Theodore Comfort

As one of the capable, efficient farmers of the town of Wallkill, Mr. Comfort is well and favorably known throughout this locality. With the exception of six months spent in New York City, he has constantly engaged in agricultural pursuits, and his success in this occupation is such as to substantiate the belief that he made no mistake in selecting this vocation. He makes his home upon a finely improved farm of one hundred acres, upon which are good buildings and implements bearing the latest improvements.

In this county the birth of Theodore Comfort occurred June 26, 1849, his parents being Theodore S. and Jane (McWilliams) Comfort, also natives of this county. His father learned the trade of a blacksmith when he was a young man, and followed that occupation for many years, but for some time he has devoted his attention especially to farm work. Notwithstanding the fact that he is now eighty-six years of age, he enjoys excellent health and the possession of his mental faculties unimpaired. His estimable wife, who for many years was his wise helpmate, passed from earth in 1879.

Attending the district schools in boyhood, our subject gained a practical education that fitted him for active life. He was reared upon a farm, and upon arriving at man’s estate, selected agriculture for his vocation. This he has since followed, making a specialty of the dairy business, which he conducts on an extensive scale. His farm buildings are modern, each adapted to its special purpose. There is not the minutest appearance of neglect on the place, but everything indicates the careful attention of the thrifty owner.

April 12, 1887, occurred the marriage of Mr. Comfort and Miss K. Anna Sloat, daughter of A. C. and Matilda (Farnham) Sloat, of this county. Mrs. Comfort graduated from the Albany State Normal, and for several years prior to her marriage taught school. Two children bless their union, Charles A. and Newman. Mr. and Mrs. Comfort are earnest and devoted members of the Presbyterian Church, and in this connection, as in all the relations of life, they are active in forwarding the interests of those about them. He is an Elder in the congregation, also a teacher in the Sunday-school, and has officiated as President of the Christian Endeavor Society, and as Superintendent of the Sunday-school for a number of years. In politics he is a stalwart Republican, always voting his party ticket, but never aspiring to public positions for himself, preferring to give his attention to his private affairs. His life in this community has been one which not only redounds to his credit, but also to the good of his neighbors. He has ever identified himself with the best interests of the town, and is known as a valued citizen, whose life entitles him to the regard and esteem of all.