FRANKLIN McDUFFEE.
Franklin McDuffee, son of John and Joanna (Hanson) McDuffee, was born at Dover, Aug. 27, 1832. He entered Gilmanton Academy at the age of twelve years, and graduated with honor at Dartmouth College in 1853. He read law for a short time with Hon. Daniel M. Christie of Dover. In May, 1854, he accepted the position of cashier of the Rochester State Bank. In 1857 he was seriously injured by exposure incurred while on an expedition to the White Mountains, from the effect of which he never fully recovered.
He married, Dec. 4, 1861, Fanny Hayes of Rochester.
In 1866 he was appointed treasurer of the Norway Plains Savings Bank, which office he held until his death. Two years later he became one of the firm of "John McDuffee & Co., Bankers." In 1874 he was appointed cashier of the Rochester National Bank. He was initiated in the Humane Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons, Dec. 9, 1856. The next year he was chosen secretary. He was master of the lodge in 1863-64. In 1866 and 1867 he officiated as District Deputy of the Grand Lodge of New Hampshire. He served the town as selectman, and many years as superintending school committee; was a member of the Legislature in 1862, and of the Constitutional Convention in 1876. He joined the Congregational Church in 1868, and was chosen deacon four years later. After a sickness of a few weeks he died at Rochester, Nov. 11, 1880.
The character of Franklin McDuffee was one of rare excellence, blending many valuable traits. As a lad he was studious, thoughtful, kind, and mature beyond his years. He was thorough and exact in his studies, faithful and exemplary as a student, and esteemed by his associates. He was industrious and honest, modest and retiring.
In politics he was a stanch Republican, an unflinching friend of temperance and good order. He had decision, energy, and sturdy pluck, without malice or bitterness. He was an effective speaker, his words having weight from the influence of his character. He was one of the most entertaining lecturers in New Hampshire. He took a deep interest in education, and zealously sought to elevate the schools of Rochester. From his interest in historical subjects, he was elected a member of the New Hampshire Historical Society; and wrote a series of valuable historical articles for the "Rochester Courier," which have lately been gathered into book form and will shortly be published. His mind was essentially mathematical, with keen powers of analytic thought. His methodical turn of mind fitted him especially for business, in which he was a model of diligence, exactness, and integrity. His neighbors and townsmen highly appreciated his sterling worth, and his intimates prized his friendship.
His firm and substantial character was beautified and crowned with the graces of a Christian life. His religion, like every other part of his character, was genuine.
