1857 - 1932
Lead Daily Call newspaper, May 25, 1932 - "R.H. DRISCOLL DIES AT HOME HERE TODAY. Prominent Banker Loses Long Fight Against Inroads Of Illness.
Robert H. Driscoll, veteran educator and banker, and resident of Lead since 1883, died at his home on Mill street about 8:30 o'clock this morning, the result of an illness of many months.
He had been in a critical condition for the last few weeks.
His passing, while not unexpected, brings deepest sorrow and regret to the community in which he had lived so long and with which he had become so closely identified in all things progressive. Mr. Driscoll was well-loved by all who knew him intimately, and few have commanded the respect of countless friends as he did.
Mr. Driscoll is survived by his widow; two sons, Robert E., of Lead, well-known banker and past president of the South Dakota Bankers association, and Lowell, of Minneapolis; and two daughters-in-law, Mrs. R.E. Driscoll, of Lead, and Mrs. Lowell Driscoll, of Minneapolis. Another son, Allan, died some years ago, and a daughter, Catherine, passed away in infancy. Five grandchildren survive. They are Robert, David, Kathleen and Mary Driscoll, of Lead, and Sally Ann Driscoll, of Minneapolis.
All immediate members of his family were present when the end came.
Active all his life, Mr. Driscoll was president of the Lead First National bank at the time of his death. He would have been 75 years old next July 1.
Robert Henry Driscoll was born at Lowell, Mass., on July 1, 1857. His family moved to Salem, Mass., while he was still a young boy and he grew to manhood there, being graduated from the Salem high school. In 1881 he was graduated from Harvard university. Following his graduation he tutored at William college at Williamsport, Mass., and later taught Latin and Greek at Pittsfield academy, at Pittsfield, Mass. In the fall of 1882 he accepted the superintendency of schools at Spencer, Iowa. Later he came to the Dakotas with the Hughitt family, then identified with the Milwaukee railroad, as their guest for a summer vacation. The lure of the Black Hills brought him to Lead, where, in the fall of 1883, he accepted the position of superintendent of schools.
He resigned this position in 1885 to accept the position of county auditor for Lawrence county, then an appointive office under territorial laws. After reorganizing the office of county auditor he was appointed clerk of courts and when the state of South Dakota was formed he was elected to that position. He later resigned that position to become cashier of the First National bank of Lead.
His life for the past 40 years has been dedicated to this financial institution, which due to his extremely high integrity and sound judgment has always been recognized as one of the strong outstanding banks of the northwest.
Mr. Driscoll has been the recipient of many honors in his profession. He was one of the organizers of the Federal Reserve bank of Minneapolis. During his career he declined many times to accept positions in large city banking institutions, preferring to remain in the Black Hills...."
Lead Daily Call, May 26, 1932 - "DRISCOLL LAST RITES FRIDAY. Services Will Be Held at 9:30 O'clock Tomorrow Morning At St. Patrick's Church.
Funeral services for the late Robert H. Driscoll, president of the Lead First National bank whose death came at his home here yesterday morning following a long illness, will be held tomorrow morning at 9:30 o'clock from St. Patrick's Catholic church.
The Rev. M.S. Roach will be in charge of requiem high mass.
Mason Tyler, William Andrews, John M. Ryan, Ralph Mattson and William Schoen, of Lead, and Carleton Gorder, of Deadwood, will act as pall bearers, and interment will be made in Calvary cemetery in South Lead."
Lead Daily Call, May 27, 1932 - "SERVICES HELD TODAY FOR Robert H. Driscoll.
High mass of requiem was held at St. Patrick's Catholic church this morning at 9:30 o'clock for the late Robert H. Driscoll, widely known Lead banker whose death came at his home here Wednesday morning. The mass was sung by the Rev. M.S. Roach, who also preached the sermon.
The offertory solo was sung by Everett Vaughn, 'O Salutarus Hostia.' Wesley Thorpe played an appropriated violin solo, 'Farewell to Cucullian,' accompanied by David Driscoll at the organ, and Miss Helen Morganti sang 'Face to Face.'
A large number of friends and acquaintances of the deceased were present to pay last respects, and the funeral cortege to Calvary cemetery in South Lead was an unusually long one. There were many beautiful floral tributes.
The escort consisted of members of the staff of the First National bank here and in Deadwood, including Mason Tyler, John M. Ryan, Ralph Mattson, William Andrews, and William Schoen, of Lead, and Carleton Gorder, of Deadwood."
