Harry Higgins

Born: February 1876 in Thorndike Maine
Died: November 26, 1928
Buried:

Harry moved to Barker Ridge around 1878. As a young boy Harry was very interested in machinery particularly electrical appliances and gasoline motors. Thus, it is not surprising he owned the first automobile in town which was from the REO Motor Car Company. Ransom E. Olds was an entrepreneur who founded multiple companies in the automobile industry in Lansing, Michigan.

Harry’s 2-cylinder REO was priced at $1200.00 when it arrived in 1907. In 1910 Harry upgraded his automobile to a Mitchell touring car. It is not documented what he paid for this automobile, but an online search notes an auction house recently sold one for $242,000. In 1918 there were 3 automobile agencies in town. Harry was local agent for Saxon Cars. The Saxon Motor Car Company was in Detroit, Michigan, from 1914 to 1922. In 1917, 28,000 cars were made, making it the seventh largest car maker in the United States.

Harry’s auto vision did not stop with purchasing cars he also owned the first machine and repair shop in town which was established in 1912 located on Main Street. He later replaced his original building with a brick garage in 1914. “The Island Falls Garage” amenities included rest rooms so that those having their autos attended could have a chance to rest. Harry operated this garage until 1923.

Throughout his life he was known as a very courteous, kind, and giving man. Harry’s contribution to the town’s auto growth is still remembered today.