From the "The Village of Harlem: Its People, Homes and Business – 50th Anniversary Souvenir 1856 to 1906"
Charles Kendall was born in New Albany, Indiana in 1850. He learned the
cabinet makers trace before moving from New Albany to Cook County. At first he
was employed at The Fair, Chicago, in the furniture department. He held that
employment for 15 continuous years, due to his excellent knowledge and skills,
and became the oldest employee in the furniture department.
Kendall made his adopted home in Harlem in the early 1890s. He became a strong believer in the future of village of Harlem. After leaving The Fair he opened a store at 96 Madison Street, Harlem, stocked with quality furniture of the latest designs. Due to his close attention to business, fair pricing of quality merchandise and courteous treatment of his customers he enjoyed a large patronage.
Mr. Kendall married Miss Mary Harris of New Albany, Indiana. They had one son, Thomas H.
Mr. Kendall was a member of the Loyal Americans.