Copyright USGenNet Inc., 2011, All Rights Reserved U.S. Data Repository Please read U.S. Data Repository Copyright Statement on this page: Portrait and biographical album of Mecosta County, Mich. containing portraits and biographical sketches of prominent and representative citizens of the county, together with portraits and biographies of all the governors of Michigan and of the presidents of the United States: also containing a complete history of the county, from its earliest settlement to the present time. Published by Chapman Bros., Chicago, IL, 1883 Judith Anne Weeks Ancell May 17, 2011 ========================================================================== Page 222 SKELTON, Thomas ========================================================================== Thomas Skelton, of the firm of Skelton & Collins, proprietors of the Central Hotel at Big Rapids, was born a Guelph, Pr. of Ontario, Can., June 6, 1850. His parents became residents of Big Rapids, March 7, 1868, and Thomas, then 17 years of age, entered the employ of G. F. Stearns, as store and farm assistant, and continued in this capacity about 7 years; Jan 1, 1875, he became proprietor of the National Hotel at Big Rapids, and in company with James McCormick, opened the house for public accommodation. The association continued until May, 1878. In November of that year he entered into a partnership with Richard Collins, and opened the Central Hotel, where they are still doing business. The house is conveniently situated; has 30 rooms, and secures a good transient patronage, besides accommodating a number of boarders, and keeps a samole room with liquors and cigars. He was elected Supervisor of the Second Ward in the spring of 1883. He was married Aug. 12. 1874, to Winnifred, daughter of Patrick and Mary Kelley, born at Hartland Center, this State, July 2, 1849. They have four children, three of whom are living: Sarah L.; John A.. (dec.); Mary W. and Arthur E. ==========================================================================