Ezra S. Mott

"Captain Ezra Smith Mott, keeper of the Fire Island Light House, has held this important and responsible position since 1888, and during the years which have come and gone he has ever discharged his duties with the utmost fidelity, having been true to every obligation which has devolved upon him. He was born in Suffolk County, New York on the 9th of February, 1845. He is the son of Ezra T. and Miranda (Smith) Mott, natives also of Long Island, both now deceased. He received his education in the common schools of his native county, and in early life was engaged in the quiet pursuits of the farm. Subsequently he became connected with the coasting business, and was part owner of three vessels, called the Mary Brush, L.D. Girard and Sloop Opera. He also spent three years on light ships, and for the past twenty years has been employed as the keeper of different lighthouses. For six and half years, he was in the Stratford Shoal Light House, and since August 2, 1888, he has been keeper of the light house on Fire Island. His strict attention to duty, unfaltering purpose and honorable methods have gained for him the high regard of all, and both in business and social life he has gained and retained many warm friends.

Mr. Mott was married in Port Jefferson, Long Island, October 2, 1869, to Melissa, a daughter of Holtrope Park, and the union has been blessed with four daughters, - Lucy, Mary, Evelin S. and Melissa M. The last named died when thirteen years of age. The wife and mother has also been called to the home beyond, her death occurring in 1889. She had proven herself a loved and devoted companion and a woman of value to the community, and her death caused sorrow to all who knew her. Mr. Mott has since lived a single life, comforted by the affection of his children."