A 1905 Lead Daily Call newspaper souvenir edition noted, "Mr. Driscoll was born at Lowell, Mass., July 1857. When 5 years of age his parents removed to Salem, Mass., where Robert received his preliminary education, graduating in the high school of that city in 1877. He then entered Harvard university and four years later graduated from that well known institution of learning, receiving the degree of Bachelor of Arts. Shortly after leaving Harvard he accepted the position of instructor in Latin and Greek in an academy at Pittsield, his native state, where he stayed one year. in August, 1883, he came to Lead and accepted the position of principal of the schools of this city, which position he held with great credit to himself and benefit to the cause of education here, for three years. In 1887 he was appointed auditor of Lawrence county, holding the office for two years, when he was elected clerk of the courts of this county, which position he held until 1894 when he resigned his office for the purpose of accepting the position of cashier of the Lead City Bank - now the First National - which position he now holds. Mr. Driscoll was admitted to the South Dakota bar in 1900..."
NOTE: Robert Driscoll was married to Catherine Barry at Hancock, Houghton County, Michigan on September 14, 1886. The ceremony was performed by Rev. J. Otis.
SOUTH DAKOTA STATE FILE #142535 - Record index notes that he died in Lawrence County on May 25, 1932.
------------------------------------------------
Bio from "History of South Dakota" by Doane Robinson, Vol. II (1904), pp 985-986.
ROBERT H. DRISCOLL, who occupies the responsible position of cashier of the First National Bank of Lead, Lawrence county, was born in the city of Lowell, Massachusetts, on the 1st of July, 1857, and is a son of Cornelius and Catherine (Costello) Driscoll, the former of whom was born in Ireland and the latter in the city of Boston, Massachusetts. The father of the subject was a child at the time of his parents' immigration to the United States, the family settling in Massachusetts, where he was reared and educated. He was for a number of years engaged in hat manufacturing in the city of Lowell, and he and his wife now maintain their home in the historic old town of Salem, that state. Of their seven children four are living.
Robert H. Driscoll was about five years of age at the time of his parents' removal from Lowell to Salem, and in the latter city he secured his preliminary educational discipline in the pubic schools, being graduated m the high school as a member of the class of 1877. In the autumn of the same year (1877) he was matriculated in Harvard University, where he completed the classical course, being graduated in 1881, with the degree of Bachelor of Arts. He then accepted the position of instructor in Latin and Greek in a private academy at Pittsfield, Massachusetts, retaining this incumbency one year, at the expiration of which he located in Spencer, Iowa, where he taught in the public schools for one year. He then, in August, 1883, came to Lead, South Dakota, and here passed the ensuing three years as principal of the public schools, in which connection he made an excellent record by greatly advancing the interests of the cause of education in his field of labor, systematizing the work and inaugurating methods which have continued in use ever since. In 1887 he was appointed the first auditor of Lawrence county, under Republican administration, and in the following year was duly elected to the office by popular vote. In 1889 he was appointed clerk of the county and circuit courts, these appointments throughout the territory having been made by the President of the United States, who selected all court officials during the territorial regime. The subject was incumbent of the office at the time South Dakota was admitted to the Union, and with other presidential court appointees, claimed the right to hold the position until the next general election, the clerks appointed by the county officials taking issue. Mr. Driscoll made a determined stand, and was the first to get his decision before the supreme court, said decision being favorable to him and thus settling similar contentions throughout the state. In 1890, the first regular election, he was chosen to fill the office, and in 1892 was re-elected, and that without opposition. In 1894 he resigned his office and accepted that of cashier of the First National Bank, of which he has since continued incumbent, having practically the executive charge of the affairs of the bank and having proved himself an able and discriminating financier. He is a member of the directorate of the Black Hills Mining Men's Association and also, of that of the Lead Commercial Club, while he is also a member of the American Mining Congress and a life member of the Harvard Union, an organization of the alumni of his alma mater. Mr. Driscoll is intrinsically progressive and public-spirited and takes an active interest in all that makes for the advancement of the state of his adoption, being a loyal citizen and one who places true valuations on men and things. He is a stockholder and official in several mining companies. In politics he gives a stanch allegiance to the Republican party.
On the 16th of September, 1886, was solemnized the marriage of Mr. Driscoll to Miss Catherine Barry, who was born in Houghton, Michigan, being a daughter of Thomas and Ellen Barry. Mr. and Mrs. Driscoll have two children, Robert E. and James Lowell.
