Inventor, Businessman, and Early Leader in Chagrin Falls
John S. Bullard was born in Medina County in 1823 and became one of the most respected early citizens of Chagrin Falls. He died on January 23, 1914, at nearly 91 years of age after suffering from a cold.
Early Life and Family Background
John S. Bullard was the second oldest of seven children born to Curtiss Bullard and Sara Easton Bullard. Curtiss Bullard, born in Litchfield in 1797, later became a prominent businessman, spinning wheel manufacturer, and former mayor of Chagrin Falls. Sara Easton was originally from Lee.
As a young man, John moved with his family to Chagrin Falls, where he learned the manufacturing trade while working in his father’s workshop.
John S. Bullard’s Butter Mold Patent and Manufacturing Success
At the age of 24, John S. Bullard secured a patent for an innovative butter mold, beginning a successful manufacturing career that brought recognition far beyond northeast Ohio. His patented butter molds generated substantial income for many years and were sold throughout the United States, including as far west as Salt Lake City.
His factory endured several devastating floods that frequently damaged businesses throughout Chagrin Falls during the 19th century. Contemporary reports in The Exponent newspaper noted the resilience of Bullard’s manufacturing operation during these difficult years.
Business and Civic Leadership in Chagrin Falls
John S. Bullard played a major role in the growth and development of Chagrin Falls during the village’s early industrial era. He was one of the seven charter members and owners of the local steam railroad and also served as a stockholder in the Chagrin Falls Manufacturing Company.
In addition, Bullard was among the last surviving original founders of the Chagrin Falls Banking Company, reflecting his long-standing influence in the business and civic life of the community.
Marriage to Lucy Chapman and Family Tragedy
In 1853, John S. Bullard married Lucy Chapman Bullard, a woman remembered for her generosity and charitable work within the community.
The couple suffered heartbreaking losses throughout their marriage. Their daughter Nelly died at only 15 months old, while sons Fred and Curtiss each died at the age of eight. Remaining in the family home where their children had once lived and died deeply affected the couple throughout their lives.
These tragedies inspired Lucy Bullard’s acts of kindness toward local children in need. According to local accounts, she knitted nearly 100 pairs of mittens each year for disadvantaged children and placed a silver dollar inside each pair as a special gift.
Final Years and Lasting Legacy
John and Lucy Bullard remained devoted companions throughout their 61-year marriage. Residents of Chagrin Falls often saw the couple walking together to the post office, even as recently as two weeks before John’s death in 1914.
At the time of his passing, John S. Bullard left behind an extended family that included his nephew C.O. Rogers of Chagrin Falls, along with several nephews living in Kansas City, California, and Illinois.
Today, John S. Bullard is remembered as an inventor, manufacturer, businessman, and civic leader whose contributions helped shape the history and development of Chagrin Falls, Ohio.