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Catherine was one of five children born to Irish immigrants who had
settled on the South Side of
Chicago. Her father was active in Democratic politics in the city, and
served in appointive posts in both state and local government. At various
times, he also owned and operated several retail stores.
In the beginning, while John ran the business, Catherine kept the books.
She remained intimately involved in her husband's business throughout
their lives. When John purchased Bankers, Catherine created the business
procedures which would be used until tremendous growth finally made them
obsolete. She appears throughout the records of the various companies
almost anonymously--under her maiden name, C.T. Hyland--in the position
of corporate secretary, director, or both.