[196-189] GEORGE RENTON SHULTZ, b May 3, 1845; d Jan. 25, 1921; s Benjamin and Deborah (Bittenbender) Shultz [196-81]; m Aug. 30, 1873, JOSEPHINE SMITH, b 1849; dau Jonas QO. and Abbie Jane (Boorsem) Smith.
Children (2): [196-300] 1. Florida Abbie, 6 1874; m Harvie Earnhardt Heitman:
George R. Shultz was born May 3, 1845, in Newark, N. J. He spent his life in telegraphic and cable work, beginning at the age of nine years as messenger boy. He was a boyhood friend of Thomas A. Edison, when both were telegraph operators in an office in Newark, N. J., and enjoyed his friendship throughout his entire life. Mr. Edison came to Lee County, Florida, and located in Fort Myers through the solicitation of Mr. Shultz. During the Civil War Mr. Shultz enlisted in the Union Army as a drummer boy, but his brother had him discharged on account of being under age. However his four brothers enlisted and served during the war. It has always been Mr. Shultz’s regret that he was unable to serve his country and flag during the time of war.
Mr. Shultz came to Punta Rassa in 1867. At the time of his death he was a retired cable manager, residing in Fort Myers, Fla.
At the time of the sinking of the Maine which led to the Spanish American War, Mr. Shultz had charge of telegraph office at Key West and he was the first operator in the U. S. to receive the news that the Maine had been sunk.
Parents’ family: [196-81] Deborah Bittenbender and Benjamin Shultz