John Adams Appleton

John Adams Appleton was one of Staten Island’s most respected residents. He was a publisher and importer of books, working for the New York firm of D. Appleton & Co. with his father and brother.

John Appleton was born in Boston on January 9th, 1817. As a young man, he began working at D. Appleton & Co, which is a firm for publishers and importer of books in New York City. Appleton was very ethical and had business principles. He was an honorable businessman, who was known for his integrity and desire to maintain the good name and reputation of D. Appleton & Co.

He was also known as a philanthropist, who wisely and generously used his fortune, not only for the benefit of himself and his family but also for the larger community and the Christian church he attended.

John was a very devout, outspoken Christian. He considered himself a steward of God, placed by his Creator in a position to effectively spread the Gospel and to effectuate widespread good because of his wealth. In this regard, John served as senior warden of St. John’s Church, which was located in Clifton.

Appleton’s life always reflected his faith. He was known for his courtesy and consideration toward others. No matter what a person’s station in life, Appleton always greeted him or her with a pleasant word or kindly act.

Although Appleton was rather shy and somewhat nervous by temperament, avoiding anything ostentatious. He was known for his hospitality at his Staten Island residence.

A few years before his death, Appleton had an accident, which threw him from his carriage. He was injured badly. He never fully recovered his health and vigor.  He then had become very ill a year later, suffering from issues that were conflicting with the complications of the accident. He passed away in the early morning on Wednesday, July 13th, 1881. He died at the age of sixty-five.

Serving God and his fellow man was Appleton’s lifelong mission. He was so highly regarded by his family, employees, and members of the church that after his death, they erected a mural tablet in St. John’s commemorating his faith and good works.

In addition, the employees of his house spontaneously gathered the day after his death with words of praise and respect for him. The admiration for Appleton, especially in Staten Island, resulted in an unusually large number of published eulogies commending his character, faith, and charity.

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