William H. Anderson (1852–1936) was a banker, businessman, and civic leader based in Grand Rapids.
Born on 6 Sep 1852 in Plymouth, MI, his family moved to Sparta Township when he was very young. After working successfully as a farmer, Anderson transitioned to real estate and banking in 1883. He co-founded a real estate and loan business with banker Amherst B. Cheney and later joined the Fourth National Bank, where he became president in 1898 and led the institution for 29 years until its merger with the Grand Rapids National Bank. Anderson also served in leadership roles at other financial institutions, including the Grand Rapids Clearing House Association and the Peninsular Trust Company.
Anderson held significant roles in various businesses and organizations. He was president of the Grand Rapids Board of Trade from 1896 to 1897 and of the West Michigan State Fair Association from 1902 to 1912, during which the fairgrounds saw notable improvements. He managed several other enterprises, including the Alabastine Company, and contributed to the development of local infrastructure as a member of the advisory committee for the city’s park system and road improvements. He was a member of the finance committee for the Pantlind Hotel in 1913 and became a director and vice president of the Pantlind Hotel Company in 1915.
Between 1912 and 1913, he donated 63 acres of woodland at Little Bostwick Lake in Cannon Township to St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, land which would later become Camp Roger. His later years were marked by continued involvement in business and civic affairs until his death on 20 Dec 1936 at the age of 83.
Residence
In Jan 1897 he purchased 25 Lafayette Ave SE from Mrs. Helen A. (Ledyard) Shepard, for $18,000. He and his family would live there for nearly 40 years, until his death.
Links and References
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The Evening Press, 1897-01-12, Page 1
- SEYMOUR IS CASHIER, The Evening Press, 1898-03-21, Page 1
- GIVES MORE LAND FOR A BOYS' CAMP, The Evening Press, 1913-06-17, Page 8
- FORMER BANK CHIEF IS DEAD, Grand Rapids Press, 1936-04-13, Page 1
- Find-a-Grave Memorial: William H. Anderson (1852-1936)
