John C. Widmnn attended tho public schools of Rochester, and after laying aside his textbooks and entered upon an apprenticeship in order to learn the wood-working trade. In 1866 he came to Detroit, and here followed his trade for a time and also engaged in the manufacture of picture molding. After four years spent in this city he returned to Rochester in 1870, and there continued to reside until 1874, when once more he took up his abode in Detroit, and here entered the employ of his brother, C. D. Widmnn, picture molding manufacturer. He was thus associated until 1900, when the firm of J. C. Widman & Company was formed to engage in the manufacture of automobile bodies nnd kindred parts. During the World war the factory was devoted to the manufacture of aeroplane fnsilage and parts for the United States government. So splendidly, promptly and efficiently was the work done that honornble mention was accorded by the war board to J. C. Widman A Company for the efficiency and value of its work. Since the end of the war the plant has been converted to its usual lines of business, tho manufacture of automobile bodies for some of the prominent motor ear manufacturers. The business has been developed to such an extent that it is today one of tbe most important productive industries of the city, employing about eight hundred people. For many years John C. Widman has been a most active factor in the development and management of the business, and his enterprise, clear vision and keen sagacity have featurcd largely in the success of the undertaking. In May, 1871, Mr. Widman was married to Miss Lena Kiefhaber of Rochester, New York, a daughter of John H. Kiefhaber. They have become parents of six children: Flora, the wife of William S. Gibbs, resides in Detroit; Frank E., is manager of J. C. Widman & Company; Charles H. is vice president of J. C. Widmnn & Company; C. David, is secretary of the corporation; George H., is assistant superintendent of tho corporation; and Arthur W., is also connected with J. C. Widman & Company. The children have been accorded liberal educational advantages and the sons have made for themselves creditable positions in the manufacturing circles of Detroit. The son Charles is married and has one child, Phylis. George H. Widman is also married and has two children: J. C, and George. Arthur W. Widman is married and has two children: Arthur and Betty.

John C. Widmnn is a member of Palestine Lodge, F. & A. M., Detroit Commandery, Knights Templar, and Moslem Temple of the Mystic Shrine. He is also a member of the Detroit Athletic Club, the Aviation Country Club and the Board of Commoree. He is a republcan in political faith, as are all his sons. Almost sixty yenrs have passed since John C. Widmnn first became identified with tho business affairs of this city, and with the exception of tho period of four years ho has remained here. His progress has been continuous and his success has had its root in industry, economy, sound judgment and enterprise. His labors have been most wisely directed and he has done his full part ia making Detroit the fourth city of tho Union.