My Genealogy Hound

JAMES H. HASLETT, M. D., is a rising young physician of Waterloo. He early recognized the logic in Dr. Franklin’s well known maxim, “Anything that is worth doing at all is worth doing well,” hence in laying the foundation for future practice he built on the solid wall of thorough preparation and knowledge. A farmer’s son, he spent the early years of his life much as other country boys do, having an abundance of hard work, that gives a healthy physique and clear brain. This, perhaps, accounts in no small degree for the large number of farmers’ sons we find high up on the ladder of fame and filling so many responsible positions in all the walks of life.

In the town of Seneca, Ontario County, N. Y., the subject of this sketch was born, January 20, 1863. His father, Henry, who was a native of County Down, Ireland, emigrated to the United States in early manhood, and for a number of years was engaged in the manufacture of woolen goods in Philadelphia. In 1865 he came to New York and settled in the town of Seneca, Ontario County, making his home on a farm. He died in August, 1890, while visiting in Waterloo. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Mary Howard, came to America when a girl, and died in 1889. Her father was a manufacturer of woolen goods in Leeds, England.

James H. was the sixth among seven children, there being four sons and three daughters, of whom one son and two daughters are deceased. Our subject gained the foundation of his education in the public schools in Geneva, where he developed a taste for books. He prepared for college at Geneva Academy, and then entered Union College at Schenectady, where he pursued his studies for one year. Later he attended Hobart College at Geneva. While still in college he began the study of medicine in the office of Dr. J. R. Topping, at Rushville, N. Y. In 1883 he entered the medical department of the University of the City of New York, from which he was graduated in 1886, and the same year graduated from the literary department of Hobart College.

Dr. Haslett entered upon his independent practice at Geneva in 1886, but after twelve months there he went to Phelps, and formed a partnership with Dr. J. Q. Howe, which connection, however, was of short duration. In May, 1888, he came to Waterloo, where he has, by his professional knowledge and affiable disposition, built up a fine practice, which is constantly growing. He is now President of the Seneca County Medical Society, and was for five years jail physician. He has also filled the office of Health Officer for both the village and town. Socially he is a member of Seneca Lodge No. 113, F. & A. M.

In 1892 Dr. Haslett married Miss Carrie, daughter of Oliver Crothers, of Phelps, Ontario County, N. Y. They are prominent factors in the society of Waterloo, and have a position in the community that is as honorable as it is creditable to their industry and perseverance.