Mahlon D. Thatcher – Telluride Daily Journal – February 22, 1916
Mahon Thatcher Dies in Pueblo – Fortune Estimated at $50,000,000 – Pueblo, Feb. 22 – Mahlon Thatcher, one of the most prominent and widely known men in Colorado, died at his home here this morning at the age of 76 years. Mr. Thatcher has been sick for several weeks and was unable to recover from his attack of illness. A case of La Grippe which seized him several weeks ago caused a general breakdown from which the aged man was unable to recover. Thatcher is reputed to be Colorado's wealthiest citizen. He was an official of and interested in strings of banking institutions throughout Colorado, New Mexico, and Montana, making his headquarters in this city. His private fortune is today estimated at close to $50,000,000. Thatcher came to Colorado about 50 years ago and at that time was practically penniless.
Del Norte San Juan Prospector – February 26, 1916 – Thatcher is Dead – Colorado's Richest Citizen Passes Away at Pueblo – His Wife, Son and Three Daughters at Bedside – Was Identified With Almost Every Line of Business – Pueblo, Colo. – Mahlon D. Thatcher, generally considered to be the richest man in Colorado, and since pioneer days a central figure in the industrial and financial growth of the Rocky Mountain region, died at his home here today. His wife, son, and three daughters were at the bedside. Mr. Thatcher, who was 76 years old, had been ill six weeks, and during the last few days his death had been expected at any time. Earlier in the morning it was announced from his home that, although he had regained consciousness he was too weak to give any sign that he recognized his son, who is expected to carry on the enormous financial affairs found by Mr. Thatcher and his brother the late John A. Thatcher. His illness began with a nervous breakdown, which soon developed into uremic poisoning. As the illness continued, a general weakening of all bodily organs except the heart and lungs developed, but due to the tremendous power of these, hope was held out that he would recover until a few days ago. The remarkable vitality of the man whose business acumen was a foundation of much of the prosperity of the entire West, from Chicago to the coast, kept him alive. Mr. Thatcher owned nineteen banks and many other large properties. His interests were almost unbelievably wide. His capital is thought to have furnished financial bulwarks to more than a hundred establishments. Mr. Thatcher came to Colorado in 1865, without money or influence, and by a combination of pluck, energy, and rare ability, erected a financial structure throughout several states. Estimates on his wealth range from $10,000,000 to $30,000,000, with $15,000,000 probably close to actual aggregate. The foundation of his wealth, which is widely diversified, was laid in the conservatism which the banker maintained in business affairs. Though his capital backed scores of successful enterprises, his investments were never speculative.
Silverton Standard – February 26, 1916
M. D. Thatcher, Colorado's Greatest Banker, Dies at Pueblo – Mahlon D. Thatcher, one of the highest respected old pioneers and leading bankers of Colorado and president of the First National bank, passed away at his home in Pueblo Tuesday morning at 10:30 o'clock. He was one of our state's most active builders and his name is affiliated in one way or another with every step of our state's progress. The news of his death was received by his old time friend and associate, Cashier John H. Werkheiser of the First National bank of this city, Tuesday morning, by the following wire, which in a way also explains the future policy to be followed by the heirs. The message said, "M. D. Thatcher passed away at 10:30 this morning. The sons of John A. and M. D. Thatcher will perpetuate the characteristic business policies of their honored fathers." The funeral was held Thursday afternoon at Pueblo at 2:00 o'clock at which time the bank in this city closed its doors and remained closed during the remainder of the day as a mark of respect to the memory of its late distinguished and honored president and founder.
Steamboat Springs Routt County Sentinel – March 3, 1916 – Business Suspended During Funeral – Pueblo, Colo. – Business in Pueblo ceased during the time of the funeral of M. D. Thatcher. Not only were all of the banks closed, but all of the business houses, railroad offices and all public buildings as well. Bayfield Blade – March 10, 1916 – The funeral of M. D. Thatcher, Colorado's richest citizen, was the largest ever held in Pueblo.
Routt County Republican – March 17, 1916 – Thatcher Will Filed – Pueblo Banker Leaves Home and $500,000 to Widow – Son Gets Bank Stock and $50,000 Cash and Three Daughters Each Left $20,000 Cash – Denver – M. D. Thatcher, son of the late Mahlon D. Thatcher, and John H. Thatcher and Raymond Thatcher, sons of the late John A. Thatcher of Pueblo, were in Denver conferring with bankers in reference to the handling of the stock in Denver institutions held by the heirs of the Pueblo financiers. Contemporaneously with the visit of the son of Mahlon D. Thatcher here, the contents of the latter's will were made public in Pueblo. The specific bequests made by the will follow: To the widow, Hilcrest, the Thatcher residence, with all furniture, books, pictures, statuary and other articles in the house and all carriages, horses and automobiles, in addition to a cash bequest of $500,000 to be selected by her from any security in the entire estate. To M. D. Thatcher, Jr., the testator's watch and chain and all personal jewelry, all his stock in the First National Bank of Pueblo (a half interest), $50,000 cash and all realty except the residence property. Cash sums of $20,000 each to the three daughters, Mrs. William Waller and Mrs. Robert C. Wheeler of Chicago and Mrs. Robert L. Huntzinger of New York City. Sums of $10,000 each to his sisters, Mrs. Sarah P. Bloom of Trinidad, and Mrs. Mary C. Everhart of Martinsburg, Pa. Sums of $3,000 each to his sisters-in-law, Mrs. F. W. Cooper of Pueblo and Mrs. Charles F. Jordan of Ouray. The sum of $3,000 to his nephew, M. T. Everhart of Pueblo. The sum of $3,000 to Miss Elizabeth Fisher of Pueblo, a nurse who has served in the family. Sums of $3,000 each to his brothers-in-law, Edwin P. and Charles F. Jordan of Pueblo. The sum of $10,000 to Robert F. Lytle (deceased), cashier of the First National Bank of Pueblo. A similar amount to A. S. Booth, vice president of the bank. Household servants were remembered as follows: $1,000 to Avrid Johnson (deceased), coachman, and $500 each to Anna Johnson and Mary Morgan.
