Alexander C. Sloat

Alexander C. Sloat, who has spent his entire life in this county, and for many years has been a resident of the town of Wallkill (Scotchtown) was born in October 1822 in the town of Crawford. His parents, Cornelius and Charity (Cummins) Sloat, were also natives of this county, and his father for many years satisfactorily and efficiently filled the position of Postmaster of Pine Bush; also at different times served in other responsible positions, the details of which he always discharged in an able and energetic manner. His death occurred in 1850 and his good wife followed him to death some years later.

During his boyhood years Alexander C. Sloat had such educational advantages as the district schools of his neighborhood afforded, but the broad information he now possesses has been gained rather by self culture than by training in schools. His life has been an uneventful one unmarked by thrilling events, but he has pursued the even tenor of his way peacefully and busily, making friends with all whom business or social relations brought him into contact. In youth he learned the trade of wagonmaker and this occupation he has followed almost continually since, and although now in the twilight of life he still does considerable work at his trade.

In 1850 Mr. Sloat took unto himself a help-mate, Miss Matilda Farnham becoming his wife. This excellent lady is a daughter of Stephen Farnham who was born in this county and spent his entire life here. The union of Mr. and Mrs. Sloat was blessed by the birth of six children, two of whom are deceased. Those who survive are Annie, wife of Theodore Comfort, of this county; Stephen who resides in Middletown; Emmet, who is studying for the ministry, and is now at home; and Mary, who is a successful teacher in the schools of Bloomfield, NJ.

In their religious connections Mr. and Mrs. Sloat are members of the Presbyterian Church. During his younger years he was a Democrat in Politics, but for the past few years he has cast his ballot with the Republicans. He is a man of noble character and has a host of friends in the town.