Necrology of Toledo's Woodlawn Cemetery

Charles C. Doolittle

Charles C. Doolittle was born in Vermont. When he was four years old his family moved to Montreal, Canada. His father lost his property when Doolittle was aged fifteen and he was forced to quit school and find a job. Doolittle later moved to New York City where he achieved a measure of material success.

Before the Civil War Doolittle moved to Southeastern Michigan. He would became a Colonel in the 18th Michigan Volunteer Infantry that was formed out of Hillsdale and Lenawee Counties. During the Civil War he was promoted to Brigader General in recognition for his service. Doolittle attributed his success to "self reliance through industry, economy, and correct habits."[Clark Wagonner, ed., History of Toledo and Lucas County. (New York: Monsek, 1888), pp. 91, 226, 490, 825-26.]

During a potentially violent strike in July 1877, Doolittle became a member of the first ward of the Committee of Safety. The Committee was made up of eight wards, each composed of 20 men who enlisted other citizens to help keep order. In April of 1881, Doolittle helped to form and was the main cashier at the Merchants' National Bank of Toledo. He was an Elder at the Westminster Church of Toledo and also served as the President of the Toledo branch of the Society of the Army of the Potomac in 1887.

Charles C. Doolittle's grave

(Photography of Woodlawn Cemetery by Josef Schneider.)