Weekly Ignacio Chieftain - February 25, 1916 - Richest Coloradoan Dead - M.D. Thatcher Passes Away at His Home in Pueblo - Mahlon D. Thatcher, generally considered to be the richest man in Colorado, and since pioneer days a central figure in the industrial and financial growth of the Rocky Mountain region, died at his home here today. His wife, son and three daughters were at the bedside. Mr. Thatcher, who was 76 years old had been ill six weeks, and during the last few days his death had been expected at any time. Earlier in the morning it was announced from his home that, although he had regained consciousness he was too weak to give any sign that he recognized his son, who is expected to carry on the enormous financial affairs founded by Mr. Thatcher and his brother the late John A. Thatcher.
Weekly Ignacio Chieftain - March 24, 1916 - The will of Mahlon D. Thatcher, Sr., who died several weeks ago, was admitted to probate in the County Court at Pueblo and letters testamentary issued to Albert S. Booth, M. D. Thatcher, Jr., and Robert T. Wheeler, executors under the terms of the document.
Rocky Mountain News Denver, Colorado Thursday, February 24, 1916
M.D. THATCHER, FINANCIER, DIES
Went to Pueblo in the Early Days and Built Up Great Fortune.
Action will be taken at a meeting of the Dnever Clearting House association at 9 o'clock this morning for the closing of the banks in this city at noon tomorrow to permit attendance upon the funeral of Mahlon D. Thatcher, who died in Pueblo.
The funeral will be held at 2 o'clock tomorrow afternoon from the family residnece. Mr. Thatcher was a conspicious figure int eh financial growth oand development of Colorado and the intermountain country. He is said to be the wealthiest man in the state. He had been ill for several weeks from a complication following an attack of grip.
Family at Bedside.
With him at the time of his death were all the members of the immdiate family, including Mrs. Luna Ada Thatcher, widowed by the death of the capitalist; his only son, Mahlon D., Jr., and his daughters, Mrs. Lydia Wheeler and Mrs. Lucia Waller of Chicago and Mrs. Ada Huntsinger of New York. The end came while the aged banker was asleep.
With the passing of the man who was designated by former Gov. Alva Adams as teh "J.P. Morgan of the West," interstes in nineteen banks, including the First National bank and the International Trust company, both of Denver, and other vast property interests, will come under the active control of Mahlon D. Thatcher, Jr., who while but 33 years old, has been coached for the task that he must now take up since he was 18 years old.
Built Up Fortune.
Mr. Thatcher came to Colorado in 1865 without money or influence and by a combinatinf of pluck, energy and rare ability, erected a financial structure thruout two states.
Estimates on his wealth range from $10,000,000 to $30,000,000, with $15,000,000 probably close to actual aggregate.
He was a director and founder of the Pueblo smelter, later taken over by the American Smelting and Refining company, was active in the Great Western Sugar company, the Nevada-California Power company, a large stockholder in the Mountain States Telephone & Telegraph company, the Denver Union Water company, and the American Smelting and Refining company.
Primarily he was a banker. He was a tockholder and a director in the First National bank in Denver as early as 1868, but retired from active connection for a period, returning when the Capitol National bank was merged with the First, and became chairman of the board of directors at the reorganization in 1914, following the death of David H. Moffat, at which time H. J. Alexander became president.
Re-elected Chairman.
He was re-elected chairman of the board of directors at teh annual meeting last month.
Mahlon Daniel Thatcher was boen at New Buffalo, Pa., Dec. 6, 1839, a son of Henry and Ludia Ann Thatcher. He received an academic education in Juniata county, Pennsylvania, and then began his business career as a clerk in his father's general store. New Buffalo was near Gettysburg and the horror of teh carnage on that famous Civil war battlefield remained as one of the most vivid impressions of his life.
During the war his brother, John A.
(Continued on Page Two.)
Laid Foundation of Fortune When Pueblo Was Frontier Trading Post.
(Continued From Page One.)
Thatcher, two years older than Mahlon, decided to move West in the hope fo finding greater business opportunities. He came to Fort Lyon, Colo., the famous military post of early days, then to Denver and finally went to Pueblo, where he established a general store in 1863.
Mahlon Joined Him.
In 1865 Mahlon joined his brother in Pueblo and the two established the mercantile firm of Thatcher brothers. Their small trade with frontiersmen and Indians was the nucleus of their huge development in business lines.
As the business grew, the brothers bedan to feel the need of banking facilities in the then remote section of the West, and in 1871 they formed the First National bank in modest quarters on Santa Fe avenue. From then on the growth of the Thatcher fortunes and the growth of Pueblo were fast and large. Gradually they acquired outside interestes, first in southern Colorado and then thruout the West.
Banks were established in Florence, Las Animas, Trinidad, Montrose and other places and interets in banks already established were acquired.
Brother Died in 1913.
John A. Thatcher died here in August, 1913, since when Mahlon D. was sole head of the Thatcher interests.
Mr. Thatcher was married Aug. 1, 1876, to Luna Ada Jordan of Pueblo. Besides his wife and son he leaves three daughters, Mrs. Lydia Wheeler and Mrs. Lucia Waller of Chicago and Mrs, Ada Huntzinger of New York city. He also leaves seven grandchildren, Winifred and Robert Thatcher Wheeler, Virginia and William Waller, Mahlon D. Thatcher III, and Helen Elizabeth Thatcher and Elizabeth Ann Huntzinger.
Mr. Thatcher was a member of the Presbyterian church and contributed generously to its support. He was long active in teh upbuilding of COlorado college, as a trustee of the institution. He was a Mason and his political allegiance lay with the Republican party. In 1877 he served as mahor of PUeblo, but he was never especially active in politics. He was a member of the Metropolitan club, the Republican club of New York and the Denver club.