Lead Daily Call newspaper, May 25, 1932 - "R.H. DRISCOLL DIES AT HOME HERE TODAY. Prominent Banker Loses Long Fight Against Inroads Of Illness.
Robert H. Driscoll, veteran educator and banker, and resident of Lead since 1883, died at his home on Mill street about 8:30 o'clock this morning, the result of an illness of many months.
He had been in a critical condition for the last few weeks.
His passing, while not unexpected, brings deepest sorrow and regret to the community in which he had lived so long and with which he had become so closely identified in all things progressive. Mr. Driscoll was well-loved by all who knew him intimately, and few have commanded the respect of countless friends as he did.
Mr. Driscoll is survived by his widow; two sons, Robert E., of Lead, well-known banker and past president of the South Dakota Bankers association, and Lowell, of Minneapolis; and two daughters-in-law, Mrs. R.E. Driscoll, of Lead, and Mrs. Lowell Driscoll, of Minneapolis. Another son, Allan, died some years ago, and a daughter, Catherine, passed away in infancy. Five grandchildren survive. They are Robert, David, Kathleen and Mary Driscoll, of Lead, and Sally Ann Driscoll, of Minneapolis.
All immediate members of his family were present when the end came.
Active all his life, Mr. Driscoll was president of the Lead First National bank at the time of his death. He would have been 75 years old next July 1.
Robert Henry Driscoll was born at Lowell, Mass., on July 1, 1857. His family moved to Salem, Mass., while he was still a young boy and he grew to manhood there, being graduated from the Salem high school. In 1881 he was graduated from Harvard university. Following his graduation he tutored at William college at Williamsport, Mass., and later taught Latin and Greek at Pittsfield academy, at Pittsfield, Mass. In the fall of 1882 he accepted the superintendency of schools at Spencer, Iowa. Later he came to the Dakotas with the Hughitt family, then identified with the Milwaukee railroad, as their guest for a summer vacation. The lure of the Black Hills brought him to Lead, where, in the fall of 1883, he accepted the position of superintendent of schools.
He resigned this position in 1885 to accept the position of county auditor for Lawrence county, then an appointive office under territorial laws. After reorganizing the office of county auditor he was appointed clerk of courts and when the state of South Dakota was formed he was elected to that position. He later resigned that position to become cashier of the First National bank of Lead.
His life for the past 40 years has been dedicated to this financial institution, which due to his extremely high integrity and sound judgment has always been recognized as one of the strong outstanding banks of the northwest.
Mr. Driscoll has been the recipient of many honors in his profession. He was one of the organizers of the Federal Reserve bank of Minneapolis. During his career he declined many times to accept positions in large city banking institutions, preferring to remain in the Black Hills...."
Lead Daily Call, May 26, 1932 - "DRISCOLL LAST RITES FRIDAY. Services Will Be Held at 9:30 O'clock Tomorrow Morning At St. Patrick's Church.
Funeral services for the late Robert H. Driscoll, president of the Lead First National bank whose death came at his home here yesterday morning following a long illness, will be held tomorrow morning at 9:30 o'clock from St. Patrick's Catholic church.
The Rev. M.S. Roach will be in charge of requiem high mass.
Mason Tyler, William Andrews, John M. Ryan, Ralph Mattson and William Schoen, of Lead, and Carleton Gorder, of Deadwood, will act as pall bearers, and interment will be made in Calvary cemetery in South Lead."
Lead Daily Call, May 27, 1932 - "SERVICES HELD TODAY FOR Robert H. Driscoll.
High mass of requiem was held at St. Patrick's Catholic church this morning at 9:30 o'clock for the late Robert H. Driscoll, widely known Lead banker whose death came at his home here Wednesday morning. The mass was sung by the Rev. M.S. Roach, who also preached the sermon.
The offertory solo was sung by Everett Vaughn, 'O Salutarus Hostia.' Wesley Thorpe played an appropriated violin solo, 'Farewell to Cucullian,' accompanied by David Driscoll at the organ, and Miss Helen Morganti sang 'Face to Face.'
A large number of friends and acquaintances of the deceased were present to pay last respects, and the funeral cortege to Calvary cemetery in South Lead was an unusually long one. There were many beautiful floral tributes.
The escort consisted of members of the staff of the First National bank here and in Deadwood, including Mason Tyler, John M. Ryan, Ralph Mattson, William Andrews, and William Schoen, of Lead, and Carleton Gorder, of Deadwood."
