James C. Foster, Treasurer of Luce county Michigan, and manager of the hardware business of M.R. Manhard, at Newberry, is a young man of excellent business ability and has by his honorable and upright course won the confidence and respect of all with thom he has had dealings during the nine years of his residence at this place. It was in 1886 that Mr. Foster became identified with Newberry, he having come here at that time as clerk in the branch store of Mr. Manhard, which was established that year; also as assistant Postmaster, under Fred. J. Stewart. The following year, 1887, when only eighteen years of age, he was made manager of the establishment, which responsible position he retains to the present time. As he is one of the leading young men of the town, biographical mention of him is not inappropriate in this connection. A complete sketch however, cannot be given, as much of his life, we hope, yet lies before him.

James C. Foster was born in Lanark county Ontario Dec. 21, 1869 and traces his ancestry back to Scotland, his forefathers having resided on the borders of that country and England. Thomas Foster, his father, was a miller at Brewers Mills, near Kingston Canada. He died in 1871 at the age of 35 years. The mother was before her marriage Miss Mary Manhard, she being a sister of M.R. Manhard of Marquette MI. She is now living in Newberry with her son and and only child. Mr. Foster concluded when a boy to become a macinst and accordingly entered upon an apprecenticeship to that trade at Smith's Falls, receiving as compensation for his work 48 cents per day. After 15 months of close confinement in the shop he became dissatisfied and abandoned the trade. At the end of this time he came to Michigan and was sent down to Newberry by his Uncle and as already stated, has been manager of his uncle's store since 1887.

Mr. Foster very early in life got into politics as well as into business, his support being given to the Republican party, with which he has since been connected. He was elected Village Trustee the day he cast his first ballot; is now completing his second term as such officer. In November 1892 he was elected County Treasurer by 79 majority and was re-elected in 1894 by 165, the largest majority ever given in the county. His re-election to this important position is ample evidence of his popularity and efficiency.

Socially he is connected with the I.O.O.F. and the A.F. & A.M. in the latter having a membershipin the Newberry Lodge, Manistique Chapter, and marquette Commandery, and in the lodge occupying the office of Senior Deacon.