FRANKLIN LUTHER CROTZER, senior member of the firm of Crotzer & Seise, with his partner represents in a creditable manner the hardware trade in Lena, which they established in 1878. Our subject came to this county when a boy nine years of age, with his parents, George W. and Mary (Lower) Crotzer, a sketch of whom will be found elsewhere in this Album. He was first introduced to the responsibilities of life in the little town of Salona, Clinton Co., Pa., Aug. 11, 1848, and passed his childhood in the rural regions of that county, mostly upon his father’s farm.

The education of Mr. Crotzer, begun in the Keystone State, was completed in Lena, this county, mostly during the winter seasons. When eighteen years old, he started out to see something of the world, and accompanied by his brother, Andrew S., drove a four-horse team from Lena to Kansas, starting in March, and reaching his destination five weeks later. In the spring of 1877, he engaged in clerking at Valley Falls, and soon afterward became a member of a company which put up an elevator and operated in grain until the spring following. He then returned to Lena, and in company with his brothers, engaged in the hardware business with which he has since been connected. He associated himself with his present partner in March, 1881, and both being men of energy and straightforward business methods, their success was assured from the start. They carry a full line of everything in their department of trade, and enjoy the patronage of the most reliable people in West Point Township.

The lady chosen for the life partner of our subject was Miss Hannah K. Aigley, a native of this county, and the daughter of George Aigley, of Waddams Township. The marriage took place Oct. 14, 1884, and the pair are established in a pleasant little home in Lena. Mr. Crotzer, since exercising the right of suffrage, has aided in the support of Republican principles, and as one of the rising young business men of Lena, his course is watched with interest, and the good wishes of hosts of friends.

Contributed by Carol Parrish from Portraits & Biographical 1888 Stephenson Co IL Pg 352