A 1905 Lead Daily Call newspaper souvenir edition noted, "Mr. Driscoll was born at Lowell, Mass., July 1857. When 5 years of age his parents removed to Salem, Mass., where Robert received his preliminary education, graduating in the high school of that city in 1877. He then entered Harvard university and four years later graduated from that well known institution of learning, receiving the degree of Bachelor of Arts. Shortly after leaving Harvard he accepted the position of instructor in Latin and Greek in an academy at Pittsield, his native state, where he stayed one year. in August, 1883, he came to Lead and accepted the position of principal of the schools of this city, which position he held with great credit to himself and benefit to the cause of education here, for three years. In 1887 he was appointed auditor of Lawrence county, holding the office for two years, when he was elected clerk of the courts of this county, which position he held until 1894 when he resigned his office for the purpose of accepting the position of cashier of the Lead City Bank - now the First National - which position he now holds. Mr. Driscoll was admitted to the South Dakota bar in 1900..."
NOTE: Robert Driscoll was married to Catherine Barry at Hancock, Houghton County, Michigan on September 14, 1886. The ceremony was performed by Rev. J. Otis.
SOUTH DAKOTA STATE FILE #142535 - Record index notes that he died in Lawrence County on May 25, 1932.
------------------------------------------------
Bio from "History of South Dakota" by Doane Robinson, Vol. II (1904), pp 985-986.
ROBERT H. DRISCOLL, who occupies the responsible position of cashier of the First National Bank of Lead, Lawrence county, was born in the city of Lowell, Massachusetts, on the 1st of July, 1857, and is a son of Cornelius and Catherine (Costello) Driscoll, the former of whom was born in Ireland and the latter in the city of Boston, Massachusetts. The father of the subject was a child at the time of his parents' immigration to the United States, the family settling in Massachusetts, where he was reared and educated. He was for a number of years engaged in hat manufacturing in the city of Lowell, and he and his wife now maintain their home in the historic old town of Salem, that state. Of their seven children four are living.
Robert H. Driscoll was about five years of age at the time of his parents' removal from Lowell to Salem, and in the latter city he secured his preliminary educational discipline in the pubic schools, being graduated m the high school as a member of the class of 1877. In the autumn of the same year (1877) he was matriculated in Harvard University, where he completed the classical course, being graduated in 1881, with the degree of Bachelor of Arts. He then accepted the position of instructor in Latin and Greek in a private academy at Pittsfield, Massachusetts, retaining this incumbency one year, at the expiration of which he located in Spencer, Iowa, where he taught in the public schools for one year. He then, in August, 1883, came to Lead, South Dakota, and here passed the ensuing three years as principal of the public schools, in which connection he made an excellent record by greatly advancing the interests of the cause of education in his field of labor, systematizing the work and inaugurating methods which have continued in use ever since. In 1887 he was appointed the first auditor of Lawrence county, under Republican administration, and in the following year was duly elected to the office by popular vote. In 1889 he was appointed clerk of the county and circuit courts, these appointments throughout the territory having been made by the President of the United States, who selected all court officials during the territorial regime. The subject was incumbent of the office at the time South Dakota was admitted to the Union, and with other presidential court appointees, claimed the right to hold the position until the next general election, the clerks appointed by the county officials taking issue. Mr. Driscoll made a determined stand, and was the first to get his decision before the supreme court, said decision being favorable to him and thus settling similar contentions throughout the state. In 1890, the first regular election, he was chosen to fill the office, and in 1892 was re-elected, and that without opposition. In 1894 he resigned his office and accepted that of cashier of the First National Bank, of which he has since continued incumbent, having practically the executive charge of the affairs of the bank and having proved himself an able and discriminating financier. He is a member of the directorate of the Black Hills Mining Men's Association and also, of that of the Lead Commercial Club, while he is also a member of the American Mining Congress and a life member of the Harvard Union, an organization of the alumni of his alma mater. Mr. Driscoll is intrinsically progressive and public-spirited and takes an active interest in all that makes for the advancement of the state of his adoption, being a loyal citizen and one who places true valuations on men and things. He is a stockholder and official in several mining companies. In politics he gives a stanch allegiance to the Republican party.
On the 16th of September, 1886, was solemnized the marriage of Mr. Driscoll to Miss Catherine Barry, who was born in Houghton, Michigan, being a daughter of Thomas and Ellen Barry. Mr. and Mrs. Driscoll have two children, Robert E. and James Lowell.
