Norman Clark, senior member of the firm of Clark, Giddings & Co., jewelers, Third Street, Sterling, was born in Cavendish, VT 11 Feb. 1831. His father, Reuben a native of Bane, Mass., and a watchmaker and jeweler by occupation. His mother, nee Prudence Gibson, was born in Rindge, N. H. At the age of 14 years, Mr. Clark commenced to obtain a systematic knowledge of his trade, which he completed in five years. He was also educated at the public school. At the age of 19 he left home and commenced business for himself, in Ludlow, Vt., remaining there four years. Then selling out, he went to Rutland, same State, where he followed his calling, in partnership with a brother, for 18 years. In May, 1872, he sold his interests there and came to Chicago, where he was with Giles Bros. & Co. about two years. He then came to Sterling, with his brother, and opened a jewelry house. In 1880 his brother withdrew, S. P. Giddings taking his place, in partnership, the firm style at present being Clark, Giddings & Co. They are the leading jewelers of Sterling. Mr. Clark is a successful business man, as well as a successful inventor. In political views he is a Republican, and both himself and Mrs. C. are exemplary members of the Congregational Church. Jan. 1, 1857, is the date of Mr. Clark's marriage to Miss Sarah J. Giddings, a native of Vermont, and a daughter of Daniel N. and Beulah (Brown) Giddings. By this union there are three children —Charles N., Anna E. and Reuben N. The first-mentioned married Grace E. Bushnell, of Sterling, and they have one daughter, named Virginia Norman.

Portrait and Biographical Album of Whiteside County, Illinois, Chapman Brothers Publishing Co., Chicago, 1885. Pg 552