Mahon Thatcher Dies in Pueblo – Fortune Estimated at $50,000,000 – Pueblo, Feb. 22 – Mahlon Thatcher, one of the most prominent and widely known men in Colorado, died at his home here this morning at the age of 76 years. Mr. Thatcher has been sick for several weeks and was unable to recover from his attack of illness. A case of La Grippe which seized him several weeks ago caused a general breakdown from which the aged man was unable to recover. Thatcher is reputed to be Colorado's wealthiest citizen. He was an official of and interested in strings of banking institutions throughout Colorado, New Mexico, and Montana, making his headquarters in this city. His private fortune is today estimated at close to $50,000,000. Thatcher came to Colorado about 50 years ago and at that time was practically penniless.
Del Norte San Juan Prospector – February 26, 1916 – Thatcher is Dead – Colorado's Richest Citizen Passes Away at Pueblo – His Wife, Son and Three Daughters at Bedside – Was Identified With Almost Every Line of Business – Pueblo, Colo. – Mahlon D. Thatcher, generally considered to be the richest man in Colorado, and since pioneer days a central figure in the industrial and financial growth of the Rocky Mountain region, died at his home here today. His wife, son, and three daughters were at the bedside. Mr. Thatcher, who was 76 years old, had been ill six weeks, and during the last few days his death had been expected at any time. Earlier in the morning it was announced from his home that, although he had regained consciousness he was too weak to give any sign that he recognized his son, who is expected to carry on the enormous financial affairs found by Mr. Thatcher and his brother the late John A. Thatcher. His illness began with a nervous breakdown, which soon developed into uremic poisoning. As the illness continued, a general weakening of all bodily organs except the heart and lungs developed, but due to the tremendous power of these, hope was held out that he would recover until a few days ago. The remarkable vitality of the man whose business acumen was a foundation of much of the prosperity of the entire West, from Chicago to the coast, kept him alive. Mr. Thatcher owned nineteen banks and many other large properties. His interests were almost unbelievably wide. His capital is thought to have furnished financial bulwarks to more than a hundred establishments. Mr. Thatcher came to Colorado in 1865, without money or influence, and by a combination of pluck, energy, and rare ability, erected a financial structure throughout several states. Estimates on his wealth range from $10,000,000 to $30,000,000, with $15,000,000 probably close to actual aggregate. The foundation of his wealth, which is widely diversified, was laid in the conservatism which the banker maintained in business affairs. Though his capital backed scores of successful enterprises, his investments were never speculative.
Silverton Standard – February 26, 1916
M. D. Thatcher, Colorado's Greatest Banker, Dies at Pueblo – Mahlon D. Thatcher, one of the highest respected old pioneers and leading bankers of Colorado and president of the First National bank, passed away at his home in Pueblo Tuesday morning at 10:30 o'clock. He was one of our state's most active builders and his name is affiliated in one way or another with every step of our state's progress. The news of his death was received by his old time friend and associate, Cashier John H. Werkheiser of the First National bank of this city, Tuesday morning, by the following wire, which in a way also explains the future policy to be followed by the heirs. The message said, "M. D. Thatcher passed away at 10:30 this morning. The sons of John A. and M. D. Thatcher will perpetuate the characteristic business policies of their honored fathers." The funeral was held Thursday afternoon at Pueblo at 2:00 o'clock at which time the bank in this city closed its doors and remained closed during the remainder of the day as a mark of respect to the memory of its late distinguished and honored president and founder.
Steamboat Springs Routt County Sentinel – March 3, 1916 – Business Suspended During Funeral – Pueblo, Colo. – Business in Pueblo ceased during the time of the funeral of M. D. Thatcher. Not only were all of the banks closed, but all of the business houses, railroad offices and all public buildings as well. Bayfield Blade – March 10, 1916 – The funeral of M. D. Thatcher, Colorado's richest citizen, was the largest ever held in Pueblo.
Routt County Republican – March 17, 1916 – Thatcher Will Filed – Pueblo Banker Leaves Home and $500,000 to Widow – Son Gets Bank Stock and $50,000 Cash and Three Daughters Each Left $20,000 Cash – Denver – M. D. Thatcher, son of the late Mahlon D. Thatcher, and John H. Thatcher and Raymond Thatcher, sons of the late John A. Thatcher of Pueblo, were in Denver conferring with bankers in reference to the handling of the stock in Denver institutions held by the heirs of the Pueblo financiers. Contemporaneously with the visit of the son of Mahlon D. Thatcher here, the contents of the latter's will were made public in Pueblo. The specific bequests made by the will follow: To the widow, Hilcrest, the Thatcher residence, with all furniture, books, pictures, statuary and other articles in the house and all carriages, horses and automobiles, in addition to a cash bequest of $500,000 to be selected by her from any security in the entire estate. To M. D. Thatcher, Jr., the testator's watch and chain and all personal jewelry, all his stock in the First National Bank of Pueblo (a half interest), $50,000 cash and all realty except the residence property. Cash sums of $20,000 each to the three daughters, Mrs. William Waller and Mrs. Robert C. Wheeler of Chicago and Mrs. Robert L. Huntzinger of New York City. Sums of $10,000 each to his sisters, Mrs. Sarah P. Bloom of Trinidad, and Mrs. Mary C. Everhart of Martinsburg, Pa. Sums of $3,000 each to his sisters-in-law, Mrs. F. W. Cooper of Pueblo and Mrs. Charles F. Jordan of Ouray. The sum of $3,000 to his nephew, M. T. Everhart of Pueblo. The sum of $3,000 to Miss Elizabeth Fisher of Pueblo, a nurse who has served in the family. Sums of $3,000 each to his brothers-in-law, Edwin P. and Charles F. Jordan of Pueblo. The sum of $10,000 to Robert F. Lytle (deceased), cashier of the First National Bank of Pueblo. A similar amount to A. S. Booth, vice president of the bank. Household servants were remembered as follows: $1,000 to Avrid Johnson (deceased), coachman, and $500 each to Anna Johnson and Mary Morgan.