1857 - 1932
Lead Daily Call newspaper, May 25, 1932 - "R.H. DRISCOLL DIES AT HOME HERE TODAY. Prominent Banker Loses Long Fight Against Inroads Of Illness.
Robert H. Driscoll, veteran educator and banker, and resident of Lead since 1883, died at his home on Mill street about 8:30 o'clock this morning, the result of an illness of many months.
He had been in a critical condition for the last few weeks.
His passing, while not unexpected, brings deepest sorrow and regret to the community in which he had lived so long and with which he had become so closely identified in all things progressive. Mr. Driscoll was well-loved by all who knew him intimately, and few have commanded the respect of countless friends as he did.
Mr. Driscoll is survived by his widow; two sons, Robert E., of Lead, well-known banker and past president of the South Dakota Bankers association, and Lowell, of Minneapolis; and two daughters-in-law, Mrs. R.E. Driscoll, of Lead, and Mrs. Lowell Driscoll, of Minneapolis. Another son, Allan, died some years ago, and a daughter, Catherine, passed away in infancy. Five grandchildren survive. They are Robert, David, Kathleen and Mary Driscoll, of Lead, and Sally Ann Driscoll, of Minneapolis.
All immediate members of his family were present when the end came.
Active all his life, Mr. Driscoll was president of the Lead First National bank at the time of his death. He would have been 75 years old next July 1.
Robert Henry Driscoll was born at Lowell, Mass., on July 1, 1857. His family moved to Salem, Mass., while he was still a young boy and he grew to manhood there, being graduated from the Salem high school. In 1881 he was graduated from Harvard university. Following his graduation he tutored at William college at Williamsport, Mass., and later taught Latin and Greek at Pittsfield academy, at Pittsfield, Mass. In the fall of 1882 he accepted the superintendency of schools at Spencer, Iowa. Later he came to the Dakotas with the Hughitt family, then identified with the Milwaukee railroad, as their guest for a summer vacation. The lure of the Black Hills brought him to Lead, where, in the fall of 1883, he accepted the position of superintendent of schools.
He resigned this position in 1885 to accept the position of county auditor for Lawrence county, then an appointive office under territorial laws. After reorganizing the office of county auditor he was appointed clerk of courts and when the state of South Dakota was formed he was elected to that position. He later resigned that position to become cashier of the First National bank of Lead.
His life for the past 40 years has been dedicated to this financial institution, which due to his extremely high integrity and sound judgment has always been recognized as one of the strong outstanding banks of the northwest.
Mr. Driscoll has been the recipient of many honors in his profession. He was one of the organizers of the Federal Reserve bank of Minneapolis. During his career he declined many times to accept positions in large city banking institutions, preferring to remain in the Black Hills...."
Lead Daily Call, May 26, 1932 - "DRISCOLL LAST RITES FRIDAY. Services Will Be Held at 9:30 O'clock Tomorrow Morning At St. Patrick's Church.
Funeral services for the late Robert H. Driscoll, president of the Lead First National bank whose death came at his home here yesterday morning following a long illness, will be held tomorrow morning at 9:30 o'clock from St. Patrick's Catholic church.
The Rev. M.S. Roach will be in charge of requiem high mass.
Mason Tyler, William Andrews, John M. Ryan, Ralph Mattson and William Schoen, of Lead, and Carleton Gorder, of Deadwood, will act as pall bearers, and interment will be made in Calvary cemetery in South Lead."
Lead Daily Call, May 27, 1932 - "SERVICES HELD TODAY FOR Robert H. Driscoll.
High mass of requiem was held at St. Patrick's Catholic church this morning at 9:30 o'clock for the late Robert H. Driscoll, widely known Lead banker whose death came at his home here Wednesday morning. The mass was sung by the Rev. M.S. Roach, who also preached the sermon.
The offertory solo was sung by Everett Vaughn, 'O Salutarus Hostia.' Wesley Thorpe played an appropriated violin solo, 'Farewell to Cucullian,' accompanied by David Driscoll at the organ, and Miss Helen Morganti sang 'Face to Face.'
A large number of friends and acquaintances of the deceased were present to pay last respects, and the funeral cortege to Calvary cemetery in South Lead was an unusually long one. There were many beautiful floral tributes.
The escort consisted of members of the staff of the First National bank here and in Deadwood, including Mason Tyler, John M. Ryan, Ralph Mattson, William Andrews, and William Schoen, of Lead, and Carleton Gorder, of Deadwood."
