Henry Reed Stiles

Henry Reed Stiles (March 10, 1832 – January 7, 1909) was an American physician who wrote several historical records and genealogical books. As a doctor, he served in various medical positions primarily in New York City, although he spent four years in Dundee, Scotland. He was very interested in genealogical and historical research. As of 2011, his work (including The Stiles Family in America, Genealogies of the Connecticut Family and The History and Genealogies of Ancient Windsor, Connecticut) continued to be widely cited by researchers and remained in print more than 115 years later.

Family life and education

Henry Reed Stiles was born in New York City and had three brothers, Arthur, William, and Samuel, and one sister, Charlotte. Henry Stiles' father Samuel was the son of American Revolutionary War soldier Asahel Stiles from East Windsor, Connecticut. Their ancestors included farmer John Stiles, one of the first settlers of Windsor, Connecticut in 1636. Henry Reed Stiles was a kinsman of Ezra Stiles.

Academic life

Stiles attended the University of the City of New York beginning in 1848, one year after its founding. He transferred to Williams College in 1849 as a sophomore. His health took a turn for the worse, and he did not finish a degree then at Williams College. Henry Stiles returned to school at the University of the City of New York and the New York Ophthalmic Hospital, graduating from both in 1855. In 1876, Stiles received a master's degree from Williams College.

Professional life

In 1856 he married Sarah Woodward of Freeport, Illinois. They had two children, a daughter Elliot and a son Charles Butler.