Weekly Ignacio Chieftain - February 25, 1916 - Richest Coloradoan Dead - M.D. Thatcher Passes Away at His Home in Pueblo - Mahlon D. Thatcher, generally considered to be the richest man in Colorado, and since pioneer days a central figure in the industrial and financial growth of the Rocky Mountain region, died at his home here today. His wife, son and three daughters were at the bedside. Mr. Thatcher, who was 76 years old had been ill six weeks, and during the last few days his death had been expected at any time. Earlier in the morning it was announced from his home that, although he had regained consciousness he was too weak to give any sign that he recognized his son, who is expected to carry on the enormous financial affairs founded by Mr. Thatcher and his brother the late John A. Thatcher.
Weekly Ignacio Chieftain - March 24, 1916 - The will of Mahlon D. Thatcher, Sr., who died several weeks ago, was admitted to probate in the County Court at Pueblo and letters testamentary issued to Albert S. Booth, M. D. Thatcher, Jr., and Robert T. Wheeler, executors under the terms of the document.
Rocky Mountain News Denver, Colorado Thursday, February 24, 1916
M.D. THATCHER, FINANCIER, DIES
Went to Pueblo in the Early Days and Built Up Great Fortune.
Action will be taken at a meeting of the Dnever Clearting House association at 9 o'clock this morning for the closing of the banks in this city at noon tomorrow to permit attendance upon the funeral of Mahlon D. Thatcher, who died in Pueblo.
The funeral will be held at 2 o'clock tomorrow afternoon from the family residnece. Mr. Thatcher was a conspicious figure int eh financial growth oand development of Colorado and the intermountain country. He is said to be the wealthiest man in the state. He had been ill for several weeks from a complication following an attack of grip.
Family at Bedside.
With him at the time of his death were all the members of the immdiate family, including Mrs. Luna Ada Thatcher, widowed by the death of the capitalist; his only son, Mahlon D., Jr., and his daughters, Mrs. Lydia Wheeler and Mrs. Lucia Waller of Chicago and Mrs. Ada Huntsinger of New York. The end came while the aged banker was asleep.
With the passing of the man who was designated by former Gov. Alva Adams as teh "J.P. Morgan of the West," interstes in nineteen banks, including the First National bank and the International Trust company, both of Denver, and other vast property interests, will come under the active control of Mahlon D. Thatcher, Jr., who while but 33 years old, has been coached for the task that he must now take up since he was 18 years old.
Built Up Fortune.
Mr. Thatcher came to Colorado in 1865 without money or influence and by a combinatinf of pluck, energy and rare ability, erected a financial structure thruout two states.
Estimates on his wealth range from $10,000,000 to $30,000,000, with $15,000,000 probably close to actual aggregate.
He was a director and founder of the Pueblo smelter, later taken over by the American Smelting and Refining company, was active in the Great Western Sugar company, the Nevada-California Power company, a large stockholder in the Mountain States Telephone & Telegraph company, the Denver Union Water company, and the American Smelting and Refining company.
Primarily he was a banker. He was a tockholder and a director in the First National bank in Denver as early as 1868, but retired from active connection for a period, returning when the Capitol National bank was merged with the First, and became chairman of the board of directors at the reorganization in 1914, following the death of David H. Moffat, at which time H. J. Alexander became president.
Re-elected Chairman.
He was re-elected chairman of the board of directors at teh annual meeting last month.
Mahlon Daniel Thatcher was boen at New Buffalo, Pa., Dec. 6, 1839, a son of Henry and Ludia Ann Thatcher. He received an academic education in Juniata county, Pennsylvania, and then began his business career as a clerk in his father's general store. New Buffalo was near Gettysburg and the horror of teh carnage on that famous Civil war battlefield remained as one of the most vivid impressions of his life.
During the war his brother, John A.
(Continued on Page Two.)
Laid Foundation of Fortune When Pueblo Was Frontier Trading Post.
(Continued From Page One.)
Thatcher, two years older than Mahlon, decided to move West in the hope fo finding greater business opportunities. He came to Fort Lyon, Colo., the famous military post of early days, then to Denver and finally went to Pueblo, where he established a general store in 1863.
Mahlon Joined Him.
In 1865 Mahlon joined his brother in Pueblo and the two established the mercantile firm of Thatcher brothers. Their small trade with frontiersmen and Indians was the nucleus of their huge development in business lines.
As the business grew, the brothers bedan to feel the need of banking facilities in the then remote section of the West, and in 1871 they formed the First National bank in modest quarters on Santa Fe avenue. From then on the growth of the Thatcher fortunes and the growth of Pueblo were fast and large. Gradually they acquired outside interestes, first in southern Colorado and then thruout the West.
Banks were established in Florence, Las Animas, Trinidad, Montrose and other places and interets in banks already established were acquired.
Brother Died in 1913.
John A. Thatcher died here in August, 1913, since when Mahlon D. was sole head of the Thatcher interests.
Mr. Thatcher was married Aug. 1, 1876, to Luna Ada Jordan of Pueblo. Besides his wife and son he leaves three daughters, Mrs. Lydia Wheeler and Mrs. Lucia Waller of Chicago and Mrs, Ada Huntzinger of New York city. He also leaves seven grandchildren, Winifred and Robert Thatcher Wheeler, Virginia and William Waller, Mahlon D. Thatcher III, and Helen Elizabeth Thatcher and Elizabeth Ann Huntzinger.
Mr. Thatcher was a member of the Presbyterian church and contributed generously to its support. He was long active in teh upbuilding of COlorado college, as a trustee of the institution. He was a Mason and his political allegiance lay with the Republican party. In 1877 he served as mahor of PUeblo, but he was never especially active in politics. He was a member of the Metropolitan club, the Republican club of New York and the Denver club.
