by Laurel | February 12th, 2013
7 February 1904
Success of Movement to Form Association
Gilbert W. Chapin of Springfield, who is active in the organizing of the proposed Chapin family association, has received among numerous replies to his letters one from Mayor Arthur B. Chapin of Holyoke, in which the mayor gives his hearty support to the movement and nominates his father Judge E. W. Chapin, to serve on the organization committee. Altogether Mr. Chapin, who is actuary of the Pratt Street bank, has received about 35 replies, all containing additional information concerning the famous family descending from Deacon Samuel Chapin of Springfield, good words, and appreciation for the idea of the association, and many giving the address of some family unknown to Mr. Chapin. One letter was received recently from Rev. Dr. Chapin of New York city, who nominates his father for the organization committee. It is desired that the announcement of the proposed forming of the association be given as much publicity as possible, after which steps will be taken for the meeting of the committee to adopt a constitution and perfect other details, probably modeling considerably after the famous Grant family association, and possibly like that association, dividing into local clans and branches. There is no fear now for the success of the plan, and it will be of infinite value in preparing and preserving genealogies and records of the Chapins, though other objects may be added. It is probably that charter members will be given some distinction and privileges.
Adapted from The Springfield Republican.
