford, R.H. Dowell, William Blauvelt, Dr. Agnew, John F. Smith, Thomas O’Neill, Richard Rossiter, Dr. J.A. Browne, George M. Elliot, Thomas E. Platt, Charles Agnew, David Henry, Colonel J.W. Congdon, S.E. Cummings, Washing D.C., Charles Eagan, W.D. Blauvelt, John Brown, J.M. Kemp, Arthur L. Smethurst, Julius Brandies, J. Stanton and James Hand.
The music at the house was under the direction of Professor A.J. Robinson with New York musicians, who played concert and dance music. The large carriage service, under the superintendence of Mr. Al McBrier, was supplied by John F. Smith.
Lee-Morris Nuptials
St. John’s Church the Scene of a Fashionable Wedding
High Mass Sung Amid Fragrant Flowers
Two Well-Known Families United by Marriage
One of the most largely attended and stylish weddings that has taken place in this city for many years was that of Mr. John R. Lee, the well known contractor, to Miss Annie Marie Morris, elder daughter of Mr. Michael J. Morris, at St. John’s R.C. church this morning at 11 o’clock. The spacious edifice was filled, long before the hour set for the ceremony, by a congregation made up of leading fashionable people from this and other cities, and the scene was indeed a charming one. The congregation was, of course, composed principally of ladies, and their gorgous [sic] gowns in varied colors made a beautiful display in harmony with the grandeur of the brilliantly illuminated altar. The flowers in the church filled the air with their sweet scent while the potted plants, artistically arranged on the altar, lent much to the enchanting scene. Through this sea of splendor and to the wedding march from Mendelssohn played by Prof. Davis the bride was led to the altar by her father, proceeded by six ushers, and the maid of honor, Miss Josie Morris, the bride’s sister, who look the picture of loveliness in a costume of pink satin en train, trimmed with white lace. She wore the usual bridal hat to match the gown, and carried a bouquet of pink carnations knotted together with broad satin ribbon of pink. The bride’s costume was of rich white satin, slightly on the Empire style, with long train. She wore a veil that covered her face as she entered the church; it was caught up in loose folds and knotted with small diamond pins. A diamond pendant, a gift of the groom hung from her neck. In her left hand she carried a bouquet of lilies-of-the-valley, artistically tied with a long sweep of white satin ribbon that fell to the ground. At the altar she was met by the groom, who walked from the sanctuary door on the arm of his cousin, Mr. William Dolan, of Elizabeth. The bride and groom ascended the altar steps and were met by Rev. Dean McNulty, who performed the ceremony. The nuptial high mass followed, and was celebrated by Father Morris, of Avondale, an uncle of the bride, with Father Sullivan, of Ridgewood, as deacon, Father Cornelley sub-deacon, and Rev. I.P. Whelan, of St. Mary’s church, as master of ceremonies. Very Rev. Dean McNulty, Father Dolan and a number of other priests occupies positions at the altar. The singing was by a quartette from New York city, composed of Carlo M. Spigaroli, tenor; Samuel Rodmitsk, basso; Miss Clara Brandies, soprano, and Mrs. Lena Luckstone-Meyers, alto. The musical program me included the Kyrie from Marzo’s “Messe Solenelle,” and at the offertory “Li Prego O Padre,” by Nicolo. The offertory was a trio for soprano, tenor and alto and the Sanctus and Agnus Dei from Giorza’s first mass were also rendered. During the mass the bride and groom knelt inside the altar rails with their attendants while the six ushers knelt before the rails on the outside. To receive the blessing during the mass, the principals knelt on the top step of the altar with heads bowed down. Neither received at the mass, both having approached the sacrament at a mass early in the morning. At the conclusion of the mass the bride’s veil was removed from her face and she walked down the aisle on the arm of the groom to the sweet strains of the wedding music from “Lohengrin.” The entire wedding party followed, consisting of the maid of honor, best man, Mr. and Mrs. Michael Morris, and the mother and two sisters of the groom. These together will [sic] all the other guests were driven to the home of the bride’s parents of Ward street.
At the house a wedding breakfast was served by Davis, the Newark caterer, and about 200 guests congratulated the bride, who stood with the groom before an elegantly draped pier mirror in the front parlor. The rooms of the house were handsomely decorated with flowers and potted plants by Mr. Edward Seeery. The banisters leading to the upper room were hidden with similax, dotted here and there with carnations and pink roses. One room was entirely given up to the display of wedding presents, and they numbered many, and included some very costly ones.
All the afternoon the house was crowded with guests coming and going, and carriages under the direction of Mr. John F. Smith were kept constantly on the move. The efficient corps of ushers at the house and in the church were Messrs. Thomas E. Smith, John Dolan, Charles Agnew, Andrew Fletcher, I.A. Hall and Dr. Frank L. Hindle.