Mahlon D. Thatcher – Telluride Daily Journal – February 22, 1916
Mahon Thatcher Dies in Pueblo – Fortune Estimated at $50,000,000 – Pueblo, Feb. 22 – Mahlon Thatcher, one of the most prominent and widely known men in Colorado, died at his home here this morning at the age of 76 years. Mr. Thatcher has been sick for several weeks and was unable to recover from his attack of illness. A case of La Grippe which seized him several weeks ago caused a general breakdown from which the aged man was unable to recover. Thatcher is reputed to be Colorado's wealthiest citizen. He was an official of and interested in strings of banking institutions throughout Colorado, New Mexico, and Montana, making his headquarters in this city. His private fortune is today estimated at close to $50,000,000. Thatcher came to Colorado about 50 years ago and at that time was practically penniless.
Del Norte San Juan Prospector – February 26, 1916 – Thatcher is Dead – Colorado's Richest Citizen Passes Away at Pueblo – His Wife, Son and Three Daughters at Bedside – Was Identified With Almost Every Line of Business – Pueblo, Colo. – Mahlon D. Thatcher, generally considered to be the richest man in Colorado, and since pioneer days a central figure in the industrial and financial growth of the Rocky Mountain region, died at his home here today. His wife, son, and three daughters were at the bedside. Mr. Thatcher, who was 76 years old, had been ill six weeks, and during the last few days his death had been expected at any time. Earlier in the morning it was announced from his home that, although he had regained consciousness he was too weak to give any sign that he recognized his son, who is expected to carry on the enormous financial affairs found by Mr. Thatcher and his brother the late John A. Thatcher. His illness began with a nervous breakdown, which soon developed into uremic poisoning. As the illness continued, a general weakening of all bodily organs except the heart and lungs developed, but due to the tremendous power of these, hope was held out that he would recover until a few days ago. The remarkable vitality of the man whose business acumen was a foundation of much of the prosperity of the entire West, from Chicago to the coast, kept him alive. Mr. Thatcher owned nineteen banks and many other large properties. His interests were almost unbelievably wide. His capital is thought to have furnished financial bulwarks to more than a hundred establishments. Mr. Thatcher came to Colorado in 1865, without money or influence, and by a combination of pluck, energy, and rare ability, erected a financial structure throughout several states. Estimates on his wealth range from $10,000,000 to $30,000,000, with $15,000,000 probably close to actual aggregate. The foundation of his wealth, which is widely diversified, was laid in the conservatism which the banker maintained in business affairs. Though his capital backed scores of successful enterprises, his investments were never speculative.
Silverton Standard – February 26, 1916
M. D. Thatcher, Colorado's Greatest Banker, Dies at Pueblo – Mahlon D. Thatcher, one of the highest respected old pioneers and leading bankers of Colorado and president of the First National bank, passed away at his home in Pueblo Tuesday morning at 10:30 o'clock. He was one of our state's most active builders and his name is affiliated in one way or another with every step of our state's progress. The news of his death was received by his old time friend and associate, Cashier John H. Werkheiser of the First National bank of this city, Tuesday morning, by the following wire, which in a way also explains the future policy to be followed by the heirs. The message said, "M. D. Thatcher passed away at 10:30 this morning. The sons of John A. and M. D. Thatcher will perpetuate the characteristic business policies of their honored fathers." The funeral was held Thursday afternoon at Pueblo at 2:00 o'clock at which time the bank in this city closed its doors and remained closed during the remainder of the day as a mark of respect to the memory of its late distinguished and honored president and founder.
Steamboat Springs Routt County Sentinel – March 3, 1916 – Business Suspended During Funeral – Pueblo, Colo. – Business in Pueblo ceased during the time of the funeral of M. D. Thatcher. Not only were all of the banks closed, but all of the business houses, railroad offices and all public buildings as well. Bayfield Blade – March 10, 1916 – The funeral of M. D. Thatcher, Colorado's richest citizen, was the largest ever held in Pueblo.
Routt County Republican – March 17, 1916 – Thatcher Will Filed – Pueblo Banker Leaves Home and $500,000 to Widow – Son Gets Bank Stock and $50,000 Cash and Three Daughters Each Left $20,000 Cash – Denver – M. D. Thatcher, son of the late Mahlon D. Thatcher, and John H. Thatcher and Raymond Thatcher, sons of the late John A. Thatcher of Pueblo, were in Denver conferring with bankers in reference to the handling of the stock in Denver institutions held by the heirs of the Pueblo financiers. Contemporaneously with the visit of the son of Mahlon D. Thatcher here, the contents of the latter's will were made public in Pueblo. The specific bequests made by the will follow: To the widow, Hilcrest, the Thatcher residence, with all furniture, books, pictures, statuary and other articles in the house and all carriages, horses and automobiles, in addition to a cash bequest of $500,000 to be selected by her from any security in the entire estate. To M. D. Thatcher, Jr., the testator's watch and chain and all personal jewelry, all his stock in the First National Bank of Pueblo (a half interest), $50,000 cash and all realty except the residence property. Cash sums of $20,000 each to the three daughters, Mrs. William Waller and Mrs. Robert C. Wheeler of Chicago and Mrs. Robert L. Huntzinger of New York City. Sums of $10,000 each to his sisters, Mrs. Sarah P. Bloom of Trinidad, and Mrs. Mary C. Everhart of Martinsburg, Pa. Sums of $3,000 each to his sisters-in-law, Mrs. F. W. Cooper of Pueblo and Mrs. Charles F. Jordan of Ouray. The sum of $3,000 to his nephew, M. T. Everhart of Pueblo. The sum of $3,000 to Miss Elizabeth Fisher of Pueblo, a nurse who has served in the family. Sums of $3,000 each to his brothers-in-law, Edwin P. and Charles F. Jordan of Pueblo. The sum of $10,000 to Robert F. Lytle (deceased), cashier of the First National Bank of Pueblo. A similar amount to A. S. Booth, vice president of the bank. Household servants were remembered as follows: $1,000 to Avrid Johnson (deceased), coachman, and $500 each to Anna Johnson and Mary Morgan.
