Walter L. Leek obtained his early mental discipline in the public schools of Morristown and later completed his studies at the academy conducted by Professor Shears, at Orange. When twenty-two years old he entered the firm of Austin, Drew & Company, where he learned the hatting business, which he has continued to follow ever since. His intelligence, industry and ability attracted the attention of his employers and he was promoted to the position of foreman, acting in that capacity at the present time.5788