Dr. Edgar M. Reading
Aug. 28, 1852-June 27, 1923
Niles Daily Star-Sun, Friday, June 29, 1923, page 1, col. 1, microfilm Niles District Library
LIFE SKETCH OF PIONEER NILESITE
Dr. E.M. Reading Came Here with His Parents In the 60's--Became College President
Dr. E.M. Reading was born in Edwardsburg, Cass Co., Michigan, August 28, 1842, and died at his home north of Niles June 27, 1923. He was the eldest son of Amelia Mead Reading and Dr. Edgar Reading, prominent citizens of Niles during the sixties. In his youth he moved from Edwardsburg to Niles with his parents and attended the Niles high school. He received his academic training at Yale, graduating with honor from that institution in 1874. He also received the degree of M.D., from Bennett Medical College, Chicago in 1877. The degree of A.M. was conferred upon him in 1890 by the Northwestern University and the degree of L.L.D. a few years later by Loyola university.
For forty-five years, Dr. Reading was a resident of Chicago. There he built up an extensive practice in medicine, specializing in neurology and physiology in Bennett Medical College from 1878 to 1918, and was also president of the same college for two years. As a lecturer he had the reputation of being unusually gifted. His clear and lucid presentation of technical subjects delighted his students and won for him their admiration and respect. During a period of three terms he served as a member of the Examining Board of Cook County Hospital with Dr. Murphy, Dr. Nicholas Senn and Dr. Frank Billings.
Dr. Reading was a man of high ideals and fine Christian character. His church activities formed an important part in his life and work. In the early years of his residence in Chicago he was an official in the Sixth Presbyterian church. Later he became affiliated with the Woodlawn Presbyterian church in which he held the office of elder. His wise counsel and efficient service in the position demonstrated his ability as a spiritual leader. From 1917 to 1920, he taught one of the largest young women's Bible classes in the U.S., the membership of this class exceeding one hundred. In 1922, he moved from his home in Chicago to a country residence near this city and in the same year united with the First Presbyterian church in Niles.
Dr. Reading possessed a charming personality and kindly spirit which made him beloved by all who came in contact with him, especially by those who enjoyed the delightful hospitality of his home. Another striking characteristic was his keen logical mind. His advice was sought and his opinions respected.
He is survived by his widow formerly Miss Josephine C. Burke of Niles, by an only son, Edgar, and by one brother, Dr. Arthur Reading of Chicago.