George L. Perkins was a well-known railroad official who held the position of Treasurer of the Norwich & Worcester Railroad Co. for nearly fifty years, until death removed him, after having outlived eight presidents and 90 directors of the corporation, at the remarkable age of 100 years and one month. The late Col. Perkins was one of the most noted citizens of Norwich. Such an abundance of material is furnished by the experiences, anecdotes, and historical facts connected with his life that no short sketch of his career could be made complete. Col. Perkins is remembered as a remarkable man. His prolonged life, extending a month over the century line, was closed on September 5, 1888.
While serving as treasurer of the Norwich & Worcester Railroad Company at the age of 100, he wrote with a clear, firm hand, and his figure, over six feet in height, was straight as an arrow, one that would cause more than a passing glance. Several years before his death, he was known as the oldest living railroad man, the oldest volunteer fireman, the oldest bookkeeper, and clubman in the world. His memory distinctly recalled the memorial services held shortly after Washington’s death, as well as the Reign of Terror and the downfall of Napoleon.
During the War of 1812, he served as paymaster of the Third District, which encompassed Connecticut, Rhode Island, and part of Massachusetts, where he earned his title of Colonel in the United States Army. He was also present at the Battle of Stonington. Possessed of delicate health, in his youth, he made a voyage to the West Indies, and later, to harden his constitution, he walked from Norwich to Poughkeepsie, New York (137 miles) to be a passenger on the first trip made by the historic steamboat Cordelia, invented by Robert Fulton. Col. Perkins also remembered when New York City had but 87,000 inhabitants. For 76 years, this noted centenarian never missed an election, his first vote being cast for James Madison. He afterward met personally James Madison, Samuel Adams, John Quincy Adams, James Van Buren, and Abraham Lincoln.
At the same time, Andrew Jackson and Rutherford B. Hayes were guests at his home in Norwich. Upon his hundredth birthday (August 5, 1888), he was given a reception by the Arcanum Club of this city, of which he was an honorary member. On this occasion, with his 90-year-old wife by his side, he received congratulations from 1,500 guests, including a large number of railroad officials and prominent citizens from various parts of the country. He was also the recipient of many valuable presents and letters of congratulation. Col. Perkins began his railroad career in 1836, when he was among the original incorporators of the Norwich & Worcester Railroad Company. Elected treasurer of that company, he fulfilled the duties of the office continuously until the time of his death in September 1888. He was a man of benevolence, goodness, and genial disposition, and even at the advanced age at which he died, he was an engaging conversationalist.
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