Weekly Ignacio Chieftain - February 25, 1916 - Richest Coloradoan Dead - M.D. Thatcher Passes Away at His Home in Pueblo - Mahlon D. Thatcher, generally considered to be the richest man in Colorado, and since pioneer days a central figure in the industrial and financial growth of the Rocky Mountain region, died at his home here today. His wife, son and three daughters were at the bedside. Mr. Thatcher, who was 76 years old had been ill six weeks, and during the last few days his death had been expected at any time. Earlier in the morning it was announced from his home that, although he had regained consciousness he was too weak to give any sign that he recognized his son, who is expected to carry on the enormous financial affairs founded by Mr. Thatcher and his brother the late John A. Thatcher.
Weekly Ignacio Chieftain - March 24, 1916 - The will of Mahlon D. Thatcher, Sr., who died several weeks ago, was admitted to probate in the County Court at Pueblo and letters testamentary issued to Albert S. Booth, M. D. Thatcher, Jr., and Robert T. Wheeler, executors under the terms of the document.
Rocky Mountain News Denver, Colorado Thursday, February 24, 1916
M.D. THATCHER, FINANCIER, DIES
Went to Pueblo in the Early Days and Built Up Great Fortune.
Action will be taken at a meeting of the Dnever Clearting House association at 9 o'clock this morning for the closing of the banks in this city at noon tomorrow to permit attendance upon the funeral of Mahlon D. Thatcher, who died in Pueblo.
The funeral will be held at 2 o'clock tomorrow afternoon from the family residnece. Mr. Thatcher was a conspicious figure int eh financial growth oand development of Colorado and the intermountain country. He is said to be the wealthiest man in the state. He had been ill for several weeks from a complication following an attack of grip.
Family at Bedside.
With him at the time of his death were all the members of the immdiate family, including Mrs. Luna Ada Thatcher, widowed by the death of the capitalist; his only son, Mahlon D., Jr., and his daughters, Mrs. Lydia Wheeler and Mrs. Lucia Waller of Chicago and Mrs. Ada Huntsinger of New York. The end came while the aged banker was asleep.
With the passing of the man who was designated by former Gov. Alva Adams as teh "J.P. Morgan of the West," interstes in nineteen banks, including the First National bank and the International Trust company, both of Denver, and other vast property interests, will come under the active control of Mahlon D. Thatcher, Jr., who while but 33 years old, has been coached for the task that he must now take up since he was 18 years old.
Built Up Fortune.
Mr. Thatcher came to Colorado in 1865 without money or influence and by a combinatinf of pluck, energy and rare ability, erected a financial structure thruout two states.
Estimates on his wealth range from $10,000,000 to $30,000,000, with $15,000,000 probably close to actual aggregate.
He was a director and founder of the Pueblo smelter, later taken over by the American Smelting and Refining company, was active in the Great Western Sugar company, the Nevada-California Power company, a large stockholder in the Mountain States Telephone & Telegraph company, the Denver Union Water company, and the American Smelting and Refining company.
Primarily he was a banker. He was a tockholder and a director in the First National bank in Denver as early as 1868, but retired from active connection for a period, returning when the Capitol National bank was merged with the First, and became chairman of the board of directors at the reorganization in 1914, following the death of David H. Moffat, at which time H. J. Alexander became president.
Re-elected Chairman.
He was re-elected chairman of the board of directors at teh annual meeting last month.
Mahlon Daniel Thatcher was boen at New Buffalo, Pa., Dec. 6, 1839, a son of Henry and Ludia Ann Thatcher. He received an academic education in Juniata county, Pennsylvania, and then began his business career as a clerk in his father's general store. New Buffalo was near Gettysburg and the horror of teh carnage on that famous Civil war battlefield remained as one of the most vivid impressions of his life.
During the war his brother, John A.
(Continued on Page Two.)
Laid Foundation of Fortune When Pueblo Was Frontier Trading Post.
(Continued From Page One.)
Thatcher, two years older than Mahlon, decided to move West in the hope fo finding greater business opportunities. He came to Fort Lyon, Colo., the famous military post of early days, then to Denver and finally went to Pueblo, where he established a general store in 1863.
Mahlon Joined Him.
In 1865 Mahlon joined his brother in Pueblo and the two established the mercantile firm of Thatcher brothers. Their small trade with frontiersmen and Indians was the nucleus of their huge development in business lines.
As the business grew, the brothers bedan to feel the need of banking facilities in the then remote section of the West, and in 1871 they formed the First National bank in modest quarters on Santa Fe avenue. From then on the growth of the Thatcher fortunes and the growth of Pueblo were fast and large. Gradually they acquired outside interestes, first in southern Colorado and then thruout the West.
Banks were established in Florence, Las Animas, Trinidad, Montrose and other places and interets in banks already established were acquired.
Brother Died in 1913.
John A. Thatcher died here in August, 1913, since when Mahlon D. was sole head of the Thatcher interests.
Mr. Thatcher was married Aug. 1, 1876, to Luna Ada Jordan of Pueblo. Besides his wife and son he leaves three daughters, Mrs. Lydia Wheeler and Mrs. Lucia Waller of Chicago and Mrs, Ada Huntzinger of New York city. He also leaves seven grandchildren, Winifred and Robert Thatcher Wheeler, Virginia and William Waller, Mahlon D. Thatcher III, and Helen Elizabeth Thatcher and Elizabeth Ann Huntzinger.
Mr. Thatcher was a member of the Presbyterian church and contributed generously to its support. He was long active in teh upbuilding of COlorado college, as a trustee of the institution. He was a Mason and his political allegiance lay with the Republican party. In 1877 he served as mahor of PUeblo, but he was never especially active in politics. He was a member of the Metropolitan club, the Republican club of New York and the Denver club.
