Source: NMHS Newsletter, November 1986

THE BAY VIEW READING CIRCLE
Written by Harry Leffel
November 1957

[photo] This group of young men formed what was known as a local chapter of the "Bay View Reading Circle." We met weekly in a room above the Lawrence Bank during the winter of 1896 and 1897 for study and discussion of American Literature, American History, and nature, for each of which, we had a text book.

In photo standing, from left to right: 1) Thad Arthur, brother of Clem, associated with Clem in vegetable canning business at Red Key, Montpelier, and Bluffton for many years. Never married. Died within recent years. 2) Dr. Ira Perry, well known and remembered by many present readers of the news. One of Manchester's best and most honored physicians of some years ago. Deceased. 3) Otto Hamilton, a fine young man of ability and character. Died in early manhood. Son of Samuel Hamilton, a leading citizen of the city sixty years ago.

Those seated, left to right: 1) Thomas Hardman from west of town. Taught school for some years, after which he joined his brother, Rolland, in the implement and hardware business at Lafontaine. Thomas and wife still operated the hardware at this writing. 2) Clem Arthur, graduate of North Manchester High School. Studied law in his father's office, admitted to the Bar, never practiced, but retains his father's law library. He taught school for several years, then was employed as a teller in Lawrence National Bank. After a time he accepted a position in Bank at Red Key, Indiana, where he was an active and leading citizen in banking business. Later he established the canneries in Red Key and neighboring towns as before mentioned, along with his brother, Thad. He married, has one child, is now retired from active business. Is in good health and enjoys to chat with friends. 3) Elmer E. Frantz, country boy from west of town. Taught school for a number of years. Attended several colleges and later graduated at Manchester College. Lived at Roann, Peru, and Huntington where he taught science in the high schools. Engaged in life insurance business, built a home in Huntington where they resided for 34 years. In 1955 moved to Dallas, Texas where they celebrated their golden wedding in 1957. Retired now from active duties, and engaging life, making new friends in a new climate.