Friend Palmer was born in Canandaigua, New York on
May 7, 1820. He came to Detroit at the age of seven and was educated
in the public schools and at the University of Michigan. He was
in the book binding business and in real estate; he was also an
historian and author. He married Harriet Witherall, the daughter
of Judge B. F. H. Witherall and they had three children. He was
the cousin of Senator Thomas W. Palmer.
Palmer was appointed Assistant Quartermaster General for Michigan
at the beginning of the Civil War and held that position until 1866
when he was appointed to the head of that department under Governor
Crapo. He remained Quartermaster General until 1871. Palmer led
a full and active life and died at the age of 86 after a short illness.
Born: May 7, 1820
Died: October 9, 1906
Buried: Section A, Lot 98