Mahon Thatcher Dies in Pueblo – Fortune Estimated at $50,000,000 – Pueblo, Feb. 22 – Mahlon Thatcher, one of the most prominent and widely known men in Colorado, died at his home here this morning at the age of 76 years. Mr. Thatcher has been sick for several weeks and was unable to recover from his attack of illness. A case of La Grippe which seized him several weeks ago caused a general breakdown from which the aged man was unable to recover. Thatcher is reputed to be Colorado's wealthiest citizen. He was an official of and interested in strings of banking institutions throughout Colorado, New Mexico, and Montana, making his headquarters in this city. His private fortune is today estimated at close to $50,000,000. Thatcher came to Colorado about 50 years ago and at that time was practically penniless.
Del Norte San Juan Prospector – February 26, 1916 – Thatcher is Dead – Colorado's Richest Citizen Passes Away at Pueblo – His Wife, Son and Three Daughters at Bedside – Was Identified With Almost Every Line of Business – Pueblo, Colo. – Mahlon D. Thatcher, generally considered to be the richest man in Colorado, and since pioneer days a central figure in the industrial and financial growth of the Rocky Mountain region, died at his home here today. His wife, son, and three daughters were at the bedside. Mr. Thatcher, who was 76 years old, had been ill six weeks, and during the last few days his death had been expected at any time. Earlier in the morning it was announced from his home that, although he had regained consciousness he was too weak to give any sign that he recognized his son, who is expected to carry on the enormous financial affairs found by Mr. Thatcher and his brother the late John A. Thatcher. His illness began with a nervous breakdown, which soon developed into uremic poisoning. As the illness continued, a general weakening of all bodily organs except the heart and lungs developed, but due to the tremendous power of these, hope was held out that he would recover until a few days ago. The remarkable vitality of the man whose business acumen was a foundation of much of the prosperity of the entire West, from Chicago to the coast, kept him alive. Mr. Thatcher owned nineteen banks and many other large properties. His interests were almost unbelievably wide. His capital is thought to have furnished financial bulwarks to more than a hundred establishments. Mr. Thatcher came to Colorado in 1865, without money or influence, and by a combination of pluck, energy, and rare ability, erected a financial structure throughout several states. Estimates on his wealth range from $10,000,000 to $30,000,000, with $15,000,000 probably close to actual aggregate. The foundation of his wealth, which is widely diversified, was laid in the conservatism which the banker maintained in business affairs. Though his capital backed scores of successful enterprises, his investments were never speculative.
Silverton Standard – February 26, 1916
M. D. Thatcher, Colorado's Greatest Banker, Dies at Pueblo – Mahlon D. Thatcher, one of the highest respected old pioneers and leading bankers of Colorado and president of the First National bank, passed away at his home in Pueblo Tuesday morning at 10:30 o'clock. He was one of our state's most active builders and his name is affiliated in one way or another with every step of our state's progress. The news of his death was received by his old time friend and associate, Cashier John H. Werkheiser of the First National bank of this city, Tuesday morning, by the following wire, which in a way also explains the future policy to be followed by the heirs. The message said, "M. D. Thatcher passed away at 10:30 this morning. The sons of John A. and M. D. Thatcher will perpetuate the characteristic business policies of their honored fathers." The funeral was held Thursday afternoon at Pueblo at 2:00 o'clock at which time the bank in this city closed its doors and remained closed during the remainder of the day as a mark of respect to the memory of its late distinguished and honored president and founder.
Steamboat Springs Routt County Sentinel – March 3, 1916 – Business Suspended During Funeral – Pueblo, Colo. – Business in Pueblo ceased during the time of the funeral of M. D. Thatcher. Not only were all of the banks closed, but all of the business houses, railroad offices and all public buildings as well. Bayfield Blade – March 10, 1916 – The funeral of M. D. Thatcher, Colorado's richest citizen, was the largest ever held in Pueblo.
Routt County Republican – March 17, 1916 – Thatcher Will Filed – Pueblo Banker Leaves Home and $500,000 to Widow – Son Gets Bank Stock and $50,000 Cash and Three Daughters Each Left $20,000 Cash – Denver – M. D. Thatcher, son of the late Mahlon D. Thatcher, and John H. Thatcher and Raymond Thatcher, sons of the late John A. Thatcher of Pueblo, were in Denver conferring with bankers in reference to the handling of the stock in Denver institutions held by the heirs of the Pueblo financiers. Contemporaneously with the visit of the son of Mahlon D. Thatcher here, the contents of the latter's will were made public in Pueblo. The specific bequests made by the will follow: To the widow, Hilcrest, the Thatcher residence, with all furniture, books, pictures, statuary and other articles in the house and all carriages, horses and automobiles, in addition to a cash bequest of $500,000 to be selected by her from any security in the entire estate. To M. D. Thatcher, Jr., the testator's watch and chain and all personal jewelry, all his stock in the First National Bank of Pueblo (a half interest), $50,000 cash and all realty except the residence property. Cash sums of $20,000 each to the three daughters, Mrs. William Waller and Mrs. Robert C. Wheeler of Chicago and Mrs. Robert L. Huntzinger of New York City. Sums of $10,000 each to his sisters, Mrs. Sarah P. Bloom of Trinidad, and Mrs. Mary C. Everhart of Martinsburg, Pa. Sums of $3,000 each to his sisters-in-law, Mrs. F. W. Cooper of Pueblo and Mrs. Charles F. Jordan of Ouray. The sum of $3,000 to his nephew, M. T. Everhart of Pueblo. The sum of $3,000 to Miss Elizabeth Fisher of Pueblo, a nurse who has served in the family. Sums of $3,000 each to his brothers-in-law, Edwin P. and Charles F. Jordan of Pueblo. The sum of $10,000 to Robert F. Lytle (deceased), cashier of the First National Bank of Pueblo. A similar amount to A. S. Booth, vice president of the bank. Household servants were remembered as follows: $1,000 to Avrid Johnson (deceased), coachman, and $500 each to Anna Johnson and Mary Morgan.
