History of Shiawasee and Clinton Counties, Michigan, Philadelphia: D.W. Ensign & Co., 1880.

COMFORT RANNEY

The grandparent of Comfort Ranney was a native of Connecticut; emigrated to Cuyahoga Co, Ohio, and purchased eighty acres of land at government prices, of which the public park in the city of Cleveland is now a part. He engaged in ship-building, putting afloat the first boats of considerable tonnage built at that place. A few years later he sold his land at a slight advance upon the price he had paid, closed out his business, and removed to Summit County, Ohio, where he passed the remainder of his life, his death occurring in 1834. Luther B., a son, was born at Hudson, Summit Co, Ohio, Nov 29, 1809. Farming seems to have particular fascination for him, almost inherent, as he has continued at that occupation, and now at the advanced age of seventy-one manages a large farm, leading in many of the arduous physical duties required in that calling. Comfort, the subject of this sketch, was born in Boston, Summit Co, Ohio on Feb 7, 1838. He, in company with Leach, Sheldon, and Clark, came to Clinton County and purchased a large tract of land, erected a steam-mill, and engaged quite extensively in the manufacturing of lumber. Also Ranney, Leach, and Berry in 1879 erected a large custom flouring-mill at Bath, which they are still operating. Since 1874 Mr. Ranney has had the management of the lumber and mill interests. But on the death of his brother-in-law (Mr. Leach) he leased the mills and returned to their farm in Clinton County, and intends to devote his time to the improvement of his farm and rearing of fine stock, in which he had always taken great pride. Dec 18, 1868, Mr. Ranney united in marriage with Miss Mary M. Hesser, of Nevada, Wyandot Co, Ohio. They are the parents of four children--Luther B., Sadie M., Luella, and James.