Robert H. Shearer was born in Saratoga County, New York. Not much is known of his early life. The 1860 census shows him living in the Town of Minden unmarried. By 1865 he was married to Angeline Shearer. They made their home on Lydius Street in the village. No children are listed in any of the census’ available. Mr. Shearer owned and operated a very successful dry goods store on Canal Street in Fort Plain next to the Stewart and Bergan Hardware store. The store had 3 floors and everything from women’s clothing to carpets was sold there. Mr. Shearer’s offices were in the rear of the store. Transactions were made by placing the money and sales slips in a round receptacle attached to a wire. The receptacle was then sent to the cashier. Mr. Shearer was described as a tall, bearded, white haired man with a kindly expression. Unfortunately not much information is available for this individual.