A 1905 Lead Daily Call newspaper souvenir edition noted, "Mr. Driscoll was born at Lowell, Mass., July 1857. When 5 years of age his parents removed to Salem, Mass., where Robert received his preliminary education, graduating in the high school of that city in 1877. He then entered Harvard university and four years later graduated from that well known institution of learning, receiving the degree of Bachelor of Arts. Shortly after leaving Harvard he accepted the position of instructor in Latin and Greek in an academy at Pittsield, his native state, where he stayed one year. in August, 1883, he came to Lead and accepted the position of principal of the schools of this city, which position he held with great credit to himself and benefit to the cause of education here, for three years. In 1887 he was appointed auditor of Lawrence county, holding the office for two years, when he was elected clerk of the courts of this county, which position he held until 1894 when he resigned his office for the purpose of accepting the position of cashier of the Lead City Bank - now the First National - which position he now holds. Mr. Driscoll was admitted to the South Dakota bar in 1900..."
NOTE: Robert Driscoll was married to Catherine Barry at Hancock, Houghton County, Michigan on September 14, 1886. The ceremony was performed by Rev. J. Otis.
SOUTH DAKOTA STATE FILE #142535 - Record index notes that he died in Lawrence County on May 25, 1932.
------------------------------------------------
Bio from "History of South Dakota" by Doane Robinson, Vol. II (1904), pp 985-986.
ROBERT H. DRISCOLL, who occupies the responsible position of cashier of the First National Bank of Lead, Lawrence county, was born in the city of Lowell, Massachusetts, on the 1st of July, 1857, and is a son of Cornelius and Catherine (Costello) Driscoll, the former of whom was born in Ireland and the latter in the city of Boston, Massachusetts. The father of the subject was a child at the time of his parents' immigration to the United States, the family settling in Massachusetts, where he was reared and educated. He was for a number of years engaged in hat manufacturing in the city of Lowell, and he and his wife now maintain their home in the historic old town of Salem, that state. Of their seven children four are living.
Robert H. Driscoll was about five years of age at the time of his parents' removal from Lowell to Salem, and in the latter city he secured his preliminary educational discipline in the pubic schools, being graduated m the high school as a member of the class of 1877. In the autumn of the same year (1877) he was matriculated in Harvard University, where he completed the classical course, being graduated in 1881, with the degree of Bachelor of Arts. He then accepted the position of instructor in Latin and Greek in a private academy at Pittsfield, Massachusetts, retaining this incumbency one year, at the expiration of which he located in Spencer, Iowa, where he taught in the public schools for one year. He then, in August, 1883, came to Lead, South Dakota, and here passed the ensuing three years as principal of the public schools, in which connection he made an excellent record by greatly advancing the interests of the cause of education in his field of labor, systematizing the work and inaugurating methods which have continued in use ever since. In 1887 he was appointed the first auditor of Lawrence county, under Republican administration, and in the following year was duly elected to the office by popular vote. In 1889 he was appointed clerk of the county and circuit courts, these appointments throughout the territory having been made by the President of the United States, who selected all court officials during the territorial regime. The subject was incumbent of the office at the time South Dakota was admitted to the Union, and with other presidential court appointees, claimed the right to hold the position until the next general election, the clerks appointed by the county officials taking issue. Mr. Driscoll made a determined stand, and was the first to get his decision before the supreme court, said decision being favorable to him and thus settling similar contentions throughout the state. In 1890, the first regular election, he was chosen to fill the office, and in 1892 was re-elected, and that without opposition. In 1894 he resigned his office and accepted that of cashier of the First National Bank, of which he has since continued incumbent, having practically the executive charge of the affairs of the bank and having proved himself an able and discriminating financier. He is a member of the directorate of the Black Hills Mining Men's Association and also, of that of the Lead Commercial Club, while he is also a member of the American Mining Congress and a life member of the Harvard Union, an organization of the alumni of his alma mater. Mr. Driscoll is intrinsically progressive and public-spirited and takes an active interest in all that makes for the advancement of the state of his adoption, being a loyal citizen and one who places true valuations on men and things. He is a stockholder and official in several mining companies. In politics he gives a stanch allegiance to the Republican party.
On the 16th of September, 1886, was solemnized the marriage of Mr. Driscoll to Miss Catherine Barry, who was born in Houghton, Michigan, being a daughter of Thomas and Ellen Barry. Mr. and Mrs. Driscoll have two children, Robert E. and James Lowell.
