Edward King

Edward King was hale in body and young in spirit when mortally hurt in an accident at seventy-six [sic: seventy-five], having been a member of The Century for nineteen years [sic: his first election was in 1864; he had resigned by 1866 and was reinstated to membership in 1889 through a different set of proposers]. He was of a distinguished colonial New York family, was born in the country-house of his father at Weehawken, graduated at Harvard, and thereupon entered on his long and distinguished career as a financier and a foremost citizen of the metropolis. So sound was his judgment, so sterling his integrity, and so conspicuous his foresight that he rose swiftly to the highest positions in the banking world. For thirty-five years he had been President of a great institution that was renowned for solidity and conservative management. In the crises of national and local panics, his resolute guidance was sought and freely given; plain in speech, prompt to act, firm in the right, he was a born leader of men, and public confidence was richly bestowed upon him.

To the interest of art and science he was devoted, as likewise to the improvement of living in every sphere. Judicious reforms found in him an earnest supporter and his work in connection with the New York Hospital was constant and efficient. He was a member of the Chamber of Commerce, of both Museums, of the National Academy of Design, and of six clubs. To the Public Library he gave unwearied service, being its treasurer and faithful adviser. Warm-hearted, courteous, and generous, he was a beloved counsellor in an extended kinship, and thoroughly respected in the church of his communion, through which as well as through other channels his charities flowed abundantly. When here he found himself among appreciative friends, and the memories of his presence are gracious to those who survive him.

William Milligan Sloane
1909 Century Association Yearbook