His father was a carpenter and architect who built several well-known Congregational churches and many fine homes (including the Samuel Wadsworth Russell House) in the area.

In April 1827, he founded his own wholesale drug business in New York City, an enterprise which proved extremely profitable.

[4] David Hoadley then married Elizabeth Crannel Tappen, daughter of a Danbury, Connecticut, doctor, on June 12, 1838.

[6] Construction proceeded very slowly due to the poor condition of the soil, the exceedingly hot and humid climate, and numerous tropical diseases (especially malaria).

The ships' passengers demanded to be put ashore and were granted passage aboard the railroad (at outrageously high prices).

Although the rail line was only a third complete, the passengers were extremely grateful at being able to cut months from their long sea voyage.

[1][2] With Hoadley's firm managerial hand, construction of the railroad was finished a year in advance, despite its early troubles.