Early Memories of Saugatuck, Michigan : 1830-1930
Author: Heath, May Francis
Publisher: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company; Grand Rapids, Mich: 1930

GEORGE HAMES

George Hames was born in Rochester, N. Y., in 1834 and when but one year old came with his parents to Battle Creek, Michigan, and at eleven years of age he was left an orphan; he remained in Battle Creek until 1856; having learned the carpenter trade, he was induced by R. Smith to come to Saugatuck and build the Saugatuck House, he came and remained and in 1859 he married Miss Martha Barnes and they resided in the village sixty years as man and wife, enjoying their family, friends and pleasant home. Seven children were born, two sons dying in infancy, Addie in childhood and Allie, the eldest was drowned at the harbor when a young man. The three surviving children are George N. of Chicago, Mattie Dale of Newaygo and Adam Houtkamp of Milwaukee.

Mr. Hames was an expert boat builder both here and in the shipyards at Green Bay. He also built many houses in this village and Douglas and old Singapore. His was a very honorable life and while he cared little for public life his devotion to his home and family was ideal. Their home was one of hospitality as Mrs. Hames was a woman of wonderful charity. In the pioneer days in Michigan when nurses were almost unknown, she was often called upon to cool the fevered brow and bring comfort to the sufferer and always for the love of humanity, never for compensation.

The Hames home was always open to the young people, giving joy to their young lives.

She was a charter member of the Congregational church, always faithfully doing her part. Mr. Hames' death was in 1920 and hers in 1927.