A worthy representative of the honored pioneer families of LaSalle
county. Mr. Madden was born in Mendota, April 3, 1864. He spent his boyhood
days here, and having laid the foundation for a successful business career
by acquiring a practical education he learned the machinist's trade in his
father's machine shops and became a skilled workman. For a number of years
he was in the employ of others, but in 1896 he opened a plumbing
establishment of his own in Mendota and has since done a large business in
this line, making a specialty of all kinds of steam and hot-water heating
appliances and outfitting. He also takes contracts for plumbing, sewer and
water works, and has succeeded in building up an excellent business. Soon
after his father's death he succeeded to his father's interest in the firm
of Donohue & Madden, proprietors of the foundry and machine shops of
Mendota. The firm name was unchanged, and now to the two branches of the
business Mr. Madden, of this review, devotes all the time and attention
which he cares to give to business. Inherited ability doubtless partially
accounts for the success which he has won and a better example than that
afforded him by his honored father could not be found; but his own close
application, his keen discernment and his untiring industry are unmistakable
elements in his prosperity, without which inherited ability would have been
of no avail.
The marriage of Stephen J. Madden and Miss Maggie
Naughtin was celebrated on the 3d of September, 1890. Four children have
blessed their union, namely: Paul, John, Mabel and Stella. Mr. Madden and
his family are communicants of the Catholic church, and fraternally he is
connected with the Modern Woodmen of America, the Independent Order of
Foresters and the Commercial Club. He has followed in his father's political
footsteps and is a stalwart Democrat. His fellow townsmen have elected him
to the position of alderman and in that office he labored earnestly to
secure needed improvements and to produce material advancement in Mendota.
He supported measures toward securing good sidewalks, sewers, water-works
and other good and substantial improvements, and at all times has labored to
benefit the city in progressive lines.
Extracted 18 Aug 2017 by Norma Hass from Biographical and Genealogical Record of LaSalle County, Illinois, published in 1900, volume 2, pages 505-506.
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