Coming to Newark when he was five years old, William Tolen spent his boyhood and youth in that city, attending the public schools. After leaving school he learned the trade of carpenter and builder, which he followed in Newark until 1881. He then removed to Kearny, Hudson County, where he has lived ever since, following the same business and engaging quite extensively in contracting. He built Public School No. 5, engine house No. 4, and many other large buildings in Kearny and vicinity, and by close application to business has achieved both success and honor. His work shows the thoroughness and excellence which characterize all of his undertakings, and stands as monuments to his skill, industry, integrity, and enterprise.

Since taking up his residence in Kearny Mr. Tolen has been active and prominent in public life and an important factor in the prosperity of the town. In politics he is a Republican. He was a member of the Town Council one term, Assistant Chief of the Fire Department two years, Commis sioner of Appeals three years, and Commissioner of Assessments two years. At the present time (1900) he is Chief of Police of Kearny. In each of these positions he has exhibited marked ability, patriotism, and sound common sense, and has won the approval and confidence of the entire community. His activity in political affairs has brought him into more than local prominence and gained for him an acknowledged leadership in the councils of the Republican party. Mr. Tolen had some experience on a merchant ship under the British flag, on which he served one and one-half years, leaving when he was about fifteen. He remained abroad altogether three years. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, a man of broad and liberal culture, and a progressive citizen. He is a life member of the New Jersey State Firemen's Relief Association and was President of the Kearny Firemen's Association for five years.