Lead Daily Call newspaper, May 25, 1932 - "R.H. DRISCOLL DIES AT HOME HERE TODAY. Prominent Banker Loses Long Fight Against Inroads Of Illness.
Robert H. Driscoll, veteran educator and banker, and resident of Lead since 1883, died at his home on Mill street about 8:30 o'clock this morning, the result of an illness of many months.
He had been in a critical condition for the last few weeks.
His passing, while not unexpected, brings deepest sorrow and regret to the community in which he had lived so long and with which he had become so closely identified in all things progressive. Mr. Driscoll was well-loved by all who knew him intimately, and few have commanded the respect of countless friends as he did.
Mr. Driscoll is survived by his widow; two sons, Robert E., of Lead, well-known banker and past president of the South Dakota Bankers association, and Lowell, of Minneapolis; and two daughters-in-law, Mrs. R.E. Driscoll, of Lead, and Mrs. Lowell Driscoll, of Minneapolis. Another son, Allan, died some years ago, and a daughter, Catherine, passed away in infancy. Five grandchildren survive. They are Robert, David, Kathleen and Mary Driscoll, of Lead, and Sally Ann Driscoll, of Minneapolis.
All immediate members of his family were present when the end came.
Active all his life, Mr. Driscoll was president of the Lead First National bank at the time of his death. He would have been 75 years old next July 1.
Robert Henry Driscoll was born at Lowell, Mass., on July 1, 1857. His family moved to Salem, Mass., while he was still a young boy and he grew to manhood there, being graduated from the Salem high school. In 1881 he was graduated from Harvard university. Following his graduation he tutored at William college at Williamsport, Mass., and later taught Latin and Greek at Pittsfield academy, at Pittsfield, Mass. In the fall of 1882 he accepted the superintendency of schools at Spencer, Iowa. Later he came to the Dakotas with the Hughitt family, then identified with the Milwaukee railroad, as their guest for a summer vacation. The lure of the Black Hills brought him to Lead, where, in the fall of 1883, he accepted the position of superintendent of schools.
He resigned this position in 1885 to accept the position of county auditor for Lawrence county, then an appointive office under territorial laws. After reorganizing the office of county auditor he was appointed clerk of courts and when the state of South Dakota was formed he was elected to that position. He later resigned that position to become cashier of the First National bank of Lead.
His life for the past 40 years has been dedicated to this financial institution, which due to his extremely high integrity and sound judgment has always been recognized as one of the strong outstanding banks of the northwest.
Mr. Driscoll has been the recipient of many honors in his profession. He was one of the organizers of the Federal Reserve bank of Minneapolis. During his career he declined many times to accept positions in large city banking institutions, preferring to remain in the Black Hills...."
Lead Daily Call, May 26, 1932 - "DRISCOLL LAST RITES FRIDAY. Services Will Be Held at 9:30 O'clock Tomorrow Morning At St. Patrick's Church.
Funeral services for the late Robert H. Driscoll, president of the Lead First National bank whose death came at his home here yesterday morning following a long illness, will be held tomorrow morning at 9:30 o'clock from St. Patrick's Catholic church.
The Rev. M.S. Roach will be in charge of requiem high mass.
Mason Tyler, William Andrews, John M. Ryan, Ralph Mattson and William Schoen, of Lead, and Carleton Gorder, of Deadwood, will act as pall bearers, and interment will be made in Calvary cemetery in South Lead."
Lead Daily Call, May 27, 1932 - "SERVICES HELD TODAY FOR Robert H. Driscoll.
High mass of requiem was held at St. Patrick's Catholic church this morning at 9:30 o'clock for the late Robert H. Driscoll, widely known Lead banker whose death came at his home here Wednesday morning. The mass was sung by the Rev. M.S. Roach, who also preached the sermon.
The offertory solo was sung by Everett Vaughn, 'O Salutarus Hostia.' Wesley Thorpe played an appropriated violin solo, 'Farewell to Cucullian,' accompanied by David Driscoll at the organ, and Miss Helen Morganti sang 'Face to Face.'
A large number of friends and acquaintances of the deceased were present to pay last respects, and the funeral cortege to Calvary cemetery in South Lead was an unusually long one. There were many beautiful floral tributes.
The escort consisted of members of the staff of the First National bank here and in Deadwood, including Mason Tyler, John M. Ryan, Ralph Mattson, William Andrews, and William Schoen, of Lead, and Carleton Gorder, of Deadwood."
