Herbert D. Rushmer, senior member of the firm of Rushmer & Jennison in Utica, has been actively identified with the profession of architecture in this city during the past thirty-eight years. His birth occurred in Frankfort, Herkimer county, New York, on the 12th of December, 1865, and his early education was obtained in a private school. He continued his intellectual training in Colgate Academy of Hamilton, New York, and in 1886, on attaining his majority, began studying architecture in Utica in the office of Jacob Agne, under whose direction he became acquainted with the various phases of the business, familiarizing himself with the work from both the scientific and practical standpoints. Continuous progress which he made in his chosen calling won the attention of those whom he served and in due time promotion followed, bringing him at length to a partnership when, in 1900, he was made a member of the firm of Agne, Rushmer & Jennison. Since the death of the senior partner in April, 1918, the firm name has been Rushmer & Jennison. Many of Utica's finest structures stand as monuments to the ability, enterprise and progressive business methods of this firm and greatly enhance the attractive appearance of the city. Among the handsome buildings they have designed are: The Utica Free Academy, the Homeopathic Hospital, the Elks Club, the office building of the Utica Consolidated Water Company and the First Church of Christ, Scientist.
Mr. Rushmer was married in 1905. He attends the First Presbyterian church and in politics maintains an independent attitude, supporting men and measures rather than party. In matters of citizenship he takes a progressive stand, giving his support to all movements and measures which he deems of practical value in the upbuilding and improvement of his adopted city. In Herbert D. Rushmer the profession of architecture in its highest phase finds a worthy exponent. He is a thirty-second degree Mason, being secretary of Mohawk Valley Consistory and is a Noble of the Mystic Shrine.