Ramsdell, in the 19th century one of the foremost citizen of Newburgh, New York, was born at Warren, Massachusetts, August 12, 1810. His father was Joseph Ramsdell. His mother was Ruth Stockbridge, of Hanover, Massachusetts, a descendant of John Stockbridge, who came from England in 1638.
The fourth of that name in descent from Joseph and Martha (Bowker) Ramsdell, who emigrated from England to Plymouth, Massachusetts, in 1643. In 1829, Ramsdell went to New York City, where he was employed in dry goods houses. Three years later he began business there under the firm name of Ramsdell & Brown, dealers in silks and fancy white goods.
By purchase and consolidation Ramsdell added other forwarding lines to his enterprises and soon stood at the head of the transportation business on the Hudson.
In 1853 was chosen president of the company, in which position he promoted Daniel McCallum General superintendent. He resigning the office in July, 1857.
He was intimately identified with the various local institutions of Newburgh and a prompt contributor to all progressive and elevating movements of his day. In 1887 the Homer Ramsdell steamboat (see image) was named after him.
Ramsdell was married June 16, 1835, to Frances East. L., daughter of Thomas Powell, of Newburgh, and the following children survive: Frances J., widow of Major George West. Rains.
James A. P., H. Powell and Homer Stockbridge.
He continued this mercantile career until 1840, when he took up his permanent residence in Newburgh, superintending the various interests of Thomas Powell, who was engaged in shipping and banking business here In 1844 Ramsdell became a member of the firm of Thomas Powell & Company, and thenceforth until Powell"s death in 1856 he was largely the administrator of Powell"s affairs Ramsdell"s was associated with the Erie Railroad, and in 1845 he was elected a member of the board of directors of this corporation.
