The family of King whose American record is here given was founded in Saratoga Springs, New York, by Michael King, born in Queens county, Ireland, in the year 1829. He followed farming and gardening in the "old country" until he was about twenty years of age, when he emigrated to the United States and settled at Saratoga Springs, which was his home thereafter. He followed there his old occupation of gardener and was constantly employed. He was an industrious, thrifty man and prospered. He married, at Saratoga, in 1857, Katherine Berrigan, born in Queens county, Ireland, in 1831, died in Saratoga, New York, in 1877. They were the parents of five children, all born in Saratoga:
- Patrick J., September 12, 1858;
- James H., see forward;
- Annie, married Jesse Lockwood.
Two children died in infancy.
(II) James H., son of Michael and Katherine (Berrigan) King, was born at Saratoga Springs, New York, March 24, 1863. He was educated in the Saratoga schools, and about his first employment was, the care of thoroughbred horses at the famous Saratoga course. In time he became a trainer, and was very successful in this line of business, having produced several winners of classic events. He continued as trainer for several years, until 1894, when he retired, having received appointment to the Saratoga police force as substitute officer. In 1897 he was appointed a regular officer, and in 1898 "roundsman." Three years later, in 1901, he was appointed "inspector," serving in that capacity until May, 1908, when he was made police commissioner of the city, which position he now fills (1910). In the sixteen years he has been connected with the city government of Saratoga, he has risen step by step through strict fidelity to duty and efficient service. His course as an officer was highly commended by his superiors, and now as commissioner he is able to give an intelligent, practical administration of his important department. He is independent in politics; member of the Royal Arcanum, Saratoga Lodge, No. 161, Benevolent Protective Order of Elks, and the Saratoga Lake Association. He married, in Poughkeepsie, New York, January 3, 1893, Anna L. Rose, born in that city, daughter of Joshua and Ann Rose. Children, all born in Saratoga:
- Rose C., July 17, 1894;
- George J.,. March 30, 1897;
- Margaret, March 18, 1901;
- Carleton J., June 15, 1904.