A Toledo pioneer, born in Brownsville, NY, he headed west on the Erie Canal in 1831.  He engaged in mercantile enterprises in Toledo and Tremainsville, an early village which was later absorbed by Toledo.  Some say that Collingwood Ave. was named for Mr. Collins. 

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He operated a general store in Tremainsville and also served as postmaster. Local Indians were among his customers.  He helped organize Washington Twp. and served as one of the original trustees. He was also Justice of the Peace and the first Treasurer of Lucas County.  He was one of the early active Masons in Northwest Ohio.  He and his wife, Harriet, were highly regarded as the area's distinguished pioneer couple in their senior years.