Edward L. Kelsey, who is engaged in the general mercantile business at Westbury Station, was born her January 2, 1857, to Jesse P. and Catherine A. (Lewis) Kelsey. His father, a native of Huntington, Suffolk County, born in 1821, came to this locality in boyhood and became a clerk for Elias Lewis, Jr., at Old Westbury. Afterward he bought the business, which he conducted up to the time of his death, January 31, 1896. He was prominent in public affairs, for many years acted as notary public, and was honored and respected citizen. After the establishment of the post office he held the position of postmaster. He was also active in church and Sunday-school work. In his family there are two children, Edward L. and William P., the latter now being proprietor of the store formerly owned by his father. The widowed mother still resides at the old home.

The education of our subject was completed in the military academy at White Plains, N.Y. In 1877 he came to Westbury Station and took charge of the store which had been established as a branch of his father’s business. Here he has since remained, having become prominent in business and public affairs. In 1882 he was appointed the first postmaster here and held the position two terms. It was largely through his efforts that the post office was established, and he was also instrumental in securing other needed improvements. In 1883 he was elected collector of taxes for the town of Hempstead, serving two terms.

In his political views he adheres to the policy adopted by the Republican party and uniformly votes that ticket. Socially he is a Mason and holds membership in Morton Lodge No. 63, at Hempstead. His marriage, May 25, 1881, united him with Sarah, daughter of Jotham Post, of Westbury, and unto their union was born one daughter, who died in infancy.

Source: "Portrait and Biographical Record of Queens County (Long Island) New York"
(Copyright 1896 by Chapman Publishing Company)

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