Weekly Ignacio Chieftain - February 25, 1916 - Richest Coloradoan Dead - M.D. Thatcher Passes Away at His Home in Pueblo - Mahlon D. Thatcher, generally considered to be the richest man in Colorado, and since pioneer days a central figure in the industrial and financial growth of the Rocky Mountain region, died at his home here today. His wife, son and three daughters were at the bedside. Mr. Thatcher, who was 76 years old had been ill six weeks, and during the last few days his death had been expected at any time. Earlier in the morning it was announced from his home that, although he had regained consciousness he was too weak to give any sign that he recognized his son, who is expected to carry on the enormous financial affairs founded by Mr. Thatcher and his brother the late John A. Thatcher.
Weekly Ignacio Chieftain - March 24, 1916 - The will of Mahlon D. Thatcher, Sr., who died several weeks ago, was admitted to probate in the County Court at Pueblo and letters testamentary issued to Albert S. Booth, M. D. Thatcher, Jr., and Robert T. Wheeler, executors under the terms of the document.
Rocky Mountain News Denver, Colorado Thursday, February 24, 1916
M.D. THATCHER, FINANCIER, DIES
Went to Pueblo in the Early Days and Built Up Great Fortune.
Action will be taken at a meeting of the Dnever Clearting House association at 9 o'clock this morning for the closing of the banks in this city at noon tomorrow to permit attendance upon the funeral of Mahlon D. Thatcher, who died in Pueblo.
The funeral will be held at 2 o'clock tomorrow afternoon from the family residnece. Mr. Thatcher was a conspicious figure int eh financial growth oand development of Colorado and the intermountain country. He is said to be the wealthiest man in the state. He had been ill for several weeks from a complication following an attack of grip.
Family at Bedside.
With him at the time of his death were all the members of the immdiate family, including Mrs. Luna Ada Thatcher, widowed by the death of the capitalist; his only son, Mahlon D., Jr., and his daughters, Mrs. Lydia Wheeler and Mrs. Lucia Waller of Chicago and Mrs. Ada Huntsinger of New York. The end came while the aged banker was asleep.
With the passing of the man who was designated by former Gov. Alva Adams as teh "J.P. Morgan of the West," interstes in nineteen banks, including the First National bank and the International Trust company, both of Denver, and other vast property interests, will come under the active control of Mahlon D. Thatcher, Jr., who while but 33 years old, has been coached for the task that he must now take up since he was 18 years old.
Built Up Fortune.
Mr. Thatcher came to Colorado in 1865 without money or influence and by a combinatinf of pluck, energy and rare ability, erected a financial structure thruout two states.
Estimates on his wealth range from $10,000,000 to $30,000,000, with $15,000,000 probably close to actual aggregate.
He was a director and founder of the Pueblo smelter, later taken over by the American Smelting and Refining company, was active in the Great Western Sugar company, the Nevada-California Power company, a large stockholder in the Mountain States Telephone & Telegraph company, the Denver Union Water company, and the American Smelting and Refining company.
Primarily he was a banker. He was a tockholder and a director in the First National bank in Denver as early as 1868, but retired from active connection for a period, returning when the Capitol National bank was merged with the First, and became chairman of the board of directors at the reorganization in 1914, following the death of David H. Moffat, at which time H. J. Alexander became president.
Re-elected Chairman.
He was re-elected chairman of the board of directors at teh annual meeting last month.
Mahlon Daniel Thatcher was boen at New Buffalo, Pa., Dec. 6, 1839, a son of Henry and Ludia Ann Thatcher. He received an academic education in Juniata county, Pennsylvania, and then began his business career as a clerk in his father's general store. New Buffalo was near Gettysburg and the horror of teh carnage on that famous Civil war battlefield remained as one of the most vivid impressions of his life.
During the war his brother, John A.
(Continued on Page Two.)
Laid Foundation of Fortune When Pueblo Was Frontier Trading Post.
(Continued From Page One.)
Thatcher, two years older than Mahlon, decided to move West in the hope fo finding greater business opportunities. He came to Fort Lyon, Colo., the famous military post of early days, then to Denver and finally went to Pueblo, where he established a general store in 1863.
Mahlon Joined Him.
In 1865 Mahlon joined his brother in Pueblo and the two established the mercantile firm of Thatcher brothers. Their small trade with frontiersmen and Indians was the nucleus of their huge development in business lines.
As the business grew, the brothers bedan to feel the need of banking facilities in the then remote section of the West, and in 1871 they formed the First National bank in modest quarters on Santa Fe avenue. From then on the growth of the Thatcher fortunes and the growth of Pueblo were fast and large. Gradually they acquired outside interestes, first in southern Colorado and then thruout the West.
Banks were established in Florence, Las Animas, Trinidad, Montrose and other places and interets in banks already established were acquired.
Brother Died in 1913.
John A. Thatcher died here in August, 1913, since when Mahlon D. was sole head of the Thatcher interests.
Mr. Thatcher was married Aug. 1, 1876, to Luna Ada Jordan of Pueblo. Besides his wife and son he leaves three daughters, Mrs. Lydia Wheeler and Mrs. Lucia Waller of Chicago and Mrs, Ada Huntzinger of New York city. He also leaves seven grandchildren, Winifred and Robert Thatcher Wheeler, Virginia and William Waller, Mahlon D. Thatcher III, and Helen Elizabeth Thatcher and Elizabeth Ann Huntzinger.
Mr. Thatcher was a member of the Presbyterian church and contributed generously to its support. He was long active in teh upbuilding of COlorado college, as a trustee of the institution. He was a Mason and his political allegiance lay with the Republican party. In 1877 he served as mahor of PUeblo, but he was never especially active in politics. He was a member of the Metropolitan club, the Republican club of New York and the Denver club.
Gravesite Details
burial date 2.23 1916
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