William H. Gorsline Records

William Henry Gorsline was born July 12, 1829 in Rochester NY. His father, Richard Gorsline was a builder. He helped build the stone aqueduct going across the Genesee River, as well as many other prominent buildings. William Gorsline left school at the age of fourteen and started his business career as his father’s assistant. Gorsline erected many important buildings in Rochester; The University of Rochester, Rochester Savings Bank, the Powers Building, the Cunningham carriage factory, two Rochester churches, and the Jewish synagogue.

William Gorsline branched out into other areas of the building trade. In 1874, Gorsline partnered with Ira Otis for the manufacture of salt-glazed pipe and founded the Rochester Sewer Pipe Company. The pipe was awarded medals and diplomas and was endorsed by the Department of Public Works in New York City. The factory’s close proximity to rail and water made it possible to ship the pipe to anywhere in the country.

As Gorsline got older he became interested in politics and was elected alderman of the city, but only served one term. He was also a charter member of the Chamber of Commerce and served on the Board of Trustees in 1887. Gorsline was a prominent member and elder of the Brick Presbyterian Church.

Mr. Gorsline married his first wife, Sarah Parker in 1857. They had one child together, Ralph. After Sarah’s death Gorsline married Margaret Hawley Howe in 1876. They had two children together, William H. Jr. and Richard. Mr. Gorsline died November 9, 1901.