Newton F. Hand, a successful dealer in automobile tires in Utica since 1911, is now associated with Mr. P. C. Graney in business, under the name of the Hand & Graney Tire & Rubber Company, which is the largest enterprise of its kind in central New York. He was born at Williamstown, New Jersey, on the 2d of September, 1888, a son of Rev. Alonzo and Mary Hand. The father, a clergyman of the Methodist denomination, is now pastor of a church at Fernwood, Oswego county, New York.
Newton F. Hand obtained his early education in the public schools of Jordanville, Herkimer county, New York, continued his studies in Wyoming Seminary of Kingston, Pennsylvania, and subsequently spent three years as a student in Syracuse University. On leaving college he entered the service of the Standard Oil Company with the intention of becoming a chemist, but in 1911 he abandoned this plan and became associated with H. D. Crim in the automobile tire business in Utica. In the fall of the same year he opened an establishment of his own at No. 350 Columbia street, and in 1914 removed to No. 14 Devereux place. He then expanded his business and opened a store at Nos. 47-48 Franklin square, and later moved to 101 Liberty street. As a dealer in tires exclusively he has built up the most extensive business of the kind in this part of the state. In 1923 he entered into partnership with P. C. Graney and since that time the enterprise has been conducted under the name of the Hand & Graney Tire & Rubber Company. Mr. Hand is a man of keen discrimination and sound judgment, and his executive ability and excellent management have brought to the concern a large degree of success.
On the 26th of October, 1911, Mr. Hand was united in marriage to Miss Florence Davis, daughter of William M. Davis of Cazenovia, New York. Mr. and Mrs. Hand have a daughter: Virginia Elizabeth, whose birth occurred on April 26, 1921. In politics Mr. Hand maintains an independent course, supporting the men and measures that he deems will most effectively promote the general welfare. Fraternally he is identified with Utica Lodge, No. 33, B. P. O. E., and he likewise has membership in the City Club, the Rotary Club and the University Club. His activities and interests outside of business indicate his desire for the public good and his cooperation can at all times be counted upon to further those well-organized projects which are looking to the benefit and upbuilding of the city and state.