



i^ 



Figure 19. — Letter Seal oi- Moore & 

 Richardson, 1861. (From a letter in 

 the U.S. National Archives.) 



Daily Gazette, from which we have already drawn heavily for infor- 

 mation on Harkness' business career. While this account does not 

 fail to lament with conventional platitudes the passing of an eminent 

 local business personality, some attempt at objective reporting is 

 shown in the following appraisal of his character: 



The deceased possessed a mind of great originality and power, but 

 it was unpolished and herein consisted his great failing. While he was 

 honest in all things, cordial and valuable as an advisor, he was exceed- 

 ingly rough in his manner and had but little, if any regard for the feelings 

 of others. The latter characteristic was especially prominent, when 

 he had occasion to express himself to those he did not fancy. 



This is an appraisal that might honestly be applied to many 19th- 

 century manufacturers, men who were honest, straightforward, 

 hearty, and in that manner rough and, if so disposed, rude to any- 

 one who displeased them. 



Starting from the humblest beginnings, Harkness amassed half 

 a million dollars during his lifetime. About 1853 he helped to 

 found the wealthy residential community of Glendale, located 15 

 miles northeast of Cincinnati. One can imagine the pride and 

 satisfaction of Harkness as he commuted on tiie Cincinnati. Hamilton 



42 



