The wholesale paper business has been an important factor in the commercial growth of Utica and the name of Bowes Brothers is inseparably identified with this branch of activity. The firm has been in existence for thirty-five years and on account of its prompt and reliable methods it has gained high standing throughout the state and enjoys a liberal patronage. Henry Lambert Bowes, the eldest of the brothers, was born at Oriskany, New York, March 1, 1861, and he is a son of John R. and Eliza (Churchill) Bowes, both of whom came to America from England and early in life settled at Oriskany.
Henry Lambert Bowes received his preliminary education in the public schools of Utica. After completing his studies he entered the paper business in the employ of a Mr. Wilson. At the end of twelve years of faithful service he was admitted as a member of the firm, with which he continued until 1889, when he became associated with his brothers, John Allison and Charles Sidney Bowes, in the organization of the firm of Bowes Brothers, wholesale paper dealers, which has long ranked as one of the large and flourishing business establishments of Utica. Henry L. Bowes serves in the dual capacity of president and treasurer of Bowes Brothers, Incorporated.
On September 20, 1893, Mr. Bowes was married to Miss Nettie M. Barber, a daughter of William Wallace Barber of Taberg, New York. Mr. and Mrs. Bowes have two children: Raymond Churchill and Hazel Miller. Mr. Bowes is prominent in social and business circles of Utica and fraternally is identified with the Masons and the Royal Arcanum. A contemporary biographer wrote of him:
"Entirely without ostentation or any desire to attract attention personally, he has devoted his time mainly to his business and his family. His associates find in him a genial and pleasing companion and he has never been lacking in the spirit which seeks to promote the material and moral welfare of the city. Beginning at the bottom of the ladder in his business, he has overcome numberless difficulties and gained a position of comparative independence. This he has accomplished through a worthy ambition, backed by tireless industry and a will that never acknowledged defeat."