Harlow Niles Higinbotham: A memoir with brief autobiography and extracts from speeches and letters

"Harlow Niles Higinbotham" by Harriet Monroe is a biography written in the early 20th century. The book chronicles the life of Harlow Niles Higinbotham, a prominent businessman and civic leader, who epitomized the spirit of American entrepreneurship and philanthropy during the nation’s formative years. It details his achievements, roles in significant events such as the World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago, and his commitment to the welfare of his community. The memoir covers the life of Higinbotham from his humble beginnings on an Illinois farm in 1838, through his service as a soldier in the Civil War, and his subsequent rise in the retail industry with Marshall Field & Co. The book highlights his dedication to public service and charitable endeavors, reflecting his role in shaping Chicago's cultural landscape and supporting various causes, including the establishment of hospitals and museums. Monroe includes autobiographical extracts and letters that provide insights into Higinbotham's character and the values that guided his efforts to enrich his community, making the book not just a record of accomplishments but a narrative of integrity, civic responsibility, and personal devotion.