At 3:30 this afternoon, the bride and groom left the canopied portals of the house, amid a shower of rice and good wishes, to start on a short wedding tour.
Paterson Morning Call, Thursday, January 18, 1894, p1
WEALTHY AND POOR
Crowd St. John’s R.C. Church Yesterday Morning
LEE—MORRIS MARRIAGE
Very Rev. Dean McNulty Unites the Happy Pair in the Bonds of Matrimony
It was an Impressive Ceremony, With a Solemn Nuptial Mass Said by the Uncle of the Bride — A Grand Reception at Mr. Morris’ House — The Presents Were Numerous and Princely.
Ward street was alive with people of every description yesterday forenoon eager to see the principals in the most notable wedding that has taken place in this city for many years. Both sides of the street were lined with carriages, but only the tops of them could be distinguished rising above the dense crowd of people that filled the street. It was with difficulty that the bridal cotege extricated itself from the mass and proceeded to St. Joh’s R.C. church, where the nuptials of Mr. John R. Lee, the well-known contractor, and Miss Annie Marie Morris, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. M.J. Morris, were performed. At the church the crowd was still greater than in Ward street. The interior of the edifice was filled with those fortunate enough to have invitations, while on the sidewalk all sorts and conditions of people jostled each other in their desire to catch a glimpse of the two central figures.
As the bridal party entered the sacred portals and proceeded up the aisle towards the altar the organ burst forth with the stately strains of Mendelssohn’s wedding march. All eyes were directed to this procession at the head of which were the ushers: Thomas E. Smith, Dr. Thomas E. Dolan, Dr. Frank L. Hindle. I.A. Hall, Andrew Fletcher and Charles Agnew, all attired in cutaway coats and light trousers. Following them came the bride with her father. The bride was radiantly beautiful in a gown of white satin en train elaborately trimmed with duchess lace. Her veil was fastened on the head with a pretty coronet and an aigrette on the side. She was bedecked with diamonds among which was a magnificent pendant, the gift of the groom. She carried a bouquet of lilies-of-the-valley. The bridesmaid, Miss Josephine Morris, sister of the bride, was a no less lovely picture. She wired a costume of pink satin entrain, trimmed with white point lace and diamonds, and carried a bouquet of pink carnations, knotted with broad pink satin ribbon. At the altar the bride was met by the groom with his best man, Mr. John F. Dolan of Elizabeth, his cousin. Leo Morris, Percy Noonan and John Johnson acted as pages.
The ceremony was a most impressive one. Rev. I.P. Whelan, master of ceremonies, escorted the party into the sanctuary where Very Rev. Dean McNulty joined the happy pair in the bonds of matrimony. A solemn nuptial mass was said, with Rev. Fr. Morris, uncle of the bride, as celebrant; Rev. Fr. Sullivan, formerly of St. John’s church, deacon; Rev. Fr. Kenealia of Franklin, sub-deacon; Rev. Fr. Whelan, master of ceremonies. Very Rev. Dean McNulty, Rev. Charles H. Meckel of Jersey City, and a number of other priests occupied positions at the altar. A score of altar boys assisted at the mass. The singing was by a quartette from New York composed of Carlo M. Spigarloi, tenor; Samuels Radnitski, basso; Miss Clara Brandais, soprano; Mrs. Lena Lucktone-Myers, alto, under the direction of Professor William Davis, who presided at the organ. Mass being over, the bridal party left the church to the music of a wedding march from Lohengrin.
A reception was held at the bride’s parents on Ward street, at which over 200 attended. The spacious dwelling was beautifully decorated for the occasion, the floral decoration by Ed. Sceery being particularly fine. In every room the fine taste of the florist was displayed and the fragrance of flowers permeated everything. Here all was happiness and congratulations, particularly the latter. A wedding breakfast was laid and the large company sat down to the following menu, served by Caterer Davis of Newark:
Bouillon
Fricasseed oysters
Chicken salad — Lobster salad
Chicken croquettes and peas
Sweet bread patties
Boned turkey
Charolotte russ — Wine jelly
Sherry — Claret punch — Champagne
Fancy creams, cakes, almonds, candies
Coffee
A most pleasant time was spent by the company. The father of the bride received a telegram from Archbishop Corrigan of New York, regretting his inability to be present, and sending his best wishes for the happiness of the bride and groom. About 100 other despatches were received from friends all over the country. All day carriages with prancing forces kept rolling to and from the door of the house, and it appeared as if everybody in town and everybody out of town was bent on offering congratulations to this most fortunate and happy pair. The festivities continued unabated till 3:30 p.m., when the bride and groom drove to the Lackawanna depot where they embarked on their wedding tour. It is supposed they have gone to Washington, D.C. After that the party began to dwindle till nobody was left but the family, minus the daughter who had cast her lot with another.