A 1905 Lead Daily Call newspaper souvenir edition noted, "Mr. Driscoll was born at Lowell, Mass., July 1857. When 5 years of age his parents removed to Salem, Mass., where Robert received his preliminary education, graduating in the high school of that city in 1877. He then entered Harvard university and four years later graduated from that well known institution of learning, receiving the degree of Bachelor of Arts. Shortly after leaving Harvard he accepted the position of instructor in Latin and Greek in an academy at Pittsield, his native state, where he stayed one year. in August, 1883, he came to Lead and accepted the position of principal of the schools of this city, which position he held with great credit to himself and benefit to the cause of education here, for three years. In 1887 he was appointed auditor of Lawrence county, holding the office for two years, when he was elected clerk of the courts of this county, which position he held until 1894 when he resigned his office for the purpose of accepting the position of cashier of the Lead City Bank - now the First National - which position he now holds. Mr. Driscoll was admitted to the South Dakota bar in 1900..."
NOTE: Robert Driscoll was married to Catherine Barry at Hancock, Houghton County, Michigan on September 14, 1886. The ceremony was performed by Rev. J. Otis.
SOUTH DAKOTA STATE FILE #142535 - Record index notes that he died in Lawrence County on May 25, 1932.
------------------------------------------------
Bio from "History of South Dakota" by Doane Robinson, Vol. II (1904), pp 985-986.
ROBERT H. DRISCOLL, who occupies the responsible position of cashier of the First National Bank of Lead, Lawrence county, was born in the city of Lowell, Massachusetts, on the 1st of July, 1857, and is a son of Cornelius and Catherine (Costello) Driscoll, the former of whom was born in Ireland and the latter in the city of Boston, Massachusetts. The father of the subject was a child at the time of his parents' immigration to the United States, the family settling in Massachusetts, where he was reared and educated. He was for a number of years engaged in hat manufacturing in the city of Lowell, and he and his wife now maintain their home in the historic old town of Salem, that state. Of their seven children four are living.
Robert H. Driscoll was about five years of age at the time of his parents' removal from Lowell to Salem, and in the latter city he secured his preliminary educational discipline in the pubic schools, being graduated m the high school as a member of the class of 1877. In the autumn of the same year (1877) he was matriculated in Harvard University, where he completed the classical course, being graduated in 1881, with the degree of Bachelor of Arts. He then accepted the position of instructor in Latin and Greek in a private academy at Pittsfield, Massachusetts, retaining this incumbency one year, at the expiration of which he located in Spencer, Iowa, where he taught in the public schools for one year. He then, in August, 1883, came to Lead, South Dakota, and here passed the ensuing three years as principal of the public schools, in which connection he made an excellent record by greatly advancing the interests of the cause of education in his field of labor, systematizing the work and inaugurating methods which have continued in use ever since. In 1887 he was appointed the first auditor of Lawrence county, under Republican administration, and in the following year was duly elected to the office by popular vote. In 1889 he was appointed clerk of the county and circuit courts, these appointments throughout the territory having been made by the President of the United States, who selected all court officials during the territorial regime. The subject was incumbent of the office at the time South Dakota was admitted to the Union, and with other presidential court appointees, claimed the right to hold the position until the next general election, the clerks appointed by the county officials taking issue. Mr. Driscoll made a determined stand, and was the first to get his decision before the supreme court, said decision being favorable to him and thus settling similar contentions throughout the state. In 1890, the first regular election, he was chosen to fill the office, and in 1892 was re-elected, and that without opposition. In 1894 he resigned his office and accepted that of cashier of the First National Bank, of which he has since continued incumbent, having practically the executive charge of the affairs of the bank and having proved himself an able and discriminating financier. He is a member of the directorate of the Black Hills Mining Men's Association and also, of that of the Lead Commercial Club, while he is also a member of the American Mining Congress and a life member of the Harvard Union, an organization of the alumni of his alma mater. Mr. Driscoll is intrinsically progressive and public-spirited and takes an active interest in all that makes for the advancement of the state of his adoption, being a loyal citizen and one who places true valuations on men and things. He is a stockholder and official in several mining companies. In politics he gives a stanch allegiance to the Republican party.
On the 16th of September, 1886, was solemnized the marriage of Mr. Driscoll to Miss Catherine Barry, who was born in Houghton, Michigan, being a daughter of Thomas and Ellen Barry. Mr. and Mrs. Driscoll have two children, Robert E. and James Lowell.
Family Members
Sponsored by Ancestry
Advertisement
Advertisement
