Among the early settlers of the northern part of the town of Ghent, Columbia county, New York, was Godfrey Garner, born 1739, died 1807, who purchased a tract of land including the farm later occupied by his grandson, Aaron C. Garner. He married Catherine Cooper, and had sons, Godfrey Martin and Christopher, who became prominent citizens of the town and were pillars of the early Dutch Reformed church.
(II) Christopher, son of Godfrey and Catherine (Cooper) Garner, was born in the town of Ghent, Columbia county, New York, in 1786, died 1853. He was a farmer, and in 1841-42 was supervisor of the town. He was a member of the Dutch Reformed church, as were many of the Garners, his relations. He married Helen Huyck and had issue.
(III) Aaron C., son of Christopher and Helen (Huyck) Garner, was born in Ghent, Columbia county, New York, in 1820, died January 9, 1892. He was educated in the town schools, grew up a farmer, owned and cultivated the Garner homestead, first taken up by his grandfather, Godfrey Garner. He was a successful man of business, and a leading member of the Dutch Reformed church of Ghent. He married (first) Sarah Snyder, (second) Christina Van Deusen, died June 21, 1904; sons: Christopher H., Martin, George R. and Frederick.
(IV) George R., son of Aaron C. and Christina (Van Deusen) Garner, was born at Ghent, Columbia county, New York, on the Garner homestead, July 4, 1879. He was educated in the public schools and at Chatham Academy. After completing his studies he returned to the farm and became his father's assistant. After the death of the latter, the son continued the operation of the farm and so continues. He is modern and up-to-date in his methods and is rated a man of success. He served as collector of the town two years, collector of the school district four years, and since 1907 has been supervisor, being elected in 1909 without opposition. He adheres to the religious faith of his fathers, worshipping with the Dutch Reformed congregation of Ghent. His orders are the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, Hudson Lodge, No. 787; Knights of Pythias; Cascade Lodge, No. 197, of Philmont; Modern Woodmen of America, Chatham Camp, No. 10,315. Mr. Garner is unmarried.