The presents to the bride and groom were princely. They occupied one large room and it is seldom that one room contains such an aggregation of wealth. Gold, silver, cut glass, china, costly Dresden ware, bric-a-brac, onyx work, in short everything that the memory could think of, all were there and in solid quantities. The groom’s gift to the bride, in addition to the diamond pendant already mentioned, was $5000 in bonds. He also gave the ushers diamond scarf pins. The bride gave the pages gold lovers’ knot scarf plus set with forget-me-knots. Mr. and Mrs. E. Shepherd, of Chicago, sent a clock of exquisite workmanship; Mr. Thomas Fletcher, full set of ninety-six cut glass pieces; Mr. Kemp, of Kemp & Smith, large size portraits of the bride and groom, which were in the form of surprise; Mrs. H. L. Hindle, exquisite chocolate set; Mr. K. Egan and C.E. Egan of Baltimore, partners of M.J. Morris, the former silver spoons and the latter a chair; Mr. John F. Smith, an elegant onyx stand; Dr. J.W. Smith, another stand; Thomas E. Smith, lamp. These are only a few of the great number of presents, a full list of which cannot be given for lack of space. A number arrived late and had not yet been opened.
Among the guests present were: Mayor Lawrence T. Fell of Orange, Mr. M.J. Clark of New York, Miss K. Deshler of New Brunswick, Dr. Dolan and Mr. John Dolan of Elizabeth, Mr. Frank Egan of New York, Mr. and Mrs. T. H. Hindle of Orange, Mr. Henry Lewis Butler, Mr. Jay V. Langden, Perth Amboy; Mr. William B. Gourley, Mr. and Mrs. La Bell of Avondale, Mr. E. Rourke and Mr. Harry Lewis of Brooklyn, Mrs. Hall and Mrs. and Misses Dwyer of New York, Mrs. O’Reilly of Orange, Mr. and Mrs. John F. Noonan, Mr. Minnehan, Mr. and Mrs. John Best, Mr. C.H. Sharkey, Mr. and Mrs. John H. Agnew, Mr. and Mrs. J.C. Nightingale, Mr. and Mrs. Rooney, Mr.s Raymond, Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Weidmann, Mrs. Mary l. Morris, Mr. and Mrs. Carberry, Mr. and Mrs. C. Ryerson, Senator and Mrs. John Hinchliffe, Mr. and Mrs. William Huff, Mr. and Mrs. M. Pettigrew, Mr. and Mrs. J.A. Morrisse, Mrs. Kane, Mrs. Michael Smith, Mr. and Mrs. John Johnson, Mrs. Travers, Mr. and Mrs. Edo I Merselis, Mr. and Mrs. Charles O’Dea, Mr. and Mrs. J.P. Agnew, Mrs. Haley, Mr. and Mrs. John Smith of Easton, Pa.; Mr. and Mrs. J. Crooks, Mr. and Mrs. S. McKiernan, Mrs. E. Hindle, Mr. and Mrs. Speer, Mr. and Mrs. Fordyce, Mr. and Mrs. Smith, Rochester; Mr. and Mrs. Dunning, Mrs. C.A. High, Mrs. H.G. Brown, Mr. and Mrs. George Morlot, Mr. and Mrs. C.E. Bush, Misses Alice Lee, P.M. Lee, M. Shepherd, Miss Bergin, E. Brooks, Miss Warren, Miss Hendrie, Mamie Buckley, M. Morrisse, Agnes Kerr, Faunde Dowell, Ella Tynan, Misses Mackel, Maria Moran, Bertha CCopper, Miss Monroe, of New York, Annie Sweeney, Annie Tynan, Margaret Van Wagoner, K. Hogan, New York, L. O’Dea, Misses Brown; Messrs. Thomas Fletcher, Dr. J. W. Smith, John Morris, Erastus Blauvelt, George Hopper, Joseph Sharp, Eddie Van Saun, Walter Bamford, R.H. Dowell, William Blauvelt, Dr. Agnew, John F. Smith, Thomas O’Neill, Richard Rossiter, Dr. J.A. Browne, George M. Elliot, Thomas E. Platt, Charles Agnew, David Henry, Colonel J.W. Congdon, S.E. Cummings, Washing D.C., Charles Eagan, W.D. Blauvelt, John Brown, J.M. Kemp, Arthur L. Smethurst, Julius Brandies, J. Stanton and James Hand.
The music at the house was under the direction of Professor A.J. Robinson with New York musicians, who played concert and dance music. The large carriage service, under the superintendence of Mr. Al McBrier, was supplied by John F. Smith.