Munsey's first job was as a clerk in a grocery store in Lisbon Falls. This store was the site of the local post office and telegraph station. There young Munsey mastered the telegraph, thus acquiring a skill that enabled him to escape the drudgery of clerking in a general store. While still only sixteen, he left Lisbon Falls and became a telegraph operator at the Falmouth Hotel in Portland. From there he was sent to several other towns and cities in New England. While managing the Augusta, Maine, telegraph office, Munsey lived in the Augusta House, where he met many local politicians and businessmen. James G.Blaine noted his qualities of service and loyalty, and during political campaigns Blaine had especially sensitive telegrams sent only through Munsey. The young man never forgot Blaine's recognition and kindness.
Augusta was the home of the E.C.Allen Publishing House, which produced Literary Companion and other periodicals, all of which earned a large sum for the publisher. Allen lived in Augusta House, and Munsey often heard him talking about his business. Once Allen reportedly complained: "I have to build up anew every year or it will crumble away.
This is a free page. This page contains 191 words. This
biography contains 3,972 words (approx. 13 pages at 300
words per page).
Read the rest of this Biography with our Frank A(ndrew) Munsey Access Pass.
