S. Herbert Howe

Simon Herbert Howe
Born	Template:Birth date Marlborough, Massachusetts, U.S.
Died	May 11, 1911(1911-05-11) (aged 75) Southborough, Massachusetts, U.S.
Occupation(s)	Businessman, politician
Known for	First mayor of Marlborough, Massachusetts; president of S.H. Howe Shoe Company and Marlborough Savings Bank; member of Massachusetts House of Representatives and Governor's Council

Simon Herbert Howe (December 21, 1835 – May 11, 1911) was a prominent businessman and political figure from Massachusetts, recognized as the inaugural mayor of Marlborough, Massachusetts. His public service included terms in the Massachusetts House of Representatives, participation on Marlborough's Board of Selectmen, leadership as chairman of the city's School Committee, and membership on the Massachusetts Governor's Council.

Early life and family

Born in Marlborough, Massachusetts, Howe was the son of Samuel (1800–1864) and Charlotte Howe (1800–1839). He traced his lineage directly to John Howe (1602–1680), an early Massachusetts Bay Colony settler, as well as to Edmund Rice, another notable early immigrant.

Howe acquired shoemaking skills under the tutelage of manufacturer John W. Stevens and completed his education at Marlborough High School in 1855. On January 1, 1857, he married Harriett A. Brigham, with whom he had four children, including their son Louis P. Howe.

Business career

As president of both the S.H. Howe Shoe Company and the Marlborough Savings Bank, Howe played a significant role in local industry and finance. When Marlborough transitioned to city status in 1890, his factory was featured on the municipal seal.

Howe commenced shoe production alongside his brother Lewis A. Howe in Marlborough in 1855. Eventually purchasing his brother’s stake, he expanded by acquiring additional facilities: the "Diamond F" factory in 1878 and the "Diamond O" factory in 1889. By 1892, the S.H. Howe Shoe Company operated three manufacturing plants producing approximately 10,000 pairs of footwear daily.

In banking, Howe became a trustee at Marlborough Savings Bank in 1875 and advanced to its presidency by 1882. He was also among the founders of People's National Bank in 1879 and served on its Board of Directors.

Political career

Howe was actively involved in representing Marlborough at various governmental levels. His service on the Board of Selectmen occurred in 1866, 1873, 1875, and 1877, and he held the position of chairman for the city's school committee for multiple years.

Following his election to the Massachusetts House of Representatives on November 6, 1877, Howe began his term in January 1878 during the 99th General Court, where he chaired the Committee on Manufactures throughout his single legislative session.

Upon Marlborough's incorporation as a city in 1890, Howe was elected its first mayor. His tenure received favorable reviews; however, he chose to step down after serving one year.

Between 1901 and 1904, Howe contributed to state governance as a member of the Massachusetts Governor's Council, serving under Governors Roger Wolcott and Winthrop M. Crane.

Later life and death

Simon H. Howe passed away on May 11, 1911, in Southborough, Massachusetts.

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